My First Christmas (excerpt from Jaco)

Chert Dog’s Greatest Gift: Quantum Leaps of Faith

With all this snow outside, I thought I would share my first Christmas photo shoot with you! Thank goodness the sun was outside because the snow is very cold! Unlike my older brother, Chert, I DO NOT love sitting in the snow! He, however, would just sit in it for hours, as I was told! I wish that I had met him, but that defeats the whole reason I am here, doesn’t it? Because I am Chert’s Gift to the family he left behind when he went home to be with his Master. The children in the neighborhoood Chert grew up in used to call his Master “Mr. John” which made him smile and fill his heart with joy. Children have a way of doing that, as I so love when the piano and art students come to visit!

So, my first Christmas was fascinating as the artificial Christmas tree stood positioned between the living room and piano parlor entryway. This cut my running route off, so I had to learn to scoot through the sides of the tree! I thoroughly enjoyed sliding on the tree skirt positioned underneath the tree atop the wood flooring! The ornaments and lights became fascinating to look at, and staring at them for any length of time began to mesmerize me! I must confess I did bat at a few of the ornaments, but much prefer my catnip toys! When gifts were opened, I enjoyed playing with all the ribbons, tissue and wrapping paper – not to mention the boxes were fun for jumping in and hiding inside!

My most memorable experience that first Christmas was the beautiful music, colorful lights and warm feeling of pure love surrounding and enveloping the season. As a natural wayshower myself with born intuitive instincts, I feel this intoxicating love and kindness within me and surrounding me and enveloping me with such joyous, peaceful tranquility. We angelic animals are here to assist in transmuting and transforming these man-made, inconsistent and damaging thoughts, words and actions into joy, peace and love. Chert knew it. I know it. We have to assist in being the light and doing the work to bring about restoration to our world one loving thought, word or action at a time.

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” Dalai Lama

Faith and My Artistic Adventure

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“One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore.”

Andre Gide

Today is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad as the Psalms express throughout their various expressions of keeping Joy in our lives. While living in Long Beach, California several years ago, my mother, Connie had her birthday on April 14th which was Good Friday that year and passed from an aortic complication to her heart on April 16, Easter Sunday. She had just turned 54. Our bond transcends limitations as it is heart – based, yet her physical presence and counsel, laughter and wisdom are sorely missed in my life. Mom was my cheerleader, encouraging me on my artistic path. When my car accident occurred, it was truly a miracle that I survived, let alone still had the use of my arms, legs and hands as well as mental, physical and spiritual healing. A great part of me died when she passed. Yet, through these experiences I have still focused my creativity in an attempt to rekindle the broken, scattered pieces of my life.

Following are some art pieces I have created throughout my life, some donated, some given as gifts, some available for sale, and happily accepting commissioned artwork from photography utilizing various requested mediums with various works included in this posting. Feel free to contact me if interested at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details.

“For Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.” Hebrews 11:1

The main posting photograph is an Altar Cloth with applique, sewing and beadwork, with sequin and ribbon created for St. Vincent de Paul Church in Vestal, NY which was our home place of worship. The altar and tabernacle cloth below are displayed for First Holy Communion every year, and ironically left out for Mother’s Day the following Sunday in my mom’s memory. Hundreds of hours were put into the tapestries, a true labor of love.

tabernacle-cloth

My Godfather, Frank Hranek, or known as “Kristnetata” in Slovak, passed from leukemia. I created an oil painting of Cayuga Sunrise Memories with his classic Chris Craft mahogany boat . The painting was donated to Lourdes End of Life Hospice in his memory. Another labor of love toward a man who continually gave from his heart.

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A year prior to my Mom passing, I painted an acrylic of my parents, but a spiritual interpretation of their heavenly essence on the other side of the veil and gave it to them. I think between the painting and Chert Dog, Dad gradually adjusted to his devastating grief as my Mom was truly an earth angel! I still hear about her great assistance in encouraging and praying with others and her random acts of kindness from people I have never met before. Mom often wore flowers in her hair and radiated pure joy!

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Grandma Marge and Grandpa Eddie Stolarcyk had a home in Port Charolette, Florida with the canal behind them, the harbor beyond them and fruit and flowering trees everywhere! When we would visit, we were delegated to pick, pack and transport grapefruit when there were not shipping constraints. These amazingly grapefruits were disfigured on the outside but surprisingly pink, sweet and extremely juicy on the inside – as Grandma would say, Nector from the Gods! When Grandma had to move to assisted living, I painted an acrylic of her home on Bangsburg Drive as it followed her around the entire nursing facility from room to room as she began to transition. It is donated to the nursing home for their assistance in making the last few years of her life as precious as possible. We were blessed with Jose, an employee who became Grandma Marge’s “boyfriend” and who would learn to say to her every day, “Ya ti muc, muc, muc lubiem!” which means in Slovak “I love you very, very, very much!” It is her faith which has instilled in me overcoming all obstacles in the pursuit of my dreams and allowed for “My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever.” She was my first editor and known to all as “the word lady” as well as Mrs. Hallmark, who remembered every anniversary, birthday and holiday. She was Perfection Personified in a Pure, Loving and PINK Way!

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Grandma Marge was quite a party lady in the day, and I found golden bead trimmed party dress of hers and decided to paint a hummingbird with acrylic on a piece of of the dress material and used the beadwork to frame the quilted piece. This one is for sale. You may contact me at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details. (Commissioned work available upon request).

20160410_132537

I enjoy incorporating my painting on material and quilting it into wall hangings. I’ve done it for years. Following are a few more examples of my craft. The Taughannock Waterfall well as the 1957 Pink Packard Pet are for sale. You may contact at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details. (Commissioned work available upon request).

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quilted-packard

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The further examples of my artwork and quilting and not available for sale.

giraffe

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horse

christmas-deer

winter-deer

quilted-iris

sailboat

Additional samples from pastel, oil, crayon and pencil to painting a nativity scene follow.

waterfall

pastel

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nativity-scene

art-1-22

As some of you may know, I also give private piano and art lessons and have also done painting parties. Usually, my piano students also take art lessons! A few photos below. Feel free to contact me for more information at lorid.loriginals@yahoo.com, my website or see my profile for more information.

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Miranda Birthday Party 1152017

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And of course, the children just adore Jaco Kitty! What a “ham!”

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jaco-nan-and-san

Living By Faith

“We do not lose heart, because our inner being is renewed each day even though our body is being destroyed at the same time. The present burden of our trial is light enough, and earns for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. We do not fix our gaze on what is seen but on what is unseen. What is seen is transitory; what is unseen last forever.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Chapter 15: Cousin Dugan “My Father’s Greatest Gift” (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

This past summer, we went up to the family cottage and I met
my new cousin, Dugan, a Wheaton Terrier. We became friends right
from the start! He was still a puppy, so he did test my nerves a bit,
but as soon as we both went into the lake and swam together, things
were great! We lounged alongside the sloping grassed bank of the
lake and took naps. Then, we went swimming again! Chris and Lori
went swimming with us, too. Then, they took me for a canoe ride.
I used to be able to sit up in the canoe and look around, but my legs
were sore, so I just laid down for the ride.

The real surprise came later that summer when the side door
to the house opened up and cousin Dugan’s family came inside with
a crate, food, treats and toys and they LEFT cousin Dugan in his
crate in the basement! Well, since I will not do those basement stairs
anymore (long story…), I waited for my family to get home. Then,
cousin Dugan was out of the cage and running around everywhere!
What was going on?! Finally, I learned that cousin Dugan was staying
over for a few days while Chris’ family visited Papa and Bobci on
the St. Lawrence River at Cape Vincent. Apparently, no dogs were
allowed there either!

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Chert Dog and Cousin Dugan
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Chert Dog

Loriginal Designs

Chapter 13: Swimming, Boating and Walking with the Pack (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

My extent of boating experiences has been sitting in the
middle of the canoe as we take our time circling around the small
lake. I have also sat on the back of the two-seated paddle-boat, but
find this not quite as comfortable. Even though I have not gone out
on the small sailboat, I have been on the front of the one-man yellow
kayak, which I have found to be the most comfortable ride on the
water by far. I can lie down and rest my head and even take a nap
and let Chris do all of the work. I find all of these experiences very
restful and rejuvenating at the same time.

The family has quite a collection of boats in their fleet which
are lined-up on the tiny-pebble shoreline. The nieces and nephews
and their friends have such fun swimming, swinging over the water
from a rope attached to a shapely willow tree called “The Lady of the
Lake,” playing on the floating dock, doing a little fishing or taking the
boats out for a spin. There is always much activity when everyone is
at the cottage. Sometimes, I take a nap on the shaded slope up away
from all of the activity. I find the fresh air and scent from the wild
vegetation surrounding the area to be very intoxicating and soothing
to the soul.

nutmegandchertboating

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Highland Lake Sunset

Loriginal Designs

A Once In A Lifetime Love…

“It is good to have an end to journey towards; But it is the journey that matters, in the end.”

LeGuin

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On this day, May 20, 1961 my parents, John V. Marchell and Connie A. Mitchell were married.  It was a bittersweet wedding for my mom’s father, G. Clifford Mitchell, had passed from a heart attack less than a month prior to their wedding date.  Their love for me is crystal clear as I was the honeymoon baby.  Dad would often say to me that I was a ‘much loved child.’

I do believe that Grandpa Cliff’s Spirit has been with me always, as he was a graphic artist who, at an early age, was asked to work for Walt Disney.  He declined the offer and went into business for himself with many of his creative works promoting IBM in their beginning stages with their first place of operation located in Endicott, New York.

goldilocks

So on this day, I honor my parents unconditional love and everlasting guidance still evident miraculously in my life as love transcends our human understanding.  It is through building a firm foundation by focusing on the gift of union which makes the relationship stronger and resilient to withstand any storm.  With the extraordinary gift of a once in a lifetime love,  one hundred percent belief, trust and faith in one another with open heart awareness; together the two open their arms wide to embrace the unknown.

As their hearts joined together pictured in the glowing setting sunset clouds, I know that their gift of new beginnings is approaching for me as their message permeates my soul.

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“It’s time to unite your hearts, for together your energies  combined are magnetic, magical and infinite in their abilities to manifest miracles.”

Mom and Dad

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“One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore.”

Andre Gide

©Art and Photography by Loriginal Designs

Highland Lake, PA

(©wedding photograph, unknown)

Faith and My Artistic Adventure

Image 1-16-20 at 2.55 PM

“One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore.”

Andre Gide

Today is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad as the Psalms express throughout their various expressions of keeping Joy in our lives. While living in Long Beach, California several years ago, my mother, Connie had her birthday on April 14th which was Good Friday that year and passed from an aortic complication to her heart on April 16, Easter Sunday. She had just turned 54. Our bond transcends limitations as it is heart – based, yet her physical presence and counsel, laughter and wisdom are sorely missed in my life. Mom was my cheerleader, encouraging me on my artistic path. When my car accident occurred, it was truly a miracle that I survived, let alone still had the use of my arms, legs and hands as well as mental, physical and spiritual healing. A great part of me died when she passed. Yet, through these experiences I have still focused my creativity in an attempt to rekindle the broken, scattered pieces of my life.

Following are some art pieces I have created throughout my life, some donated, some given as gifts, some available for sale, and happily accepting commissioned artwork from photography utilizing various requested mediums with various works included in this posting. Feel free to contact me if interested at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details.

“For Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.” Hebrews 11:1

The main posting photograph is an Altar Cloth with applique, sewing and beadwork, with sequin and ribbon created for St. Vincent de Paul Church in Vestal, NY which was our home place of worship. The altar and tabernacle cloth below are displayed for First Holy Communion every year, and ironically left out for Mother’s Day the following Sunday in my mom’s memory. Hundreds of hours were put into the tapestries, a true labor of love.

tabernacle-cloth

My Godfather, Frank Hranek, or known as “Kristnetata” in Slovak, passed from leukemia. I created an oil painting of Cayuga Sunrise Memories with his classic Chris Craft mahogany boat . The painting was donated to Lourdes End of Life Hospice in his memory. Another labor of love toward a man who continually gave from his heart.

029440

A year prior to my Mom passing, I painted an acrylic of my parents, but a spiritual interpretation of their heavenly essence on the other side of the veil and gave it to them. I think between the painting and Chert Dog, Dad gradually adjusted to his devastating grief as my Mom was truly an earth angel! I still hear about her great assistance in encouraging and praying with others and her random acts of kindness from people I have never met before. Mom often wore flowers in her hair and radiated pure joy!

030

Grandma Marge and Grandpa Eddie Stolarcyk had a home in Port Charolette, Florida with the canal behind them, the harbor beyond them and fruit and flowering trees everywhere! When we would visit, we were delegated to pick, pack and transport grapefruit when there were not shipping constraints. These amazingly grapefruits were disfigured on the outside but surprisingly pink, sweet and extremely juicy on the inside – as Grandma would say, Nector from the Gods! When Grandma had to move to assisted living, I painted an acrylic of her home on Bangsburg Drive as it followed her around the entire nursing facility from room to room as she began to transition. It is donated to the nursing home for their assistance in making the last few years of her life as precious as possible. We were blessed with Jose, an employee who became Grandma Marge’s “boyfriend” and who would learn to say to her every day, “Ya ti muc, muc, muc lubiem!” which means in Slovak “I love you very, very, very much!” It is her faith which has instilled in me overcoming all obstacles in the pursuit of my dreams and allowed for “My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever.” She was my first editor and known to all as “the word lady” as well as Mrs. Hallmark, who remembered every anniversary, birthday and holiday. She was Perfection Personified in a Pure, Loving and PINK Way!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Grandma Marge was quite a party lady in the day, and I found golden bead trimmed party dress of hers and decided to paint a hummingbird with acrylic on a piece of of the dress material and used the beadwork to frame the quilted piece. This one is for sale. You may contact me at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details. (Commissioned work available upon request).

20160410_132537

I enjoy incorporating my painting on material and quilting it into wall hangings. I’ve done it for years. Following are a few more examples of my craft. The Taughannock Waterfall well as the 1957 Pink Packard Pet are for sale. You may contact at: lorid.loriginals@yahoo. com, via the message on the website or look at my profile for more details. (Commissioned work available upon request).

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

quilted-packard

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

The further examples of my artwork and quilting and not available for sale.

giraffe

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

horse

christmas-deer

winter-deer

quilted-iris

sailboat

Additional samples from pastel, oil, crayon and pencil to painting a nativity scene follow.

waterfall

pastel

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

nativity-scene

art-1-22

As some of you may know, I also give private piano and art lessons and have also done painting parties. Usually, my piano students also take art lessons! A few photos below. Feel free to contact me for more information at lorid.loriginals@yahoo.com, my website or see my profile for more information.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

IMAG0453

Miranda Birthday Party 1152017

Miranda Party 1152017.jpg

And of course, the children just adore Jaco Kitty! What a “ham!”

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

jaco-nan-and-san

Living By Faith

“We do not lose heart, because our inner being is renewed each day even though our body is being destroyed at the same time. The present burden of our trial is light enough, and earns for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. We do not fix our gaze on what is seen but on what is unseen. What is seen is transitory; what is unseen last forever.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

My Near Death Journey

My life came to a startling halt when a large truck smashed into the driver’s side of my small car. The impact crunched my vehicle like aluminum foil. The initial force thrust my seat to the passenger’s side of the vehicle. Rescue workers used the jaws-of-life to extract me from the wreckage. Notified of the accident, my husband sped wildly to the hospital.

The accident resulted in extensive swelling to the left side of my brain, broken ribs and a collapsed lung, and lower back injuries. Being in good physical condition at the time of the accident, I was spared internal injuries.

The doctors stated to family that if I did not regain consciousness and the brain’s swelling continued, they would have to operate to relieve the pressure. Brain damage or neurological impairments were possible.

Family remained at my bedside, hoping that I would regain consciousness. While friends and family prayed for me, my spirit traveled to a vividly colorful yet familiar place – my grandparents’ house (both had passed away prior to the accident). Their environment was lucid, tranquil, appreciative and loving. All the flowers, environment and people radiated this intense saturation of love and communicated telepathically.

In this dreamlike encounter, I was again an animated child of five soaring on my favorite swing set. Grandpa was close-by working in his garden. Grandma was on her way to walk the grassy, wooded trail along the creek that Grandpa kept neatly manicured. For prayer time, she referred to it as her rosary path. As I stood at the base of the rosary path next to the St. Francis statue surrounded by roses, I was no longer a child of five but a woman. As Grandma looked down to me from her path, she asked me to come with her in her strong Czechoslovakian accent. In a melancholy yet courageous voice I told her that I had to go now.

Was God asking me to stop long enough to take a good look at myself and realize how much I had to be thankful for NOW, in the PRESENT MOMENT? I truly believe that in my race to be more, do more, and become more, I had somehow quit appreciating who I already was.

After responding to Grandma’s question, I awoke from the coma. Family stood in front of the bed, looking down at me, indebted to God that I had finally regained consciousness.

The hospital released me the following Saturday into a disorienting, foggy existence. I did not know who I was anymore and felt like a puzzle whose pieces had been scattered. Could I put myself back together again? Were all the pieces still there?

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13, NAS) became a scripture I memorized together with, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24, NIV).

God/Source had always been the center focal point in my life, yet I began realizing what it meant by “letting go and letting God,” which lightened my perspective and allowed me to rise above my emotions to a place of spiritual enlightenment.

Before the accident, I’d felt like a clear glass jar full of vitality and love. Being an avid runner, bicyclist, canoeist, and x-country skier, I had an active lifestyle. Playing the piano, sewing up clothes, painting pictures, and reading were other hobbies I enjoyed.

After the accident, I was a smoke-colored glass jar that was empty. A stretched optic nerve resulted in double vision. I would often say things backward or stop mid-sentence. My short-term memory and concentration decreased, so I wrote everything down to remember. Opposite behavior qualities emerged, including introversion, moodiness, and irritability.

A fatigue emerged that made me feel like I was asleep even when awake. I experienced “sensory overload,” which made concentrating on the immediate task difficult. I was experiencing symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. My relationships with those closest to me went under quite a strain.

People often said I looked fine, not knowing the distress that lurked in the depths of my soul because the injury was INTERNAL, not external. Yes, I was extremely grateful that I had not been disfigured, but injury occurs on the inside, too. This simply reemphasized to me, “For the Lord sees no as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord look on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, RSV).

Since my friends and family lacked insight regarding head trauma, this made me draw closer to God because He could understand all my needs.

Looking back in my previous journal writings, I sensed an urgent need to bond with God and know and love myself. Using this convalescing time, I was being given a second chance to appreciate and reclaim those qualities that were still available to me.

“…that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28, RSV).

I practiced the piano to increase concentration skills, painted, and began to read and record my voice to re-learn concepts. Living on the boat, bicycling along the country roads, and sketching summer scenes brought renewed vitality.

Now, 26 years later, this clairvoyance, peace, and love empower my life with inner knowing and joy.

– See more at: http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232#sthash.9nuzq95R.dpuf

http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232

A Golden Opportunity!!!

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“You are a child of the Universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.”

Max Ehrmann

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OK, so the joke about this cover photograph has to do with the beginning of sharing the original manuscript with friends and family, with the first draft completed September 2010. My good friend, Debbie Standard, arrived at Arrowhead Parable Christian Center with her first copy of the story in manuscript format and traded it in for the published book! You gotta love it!

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My cousin, Michelle Michalek, arrived early for her copy of Chert’s story. The book signing had a tremendous outpouring of my extended family which warmed my heart and soul! So very thankful for their encouragement and support in this labor of love!

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So here is the real “synchronicity” about the dress I am wearing. The top beaded neckline of the dress that I made is taken from a party dress of my Grandmother Marge’s. She was my first editor of the manuscript. As a word lady and Scrabble, Upwords and Crossword Wiz, she also had the married name from her first husband of Margaret Mitchell, the author at the time of “Gone With The Wind.” Her use of words has been a strong influence in the building of becoming an author in my life. Thank you, Grandma! Ya Ti Muc Muc Muc Lubiem!!!

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As Aunt Kathy Stolarcyk walked in and saw me, she smiled ear to ear and asked me if that was Grandma Marge’s dress, as I told her it was the collar from her dress. The beaded dress is what Grandma Marge wore to Aunt Kathy and Uncle Mike’s wedding! I could feel wedding energy in the dress, and now know where exactly she had worn it!

Rabbee Hummingbird
Quilted Painting of Hummingbird with beadwork

As some of you have seen from a previous posting, I painted a hummingbird on the yellow dress of my Grandmother Marge’s and utilized all the beadwork from the hemline of that dress to frame the picture. Interestingly enough, my hummingbirds have been coming back around to the feeder this week and I am reminded of my beloved Grandmother Marge whose first anniversary is on the Blessed Mother’s Assumption. Ironically, my Grandmother Susie Marchell also passed on that sacred day as well, with Mom’s anniversary being Easter Sunday, so I have been very blessed with such spiritually strong, powerful and loving women figures in my life!

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“The color PINK represents caring, compassion, unconditional love and understanding.”

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“The color YELLOW symbolizes friendliness, warmth and honesty; displaying light, hope and encouragement.”

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My cousin Michelle Stolarcyk arrived as we shared our stories about Grandpa Stolarcyk and his crazy wild pants that he would wear as well as Chert’s love of Battaglini Bread from my Uncle Joe and Aunt Carol’s bakery, where no dogs are allowed!

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Now here is another “synchronicity” story about Becky Tinker, a previous co-worker with my Mom who happened to move across the street from me a few years ago! We have great fun together and always feel my Mom’ Joyous Spirit hovering around us when we go for our walks around the neighborhood! I offered Becky the manuscript, but she wanted to book instead!

Thank you to Craig Hall at Arrowhead Parable Christian Store, to all the people who came to visit and hear about Chert’s story and purchase a book for themselves or family and friends! I hope that Chert’s story warms their hearts and gives them some insight into the short and purposeful lives of angels in furry clothing!

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“My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever” is available online through Barnes and Noble, Amazon, etc., as well as my website:

http://loridmarchell.com/

©Loriginal Desgins

“My Father’s Greatest Gift” First Book Signing and “The Sedona Method”

My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever book signing held March 18, 2017 at Arrowhead Parable Christian Store, Johnson City, NY

https://www.amazon.com/My-Fathers-Greatest-Gift-Retriever/dp/1524556297/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1WAT2768ZAPGS&keywords=My+Father%27s+Greatest+Gift%3A+Life+Lessons+From+A+Black+English+Labrador+retriever+books&qid=1646844765&sprefix=my+father%27s+greatest+gift+life+lessons+from+a+black+english+labrador+retriever+books%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1

My Father’s Greatest Gift Website

Maria and Lori3182017

Are any of you familiar with The Sedona Method developed by Lester Levenson, with a tool set to assist in clearing out old, embedded thoughts, beliefs and feelings that were handed down through our DNA; which we have now become able to access on our own through The Akash to allow for the realization of these aspects of our depths in order to do “Spring Cleaning” as it were. The core components are letting go of the four basic wants: Approval, Security, Separation and Control. That said, it is a mouthful to digest when one begins asking the questions about how are these certain aspects of our inner workings serving us anymore and can we let them go? Are you willing to let them go? When?

Rose and Lori

The Sedona Method has been one of my “tool sets” for many years, but for some reason it surfaced this morning, so I am being led to share some insights from Lester’s “Lessons” on releasing. We are all cleansing energetically now, using a variety of tools which resonate for each one of us individually. The Sedona Method, by author Dale Dwoskin, shares Lester’s workings and research on our unlimited potential and provides yet other applications to address the old, worn out thoughts and beliefs which most probably were not originating from our own thoughts, but handed down through generations, like a grafting form a rose bush.

Rob, Lori, Anna3182017

Once you maser writing out the reasons why you are holding onto a certain want: Approval, Security, Separation or Control, you then need to address the deeper layers of thought patterns: Apathy, Grief, Fear, Lust, Anger, Pride, and even areas of Courageousness, Acceptance and Peace. By doing this deep inner work, your are dissolving resistance to “reacting” to criticism and to praise. In other words, you are at point zero equilibrium balance of mind, body and spirit, the center of Love and Gods Set Point.

As Khalil Gibran noted: “I have learned silence from the talkative, tolerance from the intolerant and kindness from the unkind; yet strange I am ungrateful to those teachers.”

girls and Lori sized

So you may be wondering why I am reflecting on The Sedona Method and how that applies to my first book signing of Chert Dog’s story, My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever? It is very simple. Because of all the years of doing the inner work within and clearing out the old thoughts and beliefs, it has given room for unlimited potentials to flourish in my life! (“Pombu Zoplatz: Thanks be to God”).

Care no more for the opinion of others, for those voices. Do the hardest thing for you. Act for yourself and face your truth.” Katherine Mansfield

Arrowhead Parable Book Signing!

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Arrowhead Parable Christian Store Book Signing

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Julie C. Tedesco, Rob Nearing (Calvin J. Boal), Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (L.D. Marchell)

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“London Calling Jesus”

Author:  Julie C. Tedesco

 

“St. George’s Cross and the Siege of Fort Pitt:  Battle of Three Empires”

“Valiant Warrior:  Knight of the Third Crusade”

“Last Run of the Whisperer”

Author:  Calvin J. Boal

 

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

Author:  L.D. Marchell

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“Sharon Whalen and L.D. Marchell:  my fourth grade teacher from MacArthur School!”

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“Visit from my friend Lisa!”

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“Thank you to Arrowhead Parable Christian Store and everyone who visited the book signing!”

©Loriginal Designs

 

 

 

 

 

 

L. D. Marchell’s New Book “My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

From Chert Dog’s perspective, “Doghead is pretty easy to learn, you just have to speak from your heart.” This velvety Black with Chocolate accents English Labrador Retriever came…

Source: Chert Dog’s Book: “My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever

A Loriginal Piano Composition: “C-13 Sonata”

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Throughout the creative process, I paint pictures, write stories, take photographs and compose music which all interweave into the tapestry of my life.  Though viewing the process from the underside with all the loose threads it appears to be quite a mess, the passion within is determined to interweave all the colorful threads to behold a brilliant gift from the Universe!

This copyrighted piano composition is inspired by 1 Corinthians 13  and spans my life journey.  When my beloved Mother passed, Dad  had this engraved on their stone:

“A hug, a smile, a kiss, fond memories of a lifetime”

(Posted on You Tube as well as on my blog’s Piano, Art and Photography tab, with some of my artwork, photography and family photos to go along with the music).

Enjoy!

“Cities” Live Other Ear Video

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“The Power of Positive Thinking”

Norman Vincent Peale

“Believe In Yourself”

“A Peaceful Mind Generates Power”

How To Have Constant Energy”

“Try Prayer Power”

“How To Create Your Own Happiness”

“Expect The Best and Get It”

“I Don’t Believe in Defeat”

“How To Break The Worry Habit”

“Power To Solve Personal Problems”

“When Vitality Sags, Try This Health Formula”

“How To Get People To Like You”

“Prescription For Heartache”

“How To Draw Upon That Higher Power”

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“The greater danger is not that our hopes are too high and we fail to reach them, it’s that they are too low, and we do.”

Michelangelo

©The Other Ear – Ben Fambrough (Vocals, Guitar), Chris Carlsen (Vocals, Bass), Chuck Kozlowski (Back Up Vocals, Drums), Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (Keyboards) with guest musicians James Michael Thompson (Vocals, Guitar) and Rich Kennicutt (Keyboards).

©Photography Sam and Chris Kozlowski, Joyce Carlsen

©Loriginal Designs

©”Cities” Talking Heads

https://youtu.be/pmBQBYGHboQ

 

My Near Death Journey

My life came to a startling halt when a large truck smashed into the driver’s side of my small car. The impact crunched my vehicle like aluminum foil. The initial force thrust my seat to the passenger’s side of the vehicle. Rescue workers used the jaws-of-life to extract me from the wreckage. Notified of the accident, my husband sped wildly to the hospital.

The accident resulted in extensive swelling to the left side of my brain, broken ribs and a collapsed lung, and lower back injuries. Being in good physical condition at the time of the accident, I was spared internal injuries.

The doctors stated to family that if I did not regain consciousness and the brain’s swelling continued, they would have to operate to relieve the pressure. Brain damage or neurological impairments were possible.

Family remained at my bedside, hoping that I would regain consciousness. While friends and family prayed for me, my spirit traveled to a vividly colorful yet familiar place – my grandparents’ house (both had passed away prior to the accident). Their environment was lucid, tranquil, appreciative and loving. All the flowers, environment and people radiated this intense saturation of love and communicated telepathically.

In this dreamlike encounter, I was again an animated child of five soaring on my favorite swing set. Grandpa was close-by working in his garden. Grandma was on her way to walk the grassy, wooded trail along the creek that Grandpa kept neatly manicured. For prayer time, she referred to it as her rosary path. As I stood at the base of the rosary path next to the St. Francis statue surrounded by roses, I was no longer a child of five but a woman. As Grandma looked down to me from her path, she asked me to come with her in her strong Czechoslovakian accent. In a melancholy yet courageous voice I told her that I had to go now.

Was God asking me to stop long enough to take a good look at myself and realize how much I had to be thankful for NOW, in the PRESENT MOMENT? I truly believe that in my race to be more, do more, and become more, I had somehow quit appreciating who I already was.

After responding to Grandma’s question, I awoke from the coma. Family stood in front of the bed, looking down at me, indebted to God that I had finally regained consciousness.

The hospital released me the following Saturday into a disorienting, foggy existence. I did not know who I was anymore and felt like a puzzle whose pieces had been scattered. Could I put myself back together again? Were all the pieces still there?

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13, NAS) became a scripture I memorized together with, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24, NIV).

God/Source had always been the center focal point in my life, yet I began realizing what it meant by “letting go and letting God,” which lightened my perspective and allowed me to rise above my emotions to a place of spiritual enlightenment.

Before the accident, I’d felt like a clear glass jar full of vitality and love. Being an avid runner, bicyclist, canoeist, and x-country skier, I had an active lifestyle. Playing the piano, sewing up clothes, painting pictures, and reading were other hobbies I enjoyed.

After the accident, I was a smoke-colored glass jar that was empty. A stretched optic nerve resulted in double vision. I would often say things backward or stop mid-sentence. My short-term memory and concentration decreased, so I wrote everything down to remember. Opposite behavior qualities emerged, including introversion, moodiness, and irritability.

A fatigue emerged that made me feel like I was asleep even when awake. I experienced “sensory overload,” which made concentrating on the immediate task difficult. I was experiencing symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. My relationships with those closest to me went under quite a strain.

People often said I looked fine, not knowing the distress that lurked in the depths of my soul because the injury was INTERNAL, not external. Yes, I was extremely grateful that I had not been disfigured, but injury occurs on the inside, too. This simply reemphasized to me, “For the Lord sees no as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord look on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, RSV).

Since my friends and family lacked insight regarding head trauma, this made me draw closer to God because He could understand all my needs.

Looking back in my previous journal writings, I sensed an urgent need to bond with God and know and love myself. Using this convalescing time, I was being given a second chance to appreciate and reclaim those qualities that were still available to me.

“…that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28, RSV).

I practiced the piano to increase concentration skills, painted, and began to read and record my voice to re-learn concepts. Living on the boat, bicycling along the country roads, and sketching summer scenes brought renewed vitality.

Now, 26 years later, this clairvoyance, peace, and love empower my life with inner knowing and joy.

– See more at: http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232#sthash.9nuzq95R.dpuf

http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232

Chert Dog’s Greatest Gift: Quantum Leaps of Faith (Jaco Kitty)

Chapter 1: Watershed (excerpt)

Psalm 91

Micah 6:8

Romans 8:28-31

Brrrrr, is it ever cold and windy from this high vantage point! All I can remember, really, is somebody took me for a long car ride and when the vehicle finally stopped, I was thrown out of it into a very dark and scary night. I am so thankful that I have excellent night vision because it helped me negotiate my unfamiliar surroundings. The side of the country road had pieces of rock salt which went in between my “20 paws and 22 claws” and I let out a squeak as I attempted to find some soft snow to wash away the sting. Yep, I was born with five toes on each of my paws and two extra claws which are located nicely between my “thumb” and four toes on my front two legs. Do you think THAT is the reason why they left me here? I know I have really big paws, but that’s what makes me unique!

Then, this really LOUD truck went chu-chugging along by where I had been soaking my paws and the bright headlights startled me as I ran away from the roadside into the pitch blackness of the slopping field below. There were rocks and clumps of snow together with prickly bushes and a barbed wire fence. Somehow I negotiated through the midnight maize towards some dried grass and welcoming brush. This seemed like a reasonable spot to take a rest for a bit, or so I thought. All of a sudden, some type of wild animal came out of the blindness of the night running right towards me! I must say my heart skipped quite a few beats as it felt as if it had jumped up into my throat as I sped towards the closest tree I could find. I climbed up as high as I could because I am still very young and don’t weigh very much yet so the very tiny limbs can support me.

Well, do you remember me telling you about how many toes I have? Now I know why God equipped me with such gargantuan paws. For what seemed to be an eternity for me, I held onto those fragile branches atop that big old oak tree. The wind picked up and the tree began to sway in the wind as I trembled and clung even tighter to the tiny branches. Then, the sun began to rise up over the hilltop as the sunlight shed some warmth on my nearly frozen body. Some chickadees flew up to see me as they sang their morning tunes. In different circumstances, I would have been dashing after THEM up the tree, but in my current situation, I was gladdened by their company.

Once the sunshine began to allow me to see my predicament more clearly, I literally wanted to take my one paw and place it up over my eyes in disbelief. What in heaven’s name was I going to do to get myself out of this situation? I had climbed so far up this friendly oak that my only solution would be to attempt to turn around and climb DOWN the tree. That’s about when the hypothermia began to set in. I hadn’t slept all night. I was hungry and dehydrated so I did what any logical person would do in a similar situation – I began to cry. What happened, though, is that I couldn’t stop crying. I’m sure you’ve heard this expression before: HAULT – don’t let yourself get too hungry, too angry, too lonely or too tired. Well, I had reached full-tilt on all four of those topics and then some!

As I cried deliriously, the most amazingly wonderful thing happened! A woman had been walking alongside the road and heard my calls. She climbed over the barbed wire fence and was underneath the tree looking up and talking to me. When I finally took a few deep breaths and subsided my almost hiccup crying reaction I was having, she began walking around the bottom of the oak’s trunk as she attempted to climb up a few branches. Then she motioned for me to jump down to a bigger limb which was quite a caper from my perspective. I just couldn’t let go. She then climbed back down the tree and went on her knees and prayed. Now, these past twenty-four hours have really encompassed the full spectrum of emotions for me, to say the least. Here I was last night being discarded by someone who didn’t appreciate me to this gal who not only tried to climb the tree to get me, but is now praying for me?

That was the “ah, ha” moment for me as I took my “first of many quantum leap of faith” to a lower limb and my enormous claws and paws grabbed onto the tree’s bark firmly. She encouraged me as I knew I would have to jump one more time before she could climb up to reach me. So, I literally closed my eyes when I sprang the second time and landed on the side of the trunk with pieces of the oak’s rough outer layers and small branches falling away. It was then that I truly learned what unconditional love really is. As she reached for me, I felt this amazing calmness come over me because I knew I had been saved.

Enveloped in her comforting and warm embrace, she wrapped her rainbow-hued fluffy yarn scarf around me and held firmly onto my paws else I decide to spring out of her arms. At this point, that was the last thing on my mind! Trembling and exhausted, I kept dozing off on our walk down the road and up the hill to where her home was nestled. As we approached our destination, a neighbor met us and offered a few cat toys, litter box and comforted me as I welcomed her kind words.

When we walked down the driveway to her home, a loud ruckus of several dogheads barking startled me as I almost sprang out of her grasp. Gladly, these friendly but very talkative neighbor’s pets were contained in a large fence surrounding their property. Whew, thank goodness for that! I’m sure they are friendly as they were my older brother’s girlfriends, but just the same, I am a kitten – not a doghead.

In Memory of Margaret D. Petran Mitchell Stolarcyck (excerpt)

Chapter 10: Tomatoes, Sunflowers and Roses

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Lori found this writing John had done about his mother-in-law
Margaret Stolarcyk’s halupki the day after my Master had passed.
I personally do not care for cabbage, but John just loved it – please
read:

The Saga of the Last Halupki 

You came to me in a big red bowl, thanks to
Grandma Marge – you and 25 or 30 little piglets
in your kraut and sauce. I could have devoured the
whole bowl at one sitting.
But no – I decided to portion them out over
three days – sounds reasonable to me. Three here,
four there, one snack, two snacks – well, you get the
picture.
Finally, there was but one – and a perfect one at
that. The art and love that went into making you was
quite evident. The corners of the cabbage leaf neatly
tucked to hold every morsel intact. There you lay in
that big red bowl, nestled in a bed of kraut and sauce
topped by a strip of bacon – a little lovely – maybe. A
sight to behold – yes.
And as I opened and closed that refrigerator
door my mouth would water in anticipation of eating
that last tasty treat. But no – I would save you for
later – prolong the agony.
Then finally – it’s time to end this torment and
enjoy this last treat. Nuke for a few second – just
enough to warm it through. Then delicately slice and
savor each bite – right. Wrong – the savage in me
took over and I attacked this last morsel like a pack
of piranhas!
As quiet time took over and I wiped the corner
of my mouth with a napkin, I mumbled under my
breath –
Rest in peace you little bastard – you will
torment me no more.

So, what do you think about the symbolism in his writing?
It personally speaks to me about his life in a “halupki” shell, if you
will. Intelligent, handsome, athletic and witty, with a beautiful wife
and family, yet he had that one halupki in the batch which tempted
and tormented him during his entire adult life. The apostle Paul
speaks often about this weak nature and thorn in our side. He goes on
to say that it is only through our weakness that we are made strong
because we are to draw closer to God and He will draw closer to us. I
witnessed that moment of peaceful surrender and acceptance of John
that summer while he watched the sunset. All I can say is thanks be
to God for giving me such a wonderful Master and for God’s grace
to bring peace to John’s tormented soul.

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Sisters Margaret and Bobbie together once again

 

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Golden Chrysalis

 

The definition of chrysalis is something still in the process of development.  Is our life that of a golden chrysalis to then be born into beautiful butterflies?  All of these photos were taken by me in my flower garden.  Each of these butterflies flew up and landed on me first, then enjoyed the flowers for several minutes.  They all symbolize loved ones who have been reborn into their new lives.  The top black/orange/blue/white butterfly arrived on my dad’s anniversary of his passing.  The yellow and black in the middle is my grandmother finally free to spread her wings.  The Monarch arrived when I was pursuing educational pursuits, as my mom is and always will be the one who celebrates my victories.  The light yellow and black worn butterfly symbolizes to me the importance of perseverance irregardless of the circumstances.  All are miracles.  Thanks be to God!

Epilogue from “My Father’s Greatest Gift”

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“When we die, we leave all that we have

and take with us all that we are.”

Connie A. Mitchell Marchell

“My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Ah, Doghead here. Hope you enjoyed hearing about what
my mission was while I was here. Just thought I’d like to point
out the synchronicity of all of the events that led to bringing that
much needed peace and serenity to John’s tormented soul. His wife,
Connie, had told him that if she were ever to leave the earth plane,
she would come back as his dog because he gave so much love and
attention to all of the animals in his life. All I can tell you on that
note is that since Love is all there is and we are all One in the Spirit,
it is quite possible that her love channeled through me to mend his
broken heart and bring life more abundantly into his life. So my
mission was accomplished and I want to thank you for giving me the
opportunity to share my experience of the unlimited powers of love
with you. Doghead out.

Grandma Marge’s Greatest Gift

Grandma Marge in Port Charolette, Florida her wonderful winter home!

In Memory of Margaret D. Petrany Mitchell Stolarcyk
2/26/20 – 8/15-8/16/2016

I felt led to share an incredible experience that Grandma Marge gifted me the week of her passing one year ago.  The day she passed, she held my left hand very tightly as I knew she was being prepared to continue her next life.  My fraternal Grandmother Susie passed on August 15th which is celebrated as the Blessed Mother’s Assumption.  Now please keep in mind that Grandma Marge was always early for everything her entire life. Yet, this most important day of which countless rosaries and prayers were said for many throughout her life, her date of crossing over was early on August 16th.  Grandma was always someone who would share a joke and make you happy, and we laugh at her intention to celebrate her passing on the Blessed Mother’s Assumption and just missing it.  Since there are different time zones throughout the world, we still believe that she was honored to celebrate her passing on that sacred day.  Her beloved daughter, Connie (my mom) passed on Easter Sunday the year of her journey to new beginnings.  When Mom was here with us, she traveled to Medugorje and with the children visionaries which impacted her total spiritual life.

Several years ago, St. Padre Pio’s Stigmata glove was being presented for blessings at St. Cyril’s and Grandma Marge and her sister, Bobbie took me there for a continual detached retina on my left eye which I was traveling to have surgery on once again.  Aunt Bobbie held the framed glove and blessed my eye with a rose petal placed over the glove.  Since that time, my left eye has been stable!  Needless to say, St. Padre Pio is one of many Patron Saints for me!  Aunt Bobbie (whose birthday was the same day as mine) recently passed and her service was held at St. Cyril’s with a beautiful testimony to her faith.  Now the two youngest sisters, who were from a family of 11, are now celebrating!

As family arrived and preparations began, I assembled her outfit with her favorite bright pink blouse and of course, her “poppuchies” (slippers in Slovak) together with her crystal rosaries and wedding ring.  After I cleaned the wedding ring, I placed it in her rosary pouch which I held in my left hand.  Immediately, the center of the palm of my left hand puffed-out like a fast-forward movie.  It hurt and I placed ice on it, thinking that it was just a spider bite.  Then it began to enlarge and turn blue and sunk into the palm of my hand, as a heart-shaped blue stigmata.  It didn’t bleed, but the spiritual empowerment from this gift made me become a channel for Grandma to prepare things for her celebration as I was led to scripture for her readings Daniel 3:52-90 (which I read) and Philippians 1:18-23 (my cousin read).  Fr. Tim made an incredible reference to the meaning of pink symbolizing love and commented on her countless acts of mercy and kindness towards others throughout her life.  The entire week of preparations I didn’t sleep and was assembling photo albums and visiting with family to prepare the most beautiful celebration of her life with us.  It was that week when the corn stalk tassel turned pink in my backyard as well as her yellow butterfly appeared in my garden.

As I carried her rose-painted ashes vase to her resting place, and sat next to her son holding his right hand with my left hand, I knew why I had received this gift from her.  It was for her love and healing light to permeate through me into her beloved son.  And then the blue heart-shaped stigmata disappeared.

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Grandma Marge’s Greatest Gift

Grandma Marge in Port Charolette, Florida her wonderful winter home!

In Memory of Margaret D. Petrany Mitchell Stolarcyk
2/26/20 – 8/15-8/16/2016

I felt led to share an incredible experience that Grandma Marge gifted me the week of her passing one year ago.  The day she passed, she held my left hand very tightly as I knew she was being prepared to continue her next life.  My fraternal Grandmother Susie passed on August 15th which is celebrated as the Blessed Mother’s Assumption.  Now please keep in mind that Grandma Marge was always early for everything her entire life. Yet, this most important day of which countless rosaries and prayers were said for many throughout her life, her date of crossing over was early on August 16th.  Grandma was always someone who would share a joke and make you happy, and we laugh at her intention to celebrate her passing on the Blessed Mother’s Assumption and just missing it.  Since there are different time zones throughout the world, we still believe that she was honored to celebrate her passing on that sacred day.  Her beloved daughter, Connie (my mom) passed on Easter Sunday the year of her journey to new beginnings.  When Mom was here with us, she traveled to Medugorje and with the children visionaries which impacted her total spiritual life.

Several years ago, St. Padre Pio’s Stigmata glove was being presented for blessings at St. Cyril’s and Grandma Marge and her sister, Bobbie took me there for a continual detached retina on my left eye which I was traveling to have surgery on once again.  Aunt Bobbie held the framed glove and blessed my eye with a rose petal placed over the glove.  Since that time, my left eye has been stable!  Needless to say, St. Padre Pio is one of many Patron Saints for me!  Aunt Bobbie (whose birthday was the same day as mine) recently passed and her service was held at St. Cyril’s with a beautiful testimony to her faith.  Now the two youngest sisters, who were from a family of 11, are now celebrating!

As family arrived and preparations began, I assembled her outfit with her favorite bright pink blouse and of course, her “poppuchies” (slippers in Slovak) together with her crystal rosaries and wedding ring.  After I cleaned the wedding ring, I placed it in her rosary pouch which I held in my left hand.  Immediately, the center of the palm of my left hand puffed-out like a fast-forward movie.  It hurt and I placed ice on it, thinking that it was just a spider bite.  Then it began to enlarge and turn blue and sunk into the palm of my hand, as a heart-shaped blue stigmata.  It didn’t bleed, but the spiritual empowerment from this gift made me become a channel for Grandma to prepare things for her celebration as I was led to scripture for her readings Daniel 3:52-90 (which I read) and Philippians 1:18-23 (my cousin read).  Fr. Tim made an incredible reference to the meaning of pink symbolizing love and commented on her countless acts of mercy and kindness towards others throughout her life.  The entire week of preparations I didn’t sleep and was assembling photo albums and visiting with family to prepare the most beautiful celebration of her life with us.  It was that week when the corn stalk tassel turned pink in my backyard as well as her yellow butterfly appeared in my garden.

As I carried her rose-painted ashes vase to her resting place, and sat next to her son holding his right hand with my left hand, I knew why I had received this gift from her.  It was for her love and healing light to permeate through me into her beloved son.  And then the blue heart-shaped stigmata disappeared.

hand-enlarged-8162016hand-sukken-8172016

 

Chapter 11: Mr. Svelte (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift: Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Bootcamp has been very challenging for me as I am
ALWAYS hungry and get very tired on my walks uphill. After my
daily ‘choopie fit” I normally have “doggie aerobics” which entails
stretching my legs and working them as if I were swimming. I just
LOVE to swim! We also have fun with “spin the dog” which seems to
work very nicely on the carpeted floor in the living area. I get turned
around and around until I get really dizzy. It actually is lots of fun
because it makes me feel like a puppy once again. It is so important
to incorporate daily exercise into your life. As I am finding out,
I feel better, I look better and I have a brighter outlook and enjoy
activities more now that I am slimming down and building stronger
muscles. Sometimes I am referred to as Mr. Slimbutt which actually
is a wonderful compliment as opposed to my earlier nickname of
Mr. Coffee Table. Isn’t it great to tape over old messages with new
ones that are uplifting, motivating and energizing?! Oh boy, oh boy,
oh boy!

In my new neighborhood, there are several children who
come over to visit ME and even ask if they can walk ME! It makes
my heart sing and my dancing front paws sound like tap shoes on
the sidewalk. I get so excited going for walks with my new friends.
In the mornings, Lori walks me to the end of the block to visit with
a Slovak gentleman who reminds me a bit of John. He usually wears
a quilted flannel shirt just like my Master did and even speaks to me
in Slovak (Lori attempts to speak some words, but her inability to roll
her “rrrr’s” is a real disadvantage in speaking the language correctly).
Then the school bus arrives and all of my new friends get aboard the
bus and wave good-bye as they ride up the hill. I wish I could go to
school with them. I could talk to them about all of my stories that I am
sharing with you and they would laugh along with some of my antics.
Maybe some of the children have gone through losing someone that
they loved which would be something I could help them relate to as
well. I think what would be the most fun if I went to school is to ride
on the bus! I just LOVE RIDES! Don’t all Dogheads?…

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A Once In A Lifetime Love…

“It is good to have an end to journey towards; But it is the journey that matters, in the end.”

LeGuin

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On this day, May 20, 1961 my parents, John V. Marchell and Connie A. Mitchell were married.  It was a bittersweet wedding for my mom’s father, G. Clifford Mitchell, had passed from a heart attack less than a month prior to their wedding date.  Their love for me is crystal clear as I was the honeymoon baby.  Dad would often say to me that I was a ‘much loved child.’

I do believe that Grandpa Cliff’s Spirit has been with me always, as he was a graphic artist who, at an early age, was asked to work for Walt Disney.  He declined the offer and went into business for himself with many of his creative works promoting IBM in their beginning stages with their first place of operation located in Endicott, New York.

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So on this day, I honor my parents unconditional love and everlasting guidance still evident miraculously in my life as love transcends our human understanding.  It is through building a firm foundation by focusing on the gift of union which makes the relationship stronger and resilient to withstand any storm.  With the extraordinary gift of a once in a lifetime love,  one hundred percent belief, trust and faith in one another with open heart awareness; together the two open their arms wide to embrace the unknown.

As their hearts joined together pictured in the glowing setting sunset clouds, I know that their gift of new beginnings is approaching for me as their message permeates my soul.

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“It’s time to unite your hearts, for together your energies  combined are magnetic, magical and infinite in their abilities to manifest miracles.”

Mom and Dad

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“One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore.”

Andre Gide

©Art and Photography by Loriginal Designs

Highland Lake, PA

(©wedding photograph, unknown)

Indian Summer at Greenwood Park

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“Steely blue sky against autumn’s wondrous array; summer’s reborn as caterpillars come out to play.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Just when the caterpillar thought it’s life was over, it became a butterfly.”

Author Unknown

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“Go at life with abandon; give it all you’ve got.  And life will give all it has to you.”

Norman Vincent Peale

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“Did you know that by taking leaps of faith, the angelic winds will allow for you to soar?”

L.D. Marchell

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“Timeless meanderings on a stellar autumn stroll.”

L.D. Marchell

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“To be young at heart is the joy of life’s precious gift.”

L.D. Marchell

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“As woodlands whisper and sway in the wind, the call of nature speaks ever softly to our soul.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Upon Mother Gaia we walk ever gingerly, mindful of her gracious generosity if only we pause to listen to God’s unconditional love.”

L.D. Marchell

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“On this magnificent day, may each piece of  the precious moment create the mosaic of your life.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Be ever-present with all the senses, for miracles abound.”

L.D. Marchell

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©Loriginal Designs

©Norman Vincent Peale

 

 

My First Christmas (excerpt from Jaco)

Chert Dog’s Greatest Gift: Quantum Leaps of Faith

With all this snow outside, I thought I would share my first Christmas photo shoot with you! Thank goodness the sun was outside because the snow is very cold! Unlike my older brother, Chert, I DO NOT love sitting in the snow! He, however, would just sit in it for hours, as I was told! I wish that I had met him, but that defeats the whole reason I am here, doesn’t it? Because I am Chert’s Gift to the family he left behind when he went home to be with his Master. The children in the neighborhoood Chert grew up in used to call his Master “Mr. John” which made him smile and fill his heart with joy. Children have a way of doing that, as I so love when the piano and art students come to visit!

So, my first Christmas was fascinating as the artificial Christmas tree stood positioned between the living room and piano parlor entryway. This cut my running route off, so I had to learn to scoot through the sides of the tree! I thoroughly enjoyed sliding on the tree skirt positioned underneath the tree atop the wood flooring! The ornaments and lights became fascinating to look at, and staring at them for any length of time began to mesmerize me! I must confess I did bat at a few of the ornaments, but much prefer my catnip toys! When gifts were opened, I enjoyed playing with all the ribbons, tissue and wrapping paper – not to mention the boxes were fun for jumping in and hiding inside!

My most memorable experience that first Christmas was the beautiful music, colorful lights and warm feeling of pure love surrounding and enveloping the season. As a natural wayshower myself with born intuitive instincts, I feel this intoxicating love and kindness within me and surrounding me and enveloping me with such joyous, peaceful tranquility. We angelic animals are here to assist in transmuting and transforming these man-made, inconsistent and damaging thoughts, words and actions into joy, peace and love. Chert knew it. I know it. We have to assist in being the light and doing the work to bring about restoration to our world one loving thought, word or action at a time.

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” Dalai Lama

Co-Creating on Thanksgiving Weekend

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“Once I used to think that shadows were to hide; But now I am very clear that that is where faith, hope and love abide.”

L.D. Marchell

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“It is family which has no boundaries in unconditional love, surpassed by blood lines, defined by the attunement of the heart, we seldom glimpse the vast array of soul family members until we become awake within the consciousness of the heart which speaks truth in all its purity.  Therefore, become aware of your soul family as they are calling you home.”

Connie Andrea Marchell

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“The conscious pause of the moment; The silent pause of the mind.  The alignment of connection; Of the soul to the Divine.”

Lisa Ann Carucci Lash

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“Mindfulness = apparent by the breath of life, the peacefulness of nature, the energy from Gaia, the embodiment of the greatest gift of all – life to share, give, receive, embrace – memories of a lifetime.”

L.D. Marchell

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“The hawk’s confirming wings,

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In circles up above,

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Fly closer to us in,

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A message of pure love.”

Lisa Ann Carucci Lash

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“Those that mind don’t matter; And those that matter don’t mind.”

Dr. Seuss (Ted Geisel)

 

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“It has become apparent to me that the more I learn about others, the better I feel about myself; It is by selfless love that we die to self where then Christ can shine brightly through our lives.  Crucifixion of the heart, then, is where the Sacred Heart of Jesus Shines.”

Connie Andrea Marchell

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Look Up!

“Gold and White; Rays of sun; Infinite Love.”

Lisa Ann Carucci Lash

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“Tire swings; Peaceful things.  Nature brings; All of me.”

Lisa Ann Carucci Lash

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©Loriginal Designs

©Connie Andrea Marchell

©Lisa Ann Carucci Lash

©Dr. Seuss (Ted Geisel)

Otsiningo Park Broome County Park and Newton Battlefield New York State Park

 

 

 

Days of Thanksgiving!!!

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Cincinnatus Lake, New York

Infinite gratitude to the beauty of our surroundings, of friends and family with heartfelt thankfulness for their generosity from the heart!  May our focus on all the wonder and expansive glory surrounding us and the miraculous gift of the breath of life within us be ever kept in present moment appreciative awareness!

 “It is a woman’s nature to be constant – to love one and one only, blindly, tenderly, and for ever – bless them, dear creatures!”

Anne Bronte

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“All our talents increase in the using, and every faculty, both good and bad, strengthens by exercise.”

Anne Bronte

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“I would not send a poor girl into the world, ignorant of the snares that beset her path; nor would I watch and guard her, till, deprived of self-respect and self-reliance, she lost the power or the will to watch and guard herself.”

Anne Bronte

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“A hardness such as this is taught by tough experience and despair alone.”

Anne Bronte

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“His heart was like a sensitive plant, that opens for a moment in the sunshine, but curls up and shrinks into itself at the slightest touch of the finger, or the lightest breath of wind.”

Anne Bronte

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“But he who dares not grasp the throne should never crave the rose.”

Anne Bronte

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“I allow she has small claims to perfection; but then, I maintain that, if she were more perfect, she would be less interesting.”

Anne Bronte

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“Keep a guard over your eyes and ears as the inlets of your heart, and over your lips as the outlet.”

Anne Bronte

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“It is foolish to wish for beauty.  Sensible people never either desire it for themselves or care about it in others.  If the mind be but well cultivated, and the heart well disposed, no one ever cares for the exterior.”

Anne Bronte

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“Our wishes are like tinder:  the flint and steel of circumstances are continually striking out sparks, which vanish immediately, unless they chance to fall upon the tinder of our wishes; then, they instantly ignite, and the flame of hope is kindled in a moment.”

Anne Bronte

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“It seems as if life and hope must cease together.”

Anne Bronte

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“My heart is too thoroughly dried to be broken in a hurry, and I mean to live as long as I can.”

Anne Bronte

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“I love the silent hour of night, For blissful dreams may then arise, Revealing to my charmed sight What may not bless my waking eyes.”

Anne Bronte

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“The end of religion is not to teach us how to die, but how to live.”

Anne Bronte

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©Anne Bronte

©Loriginal Designs

*(Private Yoga/Pilates Empowerment Outdoor Workshops – contact Loriginal Designs for more details.  AFAA, ICF/CCA, Reiki II Certifications)

 

A Relaxing Afternoon At Dorchester Park

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“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.

Emily Bronte

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“Love is like the wild rose-briar; Friendship like the holly-tree.”

Emily Bronte

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“I’ll walk where my own nature would be leading; It vexes me to choose another guide.”

Emily Bronte

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“I see heaven’s glories shine and faith shines equal.”

Emily Bronte

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“Honest people don’t hide their deeds.”

Emily Bronte

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“I have dreamed in my life, dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they have gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.”

Emily Bronte

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“But first a hush of peace, a soundless calm descends; The struggle of distress and fierce impatience ends.”

Emily Bronte

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“If I could I would always work in silence and obscurity, and let my efforts be known by their results.”

Emily Bronte

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“A good heart will help you to a bonny face, my lad…”

Emily Bronte

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“I have to remind myself to breathe, almost to remind my heart to beat.”

Emily Bronte

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“…But most where trees are sending; Their breezy boughs on high; Or stooping low are lending a shelter from the sky.”

Emily Bronte

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“I wish I were a girl again, half savage and hardy, and free…”

Emily Bronte

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“I cannot express it:  but surely you and everybody have a notion that there is, or should be, an existence of yours beyond you.”

Emily Bronte

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“With wide-embracing Love Thy Spirit animates eternal years; Pervades and broods above; Changes, sustains, dissolves, creates and rears.”

Emily Bronte

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“No coward soul is mine.  No trembler in the world’s storm-troubled sphere.”

Emily Bronte

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“From the midst of cheerless gloom I passed to bright unclouded day.”

Emily Bronte

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“I am now quite cured of seeking pleasure in society, be it country or town.  A sensible man ought to find sufficient company in himself.”

Emily Bronte

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© Loriginal Designs

©Emily Bronte Quotes

 

 

Live Music From The Other Ear!!!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

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“God will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory.”

Philippians 4:19

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“Cast all your cares on ME.”

1 Peter 5:7

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“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In All your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

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“We know that All things work together for them that love God, to them that are called according to His Purpose.”

Romans 8:28

Thank you to Ransom Steele Tavern, Cyber Cafe West, family, friends and guests for making The Other Ear’s Reunion weekend of music a memorable experience for everyone!

First recording of the end of “Dirt” cover written by Phish is posted below the credits taken from Ben Fambrough’s You Tube channel.

©The Other Ear:

Ben Fambrough (lead vocals, guitar); Chuck Kozlowski (drums, back-up vocals); Chris Carlsen (bass, vocals); Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (keyboards); with guest musicians Rich Kennicutt (keyboards) and James Michael Thompson (guitar, vocals).

©Photography by Chris and Sam Kozlowski, Joyce Carlsen

©Loriginal Designs

17th Annual All Paws for a Cause Dog Walk Sunday, July 23, 2017

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons From A Black English Labrador Retriever”

Chert Dog’s Tent!

Upcoming WBNG TV Interview with Kara Conrad on Friday, August 11 at 12:15 pm

Book signing at Arrowhead Parable Christian Store on Saturday, August 12 at 11 am – 2 pm

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Willow’s Wings

A non profit animal sanctuary and rescue, devoted to caring for all animals large and small, many of which have been left abandoned, neglected and abused.  Our saying here is, “They may be old, sick or disabled, but their lives matter too.”

Donations can be sent to:  http://www.paypal.me/WillowsWings

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Willow’s Wings

Animal Sanctuary and Rescue

http://www.WillowsWings.com

Willow6226@gmail.com

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http://www.wbng.com/story/35921275/15th-annual-all-paws-for-a-cause-dog-walk?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=13505241

©Loriginal Designs

©Willow’s Wings

©WBNG TV Kara Conrad

©YWCA Broome County

 

 

 

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever

L.D. Marchell (pseudonym)

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Each chapter begins with noted scripture verses to read from the Bible in relation to the context of each chapter.  This is a true story, as narrated through the eyes of a Black English Labrador Retriever named Chert whose purpose is revealed in the story.  In his own words, throughout his fourteen years of life, Chert Dog comments that “…doghead is pretty easy to learn, you just have to speak from your heart.”  This velvety black, with chocolate accents, English Labrador Retriever came into my father’s life a few months after the unexpected death of my mother.  It touches on the Slovak ethnic background of our family, hence his name Chert, which means devil!  He shares his triumphs and escapades, as well as his life’s mission.  With a “doghead” slant on wisdom and his purpose, the story’s main theme is about the power of unconditional love and forgiveness.

This newly release book can be found on Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Google, as well as http://www.loridmarchell.com/ “My Father’s Greatest Gift”online.  A link has been provided.

 

 

 

 

 

Addendum: Jaco Kitty (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Č’ert Dog had a plan for me. Four months to the day, I awoke
compelled to walk to watershed where we would drive him to go
for his walks. It was the last place he walked while still with us. As
I began walking back down the busy road (which I normally would
drive when Č’ert was with me), I heard a crying sound. Sure enough,
atop an old oak tree there clung a gold and white kitten holding onto
the very top of the tree for dear life. After about an hour and a half
of praying, talking to him and encouraging him, he finally took a
“leap of faith” from his predicament as he began to fall down the
tree, clinging to branches along the way. I climbed up the tree and
caught him. He trembled as I wrapped him in my scarf and I held
him close to my chest as I walked him home. He was very dehydrated
and looked as if he had not eaten for many days…

Jaco Kitty’s first toy was a tiger printed bow tie from one of
Č’ert Dog’s Halloween costumes. I stuffed it and put elastic around
it. It is his favorite toy and he brings it everywhere with him. It is
actually very coincidental as that it was Č’ert Dog’s as he always had
to have a toy, a shirt, something in his mouth. Jaco is also very fast
and runs around the house and outside when we are outside with him.
When he first gets up in the morning or when he is running around,
he makes a squeaking sound similar to that of my favorite bird call
of the goldfinch. Of course, he goes for the white birch tree out front
and likes to perch inside its weeping branches. I did find him in a
tree, so I guess it is his favorite place to be!

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You Belong To Me, Now and For Always!!!

“All you birds of the air, Bless the Lord; Praise and exalt Him forever.”

Daniel 4:80

On this Mother’s Day, Grandma Marge will be flying around as a hummingbird in her angelic realm for certain! The above painting of a hummingbird in acrylic I painted on one of her party dresses and used the beaded hemline to create a border around it. She was so thrilled when I brought it for her to see, and am so very thankful for the time I spent with her throughout my life! But especially during the time from when my Mom passed and I moved back to New York from California. Our relationship merged into that of Grandmother/Mother and Granddaughter/Daughter. It is these memories that are cherished in my heart for always!!!

I was with her a few hours before she passed. It was the Feast Day of The Blessed Mother’s Assumption. During that most sacred time, she emphatically asked me to put her “poppuchies” on now (slippers in Slovak), put a hat on her head now and she wanted to sit in her chair as if to wait for the angels to come to carry her home! When she had spoken with Father Tim earlier that week, she said that she just wanted to go home and be with Jesus, her best friend! I recall the gathering of birds that flew by me that evening, their haunting calls were not of common birds. As some of you have read from my previous postings, Grandma gave me a gift of spiritual stigmata on my left hand the following day of her passing and it disappeared when I brought her rose embellished urn vase to her resting place at Calvary Cemetery seven days later.

In memory of her unconditional love and forgiveness, I am posting a short video of her singing at United Methodist Homes accompanied by Ralph with his harmonica. She sings “You Belong to Me, Now and For Always.” Ya Ti Muc Muc Muc Lubiem Starinka!!!

©Loriginal Designs

Chapter 11: Mr. Svelte (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

My new family is involved in an old English style of dance
called Morris Dancing which involves groups of 4, 6, or sometimes
even 8 people who line-up in two rows across from each other wearing
white outfits and bells on their shins and either handkerchiefs or
sticks in their hands. They weave around each other and jump up in
the air and dance along with music which is played on instruments
such as an accordion, concertina, violin, drum and flute (just to name
a few). I understand that Lori and Chris met while dancing at the
Maple Sugar Festival in Marathon, NY. Morris Dancing remains an
important part of my new family’s life. That said Chris took me for
a ride with him to this old English Tudor styled inn in a place called
Gilbertsville. There were several other Morris dancers and musicians
at the inn, which they referred to as the Major’s Inn. There was much
music, dancing, drinking and food to enjoy. Several Morris dancers
gave me many yummy treats which I thankfully inhaled. Little did
I know that all this diet and exercise that I had been so diligently
pursuing would create such intestinal complications from this rich
food! Oh well, he wanted to bring me!

The next day Lori arrived with a very close friend who also happens to be a Morris dancer, but for the women’s team. Since the weather had turned cool and rainy,
they let me stay in the car, which I gladly enjoyed having the warmth
and comfort instead of the wet, hard pavement and sidewalk. Then,
we drove back to the Major’s Inn for a big feast! More rich food, but
this time Lori was keeping track of my diet regime and I thankfully
did not experience any further intestinal difficulties thank you very
much!

That evening, we were sleeping in a corner room of the vast
mansion when all of a sudden, there was an incredible amount of
noisy music coming from the hallway outside the door! Being the
protective and inquisitive Doghead that I am, I went closer to the
door to investigate all the commotion. Well, wouldn’t you know it,
they opened our bedroom door! Then the music and noise became
much louder and I began to wag my tail in anticipation of being able
to be part of this unusual sounding marching band. Apparently, my
presence was not well accepted as I was suddenly pushed back into
the room, sliding along the wooden floor as the door slammed behind
me! Oh well, I really didn’t care much for their style of music anyway.
I much more enjoyed the music accompanying the Morris Dancers.
Maybe that is why the marching band only plays at night because they
really are not very good – is sounds more like nonsense than music
to my Doghead ears anyway!

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In memory of Bob DeLucca

 

 

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Chapter 2: Smelting (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

…Later that day as the sun began to sit low in the sky it reflected
its brilliant hues of orange, pink, yellow and purple. That is when
many people of all ages, shapes and sizes began arriving to Salmon
Creek. They had long nets and wore funny boots that stretched all the
way up to their waist! People began to build campfires on the stony
banks of the creek. There were also other kinds of Dogheads there. I
spoke out in my excitement! Soon, the sun had gone to sleep and the
sparkles of stars in the sky began to appear with a big yellowish-white
moon rising against the darkening sky. Lanterns began to turn on as
the people began to wade into the creek with their long nets as they
scooped up the silvery-blue colored smelt from the rushing waters.
Soon, Salmon Creek was filled with the lights of the lanterns and it
appeared to be BRIGHTER than the stars in the sky!…

Chapter 1: Puppy Number 8 (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Ah, Doghead here. Let me begin by saying that from my
vantage point, things are really warm and toasty! I kept it that way
as long as I could to be a gentleman and let my brothers and sisters
go before me. And then my turn arrived. All of a sudden, I felt a
large tongue licking me and heard a lot of noises that were new to
me. Then, my eyes were opened and I could see my Mother, Parisian,
with all of my brothers and sisters! Wow, we were out and making
noises that I had never heard before! My Father wasn’t there, but his
name was Broadway Bound and I inherited his dancing abilities as
I’ve been often told!

One by one I had to say good-bye to my brothers and sisters as
they left our home to live with their new families. I wished them well.
I stayed with my Mother and her owner, who happened to be my new
Master’s nephew! They were similar in some ways – they both had
been athletes and they could speak both Slovak and Doghead (more
on that further into my story). My Mother, Paris, was very lucky to
have such a kind and dog-friendly master who seemed to always have
special things for us to learn. I think I especially enjoyed the rides in
the cart behind his tractor. Going for rides in the truck is still one of
my most favorite pastimes!

My most exciting moment was when I met my Master,
whose name is John! John is a handsome, stoic man whose firm,
commanding voice gave way to the most endearing soul I could ever
wish to have – we were best of friends from the start! John’s son has a
very similar compassionate soul – a dog’s heaven on earth, to be sure!…

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Chapter 10: Tomatoes, Sunflowers and Roses (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

John had a heart of gold and would do anything for you.
His loves were his beloved wife, Connie and her father, his son and
daughter, his brother and parents, in-laws, family, neighbors and
friends. But his most special gift was that of loving wildlife and
gardening, and did he ever grow amazing tomatoes whose “stalks”
stretched alongside the backyard garage to almost the rooftop! The
sunflowers had enormous flowers of which all the birds would flock to
for a feast! His lawn was the lushest and greenest in the neighborhood.
And I had heard from many that when Connie was alive, the rose
garden’s beauty and fragrance had a surreal appeal. You might say
he was blessed with a “green thumb” as many referred to him as a
Master Gardener. One could also note that it was his education and
training at Cornell’s Agricultural Program. A neighboring retired
veterinarian would often comment that it was the Japanese Quail
droppings. I personally say that is was his complete and selfless love
of planting, watering, nurturing and talking to the many plants, trees
and flowers that he gave his unconditional love to. I know that for a
fact because the minute I met John, I could see immediately through
his outer gruffness when he smiled at me with a twinkle in his eye
and spoke to me with words filled with an altruistic appreciation for
Dogheads like me. There seemed to be a release in his demeanor
the day that we met, as if to say that he had found a fresh start and
relief to his tired and grieving heart. I loved him from the start. He
gave me discipline, to make me a better person-I mean Doghead! He
showed me many wonderful places and exciting people to expand my
horizons. My most favorite times with him were being co-pilot when
we went for drives and sleeping on his pillow on his couch.

It was in his brokenness that God healed his spirit thought the
love of his children, the kindness and many homemade-meals from
his mother-in-law, family and friends and the many adventures that
both he and I had throughout his life. I was there to see two weddings
as he became a father to yet another son and daughter that brought
in many new family members. This brought much change for him
to deal with at first, and though reluctant and stubborn, he seemed
to adapt graciously until he had a sense of pure knowing about
him…

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Addendum: Music with Jaco Kitty (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

While watching a Weather Report Music DVD with friends
on “Jaco Pastorius” night, Jaco had been playing outside all day and
was pooped. He rested on the loveseat while we watched the concert.
He seemed to nod his head with the bass beat, and when a mistake
was made, he actually put his paw over his head in disbelief! A true
musician at heart he is! If he isn’t resting in my husband’s bass case,
he is on the piano bench either playing the piano on his own or sitting
with me as we do our duet together. Since he has such large paws, he
can play a triad. I just add the bass notes, and wallah, we have a song!
Since we refer to Č’ert Dog as Jaco’s older brother, the
blessings of new adventures continues…..

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Chapter 3: Ice Skating (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

John has a daughter, Lori, who came to live with us. It’s funny
because she’s not at all like us guys. I overheard her talking to her
brother about me saying that she was most curious about me! She got
bundled up on a cold, snowy night to take me out for a walk. Little
did she know what I had in store for her! The minute we stepped
out of the front door, I was away running while pulling her along
behind me on my leash. As I ran, she went sliding along behind me
across the ice glazed street! I think she would have done better had
she clad her cross-country skis, but who am I to say? I think I’ll keep
her as my human girlfriend because she has a compassionate heart
just like her Brother and their Father. I hear that their Mom was a
really fun, loving and joyous woman. I have a lot of work to do to fill
her shoes! I mean, I have four paws, but you get the picture. My job
here is to bring some love, fun and memorable experiences into this
family’s life because it has been so broken by her loss. God has big
plans for me. I hope that He will give me direction because I want
to do the best that I can to help and as you know, us Dogheads don’t
have many years here, so we have to work extra hard at our jobs.
Sometimes, I ask my Master’s wife to give me some suggestions and
I am beginning to feel like she is helping me out here.

Chapter 4: Quail Eggs (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

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…John has found a new use for his business as a hatchery for
Japanese Quail. Those crazy birds sure can make a lot of noise –
they are lucky that they are in cages otherwise I would just have to
chase them, being the bird dog that I am! No, I would not eat them –
yuck! And remember, unless it’s covered with tomato sauce, I am
pretty much a vegetarian. Anyhow, John sells their molted purple-blue
speckled eggs to Japanese restaurants in New York City. A big
D’Artagnan truck drives up on Fridays to pick up the quail eggs.
I’ve never been to New York City, but I think it would be fun to take
a ride there. I’ve seen on television these bright red double-decker
tour buses that are in the city. I would ride on top of one of those and
see all of the sights! I think I would like best to go for the Macy’s
Thanksgiving Day Parade with all of the floats, big balloons and
music during the day, then at night for all the beautiful holiday lights!

But back to the birds…as I said, John graduated from Cornell’s
Agricultural School and has recently been working with them in the
business of quail-raising. Sometimes we go for rides up to Cornell
to pick up more quail. John has a machine that gets very hot and it
hatches the quail eggs. He keeps the females while the males end up
going back to Cornell. He started this operation in the basement of
the house that we live in, but it outgrew that space, so he moved it to
his business property.

John takes such joy in creating Easter egg baskets for friends
and family using the molted bluish-purple speckled quail eggs in
little tiny baskets. Unique, that is for sure! Can’t say I ever tried a
quail egg, though – I guess they are cooked then pickled and served
in Japanese restaurants as a delicacy. If people could see a “behind
the scenes” of the life of a quail, they might have seconds thoughts
about terming it as a “delicacy” as their lives are not any different
from that of a chicken – the chickens just lay bigger eggs…

 

Chapter 5: Co-Pilot (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

On a ride out to the countryside, John’s vehicle broke down.
We had to walk for a while and my paws started to bleed, so my
beloved Master carried me until we found help at the in-law’s family
auto dealership. I guess I am very heavy because he was having a
difficult time. He is sooooo good to me; I wish I could take away that
empty place inside his soul. I smile and carry his quilted flannel shirt
everywhere we go and wag my tail and even bark to bring him out
of himself. Sometimes he’ll grin and laugh and say that I am the best
dog he ever had. But deep down I know that no matter how much love
I give to him, he is missing the woman who made him feel complete
even despite himself. So I guess I’ll just keep taking his shirts down
off of their hangers and bite off all of the buttons and run away when
he lets me outside without a leash to help him transfer some of his
emotion into dealing with me! Ha! Ha! Ha!

There are so many different colors, shapes and sizes of
vehicles at the dealership! Some have soft cloth tops, some have really
big wheels with white sidewall tires, rims and back seats that open up
on the outside of the vehicle which are called rumble seats! The newer
vehicles have common names such as Chevrolet, GMC or Pontiac.
Others from the antique and classic collection have unusual names
like Studebaker, Auburn, Rolls-Royce and Lincoln just to name a
few. John has one called a Packard that is black with a rumble seat
and was made in 1935, the year he was born. I would love to ride in
it someday! I would wear my dark goggles and flashy scarf and feel
the breeze running through my ears – it sure would beat putting my
head sideways out the window all of the time!

I guess before my time John’s step father-in-law owned this
dealership and was quite a character, or so I have been told. He
always wore really wild colored pants that had prints and plaids
on them and you could see him coming at you a mile away! He
absolutely LOVED collecting cars, ALL makes and models and
would travel across the country with a traveling car club. They had
a chance to participate in a movie that required antique cars and
went to big parties. Oftentimes, he would buy another vehicle while
traveling and either had someone drive back to get it or he would
drive it back himself and have his wife drive the other vehicle. When
they moved to spend their winters in Florida, he would drive his
1957 Packard convertible that had bright pink interior and a white,
pink and black exterior with a license plate which read “Pink Pet.” I
never thought of a vehicle as a pet before, but I guess everyone has
their passion! He would drive to the donut shop every morning to get
coffee and donuts (us Dogheads call them “doghnuts”)! My Master
gives me white powdered sugar-coated ones when he has coffee in
the morning. I get covered with the white fluff, but they are tasty! I
think that his relative loved cars just about as much as I love PIZZA!…

Chapter 6: Happy Family (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

John and I went to a party and I got to meet another Doghead
named Lad. He had longer white hair with liver-colored spots and
hair wings off the back of his legs, ears and tail. I had never seen
a dog with hair wings before! Talk about energetic! He ran circles
around me! I’ll bet he drinks espresso coffee or something. There
were lots of people there, new faces and familiar faces. It was a
beautiful day and I went for lots of walks in the woods behind the
house. I think this is the home of Lori’s fiancé. His parents are really
fun people and they want me to call them Papa and Bobci. They’re
cool because they have a Doghead, too. Lad likes to swim and dive
for rocks! He actually dives under water from their boat and picks up
the heavy rocks in his mouth. The poor guy really does need to go
to the dentist for some dentures or something! Except he would need
super glue to hold the dentures in if he continued to pick up rocks, so
I guess it’s best for him to just keep what is left of his teeth!

 

Chapter 7: Twice The Treats (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Now with two new families through marriage our lives are
really getting busier! More toys and treats for me! John is adjusting
well to all of the visits from his growing family with invitations to
visit and many activities. He seems to be softening up on the inside
as well as the outside, too. He laughs more and is excited about his
garden preparations for this year with many little plants started in the
sun room alongside the living room. He is quite a horticulturist with
his special lights, mixtures of soils and deliveries of unique seeds
and tiny plants.

As the weather began to get a bit warmer (and muddier), John
made greenhouse covers alongside the back garage to keep the tiny
transplanted plants warm and protected from any early spring frost.
He made them from recycled tanning bed covers. So his homemade
greenhouses kept the tiny plants warm and healthy as the weather
began to get warmer.

2000

Chapter 9: Thanksgiving (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

I, personally, got to pose with all my little “cousins” for a
family photo shoot. They even allowed for me to assist in some of
the present unwrapping festivities, of which I gladly partook. Out of
all of the holiday seasons that I have experienced with John, this one
seemed to be the most cherished. It is memorable for me in knowing
that my purpose and contract was nearing completion for John and
knowing deep within that he had put to rest all that had troubled
him throughout his life. He had finally reached his true, inner being
releasing all that no longer served him and was finally at peace.

Chapter 8: Snow Plowing (excerpt from Chert Dog)

My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Snow, snow, snow!!! How I LOVE SNOW! Whenever I can,
I put my head through the light, fluffy stuff then roll over and make
doggy angels! Sometimes, the snow gets hard and icy, then it is no
longer fun for snow plowing! I will sit outside in the snow for hours,
catching the flakes on my tongue – tasty! The way the shadows of
blue and silver sparkle like diamonds on the snow are my favorite
thing this time of year! Everything has a fresh newness to it and you
feel revitalized with the crisp air. I could sit in the snow for hours – it
is one of my most favorite pastimes!

It is football season – and John just LOVES football and his
favorite NFL team is the New York Giants! He is so knowledgeable
about the game, he could talk about it for hours with other football
fanatics – and he often does! Back in his younger years, if you played
professional football, you also had a full-time job in the off-season as
the pay was not that good. There was a feeling of camaraderie among
both the coaches and the players and you were a family. You did it
because you loved it, not for the money because it really didn’t pay
that much back then. Boy, how times have changed. Anyhow, he still
loves football and enjoys the announcer’s enthusiasm and background
information about the players.

Chapter 10: Tomatoes, Sunflowers and Roses (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

On a bright and sunny day, while basking in the afternoon
sun on the cool-grassy yard, a few goldfinches and cardinals flew to
the bird feeders as a soft, soothing breeze ruffled my fur. Chris and
Lori unloaded the truck to reveal oodles of red, juicy tomatoes that
they had picked from John’s garden. Even though he was no longer
with us, his garden was producing an incredible crop – his generous
heart was still giving to us from beyond. He taught me through his
patient process of germination to his bountiful plants bearing fruit
how important it is to give things their appointed time to flourish.
No two plants are the same; I am pretty certain that can be said for
Dogheads and people, too…

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Chapter 11: Mr. Svelte at Taughannock Falls (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! We all went on a family vacation
together and I got to stay overnight in a rustic wooden cabin in the
wooded-camping area of Taughannock Falls overlooking Cayuga
Lake. There were walks up the wide tree-lined pathway towards
waterfalls and we even got to go into the creek bed so I could swim
for a little bit. There were these deep sink-holes which made for a
refreshing experience. Several people of all shapes and sizes were at
the campsite, some had little children and Dogheads, too!

When it approached dusk, they tried to lock me up in the
cabin by myself, but it did not interest me in the least to rest inside
when I could be exploring new sights with them. So, we all piled
into the car and drove to a restaurant situated a few miles from the
campsite. They parked the vehicle very close to a window to the
restaurant so that they could see me from the inside. And you guessed
it – NO DOGS ALLOWED in the restaurant! I was very reluctant
with the situation at first, and continued to comment as they kept
coming out to talk to me and let me know that they would be bringing
me something to eat when they were finished with the meal. Well,
why didn’t they just TELL ME they were going to bring me some
eats? After that, I laid down in the back seat awaiting my delicious
treat that would be on its way.

Later that evening, they built a campfire which smoldered a bit
at first due to the wood being damp. After a while, the flames began
to crackle across the dried kiln and there was a toasty fire glowing in
the darkness of the night. They toasted some marshmallows skewed
on tree twigs over the flames and I tried one, but it was really hot
and sticky. I much prefer the uncooked version! Other campers had
fire pits snap-crackle-popping while the crickets created a cadence
of sounds that went along with the soft sound of the waves lapping
at the shoreline below. Since it was a moonless night, the orangey-yellow
light from the campsites brought warmth to the chill in the air.
Have you ever just looked into the flames, their colors ranging from
yellow to orange to red to purple to blue – as if it were a of rainbow
of sorts? Observing the burning piles of dried wood seems to be the
most mesmerizing experience I have ever had in my life. It seems to
take you either deep within yourself or very much out of yourself. But
wherever that cosmic place of serenity is, the flames seem to ignite
that knowing place in your soul.

taughannockpark

Chapter 13: Swimming, Boating and Walking with the Pack (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

My extent of boating experiences has been sitting in the
middle of the canoe as we take our time circling around the small
lake. I have also sat on the back of the two-seated paddle-boat, but
find this not quite as comfortable. Even though I have not gone out
on the small sailboat, I have been on the front of the one-man yellow
kayak, which I have found to be the most comfortable ride on the
water by far. I can lie down and rest my head and even take a nap
and let Chris do all of the work. I find all of these experiences very
restful and rejuvenating at the same time.

The family has quite a collection of boats in their fleet which
are lined-up on the tiny-pebble shoreline. The nieces and nephews
and their friends have such fun swimming, swinging over the water
from a rope attached to a shapely willow tree called “The Lady of the
Lake,” playing on the floating dock, doing a little fishing or taking the
boats out for a spin. There is always much activity when everyone is
at the cottage. Sometimes, I take a nap on the shaded slope up away
from all of the activity. I find the fresh air and scent from the wild
vegetation surrounding the area to be very intoxicating and soothing
to the soul.

nutmegandchertboating

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Chapter 14: The Christmas Tree Forest (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

We went for a ride out through the rolling countryside on a
snowy day to meet the family to get their Christmas trees, but Lori
does not cut down living trees, she is into planting them. She tells me
that trees are our best friend, because they breathe in carbon dioxide
and give off oxygen. They provide homes for wildlife and shade
on sunny days and soak-up the moisture after the rain to prevent
flooding. The way that I see it, the more trees that there are, the more
oxygen for all. That sounds like one step towards achieving a sense of
balance in the environment, what do you think? Anyhow, we have an
artificial Christmas tree that was Connie’s which takes several hours
to assemble, but once it is complete, I could just gaze at the lights and
glistening ornaments all night. It is my important job to supervise the
whole process of putting the Christmas tree together!

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Chapter 15: Cousin Dugan “My Father’s Greatest Gift” (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

This past summer, we went up to the family cottage and I met
my new cousin, Dugan, a Wheaton Terrier. We became friends right
from the start! He was still a puppy, so he did test my nerves a bit,
but as soon as we both went into the lake and swam together, things
were great! We lounged alongside the sloping grassed bank of the
lake and took naps. Then, we went swimming again! Chris and Lori
went swimming with us, too. Then, they took me for a canoe ride.
I used to be able to sit up in the canoe and look around, but my legs
were sore, so I just laid down for the ride.

The real surprise came later that summer when the side door
to the house opened up and cousin Dugan’s family came inside with
a crate, food, treats and toys and they LEFT cousin Dugan in his
crate in the basement! Well, since I will not do those basement stairs
anymore (long story…), I waited for my family to get home. Then,
cousin Dugan was out of the cage and running around everywhere!
What was going on?! Finally, I learned that cousin Dugan was staying
over for a few days while Chris’ family visited Papa and Bobci on
the St. Lawrence River at Cape Vincent. Apparently, no dogs were
allowed there either!

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Addendum with Jaco Kitty (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

On one of his first days outside at our home, he marveled
at the geese flying overhead and stooped really low to the ground
as he looked up at them honking away as they flew over him. He
also attacked a cricket and a bee, but they both got away from him.
Jumping after butterflies and hummingbirds has become another of
his pastimes. Then, there is the daily morning ritual of chasing the
squirrel up the tall wooden laundry pole in the backyard. He also has
been known to taking a flying leap for the center of the tall deep-violet
colored Clematis as the startled birds scatter into the air. Once that
squirrel is atop the pole, chattering away at Jaco sitting underneath

him, Mr. Poppuchies runs off to find more interesting activities.
(Poppuchies is Slovak for slippers and Jaco has some huge slippers
at that! My current phrase is that his poppuchy paws precede him –
which is the truth since they are four white slippers and very large)!

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Love is Patient with Jaco Kitty (excerpt)

Chert Dog’s Greatest Gift:  Quantum Leaps of Faith

One of my favorite Bible verses is taken from 1 Corinthians 13 regarding the importance of Love in our life.  If you explore the context further with use of your trusty Thesaurus, the deeper meaning of the sublimation of our ego and the imperative importance of forgiveness of both others as well as ourselves comes to light.  Contemplating these inner truths while sitting underneath my beautiful and fragrant Wine and Roses Weigela, the message of unconditional love permeates through the air, the flowers, the birds and sun.  It surrounds us and envelopes us, it molds and shapes us into becoming all that we are capable of through the collective power of Love.

With this Valentine’s Day remembering all those we have loved and continue to love, it is imperative that we look within to celebrate the joy of your inner wellspring of God/Source/Energy and to spread this love prayerfully and energetically through your gift of conscious awareness toward all of life.  It is our duty and purposeful calling to permeate and saturate the entire world with loving, joyous and peaceful thoughts towards all life.  As I am contemplative sitting underneath my colorful Weigela, I think about the love and grace that went into creating such a glorious creation and marvel at all the beauty surrounding us and within us.  That’s why I meditate so often, as it renews my spirit and allows for me to prepare for my next quantum leap of faith!

“Since the Lord is directing our steps, why try to understand everything that happens along the way?” Proverbs 21:24

UTube posting of C-13 Sonata

 

Cousin Dugan and Jaco Kitty (excerpt)

Chert Dog’s Greatest Gift: Quantum Leaps of Faith

As you can see by the photo, I felt it safe to be on the piano bench, up higher than Cousin Dugan as I surveyed the situation at hand!  I know that Chert and Dugan were best of friends, so he has to be pretty cool even though he is a dog!  I am just not used to sharing my “space” with other animals, so this has been a lesson in loving-kindness and hospitality!  See, all of the challenges do come with a solution, you just have to sit with them and meditate on them long enough and the answer will come.  Just in its own time and on its own terms, most of the time.  This situation was different because Cousin Dugan just “arrived” at our home to stay for a few days, so this is what you call “crash course” leaps of faith!  First, I needed to know that he wasn’t going to bite me!  Second, I needed to know that he was just visiting, so it was just for a few days of adjusting to things being different.  And third, I needed to know that I was strong enough to handle this challenge and become a good and gracious host to Cousin Dugan because he was really put into quite a situation as well.  All his family was gone and he is here with me, a cat that has 22+claws to defend myself, so he was “treading lightly” around me.

After some outdoor activity, we became to bond a bit more as Cousin Dugan is a push-over when it comes to being mild-mannered and easy going!  His kind demeanor made for his visit to be an enjoyable slumber party!  So my inner challenges were once again erased and turned into new and wonderful experiences learning to share my home and get along with another animal.  We are placed in situations and need to ask what the message is being brought by the messenger.  I learned the importance of getting along with others no matter what type of animal that they are.  We are all in this together!  Thanks Cousin Dugan!