Valspar~ Love The Look ~ Love The Paint!!

With anticipated thoughts of Spring just around the corner, are you planning to paint or remodel a room in your own home? I recieved my Valspar sample the beginning of February, and I was impressed. Of course I'm already a fan of Valspar paints and colors because I used Valspar paint previously 2 years ago on our Purple Bathroom Remodel. The light purple we used is still very appealing to this day!!

Valspar is giving away free sample kits which include a 7.7 Fl Oz paint sample in the color of your choice, color chip, coordinating colors envelope, rollers, and a coupon for $5.00 off your next gallon of Valspar paint. You can't beat that for a great advertising deal, and you can even try out a color that you choose. Hurry over to get your Free Sample kit, I believe the kits are still being offered!

After much debate, I chose the color Dancing Rose-1005-6A, which is the first color to the left in the color chip pictured above. Valspar offers you a choice of a million rainbow colors!! It's like literally being in a color candy store, and believe me there's no lack of choices here!! You'll find it difficult to pick one, as all are so inspiringly beautiful. I dare you to try to pick one!!!

You can trust in Valspar to give you a quality paint, and most of all a finished look you'll cherish for many years to come. I can say from my own experience with Valspar~ You'll love the look, and Love the Paint!!

Go grab your sample and let me know what color you decided on. My whole house really needs done. With the cost of living prices and gas on the rise, I'll have to settle for one room at a time! :)

Think EARLY Spring and stay right here Literally In The Moment!!

Soap.Com Find Ease Of Shopping From Home!

A little over a week ago, I happened upon a wonderful new new shopping site called Soap.com. On the day I ordered they had a special promotion of half off on Pantene products, and also buy any Aussie product and get an Aussie styling product free. They only ran this special for one day!

My order before promotion code was $25.85 so it qualified for free shipping. I purchased a 25.4 fl oz Color Preserve Volume hair condition, a 25.4 fl oz Color preserve shine conditioner, a 12 fl oz color preserve smooth conditoner, a fine hair anti-breakage detangler 8.5 0z, an Aussie catch the wave mousse, and received a 10oz Aussie hair spray for my free product!!

The cost of one 25.4 oz Pantene hair conditoner went down to $3.78. I usually purchase my hair conditioner at Walmart, which is running these same hair conditioners online for $5.97. A savings of about $2.20 per bottle at Soap.com. I received $10.00 off my order because the promotion was for up to $10.00 off Pantene products. Still for $17.00 I made out like a bandit, and was able to stock up on our favorite hair products!! The biggest plus, I did it all from the convenience of my own home, and with the price of gas to travel 10 or more miles one way to my nearest Walmart was a huge savings in itself!

I receved my products in two days as promised, each product exactly as I ordered. I had a mix up with my free Aussie product and emailed their customer service. They got back to me almost immediately and called me to straighten out my order. I was very pleased with their service, and most of all the savings I received from their great promotion!!

Soap.com run by Marc Lore, and Vinit Bharara was created in 2010 "to make life easier for people." Soap.com has a 1-800 number for your convenience, a liberal return policy, take manufacture coupons, and offers free 1- 2 day shipping on orders totaling $25 or more. What more could you ask for in an online shopping site.

You can bet, I'll be searching for more tremendous deals to stock up on Soap.com!!

*This was not a paid review, but a shopping experience I wanted to share with you!*

Southern Alleghenies Ligonier Regional Juried Art Exhibition Photos 2011!

Upon leaving the 2011 Ligonier Icefest last Sunday, we headed over to view the fine art displayed in the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley. Featured there was the 15th Annual Regional Juried Art Exhibition. The exhibit was a beautiful delight to the eyes, and below is only a handful of my favorite pieces in this exibition. Click photos for larger view!!



*M4d0nn4,* by Artist Sam Howard was my overall favorite. A wonderful Oil painting so full of vibrant color, and the madonna like portrait girl resembles my sweet niece Megan right down to her pouty lips and puppy like eyes. Could definitely be her twin!! This equisite art piece grabbed me as soon as I walked in the door. The photo is 24x 18 and Not For Sale!!


Another stunner was *Regal Duo* done by Elizabeth Asche-Douglas. Excellent facial textures added wonder dimension to the faces in her portrait. Photo 12 x 12 done in Ultrachrome ink w/acrylic platform and is for sale at $750.00.


*Jackie* by Norma Rowley also grabbed at my heartstrings, as I've a deep softspot for Labs, and this baby reminds me of my beloved Sampson RIP. I apologize for all the reflections as the lighting at the museum is very bright, and bounces off the glass of the portraits. The photo is clean and sharp, right down to every hair on Jackie shinny fur coat. Photograph is a digital photo-enhanced like the majority of the photos I take here on Literally In The Moment. Photograph measures 13 3/4 x 13 3/4 and sells for $250.00.

*Kamala's Flower* by Karen Ferrick touched on a femine side with her lovely pink lotus flowers, and gorgeous green reflections. A grand size photo done in devine pastels, measuring 40 x 19 and sells for $1,200.00

In conclusion *Passion Flower* by Melinda Myers Grass was another awesome flower portrait to draw my eyes into. Pretty pastel colors and finest detail of the flower stamens and stigma!! This oil on panel portrait measures 12 x 16, and sells for $500.00.

The exhibit features many more talented artists, and I highly recommend a trip to the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. You'll be very pleased at the exhibit, and who knows you might want to buy one or two for your art collecting pleasures!!

I'm excited to report, I received my new red camera last week, and will be tweaking and studying to get the right shots I desire!

Stay tuned to Literally In The Moment for more exciting photographs and stories.

*All Photographs copyright of their prospective artists please do not use without permission from the talented Artists.*

All Portraits ~Photographed by Jo ~

View another Exhibit I photographed at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art here:

Impressive Art ~ Portraits of the Eastern Frontier

URGENT LA, CA!! MYA Female Blue Pit Bull Terrier Needs Adopted or Rescued ASAP!!

**URGENT**Mya Id#A1129051 is a beautiful female blue Pit Bull Terrier in need of adoption or rescue. Maya is very sweet dog, walks well on a leash, takes food gently, and is good around other dogs per LA Animal services! Maya is 6 years old, and weighs 67lbs. HURRY Contact ASAP For Maya Id#a1129051~ You can tell Mya has an incredible personality!! Mya lived with a family for 5 years!!! Here's Mya's wonderful Video:



If you can help Mya please contact immediately:

LA City Animal Services -
West LA 11361 West Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA
Phone: 213 792 5811
Name: Samantha Westbrook
email: ani.newhopewla@lacity.org

Dogs In Danger Link: http://www.dogsindanger.com/dog.jsp?did=1280953914049 "Make sure to include ID#a1129051 for Mya!!!!"

I've contacted a hundred wonderful rescues for Mya, but have had no luck in finding anyone to step up for her yet! I've been networking Mya on facebookfor awhile, with no sparks of interest!! Mya is very urgent, and out of time! Feel free to pass her information along to anyone who may be able to help her!

Mya is in a kill shelter, and running out of time as we speak! I want to make it clear, that the LA Animal Services has taken every opportunity to help Mya find a forever home. There're just way too many dogs in kill shelters and rescues.

Please if you can help donate, become a sponsor, adopt, foster, or volunteer, contact your nearest shelter or rescue. As the economic downturn continues, so does the plight for thousands of homeless animals!! I'm passionately trying to get their stories out there, they need an extra voice to help them!! If you're looking for a new pet, look no further than your local shelter, or rescue.

Thankful to these wonderful shelters, for supplying me with more information to pass along! They take excellent photos, and make videos to help each dog get the best exposure. Most of these folks are volunteers who devote their time to helping these animals get adopted!!

Look at Mya's cute face, how could anyone resist her. We can't let Mya be put down! Please help me save Mya!!!

Photos and Video courtesy of LA City Animal Services!!

Animal Lovers Urgent Funds Needed For Lilly Beagle!

Update 8-26-10: Lilly has found a wonderful home here in Pennsylvania. Thanks to the Lewisburg Veterinary Hospital and Dr. Loving for taking Lilly into their rescue, giving her the vetting she needed, and finding her a good forever home with a wonderful family! A great ending for a dog who traveled so far, to be saved from a kill shelter!! Thanks to all involved for helping to get Lilly rescued! It was truly worth it!!

URGENT CRISIS! After all it took to get Lilly pulled and transport set up to
get her to her foster, this beautiful girl has tested NW+ PLUS has lyme. She's not doing well at all and needs to get treatment started NOW! Anyone wanting to donate towards Lilly's care can call the vet's office and contribute using a credit card over the phone to them. You can also send a check like I did by mail to:

Lewisburg Veterinary Hospital
829 Fairground Road
Lewisburg, PA 17837

C/O Kim Shuck and make sure to note it's for Lilly!
Phone Number: 570-523-3640 to inquire about her status or
treatment!

Due to the high cost of Lilly's treatmet and urgent medical needs we're grateful
to the Lewisburg Veterinary Hospital for taking over Lilly's care!

I'm thankful for all who were involved in Lilly's rescue, and I'm so sadened that Lilly despite all the vet work she did have is really so sick. Lilly needs our help to get better, any amount will help her new rescue. We're still hoping for a happy ending for this special beagle!

Lilly was in a kill shelter, and I had networked her to help find rescue. Here is a post on facebook I posted previously everyone worked so very hard to rescue Lilly!

SAFE!!!Undate 7-31-10 Lilly Dog IS SAFE!!! Lilly is now in transport with her foster mom Robin!!It's been a busy week, from transport networking California to Virginia, and finally here to Pennsylvania for a lovely hound who needed rescued for over a month!! Thanks to Lilly's Rescue Julie from Forever Home for pulling Lilly, Katrina Transport Coordinator for putting together a transport in less than two days, Courtney from Bonnie Blue Rescue for pulling and boarding Lilly In Va, Transporters Kate, Eric, Ariel and Robin for transporting and Fostering Lilly, Melissa at New Kent Shelter, and to my buddy Linda who helped me to rescue and keep our Lilly dog Safe!! Robin promised updates. Thank you all for Networking Lilly!!

Anyone willing to donate to Lilly's urgent medical care please do so, no amount is too small! Thanks Kindly Jo ~

U.S. Death Row Pup Sponsored From Afghanistan! Sponsor A Shelter Or Rescue Pet Today!

Andy a beautiful hound mix was sponsored by Tina C. from Afghanistan pictured below, and saved from being euthanized on April 14, 2010. Tina and I are elated to know that Andy has found his forever home, with a great family. According to Michele Shanley at the Tulare County Animal Shelter, Visalia, CA. "Andy has a forever home! The family is very nice, and they just fell in love with him...I'm so happy!" This special pup will have the life he so deserves. Yet there are
many more dogs in need of being rescued just like Andy. Can you find it in your heart to sponsor a dog on death row today? Many more dogs are deserving of a chance at a happy ending.


Tina C. and her Dogs Gabi and Maggie at Mt Cowless CA.

Never underestimate the immense power of the worldwide internet. A dog I featured on Facebook was sponsored by a wonderful Danish Soldier deployed in Afghanistan! Facebook has played an intrinsic role spreading the word of animals in desperate need of rescue. Shelters, rescues, fosters, sponsors, and passionate animal lovers alike, have all come together to help save the lives of dogs, cats, horses ect.. in kill shelters all across the world! I’ve witnessed this wonderful phenomenon with my own eyes, seeing it all unfold in rescue efforts by so many extremely persistent and knowledgeable group of Facebook friends. There are many who work behind the scenes, pulling, and strategizing transport efforts all to save these precious dogs from being euthanized. Most do this work without personal recognition, but only for the deep satisfaction of saving animals.

Dogs have always been a deep passion of mine, featuring dogs on death row on my blog and now on facebook! Spreading the word can mean the difference between life and death for a dog who is to be euthanized within days or even hours. I’ve also come in email contact with many wonderful shelter workers, who have done everything in their power to save their shelter animals!

This is how Andy a 1year old hound pup I featured on my blog and on facebook was saved from being put down on April 14, 2010. I could tell from Andy’s photo he was special, so I composed a post and placed a photo of Andy to my facebook. One of my facebook friends Tina C. a Danish Army soldier stationed in Afghanistan came to Andy’s rescue on his last day! Tina and I met through facebook and a our deep love for animals. I was truly amazed and inspired by Tina's compassion to sponsor a dog here in the U.S. Tina is also married to a soldier from the U.S. I was very touched by Tina’s love and generosity, so I wanted to know more about her. Here is my interesting interview with Tina C.:

Where are you originally from?

I was born on the Faroe Islands back in 1973, but my mom moved to Denmark with my dad, so I am raised in Denmark!...

Are there kill shelters where you are stationed there in Afghanistan?

Well... if there only were shelters here - there´s not :( Afghanistan is truely a horribly place for dogs to live! NOWZAD Dogs is a UK charity organisation that helps soldiers (who has found a dog) get their dogs outta here... http://www.nowzaddogs.co.uk/ and http://www.baghdadcatrescue.com/
Absolutely wonderful people - take a look at their websites! I obviously support them as much as I can in any way I can!

What made you decide to sponsor Andy, and how does sponsoring Andy benefit you!

When I saw Andy´s beautiful face and eyes, I just couldn´t let him get put to sleep! I wanted to buy him more time to find a FURever home! Unfortunately I cannot save them all, but there are always dogs that really touches your heart! So I decided to give Andy a full sponsorship, that gives him another month to find a home!... At least I know, that I might have saved one dog, and saving a dogs life, is a pretty damn good feeling!... I love dogs... always have... and I love saving the few I can!

My one dog Maggie is from Iraq! She was found back in 2004 by the Danish Embassador! He took her in, and she stayed at the Embassy in Baghdad. There were some Special Operations Force guys there at the Embassy, and when a buddy of mine came there, he took Maggie in and she really got to him - he is also a huge dog lover! He knew, that he needed to get her out of the country! So he called me and asked if I could take her! And 3 months later, she arrived in Denmark!

When I was in Kabul in 2006, a U.S. pilot found a little puppy - we called her Kaia since she was found at Kabul Internatinal Airport, also known as KAIA! My buddy was there at the same time and again - we wanted to save this girl... After really putting our heads together, we managed to get her out of the country and to Denmark!

So saving dogs has always been a passion of mine! I lived in Poland for 3 years from 2000-2003, and I supported a local shelter there, raising money and food for them, and even bought puppies from the shelter, and brought them to Denmark to a FURever home - the shelters there were overcrowded, but they did the best they could with what they had for the dogs - it was heartbreaking!!!!!

Where do you and your husband want to live permanently!

Well he lives in the U.S. and I live in Denmark! For now! He is in the U.S. Military, but will retire in a couple of years, and we haven't decided where we want to settle yet. In the Army - I work 24 hr shifts in Denmark, so that gives me a lot of time off in between shifts. That time I spend with my dogs, Gabi (weimaraner) and Maggie (my iraqi mutt), and when we settle, we'll have plenty of time to go explore Europe, and hike all over the place :)

Do you have animals and what are their names?

We have 2 dogs, Gabi and Maggie! Gabi is our beautiful weimaraner and Maggie is our amazing Iraqi mutt... They are both 6½ years old and currently living it up with their dad in the U.S., while I am deployed! Cannot wait to see them again - I miss them all so much!



Tina and rescued pup Kaia in KAIA Kabul 2006.


Tina's Maggie pup rescued from Iraq! Isn't she adorable!!

The love of animals outstretches continents and spreads throughout all the world! Thanks Tina for sponsoring Andy, and sharing your wonderful information and cool photos about your life and deployment with us! The world is a better place because of you, and your deep love for dogs! You inspire us all to go another level, to make a difference in the lives of dogs on death row. Tina and I hope to bring awareness to the kill shelter plight, and many ways you can help a kill shelter pet!

According to the Humane Society of The United States, it’s estimated that 6-8 million dogs and cats are cared for in U.S. shelters every year! Out of that sadly an astonishing HALF 3-4 million are euthanized. If you can please sponsor, foster, or adopt a dog or cat in a kill shelter today. Your sponsorship will help with immunizations, neutering, and newspaper ads, and much more to help find these dogs find a permanent and loving home. Just one more way we can work together to save more dogs and cats and keep them from being euthanized!

Meanwhile I'll strive in my mission to continue my writing featuring dogs and cats in life threatening need, and give them the broad exposure they most truly deserve.

Thanks for stopping by, and as always stay right here Literally In The Moment!

Photos: Copyright and Courtesy of Tina C. and Petfinder!

Edie Poodle Dog Rescued In Her Last Hour! Edie's Video Will Inspire Your Heart!

Edie's video is a must see, and be sure you grab a kleenex!! If you're an animal lover you'll be inspired by Edie and her rescuers. Millions of shelter dogs are euthanized every day, most are evaluated and judged to be put down by their indifferent behavior. Edie a poodle dog, was to be put down because of her defensive behavior. Eddie was rescued an hour before she was to be euthanized.

Edie appeared scared, cautious, and her fur was terribly matted! You'll be amazed at what a little love, perseverance, and patience brings out in poor Edie. Her rescue is captured in video by rescuers Eldad Hagar and Bronwyne Mirkovich! Eldad Hagar is the founder of Hope For Paws Animal Rescue Organization. Eldad and Bronwyne shot this video to create awareness of sheltered animals all across the world.

Most of these dogs are frightened and defenseless creatures, often thrust in a new and totally different environment. On many occasions the dogs are dropped off at shelters by owners, who just simply don't want them anymore. The dogs are taken from a familiar enviroment and thrown into a strange new place coming in contact with strangers.

How would we feel to be taken from our home, and put into a jail like setting? How would we be expected to act? Others come from abusive homes, and don't know whether to trust another human again! Majority of shelters are overcrowded and understaffed. Many shelters do the best they can. Yet if they could just take that extra time to evaluate new animal arrivals, it could save a sweet life like Edie's. How many Edies are passed over, simply because the dogs are plain scared, and need a hug to know it's ok!

I've had the pleasure of meeting animal lovers, rescuers, shelters, and animal groups on facebook, along with featuring Dogs on Death Row here on my blog! Hope For Paws Animal Rescue is trying to make a difference, one animal at a time. The animal crusade goes on everyday, and there are thousands just like Edie who are desperately waiting for just one more chance, and a little human compassion!

View all Eldad Hagar's videos, they speak a thousand words in the faces and demeanor of the dogs. The videos will leave you speechless, victorious, and full of animal inspiration!

Become an Avian Advocate!

Have you ever heard the smack of a bird flying into your window? Spring migration season is upon us, and birds will soon be making their way Northward! A billion birds have a collision with windowpanes every year. The Wisconsin Humane Society with help from the Jeff Rusinow Family Foundation, are giving away Window clings.

To help with the prevention of birds flying into your home or office, these Window Alert clings will be available free from March 1, 2010 - April 30, 2010 while supples last! Order your free window alert clings on the Wisconsin Humane Society website, and read more about how you can help birds flying toward lighted buidings at night.

Read the story about Peabody, a white throated sparrow who collided with a lighted building. Learn how you can help in the prevention of bird collisions in your home, workplace, and protect birds at night all on the Wisconsin Humane Society Website.

I love to hear the songbirds in my front and backyards, bringing back life to the world around us. Now the snow is finally slowly melting, and I know the birds will be back in no time to build their nests. The hawks like the one in my photo above will be returning to our woods to roost!

Now if I could only keep those pesky blue and red birds from fighting their own reflections on our car and truck mirrors parked outside our home! We use small rags to cover our mirrors, otherwise they scratch the mirrors up!

Ligonier PA Icefest 2010 ~ Photo Featured Ice Sculptures!

Once again the professional ice carvers from DiMartino Ice displayed their awesome ice sculptures, in the 19th Annual Ligonier Icefest 2010. Today was an unusually warm 40 plus degree and sunny day, which was causing the beautiful art pieces to slowly melt!

I call these two birds above "lovebirds," as my hubby and I posed behind them! The lovebirds were displayed outside a restaurant Casa Chapala. Click on any photo to see them even larger!


We started our tour on the town diamond, and the skier caught my eye immediately. There were so many people visiting the ice sculptures, I couldn't get a shot without the public walking into them!



The alligator was so gorgeous, with his raised head and immaculate jaw reaching upward. The scales on his body were so defined. One of my favorites!

The dolphin riding the wave was a big hit with the children. A towel was placed on his back so the kids could sit and pose for photos! The reason for the black snow surrounding the scuplture! Another one of my favorites!

Woody the woodpecker made quite an entrance here at the ice show, even though he was on meltdown! A few other sculptures were hit by the sun, but managed to stay in tact!

I captured one of the professional ice carvers here, adding his final touches to the Stanley Cup. It's amazing the amount of ice which is carved away, you can see discarded on the left side!

The finished carved Stanley Cup is displayed with pride for our Pittsburgh Penguins! In the backround you can see the back of the huge unique piece displayed inside the gazabo!

I call this one "The Guardian Angel." The sunset in the backround just adds a touch of beauty and glow to the whole sculpture. The definition of fine lines and detail outstanding!

We took a walk and there were a couple sculptures displayed along the storefronts. The one above represents our Pittsburgh Penguin hockey team. Go Penguins!

Last was a "Sunman," who was just adorable. His cute face and sunrays just automatically bring you a smile. You can see he was melting a bit from the days sun, yet still managed to keep his main composure.

Well this ends our ice sculpture tour for the year! I hope you enjoyed my photos as much as we enjoyed the icefest. If you're in the Pennsylvania area, the icefest is worth the trip to Ligonier, and will continue through January 24, 2009!

The talented professional ice carvers never fail to impress with their wonderful ice sculptures. Can't wait to see what they'll create next year!

You can view my last years photos of the 2009 Icefest Here: Ice Sculptures Ligonier PA Icefest Phots 2009.

Pennsylvania Snowfall 2010 Phenomenal Photos ~ Laurel Mountain & Derry Ridge!

Finally a break from all the snow we've had here in Pennsylvania for the past two weeks. I swear we had at least 15-16 inches of snow piling two to three inches at a time every single day! I shoveled snow almost twice daily.

Found this cool site which calculates how many calories you burn, when you shovel snow by hand here: Fitday.com I burned 286 calories per hour! At least I was burning off some holiday calories. You can see my front patio table snow gage above, where over a foot of snow piled like a snow cake!



We've a long driveway at least an 1/8 a mile coming from our top road. The snow kept piling up and we had trouble keeping up. My car sat for a couple days when we had a layer of sleet on top snow becoming too hazardous to drive! You can see how high we had to plow the snow in my header above!



Eventually the snow slowed a bit, then we were hit with an artic blast. Got so cold ~how cold did it get? Well cold enough to freeze our burning logs together! Dang I had a heck of time trying to bust those logs apart! In fact we've put such a dent in those logs, we may have to cut more very soon! You remember how huge our log pile was! The snow kept coming and my hands froze within minutes of shoveling, so I had to double glove!

Spectacular icicles formed like the ones in my photo above. Icicles are much like stalicites formed in caves or caverns, except for the fact that stalicites take thousands of years to come into formation!




Last week we headed up over the ridge, and I was so awestruck over the snow scenery on the ridge. I was terribly upset that I didn't have my camera, so my hubby took me back yesterday to catch some awesome shots on Derry Ridge as seen here in the photo!





It's as if we walked right into winter wonderland postcards. Snow covered the trees for miles, begging me to capture the beauty!





The further we went the deeper the snow and heavier the snow appeared on the scenery! Like we were driving into a totally different world!



As we approached Laurel Mountain, you could imediately notice the difference in snow coverage! It was as if someone had taken a frost gun and frosted the whole area. Totally breathtaking as the towering trees stretch on for miles, looming high in the sky with every frosty branch!

These pines reminded me of my friend Nazarina who posted a photo of the snow in Colorado on her blog last year! Pine branches were so heavy they touched the ground, and even worse were broken from the weight! Many tree branches were bent to the brink of breaking!

We could hardly see the road as we drove further up the mountain, even the powerlines were covered in snow! Still the trees were white glazed in such granduer, drawing us further into it's frozen world!

Each mile more magnificent than the next! Laurel Mountain is an incredible landmark to experience all Four seasons here in Pennsylvania. Each season simply exordinarily capitivating to envision.

Afraid of venturing any further, we decided to turn around when we saw only snowmobile tracks! Hardly anyone in sight but one skier, close to the entrance!

The astounding view was ever breathtaking as we made our second visual round down the mountain. This exemplary shot taken from our truck's front windshield!

Lastly but not leastly we caught one final glance as we exited the mountain. Looking out across frosted treetops lining the mountain as far as you can see. Here dusk was approaching fast, and the snow was still falling. Glad to head home to alittle warmer climate!

Hope you enjoyed looking at the snow world through my eyes here in Pennsylvania! The sun has made her entrance today, a gradual thaw to melt the ice tundra on my driveway!

Stay tuned until next time, remain focused and Literally In The Moment!

Tiger Ranch Linda Bruno Will Not Face Jail Time ~ Update 1-8-10!!

Linda Bruno previous owner of Tiger Ranch was sentenced today and will not face jail time. She's to serve 2 years house arrest, after which she'll be responsible for paying $200,000 restitution and $12,000 in fines. After serving house arrest, Linda Bruno is to serve an additional 27 years probation! Although she received no jail time, Linda Bruno could face jail if she violates any terms. She's still to receive physchiatric evaluation and treatment, and have no further contact with animals.

The prosecution provided evidence that 7819 cats were accepted at Tiger Ranch between 2006-2008. There were 486 cats taken in the Raid on Tiger Ranch in March of 2008. A total of 6484 cats were taken in the year 2007, I cannot even fathom that many cats being dropped off! There were 7333 cats that were missing or unexplained for. The total number of cats taken in and missing is a phenomenal number of cats!

The Tiger Ranch case has taken many turns since I've followed from the beginning, and I'm sure we haven't heard the last of Tiger Ranch! Anyone interested in adopting the remaining Tiger Ranch cats may find information here on my previous blog post: Adopt A Tiger Ranch Cat For The New Year 2010 , or click on the Tiger Ranch Sabrina cat photo on my right sidebar! Linda Bruno looked thinner as she faced her sentencing, surely the trial has taken a toll on her.

I agree with the one Vet who was interviewed that we should never let another Tiger Ranch happen. I still believe that if Linda Bruno had some help or had asked for help, especially the year she had taken in 6484 cats that she wouldn't be facing these charges today. Had she made an appeal to the recues and to the public, maybe the situation could've turned out differently. I truly hate to see an animal lover be beaten down.

Please read additional interesting comments and observations from actual witnesses of Tiger Ranch made to my blog post here scroll down comments: Tiger Ranch Linda Bruno Jailed Today ~ Sentencing Delayed ~ Update Oct 5, 2009. It's amazing how the support for and against Tiger Ranch has teetered back and forth!

Let us all be united in one thing Animal Welfare, and bringing the plight of these innocent critters to the forefront of our hearts! I may not have the money to help, but I do have the means to feature stories and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves! If you're in the market for a dog or cat, please check your local shelter or even better yet check a kill shelter in your surrounding area to adopt a pet on deathrow today! Don't forget animal shelters and rescues can sure use our donations in these tough economic times! Stay vigilant and keep to the cause!

Read all my Tiger Ranch blog posts here: Tiger Ranch ~ Literally In The Moment

Big Cat Rescue Inspiring Tiger Video!

I've been a fan of Big Cat Rescue for years! I love the work they do to protect and rescue abused Tigers. Snorkels story will absolutely touch your heart. Recently I became a member of the Big Cat rescue community. This site is not only for Tiger lovers, but all animal lovers in general. You can join Big Cat Rescue, and look me up under hugecatlover! Big Cat Rescue is also on facebook! Nice to find so many animal lovers out there who are eager to support a great cause! It takes a lot of work to take care of these magnificent creatures.

Adopt A Tiger Ranch Cat For The New Year 2010!

Photo: Sabrina A Rescued Tiger Ranch Cat Courtesy Of Tails Wags N' At Site!

Keeping up with the Tiger Ranch Case, I found that the original Clarion shelter which took in Tiger Ranch rescued cats has since closed. Tiger Ranch cats are available for adoption at: Tails Wags N' At Shelter located at 728 Allegheny River Blvd, Verona PA.

Sabrina pictured above is only one of many Tiger Ranch cats rescued from Tiger Ranch Cat Sanctuary in Frazier Township. Needless to say which ever side you may be on, these beautiful felines are in need of a loving forever home. If you're looking for a cat, you'll just fall in love browsing through the photos of these cute and cuddly creatures listed here on these links from the Tails Wags N' At Site check them out~ You can see all their wonderful and different personalities:

TR Rescues Petfinder Listings -1

TR Rescues Petfinder Listings -2

Tails Wags N' At has also posted photos of the rescued cats who are fortunate to have found a home! Refer to their website for hours of operation.

In my atempt to report on the Tiger Ranch case, I missed posting links for the adoption of these poor sweet cats. So for my first post of the year, in honor of my own shelter cat OP, I wish to feature the Tiger Ranch Cats here on Literally In The Moment. I'll also put a permanent link on my sidebar so they'll be featured for anyone who is interested in a Tiger Ranch Cat adoption in the future!

A super benefit in adopting a shelter cat is they're already Litter Trained. Cats will love you unconditionally, and are very low maintenance in care. They're great companions and fun to have around your home! Adopt a shelter cat today and you'll be showered with a lifetime of love!

A Crime To Hang Laundry Outside?

I hung out my laundry today, as we've had a string of unsually warm weather for the month of November. I am reminded that other Pennsylvanians may not have the luxury of hanging their clothes outside. I take well advantage of nice sunny decently warm days to air dry my laundry outside! There is no better way to than to dry laundry than in the fresh air and natural sunlight!

Growing up in a poor family, I remember my own mother hanging clothes on the line. I always loved the smell of bed linens, taken straight off the line and put onto my bed. Have you ever wrapped yourself in a crisp bath towel dried outside? There is nothing fresher than laundry hung on the line!

With the whole world focused on everything GREEN, there is nothing more greener than hanging your Laundry OUTSIDE! The energy savings is none the less a great money saver, let alone the reduction of electrical usage and air emissions. I can't believe folks are actually being fined for stringing clotheslines.

Residents are complaining about seeing laundry on clotheslines. They need to get a LIFE and not worry about someone else's laundry! It a free country and we ALL have the right to hang our laundry out to dry if we desire. It's my yard and I'll hang my clothes out any time I wish! I never hang personal undergarments out, but all my other stuff is hung on clotheslines and will continue to be as long as I'm alive! Besides don't folks have anything else to do but gauk at the neighbors yard, on a beautiful sunshiny day? Go for a nice walk, even better yet walk your dog, or go for a nature hike!

Old fashioned ways are making a comeback, and hanging laundry is beneficial all around! When you see someone's laundry on clotheslines, consider the energy savings which this deep rooted tradition could be benefitting you!

My article is in response to: U.S. residents fight for the right to hang laundry

Michael Jackson's "This Is It' hits music airways!

Michael Jackson's song "This Is It" sounded on the music scence late Sunday night to welcoming Fans! In Michael's one of kind stlye we hear his voice come alive again in this beautiful song! This Is It is also part of a Michael Jackson movie with the same name, which will appear in theaters October 28, 2009. His incredible talent will always live in his art. A double CD is scheduled to be released October 26, 27, 2009. His music so uplifting!

Here's the link to the video:

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid43635036001?bclid=43205433001&bctid=44135350001

Tiger Ranch Linda Bruno Jailed Today ~ Sentencing Delayed! Update Oct 5, 2009!

Linda Bruno has violated her bond by having come in contact with animals on her Tiger Ranch in Frazer Township. Under her bond she was ordered to have no animal contact or their care.

Cat food and litter were found by deputies sent to investigate the property. Proof that cats were still being cared for and cats also found on the Tiger Ranch property.

Linda Bruno was to face charges for animal cruelty and record tampering today, but she was instead ordered to jail by Judge Jill Rangos, allowing Ms. Bruno to find another place to live! She had also lived with her mother who had animals, which was also a violation! Her sentencing has been postponed until Dec 4, 2009, pending a mental evaluation!

Tiger Ranch was raided in March 2008, and 240 of the cats were put up for adoption by the ASPCA ~Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on August 31, 2009. Anyone interested in adopting the cats can find them on Route 322 in Shippenville.

Another twist as the Tiger Ranch saga continues. I can't help but feel sad for Lin Marie! I had high hopes of her vindication. Seems she's now become a victum of unfortunate circumstances! I've been following the story since the very beginning, and I do believe one thing: anyone who helps animals has a good spirit! What will happen next!

Read all my Tiger Ranch Posts Here

Adopt A Pet.com ~ Find Easy Online Pet Adoption!

If you're looking to adopt a new pet presently or sometime in the future, Adopt a Pet.com is a great place to start. Initailly you"ll be able to preview, screen, and shop for your pet online before even stepping into a shelter! I used an online service in my area to pick out my own cat OP. You"ll find adorable online photos and each unique pet story, which is an invaluable aid in choosing your new pet.

I've teamed up with Adopt Pet.com to bring more awareness to homeless pets, and their new online adoption services available across the nation. The website is very easy to navigate, and a cool feature I found they also list dogs in breed resue! Here are some excellent insights to this wonderful non-profit online pet adoption organization:

What is Adopt-a-Pet.com ?

Adopt-a-Pet.com is the world's largest non-profit pet adoption website. We are like an ad agency for shelters and shelter pets. Sadly there are 4 million healthy adoptable companion animals killed in shelters each year due to overcrowding. We do our best to relieve that problem and put pets from shelters in the homes of pet seekers all over the country.

Our website makes it easy for anyone with an internet connection to find profiles and pictures of adoptable animals by location, breed, gender, age, size, and color. Over 8,000 shelters posts pets on our website displaying over 125,000 pets available for adoption at any given time. We also help volunteers connect with shelters, and currently host over thousands of people listed in our volunteer database for shelters.

What Makes Adopt-a-Pet.com Unique:

- On our website, people can use something we call “Search Saver.” This feature will notify users by e-mail when a particular pet of their specifications in available for adoption. For example, I can tell “Search Saver” where I live, and what type of breed I am looking for. When that animal is available, I am notified the next time a pet matching my search is added on Adopt-a-Pet.com.

- As of this summer we have now made it easy for our visitors to find pets and then recommend them to friends and family via Facebook, Twitter and other social applications. We are calling the idea “Social Petworking.” Here is how it works; once you have searched and found a pet in need, on the pet details page simply hover over the button labeled “SHARE,” there you can send the pet details page to any of your friends. For more information visit this page http://www.adoptapet.com/socialpetworking/signup.

- In addition to dogs and cats, we now feature all kinds of pets for adoption, including rabbits, farm animals, ferrets, hamsters and other small animals, horses, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and even fish. This was a major initiative that took many months to research and program into the site, and it is being well-received within the shelter community.

- By teaming up with the renowned street-artist Shepard Fairey, who designed the iconic Obama "Hope" image, we have available a number of stylish ways to promote pet adoption. Shepard was able to translate his work with Obama to an image that can be used to represent pet adoption support. Merchandise can be found at http://www.muttslikeme.com/

- We have begun blogging and created a Twitter Page along with a Facebook Page. Our blog is located at http://blog.adoptapet.com/ there you can join our Facebook Group, or follow us on Twitter.

Blog Highlights:
Adopt-a-Pet.com has recently begun blogging, and every week we publish posts from two separate columns. On Tuesday we blog about pet care tips, and on Fridays we do our best to find heartwarming stories about adopted pets all over the country. Here are a few highlights from our blog:

10 Ways To Help Homeless Pet, Even If You Can’t Adopt
What To Ask Your Veterinarian
Good News In Pet Adoption – A Weekly Post
10 Things To Consider Before Adopting

I'm very impressed with the Adopt A Pet.com website. Thanks to Jeff Howard author of the blog adopt a pet.com for sending and allowing me to share with you vital information about their tremendous online pet adoption service. If we all work together, we may one day erradicate homeless pets, I'd love to live long enough to witness that day! If you're an animal lover like me, you'll want to adopt them all!

Interested in placing an Adopt A Pet.com link or banner on your blog or website you can find them here:

http://www.adoptapet.com/public/links/index.html

The shepard fairey one which I love and have on my sidebar can be found here:

http://muttslikeme.adoptapet.com/get_image/index.html

Literally in the Moment is a non-profit Arts and animal advocate website!

Late Blight Devastates Westmoreland County Pennsylvania! Late Blight Tomato Photos!

Late Blight has destroyed at least half my tomato garden, and I heard through the great tomato vine devestation has hit my area hard! We experienced a wet Spring, which helps to spread the fungus! Many tomato gardens have been totally obliterated by the pesky rapid fungus many sources say originated in Florida. Counties all around us have been widely infected with late blight.

Most folks in my area take great pride in their huge gardens, and depend on their canned or frozen stock of tomatoes to prepare homemade sauces, salsa, chili ect.. throughout the winter months.

The photo above of our big boy tomatoes are only a handfull of at least 50 or more ruined by late blight, not even including the tremendous amount of tomato stems which will yield no new tomatoes!



I spent a whole day yesterday removing all the dead tomato leaves and stems around each tomato plant. My husband grew these big boys from seed, and we planted 3o big boy and roma tomato plant seedlings on our hands and knees. I had previously used a sulfur powder, which seemed to help against total devastation. I then switched to a copper powder called Dragon Dust recommended from a friend.

By the time I removed all the dead stuff, there was only half a tomato plant left! You can really see the dead leaves on the plant in back of this one! Click the photo above to see the brown leaves and stems devouring our precious tomato crop! I took the liberty of removing yellow tomatoes to ripen on my windowsills, for fear they would just die on the stem!



My cherry tomatoes were the first to pick up the disease. Our plants were likely purchased with the fungus, and it spread throughout our whole tomato garden! A tremendous loss as you can see on the cherry tomato plant above. The stems turn yellow orange, and come off with little effort! The leaves turn brown and black and die within a short period of time!

On the bright side I do have a lot of green tomatoes, I'm hoping to possibly salvage! But with more rain expected the next few days, chances could be very slim! I learned you must dust often, especially if you experience a rainy season! Prevention is the key to keeping your tomatoes healthy!

On another note, I've been enjoying the summer weather we've been having, last weekend was beautiful humid and hot the way I like it! We hung by the pool the whole time! Taking advantage of all the good weather, and working hard to keep up my flower and vegetable gardens. I even made my sunflower seeds from my grown sunflowers sooo good! My best friend is home from Florida, hoping to catch up with her while she's here!

Go soak up some summer weather, we don't have much left!

Tiger Ranch Owner Linda Bruno Pleads Guilty! Update 7-13-09!

See Updated Post Oct 5, 2009 Below!

As jury selection was to begin July 13, 2009, Linda Bruno plead guilty to 12 counts of animal cruelty, along with 2 counts of veterinary record forging!

Judge Jill Rango refused Bruno's motion to have charges dismissed, stating search warrants from ASPCA were illegal! Instead Judge Rango ordered Linda Bruno to pay $200.000 to ASPCA for providing ongoing care to hundreds of cats seized in the Tiger Ranch raid on March 13, 2008.

Linda Bruno could face up to 24 years in prison for all the charges, which they say is doubtful. She may however be forced to face some jail time in her October sentencing!

I was totally surprised at the outcome of this highly emotional trial. Expecting Linda Bruno to put up a huge fight,as she had in the past! Today Linda Bruno seemed somber and defeated.

Somehow I don't see Linda Bruno having $200.000, and if she had maybe none of this would have happened.

I agree with many others that feral cats are really the root of the problem! I see ferals everywhere, especially here in the country! We have a few right here in my neck of the woods, one a very cute black and white tabby. I can't get near him, to even try to tame him. They're too wild to give a home to! Ones down the road just gave birth to sick kittens, and the cycle just continues on, because they keep multiplying! Folks just keep dropping them off, here in the country if they decide on a whim they don't want them.

All of us animal lovers have to stand by and watch them suffer! Alot of folks just don't see or understand the real world of ferals, and dropped off cats.

I'm sad to see Linda Bruno got caught up in all this, possibly taking on more than she could physically do, and getting in over her head!

One person can't save the world, but many can certainly make a difference!

We now wait to see, what the sentencing will be for Linda Bruno in October 2009! I'll be watching!

New Updated Post Tiger Ranch Linda Bruno Jailed Today ~ Sentencing Delayed ~
Update Oct 5, 2009!!!

Read my other Tiger Ranch Posts

Keystone Lake Pennsylvania Photos! Mike Reese Responds to PA Park Closings!

I shot some awesome photos on our fishing visit to Keystone Lake Pennsylvania in Derry township last weekend! My favorite the first one above of my husband fishing on the lake, as the sun sets after a brief summer rain! I often ponder if Heaven is right here on earth with us! Absolutely breathtaking! Click on any photo to see enlarged!




Upon our arrival at Keystone Lake dark clouds started rolling in, and let loose a cool light rain spreading on the surface of the lake! Beautiful green trees and grass light up the stunning countryside setting, as pictured in the photo above!



Almost as soon as the rain came the sun streaks peaked out again! A double rainbow appeared in the sky, pictured here between the trees. This is two of three rainbows, I witnessed this week. The other rainbow came on Tuesday while walking my sister's dog, and sadly I didn't have my camera! In fact we've had much cloudy and rainy weather since we returned from our VA vacation in the beginning of the month!




The last shot of an incredible sunset on Keystone lake. You only need to look and beauty is all around us, just waiting to be taken in! I'm always ready and willing to capture it! The fleeting moment is now, and I'm here on this earth for a reason!

Keystone park surrounds the lake with many hiking trails, cabins, campgrounds, and even a beach! Non gas powered boating is also allowed on the lake! People come from everywhere to enjoy the serenity of Keystone park and lake! We visit beautiful Keystone lake a few times a year!

On another note in response to my email sent on a previous post, Heads Up Pennsylvanians ~ Bill 850 To Close 35 Pennslvania State Parks, I received an email from State Representative Mike Reese, about the Pennsylvania park closings! Mike Reese was the only one to respond back! I was very concerned about Laurel Mountain Park, and Keystone Park! Here is Mike Reese's email response:

Dear Jo,

Thank you for contacting me regarding the closure of approximately 35 State Parks including Linn Run State Park This is a difficult process that needs to be addressed. I want to keep the park open and it will stay open. I would like to explain to you what this means. The park will not be gated shut; the public will still be able to access and enjoy the beauty of the parks. However, there will be a reduction in services such as garbage pickup. In these rough economic times, cuts are needed in order to not raise taxes.

If you should have any additional concerns on this issue, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Mike Reese
State Representative
59th Legislative District

I thank Mr. Reese for getting back to me, and explaining the situation. I'm concerned in these tough times we won't have free places to visit and enjoy! I encourage everyone to write their state representative to keep our parks alive. I don't think Keystone is on the list, and I've yet to see the list!

You bet I'll be watching, I love all our parks here in Pennsylvania! I hate to see our state parks not being maintained! I hope they never gate them shut! Can you imagine the beauty we'd be missing?

Nature is a major significant palette of my artistry!


Related Posts:

Heads Up Pennsylvanians ~ Bill 850 To Close 35 Pennsylvania State Parks!!
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Excursion 2008
Post Gazette ~ Cutbacks put some state parks on shaky ground.
Ligonier Living ~ I'm stunned