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Hello! My name is Sharon Stannard and I am the founder of the World Wide Web Circle of Friends. Welcome to our interactive family site, a place where stories, knowledge, support and fun are shared. Everyone has a story to tell and we take the time to listen. Each person learns lessons, makes choices, and develops a unique perspective, which only they can claim and share. Even two people who have had very similar lives will have slightly different experiences, leading them to a different point of view, so each person remains a treasure trove waiting to be explored. We take the time to ask questions and listen and we find that every person has a fascinating story to tell and an utterly unique perspective from which to tell it.

Our mandate is to achieve a community where there would be an unconditional and unbiased display of hands held in friendship, fellowship and altruism across all borders of the world .... an online unification of peoples of all ages from all nations and all backgrounds.

We always strive to do our best, because when we do we create a life free of regret, knowing we have performed to the best of our ability. This allows us to feel great personal satisfaction in all of our efforts, regardless of how others perceive the outcome.

ORLD IDE EB IRCLE OF RIENDS

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elcome to our Global Village! This website is published by the members of the World Wide Web Circle of Friends for the members of the World Wide Web Circle of Friends about the members of the World Wide Web Circle of Friends. We are everyday people doing extraordinary things on an International Scale on the web! Each of us are unique and there is no one else like us in the entire universe. We have different life experiences, different cultures, different ideas and some of us even speak different languages but "we are family" and we care and love to share! We acknowledge and embrace those special qualities that make each of us the person that we are! Hello! How are you? Welcome to everyone who has found their way into our new World Wide Web Circle of Friends forums on Aimoo. Remember you must sign in before you can post or read the topics in the various categories. Have fun! Invitation to everyone to come join in on the entertainment at the new WWWCOF COMMUNCATION CENTER Aimoo Community = Free Forum Free Message board + Free Chat Room (Flash-based) + Free Image Album + Free Blog + Free Profile + more and more... If you are having problems signing up please email me a username and a password and I can register you from my end. To the Top Countdown to Argentina Days until I leave for Argentina Daphne, Mara, Maria Elena, Hilda, Charito, Marcela To the Top Don't forget to check the Birthday Calendar to see when members are celebrating their special days. If you are not listed in the calendar, or if there are any errors please be sure to email Jami from Maryland or Bigsis Pat from Crofton, B.C. Canada HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND/OR ANNIVERSARY TO EVERYONE CELEBRATING!! We look forward to hearing all about your special day. We do not stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing. Anybody can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability. The idea is to grow up by always finding opportunity in change. Have no regrets. REMEMBER, GROWING OLDER IS MANDATORY GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL To the Top Now on to our list of very special days: To the Top Nature's Wild Flowers, Hedgerows and Bugs Since half the world has just come into spring and the other half into fall, the title this time is. "Nature's Wild flowers, Hedgerows and Bugs" Look forward to getting loads of entries! Daphne from Argentina To the Top News From Argentina Last weekend was a long weekend here in Argentina for May Day (or labour day) On Friday 1st may, Mar del Plata had a bit of an emergency, the pumps in the main water supply system broke down, flooded the machinery/operating hall, leaving it seven meters under water, and half the city without water. It was the central seafront area, and with 100,000 visitors to the city for the holiday weekend, that caused quite a bit of inconvenience. They had to remove 5 million liters of water, and it took five days for the affected areas to be back on water supply, while the rest of the city had to take extra care on the use of the water. Fortunately everyone seemed to understand the emergency, so they took it calmly. Tankers tried to supply the worst affected hotels with sufficient water to meet their needs, and some restaurants closed to cover the unforeseen state of affairs. Monday, only a few schools were still affected, including the one my granddaughter attends, so they had no classes, but by Tuesday everything was running more or less as normal. The other day in a chat, the subject came up about eating oats. For some reason this made me remember my Guiding days back in England, when during our annual week/ 10 day summer camp, part of our equipment was a hay box; a huge wooden crate probable a tea chest at least 2ft (60cm) each dimension, packed solid with hay with a space in the center for a large pot. They cooked the porridge the night before and left it to thicken in the hay box. Next morning it was still nice and warm. They also used the hay box for certain soups and stews. We slept in circular tents in patrols, each tent big enough for six to eight people, feet to the center pole, with hand made racks for our gear. Generally we all ate together, except for Patrol day when we all had to take care of ourselves and our patrol. The rest of the time we had different duties, one day wood patrol, or water, or cooks, or health, or general duties. I went every single year, and as well as our gear, we had to take a cake or a pot of jam, which were used during the camp. We had a visitors day, and I was always disappointed that my parents never went – I learnt later that they believed I would have wanted to go home with them had they gone. Some hope! I loved camp. Then when my sister Sylvia, 13 years younger than me, started going to camp, I was working in another city, and remembered my disappointment on visitors day, so I got on my semi racer bike – Ha, I wasn’t overweight in those days!- and went to visit her, same Guiders, so I got put on my favourite duty , firewood collecting together with Sylvia’s patrol, and well,well, well…. We met up with Mum and Dad on their way to the camp site!! Sylvia was the youngest of the brood, so rules were bent nearly double for her. Does anyone else have interesting Guiding/Scouting stories to share? Daphne from Argentina To the Top To the Top To the Top Report from the Land Down Under How fascinating Jan.  I have never seen such a list and just had to post it!!!!  Sharon List of Ribbon color meanings Ribbon Color Meanings Brown ribbon The Anti-Green Movement White ribbon International End of Violence Against Women Teen pregnancy prevention Multiple Hereditary Exostoses Gender violence ("men working to end men's violence against women")  Yellow ribbon Suicide awareness and prevention Deployed soldiers ("support our troops")  Australian 2009 Victorian Bushfire Campaign* "Help unlock the second prison" Assistance for ex-convicts  Puzzle ribbon Autism Awareness Blue ribbon Sex trafficking and slavery awareness (navy blue)  "Bring Home Our Troops" campaign Child abuse awareness Prostate cancer awareness (sky blue)  Electronic Frontier Foundation's Online Free Speech Canada's anti-tobacco, anti-second hand smoke Spain's campaign for the release of Basque terrorists' kidnap victims  "Responsible use of public lands for the benefit of all recreationists" International No Diet Day Hydranencephaly awareness Jade Ribbon Jade Ribbon Campaign spreads information about hepatitis B and liver cancer in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities (and some times in America)  Purple ribbon Sarcoidosis Show religious tolerance Promoting remembrance and awareness of violence against women Domestic violence awareness  Childhood stroke awareness Cystic fibrosis awareness Alzheimer's disease awareness Pancreatic cancer awareness Workers' Memorial Day[31] Periwinkle ribbon Pulmonary hypertension awareness Eating disorder awareness Stomach cancer awareness Pink and blue ribbon Pro-life Genital integrity Inflammatory breast cancer awareness Infertility awareness Infant loss awareness  Orange Ribbon Energy awareness in Nigeria  Animal protection awareness Self-injury awareness  Anti-racism (Harmony Day in Australia)  Symbol of the Ukrainian Orange Revolution of 2004 Kidney cancer survivorship and awareness ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Red ribbon AIDS awareness Substance abuse awareness (Red Ribbon Week is commonly held in American schools)  Gray ribbon Diabetes awareness Brain cancer awareness Asthma awareness Black ribbon Anarchist Black Ribbon Campaign  Mourning and remembrance of the Virginia Tech massacre Expressing grief Pink ribbon Breast cancer awareness Green ribbon Lyme disease (lime green)[citation needed] Organ transplantation and donation awareness Environmental protection Worn by Irish nationalists, representing their want for a united Ireland[citation needed] Teal ribbon Gynaecological Cancer  Ovarian cancer Sexual assault  Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Batten Disease Violet ribbon Hodgkin's lymphoma Gold ribbon Childhood cancer awareness Cloud ribbon Congenital diaphragmatic hernia  Silver ribbon Brain disorders Ovarian cancer (Australia) [ CMV (Congenital Cytomegalovirus) Aussie Jan. Please take a moment to visit my Living Life forums. To the Top Bigsis Pat wants to visit her Art by Patricia blog. Bigsis Pat mentioned to me on Easter weekend a budding plan to establish a community garden in Crofton ..... this we will have to follow most carefully. What an SUPERB idea. Bigsis Pat reminds us that all the Vital Statistics sites are now available and can all be found in The Directory To the Top Common Expressions - Origin & Meaning Rule of thumb Meaning A means of estimation made according to a rough and ready practical rule, not based on science or exact measurement. Origin The 'rule of thumb' has been said to derive from the belief that English law allowed a man to beat his wife with a stick so long as it is was no thicker than his thumb. In 1782, Judge Sir Francis Buller is reported as having made this legal ruling and in the following year James Gillray published a satirical cartoon attacking Buller and caricaturing him as 'Judge Thumb'. The cartoon shows a man beating a fleeing woman and Buller carrying two bundles of sticks. The caption reads "thumbsticks - for family correction: warranted lawful!" It seems that Buller was hard done by. He was notoriously harsh in his punishments and had a reputation for arrogance, but there's no evidence that he ever made the ruling that he is infamous for. Edward Foss, in his authoritative work The Judges of England, 1870, wrote that, despite a searching investigation, "no substantial evidence has been found that he ever expressed so ungallant an opinion". It's certainly the case that, although British common law once held that it was legal for a man to chastise his wife in moderation (whatever that meant), the 'rule of thumb' has never been the law in England. Even if people mistakenly supposed the law to exist, there's no reason to believe that anyone ever called it the 'rule of thumb'. Despite the phrase being in common use since the 17th century and appearing many thousands of times in print, there are no printed records that associate it with domestic violence until the 1970s, when the notion was castigated by feminists. The responses that circulated then, which assumed the wife-beating law to be true, may have been influenced by Gillray's cartoon or were possibly a reaction to The Rolling Stones' song 'Under My Thumb', which was recorded in 1966. The phrase itself has been in circulation since the 1600s. In 1692, it appeared in print in Sir William Hope's training manual for aspiring swordsmen, The Compleat Fencing-master: "What he doth, he doth by rule of Thumb, and not by Art." The origin of the phrase remains unknown. It is likely that it refers to one of the numerous ways that thumbs have been used to estimate things - judging the alignment or distance of an object by holding the thumb in one's eye-line, the temperature of brews of beer, measurement of an inch from the joint to the nail to the tip, or across the thumb, etc. The phrase joins the whole nine yards as one that probably derives from some form of measurement but which is unlikely ever to be definitively pinned down. The earliest such 'measurement' use that I can find referred to in print is in a journal of amusing tales with the comprehensive title of Witt's Recreations - Augmented with Ingenious Conceites for the Wittie and Merrie Medicines for the Melancholic. It was published in 1640 and contains this rhyme: If Hercules tall stature might be guess'd But by his thumb, the index of the rest, In due proportion, the best rule that I Would chuse, to measure Venus beauty by, Should be her leg and foot: The 'rule of leg' never caught on. London Chrissie Please visit my sites: Chrissie's Homepage and Chrissie's Place To the Top Trivia Quiz Game Have you started playing our Trivia Quiz Game yet which is hosted by Aussie Jeanette. Go on try it ... it is fun! To the Top Our Furry / Feathery Friends in the Spotlight OUR FEATURED PET STORIES OF THE WEEK: An article from Spot Magazine - May 2009 Issue. Kitty Cat Paradise, a new cat shelter, is opening this month in NE Portland’s Gateway ommunity. When it comes to the welfare of our furry citizens, the more pet rescues, shelters and sanctuaries the better, even in communities as pet-friendly as ours. And, like many of the now established gems in the pet community, this start-up shelter has the beginnings of a great story. Nancy Zuffrea, executive director of the new shelter, says the need for additional shelter resources has always been in the back of her and her family’s mind. Then her 17-yearold daughter, Taylor Duncan, lost her cat Mini Kittie (who looked exactly like another household cat only smaller). The family performed a thorough yet fruitless search of local shelters. "We decided there had to be a better way to help abandoned and unwanted cats [and] kittens," says Zuffrea. What came next was almost a natural for both Duncan and Zuffrea. Duncan, a junior at New Urban High School in Milwaukie, has major credentials when it comes to volunteering, and working with nonprofits and animals. She was a runner-up for an animal hero award from PAWS (The Progressive Animal Welfare Society) for collecting animal supply donations for county shelters and raising animal testing awareness at her school. "My heart breaks when cats are abandoned; I would love to take them all in and find homes for them," explains Duncan. And while she admits "it’s been a lot of hard work," she says "we’ve come a long way in just a short period of time," adding she "can't wait to start painting kitty footprints on the nursery wall." While Duncan is a natural — feet on the street — grassroots activist, over the years Zuffrea has collected more behind-the-scenes experience as a board member of both the East Portland Chamber of Commerce and the Gateway Area Business Association. Since Mini Kittie disappeared in December, the pair has been working together to build up a 60-member strong cadre of volunteers to help with everything from "artist ability, special events, signage, logos, donation drives, phone calls, and general research for the facility," says Zuffrea. The Kitty Cat Paradise gang has been busy while waiting to open the physical doors. Zuffrea calls it running a "virtual shelter;" with the help of foster homes and friends, she reports that "cats ages 10 months to 13 years" have found homes through Kitty Cat Paradise’s Match to Match program (check the shelter’s site at www.kittycatparadise.com for current adoptables). The shelter also held its first fundraiser at 20th Century Bowler Lanes, collecting over $350 in donations and, according to Zuffrea, "We had great attendance and everyone had a blast." In the works next are a live benefit concert and car wash to help fund the shelter’s projected 50-85 feline population. The shelter is also seeking motivated volunteers and folks interested in acting on its board of directors. Though some details still need working out (like a partnership with a vet clinic willing to provide low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and exams), Zuffrea is excited to finally put her organizational skills to work for a cause she believes in. "I have seen over the years homeless cats spending their final days peering out from inside their cages at community animal shelters. Many become victims of the long-accepted practice of euthanasia," she says. "But thanks to the no-kill movement . . . millions of cats' lives are spared because of the efforts of shelter staff that operate under the belief that every homeless cat deserves a loving home." Nancy from Gresham, Oregon, USA; Executive Director of Kitty Cat Paradise, Portland, Oregon Hoping you have a Great week and weekend. Miz Jami from Maryland, USA Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened. Anatole, French Novelist To the Top Health Corner Please, Share this Chart with everyone.     Apples Protects your heart prevents constipation Blocks diarrhea Improves lung capacity Cushions joints     Apricots Combats cancer Controls blood pressure Saves your eyesight Shields against Alzheimer's Slows aging process     Artichokes Aids digestion Lowers cholesterol Protects your heart Stabilizes blood sugar Guards against liver disease     Avocados Battles diabetes Lowers cholesterol Helps stops strokes Controls blood pressure Smoothes skin     Bananas Protects your heart Quiets a cough Strengthens bones Controls blood pressure Blocks diarrhea     Beans Prevents constipation Helps hemorrhoids Lowers cholesterol Combats cancer Stabilizes blood sugar     Beets Controls blood pressure Combats cancer Strengthens bones Protects your heart Aids weight loss     Blueberries Combats cancer Protects your heart Stabilizes blood sugar Boosts memory Prevents constipation     Broccoli Strengthens bones Saves eyesight Combats cancer Protects your heart Controls blood pressure     Cabbage Combats cancer Prevents constipation Promotes weight loss Protects your heart Helps hemorrhoids     Cantaloupe Saves eyesight Controls blood pressure Lowers cholesterol Combats cancer Supports immune system     Carrots Saves eyesight Protects your heart Prevents constipation Combats cancer Promotes weight loss     Cauliflower Protects against Prostate Cancer Combats Breast Cancer Strengthens bones Banishes bruises Guards against heart disease     Cherries Protects your heart Combats Cancer Ends insomnia Slows aging process Shields against Alzheimer's     Chestnuts Promotes weight loss Protects your heart Lowers cholesterol Combats Cancer Controls blood pressure     Chili peppers Aids digestion Soothes sore throat Clears sinuses Combats Cancer Boosts immune system     Figs Promotes weight loss Helps stops strokes Lowers cholesterol Combats Cancer Controls blood pressure     Fish Protects your heart Boosts memory Protects your heart Combats Cancer Supports immune system     Flax Aids digestion Battles diabetes Protects your heart Improves mental health Boosts immune system     Garlic Lowers cholesterol Controls blood pressure Combats cancer kills bacteria Fights fungus     Grapefruit Protects against heart attacks Promotes Weight loss Helps stops strokes Combats Prostate Cancer Lowers cholesterol     Grapes saves eyesight Conquers kidney stones Combats cancer Enhances blood flow Protects your heart     Green tea Combats cancer Protects your heart Helps stops strokes Promotes Weight loss Kills bacteria     Honey Heals wounds Aids digestion Guards against ulcers Increases energy Fights allergies     Lemons Combats cancer Protects your heart Controls blood pressure Smoothes skin Stops scurvy     Limes Combats cancer Protects your heart Controls blood pressure Smoothes skin Stops scurvy     Mangoes Combats cancer Boosts memory Regulates thyroid aids digestion Shields against Alzheimer's     Mushrooms Controls blood pressure Lowers cholesterol Kills bacteria Combats cancer Strengthens bones     Oats Lowers cholesterol Combats cancer Battles diabetes prevents constipation Smoothes skin     Olive oil Protects your heart Promotes Weight loss Combats cancer Battles diabetes Smoothes skin     Onions Reduce risk of heart attack Combats cancer Kills bacteria Lowers cholesterol Fights fungus     Oranges Supports immune systems Combats cancer Protects your heart Straightens respiration       Peaches prevents constipation Combats cancer Helps stops strokes aids digestion Helps hemorrhoids     Peanuts Protects against heart disease Promotes Weight loss Combats Prostate Cancer Lowers cholesterol Aggravates Diverticulitis     Pineapple Strengthens bones Relieves colds Aids digestion Dissolves warts Blocks diarrhea     Prunes Slows aging process prevents constipation boosts memory Lowers cholesterol Protects against heart disease     Rice Protects your heart Battles diabetes Conquers kidney stones Combats cancer Helps stops strokes     Strawberries Combats cancer Protects your heart boosts memory Calms stress       Sweet potatoes Saves your eyesight Lifts mood Combats cancer Strengthens bones       Tomatoes Protects prostate Combats cancer Lowers cholesterol Protects your heart       Walnuts Lowers cholesterol Combats cancer boosts memory Lifts mood Protects against heart disease     Water Promotes Weight loss Combats cancer Conquers kidney stones Smoothes skin       Watermelon Protects prostate Promotes Weight loss Lowers cholesterol Helps stops strokes Controls blood pressure     Wheat germ Combats Colon Cancer prevents constipation Lowers cholesterol Helps stops strokes improves digestion     Wheat bran Combats Colon Cancer prevents constipation Lowers cholesterol Helps stops strokes improves digestion     Yogurt Guards against ulcers Strengthens bones Lowers cholesterol Supports immune systems Aids digestion     Lena from Ontario, Canada. To the Top Lena wanted to show us what she put in for Sherley's First Memorial. These thoughts published as "Secrets for Success" first appeared in a magazine over 75 years ago. "Push," said the button; "Never be led," said the pencil; "Take pains," said the window; "Always keep cool," said the ice; "Be up to date," said the calendar; "Never lose your head," said the barrell; "Make light of everything," said the fire; "Do a driving business," said the hammer; "Aspire to greater things," said the nutmeg; "Be sharp in all your dealings," said the knife; "Do the work you are suited for," said the chimney; "Find a good thing and stick to it," said the glue. Aussie Jan. Please take a moment to visit my Loving Life forums

Click on any of the following to be taken to that section of the Global Village Webste. If you can come up with any icons for the sections below I would sure appreciate you sending them to me. Please notify me of any broken links. Page Index The Argentine Chapter Australian Report Bigsis Pat Journal Bragging Rights Planet Kryzys Book Reviews Canadian 'Eh Coffee & Chat Common Expressions Craft Corner Did You Know? Fun Gardening Geek's Corner Health Corner Helpful Hints History Files Meeting People on the Internet Messages from Members In The News News from the UK The Sky is the Limit Pet of the Week Prayer Requests Planet Kryzys Recipes Something to Think About Street Art WWWCOF Aimoo Communication Centre To the Top Mother’s Day in North America Here a mother comes to the rescue of her child. Sent in by Lena from Ontario, Canada. Here is one of the many, many stories that make up our Circle very own Mother’s Special site : DON'T MESS WITH MOM My son came home from school one day, with a smirk upon his face. He decided he was smart enough, to put me in my place. "Guess what I learned in Civics Two, that's taught by Mr. Wright, It's all about the laws today, The 'Children's Bill of Rights.' It says I need not clean my room, don't have to cut my hair No one can tell me what to think, or speak, or what to wear. I have freedom from religion, and regardless what you say, I don't have to bow my head, and I sure don't have to pray. I can wear earrings if I want, and pierce my tongue and nose. I can read and watch just what I like, get tattoos from head to toe. And if you ever spank me, I'll charge you with a crime. I'll back up all my charges, with the marks on my behind. Don't you ever touch me, my body's only for my use, not for your hugs and kisses, that's just more child abuse. Don't preach about your morals, like your Mama did to you. That's nothing more than mind control, and it's illegal too! Mom, I have these children's rights, so you can't influence me, or I'll call Children's Services Division, better known as C.S.D." Of course my first instinct was to toss him out the door But the chance to teach him a lesson made me think a little more. I mulled it over carefully, I couldn't let this go. A smile crept upon my face, he's messing with a pro. Next day I took him shopping at the local Goodwill Store. I told him, "Pick out all you want, there's shirts and pants galore. I've called and checked with C.S.D. who said they didn't care if I bought you K-Mart shoes instead of those Nike Airs. I've cancelled that appointment to take your driver's test. The C.S.D. is unconcerned so I'll decide what's best." I said "No time to stop and eat, or pick up stuff to munch. And tomorrow you can start to learn to make your own sack lunch. Just save the raging appetite, and wait till dinner time. We're having liver and onions, a favourite dish of mine." He asked "Can I please rent a movie, to watch on my VCR?" "Sorry, but I sold your TV, for new tires on my car I also rented out your room, you'll take the couch instead. The C.SD. requires just a roof over your head. Your clothing won't be trendy now, I'll choose what we eat. That allowance that you used to get, will buy me something neat. I'm selling off your jet ski, dirt-bike & roller blades. Check out the 'Parents Bill of Rights', It's in effect today! Hey hot shot, are you crying, Why are you on your knees? Are you asking God to help you out, instead of C.S.D.?" from a MOM (Mean Old Mother.) Sent in by Charla, from Florida, USA.(April 06) Happy Mother’s Day to all who celebrate it on Sunday, and since Mother’s day should really be EVERY day, Celebrate it anyway, everyone!!! Ok?? Bragging Rights Cindy & Vern from USA proudly announce that Lucas John arrived Mon. an weighed in at 11lbs. 7 ozs. and is 23" long!!! To the Top Book Reviews I didn't realise until now that this book is about an Australian woman, and published in Australia, so it may not be widely available as it was only published on 15th April. Jane Storks extraordinary life story. Equally moving and disturbing, it chronicles the rise and fall of the religion Rajneeshism and the Rolls Royce guru, and Jane's part in the events that led to its collapse. Growing up in post-war Western Australia, Jane Stork had a conventional Catholic upbringing, and married her university sweetheart at age 21. Embarking on the familiar path of marriage and raising children, Jane's semblance of a normal life began to unravel as she entered her 30s. She sought answers at a meditation centre, and quickly became devoted to the Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, changing her name, adopting the orange robes of a "sannyasin", and uprooting her family to live first in an ashram in India and then in the Bhagwan-created city of Rajneeshpuram in Oregon, USA. It was here that Bhagwan's behaviour became increasingly bizarre. He began promoting a siege mentality among his followers, ordering them to amass firearms. He encouraged his secretary Sheela to use drastic methods to take over local governments and to punish the local communities who objected to their "utopian" city. For Jane, what started out as a journey seeking spiritual enlightenment began to descend into darkness as she sacrificed her marriage and children, and eventually – through a monstrous act of attempted murder – her freedom. Written with vivid immediacy and hard-won insight, Breaking the Spell is the incredible true story of a spiritual journey descending into madness, and the true meaning of redemption, self-determination and forgiveness. Aussie Jan. Please take a moment to visit my Living Life forums. To the Top You can make someone's day by simply sending a little note in for publication. I'm Back........ It's always so good to get back home. Got home late Friday, but had to catch up on my sleep. LOL I had a great time with the kids. We stayed on the go all the time I was there. They had an anniversary supper for Richie & Debbie Wed. night at the Boiling Point in Southaven. I had to leave early from there and go to the funeral home. One of my best friends brother died. I had gone to church with her brother and sister in law in Byhalia. My friend, Pat, & her husband, Lee, had come from Texas for the funeral. It was so good to see her. Hadn't seen her in about 2 years. Thurs. morning I took Bear to have him groomed and his annual shots. My grandson, Stephen, was off work so he and his girlfriend, Katherine, went with me. We left Bear and went to the funeral. From there we had to go to Byhalia and get some things done about my place there. That night we went to my granddaughters for supper. Nothing would do Richie, but to have me see his new horse. It is at Debbie's sisters, but he'll be bringing it home soon. Jake, my great grandson, that's 2 got to ride him. He was so cute. Didn't get home until late that night. Missed my nap that day. LOL We got up early Friday because there was a bad storm in Byhalia. Of course Direct TV went off and we couldn't see any weather and then the electricity went off. It didn't come back on until almost 10:00 am. Richie had gone on to work early and drove out of the storm. Debbie and I heard lightening hit real close. When I left I saw a tree down on another road close to the house. I had to go back by the Insurance Co. and her computer was down from the storm. Stopped and got Mother some hoop cheese and then on home. From Dyersburg to Ridgely, I could hear my bed calling. I'm back, but it will take me a while to get all the emails off. Hope everyone has had a good weekend. Love & Hugs to all, Billie from Tennessee, USA Dorothy from Ontario, Canada hopes that all of us have a nice day WORDS TO LIVE BY------- Stress A lecturer when explaining stress management to an audience, Raised a glass of water and asked 'How heavy is this glass of water?' Answers called out ranged from 20g to 500g. The lecturer replied, 'The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case, it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.' He continued, 'And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, As the burden becomes increasingly heavy, We won't be able to carry on. ' 'As with the glass of water, You have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden.' 'So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, Let them down for a moment if you can.' So, my friend, Put down anything that may be a burden to you right now. Don't pick it up again until after you've rested a while. Here are some great ways of dealing with the burdens of life: * Accept that some days you're the pigeon, And some days you're the statue. * Always keep your words soft and sweet, Just in case you have to eat them. * Always wear stuff that will make you look good If you die in the middle of it. * Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can be "Recalled" by their maker.... * If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague. * If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, It was probably worth it. * It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to be kind to others. * Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, Because then you won't have a leg to stand on. * Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance. * Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late. * The second mouse gets the cheese. * When everything's coming your way, You're in the wrong lane. * Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.. * You may be only one person in the world, But you may also be the world to one person. * Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once. * We could learn a lot from crayons... Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names, and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box. *A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour. Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today... I did . Wayne & Jenny from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Lena from Ontario, Canada tells us that she is keeping busy, gone a lot, plays cards 3 times a week, and volenteers 1 day and that keeps her busy and makes the time pass fast. Another message from Lena from Ontario, Canada Cleaning Poem    I asked the Lord to tell me Why my house is such a mess. He asked if I'd been 'computering', And I had to answer 'yes.' He told me to get off my fanny And tidy up the house. And so I started cleaning up... The smudges off my mouse. I wiped and shined the topside. That really did the trick... I was just admiring my work.. I didn't mean to 'click.' But click, I did, and oops I found A real absorbing site. That I got SO way into it. I was into it all night.<<Sigh>> Nothing's changed except my mouse It's very, very shiny. I guess my house will stay a mess... While I sit here on my hiney. To the Top Geek's Corner The Circle's Computer help site has many useful tips and advise on getting the most from your computer: Alphalist There are an incredible number of useful articles there to help you get the best from your computer or put things right that aren't working too well. Perhaps you also know of some trick we could all use, so send it in and get it added. I wish all of you a VERY HAPPY WEEK and I would love to hear from you with your comments and suggestions about the WWWCOF sites that I manage for the group. Daphne from Argentina To the Top Garden Site Daffodils Do you remember colouring pictures of Daffodils? I used to love to do this when I was a kid. Now as an adult - I love to do it with my kids. Only now it is not colouring pictures .... I put a little food colouring in a glass of water, place the daffodil in the water and watch it become striped! Great chance to talk about how plants take up water through their roots, carry it up the stem and to the flower. Also a great time to start a small garden that you child can watch grow! Even just a small planter box with a few seeds will bring delight to any child. Beans are one of the fastest and easiest to grow, so a great one to start with. Flavors of Life - Growing Your Own Food Growing a garden of food at home is an experience anyone can enjoy. Even a hanging basket of rosemary or a cherry tomato plant in a pot on the windowsill can enhance your connection with the cycle of life. If you have space outdoors, the green and blooming colors of the edible delights you are growing will decorate any view while tempting you to enjoy the outdoors. The edible plants we nurture allow us to literally taste the fruits (or vegetables or herbs) of our labor while helping us more consciously participate in the circulating energy of nature. Allow yourself to begin slowly and simply. There are many experienced gardeners out there to assist you as you choose seeds or small plants to start your garden. No matter how large or small the size of your garden, you can benefit from growing your own organic, fresh, and nutritious food while also reveling in the depth of flavor and texture that comes from plants that have been well-tended, nurtured, and loved. As we appreciate the food we’ve grown, we can recognize the care that farmers put into the produce most of us buy at the supermarket. When we grow our food, we participate more fully in nature’s cycles and form a closer bond with Mother Earth. Knowing how to grow your own food allows for a sense of freedom and pride that you can feed and provide for yourself, one of the most basic necessities. To the Top

Original Graphic Design by Emma from the USA Hi Everyone: We have our very own private and special chat room on Aimoo. I look forward to chatting with you on there. It is available 24/7 but you must be a member of the WWWCOF Forum on Aimoo to access it. The WWWCOF Coffee House hostsdaily scheduled chats at the following time each day: 4:00 pm Eastern Standard time 1:00 pm Pacific Standard 5:00 pm Argentina 9:00 pm in Great Britain. 6:00 am NSW, Australia. DST (the next day) Come join us for coffee, a snack or for breakfast, lunch or dinner -- depending on which corner of the globe you are in. Remember to log in to access the chat room! Coffee & Chat World Current Times & Time Zones Coffee is so unique; just as each of the members of the WWWCOF are! Coffee can be as bright as the sunrise or as velvety as evening, as sensible as tea or as romantic as wine. It is an amazing beverage ... it can comfort, inspire, sooth or it can give you the jitters. Can you smell that flavourful aroma of freshly roasted beams? Do you hear the laughter from a joyful conversation? Come in .... everyone knows your name; come and and enjoy a "cuppa" of our very special "international blend". The best cup of coffee depends not on the expensive beans or fancy gadgets, but on the circumstance of whom you are sharing a cup with! Enjoying a cup in the company of friends, brings bliss that cannot be bought! This week's beverage recipe: Amaretto Iced Coffee Creamy enough to be a milkshake, but with the smooth almond flavour of Amaretto. What could possibly go better with an afternoon of BBQ. Ingredients: 3 cups coffee, cold 2 cups vanilla ice cream 1 cup milk 1/4 cup Amaretto 2 tsp vanilla 1 tsp almond extract Crushed ice Preparation: Combine everything except ice in a blender and whip until smooth. Fill glasses half full with crushed ice, and fill the rest with coffee mixture. Serves around 6 people To the Top Helpful Hints To the Top Recipe Corner Members Favourites All that will be left is a smile! Fresh recipes and Recipe links are continually being added to our Circle's very own unique cookbook World Recipes where I have just added some 50 more recipes sent in by members of WWWCOF. There are several "cookbooks" in there, General, Regional/seasonal, Mexican, Oriental, and within those, recipes set out in many categories. If your recipe isn't in there I will be happy to add it for you. It has its very own search engine, so you can find things according to ingredient, origin, category etc. Beef Noodle Bowl Yield: 4 Servings Delicious!!!! Recommended by Sharon, Jan 08 300 g (1/3 of 900 g package) linguine, uncooked 3 Cup broccoli florets 3 carrots, peeled and sliced-(about 2 cups) 2 Tsp oil 1 Lb (450 g) beef sirloin steak cut into thin strips 1/4 Cup Asian Sesame Dressing 1 Tbl Teriyaki sauce Cook pasta as directed on package, adding vegetables to the boiling water for the last 2 minutes of the pasta cooking time. Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick skillet. Add meat and cook for 4 minutes or until browned on all sides, stirring occasionally. Stir in dressing and teriyaki sauce and cook for 2 minutes or until sauce is thickened, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta mixture, place in large serving bowl. Add meat mixture and toss to coat. Makes 4 servings, 2 cups each. Baked Lemon Pudding Yield: 4 Servings Sent in by Jan, Australia March 2007 1 Tbl butter 3/4 Cup sugar 2 Tbl plain flour juice 2 lemons a little rind of lemon (grated) 2 eggs 1 Cup milk Cream butter and sugar, add flour, juice of lemons, add yolks of eggs, milk lastly egg whites stiffly beaten. The ingredients must be put together in this order. Pour into buttered pie dish, stand in dish of water and bake one hour to make a cake mixture on top and lemon sauce underneath. Four servings. The extensive kitchen help section has also grown! And there are tips and hints on just about everything from Alcohols in cooking to "Why didn't I think of that" type tips: Cookery Tips Again if you have anything you would like added, or if you want info on anything that isn't there, just let us know. This week’s tip from our ever growing pages on kitchen help and tips:. If you know of any that aren’t in there, Please send it in to be added, since the whole thing is pit together from what members send in. PASTA Did you happen to notice that bit about cooking the pasta until al dente and wonder what the heck that means, well simply put it is a fancy term for pasta that's fully cooked, but not overly soft. The phrase is Italian for "to the tooth," which comes from testing the pasta's consistency with your teeth. You cook pasta according to the package directions however close to the end of the cooking time nibble the pasta to see if it's firm to the bite, yet cooked through or in other words "al dente"! Sharon says: 'I have never been a great fan of pasta until fairly recently. My children love it so I thought you might be interested in some trivia about this food item.' Popular legend has it that Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy following his exploration of the Far East in the late 13th century; however, we can trace pasta back as far as the fourth century B.C., where an Etruscan tomb showed a group of natives making what appears to be pasta. The Chinese were making a noodle-like food as early as 3000 B.C. And Greek mythology suggests that the Greek God Vulcan invented a device that made strings of dough (the first spaghetti!). Pasta made its way to the New World through the English, who discovered it while touring Italy. Colonists brought to America the English practice of cooking noodles at least one half hour, then smothering them with cream sauce and cheese. But it was Thomas Jefferson who is credited with bringing the first "maccaroni" machine to America in 1789 when he returned home after serving as ambassador to France. The first industrial pasta factory in America was built in Brooklyn in 1848 by, of all people, a Frenchman, who spread his spaghetti strands on the roof to dry in the sunshine. How to Cook Pasta Perfectly Everytime A. Boil 4 to 6 quarts of water for one pound of dry pasta. (You can divide this recipe depending on how much pasta you are cooking.) Add the pasta with a stir and return the water to a boil. Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking. Follow the package directions for cooking times. If the pasta is to be used as part of a dish that requires further cooking, undercook the pasta by 1/3 of the cooking time specified on the package. Taste the pasta to determine if it is done. Perfectly cooked pasta should be "al dente," or firm to the bite, yet cooked through. Drain pasta immediately and follow the rest of the recipe. Remember to prevent pasta from sticking use plenty of water (4-6 quarts for each pound of pasta) and don't overcook it! The only time you should rinse pasta after draining is when you are going to use it in a cold dish, or when you are not going to sauce and serve it immediately. In those cases, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process, and drain well. For now I'll leave you wishing you all a VERY HAPPY WEEK and I would love to hear from you all, with your comments and suggestions about the WWWCOF sites I manage for the group. Daphne To the Top Hearts Doily Materials: Crochet Cotton 350 yds Red and 200 yds White Crochet Hook Size 9 Approximate Finished Size 13 inches Diameter Rose Center: Rnd 1: With red, ch 8, join to form a ring, ch 6, (1 dc in ring, ch 3) 7 times, sl st to join in 3rd ch of starting ch-6. Rnd 2: Sl st into ch-3 sp, ch 1, (1 sc, 1 hdc, 3 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc in ch-3 sp) rep in each ch-3 sp around, join. Rnd 3: Ch 5, (sl st in sp between next 2 sc sts, ch 5) rep around, join. Rnd 4: Sl st into ch-5 sp, ch 1, (1 sc, 1 hdc, 5 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc in ch-5 sp) rep in each ch-5 sp around, join. Rnd 5: Ch 7, (sl st in sp between next 2 sc sts, ch 7) rep around, join. Rnd 6: Sl st into ch-7 sp, ch 1 (1 sc, 1 hdc, 7 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc in ch-7 sp) rep in each ch-7 sp around, join. Rnd 7: Ch 9, (sl st in sp between next 2 sc sts, ch 9) rep around, join. Rnd 8: Sl st into ch-9 sp, ch 1 (1 sc, 1 hdc, 9 dc, 1 hdc, 1 sc in ch-9 sp) rep in each ch-9 sp around, join, fasten off red. Rnd 9: Attach white in sp between 2 sc sts, ch 1, (sc in sp between 2 sc sts, ch 6, dc in center 5th dc of next petal, ch 6) rep around, join. Rnd 10: Sl st into ch-6 sp, ch 3, 5 dc in same ch-6 sp, (6 dc in next ch-6 sp) rep around, sl st to join in top of ch-3; draw up a lp, remove hook and set aside, do not fasten off. Heart Motifs: (make 8): Note: When working heart pattern, do exactly what the pattern indicates. Row 1: With red, ch 2, 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook, ch 3, turn. (3) Row 2: 2 dc in first sc, dc in next sc, 3 dc in last sc, ch 3, turn. (7) Row 3: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 4 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (10) Row 4: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 7 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (13) Row 5: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 10 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (16) Row 6: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 13 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (19) Row 7: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 16 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (22) Row 8: 2 dc in first dc, dc in next 19 dc, 3 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn (25) Row 9: 1 dc in first dc, dc in next 22 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (26) Row 10: 1 dc in first dc, dc in next 23 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (27) Row 11: 1 dc in first dc, dc in next 24 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (28) Row 12: 1 dc in first dc, dc in next 25 dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 3, turn. (29) Row 13: 1 dc in first dc, dc in next 11 dc, hdc in next dc, sc in next dc, hdc in next dc, dc in next 11 dc, sk next dc, 2 dc in next dc, ch 2, turn. Row 14: Sk first dc, hdc in next st, dc in next 8 sts, hdc in next st, sc in next st, sl st in next 3 sts, sc in next st, hdc in next st, dc in next 8 sts, sk 1 st, hdc in next st, ch 2, turn. Row 15: Sk first st, hdc in next st, dc in next 7 sts, hdc in next st, sc in next st, sl st in next 3 sts, sc in next st, hdc in next st, dc in next 7 sts, sk next st, hdc in next st, ch 2, turn. Row 16: Sk first st, hdc in next st, dc in next 6 sts, hdc in next st, sc in nex st, sl st in next 3 sts, sc in next st, hdc in next st, dc in next 6 sts, sk 1 st, hdc in next st, ch 1. Edging: Rnd 17: Sc evenly sp around entire outer edge of heart, sl st to join, fasten off. Joining Hearts to Rose: First Heart: Pick up dropped lp of white cotton attached to rose, ch 6, with right side of first heart facing, sl st in end sc of heart (at base by Row 1 of heart), ch 3, sl st in 3rd ch from hook (picot), *sc in next 2 sc, ch 3, sl st in 3rd ch from hook, rep from * around heart, ending with sl st in same st as first sl st on heart, ch 6, sk 12 dc of Rnd 10, sc in sp between dc sts. Second Heart: Ch 6, with right side of 2nd heart facing, sl st in end sc of heart, ch 3, picot, (sc in next 2 sc, picot) 5 times, sc in next 2 sc, (ch 3, sl st in corresponding sc of opposite heart, sl st in 3rd ch from hook for joining picot) 4 times, (sc in next 2 sc, picot) rep around rem of heart, ending with sl st in same st as first sl st on heart, ch 6, sk 12 dc of Rnd 10, sc in sp between dc sts. Attach next 5 hearts in same manner as 2nd heart. For 8th heart, rep as for 2nd heart until 2nd edge of heart, attach 2nd edge of first heart in corresponding sts at side edge , after ch-6 at base, sl st to join in starting st, fasten off. Edging: Note: Edging involves working in sps between the 2 sc sts between picots of each heart. Rnd 1: Attach white in centertop of any heart in sc between picots, ch 1, *sc in sc, ch 4, sk 2 picots, dc in sc, (ch 6, sk 2 picots, dc in sc) 3 times, ch 6, dc in corresponding sc of next heart, (ch 6, sk 2 picots, dc in sc) 3 times, ch 4, sk 2 picots, rep from * around, sl st to join in starting sc. Note: On Rnd 1 at the point of the asterisk to start a rep, you will be at the center top of a heart. Rnd 2: Sl st into ch-4 sp, ch 3, 3 dc in same sp, (work 6 dc in each ch-6 sp and 4 dc in each ch-4 sp) rep around entire outer edge, sl st to join. Rnd 3: *Ch 3, sl st in 3rd ch from hook, sc in next 2 dc, rep from * around, join, fasten off. Weave in loose ends. from Mom's Love of Crochet Site Aussie Jan. who is our Manager of the craft site so do be sure to send any ideas or projects her way. To the Top Just for Fun If you want to cheer yourself up, you should try cheering someone else up. Some 'Senior' personal ads seen in Florida newspapers:   (Who says seniors don't have a sense of humor?)  FOXY LADY: Sexy, fashion-conscious blue-haired beauty, 80's, slim, 5'4' (used to be 5'6'), searching for sharp-looking, sharp-dressing companion. Matching white shoes and belt a plus. LONG-TERM COMMITMENT: Recent widow who has just buried fourth husband, and am looking for someone to round out a six-unit plot. Dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath not a problem. SERENITY NOW: I am into solitude, long walks, sunrises, the ocean, yoga and meditation. If you are the silent type, let's get together, take our hearing aids out and enjoy quiet times. WINNING SMILE: Active grandmother with original teeth seeking a dedicated flosser to share rare steaks, corn on the cob and caramel candy. BEATLES OR STONES? I still like to rock, still like to cruise in my Camaro on Saturday nights and still like to play the guitar. If you were a groovy chick, or are now a groovy hen, let's get together and listen to my eight-track tapes. MEMORIES: I can usually remember Monday through Thursday. If you can remember Friday, Saturday and Sunday, let's put our two heads together. MINT CONDITION: Male, 1932, high mileage, good condition, some hair, many new parts including hip, knee, cornea, valves. Isn't in running condition, but walks well.  Bigsis Pat from Crofton, B.C. Canada To the Top Planet Kryzys Our planet awareness site, Planet Kryzys has many interesting stories of different aspects of a planet under Crisis. Do please take a moment to visit it and maybe it will remind you that YOUR area has something interesting to offer the rest of the world. I would also like some information on National/State/ or Provincial Parks members have visited or have within visiting distance from their home, to add to the parks section of the site Daphne from Argentina To the Top Everyone can use a prayer! Please click on the image above to see the brand new Prayer Requests Page ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER - Please email Charla, from Florida, USA with any Praises, Requests and/or UPDATES Thank you. May God Bless Each One and Have a Great Week! To the Top A question for you. If you could change this world what would you do? I hope you have enjoyed the news from our members and I would like to remind you that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

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I am only one
But still am one
I cannot do everything
But still I can do something
And because I cannot do everything
I will not refuse to do the something that I can

Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven't half the strength you think they have.
~ Norman Vincent Peale

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So as you can see The Circle of Friends is a place to have fun, to join hands, to share a "bond of affection", forged by common life experiences and to express "genuine enthusiasm for wherever life takes us next". It is a place to come together and support each other. We would love to have you join our group. Our qualifications for membership are simple and in order to join, you must agree with them:

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Become a member and enjoy all the wonderful extras that the Worldwide Circle of Friends has to offer!

“A ball is a circle. No beginning, no end.
It keeps us together, like our Circle of Friends;
but, the treasure inside, for you to see
is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me.

Today I pass the friendship ball to you. Pass it on to someone who is a friend to you.”

We are the Circle of Friends, made from a chain,
A chain of cable and wire without an end.

There's lots to do and plenty of friends to meet in the Worldwide Circle of Friends! We have people from all over the world who meet, chat and share experiences.

and then be sure to join in!

A warm welcome from Sharon,
founder of the Worldwide Circle of Friends

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