Floral Diversity: Transplant Flowers to Cure Homesickness

Florida was discovered by an explorer named Ponce de Leon. He named the state “Florida” which is the Spanish word for “flowers”, because, upon his arrival in this new land, he saw nothing but gorgeous flowers everywhere. I imagine one of the flowers must have been the hibiscus, a flower that grew in the front yard of my childhood home. In fact, as a kid, it seemed like this flower was everywhere!  We had hibiscus that grew in the front yard of my childhood home. Many hardy hibiscus are native to Florida; but for obvious reasons, the orange blossom was chosen as the state flower. But that's OK because ... the hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii. There are seven species of hibiscus native to this state. Also known as pua aloalo in Hawaiian, this flower represents royalty and communicated power and respect.

Image credit: glitter-graphics.com

When I moved from Florida to Texas, shortly after my arrival, I was in a store shopping for items for my new home. I overheard a lady talking to another lady. She said she had just returned to her home in Texas. She had been vacationing in Florida and she was so excited because she had found this wonderful flower! She said she just had to bring this gorgeous flower back home to Texas and plant it her garden.  Being from Florida, my curiosity was peaked. I wondered what Florida flower had impressed her so much. Turns out that it was the hibiscus.  Not surprised.

Links of Interest:

• Hibiscus Transplant Info - When And How To Transplant A Hibiscus
• Hibiscus Dying or Struggling? 7 Ways to Revive Your Plant
• Hibiscus Wilting After Transplant: What to Do - GFL Outdoors

The medicinal benefits of hibiscus tea are numerous; it can reduce the risk of cancer, help with weight loss and more.  However ... 

• CAUTION!  According to Medical News Today, hibiscus can interact with certain medications. For example, people who take chloroquine, a medication used to treat malaria, should not consume hibiscus because it may decrease how well the medicine works in the body.

I’ll never take the hibiscus flower from my childhood for granted ever again. In fact, if you ever relocate and feel a little homesick, try transplanting a flower that reminds you of the home you left behind.

If you have relocated to a new home, what are flowers that remind you of your childhood home?

♦

Original source

American History: Really Cool History About American Presidents

In my lifetime, I have lived through the administrations of presidents of the United States from Eisenhower to Obama. They left their “footprints” in America's historical records for future generations of citizens. Let's hope the country is still standing for those generations.

From my childhood to the present date, I can remember the following presidents of the United States:

• Dwight Eisenhower (1953 – 1961)
• John F. Kennedy (1961 – Nov 22, 1963)
• Lyndon Johnson (1963 – 1969)
• Richard Nixon (1969 – 1974)
• Gerald Ford (1974 – 1977)
• Jimmy Carter (1977 – 1981)
• Ronald Reagan (1981 – 1989)
• George Bush Sr. (1989 – 1993)
• William J. Clinton (1993 – 2001)
• George Bush Jr. (2001 – 2009)
• Barack Obama (2009 – 2017)

Donald Trump (2017 – 2021 )

• Joe Biden (2021 - 2024)

At the time of this writing, it is March 2020*. We are in the midst of the presidential campaign process. Somebody has to be nominated as the Democratic candidate. That person will run for the highest office in this country and whoever he or she is, they hope “We the People” will vote for them and unseat our current Republican president, Donald Trump. Whenever this time in American history comes around, i.e. the political process of choosing a new fearless leader, I am always thankful.

• I’m thankful Americans have the right to VOTE.
• I’m thankful our POTUS is not a despicable king or queen who can’t be dethroned or worse a ruthless dictator who nobody can get rid of.
• I’m thankful the U.S. Constitution limits the president’s term in office to 4 years and that the president can only serve for 2 terms.
• I’m thankful I have survived all of the presidents as far back as I can remember and that our country is still standing.
• I’m thankful that I’m living and American.

I found some really cool tweets that reflect interesting moments in time. The history covered in tweets is during the timeline from Eisenhower to Johnson. When Nixon took office I was attending university and I became discouraged, dissatisfied, and disinterested in American politics. I’ve never really quite regained my enthusiasm and interest. But I didn’t bury my head in the sand either. America is still the land that I love. God Bless America.

Cool Tweets About American Presidents

*Original content source:  Virily.com, March 5, 2020

Tuesday, 

November 3

Election Day (US) 2020 in United States

To ALL Americans who VOTE (and those who don't):

Remember this country's history.  Recall the aspirations and ideals of our Founding Fathers.  Remember those who shed blood for this land.  Not just those who fought as soldiers in the military, but including the original natives and those who were slaves.  America exists because of their sweat, blood, and tears.

Understand this.  You can not rely solely on a leader to make America a great nation.  Building this country is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.  The leader you choose does not carry this weight on his or her shoulders all alone.  The leader is an ordinary citizen, just like you and me, who should be humbled and honored to SERVE "We the People".  The elected leader should respect the oath of office and approach the duties of the office of the presidency with gravity and sincerity and a genuine heart FOR THE COUNTRY AND FOR THE PEOPLE. 

Know this.  A country is nothing without dutiful, loyal, patriotic citizens who love their country, live peacefully in their country, and work TOGETHER to build their country.

Think about this when you vote.
Think about this even if you don't vote.

Original content source: Medium.com

Buying a Home: Ever Fantasize About Having a Celebrity Neighbor?

Zillow is a real estate company based in Seattle, Washington, USA, that has conducted an annual survey for the past decade, asking ordinary people, that is, people who are not celebrities, which celebrity would they love to have as a neighbor. According to the survey results:

• Popular late-night TV talk show host Jimmy Fallon was voted the most desirable celebrity neighbor for 2014 and 2015.
• For the year 2016, Taylor Swift got the most votes; and
• The Obama family were voted most desirable neighbor for 2017.

In 2018, the survey was modified. Instead of voting for real celebs as neighbors, people were asked who would be their favorite fictional TV character or characters. Leonard Hofstadter and Penny from the CBS TV-series “The Big Bang Theory” garnered the most votes.

Have you ever fantasized about having a celebrity neighbor?

I participated in my own unofficial celebrity neighbor survey and these are my results.

* * *

Miami, Florida, is my hometown and the exclusive neighborhoods of the stars who live in Miami Beach include celebrity couple Gloria and Emilio Estefan (“Miami Sound Machine”). The Estefans would get my vote for most desirable celebrity neighbors in any year.  It’s my fantasy. They are in the first place.

♦

Gloria and Emilio Estefan Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom https://t.co/IQBtjIsiGN pic.twitter.com/LP7ugXYzDr

— NBC Latino (@NBCLatino) November 26, 2015

Gloria Estefan’s House in #MiamiBeach ~ https://t.co/6Ne7ItzcQU via @urbansplatter ~ #celebrities #famousmansions #realestate #Florida #celebrityhomes
#homeandlifestyle #homeandgarden #dreamhomes #FamousCubanAmericans pic.twitter.com/wZhIgP8Yx1

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) January 25, 2019

♦
Also, after watching the cooking show, “Kimchi Chronicles”, two other celebrity couples were put in second place. World-class chefs, Marja and Jean-Georges Vongerichten would be my neighbors on one side; and actor, Hugh Jackman (aka “Wolverine”) and his wife, actress Deborra-Lee, would be on the other side. It would be awesome to have dinner with them every now and then.  Every now and then?  Uuuhh … OK.  Just once!  I’d be happy with one invitation to share a meal together.  Wouldn’t you?
♦

Popular #TVcookingshows ~ The series “Kimchi Chronicles” was launched in 2011. ~ https://t.co/k0TbN2PSTH #WorldRedEye #TVhistory #foodandcooking #Koreancooking ~ #KimchiChronicles_on_DVD ~ https://t.co/XOBQMBRQxe via @amazon pic.twitter.com/Lkm0RZ3xFQ

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) January 25, 2019

Source: Virily.com

Auto History: Awesome Tweets About Classic Cars

In 1998, my late husband and I loaded up the trucks and relocated our family to Austin, Texas.  The first major expense that occurred shortly after we arrived was buying a car.  When I say “shortly” I mean that we had only been in the city for not even a few months.  My son was driving our old car.  He had an accident.  He walked away but the car went to car heaven.

Image credit:  Classic Cars of Miami ... | AllPosters

Back then we were a one-car family and since the public transportation system in Austin was not all that good, we knew we needed to get a car and fast!  We could not afford a brand new car so we bought a used car.  The first thing that happened after we bought the used car was … it broke down!  Being brand new to the city we didn’t really know who to call.  I picked up a local publication, started browsing through it, and found the name of a guy who advertised that he fixed cars, 24/7 and that he came to you.  We were in a hotel.  He came to us to fix the car, in the parking lot!

I called the phone number in the advertisement and talked to the guy before he came over.  When I hung up the phone, I said to my late husband:  “That guy sounds awfully young.  Do you think we can trust him to fix the car?”  My husband replied:  “Aw!  Don’t worry!  He’s probably one of those guys who like to work on classic cars.”

Turns out the young guy was terrific when it came to fixing cars.  It also turns out that he was one of those guys who liked working on classic cars.  LOL.

That delightful experience is why I picked these delightful tweets about classic cars.


Content first published at Virily.com
♦

I mean where else would you keep it! #Cobra #ACCobra #Shelby #ClassicCar #MuscleCar #FridayMotivation pic.twitter.com/uBfe236qwa

— Tom - Cobra 427 (@Tomcob427) February 21, 2020

via Classic Car Daily
The original Morgan Plus 4 was built by Morgan Motor Company in Malvern in the UK between 1950 and 1969. The car was a more powerful and longer version of its predecessor the 4/4 model.
Read more: https://t.co/rtfPRsTdGQ pic.twitter.com/kYTVEnNy8P

— Oldtimer ClassicCars (@spicker123) August 21, 2019

The 1966 Pontiac Grand Prix is a true classic car. This was Pontiac’s big sports luxury hardtop and was one of the most popular personal automobiles of the 1960’s...specs, photos, styling details, production numbers at..https://t.co/pNSADkKW45 pic.twitter.com/DBm4FFwE2F

— AutosTrucksRods (@AutosTrucksRods) October 17, 2019

1963 Chevrolet Impala Classic Car https://t.co/PYMkP2fDtB pic.twitter.com/5lIERBYLeI

— MALIBU MART (@MalibuMart) November 7, 2016

Pick of the Day: 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 fastback | Classic Car News https://t.co/uiA93MGm2w pic.twitter.com/H0E1mTCghw

— Formula One World (@FormulaOneWorld) January 17, 2017

What's your ultimate "holy grail" classic car? This 1970 Hemi 'Cuda is definitely a strong contender. #MoparMonday pic.twitter.com/oWK5rCmPZB

— Classic Industries (@ClassicInd) January 28, 2019

James Bond's classic car is too hot to handle: more than 7,000 Aston Martins recalled » http://t.co/m3rzPseo2h pic.twitter.com/v6Cf2srbW6

— CNBC (@CNBC) December 24, 2014

James Bond his Aston Martin DB5! #astonmartin #007 #JamesBond #classic #car pic.twitter.com/gWjZ4cY3He

— Torque (@torquenm) March 31, 2015

“Classic Car on Sunset Strip #hollywoodtour #sunsetstrip #sunsetblvd #losangeles #cali #california #biketourshollywood #classiccar #photography…” HOLLYWOOD TOURS IN LOS ANGELES on Instagram: https://t.co/0r8FOWpBxM !~ Is this a cool car or what?? You know you want it! LOL. pic.twitter.com/Yn3wBKSmJ2

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) February 22, 2020

Flex your classic car knowledge! Can you name this classic Buick model? Hint: it's from the 80's. pic.twitter.com/YPe2frOrHA

— McCarthy Auto World (@McCarthyAutoW) September 28, 2018

Meet the #Buick #Skylark! First produced in 1953, this classic car was made in six productions over the past 46 years to deliver new technology and design! Which would you love to ride in, the red or blue? #ThrowbackThursday pic.twitter.com/KDvwGqbSLz

— Lehmers (@lehmers) April 12, 2018

Classic #Beetle converted to #Tesla power #VW #cars #classiccars https://t.co/2XpUULKXPZ

— Ecurie137 (@ecurie137) February 19, 2020

Bible Women: Women Named in the Lineage of Jesus

There are 4 books referred to as Gospels in the New Testament.  Only two of those gospels include the genealogy of Jesus.  Of course, whether a believer or a non-believer, the story of Jesus is known around the world and almost everyone knows that the name of His mother was Mary. A careful examination of the scriptures reveals the names of several women in the lineage of Jesus Christ.  One woman was a harlot (prostitute) and another was an evil wicked queen.

These are 5 names that can be extracted from the gospel accounts:  Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba (“the wife of Uriah”), and Mary.

These are 12 names extracted from books in the Old Testament:  Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, Naamah, Maacah, Azubah, Athaliah, Jerusha, Abijah, Hephzibah, Jedidah, and Zebidah.

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons – “Ethiopia-Axum Cathedral-fresco-Black Madonna”

Content previously published at Virily.com

♦
Interesting Facts About These Bible Women:

• Sarah was the wife of the Hebrew patriarch, Abraham; and her name means “Princess”.

• Ruth was the great grandmother of King David, a notable king of Israel.

• Bathsheba was the mother of King Solomon, a notable Jewish monarch.

• Tamar was the daughter-in-law of Judah, a Jewish patriarch.

• Rahab was a harlot who believed the reports about how God had delivered the Jews had been delivered from bondage in Egypt and was proselytized into the Jewish faith.

• Rebecca was the daughter-in-law of the Hebrew patriarch, Abraham; and the mother of Jacob, the man whose name was changed to Israel.

♦
Related Links:

• 12 Women: Bible Women From Ur to Nazareth
• 5 Women in the Lineage of Jesus

• Women of the Bible: Character Study: Bathsheba: The Innocent Victim

* * *

My Childhood Memories of Elizabeth Arden

When I was growing up in Miami, Florida, my favorite department store was Burdine’s. It no longer exists. It was bought by Macy’s. Macy’s may have bought the store but they did not buy my memories. I still have them and they are intact. One of my memories that is crystal clear was the perfume counter. You could find all kinds of high-quality perfumes and fragrances such as Elizabeth Arden. To me, the letters “E” and “A” in that name mean exquisite and alluring fragrances for women.

The real name of the woman who started this American company was Florence Nightingale Graham. She attended nursing school in Canada for a while, but eventually dropped out. She moved to America (Manhattan, New York), lived with her brother, and began to pursue her own interests in developing skincare, makeup, and other beauty products for women.

She entered into a business partnership with another woman by the name of Elizabeth Hubbard; however, the partnership only lasted for 6 months. From that point forward, she determined to establish her presence in the business world on her own. She took the first name of her business partner “Elizabeth” and the name of a farm “Arden” and created the trade name in1909. It is now 2019, which means that, for over a century, America (and the rest of the world, as her products are sold in over 20 countries), has associated that trade name with the most desired beauty products for women. Elizabeth Arden products include a wide range of fragrances, cosmetics, and skincare essentials.

Ms. Graham passed away in 1966 at the age of 87. She is buried in the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in NewYork. The name on her grave is Elizabeth N. Graham. She is without a doubt one of the most inspiring and phenomenal business women of the 20th century.

• FUN FACT:  Ms. Arden was the 1st to introduce matching nail polish to your lipstick! #VintageAd

(Image credit: Elizabeth Arden Products Sold at Selfridges, Flickr.com) 

Original source

View Elizabeth Arden products here.

Entertainment: 6 Old But Gold Bollywood Movies With an Awesome Soundtrack

These days video rental stores are practically nonexistent because of online video streaming. But three (3) decades ago, video rental stores changed my life. How so? The stores introduced me to foreign films and in particular, to Bollywood films. What’s so great about these Indian movies? The music! Yes, the dancing is awesome too. But you can’t have dancing without music. Right? 

Many of these films have an awesome soundtrack. In fact, it’s fun to search YouTube just looking for the songs. There are lots and lots of films but these are my Top 6. Yes, 5 out of 6 are Priyanka Chopra-Jonas movies. I’m a huge PCJ fan.

♦

(1)  *Karam (2005 ‧ Drama)

A young married couple should be able to lead a fairy tale “happily ever after” lifestyle. If only the husband wasn’t a paid contract killer; a bad guy who made some other bad guys really angry. It made their lives really complicated.  Music video: Tinka Tinka performed by Priyanka Chopra-Jonas.

(2)  *What’s Your Raashee? (2009 ‧ Bollywood/Comedy)

A guy needs to find a wife or lose his inheritance. He decides to choose his bride according to her “raashee” (her astrological sign).

(3)  *Fashion (2008 ‧ Bollywood/Drama)

A young woman pursues her dream of being a top fashion model, making sacrifices and bad decisions, along the way to get to the top.

(4)  *Yuvvraaj (2008 ‧ Drama)

There were light-hearted moments. But there was nothing funny about the plot. There are 3 brothers. One brother is mentally challenged and when the father dies, he leaves all the money to this son. The other 2 brothers, who feel that have been cheated, scheme to try to get the inheritance.

(5)  *7 Khoon Maaf (2011 ‧ Thriller/Drama)

The film is called “7” because the woman has seven husbands. Each time she marries, she is certain the man she chose will be her soulmate for life. It doesn’t work out and she conveniently becomes a widow, albeit she is never charged with any crime. In the end, she does find her soulmate. To be fair, the other six had it coming.

(6)  *Dostana (2008 ‧ Comedy/Drama)

Two guys need to rent an apartment at a complex in Miami, Florida USA with one catch. They have to be gay. They pretend to be gay, sign the lease, and their roommate is hot young heterosexual female that both of them fall for; only she doesn’t know it because she thinks they’re gay. The movie is cute and funny!

Content previously published at Virily.com

Watching after years 7 Khoon Maaf on Netflix.
An underrated film, and an utterly underrated performance by the splendid Priyanaka Chopra.

A woman in six relationships that all end in quite an unfortunate manner, 7 Khoon Maaf is a little-appreciated gem by Vishal Bhardwaj. pic.twitter.com/CsEghUKKu1

— Mehr Tarar (@MehrTarar) August 10, 2018

#Dostana completes 10 years after its release. #10YearsOfDostana pic.twitter.com/00UJky0DT1

— Filmfare (@filmfare) November 14, 2018

? Hindi or Indian Entertainment ~ Yuvvraaj (2008) ~ Hurray for Bollywood Music!! https://t.co/Zcp5m1IYLR

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) March 21, 2020

Search for #Bollywood movies on #AmazonPrimeVideo ~ https://t.co/A47IuCwJGZ @amazon @PrimeVideo #Entertainment #watchlists #watchparty #bingewatch pic.twitter.com/g1duxbV649

— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) September 7, 2021

POPULAR BOLLYWOOD MOVIES ON NETFLIX
~ https://t.co/hvzqekN1H3 #watchlists #watchparty #Entertainment #horror #suspense #romance #comedies #truestories pic.twitter.com/or4YCpouBi

— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) September 7, 2021

K-Drama: The Merchant: Gaekju (2015 Korean TV Series)

I heart K- dramas and especially the Korean historical period dramas;  movies or television series.  That's why I'm suggesting:  “The Merchant: Gaekju” (2015).

The English translation for the title is “God of Commerce” and it has 41 episodes.  With about 26 episodes left to view, I’m sharing this PRE-review.  By doing it this way, I’m less likely to accidentally blurt out the ending and spoil it for others who may want to see it.  

In today’s American business, we have what’s called bulls and bears. Back in the 17th-century Korean business world, not sure about the bulls and bears, but there were definitely snakes and Shamans.

Share

Image credit

The main character is Chun Bong-Sam (played by Jang Hyuk), who never even wanted to be a merchant. Sadly his father died a tragic death when he was only 8 years old, and when he grew up, he stepped into his father's shoes and became a merchant too.

I have only watched 15 episodes. It’s taking me a while to complete this series because the plot’s unpredictability is driving me nuts!  (O.o)

You know how it is. You sit down to watch a movie or a series. You think you know what’s going to happen and how it will end and then … that’s not what happens!

Well for me, that has happened in several of the episodes. None of my predictions about the outcomes were correct.

Incredible! Doesn’t the scriptwriter know the rules of plot writing??!!!

The characters I liked were being killed off!

I’m only at episode 15!  I'm screaming! You can’t do this!! 

It is very upsetting.  But each episode has a "hook" that drives you to the next episode because ... you just have to know how it ends!  

Watch the trailer.

Content first published at Virily.com

♦
If You Liked This, You Might Also Like:

K-Drama: Boys Over Flowers (2009 Korean TV series) Gets My Five Stars

Six Flying Dragons (2015 Korean Drama TV Series) Worthy of 10 Stars

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016 Korean Drama TV Series)

Where to watch K-drama online?
Best Korean Movie & Drama Websites 2020 https://t.co/D44cQyQGM7 #kdrama #koreandrama #online #streaming #entertainment #Asiancinema #watchKoreandramaonline #movies pic.twitter.com/EPQZK3SdAU

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) May 1, 2020

Ancient History: Ancient Cities: Zeugma, Turkey

Zeugma is an ancient city, with a rich cultural heritage. Archaeologists have discovered 2000 incredibly well-preserved mosaics. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum opened in 2011 and is the biggest mosaic museum in the world.

Additional References:

Zeugma After the Flood - Archaeology Magazine

2,000-Year-Old Mosaics Uncovered In Turkey Before Being Lost To Flooding | Bored Panda

Zeugma After the Flood - Archaeology Magazine https://t.co/thSAvd2n84 pic.twitter.com/r70nbmLoTT

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) May 27, 2020

2,000-Year-Old Mosaics Uncovered In Turkey Before Being Lost To Flooding https://t.co/0w0zgAK0nV pic.twitter.com/BF5seH0lpB

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) May 27, 2020

Source: Virily.com

Travel and History: Ten Facts About the Republic of Turkey

When you travel it is good to know historical facts.  Modern-day Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a country strategically located between Europe and Asia, and its leaders have an integral role on the world stage. The Asian part of Turkey was at one time called Asia Minor and was a part of the ancient Roman empire. Later, Turkey became part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Its historically religious, political, and cultural significance, including the fact that its largest city was once the capital of three empires ~ Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ~ should not be discounted or minimized. The heritage of Turkey and its influence in today’s political and economic arena are intricately woven into world history and world affairs.

♦ Here are TEN FACTS About the Republic of Turkey:

1. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is revered as the founder of the Republic of Turkey and is also called the “Father of the Turks”.
2. The founder of the Republic of Turkey was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1934.
3. The current capital city of Turkey is Ankara.
4. Istanbul was once the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
5. Istanbul was once historically known by the name Constantinople.
6. “Turkey entered World War II in 1945 on the side of the Allies, who secured an agreement that Turkey would become a democracy.”
7. Even though Britain or the UK has voted to exit the EU (“Brexit”), Turkey wishes to be accepted as a member state of the European Union (EU).
8. NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is an international alliance between European and North American countries and Turkey is a member state.
9. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower are all famous buildings in Turkey; must-see places for any traveler or visitor. Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
10. GoTurkeyTourism published a list of Turkey’s 10 most popular cities that attract tourists; 5 inland cities and 5 coastal cities. Even though Cappadocia is located in Central Turkey and is mentioned in the Bible, this city was NOT on their list.

Content previously published at Virily.com

Related Links:

Geography and History Lesson: Turkey

What is the Capital of Turkey?

Accession of Turkey to the European Union

Top 10 most famous places to visit in Turkey

Top 10 Most Popular Cities in Turkey | Go Turkey Tourism

* * *

*

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque aka Blue Mosque, built in the 1600s during the rule of Ahmed I. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/dUP2rbfYRe

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Hagia Sophia was first a cathedral, later a mosque and now a museum. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/P2WiuF20jO

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower built in 1348. During the #ByzantineEmpire it was called the ‘Christea Turris,’ or the Tower of Christ. #FamousBuildings in #RepublicOfTurkey #travel #vacation #touristattractions #travelplanner #Turkey pic.twitter.com/rstsHEz3F7

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) December 29, 2018

Murdoch Mysteries (2008 ~ ) : Award-Winning Canadian TV Detective Series

Loyal fan of a television series that revolves around the crime-solving adventures of a Canadian Sherlock Holmes.  Yannick Bisson stars as William Murdoch. The TV series is based on characters from the novel series by Maureen Jennings.

♦
“Detective William Murdoch of the Toronto Constabulary”.

Love it when he says that! It’s how Mr. Murdoch introduces himself to others.



♦
The setting is the late 1800s / early 1900s. He often rides a bicycle to the crime scene. The main plus for this series, that most ladies will appreciate, is that William Murdoch is very easy on the eyes. But ladies. You can only ogle him. You can not touch. He has a love interest, Doctor Julia Ogden and he is hopelessly devoted to her. Though their relationship is strained by outside forces, when they work together and combine their intellects they create magic and solve the mystery!

Another plus is the references to or incorporation of historical figures into the plots. One episode had Sir Winston Churchill and another episode had Thomas Alva Edison. Don’t know much about the history of Canada or the relations between the governments of England and the United States of America during the time period. For me, this television program is very educational, as well as being an entertaining piece of historical fiction and romance.

Would recommend this series for binge-watching. If you’re not hooked after Season One, then don’t bother. The first episode of the first season hooked me and reeled me in. There is also a movie version that stars Keeley Hawes (Zoe from “MI-5”.)

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Links of Interest:

• 16 Reasons Everyone Should Be Watching “Murdoch Mysteries”

• Filey, Mike. “ History of Toronto Police a Little Different than Entertaining Murdoch Mysteries Show. ” Toronto Sun. Sun Publications, 4 Oct. 2014. Web. 28 Mar. 2017.

• Frey, Erin. “Murdoch Mysteries “. The Canadian Encyclopedia , 20 July 2018, Historica Canada. Accessed 09 October 2018.

Image credit: A real photograph of the Toronto Police in the 19th Century; William James Topley [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons. (The TV show did a good job of recreating the time period.)
♦

Murdoch Mysteries, Season 1 ( https://t.co/u6wlqMsxU3 ) #entertainment #Mystery #crime ~ The #TVseries is based on characters from the novel series by Maureen Jennings. Stars #YannickBisson and #HeleneJoy ~ 1200+ Customer Reviews ~ Series rated 4.5 out of 5 stars pic.twitter.com/qiJwU9B4df

— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) October 9, 2018

Murdoch Mysteries: Christmas Cases Collection ~ https://t.co/AWqBC1o7Vy ~ Detective William Murdoch and his team solve yuletide crimes in these three feature-length mysteries set in Edwardian Toronto, Canada. #entertainment #Mystery #crime ? #HappyHolidays! pic.twitter.com/lcTqbjoiB5

— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) October 9, 2018

Except the Dying ( #MurdochMysteries Book 1 of 7 ) by #MaureenJennings for $9.99 https://t.co/YLiCX82l3S ~ Listen to Audible Sample ~ The #bookseries that inspired the award-winning #TVseries ~ #entertainment #books #booklovers #giftsunder10 #whiteelephant #giftexchange pic.twitter.com/DOK4gbKLwa

— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) October 9, 2018

The Economy: Who Needs Leprechauns When They Have Capitalism?

There are several legends, myths, or fairy tales about leprechauns. But the story that almost everybody knows is the one about catching these wicked tricky little guys and forcing them to give you their pot of gold which is at the end of the rainbow. The tale is supposedly a warning against greed or being greedy that clearly … everybody ignores!

Many people call Facebook “Facebookistan” because it’s like a whole other country in and of itself and should have its own flag. But you know? So is Google! The corporation is really woven into the fabric of our world. People diss capitalism in favor of socialism, communism, or other forms of government where they believe that wealth among citizens will be equitably apportioned.

QUESTION: Would Google and Facebook even exists if it weren’t for the entrepreneurial spirit nurtured by capitalism?

ANSWER: NOT ALL capitalists are wicked overlord imperialist dogs.

Also, I never really bought into that claim that 99% of the population are poor folks; and all the riches and wealth belong to only “The One Percent” of the citizenry in the USA, which is a capitalist country. Please! Every country, no matter what type of government or economy is in place, has The 3-Tier system.

Tier1: Wealthy people on the top.

Tier 2: Poor people on the bottom.

Tier 3: Folks who are managing to get by on what they make with a little bit extra to spend for “wants”.

You know it’s true! Neither the French Revolution or the Communists got rid of the bourgeoisie. A word like “oligarch” is not an archaic expression. It is a word in our current vocabulary that is applicable to certain people TODAY!

Greedy people know no boundary lines and have no respect for any form of government. If they can find a way to exploit and access ill-gotten gain, it doesn’t matter what kind of economic system is in place in any country.

I truly believe that capitalism adds value to any society or nation because people have more freedom to use their talents, skills, and abilities and turn their work efforts into “pots of gold” which can be further translated into philanthropy, humanitarianism, or charity.

Why can’t we all be given the opportunity to use our God-given gifts and talents, to aspire to color our own rainbows, and to create our own pots of gold? It’s a very reasonable question.

We will always have greedy people in this world. But leprechauns do not exist in this world and we don’t need them even if they did! We have capitalism!

***

P.S. For the record, for all you leprechaun-lovers out there, I am NOT hating on leprechauns. But let’s be clear. Leprechauns (nor the tooth fairy, for that matter) do NOT lead to an increase in individual wealth.

***

REFERENCES:

Matthews, Chris. *The Myth of the 1% and the 99%.” Fortune, 2 Mar. 2015, fortune.com/2015/03/02/economic-inequality-myth-1-percent-wealth.

Facts about Leprechauns and Where the Legends Really Came From. ”IrishCentral.com, 23 June 2017, www.irishcentral.com/culture/entertainment/top-ten-facts-about-leprechauns-and-where-the-legends-really-came-from-212728761-237598771.

Capitalism & Freedom by Milton Friedman https://t.co/pGFinjagtY 40th #AnniversaryEdition #FirstEd ~ Friedman (1912-2006) rec'd 1976 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for research on consumption analysis, monetary history & theory & the complexity of stabilization policy. pic.twitter.com/7lstYnHoMe

— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 4, 2020

***
Source: Virily.com

Croatia is My Dream Travel Destination. Want to Know Why?

I have not traveled anywhere in over 20 years.  Before I stopped traveling, I had visited different cities in the USA and two countries: The Bahamas and Mexico.  Those are the only 2 places I have been outside of America.  But that has never stopped me from dreaming of places I would love to visit outside of America.

The short title for my bucket list is “Dream Travel Destinations”.  The full title of my list is “Places I Will Only Ever Visit In My Dreams”.

Croatia is a country on my bucket list of Dream Travel Destinations.

Why Croatia?

Well, for one thing, their flag is the same colors as the USA: red, white, and blue.

The other reason is that I’ve seen photographs of this country and the scenery is incredibly beautiful.

Here is a fun fact that I just learned about Croatia.  I would not have known this because … I know everybody will gasp in shock when I say this … but I’ve never seen a single episode of “Game of Thrones”.  Yes I know this drama series is immensely popular and that everybody watches it faithfully, they know all of the characters, they understand the story line, etc.  But uuhh … yeah! I missed that fantasy fan boat.

Now I’m a tad bit upset with myself because I found out that many of the filming locations for the Game of Thrones were in Croatia! That means that I could have visited Croatia, the land in my dreams, possibly every time an episode was aired.  But all is not lost.  Saw an advertisement that said a person would stream free episodes.  Perhaps I’ll put GoT on my “Binge-Watch List”.

SAD NOTE MARCH 22, 2020:  News reports on this date indicated that Croatia has not only been affected by the COVID-19 virus but also by an earthquake.  So not only am I dreaming of Croatia but praying for the people as well.  No doubt the citizens of this lovely country want to resume the lifestyle they had which made me dream of one day visiting them.

Original content source: Virily.com

♦

People in #Croatia were directed to remain in their homes because of #COVID-19, And then 5.3 magnitude #earthquake struck this morning and they have been directed to evacuate their homes. It’s 4 degrees Celsius outside. They’re scared to be inside or out.#PrayForCroatia ?￰ﾟﾘﾪ? pic.twitter.com/aBd0h3D8TK

— womenofrubies.com (@EstherIjewere) March 22, 2020

Croatia has a history of devastating earthquakes. Perhaps the most devastating earthquake ever to strike our lands was the one in 1667 which completely destroyed the city of Dubrovnik and killed approx. half of its citizens (estimates vary between 3000-5000 casualties).#history pic.twitter.com/M2356xxzHz

— Bročki (@RIllyricum) March 22, 2020

Croatia vacation rentals | Vrbo.com

Find out more about Croatia