(Credit Photos: Andy Blumenthal)
October 25, 2020
October 24, 2020
The Elections: Perfecting Our Imperfections
Clearly, from the President on down to each and every one of us, we can be certain that none of us is perfect. However, G-d put us here, precisely, to have the opportunity to repair our imperfections. In this earthly world, our soul is tested, and we thereby have the opportunity to come out stronger and better because of it. The challenges in this world provide the "purification by fire" that our souls need to elevate themselves from past mistakes or imperfections. In essence, G-d in his ultimate benevolence — of love, kindness, and giving — bestows on us, His children, the chance to learn and grow and to realize our potential!
In short, while our elections leave us a lot to be desired in terms of the candidates for the highest office of this great land, we can see from the presidential candidates on down to the citizens of this country and to those around the world that there is both shortcomings and the potential for becoming the people that G-d knows we can really be.
(Credit Graphic: Andy Blumenthal)
October 22, 2020
Swingers Swinging!
October 21, 2020
Watch Where You Stick Your Nose
October 20, 2020
Best Looking Bees
October 19, 2020
Magical Blue Pendant
October 18, 2020
Two Terms In Office
Limit Politicians to 2 Terms:
One in Office.
One in Prison.
Now this doesn't speak very well of our leadership.
What about the one's that have decades in office, and the time is used for their own selfish purposes and not for the people?
Where power and money is the purpose rather than advancing social well-being.
Where personal and party agendas are the playbill rather than doing what is right, plain and simple.
Where scoring points against your adversary or completely taking them down is the strategy rather than reaching out and working hand-in-hand to achieve our nation's greatness.
We have fallen a long way from what I would imagine the founding fathers had in mind for this great democracy.
Perhaps, the biggest problem is that we have stopped even trying. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 17, 2020
Don't Forget To Brush
October 16, 2020
Face It!
The brilliance of capturing the essence while leaving out the extraneous.
A person is clearly there even though it's just his face.
What is hidden is also revealed.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Yet, I don't miss him, because he's right there.
It looks like he's about to say something! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 15, 2020
Artsy Bike
Like a newspaper, it's black and white and "read" or actually rode all over.
How much time do you give a bike like this before it gets stolen on the streets downtown?
D.C. seems to be getting even worse than before, now with Coronavirus and the riots.
Doesn't feel safe, and it's in definite need of an urban makeover from all the horrible poverty and homelessness. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 14, 2020
Sweet Little Bunny
Surprised s/he let me get so close without hopping away.
The eyes seemed a little bugged out.
Nothing to be afraid of little bunny.
We're not on the survival TV show Alone, so no one here is going to eat you.
Run free and enjoy the garden little bunny.
Life is good for you. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 13, 2020
Born or Trained In Crazy
You don't have to be crazy to work here, we'll train you.
Some places they hire the crazies and other they train them to be crazy.
Perhaps, it's a bad culture or some bad applies, but either way they can turn good, caring employees into some more crazies to add to the office's bunch of bananas.
Fortunate is s/he who works in a normal, good workplace and can do "a decent day's work for a decent day's pay." ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 12, 2020
Sleep Number Got My Number
My good friend got one and recommended it!
Went to the store today and tried them out.
I was really amazed, especially since I have some significant back pain that I am dealing with.
I am hoping, G-d willing, for some pain relief and some extra Zzz sleep! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 11, 2020
Andy Blumenthal Does Some Hip Funk
He who makes peace in his high places
He shall make peace upon us
And upon all of Israel
And say Amen
Soundcloud song is recorded here.
https://soundcloud.com/dannielleblumenthal/osehshalom-remix-andy-blumenthal
Enjoy the vibes!
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 10, 2020
Forever Together: Peace and Security
For Israel, we’re turning the corner towards peace and how wonderful it is, yet even as we do, we must never relax on the safety and security of our people.
Yes, in earnest, we hope for peace, we crave it, and we even sacrifice (sometimes painfully) for it, but also we know that we must safeguard that peace and our lives though the best, most advanced and relentless security, in case that often illusive and miraculously achieved peace at any time fails or falters. Strength, along with undying faith in the Almighty, is the constant and enduring safeguard of the peace that we so yearn for with our every fiber. This is why peace and security must always go hand-in-hand together.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 9, 2020
@The Mariachi Brothers
Sunflowers For Shabbat Shalom
Perfect for enhancing the Shabbat and holidays!
The sunflowers provide warmth and happiness for the honor of these special and spiritual days!
May Hashem in His abundant mercy grant us a full healing and peace to welcome the Shabbat and to celebrate this weekend a joyous Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 8, 2020
Abstract Golden Art
October 7, 2020
The Vise of Migraines
Yet it's, perhaps, not as bad as your typical horrible migraine.
Actually, the pressure of a vise-like feeling may actually provide some sort of sick relief.
Migraine headaches can be so incredibly debilitating.
This guy looks like he needs to close the lights and lay down before his head pops!
Consider taking some medication as per your doctor, ice packs also helpful, close your eyes, and say a prayer. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 6, 2020
Awesome Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons are so awesome!
Dreamy, drifting into the sky.
Flying away with a birds-eye view.
Looking near and far across the landscape.
To the sunrise and the sunset.
Calm, coasting, and carried by the wind.
Fire breathing into the balloon.
Up, up, and away.
My beautiful, my beautiful balloon! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 5, 2020
What Type of Sick Puppy
This was in a woman's clothing/fashion store in the local mall.
There is something really screwed up with people's thinking and our culture.
Even if this lady likes to pet the dog, this is horrible messaging!
We need a serious reset on how to treat women and show them proper respect! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 3, 2020
The Power of Life and Death
It’s so important to develop mastery over the whole life sequence: think nice thoughts, speak kind words, do good deeds, and develop positive habits. This is one of the secrets to life itself.
Life is often in the hands of our tongue–one stupid word and it can mean your head, and one smart thing and it can be, with G-d’s help, your ride to the stars!
Indeed, controlling your words, like controlling your desires, temper, and so on is a constant challenge we all face throughout life. Yes, it’s easy to just let oneself go, but the consequences can be severe for shooting off your mouth, acting stupid, or getting angry. We can get better with patience, time, and practice. We can become better, stronger people. We can learn to guard not only our tongue, but our temperament and deeds, and live a better, and perhaps even a longer life for it. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Dossy Blumenthal)
October 2, 2020
Sukkot: A Time of Divine Protection
Sukkot is the Jewish Festival of Shelter and of Ingathering.
In these challenging times of coronavirus and before this eventful election, more than usual, we need G-d’s blessings to shelter and protect us, and to bless both the United States of America and the State of Israel that they should be safe for all of us and that the “ingathering” be not only of the harvest, but of all the exiles from the four corners of the earth to G-d’s Promised Land for the final redemption.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 1, 2020
Beautiful Japanese Pagoda
Beautiful integration of stone into natural surroundings.
Centered, self-reflection, mindfulness, enlightenment, peace.
You can see this at Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Delray Beach, Florida.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 30, 2020
Presidential Debates Sink To New Low!
Last Night with "Sleepy Joe" hit rock bottom!
From BOTH candidates, the lack of coherent answers, coupled with constant interruptions, yelling, put downs, and name-calling was so completely discouraging and disgusting.
Came away feeling like we were at a Mixed Martial Arts tournament rather a Presidential Debate for the United States of America.
What has happened to our great nation?
We are becoming the laughing stock to the entire world.
If we can't conduct ourselves with dignity, courtesy, respect, and integrity towards each other, how can we lead this country, let alone the world?
May G-d help us to find our footing again, to unite around the noble principles and values of freedom, diversity, equality, democracy, capitalism, and human rights for which this country was founded, and change the awful political sinkhole of divisiveness, strife, and sheer indecency that we are caught in. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 29, 2020
Lock Head Design
I'm surprised they don't make more locks like this with interesting doodads for the base of the lock.
Aside from all sort of faces, you could have places and things.
A lock that looks like Groucho Marx, a Turtle, the Eiffel Tower, or a Heart.
Why not (as long as it keeps things safe)? ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 28, 2020
The Yom Kippur Bank Account
Please see my new article in The Time of Israel called, "The Yom Kippur Bank Account."
However, even if we are a little blind to our own accounting, certainly, just like we don’t want to be physically poor or bankrupt in this world, we definitely don’t want to be coming spiritually empty at Yom Kippur or when we arrive in the world to come. Put in more than you take out! Much more if you can! That’s what every parent should teach their child about their bank or brokerage savings account, building healthy relationships with others, and most importantly, how to live our lives towards our Father in Heaven and the King of the Universe.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
Instead of worrying about accumulating earthly and material treasures: money, houses, cars, exotic travel, and more, we would be well advised to pay attention to our Heavenly treasure that we should be accumulating. Whether tomorrow, when our judgement will be sealed on Yom Kippur or when we, G-d forbid, die and are called for an accounting before our Maker, we should have plenty in the spiritual bank to speak well for us.
However, even if we are a little blind to our own accounting, certainly, just like we don’t want to be physically poor or bankrupt in this world, we definitely don’t want to be coming spiritually empty at Yom Kippur or when we arrive in the world to come. Put in more than you take out! Much more if you can! That’s what every parent should teach their child about their bank or brokerage savings account, building healthy relationships with others, and most importantly, how to live our lives towards our Father in Heaven and the King of the Universe.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 26, 2020
Have You Been?
Why is Hawaii one of those places where people always go:
Have you been?
They don't even say the words "to Hawaii".
Like Hawaii is just one of those places where you're supposed to read people's minds.
Have you been?
Umm, let me think a moment.
And before you even get a chance to respond further, the other person goes:
Oh, well let me tell you about the time we were in Hawaii and...
Of course, nothing much ever really seems to come after that except something about the wonderful beaches!
Like there aren't nice, exotic beaches anywhere else.
Frankly, it's a little remote anyway, no?
The other thing about Hawaii, of course, is if one of the volcanos starts smoking its angry stack!
Better start playing that little guitar Hula dancer! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 25, 2020
Shabbat Shalom Cute People!
And I got two BIG eyes!
I see you and you're all very cute people.
It's Friday, and I want to wish you all a Shabbat Shalom!
May you have a restful and peaceful Shabbat.
And as we head into Yom Kippur on Monday, may we all be sealed in the Book of Life for a great year ahead for 5781!
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 24, 2020
Nice Accents
September 23, 2020
Nice Country Hats
On display were some nice, colorful, country-style hats for women.
Head coverings in church, mosque or synagogue, are a way to express modesty and humbleness before G-d.
Also, we cover our hair/head, more generally, to remember that G-d is above us, watching and guiding us always.
Modest, humble, and G-d fearing–a hat is a potent symbol of faith. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 22, 2020
Much To Be Afraid Of
When this clown dude pops out, you'll sh*t your pants.
And who really wants to be more scared in this world anyway?
With Covid, Cancer, Corruption, Cyber Attacks, Identity Theft, Radicalism, Terrorism, War, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Loss and Death, Environmental issues, and the Economy don't we have enough to be afraid of already? ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 21, 2020
Shoes That Go With Everything
September 20, 2020
There Is No Zionism Without G-d
For two thousand years, the Jewish people exiled from their land, widely dispersed, and inhumanly persecuted among the nations developed passivity and learned helplessness. They eagerly awaited, year after year, G-d’s salvation and redemption. As a tiny minority attempting to hold firm to their religious beliefs amongst the world’s powerful majorities, the Jews found themselves a convenient scapegoat, suffering landlessness and joblessness, taxation to the point of near-starvation, conscription of their Jewish children for military service of 25-years, forced conversion on pain of torture and death, horrible violent pogroms that sparred no one, and expulsions from country after country. During these times, the Jewish people learned passivity in the hope of not inflaming the hate and anger of the goyim that would make things “even worse!”
Certainly, there is no mitzvah to being passive and helpless, and this was undoubtedly in large measure a result of being homeless and suffering under the weight of relentless and brutal anti-Semitism for 2,000 years. Yet, as we each roll up our sleeves to actively work and fight for the modern State of Israel, our independence, and our right to practice our religion freely, we must do so with full knowledge and thanksgiving to G-d, our creator and sustainer! Whether King David against the giant Goliath, Samson against the mighty Philistines, or our modern-day strong and brave soldiers in the IDF defending the borders of Israel from historical enemies’ roundabout, they stand strong against all the natural odds, because G-d stands right there with them and us.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 18, 2020
That's Severe
But this sign in a modern day store in America seemed just a little severe:
Shoplifters will be amputated
The worst part of it maybe is that they don't say what part of the shoplifter will be amputated.
So much for compassion and helping the needy.
L-rd have mercy! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 17, 2020
Automation By Gloves
Here's a hydraulic oil machine.
And you see no people.
Just some blue gloves.
If you look long enough, perhaps you'll see the gloves move and work the machine all by themselves.
That's the magic of automation and computerization.
Say hi gloves! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumnethal)
September 16, 2020
Take Me To Your Leader
Anyone, anyone a leader here...
I need to find a leader.
Someone who I can look up to.
Who feels deeply, compassionately, and honestly cares about others.
With faith and integrity, and who does the right thing, regardless.
They inspire, rarely tire, and seek to make us all more than we otherwise are.
Imbued with discerning insight and an ageless wisdom.
Carrying forth a great vision, and a path and passion to get us there.
They bring unity, and stand alongside each and every one of us.
Never an autocrat, a bureaucrat, or a stinkin' rat.
Just someone who is a genuine leader. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 15, 2020
Garden of 5 Senses
September 14, 2020
Best Bread Pudding
September 13, 2020
Purple Thingamajig
September 12, 2020
Thank You President Trump For Supporting Israel
As we approach Rosh Hashanah, we know that everything is in the hands of G-d, including life and death, but there is no question that President Trump has been an instrument of the Almighty in delivering genuine and consistent support—recognition, annexation, aid, sanctioning our enemies, fighting BDS, anti-Semitism, and biased resolutions, and the advancement of peace—to Israel and for the Jewish people.
What the New Year and the upcoming election brings, no one knows, but Hashem. However, let us recognize the good and thank President Trump for everything that he has done for Israel and the Jewish people, and let us pray that G-d brings us continued blessings for the upcoming Jewish year of 5781 and beyond towards our final redemption.
(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 11, 2020
Ghostbusters Mobile
Look what car I found today in Lancaster County.
The Ghostbusters Mobile.
The hood ornament is even a little ghost!
From the looks of the downtown, there very possibly could've been some ghosts around.
Life and death are just a hairbreadth away.
And when you die in one life, you pass over to the next. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 10, 2020
@The Amish Experience
It was a fun time at The Amish Experience today in Lancaster Country, Pennsylvania.
One and a half hour bus tour of Amish country.
45 Minute movie about Jacob, an Amish teen, trying to decide whether he wants to be in the outside world or in the Amish one.
And another hour of so tour of an Amish school house and home.
Felt like I learned a lot about their culture (including no TV, internet, electricity [just batteries and solar], and education only through 8th grade).
Honestly, it doesn't seem like they really have much a choice in whether to choose the church and become Amish or leave, because if they choose to leave they are shunned (i.e. excommunicated)!
So you either choose you family, church, community, and a wife (and there is no divorce) or you run off to G-d knows where completely alone and "divorced" from everything you know.
The video is when we stopped at an Amish farm and I went in to the big barn with all the cows.
After so much time on the bus, I needed to ham it up a little and have fun with:
"How now brown cow. It is so nice to eat you! You are beautiful animals. And thank you Hashem for making you!" ;-)
(Credit Video: Andy and Dossy Blumenthal)
September 9, 2020
Duracell Vs Energizer Showdown
Which one wins?
The whisper is that Duracell beats Energizer close to 2 to 1 for most things.
Whether or not that's true, the Energizer rabbit "keeps going and going" while the Duracell is copper-topped.
Copper? Bunny? Bunny is cuter! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 8, 2020
Laundry is a Colorful Cleaning Affair
Some nice refreshing laundry detergent is just what's needed.
When the detergent comes in big, bright bottles like here, then it's even a more inviting experience.
Clean laundry, clean mind, clean mouth way to go! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 4, 2020
Shabbat Shalom From DC Duck!
Shabbat is something to look forward to ALL week long.
Time to stop everything.
Look heavenward.
And inward!
Remember why we're here.
Rest and rejuvenate for the next week.
Wash, rinse, repeat.
Need to balance and get our lives right.
It's what we do! ;-)
(Credit Graphic: Andy Blumenthal)
September 3, 2020
Earning Respect!
From the saying of Dwight Johnson, "The Rock":
Blood, sweat, and respect. First two you give. Last one you earn.
Yes, we respect all people in a humanistic way, but real respect is earned based on what a person does!
Blood and sweat means you're putting out, and trying your best to achieve something.
Make sure your efforts are going to something worthwhile.
Helping people!
Doing your responsibilities!
Being a good influence!
Honoring the Master of the Universe!
That's how you earn R-e-s-p-e-c-t. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 2, 2020
Romance Watch
Couple meet on a bridge in Paris.
Lady with umbrella on the left tells the hour.
Man on the right tells the minute.
They move together towards a kiss.
Very romantic!
Beautifully done with fairytale theme.
This Pont Des Amoureux Jour watch in rose gold and diamonds is only $122,000 (excluding sales tax).
What a bargain! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 1, 2020
Best Wardrobe
August 31, 2020
Just Call It By My Name
It a matter of Quid Pro Quo!
Just a few examples of naming after people:
Carnegie Hall
Rockefeller Center
Whitney Museum
If you call it by their names, then they feel like they are somebody!
Even the rich and mighty people know they are going to die, but they want to be remembered long after.
Everyone should say their names!
But honestly, it's not only completely egotistical, but also idolatrous.
The wealth that G-d grants us is for us to live and do good in the world--not to glorify ourselves.
Having your name on a building, museum, hospital, university or stadium doesn't demonstrate you're charitableness as much as your narcissism and desire for some sort of immortality.
However, there is only one G-d and it's by Him that we should give honor, credit, and thanks!
Giving charity is what you do because you can and it's the right thing to help others, especially when you have an overabundance.
Donating to put your name in lights and on people's tongues is nothing but self worship.
All building should be stripped of the names of these people.
Recognize and raise up G-d. Man is just his servant. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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