Sunday 1 December 2013

Sweets And Scales.

I defiantly refuse to give my mental illness permission to dominate my life the way it once did.  I will prove that my illness is only a small part of who I am.  Inspiration and encouragement from the blogging community has been vital in keeping me going.   I continue to be comforted by the kindness, the compassion, that's on the other side of my computer screen.
And a message from the internet called my name.  Tina, at Life is Good, most thoughtfully passed on the Super Sweet Blogging Award to me.  I was touched by what she noted about me.  Just like Tina, I am passionate about removing the unfair stigma that still surrounds mental health issues

Okay, here goes.  I'm supposed to answer the following five questions and then pass on the award to five real sweet type bloggers.

Question 1 : Cookies or cake?  Answer :  I guess, cake.  Especially upside down cake. Yes, I ate an upside down cake.  Or did I eat a cake, upside down?  Sorry, I'm getting confused.....

Question 2 : Chocolate or vanilla?  Answer : Fairtrade Chocolateof any kind.

Question 3 : Favourite sweet treat?  Answer : Spotted Dick and custard.  Don't even think of an innuendo!

Question 4 : When do you crave sweet things the most?  Answer : Usually when it's time to get some sleep and I've just brushed my teeth.

Question 5 :  Sweet nickname?  Answer : Mr. Awesome, um, Chelsea Canadian.  

Now this is where I'm going to once again, break the rules.  I've mentioned before that I really find passing on awards a real dilemma.  If I pass it onto that person, do they accept awards?  If I overlook somebody who has been very kind to me, will I hurt their feelings?  Which means, I embrace the award from Tina, but will let you help yourself to the award, if you want to display it on your site. 

Much to my astonishment, our kind friend, Al Diaz, invited Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar and I, her mere human, to the, Dragon's Friends Day-A Tribute to You.  We were invited to a party, a celebration, at the Dragon Cave.  A celebration of Al's first year anniversary of blogging and indeed, a celebration of the sharing, caring ideals so close to our hearts.

And thus, with the celebration, we received the gift of the, "GOLDEN SCALE AWARD"..  A gift that shall be forever treasured.

Penny and I were grateful to have been included amongst such wonderful bloggers.  We're deeply touched by the goodness of Father Dragon's heart and soul.  Bless you for this, Al Diaz.  Your ethos, testimony that we truly can be here for each other.  We must believe, collectively, we can be a powerful force to bring further understanding and respect for the great diversity of this fragile planet.
Penny and I were also inducted into the Dragon's Hall of Fame  All those inducted can be viewed in the link.

Thank you again for this.  There's magic on both sides of the computer screen.

119 comments:

  1. Mr Awesome Chelsea Canadian and wonderful superstar Penny!! Yay for your brilliant awards!! Sweets and a Dragon!! My goodness! Awwww spotted dick and with custard!! Now you're talking!

    You are lord and master of what makes you you and never the other way round! Yay!! Take care
    x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Old Kitty,

      Thanks for the yay on our brilliant awards :) What a combo of awards. Time for some spotted dick and custard!

      We have choices, for sure. We cannot give negative forces permission to dictate our lives. Thank you for your wise words.

      Gary :)
      x

      Delete
  2. Al's award and the tribute he gave to everyone was amazing. He is a wise dragon with a compassionate heart.
    Congratulations on the award, Mr. Awesome!
    And YOU define who you are, Gary.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Alex,

      Al's award and tribute was touching and profound. I do so appreciate a kind-hearted, wise dragon.

      Thanks for the congratulations, Mr. Ninja.

      I am defined by what I learn. You are quite correct, good sir.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  3. Gary, you deserve all the best awards. You are Mr. Awesome.
    Congratulations, keep your sunshine bright on this blogosphere.
    You are one of my favorite bloggers. (And I don't like to have favorites as you already know.)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Julia,

      You are awesomely kind. Thank you.
      The blogging sun doth shine on us all. Thanks for the congratulations, Julia.

      I most certainly understand what you mean.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  4. Mmmm, cake.....chocolate cake with jam and cream filling and chocolate icing on top.
    Heaven.
    Congratulations on the awards, all of them well deserved.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi River,

      Such a tasty comment :)

      Penny and I thank you for the congratulations.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  5. Two great awards for a great blogger!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Debra,

      You are "two" kind. I owe it all to Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar!

      Gary :)

      Delete
  6. Oh Gary. You shame me. I too have these wonderful awards. And really appreciate them. And, while I have thanked the donor (the same one for both awards) that is as far as I have got. Must do better. Tomorrow?
    You are more than deserving of any and every award. Your kindness and positive take on the world are inspirational.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Sue,

      I believe we each have our own way of recognising such things. You are doing just fine.

      Your words are very kind, Sue. I know we both share the ethos of creating a more compassionate world.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  7. Mr. Awesome? I like that name!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Linda,

      You do? Okay, you can have the name Mrs. Awesome. Does that mean we are married....

      Gary :)

      Delete
  8. Sweeeeeeeets. Love them. I have a wicked sweet tooth. I just had vanilla whipped yogurt with a handful of chocolate chips thrown in and mixed. YUM.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi JoJo,

      Have you got any sweets left over? Yummy for your tummy.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  9. Wow...more awards. I think you hold the record. Congratulations to yourself and Penny....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Delores,

      So many awards and I've moved them to an out of town warehouse. Thanks for your congratulations. Penny and I are well pleased.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  10. Congrats on the award! It couldn't have been given to a sweeter guy, Mr Chelsea Canadian! I know that feeling of temptation just before sleep. But I've usually eaten my sweets quota earlier and crave spicy chips and dip. Believe me, the last thing you want in your mouth before you sleep in oniony-garlicy-spicy stuff. Morning breath is atomic and melts everything in its path! I swear my toothbrush burst into flames once. I shoulda had the cookies instead...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Lexa,

      Thank you, dear friend. Mr. Chelsea Canadian, indeed! You remind me of having Jungle Breath. I thing we called it "mung mouth". I think you had the dragon's toothbrush :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  11. I am so very glad Penny and you could be there with us so we could celebrate you. I have found wonderful friends in this bloguniverse. I'm and will always be grateful for that.
    Also, may I ask you a tiny favor? Could you please humor me and download the pic again in .png format to fix a quality problem that makes me want to hide under the gold each time I see it? Your blog deserves the best quality. I send you and Penny dragon hugs!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Al,

      Penny and I were flattered and honoured for the invite to celebrate such a special occasion. We are grateful to you.

      I have put up the photo twice. Each time it was in the png format yet I'm not sure what's wrong. I hope this is a better replacement photo. I'm a technophobe as you might of guessed. Thank you for the dragon hugs. Penny was wondering what it would be like to get hugged by a dragon.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  12. You receiving such recognition does NOT surprise me at all!! You are a good fellow!!!

    ~shoes~

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Shoes,

      And I thank you. And you is a jolly good fellow.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  13. Everybody's sweet on you, Gary, how can we resist:) I'll have to try a spotted dick & custard, though it sounds like an uncomfortable proctology condition. Al's tribute was amazing--best moijitos in the blogosphere!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Samantha,

      Oh gosh, really. I'm blushing n' stuff :) You can check out the recipe, if you so wish, in the link in my answer. Thankfully, I got some ointment. Al is Mr. Awesome.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  14. I especially liked your sweet answer to #4; I'm glad to see my own craving reflected here :) I was delighted to be honored by Al also. What a sweetheart he is.

    You are who you are Gary, the whole Mr Awesome package. I'm sure that is why Penny allows you to live with her.

    .........dhole

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Donna,

      I had to brush up on that answer :) I was delighted to see your lovely self amongst the guest recipients at Al's party. He's a good guy.

      You, my awesome friend, the true meaning of positive interaction. I'm grateful to you and Penny for allowing me to live with her.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  15. Congratulations on being granted awards and having your excellent dog and blog noticed. I understand your trepidation about blog awards, I'm never sure who'd accept one, either, so I think your approach is the best way to go about it. As for spotted dick, You're familiar with the Heinz one? I gave my American mother-in-Law a tin of it, and she kept it in her larder for five years, convinced it was a joke.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Rhissanna,

      On behalf of the excellent dog, I thank you for the congratulations. You know of my dilemma with awards. They make me feel rather awkward. I'm very familiar with the Heinz version of spotted dick. Too funny about your American mother-in-law! :) Now for some toad-in-the-hole....

      Gary :)

      Delete
  16. I've been the xmas grinch for so many years that it never occurred to me that I could cause suffering for someone else. Joe's been wanting a xmas tree, and I kept saying "It's just US, and we have no room to store it"

    Then today I looked at him. Really LOOKED at him, and I saw a sweet old man without a lot of sense, but a lot of heart, and I thought "what right do I have to inflict my depression on another person". So, we went and got a tree, and Joe acted like a kid in the store, looking for ornaments. So, hopefully dear friend, I can be less pompous about spreading depression and try spreading a little compassion this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dana,

      Your post, warm and touching. There can be such magic in realising that beyond the eyes is the soul of a small child who wants to embrace the simple wonders of the season. I have but a small fake tree. There has been many a year that the only persons who saw the tree was my son and I. And of course, a wonderful little dog. Yet, the tree and the lights, symbolic of my creating a hopeful environment

      You looked at Joe and you really saw. You also saw within yourself and you knew those times when you portrayed a negative demeanour, that it wasn't the real you. I know of who you are and you, dear lady, have the gift of compassion that you are not going to be shy to share.

      In peace and goodwill,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  17. And well deserved say I Gary, and Penny too of course, it's all about raising the spirits of our fellow man/woman/ furry creatures and doing all we can when they fall this life of ours.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Michelle,

      You are most kind, Michelle. You are truly a lady who displays the ethos of sharing and caring. Together with hope, we cope. Thank you, dear friend.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  18. Congrats on all your awards Gary. You truly are a great person with a good heart. You've spent a lot of time encouraging others, and supporting those with mental illnesses so I'm glad that you're being recognised time and time again with these awards.

    Spotted Dick? Now you're talking mate. One of my favourites, and I love a bit of jam roly poly and custard too, made with suet of course.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Rum-Punch Drunk,

      Thank you very much. You are most flattering, my good friend. I know that bringing further awareness of mental health issues, will reduce the unfair stigma.

      All this talk of British desserts is making me hungry :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  19. Magic across the blogosphere - totally agree! Wasn't Al's party a blast? Congrats on those wonderful awards my friend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Suzanne,

      And the magic becomes more magical. Al's party was one hot time. Thank you for the congrats, dear lady.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  20. Hi Gary - awards .. sweets and dragons - could be worse! As Suzanne says - magic across the blogosphere I agree with. I do enjoy some of those wonderful old foods - not too often ... I haven't had spotted dick for years - but know it's around, jam roly poly - I had my last one in South Africa made by an English girl friend .. I had my Mum's semolina when she was in St Pancras hospital ... I did enjoy that - it had a dollop of jam in the middle - well perhaps the edge! Cheers and have a good week .. Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hilary,

      Hot sweets awards, perhaps. There is magic out there and I know we are making this world a better place through our sharing of ideals. When I was a young boy, I thought semolina was frog's eggs. You really should have some spotted dick along with some dollops of jam.

      Thank you, Hilary.

      A good rest of the week to you.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  21. Congrats to you and Penny for winning awards! Both of you deserve them. :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Misha,

      Thank you very much. Penny has told me she deserves them more than I do.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  22. Congratulations Mr Awesome and Lovely Penny! And now I fancy spotted dick and custard :-) x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Teresa,

      Awe, thanks for the congratulations. Mr. Awesome is delighted and Penny is doubly delighted. Spotted dick and custard. Oh yeah!

      Gary :) x

      Delete
  23. Congrats, Gary. You can always brush your teeth twice you know.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Diane,

      Thanks for that. Brush my teeth again. Why didn't I think of that....

      Gary :)

      Delete
  24. At least not without gloves. :P

    ReplyDelete
  25. Congratulations, Gary. You're very deserving of both. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Melissa,

      Thank you for the congratulations. Penny is deserving of both, methinks :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  26. Mr. Awesome? That's the perfect nickname. :D
    Congrats on your awards, they are well deserved. And what would the Hall of Fame be without Penny? I don't even want to think about it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Julie,

      Well, not really. I do like that nickname! :)

      Thanks for the congrats. And the Hall of Fame, such a place for humans and animals alike .

      Gary :)

      Delete
  27. Hi, Gary…

    CONGRATS… Awards are such a uplift to hum drum day…. Yes, our community is BEYOND special and people like Tina and Father Dragon certainly uplift us all!

    Have a wonderful day and enjoy life's sweet moments….

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Michael,

      Thank you, kind sir. Awards are nice and I'm amazed at how many folks have sent them here. The lovable Tina and Father Dragon, testimony to the sharing ideals we embrace.

      A peaceful day to you. I think this might be time for some coffee :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  28. Glad you gave a heads up for fairtrade chocolate. There are all kinds of good things you can get fairtrade. It's a bit more expensive but that means you appreciate it more. Congratulations on the award!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jenny,

      Well said. I go to Cooperative Foods fairly often and purchase a number of different Fairtrade products. Certainly is worth the extra expense. Although not always more expensive. Thank you for the congratulations, Jenny.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  29. This blogging community is a wonderful place to share our stories, no? There is so much kindness and generosity here. I am so glad that the support you get helps you to carry on and live a more full and meaningful life. Can we ask for more than that?

    Congrats on your awards Mr. Awesome.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Robin,

      Quite right. Within the blogging community, we share and we learn. The support and encouragement are amazing catalysts. I'm grateful to have such magic on the other side of the computer screen.

      Thank you for the congrats, Robin.

      Gary aka "Mr. Awesome.! :)

      Delete
  30. 'Question 2 : Chocolate or vanilla? Answer : Fairtrade Chocolate, of any kind.'

    Man after my own heart (the Fairtrade, that is). Good stuff, Gary and congrats :)

    Oh, and the lovely Penny too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gidday Wendy,

      Fairtrade is the way forward. Penny and I, her mere human, thank you for the congrats, dear Wendy.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  31. Hi Mr Awesome! If Penny is the modest internet star you are the Rock-God of the Internet.
    CLICK HERE for Bazza’s Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi bazza,

      I'm going to reluctantly agree with you. Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar, is looking bewildered.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  32. But you are not a fire-breathing dragon....warm-hearted maybe....Congratulations.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Eve,

      Only when I eat a hot curry. Thank you for the congratulations.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  33. I am always pleased to see you get awards Mr G (and Penny), I know you put much work into your blog and regularly share stuff to FB. So if anyone deserves these it is you . . . . . . . . And the number of comments you get on very post speaks volumes for your popularity; what can I say except carry on being the same Mr G and Penny.

    :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. that's every post . . . My typing skills do not improve with age.........

      Delete
    2. Hi Rob,

      Thanks, kind friend. I do a lot of background promotion on Farcebook. And Penny is known to do the same. I'm lucky to get so many comments. Very humbling experience and we shall continue to be real and candid.

      Your typing skills are just fine. The hunt and strike typing method works for me.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  34. Congrats my friend! You deserve all the accolades.
    My son has Autism, but that does not define him. I make sure he is aware that he has no excuses only opportunities.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi DAVID,

      Very kind words you speak, my friend.
      Your thoughts are wise and profound. What an amazing father you are to your son. Thank you for sharing such eloquence, good sir.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  35. So lovely that you are so loved and recognized by your blogging community. I personally think you deserve every award you receive. You are a gentle host that I love to visit. Thank you for sharing it all!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Lisa,

      I'm most flattered for recognition. You are very kind to say that I deserve the awards. I do my best to be a cordial host. Thank you for visiting my world.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  36. Another fun cover photo! Yeah! :) I never know what I will find here.

    Congrats on the awards. How wonderful! So nice to spread happiness and sweetness throughout the blogosphere. :) I like the way you think,
    ~Jess

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jess,

      Thanks for liking my latest cover photo. I never know what I will find here, either.

      Thanks for the congrats. We share gifts, don't we riddlers! :)

      Thank you, Jess.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  37. Ha! loved your answer to number four. That's always the way it is.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Sara,

      To heck with brushing my teeth :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  38. Now I want to know what Spotted Dick and Custard is really made of, sort of like discovering Bangers and Mash is just sausage and mashed potatoes.

    And your awards are earned, for both you and Penny the modest internet superstar. :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Angela,

      The link in the answer tells all about Spotted Dick and custard. Quite the surprise. And then there's Toad-in-the-hole....

      Thanks and Penny agrees with you.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  39. I agree that you deserve all the best awards and Kudos to you for blogging about them! You are better than me!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Caren,

      Thanks for your kind words. I guess I feel obliged to make note, sometimes a few months later, of the awards passed on :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  40. Love love love
    you & penny! Xxx
    Congrats.
    you. r. SWEEEEEET.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kim,

      Hey, thanks for such a real sweet comment!

      Hugs from Leek,

      Gary x :)

      Delete
  41. I'm a cake person, too.

    You are deserving of these awards and many more.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Medeia,

      An upside down cake, perhaps....

      You are most kind, Medeia.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  42. Congrats on the awards although reading your answers to the sweet treats now has me wanting to break all my diet rules and run for the chocolate.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Gossip_Grl

      Thanking you kindly. Run for the chocolate, indeed! :)

      Gary :)

      Delete
  43. Gary, you have a wonderful spirit, it shines through cyberspace.... and you are so deserving of every award/accolade that's presented to you.

    What is spotted dick and custard (just too lazy to google... okay, I know the custard part... )

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Michelle,

      Thanks for that. Awards are very nice, but they sure do create dilemmas :)

      That's a link in my answer to saying I like spotted dick. Clicking on that reveals all, so to speak.

      Thank you, Michelle.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  44. Ah Pat in the Hatt,

    I reckon you'd love a bit of spotted dick. Get the cat to make you some :)

    Surgical gloves, Melissa :)

    Gary :)

    ReplyDelete
  45. Gazza shoots..... Gazza Scores..... some chocolate, apparently

    (Ah, but did he lift his jersey and kiss the national emblem in his moment of clarity... only Penny shall know...)

    OK, so many of our international friends may not remember the 1990 World Cup, but I shall never forget the other Gazza after EngUland bowed out in the semis...)

    Anyway, aloha and sorry for the ramblings of a former soccer fan (we used to call it football, aye... :)

    Here's my point.... (about bloody time...) ...

    Your line: "We must believe, collectively, we can be a powerful force to bring further understanding and respect for the great diversity of this fragile planet."

    My thoughts: "Hear! Hear! to the gentleman from Staffordshire. Very well said and wouldn't it be grand...

    I bid you a dew (and raise you a pint) and wish you well as I go forth and zoom on by:)

    PS: Congrats on both awards .... that's sweet, man :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Mazza,

      "The fog on the Tyne is all mine, all mine
      the fog on the Tyne is all mine

      Sittin' in a sleazy snack-bar stuffin sickly sausage rolls,
      in a dirty old town on the back of the Tyne setting my sights on goal
      it's plain to see, it's black and white
      this Geordie boy's gonna do alright
      gonna make you dance, gonna make you sing
      those Geordie boys do anything"

      Ah yes and I shall never forget the tears of Paul Gascoigne and Lineker looking concerned.

      I used to watch the Vancouver Whitecaps in the North American Soccer League. Yep, I'm that old.

      I know you embrace the ideals of the blogging community be a powerful force for all that is good. Or something like that.

      Thanks for the dew. It was done in dew time. You have zipped away, I say.

      Thanks for the congrats. You are such an awesome dude. Hawaii? Not bad, thank you :)

      Gazza! :)

      Delete
  46. Beautiful header up there!
    Spotted dick...I'm *gasp* sorry. Can't *gasp* help myself. Bwahahaha! I absolutely could never order that, whatever it is. Just not happening.
    Hi, Penny! *waves*

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi River Fairchild,

      Thanks for that and yes, it's way up there......

      You could always order toad-in-the-hole :)

      Penny sends back high paws!

      Gary :)

      Delete
  47. Love your new header! Congrats on both of your awards Gary! It was also quite an honor that you were inducted into the Dragon Hall of Fame!

    Julie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Julie,

      I'm really pleased you love my new header. Thank you. Thanks for the congrats and I owe it all to Penny. Being inducted into the Dragon's Hall of Fame was better than getting Penny's paw print outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

      Thank you, Julie.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  48. What an uplifting post! It started with that beautiful picture of Christmas lights in your header, and continued on through the sweetness and light in your text. Congrats on your awards, dear sir. They are most deserved.

    But spotted dick? Yeah, I've heard of it... even so, it still sounds like a horrid disease. Unless, of course, one just has a simple allergy. Then, there's spots all over.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Susan,

      That's most kind of you, Susan. I do try to hopefully make award announcements somewhat different. Your congrats are warmly appreciated.

      Spotted dick. Imagine the first time I went to a restaurant and the waiter recommended the spotted dick. Good thing I had antibiotics :)

      Cheers, Susan.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  49. Hi Y'all!
    Oh congratulations to both you and Penny!
    Love the amazing header picture! Oh so Christmas looking.
    Oh dear, Dragon Hall of Fame? Is a Dragon like a gator? Be careful!
    Upside down cake? Oh my Human has such sweet memories from her childhood of her mother's pineapple upside down cake. My sweet Papa has begged her for years to make him one, but she's always put if off. I think she's afraid.
    Once more, congratulations!

    Y'all come back now!
    Hawk aka BrownDog

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Howdy Hawk,

      We both thank you for the congratulations. Glad you like the header photo of downtown Leek.

      I've heard a dragon breathes fire, which can be worrying. Then again, very handy for roasting marshmallows.

      You human's recollection of pineapple upside down cake makes me feel real hungry, but not upside down. I reckon your human will now bake that cake for your sweet Papa! :)

      Thank y'all!

      Penny's alleged human,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  50. I'm late, Gary. Sorry. But I'm just as thrilled by your award. You're a top shelf guy, and you deserve this award! Bet Penny was thrilled too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Joylene,

      I appreciate you visiting, no matter when. Thank you. I've seen what's on the top shelf :) Penny and I are thrilled beyond words with the awards.

      You take good care, eh.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  51. Sweet nickname? Mr. Awesome. Always.
    Miss you! Thanks to Joylene for posting this on G+, I had to stop by and say Hi :)

    Peace and paws xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kim,

      And of course, CindyLu all dressed in pink :) Mr. Pawesome, more like :)

      Joylene is a good Google plusser, eh! Thanks to her and to you.

      Peace and pawsitive paws xx

      Penny's alleged human,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  52. I have struggled with the big D. People say the darnedest things. I met a local woman with a cause to demystify mental illness. We had a long time. I think we'll become good friends. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Mary,

      And beyond the struggle is that place I seek. A place I frequent more than I used to. I'm learning to live with, rather than suffer from my depression. That lady and yourself, embracing the ideals of removing the stigma. A gift you share is the gift of empathy.

      Thank you, Mary.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  53. I'm with you, Gary. I've also found the kindness and compassion on the other side of my computer screen to be most amazing. You're definitely worthy of both awards.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jeff,

      My good friend, you are the epitome of someone who embraces the magic of the true humanity on the other side of your computer screen. I know that your strength and compassion have left me with deep admiration.

      In peace and goodwill,

      Gary

      Delete
  54. Ever tried eating sweets AND brushing your teeth??? Huh?? Congrats and both well deserved awards!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Tammy,

      What a great idea. That explains your radiant smile! Gosh and golly...Thanks for the congrats, Tammy.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  55. You are amazing, Gary. Your big heart, your compassion for those who have looked/are looking up from that deep pit is impressive.

    How about treacle tart?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Susan,

      You are most kind, dear lady. I know that those of us who know of dark places, can gather round the light of hope.

      In my case, a pop tart :)

      Gary

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  56. Congrats on both!!
    It truly is amazing how many incredible people I've been lucky enough to 'meet' over the internet. I count myself lucky to be among your online buddies! :)

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    Replies
    1. Hi Jemi,

      Thank you for the congrats. I'm blessed to know such amazing people as you. The positive interaction shared does make us understand how much we can be here for each other. Thank you for your nice words, Jemi.

      Gary :)

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  57. The blogging community is just wonderful. :-) Enjoyed reading another encouraging post from you; your positive attitude is a real inspiration.

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  58. Hi Danielle,

    We have so much to share and learn. Thank you for such an encouraging comment. I do try to find the positives in what might seem to be only negatives. Be well, dear lady.

    Gary :)

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  59. Congrats to you and Penny! Wonderful magic!

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    Replies
    1. Hi CraveCute,

      Thank you so much. Thank you for being part of the wonderful magic.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  60. Hi Gary,
    Sorry to have been missing from your blog lately. What with travels, ill health and workload, I've not been commenting like I used to. I still think of you often, and send you good wishes whenever I do, so I hope that counts.

    Take care of you and so nice to see all the love that you, Penny and your blog receive.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Damyanti,

      Dear lady, just having you visit is a positive blessing. I know your life has been hectic and your health is not as you would like. I'm honoured that you would comment. I also want you to look after YOU. Your physical and mental health well being are of the utmost importance. Your thoughts and good wishes are cherished, Damyanti. You are a kind, caring and sincere lady. An example for this beleaguered world.

      I'm very grateful to get such attention and love that Penny and myself, receive. We gift it back with equal measures of love and hope for a more understanding planet where diversity is rejoiced.

      Bless you and keep smiling.

      Gary :)

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  61. Sorry I'm so late. Going back through my "mark as unread" as in "do something about this" pile...
    I read all the comments. You should feel truly loved and appreciated. You are everything those folks said.
    Now off to find out about spotted dick. Do know bangers and mash...
    Much love you dear friend, and thanks for your kind words about me.
    Tina @ Life is Good

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    Replies
    1. Dear Tina,

      Bless you for backtracking and going through your emails. Very kind of you.
      I'm very lucky to get such awesome, thoughtful interaction.
      Yes, have some spotted dick, Tina :) And watch out for the bangers.

      You are a treasure, dear friend. Thank you for bestowing the award on me. Love and goodwill, your way,

      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.