Wet and Aggressive Corella challenges Magpie

Wet and Aggressive Corella challenges Magpie

Sunday 3 December 2017

Sunday Selections #356

Sunday Selections was originally brought to us by Kim, of Frogpondsrock, as an ongoing meme where participants could post previously unused photos languishing in their files.
 
The meme is now continued by River at Drifting through life.  The rules are so simple as to be almost non-existent.  Post some photos under the title Sunday Selections and link back to River.  Clicking on any of the photos will make them embiggen.  River is having a blog break at the moment (and will be missed), so I am (hopefully) keeping the meme warm in her absence.  Some of my computer issues have been fixed, but fixing them created some others.   I may not get to read and comment on other people's posts for a little while (and hope that this post of my own publishes).

Like River I usually run with a theme. We have had a wet week.  Not as wet as some parts of Oz, but definitely wet.  One evening water was pouring into our kitchen through a ceiling vent.  And I do hope that the predicted damage from the storms in other areas has been overstated.  I fear it hasn't. 


So starting with damp garden shots.





Sadly after a day of torrential rain these proud beauties are now an a marked angle.




And finishing with a nod to Christmas.   We got a flyer from a local real-estate agent in the mail.  I usually recycle them without reading them.  Providence led me to cast my eye over this one - and then to read it intently.

Here is a quote from it.

'As a society, we seem to manage the needs of children at Christmas, ensuring that they're cared for and made to feel special, but the same can't always be said for those women who put the needs of others before their own.
We've decided that they deserve to feel special too.'

The flyer asked people to donate a handbag that they are not using and fill it with essential and luxury gifts to make a woman feel loved.  And a call to the agency said that they would be going to victims of domestic violence, the homeless, and local refuges.

So I had fun gathering together an assortment of gifts.  What we included was left up to the donor, with the proviso that no alcohol, sharps or food be included.  My selection included band-aids, tissues, shampoo and conditioner, a torch, toothpaste and toothbrushes, moisturiser, lip balm, hand towels...



And when I went down the agency to drop off my bag I was moved to sooky tears with the number of other gift bags in their reception area.

It has made me think about the homeless men in the community too.  When I go into the Early Morning Centre on my way to Lifeline next week I will ask what arrangements have been made to make them feel special too.

Addendum:  Himself was fiddling with the PC late last night.  He has caused chaos.  I can (just) respond to comments but very little more.  We will call a technician tomorrow.

123 comments:

  1. This is such a wonderful idea. And it makes me a wee bit "sooky" too when I see all the generous gifts like yours for people in need. I love having your blog to enjoy, so I'm glad you got at least some of your computer problems fixed. :-)

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    1. DJan: As I try and log on this morning some new problems have appeared. Sigh.
      I am so very glad to that your recent eye surgery hasn't kept you away from the blogosphere.

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  2. I'm going to check right now to see if they do anything like this near where I live!!

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    1. I just called an agency--waiting for a call back!!

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    2. fishducky: I really hope they do.

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  3. wow flowers in the garden are masterpiece of nature. Love from Poland

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    1. Gosia: Very soggy masterpieces this morning. We had buckets of rain.

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  4. You've got a good heart. It made my heart feel good about the Purse gesture which I know is a big gift for someone in need.

    Take care my friend. I love the flower pictures as usual. The orange flower was my favorite.

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    1. Ann Bennett: Thank you. The orange flower is a poppy.

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  5. That is such a good idea!!
    God bless you!
    : )

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    1. Caterina: Isn't it? Loud applause for the agency.

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  6. Once gain, such beautiful pictures.

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    1. Jamie Ghione: Thank you. The outside shots are much better.

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  7. I'm glad to see your computer problems have been fixed, EC.

    The handbag idea is a wonderful idea...the gift of giving is the gift to the giver.

    I can understand your tears. I would feel similarly...I tear-up all the time! No drought when I'm around! :)

    I hope the coming week treats you kindly...and a big cuddle for Jazz. :)









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    1. Lee: I wish my computer problems had been fixed. Essentially we have replaced one problem with several more.

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  8. The full handbag is a great idea. Good on you for thinking of the homeless men too, EC.

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    1. Marie Smith: I really hope that there is something in place for them.

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  9. What a beautiful & heartfelt idea. This is what Christmas should be all about.

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  10. The handbag brought tears to my eyes. Yes, women often give and give with no recognition. What a lovely thing to do.

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    1. Birdie: I am not surprised I am not weeping on my own. And hope that lots of people came to the party on this initiative.

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  11. Dear EC
    Lovely flower photos as ever (if a little bedraggled).
    Those thoughtful gifts will really be appreciated. We have a collection at work to make up parcels for new mums - baby wipes, toys etc. but it is such a good idea to think of others and be able to make a practical contribution too.
    Best wishes
    Ellie

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    1. Ellie Foster: Practical contributions are always welcome. As are the opportunities to make them. I like the 'new mums' parcels too.

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  12. The wet red rose looks very special. I have heard of this handbag idea and it is a very worthy thing to do.

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    1. Andrew: I hadn't heard anything about the handbag initiative and was so grateful that I did read the flyer. They usually go straight to recycling.

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  13. This is such a good idea ... makes me wonder if we may have something like that in the UK.

    I did enjoy seeing the flower pictures.
    Keep dry! I do hope your weather will not be too bad ...

    All the best Jan

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    1. Lowcarb team member ~Jan: I am sure that you do have similar initiatives. We have clouds but no rain today. More forecast for the rest of the week.

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  14. Hi EC - lots of rain and in the kitchen: good and bad I guess ... hope things get fixed. Loved the flowers ... but the handbag story held my attention - great idea ... and so easy to help add to the aid for local women. Glad you're helping the men ... Cheers Hilary

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    1. Hilary Melton-Butcher: The rain in the kitchen was bad - but could have been worse. And the garden is currently waterlogged, but it will recover from that faster than our more common droughts.
      I loved the handbag idea, and hope it runs next year too.

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  15. What a fabulous idea. I imagine some woman will love your handbag! And your garden is, as always, lovely. What are those trumpet like flowers? They remind me of Datura (I think that's what they're called), which grow in warmer climates.

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    1. mshatch: I hope that the recipient of my handbag finds treats and necessities in equal measure. The trumpet flowers (the tall ones) are a lilium. Those lower to the ground are hippeastrum.

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  16. What a wonderful idea. I am usually pretty lukewarm about the whole Christmas thing, but your post makes me view it with a less jaundiced eye. There are good people in the world - and you're one of them, EC.

    Spectacular lily photos, and a beautiful rosebud!

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    1. Alexia: I am one of many. And so grateful to whoever's idea this was.
      I may have to pick the lilies if they droop any lower to the ground (how I suffer).

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  17. I love the sharp details in the first and last pictures.

    Your heart's a precious one.

    I hope Himself has learned to keep his hands to Himself.

    Take good care.

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    1. Rawknrobyn: The fact that himself has agreed to a technician (normally anathema to him) says that he feels guilt. Hopefully they can fix the mess he has made.

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  18. A marvellous idea - women do so often get left out. Sooky was a new word I learnt today, thanks for that, and for the lifts I get from the glimpses into your world, both rain and shine. Hope your computer issues are sorted soon. Stay well and happy advent season.

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    1. Nilanjana Bose: Women often leave themselves out as well as being left out by others, which is why this struck a chord with me. I hope the computer issues can be sorted quickly too. I feel a bit bereft.

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  19. Perhaps a shaving kit with toiletries for the men? I will have to ask if there is a similar program here. With our winters a pack with gloves, hats, socks and scarves in addition to toiletries.

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    1. Cindi Summerlin: Toiletries for the men is a good start. I wonder what else would constitute a treat for them?

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  20. that's a lovely assortment in that handbag :) Similar for men would be a great idea, probably the same stuff from a men's department in any store. Men seem to always need socks too, although sizing might be an issue.
    Your lilies are gorgeous, but I'm glad they're on my screen and not under my nose.
    I'm glad you are able to post and hope all other issues are quickly fixed.
    I've spent most of my day in pj's, watching neighbour P and friends moving the last of her things out of her flat. it's just me and Loony Louie here now.

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    1. River: I would feel much better for you if Loony Louie left.
      Those lilies aren't scented, so might not cause you problems.
      Sadly email is one of the things which is not functioning at the moment. I am a bit worried about Words for Wednesday.

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  21. tis the season to be generous; that first lily is such a lovely color.

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    1. Linda Starr: It is indeed (almost) the season for generosity.

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  22. How wonderful that someone thought of such a kind idea. I hope something like that spreads far and wide. Christmas is for children of all ages and we all need to know that someone cares about us.

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    1. Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe: We most definitely do need to know someone cares about us - even someone we may never meet.

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  23. I truly love the raindrops on the blossoms in your garden.
    The local 55+ Club here has a new cosmetics/shampoo/toiletries/etc drive during October and November, and it's all sent to women in need at homeless shelters, or places for people escaping violence. It's amazing how much is collected. The only difference is that we don't put it all in handbags, but actually that is a great idea!

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    1. Shammickite: More rain predicted today. And the garden will benefit.
      I like the cosmetics etc drive. I included a few other things too and hope they are welcomed.

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  24. Not only are the flowers beautiful but so is what you did for the wonderful women. How very thoughtful and generous. I'm sure they are very appreciative. I can't believe how much rain you had. When we have heavy rain like that, it comes down through our chimney. Not much we can do but ride it out.

    Have a beachy week!
    Elsie

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    1. Elsie Amata: I was so chuffed to see all the other filled handbags waiting delivery. And hope that the initiative covers my whole city. The real-estate agency has other branches which is a positive sign.

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  25. What a wonderful thing to do for women in need. Good thing you read the fine print.
    Sorry about the water leak.

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    1. Alex J. Cavanaugh: It was pure chance (serendipity?) that I did read the whole flyer. My usual practise is to bin them.

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  26. First what a gorgeous sight to see your flowers as we are in the shades of brown here. And I love the idea of filling purses too. We should try and remember all this holiday. Thank you for that reminder. Now as far as technology goes....ugh! There seem to be glitches daily for me trying my patience. Good Luck my friend!

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    1. Donna@LivingFromHappiness: We are enjoying the flowers too. And hoping that handbags are stuffed full the city/country/world wide.

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  27. Love the flowers. So beautiful.

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  28. There IS a way to Re-Set your windows computer like a fresh installation. It is easy in Windows 10 especially. This is the fix that many 'computer experts' do and charge you for. Just be sure to save/backup your photos and such.

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    1. Here's how to reset your PC in Windows 10.
      Navigate to Settings. ...
      Select "Update & security"
      Click Recovery in the left pane. ...
      Click Get started under Reset this PC.
      Click either "Keep my files" or "Remove everything," depending on whether you want to keep your data files intact.
      More items...
      How to Reset Your Windows 10 PC - Laptop Mag
      https://www.laptopmag.com/articles/reset-windows-10-pc

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    2. Cloudia: We are not running Windows 10. When it was first introduced we had a couple of attempts at installing it, and failed. And at its worst the PC wouldn't allow us to navigate anywhere. I have I think/hope repaired most of the damage. And fortunately the photos are safe.

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  29. What a great idea, I think they do that purse thing in our town too. They also have an adopt a senior here for people who don't have families - we live in a senior filled town and the kids seem to get so much but not the seniors. Kind of fun shopping for them too - the flashlight is a great idea, will have to keep that in mind for mine.

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    1. Cheapchick: Adopting a senior would be lovely (says the woman who is rapidly approaching senior status). I thought the torch was a brainwave. It is a very, very bright one, and small enough to fit in a pocket.

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  30. Such beautiful flowers and an amazing program to help women feel special. You are indeed a tender soul to think of the men and their needs. A wonderful thing!!

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    1. Mason Canyon: My family often told me that I had a heart like soft butter. They didn't mean it as a compliment.

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  31. What a sweet gift. I have tears in my eyes.

    Love,
    Janie

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    1. Janie Junebug: I wept when I saw all the other gifts too.

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  32. Beautiful flowers EC, I love the gifts, fabulous.

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    1. Bob Bushell: Thank you. I hope the recipient loves them too.

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  33. A local acupuncturist did the same thing and judging by the photos, filled their reception area with bags!

    if you get a chance to do something for men, socks are always needed.

    You have some beautiful lilies out, I hope the rain is just enough and not damaging.

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    1. kylie: Buckets and buckets of rain. Perhaps too much - but better than the alternative.
      Socks are good, but I do wonder what sort of treat would suit as well.

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  34. I like the idea of filling the handbags with items to help make the women feel special, a gift lie this can go so far to help lift someones spirits, Bless you for filling the bags and donating and further more Thank you for thinking of the men in need in your community also.

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    1. Jimmy: Thank you. I was brought up to believe I had an obligation to contribute to the community in which I live. A life lesson I am grateful for.

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  35. That gift bag is so sweet! And I love the cause. You're a good soul, EC.

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  36. Computer issues... ugh! They do seem to cascade once started. That's such a wonderful idea - making up a nice bag of essentials for the adults to feel special and included. I hope you find someone sponsoring a similar event for the men.

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    1. River Fairchild: Computer issues do my head in. Further. I am hopeful about the men and, as I said, will approach the Early Morning Centre later this week. Most of their clients are men, and all are homeless or at risk.

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  37. Your flowers are simply gorgeous. And somehow more so with the rain beaded on them.

    What a good idea for gifts for women -- and men -- who otherwise would be left completely out of the season. Our craft group did something similar for several years for a women's shelter and a homeless shelter, and it was a good feeling to help out. This year, somehow we ended up not doing anything for anyone. Perhaps I can suggest it for after Christmas, or for Mother's Day. Your purse size was very generous and I am sure it and its contents will be welcomed and appreciated, and remembered with feeling long afterward.

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    1. jenny_o: I do hope that the bag and its contents hit the mark. They were prepared with love, which sounds an odd thing to say about someone I do not know and will not meet, but it is true.

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  38. I find some place in world there flower going full bore ahead...Coffee is on

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    1. peppylady (Dora): Oh yes, the flowers are always in bloom - somewhere.

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  39. What beautiful lilies, would be proud of them.

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    1. Margaret-whiteangel: In our obsessional way we planted a lot of lilies. There will be some in bloom for weeks to come. Yay.

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  40. The California poppy and lilies are beautiful even in the rain.
    I love the gift idea, and the items you included.
    Computer issues are such a pain!

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    1. Barbara Fisher: Computer issues are indeed painful. Most (but not all) of ours seem to have been resolved (fingers crossed).

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    2. Barbara Fisher: I spoke too soon. Sigh. And hiss and spit

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  41. When I look at your lovely flowers, I'm 'almost' tempted to try planting, but I know that would be an exercise in futility and sure disaster, EC.(lol) Once again you have spoken to my heart, and that brilliant real estate agent needs to be given some HUGE hugs for thinking of those women who are perhaps suffering during the holidays, and feel alone. It's also a great nod to those who are sadly homeless with nowhere to go. Thanks so much for sharing this, and it's giving me some new ideas. You're just the best EC! RO

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    1. RO: Isn't it a brilliant idea? I was super impressed and will say thank you next time I am down the street.

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  42. Oh, EC, what a wonderful idea for women in need and good for you for checking on the men too. I love it.
    Your flowers are beautiful. When I first saw the pictures I thought you had visited a public garden.

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    1. PS Hope the rains slow down and you don't have any more damage AND that your computer is now fixed.

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    2. Sandra Cox: I can't get over what a lovely idea it is. And will most definitely explore what options are available for me.
      The rains have slowed (a little). No more floods in the kitchen, though more is forecast for the week. And the computer is mostly fixed. I am a tad proud of myself.

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    3. Sandra Cox: Ok job. There are still issues.

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  43. Love the lilies. And the handbag full of special things is such a good idea.

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    1. Sue in Italia/In the Land of Cancer: We have lots of lilies. Lots and lots of lilies. And love them. Wasn't it a brainwave idea?

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  44. Love the raindrops on the rose especially.

    And that is such a nice idea about filling the handbags!

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    1. Lynn: 'Raindrops on roses...' I love seeing them too. We so often don't get nearly enough rain that I never begrudge it.

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  45. Uh oh, computer troubles are really very tragic and frustrating. Gulp. I love that stuff a purse idea and for women, now busy in this country preparing Christmas for everyone but themselves, oft forgotten and in the background, what a wondrous idea and proud that you quickly reacted!!

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    1. Strayer: Women so often put themselves last that I really, really liked seeing a business suggesting that they should be made to feel special.

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  46. You are a kind soul. Love the flowers.

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  47. Wow - amazing shots of the flowers! I'm sure they were grateful for the rain.

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    1. Lady Fi: The garden was very grateful. We were grateful. Jazz? Not so much.

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  48. You have a lovely garden, and i am so glad about the handbag. You are right that there are many who have needs at this time of year.

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    1. messymimi: Thank you. Christmas can be a difficult time.

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  49. Those lilies are so gorgeous. I'd love to have some, especially star gazers, but since they're poisonous to cats, I'm a little leery, although most cats are smart enough to leave them alone. Sounds like your buddy is. I'm just not sure about Monster Kitty. I'm going to check on calla lilies and see what their status is as far as cats.
    Have a jolly day.

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    1. Sandra Cox: So many plants are poisonous to cats. Jazz doesn't chew on plants, but he is pretty good at stripping blooms with his claws. And I still remember an orchid I bought to give to a friend which had to be replaced.

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  50. I hope your PC starts working better!
    I love your flowers! They are gorgeous!!
    The idea with the purse and filling it up, is fantastic!!! I'm sure it will be cherished!!!
    Big Hugs!

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    1. Magic Love Crow: Thank you. The PC is better than it was, but not right. Wasn't that idea to give women gifts brilliant? I hope it continues.

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  51. Rain-drenched plants are eye-candy for me!

    And that idea...the gift bag for abused women, and homeless people is wonderful.

    I'm visiting my mum [again] in the US. When I go home, I am going to share this idea.

    Thank you, Child. Again, yet again, you inspire.

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    1. neena maiya (guyana gyal): Thank you. We are so often in drought that we welcome the rain. More today I hope.
      Enjoy your time with your mama.

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  52. The handbag idea is brilliant. I hope that the recipients feel cared about during their time of need.

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    1. Bea: Isn't it a lovely idea? I suspect that many of the recipients haven't had a gift in a very long time. Too long.

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  53. I have Lilly envy. Very big Lilly envy. Those flowers are so beautiful that I want them all.

    What a brilliant idea you had. You're going to make some unhappy people very happy this year with that purse filled to the brim with luxury.

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    1. cleemckenzie: Lily envy is part of the reason we have so many. We see them in the garden catalogues (garden porn) and succumb.
      I would like to claim credit for the brilliant idea, but it wasn't mine. I was very happy to join in though.

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  54. Lol hope it’s fixed now. The rains must have been really hard on those poor flowers! Such beauty.....yes that was a needed gift for the women but I agree with you. What about the men? You showed kindness

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    1. Kim: The PC still has issues but is (mostly) usable at the moment. Sadly my investigations haven't turned up anything equivalent for the men. Food yes, but no little luxuries.

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  55. The flowers are lovely. That's wonderful that so many people are moved to help. I hope they do have something in place for the fellas too! Computer problems stink. Good luck with getting yours fixed quickly!

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    1. mail4rosey: The computer is much, much better. Not quite right, but better. Sadly I haven't been able to find an equivalent initiative for men. I will keep looking.
      And intend to take chocolate to the Early Morning Centre's Christmas gathering. Chocolate is a health treatment I believe.

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