Monday 24 December 2012

You Have Been Here For Us And We Are Here For You.

Hello, I'm Einahalk, the wee child of Fidelina the beautiful fairy princess and Geoffrey the garden gnome.  You have been here for us and we are here for you.
Hello, I'm Fidelina, the beautiful fairy princess.  You have been here for us and we are here for you.
Hello, I'm Geoffrey the garden gnome.  You have been here for us and we are here for you.
Hello, it's me, your friend, Penny the Jack Russell dog.  You have been here for us and we are here for you.
Hello, it's me, your friend, Gary.  You have been here for us and we are here for you.

Some find Christmas Day a desperately tormenting and a very sad time. They are alone. Immersed in their pain.  They are invisible background spectators as they watch the happy children ride around on their shiny new bicycles. They sense a celebration that is not a part of their lives. On Christmas Day, the phone doesn't ring and the cards of Christmas past, gather dust in the back of dresser drawer.  

We can make a difference to the lives of someone who is suffering in relentless silence. That neighbour down the street, the little old lady who hardly comes out, may well be grateful for a visit.  See her eyes sparkle as you ask how she is and wish her a Merry Christmas. Yes, for the sad, the lonely, we can make a difference.

On Christmas Day, we want to make a difference. If you find Christmas Day to be a very sad time and need someone to talk to, we will be here for you. If all is well in your life and would like someone to talk to, we will be here for you. I struggle with Christmas Day and if I can be there for others, then I know we really have helped each other.  

If you wish to contact us, we will be online almost all of Christmas Day. Please take into account time zones and we might not be able to respond to some messages until Boxing Day. You can private message us on Facebook, or Twitter, or via the "About Me" section on our blog where you can find our email address.  All information regarding how to contact us are on our sidebar. You can be assured your anonymity is guaranteed.  
And young Gary.  A little boy on a pony.  A young boy full of sweet childhood innocence who rejoiced in the wonders of the world.  That young boy, now this man, wants to show much he really cares.

May you and your loved ones have a peaceful, positive Christmas.

In hope and kindness, Einahalk, Fidelina the beautiful fairy princess, Geoffrey the garden gnome, Penny the Jack Russell dog and Gary.

60 comments:

  1. Gary, that is an amazing and generous thing you are doing for others. You understand the true meaning of Christmas. God bless you, brother.

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    1. Hi Alex,

      I embrace the ideals of the true meaning of Christmas. If I can be of help, comfort, support, I will feel better for that person and feel better about myself. God bless you and all you do, brother Alex.

      A peaceful, positive Christmas to you and your loved ones.

      Gary

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  2. Beautiful post! Reaching out a hand of friendship, especially to those that are in need of kindness, is the greatest gift you could give. Bless you, dear Gary, for reminding us of that.

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    1. Hi Arleen,

      That is very kind of you. Thank you. Knowing how much I struggle with Christmas Day, I firmly believe that by reaching out and being there for others, I direct my focus on a positivity to help. My dear friend, your words are cherished gifts and bless you for being here.

      A peaceful, positive Christmas to you and your loved ones.

      Gary

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  3. Gary. I wish you a peaceful spirit this Christmas. We can always hope for a better New Year, right? I kept my feelings inside of my head.
    Forgive me but I am kinda afraid of Gnomes. But I am glad you have them and more-so that you have Penny. I have Maggie and she has make it her life's mission to bite my face off. She is getting closer to her dreams each time she tries.
    I appreciate your warm soul.

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    1. Hi middle child,

      I thank you for that wish of a peaceful spirit this Christmas. And we can visualise a better New Year. Your blog, your feelings, are being verbalised in what I hope is positive therapy for you.

      Geoffrey the garden gnome and his gnome friends, the fairies, the elves, the pixies, are symbolic of an all different, all equal world. These are wee folks and they would never wish to see you afraid of them. They care for you. Maggie, despite her mission of chomping at your face, is actually, as you know, an example of our beloved animal friends, showing unconditional love and comfort. I reckon that Maggie is trying to give you some kind of doggy kiss.

      And I appreciate the warmth that you send to me.

      In kindness and a peaceful, happy Christmas to you.

      Gary

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  4. What a sweet Christmas gift you are offering. I was just over to your last commentor's blog, and thought it appropriate to mention that the suicide rate tends to go up around Christmas because when one's life is going badly anyway, and then this holiday comes along during which everybody carries on as if life is wonderful, it tends to make a miserable person feel even more miserable.

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    1. Hi Snowbrush,

      I shall do my utmost to be there for those in their time of need at this most difficult of times. I noted your comment on that other commentor's blog. Sadly and awareness needs to be increased, as you have done, that suicide rates have a tendency to increase during the Christmas period. Christmas can intensify the feelings of despair, as those who are distraught, are lonely, see others celebrating and they feel like they are on the inside looking out. My good friend, we are acutely aware of what you note. And another reason for me to be here for those who might think that because they feel devalued by humanity, that their validity is just as valid as anyone else.

      I have been reading your most articulate and thought provoking articles. If my brain wasn't so friend, I would attempt to comment on your last article. Perhaps others might go and visit your excellent blog.

      In peace and hope for a happy Christmas, your way,

      Gary

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  5. Gary, you are a great human being. I'm proud to know you.
    Laura
    x

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    1. Hi Laura,

      You are very kind. I'm honoured to have the privilege of knowing you. Our planet is a better place for kind and caring folks such as your good self.

      Wishing you a peaceful, joyous Christmas.

      In kindness and goodwill,

      Gary
      x

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  6. Gary, I am with Austan. You are one amazing human. Thank you for this very, very generous offer. I hope that the unconditional positive regard, support and love that you are offering to other people also comes your way.

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    1. Hi The Elephant's Child,

      You are with Austan? Amazing how fast planes can go these days :) Ignore that bit of silliness :) I am honoured to think that I might be of help to somebody else. Like you, I do believe that unconditional positive regard is a powerful tonic. And when we help each other, we sure can help ourselves. I am very grateful for your kind, wise words. Thank you.

      Hope your Christmas Day is a peaceful, happy time.

      In kindness and admiration,

      Gary

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  7. A wonderful Christmas Guesture Gary, I will be alone.....first time ever. Our part of the world is on flood alert in many places so there are people who will be worse of than me.
    You truly have the real spirit of Christmas Thank you.
    Yvonne.

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    1. Hi Yvonne,

      Thank you and it's a gesture of hope and comfort to those who are alone or just want to chat. I am alone every Christmas for most of the day. Well, not quite, for Penny the wonderful dog is here with me :) You know that you need not feel totally alone and we can all be here for each other. The floods so many are enduring, particularly in the SW, are a very sad event and it makes me feel blessed I do not endure such situations.

      I thank you for your kind words, Yvonne.

      In peace and comfort on Christmas Day, your way,

      Gary

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  8. This is such a lovely thing you're doing - what a wonderful gift to give - bless you x

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    1. Hi Teresa,

      Thank you, Teresa. And with this, may gifts of hope be exchanged :) Bless you, dear lady.

      A peaceful Christmas to you and your loved ones and Penny wishes Indy a lovely Christmas Day. Bless you all.

      Gary x

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  9. Gary, Penny, Fidelina, Einahalk and Geoffrey!!! We are here for all of you too!! We wish you peace and love. We wish you hope.

    Take care
    x

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    1. Hi Old Kitty, Charlie and Gumtree,

      I am so grateful and inspired knowing that you are all here for us, also. We can make this world a better place. I just know we can and will.

      Peace, love and hope to you on Christmas Day.

      In kindness and goodwill,

      Gary
      x

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  10. Mr & Mrs Bazza wish all of you (it's quite a crowd!) all the best for Christmas and the New Year. I think your team are providing a wonderful service and I will try to contact you on Christmas morning.
    Leah and Barry x
    Click here for Bazza’s Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

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    1. Hi Mr & Mrs Bazza aka Leah and Barry,

      We thank you and your crowd for your Christmas and New Year wishes. Our team will do our very best to be here to interact with the lonely, the sad and anybody who just would like to chat.

      If you can contact us, that would be wonderful. Wishing you and all your loved ones, a most peaceful, positive Christmas.

      Gary x

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  11. Your open heart never ceases to amaze me, Gary. I feel proud to know you. A loving and peaceful Christmas to you and your family, dear friend.

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    1. Dear Chris,

      My heart is open and I forgive myself for not understanding that my illness is only a small part of who I am. The interaction we share and the beauty of your writing, is profoundly admired by me.

      May you and your loved ones, in your new wondrous adventure, be free and happy.

      A peaceful and loving Christmas to you, my dear friend.

      In kindness and hope, your way,

      Gary

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  12. wishing you a Merry Christmas may you be as blessed as those you bless ...sending you love and light

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    1. Dear becca,

      Thank you, dear friend. The love and light you send is warmly received. Bless you and all that have the pleasure of knowing you.

      A peaceful and positive Christmas to you.

      Gary

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  13. This made me cry in a good way. God Bless you, Gary. You are a blessing! Truly, the blogging world is a better place because of you. In fact -- so is the world!

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    1. Dear Joylene,

      Tears of joyous understanding that we can all make a difference. Your words touch my battered soul and you are magical testimony to the sharing, caring ethos that so many within the great blogging community cherish so very much. This fragile planet is a better place having the compassion of your heart. Bless you, Joylene and your undaunted spirit.

      In kindness, admiration and a Merry Christmas, your way,

      Gary

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  14. Gary you have just given so many the BEST gift that you could EVER GIVE! The gift of YOURSELF! We just ADORE YOU!! May you be blessed a million times over!
    xoxoxo
    MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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    1. Dear Caren,

      You are most kind to me, Caren. We are all gifts to each other. The gifts of kindness, of caring, of trying to understand. My gift is but a way of giving back to so many, such as you, my profound gratitude. You are a blessing to my soul. May we all be blessed in a world where stigma and bigotry becomes an alien concept.

      A loving Christmas to you and your beloved family.

      In warmth and hugs, your way,
      Gary xoxo :)

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  15. Gary, I echo Joylene's sentiments. You are a treasure, a truly inspired and inspiring person.
    Bless you, and may you have a peaceful, positive Christmas - as you brighten the day for others, may it be for you as well.
    Peace, Merry Christmas, to you and Penny!
    Kim and CindyLu et al

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    1. Dear Kim and dear CindyLu et al,

      You have inspired my inspiration, dear lady. Despite your own trials and tribulations, you have been here for me. Your support and encouragement have been a shining example that we must never, ever give up on our dreams, our hopes, our aspirations. I visualise that day when your new adventure begins.

      I know that my day shall be brighter in the knowledge that we can be here for each other. Nobody need be alone. Bless you, Kim. Your are a shining star!

      A peaceful, loving Christmas to you and your beloved family,

      Gary x :)

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  16. Christmas. Ahhhh. Let the sadness begin. I wish I knew more about facebook. I have a 'page'. I think that's what it's called, but I'm not versatile enough to know how to find you. I'm on there as littlelottajoy, but that's about all I know. Tomorrow I'll probably be playing bubble safari, or something else that requires little emotional participation.

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    1. Hi lotta joy,

      Christmas. Let's try to be here for each other. Facebook or 'Farcebook'. That was just one of the options I suggested if someone wanted to contact me. You see, I could mire myself in sadness. I could stare at the four walls, go, "woe is me" and have my usual discussion with Penny about the meaning of life. Well, I still have my chat with Penny. However, if I can focus on trying to be here for others on what can be a lonely day, I will do my best.

      May you have a peaceful, positive Christmas with Stud and Beau.

      In sincerity, your friend,

      Gary

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  17. What I kind post, Gary. Lovely thought. I'm sure you write from a position of knowing how lonely this time of year can be. I can feel it in your words, along with your generous spirit. May you all enjoy a peaceful and positive Christmas.

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    1. Hi Ian,

      Thank you, good sir. Indeed, you are correct and the words within my posting come from ongoing experience and an empathetic leaning. If I could do something that is positive for others in a similar situation to me, then that's one heck of an inspiring result. Thank you for your positive Christmas wishes, Ian.

      Wishing you and your loved ones on Vancouver Island, a most enjoyable Christmas Day.

      In kindness,

      Gary

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  18. Hi Gary,
    So, today's the big day, and I hope it goes OK for you. Very nice of you, also, to continue thinking of others at what can be a difficult time for them. As for me, I plan to get drunk, pass out, and then wake up when it's all over!
    Have a great Christmas Day, Gare, and All the Best for the coming year,
    David.

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    1. Hi David,

      Yep, it's the big day. I'm here with Penny and we've just finished having an intellectual discussion about life and 'pawlitics'. Yes, despite it all and this being a potentially lonely day for me, I do try to reach out to others. It makes me feel better and I hope it makes them feel better.

      Of course, you might be pissed up and passed out by now. However, when you do read this, I hope you had an awesome Christmas Day with your loved ones.

      Take care and have fun.

      Your buddy, Gare.

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  19. That is a good thing to do Gary and when sad it is always good to reach out to others who have been tipped over the edge by things in their lives

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    1. Hi Jenny,

      Thank you, Jenny. And I know that by not dwelling on my own personal sadness and illness, if I can reach out and be a comfort to somebody else, that brings out a hopeful result.

      I do so hope you had a lovely Christmas Day.

      In kindness and good wishes, Gary

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  20. Hi Gary it's Yvonne it is now 6-40pm UK time and have not seen or heard from a soul. Hope you are ok and is feeling better than me.

    Yvonne.

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    1. No souls heard from here in the USA either, Yvonne. But, tomorrow is another day. This is about the only day that has an ORDER to BE HAPPY. Kind of like pointing at a drowning man and saying "SWIM!"

      But this too shall pass. We're above ground. That counts for something.

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    2. Hi Yvonne,

      You know I do understand how saddening that can be. I want you know that I'm alone yet not alone. I am here until the early hours of the morning to try and be of support. I don't feel very well, Yvonne, but I shall carry on and send hope and caring your way.

      In sincere kindness, Gary

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    3. Hi lotta joy,

      You are hearing from a soul in Britain, lotta joy. And I will be staying around until four in the morning, which is eleven in the evening, your time, to be here for whoever needs to verbalise. Personally, considering I haven't had visitors for several years at Christmas, I don't have to put on the HAPPY FACE!

      Peace and know I'm around.

      Your friend, Gary

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  21. Just checking in to wish you all the best the season can offer Gary and Penny......our day has wound down and the kids have gone home...ahhhhhh....time to put our feet up and have a cup of coffee. Lots of leftovers for supper. It will be good to get back to normal.

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    1. Hi Delores,

      That's very kind of you to visit, thank you. Penny and myself appreciate your kind wishes and are glad you can now take some time out for a cup of coffee.

      Ah yes, I knew I forgot something. Better get a bite to eat. Oops....

      Merry Christmas, dear friend.

      Gary

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  22. Hi Gary, Penny, Tristan, Geoffrey, Fidelina, Eihahalk and friends .. well said and I hope people connected, even if only fleetingly ... it's a sad time for many - as others tend to think only of themselves, or not very far out of their own families ...

    I'll be back up to the Nursing Centre to see residents without many family or friends ... something for them to look forward to ..

    I do hope you've had a peaceful time and been able to enjoy some parts of Christmas ... many thoughts - Hilary

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    1. Hi Hilary from all the cast and crew of this production,

      Thank you, Hilary and the interaction was most inspiring. I think even a small difference was a positive outcome for those who communicated and indeed, for me. I will always try to be of support to others as others have kindly supported me.

      You are showing such kindness to the residents in the nursing centre. A welcome ray of hope in what can be such a sad, reflective time. Big respect to you, Hilary.

      I had a quiet, peaceful time, thank you. Keeping focused on others helped me stop dwelling on my personal situation.

      A peaceful, positive time to you. Thank you.

      In kindness, Gary

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  23. Gary, thank you for being so generous and lending of emotional support. You are a wonderful person, and I feel so happy that I've gotten to know you this year.

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    1. Hi Michael,

      Kind sir, thank you very much for that. I am very much aware of the supportive work you do on your excellent blog site and I wish you well with your "Oculus book tour". It's my honour to know good people such as you.

      In peace and good wishes,

      Gary

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  24. I hope you, the wee folk, and Penny all had a great XMas and Boxing Day. And Happy New Year! And Kwanzaa and whatever other holidays are stuffed in there.

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    1. Hey PT,

      Thanks dude and the entire production company here had a cool Christmas. Ah yes, those stuffed holidays. December 24 is 'Boxing Day, Eve, Eve'. December 25 is 'Boxing Day Eve'. December 30 is 'Superhero Appreciation Day'. All the best and may 2013 see your writing endeavours continue to give you much enjoyment.

      In peace and a Detroit Tigers baseball cap, your way,

      Gary

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  25. Hi Y'all!

    Oh Miss Penny! Another beautiful picture of you! I'm smitten!

    It's 9:40PM where you are...only 4:40PM here. Just wanted to stop and say how much I love y'all stopping to comment.

    My Human wanted me to tell you that they pass a house on their way to visit friends and family, go to church or cross the mountain to go to the city...in the garden of the house are hundreds of garden gnomes...they adorn the front garden and the side garden around the house. Everytime they pass the house my Human thinks of you and how kind you are to let Gary live with you.

    Thanks for sharing our blog.

    Y'all come back now,
    Hawk aka BrownDog

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    1. Hey Hawk!

      Glad y'all like the photo of the lovable Penny :)

      We are always delighted to leave a comment on your pawfect site.

      Aha, garden gnomes, eh. I reckon that them thar garden gnomes have an American accent. Oh yes, Hawk, I am real grateful that Penny kindly allows me to live with her! :)

      My pleasure to share and thank you for sharing a comment with us, y'all.

      Look after yourself and your humans, Hawk. Take care now. Ya hear? :)

      Your human friend,

      Gary

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  26. I hope Christmas went well for you!

    It's such a wonderful thing to do, offering to make someone's Christmas less lonely.

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    1. Hi The Golden Eagle,

      Christmas was very quiet yet most inspirational, thank you. I do hope yours was peaceful and positive.

      I do firmly believe that when we help each other, we help ourselves.

      In kindness and goodwill,

      Gary

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  27. Thank you Gary for all your support- I am a happy person, quite contented with my life, but not blunted to the struggles of others. Your mission to help others is lovely, and heartening. Thank you for all the comments you leave on my blog posts- they always make me smile and I really appreciate your words. xx

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    1. Hi Lily,

      And thank you for a most encouraging comment. It's heartening to know that your life is fulfilling and yet you are in tune to the plight of those who struggle. Bless you, Lily.

      It's my honour and privilege to comment on your superbly written, thoughtful blog. Thank you for being here.

      In kindness and admiration, your way,

      Gary

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  28. Magical gentleman, I wish you happy Holidays and a lovely New Year filled with astonishing, breathtaking new experiences...Kisses to you and Penny :).

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    1. Dear Petronela,

      I smell the fragrant aromas of the Christmas food :) And with magical enchantment we thankest thee and wish thy and your beloved family, a most glorious New Year.

      In peace and goodwill kisses,

      Gary :)

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  29. Klahanie, Weren't you the handsome little gent, sitting so proudly atop that pony with Mum keeping a loving watchful eye.

    Such a generous offer from you, Penny, Fioelina and Einahalk. I cannot think of a finer gift that can be given. You understand the emotion of inner loneliness and can give hope to someone whose life is bleak.
    You understand the Gift of the Magi.
    In love and peace, Manzanita

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    1. Dear Manzanita,

      Twas me upon that pony and I be cute back then and then, gravity won! :) The lady is not my mother. Me thinks she was the lady who kept the pony under control.

      Thank you and all the characters within this site, embrace the ideals of being there for those who would seek comfort. I know we can all be here for each other. "O. Henry" and "The Gift of the Magi" :)

      In love, peace and warm wishes, to you,

      Gary

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I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.