Creative Life Coaching, Reiki, Pilates & Yoga

Coaching on Wellness of Mind, Body & Spirit

Loriginals LLC

Contact:  Lori D. Marchell for details

Certified AFAA Instructor, Certified CCA/ICF Creative Coach, Certified Reiki II Practitioner

loridmarchell@loriginals.org

607.759.3583

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Contact Lori D. Marchell

©Loriginals LLC

Living Beyond Duality

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“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

Just as the sky reflections are mirrored in the water, our perception of knowing is being reflected back to us in order to question our integrity.  As no two sunsets are the same, we are being asked to move beyond our familiar ways of thinking on the linear plane and move into a multi-dimensional existence.  In order to take these new quantum leaps of faith, our familiar way of doing things is being asked to transform every day.  This means that how we may do something one day will not be the same as the next.  As our whole world is changing and evolving so rapidly, so will our response one day will be different from the next.  This is not to be termed as being inconsistent. However, it is learning how to soar from one experience to the next as life is no longer linear in living, thinking and actions; we are now living in a circular multi-level existence, where timelines are occurring simultaneously.

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“God will supply all of your needs according to his riches in glory.”

Philippians 4:19

Like the various hues and reflections in the evening sky at Highland Lake, the peace of God washes over your soul.  Timelessness is evident in the ever-changing weather patterns, color configurations within the sky, smoothness to waves of the lake and season changes from the trees.  Time stands still in enormous pockets of peaceful awareness as the vibration and energy present speaks volumes to the depths of ones body, mind and soul.  Feeling connected to the magical wonder of the lake, she speaks ever so softly to a place deep within about inner tranquility only apparent when one quiets the mind and listens with the heart.

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“Whoever knocks persistently, ends by entering.”

Ali

And so I speak about the miraculous beauty surrounding us and ask that these precious moments we are so blessed to experience be treasured in our hearts now and always.  For by asking you receive and by receiving you may find and by knocking the door will be opened up to you, when it is time.  Timing, that is, and patience are the final factors necessary in creating miracles.  You must be still and they will appear everywhere!  And so it is.

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“Life is a mirror and will reflect back to the thinker what he thinks into it.”

Ernest Holmes

©Loriginal Designs

The Other Ear Song Videos!!!

“Self-discipline is an act of cultivation. It requires you to connect today’s actions to tomorrow’s results. There’s a season for sowing a season for reaping. Self-discipline helps you know which is which.”

Gary Ryan Blair

“By constant self-discipline and self-control you can develop greatness of character.”

Grenville Kleiser

“In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision.”

Dalai Lama

“The distance between dreams and reality is called discipline.”

Author Unknown

©The Other Ear – Ben Fambrough (Vocals, Guitar), Chris Carlsen (Vocals, Bass), Chuck Kozlowski (Back Up Vocals, Drums), Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (Keyboards) with guest musicians James Michael Thompson (Vocals, Guitar) and Rich Kennicutt (Keyboards).

©Photography Sam and Chris Kozlowski, Joyce Carlsen

©Loriginal Designs

The Masterpiece of Time

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“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.”

Rumi

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Robert H. Treman, a graduate of Cornell University as well as a trustee, purchased land in the Enfield Falls area to protect the natural environment and improved the property by planting over 1,000 trees. By 1920, Robert and his wife, Laura, donated 1,110 acres of land to New York State to be called Enfield Glen Reservation.  It was renamed Robert H. Treman State Park in memory of Treman’s altruistic and environmentally conservative leadership.  It is through these awakened conscious philanthropic contributions that the beauty and wonder of the Finger Lakes Region has been preserved.

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©Loriginal Designs

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©Loriginal Designs

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©Loriginal Designs

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In such a challenging era during the 1930’s -1940’s the Civilian Conservation Corps provided opportunities to create such wonder for future generations.  Their contributions of hard work created timeless wonders preserved for future generations.  It is now our turn to act.  Our environment is crying out to be honored and respected, taken care of and nurtured back to pristine purity.  To be cleansed of toxins and allowed to breath clean, fresh air.  To have tees allowed to live through their life span, how many years that may be. To demand alternative sources of clean energy by using the tides, the sun, the wind and allowing for our lands to be restored.  To dredge out and clean up our waterways honoring water as it is our sacred liquid, without it, we will perish. To work together with our wildlife and creating ways that we can co-exist and share this wondrous Gaia that has been given to us as a Gift.

Daniel 3:57-82 (excerpts)

“Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, Praise and exalt him above all forever.  Angles of the  Lord, Bless the Lord; You heavens, Bless the Lord; All you waters above the heavens, Bless the Lord; All you hosts of the Lord, Bless the Lord; Sun and Moon, Bless the Lord; Stars and Heaven, Bless the Lord; Every shower and dew, Bless the Lord; All you winds, Bless the Lord; Fire and heat, Bless the Lord; Cold and chill, Bless the Lord; Dew and rain, Bless the Lord; Frost and chill, bless the Lord; Ice and snow, bless the Lord; Nights and days, Bless the Lord; Light and darkness, Bless the Lord; Lightning and clouds, Bless the Lord; Let the earth bless the Lord; Mountains and hills, Bless the Lord; Everything growing from the earth, Bless the Lord; You springs, Bless the Lord; Seas and rivers, Bless the Lord; You dolphins and all water creatures, Bless the Lord; All you birds of the air, Bless the Lord; All you beasts, wild and tame, Bless the Lord; You sons and daughters of men and women, Bless the Lord.”

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My Near Death Journey

My life came to a startling halt when a large truck smashed into the driver’s side of my small car. The impact crunched my vehicle like aluminum foil. The initial force thrust my seat to the passenger’s side of the vehicle. Rescue workers used the jaws-of-life to extract me from the wreckage. Notified of the accident, my husband sped wildly to the hospital.

The accident resulted in extensive swelling to the left side of my brain, broken ribs and a collapsed lung, and lower back injuries. Being in good physical condition at the time of the accident, I was spared internal injuries.

The doctors stated to family that if I did not regain consciousness and the brain’s swelling continued, they would have to operate to relieve the pressure. Brain damage or neurological impairments were possible.

Family remained at my bedside, hoping that I would regain consciousness. While friends and family prayed for me, my spirit traveled to a vividly colorful yet familiar place – my grandparents’ house (both had passed away prior to the accident). Their environment was lucid, tranquil, appreciative and loving. All the flowers, environment and people radiated this intense saturation of love and communicated telepathically.

In this dreamlike encounter, I was again an animated child of five soaring on my favorite swing set. Grandpa was close-by working in his garden. Grandma was on her way to walk the grassy, wooded trail along the creek that Grandpa kept neatly manicured. For prayer time, she referred to it as her rosary path. As I stood at the base of the rosary path next to the St. Francis statue surrounded by roses, I was no longer a child of five but a woman. As Grandma looked down to me from her path, she asked me to come with her in her strong Czechoslovakian accent. In a melancholy yet courageous voice I told her that I had to go now.

Was God asking me to stop long enough to take a good look at myself and realize how much I had to be thankful for NOW, in the PRESENT MOMENT? I truly believe that in my race to be more, do more, and become more, I had somehow quit appreciating who I already was.

After responding to Grandma’s question, I awoke from the coma. Family stood in front of the bed, looking down at me, indebted to God that I had finally regained consciousness.

The hospital released me the following Saturday into a disorienting, foggy existence. I did not know who I was anymore and felt like a puzzle whose pieces had been scattered. Could I put myself back together again? Were all the pieces still there?

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13, NAS) became a scripture I memorized together with, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24, NIV).

God/Source had always been the center focal point in my life, yet I began realizing what it meant by “letting go and letting God,” which lightened my perspective and allowed me to rise above my emotions to a place of spiritual enlightenment.

Before the accident, I’d felt like a clear glass jar full of vitality and love. Being an avid runner, bicyclist, canoeist, and x-country skier, I had an active lifestyle. Playing the piano, sewing up clothes, painting pictures, and reading were other hobbies I enjoyed.

After the accident, I was a smoke-colored glass jar that was empty. A stretched optic nerve resulted in double vision. I would often say things backward or stop mid-sentence. My short-term memory and concentration decreased, so I wrote everything down to remember. Opposite behavior qualities emerged, including introversion, moodiness, and irritability.

A fatigue emerged that made me feel like I was asleep even when awake. I experienced “sensory overload,” which made concentrating on the immediate task difficult. I was experiencing symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. My relationships with those closest to me went under quite a strain.

People often said I looked fine, not knowing the distress that lurked in the depths of my soul because the injury was INTERNAL, not external. Yes, I was extremely grateful that I had not been disfigured, but injury occurs on the inside, too. This simply reemphasized to me, “For the Lord sees no as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord look on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, RSV).

Since my friends and family lacked insight regarding head trauma, this made me draw closer to God because He could understand all my needs.

Looking back in my previous journal writings, I sensed an urgent need to bond with God and know and love myself. Using this convalescing time, I was being given a second chance to appreciate and reclaim those qualities that were still available to me.

“…that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28, RSV).

I practiced the piano to increase concentration skills, painted, and began to read and record my voice to re-learn concepts. Living on the boat, bicycling along the country roads, and sketching summer scenes brought renewed vitality.

Now, 26 years later, this clairvoyance, peace, and love empower my life with inner knowing and joy.

– See more at: http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232#sthash.9nuzq95R.dpuf

http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232

Arrowhead Parable Book Signing!

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Arrowhead Parable Christian Store Book Signing

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Julie C. Tedesco, Rob Nearing (Calvin J. Boal), Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (L.D. Marchell)

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“London Calling Jesus”

Author:  Julie C. Tedesco

 

“St. George’s Cross and the Siege of Fort Pitt:  Battle of Three Empires”

“Valiant Warrior:  Knight of the Third Crusade”

“Last Run of the Whisperer”

Author:  Calvin J. Boal

 

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

Author:  L.D. Marchell

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“Sharon Whalen and L.D. Marchell:  my fourth grade teacher from MacArthur School!”

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“Visit from my friend Lisa!”

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“Thank you to Arrowhead Parable Christian Store and everyone who visited the book signing!”

©Loriginal Designs

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chert Dog’s First Television Interview!!!

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“Doghead is pretty easy to learn, you just have to speak from the heart.”

L.D. Marchell “My Father’s Greatest Gift:

Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

As some of you may know, I promised Chert Dog that I would get his story of unconditional love and forgiveness published, but that I would also promote it so that his mission and purpose would spread across the world. Today was “his” first television interview with Kara Conrad, producer and host on WBNG -TV CBS Channel 12 News featured in “Around the Tiers” segment aired Monday – Friday from 12:15- 12:30 pm. As synchronicity would have it, my booth at Otsiningo Park’s “All Paws for a Cause Dog Walk” is how this interview came about! Following is the link to the interview. Enjoy!

http://www.wbng.com/story/36115984/local-author-talks-book-my-fathers-greatest-gift

Local author talks book, “My Father’s Greatest Gift”

http://www.wbng.com

“Like” Kara Conrad on Facebook and “Follow” her on Twitter.

Chert was an old soul, and his charisma attracted all the children in the neighborhood including his female girlfriend, Syria, a Sassy White Bichon who just happened to live across the street! Chert had two loves, for his stomach it was PIZZA! And for his heart it was Syria! His favorite time of year was Halloween when everyone would come to visit HIM (or so he thought)! His last year with us, it was a prerequisite from all of the trick-or-treaters that they had to pet the dog first before they got a treat! I will always remember the magic and wonder Chert brought to my heart and am much blessed to have known, loved and to have been loved by such an altruistic angel in furry clothing!

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©WBNG TV CBS Channel 12 Kara Conrad Host/Producer “Around The Tiers”

©Loriginal Designs

A Loriginal Piano Composition: “C-13 Sonata”

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Throughout the creative process, I paint pictures, write stories, take photographs and compose music which all interweave into the tapestry of my life.  Though viewing the process from the underside with all the loose threads it appears to be quite a mess, the passion within is determined to interweave all the colorful threads to behold a brilliant gift from the Universe!

This copyrighted piano composition is inspired by 1 Corinthians 13  and spans my life journey.  When my beloved Mother passed, Dad  had this engraved on their stone:

“A hug, a smile, a kiss, fond memories of a lifetime”

(Posted on You Tube as well as on my blog’s Piano, Art and Photography tab, with some of my artwork, photography and family photos to go along with the music).

Enjoy!

“Cities” Live Other Ear Video

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“The Power of Positive Thinking”

Norman Vincent Peale

“Believe In Yourself”

“A Peaceful Mind Generates Power”

How To Have Constant Energy”

“Try Prayer Power”

“How To Create Your Own Happiness”

“Expect The Best and Get It”

“I Don’t Believe in Defeat”

“How To Break The Worry Habit”

“Power To Solve Personal Problems”

“When Vitality Sags, Try This Health Formula”

“How To Get People To Like You”

“Prescription For Heartache”

“How To Draw Upon That Higher Power”

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“The greater danger is not that our hopes are too high and we fail to reach them, it’s that they are too low, and we do.”

Michelangelo

©The Other Ear – Ben Fambrough (Vocals, Guitar), Chris Carlsen (Vocals, Bass), Chuck Kozlowski (Back Up Vocals, Drums), Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (Keyboards) with guest musicians James Michael Thompson (Vocals, Guitar) and Rich Kennicutt (Keyboards).

©Photography Sam and Chris Kozlowski, Joyce Carlsen

©Loriginal Designs

©”Cities” Talking Heads

https://youtu.be/pmBQBYGHboQ

 

“The Other Ear” – Band Reunion!!!

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“Peanuts” Charles M.Schulz

“With God All things are possible.”

Luke 18:27

As summer is upon us, I have been asked to perform in “The Other Ear,” a band which was formed several years ago with our last gig played at “The Nines,” a college town bar located in Ithaca, NY.  The original Composer/Singer/Guitarist, Ben Fambrough, relocated out-of-state and life moved on.  The beginning of this project has turned into two gigs which will be held on Friday, July 21, 2017 at 8:00 pm at The Cyber Cafe’ West in Binghamton, NY and Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 8:00 pm at The Ransom Steele Tavern in Apalachin, NY.

The Other Ear

The band began as “The Big Ear” with Ben Fambrough, Composer, Guitar, Lead Vocals; Chuck Kozlowski, Drums/Percussion, Back-up Vocals; and Chris Carlsen, Bass and Vocals.  As many musicians know, a three-piece band is wonderful but requires additional fill-in music to allow for varied expression within the context of the song (of course unless you are a RUSH fan)!

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“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz

So then I was asked to play keyboards and hence “The Other Ear” was formed!   Being classically trained, this was quite a new experience in music playing, listening and expression – to say the least!  As well as a patience-builder for all involved who play ‘by ear.’  My beginning piano playing involved sight reading to the max which includes such repertoire as Beethoven’s Sonata Pathetique’ – certainly not a piece one learns to play ‘by ear’ with as many notes as possible crammed into one measure!

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“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz

So as I have been somewhat absent from my blogging this past month, it has been due to  time spent practicing songs in preparation for the two upcoming gigs this weekend!  My thanks to all the other band members for their support with my learning curve from Classical to Rock!  Most of the songs are originals written by Ben, with some covers thrown in by Phish (Dirt), Talking Heads (Cities), Medeski, Martin & Wood (Think) and of course, the timeless Beatles (Prudence).

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“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz

Below are a few links to some of the music.  Enjoy!

Roses Rise:

https://youtu.be/EWLMZ6PLy5w

 Shine:

https://youtu.be/bQIt0MnVZd0

 Over Me:

https://youtu.be/KykFlmSMG4I

 It Could Have Been an Open Window:

https://youtu.be/b1kr70CEudw

 Just You:

https://youtu.be/jo5rJpKzQCM

 What Goes On (Velvet Underground cover):

https://youtu.be/-Wsapzp7jDU

©Lorignal Designs

©Ben Fambrough

©The Other Ear

©”Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Near Death Journey

My life came to a startling halt when a large truck smashed into the driver’s side of my small car. The impact crunched my vehicle like aluminum foil. The initial force thrust my seat to the passenger’s side of the vehicle. Rescue workers used the jaws-of-life to extract me from the wreckage. Notified of the accident, my husband sped wildly to the hospital.

The accident resulted in extensive swelling to the left side of my brain, broken ribs and a collapsed lung, and lower back injuries. Being in good physical condition at the time of the accident, I was spared internal injuries.

The doctors stated to family that if I did not regain consciousness and the brain’s swelling continued, they would have to operate to relieve the pressure. Brain damage or neurological impairments were possible.

Family remained at my bedside, hoping that I would regain consciousness. While friends and family prayed for me, my spirit traveled to a vividly colorful yet familiar place – my grandparents’ house (both had passed away prior to the accident). Their environment was lucid, tranquil, appreciative and loving. All the flowers, environment and people radiated this intense saturation of love and communicated telepathically.

In this dreamlike encounter, I was again an animated child of five soaring on my favorite swing set. Grandpa was close-by working in his garden. Grandma was on her way to walk the grassy, wooded trail along the creek that Grandpa kept neatly manicured. For prayer time, she referred to it as her rosary path. As I stood at the base of the rosary path next to the St. Francis statue surrounded by roses, I was no longer a child of five but a woman. As Grandma looked down to me from her path, she asked me to come with her in her strong Czechoslovakian accent. In a melancholy yet courageous voice I told her that I had to go now.

Was God asking me to stop long enough to take a good look at myself and realize how much I had to be thankful for NOW, in the PRESENT MOMENT? I truly believe that in my race to be more, do more, and become more, I had somehow quit appreciating who I already was.

After responding to Grandma’s question, I awoke from the coma. Family stood in front of the bed, looking down at me, indebted to God that I had finally regained consciousness.

The hospital released me the following Saturday into a disorienting, foggy existence. I did not know who I was anymore and felt like a puzzle whose pieces had been scattered. Could I put myself back together again? Were all the pieces still there?

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13, NAS) became a scripture I memorized together with, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24, NIV).

God/Source had always been the center focal point in my life, yet I began realizing what it meant by “letting go and letting God,” which lightened my perspective and allowed me to rise above my emotions to a place of spiritual enlightenment.

Before the accident, I’d felt like a clear glass jar full of vitality and love. Being an avid runner, bicyclist, canoeist, and x-country skier, I had an active lifestyle. Playing the piano, sewing up clothes, painting pictures, and reading were other hobbies I enjoyed.

After the accident, I was a smoke-colored glass jar that was empty. A stretched optic nerve resulted in double vision. I would often say things backward or stop mid-sentence. My short-term memory and concentration decreased, so I wrote everything down to remember. Opposite behavior qualities emerged, including introversion, moodiness, and irritability.

A fatigue emerged that made me feel like I was asleep even when awake. I experienced “sensory overload,” which made concentrating on the immediate task difficult. I was experiencing symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. My relationships with those closest to me went under quite a strain.

People often said I looked fine, not knowing the distress that lurked in the depths of my soul because the injury was INTERNAL, not external. Yes, I was extremely grateful that I had not been disfigured, but injury occurs on the inside, too. This simply reemphasized to me, “For the Lord sees no as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord look on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, RSV).

Since my friends and family lacked insight regarding head trauma, this made me draw closer to God because He could understand all my needs.

Looking back in my previous journal writings, I sensed an urgent need to bond with God and know and love myself. Using this convalescing time, I was being given a second chance to appreciate and reclaim those qualities that were still available to me.

“…that in everything God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28, RSV).

I practiced the piano to increase concentration skills, painted, and began to read and record my voice to re-learn concepts. Living on the boat, bicycling along the country roads, and sketching summer scenes brought renewed vitality.

Now, 26 years later, this clairvoyance, peace, and love empower my life with inner knowing and joy.

– See more at: http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232#sthash.9nuzq95R.dpuf

http://www.tut.com/article/details/232-my-near-death-experience-and-the-power-of-love/?articleId=232

In Memory of Margaret D. Petran Mitchell Stolarcyck (excerpt)

Chapter 10: Tomatoes, Sunflowers and Roses

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Lori found this writing John had done about his mother-in-law
Margaret Stolarcyk’s halupki the day after my Master had passed.
I personally do not care for cabbage, but John just loved it – please
read:

The Saga of the Last Halupki 

You came to me in a big red bowl, thanks to
Grandma Marge – you and 25 or 30 little piglets
in your kraut and sauce. I could have devoured the
whole bowl at one sitting.
But no – I decided to portion them out over
three days – sounds reasonable to me. Three here,
four there, one snack, two snacks – well, you get the
picture.
Finally, there was but one – and a perfect one at
that. The art and love that went into making you was
quite evident. The corners of the cabbage leaf neatly
tucked to hold every morsel intact. There you lay in
that big red bowl, nestled in a bed of kraut and sauce
topped by a strip of bacon – a little lovely – maybe. A
sight to behold – yes.
And as I opened and closed that refrigerator
door my mouth would water in anticipation of eating
that last tasty treat. But no – I would save you for
later – prolong the agony.
Then finally – it’s time to end this torment and
enjoy this last treat. Nuke for a few second – just
enough to warm it through. Then delicately slice and
savor each bite – right. Wrong – the savage in me
took over and I attacked this last morsel like a pack
of piranhas!
As quiet time took over and I wiped the corner
of my mouth with a napkin, I mumbled under my
breath –
Rest in peace you little bastard – you will
torment me no more.

So, what do you think about the symbolism in his writing?
It personally speaks to me about his life in a “halupki” shell, if you
will. Intelligent, handsome, athletic and witty, with a beautiful wife
and family, yet he had that one halupki in the batch which tempted
and tormented him during his entire adult life. The apostle Paul
speaks often about this weak nature and thorn in our side. He goes on
to say that it is only through our weakness that we are made strong
because we are to draw closer to God and He will draw closer to us. I
witnessed that moment of peaceful surrender and acceptance of John
that summer while he watched the sunset. All I can say is thanks be
to God for giving me such a wonderful Master and for God’s grace
to bring peace to John’s tormented soul.

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Sisters Margaret and Bobbie together once again

 

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A Walk to Finch Hollow

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“On a day such as today, may it live on forever in your heart.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Precious are the moments that occur between the breath and warm the soul.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Travel lightly, step softly, live within the wonderment of the present.”

L.D. Marchell

“Mosaic colors of light dancing upon the trees sing joyously in the breeze which hushes our thoughts to breathe.”

L.D. Marchell

“Are dogs the angels in furry clothing which know us better than we know ourselves – our best friend for now and always.”

L.D. Marchell

“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.”

Psalm 121:2

“Only God can make a tree.”

Grandma Marge Stolarcyk

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“Sing to the Lord a new song!”

Psalm 96

©Loriginal Designs

 

Indian Summer at Greenwood Park

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“Steely blue sky against autumn’s wondrous array; summer’s reborn as caterpillars come out to play.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Just when the caterpillar thought it’s life was over, it became a butterfly.”

Author Unknown

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“Go at life with abandon; give it all you’ve got.  And life will give all it has to you.”

Norman Vincent Peale

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“Did you know that by taking leaps of faith, the angelic winds will allow for you to soar?”

L.D. Marchell

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“Timeless meanderings on a stellar autumn stroll.”

L.D. Marchell

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“To be young at heart is the joy of life’s precious gift.”

L.D. Marchell

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“As woodlands whisper and sway in the wind, the call of nature speaks ever softly to our soul.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Upon Mother Gaia we walk ever gingerly, mindful of her gracious generosity if only we pause to listen to God’s unconditional love.”

L.D. Marchell

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“On this magnificent day, may each piece of  the precious moment create the mosaic of your life.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Be ever-present with all the senses, for miracles abound.”

L.D. Marchell

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©Loriginal Designs

©Norman Vincent Peale

 

 

An Autumn Saunter Around Quaker Lake

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“The water’s edge mirrors to us the glory of God’s creation.”

L.D. Marchell

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“The reflections of our inner self become evident upon the waters’ welcoming our heart home.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Timelessness is the hush of heaven.”

L.D. Marchell

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“In flight we travel as our awakening state becomes one.”

L.D. Marchell

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“As autumn is upon us, new life is at its door. Rejoice in its glorious finale, unencumbered now to soar.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Golden yellows and brilliant burgundy accents upon us now; as only the Master Artist could envision somehow.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Only God can make a tree.”

Grandma Marge Stolarcyk

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“Our adventure to awakening’s pathway is the journey to the heart.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Being open to all of our heightened senses, living presently in the moment, relishing the gift of life.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Let there be a world to see, let it be of inspiration. Let there be a world to see, let it be of God’s creation.”

John V. Marchell

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“In quietness and calmness we release and welcome all that is our connection to Mother Gaia.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Through all of life’s twists and turns, it is the colorful, blissful treasured moments that ignite passion of the soul.”

L.D. Marchell

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“Now abideth these three things: Faith, Hope and Love. And the greatest of these is Love.”

1 Corinthians 13:13

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“Memories of childhood laughter echo as the water softly lapping into shore, recalling summer fun and hearts overflowing joy.”

L.D. Marchell

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“To the revitalizing waters we are drawn, as if it holds for us all the answers we seek; Tranquility is its messenger as it renews our mind, body and soul.”

L.D. Marchell

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©Loriginal Designs

©John V. Marchell

©Margaret D. Stolarcyk

Quaker Lake, Pennsylvania

Live Music From The Other Ear!!!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

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“God will supply all of our needs according to His riches in glory.”

Philippians 4:19

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“Cast all your cares on ME.”

1 Peter 5:7

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“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In All your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

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“We know that All things work together for them that love God, to them that are called according to His Purpose.”

Romans 8:28

Thank you to Ransom Steele Tavern, Cyber Cafe West, family, friends and guests for making The Other Ear’s Reunion weekend of music a memorable experience for everyone!

First recording of the end of “Dirt” cover written by Phish is posted below the credits taken from Ben Fambrough’s You Tube channel.

©The Other Ear:

Ben Fambrough (lead vocals, guitar); Chuck Kozlowski (drums, back-up vocals); Chris Carlsen (bass, vocals); Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (keyboards); with guest musicians Rich Kennicutt (keyboards) and James Michael Thompson (guitar, vocals).

©Photography by Chris and Sam Kozlowski, Joyce Carlsen

©Loriginal Designs

17th Annual All Paws for a Cause Dog Walk Sunday, July 23, 2017

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons From A Black English Labrador Retriever”

Chert Dog’s Tent!

Upcoming WBNG TV Interview with Kara Conrad on Friday, August 11 at 12:15 pm

Book signing at Arrowhead Parable Christian Store on Saturday, August 12 at 11 am – 2 pm

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Willow’s Wings

A non profit animal sanctuary and rescue, devoted to caring for all animals large and small, many of which have been left abandoned, neglected and abused.  Our saying here is, “They may be old, sick or disabled, but their lives matter too.”

Donations can be sent to:  http://www.paypal.me/WillowsWings

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Willow’s Wings

Animal Sanctuary and Rescue

http://www.WillowsWings.com

Willow6226@gmail.com

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http://www.wbng.com/story/35921275/15th-annual-all-paws-for-a-cause-dog-walk?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=13505241

©Loriginal Designs

©Willow’s Wings

©WBNG TV Kara Conrad

©YWCA Broome County

 

 

 

The Other Ear Reunion Gigs 2017

“We are what we repeatedly do.  Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”

Will Durant

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“Talent is Good, Practice is Better, Passion is Best!”

Frank Lloyd Wright

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“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is practice.”

Vladimir Horowitz

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“Your talent is God’s gift to you.  What you do with it, is your gift back to God.”

Author Unknown

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“Music gives a Soul to the Universe, Wings to the Mind, Flight to the Imagination, and Life to Everything.”

Plato

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“To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.”

Ludwig van Beethoven

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“It is a mistake to think that the practice of my art has become easy to me.”

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

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“The most valuable practice aid is patience.”

Howard Snell

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“Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude.”

Ralph Marston

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Thank you to Ransom Steele Tavern, Cyber Cafe West, family, friends and guests for making The Other Ear’s Reunion weekend of music a memorable experience for everyone!

Recordings will be available in the near future from the two gigs which include Ben Fambrough’s original songs as well as cover music from such artists as Talking Heads, Phish, Beatles and Grateful Dead.

 

©The Other Ear:

Ben Fambrough (lead vocals, guitar); Chuck Kozlowski (drums, back-up vocals); Chris Carlsen (bass, vocals); Lori D. Marchell Carlsen (keyboards); with guest musicians Rich Kennicutt (keyboards) and James Michael Thompson (guitar, vocals).

©Photography by Chris and Sam Kozlowski

©Loriginal Designs

 

 

 

 

 

Amazing Love!!!

“Hope in God!  For I shall again be thanking Him; in the presence of My Savior and my God!”

Psalm 43:5

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“And He will…make you shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his Hand.”

Michael Joncas

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“Who gave Himself for our sins, to rescue us from the present evil age, as our God and Father willed – to Him be Glory for Endless Ages!”

Galatians 1:4

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“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

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“Doghead is easy to learn, you just have to speak from the heart.”

L.D. Marchell

As some of you may know, through the tragic loss of my Mom, Chert Dog saved not only my Father’s heart, but my brother, John’s and mine too!  There is something about unconditional love from an animal, so altruistic, pure, peaceful and kind.  Angels brought to us in various forms, to be embraced and cherished or relinquished forever as we are all given that chance to choose the highest and best for all concerned.

It is during these most tremulous times that we are being given the opportunity to make new consciously aware and awakened choices with our most precious gift of life.  Allow for your new preferences to include:

“…Whatever is true, whatever is kind, whatever is lovely, and if there be anything worthy of praise, think then on these things.”

Philippians 4:8

https://youtu.be/nwjTT2bqKk0

©Loriginal Designs Photography

©Bible

©Newsboys “Amazing Love”

You Belong To Me, Now and For Always!!!

“All you birds of the air, Bless the Lord; Praise and exalt Him forever.”

Daniel 4:80

On this Mother’s Day, Grandma Marge will be flying around as a hummingbird in her angelic realm for certain! The above painting of a hummingbird in acrylic I painted on one of her party dresses and used the beaded hemline to create a border around it. She was so thrilled when I brought it for her to see, and am so very thankful for the time I spent with her throughout my life! But especially during the time from when my Mom passed and I moved back to New York from California. Our relationship merged into that of Grandmother/Mother and Granddaughter/Daughter. It is these memories that are cherished in my heart for always!!!

I was with her a few hours before she passed. It was the Feast Day of The Blessed Mother’s Assumption. During that most sacred time, she emphatically asked me to put her “poppuchies” on now (slippers in Slovak), put a hat on her head now and she wanted to sit in her chair as if to wait for the angels to come to carry her home! When she had spoken with Father Tim earlier that week, she said that she just wanted to go home and be with Jesus, her best friend! I recall the gathering of birds that flew by me that evening, their haunting calls were not of common birds. As some of you have read from my previous postings, Grandma gave me a gift of spiritual stigmata on my left hand the following day of her passing and it disappeared when I brought her rose embellished urn vase to her resting place at Calvary Cemetery seven days later.

In memory of her unconditional love and forgiveness, I am posting a short video of her singing at United Methodist Homes accompanied by Ralph with his harmonica. She sings “You Belong to Me, Now and For Always.” Ya Ti Muc Muc Muc Lubiem Starinka!!!

©Loriginal Designs

The Yellow Brick Road Pathway

“In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”

Isaiah 3:15

Yellow, one of the three primary colors in an artists’ palette, it is often used as the color of sunshine, optimism, enlightenment of creativity and symbolizes spring.  It communicates our third chakra’s empowerment and is the center of our very being.  Being a Pilates and Yoga Instructor and Creative Coach, this is where all our emotional health and wellness, confidence and ability to believe in one self centers from.  As a pianist, it resonates to the letter “E” of the scale and uses sight and fire to create confidence within as music can sooth the soul.

It’s luminosity has actually changed the yellow hues of our planetary sun into a brilliant diamond of crystal prisms of dazzling white light. Yellow was my Mom’s favorite color, and ironically it symbolizes that angels are in our presence.

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“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”

Hebrews 13:2

In memory of Connie A. Mitchell Marchell whose anniversary will be this Easter, and ironically she passed on Easter 22 years ago.  Who many have called an earth angel, whose unconditional love, generosity, pure, open heart and sparkling smile radiated God’s Love, Joy and Peace and touched everyone on her Yellow Brick Road Pathway.  She would oftentimes say to me that “Sometimes God allows our hearts to be broken so that He can beautify our souls.”   Sunflowers are one of the many things which remind me of her essence and presence in my life.  I do believe that these flowers cry tears of joy, too.

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“All in good time and measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over.”

Luke 6:38

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“For the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Samuel 15:17

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“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence and anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things.”

Philippians 4:8

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“Love requires sharing; Sharing requires struggle; Struggle requires faith; and Faith requires Love.”

Connie A. Mitchell Marchell

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“The Lord shall open unto thee His good treasure.”

Deuteronomy 28:12

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“If you love something, set it free; If it comes back it’s yours.  if it doesn’t, it never was.”

Richard Bach

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“When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’

And bowing His head, He handed over His Spirit.”

John 19:30

©Photography Loriginal Designs

Biblical References

The Illustrious Pearl

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“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl merchant on the lookout for choice pearls.  He discovered a pearl of great value, and sold everything he owned to purchase it.”

Matthew 13:45-46

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As luck would have it, the irritants in our life seem to bring forth illumination.  It all comes down to our intentions, out thoughts, our alignment and our perspective in perceiving the various components within the dynamics of the situation one is experiencing.  Just as a diamond is created from a chunk of coal under pressure, the sandy particles within the oyster shell manifest an illustrious pearl beyond measure.

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Have you ever wondered why our intuitive sixth sense understands that these changes and new beginnings in our life are unique opportunities for enlightenment; yet the naysayers surrounding any personal new choice in our lives are determined to deter your inner knowing?  In all areas of our life, it is vital to listen to inner wisdom and take care of your heart.  Linear thinking no longer applies to our highly vibrating, multi-dimensional journey which is why there is no going back to the primitive tool set.  Our new being yearns to quantumly soar among the winds of the unknown, to explore new potentials and believing that all things are possible.  It takes great discernment to stay focused and grounded as these new particles of chaos need to be welcomed and embraced as our friends; whereby these very crystals of sand are intrinsically allowing for the deep, inner-core work we are pursuing to reveal a radiantly iridescent pearl beyond measure.

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©Loriginal Designs

“You have ravished my heart, my lovely one; I am overcome by one glance of your eyes, by a single pearl on your necklace.”

Song of Solomon 4:9

 

 

Chapter 2: Smelting (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

…Later that day as the sun began to sit low in the sky it reflected
its brilliant hues of orange, pink, yellow and purple. That is when
many people of all ages, shapes and sizes began arriving to Salmon
Creek. They had long nets and wore funny boots that stretched all the
way up to their waist! People began to build campfires on the stony
banks of the creek. There were also other kinds of Dogheads there. I
spoke out in my excitement! Soon, the sun had gone to sleep and the
sparkles of stars in the sky began to appear with a big yellowish-white
moon rising against the darkening sky. Lanterns began to turn on as
the people began to wade into the creek with their long nets as they
scooped up the silvery-blue colored smelt from the rushing waters.
Soon, Salmon Creek was filled with the lights of the lanterns and it
appeared to be BRIGHTER than the stars in the sky!…

Chapter 1: Puppy Number 8 (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

Ah, Doghead here. Let me begin by saying that from my
vantage point, things are really warm and toasty! I kept it that way
as long as I could to be a gentleman and let my brothers and sisters
go before me. And then my turn arrived. All of a sudden, I felt a
large tongue licking me and heard a lot of noises that were new to
me. Then, my eyes were opened and I could see my Mother, Parisian,
with all of my brothers and sisters! Wow, we were out and making
noises that I had never heard before! My Father wasn’t there, but his
name was Broadway Bound and I inherited his dancing abilities as
I’ve been often told!

One by one I had to say good-bye to my brothers and sisters as
they left our home to live with their new families. I wished them well.
I stayed with my Mother and her owner, who happened to be my new
Master’s nephew! They were similar in some ways – they both had
been athletes and they could speak both Slovak and Doghead (more
on that further into my story). My Mother, Paris, was very lucky to
have such a kind and dog-friendly master who seemed to always have
special things for us to learn. I think I especially enjoyed the rides in
the cart behind his tractor. Going for rides in the truck is still one of
my most favorite pastimes!

My most exciting moment was when I met my Master,
whose name is John! John is a handsome, stoic man whose firm,
commanding voice gave way to the most endearing soul I could ever
wish to have – we were best of friends from the start! John’s son has a
very similar compassionate soul – a dog’s heaven on earth, to be sure!…

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Chapter 10: Tomatoes, Sunflowers and Roses (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

John had a heart of gold and would do anything for you.
His loves were his beloved wife, Connie and her father, his son and
daughter, his brother and parents, in-laws, family, neighbors and
friends. But his most special gift was that of loving wildlife and
gardening, and did he ever grow amazing tomatoes whose “stalks”
stretched alongside the backyard garage to almost the rooftop! The
sunflowers had enormous flowers of which all the birds would flock to
for a feast! His lawn was the lushest and greenest in the neighborhood.
And I had heard from many that when Connie was alive, the rose
garden’s beauty and fragrance had a surreal appeal. You might say
he was blessed with a “green thumb” as many referred to him as a
Master Gardener. One could also note that it was his education and
training at Cornell’s Agricultural Program. A neighboring retired
veterinarian would often comment that it was the Japanese Quail
droppings. I personally say that is was his complete and selfless love
of planting, watering, nurturing and talking to the many plants, trees
and flowers that he gave his unconditional love to. I know that for a
fact because the minute I met John, I could see immediately through
his outer gruffness when he smiled at me with a twinkle in his eye
and spoke to me with words filled with an altruistic appreciation for
Dogheads like me. There seemed to be a release in his demeanor
the day that we met, as if to say that he had found a fresh start and
relief to his tired and grieving heart. I loved him from the start. He
gave me discipline, to make me a better person-I mean Doghead! He
showed me many wonderful places and exciting people to expand my
horizons. My most favorite times with him were being co-pilot when
we went for drives and sleeping on his pillow on his couch.

It was in his brokenness that God healed his spirit thought the
love of his children, the kindness and many homemade-meals from
his mother-in-law, family and friends and the many adventures that
both he and I had throughout his life. I was there to see two weddings
as he became a father to yet another son and daughter that brought
in many new family members. This brought much change for him
to deal with at first, and though reluctant and stubborn, he seemed
to adapt graciously until he had a sense of pure knowing about
him…

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Chapter 3: Ice Skating (excerpt)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

John has a daughter, Lori, who came to live with us. It’s funny
because she’s not at all like us guys. I overheard her talking to her
brother about me saying that she was most curious about me! She got
bundled up on a cold, snowy night to take me out for a walk. Little
did she know what I had in store for her! The minute we stepped
out of the front door, I was away running while pulling her along
behind me on my leash. As I ran, she went sliding along behind me
across the ice glazed street! I think she would have done better had
she clad her cross-country skis, but who am I to say? I think I’ll keep
her as my human girlfriend because she has a compassionate heart
just like her Brother and their Father. I hear that their Mom was a
really fun, loving and joyous woman. I have a lot of work to do to fill
her shoes! I mean, I have four paws, but you get the picture. My job
here is to bring some love, fun and memorable experiences into this
family’s life because it has been so broken by her loss. God has big
plans for me. I hope that He will give me direction because I want
to do the best that I can to help and as you know, us Dogheads don’t
have many years here, so we have to work extra hard at our jobs.
Sometimes, I ask my Master’s wife to give me some suggestions and
I am beginning to feel like she is helping me out here.

Chapter 4: Quail Eggs (excerpt from Chert Dog)

“My Father’s Greatest Gift:  Life Lessons from a Black English Labrador Retriever”

My Father’s Greatest Gift

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…John has found a new use for his business as a hatchery for
Japanese Quail. Those crazy birds sure can make a lot of noise –
they are lucky that they are in cages otherwise I would just have to
chase them, being the bird dog that I am! No, I would not eat them –
yuck! And remember, unless it’s covered with tomato sauce, I am
pretty much a vegetarian. Anyhow, John sells their molted purple-blue
speckled eggs to Japanese restaurants in New York City. A big
D’Artagnan truck drives up on Fridays to pick up the quail eggs.
I’ve never been to New York City, but I think it would be fun to take
a ride there. I’ve seen on television these bright red double-decker
tour buses that are in the city. I would ride on top of one of those and
see all of the sights! I think I would like best to go for the Macy’s
Thanksgiving Day Parade with all of the floats, big balloons and
music during the day, then at night for all the beautiful holiday lights!

But back to the birds…as I said, John graduated from Cornell’s
Agricultural School and has recently been working with them in the
business of quail-raising. Sometimes we go for rides up to Cornell
to pick up more quail. John has a machine that gets very hot and it
hatches the quail eggs. He keeps the females while the males end up
going back to Cornell. He started this operation in the basement of
the house that we live in, but it outgrew that space, so he moved it to
his business property.

John takes such joy in creating Easter egg baskets for friends
and family using the molted bluish-purple speckled quail eggs in
little tiny baskets. Unique, that is for sure! Can’t say I ever tried a
quail egg, though – I guess they are cooked then pickled and served
in Japanese restaurants as a delicacy. If people could see a “behind
the scenes” of the life of a quail, they might have seconds thoughts
about terming it as a “delicacy” as their lives are not any different
from that of a chicken – the chickens just lay bigger eggs…