tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-204836942024-03-13T10:48:44.022-05:00My Sweet Home in Alabamahistory, memories, thoughts, ideas, family, and favorites...Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.comBlogger471125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-30958781680700651202018-10-26T12:37:00.000-05:002018-10-27T16:17:41.845-05:00Visiting London<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_History_Museum,_London">Natural History Museum</a> in London (South Kensington Station)</b><br />
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The Natural History Museum in London is a natural history museum that exhibits a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history. It is one of three major museums on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the others being the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Natural History Museum's main frontage, however, is on Cromwell Road. The museum is home to life and earth science specimens comprising some 80 million items within five main collections: botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology. The museum is a centre of research specialising in taxonomy, identification and conservation. Given the age of the institution, many of the collections have great historical as well as scientific value, such as specimens collected by Charles Darwin. The museum is particularly famous for its exhibition of dinosaur skeletons and ornate architecture—sometimes dubbed a cathedral of nature—both exemplified by the large Diplodocus cast that dominated the vaulted central hall before it was replaced in 2017 with the skeleton of a blue whale hanging from the ceiling. The Natural History Museum Library contains extensive books, journals, manuscripts, and artwork collections linked to the work and research of the scientific departments; access to the library is by appointment only. The museum is recognised as the pre-eminent centre of natural history and research of related fields in the world. - FROM WIKIPEDIA Ice Rink Video <br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Museum">British Museum</a> (Googe Street Station)</b><br />
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The British Museum, located in the Bloomsbury area of London, in the United Kingdom, is a public institution dedicated to human history, art and culture. Its permanent collection numbers some 8 million works, and is among the largest and most comprehensive in existence having been widely sourced during the era of the British Empire, and documenting the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present. It is the first national public museum in the world. - FROM WIKIPEDIA <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u04g-pHLPnM">Video</a><br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Library">British Library</a> (King's Cross St. Pancras Station)</b><br />
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The British Library is the national library of the United Kingdom and the largest national library in the world by number of items catalogued. It is estimated to contain 150–200 million+ items from many countries. As a legal deposit library, the British Library receives copies of all books produced in the United Kingdom and Ireland, including a significant proportion of overseas titles distributed in the UK. The Library is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The British Library is a major research library, with items in many languages and in many formats, both print and digital: books, manuscripts, journals, newspapers, magazines, sound and music recordings, videos, play-scripts, patents, databases, maps, stamps, prints, drawings. The Library's collections include around 14 million books, along with substantial holdings of manuscripts and historical items dating back as far as 2000 BC. In addition to receiving a copy of every publication produced in the UK and Ireland (approximately 8,000 per day), the Library has a programme for content acquisitions. The Library adds some three million items every year occupying 9.6 kilometres (6.0 mi) of new shelf space. There is space in the library for over 1,200 readers. FROM WIKIPEDIA <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro0fjMjnHPs"><b>Video</b></a><br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TKTS">London's TKTS</a> (Leicester Square Station)</b><br />
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London's TKTS, originally known as ‘The Half Price Ticket Booth’, is run by the Society of London Theatre on behalf of the theatre industry. Operating since 1980 in the heart of Leicester Square, this discounted ticket booth offers customers a wide choice of discount theatre tickets on the day of the performance and in advance. There are also regularly full price tickets available through the booth. <br />
Tickets can only be bought from TKTS in person, providing personal service from knowledgeable staff. Each TKTS ticket includes a booking fee of £3 on discount theatre tickets and £1 on full price tickets. All profits made from SOLT, including TKTS, go straight back into the industry. TKTS is also accredited by the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR) and all ticket sales are made following the STAR code of practice. The Society of London Theatre has licensed the TKTS trademark from the Theatre Development Fund, but the two organizations are otherwise unrelated. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">- FROM WIKIPEDIA</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borough_Market">Borough Market</a> (Borough Station)</b></span><br />
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Borough Market is a wholesale and retail food market in Southwark, London, England. It is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, with a market on the site dating back to at least the 12th century. The present buildings were built in the 1850s, and today the market mainly sells speciality foods to the general public.<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">- FROM WIKIPEDIA</span><br />
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<b><a href="https://skygarden.london/">Sky Garden</a> (Cannon Street Station)</b><br />
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The Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street is a unique public space that spans three storeys and offers 360 degree uninterrupted views across the City of London. Visitors can wander around the exquisitely landscaped gardens, observation decks and an open air terrace of what is London’s highest public garden. The Sky Garden has been designed to create an open and vibrant place of leisure, offering visitors a rare chance to experience London from a different viewpoint. Entry to the Sky Garden is free, but please note space is strictly limited and visits must be booked online in advance through this site.<br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_View_from_The_Shard">The Shard</a> (London Bridge Station)</b><br />
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The View from The Shard is a tourist attraction based in London's tallest building, The Shard. The attraction offers visitors views from the skyscraper, with two viewing platforms inside the building: the first is a triple level indoor gallery on Level 69, and the second is a partially outdoor gallery on Level 72. The attraction has a ground floor gift shop as well as 'The Sky Boutique,' on Level 68, with limited edition souvenirs. It is the highest shop in London.<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">- FROM WIKIPEDIA</span><br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Eye">London Eye</a> (Waterloo Station)</b><br />
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The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. It is Europe's tallest Ferris wheel, is the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom with over 3.75 million visitors annually, and has made many appearances in popular culture. The structure is 135 metres (443 ft) tall and the wheel has a diameter of 120 metres (394 ft). When it opened to the public in 2000 it was the world's tallest Ferris wheel. Its height was surpassed by the 525-foot (160 m) Star of Nanchang in 2006, the 165 metres (541 ft) Singapore Flyer in 2008, and the 550-foot tall (167.6 m) High Roller (Las Vegas) in 2014. Supported by an A-frame on one side only, unlike the taller Nanchang and Singapore wheels, the Eye is described by its operators as "the world's tallest cantilevered observation wheel". The London Eye offered the highest public viewing point in London until it was superseded by the 245-metre (804 ft) high observation deck on the 72nd floor of The Shard, which opened to the public on 1 February 2013.<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">- FROM WIKIPEDIA</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_Bridge">Tower Bridge</a> (Tower Hill Station)</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London built between 1886 and 1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London. Because of this, Tower Bridge is sometimes confused with London Bridge, situated some 0.5 mi (0.80 km) upstream. Tower Bridge is one of five London bridges now owned and maintained by the Bridge House Estates, a charitable trust overseen by the City of London Corporation. It is the only one of the Trust's bridges not to connect the City of London directly to the Southwark bank, as its northern landfall is in Tower Hamlets. - <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> FROM WIKIPEDIA</span></span><br />
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Paul's_Cathedral">St. Paul's Cathedral</a> - (St. Paul's Station)</b><br />
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St Paul's Cathedral, London, is an Anglican cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. It sits on Ludgate Hill at the highest point of the City of London and is a Grade I listed building. Its dedication to Paul the Apostle dates back to the original church on this site, founded in AD 604. The present cathedral, dating from the late 17th century, was designed in the English Baroque style by Sir Christopher Wren. Its construction, completed in Wren's lifetime, was part of a major rebuilding programme in the City after the Great Fire of London. The cathedral is one of the most famous and most recognisable sights of London. Its dome, framed by the spires of Wren's City churches, has dominated the skyline for over 300 years. At 365 feet (111 m) high, it was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1967. The dome is among the highest in the world. St Paul's is the second-largest church building in area in the United Kingdom after Liverpool Cathedral. St Paul's Cathedral occupies a significant place in the national identity.[4][unreliable source] It is the central subject of much promotional material, as well as of images of the dome surrounded by the smoke and fire of the Blitz.[4] Services held at St Paul's have included the funerals of Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, Sir Winston Churchill and Baroness Thatcher; jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria; peace services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars; the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer; the launch of the Festival of Britain; and the thanksgiving services for the Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilees and the 80th and 90th birthdays of Queen Elizabeth II. St Paul's Cathedral is a working church with hourly prayer and daily services. The tourist entry fee at the door is £18 for adults (March 2017, cheaper online), but no charge is made to worshippers. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">- </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> FROM WIKIPEDIA</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buckingham_Palace">Buckingham Palace</a> (Victoria Station)</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM_oViRZynlh-qoAW7Uthq73pyToM59NTzN6OfS1jMBCO8SnOVQuylV06Jz_Z_C8Xj4CGhpENtTIlf8wnW3TVh66nXcX_FZd8_gY83OLiTlanbpFxWXKbRPOXMqWxg7yU-SueVA/s1600/Buckingham_Palace_from_gardens%252C_London%252C_UK_-_Diliff_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM_oViRZynlh-qoAW7Uthq73pyToM59NTzN6OfS1jMBCO8SnOVQuylV06Jz_Z_C8Xj4CGhpENtTIlf8wnW3TVh66nXcX_FZd8_gY83OLiTlanbpFxWXKbRPOXMqWxg7yU-SueVA/s320/Buckingham_Palace_from_gardens%252C_London%252C_UK_-_Diliff_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning. - <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> FROM WIKIPEDIA</span></span><br />
<b><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i><u><sub><sup><strike><br /></strike></sup></sub></u></i></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trafalgar_Square">Trafalgar Square</a> (Charring Cross Station)</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />Trafalgar Square is a public square in the City of Westminster, Central London, built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. Its name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars with France and Spain that took place on 21 October 1805 off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Spain. The site of Trafalgar Square had been a significant landmark since the 13th century and originally contained the King's Mews. After George IV moved the mews to Buckingham Palace, the area was redeveloped by John Nash, but progress was slow after his death, and the square did not open until 1844. The 169-foot (52 m) Nelson's Column at its centre is guarded by four lion statues. A number of commemorative statues and sculptures occupy the square, but the Fourth Plinth, left empty since 1840, has been host to contemporary art since 1999. The square has been used for community gatherings and political demonstrations, including Bloody Sunday, the first Aldermaston March, anti-war protests, and campaigns against climate change. A Christmas tree has been donated to the square by Norway since 1947 and is erected for twelve days before and after Christmas Day. The square is a centre of annual celebrations on New Year's Eve. It was well known for its feral pigeons until their removals in the early 21st century. - <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> FROM WIKIPEDIA</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_London">Tower of London</a> (Tower Hill Station)</b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><br /></span></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. It lies within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, separated from the eastern edge of the square mile of the City of London by the open space known as Tower Hill. It was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The White Tower, which gives the entire castle its name, was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and was a resented symbol of oppression, inflicted upon London by the new ruling elite. The castle was used as a prison from 1100 (Ranulf Flambard) until 1952 (Kray twins), although that was not its primary purpose. A grand palace early in its history, it served as a royal residence. As a whole, the Tower is a complex of several buildings set within two concentric rings of defensive walls and a moat. There were several phases of expansion, mainly under Kings Richard I, Henry III, and Edward I in the 12th and 13th centuries. The general layout established by the late 13th century remains despite later activity on the site. - WIKIPEDIA</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Botanic_Gardens,_Kew">Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew</a> (Richmond Station)</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (brand name Kew) is a non-departmental public body in the United Kingdom sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. An internationally important botanical research and education institution, it employs 723 staff (FTE). Its board of trustees is chaired by Marcus Agius, a former chairman of Barclays. The organisation manages botanic gardens at Kew in Richmond upon Thames in southwest London, and at Wakehurst Place, a National Trust property in Sussex which is home to the internationally important Millennium Seed Bank, whose scientists work with partner organisations in more than 95 countries. Kew, jointly with the Forestry Commission, founded Bedgebury National Pinetum in Kent in 1923, specialising in growing conifers. In 1994 the Castle Howard Arboretum Trust, which runs the Yorkshire Arboretum, was formed as a partnership between Kew and the Castle Howard Estate. The organisation had 2,124,138 public visitors in the year 2016/17. Its 326-acre (132 ha) site at Kew has 40 historically important buildings; it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 3 July 2003. The collections at Kew and Wakehurst Place include over 28,000 taxa of living plants, 8.3 million plant and fungal herbarium specimens, and 30,000 species in the seed bank.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westminster_Abbey">Westminster Abbey</a> (Westminster Station)</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIc30JtQ8AyTJ_zxlTg09JddfVVRqOpAB8k9Z7kVqYm22eyhQCd2F9VHMR7XlY92FsJ4zSQy_MAppurQ6bXlhp1jPwc34X8CFAjt924ddfsu3EUxtSkwEhdF18ACAPhTsh2Q6TdQ/s1600/Westminster-Abbey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #0066cc; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 16px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIc30JtQ8AyTJ_zxlTg09JddfVVRqOpAB8k9Z7kVqYm22eyhQCd2F9VHMR7XlY92FsJ4zSQy_MAppurQ6bXlhp1jPwc34X8CFAjt924ddfsu3EUxtSkwEhdF18ACAPhTsh2Q6TdQ/s320/Westminster-Abbey.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Westminster Abbey, formally titled the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, is a large, mainly Gothic abbey church in the City of Westminster, London, England, just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the United Kingdom's most notable religious buildings and the traditional place of coronation and burial site for English and, later, British monarchs. The building itself was a Benedictine monastic church until the monastery was dissolved in 1539. Between 1540 and 1556, the abbey had the status of a cathedral. Since 1560, the building is no longer an abbey or a cathedral, having instead the status of a Church of England "Royal Peculiar"—a church responsible directly to the sovereign. <br />According to a tradition first reported by Sulcard in about 1080, a church was founded at the site (then known as Thorn Ey (Thorn Island)) in the seventh century, at the time of Mellitus, a Bishop of London. Construction of the present church began in 1245, on the orders of King Henry III. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of English and British monarchs have been in Westminster Abbey. There have been 16 royal weddings at the abbey since 1100.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palace_of_Westminster">Palace of Westminster</a> (Westminster Station)</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7vw_TCk4U3w2TBG2aZLFxo2QwdGXt-TqnLSj1O_vjWckZHJFUCd8CRm9uaFk-7vdwa4BiDemAh1UXkBqt87CXOskE3I95uPWjzIj-1guh9vrAScmLjgpw-sfAkTndUoMaGNU7w/s1600/Parliament_at_Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7vw_TCk4U3w2TBG2aZLFxo2QwdGXt-TqnLSj1O_vjWckZHJFUCd8CRm9uaFk-7vdwa4BiDemAh1UXkBqt87CXOskE3I95uPWjzIj-1guh9vrAScmLjgpw-sfAkTndUoMaGNU7w/s320/Parliament_at_Sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The Palace of Westminster is the meeting place of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Commonly known as the Houses of Parliament after its occupants, the Palace lies on the north bank of the River Thames in the City of Westminster, in central London, England. Its name, which is derived from the neighbouring Westminster Abbey, may refer to either of two structures: the Old Palace, a medieval building complex destroyed by fire in 1834, or its replacement, the New Palace that stands today. The palace is owned by the monarch in right of the Crown and for ceremonial purposes, retains its original status as a royal residence. The building is managed by committees appointed by both houses, which report to the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Speaker. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Margaret%27s,_Westminster">St. Margaret's Church</a> (Westminster Station)</b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DO-OdEt1HZRl54_B-ufVuFJd4ZS6eL7HU4_dzuJpGdFoo__bqjRzlm-_r8-nEVEu3WfgN5WcR78e5spXLQpznKTDQKd2gFq_Pos02HZh-q1JSndLar1KgjlIpqCZ81ZzYYArLg/s1600/St-Margaret%2527s-_Westminster.P1130954-PS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="708" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DO-OdEt1HZRl54_B-ufVuFJd4ZS6eL7HU4_dzuJpGdFoo__bqjRzlm-_r8-nEVEu3WfgN5WcR78e5spXLQpznKTDQKd2gFq_Pos02HZh-q1JSndLar1KgjlIpqCZ81ZzYYArLg/s320/St-Margaret%2527s-_Westminster.P1130954-PS.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The Church of St Westminster, Westminster Abbey, is situated in the grounds of Westminster Abbey on Parliament Square. It was until 1972 the Anglican parish church of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom in London. It is dedicated to Margaret of Antioch. The church forms part of a single World Heritage Site, with the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. The church was founded in the twelfth century by Benedictine monks, so that local people who lived in the area around the Abbey could worship separately at their own simpler parish church, and historically it was within the hundred of Ossulstone in the county of Middlesex. In 1914, in a preface to Memorials of St. Margaret's Church, Westminster, a former Rector of St Margaret's, Dr Hensley Henson, reported a mediaeval tradition that the church was as old as Westminster Abbey, owing its origins to the same royal saint, and that "The two churches, conventual and parochial, have stood side by side for more than eight centuries — not, of course, the existing fabrics, but older churches of which the existing fabrics are successors on the same site."</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Observatory,_Greenwich">Royal Observatory</a></b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh-2P9n8RJTinCgM6aN9j060Dyze_Fq0gUEwope3pZvBeXoVZTqQstWTIdjdEelsbIb5PPZS2jTOyu0h8Dld4WzO9maDAVVzOJOu0Kazrj-15JIRPqLs_jBC85zARETNseuq_GA/s1600/Royal_observatory_greenwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="449" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh-2P9n8RJTinCgM6aN9j060Dyze_Fq0gUEwope3pZvBeXoVZTqQstWTIdjdEelsbIb5PPZS2jTOyu0h8Dld4WzO9maDAVVzOJOu0Kazrj-15JIRPqLs_jBC85zARETNseuq_GA/s320/Royal_observatory_greenwich.jpg" width="239" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The Royal Observatory, Greenwich known as the Old Royal Observatory from 1957 to 1998, when the working Royal Greenwich Observatory, RGO, moved from Greenwich to Herstmonceux) is an observatory situated on a hill in Greenwich Park, overlooking the River Thames. It played a major role in the history of astronomy and navigation, and is best known for the fact that the prime meridian passes through it, and thereby gave its name to Greenwich Mean Time. The ROG has the IAU observatory code of 000, the first in the list. ROG, the National Maritime Museum, the Queen's House and Cutty Sark are collectively designated Royal Museums Greenwich. The observatory was commissioned in 1675 by King Charles II, with the foundation stone being laid on 10 August. The site was chosen by Sir Christopher Wren. At that time the king also created the position of Astronomer Royal, to serve as the director of the observatory and to "apply himself with the most exact care and diligence to the rectifying of the tables of the motions of the heavens, and the places of the fixed stars, so as to find out the so much desired longitude of places for the perfecting of the art of navigation." He appointed John Flamsteed as the first Astronomer Royal. The building was completed in the summer of 1676. The building was often called "Flamsteed House", in reference to its first occupant. The scientific work of the observatory was relocated elsewhere in stages in the first half of the 20th century, and the Greenwich site is now maintained almost exclusively as a museum, although the AMAT telescope became operational for astronomical research in 2018. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Royal Albert Hall (South Kensington Station)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Albert_Hall">Royal Albert Hall</a> (South Kensington Station)</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRyeO5ztx7jQe5cAclWy0N13I3gQ0FaBmWUB5BB4KCWh086MEruX5_rU-Vgq3STvGMQjNmOVnkRE7Fx7fK5q5_phnw28AVtmKx05VADycT6JuxE5uhzAoVZQXUhz7IPQ-1oFsiaw/s1600/800px-Royal_Albert_Hall%252C_London_-_Nov_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="800" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRyeO5ztx7jQe5cAclWy0N13I3gQ0FaBmWUB5BB4KCWh086MEruX5_rU-Vgq3STvGMQjNmOVnkRE7Fx7fK5q5_phnw28AVtmKx05VADycT6JuxE5uhzAoVZQXUhz7IPQ-1oFsiaw/s320/800px-Royal_Albert_Hall%252C_London_-_Nov_2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall on the northern edge of South Kensington, London, which has held the Proms concerts annually each summer since 1941. It has a capacity of up to 5,272 seats. The Hall is a registered charity held in trust for the nation and receives no public or government funding. Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, the world's leading artists from many performance genres have appeared on its stage and it has become one of the UK's most treasured and distinctive buildings. The location of some of the most notable events in British culture, each year it hosts more than 390 shows in the main auditorium, including classical, rock and pop concerts, ballet, opera, film screenings with live orchestra, sports, award ceremonies, school and community events, charity performances and banquets. A further 400 events are held each year in the non-auditorium spaces. The Hall was originally supposed to have been called the Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, but the name was changed to the Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences by Queen Victoria upon laying the Hall's foundation stone in 1867, in memory of her husband, Prince Albert, who had died six years earlier. It forms the practical part of a memorial to the Prince Consort – the decorative part is the Albert Memorial directly to the north in Kensington Gardens, now separated from the Hall by Kensington Gore. </span></span></span></div>
Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-18843399138616328862014-02-27T12:53:00.001-06:002014-02-27T12:55:05.889-06:00"Marathon" - Rush<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/rP58U_R3gK0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
You can do a lot in a lifetime
if you don't burn out too fast.
You can make the most of the distance.
First you need endurance. --
First you've got to last...
Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-7360455456602738782014-02-24T07:55:00.001-06:002014-02-24T07:55:26.598-06:00Affirmation and EncouragementRecently I was hurt. Without going into detail, I was misjudged. Since it came from someone I care about I've struggled. <div><br></div><div>But The Lord has ways of sending people your way to affirm you. I got such an affirmation in a random, unsolicited text from a friend the other day:</div><div><br></div><div>"Thank you! It may have taken me a year but I finally feel that connection with God. His presence has been strong in my life recently. So thank you for explaining it to me & giving me the knowledge I needed to get there."</div><div><br></div><div>God always comes through. </div><div><br></div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-17170827822612682502014-02-20T06:29:00.001-06:002014-02-20T06:29:05.519-06:0018 Hours of Work and Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjViQMYqH5Xe2xnStVETpCqdueT2Rw4-6HDdeffiBd85-zWiecdf3pSQT0p88G8ZSs238gpOnkaE1T4lTriJbXpoifqEgTtWHJTGlpf31t79BsrcnkwcXPNK3B7uGTUPBh2tZZ4dw/s640/blogger-image--2079391874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjViQMYqH5Xe2xnStVETpCqdueT2Rw4-6HDdeffiBd85-zWiecdf3pSQT0p88G8ZSs238gpOnkaE1T4lTriJbXpoifqEgTtWHJTGlpf31t79BsrcnkwcXPNK3B7uGTUPBh2tZZ4dw/s640/blogger-image--2079391874.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNnEbIMDIDcEO-o0HLyuN9l3V4MMnHH8G0mS4B5ArSlJwHvB3CSoFbmNOKszVUWlzvvPzaQh_JBGkUoUh5RWZ6NU0amUi3qXMNHlwK8oXjN-VqL3BA6vZSFuM4keWD-nJ13mVKw/s640/blogger-image--1495332742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNnEbIMDIDcEO-o0HLyuN9l3V4MMnHH8G0mS4B5ArSlJwHvB3CSoFbmNOKszVUWlzvvPzaQh_JBGkUoUh5RWZ6NU0amUi3qXMNHlwK8oXjN-VqL3BA6vZSFuM4keWD-nJ13mVKw/s640/blogger-image--1495332742.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Last night I enjoyed hanging out with Jason Simpson, the Chief Meteorologist at WHNT 19. I had a very long stressful day at work. Sounded like Jason had a busy day himself. We always have a good time talking about weather and about life in general. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After Jason finished the weather around 6:45, I drove over to the Space and Rocket Center. There we had a very interesting presentation at the local chapter of the NWA/AMS meeting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After getting home around a quarter till nine, I spent the next few hours working on my camera equipment in anticipation of the upcoming severe weather season. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I haven't had much sleep this week but last night it was for a good reason!</div></div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-59828314064507694362014-02-19T12:06:00.001-06:002014-02-19T12:11:34.129-06:00A New Goal<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWPfsFTnacViFJxIw_uHwf3_ZGX3LpQIPUmcVIO5ePCYdbG-GaJ6neY_iVRnKC4hTbiIkMjlV5dz2LPOvvcoPNQIrhq-sP41_5mNOpXP1_Tn5C684E0kPnTXRmlbyn9tmTIwF1A/s640/blogger-image-1714569254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWPfsFTnacViFJxIw_uHwf3_ZGX3LpQIPUmcVIO5ePCYdbG-GaJ6neY_iVRnKC4hTbiIkMjlV5dz2LPOvvcoPNQIrhq-sP41_5mNOpXP1_Tn5C684E0kPnTXRmlbyn9tmTIwF1A/s640/blogger-image-1714569254.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Last Night's Route</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I have always enjoyed running and/or walking for exercise, since I was young. I have often wondered why people spend hundreds of dollars for gym memberships, personal trainers, and expensive equipment. I am not being critical of that, but it has been my experience that running, jogging, and even walking long distances can yield the same health benefits, at no cost. I suppose there are benefits to having access to better equipment, motivational coaches, and indoor climate, but we can’t all afford that. And even if we could, one would have to ask if it’s worth it. These support systems can be helpful, but in the end, the desire to take care of yourself has to come from within. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In recent years I have used free smart phone applications to help me. Several days (especially on weekends) I have walked 10-15 miles and in 2012 I think I averaged between three and four miles of walking per day. In 2011, I completed seven out of nine weeks of a “Couch to 5K” program. Then I was the coordinator of 30-plus volunteers at a national weather conference. I was putting in 14-hour days for over a week. I literally had no time to find a way to complete the program. Not only that, I was staying in a hotel in the downtown portion of a large city with high crime rates. So I stopped the program and went back to walking. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Since then, I have walked quite a bit at times, but not with the consistency I have had in the past. There are so many barriers to outdoor running and walking. It takes a lot of time. Rainy days make it difficult. As I age, cold weather makes it very difficult. Sometimes extreme heat makes it difficult. Then there are the issues of being unavailable due to work hours and a pretty long commute. I have hobbies, neighbors, and friends I like to spend time with. I like to be available to chase storms or take lightning pictures. <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0">Tonight</a> I will be at a meeting of a weather organization I am involved in. Even though my sons are older, I still value any time I can get with them. I have had times where I dated. That is not a time issue currently, but it has been at times. I always have projects to work on at home. The list goes on and on. At some point though, we have to make time in our lives for things. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I “feel” the drive to do this now. But as I was walking and jogging last night, one word kept coming to mind: “consistency”. How many people get fired up for a few days or weeks, only to slip back into inactivity? A former pastor of mine once described me as one of the most consistent people he knew. I don’t know about that, but it is something I feel a renewed desire to implement more fully in my life. Warmer weather is arriving, and I am getting the “fever” again. One thing that helps is setting written goals. Last night I decided on a new goal. Today I am putting it in writing. I want to run a 5K race. I have never been in an “official” race, before. I started thinking, that’s really only 3.1 miles. My initial goal is to actually run and jog the whole way. But even if I end up walking, I will have completed something new. In that spirit, I looked up quotes on consistency. I will try to think about these as I pursue my goal.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“For the novice runner, I’d say to give yourself at least two months of consistently running at a conversational pace before deciding whether you want to stick with it. Consistency is the most important aspect of training at this point.” – Frank Shorter<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It’s what we do consistently.” – Anthony Robbins<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying basic fundamentals.” – Jim Rohn<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“The secret of success is consistency of purpose.” – Benjamin Disraeli<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“Getting an audience is hard. Sustaining an audience is hard. It demands a consistency of thought, of purpose, and of action over a long period of time.” – Bruce Springsteen<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“You have to perform at a consistently higher level than others. That’s the mark of a true professional.” – Joe Paterno<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p></div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-73021504065052382972014-02-18T22:30:00.001-06:002014-02-18T22:36:17.120-06:00Classic Kramer<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oXrrCdo9SoFeLSZoQzrGQYUapkxXE7lCoNKkKPSAsAy8uj4RuhgO0flsmHI4NpG8Q3vHyZl5bnXZu305RVg7A8H_KhMIX8-cIak1b4ytCJFNLm2WXGIIl6r7R0kbls2gSfuatw/s640/blogger-image-234426118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oXrrCdo9SoFeLSZoQzrGQYUapkxXE7lCoNKkKPSAsAy8uj4RuhgO0flsmHI4NpG8Q3vHyZl5bnXZu305RVg7A8H_KhMIX8-cIak1b4ytCJFNLm2WXGIIl6r7R0kbls2gSfuatw/s640/blogger-image-234426118.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div>"The Opposite" is one of my favorite Seinfeld episodes. George Costanza acts the opposite of his instincts and finds great success. But my favorite clip is when Cosmo Kramer goes on Regis and Kathie Lee. <div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Kramer coffee table book on "Regis & Kathie Lee" </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KuDPfTfw6w&sns=em</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; "><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; "><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-11348016704806701902014-02-18T11:10:00.001-06:002014-02-18T11:10:07.803-06:00Live Long and ProsperI ran across an interesting interview in which <a href="http://www.israelunseen.com/live-long-and-prosper-the-story-of-star-trek-and-the-jewish-priestly-blessing/">Leonard Nimoy describes in detail</a> how he came up with his character Spock's famous Vulcan hand gesture in the original Star Trek show.
Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-27869114675679390142014-02-17T18:12:00.001-06:002014-02-18T03:38:39.887-06:001970 Something...<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ-BaxuyoCutGP9rlQjO3yhuixpOPbtAAlm4jZr9mWUbnLoGDTSv8ypffVVkqE70qf0sgjWGXPYyKt8WJCDhqsA2kgasBrM_KLNcPg4Ipk3z3919Lh7BRgn8iIsIe8Oh0Dwz0IiQ/s640/blogger-image-1376136370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ-BaxuyoCutGP9rlQjO3yhuixpOPbtAAlm4jZr9mWUbnLoGDTSv8ypffVVkqE70qf0sgjWGXPYyKt8WJCDhqsA2kgasBrM_KLNcPg4Ipk3z3919Lh7BRgn8iIsIe8Oh0Dwz0IiQ/s640/blogger-image-1376136370.jpg"></a></div>I <span style="font-family: '.Helvetica NeueUI'; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">was just thinking about 1970-something. There was no Facebook. No personal computers. I played outside with my friends until my parents forced us to come in and eat. In the winter I never knew in the morning if I might wake up to snow. We knew most all the neighbors. At school we all talked about the same shows on TV. We grew gardens. Kids who did bad things were kind of ostracized. Getting to talk on the phone with family members long-distance was a treat. My parents didn't have to be too embarrassed about music on the radio. We always sat down to a real meal prepared by my mom (other than weekends when dad grilled out). We talked at the dinner table as a family. I had fast food about once or twice a year. There was never sex on TV in my house. Everybody we knew, we knew in person. Somehow we survived without wearing seatbelts. I could ride all over town on my bicycle before I was even 12. $.15 snowcones and cup ball games were regular fare down at the park. People rarely divorced, but usually were fairly happy. Sometimes people found out that their best friend-spouse shared the best days of their life toward the end. We learned math by reading the back of baseball cards and computing our batting averages. We were lucky to see our favorite football team once or twice a year on TV. I learned about the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates from listening to distant radio stations. We didn't download music; it was an "event" to go to the record store and bring an album home. We survived fights and bullying at school. Life was not perfect. But I think it was better. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: '.Helvetica NeueUI'; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: '.Helvetica NeueUI'; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">After writing this, i happened across an article through my Facebook feed. It talked about the dangers of texting in a relationship to the exclusion of human interaction. Without realizing it was happening, pI had a relationship recently that fell victim to the very same thing. Other reasons and factors were given, but assumptions were made based on texting, not to mention the familiarity it brings that were hurtful. This is a very good read for anyone he does a lot of texting. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: '.Helvetica NeueUI'; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><a href="http://huff.to/1c5mLYJ">http://huff.to/1c5mLYJ</a></div><div><br></div><div>I might add another point to her article. If two people don't invest in each other enough to block off some time to actually see each other and talk on a regular basis that might be a red flag. Texting can be done at almost any time. Is it really saying that I don't have time to talk to you without other distractions?</div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-77506631158116249302014-02-10T12:33:00.001-06:002014-02-10T12:33:23.994-06:00Random Thoughts at Lunch<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">I </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">am one of the least knowledgeable people in the world about fashion trends. There was a lady in court this morning who looked like she dipped the bottom four inches of her hair in blood. One of my coworkers said that was an</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; "> </span><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; "><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; ">Ombré. Learn something new every day.</span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I met a tourist from the UK today. I asked whether they got much snow in their part of the UK. Occasionally they get a bad storm that closes everything. They spend two weeks alternating between visiting the pub and sledding. Visiting the UK and seeing the Beatles landmarks is on my bucket list.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One of the attorneys joked with me that she was falsely accused of not returning paper work. I said, “It’s not fun to be falsely accused, is it?” I was only half-joking. I remind myself that if it happened to Jesus, who is perfect, why wouldn’t we expect it could happen to us.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Useless knowledge of the day: The judge described some song lyrics for which he couldn’t name the song. I knew instantly it was “Wolverton Mountain”. <o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am ready for spring and summer weather. But, if it is going to stay cold, we might as well get a good snow. My son David and I got the sleds and shovels out yesterday. Unfortunately, with every model run, it looks like the best moisture may stay south of here overnight. But we may have another chance in two days. <o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I like Brunswick stew on cold days like this. I had a pint of stew from Whitt’s BBQ today for lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Watching the Beatles tribute on CBS last night was quite a treat. Most of the artists did a great job covering Beatles songs. The best part was seeing Paul and Ringo performing together. I couldn’t help but think about how nerve-wracking it must have been to perform those songs in front of Paul, Ringo, and the widows and children of George and John. It also amazed me at how much George’s son Dhani looks and sounds like his dad. <o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Missing someone really stinks. I have to practice thanking God for what I have rather than focusing on what I don’t have.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; "><o:p style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </o:p></p>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-19220177768477981752014-02-10T06:24:00.001-06:002014-02-10T08:02:32.711-06:00Joy Comes in the Morning?<div><br><div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjPx-ps8EYJiTVhK0BdKjlWZUttn2oe0u57zjqsXU8yy4pSHzYdzL_NfJuBHBILESVQPjigbZdJIeO_yzCbk8O3ysC015bt1xR-OedKaGfkxNn2bfdXQmkzN6kuwEy6cgEWO9rg/s640/blogger-image-76013200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjPx-ps8EYJiTVhK0BdKjlWZUttn2oe0u57zjqsXU8yy4pSHzYdzL_NfJuBHBILESVQPjigbZdJIeO_yzCbk8O3ysC015bt1xR-OedKaGfkxNn2bfdXQmkzN6kuwEy6cgEWO9rg/s640/blogger-image-76013200.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div>Why is it that when you're sad about something, it seems like the worst time of the day is often first thing in the morning?<div><br></div><div>I think for me, I cope and process things best when I take time to think and pray. A lot of people slip into deep depression. I have learned to avoid that. Music, prayer, and friends are my biggest weapons. </div><div><br></div><div>Last night was the big 50th anniversary special for the Beatles. One of my favorite all-time songs is "Let it Be" by Paul McCartney. I really needed to hear that. </div><div><br></div><div>Lord, I'm depending on you today. You've always been faithful. Even when I have not been faithful. You're an ever present help in our times of need. You are my best friend. You are close to the brokenhearted. </div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-84259120033657002702014-02-09T18:38:00.001-06:002014-02-09T18:38:18.756-06:00Walking...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbUIGKfrH9AfREbg26_o1x5R3q4OOgVTOKr9MTbg1sru6maAb-8U9dmuAGPC7oDYyiRZJ9lXQ-FkkALGfFLoWuZwj2gAw7M0f-V5ZH2cXSXNcCmDVJcoEnTII654uZV8H0xYXEQ/s1600/020914.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbUIGKfrH9AfREbg26_o1x5R3q4OOgVTOKr9MTbg1sru6maAb-8U9dmuAGPC7oDYyiRZJ9lXQ-FkkALGfFLoWuZwj2gAw7M0f-V5ZH2cXSXNcCmDVJcoEnTII654uZV8H0xYXEQ/s1600/020914.png" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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I got in 5.5 miles today. Definitely stepping up on the walking. Enjoyed my son David's company. I usually go it alone. Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-6875530157923875542014-02-09T14:41:00.000-06:002014-02-10T08:04:14.620-06:00David is Here!In the old days of this blog my main topic was my sons. In the last few years they have not been around as much. David came up last night. We had a great time hanging out at my friend Ben's place. I think the three of us covered almost every subject possible while enjoying Ben's fancy new 60" HD smart TV. Then David and I watched home videos from the 1980's of my life in college, his mom's family, and my parent's family. We stayed up most of the night. We discussed everything under the sun. Today I sent him on a pre-snow Dollar General run. No bread and milk but plenty of Gatorade, canned stew, and mandarin oranges. Now to go take his antique clock to Mr. Smart, the best fixer of clocks in the world....Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-54225705825735793822014-02-09T14:06:00.001-06:002014-02-09T14:06:55.950-06:00Loving, Losing, and MissingWe live in a fallen world. None of us are perfect. We know this. Yet our hearts cry out for love. The ultimate love is found in Jesus. As true as that is, we long for love with skin on. The acceptance and touch of another human. Try as we might to deny it, we have to admit it's true.<br />
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Unlike accepting a relationship with God, this kind of love is a risky proposition. We desire to bring two imperfect souls together and find bliss. That equation doesn't add up. It may for a while, but eventually someone will be hurt. <br />
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The question is do we shelter ourselves from hurt and stay alone or pursue our desire to love and be loved with courage? I have caused hurt and I have received hurt. <br />
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I am hurt right now. I love someone. I lost someone. I miss someone. <br />
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With God's help, I will never give up on hoping that the dream of holding that special person comes true. Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-29319412199038343782014-02-09T08:15:00.000-06:002014-02-09T13:43:46.757-06:00Two and One-Half Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcyQxuyIc0yR9ePoogCO5CI16Gh3H5A30zw38UQ3G5kSNqjyK419Y6QXZxZ1tZSU1FqEji2bRffV4sdeFLL2JvvA0GtIdAcPFpRncdG1eXIZlaiMLnfVGil7C9Iy9Rd8QzRsjYw/s1600/P1018848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcyQxuyIc0yR9ePoogCO5CI16Gh3H5A30zw38UQ3G5kSNqjyK419Y6QXZxZ1tZSU1FqEji2bRffV4sdeFLL2JvvA0GtIdAcPFpRncdG1eXIZlaiMLnfVGil7C9Iy9Rd8QzRsjYw/s1600/P1018848.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This has been a very tough week for me. Last year, after lots of frustration in dating, I decided to put it aside for a while. It seemed like the few people I met that I might be interested in were not interested in me. The people who were interested in me did not meet the characteristics I am looking for. Besides that frustration, I had reached a point where I just thought I needed to focus on a few areas of my life that needed some attention anyway. So I ended my dating site membership and I stopped “looking”. After several months of being in this “non-dating” mode I felt like I was ready again, but I was not particularly motivated to try. <br />
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Then something happened. A lady I met early in the year had remained my friend. We seemed to really hit it off quite well on the two dates we had early in the year. At the time, however, we had both already met other people and had been on a few more dates with them. I became uncomfortable with the idea of dating more than one at a time and I felt like I needed to be open about it. I texted her and, lo and behold, she told me she had the same issue. I really appreciated her honesty. After a day or so, she let me know that she couldn’t see me anymore. She thought she should give the other guy a chance. It was disappointing, but it made sense. As it turned out I stopped dating the person I had been seeing. She dated her guy most of the year. I don’t precisely remember how it started, but I think around early November I sent this lady a friendly message on Facebook, just to see how she was doing. Gradually I learned that she had broken up with the guy recently. We started messaging and then texting frequently. I think we reached the point that we were both interested in meeting again. <br />
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But there were a few things that stood in the way. First, she was scheduled for major surgery December 11. Prior to that the holidays and our schedules kept us busy. I also thought the more we could get to know each other first, the better. However, we kept each other wonderful company by texting throughout November and December. I sent her flowers when she got home from her stay in the hospital. I really enjoyed “talking” with her and getting to know her. I also felt happy I could keep her company while she was cooped up. The more we talked and got to know each other, the more we liked each other. We became more and more eager to meet. <br />
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Finally, the big day came. On Friday January 3, 2014, I drove to her home to pick her up on our “first” date. I got out of my car and walked to her door. She invited me to step inside. Her precious doggies were excited and hyped up at the sight of a new person. She got them situated and stepped outside. SHE WAS BEAUTIFUL. I opened the car door and we rode to the civic center. I wondered if we would be nervous. I may have had a few butterflies, but I felt extremely comfortable with her. This was her first hockey game. Besides talking about the game, the thing I remember most was talking about our families. I even told her about an unflattering thing that occurred in my life the previous year. I felt compelled to be open about it, and if she rejected me for it, at least I could know that it was based on the truth. It was a very, very nice time. I took her home. We hugged and kissed in the car. Driving home I hoped that she enjoyed herself as much as me. I wondered if she would still be excited to talk more and see each other again. We texted more that evening and it was very evident that we really liked each other. <br />
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Our relationship really developed beautifully throughout the month of January. We talked about so many things that are critical to a relationship. Our ideas were practically identical. We talked about the concept of both partners giving 100 percent. We talked about giving each other the space needed and encouragement needed to pursue our dreams, gifts, and talents. She respected my love for weather as much as I did her love of performing music. We both have some very close friends. We both are totally open and honest. There have been no games. There was never a concern that we were communicating too much or too little. It was all very natural. Our feelings developed simultaneously. We came to like each other very much. We shared so many wonderful conversations. She said that I always seemed to say the right thing that she needed to hear at the right time. We laughed together and supported each other. She encouraged, supported, and lifted my spirits when I went through a few days of being very sick. <br />
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We only disappointed each other once each. Both times involved each of us falling asleep earlier than usual and causing the other concern. We resolved not to let that happen again. Even though we disappointed each other, I think it just made us both feel all the more loved and cared about. I secretly found myself thinking, “I love this girl,” and then correcting myself and saying I needed to take it slow. We both seemed on a mission to get to know each other more. We had a “common goal” and that was to actually see each other more, in person. We did go to a banjo concerto at the symphony orchestra. It felt so good to hold her hand and have my arm around her. I loved when she would look into my eyes with her beautiful smile. I was so happy to be with such a sweet and beautiful woman. We saw a movie together. Again, I felt like I was in outer space with fireworks when she would touch my hand or place her hand on my leg. Our conversations were always great. After the movie she introduced me to fancy beer at a local brewery I had never been to before. Whenever I took her home we hugged and kissed before she went inside. More and more, I wanted to hold her longer. But we were both willing to be patient. I really liked that a lot! We had a day trip to a state park in Tennessee. What a wonderful day that was. I really enjoyed admiring the scenery with her. We took pictures together. I don’t think you could have found a happier or cuter couple in the world that day. Whenever no one was around, we would like to get a quick kiss or hug. We are both very affectionate, but we are also rather private about it. I like that. <br />
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Last weekend we had some communication mix ups but we were so eager to see each other. It had been 12 long days as she had been out of town. We spent several hours Saturday afternoon hiking on the mountain. We found a nice secluded place to sit down and talk awhile. It was, as always, very comfortable and peaceful, like it was meant to be. Before we left, we kissed. That was the most passion I had ever felt in the times we had been together. I already knew we were attracted, but this time really amazed me. As we often told each other, we were a lucky girl and guy. <br />
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Then we had a late night midnight movie planned. Without going into detail publicly, I made a mistake. It did not involve anything that “directly” hurt her, such as flirting or anything like that. I take responsibility for my mistake. Even though I am responsible, she didn’t exactly discourage it. The next day she emailed me. She was ending the relationship. She said it wasn’t just last night’s mistake. She thought it was a pattern and a problem in my life. She pointed to an example of something that was not true. She made some false assumptions. She said that even though I was everything she ever wanted in a man, she thought I needed help and she could not continue the relationship. I immediately called. We cried. I apologized. I also tried to show her that her assumptions were not true. I was so hurt. So sad. The best she could offer was for me to give her a few days to think about it. <br />
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After three days, I sent her a long response to her email. I poured out my heart. I tried to illustrate for her that this is not a problem in my life. That the mistake I made Saturday was an anomaly. I told her many things about my life that she probably doesn’t even know. I also told her that it would be a shame to lose what we both saw as a very unusually great potential relationship over assumptions and misinformation. I asked her to trust, to not be afraid, and to watch over time if she had doubts. I don’t know what will happen. I have prayed harder this week than I have in a very long time. I have felt the peace that comes from God and the results of people praying for me. It has been a very hard week for me. I have cried a lot. I know through Facebook that it has been a hard week for her. I know how sad she was Sunday. She got her only speeding ticket in decades this week. And then she became very physically sick. I miss talking to her. I always believed in communication was the key before making major decisions. That is why I at least sent my response after three days went by. I felt like she needed to know the truth before she made a decision. I am at peace knowing I have told her the truth.<br />
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All I can do is pray that she trusts what I have told her, that she overcomes any fears she may have, and that she gives this wonderful relationship the chance it deserves. If she does not, I will know two things. One is, I take responsibility for my mistake and I will learn from it. Second, if she can’t trust in who I really am and uses what she has seen to end the relationship, then she may not have been as ready for a relationship as she thought. People make mistakes and do stupid things. I need a woman of grace. She does not have to be perfect but she can’t expect me to be perfect either. One time this special lady told me I have “a perfect heart”. I meant to correct her. She was more accurate when she said I have a good heart and a big heart. I may not be perfect, but I don’t have the problem she claimed. I pray that she sees that and that this relationship can remain. I have prayed that more times than I can count. But, more than that, I pray for God’s will in our lives. I pray that all her dreams come true. I pray that she can be the happiest woman in the world. I pray that she receives every blessing she ever wanted out of life. And, until I am told not to, I will love her. Even if loving means leaving her alone, I will love her. I always will. Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-5906001582559242742013-01-08T15:56:00.001-06:002013-01-08T15:56:33.937-06:00Random BCS Championship Notes and QuotesAlabama quarterback AJ McCarron has more BCS Championship rings (3) than games lost (2). His record as a starter is 25-2.<br />
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In the last four seasons, Alabama is 8-0 versus opponents at neutral sites with all eight wins coming against top 10 opponents.<br />
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At the half, Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly said (in response to a question regarding second half fixes), “Maybe Alabama doesn’t come back in the second half. It’s all Alabama.”<br />
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David Pollack of ESPN on Eddie Lacy, “He should be playing for the Steelers. Goodness gracious.”<br />
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Alabama finished atop the AP poll for the ninth time. No team has won more AP championships. Notre Dame is second with eight.<br />
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NBA star Kobe Bryant, on the argument between Barrett Jones and AJ McCarron, “We just saw why Bama will be BCS champs. @AJMcCarron and @barrettAjones not afraid to confront each other in order to win. #respect”<br />
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Alabama became the third team in the poll era (since 1936) to win three championships in four years (2009, 2011, 2012), joining Notre Dame (1946, 1947, and 1949) and Nebraska (1994, 1995, and 1997).<br />
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Alabama center Barrett Jones played with torn ligaments in his left foot, normally a season-ending injury. He said, “It was painful, but you couldn’t have pulled me off this field with a tractor.” He also sustained ligament damage in his finger during the game. He estimated that he played at 75%. He will have surgery.<br />
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At one point, Alabama had a streak of 69 unanswered points in BCS games. That streak encompassed 108 minutes and 7 seconds against Texas, LSU, and Notre Dame.<br />
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Notre Dame gave up 38 points (combined) to six teams: Wake Forest (0), #8 Oklahoma (13), #17 Stanford (13), Miami (3), #18 Michigan (6), and #10 Michigan State(3). Alabama outscored those six teams 42-38 in one game.<br />
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Alabama held Notre Dame to 38 yards rushing (1.7 yards per carry and 170 less than their average). The only team to rush for less this year against the Tide was Missouri, which had 3 yards rushing. <br />
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Notre Dame had given up only 9 first quarter points in their first 12 games. Alabama scored 14 in the first quarter and seven more in the first four seconds of the second quarter. <br />
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Only Bear Bryant has more national championships (6) than Nick Saban (4) during the poll era (since 1936).<br />
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Cecil Hurt: “Trying to decide on most memorable hit of bowl season: Clowney on Michigan RB or Musburger on AJ’s girlfriend.”<br />
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Alabama led the nation in yards from scrimmage by freshmen this season with 2,573.<br />
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Notre Dame leads the series with Alabama 5-2. Alabama has outscored the Irish 128-126 in those seven games.<br />
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Alabama is the first team in history (the poll era going back to 1936) to lead in scoring, total, and rushing defense in two consecutive years.<br />
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AJ McCarron threw 4 TD passes giving him 30 for the season which set a new school record. He also set the Alabama career record with 49. He was the first Alabama QB to throw a TD pass in a championship game since Jeff Rutledge threw one against Penn State in the Sugar Bowl following the 1978 season. Steadman Shealy (79), Jay Barker (92), Greg McElroy (09), and AJ McCarron last year all failed to throw a TD pass. <br />
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Alabama Athletic Director Mal Moore has now been a part of 10 national championships as a player, coach, and administrator. <br />
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Alabama had a balanced offense in the game: 265 yards rushing and 264 passing. <br />
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Alabama averaged 7.1 yards per carry when Notre Dame had eight or more defenders in the box. Notre Dame averaged -2 yards rushing when Alabama had seven or more defenders in the box.<br />
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Cecil Hurt of the Tuscaloosa News tweeted during the game (referencing the argument between Jones and McCarron), “Barrett Jones just delivered the hardest hit that McCarron has taken all night.”<br />
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Alabama had scoring drives of 82, 80, 97, and 86 yards. Prior to the game, the longest drive against Notre Dame this season was 75 yards. <br />
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Alabama scored a touchdown on all five of its red zone opportunities. Prior to the game, Notre dame opponents only scored eight touchdowns in 33 red zone opportunities.<br />
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Freshman Amari Cooper set a school record with 11 TD receptions in a season. Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-8978537792445782732012-12-10T11:47:00.001-06:002012-12-10T11:47:09.287-06:00Child support surpasses $6M - The Decatur Daily - Decatur, Alabama<a href="http://decaturdaily.com/stories/Child-support-surpasses-6M,108971">Child support surpasses $6M - The Decatur Daily - Decatur, Alabama</a>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-26361526083171754652012-11-27T06:08:00.000-06:002012-11-28T10:57:53.643-06:00In Everything Give Thanks<i>Throughout the month of November I will be updating this post with daily thoughts on things for which I am thankful. Often I don't feel that I am as thankful as I should be. Some of my friends are doing this on Facebook and I thought it would be a very good topic to blog about. These items aren't necessarily in any particular order. </i><br />
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<b>Day One: Relationship with God</b><br />
I am thankful for God’s grace and mercy that came to me through the death, burial, and resurrection of His son, Jesus. This has provided me with a very real relationship with Christ that has totally revolutionized my life. He has carried me through trials, too numerous to mention, and has always been by my side, closer than a brother. No matter what happens to me during the day, I can always count on God to give me peace and comfort. <br />
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<b>Day Two: Mom and Dad</b> <br />
I am thankful for my mom and dad. I really miss them but I am very thankful that I had them so long. They were awesome parents who did so much for me. It would literally take a book to write down all of the big and little things they did for me. They worked hard, provided well, spent quality time with me, promoted and participated in my activities, promoted spiritual development, and educated me, to name just a few things. When times were hard they were always there for me. Thank you, God, for them. Help me follow in their examples. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVY709oJkkrE_y4ejhLpGv9yto_6HXCO1yiOrntRR-ZnhXVVA3p0acSa3Fd_mrcvyt-1RR0cu4cdzl3Z-xSk_M3qUYEJZK_vFT96TDZTyrSERSfmou_N0otwKeSaoFxWCAy1ZHg/s1600/mom+and+dad+08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVY709oJkkrE_y4ejhLpGv9yto_6HXCO1yiOrntRR-ZnhXVVA3p0acSa3Fd_mrcvyt-1RR0cu4cdzl3Z-xSk_M3qUYEJZK_vFT96TDZTyrSERSfmou_N0otwKeSaoFxWCAy1ZHg/s1600/mom+and+dad+08.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dear Mom and Dad in 2008.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Three: Sons</b> <br />
I am so very thankful, Lord, that you blessed me three precious boys, David, Joe, and Matt. Words cannot express the love I have for these boys. I never dreamed I would be a single dad and limited in the time I have been given to raise them. But I made the decision many, many years ago that they would have my 100 percent commitment. Before David, my 19 year old was born, I told my wife that I would be the world’s worst at suffering from the empty nest syndrome. I didn’t think that would really happen until they each turned 18 or 19 and moved out on their own. Instead I found that it happened gradually, beginning when I was separated 12 years ago. Then it later gradually occurred more as they started moving through their teen years. But to this day, despite any problems or struggles, there is no one in my life that I truly love more than David Michael, Joseph Patrick, and Matthew Ryan. Thank you, Lord, for the privilege, honor, and blessing of letting me try to raise them, because ultimately they are Yours. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQR4pZG111skr7wsHkivMxUPHtJwMQ1XpsnrJicn335QJZfoMc4v24UJ1a0fMSTKgu6ZmgxEzH7CfQK56lqg35a71NtA9q-6eOdXG2SQ6LPsl3iYc5qJ1XgE4xBEaue6QabpNcpg/s1600/bama+bball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQR4pZG111skr7wsHkivMxUPHtJwMQ1XpsnrJicn335QJZfoMc4v24UJ1a0fMSTKgu6ZmgxEzH7CfQK56lqg35a71NtA9q-6eOdXG2SQ6LPsl3iYc5qJ1XgE4xBEaue6QabpNcpg/s320/bama+bball.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of thousands of photos of my boys through the years.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Four: Country</b> <br />
I am thankful for my country, the United States of America. I had the privilege of being born a citizen of the United States of America. In many quarters these days it is fashionable to find fault with the United States. There are, indeed, many things in our past and present as a nation that are negative. But I believe the United States is the greatest nation in the history of the world. Our nation was founded by people who understood that the new nation must have God and His principles as a foundation in order for it to survive. The U.S. has been a source of freedom, prosperity, liberation, and inspiration for countless millions all over the world in its relatively short history. This nation has provided me the opportunity to grow up and be surrounded by mentors, teachers, friends, and a supportive community. I have been given the opportunity to get an education, pursue my dreams, and enjoy the freedom to worship and serve God. <br />
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<b>Day Five: Music</b><br />
Today I am thankful for music. Music is one of the greatest gifts we have been given. Through it we worship God, evoke emotions, describe relationships, and our feelings. When I am down or discouraged, I can immerse myself in music and be lifted up and encouraged. Music is transformational in that way. Just a few notes of a song can take me back to childhood memories I have from 42 years ago. Music, like a time machine, evokes the sights and sounds of special moments in my past. Music is my favorite form of entertainment. I have purchased more DVDs that were music-oriented than movies. Music enhances everything from Christmas to sitting on the beach, grocery shopping, driving, working in an office, funerals, football games, and almost everything. It’s magical. Just this morning, as I was getting ready for work I was listening to the song, “Oh Lord, You’re Beautiful” by Keith Green. The words of that song, combined with my preexisting thoughts, literally brought me to tears of joy. It caused me to reflect in a way that would never happen without music. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5JpTEnqth4smwnOiXfxTZu8vQrDosG2C4dSfxbMNb4GU9Z3TPkGy0j2TTaB2x8Zryzx6aEq6VLVZM5mSrraDt2o5YnPguS_GhQpHNpe1PsPkTwqT-BlHArzGq9hJYb7vul2NQQ/s1600/band+news+79.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5JpTEnqth4smwnOiXfxTZu8vQrDosG2C4dSfxbMNb4GU9Z3TPkGy0j2TTaB2x8Zryzx6aEq6VLVZM5mSrraDt2o5YnPguS_GhQpHNpe1PsPkTwqT-BlHArzGq9hJYb7vul2NQQ/s1600/band+news+79.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Huntsville News, 1979. Lee High Band prepares for Cincinnati Bengals game.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Six: Friends</b><br />
Today I want to express my thankfulness for my friends. I have been blessed with some amazing friends, on many levels. I have core group of close friends that know me very well, love me, and would do anything they could do to help me. I probably also have more friends than ever before with whom I share some common bond with or a common interest. When I was married and had young children I really didn’t have the opportunity to reach out to as many people as I have more recently. As a single guy, it is great to have so many friends. Just this year my friends have done many things for me… <br />
<ul>
<li>Getting invited to eat dinner and visit their home</li>
<li>Driving an hour out of their way to help me when I was stranded due to automobile issues</li>
<li>Letting me borrow a vehicle for almost two weeks until I was able to get new transportation</li>
<li>On a day I was feeling down, talking and praying with me on the phone until a late hour</li>
<li>Inviting me to events such as church, ball games, and dinner</li>
<li>Walking with me for exercise and talking about our days</li>
<li>Inviting me to their home to watch the ball game</li>
<li>Calling or texting to check on me when I was sick and offering to go to the store</li>
<li>Making me a meal</li>
<li>Driving me around to look at fall foliage and storm chasing</li>
<li>Random friendly messages, texts, or calls</li>
<li>Kind and thoughtful responses</li>
<li>Allowing me to stay in their home</li>
<li>Offering me opportunities to work on projects that help me pursue my dreams</li>
<li>Giving me honest feedback and advice</li>
</ul>
The list could go on. And if I was more thankful (and had a better memory), I could really add to this list. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSd3Zpn7GsKsxe971k5H9ljCeD7UaSXco1J1QRubTJ7opGxtI_t-a3uUuILv-WT2Pfz5cbpTgcHHJOgZXWuf29iF1ozYwdDimfLwf2W58T7yMTnvOrWDbpgiYkY7IfCcSP9EnNQ/s1600/bffs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSd3Zpn7GsKsxe971k5H9ljCeD7UaSXco1J1QRubTJ7opGxtI_t-a3uUuILv-WT2Pfz5cbpTgcHHJOgZXWuf29iF1ozYwdDimfLwf2W58T7yMTnvOrWDbpgiYkY7IfCcSP9EnNQ/s1600/bffs.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of my all time oldest and best friends, Johnny and Rob.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Seven: Sister</b><br />
I have a wonderful sister. She embodies so many of the qualities I mentioned about my friends. She is a very kind and caring lady. I can talk to her about just about anything. She is one of those people that is easy for others to confide in because they know she will understand and show compassion rather than being judgemental. True confession: I picked on my sister almost mercilessly when we were kids. One time I even cut her hair. Of course it was her fault, because she let me do it. Having said that she knew I always had her back, too. She has been an awesome aunt to my sons. We spent many days enjoying our trips to Chicago to visit her. She always made us feel at home and made Chicago feel like a second home for the boys and I. She loved our parents and nowadays we often talk about them. If I am having a tough day missing mom and dad, I can always count on Cara to be there. I love my little sister!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBWl74RSwfzhp_ZZjuYW8VmsDj9ZZN96CzlKFCzTcVkSd9_VR-OwHWLZ7TSiwSVoAxRYgN8nQegwtkREgOnGzrYEd715T9zSAt0S_hvD7G0QfwGWN_Lf3MBkKV9Qbm9uAKa9t0g/s1600/my+sis+and+i.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBWl74RSwfzhp_ZZjuYW8VmsDj9ZZN96CzlKFCzTcVkSd9_VR-OwHWLZ7TSiwSVoAxRYgN8nQegwtkREgOnGzrYEd715T9zSAt0S_hvD7G0QfwGWN_Lf3MBkKV9Qbm9uAKa9t0g/s1600/my+sis+and+i.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister and I, circa 1970.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Eight: Health</b><br />
Good health is something that I, unfortunately, have taken for granted most of my life. But as I get older, I see more and more people near my age who are struggling with health issues. I have been blessed with excellent health in most ways, most of my life. For many years I barely gave it a second thought. I have usually taken pretty good care of myself. However, once I hit the 30's and especially the 40's I have noticed some typical age-related health issues cropping up. One of the greatest and most important blessings in life is to have good health, and I am thankful that I do. <br />
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<b>Day Nine: Sports</b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am thankful for sports. I grew up loving to play and watch sports. I played football, baseball, and basketball every year growing up, both on organized teams and pick-up games. I helped organize a bunch of friends to get together almost daily after school to play whichever sport was in season. In the 1970's I became a huge fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Atlanta Braves. I fell in love with the Tide when they suffered a heart-breaking loss to Notre Dame in the 1973 Sugar Bowl. That was one of the best Alabama teams in history and they went into the game number one in both polls. Their comeback fell just short. It was as if the game wasn't long enough. I literally cried at the outcome. Sports, besides being good for physical health, teaches life lessons that cannot be learned as well in any other endeavor. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home run ball, Summer 1975.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Ten: Needs Met</b><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I am thankful that the Lord meets all of my needs, but not all of my wants. It is easy (and I am guilty) of getting caught up in being concerned about what I don’t have rather than appreciating what I do have. I can honestly say the Lord has always met my needs. But He hasn’t always given me all of my wants. I am thankful, because there have been situations in life when I later learned that what I wanted so badly at one time would have been a disaster. Yet, I still struggle with this concept at times. I can certainly relate to the lyrics in the late Rich Mullins’ song, “Hold Me Jesus”, when he sings, “I'd rather fight you for something I don't really want than to take what you give that I need.” It doesn’t take much looking around to notice that even though others have certain things in their lives that we think we would like, it is also true that we can look around and see even more people who don’t have the things we take for granted. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<b>Day Eleven: Job</b> <br />
This has been a tough morning at work. I have been mischaracterized and misrepresented. Having said that, I am very thankful. I remember my first day on the job over 19 years ago. As I walked into the building I was so thankful to the Lord for giving me this opportunity to provide for my family and to serve people in need. I was determined that no matter what happened, I would always maintain a thankful attitude. God’s Word teaches us to give thanks in all circumstances, not just some. That is one of the most difficult commands. I have been working on that for many years and I am not sure how close I am to getting all the way there. It is something I think about a lot. I start many days with the prayer that no matter how good or bad I perceive today’s circumstances to be, help me have the awareness that You are in control, above it all, and that You will always be with me. Thank you, Lord, for enabling us to be thankful in all things. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b>Day Twelve: Grace </b></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">I am thankful for God's grace. I think grace is a concept that even many Christians do not get. In short, it is unmerited favor shown to sinful man through God giving his son to die on a cross. One of the key words here is "unmerited". We all have a tendency to think we deserve things, and perhaps in an earthly sense we do. Someone who works hard deserves to be paid. But in the big picture, our sin puts us in a position where we do not deserve anything good or positive. Grace is a gift. All good gifts come to us via God's grace. Sometimes we think that we worked real hard, saved our money, and thus we deserve that vacation. While in an earthly sense that is true, we must remember the ultimate source, which is God. It is He who gave us talents, abilities, health, and our very breath of life. If not for his grace, we would not even be here. I am thankful to serve a God who loves me so much that he would rescue me from my predicament by sending His Son to take my place on the cross. I am thankful for grace. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<b>Day Thirteen: The Bible</b><br />
I am thankful for the Word of God. When considering what we are thankful for, it is instructive to consider what we would miss the most if we didn't have it. I can't imagine life without the Word of God, both as an individual, and universally. Besides the obvious fact that we wouldn't probably know much of the information (other than oral tradition), imagine the negative effect that would have on the world. It is really difficult to imagine, but it would definitely not be good. Fortunately we know that the Word of God will last forever. It's a good thing, because, "Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."<br />
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<b>Day Fourteen: Food</b><br />
I am thankful for food. Besides the obvious (without it we would surely die), I really enjoy it! There are not too many kinds of food that I don’t like. But, I am hard-pressed to choose a favorite. If backed into a corner, I would probably choose Italian food. But as soon as I said that I started thinking about steak, barbecue, seafood, and Mexican. <br />
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<b>Day 15: Being Single</b><br />
I am thankful for being single. Really. Let me preface this by acknowledging that there can definitely be advantages to being in a healthy relationship. I will also acknowledge the disadvantages of being single. The main disadvantage for me has been that I don’t have my children with me all of the time. We all have moments when we are sick or lonely and it would be nice to have someone there for us. And, in a relationship, there is the opportunity to love and serve someone in special ways. Having said all of that, I am very thankful for all of the advantages of being single. I don’t have to consult with anyone as to how I use my time and money. I can spend more time with friends. I can pursue my dreams as I see fit. There is no drama brought into my life. I don’t have to worry about being told what to do when I get home from work. The list goes on and on. I may be single the rest of my life or for only one more day, only God knows. But I have learned that happiness is not dependant on relationship status. I would much rather be happy and single than unhappy and married. If the right lady (God-given) wants to be in a relationship with me that will be great. If she doesn’t, life’s already great! <br />
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<b>Day 16: Fellowship</b><br />
I am thankful for fellowship. “Fellowship” is one of those terms we Christians throw around that is not always understood very well. Some of my friends and I used to joke that you could just substitute “food” for “fellowship” based on how it is often used in church. “Fellowship” comes from the Greek “koinonia” which refers to how Christians bond with one another in community. This plays itself out most frequently in the local church setting. I am thankful for all of the fellowships I have been involved in, but there is one that is particularly dear to my heart. When I was a student at the University of Alabama, I was involved in a campus ministry. The college environment allowed our group to be a real Christian community, more like the early church than any other church or community of Christians I have been involved with since. I thank God for giving me that experience. I am now referred to as one of the “founding fathers” of the fellowship because I was one of the two students who were there in the beginning. While we saw amazing growth in numbers through evangelism, worship experiences were amazing, and a lot of true discipleship was going on, I think I valued the fellowship aspect the most. One of the central aspects of that fellowship was the “guys’ house”. I lived in the guys’ house for a few years. We learned a lot about how to get along with others, we divided up cleaning, cooking and shopping duties, and we had times of confrontation. We prayed together. And we played together. The house was directly across the street from Bryant-Denny Stadium, at the 50 yard line on the west side. In fact, the upper deck was added to BDS while I was living in the house. The construction workers made sure that we woke up early, whether we wanted to or not. Time and space don’t allow me to tell all of the great stories from that house. Sadly, the house was razed a few years ago. I thank God for fellowship and for that special group of brothers. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in front of the former Guys' House not long before it was razed.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Seventeen: Answered Prayer</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Today I am thankful for answered prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So often we pray and more often than we realize it, God answers prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But then we go on our merry way without even remembering to thank Him for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe God usually answers prayers with either a “yes”, “no”, or “wait”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other times we just need His guidance and direction in decisions that we face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just today I had something weighing on my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decided to take my lunch break and walk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I walked, I prayed and asked God for guidance and I felt a strong peace about going in a certain direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shortly thereafter a friend provided me some feedback that exactly matched what I felt led by the Lord to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it’s cool that God understands where we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knows that my faith isn’t always strong enough so he sends other people my way and speaks through them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I need to be more and more thankful to God for answering my prayers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Day Eighteen: Hard-Working Sons</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Yes, I already expressed my thankfulness for my boys. But I am thankful my boys have a strong work ethic. My parents and grandparents were all hard workers. I remember when one of the dads in my neighborhood told me as a kid that he was jealous that his son did not work like me. I hope and pray I transmitted the value of a work ethic to my sons. Today I was so proud of my 13 year old son, Matt. He volunteered to clean the gutters. He made me nervous, hanging two stories over the driveway, but we survived. Proud dad moment.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew Ryan Wilhelm cleaning out gutters 11/17/12.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Nineteen: Life</b><br />
Today I am thankful for waking up to another day of being alive! Most mornings when I pray one of the main things I express thankfulness for is the opportunity to live another day. My son Matthew and I were talking this weekend about the subject of thankfulness. I asked him to name some things for which he is thankful and he mentioned this one first. We are blessed with a limited number of days on this Earth. We never know if the day we are in will be our last. Even if we live many more years, life is indeed a vapor and life as we know it on this Earth will soon be over. We need to continually remind ourselves of this so that we spend our time wisely and not put off until tomorrow things that we should be doing today. Below is a poem often cited by former Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant about the value of time. <br />
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<i>"This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it or use it for good. What I do today is important because I'm exchanging a day of my life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever leaving in its place something that I've traded for it. I want it to be gain, not loss; good, not evil; success, not failure in order that I shall not regret the price I paid for it". </i><br />
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<i>"So then you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil" Ephesians 5:15-16</i><br />
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<b>Day Twenty: Weather and Dreams Coming True</b><br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">I am thankful for having the opportunity to pursue my interest in weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My interest in weather began by age five, if not earlier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Growing up in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Huntsville</st1:place></st1:city>, I was a big fan of WHNT’s legendary H.D. Bagley back in the 1970’s. The Superoutbreak of tornadoes on April 3, 1974 really spurred on my already developing interest in weather. My career goal was to work with the National Weather Service. By the time I attended college, I took another career path, but weather continued to be a big hobby of mine. As I look back, the Lord has allowed my dream of working in weather to come true, even though it was temporarily derailed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been a trained storm spotter with the National Weather Service since the 1980’s and have been chasing storms since the 1980’s as well. I have maintained a weather page on the web since the mid 1990’s, which turned into a blog, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.bamawx.com">www.bamawx.com</a> in 2006. I am interested in all things weather: weather history, severe weather, winter weather, tropical weather, and even ordinary, everyday weather! I have maintained a YouTube channel, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.youtube.com/Bamawxcom">www.youtube.com/Bamawxcom</a> where you can see my chase videos, historic weather coverage, and other weather stuff I have collected. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>April 27, 2011 was the worst weather day in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place></st1:state> in a generation. As a Skywatcher for James Spann and Jason Simpson at ABC 33/40, my chase partner John Brown and I witnessed and captured the terrible <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Tuscaloosa</st1:place></st1:city> tornado on video. That video was used on numerous television networks, even ESPN.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am a member of the National Weather Association and was the volunteer coordinator for the 2011 NWA National Conference in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Birmingham</st1:place></st1:city>. I am also a contributor to the WeatherBrains Podcast, which features James Spann, Bill Murray, Brian Peters, Kevin Selle, and J.B. Elliott.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most recently I have worked with meteorologists Jason Simpson, Ben Smith, Jennifer Watson, and Brandon Chambers as a storm chaser for WHNT Channel 19 in <st1:city w:st="on">Huntsville</st1:city> and a blogger on <a href="http://www.valleywx.com/">www.valleywx.com</a> where I post stories, photos, and videos from my time out in the field watching <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Tennessee</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Valley</st1:placetype></st1:place> weather as well as weather history and other fun weather-related things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is really cool to me how the Lord has allowed my dream of working in weather to come true even though it didn’t look like that would happen at one time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many hand-drawn weather maps I made as a kid.</td></tr>
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<b>Day Twenty-One: Transportation</b><br />
Today I am thankful for transportation. Most of what I do and the people I enjoy being with require me to drive long distances. For whatever reason it has almost always been that way. I have logged literally millions of miles driving in my life so that I could be with the ones that I love, to take special trips with them, and to work to make it all possible. I am thankful today to be able do that. <br />
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<b>Day Twenty-Two: Alabama Football Games</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Today I am thankful for the opportunity to attend <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place></st1:state> football games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dad took me to my first <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place></st1:state> game in 1975.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><st1:state w:st="on">Alabama</st1:state> played TCU in Legion Field in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Birmingham</st1:place></st1:city> and won 45-0.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I specifically remember walking through the portal and seeing the brilliant colors of the field and crimson and white like I had never seen before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place></st1:state> had a special presentation for Kent Waldrep, the TCU player that was paralyzed in the previous year’s game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My next game my dad took me to was the <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Alabama</st1:place></st1:state> versus Georgia Tech game in Legion Field in 1980. I remember that it was a scorching hot day to open the 1980 season for the returning national champions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were listening to the radio and during the SEC preview show they were talking about a freshman phenom at <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Georgia</st1:place></st1:country-region> named Hershel Walker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since that time I have been to several memorable games including the 1982 Liberty Bowl (Bear Bryant’s last game), the 1985 Iron Bowl, the 1986 Notre Dame game, the BCS Championship in 2011 and many, many others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These have been entertaining but have also provided me wonderful memories with family and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am thankful to have had these experiences.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son David and I at Bryant-Denny Stadium for the Iron Bowl, 11/24/12</td></tr>
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<strong>Day Twenty-Three: Outdoors</strong><br />
Today I am thankful for the outdoors. God’s creation is beyond awesome and amazing and I am thankful for the opportunity to get outside and marvel at it. As thankful as I am for my job, one of the unfortunate aspects of it is that I am stuck inside so many hours every week. I enjoy hiking, lakes, rivers, beaches, woods, mountains, stars, clouds, foliage, sunshine, trees, flowers, rain, snow, lightning, fog and even gray “dreary” days. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZ8l47yJ7ZTymIqB07G0QOrARdThZkrjtKps3kuMH0Nb5hlmHXhmEGadvkefIMkuO_WEEwiVdnCvlwvJc_XBQJc3AVIw_91jiL-tLenzHqCzIpQOwO_yvIJVTKjtAz-NOL5TPRA/s1600/Sunset+Thunderstorm+052812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZ8l47yJ7ZTymIqB07G0QOrARdThZkrjtKps3kuMH0Nb5hlmHXhmEGadvkefIMkuO_WEEwiVdnCvlwvJc_XBQJc3AVIw_91jiL-tLenzHqCzIpQOwO_yvIJVTKjtAz-NOL5TPRA/s320/Sunset+Thunderstorm+052812.JPG" tea="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thunderstorm over Huntsville, AL at sunset, 5/28/12</td></tr>
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<strong>Day Twenty-Four: Photography</strong> <br />
I am thankful for photography. Photography has always been a hobby of mine but my ability to enjoy it has expanded so much with the development of digital cameras. I always liked taking pictures in the pre-digital camera era, but the cost of film and developing the film was too much to take as many photographs as I would like. I couldn’t begin to estimate how many tens of thousands of photographs of my kids I have taken through the years. I enjoy nature and weather photography as well. In the past few years I have really enjoyed learning how to take lightning photos. I am thankful for the opportunity to enjoy photography. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvND1gg5KNVHQuNxIsoofoOE7P0hK2k70Pu8iJ-vNrtM4G2gMwgUrYBcRJ_XzPHQ3JyOiTKsargNwnYhzbpE-cBNIaNyc-NVIMV2NtFOQj69T1RHwu7uDRveLjwoyGqA0ZQusHg/s1600/P8097213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvND1gg5KNVHQuNxIsoofoOE7P0hK2k70Pu8iJ-vNrtM4G2gMwgUrYBcRJ_XzPHQ3JyOiTKsargNwnYhzbpE-cBNIaNyc-NVIMV2NtFOQj69T1RHwu7uDRveLjwoyGqA0ZQusHg/s320/P8097213.JPG" tea="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightning photo I took over NE Huntsville in 2011</td></tr>
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<strong>Day Twenty-Five: Walking</strong><br />
I am thankful for the ability to walk. I really enjoy walking and if I didn’t have the ability to walk it would be very inconvenient and frustrating. As I get older, walking has become my main source of exercise. I enjoy getting out and walking or hiking in the woods. During much of my career I have taken breaks at work to walk. I figured that while other people were sitting down eating junk food or smoking I would actually get out and do something that would benefit me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I have lost weight, or at least maintained a relatively healthy weight mainly by walking. If I am stressed walking helps me clear my mind and lifts my spirits. Many times while I walk I have great times of prayer. Sometimes I listen to music. The only drawback to walking as a form of exercise is the amount of time it takes to walk enough to make a big difference. Nevertheless, even consistent short walks are better than nothing. I am very thankful that I am healthy enough and physically able to walk. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYd0Lf-BgyKEmRLhXYUQRRIqhXgC030sHXCMYzZc9V01cahiC8GEcXZwqszYT6lb85ev-Z7YdMupdTDXFar0z3m5a6pv6H1TgFMXhgyC_aaIvYHUHYYfrFaNQXY-X52-1s6itVg/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYd0Lf-BgyKEmRLhXYUQRRIqhXgC030sHXCMYzZc9V01cahiC8GEcXZwqszYT6lb85ev-Z7YdMupdTDXFar0z3m5a6pv6H1TgFMXhgyC_aaIvYHUHYYfrFaNQXY-X52-1s6itVg/s320/walk.jpg" tea="true" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my walks in the neighborhood, mapped by my pedometer app</td></tr>
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<strong>Day Twenty-Six: Memories</strong><br />
Today I am thankful for memories. Memories give us a frame of reference from which we are able to live in the present and dream for the future. I have good memories and bad memories. Thankfully, I have forgotten most of the bad things that have happened in my life. But I am also thankful that I have so many good memories. It is amazing how the human mind works. There are certain things I remember from 42 years ago better than things that happened yesterday. Memories seem to be triggered so randomly sometimes. It may be a sight, a smell, a sound, or a song. Whatever it is, I am thankful for so many great memories of people, places, and things that were important in my life. The video below contains some of those special memories for me. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7z6KJRc4IzQ" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
<em><br /></em><em><br /></em><i><strong>More to come...........MW</strong></i> Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0Oak Park, Huntsville, AL 35811, USA34.7489798 -86.552491334.7359328 -86.5722323 34.7620268 -86.5327503tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-87750220534418155702012-05-27T18:41:00.001-05:002014-05-23T08:34:14.336-05:00Memorial DayMemorial Day in the United States is the day we set aside to remember the men and women who died while serving in the armed forces. Most of us have someone in our family history who have died in service to the country. In my family, my mother's brother, Harold P. Hetelle, age 20, was killed in action in World War II on April 16, 1943 in the Southwest Pacific when the plane he was piloting was shot down. <br>
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Initially he was reported as missing as seen in the the article below.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoJyFfE2SAqAW5i04AozR8ydhUE4nnEFbvxiT_cwDtWhTFPa12o4YSlO0Bt9SgCnxiZt_ULwbTCUhDrhGlQ3pDBYtoYxIG4rdMzGQjhw9lrQ0pQKdyXP0ieJhOVW5-nWqMmKX3g/s1600/Harold+Hetelle+Missing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoJyFfE2SAqAW5i04AozR8ydhUE4nnEFbvxiT_cwDtWhTFPa12o4YSlO0Bt9SgCnxiZt_ULwbTCUhDrhGlQ3pDBYtoYxIG4rdMzGQjhw9lrQ0pQKdyXP0ieJhOVW5-nWqMmKX3g/s320/Harold+Hetelle+Missing.jpg" width="158"></a></div>
I cannot imagine the emotions that were felt by my grandparents upon hearing this news. Harold was a pilot and I am certain they feared the worst. I found a clue to what they were thinking in my mother's (Harold's youngest sibling) scrapbook. His sister, Annis, wrote a letter to the editor of the newspaper. It read:<br>
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"<i>I have been a reader of your column for a very long time and I really think it is wonderful. This is rather a plea for my three brothers who are in service. One of my brothers (Perry, 26) is somewhere in Australia, now, and my folks received word from him stating that he hadn't received a letter from anyone for about four or five months. We have been writing, but not enough of us good Americans write half enough to our boys in the service who are fighting so hard for freedom and peace. Another brother (Harold, 20) last Saturday was reported missing in action; he was stationed somewhere in New Guinea. We haven't given up hope that he isn't safe, so we are continuing to write to him also. Another brother (Kenneth, 22) is stationed somewhere in Alaska. I also have another brother who is just 18 this month and is expecting to be called soon. Perhaps you know just what my parents, like all parents who have boys in the service are going through, but I know it would certainly mean a lot to them if people who are really good Americans would write a line to them once in a while. It's not just for them I am pleading, but for every boy in service. Letters are all they have to look forward to so please just drop a line just once in a while to all our boys who are fighting for us. My parents are Mr. and Mrs. Ole Hetelle, who live south of Marseilles. There five of us girls besides the four boys in the family</i>."</blockquote>
Sadly, within weeks, my grandparents received word that their son Harold was killed in action April 16, 1943, when, according to the newspaper, "his plane was caught in a barrage of enemy machine gun fire while in valiant pursuit of the Nipponese in an important battle." Here is the newspaper article:<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73d2wcfxn51xJ7d6fRNoS5uPLe1X88ORFKsmweFuxSPFcOUVP8DCPajcoa76EjhWTqxTtVn5aVtC8vw9r4jyfUKv84O2cGoJkz9ft7FhB4l0F6RineCz2V2atN_JLUmgrCml5-Q/s1600/Harold+Hetelle+Killed+in+Action.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73d2wcfxn51xJ7d6fRNoS5uPLe1X88ORFKsmweFuxSPFcOUVP8DCPajcoa76EjhWTqxTtVn5aVtC8vw9r4jyfUKv84O2cGoJkz9ft7FhB4l0F6RineCz2V2atN_JLUmgrCml5-Q/s320/Harold+Hetelle+Killed+in+Action.jpg" width="114"></a></div>
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It was a very tough time for the family. Harold's paternal grandfather (my great-grandfather), John Hetelle, died withing a few weeks of his grandson being killed in action. John was born in Aardal, Norway October 4, 1869. I cannot imagine what my grandfather Ole must have been going through, losing a son and a Dad in the same month, but it was very cool to see another newspaper clipping saying that he was reading magazine articles to school children at that same time.<br>
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Harold received over 20 awards posthumously.<br>
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<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-1"><br></sup>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-160076260718397222012-04-09T06:39:00.003-05:002012-04-09T08:34:39.345-05:00Easter Changes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRrqE8thRzDczp3dgqbRrok1xy_izso2n0k7Rk3vVSOi7j65oNqqIG1DDO1DcItGkusgrteYMut_MzIjKGYgC9bd5SYTQ47rKMh_8AcdBxfKpx7lnw7r1pUCOzJ8dni-riH_s4g/s1600/Joe+Easter.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729391925084293986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRrqE8thRzDczp3dgqbRrok1xy_izso2n0k7Rk3vVSOi7j65oNqqIG1DDO1DcItGkusgrteYMut_MzIjKGYgC9bd5SYTQ47rKMh_8AcdBxfKpx7lnw7r1pUCOzJ8dni-riH_s4g/s400/Joe+Easter.jpg" /></a><br />My son Joe in the late 1990's. This picture has been in my office for years.<br /><br />Yesterday was my 46th Easter. First off, the important thing to remember about Easter to me is that it is the day we Christians celebrate the Resurrection of Christ. In the big scheme of things, that is all that really matters about the holiday. But the other aspects of Easter have really changed for me over the past 46 years.<br /><br />I remember as a little boy (and there are pictures that prove it) being dressed up in a suit with short pants. I remember boiling eggs and coloring them every year. I remember hunting Easter eggs in the yard. I remember my dad's employer sponsored a big Easter egg hunt. Of course, I remember going to church and how it was always crowded on Easter Sunday. It seemed like everything had to be ramped up for Easter. Back in my childhood days, people dressed up to go to church, but that seemed to even be more true on Easter. It was the only Sunday I knew I would have to wear one of those uncomfortable suits!<br /><br />Fast forward to adulthood and having children. Bringing three boys into the world and raising them has been the most rewarding aspect of my life. We made sure the boys had the opportunity to enjoy the traditional Easter egg hunts, visit and have family get-togethers, and of course attend church. I did not make them dress up excessively like I was required to do. I even saved my Easter baskets from childhood so that the boys could use the same baskets. Those times with young children at Easter are such sweet memories.<br /><br />To my amazement, young boys eventually turn in to teenage boys. Suddenly, hunting Easter eggs is no longer all that cool. That was ok. That meant less work for dad to hide eggs. Of course I will miss the fun of mowing rogue Easter eggs that weren't found in the weeks following Easter. Still, times with the boys were great as they got older on Easter. It always involved a visit to my mom and dad's and a great meal prepared by my mom!<br /><br />Life continues to march on. I lost my dad in 2009 and my mom in 2010. I very specifically remember the boys and I visiting my mom on her last Easter. As always she made a special meal. I remember that she took a picture of the boys and I in the backyard after we got home from church.<br /><br />After losing my mom in 2010, I did something highly unusual for Easter weekend. I needed time alone to pray and think. I took the unusual step of driving to the beach by myself. It was a good time to reflect, read the Bible, and enjoy the beauty of the beach. On Easter morning I attended a community sunrise service on the beach. It was such a memorable experience, and one I am glad I had.<br /><br />This year Easter was a mixed bag, er basket. The boys and I woke up around 5 and went to the sunrise service at our church. I think it was a great experience for them. After the service, we had a very nice breakfast at the church. Then it was time to take them back to their mom's. After that, I returned to my parents' house. I spent the entire day cleaning out the shed and garage. There was no mom, no dad, no special meals, Easter egg hunts, and the boys were gone. What was there was plenty of old stuff of my parents' which made me miss them even more. While all of that was going on, I thought of friends, most of whom were enjoying all of the traditional trappings of Easter Sunday. I am one that usually doesn't wallow in self-pity, but it was hard not to do that yesterday.<br /><br />One of the things I found in the old shed was my childhood Easter basket, and those of the boys', complete with fake grass and a large bag of plastic eggs. That is one thing I didn't throw out! I have a feeling that I will have some grand kids who will use those one day. That is part of the beauty of Easter; hope for the future and new life! He is risen!<br /><br />...Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-27865860208628351932012-04-04T06:01:00.001-05:002012-04-04T09:01:30.599-05:00Hanging on Your Every WordSunday morning when driving to church, as I often do when driving alone, I was thinking, praying, and listening to music. I caught the end of a song on a local Christian radio station. I don’t know what song it was, but these words stuck out to me, “hanging on every word you say”.<br /><br />Immediately I thought about how there are people in my life for whom I “hang on their words”. Have you ever been texting or emailing someone and you just couldn’t wait to get their response? Have you ever had medical tests and wondered about the results? Have you interviewed for a job and couldn’t wait to see if they would offer you a position? Have you ever watched a sporting event and eagerly anticipated the outcome? Have you ever asked someone to go on a date and you wondered whether they would say ‘yes’? Have you ever taken a test and couldn’t wait to see the results? We all have times in our lives where we are “hanging on every word” someone says.<br /><br />These are moments of great anticipation, sometimes accompanied by nervousness and uncertainty. Out attention is focused. We are on the alert for any clue that might tip us off to the outcome. Then I asked myself whether it is healthy or even ok, to hang on the words of others. I decided that it is ok, as long as it doesn’t lead us into anxiety, worry, or distress.<br /><br />Then it struck me. As Christians, we should be hanging on to God’s every Word more than any other words. But do we? I had to examine my heart. How many times last week did I eagerly await a reply from a friend? How many times did I eagerly anticipate what God had to say, whether in church, in reading the Bible, or even as I prayed? I have to be honest. Yes, I prayed. Yes, I attended church, and yes, I read the Bible. But I didn’t always “hang on his every word” as much as I hung on the words of my friends.<br /><br />As I walked in the doors of church Sunday morning, I was ready to “hang on God’s every word”. <strong>Lord help me consistently “hang on to your every Word” every day of my life. </strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>...</strong>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-72593565689033738452011-12-19T17:42:00.000-06:002011-12-19T18:12:30.413-06:00Journal: Saturday September 21, 1985<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9UmQ4fdUl_i974-QTu9fU_sRnJbpxan1jQ0SCEWkovIgC4hol9ToNPDJ2AYV1ImMfJR9pyvf6ivjTu75DYCU1NPG19HEa5BenWvNXWVCHloGfn-K_mrGxN-uJ19_EixweRh_CA/s1600/n605985584_5732715_514.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9UmQ4fdUl_i974-QTu9fU_sRnJbpxan1jQ0SCEWkovIgC4hol9ToNPDJ2AYV1ImMfJR9pyvf6ivjTu75DYCU1NPG19HEa5BenWvNXWVCHloGfn-K_mrGxN-uJ19_EixweRh_CA/s400/n605985584_5732715_514.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687993812533073922" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUH9coiEo1A1JGhf3zOkCcDJiE7QL1OdrwqfnC22R_B6mhORoz19WU8EOPfMRpFpwaliJq0HYvAmZCGlfTgROMIsH1u11X8OZhq-WGnW_EbOpoLquaiqU5XXW2aqRXQAb94ZJYg/s1600/092185+A.JPG"><img style="width: 400px; height: 295px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687944631280909650" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUH9coiEo1A1JGhf3zOkCcDJiE7QL1OdrwqfnC22R_B6mhORoz19WU8EOPfMRpFpwaliJq0HYvAmZCGlfTgROMIsH1u11X8OZhq-WGnW_EbOpoLquaiqU5XXW2aqRXQAb94ZJYg/s400/092185+A.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsBtP4ggCRP9g7rEzElJIAgM1cG2jDCODin8qBANthGdPqMtFVPQn2hFrnzk870TeKZmx9FRIVhQgwP9FKB5ZvYXxEbq1UVZ1nx21EXlthNfrLneN2pfraVaPrfr0vWHmZTE5Ig/s1600/092185+B.JPG"><img style="width: 400px; height: 357px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687944569013887650" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsBtP4ggCRP9g7rEzElJIAgM1cG2jDCODin8qBANthGdPqMtFVPQn2hFrnzk870TeKZmx9FRIVhQgwP9FKB5ZvYXxEbq1UVZ1nx21EXlthNfrLneN2pfraVaPrfr0vWHmZTE5Ig/s400/092185+B.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghDMtlLJBLN3-0bPyMCjUoRQVmplLJV141fdAPUuw0uwsZhPepXWDkgUm4cEXZWTUot5fJ-Hr6HkH2nGdWhgkI2XswyqUL5VFj-fzk-wiM8gJemlxi4BCl6Q3w3KC5RJNhjiJXVg/s1600/092185+C.JPG"><img style="width: 400px; height: 176px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687944512785666946" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghDMtlLJBLN3-0bPyMCjUoRQVmplLJV141fdAPUuw0uwsZhPepXWDkgUm4cEXZWTUot5fJ-Hr6HkH2nGdWhgkI2XswyqUL5VFj-fzk-wiM8gJemlxi4BCl6Q3w3KC5RJNhjiJXVg/s400/092185+C.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div>We all have days that stand out in our memory. Often they are red letter days such as engagements, weddings, deaths, or the birth of children. Sometimes they are memorable for other reasons. Saturday September 21, 1985 was certainly a memorable day for me. As memorable as it was, I didn't realize how much I forgot about the day until I recently looked back at my old journal.</div><br /><div>Some of the time I was in college in the 1980s I wrote in my journal. I wish I had written more through the years. My journal entries typically were blow-by-blow accounts of the mundane details my day rather than delving into analysis or deep thought. Occasionally I did the latter, but the entry for Saturday September 21, 1985 was a typical narrative.</div><br /><div>One of my best friends, Johnny, drove from Huntsville to visit me in Tuscaloosa. Johnny and I attended high school together and we have remained close friends through the ups and downs of life throughout the years, to this day. It was really cool getting to show him around campus at the University of Alabama and share some of the people and places I was experiencing. Johnny has been a lifelong Alabama fan and this was his first Alabama game to attend in person.<br /><br />I had forgotten the fact we got to eat at Tutwiler and Paty Halls that day, that we met my former roommate who allowed us to visit my old dorm room at Palmer Hall, and that we had taken photographs. I wish I had those photographs. I cannot find any photos from that day and it is likely that Johnny lost his during the November 1989 Huntsville tornado. </div><br /><div>As fun as the day was the most significant part of the day was our late night discussion. Johnny and I discussed faith and religion from 11 pm until 2:30 a.m. At that time I was really searching for the truth about God and Johnny shared numerous ideas with me from Scripture that were the seeds of my emerging faith in Christ as my savior. In a few short months I accepted Christ into my life by faith for the first time. </div><br /><div>It was a great day! My long term memory isn't usually as good as Johnny's. I wonder what his specific memories of that day include. </div><br /><div>...</div></div>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-53529968402153825402008-10-13T16:28:00.000-05:002008-10-13T16:30:07.338-05:00We have come a long way...<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/f7e9P0eOleM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/f7e9P0eOleM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I was driving to my meeting in Montgomery a few weeks ago and happened upon this station by accident. It was a poignant moment for me. As the song was playing I reflected on the struggles this city and this great state have been through relative to civil rights. We have come a long way. And we have a long way to go. But our country needs to remember that civil rights has its real foundation in Biblical truth.Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-84460402730956503842008-09-05T13:37:00.000-05:002008-09-05T13:38:18.963-05:00I AM THANKFUL:FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHTBECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.<br />FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.<br />FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHESBECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.<br />FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED .<br />FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTYBECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.<br />FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.<br />FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME<br />FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.<br />FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOTBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKINGAND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.<br />FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILLBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.<br />FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR. FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR. FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD. FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-83047473703562608962008-07-04T14:42:00.000-05:002008-07-04T14:43:28.615-05:00We're talkin bout freedom<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SplvE2b8Bd4&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SplvE2b8Bd4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20483694.post-69468337176487096402008-07-03T22:33:00.001-05:002008-07-03T22:34:22.978-05:00Happy Independence Day<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Majhk865Za4&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Majhk865Za4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Lee Greenwood performed his song, "God Bless the USA" in 1985 at the CMA awards show in Nashville, Tennessee. He won the CMA "Song of the Year" award in 1985.<br /><br />God Bless The U.S.A.<br />by Lee Greenwood<br /><br /><br />If tomorrow all the things were gone,<br />I'd worked for all my life.<br />And I had to start again,<br />with just my children and my wife.<br /><br />I'd thank my lucky stars,<br />to be livin here today.<br />'Cause the flag still stands for freedom,<br />and they can't take that away.<br /><br />And I'm proud to be an American,<br />where at least I know I'm free.<br />And I wont forget the men who died,<br />who gave that right to me.<br /><br />And I gladly stand up,<br />next to you and defend her still today.<br />'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,<br />God bless the USA.<br /><br />From the lakes of Minnesota,<br />to the hills of Tennessee.<br />Across the plains of Texas,<br />From sea to shining sea.<br /><br />From Detroit down to Houston,<br />and New York to L.A.<br />Well there's pride in every American heart,<br />and its time we stand and say.<br /><br />That I'm proud to be an American,<br />where at least I know I'm free.<br />And I wont forget the men who died,<br />who gave that right to me.<br /><br />And I gladly stand up,<br />next to you and defend her still today.<br />'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,<br />God bless the USA.<br /><br />And I'm proud to be and American,<br />where at least I know I'm free.<br />And I wont forget the men who died,<br />who gave that right to me.<br /><br />And I gladly stand up,<br />next to you and defend her still today.<br />'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,<br />God bless the USA.Mike Wilhelmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02888600231453002522noreply@blogger.com0