You'll love this one...!! A book club & more discussion
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Watcha Doin' - 2017.1 edition
Thanks Peggy, it's nice to hear something positive.I noticed it is managed by The Rutgers Foundation. Is Rutgers a common name in the Netherlands?
I'd only ever heard the word as a name for a town & university in New Jersey.
Has anyone ever had Linden/Lime/tilia tea. Those are all names for the same thing. In the book I'm reading a neurasthenic drinks it "for her nerves".
Joan, it's not a very common name here.I've never heard of that tea.
I've had linden blossom tea. I quite liked it as I recall. It's good for sleep and is calming generally. I have a linden blossom essential oil which I used to use to fragrance a face cream I used to make. it has a heavenly smell but it's very expensive.
Peggy, it is tea made from the blossoms of linden trees, as in Unter den Linden in Berlin. Do you have them in The Netherlands?The English call them lime trees, in the US they are linden. I'm not sure what other anglophones call them.
Sarah, the face dream sounds wonderful. I'll have to try the tea. Proust describes the wonder of watching the blossoms unfurl in the hot water. I've never seen anything like that.
Yes, we have them :) we also call them linde tree (lindeboom in Dutch). I had no idea they were used for tea!A Dutch beer brewery located about 10 km from where I live is called Lindeboom, apparently because there was a very old linden tree where the maker started his brewery in the 19th century. They also have the tree as their logo. So no relationship between the tree and the beer itself ;-)
Joan wrote: "File under "Was that a compliment?"The checkout clerk at the grocery store, said "WOW I bet your cupboards are really organized!!", after looking at how I placed my many many items on the conveyor..."
Yep. I do that
Lynn wrote: "I AM SO BLOODY EXCITED!!!!!!!After 5 hours of queuing (and thinking I've got no chance) I've managed to snag 2 tickets to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child!!!!!"
Good for You Lynn, I'm certainly jealous.
Joan wrote: "Has anyone ever had Linden/Lime/tilia tea. Those are all names for the same thing. In the book I'm reading a neurasthenic drinks it "for her nerves"."Yes, I trunk it many times. Is light and some people find it relaxing (I need something stronger for that purpose, like a glass whisky ;-))
I think, though, not any kind of linden is good for tea.
I don't know the linden tree or the linden blossom tea at all. Interested to learn about it.
I gave an interview for one of our country's biggest news papers two weeks ago, and it was published last Saturday. When I arrived at work this morning I saw I had 5 missed calls, a text message, and an email from one of the biggest radio stations of the country who wanted to interview me. But by the time I called back the show they wanted me in was almost over, so there was no more time. Which is a bit of a relief to be honest. Interviews with a news paper are okay, I can stutter all I want and read the article before it goes into the world. But live radio? Yikes. I'm glancing at my phone all the time now, afraid that it will ring again with some other radio station or whatever that wants to talk to me.
That's a great reaction to your interview Peggy. Radio stations tend not to have much lead time and want everything last minute. Both of the shows I spoke on rang me up the day before which doesn't leave much prep time. It's a bit nerve wracking but it is good fun doing radio shows. Yes loads of people are listening but when you're in the studio, it's just you and the presenter having a bit of a chat. I think you'd do fine.
That is great, Peggy! Congrats! I think I would feel intimidated too, but my sister in law has been interviewed many times and as Sarah says, it is much more friendly and easy than you probably imagine.
I see there are a few protests planned here locally against Trump's Muslim ban. UK have petitioned to not let him visit here until it's lifted. Over a million signatures. I see there have been more US protests too at the White House and airports. I am gobsmacked at the ban. So unfair that even those with visa's and are resident aren't allowed back in. I can't imagine what that must feel like.
See this whole thing is getting blown out of control. Starting with it being called a Muslim ban. Travel is banned for 90 days for people from nations known to harbor terrorists. The 7 nations in fact which Obama already had watches on and made it harder for them to get in. This did not give Americans the right to start all out war in our streets burning mosques which has spread now to a mosque shooting in Canada. The whole world has flipped their kids right now. Largely to the now uniform title of Muslim ban. Which I expect , not saying it will happen just i expect our president , to now do the right thing to try to explain the situation better as well as warn those who are committing acts of violence against Muslim right now they will be prosecuted because this type of behavior is not acceptable. As he said it's a 90 ban while we find a way to safely allow refugees into our country. Which implies over the next 90 days they will create a better screening system to try to make sure we aren't inviting terrorists into America.
Also as I said after the elections there must be faith in the government system. We have checks and bakances. Already we have seen the system work as judges have overruled and let the airport detainees in. Presidents don't have ultimate power. I really think everyone regardless of your side just needs to calm down and let things play out a little. Here. I really feel like all those years of gridlock in Congress is coming to an end. I think the government is going to be forced to start working the way it's intended to instead of these bipartisan games they play because trump will do his own thing if they sit back. For now item #1 is stop Americans from killing Muslims on our own soil out of hate. That needs to be addressed today or tomorrow at the latest.
Of course the maib difference between this and similar bans out in place by the previous 6 presidents is it came at a time when to my knowledge the threat level was fairly low. If this had been implemented following an act of terrorism there wouldn't be so much controversy. Going into effect at this time seems like it's got the potential to be a catalyst for an attack. Almost instagating action against us.
Can't fight hate with hate. I see that as I actually saw on my Facebook feed someone say the only way to fight racism is with racism. These people are the ones out of control right now
Also sorry for cluttering up this thread but I'm trying to find the middle ground in all this. Must find the middle ground in issues instead of extreme left vs extreme right all the time
Peggy wrote: "I gave an interview for one of our country's biggest news papers two weeks ago, and it was published last Saturday. When I arrived at work this morning I saw I had 5 missed calls, a text message, a..."That's fantastic, Peggy! Congratulations on getting so much interest! :)
I think you're right about finding middle ground Travis. I think the difference with Obama though is that he seemed so much more stable and was able to explain these kinds of decisions properly so that even if you don't agree, you sort of understand where it's coming from. With Trump and all the things he has said, seemingly without thinking, in the recent past, it just seems like a much more intense measure than it maybe is. And he could have made exceptions right away (make arrangements for some groups and sign the decree a few days later), instead of creating this mess with people on all sides on high alert.
Thanks Lisa, Sarah and Sandra. I got two other radio interview requests for this afternoon, and I couldn't find a way to say no. It's on the phone and for about 4 minutes, so hopefully it will be okay. I feel super nervous already.These radio people are so persistent! From the one radio station I had 5 missed calls, a text and an email within 30 minutes on my private phone number. The other called me on my work phone and I happened to be here so I could pick up right away. And the third tracked me on facebook and sent a message there, and an email, both which I didn't see because I was having lunch, and he was on the phone just now which was only 20 minutes after he sent the messages.
Although there is no middle ground banning green card holders. Takes 3 years o get one I would hope 3 years adequate screening occurs
That's true Peggy Trump is leaving us hanging on a lot of things. Like with trade and healthcare most of us would feel better if we knew what better deals are implying instead of repeal and then we sit with nothing g waiting. Needs to slow down
Travis of NNY wrote: "Also sorry for cluttering up this thread but I'm trying to find the middle ground in all this. Must find the middle ground in issues instead of extreme left vs extreme right all the time"It is ok, Travis. I think it is not really cluttering, since all of us have been probably watching the news and being concern about how things are going, on both sides. And not only in the US, but in other countries too.
Middle ground is a must in moments like this. Things can go out of hand so fast. The actions Trump is taking right now are unfriendly by themselves. No matter which president takes these actions, I don't see a way of they do not looking unfriendly, at least at the beginning. It happens that because of his personality, and the ways he expressed himself so many times during the campaign, everything has take a different color, both in his action and in other side reactions.
I am SO SICK of so much intolerance. It is everywhere, coming from everyone, on all sides, regarding all topics, ways of live, religion, etc. Wherever you look at, you see it. It is upsetting.
That's exactly what I meant to say about Trump too Sandra :)And it makes me sick too. I just can't understand why so many people have to always think in us and them, and us is good and them is bad. So black and white, on so many topics. We're all people, and much more alike than different in the end, why can't we just accept the ways we differ? Why does that have to become such a problem? I just don't get it.
I'm sick of the intolerance too, Sandra. No one seems to be able to have different opinions these days. It also doesn't help that there is so much narcissism present in society too. It's all "me, me, me" and "I, I, I". Many people have become so accustomed to getting their own way that they don't like it when it they hear the word "no". I'm not just talking about politics here but throughout society and the world as a whole. Not a good way to live in my opinion.
Personally I've felt our safeguards are working because over past few years terrorists have been aiming towards Europe which in my mind meant they see these smaller countries as easier targets. Let's not forget terrorists are small groups they need attainable targets. They can't go face to face with a trained army and they know it. I mean when suicide bombings becomes your main strategy it kind of shows your weakness. Not to say they aren't dangerous they absolutely are. But now we're dealing with American terrorists. These hate crimes are all acts of terrorism. Nobody wins when everyone is losing
Peggy wrote: "Thanks Lisa, Sarah and Sandra. I got two other radio interview requests for this afternoon, and I couldn't find a way to say no. It's on the phone and for about 4 minutes, so hopefully it will be o..."Good luck, Peggy! Those 4 minutes will fly by, I'm sure ;)
I agree, they are very persistent!
Peggy, let us know how it goes with your interview. Good luck!
Congrats, Peggy! That is excellent. I'm sure you'll do great. Sandra, I'm sorry you are feeling uncomfortable and worried. I wish everyone would just be more accepting of other people and their differences.
Peggy wrote: "I gave an interview for one of our country's biggest news papers two weeks ago, and it was published last Saturday. When I arrived at work this morning I saw I had 5 missed calls, a text message, a..."Congratulations, wow, I'm sure you will do welll on the interviews. As Sarah says, it flies by and if your stuff isn't controversial the interviewers will help you be comfortable.
Sarah wrote: "I see there are a few protests planned here locally against Trump's Muslim ban. UK have petitioned to not let him visit here until it's lifted. Over a million signatures. I see there have been more..."Yes very sad and unfair and poorly executed. A graduate student I know was held at JFK for 24 hours, and she has a green card. Rather than being a threat, she is doing important research that may improve all our lives.
The interview went pretty okay I think! No stuttering or not knowing an answer, and the interviewer was very nice indeed :) Now I'm not so worried anymore about the other one. And they are also sending me their questions beforehand. But it is a stressful day, I don't like being on the phone and I think my face is all red and I'm sweating. I hardly did any work today, mostly just worrying about the interviews.
Travis of NNY wrote: "See this whole thing is getting blown out of control. Starting with it being called a Muslim ban. Travel is banned for 90 days for people from nations known to harbor terrorists. The 7 nations in f..."Interesting point about breaking the logjam in Congress. I see a chance there; I wonder what it would take to get Albany functioning : )
I'm sure the second interview will be even easier, Peggy because you have the questions ahead of time.
It just seems to me that he's putting the cart before the horse. I think people would be less panicked if programs were made and then integrated. This whole cutting ACA, banning all abortions, cutting funding to programs, and banning entry into the US until programs are worked out and implemented is problematic. Life doesn't come to a halt while Trump figures it out.
This has been interesting to read. I think you have hit the nail on the head Travis. If the 90 day restriction had been following a terror attack, people would view it differently and it would make sense taking the action. But there has been no threat or increase in threat and therefore it appears to have an ulterior motive. Fair enough implementing changes but surely some notice would have been good, especially to those green card holders out of the country so that they would know to either be back in the country before then or to expect delays upon re-entry. I'm aware that I am not in the US and the news we get here may not be painting the best picture, who knows. Congrats on the first interview Peggy. The rest will be a piece of cake for you especially as you get the questions in advance. That's really good. Yes the radio show organisers are very persistent. They have to work out a tight schedule. I've listened to them on phones before ringing around trying to find guests and speakers. I would not want their job that's for sure,
Peggy wrote: "The interview went pretty okay I think! No stuttering or not knowing an answer, and the interviewer was very nice indeed :) Now I'm not so worried anymore about the other one. And they are also s..."
I'm so pleased for you, Peggy! Really glad it went well :)
Sarah, I would guess that there is no prior notice because he doesn't want to give any potential terrorists any notice. I know some officials were complaining that he didn't even give the airports or state officials notice to prepare. I think he wasn't going to give notice to people, he should have at least made allowances for anyone with legal documentation so that they can get back into the country. I find it typical of him to make big sweeping motions and not consider all the details. I do not find him to be a thoughtful or considerate person.I agree about the timing. If this was after a specific terrorist threat or attack, people would have pulled together. Unfortunately, this just seems unnecessary at this time and so people are divided. Also, it feels like an attack on Muslims and is being presented that way by some media because he stated that Christians and others would be considered to come to the country first in addition to the fact that these countries are predominantly Muslim. I'm not suggesting that we wait for a terrorist attack to protect the country, but those countries were already 'under watch' and there is no specific threat from them. Plus, none of the attackers in the US from 9/11 or after have come from any of those countries, so it doesn't make sense to me to do this at this time.
Sorry about the political rant. I try not to do that too often, but I am so frustrated by all of the decisions Trump has made so far that sometimes it gets the best of me. I do have friends that think he is great and agree with most of his policies, but I'm not finding myself supportive or his executive orders. I only hope the rest of our government keeps him in check.
And the ban is off. See. Have to have faith in the government . Did I really say that. That in itself is scary. Now we can get back to repealing trade policies without one ready to be implemented to replace it. Congress has to have 90 days notice before a trade negotiation can begin and the shortest one ever was finished was 7 years
I agree with everything you have said, Travis. And Sandra, I am with you 100%, the intolerance people have for one another in this day and age is frankly depressing. I don't understand it. But of course, I am one of those (as a coworker describes it) sitting around the campfire singing kum ba yah holding hands delusional people that just wants everyone to be friends. LOL.
Oops. Ban isn't lifted but green card holders now have a blanket waiver to come in.
Travis of NNY wrote: "Also sorry for cluttering up this thread but I'm trying to find the middle ground in all this. Must find the middle ground in issues instead of extreme left vs extreme right all the time"That is alarming Travis.
The hard part for me is trying to figure out the sweet- spot between respecting differences and condoning unacceptable actions. I keep thinking of all the people who stayed silent in the face of fascism, racial discrimination, and juntas just in the last century. It's not like there will be a big red warning sign when we pass the hate tipping point.
That is the challenge, Joan. I think it's important to be able to hear other people's opinions, form your own opinions, and stand up for what you believe in respectfully. I wish more people would learn how to disagree without being rude and disrespectful to others. I'm so tired of seeing the name-calling from both sides and seeing people tell others that if they don't like it, they should "leave the country." That talk to me is unacceptable.
I can't help wondering how I would about all this if I was directly affected - for example the congressman from my district is incredibly afraid of muslims, I wonder how I would react if my child was muslim. I think I'd be a real she-bear.
Good morning, everyone! He are having heavy snow, so no school today. I am choosing a puzzle to do with my kids this afternoon. I don't want them the whole day in front of the TV or computer.
Enjoy the snowday with your kiddos, Sandra! It is supposed to be about 70f (21c) here today. Which is crazy because yesterday morning it was well below freezing. I've been dealing with vertigo symptoms the last couple of days. I think I was probably having it Sunday, but I was dealing with a bit of a hangover that day so that is what I blamed it all on. Yesterday and this morning is definitely not alcohol related though. I've taken some over the counter meds which seems to be helping some, but I need to figure out the cause so I can treat that. I'm sure it is from fluid in my ears, I just really don't want to go to the doctor's office to get meds and get exposed to the flu and who knows what else. Does anyone know any home remedies?
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You'll love this one...!! A book club & more
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That's great Peggy. Thanks for sharing. I saw the Trump headlines but i didn't know what the effects would be. Now i know. It's good someone is going to pick up the pieces but frustrating that it has to be done.