Top 10 Honoring the Military

1. Special Criteria is required to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

2. Placing of the Wreath at the the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a solemn occasion. It is tradition that the President have the honor on Memorial Day. President Obama will not be doing it this year Vice President Biden will take his place. This is not all that unusual. Previous Presidents have skipped this tradition.

Volunteers and family members gather at the Wreath Across America event in 2009 at Arlington.

3. The Philadelphia National Cemetery is currently closed to new interments but periodically space can become available. Contact them with questions in your time of need.

The Chester Rural Cemetery in Delaware County, Pennsylvania has an area in the center of the cemetery called Soldiers Circle. There are soldiers buried there dating back to the Civil War both sides of the conflict. The website oldchesterpa.com has provided a list of names.

Photo:Soldier's Circle in Chester Rural Cemetery

5. Pacific, the miniseries has just ended but is still available OnDemand HBO. It is a rare opportunity to experience through the eyes and emotions of the soldiers hardships and struggles during World War II. If you did not have the chance to follow it, take the opportunity now if you have HBO.Photo: Liberty State Park in New Jersey. World War II statue depicting a American soldier carrying a concentration camp survivor.

6. AMVETS.org you may check this site for their special message to us all.

"The Wall" The Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D. C.

7. U. S. Dept of Veterans Affairs, you can contact for veterans benefits and more information on Memorial ceremonies in your area."


The Three Servicemen Statue is a result of a controversy surrounding the design of the Vietnam War Memorial, "The wall". Some veterans and their political supporters thought it was "a black gash of shame" or a giant tombstone. They wanted a more heroic life-like depiction of a soldier.

Vietnam War Memorial, Washington, D. C. remembering the names.

8. It is a tradition to fly the American flag at half staff from sunrise till noon on Memorial Day. Flags are also placed on the graves of all servicemen that have died and have served our country.

I found Mike Hofich of the American Legion Post 951, Ogden, Pa at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Chester, PA on Friday morning placing flags on the graves. Mike is a Vietnam Veteran who will be in full uniform at the Lawncroft Cemetery on Monday at 10am

9. Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars take donations for poppies in the days leading up to Memorial Day, the significance of the poppy is a result of the poem by John McCrae, "In Flander's Field".

Memorial "In Memory Of Those Who Served" at St. Michael's Cemetery in Chester, PA

10. Count the flags you see around and remember those who have given their lives for the glory of the red, white and blue.

Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Top 10 Philadelphia Flyers Victory Songs

Let’s Go Flyers

1. “High Hopes” Borrowed from the great Harry Kallas, lyrics by Sammy Cahn. Sung by Frank Sinatra.

2. We are the Champions by Queen Eastern Conference Champions that is.

3. Philadelphia Freedom or is it Philadelphia Flyers by Elton John.

4. If You See A Chance Take It by Steve Winwood dedicated to captain Michael Richards. Did you see that tumble, recovery and goal in game 5 against Montreal?

5. You Can Make It If You Try. Sly & the Family Stone. Ya gotta believe!

6. Ain’t No Stopping Us Now. Ashford & Simpson. I’m sure the 1980 World Series Champions will not mind if Flyers fans borrow the song and hum it a few times.

7. Impossible Dream I think we owe this one to Coach LaViolette he had the vision.

8. My Way Los Lonely Boys. I believe miracles happen every day.

9. I’m a believer by The Monkees. “I thought love was only true in fairytales”. Who would have thought it? We were the 8^th seed!

10. God Bless America by Kate Smith the golden angel that watches over the Flyers. Who doesn’t feel the love and the chills?

Singing today and hopefully dancing in the streets responsibly soon. Come on people everyone knows Philadelphia is passionate about their sports let’s also show the world our pride. Let’s make it good times to remember and be remember by.

Top 10 Things to Take on a Long Road Trip

1. Good Tunes, IPod is perfect and favorite CD’s work just as well.

2. Travel Mug for caffeine hours of driving can get grueling

3. Comfortable clothes.

4. Neck Pillow while you are in the co-pilot seat. I have a monkey.

5. Sunglasses, the glare can be brutal.

6. Water and healthy snacks helps to keep you awake.

7. Camera, never know what new and unusual things you might see and would like to remember.

8. Cell phone but don’t use it while you are driving. It’s like Simon says, Oprah says no.

9. Extra Toilet Paper. Those rest stops are not always fully stocked. BYOTP

10. A good attitude. No one wants to travel with a crabby companion.

Everyone enjoy the holiday weekend and drive safely!

Top 10 Things You Can't Take Back

1. Email
2. Getting caught red handed
3. A big bad oil spill
4. Your trusted word
5. Final answer
6. Hurtful words
7. Spit in the wind
8. The past
9. Time
10. A Life

Everyone makes mistakes but there are damages that can not be corrected.

Top 10 Beer Names

1. Bitch Creek Grand Teton Brewing Company, Victor, Idaho. Well that can go both ways can’t it?
2. Bitter Woman Tyranena Brewing Company, Lake Mills, Wisconsin. There’s always a reason and it’s usually a bitter man.
3. DreadNaught IPA Three Floyds Brewing Company, Christchurch, New Zealand. I’m thinking this is a beer to try. My guess is it is not available in the US and you would have to go to New Zealand to try it. Might be fun.
4. Hazed and Infused Rockies Brewing Company, Boulder, Colorado Use the joystick on the site to take the tour.
5. Hairy Eyball Lagunitas Brewing Company, Petaluma, CA (offers a virtual taste) I have used the hairy eyeball technique but have never tried the beer.
6. Big Butt Doppelbock Leinenhugel’s (great website, they pour you a beer right off the bat to welcome you) Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
7. Mad Elf Beer Troegs Brewing Company, Harrisburg, PA. Great name, my guess if you get it as a gift, it’s someone telling you they did not like your gift last year. Time to step it up.
8. Blithering Idiot Weyerbacher Brewing Company, Easton, PA Love the name and we all know one blithering idiot we can drink to, at times it is me self.
9. Dirty Dick’s Ale Wells & Young Brewing Co, Bedford, UK. I would have a problem asking the bartender for one of these but I’m guessing it doesn’t hurt to ask.
10. Brutal Bitter Rogues Ales, Newport, Oregon (check out the Youtube on how their beer is made, it will make you happy.)

This list was inspired by visiting Super Beverages a beer distributor in Brookhaven, Pa with the husband. He was looking for a variety pack and he came home with me. I chose the beers strictly by name. For a more opinionated view on the taste you can “tap” into http://www.tobp.com/ (The Opinionated Beer Page). Just for fun. We all have different tastes. If your beer is not on the list join the forum and. let ‘em know. I am not that big of a beer drinker but I live with a man that a beer and a game on television makes him happy. Is life that simple? Only if it is not a problem and you and he are simple too.

Congratulations to the Philadelphia Flyers Eastern Conference Champions!

On to the Stanley Cup Finals

Cheers.

Top 10 Making it through a Monday

Here is a small list of events that have occurred on a Monday in history.

1. Monday July 7th 1930 Industrialist Henry J. Kaiser begins construction of the Boulder Dam (now known as Hoover Dam). I have had the privilege to see this amazing accomplishment.

Weak picture. I am just trying to give you a concept of the depth. It was quite frightening to look down into it. If anyone has a better picture to share I welcome it.

Just Amazing!

Lake Mead in the background. I have never seen a more amazing color of the water.

2. Monday October 26th 1936 the first electric generator at Hoover Dam went into operation.

The turbines that make it all happen. Made right here in the USA.

3. Monday January 1st 2001 First Day of the Third Millennium. Remember wondering if the whole world would just stop working because of computer glitches? Also all the dot.com companies that sprang up to fix the problem that turned out to be a safe and ordinary day. Thank goodness.

4. Monday January 7th 1980 President Jimmy Carter authorizes legislation giving $1.5 billion in loans to bail out the Chrysler Corporation. What’s up with that? Can’t you trust a car salesman or is it the makers? Are cars and gasoline just too darn expensive for the average American?

5. Monday December 5th 1932 German physicist Albert Einstein is granted a visa. No one will argue that one.

6. Monday June 10th 1935 Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in Akron, Ohio by Bill Wilson and Dr. Robert Smith. It must have been a very bad weekend. What a tremendous organization and proof that the buddy system does work. One step at a time.

7. Monday October 2, 1950 The comic strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz was first published in seven US newspapers.

8. Monday January 3rd, 2000 The last “Peanuts” comic strip was created by Charles Schulz. The favorite drawing by Mr. Schulz that comes to mind for me is Charlie Brown and Snoopy sitting on the dock by the river. A true moment of friendship and my favorite dialog, “You’re a good man Charlie Brown”.

9. Monday August 16, 1954 Sports Illustrated magazine was first published. I personally know one person that was quoted in the magazine. He was a coach in California for the NNHL in the 1980's, a Boston fan who now is rooting for the Philadelphia Flyers. The swim suit edition, I never got the call.

10. Monday November 2nd, 1959 After being struck in the face with a puck, goalkeeper Jacques Plante returned to play wearing a protective mask for the first time in professional play. Saturday May 22, 2010 Ian Laperriere returned to the Philadelphia Flyers after receiving a concussion wearing a specialty padded helmet and face protection. He said he’ll never play without a visor/face protection again.

I end my list here because tonight the Philadelphia Flyers have an opportunity to clinch the next series with Montreal and move on to the Stanley Cup Finals. I wish them luck.

It is a Monday and good things happen on Mondays.

Let’s Go Flyers!
I apologize to my Canadian readers; you can have it next year.
We are hungry and we can taste it.
Great job on the Olympics though, ‘eh
You will always be great neighbors. You gave us hockey!

1. Spring Gulch Folk Festival
New Holland
May 20th to May 23rd
http://springgulch/folkfestival.cfm

2. Taste of Pennsylvania Wine and Music Festival
York
May 22nd and May 23rd
http://yorkwinefest.com/2009%20Site/index.html

3. Summerfest Arts & Crafts Show and Benefit Auction
Quakertown
May 22nd
http://www.summerfestmol.wordpress.com

4. Devon Horse Show
Devon
May 27 - June 5
http://www.thedevonhorseshow.org/country-fair-booths.php

5. Memorial Day Weekend Mayfair Festival of the Arts
Allentown
May 27th to May 31st
http://mayfairfestival.org/?page_id=9


6. Memorial Day Pow Wow
Carlton
May 28th to May 30th
http://langundowi.org/PowWow.htm

7. Shawnee Celtic Festival
Poconos
May 29th and May 30th
http://shawneemt.com/s_celticfestival.html

8. Brandywine Strawberry Festival
Brandywine Hospital
June 3rd to June 6th
http://brandywinestrawberryfestival.com/

9. Delaware County Summer Festival
Media
June 11th-August 15th
http://www.co.delaware.pa.us/summer/index.html

10. MusicMarathon Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
June 12, 2010
http://udmusicmarathon.org

Read more about the teacher that inspired this great day at http://delcounited.blogspot.com/2010/04/brad-schoener-fund-music-marathon.html


I had the privilege to see this talented man in action as a parent from a visiting school district. The music programs provided in schools now are amazing. They offer a place for the gifted to excel and also offer a place for the not so gifted to join in, and be part of a group and make beautiful music together. I applaud the music teachers because they bring out a talent that we are all capable of. Not every child will comprehend the calculus equation but we all have the beat of our own drum within. I hope funding for the arts programs remain a priority.

Top 10 Ways To Be Successful

1. Make a plan

2. Be persistent. Keep trying.

3. Seek solutions.

4. Have the right conditions.

5. Ask for help. You may not have all the answers.

6. Believe in yourself.

7. Learn to compromise. Look at a problem from several angles before
reaching a conclusion. Be a better listener.

8. Walk away not all problems have an immediate solution. Revisit it later.

9. Learn from your mistakes.

10. Learn when and where to keep your thoughts to yourself.

Top 10 Political Experiences

(The polls were pretty empty at the PA Primary and now it is over)
General Election November 2, 2010

1. I have no political agenda. I live in a politically divided household which makes it interesting at election time. We can both come to the middle and cross party lines if it works for us in a general election. I just wish politicians could all get along and lead us out of this fine mess we have found ourselves in.

2. During the primary this week, you had to stay in your own stable. Lt. Governor was the toughest, there were 9 Republican candidates 3 Democrats and 1 Constitution Party. TMI to absorb but I went to all the websites. There were a lot of similar issues but various personalities.

3. Sestak and Specter was the most visible race for Senator. I took a poll on the phone about these candidates. I think it will be a tough call deciding the better choice. Turnout was light. It should be known today.

Update: "Specter loses after switching parties from republican senator to democrat in December 2009". "He was a republican for 30 years".
Lost my job of 27 years I'd love to chat and relate.

4. Tom Corbett’s camp made the most “republican” phone calls and sent the most literature to the house. One of the pamphlets slammed the other guy in his own party. It made me go to a coffee chat with the other guy and look up his website. I think a lot of people were undecided here. I liked being in the presence of the candidate, face to face. It is too bad everyone does not have the time or opportunity.

5. The following information is something that affects all Pennsylvanians regardless of your political stand. I tried to show two opinions on the subject because I am still weighing the pros and cons myself. The state of PA is planning on making a lot of money from this. Seems our budget is a little out of whack too and we could use the cash flow without raising taxes. For more information, you will have to forgive my pun “drill down” further. Marcellus Shale is the most interesting information that came to my attention by way of this political platform. http://pamarcellus.com/fracing.php#CNGC http://www.cleanwateraction.org/action/save-pennsylvanias-forests-gas-drilling
This is happening now and very much involves our state’s future.
Is it a good thing or a bad thing for the environment? Does PA have the answer?
More websites to check out …
http://geology.com/articles/marcellus-shale.shtml
http://geology.com/articles/mineral-rights.shtml
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/fs2834.htm
http://www.chk.com/Media/MarcellusMediaKits/Marcellus_Hydraulic_Fracturing_Fact_Sheet.pdf

6. Best original website of the campaign goes to Lieutenant Governor Candidate Billy McCue. You can search a database on his website (billymccue.com) of personal care facilities by zip code and see their violations. McCue lost his own mother partly due to careless treatment in a facility. It is one of the reasons he decided to get involved in politics. He does put it out there. Mr. McCue is an entrepreneur in the film business. Checking out the haunted house information link he provided? Well these are scary times. Looks like you might be able to take a chemistry course free as well on that site. I did not pursue but I might stop back.

7. I received a phone call invitation to coffee in Media by a Republican Governor hopeful, Sam Rohrer on Monday afternoon. There were roughly 50 people in attendance. It was the very first one I have ever gone to. He was a good speaker.

8. Russ Diamond Republican, Lt. Governor Candidate gets best music video “We Are Free” he sings on his ad campaign. It is a catchy tune. Russ is a recording studio owner and musician. He also started PACleanSweep.com in 2005.

9. Barrack Obama supporting his candidate called the house on Sunday. Suppose it’s no secret who he would vote for if he were living in Pennsylvania. Too bad he only lives on Pennsylvania Avenue.

10. “The best man for the job is a woman”. Now that certainly was my favorite call, women do have a way with words. Hope she just used that on the ladies though it might have peeved the gents.

I read all the political information and had to go with the one whose views were the closest to mind. Not one was an exact match. I feel fortunate that I was able to cast my vote and wonder why everyone doesn’t feel the need to express their opinion and make their voice count. Pretty sure the candidates that I gave “best of “ will not be selected this time around but more and more career politicians are being challenged by “we the people”. I think it’s a good thing people are stepping up and caring, not just talking about it.

The best reason I am glad I went to the polls today: I met the new commissioner of Nether Providence’s Ward 5, Larry Baker, he plans on having a newsletter go out to residents. Constituents can email Larry to get on the list. lbaker@netherprovidence.org He seems like a good guy. I will miss Mr. John Kennedy and his great smile and personality; he did care and made a difference. Not often do these men and women who take office and dedicate their time receive our thanks.

On a lighter note: I went to have my photo updated on my license today and the state employee was very kind and took several pictures, she worked with me. I appreciated her time and patience. : )

Top 10 Good for the Garden

1. Coffee grounds for Azaleas, Rosebushes and Evergreens, acid loving plants. It adds nutrients to the soil.
2. Black Banana Peels for Roses. After you make the banana bread chop up the peel and cover with 4 inches of dirt around your rose bushes. It gives off high levels of potassium as it decomposes roses love it. One peel per plant.
3. Basil. Not only is fresh basil tremendous in your pasta sauce it also repels mosquitoes. Place a few planters on your patio.
4. Marigolds also are supposed to repel mosquitoes and other pests in the garden because of the pungent odor. All I can attest to is slugs just love ‘em. One year I lined my garden with marigolds and they were beautiful for the first week then they were annihilated by slugs.
5. Brings me down to beer for slugs. Ok I have tried it and I have met many gardeners that swear by it but it turned out to be nothing but a garden party in my yard. They even loved the cheap beer after I got in trouble using the good stuff. Best solution I have found for slugs, do not have pavers or wood or anything they can hide under during the day in your garden, they seem to hate the heat of the sun. Do not use marigolds unless they are your first line of defense and you can afford to sacrifice them. One year I paid a neighbor child $5 to get a toad from the creek to eat up the slugs, not sure if it actually worked but I know it was creepy when I was weeding, not knowing where he was. Hope the slugs felt the same way.
6. Onions and Garlic for Aphids plus Murphy’s Oil. I have 3 beautiful rose bushes but they have issues. I prune them down yearly. All 3 begin to bloom in May and I still have a rose to enjoy well into October but something is getting them. I have tired all the recommendations above but my problem is recurring. Can’t bear to dig them up and discard them, they have sentimental value to me.
7. Ladybugs. Every year I come across an article that says ladybugs are the best natural pest control in the garden and I would like to buy them and try it but I have my reservations, taking something from its original habitat and transplanting it so to speak. Here’s a good website, http://www.everything-ladybug.com/ladybug-pest-control.html if you are contemplating ladybugs. Anyone ever try it?
8. Best time to water the garden. Early morning before the heat of day sets in every few days unless it rains you can take a day or two off. Rain and sunshine are valued co-workers to the gardener.
9. Herb garden. Can be done year round in a sunny kitchen or dining room window. Harder to find the seeds in the off season. If you use fresh herbs you know the difference.
10. Gardening can be a lot of work, as with everything, you reap what you sow. I like gardening because it’s a connection to nature that is often lost in the busy day to day.

Top 10 Best Parts of a Philadelphia Flyers Victory

1. Spreading a little happy. Wearing a smile after Friday’s game?
2. Good (goal) for take out business and sport’s bars.
3. Good (goal) for beer distributors. Must be 21.
4. Good (goal) for the Wachovia Center, must have been awesome to be there and watch it on the screen for free. The next best thing to being there in Boston.
5. Good (goal) for a get together. Group gatherings of friends to watch the game. Our entire family watched the game together. Popcorn and pizza were flowing.
6. It was Boston! Always a hockey rival. I won a dinner in Boston in June. I will collect.
7. Since I won the bet, I won’t have to pack the hoagies for travel on an airplane. I will probably bring them anyway. It’s a Philadelphia tradition.
8. Sharing the chills of “God Bless America” one more time.
9. Hanging on the edge of your seat and counting down the last seconds.
10. For once, it went in Philadelphia’s favor, fans are elated and proud. Great way to start a weekend.

We thank you Philadelphia Flyers for a great evening of entertainment and pride.
To quote a great sports legend, Tug McGraw, “Ya Gotta Believe”.

Next series with Montreal ”looking good.”
Sunday’s game just icing on the cake.

Let’s Go Flyers!!!!!

Top 10 Graduation Songs 2010

(From the perspective of a parent who has watched the different stages and has experienced of few of my own. You never stop learning.)


1. Forever Young Bob Dylan (Nursery School, Kindergarten)
2. Everybody Is A Star Sly & The Family Stone (Nursery School, Kindergarten)

3. School’s Out Alice Cooper (Elementary School)
4. Don’t Stop Fleetwood Mac (Elementary School)


5. Big Time Peter Gabriel (Middle School)
6. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)Green Day (Middle School)


7. Shiny Happy People R.E.M. (High School)
8. Like A Rolling Stone Bob Dylan (High School)


9. Welcome to Occupation R.E.M.(College, Graduate School)
10. Superman (It’s Not Easy) Five for Fighting (Life)

It happens in the blink of an eye.
Many more milestones to go but you are on your way!

These songs may or may not hold memories to you but I am sure you’ll have made your own.

Congratulations to

Abigail Strath Haven Middle School ‘10
Alex Gywnedd-Mercy College ‘10
Alexandra Strath Haven H S ‘10
Catherine West Chester University ‘10
Erin Academy of Notre Dame De Namur ‘10
Jay Creation Corner Nursery School ‘10
Lily Worral Kindergarten ‘10
Olivia NPE ‘10
Shane Strath Haven H S ‘10
Valerie Leedom Elementary School ‘10

Best of luck to all graduates!
…..and may you stay forever young.

Feel free to do a shout out here to a graduate you are proud of and add a song.

Top 10 Reasons to Vote

1. Negative Ads smearing someone else’s name and reputation. It makes the slamming candidate look bad to me. Is it any different from gossip that you can’t always believe?
2. Are you receiving calls asking to come in and help the candidate get elected? Politicians are asking for “volunteers” who believe in the cause? Someday I’d love to see the whole process. I would imagine it is fascinating and very exciting. Got to love the phone calls from celebrities that are endorsing a local candidate; they will even leave a message. Think we can get together after the election? Not sure it will sway my vote but I admit I do listen.
3. Every time you do not vote, you are casting a voting for the other guy. You are not represented. Interesting. You have the right and the voice. Why not speak your mind by making a choice?
4. Who actually takes the time or has the time to really investigate the candidates?
5. Where do you find the answers? They should all have websites. Does everyone have a computer?
6. Fox News are they one sided? Jon Stewart, funny guy, there is a lot of truth in humor. Newspapers and the newscasts fairly obvious where they stand with their endorsements. I found an interesting article called The Tough Job of Communicating with Voters http://people-press.org/report/?pageid=244 It’s about political bias in the media saw it after I made those above statements. Interesting read. Maybe we all make too many assumptions.
7. Email from friends promoting the cause. Are they true? I always check out snopes.com when I see those emails. Who knows if that is even accurate? The majority are half truths and really only someone’s perspective if you dig down and follow the whole story.
8. I received a friend request on Facebook from a political candidate. I recognized the name, actually thought he was a musician at first just because of the friends we had in common. Saw his picture, looks like a good guy but I don’t need or want to be friends on Facebook unless I actually know you. He has plenty of friend’s over 3, 000 so I am sure he doesn’t need one more unless he thought that may guarantee him a vote. My personal advice to that candidate, don’t count on your “friends” on Facebook to get you elected but it can be a good tool to get your message across. It did make me check out your website; otherwise I probably would have gone uninformed. I personally don’t like using the “F” word (Facebook) but it is in your face everyday that to me that can be frightening.
9. Your political party of choice is a label. Makes you a liberal or a conservative, shouldn’t be that black and white. This time around in the primary you must stay within your party lines. The big one in our area is for the Senate race between Specter (D) and Sestak (D). Should be interesting. Toomey(R) is running unopposed.
10. Do you pick a candidate because someone told you to? No, on this one you have to take the time and do the homework yourself to select the candidate that will best represent you and your needs and views. You can ask, but in the end it is your vote. May 18th, next Tuesday is your opportunity to make you vote count. Not registered and over 18 or you don’t have the time to vote? You have “no right” to complain. There is still time for the next election. Stand up and be counted.

My main concern is what happens under my own roof but I do care about who is running my community and my country. Regardless of my political ballot, I would hope that in caring I am part of the majority.

Top 10 Countries Reading the Delco Top 10 Blog

This listing is as of yesterday, the rankings change daily. There are 20 countries in total just in the last two weeks since I have been tracking it.

1. United States
2. United Kingdom
3. Canada
4. Philippines
5. Malaysia
6. Australia
7. Slovenia
8. Singapore
9. Germany
10. Croatia

Music seems to be the universal language. I share this information because I think it’s very interesting first of all just how small the world really is and how we all come from different backgrounds and experiences yet we share a common interest, “music”. I would bet money above music the other common thread is a hope for “world peace”. Comments and ideas are welcomed in the blog in all languages. Sing your song. I think we could all use an education. http://delcotopten.blogspot.com/

Top 10 Ways to Connect

1. Email stay in contact with friends and business associates. Usually a good idea to have a separate email for personal reasons as well as business. Your personal business doesn’t belong on a company email account.

2. LinkedIn The Power is in the 2nd degree. Learn how to use LinkedIn for job searching.

3. Classmates.com find people you attended high school or college with. Reunion news as well.

4. Skype it’s a free phone call anywhere over the internet, if you have a video camera on your computer you can talk face to face. Great way to stay in contact with family and friends at a distance.

5. Facebook connect with lost friends by searching for a name to see if that person belongs, or if you have an email address you can invite someone to connect to you. Be careful on this site though, batten down you security hatch. I would also stay away from the apps, just a personal opinion. I do not trust them for possible virus attachments. Congress is now looking more closely at the privacy policy. Be sensible on this site

6. My Space still an ongoing battle what is better FB or My Space, seems like a generational thing to me but what do I know. My Space did come first and does offer a few differences. A lot of musicians still use this. I don’t think there is a way to listen to a selection of artists songs on Facebook. I could be wrong.

7. Dating Sites far too many to list. Plenty of fish in the sea is actually one. You can search this site for a dating site review. I would still meet a prospective date in a public place with a quick exit. I do know couples where there has been a successful outcome.

8. Google Groups great source for computer problems. Just type in your question. I use this all the time.

9. Twitter I personally do not twitter, my life is not that exciting as a few commenter’s have reminded me : ) but I get updates on FB of people that do. I’m just not there yet. One friend twitted entering a police station, only to do work there but it did get my attention. I follow Apolo Anton Ohno through Facebook, started it during the Olympics so I will get his twits (is that a verb or a noun?) along with about a million other dreamer girls I’m sure. I’m not a follower of anyone else. Funny when they show up though. I know where he’s at if you want to know (wink).

10. Pick up the cell. Just make sure you are on a headset in Philadelphia and New Jersey or wait till you are in the parked position if you have joined the Oprah No Phone Zone Pledge. Not a bad idea. Land lines are still in fashion. Make the call when you have the time to reach out and chat..

Not one item on this list can top inviting the family to the dinner table.
Share a meal and connect. It should be a top priority.

Top 10 Fun with the Philadelphia Flyers

1. Admission right up front. I am on the band wagon this year, but come from a family of brothers that are die-hard fans. My older brother had season tickets in the nose bleed section during the 73-79 seasons, exactly two rows from the top of the Spectrum ceiling. He was envied.

2. I was a big fan and follower in the mid-seventies when The Philadelphia Flyers won the Stanley Cup. It has been quite a few years now and many of the fans today really don’t know what a big deal that was. The Spectrum actually let some fans standing outside the stadium in for the last minute of the last game of the Stanley Cup finals in 1974. Of course that would not happen today. What a fire hazard, but I know it was done. I was one of those fans. It was very exciting. This was the city’s first sports victory in many years and everyone loved the Flyers.

3. This weekend I checked out the HBO documentary special The Broad Street Bullies On Demand. You can also share your stories at delcotimes.com

4. Unknown fact to the casual fan, a premiere of this film was free at the Wachovia Center last month on April 13th. I had family that attended, they loved it. The screening was free and so was the parking. It was an event I am sorry that I missed. Many of the old players were there and interviewed on the Red Carpet, personally I think it should have been orange but red is Hollywood and so goes the world of film.

5. It was a great trip back in time to watch it on television. It is still available this month. I actually skipped school to attend the parade in 1974. As a parent now, I wouldn’t recommend it but it’s a day in my scrapbook. I stood in front of the Spectrum with droves of fans as the players were driven by in convertibles and some were on a bus. The fans that were climbing the flagpole for a better view intrigued me the most. It looked dangerous and I’m not that flexible but I did wonder just how advantageous that perspective was.

6. The Broadstreet Bullies were considered the dirtiest players in the league but they were popular, a force to be reckoned with. They beat the Russians!

7. Present day hockey has changed so much since those days. In 1979, helmets became mandatory, yet serious injuries still occur. How about face shields next? Ian Laperriere would have benefited from that. I hope he has a healthy recovery.

8. I have been following the current team since the playoffs. The fact that the Flyers made it there was a surprise, and each game that is won is yet another surprise. They are up to game 5. I just want to say, Recchi (former Flyer’s player) whose side is he on anyway? Wish we still had him, however, Gagne and his overtime goal in Game 4 was just beautiful. I’m glad he is back.
9. Philadelphia fans have a reputation. We always seem to make national news with not so flattering actions while watching and attending our sporting events. Spectators will cheer the team or player on with such enthusiasm, as if it is the greatest play we have ever seen, and in the next breath we are booing the players, leaving the stadium early, and calling them bums. Fans are at times fickle fanatics.

10. You can check out game 5 Monday night 7PM (check your local listings for the channel). The game will be played in Boston. It’s a best of 7 series. Right now Boston is ahead 3 wins to our 1. Every game matters from this point on. If the Flyers win, we could be headed to another great moment in sports history. It seems we could use a little good sports press in the Philadelphia region. May God Bless America, as the famous Miss Kate Smith sang and may He keep us safe?

You have to reach those goals and block those shots to be recognized.

Kudos to Ed Snider for bringing hockey to Philadelphia, life is just a game of chance and he took it and we have benefited from it.
Let’s support and appreciate the team.

Go Flyers!

Top 10 Thanking Mother Nature

Things we take for granted just about every single day.

1. Sunshine and Rain helps to make life grow, it is a partnership.



2. Sunrise can't start the day without it. Don't hit the snooze. Get up and enjoy the gift. It's your day!




3. Sunset brings comfort at the end of a sometimes tough day. I have seen some mesmerizing ones. Who is the artist?



4. Clear Blue Sky. A personal preference to all. Who hasn't noticed when it is a beautiful day?



5. Power of the ebb and flow of the tides. It all has such a significant meaning whether it's scientific or just plain ole personal.



6. Water sources rivers, oceans, ponds, streams. Your body needs this and should be replenished.



7. Gravity keeps your feet on the ground.


8. Oxygen the air we breathe, can't survive without it.


9. Sounds of Nature. Just listen life is out there.

10. Creation of Life. Not one of us would be here without it. Respect it.

Top 10 Animated Film to Watch "Up"

1. Best Animated Feature of 2010 Academy Award (recipient Pete Docter)
2. Kids Choice Awards 2010 Favorite Animated Movie (no one came to accept the award) I thought that was interesting.
3. Collaboration between Disney and Pixar. Pixar produced the film and Disney was the distributor.
4. Carl the main character was primarily based on Spencer Tracy (I can see that) and Walter Matthau.
5. Main character voices:
Ed Asner as the voice of main character Carl Fredrickson.
Jordan Nagai as the voice of Russell the Wilderness Explorer.
Bob Peterson as the voice of Dug misfit but loyal dog.
Pete Docter as the voice of Kevin the bird is also the director of the film Christopher Plummer as the voice of Charles Muntz, the hero.
Elizabeth Docter as the voice of Ellie and is also the director’s daughter.
6. Covers many topics of past, present and future.
7. You will recognize a few adventures of your own.
8. You will forget you are watching an animation.
9. Cozy up on the sofa and watch with your favorite kid, it’s for all ages.
10. Pull up a curb and have a chat over ice cream.

Without giving away the story, I will only say I recommend this film because for many reasons it will have you looking and feeling “Up”.

Watch all the credits too and see just how many people were involved in bringing this wonderful film to life.

The film also won Michael Diacchino an Academy Award for Best Original score, as well as Best Score Soundtrack Album for the Grammy Awards. At times, the music was the dialogue in the film.

You can find more information on the film. Check the film’s website and watch a trailer. Also check out Pixar’s website it’s full of fun. Share it with the artist in your life who colors outside the lines.

Is this film that deep and about the true meaning of life and its adventures? I hope so. You be the judge.

Top 10 Mother Songs

1. Mammy, Al Jolson How I love thee, how I love thee, my dear old Mammy.

2. Mamas Don’t Let You Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. As long as it’s not J. R. Ewing you should be alright. John Wayne was always a good guy.

3. Your Mama Don’t Dance and Your Daddy Can’t Rock and Roll. Loggins and Messina. Disproved in this house we always have the music flowing.

4. Mother and Child Reunion. Paul Simon. That hug is so real folks, embrace it!

5. Mama Told Me (not to come) Three Dog Night. Do they ever listen? We just pray they don’t get caught.

6. You Mother Should Know. Beatles. Believe me we know. We know everything but it will take several years before you realize it. Ask your father.

7. Days Like This. Van Morrison.
When it's not always raining there'll be days like this
When there's no one complaining there'll be days like this
When everything falls into place like the flick of a switch
Well my mama told me there'll be days like this

When you don't need to worry there'll be days like this
When no one's in a hurry there'll be days like this
When you don't get betrayed by that old judas kiss
Oh my mama told me there'll be days like this

When you don't need an answer there'll be days like this
When you don't meet a chancer there'll be days like this
When all the parts of the puzzle start to look like they fit
Then I must remember there'll be days like this

When everyone is up front and they're not playing tricks
When you don't have no freeloaders out to get their kicks
When it's nobody's business the way that you wanna live
I just have to remember there'll be days like this

When no one steps on my dreams there'll be days like this
When people understand what I mean there'll be days like this
When you ring out the changes of how everything is
Well my mama told me there'll be days like this

Oh my mama told me
There'll be days like this
Oh my mama told me
There'll be days like this
Oh my mama told me
There'll be days like this
Oh my mama told me
There'll be days like this

8. I’ll Always Love My Mama. The Intruders. “You only get one”. A well thought out process in the selection pool. Nothing else in this world like that bond from day one.

9. In My Daughters’ Eyes Martina McBride. Song reversal here that just makes me cry for one day I hope my own daughter passes on the legacy. Just not tomorrow for I am too young and vibrant and beautiful but not to old to play.

10. The Wonder of You. Elvis Presley. Doesn’t mention mother once in this song but here’s a snippet of the song. Who else could he possibly be talking about? When no one else can understand me, when everything I do is wrong. You give me hope and understanding, you give me strength to carry on I guess I’ll never know the reason why you love me as you do. That’s the wonder, the wonder of YOU!

Happy Mother’s Day

To all past, present and future mothers.

Top 10 Mother's Resume

1. Producer. Gets the product out the door.
2. Selfless/Nurturer. Gotta love ‘em even the flaws.
3. Historian. Knows your history.
4. Insomniac. Up countless nights worrying over you and your safety.
5. Supporter. The ballot will always be cast in your favor.
6. Taxi Driver. Knows of your travels and helps you get there, “if it’s safe”. Checks it out, later turns into driving instructor.
7. Cook/Nutritionist (that is a husband’s fantasy) but you do have to feed them, healthy and often.
8. Inspector. Constantly checking to make sure things are ok.
9. EMT/Problem Solver. Lends a hand through own personal experience and aids in the healing process.
10. Multi-tasker. Always juggling but will stop in a instant to meet your needs

Of course this is all in one day, sometimes one hour, without mentioning the countless side jobs.
Impossible to master all these skills but we all do the best we can.
Someone else’s mom is always better, but YOU got the job.
Busy work but we always find the time.

Check out the Delco Mom’s Blog
http://delcomoms.blogspot.com/