"A Christmas Carol" 1951 version and I still believe in it!

Posted by Virgil Burks

There are many different versions of "A Christmas Carol" but my favorite is the one staring Alistair Sim. He is a British actor and is marvelous as Scrooge.

Every December, as Christmas is almost here,my sister,two of my nieces and I watch "A Christmas Carol" the non animated version special on satellite television from http://www.direct.tv/.

The movie reminds me every year to stop and review just what is important in my life. After I watch the movie, I find myself wondering if I had given of myself in all the ways, I feel truly matter. The movie stirs a peaceful and loving place inside me at holiday time.

"A Christmas Carol" takes place in such a nostalgic manner and the different time changes are so well portrayed in the 1951 film version. The style of the clothing and the sound effects, have a way of drawing me into the entire movie.

All the characters are well developed and evoke so many different emotions in anyone who is watching them.

I think Alistair Sim's excellent portrayal of Scrooge makes you believe the actual story plot. What a wonderfully spirited Christmas Story! I love watching it many times each Christmas Season.

Hitting the Slopes

Guest post written by Joseph Finch

Tamara and I hit the slopes of Keystone yesterday. It was brilliant. The sun was perfect; the snow just packed enough to give you the ride of your life. You ever had one of those pristine days? This was it. The cold air, the glare of the sun of miles of white snow, and the rush of the air as it whisks passed. Perfection. At least once we hit the slopes. The day had started a littler rougher than that.

I'd woken up to the sounds of distant ringing. It always take the brain a while to start firing, when it did I realized it was the phone. It couldn't be the boss, it was Saturday. So that left family or some one I didn't have a mind to talk to. Not to mention it was much too early, I had thought to myself as I glanced over at the alarm clock. Seven a.m. on a Saturday was nearly criminal. I finally managed to locate the phone to hear Tamara voice. Seems here and Cadence had gone to splits. And there was only one cure for that. It was a good thing my gear was already packed up in the car. It always is during the season. I barely managed to get a comb through the hair, and enter the alarm code for the home security system from www.Securitychoice.com/ before I was heading out for a day of girl time and snow.

Find updates on last year's gathering on Karin's site

In the past few years, my friend and fellow peace gatherer Karin Zirk has been keeping a new blog related to each year's annual gathering of the tribe of the rainbow family of living light. Last year the gathering took place in the Allegheny National Forest. You can find Karin's record of this event at East Coast 2010 Rainbow Gathering. Her sites are informative and well put together so mark them as a reference for anything rainbow. Now there are many other sites that serve as information resources like Welcome Home. This site alone will give you the gateway to multiple websites and groups.

Black Friday Shopping Groups

Guest post from: Denver Stephens

Never go shopping on Black Friday with a group of friends. They want to go to different stores or one is hungry (at three in the morning) and there's always one that is stuffed hours after Thanksgiving dinner. I went with three friends to the Glen Burnie mall on Black Friday because it had what we were looking for. We split up at the front door and the Keystone Kops ensued.

Becky went into every single store to see their wares but bought nothing because she changed her mind. Sheila bought one thing from every store and got some good prices. Amanda wanted everything but her credit card was almost maxed out so she got a good deal on baby clothes for my granddaughter. I headed for Claire's for stocking stuffers and walked out with six pairs of earrings for five dollars each, one makeup bag for three dollars and several hair restraints of varying size, color and method for a dollar each.

We did decide to move down the street to a clothing store opposite the mall and there all four of us found a gem. I got a sweater, Amanda a pair of jeans, Sheila got a Tshirt and Becky chose a jacket. Prices were two thirds regular price and watching Direct tv in my warm sweater when I got home was great.

When disaster strikes get reliable help

There are many precautions that will help prevent being injured in a fire but sometimes disaster still strikes. Smoke alarms will give an early warning so you can get your family out of the house quickly. Other alarms can be installed that will notify emergency services like police and fire. There is still the aftermath when a fire strikes your home or business and it is never easy to deal with the tragedy. Call upon professional services to help salvage your home and belongings like the folks at fire damage austin and rest assured that all measures will be taken to restore your home. They understand what it takes to salvage your belongings, furnishings and your home so you don't have to be concerned with the technical side of things. Ease your mind by getting familiar with their services and add their phone number to your emergency list. Let restoration services austin deal with the insurance company in getting the funds to repair your home which relieves an even heavier burden from your mind in a time of great distress.

Flooding is equally disastrous with fire and it also takes special care to restore the property to a safe livable state. Water damage from fire is also a concern. The same professionals who care for fire damage can handle either of these situations as well. Count on the services of flood damage austin to provide the right restoration service regardless which disaster affects your home or business. Have a safe and happy holiday and please share this knowledge with your friends and loved ones. Pass on the phone number for their services when you give your gifts this year.

The Midnight Writer

The Trail of Peace is a forever journey

I asked myself when I started this path in my life and I'm not sure that I have a conclusive answer. It seems as though I have been a peacemaker my whole life. Now I am human with all the traits and tendencies of all beings with free will. That said, I admit to being weak and succumbing to my own temper and selfish desires. But there is a stronger drive within me that wants to reach beyond my own existence and my own moods to stand in a place of harmony and tranquility. That has to be the place where peace abides and love is actualized.

The Midnight Writer

Fashion for the medical field has come a long way

The days for wearing drab uniforms to work are over now that the industry has improved on nursing uniforms . The medical field requires its workers to wear uniforms for many reasons, one of which is sanitation and identification of a field. When I worked in the nursing home, I dreaded putting on that frumpy bulky uniform so I am delighted to share this news. Now you can opt for streamline waists, softer and subtler colors and fabrics that feel good to the skin. The leg cut is very complimentary and a great improvement over the square pants of the past. Scrub hats that match are available for any uniform choice.

Scrubs are not only worn in hospitals, but  a dental uniform is similar to hospital dress. Dental assistants and hygienists can find an equally stylish scrub uniform to wear in the designated colors for their office. You can mix and match bottoms and tops or select an outfit already put together for you. Jackets are in the catalog selection that can be mixed with different uniforms. Blue Sky Scrubs caters to men, women and children of all ages and sizes so check it out today. Add this to your Christmas list for any family or friends who work in the medical field. It will be a delightful surprise under the tree Christmas morning. And stuff the stocking with some matching jewelry from the same online catalog!

While you are browsing, don't miss the cherokee medical uniforms . Give the men on your list a new stylish look for work that is sure to make them smile. Smart stitching and tapered legs give these uniforms a chic design that resonates style whether the wearer is a doctor, nurse, dental assistant or works any where in the medical field.

The Midnight Writer

Thanksgiving Counsel took place in beautiful Washington

I haven't gone to a rainbow Thanksgiving counsel since Colorado in 2006 but I cherish the memory from that one. Raven and I stayed an extra month on the White Buffalo Farm outside Paonia, Colorado. It was an incredible experience for me with a bittersweetness that will stay with me forever. I wanted to attend this one in Washington but work and life called me to California. I thought we'd be heading to Montana for a spell but that hasn't happened yet. We're busy pursuing a dream but I'm following all the updates about the upcoming gathering because Raven and I are going this year. We hope to go scouting regardless of what else is happening, Lord willing and the creek don't rise. (a friend of mine says that all the time. God bless you Plunker)

Someone posted pictures of the Washington Thanksgiving counsel. I'll find some and post them here along with news and stories.

The Midnight Writer

A Movie That Offers Maximum Intensity

Guest written by our friend Gladys Fuentes

Sarah Conner was an average lady just minding her own business. She had a decent job and was just trying to make ends meet. Sounds like the average life, right? Yeah, well, it's average until you find out you're the future mother of a general that will lead the resistance against the machines. It's average until a man is warped down to earth via some form of electrical field and programmed to kill you. It's average until you're chased all around town by a machine that is nearly immortal. It's average until some guy shows up and tells you he's there to protect from a machine. Does this sound adventurous to you? Probably. And there's a good chance you have seen The Terminator before. Yes, I am speaking of the original. There have been so many sequels that I'm beginning to lose track. Part II: Judgment Day was awesome, but the others donât compare to the original. I will admit that I didnt remember how good the original was until I saw it on my Direct TV deals about two weeks ago. The original is just so pure and the action is relentless. I could feel my heart pounding through most of the movie. It was so intense that I needed a nap afterwards. If you want to see a great action movie, or if you need a nap in about two hours, watch the original Terminator.

Still walking the rainbow trail of peace

It's been fourteen years since I first walked through those gates of "Welcome Home" and the memory is as vivid today as it was on that day. It is etched into my soul and motivates me with love every day of my life. Some days it's hard to be the peace maker. But I know it is the only way to be and the only life to live while here on this earth and I am so grateful that I was granted the opportunity to experience the way of the rainbow. The annual gathering of the tribes of the rainbow family of living light nourishes my soul for yet another year away from my tribe/my family in gathering on the land in the national forests and mountains. I long for it before my feet ever leave the land.

Summer Breeze, The Midnight Writer

Black Friday launches the holiday shopping season

Today the Christmas shopping season begins to heat up with the excitement of Black Friday as it's launch day. People are out everywhere hitting the stores for those mark down specials. If you want to miss a lot of traffic and congested stores, start checking off your Christmas list by shopping on line for winter boots in preparation for the long winter ahead. Gifts to keep the feet warm are always a welcome sight under the Christmas tree.

Next, list all the great accessories you can buy to compliment all the new clothes your loved ones will receive this year. Most of the choices will fit nicely in any stocking. If you need ideas, start with a few of these suggestions; socks, belts, and wallets are some old time favorites. I personally can never have enough socks and belts are a gift that you can give with a touch of your personality to help them remember you. My personal favorite is wallets because most of the people in my life hesitate to replace their old wallets so I like to do it for them.

Round off your shopping list with a new travel bag for all those special people on your list. Level up the surprise by packing a new outfit and a ticket to some place special for the holiday. It's the perfect way to show how much you care. Enjoy the holiday shopping and be sure to check out the Zappos selections before you spend time in the crowded malls this season. You'll thank yourself for all the time and energy you will save for other special moments with your friends and family.

The Midnight Writer

Feel and look beautiful wearing nursing scrubs

I'm not a big fashion fan but I empathize with any one who works in a profession that requires wearing a uniform. It seems that fashion sense has finally come for the many professionals who wear nursing scrubs so I want to share this great news with you. It's exciting to know that such a basic uniform is now available in both a flattering style and a well made material. If you work in a medical environment or if you know someone who does, plan a shopping list right now. Give the gift of professional style this year. Blue Sky Scrubs is innovative in this fashion field so visit their website and have a look for yourself. The selection and style is very impressive.

Take a look at scrub clothing for men and women. The colors are soft and refreshing in comparison to the typical scrub. Ladies will really like the "slimming" effect of the new design and the touch of class in the stitching. The patented scrub hats are sure to turn some heads because you will really get noticed when you wear these fashionable styles and colors. The operating room look has definitely changed so get in rhythm with this fashion wave. These scrub hats would look good for other occasions when the hair needs pulled back and covered.

Even the men will be excited about the change in style for scrub tops. They look more like a Tshirt and the pants are streamlined for a complimentary fit. Children can get in on the act and dress up just like Mom and Dad in matching outfits for kids.

Traveling Fever has me looking at Nicer Hotels

This month my husband and I have traveled over two thousand miles on business, ministry work and pleasure. The weather has been inclement so we are renting more motels. Besides, this makes it easier for me to write in comfort so I'm not protesting. We've found that we would rather pay a little bit more for the comfort, some luxuries and a very reliable internet connection. After all, my work depends on it. With a screening of one of our favorite spiritual movies coming up in New York this July, I'm looking over listings of New York Hotels hoping to book a few nights before the rates climb or all the rooms are taken. A stay at a hotel is quite a different experience from motels so this is a new adventure for us.

I believe that a trip west later this summer will take us through Nevada, and naturally that means a stop in the city of night adventure. I'm not familiar with the more extravagant Las Vegas Hotels so I have lots of research to do before it 's time for our trip. I always wanted to stay in one of the executive suites or a penthouse at the top of a skyscraper just to say I did it once. Now I wonder how much that would cost! It sure would be a thrill. I better come back to earth and finish my price comparisons for Orlando Hotels this fall. We would love to see our children and catch some September sun on the white sand beaches. The resort hotels beckon to the side of me that craves just a little luxury in my life. Maybe I'll see you in Florida this fall. Have a great summer and don't forget to reserve early!

The Midnight Writer

Find Flights to Paphos if Greece is in your Travel Plans

Greece is an ancient mysterious place that is filled with sites to see and rich in history. It would be a memorable place to add to your overseas travel plans. Finding a flight is challenging but made simpler with a site that lists Paphos Flights and other destinations to this beautiful country. The association  to Cyprus might be more well known so when you research Paphos News be sure to include Cyprus in your search terms.

Finding a flight won't be difficult because this new search flights sight has hundreds listed at low prices. Going to Greece this summer is within reach of most vacation budgets if you search for cheap flights. I've just shared a great resource to help you do just that.

If you are wondering where Paphos is located, get your map out and find Cyprus. It's located on southwestern Cyprus. Being a Mediterranean coastal town, the climate is very mild and hospitable for outdoor enjoyment. Find out more on the Paphos Flights blog where they detail the city, its resources, climate and culture. The blog captures local news from a close perspective because they are writing from this location. That's an exciting reason to visit this site versus a place that repeats hearsay information.Visit the site and book your vacation in Paphos while the tourist season is warming up.

The Midnight Writer

Quest to find the Restaurant with the Mural Painted Walls

Photo taken by our friend Jerry in Tucumcari, New Mexico in 2008.

Two years ago, Cephas and I took some R&R at Devil's Tower in Wyoming where we met some new friends Jerry and Ann from New Jersey. Both are amateur photographers who are learning some new tricks with their cameras that they wanted to share with us. So I'm sharing this photo with you because it is part of our journey as peace ambassadors since we met them on the trail after a big prayer gathering. The truck and little trailer parked in front belong to Jerry and Ann.

This is the sum of our quest. We want to find the building in Tucumcari, New Mexico that bears this wall mural and dozens of scenes painted on the inside of the restaurant. It's kind of a mystery to Cephas and me because we have passed through Tucumcari dozens of times over the years and have not found this building yet. When we find it, we'll take our own photos that may not be as elaborate as the one shown above but will still be proof that this legendary place exists.

Do you know where the Mural painted restaurant is located? Leave a comment below please. As soon as we find it, we'll publish a host of photos of the inside paintings. In the meantime, I'll be sharing these on my treasure hunting site at The Midnight Writer's Secret Portal so watch for the series coming soon.

You can buy Quality Eyeglasses at Reasonable Prices

These are tough times all around for people economically and everyone is trying to save money or cut expenses in places that didn't really matter before. One place that is not wise to scrimp is when it comes to buying quality eyeglasses to help improve your vision. Just find a source for them that charges less, like Zenni Optical. Where else can you buy prescription eyeglasses starting at $8.00? Even the bargain basements don't offer such discounted prices. If a store offers low prices that come close, they will have to jump hoops to match Zenni Optical's quality and reputation.

You might be wondering what you get for the bargain price of $8.00 so I'll give you a brief listing.When I clicked on the listed price to view selections, I was amazed to find 90 different pairs of prescription lens glasses available. They are all unique colors, styles, shapes and materials. Each selection can be modified to suit your needs. Once you provide your "pupillary distance" you can select tinted or non-tinted and choose an anti-reflective coating. Wait, that's not all! Next, you can choose bifocal or progressive, frame color and quantity then place your order. You even have a quantity choice per selection. Just wait for your new eyeglasses to be shipped and you are styling with improved vision.

I could say a lot more about their many prices and styles but you can visit their site to view the large online catalog. Zenni Optical has a big reputation regarding their quality and their price. I've read some online reviews and you can just Google them to see what you find. You might be surprised to find that it is one of the most popular sites to purchase eyewear. My husband needs some new glasses so I'm bookmarking this site for him.  Save money without sacrificing your vision today.

The Midnight Writer

I Want to Share my favorite European news sources

News abounds globally and is widely available by way of internet, television, radio and other means. What I've realized is that many news stations and websites are simple replicas of some other spin that is generated a hundred times. So I turn to some alternative sources that are available in the European news realm. Though there are several news sites that I enjoy, one of my favorites is the BBC, which covers world news including Europe.  This electronic news magazine is filled with versatile subject matter covering many countries in the world. Sections exist for all major news in each country with highlights from each story and hyperlink that takes you to the full story.

Most news on the BBC is up to date and fully covered. I really enjoy reading their website when I want to find news that is not easily found on other sites. Usually, they will explore the more controversial news or stories that may not draw the advertiser's dollars as well as the popular headlines. If I want to know something quickly, I turn to the BBC to get the scoop before other major papers get around to posting it.


Another popular site that covers euro news is a site called Convergence that seems fairly new in the list of digital news media. The layout is clean and simple to read and contains a nice variety of front page news topics that I feel are well covered in clear, concise language. I hope they continue to build this site and to fill it with the latest top stories from around the world. Once the news site obtains a sizeable archive over a matter of months, it should find advertisers easily.

I have to think a little harder about other European news sites and I can only think of one that I view regularly, CNN world news. It is probably one of the most popular news sources today but I still keep an open mind about reading from multiple sources.

The Midnight Writer

Gathering Time is drawing Near and sparks memories

It's the middle of May and my thoughts turn to summer time adventures with the highlight of every year being the annual gathering of the tribes of the rainbow family of living light. I've been going to these assemblies since 1997 and have not been able to forfeit one summer for any reason. The spirit draws me to these rainbow gatherings so strongly that I cannot ignore the moving.

Cephas and I even wrestle within ourselves and with the Spirit some years when we feel torn between living the "normal" work all summer Babylonian life or go off by ourselves for peace and quiet. The other argument we give in support of skipping the gathering this one year is that we need to spend more time with our nuclear family this year. But it never comes to pass. Every year the call comes around this time and we start making preparations physically, emotionally and spiritually. Before you can blink, it's the middle of June and we find ourselves on a mountain some place in the United States gathering with thousands of people for the annual prayer pilgrimage.

That time is approaching fast and I draw on memories of gatherings past that endear my heart. These memories motivate me to make preparations for the coming year. That is where I find myself today, in a state of emotional and spiritual preparation. It is so exciting! Soon, I'll be going home again.

One Love and peace on earth
Summer Breeze, a/k/a The Midnight Writer
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Internet Marketing relies heavily on the SEO industry

Internet marketing is a fast growing lucrative business that has replaced the traditional brick and mortar stores of past generations. Any one can start a business online with very little capital investment or experience. What makes internet marketing different from traditional business is the online competition. Advertising is crucial for success but it takes a little savvy to know the ins and outs of online marketing. Websites and blogs need special optimization in order to compete in this vast industry so companies like SEO San Diego step up to fill that need.

A professional SEM Company understands terms like "keywords", "page rank" and SEO optimization. It's their business to know how to optimize your site so it will be able to compete in the virtual marketplace. A novice internet marketer could get lost in the world of search engines and social networks. All those networks that a company blog or website has to rank well in can be overwhelming. Thousands of sites on hundreds of search engine listings stare back at you like an impenetrable wall. You wonder, just how do I get on the first page of Google anyway?

An SEO Company understands how to build your website or blog from the ground up to give you that edge. After all, in virtual reality, your online presence is the crux of your business. Let the professionals give you the best advantage possible so you can spend your time developing ad campaigns to sell your products.

The Midnight Writer

Blog Disclosure Policy

This policy is valid from 20 November 2008

For questions about this blog, contact The MidnightWriter at themidnightwriter1@gmail.com.

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

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The owner(s) of this blog would like to disclose the following existing relationships. These are companies, organizations or individuals that may have a significant impact on the content of this blog. We serve on the following corporate or non profit boards: Angels of The Light Interfaith Ministry. We blog about people to whom we are related. The most interesting such people are: Our children and grand children..

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Yoke Wong Teaches Piano Lessons on Video

Whether you are an experienced musician or a novice, piano lessons given by Yoke Wong will help you become a better pianist. Often people are born with a gift for music, being a special pianist is an exceptional gift. There are probably not many gifted pianists among the percentage of people who have the ability to play or among those who have learned to play. Training is often started as a young child but it isn't necessary. Adults can learn to play the piano with the right teacher and talented pianists can always improve their ability with the proper instruction. Yoke Wong offers that extra mile instruction with easy to follow lessons and online videos.

piano lessons