The Wizard of Oz
The year was 1939 and Hollywood was still a small town that was just starting to grow. Film and movies were already a favorite pastime, and inroads were being made to make films even more interesting and stimulating. Produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, The Wizard of Oz was breaking all kinds of new frontiers in story telling, especially in the film market. A fantasy, based on the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, written by L. Frank...
Lady Baltimore Cake
Lady Baltimore Cake Recipe. A white cake with whip cream topping and fruit on top and the middle. Traditional Lord and Lady Baltimore cakes were white cakes with a boiled frosting. Topped and filled with raisins, dates, figs and topped with some nuts. They marinated the fruit in sherry wine. I worked for a bakery in the 70s and the recipe my boss made used coconut, cherries, peaches and bananas. I have gone to bakeries that have had...
Higher Than The Sun – The Art of Paul Cannell
Andy Royston remembers one of London’s wildest artists, Paul Cannell, London’s Basquiat. “Like all great dyslexic artists Paul Cannell pants” JEFF BARRETT Jeff Coons? Do me a favour! Gilbert and George! Fuck off and die! The Grey Organisation?? In three years time if Paul Cannell is not a superstar artist with constant exhibitions in every main city throughout the world come and find me… EDWARD BALL...
Indie Classics : McCarthy – I Am A Wallet
Andy Royston revisits McCarthy’s ‘I Am A Wallet’, one of the great subversive indie records, as the band’s material gets a timely re-issue on bright red vinyl. Main headline photograph by Steve DT. “The most perfect record, a Communist manifesto with tunes” Nicky Wire – The Manic Street Preachers In modern rock and pop music the band that showed the most striking influence of the German...
Eat Healthily with Livliga’s Weight Loss Secret
Lose weight healthily (and tastily) with Livliga. Sheila Kemper Dietrich used to be the director of the American Heart Association in Denver but nevertheless she and her family struggled with their own weight. That is, until Sheila developed a simple, stylish and tasty way to eat. Without dieting, she lost fifty pounds, her husband lost thirty five and her daughter was able to shed twenty five pounds. I’ll say it again –...
Saucy Seaside Postcards
Saucy Seaside Postcards Growing up in the 1950s, a visit to the seaside with my family was always a treat. One day, I was walking along the promenade when I saw a group of teenage girls giggling over a rack of postcards. I asked my mum what they were laughing at. “Mucky postcards”, she said, “And you stay away from them!” I didn’t, of course, and I still have a soft spot for the bawdy humour on seaside postcards in Britain,...
Solvetta: The Lunch Box that’s a Placemat
How can you be sure that the healthy meal you pack stays germ-free? Many of us take healthy lunches to work – or pack them for our families – but did you know that the great foods you pack are liable to be exposed to germs? The Solvetta is the answer. It was developed by Rita Floyd-Vester, a teacher and mother of three, who discovered that the most germ-laden places in today’s schools are cafeteria tables. The same...
Aidell’s Spicy Mango and Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs in Spaghetti
My daughter made us a very quick and easy meal last night using Aidell’s meatballs. She cooked the pasta according to the package directions. She made her favorite tomato based pasta sauce and added the Aidell’s Spicy Mango and Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs. You can use any kind of pasta sauce for this quick meal. She added some spinach just before serving so that the spinach was just wilted. For my serving I need my pasta...
The Art and Craft of Wood Engraving
Wood Engraving. I want to share my attraction for wood engraving with you. My retirement profession now is book seller and I make a point of selling books with wood engraved images. Some are so sublime it is difficult to part with them – although they pay my bills when they go. The aim of this article is to highlight the work of some talented wood engravers, past and present, and to share the beauty of their work with you. My...
Mount Magazine, Arkansas: Relax On Top of the World
When it’s summer in Arkansas and the weather is too hot to bear, it’s a perfect time to get high. High on a mountaintop, that is! And when fall arrives, you won’t find a more beautiful place to relax and enjoy the colorful autumn scenery. At 2753 feet, Mount Magazine is the highest spot in Arkansas. Home of Mount Magazine State Park, it’s a great place to visit any time of year, to take in the amazing view or...
The Best Ever Tuna Casserole
My other half has started to do most of the cooking on weekdays. Simple cooking, but really good cooking too! He is retired and I’m still working so some of the cooking duties fall to him. Tonight we just had the best ever tuna casserole, it really beats anything I have made in the past, hands down. Ready in a pinch, good for you, and it uses us some of the pantry goods that might otherwise overlooked. The kicker is the topping that...
Faces on Wood
Grained by Life. Wood engraving can be a fine medium for capturing the dignity of the human face. The grain of the wood can be utilised to emphasise the age of the sitter – and the contrast between light and dark, in both the background and facial features of the subject, can be highlighted by the engraving process. Let me share some of my favourite ‘faces on wood’ with you. I hope this may encourage you to seek out...
Fruit Cake
Pioneer fruit cake without alcohol from Sweden and Wales. Fruit cake without alcohol: This formula for fruitcake has been handed down from Sweden and Wales. There have been many variations of it. It does not use alcohol as their religion did not accept the use of alcohol. The difference was that you first cooked the raisins in the cinnamon and water. Save Print Fruit Cake Rating 5 from 1 reviews Prep time: 45 mins Cook...
Eat Cabbage, Lose Weight
Lose weight by eating cabbage. Do you remember that many years ago there was a diet called The Cabbage Soup Diet? If I remember rightly, it originated in Miami and was very popular. And recent studies, also originating in South Florida, have shown that yes, cabbage can without doubt help you considerably in your quest to lose weight and improve your health. According to the study, cabbage contains a substance called tartaric acid....
Despicable Me Minion: Free Patterns
Minion in plastic canvas and yarn. I have made some Despicable Me Minions with plastic canvas and yarn and plan on making some more from the patterns and ideas that I have assembled here. First are two Minions in plastic canvas. Then I have the pattern for a Minion doll. The pattern is really cute and can be made from felt or material – fleece would come out great! Jeans material could be used for the clothing. Have fun which...
Take a seat: A quick look at the evolution of chairs
It’s fair to say that today most artists and designers ideas are shaped by changes in the world around them, whether they choose to respond by creating something in line with the times or an out of sync statement. However, for the masses it’s only since the 20th century that there has been room for the luxury of anything other than basic function in furniture design. Take the chair you’re sat on, it’s been part of a long design...
Hollywood Redheads – Wilma Flintstone
Andy Royston pays tribute to one of the original Hollywood Wives. Wilma Flintstone. Television’s image of the American woman, 1964, is a stupid, unattractive, insecure little household drudge who spends her martyred, mindless, boring days dreaming of love – and plotting nasty revenge against her husband. Betty Freidan – Television and the Feminine Mystique. I love thee Wilma, with hair like silk, Lips like cherries,...
Looking at Paintings (3): ‘The Emigrant Ship’
‘The Emigrant Ship’ This is the third in my ‘Looking at Paintings’ series of articles. This painting is titled ‘The Emigrant Ship’ by the Yorkshire artist, Charles Joseph Staniland, and is exhibited at the Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, Bradford. Each group of people in the painting has a story to tell – or perhaps gives us the opportunity to tell it for them. (Image: Copyright – Bradford...
Interview with Andy Royston: The Ft.Lauderdale Sun Project
When we first interviewed photographer, Andy Royston, about his iphoneography, he mentioned the Fort Lauderdale Sun Project. Since I was curious to know more about it, we thought you might be too. As luck would have it the day he chatted with us was the day he reached an amazing milestone, that of 20,000 Twitter followers. As you can see from the photographs included here, Mr. Royston has mastered the art of photography using a cell...
The Magnificent Meschiya Lake
Andy Royston sings the praises of Meschiya Lake, New Orleans nightingale made good. “I was driving in to meet the circus. I’d been driving alone for about eight hours, and I stopped in the French Quarter to use a phone to find out where I was supposed to go to meet everyone. I looked around and noticed the gas lamps and the classic, Old World feel, just this feeling of timelessness. And I eventually learned that it’s a very...
Dad’s Potato Salad
Dad’s Basic Formula – Potato Salad. This recipe was developed in the 1950s before they told us that too much mayonnaise [cholesterol] was not good for you. Save Print Dad's Potato Salad Rating 5 from 1 reviews Ingredients 8 to 10 pounds Russet potatoes [he always made a BIG batch] 8 to 12 hard boiled eggs, 8 jumbo or 12 regular 2 cups celery with tops, chopped 1 large Onion, chopped 1 large bell pepper, chopped 2...
Looking at Paintings (2): ‘The Dole’
Looking at Paintings This is the second of my articles on 19th century paintings in art galleries in Yorkshire that caught my interest. This one, ‘The Dole’, painted in 1867 by the Yorkshire artist, James Lobley, is an example of ‘narrative’ painting – one that tells us a story. In ‘The Dole’ the story is about social class, dependency, poverty, charity, and the impact of charity on others....
Pets and Allergies
PETS AND ALLERGIES: By Stacey J Nelson Ph.D.aka “Tweedlesmom”. More and more dogs, cats, and exotic birds are developing allergies these days. Could the environment, food, or vaccines, be the cause? Additionally, toxic fumes and chemicals appear to be permeating our environment, and just like humans, your “furkids” immune system and skin can be just as sensitive. Many dogs, cats, and exotic birds can have an adverse reaction...
Musical Journeys – The Mayan and the Whale
Andy Royston tells the story of David Crosby’s ’47 schooner, Mayan, and a legendary sail from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego. David was wonderful company and a great appreciator. When it comes to expressing infectious enthusiasm he is probably the most capable person I know. His eyes were like star sapphires to me. When he laughed they seemed to twinkle like no one else and so I fell into his merry company and we rode bikes...
In Memory of Elvis Presley
In Memory of Elvis Presley. Elvis Aaron Presley was born January 8, 1935 – August 16, 1977 His music is loved by all. He sang Rock and Roll, Country and Gospel. Elvis is regarded as one of the most popular figures of the 20th Century. His good looks, humor, impressive voice and charismatic moves on stage was endeared by everyone. In 1977 his death shook the nation including me and at present time it’s been 37 yrs. since he has...
Looking at Paintings (1): ‘Signing the Marriage Register’
Looking at Paintings. I enjoy visiting local art galleries, finding a painting I like, then learning more about the painting and the artist. This one is called ‘Signing the Marriage Register’, painted around 1895 by James Charles. It hangs in the Cartwright Hall gallery, Lister Park, Bradford. It is typical of 19th century genre paintings, which were very popular at that time. I like it for its close observation of people,...
Creamy Pesto Lasagna with Artichoke Hearts
Baked Creamy Pesto Lasagna with Artichoke Hearts. Save Print Creamy Pesto Lasagna with Artichoke Hearts Rating 5 from 1 reviews Serves: 6 portions Ingredients 1 box lasagna noodles 10 oz frozen spinach OR 2 to 4 cups fresh spinach 1 can quartered artichoke hearts in water (optional) 16 oz ricotta cheese 1 egg ½ t garlic powder ½ t parsley or oregano (optional) 1 T olive oil 1 T butter 1 to 2 cups onion (one...
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson: Review. I’ve enjoyed every one of Kate Atkinson’s novels thoroughly and Life After Life is no exception. Just when I think that she surely can’t do any better, she goes ahead and does so. If you’ve read God in Ruins, which I recently reviewed here, then the characters in this book will be familiar to you. Life After Life was written before God in Ruins but that doesn’t...
Art Matters – Nocturne in Black and Gold
Andy Royston takes a closer look at the painting that sparked a notorious libel case, Nocturne in Black and Gold – The Falling Rocket by James Abbott McNeill Whistler Nature contains the elements, in colour and form, of all pictures, as the keyboard contains the notes of all music. But the artist is born to pick and choose… that the result may be beautiful – as the musician gathers his notes, and forms his chords, until he brings...
Mom’s Spanish Rice
My Mom’s Spanish Rice and My Adapted Version. Here is my Mom’s basic recipe with adaptations by me to follow. Save Print Mom's Spanish Rice Rating 5 from 1 reviews Prep time: 20 mins Cook time: 50 mins Total time: 1 hour 10 mins Serves: 4 cups Ingredients 3 - 8 oz cans tomato sauce 1 - 28 ounce can whole tomatoes 24 ounces water 4 tbsp olive oil 1 large yellow onion, chopped 1 cup uncooked...
Book Sculpture
Books as Art. Every day thousands of old books are sent for recycling. Nothing wrong with that, you might say, and I would agree. But there is another use for discarded books: as book sculptures. The image in this introduction is by book sculptor, Justin Rowe (used with his permission). Other photographs in this article have been taken by me from books in my collection. New art from old I came across Justin Rowe’s work when...
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Butterscotch Cookies
Silver’s Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Butterscotch Cookies. Nom Nom! My daughter Silver has an issue with gluten so she has been cooking gluten free for a few months. That has helped her to get rid of her gluten intolerant intestinal pain issues. My daughter Silver is my second to the oldest daughter. I was living with IoBlue my youngest daughter. I now live with my oldest daughter Miss Norway who is a good cook as well as a...
Beautiful Bookbinding
Designer Book Bindings. Let me introduce you to the wonderful world of bespoke or designer book binding. These are bindings commissioned and made for a particular book and are fusions of craft and creativity. The finished works are often beautiful – often exquisitely so – and highly collectable items. In a world of standardised mass production, they stand out for their uniqueness and individuality; there will be only one...
Halloween Style Tic Tac Toe
From the Halloween Plastic Canvas patterns board I have at my Pinterest account, I merged two pattern ideas to make this Halloween Tic Tac Toe. I wanted to make the two game pieces different, rather than the whole kitty and the pumpkin, I wanted a kitty face and a plain pumpkin. (One piece of plastic canvas is all you need, size 7, or 7 holes to the inch is the easiest for me to work. I get my plastic canvas at Amazon.com. You can buy...
Pre-Cooked Mac & Cheese with Burger Hotdish
Easy hot dishes make for easy meals especially this recipe. There is no boiling the macaroni noodles. They are already precooked. You’re probably wondering about what this precooked means, huh? Well it’s a precooked mac & cheese. I didn’t know about these sort of noodles until I got a package like this. I wasn’t even sure what to do with it. I’d never heard of it or seen it before. It comes in a bag and can be kept frozen until...
Barilla Gluten Free Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
My daughter Silver [her pen name] has had issues with her digestive system. She was having severe intestinal cramps and other symptoms. She was finally diagnosed with intolerance to gluten products. She had to forget about eating breads and pasta dishes. She heard about new products that are alternatives for pasta and other wheat substitutes. Finally, there is a solution for her with the new arrival from Barilla America company who...
More of Hollywood’s Finest Redheads
Andy Royston continues his appreciation of Hollywood’s redheads. “It is observed that the red-haired of both sexes are more libidinous and mischievous than the rest, whom yet they much exceed in strength and activity” – Jonathan Swift, Gullivers Travels “You’d find it easier to be bad than good if you had red hair, people who haven’t red hair don’t know what trouble is” – Anne of Green Gables In Part One...
Collecting Fine Press Books
Fine Press Books. I have been a bookseller for 20 years now. But ten years ago I went to a book fair that specialised in fine press books. And it was love at first sight. These beautiful creatures gradually pushed aside their greyer companions and began to take over my bookshelves. This is the story of how I came to specialise in selling fine press books. I hope to share my passion for them with you. All the photographs have been...
7 Reasons Dogs are Man’s Best Friend
7 Reasons Dogs are Man’s Best Friend. I’m a dog lover and most of my people-friends love dogs, too. What is it that makes the relationship, the friendship, the connection between man and his mutt such a special one? Here are seven reasons, I believe, that dogs are man’s best friend. 1. Dogs love us unconditionally. We don’t have to do a thing in the world to earn a dog’s love, and we don’t have to...
Pic of the Week: Hula Hoop
When it comes to family photos, are you more likely to pose people in the pictures or are you more likely to take some random shots and see what happens? Personally, I tend to like the less posed pictures. They in themselves tend to tell a story that you fill in the the looks on people’s faces. Sometimes it’s the surroundings that make it special, or the others in the picture that lend some weight to the whole story. This is one of my...
Swedish Flat Bread
Family Tradition. I learned to make Swedish Flat Bread with my boyfriend and his Dad. It’s a family tradition in his family for the Holidays especially Thanksgiving. I had never made this before so I was excited to learn this new family tradition. I thought it was really neat since I am of Swedish nationality. It’s always fun to learn from your heritage. It was a lot of fun to learn. It’s not that hard but is a...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 1
A New Series on the Top New Suspense Writers. Make way for Dewey Andreas by author Ben Coes, Nathan McBride by author Andrew Peterson, Court Gentry by author Mark Greaney, and Jonathan Grave by author John Gilstrap. These are the lead characters in four recent series of suspense thriller novels that deserve our attention. When I say new, I mean most of these have been written since 2009 and the authors are writing more in their...
Under The Covers : Heartbeats
The greatest cover versions and the stories behind them – by Andy Royston It would seem at first that this song owes its popularity to a TV ad. The presence of the song as soundtrack to an eye-catching commercial for a Sony television set has played a part in the careers of two entirely different Gothenburg musical acts. But the song has reaching into the furthest corners of the music world, with artists as diverse as The Gossip...
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
With Autumn just around the corner these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie are perfect. I love baking with pumpkin in the Fall. It is such a treat. Loaves & Fishes & So Much More Cookbook This pumpkin cookie recipe featured is one that I found in a cookbook that I got while out on an adventure driving through Elroy, Wisconsin. We saw a cheese store and just had to stop. Sitting on the counter was the Loaves & Fishes & So...
Make a Haunted House Kleenex Box cover with Plastic Canvas and Yarn
Haunted House made from yarn and plastic canvas. This Haunted House decoration is also a Kleenex box holder. When you have the Kleenex tissue box in the house and pull up a tissue, it looks like smoke coming out of the house. You can also add a piece of white cloth and add some googly eyes to it and shape it to look like a ghost coming out of the roof for Halloween! Haunted House Kit This is the Haunted House Kleenex box that I made....
Oven Ready Lasagna
Lasagna is always a good meal; not to hard to put together either. The reason I call this one oven ready lasagna is because of the noodles. I’ve never tried noodles that were oven ready before and decided to give this a try. Oven ready noodles means there is no boiling them. You just put them into your pan and add the layers. I used the recipe right off the box of the oven ready noodles as well. Not something I usually do. I...
Easy Pizza Hotdish
Make a simple pizza hotdish for a easy dinner to put together. It’s nice to have a quick and easy recipe when you’ve had a busy day and want something like pizza – yummy to eat. The flavor is exquisite and simple. Make a salad to go with this hotdish and you’re all set to fill your tummy with good food. You could make this hotdish with regular hamburger or with veggie burger. Either way it’s a reversible...
Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Mediterranean Tuna Salad. I can’t think of anything that scares people more, than the thought of getting cancer…..doctors, nutritionist, and a host of people are convinced that diet plays an important part in reducing your risks of becoming another victim of this hideous disease. To that end, I get several different recipe sources that are supposed to be good for you in any and every situation in life. Some of these recipes...
Daft Historical Facts
From the first use of OMG occurring in a letter to Winston Churchill in 1917 to a Prussian Emperor kidnapping tall people to realise his dream of having a tall army; history is full of amusing, daft and fascinating facts. The less likely to turn up in history books the better and though they may be hard to slip into a general conversation, if the opportunity does arise, you’re sure to be able to entertain – so here are a few of...
Chocolate Chip Toffee Bars
Chocolate Chips, Toffee, Nuts Do you occasionally get a craving for a rich, gooey cookie? A Chocolate Chip Toffee Bar is sure to satisfy that desire. Easy to put together, these delectable morsels are a great dessert to have on hand to serve family or guests or both. This is a recipe I got from my mother, THE best baker! (I bet you thought your mom was). She was always asked to bring dessert to any function or party. Every year at...
The Importance of Reading Pet Food Labels
THE IMPORTANCE OF READING PET FOOD/TREATS LABELS. By Stacey J Nelson Ph.D. Aka “Tweedlesmom” He/She is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are their life, their love, their leader. He/She will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of their heart. You owe it to him/her to be worthy of such devotion…” Author unknown When shopping in a store do you stop to read the labels on the front and/or back of pet foods...
The Street Characters of Bradford
The Street Characters of Bradford. By the mid 19th century, Bradford in West Yorkshire had become one of the most affluent cities in Britain. It had become a world centre for the manufacture of worsted textiles and its population had rocketed from 47,000 in 1831 to nearly 108,000 by 1851. The rapid growth of mills had created work for thousands, great wealth for hundreds – and misery for many who fell between the social cracks....
Pic of the Week – The Golden Hind
Photograph of the Week: The Golden Hind. Regular beachgoers along the coast of south Florida may have met one of these first hand. Our beaches lie just west of the Atlantic Gulf stream and after sustained easterly winds, the fleet sometimes comes ashore. I’m talking about an ancient creature from the deep – scourge of swimmers and beachgoers, with a fearsome reputation. I’m talking about the Portuguese Man...
Zucchini Brownies
I kept seeing this brownie recipe with zucchini, banana and apple sauce in them floating around Facebook for awhile. It caught my attention cause it seemed to be on everyone’s page. So I thought I’d give it a try. I’ve put zucchini in other desserts so it can’t be that different plus it was healthy in other ways too. Read on to find out more about it! It was really moist with using bananas and apple sauce which...
Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Noodle Casserole With Tuna. Tuna noodle casseroles can be made in many varied ways. I make mine stove top. It can also be made in the oven. I usually use elbow noodles. You can use egg noodles which makes for a nice swirly casserole look. There are times I’ve used half and half of each kind of these noodles and it turned out really great. I like to use mushroom soup in my casserole because it turns out nice and creamy. I add...
Cocoa Krispies Treats
Making Rice Krispies. One of the simplest bars to make is Krispies treats whether plain or flavored. I just recently made cocoa krispies ones that lasted only a few days in my house. The chocolate flavor was divine! You can make then in so many varieties with using plain, chocolate or colored rice krispies cereals. You can top them with sprinkles or frostings; even leave them plain. They’re perfect either way. There are three...
Piradzini: Latvian Bacon and Onion Stuffed Rolls
A Canadian Treat given to us by the Latvians. Who doesn’t love bacon? I have just come across a recipe that pairs two of my favorite flavours and foods. Bacon and onions….In Canada we are looking at a long weekend coming up Aug. 3rd. So to make the weekend really memorable, I try to find something that takes a little longer to make (because now I have the time) and something that my family will really enjoy. Enter into my...
Under The Covers – Take Me To The River
Sometimes songs from one generation can be covered in quite a different way by musicians and singers from the next. One such song is Take Me To The River first released in 1974, written by Al Green. Here was a singer who moved freely between soul and gospel styles, and at his best was writing songs full of nuance – perfectly capturing both body and soul. Take me to the river, drop me in the water Push me in the river, dip me in...
Lasagne Recipes
Lasagna Recipes. As people what their favourite cuisine is and I imagine that a large number would tell you that Italian food is at the top of their list. Understandably, too. Here are some of our favourite lasagne recipes: Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna in Tomato Sauce Lasagna was a regular meal in our household, along with most every Italian dish you can think of. When my husband cooked, it always seems like we did it all....
Prince Charles and Lady Diana tie the Knot!
For many years, the world was wondering when and if the Prince of Wales was ever going to marry and give the British People and the Monarchy some good news. Prince Charles was the most eligible bachelor in the world, and rumours were all around about who might be the “lucky” lady, that would be the next Princess to be and be with her husband the next in line to the throne. Well on this day in 1981, Prince Charles indeed had the whole...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 6: Brett Battles. Author
There is one more entry to the Top New Suspense Thrillers that must be included here now. That would be the Jonathan Quinn series by Brett Battles. Every book is the series has been a wonderful surprise. Every book has been different enough as well, even while featuring the Cleaner. It’s easy to see what a variety of assignments Quinn may face going forward as well. Jonathan Quinn is a Cleaner. Not in the traditional sense that...
Fried Cauliflower Rice
All of the Flavor Looking for a lighter version of fried rice? I was, and was very pleased with the results of this one! This recipe substitutes cauliflower for two thirds of the rice. I couldn’t tell the difference. You get the wonderful taste of fried rice, a good serving of healthy vegetables, and far less calories. It’s also very inexpensive to make. I used brown rice that I had prepared the night before. If you...
An English Country Lane
Paradise. If I have a choice – and there is such a place – then my idea of paradise would be to wander along quiet English lanes in late Spring with the sun on my back. This article is about just one of the country lanes near my home in Yorkshire. The aim? Simply to reflect the pleasure this quiet byway gives me and to share this with you. (All the photos have been taken by me). Up, Down, or Along I live in Yorkshire...
Recuva Your Information
Help I Lost My Pictures! Have you ever lost pictures or documents on your computer or storage devices? Well I have and it’s frustrating but with the help of a computer software program called Recuva you can get it all back. Better yet it’s free! This summer I took a lot of pictures on my phone camera. I had a 8 gig external card in it that I use to send all my pictures I take, plus I had folders of pictures of family and...
I Love My Dog and My Dog Loves Me!
Walking a dog should be a joy and a good way to get some exercise for you and for your pet. It should not be a pull and push match between the two of you! Choke collars, prong collars (not nice at all) and any other type of collar that sits at your dog’s neck, will hinder your dog’s ability to walk nicely, without stressing him/her out! If you don’t believe me then listen to what some dog owners and people who are in the “KNOW” have...
‘Stanza Stones’ (4): The ‘Beck Stone’
Beck. ‘Beck’ is one of seven poems carved on rock and located in moorland in the South Pennines area of Yorkshire. All the poems, written by Simon Armitage, feature water in one of its many forms. To find this one you have to hike up and alongside a tumbling beck on Ilkley Moor. You stumble on it, almost by accident, and there it is. The Beck Stone (Images: all the photos you will see have been taken by me). The...
Garden Veggie Hot Dogs
Lettuce On A Hot-Dog. So have you ever had lettuce on your veggie hot-dogs before? Believe it or not, I’ve never had before until now. I opened up a can of vegetarian Big Franks. I put them in a fry pan and browned them up a bit. Normally these are just warmed up in a sauce pan. I had some fresh garden lettuce that I had in my refrigerator from a friend and thought why not, I’d give it a try. I chopped it up and topped it...
Shrimp and Veggie Burritos
Quick and Easy Dinner If you like shrimp, I bet you will enjoy this delicious, satisfying Shrimp and Veggie Burrito. Not only does it have tasty big bites of shrimp, but it also provides the extra nutrients of spinach and cauliflower, all at a lower calorie count. Burritos of any kind are one of my favorite Mexican dishes, whether eating at home or dining out. Usually my requirements for home cooking are 1) fast and 2) easy. Burritos...
Felt Dolls Projects
Felt Dolls Projects. I was getting into making felt projects for all the Holidays, and I wanted to make some felt dolls for my niece’s twin daughters’ birthday. They are 4 this year. I had ordered felt by the yard from Hobby Lobby earlier in the year for my felt crafts for the year. I printed out the patterns and cut out the shapes needed then added the embellishments such as lace, ribbon, buttons and beads. I embroidered...
Pic of the week: A Poem for Granddads Everywhere
A Poem for Granddads Everywhere. I’m four and know about an old woman who swallowed a cow – But I don’t know how she swallowed a cow. I know about Jameson whisky (it’s for his chest) And that Postman Pat and Maisie are the best. My Granddad told me that. My Granddad’s worked as a teacher, clerk, and railway cop, careers adviser, and in a camera shop. He danced once on a famous show; they called it ‘Ready, Steady, Go’ My Granddad told...
Parents’ Day
Tribute to my Dad. A special memory tribute of a dear man in my life, my Dad. He had a great love for sax music. He was a musical guy with various musical instrument talents but his favorites were the accordion and saxophone. He loved to play religious, jazz and polka music. He played the sax in his younger days right up until about 6 months before he passed in January 2002 with leukemia. He was 89 when he went. One of my most...
Elsie Frost murder: Ian Spencer’s family
The family of the accused man, Ian Spencer. The latest news about the 1966 murder of Elsie Frost is encouraging, thanks to the investigations of the BBC and their reporter, Jon Manel. If this is the first time you have heard of this case, previous articles are linked below. Police reinvestigation The first news comes from the West Yorkshire Police. The BBC interviewed Detective Chief Inspector Elizabeth Belton who said that the case...
The Humanization of Pets
By Stacey J Nelson Ph.D. The modern day family often considers their family pet to be a loved and cherished member of their family. Our canine and feline companions are affectionately known as our “Furkids”,or referred to as “Our GIRL OR BOY”. The terms – Mom, Mommie, Dad, Daddy are no longer limited to human children. Companionship for many people adult or child, now includes our pets, and has proven to be therapeutic and...
‘Stanza Stones’ (3): ‘Mist Stone’
The Mist Stone. ‘Mist’ is one of six poems, on the theme of water, all carved in stone, and located on moorland in the South Pennines area of West Yorkshire. This article describes my walk, past cairns and old quarry workings, to the ‘The Mist Stone’, high and remote above the village of Oxenhope. Images: all photographs taken by me. Beyond Wet There are four stages of wetness in Yorkshire. First, with sinking...
Island of the Blue Dolphins and the Sequel, Zia: Book Reviews
There is nothing better than a true story brought to life. Even if some of the story is changed some from the historical event in the 19th century, the basic idea is there. I love survivor stories especially when they are true! I LOVE historical fiction. I had not heard about Island of the Blue Dolphins book when it came out when I was age 10 in 1960. I wished I would have read it then! However, when I did read it I was in my 50′s and...
![Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], by J. L. Bourne](https://jaquo.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Tomorrow-War-240x240.jpg)
Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], by J. L. Bourne
When first starting, Tomorrow War: The Chronicles of Max [Redacted], I didn’t realize where the story would lead. Actually, I think I expected more science fiction than I would normally wish for. It wasn’t at all. It is a well done, realistic story that takes place in the very near future. The year 2021. Not far from now at all, as quickly as time passes. Setting up the story, the author is critical of the government, but don’t...
‘Stanza Stones’ (2): The ‘Dew Stones’
Dew. ‘Dew’ is one of seven poems written by Yorkshire poet, Simon Armitage, and carved in stone by artist, Pip Hall. The poems – all dedicated to the element of water – are carved on local rock and located on hill and moorland in the South Pennines area of Yorkshire. Six of the stones are publicly accessible in identifiable locations, but the seventh, bearing the simple inscription, ‘In memory of...
How to Make Japanese Croquettes
Croquettes are one of the most popular things to eat in Japan. You can pretty much find them almost anywhere you go-the supermarket deli, bento shops, mom and pop restaurants and meat shops. They are loved by everyone young and old and although they have their origins in France, they are considered comfort food for many Japanese. My mom’s croquettes are the best in the world! And I’m not just saying that because...
Beneath the City of Light
On the site of the former stone quarry lay The Catacombs of Paris; a famous labyrinth of underground ossuaries dating from the late 1700’s. As well as luring modern-day tourists with a fascinatingly dark history, a climb down the 130 steps past layers of ancient rock into the underworld of the French capital is perhaps the closest you can come to experiencing time travel. The City of Light, long before its role in the Age of...
Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? A Review of The Memoir by Roz Chast
Some people will never be comfortable talking about death and dying, as this book clearly shows. Yet when you are dealing with it year after year, it seems to get easier, if not almost normal. Maybe it is generational as well. In many areas our parents kept feelings to themselves that are commonly shared now. The title, Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?, suits this sweet book, though it surely covers far more than...
‘Stanza Stones’ (1): The ‘Puddle Stones’
A walk to the Puddle Stones. I live close to Ilkley Moor, a large and untamed upland dominating the West Yorkshire and South Pennines landscape. Ancient man carved symbols into the rocks – and in the last two years more carvings have appeared. But this time Bronze and Iron Age symbols have been replaced by modern poetry. Seven poems: the Stanza Stones, written by Yorkshire Poem, Simon Armitage, have been carved into rock: three...
Bourbon Chicken
It is said that Bourbon Chicken, a New Orleans favorite, is named after Bourbon Street there. Could be, though the ingredient certainly adds meaning to the title. While that may be subject to dispute, either way, with a half cup of the whiskey included, you can imagine the rich, delicious flavor. Sweet and spicy, it’s best when marinated overnight so the flavor (and the Bourbon) can seep in to every scrumptious chicken bite. The...
Prince George: Get the Look
Prince George of Cambridge: Get the Look. When his new sister Princess Charlotte was christened in July 2015, the media unanimously agreed that young Prince George – who was just a few weeks shy of two years old – stole the show. View image | gettyimages.com William and Catherine each have their own distinctive style and it seems that young George is already a trendsetter. Clothing manufacturers rushed to recreate the...
Book Review: A Wedding and a Killing, by Lauren Carr
Murder interferes with Archie and Mac’s attempt to get married in this entry to the Mac Faraday series. In church for a quiet ceremony, Gnarly alerts the attendants to a body. Mac assures Archie they will wrap it up quickly. It looks like he might be right when a man comes to the police station to confess. Before they can interview him, there are two more confessions. Why is everyone so anxious to claim responsibility?...
Lasagne – an Authentic Italian Recipe
Lasagne is one of Italy’s most loved and famous dishes – it was one of my favourites when I was growing up, and I was very fortunate to have an Italian granny who taught my mum, who in turn taught me this recipe, so it is authentic. That means there are no sausages, chopped vegetables, cottage cheese, or anything else that people throw in – the result is an absolutely delicious dish that any Italian trattoria would be proud to serve....
The Most Excellent Andy Carpenter Mystery Series by David Rosenfelt
A Laugh-Out-Loud Mystery Series Meet Andy Carpenter, Attorney-at-law (Occasionally) If you haven’t yet met him, let me introduce you to Andy Carpenter. I am certain you will want to get to know him once you do. If you’ve read even one of his series, you will remember him. Most of us would like to hang out with him one afternoon, watching a game of course. Andy is David Rosenfelt’s reticent attorney in a wonderfully...
Book Review: The Destroyed, by Brett Battles
A Stunning Crime What sort of crime could be committed by some one high in the government that would shock and appall even those in espionage? I would be surprised if you guessed the answer. It’s a stunning secret that has led to several deaths. Not that unusual perhaps for a cleaner such as Jonathan Quinn. Or is it? In another wonderfully complicated novel from Brett battles, the cleaner will revisit a past assignment. Quinn...
A God in Ruins by Kate Atkinson
Author Kate Atkinson has so many strengths as a writer but one must surely be the way she creates such memorable characters. It must be almost twenty years since I read her first book, Behind the Scenes at the Museum, and that characters within in still live in my mind. A God in Ruins is no exception. In this book, we follow the life of Teddy – from when he is a small boy until the day he dies as an old, old man – and he...
The Pocket Monkey Multi Purpose Tool
The best and thinnest multi purpose tool. I’ve always loved those small credit card sized tools – the ones that are a smaller and lighter version of the Swiss Army knife – and I’ve found this one to be the best. The reasons are simple, it’s so thin that it easily fits into the credit card section of my wallet, it has just the tools I need and it doesn’t get confiscated at the airport when you...
Red Beans and Rice
Vegetarian. Super nutritious. An excellent source of protein. A rich, satisfying taste. What could be better than that? Rice and Beans is a traditional dish is many different countries. From a cajun version we often find in the state of Louisiana to a Korean dish named Kongbap, to the Middle East and South America. It makes sense when you consider that both rice and beans are usually low cost and very available. It makes for a...
Piranha, by Clive Cussler and Boyd Morrison, A Review
An Oregon Files Adventure Juan Cabrillo, and crew, have put a wealth of time and money into their ship, the Oregon. Derelict on the outside, thoroughly modern with the most advanced technology on the inside, the ship has gotten them through many near death assignments. So why would Juan allow it to be destroyed? The Oregon, Juan and his crew are back, and up to their clever tricks, in Piranha. Somewhat different from Mr. Cussler’s...
Pic of the Week: Jabba the Toad
Jabba the Toad. Meet Jabba, our friendly neighbourhood toad, which turned up in our yard one day. Living in rural France you come across quite a few creatures and wildlife that aren’t so common in the UK. Yes, I agree you do get toads roaming around the gardens and ponds of the British countryside, but to be honest we’d never come across a toad quite this big before. We’re incredibly lucky to be living in the French...
Hello! Go, Dog. Go! Good-by!
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Memories of Woolworth’s
Memories of Woolworth’s. What does the name Woolworth’s conjure up in your mind? Could it be that it was Friday and parents were doling out allowances to their young ones? They in turn could hardly wait to go to Woolworth’s to see what treasures could be had with their hard earned pennies. I know that this was part of my childhood, finding that special scarf or pair of shoe laces, skipping ropes and yo-yos or spending hours...
The Cloud! It Came from Cyberspace!
The Cloud! It Came from Cyberspace! Far worse than The Blob, an ever accreting molten meteor that devoured every carbon-based life form it encountered, The Cloud appeared among unsuspecting earthlings. Initially, I was a little foggy about The Cloud. Everyone was. I knew something of clouds—cirrus, cumulus, nimbus, stratus, but a little knowledge is, as always, dangerous. Once, I saw a cloud in the image of the Virgin Mary. (She had...
Fresh Spinach Recipes
Recipes using fresh spinach. In the twentieth century, children had to be more or less force-fed if their mothers wanted them to eat spinach, despite Popeye. But today, fresh spinach is to be found in some of the tastiest recipes – on pizzas, in lasagnes dishes, on fresh salads, in casseroles, dips … Spinach it adding its health-giving properties to a huge variety of delightful dishes. And of course, here at JAQUO Magazine...
Feeling Overwhelmed? Refocus With These Tips
Getting back to the Goal Do you ever get overwhelmed, feeling like you can’t find your focus let alone remember your goals?Every year I give some thought to goals, to what I want to accomplish in the coming year. Yet too often (I am not confessing how often) I catch myself jumping from one thing without finishing because there are so many different things to do. It’s difficult to settle and eventually I feel like nothing...
Book Review: The Eye of Heaven, by Clive Cussler
Clive Cussler, probably The Master of adventure Clive Cussler has been one of my favorite authors since I picked up a copy of Raise the Titanic many years ago. It was such a fun adventure featuring Dirk Pitt that subsequently the rest of his books landed in my cart. Still today I read most of them. He has several series now, some written solo, others co-written with a variety of writers. This is the sixth book in the Fargo series,...
Cinnamon Rolls From The Bread Machine
Fresh Baked Cinnamon Rolls, Right Out of the Oven My adorable Norwegian grandmother would always have a pan of fresh cinnamon rolls just out of the oven whenever we came to visit her. I can see her still, standing in her little kitchen, pulling them from the oven, flipping them over to get them out of the pan. She would serve us coffee, with a little cream, in a very small cup, since we were very young. Coffee wasn’t a drink we...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 5: John Gilstrap, Author
John Gilstrap, Author, Brings us Jonathan Graves This is the excellent series by John Gilstrap. You may know him from his bestseller, Nathan’s Run. Besides several other published novels, he is a screenwriter and a safety expert, with solid knowledge in explosives and hazardous materials. Good information to have when he is writing his novels. The series begins with Jonathan Graves, no longer in the employ of the...
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