Wether its the Emerald isles or the Emerald Coast, they both get their names from May’s beautiful birthstone….you guessed it Emeralds.  These precious stones have been coveted by humanity throughout history and its easy to see why.  If you have a May birthday this is your stone.  If not the allure and beauty of the stones gives all the reason needed to add these to your wardrobe.

Colors range from light Columbian to deep Emerald.  Most are determined by mine location.  The fewer inclusions the more valuable the stone.  In times gone by these stones were thought to have powers beyond matching a gown.  Some are rumored to be cursed, while some held curative powers if ingested.  Emeralds are so coveted they even have a shape of diamonds and gems named after them.

A symbol of unending love and honesty have encouraged favoritism as wedding stones of choice.  The Regency era in particular Irish and English girls received many.  Long seen as a symbol of hope and prophecy made them very popular.  Unlike the red ruby, a statement of passionate love, an emerald conveys a complex symbolism and emotions.  Cleopatra draped herself in Emerards.  Rich luscious green color beautifully played off the violet of Elizabeth Taylor’s eyes in the 1960’s 
While being most calming color green it  reflexes growth, peace,balance, and reflection.  Healing and fertility are also attributed to these very rare gemstone.  Verdant tones and inside are tempered by cool blue within the stone symbolize a steadfast bond.

Giving an emerald, you showing a dash of humanity.  You’re considered “green” or a bit naive when you don’t have everything figured out in life.  This should be seen as a positive when you consider your new life as a couple is defined by many unforseen obstacles to confront and solve together and learn lessons from.

Emeralds are often associated with strong sexuality and fertility, it was historically believed to help with difficult births or the problems bearing children.  Linked to healing and balance within the nervous, respiratory and even aid digestion.     Ancient Romans, for example, felt that the very soul of an individual was restored when they wore emerald jewelry.
So whether they are for your Birthday, or you just love the color I wish you any luck they may contain.

 

Don’t forget to show all the moms out there lots of love. Its one of the hardest jobs out there and there are no days off. So make sure you show them some special love.

This post was so popular I thought maybe some more information on it would be well received. As most of you know, or now know Outlander TV Series is not only a great show but, incredibly popular as well. Season 4 has come to an end. After which many will be experiencing a phenomena we have dubbed ‘Droughtlander’. Basically it describes the loss felt in the off season of the TV show. Which begs the question after this finale (extended by only 5 minutes), how do you plan to deal with the loss of our favorite Sunday evening show.

Cliff hangers in speculation. What happens during Ian’s time with the Mohawk? Does Lord John come back into thier lives soon? Will Murtagh capture Bonnet again?  Will Bonnet get the consequences he so richly deserves?  Will we see Jocasta and Murtagh find a happy ending? Don’t forget Furgus and Marseli.  How much fun will both Claire and Jamie have with the new children on Frasiers Ridge?  I’m open to any and all theories, from the books to just speculation.  Share it in the comments below. 

If you have read all the books you have at least some idea of what is to come in that version of the storyline. How much the shows writers follow that is as yet undetermined. I’m planning to try and get the reading of the books done before Diana Galabadon release the new one (book 9). Lots of fans are going to re-read the books and either binge watch season 4 for the first time or the entire series again. What about the Lord John Grey books? Several longtime fans have recommended them. So maybe I’ll read those too. So in my quest to both read and acquire the books I’ve come across some info that might be helpful to new readers like myself.  If you like this article please like and share on as many social sites as you like.

Lets start with the reading order. Diana Galbadon has published many books so finding where they all fit is important for the timeline of the story. The full listing of proper reading order is on her website, http://www.DianaGabaldon.com or the direct link http://www.dianagabaldon.com/books/chronology-of-the-outlander-series/. I have included both the links to her site as seen above and the links to the books themselves on amazon below. Simply click on the picture of the book and it will take you right to it. There are several formats available on Amazon so you can chose which will satisfy your needs best. All captions and book photos belong to Amazon.com.

Diana keeps a blog as well you can find it here.     There are countless fans around the world of both the books and the show. Everything from discussions and reviews of the latest episode, to fan art and licensed merchandise here. In addition to all this if you’re still looking for something to do there are a couple of Authors who write about both historical romance and time travel. Each of these is a novel I have both read and enjoyed. Some may already be in your to be read pile. You can find them here, with links to Amazon, for easy shopping.

While Diana Galbadon can never be replaced, its fun to have other options to read until her next book comes out. I personally keep a list of favorite authors that I check on frequently for new releases. I re-read a lot of my favorites. While I enjoy this, I find myself not sticking with it if I can quote it verbatim. I need a few weeks and couple other storylines in between. So here’s to enjoying both Season 4 Finale this Sunday night, and all the re-reads and new discoveries as we anxiously await the next book and season 5 of the show. Find great reads here.
The Outlander blog gives great insight to the characters.  Worth the read while we wait.  Is it time yet? Please post the minute we have dates for either the book or next seasons show. Anxiously waiting with you.

PS. –  If for some odd reason anyone feels compelled to get rid of thier books, there have been quite a few hurricane victims in several states that have lost thiers in the water and mold that invades in the wake of a hurricane.  I was born and raised in Panama city, Florida where hurricane Michael was so devastating.  Even though they are no longer making the big headlines please don’t forget them.  While there have been many inspirational efforts there they are still very not okay.  You can read about it here.  There are several links to reliable people on the ground there that are still trying to help those affected.  This year the freezing temperatures not typical of Florida are causing real problems with the temporary shelters for those awaiting relocation, rebuilding or possibly FEMA trailers.

My new favorite! If you’ve seen anything in this blog before you know I’m a book lover. Well I’m playing catch up. I passed over the Outlander series several years back upon encountering the books. I’m so sorry I did. The only reasons I can site are no one told me about them, and the cover art and titles didn’t catch my intrest. My sincerest apologies to the goddess author Diana Gabaldon. I saw some of the Outlander fever online, and went to look. I saw Season 1, episode 1 of the series from Starz and I’m hooked.

Time travel, Scottish Highlands,romance….what’s not to love. I saw the term knee porn used the other day and while I would normally never take this seriously, I have to agree that the character of Jamie Frasier in a kilt is a true sight to behold. I started falling in love with the depth of the characters, story line, and while Jamie is my favorite, Claire is very compelling as well.Where else can you find a WWII nurse transported back in time to 1743 in the Highlands of Scotland. There she meets a handsome, noble Scottish warrior. With no idea how or opportunity to return to her own time she weds him for protection in a world where women have little choice. Adventures ensue bringing encounters with the British soldiers of the time of great unrest in the country. I fell in love with the young highland warrior for his principles, strength of character, and okay I’ll admit it he does look good in a kilt. His character is tempered with vulnerabilities that he only shows to Claire and the reader/viewer.

I must admit I enjoyed a good binge watch to catch up to season 4. Now I have to read the books as well. The longest part of my week is waiting for the next episode. Sunday evenings will never be the same in my house. I am currently buying all of the books in print and awaiting the release of the next one too. I’ve read snipets shared online pertaining to various scenes and know from just the pieces I’ve read these will quickly make my favorite author list. Have you read these yet? Are you a fan of the show? I’ve seen the comments about the differences between the books and the show, it makes me want both experiences all the more. I’m now Outlander obsessed. I caught the fever and couldn’t be happier about it. I can happily recommend both the show and from what I’ve read so far the books as well.

//rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?o=1&p=12&l=ur1&category=pivcreative&banner=01R2KB5YZTMAPA6S78G2&f=ifr&linkID=5a8bab39fc044ad9595750e2abd1d9ba&t=jensperspec08-20&tracking_id=jensperspec08-20

https://www.facebook.com/groups/222279768543395/permalink/408381076599929/?app=fblAlso check out this great blog I found on all things outlander.

Featured photo by https://www.facebook.com/christonanderson

Michael. for most is just a name neither good or bad. I have several family members with that as a first or middle name. However, if you’ve been around a news broadcast anywhere in the last few weeks you know the name has taken on an infamous shadow that will haunt thousands for years to come. It started innocently enough as tropical wave L91 in the lower Caribbean Sea off the Yucatan peninsula.

As a long-term Florida resident we didn’t give it much thought. It strengthened and started heading north as these often do. We get regular storms brought up from the Gulf year round. While bringing some wind and rain, it’s not really an odd occurrence. Indeed this is a normal weather pattern for us. A couple of days later it intensified to a named storm. Michael. When early predictions started rolling in we took note but really didn’t consider it worth getting anxious about until it made category II.

If you’ve seen the pictures from Panama city, Lynn haven, Tyndall AFB, Mexico Beach, you have seen the catastrophic damage these storms can cause. in the days right before it hit land we urged friends and family to evacuate. People with brick homes are facing starting over. I was surprised by how many people were going to stay even those in mobile homes were planning to ride out the storm at home. I was very surprised to learn that even with all the years experience that most long-term residents have, they did not have a basic hurricane kit with essential like a weather radio. Along with posting information for survivors to help in the aftermath, I am putting the link to the supply list everyone should have and how to prepare before the storm arrives.

Hurricanes! What you need to know.

With most communications down, info was passed on thru the few working cell carriers. The vulnerable systems left advocated using secondary sites like Facebook, Google hangouts, Zello and others for both rescue officials and citizens. I am proud that most who stayed showed the best side of humanity by jumping into action and helping each other without any expectations. While some tried to take advantage, the majority pitched in to help. Many like myself could not physically travel to the affected area, we turned to social media groups to help verify and pass important information. Working with both people bringing supplies in, official stations for aid, and real people on the ground, we were able to help connect people with needs and help.

Special Thanks to all the Linemen who work so diligently to restore power to affected neighborhoods. The search and rescue teams who help save countless lives. The Cajun Navy from Louisiana. Their tireless efforts to help can never be overstated. Thank you for continuing even after official operations were turned over to the National Guard.

This is from NOAA just before the storm made landfall.

http://www.FEMA.gov

Over a month later the major news media has refocused thier attention. Good Morning America, did a live broadcast just this morning to help bring focus back to the destruction that is total and onhoing. People are still living in tents throughout the city. Mexico Beach just no longer exists. As Thanksgiving comes to us all this year we give special thanks for surviving the storm. Even with everything lost and no place to go or live the residents remain strong, hopeful and yes, this Thanksgiving we give extra thanks for our family and friends from this affected area. So as you gather for your holiday celebration, and prepare to shop till you drop, please remember the spirit of giving. While there are many who donate to charities this giving season, please consider giving to those in the ground aiding directly in this recovery.

An alumni from school started her own non-profit for Hurricane recovery. Way to go Rachel!

https://www.facebook.com/1097704366/posts/10151584809379945/

Here to help Bay County

Gulf Coast Animal Hospital

https://www.facebook.com/SenatorGainer/ 🍁I have compiled a list of Thanksgiving events that are free to our community.

FEMA

2.1.1. First call for Help

Salvation Army

Shannon Cooper Hurricane relief

850Strong

If I have missed a link to a valuable resource please let me know.

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and a host of others keep us connected. They are valuable tools to stay in touch. I love my Facebook account! With schools back in session I cherish the photos of all the children embarking on their new adventures for another school year. Family and friends alike enjoy the progressive photos from one year to another. So by all means shutterbug away. There are more photos taken today than at any point in our history. The only Question is what do with them?

As parents, you take extraordinary measures to insure their safety. In today’s world that can be quite a challenge. it seems like the news is full of traumatic events and a significant portion of these stories showcase children both the good and the bad. More bad than good I’m sorry to say. Abuse, neglect, cruelty, mistakes, as well as kidnapping, murder and a variety of others make headlines around the country both here and abroad. As these feature on even our local evening news and our media feeds I thought this would be a good time to review the tips to keep your precious ones off the news and out of the statistics.

“>

Never give personal information.

It’s the first day of school and we like to proudly show off our accomplishments. Never post your child’s name, school, teacher, or classroom. The same goes for bus information. Give to trusted family or friends directly. What you post to a family member, friend or frustrated adult can be seen on social media by people you defiantly do not want around your children.

Turn off Geotags in phones, tablets and devices.

Funny name, big consequences. Did you know that funny tag is your exact GPS location? Nefarious individuals can use this information to find your home, and even your child’s window. Every photo uploaded with these tags will create a trail of bread crumbs accessible through social media outlets of every place you go. Some also give a location history of where you have been with your phone.

Use a special password.

A special password between children and parents can alert a child to seek help. Imagine an adult approaches your child near their school. They say you parent was in an accident and sent them to pick them up. Scary right? Your child should ask for the special password. If the adult does not know it your child should immediately notify a teacher, administrator, or law enforcement officer. It’s better to have a small delay while it’s checked out, than a missing poster.

Remember to have fun while making sure both you and your child stay safe.

Do you have a safety tip? Share them in the comment section below.

 

 

Okay thought this would be a good time to review the basics as we once again face possible storms. Most items gathered here are for almost all natural disasters Mother Nature throws our way. All household members should know what to do in case of any kind of emergency, Get a plan for Hurricanes, Tornado, Fire, Flooding, some even recommend for home invasion and terror attacks. We also have a nuclear power facility and chemical plant near by so keeping current on local news is a must.

For Hurricanes we use both our local news tv and radio, as well as alerts from our counties Emergency Management. The Alerts for sevalerts like severe storms, flash flooding, Amber, and security, Active shooters, Police chase or fatal crashes on roadways. They come direct to our phones so at home or on the gowe get the information to keep our family safe.

Click the link to see both an explanation of why and when we worry as well as a great list of items to include in your kit. We rotate the food items out to the pantry throughout the year and always have stock of what we might need. We are adding new things like solar chargers for cell phones and tablets, new flood blocking water dams, new medical devices and recently added the new super bright led flash lights that are super tough and the batteries last much longer than the old incandesenct style.

After the devestation caused by Hurricane Micheal it is important to prepare.

Florida Tax Free Readiness

Hurricane Micheal upgraded to Catagory 5 storm

Keeping this ready the whole year through for us means if there is any major storm headed our way our only preperations include filling our water tanks, gasoline in vehicles and for generator, and get medication refills if needed. Get cash and a quick easy trip to buy any last minute needs, wash any dirty laundry, and make sure the house is clean so Mother Nature can bring it on!

https://jensperspectiveblog.com/2017/09/04/hurricanes- what-you-need-to-know/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/chloesorvino/2019/05/15/boxed-partners-with-grocery-chain-lidl-exclusive/

If you’re a big fan of Outlander, the Scottish highlands love romance, or just looking for a good read I personally recommend these as some of my favorites. Coffee, tea and your favorite place to read are all the additions besides maybe chocolate…

I loved this entire series. I read them out of order while I was acquiring the books. They combine adventure, history, romance and time travel. I will not accept the blame if you can’t put it down to go to sleep.

https://jensperspectiveblog.com/2018/12/11/hurricane-michael/

These love bugs are so cute. They make a great treat instead of candy for classrooms too.

Fruit cups or even applesauce, pipe cleaners, craft paper and/or pompoms, black Sharpie marker, glue, and googly eyes, will make these the talk of the town. Church groups, classroom exchanges, family gifts it makes for a sweet treat without the candy.

Almost too cute to eat!

I found these adorable treats through Pintrest, while searching for things my 6 yr old niece could make for her classmates.

This site has an abundance of cute simple projects kids can do. Make sure you check out some of the other neat crafts she has.

Kid Friendly Things to do