Another year ends!

2011 is almost gone and 2012 is almost here. Wow. Time flies.

In fact, as I have mentioned to several folks lately, time is flying so fast that the pages on my calendar are producing a breeze like a fan!

As 2011 ends and 2012 begins many will be celebrating in various ways. 

Some will be at wild and raucous parties doing things that they will likely regret the next day.

Others will quietly celebrate with family and or friends playing games, watching videos, reminiscing, etc. etc etc.

Many will be working at their jobs, traveling, sick and in hospitals, or at home  sleeping.

Some will be in churches worshipping - or at home praying and reading the Bible.

What will you be doing?  Will you be partying? Will you be reflecting?

If you do decide to ‘reflect’ you might want to consider the fact that In 2011, as in all years, many many many people died and passed into eternity. 

2011 was short but Eternity!  That is a long long time.

Where will you spend it?

Perhaps you should give this some thought as 2011 ends.

And, to assist you in this thinking, HERE’S A LINK.

Wonderful Music with Harmony !

Do you remember Harmony in hymns and other church music?

Harmony is different from the unison notes (pictured here) in the now ubiquitous 9/11 songs.

What are "9/11" songs? you ask.

Well, they are 9 words repeated 11 times in unison and usually with loud snare drums.

And, alas, 9/11 songs in unison with loud drums seems to be all you hear in most churches these days.

So if you are yearning for the 'old' songs with harmony, no drums, and a message that is often better than the sermon, you will want to visit the link today that goes to a site that I happened upon while surfing.

What is it?

Well, it is a site with FREE (don't you love that word 'free') music that you can download or listen to by streaming if you don't want to download.

The site says it is "Providing a Heritage of Decidedly Godly Christian Music."

And, after listening to one song (O Worship the King) by streaming, it seems their description is accurate.

It is definitely not a 9 / 11 song and has beautiful harmony.

So, if you like harmony and songs with a real message, check out this link. It is likely going to be a 'keeper' in your bookmarks.  HERE'S THE LINK

How a Tornado saved Washington D.C.

As you are likely well aware, there have been several severe Tornado outbreaks in recent years including the tornadoes that came through our area at DIT.

So, you might say that 'tornadoes are on our mind'.

Some places seem to be more prone to tornadoes than others while in other areas of the country tornadoes are rather rare.

For instance, how often have you heard about tornadoes occurring in Washington, D.C. ?

Not often, you say.  And you are correct.

In fact, according to Dr. Forbes, the severe weather expert at the Weather Channel, there have only been 9 tornadoes in Washington D.C. since 1814.  

You can view his very interesting chart depicting when these tornadoes occurred by CLICKING HERE.

Wow. Only 9.  Now that IS rare.

But what is even more interesting is that one of those tornadoes, the one that occurred in August of 1814, actually saved Washington D.C.

Saved it?  How can a tornado save something?

Wellllll, glad you asked. 

A friend of DIT called tonight and told us about a very interesting article on the Smithsonian.com website that explains what happened.

We think you will be excited and interested in finding out how the tornado of 1814 actually saved Washington DC. HERE'S THE LINK

More Christmas Music

Wow.  A friend of DIT found this music and sent the link. Thanks, friend.

What is it this time and why are you still posting Christmas music? you ask.

Well, I know that Christmas is over but Christmas music is wonderful all year long.

And this music is not only Christmas-ee but the instrument and the player are most unusual.

Have you ever heard a carillon? Do you know how it is played?

I have heard the carillon at Stone Mt. Park in Georgia but have only heard it from a distance and had no idea what it really looks like.

Though the carillon played here is not at Stone Mountain Park but in Pittsburg and it seems to be a mobile one rather than permanent, still it is typical of what one would look and sound like.

This 4 minute 27 second video gives a close up view of the carillon and the unusual artist, cast in bronze, as he plays. HERE'S THE LINK

The Spirit of Christmas Continues

Christmas Day is over and it is now the day after.

But the Spirit of Christmas lives on.

A friend sent this link to another 'flash mob' singing Christmas carols.

This time it was in the South Bay Galleria in Redondo Beach.

So, sit back, relax, and sing along with the folks in this 5 minute 37 sec. video.  HERE'S THE LINK

Listen to Handel's Messiah

It is not Christmas unless and until I hear Handel’s Messiah. Perhaps you feel the same way.

If you do. And, if you have not yet heard it this Christmas season, then you will want to listen to this.

NPR (National Public Radio) has on its website the complete Oratorio that was recorded a few years ago by the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia.

It is 1 hr. 57 minutes in length including a short advertisement for some other recording or whatever (which seems to be the thing websites do before they let you hear their content these days) and comments by several musicians and commentators that precede the actual performance.

All of that preliminary stuff takes about 9 minutes. Then the program begins.

So, even if you can no longer find a performance of the Messiah in your ‘neck of the woods’ (I can’t), then, thanks to high speed internet, we can still enjoy the beautiful inspiring, God-honoring music of Handel’s Messiah.

HERE'S THE LINK and when you get to that page, you will see a little link at the top of the page just above the picture. The little link says “Listen: Handel’s Messiah." Click on that and you will get it.

If you can't find that little link to click, then TRY THIS

Twas the Night Before Christmas

You know the familiar refrain:

Twas the night before Christmas
And all through the house
Not a creature was stirring
Not even a mouse….

But is that what Christmas is about?  About santa and gifts and …

Of course not.

So, what really happened on Christmas long long ago?

To hear a insightful audio explanation by Dr. Chuck Missler, HERE'S THE LINK and when you get there click on "Listen to Part 1"

You will probably want to listen to the other parts (there are 5 in all) but Part 1 will answer the question about when Jesus was Born. 

And, if that link doesn't open for you (The google program is acting up again), then do this as a cut and paste:    
http://www.khouse.org/6640/BP025/

Or you will also find a link to the explanation as part of the short article (referenced next referring to the origin of the various Christmas traditions...).

And to read a short article about the origins of the various Christmas traditions such as Christmas Trees, Wreaths, etc. HERE'S THE LINK.

More than a Christmas Carol

You are surely familiar with and have read the book or have seen the play, movie, or the TV version of A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens.

The picture today is an illustration from the original book and depicts Marley's Ghost.

You may or may not have seen that picture before but you surely know about Marley's ghost.

And the phrase that you likely most remember from "A Christmas Carol" is, yes, you guessed it --  "Bah Humbug".

With those thoughts in mind, you might think that Charles Dickens didn't care much about or for Christmas.

Well, think again, because, an interesting article was sent to us by a friend of DIT and it sheds new light on the author's thoughts about Christmas --

and it is not 'Bah Humbug" at all.

I think you will find it verrrrrry interesting.  HERE'S THE LINK.

The Cinnamon Bear

 A friend of DIT who has a zillion kids sent us this link.

Seems that he found it and played the first episode for his kiddos and they "loved it" so he sent it on to us to share with you.

To tell you the truth, though I am 'older than the average bear' and 'Cinnamon Bear' is a series of Old Time Radio Programs, for some reason, it never entered my ears.

Anyway, though I have not heard any 'Cinnamon Bear' programs we did have a radio that looks a lot like the one pictured in the link and we did listen to a lot of old timey programs, just not the Cinnamon Bear series.

But, knowing the person who sent the link, these programs are probably great and something you (and I) should consider.

If you have children or grandchildren, you will likely want them to hear them also.

There are a lot of programs and the 'plan' was to hear one program per day beginning on Nov 29 and going through Christmas Eve.

Well, alas, Nov 29 is long since gone. 

But, you could entertain the kids (or yourself) with a bunch of these at one time while they eagerly anticipate and await Christmas day and the opening of all the gifts.

So, without further ado, to find out more about The Cinnamon Bear and to listen to some or all of the programs, HERE'S THE LINK

Today is the first day of Winter

The first day of winter?  Are you kidding me?  It has been cold and snowing in many places already and you are saying it is just now the first day of winter?

Well, yes.

But what this really means, in addition to the snow and ice and brrrrr cold of winter time, is that  the First day of Winter means that the days which are so very short now will start getting longer. 

A big Yayyyyy to that.

This change of the seasons is not, of course, something that only we 21st Century folks notice.

Indeed, the ‘ancients’ (who supposedly were ‘ignorant’, knuckle dragging entities according to those with the evolutionary old earth world view glasses) knew about the Winter Solstice and even erected structures (monoliths, buildings, carins, etc.) to help them know exactly ‘when’ the Winter Solstice occurred.

One of these structures is known as Maes Howe (also known as Maeshowe).

Several of the DIT folks have visited the Maes Howe site and other similar sites such as the Chambered tomb of Newgrange.

All of these sites are famous for their midwinter (Winter Solstice) alignments.

IN fact, many of these sites today have video cameras set up so we can sit at our computers and see what the ‘ancients’ saw many millennia ago.

One of these cameras is at the Maeshowe site. HERE’S THE LINK

http://www.maeshowe.co.uk/

And for more information and a bunch of other links about Maeshowe, HERE’S THE LINK.

Today is the First Day of Hanukkah

What is Hanukkah?

Well, Hanukkah is a Jewish Holiday, also known as the Feast of Lights.

It is not as famous or as well known as the other Jewish Holidays such as Passover, etc. But it is a very interesting and important Holiday.

Hanukkah is celebrated for 8 days and 8 nights and commemorates the the victory over the Maccabees and the ensuing miracles during the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Hanukkah is also spelled Chanukah or Hannukah.

For more information about this holiday from a Judiasm site on About.com.   HERE’S THE LINK.

Ormi the Pig

Who is Ormi the Pig?

Well, he is a cute cartoon character who wants a cookie.

But, the problem is -- the cookie is in a jar on the top of the refrigerator and Ormie can't reach the jar.

So, what to do?

You will love the antics in this hilarious 3 minute 59 second video cartoon.  HERE'S THE LINK

From One Flesh -- Or Two?

You have probably heard many religious 'experts' propose the Gap theory.

What is the Gap Theory?

Well, it assumes there is a Gap between the first and second verse of Genesis Chapter One.

And during that time period there were millions or billions of years during which evolution occurred with death, diseases, 'pre-adam-ic' people and so much damage done to the earth that God had to 'start over' anew with His creations in verse 2.

They teach / believe this because they are trying to 'adapt' to the long ages (old earth views and  the theory of evolution) currently being touted by Scientists.

As part of this 'adapting', instead of accepting the creation of Adam and Eve as presented in the Bible, they teach variations on how Adam and Eve 'came to be'.

One such variation says that "Adam and Eve came from 'human-like beings' who lived outside the Garden of Eden:…"

Believe it or not, this view is being taught by Bill Dembski, who teaches at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary !

To read more about this 'teaching' and the ramifications it presents in undermining the authority of God's Word and Biblical Doctrines, HERE'S THE LINK

Dec 17, 1903 was a momentous day !

Today Celebrates a very momentous day in Flying History.

Why?

Well, because "on Dec. 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first successful man-powered airplane flight, Near Kitty Hawk, N.C."

A very small article on the front page of the New York Times newspaper reported the story.

Little did anyone know at the time how momentous of an event that was.

To see the paper with the story, CLICK on the link below to go first to the New York Times page and introduction:
              http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/on-this-day/december-17/

Then after seeing the introduction, click this link below to read the story:


http://www.nytimes.com/learning/general/onthisday/big/1217.html#article

And for more reallllly interesting information about the Wright Brothers and what they accomplished, HERE'S THE LINK

God's Perfect Way

Why? Why? Why?

This is the common cry of almost everyone when they look at the 'problems' in their life or in the world or of people or of things around them.

And even though asking 'why' is ok, you don't always get an answer or the answer you get is is not what you wanted or expected.

What to do?

Well, this very short article by Dr. Henry Morris has a wonderful explanation when the question Why is asked.

Check it out. HERE'S THE LINK (but, alas, you will have to do a cut and paste, since the link making thing is not working tonight on blogger. Sigh.  So cut and paste the link below into your browser:
                   http://www.icr.org/article/2012/

Or, if you can't figure out how to do that, I will cut and paste the article here below and you will know from the link above where it originated.  Sigh.  This must be really important for us to read since it is not being 'simple'.  Hmmm.

Anyway, this is what Dr. Morris had to say about God's Perfect Way:

God's Perfect Way   by Henry Morris, Ph.D. 

“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to them that trust in Him” (II Samuel 22:31).

This is the 30th verse (out of 50) in David’s great “song of deliverance,” evidently considered by God to be of sufficient importance to have it included twice (II Samuel 22 and Psalm 18) in His written word. Its testimony is greatly needed.

One of the most common excuses given by men for rejecting the God of the Bible is their opinion that His ways are unfair. Even Christians are prone to complain at the way God deals with them. But the fact that we may not understand God’s ways hardly gives us the right to pass judgment on them. He often reminds us in His word that His way is perfect and His word has been tried and proved, again and again. “For the word of the LORD is right; and all His works are done in truth” (Psalm 33:4). “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul” (Psalm 19:7).

We need to settle it in our hearts that, whether we understand them or not, God’s ways are always perfect. What He does is right, and whatever He says must be true by definition. His ways are always in the context of eternity, but we leap to judgment in terms of present inconvenience.

His perfect way is seen most fully in Christ, and His truth is heard most clearly in Christ, for “I am the way,” He said, and I am “the truth” (John 14:6). Yet Christ’s way was through the cross, and His truth was opposed by the father of lies (John 8:44). God’s way for us may also lead us into suffering and great opposition, but His way is always perfect and His word is tried and true. If we trust Him through it all He will be our buckler as He was for David. “Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him” (Proverbs 30:5). HMM

Wow. Google has a Face Recognition feature

How exciting.

This will thrill lots of folks.

What?

Well, according to an article on Physorg.com, it seems that "Google is rolling out a feature that lets members of its online social network automatically find themselves in photos posted by friends."

What will they think of next. 

To read more about this, HERE'S THE LINK

Lighthouses

Several of our friends are really 'into' light houses; many even have little Lighthouse models sitting around their home.

Others take trips to the coast just to see the various Lighthouses.

Perhaps you are also a Lighthouse affectionado.

If so, you will love today's DIT.

But, these Lighthouses are not just sitting silently by in a benign sunny summer day.

Instead, these Lighthouses are doing their job in severe weather conditions.

And, as you will see, some of them are really taking a beating! 

HERE'S THE LINK

Faith in the USA ?

There is a very interesting map 'out there' on the net.

A friend of DIT found it and sent us the link.

It is rather 'eye opening'.

What is it?

Well, it is a Map of the USA but with a very interesting feature -- it is an interactive map.

So, as you view the map, put your cursor over any state and CLICK and you will see the break down of the different religions in that state.

Verrrrry interesting -- especially since we are repeatedly being told that the USA is not and never was a Christian Nation and, therefore, the Christian God and the Christian influence needs to be removed from everything.

But is that true?  Is the USA a Christian nation or is it not?  Does the USA need to trash its history, culture, traditions, and God?

Or are the citizens of the USA being sold a 'bill of goods' and as a result, losing their culture, heritage, and foundations?

Check out this map. 

You will find it most interesting.  HERE'S THE LINK.   

Dulce de leche

Some friends of DIT are currently on a cruise. 

And almost daily they have been raving on their blog about a desert that they have eaten several times and now, at their request, their waiter is serving them nightly regardless of whether it is on the menu or not.

But they just rave and rave and have never said what it is.

So, being curious and loving food, I finally went to good old Wikipedia to check it out.

The picture today, which is probably what they are raving about, was on Wikipedia which said it had obtained it from the Flicker website.

Even more instructive, Wikipedia had this description of this luscious desert:

It "is a thick,creamy, caramel-like milk-based sauce or spread.  Literally translated, dulce de leche means "sweetness of milk". It is prepared by slowly heating sweetened milk to create a product that derives its taste from caramelised sugar. It is a popular sweet in Latin America, where it is known under a variety of names. In Chile, Ecuador and Panama, it is known as manjar. In Peru, Colombia and Venezuela, it is referred to as manjar blanco or arequipe, depending on regional variations. In Mexico and Nicaragua, it is commonly called cajeta. It is also found in Brazil, known by its Portuguese name doce de leite."

Yum Yum.  Sounds great.

If you would like to know even more about this reportedly wonderful desert and how to make it, HERE'S THE LINK

Who really is / was St Nick ?

It is 'that time of the year' when parking lots are full, stores are crammed with people, and traffic on the streets and highways is horrible.

At least that is how it has seemed to us the past few days when we emerged to do some errand running.

So why all these traffic jams and crowds?

Well, as just mentioned, it is 'that time of year' -- Christmas time, of course. 

So people are shopping, traffic is a zoo, decorations are everywhere, and kiddos are standing in lines to see Santa Claus, aka St. Nick / St Nicholas.

But who is / was St. Nick (now revered as Santa Claus) and why is he getting all the attention when the real reason for the season is Jesus Christ.

To find out about this mysterious St. Nick, HERE'S THE LINK
 

Bible Maps

Technology today seems to be doing away with paper maps.

Everyone now just looks on their smart phones and away they go following the GPS provided map information.

In fact, a recent visitor here used maps on the iPhone exclusively to come and go from our site. There was no paper map in the car and there were no notes scribbled on paper.  Just the iPhone and an online map program.

Wow.

But, as wonderful as those smart phones are, they are sorely lacking when it comes to Biblical Maps.

So, the link today will take you to an amazing and comprehensive Map Site.

No, these are not cartoon clip art maps as shown in our illustration today.

They are real maps with a lot of helpful information for Bible Students and Teachers.

Yes, these are still 'technology' maps in that they are not on paper but on your computer, though I guess you could print them out.

Anyway, this is a site that you will want to click into your favorites and use as you read and study your Bible.   HERE'S THE LINK

Surfing USA

When you hear the words, "Surfing USA", you probably think of the song and imagine yourself or someone surfing in Hawaii, California, or some similar exotic place.

But, guess what, there is even more to this than meets the eye.

What?

Well, it seems that there are now Dogs who surf !!!

No Kidding.

Alas, the surfing dogs do not include the cute prissy little dog pictured in our picture of the day, though she could if she wanted to but being an older dog she says she would rather loll and watch. Sigh.

But many dogs do surf as you will see in the link which was sent to us by an email friend.

We think you will be amazed as we were.   HERE'S THE LINK

Panama Canal

Did you know that there are live cameras that let you watch ships go through the locks of the Panama Canal 24 /7 ?

Yes, indeed there are.

Many folks watch their family members and / or friends on Cruise Ships as they pass through the locks.

It is a lot of fun and very interesting.

If you have 'done' the Panama Canal transit, you are likely aware of these cameras and have waved to your internet watching friends.

The rest of us can just enjoy the adventure and see what's 'happening'.

So to see your friends or to see what's 'happening' HERE'S THE LINK

Today is Pearl Harbor Day

On the morning of December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked.

Because of this, the US entered World War 2.


To read about what happened on this "day of infamy", HERE'S THE LINK 

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Yes, there are consequences

Those with old earth glasses and an evolutionary worldview usually also deny the literal existence of Adam and Eve.

This denial has serious consequences as is so aptly illustrated in this cartoon.

Vampire and werewolf movies?

Do you, your children, your grandchildren or friends read books or watch movies, TV programs about vampires, werewolves, etc?

Movies, books, and TV shows about vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, and other similar entities and occult 'entertainment' are all the rage these days.

And many many folks are avidly and eagerly 'into' such viewing and reading..

But is this OK?

Are these just harmless forms of entertainment?

Or is there something else afoot.

Before you view any more of these movies, you might want to check out this article on the web.  HERE'S THE LINK

Stem Cells

There are stem cells and then there are stem cells.

And they are very different in their origin.

Usually when you hear the topic of stem cells being discussed, the presenters are pushing / touting embryonic stem cells from aborted babies and would lead you to believe that this is the only source available.

But there are also adult stem cells which are "a horse of a different color".

In fact the real 'action' so far in stem cell research has not been in the embryonic stem cells, as folks would want you to believe, but in the adult stem cell research.

This is an area about which you really need to be informed and aware.

A brief but succinct article will bring you up to speed on this important topic, will explain the differences in the two sources of stem cells, and will explain why the source is important.

This is a very short 'must read' article. HERE'S THE LINK

The 6 days of Creation and Evolutionary Theory

 Are they compatible?

Perhaps you, as I, have discussed this many times with many folks.

Several of my very intellectual Christian friends believe that Evolution is how God created.

Why?

Because,through their many years of study which ended in various advanced degrees, they were repeatedly told that evolution is the answer.

And their Churches and Church Leaders were either totally silent on the topic or, if  mentioned at all, touted and accommodated the old earth long ages views proposed by scientists today.

So they believe that the scientists in their white coats know more than the Bible.

Other Christian intellectual friends, with the same education, however, still believe firmly in the 6 days of Creation as detailed in the Bible.

Who is correct?

And does it matter?

This must read article has some very interesting thoughts on the subject.  HERE'S THE LINK

Congratulations to Philip

 Wow!

Now there are 700,001 Hams!

What are you talking about?

Well, it seems that Philip (all hams go only by their first names) took his Technician test on Dec 1, the day that the article about Hams was posted, and PASSED.

So Philip is now a Ham.

Because of this, we are encouraging you to read or reread the Dec 1 DIT entry.

Perhaps you can be Ham # 700,002!

How about it????

Ham radio is the new 'in' thing!

 What is Ham Radio?

It is the hot new thing in communications.  (IPhone watch out).

Hams use all sizes of radios ranging from small handhelds like the one pictured here to really big rigs such as you will see in the article today.

Actually Ham (Amateur) Radio is not new; it has been around for over 100 years.

But, recently Ham Radio has become "the newest trend in American communication" according to a recent report on the Fox News website.

According to that article, as of Oct 2011, there are now more than 700,000 hams (Radio Amateurs) in the US.

Perhaps you are a ham, know of a ham, or had a ham in your family years ago.

You might even have a secret desire to be a ham yourself. If so, it looks like now is the time to jump in.

Even if you think you are not interested, you will be after you read the article and view the 1 minute 39 second video. HERE'S THE LINK

Another time lapse video by Dominic Boudreault

Time Lapse photography has always been fascinating to me and hopefully to you also.

And Dominic Boudreault has perfected it to an art.

This time he has done beautiful time lapse scenes of Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, Manhattan, Chicago, plus some night sky and countryside scenes.

In many ways his photography is actually better than being there in person.

So, sit back, relax, and vicariously visit these places in this 3 min 28 seconds video.
HERE'S THE LINK

Perfect Crash Landing

The video you will view today is amazing.

I am not sure when this took place but the fact that we have recently celebrated Thanksgiving makes it an appropriate video regardless of when it happened.

Why?

Because those involved, their family members, and friends are surely still remembering this event and are very thankful.

So what is this all about?

Well, it seems that CNN recorded the event of a small plane in trouble which had to make a scary emergency landing at the Fulton Airport in the Atlanta area.

To see what happened and why folks are thankful, view this 1 min 50 sec video.  HERE'S THE LINK

Whale fossils found in Chile

These whales were found in sedimentary (big hint) rock in the desert.

They are supposedly 17 million years old.

According to the article, the researchers don't understand why these whales were found in such large numbers or why they are in a group.

There was also a dolphin found -- not your ordinary dolphin --
it had tusks !
Hmmmm

The writer of this article and the researchers seem to be wearing 'old earth' (evolutionary worldview) glasses.

Put on 'young earth' world view glasses, read this article and see if you can suggest how and why these whales were found in such large numbers and in a group.

Hint…. do you think Noah's flood could have been the cause?  How?

So with that 'assignment, should you choose to accept it', HERE"S THE LINK.

Blue Letter Bible

Today is Sunday and many of you are off to Church today.

If so, you are likely taking your Bible with you as you attend Sunday School, Worship Services and Bible Study.

But whether you attend Church and Bible Studies in person or are a 'shut in' or have no Church to attend, have you often wished you could access the often hard to find or very expensive 'study tools' to assist you in your Bible reading and study?

You have probably wanted such things as Commentaries, the original Hebrew and Greek words and their definitions, the ability to find texts or words in a hurry, historical background information, other Translations of the Bible, and etc. etc. etc.

The DIT link today will provide you all those things and a whole lot more.

As you explore the site, you will be amazed at the resources it provides and it is all free!

You will defintiely want to put this your bookmarks / favorites so you can return again and again.  HERE'S THE LINK

Dogs wait for prayer before eating

Hmmm.  This is rather hard to believe.

But, believe it or not, there is a neato video of this on the net.

It was sent to us by a friend who probably didn't think it would make it to being a DIT.

But, having observed Thanksgiving this week and having innumerable things for which to be Thankful, this video is appropriate for people as well as dogs.

This is perhaps one of the shortest videos in the 'history of the world, 7 seconds in length, yes, 7 seconds.  But you will love it.

Check it out.  HERE'S THE LINK

This picture says it all

Yesterday was Thanksgiving Day. 

And during that day, this picture was taken of Baby Christopher, who, as you recall, has been home for about 2 weeks after spending most of his almost 2 years in hospitals.

Truly it was a Thanksgiving Day worthy of its name.  WOW.  

Today is Thanksgiving Day

Today is Thanksgiving -- perhaps my favorite holiday of the year.

Why?

Well, certainly because of the yummy food and fun fellowship with family and friends --

But also and especially because of how and why this special day originated.

You have hopefully heard many stories about the origin of this special day.

And you may have heard of Squanto and his role in the occasion.

Recently an article in an email from the Khouse.org eNews had a really good summary of the events that preceded and ultimately resulted in the origin of this very special and important Holiday.

And it tells of the role of Squanto. 

Even if you have heard about him before, I think you will find this brief article to be very important, interesting, and instructive.

In fact, you might even want to print it out and read it aloud as you gather around the Thanksgiving table today.

HERE'S THE LINK

Turn it On - Turn it Off

Time for some silliness.

Someone certainly had a lot of time on their hands.

Perhaps you have been a 'kit builder' in the past.

If so, then you will appreciate the work that was involved in making this interesting gadget box.

But, even if you haven't built radios, airplanes, etc. from kits before, you will still be interested and amazed at what this little box will do, or not do, or ???

Anyway, be sure to watch this 1minute 45 second video of craziness. HERE'S THE LINK

Cars in elevators

Hmmm. An unusual idea.

But, when you think about it, it might be a good idea.

Good?

Yes, because it would be hard for thieves to steal your realllllly expensive car, which, of course, is likely to be the type of car that would be in these elevators.

What am I talking about? you ask.

Well, it seems that there is an unusual apartment complex on the drawing boards.

And I thought we were in a depression or something.

Apparently not.

HERE'S THE LINK

Space station Views of the Earth and Auroras

Do you like to fly?

Have you wondered what it would be like to go to the Space Station and look down at the earth?

Yep, me too.

And now we can.

How?

Well, it seems that the astronauts made videos of the earth, auroras, lightning in clouds, and more.

This 5 minute video is amazing. HERE'S THE LINK

Boys Love Football

We have been following the medical adventures of Baby Christopher.

He is now almost 2 years old and during that short span of time has had a heart transplant, been in hospitals and on dialysis most of his life, and received a renal transplant from his dad a few weeks ago.

Now, he has finally returned home and is beginning to be a real boy.

As you can see from this picture, he is a typical real boy because "Boys Love Football".

His dad, as you recall, is a sports writer and amongst other things covers College Football. 

So, I guess you could say that Christopher has many reasons to love sports and football.

But that is a topic for another time.

The reason for today's DIT entry is that his mom has posted a very poignant article on his Caring Bridge Website.

In it she discusses some of what God has taught her through this experience, which some could correctly call an 'ordeal'.

It is one thing to hear a sermon on the topics she discusses.  But it is totally different and more profound to hear a first hand report of what God has personally taught someone as they endured trials and tests.

So, with that by way of introduction, I think you will find this mother's perspective on the events of the past 2 years very interesting.  HERE'S THE LINK

The Gettysburg Address

On this day, November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the now famous Gettysburg Address.

That was almost 150 years ago, well technically 148 years ago.

It is still an awesome speech and worth remembering:

"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. 

We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.

The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. 

It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

If you would like to know more about the history and other details, HERE'S THE LINK

Best Day of Fishing Ever

This is a true story !!!

Unbelievable !

For those of you who think this is a fishing story and don't think you will click on the link, well, think again.

It is kinda a fishing story but for you hunters out there, you are going to be amazed.

Why do I say that?

Well, seems that fishermen in Alaska saw 4 young bucks swimming in the icy waters toward their boat….

What happened next is amazing. HERE'S THE LINK

Noah's Flood - was it local or world wide?

This is a very important question --was it a local flood or worldwide in scope?

You have probably heard 'arguments' on both sides.

Interestingly, this question was not even up for 'debate' until about 200 or so years ago.

Hmmm.  Isn't that about the time that the theory of evolution began?

Hmmm. Yes. 

So there seems to be a 'world view' situation going on here.

World view?

Yes. 

Those with the old earth glasses (evolutionary thinking) explain the various rock layers around the world as being due to slow deposition of mud, etc. over millions of years and they also say that Noah's flood never happened or if it did it was just a local flood and not worldwide as the Bible states.

On the other side of the 'debate', those with young earth glasses attribute those same rock layers to deposits laid down during Noah's Flood.

So which view is correct and what difference does it make?

This important article by John Whitcomb, Th.D, has some answers.  HERE'S THE LINK

Banjo Dixie with pictures

Well, it looks like this is turning out to be music week on DIT.

Funny how things go like that.

Yesterday we had that rendition of the Messiah by a group of students in Alaska.

Today, instead of snow, let's try warm.

And that, of course, means heading south.

This time let's go to a site with postcard type scenes from the Southern States of the US accompanied by Banjo music.

You will surely find this a way to relax during or after a busy day.  HERE'S THE LINK

Hallelujah

True, It is not yet Christmas and it is still a week or so till Thanksgiving.

But, in many places we have already had snow.

And almost everywhere the weather is getting colder and the days shorter.

In Alaska a group of students have put together a very creative rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus.

A friend sent us the link with these words of explanation.

"This will warm your heart, 

put a smile on your face, 

and impress you as well
with its creativity. 

 

Enjoy the beautiful Hallelujah chorus 

while you get a view of life 

in the small 

Yupiq Eskimo Village 

of Quinhagak, Alaska. 

 

You won’t be disappointed!"

So with that by way of introduction, sit back, relax, and enjoy this amazing video. HERE'S THE LINK

Easy to make Flannel Pajama Pants

This is neat.

We at DIT know of a person who has an interesting blog site.

From time to time she posts some realllly interesting and helpful things.

This is one of those times.

What has she posted this time? you ask.

Well, she has several (make that 4) kiddos and has made some easy nifty Flannel Pajama pants for them.

But, the interesting thing about this is that she gives a step by step 'how to' (with pictures) so you can do the same for yourself, your kids, grandkids, friends, whomever.

Even if you are not 'handy' with sewing, you will find this IS easy and will save you a lot of money.

So, with that by way of introduction, HERE'S THE LINK

Reviews Reviews Reviews

Perhaps you want to go see or rent a movie or are curious about the plot of a TV show or series or perhaps you are wondering what really is going on in the video games.

Or what about music?

How can you find out the plot, story line, or if the program, music, or game is 'ok' to view or play.

What can you do?

Where can you turn for information?

Well, good news.

Focus on the Family has a site that will provide the much needed information.

It is called "Plugged In"

And they review Movies, Music, TV programs, and Video Games.

You will definitely want to put it in your 'Favorites' or 'Bookmarks' list and return to it again and again.
HERE'S THE LINK

It's Saturday and that means Football

Everyone has their favorite college football team and watches the 'big' game on Saturday during football season.

Well, if you don't live on Mars you do.

At least most folks do, especially in the SEC.

Last week a BIG game, that probably most of America watched, was seriously impacted by the Kicking Game.

I am speaking, of course, of the LSU vs Alabama game which, as the Alabama fans are likely still lamenting, was largely lost due to the missing of several field goals!

Well, while that game was being watched by millions of folks, there was another game being played in which the kicking game was also very important and interesting, not because of possible National Championship implications, but because of a very unusual 'storybook' situation.

To what am I referring? you ask.

Well, it seems that …

wait....

rather than spoiling the story for you, how about reading and seeing it as reported on Rivals.com website.  HERE'S THE LINK

11 / 11 / 11

11/11/11.  Yes, this is what most folks are considering as they think about today.

In fact, many folks are purposely getting married, having babies, starting projects, and doing myriads of other things on this 'unusual' date, 11/11/11.

But, did you know that, in addition to all the 'hype' surrounding this rare set of numbers, they comprise what is known as a palindrome.

Palindrome????

What is a palindrome?

Well, according to the dictionary it is a "noun. A word, phrase, or sequence that reads the same backward as forward."

"madam, nurses run" and, of course, the date of today 11/11/11 are all palindromes.

But, as interesting and 'educational' as that might be, there is something more important about today.

What is it?

Well, today is Veteran's Day! 

Veteran's day, also known as Armistice Day, is a very special and important day and your flag should be flying.

To learn about this special day and why Americans celebrate it on Nov. 11 every year, HERE'S THE LINK