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Sunday, May 31, 2020

I Wrote a Children's Song "I Like to Hum" by Susan Pearl

I like to hum-
Hmmmm ….Hmmmm …..Hmmmmm
I like to hum-
I really do
And you will too.
Hmmmmm …..Hmmmmmm …….Hmmmmm

I like to hum
When I look in the sky and see a bird fly by
Hmmm …..Hmmmm …..Hmmmmmm
I like to hum
in the sun
or in the rain
I hum the same.
Hmmmmm ….Hmmmm ……….Hmmm ……..
I love to hum
When I see a tree
or a buzzing bee
Bees buzz but I hum-
Hmmmm ….Hmmmm …..Hmmmm ……..

When I hum
as I work
The work feels like fun
as I hum.
Hmmmm …..Hmmmm ….Hmmmm …..
When I think of a beautiful horse
on the run,
or a walking penguin,
or the opening up of a  bloom on a flowers bud has begun-
I like to hum.
From the morning
till the day is done.
I like to hum-
Hmmm ….Hmmmm ….Hmmmm ….
Hmmmm ….Hmmmm ….Hmmmm …….



Saturday, May 30, 2020

Dates of Blogs for "Old Sayings" by Susan Pearl

Blog dates for an additional 12 "Old Sayings"  (72 in total now)

Other blog dates for "Old Sayings" are;  4-19-2020,  4-26-2020,  5-3-2020,  5-9-2020,  5-30-2020


May 18,  2020

"They've got him over a barrel".


May 19, 2020

"That's the canary in the coal mine".


May 20. 2020

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks".


May 23, 2020

"Like a bull in a china shop".


May 26, 2020

"People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones".

"A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush".

"Every cloud has a silver lining".



May 27, 2020

'You can't change the spots on a leopard".

"You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear".



May 28, 2020

"Still waters run deep".


May 29, 2020

"All's well that ends well".

"A place for everything and everything in its place".


Friday, May 29, 2020

"Old Saying Shows Life Leads to New Beginings" by Susan Pearl

"All's well that ends well".



A caterpillar going into a cocoon and then emerging as a beautiful butterfly is a great example of "all's well that ends well".  There are so many changes for us to go through.  So many stages and phases to adjust to.  But yet a person manages as best possible with these natural processes of time and makes the most of each day.  To live a life of loving others and being loved by others is a beautiful thing.  All's well that ends well.   Think of the wisdom and experience attained and the maturity gained and the ability to become more and more of what we have been created to be with multiplying talents, with new insights and with strength of affirmation that there is more good than not and an unending thankfulness and appreciation for all we have been given with an underlying connection to a bigger vision through faith, having hope and with great love.  Such a vision shows that as things and certain settings end a new beauty is to be seen emerging for us to embrace the gift of this amazing new time of another aspect that by grace we have been allowed to see and grow from.
We become a part of this new beginning---'all's well that ends well".

"Old Saying Tells of a Finding Things System"" by Susan Pearl

"A place for everything and everything is in its place".



This old saying "a place for everything and everything in its place" was taught to me as a way of saying to return things to where they belong after I used them.  That way the next person who wanted to use the item could immediately find it and not have to hunt for it.  It was taught as a thoughtful thing to do.
However, we did have one "junk drawer" and that was the drawer that held a lot of handy items that may be needed.  A lot of times I was asked to get something and told, "It's in the junk drawer"....and , sure enough it was there.....and , it was returned to the "junk drawer", after being used.  The funny thing is that the things in the "junk drawer" was not junk.  String, twine, claw hammer, screwdriver, plyers, electrical tape, masking tape, scotch tape, ruler, tape measurer, glue, scissors, rubber bands, thumb tacks etc..  Next to the silverware drawer I think it was the other most used drawer we had in the house.
Throughout my life, no matter where we lived, we have had a "junk drawer".  It has helped so much for having "a place for everything and everything is in its place".  But nowadays I think it really should be called "an utility drawer".

Thursday, May 28, 2020

"Old Saying Identifies a Quiet Strength" by Susan Pearl

"Still waters run deep".


When I was growing up I heard this old saying used to describe the character of a consistently calm person.  It refers that there is a depth of character inside that person and that is why the person can remain calm and still during times of great pressure and stress. There is a special presence to such people and their character strength can be counted on to do the right thing time after time.  They are at peace within themselves and that peace is the deep depth of their character that causes them to have a stillness and a calming effect---yes---"still waters run deep". There is nothing shallow about such people with a deep character who live what they believe to be true for the betterment of all.

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

"Old Sayings Show Limits" by Susan Pearl

"You can't change the spots on a leopard".

"You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear".

Sometimes we have to face our own limits and recognize that there are just some things that we cannot do and not ever change.  It is just not going to happen----ever.  It's a certain fact that won't change.  Go with the facts and not feelings.  As much as we want to, we can't make it happen.  I have been told that difference being a child and being an adult is that the adult know his or her limits and the child doesn't know limits.
We have to be adults and face our own limitations. We will be better off for knowing this and not spending our time attempting to do what cannot be done.

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

"Old Saying Has Good Advice" by Susan Pearl

"People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones".


 In my opinion, this old saying is telling us that it is best not to find fault or gossip about others or be nosy about other people's business.  Because, none of us are perfect.  We are have our own set of problems and troubles to deal with. For us to throw rocks at others for the way they are living their lives is not appropriate when we ourselves need to work on our own life. We ourselves are just as vulnerable and if word gets out that we are talking about others lives in a critical and negative way the people who hear what we are saying may think "who do we think we are to be talking about others when our life isn't what it should be either".....and that is why---"People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones".








"Old Saying Tells to Quit While We're Ahead" by Susan Pearl

"A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush".


Sometimes it is just best to be glad for what we have and know it is a certainty.  Having one certainty that is in our hand is better than two uncertainties that we don't have for sure.  I have heard this old saying used to express that the person wants to pass on an option of pursuing uncertainty and to stop ---and to keep what they have. "Not going on" is the decision.  The person is very satisfied and glad for what they do have because they know "a bird in the hand is better than two in the bush".  They do not desire to work or put efforts into trying for an uncertainty when they are happy with what they have.

"Old Saying Expresses Good Part of Every Cloud" by Susan Pearl

Every cloud has a silver lining

I can't help but notice the word "every".  That word "every" really stands out to me.  It doesn't say some clouds,  every other cloud, but it says "every" cloud has a silver lining and the word "every" is important to me.  That's like saying "You can count on it"---"no matter what"--a silver lining will be there--- even if it is eventually when we see it.

Within all of the bad there will be something good that shows.  We have seen this first hand with the COVID-19 pandemic.  We have seen so much courage, so much selflessness, so much help --there is no way to express it all or tell of all the kindness.

All through life we will have different difficult times.  These difficult times, like clouds, will come and they will go.  "Every cloud has a silver lining."  Even if things don't turn out the way we hoped they would--- if there has been even a little bit of progress---that is a silver lining.

Monday, May 25, 2020

"Memorial Day Remembrance" by Susan Pearl

Remembering all the men and women who gave their life for our country,
  remembering all those who served our country,
Remembering their sacrifices for freedom's way--
We say "thank you" for what has been done for our freedom
    and for the freedom of generations to come.   "Thank You".

Saturday, May 23, 2020

"Old Saying Shows That Some Things Don't go Together" by Susan Pearl

"Like a bull in a china shop"


When I was growing up the most beautiful table setting dishes (called china) were used for special occasions.
This old saying is asking us to imagine a bull in a china shop filled with beautiful breakable items and realize some things don't go together.

Some things definitely do not belong together at the same time.  For example:  A  showing of a very exquisite teacup collection with an elegant outdoor lovely garden luncheon is not the same place that people should be power spraying their dirty bicycles while listening to ear piercing music.  Either one is fine but both together is a disaster.  The power sprayers and ear piercing music at an elegant luncheon is "Like a bull in a china shop".....very disruptive (to say the least)  or is the garden luncheon disruptive to the power spraying bicycle with loud music gathering?  It is just fair to say some things are fine in themselves but don't go together for things to go well.

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

"Old Saying is About an Old Dog and Me" by Susan Pearl

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks".

I remember seeing an interview with a dog trainer when the interviewer asked if some dogs are harder to train than others and why would that be. The dog trainer answered, "All dogs train the same if they are willing to please".

I then remembered how when I was young it was important for me to please people.  The happiness of others and to keep things going well were my rewards.  I made promises just to say "yes" and to get them to stop asking me.  My heart wasn't in a lot of these promises and, as a matter of fact, I even resented being asked to do so much for others all of the time.  Finally, I learned to say "no".  The world didn't stop but some of these friendships did end.  I guess I had been an enabler and a rescuer without knowing it and I had been part of a dysfunctional relationship.  My 'treat" had now changed to still wanting the best but it had to come without me doing the other person's part in any way.  To see them succeed without me was my "reward"- "treat".

Now I am older and I don't want to please anyone anymore and consequently I still don't jump through the hoops they hold out for me to jump through.   So I definitely know, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" because it is "not important to the old dog to please" the trainer anymore and to the dog is no longer worth the effort to try to learn something new for the same treat.

As long as I live I hope to do new and interesting things but they will be new things that I
want to do and enjoy---not what someone else wants for me to do when I know I really don't have that much interest in it and it is not important to me to say "yes".. To true friends things like this don't matter because there is a mutual respect for each other.

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

"Old Saying Tells Exactly What To Watch For" by Susan Pearl

"That's the canary in the coal mine".

Some lethal fumes are odorless.  These odorless fumes can also be explosive. I have learned that such fumes can be in the coalmines. So in a coal miners setting a canary in a cage would be taken into the mine.  If the bird was healthy the miners knew the air was alright to breathe.  But if the bird showed signs of being overcome that meant the air was dangerous and to get out.  Either way---"the canary was what needed to be watched for safety".

This expression is used to emphasize what needs to be watched in a dangerous setting. That there is a way of knowing in evaluating a situation for danger and safety
Today there are high tech meters that give readings of the quality of air and sound alarm when the air shows signs of being toxic.
A toxic sign is giving warning for immediate action to be taken or there may be loss of life.
"That's the canary in the coalmine " is like saying "That is what we have to watch for safety to avoid deadly consequences.".
Different settings will have different things to watch for conditions to stay safe. If conditions show a sign that toxic levels are immanent than immediate action has to be taken to prevent the loss of life.  Some deadly situations are invisible and we need to a way to be watchful for the protection from potential harm and tragedy.
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are warning devices to take immediate action and evacuation.
In dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic there are warning signs when immediate action will need to be taken for the protection and safety of others.  Knowing what to watch is greatly valuable in the prevention of casualties and catastrophes.

Monday, May 18, 2020

"Old Saying Shows Importance of Meeting the Needs of Others" by Susan Pearl

"They've got him over a barrel".


Over the years there have been times when different things are the things that I had a need for and had to have.  There was time that if I worked I had the need for childcare. Now our children are grown up but I can understand it when people need childcare in order to work.  They are over a barrel because that is something they have to have and they need other people to provide it.

There are people who are in need of daily medication in order to live.  They have to have the medication  They are over a barrel because what they need is held by other people.

It is a hard place to be  "to be held over a barrel" but it the way of life for many people and we should be kind and sympathetic, have empathy and not allow them to be taken advantage of because that setting is a "need that has to be met" and there should be several avenues who would provide for that need in a fair and timely manner.   Lets strive for avenues to meet the needs of people so that no one feels being held "over a barrel"' and have options and choices that will meet each need.

Sunday, May 17, 2020

Dates of blogs for "Old Sayings" by Susan Pearl

Dates for an additional 10 blogs of "Old Sayings" ( 60 in total for now )

Other blog dates of Old Sayings are:  4-19-2020,  4-26-2020,  5-3-2020,  5-9-2020


May 10, 2020

"It's the thought that counts".


May 11, 2020

"The proof is in the pudding."

"You can fool some of the people some of the time,
You can fool part of the people part of the time,
But you can't fool all of the people all of the time".


May 12, 2020

"It's better late than never".


May 13, 2020

"An empty wagon makes a lot of noise".

"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is".


May 15, 2020

"An idle mind is the devil's workshop".


May 16, 2020

"They swallowed it- hook, line and sinker".

"Their bark is worse than their bite".

"Like going on a wild goose chase".

Saturday, May 16, 2020

"Old Saying Tells to Not be Gullible" by Susan Pearl

"They swallowed it, hook, line and sinker".

Being naïve and trusting are really not bad traits but the problem that these traits can make a person vulnerable to be taken advantage of by others.

We have to stick with the facts and the facts are that not all people are nice and some of them are looking for susceptible people to believe the lies they are telling.  No matter how they look, as they can look the part of being genuine and sincere, no matter what they say, as they have been skilled for buzz words that they notice show an inroad for more conversation, no matter how coincidental as it may seem (for instance you are in recent need of what they have or a service they can provide)---REMEMBER a stranger is a stranger and don't ever forget it.
Be aware and keep evaluating and don't be gullible---don't swallow it hook, line and sinker because then you will be caught by them and that is exactly what they wanted to do (to hook you).  Don't be gullible.  There "are" coincidences in that strangers can come along right when we need what they have to offer but verify authenticity and find and cross check references before taking any action that can set you and your family up for problems or harm...…. beware and be aware in not taking their bait.

"Old Saying Surprisingly Doesn't Bite" by Susan Pearl

"Their bark is worse than their bite".

There are some people whose demeanor comes across as being gruff, unfriendly, stern, critical and indifferent.  It makes a person wonder if they are like this on a good day what would they be like on a bad day.  But when the bad day comes it is noticeable that they are not any harder to get along with, even in a very sudden high stress situation.  It turns out that their reactions and responses are better than a person thought would be and that is because "Their bark is worse than their bite".

"Old Saying Spends Day Going and There " by Susan Pearl

"It was like going on a wild goose chase".

In my opinion this old saying is referring to the times when we start out our day thinking we can find what we want at a certain place but it is not there.  So then we go to another place and it is not there either.  Then we are told that there may be one left if we go to a different place.  When we get there it is just sold out.  We have a hunch that maybe it could be at a remote, out of the way, place and it is not there either.  So at the end of the day we come home with absolutely nothing and we have spent the whole day looking to find what we thought we could find.  We have just been on a "wild goose chase".

Friday, May 15, 2020

"Old Saying Prompts That it is Best to Stay Busy" by Susan Pearl

"An idle mind is the devil's workshop".

We had a very good friend several years ago who, whenever he heard of a juvenile getting into trouble, he would say,  "That's not anything that thirteen milk cows couldn't take care of ".  There is a lot of wisdom to his words because there is something about keeping busy that keeps us out of trouble.  A balance of work and play throughout the day is best for the child while growing up.  A combination of interesting things to do and appropriate responsibility are good to teach.   The tendency for boredom becomes less and that makes the need to find something to do less, also.  It ,also, shifts evening activities to not want to go out and about because of being  tired and just wanting to stay home and get a good night's sleep....because the cows need to be milked early in the morning.
With thirteen milk cows to be milked twice a day and fun games to play and the beauty of learning something new to behold it would be hard to have an idle mind.

Thursday, May 14, 2020

"Tribute to my Beloved Brother, Ron" by Susan Pearl

I received word yesterday that my brother, Ron, had passed away.
"Ron is gone, Ron is gone" was all I could say.
Ron had a positive attitude that went beyond anyone.
He was a wonderful man who loved family, faith and country.
He was good and kind.  He was jolly and fun that brought a bright light,
He was a very dear and beloved brother.  He was a delight.
His favorite prayer was the Prayer of Saint Francis
 and he shared that prayer with me-
It held a truth for me to see.
He was there with a smile and a willingness to help-
He was "outstanding".
I told him often how much I loved him
  and he told that to me, too.
He passed away in his sleep during the night
  and I can hear him say "Hey, guys, an easy passing
with my wife of over fifty five years nearby--
What more could you have wanted for me"?
He was a teacher of life and he taught me that attitude,
  and this thought is bringing me peace and comfort in a very special way.
Ron is gone. His positive outlook of life that he taught lives on and carries us beyond.
Beyond the grief and sadness to a better place awaiting for us to find.
My brother, Ron, is in a better place and knowing that gives great peace of mind today.
Ron was a great teacher to me and so my heart rejoices,
Because he taught me that the Prayer of Saint Francis is really all about choices,
With God's graces of faith, hope and love leading me through I say to God, "Thank You".
Ron was a blessing in my life and I am grateful for knowing him,
He was more than a brother-he was a very good friend.


Peace Prayer Of Saint Francis

Lord, Make me an instrument of thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow charity,
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is error, truth;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
and
Where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master
Grant that I may not so much seek
to be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying to ourselves that
we are born to eternal life.

Amen


























h

Wednesday, May 13, 2020

"Old Saying Gives An Observation" by Susan Pearl

"An empty wagon makes a lot of noise".

I don't know much about wagons but it makes sense to me that an empty wagon would vibrate more while going over the bumpy and washboard roads.  It would rumble and could be heard coming from a distance.  A wagon that is loaded and has weight in it would be more solid and make less noise going over the same roads.

The two aspects are: that an empty moving wagon makes a lot of noise but a filled moving wagon doesn't make as much noise.

When I was growing up I remember this old saying was used in reference for people who have a habit of talking way to much.  Many times I heard the words, " They talk and they talk and they talk and they don't say a thing".  It is definitely not a compliment but it isn't meant as an insult --it is an observation as to reveal how other people feel about the time they spend listening to an overly talkative person.  The talkative person won't stop talking and it becomes hard to get away and to be able to say "Bye". It doesn't seem like a worthwhile way to spend time because there are others things to do or people will be waiting.  The old saying is conveying that the overly talkative people make a lot of noise and it is an empty time when overdone.

In my opinion this old saying isn't meant to be mean, sarcastic or hurtful.  I think the it can be used as a guide for us, too, to not ramble on and on in our conversations about insignificant things because we are aware and respectful of the other person's time and attention being given to us.  Such ramblings are can be empty conversation.  We don't want to be an empty wagon but rather have our conversations be of getting to the points of interest needed to convey what we want to convey in the briefest way.  "An empty wagon makes a lot of noise" and if we use that that old saying as a guide for our conversations then we won't be a empty wagon in someone else's busy life and they won't be an empty wagon in our busy life.  Because either way, for us or for others, "An empty wagon make a lot of noise".  

"Old Saying Shares a Scam Awareness" by Susan Pearl

"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is".


We are warned frequently to be cautious and to be aware of scams or anything that would take advantage of us in any way.  We have to be strong and not be manipulated or persuaded.  Before approving any unsolicited proposal think twice about it and verify it.  No one should be upset if we would speak up and say that we want to check things out before making a decision.  Don't hesitate to hang up the phone, to not open the email and to not believe what someone is saying to you to sell or to give  you something. Let's watch out for schemes, recognize tactics, keep our guard up and let's think, "If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is".

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

"Push Back" by Susan Pearl

Some people say to "push through"
  and I think that is true.
But sometimes I think it is best to "push back".
"Push back" from all the distractions and over stimulation of so much going on.
"Push Back" and find that quiet place for awhile and enjoy the simplicity of the quiet.
"Push Back" from having so much time taken away and reclaim time just for yourself.
And above all, get used to having moments in a calm and serene environment
 to the point that you take the time to experience a renewal and a refreshment of peace regularly.

Personal note:  Today is my 900th blog!
Thank You and Best Wishes to all my readers,
Susan Pearl

"Old Saying Has Belated Good Wishes" by Susan Pearl

It's better late than never

Of course I think it is best to be on time for weddings, anniversaries, holidays, graduations, birthdays etc. but if a person is not on time, and an amount of time has past, it is fine to go ahead and give good wishes and best regards for things to go well with hope for dreams to come true.  It's better late than never.

When it comes to a dream coming true if the dream don't happen until later in life, it is better late than never.

Some awards or recognitions don't even happen in the lifetime of a person.  A descendant or other  relative is given the honor on behalf of the person being recognized for the achievement attained during that person's lifetime.  It better late than never.

The concept of time is a very important healthy part of living life and being on time...  But when not on time---"it is better late than never".

Monday, May 11, 2020

"Old Saying Waits for the Finished Results" by Susan Pearl

The proof is in the pudding

I am from a generation that made pudding from scratch and it was a little hard for me to make consistently well.  I had a tendency to scorch the mixture in the final stages of making it.  Once the pudding was scorched the whole patch of pudding tasted scorched. I found it to be a delicate process and I really didn't know for sure how the pudding would turn out until it was done and I could taste it.

I had every ingredient that I needed.  I had all the ingredients lined up in order on the kitchen countertop.  I had every cooking utensil I needed and a good stove, too.  I had the recipe in front of me.  I had everything I needed but yet I didn't know for sure how the pudding turned out until after I had tasted it.  The proof is in the pudding and the only way to know how it turned out was to taste the pudding after it was done.

In life there are times when everything that is needed for things to go right is there for us.  A smooth and successful outcome should happen but for some reason it doesn't work out that way.  The proof of how things go is how things turn out because the finished outcome is what shows that fact.  The proof is in the pudding.

"Old Saying Explains Itself" by Susan Pearl

You can fool some of the people some of the time,
You can fool part of the people part of the time,
But you can's fool all of the people all of the time.

This old saying explains itself.  It was a useful old saying years ago and it still is useful for today.

Sunday, May 10, 2020

"Old Saying Brings Mother's Day Memory" by Susan Pearl

It is the thought that counts

Today is Mother's Day and I am remembering a Mother's Day about thirty-five years ago.  We were getting ready to go to church when our very young son came into the house from briefly being outdoors. He presented me with a dandelion bouquet for Mother's Day.  It was such a lovely and beautiful moment of true sincerity from a heart filled with love. I pinned the dandelions onto my dress and wore it as a corsage.  Our whole family was very happy and our son was beaming.  After church several people made a special effort to tell me "how much they liked my corsage".  Our son beamed even more as I received the compliments on my corsage.

Yes, the old saying "it is the thought that counts" is so very true.  I cherish that precious thoughtfulness to this "Mother's Day".  "It is the thought that counts".  What a lovely thought!

Saturday, May 9, 2020

"Dates of Old Sayings for Blog" by Susan Pearl

Dates for an additional 10 blogs of "Old Sayings" (50 in total for now)
Other blogs dates of Old Sayings   4-19-2020    4-26-2020    5-3-2020
My suggestion is to use Old Sayings for family discussions during this time of school being out.   Thank You


May 4, 2020


That's like being up the creek without a paddle

Where's there's smoke there's fire



May 5, 2020


Where there's a will there's a way

If at first you don't succeed, try, try, again



May 6, 2020

Two heads are better than one

Forewarned is forearmed



May 7, 2020

Too many cooks spoil the broth

Like trying to find a needle in a haystack



May 8, 2020

The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence

Six of one and a half dozen of the other


Friday, May 8, 2020

"Old Saying Describes Unsatified Life Style" by Susan Pearl

The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence


What is it that happens to us when we think that other things are better than what we have?  What puts such thoughts in our mind?  We are all drawn towards happiness and maybe we think that it would bring us happiness to have the other things because we know that inside we aren't really happy with what we have.  What do we expect out of life? Could we have unrealistic expectations?  Can we expect to have the harvest of the other things if we are unwilling to do the work for them?  So many questions and no definitive answers.

I remember one lady saying, " The problem is that people want what we have but my husband and I worked over thirty years to have what we have".

Who drives the snazziest car?  There's something about our maturity and our value system that shows what is impressive to us and does it have to keep being bigger and better.  Some of the things I thought was so great when I was young I wouldn't walk across the street to see them today.

This is all a process we go through to find out what we want to work for and to know our own self worth and self esteem comes from within.  We become satisfied with what we have and who we are and realize our value doesn't come from things.

Some people can spend their entire lives chasing the illusive butterfly.  Why?  The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.

"Old Saying Makes No Difference to be Same Differnce" by Susan Pearl

Six of one and a half dozen of the other


Six of one and a half dozen of the other is the same amount said in two different ways.  Sometimes people are talking about the same thing but talking about it in different ways.  After each one has said what they wanted to say and then everyone agrees it is really the same difference "because" it is like six of one and a half dozen of the other.  It is the same thing only told in two different ways.

Thursday, May 7, 2020

"Old Saying Recommends One Main Chef" by Susan Pearl

Too many cooks spoil the broth.

Each of us have taste preferences.  Some of the people like spicy food, some like hot and some are in between with their favorite flavorings.  Some like rich foods and some not.

If a few of these various people cooked together making a broth with not anyone taking the lead each one would have a different opinion as to how the broth should taste.  One cook may think the broth is too spicy and hot so that cook adds a pint of cream.  Then another cook may think that the cream is too rich tasting and adds a cup of vinegar.  Another cook thinks the vinegar makes the broth too sour and adds a cup of sugar.  Another cook thinks the broth is too sweet and adds a half cup of salt.  By now all agree the broth is not edible.

There are some things that only one main person should be in charge of to do the entire process.  That person should have a plan and carry through on the plan.  Anyone assisting in any way should all use the same plan and know exactly what they are supposed to do to assist in the process. The person in charge is responsible for the outcome and takes responsibility for the outcome either way.  The term "either way" is used because people do make mistakes and it may be a possibility that someone may put sugar in thinking it is salt.  But keeping the broth to very few people making it does insure the likelihood that it will turn out consistently delicious.  Condiments can be placed on the table such as hot sauce, spices, salt, pepper, catsup, mustard and sour cream for individuals to add in their own bowl of broth the flavors they want according to each of their taste preferences.

"Old Saying Asks the Question of---'Is It Worth It'?" by Susan Pearl

Like trying to find a needle in a haystack


If I were asked to find a needle in a haystack I would consider my options.  Does a needle activate a metal detector?  Can a magnet be used in some way?  But if these items were not available and strand by strand each piece of hay had to be looked at, it would be very time consuming and tedious but it could be possible.

Some people might think it is not worth the effort and they would not use the haystack or they would just go ahead and buy a new needle.  Some things are too hard to do for what they are worth in the end.  And, of course, a person could spend all of that time and effort and not ever find the needle anyway.  Sometimes it just makes sense to move on and not give a lot of effort to a project that may prove to be a waste of time in the end and really not worth the effort.  A person has to decide it is worth the effort because the effort will be intense and have the very real possibility of being done in vain.

Hay with a needle in it cannot be fed to cattle because of the possibility that the needle could cause harm to a cow. What if it is the last stack of hay and the cattle are hungry?  So different settings and different demands would all have different impacts on making the decision if all of the effort and time would be worth the outcome and what is more important.

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

"Old Sayng Explains Perseverance" by Susan Pearl

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again


I think that resilience and perseverance go hand and hand.  To adjust and adapt to change takes resilience over and over again.  To persist in this challenge of resilience takes perseverance over and over again.  The ability to pick ourselves up and start over again.
We can learn from each attempt on how to do it better and better.  To practice and practice and practice at doing it right and to execute these abilities with consistency is a way of "try, try again".  It takes a lot of work.  It takes a lot of resilience.  It takes a lot of perseverance.  It takes giving it our very best time and time again to succeed and accomplish our optimum level of performance and ability.  We have to keep it up and then know and live with the fact we did our best and no one can ask for more than that. We succeeded in giving it our very best and no one can take that away from us.

This old saying can be applied to many areas and avenues of life such as becoming an artist, a musician, a chef, a welder, an athlete, a writer, a gardener and so much more...try, try again.

"Old Saying Explains Determination" by Susan Pearl

Where there's a will there's a way


In my opinion the word "will" is the level or degree of determination that keeps reactivating high motivation in a person to accomplish what needs to be done.  I have known some very strong willed people in my lifetime.  Call it "ability to go the distance" or that the level of determination matches or surpasses the challenge to make it through.  Often times where ingenuity of talents, creativity, very hard work and a selfless (not going to give up no matter how hard it gets) attitude keeps pushing forward there will be a way through the challenge or difficulty.  Some of these quests can take years and years to accomplish.  It will be exhausting, it will an ongoing tireless dedication but it will be rewarding and it will very worth it.  Where's there's a will there's a way.

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

"Old Saying Shows the Strong Force of Preparartion" by Susan Pearl

Forewarned is forearmed.

I think being prepared is a measure of strength to combat the warnings of dangers we have evidence that are present.  Getting ready and being ready are advantageous to not being caught off guard.  We are responsible and we recognize the responsibility we have to take the actions we need to take to protect ourselves and others from potential dangers.  It is a needed necessity to be aware and recognize warnings signs of anything or anyone who does not have our best interests but only their own interests to advance at our expense. We are prepared to not let that happened.  Forewarned is forearmed.

"Old Saying Describes Predicament" by Susan Pearl

That's like being up the creek without a paddle.


In my opinion, being up the creek without a paddle is describing being in a predicament because a main component is missing and that component is very needed for the situation.  Because of the missing component the situation is becoming a predicament.  Ingenuity is needed immediately to figure out a way to get out of the predicament.  Look at options and think of what is in the realm of possibilities to try and remedy the predicament.

The old saying is also suggesting for us to look ahead and have what we need for our endeavors so we don't get into a predicament.  

Monday, May 4, 2020

"Old Saying Combines Information" by Susan Pearl

Two heads are better than one.


During the past weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic there are lives and livelihoods being addressed.
Information from the doctor scientist experts and from economy experts is assembled and applied to- first and foremost for the protection of people's lives and then, also, to protect their livelihoods.

This combining of both information is necessary to work together for the best plan of action for the lives and livelihoods of all.  It is important we work together and do our very best for this plan of action to be carried out. Even if things are different we can adapt and manage to see the good results of so much effort for the behalf of lives and livelihood.

These efforts have been going on for years and even for generations to find answers in the form of research and development and will continue to meet the needs required at this time.  Discussions are happening on a worldwide scale.  Two heads are better than one.

"Old Saying Heeds Warning" by Susan Pearl

Where there's smoke there's fire


Warning signs are there to convey something is problematic.  Symptoms can be warningssigns,  a road sign about a curve ahead is a warning sign, a pedestrian walk can have pedestrians in it.  Warnings to be alert for problems or potential problems have to be heeded for our safety and for the safety of others.

Our family had a very small warming sign of smoke for a brief moment from a duct vent in our house.  We called the fire department and all of us left the house.  The fire department came and while they were there the furnace ignited and they put the fire out with foam.  The smoke was a warning sign of a hot fire flare up coming.  Smoldering smoke is a warning sign of an impending fire.

Also, smoke is a warning that the fire is already active and getting bigger---to see smoke in the distance is an alarming sight.

We should always be cautious of fire but when there is smoke we have to take immediate action.  The smoke needs to be investigated and eliminated for a fire to stay under control.  After the fire is put out even one live ember can start a fire again.

This old saying has been given different meanings for different situations by poets and writers.  For instance they have compared it to rekindling of an old ember to start the burning feelings of love again.

Also, I have heard it used when a report of a scandal or an investigation is underway.  A person said to me, "Where there's smoke there's fire so there must be something wrong someplace".

When we notice that something is wrong it is a time to heed it is a warning of something else being there causing such a distinctive and alarming warning.  Where there's smoke there's fire.

Sunday, May 3, 2020

"Dates for Blogs of Old Sayings" by Susan Pearl

Dates of an additional 10 blogs for Old Sayings  (This makes a total of 40.)

April 27, 2020

Make hay while the sun shines.

Strike while the iron is hot.

That's like closing the barn door after the horse is out.


April 28, 2020

That's like getting the cart before the horse.


April 29, 2020

Look before you leap.

Don't count your chickens before they're hatched.


April 30, 2020

You can't have your cake and eat it too.


May 1, 2020

Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.

Stop beating around the bush.


May 2, 2020

The early bird catches the worm.



Saturday, May 2, 2020

"Old Saying Stresses To Line Up Matching Time Frames" by Susan Pearl

The early bird catches the worm


Early morning is when worms come out for awhile in the yard.  The worms go back into the ground after a certain while.  When we want worms for fishing we dig for them.  When a bird wants a worm the bird has to be there when to worms are out.  Since the worms come out early in the morning the early bird catches the worm.

To manage our time and have our time to match with the time of something else is advantageous and gives a timely chance to have what is there while it is there.  It is a passing opportunity and we should use it while we can.  We have to be on time.  The early bird catches the worm.

Friday, May 1, 2020

"Old Saying Tells To Get To The Point" by Susan Pearl

Stop beating around the bush.

In my opinion this old saying is telling us to get to the point and stop skirting around the issue.  It is telling that enough time has been given to talk about the matter at hand and if that matter hasn't been mentioned but everything else has been talked about it is time to stop what is being done because it is time to address the real issue. If it hasn't gotten to the point by now it is time stop and move on to another way that will get to the point.  No more stalling and talking about what is not the point, not the real issue at hand and no more time given to unimportant sidestepping of what is really the subject that needs to be addressed.

"Old Saying Illustrates the Strength of Diversity" by Susan Pearl

Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.


If we put all our eggs in one basket and that basket is tipped off of the table chances are we will lose all of our eggs.  However, if we put only so many eggs into several baskets and one basket tips off of the table we will still have the other eggs.

If we put everything we have into one thing and that one thing goes under we will lose everything we have.  If we have diversity for what we have then if the one thing in that diversity goes under the other areas of diversity will be there for us.

I have learned that diversity brings strength.  We need the butchers, the bakers, the candlestick makers.  We need the wheelers and dealers and potato peelers.  All are important and contribute to the strength to the fabric of society.  We are given more choices that adds greatly to our quality of life.  Some of these diversities bring support systems into our lives in various forms and services which also add greatly to our quality of life.  The diversity of strengths allows for the maintenance and
efficiency of all the areas of operations for establishments that help maintain our quality of life.

Because of the strength of diversity the fabric of society has many, many different threads all coming together to make the best quality of life that can last through difficult times.  Realizing individual talents. work and creativity that are given in varying degrees become the strength of diversity.  It is vast and it serves many needs and fulfills many dreams while being the multiple avenues that carries us forward.  We try new things and we are openminded appreciating with respect the strength and beauty of diversity.   Our horizons have broadened and we see and understand views we had not known before. These new views have been shown to us by diversity.   It is good to see the options available and think in more ways than one. Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.