The Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” Adds a Whole New Touch to a Very Familiar Colorway

Among the new Jordans 2014 that Jordan Brand is bringing back this year is the Air Jordan 14. Some readers probably might have heard about the Air Jordan 14 Retro “Black Toe” towards the end of last year. However, 23isBACK.me is updating you on the arrival of another colorway of the Air Jordan 14, which has been dubbed “Thunder.” The Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” Adds A Whole New Touch To A Very Familiar Colorway. This is certainly not the first time for an Air Jordan sneaker to sport the “Thunder” theme, but it seems that the Air Jordan 14 is next in line. Although this colorway features the same yellow that has been spotted on the “Lightning” colorway, however, the “Thunder” moniker fits this one quite well since it is a black and yellow pair. This also happens to be the very first of the colorways of the Air Jordan 14 that are scheduled to be released this year. The Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” Adds A Whole New Touch To A Very Familiar Colorway.In the past, Jordan Brand has rarely repeated a colorway on a sneaker when the colorway has already appeared on another model previous. Of course, one exception to this tradition is the Chicago Bulls style. Usually, Jordan Brand is known for its practice of introducing new colorways and/or combinations, but this colorway of the Air Jordan XIV goes against that practice Why? Well, because a Retro “Thunder” colorway of the Air Jordan IV had already been released just last year. The latest images of the Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” that have surfaced provide quite a clear and closer too at this upcoming pair. Based on the recent buzz and these images, these sneakers have a black nubuck upper with black lining, and even the outsole is black. What deem this pair worthy of the “Thunder” moniker is the touches of yellow featured on the Jordan branding, midsole, and outsole. The Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” Adds A Whole New Touch To A Very Familiar Colorway.The thing that sets the Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” apart is that not only does this colorway really work, it excels and surpasses beyond the boundary and purpose of being just another sneaker model. As mentioned, the first time this colorway had become prominent was back when the same colorway had been released for the Air Jordan IV and today; this “Thunder” colorway is admired as a Jordan classic. Jordan Brand again repeated this colorway on the Air Jordan I “New Love,” which also took the sneaker market by storm. Now, this black and yellow colorway is been put on this fresh new pair of upcoming Air Jordan 14s. As was the case with the very first Air Jordan 14, this “Thunder” pair is also inspired from the Ferrari. This pair is quite simple but the combination of colors and materials is exceptional. The good news that 23isBACK.me brings is that this pair is among the new Jordans 2014 that actually have release date. Thus, the Air Jordan 14 “Thunder” is all set to make its retail debut on July 4, which is almost eight days away.
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The Air Jordan 6 Brazil Takes Inspiration From the Brazilian National Soccer Team in Spirit of the 2014 World Cup

With the 2014 World Cup next month, 23 is Back has been noticing that sneaker brands have been seizing this excellent opportunity to showcase their creativity with distinct sneaker releases. With the Jordan Brazil Pack, which includes this Air Jordan 6 colorway and another sneaker, Jordan Brand has also take an exciting yet simple approach. Considering the fact that it is in mid June when the World Cup festivities will kick off, it is not surprising that this pair is expected to be released on June 14th, just two days after the FIFA World Cup begins. The Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” Takes Inspiration From The Brazilian National Soccer Team In Spirit Of The 2014 World Cup. It was near the end of April when the sneaker world got a first glimpse at the Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” colorway that is one of sneakers in this two-pair set. It should be obvious by now that the inspiration for this sneaker and the pair accompanying it comes from the 2014 World Cup that will be held in Brazil. Moreover, back in April, a Nike Football Media Event was being held in Madrid, Spain where the Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” was displayed. Despite the fact that Jordan Brand has never been involved in the sport of international soccer, the label has confirmed that they have some goodies in store in spirit of the World Cup, including the kicks that come in the Brazil Pack. The Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” Takes Inspiration From The Brazilian National Soccer Team In Spirit Of The 2014 World Cup.The Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” is going to be released to show somewhat of a support for Brazil, the host country in this year’s World Cup. For the readers who are more into basketball than soccer, the Brazilian national soccer team has already won five World Cup championships in the past. Hence, it is even more iconic that this upcoming Air Jordan 6 colorway is expected to be released at a time when the national team is hopeful that they will win the 2014 Cup as well. In April, it was also revealed that a similar colorway of the Jordan CP3.VII is the other pair that will be included in the Brazil Pack with this Air Jordan 6 . Both pairs are going to get a limited release, i.e. just two thousand pairs are going to available for grabs. Along with new Jordan release dates 2014, 23isBack recently got confirmation that the rumor is indeed true that Jordan Brand is indeed limited the release of the Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” to just 2,000 pairs. This actually makes this pack one of 2014’s toughest pick-ups and the demand for both the pairs that are included will most likely be very high. A combination of black suede and tumbled leather has been brought to the Air Jordan 6 silhouette by this pair. The green and yellow highlights that are featured on the branding, heel tab, lace lock and midsole are obviously a nod to the national team. The outsole displays icy accents, reminiscent to the original colorway of this model. Among the Jordan release dates 2014, the release date of the Brazil Pack is likely to fall between June 14th and June 21st. Both the Air Jordan 6 “Brazil” and the similar Air Jordan Jordan CP3.VII AE colorway are going to be available as a set and it will not be possible to cop them individually. Nonetheless, both of these limited pair look like they are worth having.
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The Air Jordan 6 Retro “Sport Blue” — a Long Awaited Retro Colorway

23 is Back would like to bring to light the fact that for years now, there has been debates on various sneaker forums over the true color designation of the Air Jordan 6 original colorway. However, many readers probably agree that the bigger question is that why Jordan Brand has not retrod the Air Jordan 6 yet. However, that was only until November 2013, when new Jordan release 2014 dates began surfacing. As the 2013 had been nearing its end, it had already become evident that 2014 was going to be a huge year for the Air Jordan 6. Back then, quite a few retro colorways had already been confirmed by Jordan Brand, but there were also rumors suggesting that the Air Jordan 6 “Sport Blue,” which has never been retrod in the past, would finally receive a retro treatment in 2014. Even proof surfaced in the form of an image that further suggested that an Air Jordan VI retro pair was indeed going to be released by Jordan Brand in 2014, which would sport the “Sports Blue” color combination. Even the Air Jordan 6 pair in the image did not feature the same icy blue translucent soles as modern era retros, but Jordan Brand fans were still hopeful. Indeed, Jordan Brand did lot let its fans down and confirmed that the Air Jordan 6 “Sports Blue” colorway was finally coming back around as a retro release. Back in August 1991 when this fourth “Sports Blue” colorway of the Air Jordan 6 had been released, the official colorway of the kicks ended up becoming a subject of several major debates. These debates mainly revolved around whether the colorway was “September Blue” or “Sports Blue,” since the box tag only featured an abbreviation of the term. Despite speculations, the colorway was actually “Sports Blue,” and the upcoming Retro “Sports Blue” colorway looks precisely like the orginal. Here at 23isBack, we are well aware that plenty of Air Jordan enthusiasts are cannot wait for the Air Jordan 6 Retro “Sports Blue” to be released so they can cop a pair. The good news is that this Retro “Sports Blue” colorway of the Air Jordan 6 is going to be released on August 30th. After the release of this pair, only the “Maroon” colorway of the Air Jordan 6 will be left behind, which has yet to be retroed. Perhaps Jordan release dates 2015 might include hints of a possible Retro “Maroon” colorway release of the Air Jordan VI, but nothing is certain as of now. Jordan Brand continues to publish images to provide sneaker enthusiasts, especially those anticipating this release, with glimpses of the upcoming “Sports Blue” colorway. Moreover, the Retro 6′s is not the only Jordan sneakers being released in 2014 that are going to feature the “Sports Blue” color combination. For instance, both the Air Jordan 14 Retro and the Air Jordan 3 Retro that are going to be released before this AJ 6 pair also feature hints of sports blue. Thus, it certainly seems that 2014 is turning out to be a huge year for the Air Jordan 6, and readers who are curious about further Air Jordan VI colorways that might be released should keep their eyes peeled for new Jordan release 2014 updates.

With the Air Jordan XX9 Release Three Months Away — Here is a Look at the XX9 Black/White/Gym Red Colorway

Back in April, when the NBA playoffs were nearing, Russell Westbrook had made an on-court appearance, wearing quite a unique Air Jordan XX9 colorway. It became obvious that Jordan Brand was giving its loyal fans hints at a potential Air Jordan XX9 debut. In the same month, the teaser video, “Tailored For Flight,” was also released by Jordan Brand in which some major hints were dropped regarding what inspired the overall design of the Air Jordan XX9. The video revealed that a major focal point behind the design of the shoe was high-end tailored suits. Later in April, Jordan Brand confirmed that the Air Jordan XX9 would be launched in two separate colorways in September. Jordan Brand also revealed that the sneakers would feature a myriad of performance technologies, such as the first ever performance-woven upper, an evolved Flight Plate system, and the new Flight Web. Tinker Hatfield, the Jordan Brand legend, designed these sneakers, and he had apparently been working them for two years. The Air Jordan XX9 was then officially unveiled at a Jordan Brand media event that took place in April in New York City. The attention to detail that was seen on Jordan Brand’s 29th signature sneaker definitely gave views an aesthetic that they had never seen in the past in Air Jordan basketball performance sneakers. As mentioned, an evolved Flight Plate was featured by both pairs along with a new woven upper. The shoes also feature a design that is form fitted to the foot, which makes them the sneaker equivalent of tailored suits. In terms of patterns and prints, the Air Jordan XX9 truly showcased the diversity of the woven upper. In particular, the Black/White/Gym Red colorway of the Air Jordan XX9 is a traditional take on the woven upper. The pair actually seems to be reminiscent of the “Chicago” colorway because it seems to have borrowed from the Chicago Bulls’ theme and the elephant printer upper is certainly a blast from the past. Apart from the predominant elephant that is featured on the upper, another thing that has been shown by the woven upper is the diversity of the material in terms of the arrangements of pattern and blocking. For instance, the white Air Jordan Jumpmen that are featured on the sides and the tongue. The gym red accents on the pair are featured in the form of borders or linings, or whatever they might be described as. Unlike the other Air Jordan XX9 pair that sports an icy outsole, the Black/White/Gym Red colorway comes with a grayish outsole with a glossy black midsole that features elephant print. It is not unnatural if readers keep checking 23isBack for the latest Jordan release dates 2014, but the fact of the matter is that there are still three more months to go until an official release date for the XX9 is announced. Considering that it is Jordan Brand’s 29th signature shoe and has not been worn by Michael Jordan on the court, it is obviously a highly anticipated pair. Nonetheless, once both Air Jordan XX9 sneakers hit the retail shelves, each will be available for $225, which is a decent price.

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The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Family Forever” With Jordan Family

Here at 23isBack, we are well aware that the canvas/denim look has always been a major trend for summer, so it should not be surprising that Jordan Brand decide to release a very trendy sneaker that combines the two. As latest Jordan release dates 2014 continue to take the online world by storm, the release date of this new Air Jordan 1 colorway has also been announced by Jordan Brand. This dark navy sneaker is all set to make its retail debut on June 14th. Jordan Brand recently revealed that the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Family Forever” (initially known as the “Denim”) is a tribute to the family of Michael Jackson and their own separate journeys. Images of the pair show that that the phrase “Family Forver” is featured in white on the tag. Below the phrase is an inspiration message that reads: “If you accept the expectations of others, especially negative ones, then you never will change the outcome.” James R. Jordan, Sr., Michael’s late father, is referred to on the lace aglets as “POPS,” while a set of numbers can also be seen on the tag, which apparently are the years in which Michael’s Jordan’s three children were born. It is likely that Michael Jordan’s fourth child was not around when this pair was created. Moreover, the insole of the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Family Forever” also features an image of the old mansion in Chicago that Michael Jordan used to live in. Jordan release dates 2014 that are offered here are always spot on, which means that these kicks are indeed going to hit the shelves on June 14th, 2014. There are several different things about this upcoming release that are quite intriguing, apart from the Jordan family details that this pair features. One of those interesting things is the fact that this pair is much cheaper than “Nike Air” pairs that have come before it. What this means is that the pair will be available for just $120 once it makes its retail debut. Another notable thing about this pair is that the Air Jordan Future colorway that has the same colors is also being released on June 14th, which is curious, because that pair does not seem to have a “Family Forever” theme. The Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Family Forever” is the newest Jordan Brand sneaker that marks the return of denim. Of course, the upper is not entirely made of denim, and the lack of denim on certain spots has been filled in with navy flat leather. This pair also sports quite a playful pop because of the multi-colored eyelets and laces. Their pair even gives off somewhat of a boyish feel due to the midsoles, which are in pure white, and the solid outsole, which is in light blue. Here at 23 is Back, we are in agreement that the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Family Forever” is quite an interesting Jordan Brand sneaker. However, it would be appreciated if Jordan Brand provided slightly more background on the familial details that are featured on this pair. While it is still too soon to be looking for Jordan release dates 2015, we have been getting hints and will keep you updated about this “Family Forever” pair and other releases.

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The Haunting on Colonel's Row

I have experienced two paranormal occurrences in my life. Thankfully I had witnesses at both events so doubts about my sanity can remain just doubts. In celebration of Halloween I have decided to put both down on paper. My first ghost I encountered was on Governor's Island in New York City. The home we lived in was on Colonel's Row and was a three story brick affair. Its rooms had high ceiling, small windows and were generally poorly lit. The evening I saw this ghost was the usual nasty sort you find in late autumn in the city. Dreary, cold and rainy. It is fair to say we were primed for the coming event. My mother had ordered us to get our bathes done and David had just finished while Jon was waiting for me to get out. The bathroom was at one moment a noisy and active place with three boys chattering away, the normal sounds of bathing and the ever present patter of rain on the windows. The next it was as if time had ceased to function. Our lives had gone from a movie to a picture in an instant. I felt frozen, lying in the bathtub, caught in the act of leaning my head back to wash the soap out of my hair. In my periphery, Jon and David were both, suddenly and alarmingly silent statues. What they were seeing and feeling was beyond me at that point. In fact, during the brief time the thing was in our presence, I felt almost nothing. I could not feel the tepid water or the cool air on my exposed body, nor even my hands, feet or legs. Physically, the only part of me that I was conscious of, was my eyes. They felt huge and dry. As the thing glided across the threshold of the door, my eyelids seemed to be straining to peel back. There was no thought of closing my eyes or even blinking. There were no thoughts at all and no fear. My mind seemed inoperable, disengaged, seemingly unable to comprehend the thing in front of me. The ghost did not seem solid yet it had a physical presence. It was of varying shades of grey and though it was vaguely human in shape it had no legs and had only small thin wispy arms. It had emerged from the darkened corridor beyond the bathroom, paused at the doorway and then glided silently into our bedroom to the right. We saw it for maybe a second and a half. With its disappearance, I gained only an awareness of events happening around me. I controlled neither my mind or body. Complete terror controlled these. A piercing scream erupted from me, joined in unison by screams from my brothers. Even as I was clawing at the tub to pull myself out, my brothers, towels in hand, raced through the bathroom door, heading for the stairs. "Wait for me!" No words I can type can describe the utter desperation I heard in my own scream. Panic controlled me to such an extent that my body felt as if it were controlled by strings above me. Torrents of grey bathwater flowed onto the tiled floor as I exploded out of the bath, desperate not to be left behind. I stooped to grab my towel only to find that it was not on the ground where I left it. My brain fixated on the towel. I needed a towel. A towel lay next to the toilet. I lose a second of my life then. One moment my mind recognizes the shape on the ground, 6 feet away as a towel, the next instant without moving or even thinking about moving, I am above it. I could see my arm, as if it was someone else's reach down to grab it. I spun around preparing to bolt out of the bathroom. The bathroom was completely empty, I could only hope the black hall beyond is empty. Fear blasted through every cell in my body, causing me to want to throw up. I wailed "Wait for me!" at the top of my lungs. A very distant part of my brain was embarrassed over my cowardice. My body didn't care and surged forward on its own accord, the strange puppet like feeling was back. My head bounced on my shoulders, soap stinging my eyes. My only control at that point was to force myself not to look to my right. IT was to my right. The thing. My panic stricken body dashed into the black windowless hallway. Just as I turn to my left to head for the stairs, a strange thing happened to me. I felt myself lifted off the ground. I look up in the dim light to see my feet above my head. I had taken the turn too wet, too fast and too out of control and had gone flying head over heels into the dark. I hit the ground with a wet slapping sound. There was no pain but amazingly control. For the first time since this started I felt my fingers and toes. I felt like I was back in charge of my own body. I sprang up naked, the towel lost in the darkness. For that split second of lying on the ground, my fear had abated. It came roaring back when I heard the sound behind me. I still to this day, cannot tell you what it was. The wind? The rain? The towel sliding off the hamper where it had landed? The thing? Whatever it was, it caused goose bumps to break out all down my back in a wave. I took off running for the stairs. I look back feeling fortunate to have slipped in the hall. I had been so out of control I might have killed myself going down those stairs. As it was, I astonished myself the way I went down. Every 8 year old kid will go down the stairs six, seven at a time with one hand on the rail and the other on the wall. I took a dozen stairs in near complete darkness, soaking wet and naked. Hitting the landing I turned to the right and leaped another dozen into the dim light of the stairwell to the next landing. The glow of the light from our family room and the hysterical babbling of my brothers filled me with relief. I ran in to the room not caring that I was naked. My brother's and I agreed we had seen a ghost and we each agreed on all of the pertinent details. But as the years went by and the terrifying memory faded, I started to laugh at myself for such foolishness as believing in ghosts. It was not until the events at Red Feathers Lakes, 17 years later, that I decided to once again believe my own eyes.

Major Catastophic Events

If I’m honest, I always shudder a little when I set out to write an article such as this one. The main reason is that whilst at this moment in time, the words I am writing will make perfect sense, I also know that there will be a time when they come back to haunt me. At a time when I least want them to, I will have to listen to my own good advice. (Of course worse than that is someone else telling me to listen to my own good advice.) You might be wondering after reading the title of this article why it is that I’m presupposing a major catastrophic event. That in doing so I am sending a signal out to the universe to create one for myself, and you could be right. But I also want to be realistic about what life has to offer. I went recently to see a very well respected Past Life Regression therapist and spiritualist. It’s not the way I normally approach resolving issues but I thought it would be enlightening and good practise- and it was. What was interesting is that the therapist, who is very highly regarded in the UK, said “Every time we think we have got rid of our stuff (technical term for negative emotions that are still causing a problem and are related to significant emotional events of the past) new stuff happens, new challenges come up and create more stuff. Unless you are on a mountain meditating all day, it’s very difficult to go through life without some degree of stuff there.” The “stuff” in question doesn’t have to be related to a major catastrophic event, but it could be. That purely depends on your perception of it. Those who have experienced major catastrophes, quite often think back on them later, and see them as a Turning Point, an indication to change life in some way or even a blessing. I was watching The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success (see Who Were Lovin’ section) and was listening to Olivia Newton-John describing her breast cancer as a blessing. There can’t be many who feel that way about cancer, and whilst that might not have been her in-the-moment thought about it, that is certainly her perception now. By reframing the meaning of cancer, it has in a sense become a blessing. What others may perceive as a major catastrophic event, for her was a blessing. Now let’s just think about the nitty-gritty of that. Even if a cancer came and went, which frame of it would have you feeling better in the moment of now. “I recovered from cancer (thank god) and it was a major catastrophic event in my life” or “I recovered from cancer (thank god) and can now see its presence was a blessing.” Of those two thoughts, which one still has fear attached to it? Which one says “if it comes back I already know I’ll be ok” which one says “it will shake up my life with some negative implications” and which one says “it will shake up my life and good things may come from it”? Therefore which one has the most power? For me, it’s the blessed one. I know that won’t be true for everyone, some people feel more armed for a good fight if they are anticipating a major catastrophic event. And that’s ok, there is certainly a lot of adrenaline for fight in fear. I just happen to think that fighting a major catastrophic event shouldn’t be done from a place of fear. I’m not even sure you should fight. How would it be to dance with a major catastrophic event and all the while know that ultimately you will be ok, you are loved and good things will come from it eventually? Like I said, one day these works will come back to bite me on the arse on a day when I am experiencing what at that moment in time I consider to be a major catastrophic event. Someone will send me an email/write something on Facebook etc saying, “but Gemma, this isn’t a major catastrophic event, it’s just your perception of it!” And I’ll probably call them a smarty pants and grumble for a bit. But knowing what I know, I always say to my clients it’s all about time, energy and frequency. It’s ok to react, feel bad etc after all we’re only human. I’ll let myself off the hook as long as the amount of time feeling sorry for myself is not too long (measured only on a scale of my own grumpiness) the amount of energy I spend feeling bad isn’t too much and that I don’t return to indulging in the catastrophically bad thought as much as I could do. Gemma Bailey is a hypnotherapist and NLP Master practitioner who works with both adults and children from the Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire areas

What is the Day of the Dead

The Day Of The Dead is a highly revered Mexican holiday celebrated in the country of Mexico, and in other select locations around the globe. Some have called The Day Of The Dead “a Mexican Halloween” as both holidays draw inspiration from the Catholic All Saints’ Day, both take place within a few days of each other, and both are in modern times both are sometimes celebrated by dressing up in costumes and preparing sweet snacks or candy. The Day Of The Dead draws its inspirations from the Catholic holiday All Saints’ Day or All Souls’ Day and from an assortment of traditions that can be traced back to pagan cultures that were indigenous to Mexico. The traditional purposes of The Day Of The Dead are to remember and commemorate the lives of friends and family who have passed away, particularly in the last year. The modern celebrations of The Day Of The Dead in Mexico take form as a massive 2 day festival that place on November 1st, and 2nd. During the festival banks and all varieties of government buildings are closed in Mexico because The Day Of The Dead is observed as a national holiday. The first day of the festival is traditionally dedicated to deceased children and babies while the second day is dedicated to adults. To memorialize the lives of deceased loved ones friends and family will gather at the graves of the dearly departed and have mini memorial services that include building small altars for the dead with pictures of them and items that held great value to them, it is also customary to prepare the favorite meals of the dead and leave them on their graves during The Day Of The Dead. Toys are commonly left on the graves of dead children. While the private family gatherings that occur during The Day Of The Dead are often very short and solemn memorizing the lives of cherished loved ones who have past, the festivities during the two day festival take a rather different turn celebrating the lives of the departed through festive celebrations. During the two day period it is customary for people to dress up at skeletons and preform symbolic dances passed down through history to commemorate the lives of loved ones who have passed on. In some more urban city based areas of Mexico the festivities of the Day Of The Dead have produced customs similar to that of Halloween called Calaverita. During The Day Of The Dead’s Calaverita ceremony the young children of the community will dress up in various costumes and go door to door partaking in their version of the American’s “Trick or Treating’” and receiving small candies or other gifts. Similar traditions around the world include the Bon Festival in Japan, the Hangawi festival in Korea, the Qingming Festival in China and the Nepali holiday of Gai Jatra. In Africa, some cultures visit the graves of their dead relatives to ask for protection during the hunting season.

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A Stroke Survivor's Tale – Clinically Dead

It was after a weekend in St. Augustine, Florida that Jim Olbrich had his too-close-for-comfort brush with death. That night a blood clot rushed into his brain and caused a major hemorrhagic stroke. A stroke that has left Jim walking like Frankenstein. Jim had driven the two hours back to his home in Orlando. Tired, he went to bed ... but, found he had trouble rolling over ... couldn't easily get into position for sleep. During the night, it felt as if a little girl's hand pulled him out of bed. Jim headed for the bathroom ... not yet aware that his left side was already losing control. He banged off the walls ... stumbled his way ... finally made it. Jim fell off the toilet ... lay on the floor for awhile. Next thing ... Jim was in a helicopter -- being whisked to the hospital. It happened that quick! And, it happened while he was sleeping. ~ Blood Pushing on the Brain ~ Later, in the ICU, Jim heard his skull crack ... a cracking sound on his right side. Then, his head started hurting. The on-duty nurse offered a simple solution, "Well ... I'll get you a couple Tylenol." But ... this wasn't a simple headache to be solved by a couple of pills. Soon, Jim was in a coma. In the operating room, his skull was opened ... blood was drained ... the pressure was released. But ... "My brain fell out!" When Jim woke up the next morning, "I got a gazillion staples in my head ... holding everything together." He'd also died. ~ Waking Up in the Morgue ~ Declared was declared dead and put in the morgue. A body bag was nearby and a nurse was putting a tag on Jim's big toe. Luckily for Jim, the rubber band tangled with the hair on his toe. When the nurse pulled it back ... she ripped out some of Jim's hair. He woke up! When Jim sat up and spoke ... the startled nurse ran for the door. Instead she ran headlong into the wall. Now ... Jim had to wait for her to come to. Finally, he was wheeled back to his room ... a lot nicer than spending a night in the morgue. "I would have spent the rest of my life looking at somebody else's feet." ~ What caused the stroke? ~ After years of being checked out constantly ... Jim feels the doctors are still guessing. His cardiologist believes it was an artery on the front of Jim's heart ... it exploded and blew off ... sending the deadly clot on its way to Jim's brain. The clot caused a "brain bleed" -- a destructive hemorrhagic stroke. Pressure from the pooling blood "crushed" Jim's brain. ~ Jim's Still Paralyzed ~ Now, three years later, how's Jim doing? "Not bad." Jim's not one to complain. His sense of humour is one thing that has gotten him through this ordeal. Sporting a carbon-fiber plate in his skull ... completely paralyzed on his left side ... suffering from constant headaches ... Jim chuckles at all his problems. "I walk like Frankenstein ... on a cane." Jim is still on therapy and hopes to one day "become more graceful." If Jim's doctor had been correct ... Jim wouldn't walk at all. But ... Jim is stubborn. He may not walk pretty ... but, with his persistence, he does walk. It is a source of relief to Jim ... he never lost his ability to talk. Also, his memory is still quite good ... barring a few blank spots. "They're a total mystery to me." They may be lingering in a small piece of brain ... in a jar. A piece of brain -- "The size of my small finger" -- is still sitting in a jar downtown. Jim hasn't been able to see it yet ... but he'd like to. "I want to see where my memory is." ~ Can Jim's paralysis be treated? ~ "That's forever!" Or, until more T-cell research is permitted. Jim needs that ... he's on everybody's list to volunteer. What Jim needs now is a new president ... someone who won't be against such research. Why is the current administration against T-cell research? "That's because they're healthy!" ~ How to Avoid a Stroke ~ Jim's advice? "Keep an eye on your cholesterol. Arteries clog up ... that's the problem." High levels of LDL cholesterol will lead to atherosclerosis. And, the poor dietary habits that create this problem also bring on high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. All put you at a high risk of heart attack and stroke. Take some time out today ... look at your diet. Could it be healthier? Start eating better, get some exercise, live a healthier, longer life. Jim doesn't want you to join him. He's quite content being the only one who walks like Frankenstein. If his story can keep you from suffering what he has suffered ... you'll put a bigger smile on his face.

An Awakening Moment I Will Never Forget, Will You?

I was walking down on one of the busiest streets near my neighborhood. I needed to get fresh inspiration to finish a writing project I was working on. Like most people, I believe that a walk to the park will send inspirations knocking on my door. Above all, I needed a break from my work and catch up with my surroundings which I have lost touch for the past couple of weeks. Without holding a pen and having a paper to jot down my thoughts, each encounter was vividly recorded in my memory, as if this day makes a great history in my life, when I look back perhaps 50 or 60 years from now. What’s the significance? One may ask? Let’s reason out for a moment. Many of us, including myself, would classify ourselves as trend followers. Of course many would want to be trend setters but only a few will rise and become influential. For me, any happenings that change my mindset towards a trend I have faithfully abided will call for an awakening moment. Let me share the encounters of my day and perhaps you may catch the essence of it. It was rather a sunny day where the sun rose steadily, with striking rays beaming across the many faces of people rushing here and there. What’s the rush? One may ask. It’s livelihood, a routine we had to follow in pursuit for the sole medium to live, money. As I was walking pass a bus station, I inevitably noticed faces of the working class. Their expressions truly speak of the emotions that began their day. Majority were tired, bored and weary. I wondered what they were thinking about. Is life really tough and rough to get going? You should stop for a while and ponder too. Then, I stopped by a coffee house to enjoy a cup of aromatic brew coffee and freshly baked croissant, a breakfast which I rarely get to enjoy. As I was sipping my Arabica coffee, my eyes were looking at this little girl. She looked frail and tired from her walk. She must have walked for quite some time. I looked at my watch, most children like her age will be at school right now. Coincidentally, I heard the sounding of a school bell from a school that is just miles away. Unlike the other children, she started her day trading her school time with selling packets of tissue. She walked from table to table, asking if people would buy a packet of tissue from her. Although the return is not much, but it means livelihood to her impoverish family. As I was drawing out a dollar to pay for the tissue, I pondered for a while, life indeed is tough and rough to get going. The croissant tastes great with butter and jam. It reminded me of my younger days where mom would prepare freshly baked pastries for breakfast. Thoughts about my mom overwhelmed me as I slowly walked towards a traffic light. I remember how hard she has worked for our family after dad died of terminal illness when we were very young. On schooling days, she will hold us and teach us to cross the roads. Odd jobs were the occupation she chose as it gave her flexibility to care for us. I hardly recall any day when we were hungry. Although we never had much toys to play with, but we had a great childhood with fond and loving memories. On her 70th birthday, which was her last birthday, we gave her a grand party to thank her for the sacrifices made. I remembered kissing her cheeks and noticed the scar on her face. The incident happened many years ago when she was trying to save me from a fire which set out in our two room apartment. As tears flowed, I pondered for a while, life indeed is tough and rough to get going. I crossed the traffic light and continued walking. I can’t help but to recall what I observed this morning. The scene of the working class going to work, a compassionate moment of seeing a needy girl trading her precious time to feed her family, and of course an emotional remembrance of my loving mom. Life indeed is tough and rough to get going. Living and money is a reality. Some have it more abundantly and many lack money to get the day pass without hunger or pain in their weakening bodies. My awakening moment came when I realized that beyond the toil and tribulation of life, something greater thrives in the lives of these people. It is “Courage” to persevere in the tough and rough moments of our lives. I have learned a great life lesson today. It reminds me not to complain when I am caught in a traffic jam. It teaches me to give when I have more than enough to meet my basic needs. It teaches me that no problem is as devastating as taking one’s own life as long as we cling on. “Remember to cling on to hope, cling on to faith and never say die, my dear daughter”, these were the last words spoken to me moments before my mom left us. When I reached home, I took a pen and started writing. What a fresh and great inspiration I had today! Indeed, it is an awakening day which I will never forget.

The Strangest Breakfast

I woke up groaning, drum beating painfully inside my head. Tongue thick and dry, body drained - not unusual for a Saturday morning. I wanted to return to my dreams, but imagined I smelt coffee. Thirst winning; I dragged myself out of bed. Donned my threadbare maroon toweling robe, pushed my feet into my old-flapping carpet slippers and set off to investigate the unexpected aroma. My dizzy descent downstairs was torturous, each step making my head pound. The smell of freshly ground coffee driving me on - more attractive than the stale ale surrounding me. Normality fled as I opened the kitchen door. My stomach rumbled a hungry greeting at the welcome odour of cooking food - but how? What the hell had I been up to last night? “Morning Louise, your breakfast is ready.” Astonished to hear a woman's voice, my head snapped round. The drums started up again, beating a painful tattoo on my brain. My eyes opened wide in disbelief at the odd sight before them. There they were, sitting at my kitchen table: A plump, motherly type wearing a frilly apron - as yellow as her peroxide curls. Opposite her, a man - small, balding and mean looking. Dressed in an old-fashioned white collarless shirt, black braces over the top. Next to him a boy, gap-toothed and freckle faced. Head crowned with a mass of wavy ginger hair - clashing discordantly with his purple checked shirt. All 3 looking at me expectantly - or were they? Confused, I glanced over my shoulder - nobody. I studied the room, yes it was my kitchen - unusually clean and tidy, but mine. I didn’t understand. “Who?” I started to ask. Fell silent, shocked to see the man swat the boy’s ear with the back of his hand, saying “Stop messing with your breakfast Jimmy.” The woman calmly picked up a knife and carved a thick slice of bread from a crusty loaf. Who were they? She looked at me again, knife pointing towards me. Being a coward I decided to retreat. “Where are you going Louise?” The woman waved the lethally sharp knife at me. I took another step backwards. “Get in here and eat your breakfast.” she ordered. Bemused, I tried to put them right. “I’m not....” Didn’t get a chance to say any more. “Do as your mother tells you Louise.” The little man thundered, starting up the drums again. Exasperated, I ran my fingers through my uncombed hair. “She’s not...” “Stop arguing young lady, you’re not too old to put over my knee,” He said as he clouted the lad’s ear again, presumably for laughing at me. The boy’s face screwed up in pain, mouth popped open emitting an unearthly wail. To be silenced abruptly as the despotic little man said menacingly. “JIMMY” Angrily, I approached the table, ready to eject the strange trio from my house, “How dare you behave?” Was interrupted again. “Sit down Louise - NOW!” His rodent like face red with fury. With a kind of languid helplessness I obeyed, sitting down opposite Jimmy. The boy winked at me conspiratorially as mother put a plate in front of me. “Here you are Louise, eat it while it’s hot.” She smiled warmly at me. Grateful to have two allies I eyed the steaming plateful greedily. Eggs - sunny-side up, well-browned sausages, bacon and kidneys. Golden fried bread, mushrooms and tomatoes - a feast to tempt anyone but the strictest dieter or vegetarian. But was it real? Only one way to find out! Pass the sauce please Jimmy.” I requested. He handed the bottle over nicely enough, then the little brat kicked my shin. Glaring, I kicked him back, missed his leg, stubbed my toe on the chair leg. “Ouch.” I yelped. “What’s going on?” Father asked. “She kicked me.” “He kicked me.” Jimmy and I said simultaneously, conspiracy over, “Behave yourselves, both of you.” He warned as Jimmy started to whine. “Eat, your mother went to a lot of trouble to make this lovely breakfast. Think of all the starving children who would be grateful for a meal like this.” Feeling ashamed, I applied myself to my food. Picked up the ketchup bottle, turned it upside down, banged the bottom. Red goo gushed out, covering the mushrooms. “Louise.” The obnoxious man shouted, snatching the sauce bottle from me. “How many times do I have to tell you? Go easy on the sauce - God knows what your insides are like!” “Rotting away.” Jimmy chimed in, enjoying my discomfort - SWAT. It was my turn to gloat. I smirked before taking a bite of sausage. “Bread Louise?” Mother offered me a doorstop plastered with butter. “Yes please.” I accepted, content to be Louise for the sake of the tasty grub. “Don’t talk with your mouth full.” The man bellowed. Never have I detested anybody as much as I did him. Angry words formed in my mind, I looked at him fiercely. I couldn’t believe it - he actually slapped my hand. Knocked the fork out of it. On to my lap it fell, sauce covered mushroom dislodged, leaving a red trail as it rolled off my knee. “Messy girl.” He blamed me. Furious, I was just about to stab his hand with my newly retrieved fork. Changed my mind as he threatened to swipe Jimmy again. “Stop laughing at your sister, eat your breakfast—I won’t warn you two again.” Chastened we turned our attention to our plates. “Tea Louise?” The woman asked, seemingly unconcerned at the violent atmosphere. “I’d rather have coffee.” I replied, eying the percolator. “You know you’re not allowed coffee Louise, you’re far too young.” The nasty little man interfered. Who did he think he was? How dare he order me around in my house? Indignant, I opened my mouth to tell him to get lost - the wrong words came out. “Okay then tea it is.” I said weakly. “Manners Louise.” He picked on me again. “Please.” I added quickly, at seeing his hand twitch. Accepting the tea, I was careful to say thank you. Enjoying the soothing effect the milky drink had on my dry throat, I was amazed to hear mother say - ”Put your blue dress on today Louise, it’s your ballet lesson this morning.” I couldn’t help laughing. It was all very well pretending to be the unknown Louise for the sake of a scrumptious breakfast. Feeling the stubble on my chin, picturing my six foot tall, slightly overweight thirty year old body dressed in a blue frock, ridiculous. Even funnier to my eyes - ballet dancing, I just cracked up. Thwack. My headache returned with excruciating speed. Fuming, I stood up, fists clenched. “Sit down Louise,” He roared. “Manners, you ask to leave the table in this house.” Deflated, I sat down, couldn’t believe I was hearing myself ask. “Please may I leave the table?” Given permission, I slinked out of the room. Upstairs, I washed and shaved. Was pleased to see me - Jonathon Ridley in the mirror and not Louise. I was relieved to find blue jeans in the wardrobe - no blue dress. Once clothed, I went back downstairs, opened the kitchen door tentatively. Almost jumped with joy, no trace of them or the breakfast remains. Only the disorder left from the night before: Flies buzzing round empty cartons. Curry stains on the red-checked table cloth. Overflowing ashtray, surrounded by empty beer cans. I must have been hallucinating - but why did I feel so well fed? Why was there a red sauce stain on my robe? Why did my ear hurt? Questions I’ve asked myself many times since. I don’t know what really happened - just hope it never happens again! Published at: https://www.isnare.com/?aid=260595&ca=Short+Stories

The History Of Thanksgiving Day

Mankind has always celebrated the harvest with a feast and with fellowship. A bountiful harvest meant survival and many blessings to come. Ancient civilizations have documentation that indicate celebrations were held during the harvest season each year. The Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks, and Chinese are just a few people we know who held a festival each season when the harvest was in. The first harvest festival celebrated in North America was in 1621. This is widely considered the first Thanksgiving. Native Americans were happy to share their bountiful harvest with the colonists because the Pilgrims showed their respect to the Native Americans by following the strict hunting and planting philosophies set forth by the local Tribes. By honoring the culture of the Native Americans, the Pilgrims gained their trust and their protection, ensuring the colonists' survival through the first harsh winters. This was indeed something to be thankful for! These early harvest celebrations in North America were not called Thanksgiving. Even though the Pilgrims harvest festival is thought of as the first Thanksgiving, in reality the term Thanksgiving was normally applied to a religious holiday. The term Thanksgiving Day was originally adopted by New York State as an annual event. President Abraham Lincoln declared a National Day of Thanksgiving and since then every president has given a Thanksgiving Day proclamation every year. President Franklin Roosevelt proclaimed that Thanksgiving should be held each year on the third Thursday of November. Later, Congress passed a resolution that moved Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday of each November and that is when Thanksgiving is officially observed to this day. The early harvest celebrations did not include foods that we recognize as staples at a Thanksgiving feast today. It is entirely possible that wild game was served, including migrating duck, geese, and wild turkey. However, turkey did not hold the sacred place it holds today. It is also believed that seafood was a major component of the harvest celebration due to the colonist's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. There would have been seasonal vegetables and root crops on the table. Squash, potatoes, onions, and late season corn would have been on the menu. Side dishes which we are familiar with today would not have been a part of the feast. Cranberry sauce or relish, and green bean casseroles would not have been served in the early festivals. Also, desserts such as pies and cakes were most likely not included due to the lack of sugar. More likely you would find some late season berries as a dessert offering. As a matter of fact, because salt, sugar, and other spices were a rare commodity, the dishes found at the early harvest festivals would have been quite simple. The Thanksgiving meal we recognize today didn't happen overnight. It evolved over several hundred years. When shipping food became easier, our food supplies became more varied and plentiful. Readily available canned and frozen foods made side dishes like Green Bean Casserole a new standard. Modern conveniences like food processors, microwaves, and blenders have all changed the harvest table over time. Something as simple as the modern oven, refrigerator, and freezer helped to develop our "new traditional" favorite dishes through the years. But, even our traditional favorites can take a hit. During the sugar rationing of World War II, our much loved pumpkin pie was off the table for a time. Seems our table will continue to evolve. We have many reasons to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day - our friends and family, our easy access to food, and the modern conveniences that help us whip up that feast. Early Thanksgiving celebrations were held to rejoice in the gift of a bountiful harvest and the very survival of the colonists. Today, we gather to celebrate our own plentiful blessings and to express our thanks for another year with our loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!

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