Writer

The Christmas Truce of 1914
by Ann Godette

    One chilly night on Christmas Eve of 1914 during the first World War, German troops near Ypres, Belgium put decorations in their trenches.  The Christmas truce is the unofficial cessation of aggression between the German and British Troops on Christmas Eve of 1914.  The Germans began by placing candles on trees. Then they began to sing ” Stille Nacht” (Silent Night), and the British troops responded in kind with the song in English.
The singing from both sides of “No Man’s Land” grew louder. They yelled Christmas greetings to one another. This was followed by the Germans and British stepping across “No Man’s Land” to exchange gifts.  The gifts were cigarettes, chocolate, jam, and whiskey. The artillery fell silent after being at war so ferociously for so long. The deaths suffered by the English were almost 1 million.  German deaths were almost double with 2.5 million. It was a silence both the Germans and British needed, especially that Christmas Eve night.  These were brave men.  Formerly enemies , but brought together by Christmas halfway around the world. They were allowed to retrieve the fallen soldiers. They had a proper burial and soldier from both sides attended it.  The 23 Psalm was read :  The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. He leadeth me in the path of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.  The dead were mourned.  This was a rare opportunity for all to take what they had been given that night.
The Christmas  truce spread across the other lines of the military.  Football land soccer matches were played that night. The truce lasted throughout Christmas night and in some places up until New Year’s Day.

    One soldier from the British Expeditionary Force wrote a letter about that night. He told his story in this letter he penned.  This letter sums up the Christmas Truce of 1914 between the Germans and the British forces.  Kind greetings, Christmas songs, games and delicious food were shared by enemies.  “Peace on Earth Goodwill toward Men”  was true that night.  We all have a lesson to learn about peace on earth.  These letters cans be enjoyed for a lifetime by us all.

 My Dear Mater,

    This will be the most memorable Christmas I’ve ever spent or likely to spend: since about tea time yesterday I don’t think there’s been a shot fired on either side up to now. Last night turned a very clear frost moonlight night, so soon after dusk we had some decent fires going and had a few carols and songs. The Germans commenced by placing lights all along the edge of their trenches and coming over to us - wishing us a Happy Christmas etc. They also gave us a few songs etc. so we had quite a social party. Several of them can speak English very well so we had a few conversations. Some of our chaps went to over to their lines. I think they’ve all come back bar one from ‘E’ Co. They no doubt kept him as a souvenir. In spite of our fires etc. it was terribly cold and a job to sleep between look out duties, which are two hours in every six.

     First thing this morning it was very foggy. So we stood to arms a little longer than usual. A few of us that were lucky could go to Holy Communion early this morning. It was celebrated in a ruined farm about 500 yds behind us. I unfortunately couldn’t go. There must be something in the spirit of Christmas as to day we are all on top of our trenches running about. Whereas other days we have to keep our heads well down. We had breakfast about 8.0 which went down alright especially some cocoa we made. We also had some of the post this morning. I had a parcel from B. G’s Lace Dept containing a sweater, smokes, under clothes etc. We also had a card from the Queen, which I am sending back to you to look after please. After breakfast we had a game of football at the back of our trenches ! We’ve had a few Germans over to see us this morning. They also sent a party over to bury a sniper we shot in the week. He was about a 100 yds from our trench. A few of our fellows went out and helped  to bury him.

    About 10.30 we had a short church parade the morning service etc. held in the trench. How we did sing. ‘O come all ye faithful. And While shepherds watched their flocks by night’ were the hymns we had. At present we are cooking our Christmas Dinner! so will finish this letter later.

    Dinner is over ! and well we enjoyed it. Our dinner party started off with fried bacon and dip-bread: followed by hot Xmas Pudding. I had a mascot in my piece. Next item on the menu was muscatels and almonds, oranges, bananas, chocolate, etc followed by cocoa and smokes. You can guess we thought of the dinners at home. Just before dinner I had the pleasure of shaking hands with several Germans: a party of them came 1/2way over to us so several of us went out to them. I exchanged one of my balaclava for a hat. I’ve also got a button off one of their tunics. We also exchanged smokes etc. and had a decent chat. They say they won’t fire tomorrow if we don’t so I suppose we shall get a bit of a holiday - perhaps. After exchanging autographs and them wishing us a Happy New Year we departed and came back and had our dinner.

    We can hardly believe that we’ve been firing at them for the last week or two - it all seems so strange. At present its freezing hard and everything is covered with ice.

There are plenty of huge shell holes in front of our trenches, also pieces of shrapnel to be found. I never expected to shake hands with Germans between the firing lines on Christmas Day and I don’t suppose you thought of us doing so. So after a fashion we’ve enjoyed? our Christmas. Hoping you spend a happy time also George Boy as well. How we thought of England during the day. Kind regards to all the neighbors.

    With much love from Boy.

The top designers in the world are a cut above the rest. The fashion world abounds with new and fresh designers that are making a name for themselves. These are from everywhere and have demonstrated style and elegance with every creation. As the models come down the runway and you watch them turn and walk away. You see the beautiful dresses come alive in front of your eyes. Each one has it’s own special strengths for making women looking more elegant and beautiful. The runway fashion shows are in Paris, New York, London, Milan, Singapore, Sydney, and Tokyo. The work of Cristobal Balenciaga was shown. He is originally from Spain but has been living in Paris for seven years. His favorite thing is experimenting with tiers of fabric, and frequently uses taffeta. His client, ”Mona von Bismark” was pictured in a strapless gown in two tones of grey velvet and taffeta with cuffed decolletage. His continuous success with extraordinary ideas in fashion keep him on top of the game. 1. Stella McCartney is the daughter of a superstar and new to the fashion stage. She has shown us what talent and hard work can do. Her gray sleeveless 3/4 length gown with plunging neckline and trounce skirt are an example of where her creativity can lead. She is a winner who meets every challenge she faces. 2. Alexander McQueen has been known for his theatrical influence in his work as well as being and on the edge and has new ideas. His strong uses of color and raw fashion has made him famous as a couturiers. Everything he creates is beautiful and a must for every woman. 3. Donatella Versace was born in Calabria Italy. She has taken over the late brother’s, Gianni Versace’s, design house. It has a reputation of greatness that hasn’t faded over the years. Her fashions are elegant and provocative with great lines. She and her brother have a shared fashion interest and we love what she does. 4. Marc Jacobs had a line this year inspired from the 60's housewives that were very feminine and a desirable. He is an very talented designer and his style is original. 5. Betsey Johnson hails from New York where her fashion flare for the edgy and bold creations took root. They are brilliant and fun styles that most women would love to wear. Her styles are loaded with flare and plenty of boldness. 6. Ralph Lauren was in the army initially then studied business science. He is now a top designer as a result of his hard work and unique lines such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Polo Sport, and Ralph Lauren collections. He dresses some very famous people in Hollywood as well. His talents are above board and growing. There is a style that is Ralph Lauren and it’s elegance, style, class combined. 7. John Galliano attended St. Martin’s College of Art and Design and graduated in 1983. His first fashion shown was one year later 1984. His fashions have a historical relevance that is matched by no other. He is now Chief Designer at Givenchy and theHouse of Christian Dior prize at LVMH. 8. Tom Ford born in Texas started out training to be an actor. Those were his origins but he has evolved as an awesome fashion talent that is extremely gifted. He won the Best International Designer Award in 2000. He is now the Creative Director for Gucci, and the Creative Director for Yves Saint Laurent. 9. Valentino Garavani is originally from Voghera Italy, the same country as Donatella Versace. Even though they share the same country of origin, there are differences between the designs they create. He is know for dressing very famous leading ladies such as Julia Roberts, and Elizabeth Taylor. The red carpet in Hollywood is full of women and stars wearing his designs. He is known as the King of Elegance. These are some of the hottest designers and known by name: Cristobal Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Donatella Versace, Marc Jacobs, Betsey Johnson, Ralph Lauren, John Galliano, Tom Ford, and Valentino Garavani. They have an eye for line and detail. A woman’s curves are made into fitted bodices and silky fabric. Along with this they know what a woman needs. The models and designers work hand in hand for that perfect fit. They are working to fulfill the vision of the designer. It’s vision is shown to everyone on the runway. It erupts in loud applause from the audience. They give the clothes certain colors and textures. They sculpt a women’s body into a beautiful piece of art that will be admired forever. These designers keep us wanting more and more!

After the long cold winter it’s time to refresh our homes with new spring colors. Most of this decorating advice is easily done by anyone. Decorating your home cam be an intimidating, at first. We don’t live with Martha Stewart. Everyone like the spring decorations and flowers. But to get those done at your house is another mountain to climb. So these spring tips are for you. Colors - Use lighter colors - Remove heavy drapes - Put up sheers Rugs - Light cotton - Remove dark rugs Change Flowers - Remove old flowers - Put fresh flowers with bright colors - Put green plants Decorate the Porch - Remove old planters -Add light pots with fresh flowers -Add some chairs and table - Use light floral fabric for the tablecloth Fireplace - Remove old plant - Put bright silk flowers - Folding Screen with light floral over the front - Potted plants on each side of fireplace with greenery Tables, Walls, and Beds - Sheer fabrics - Sheer bed skirts - Sheer curtains - Sheer pillows Front Door - Clean front steps - Clean and repaint - Floral wreath on door - Potted planter with bright flowers on each step These are some quick tips to help get your house into spring with flare. The use of light colors, sheer fabric for bed skirts, curtains, and pillows will get your home dazzling with color. Remove the old dark colors and accessories. Do a spring cleaning and change you home decor along with the new season. All it takes it are fresh new ideas and flowers. Get plenty of the light pots to put them in. Use lighter colored flowers or a mixture of dark purple, yellow, pink, and white. Always remember that the flower height should be even or varied. If you want the flower height varied: it is shortest in the front and tallest in the back. The flower height should have tall medium and short. This has an very attractive appearance. All landscapers use that flowers height when they do lawns. The spring decorating tips are really for beginners. They are full of wonderful ways to bring a spring into your home with beautiful sheep fabrics, garden pictures, light pots and rosy bouquets of flowers that look light and airy. These are our tips to get our home that way.

STEADILY DECREASING NUMBERS OF WOMEN IN TECH CAREERS By Ann Godette In World War II, while the men were out fighting, women came into the workforce in increasing numbers out of necessity. In 1940, 43 % were working women and that number jumped to 62% in 1944. Earlier, they were thought to be unsuited for science and technology fields. But they excelled at these positions once women were given an opportunity. They were responsible for manufacturing ships of all sizes, guns and ammunition. Along with that, there were women mechanics, welders, test pilots, and many worked in factories all over the United States. The need was great and so was their response to it. After the war many were fired to make way for the returning veterans. But most became mothers and married, which ended their positions. Some returned to clerical positions only. But today, in science and engineering fields of work, computer science has declined since 1993. Out of a high of 35% in 1984 and compare that with only 27.5% in 1994 of women receiving bachelor-level degrees in Computer Science. While this is a truly disturbing fact, we need to think for a moment, what has changed in our world to make this happen? The girls and women pursuing technical careers needs to be a growing number. One step towards this process is to access the schools and present computers and science in a fun way. The Center for Women and Information Technology in Baltimore, MD have a Computer Mania Day held for 500 middle school students. They encourage the girls interest in Science and Technology through different technology-focused activities. This is a way to introduce the children to these classes. It will have a positive effect for the future. That way, the focus of school children for science and computers gains a greater foothold. Another way of increasing the number of women going to get technical degrees is through scholarships and grants. Most corporations have funding in their yearly budgets that cover grants and scholarships that are awarded. In the state of Illinois the governor announced $202,000 in grants going to Chicago students and teachers for the field of biotechnology. As a result of more funding, programs such as The Center for Women and Information Technology (CWIT), located in Baltimore County, Maryland. have a mission to improve these careers in technology by offering schooling to women in particular. On Thursday, May 25th, six seniors received their diplomas in downtown Baltimore. Many also received additional honors. These graduates were offered positions of employment with Baltimore Gas and Electricity, General Electric, and Northrop Grumman. These are also great examples of women who take a leading role in their education. In the book “Marie Curie” by Susan Quinn, the life of this Nobel Prize winner for the discovery of radium and polonium is thoughtfully written. She was born Marie Sklodowska on November 7,1867 in Poland. She went to school in Paris and almost all of her classmates were men. But she never took notice of it. Frenchwomen also had difficulty entering their own universities than foreign women did. There were stereotyping that existed at that time. In 1887, at the school of medicine, there were 215 women in attendance. Marie enrolled in 1892 with 210 women that were students along with her at the school. She was an very serious about her studies. In July of 1894 Marie ranked second in her examinations. She married Pierre Curie on July 26, 1895. They became a team of scientists while raising a family. Remarkably, she was the first women to teach at the Sorbonne on November 5, 1906 after her husband Pierre’s premature death. Women like her are a testament to what we can become if we show the same will. She is a shining example of the possibilities of each person. Despite all that she endured she was able to bring so much from the laboratory about the atomic process. And even toward the end of her life she suffered from the illness from radium exposure due to the tests she frequently did. And that didn’t deter her efforts at all. From a war which brought women into the workforce by leaps and bounds in the 1940's to now, we are hoping to see our women in technology careers grow. Through funding by corporations to Computer Mania Day by C.W.I.T, there has to be an increasing focus and substantial rewards to women following these particular paths to greatness. They have great starting salaries, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. And with increased education comes greater lifetime benefits. Marie Curie had some of these lifetime benefits. She was always in demand for her knowledge. So are the graduates of the Center for Women and Information Technology, and we are proud of them. The future for these women is very bright indeed.

How To Put Your Best Foot Forward On An Interview In a job interview you have to accomplish three things in order to make great impression. This is easy to remember and will give you the advantage above other people applying for the same job. If you want the edge you will keep in mind three simple things. First of all, you must maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Arrive 15 minutes early with a suit or dress with blazer. Your body language should be confident. Greet the interviewer with a firm hand shake and eye contact. Make sure you ask “May I sit down?” If you are at a conference table do not assume to sit unless you are first asked. This shows respect for your interviewer as well as respect for your surroundings. But you shouldn’t appear stiff. When being introduced be sure to use the name given such as Mr. Smith. Do not ever used first names on an interview as it lacks formality. Give the Resume to the interviewer when asked for it. This should be in a black cover without tatters. This is the first step of the interview that will give you top scores. Secondly, you must make a personal connection with the interviewer. This would be a good time to ask “How long have you worked for this company?” And listen to what they say. Another good question to ask is “What is your position here?” You can talk about their career or bring the subject to personal questions. Asking about their family usually shows your interest in them as a person. And using what you learned from them is essential. I always ask what kind of employee they are looking for and what skills are required for this job. Be sure to tell about your education. They will ask about your gaps in employment so be sure to inform them about current Certifications and skill levels as well as give them your volunteer information. Employers love to hear about your community involvement and it makes you shine brighter as an applicant. Lastly, you must get all of the important job details. How many other people are interviewing for this job? I was interviewed at a Real Estate company and she said she had 50 Resumes, and 15 other people being interviewed for the job I was applying for. I had a great interview but didn’t get the job. This will put things in balance for you and keep you from thinking that you are the only person getting this job. How much does it pay? What days and hours are you required to work? Are weekends and nights a prerequisite to getting this job? The starting date of the job and your availability if you are presently at another job. Parking fees and gas costs are also things to be considered. They will tell you if their company pays any of these costs for you. Employer 401-K’s and school reimbursement are usually discussed. These will all come into play with employer and employee relations. The last thing for you say “Thank you for you time. It was a pleasure meeting you.” Make sure to smile and shake their hand as you are leaving. Don’t wait around when the interview is over. Sending a follow up letter to thank them for the interview is always a good to do no matter what the outcome. The letter serves as a link to all of the positive things about you such as professional manners, a personal connection, and getting the job information. Agree on a date that a decision will be made by the company. If you do these things on an interview you are bound to scooped up by one or more of these companies. You’ll be irresistible!

The Best Allergy Medicines By Ann Godette Some of the best medicines and treatments for allergies are now available to all of us who suffer with this problem. With Spring and Summer come an onslaught of red and swollen eyes, sneezing, runny noses, and nasal congestion. Most people are looking for an answer from their drug store or their doctor. Substances that provoke allergic reactions are called allergens. Some of these are house dust mites, mold, pollen, and animal dander and affect over 50 million people in America today. Many over the counter medications such as Benadryl, Claritin and Sudafed are filling the shelves at drug stores. But after going your allergist they will recommend three things: 1. Allergen Avoidance: Decrease or eliminate the substance which you are allergic. The less allergy causing material you breathe - the less medication you need. 2. Medication: Using pharmaceutical drugs to block allergic symptoms This is a necessary part of treatment, especially in asthma, or severe nasal allergy. Doesn’t eliminate the allergy causing symptoms. 3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Injections): Injecting allergic substances to produce a tolerance for them. The allergist injects very small amounts at first, then increases dosage over time. These will depend on each individual situation, but some of the common drugs prescribed are Zyrtec, Singulair, Flonase, Loratadine (Generic form of Claritin), Nasacort, Astelin . These can give control over your symptoms for hours at a time. And for your eyes, Visine A.C. provides you with relief from itching and redness For most people taking these medications it is important to take it during the day so they are effective while you’re at work or school. And most people can find relief of all the sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion from what is available. But the allergy shots, called immunotherpy, claims to improve 85% of all patients in treatment. Each week for about 7-8 months you get an allergy injection which builds up your maintenance dose. Once that level is reached, the shots are given monthly for the next 3 to 5 years. By building up your immunity to the very substance which you are allergic, the sesitivity to certain allergens such as pollen, mold, dust are significantly decreased. As with any treatment or medicine there are risks and side effects. People who are diagnosed with allergic asthma, or with allergies such as sinusitis or hay fever should consider allergy shots to prevent the development of a new or more serious disease. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) reviewed current and new research on immunotherpy and stated that “We recommend that patients who have asthma discuss immunotherapy with an allergist as soon as possible.” In their conference they concluded three things: 1: Allergy shots have been documented to have highly effective treatment for allergic asthma. 2: Immuotherapy effectivly prevents asthma in children with allergic rhinitis. 3: Allergy shots should be considered in patients with allergic asthma and disorders that predispose to asthma, such as hay fever, after diagnosis by allergist. Asthma is triggered 80% by allergies in children and 50% in adults. The number of people getting these diseases each year is increasing. Along with this fact is that 5,000 deaths from asthma occur each year. With this in mind it was noted that immunotherapy could reverse this trend. It’s remains the only treatment available which interferes with the basic mechanics that causes allergies. Its noted that when started at an early age in children and in the early stages of the disease, immunotherpy is most effective in treatment. This treatment is covered by some insurances completely. You’ll only need a referral, and co-payment. The shots can be given by your doctor and you’ll only pay for the regular co-payment amount, a savings of $25. Here’s some helpful hints for allergies: 1: Keep your windows closed at home and in your car during pollen season. 2: Heaviest pollination is between 2:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. 3: Dry your clothes in the dryer not outdoor clothes line. 4: When gardening or cutting grass, wear paper face mask. 5: Keep humidity below 50%. 6: Use air conditioning in the summer with an extra dehumidifier. Avoid dehumidifier in winter. 7: Encase pillows, mattress and box springs in allergen impermeable covers. 8: Use washable blankets, wash in hot water every 2 weeks. 9: Dust collects fast, use good quality vacuum that traps allergens. 10: A HEPA(High Efficiancy Particulate Air) filter removes 99.97% of particles that pass through it.

Explore the Scenic Wonders of the Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon is one of the most breath taking natural wonders in the world. For years people have traveled from all over just to get a glimpse at its wonderful beauty. A trip over there would be worth your while. The Grand Canyon’s features are world renowned, including the 250 million year old rock formations forming from water cascading down the rock faces. These were formed from years and years of continuous changes in the atmosphere including flooding. The top layer of rock in the canyon is called Kaibab Limestone, which were formed from deep oceans waters receding. With the changing marine and animal populations came fossils in the canyon walls. Some people come to go down to the bottom of the canyon by mule on Bright Angel Trail or look at the sunset which changes into every hue of color that can be imagined or experienced by the eye. The rock formations can be viewed according to their age, from oldest which is 1.7 billion years old to newest. The Colorado River which flows at the bottom of the canyon is also an excellent way to see it. These are all wonderful ways to enjoy this spetacular part of America which is the Grand Canyon. Federal control of the canyon has assured preservation of it’s unique scenic features. President Theodore Roosevelt designated it in 1908 as a National Monument, and it became a National Park by act of Congress in 1919. Tourist travel to the canyon began in 1890, and by 1980's the number of tourists had grown by 2 million per year. Now it has more than 5 million visitors per year. One of these attractions is the Havasu Canyon which is home to Arizona’s 300 Hvasupai Indians. Their name means “people of the blue-green water,” which refers to the turquoise colored waters of the beautiful Havasu Falls. Other features to explore are the Great Mohave Wall, Isis Temple, and Marble Canyon below Badger Creek Rapids. Most people go to the south rim which is easier to reach . And on these are lodges, restaurants, and viewing points with telescopes. Mather Point is an excellent way to survey the canyon’s textures and colors which have formed over time. Along with the different sights to see the canyon, there are a number of ways to get there such as hiking, mule trips, rafting on the Colorado River, or flying in a helicopter or airplane from Grand Canyon Airport. There is also a 64 mile train ride to the park on Grand Canyon Railway. The exploration of the rock walls and waterfalls is endless and so are the wonders to behold. About six million year ago, the Colorado River began to cut out the gorge which is now the Grand Canyon. It measures 217 miles long and 10 miles from rim to rim. This magestic panorama of rock is what has been formed as a result of this action. It’s a place where Indian culture and canyons collide. One of the earliest people to gaze upon this was theYuman-speaking Havasupai Indians, who were established there long before America was established. From the North rim of the canyon which is heavily forested to the South rim which has the most visitors, we can see the value of this one in a million sightseeing adventure that is the Grand Canyon. This is truly America at it’s best!