Wally Poem 2024

Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a moment to adjust your body so you are completely supported and relaxed. Slowly begin to deepen your breath, breathing in fully and exhaling out any tension. Today, we will be listening to a poem about Wally Bear, the best Saint Berndoodle in the world. 

Wally Poem 

With coat of ink, and patches bright, A Saint Berdoodle, a wondrous sight. Wally, a gentle giant's soul, A heart so big, it can make you whole.

His eyes, like pools reflecting night, Hold wisdom deep, and playful light. Floppy ears that catch the breeze, As through the park he trots with ease.

His tail, a flag of joy unfurled, A happy dance for all the world. He sniffs the roses, red and white, A gentle giant, full of might.

Fetch becomes a valiant quest, To bring the ball back, put it to the test. He leaps and bounds, a furry blur, Black and white fur, a joyful stir.

Walks by the lake, a tranquil scene, Paws paddling, a playful sheen. He chases ducks, a feigned attack, But kindness gleams in his gentle black.

Sunbeams dance, a teasing light, He chases shadows, day and night. A flashlight's beam, a playful foe, He pounces, leaps, with joyful glow.

The bathtub's edge, his favorite spot, A cool cascade, a refreshing plot. He laps the water, pure delight, Black and white fur, gleaming bright.

More than just a pet, a friend so true, His loyalty shines, clear and blue. A furry guardian, by your side, In Wally Bear, love does reside.

So here's to Wally, our gentle friend, May our adventures never end. With every wag, and playful bark, He fills our lives with his joyful spark.

Sleep Well!

Boring Book Read - Plunkitt

Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a moment to adjust your body so you are completely supported and relaxed. Slowly begin to deepen your breath, breathing in fully and exhaling out any tension. Today we will be drifting to sleep by a reading  some chapters from PLUNKITT OF TAMMANY HALL

Chapter 1. Honest Graft and Dishonest Graft

EVERYBODY is talkin' these days about Tammany men growin' rich on graft, but nobody thinks of drawin' the distinction between honest graft and dishonest graft. There's all the difference in the world between the two. Yes, many of our men have grown rich in politics. I have myself. I've made a big fortune out of the game, and I'm gettin' richer every day, but I've not gone in for dishonest graft—blackmailin' gamblers, saloonkeepers, disorderly people, etc.—and neither has any of the men who have made big fortunes in politics.

There's an honest graft, and I'm an example of how it works. I might sum up the whole thing by sayin': "I seen my opportunities and I took 'em."

Just let me explain by examples. My party's in power in the city, and it's goin' to undertake a lot of public improvements. Well, I'm tipped off, say, that they're going to lay out a new park at a certain place.

I see my opportunity and I take it. I go to that place and I buy up all the land I can in the neighborhood. Then the board of this or that makes its plan public, and there is a rush to get my land, which nobody cared particular for before.

Ain't it perfectly honest to charge a good price and make a profit on my investment and foresight? Of course, it is. Well, that's honest graft.

Or supposin' it's a new bridge they're goin' to build. I get tipped off and I buy as much property as I can that has to be taken for approaches. I sell at my own price later on and drop some more money in the bank.

Wouldn't you? It's just like lookin' ahead in Wall Street or in the coffee or cotton market. It's honest graft, and I'm lookin' for it every day in the year. I will tell you frankly that I've got a good lot of it, too.

I'll tell you of one case. They were goin' to fix up a big park, no matter where. I got on to it, and went lookin' about for land in that neighborhood.

I could get nothin' at a bargain but a big piece of swamp, but I took it fast enough and held on to it. What turned out was just what I counted on. They couldn't make the park complete without Plunkitt's swamp, and they had to pay a good price for it. Anything dishonest in that?

Up in the watershed I made some money, too. I bought up several bits of land there some years ago and made a pretty good guess that they would be bought up for water purposes later by the city.

Somehow, I always guessed about right, and shouldn't I enjoy the profit of my foresight? It was rather amusin' when the condemnation commissioners came along and found piece after piece of the land in the name of George Plunkitt of the Fifteenth Assembly District, New York City. They wondered how I knew just what to buy. The answer is—I seen my opportunity and I took it. I haven't confined myself to land; anything that pays is in my line.

For instance, the city is repavin' a street and has several hundred thousand old granite blocks to sell. I am on hand to buy, and I know just what they are worth.

How? Never mind that. I had a sort of monopoly of this business for a while, but once a newspaper tried to do me. It got some outside men to come over from Brooklyn and New Jersey to bid against me.

Was I done? Not much. I went to each of the men and said: "How many of these 250,000 stories do you want?" One said 20,000, and another wanted 15,000, and other wanted 10,000. I said: "All right, let me bid for the lot, and I'll give each of you all you want for nothin'."

They agreed, of course. Then the auctioneer yelled: "How much am I bid for these 250,000 fine pavin' stones?"

"Two dollars and fifty cents," says I.

"Two dollars and fifty cents!" screamed the auctioneer. "Oh, that's a joke! Give me a real bid."

He found the bid was real enough. My rivals stood silent. I got the lot for $2.50 and gave them their share. That's how the attempt to do Plunkitt ended, and that's how all such attempts end.

I've told you how I got rich by honest graft. Now, let me tell you that most politicians who are accused of robbin' the city get rich the same way.

They didn't steal a dollar from the city treasury. They just seen their opportunities and took them. That is why, when a reform administration comes in and spends a half million dollars in tryin' to find the public robberies they talked about in the campaign, they don't find them.

The books are always all right. The money in the city treasury is all right. Everything is all right. All they can show is that the Tammany heads of departments looked after their friends, within the law, and gave them what opportunities they could to make honest graft. Now, let me tell you that's never goin' to hurt Tammany with the people. Every good man looks after his friends, and any man who doesn't isn't likely to be popular. If I have a good thing to hand out in private life, I give it to a friend—Why shouldn't I do the same in public life?

Another kind of honest graft. Tammany has raised a good many salaries. There was an awful howl by the reformers, but don't you know that Tammany gains ten votes for every one it lost by salary raisin'?

The Wall Street banker thinks it shameful to raise a department clerk's salary from $1500 to $1800 a year, but every man who draws a salary himself says: "That's all right. I wish it was me." And he feels very much like votin' the Tammany ticket on election day, just out of sympathy.

Tammany was beat in 1901 because the people were deceived into believin' that it worked dishonest graft. They didn't draw a distinction between dishonest and honest graft, but they saw that some Tammany men grew rich, and supposed they had been robbin' the city treasury or levyin' blackmail on disorderly houses, or workin' in with the gamblers and lawbreakers.

As a matter of policy, if nothing else, why should the Tammany leaders go into such dirty business, when there is so much honest graft lyin' around when they are in power? Did you ever consider that?

Now, in conclusion, I want to say that I don't own a dishonest dollar. If my worst enemy was given the job of writin' my epitaph when I'm gone, he couldn't do more than write:

"George W. Plunkitt. He Seen His Opportunities, and He Took 'Em."

Chapter 2. How to Become a Statesman

THERE'S thousands of young men in this city who will go to the polls for the first time next November. Among them will be many who have watched the careers of successful men in politics, and who are longin' to make names and fortunes for themselves at the same game—It is to these youths that I want to give advice. First, let me say that I am in a position to give what the courts call expert testimony on the subject. I don't think you can easily find a better example than I am of success in politics. After forty years' experience at the game I am—well, I'm George Washington Plunkitt. Everybody knows what figure I cut in the greatest organization on earth, and if you hear people say that I've laid away a million or so since I was a butcher's boy in Washington Market, don't come to me for an indignant denial I'm pretty comfortable, thank you.

Now, havin' qualified as an expert, as the lawyers say, I am goin' to give advice free to the young men who are goin' to cast their first votes, and who are lookin' forward to political glory and lots of cash. Some young men think they can learn how to be successful in politics from books, and they cram their heads with all sorts of college rot. They couldn't make a bigger mistake. Now, understand me I ain't sayin' nothin' against colleges. I guess they'll have to exist as long as there's book-worms, and I suppose they do some good in a certain way, but they don't count in politics. In fact, a young man who has gone through the college course is handicapped at the outset. He may succeed in politics, but the chances are 100 to 1 against him.

Another mistake: some young men think that the best way to prepare for the political game is to practice speakin' and becomin' orators. That's all wrong. We've got some orators in Tammany Hall, but they're chiefly ornamental. You never heard of Charlie Murphy delivering a speech, did you? Or Richard Croker, or John Kelly, or any other man who has been a real power in the organization? Look at the thirty-six district leaders of Tammany Hall today. How many of them travel on their tongues? Maybe one or two, and they don't count when business is doin' at Tammany Hall. The men who rule have practiced keepin' their tongues still, not exercisin' them. So you want to drop the orator idea unless you mean to go into politics just to perform the skyrocket act.

Now, I've told you what not to do; I guess I can explain best what to do to succeed in politics by tellin' you what I did. After goin' through the apprenticeship of the business while I was a boy by workin' around the district headquarters and hustlin' about the polls on election day, I set out when I cast my first vote to win fame and money in New York City politics. Did I offer my services to the district leader as a stump-speaker? Not much. The woods are always full of speakers. Did I get up a hook on municipal government and show it to the leader? I wasn't such a fool. What I did was to get some marketable goods before goin' to the leaders. What do I mean by marketable goods? Let me tell you: I had a cousin, a young man who didn't take any particular interest in politics. I went to him and said: "Tommy, I'm goin' to be a politician, and I want to get a followin'; can I count on you?" He said: "Sure, George". That's how I started in business. I got a marketable commodity——one vote. Then I went to the district leader and told him I could command two votes on election day, Tommy's and my own. He smiled on me and told me to go ahead. If I had offered him a speech or a bookful of learnin', he would have said, "Oh, forget it!"

That was beginnin' business in a small way, wasn't it? But that is the only way to become a real lastin' statesman. I soon branched out. Two young men in the flat next to mine were school friends—I went to them, just as I went to Tommy, and they agreed to stand by me. Then I had a followin' of three voters and I began to get a bit chesty. Whenever I dropped into district head-quarters, everybody shook hands with me, and the leader one day honored me by lightin' a match for my cigar. And so it went on like a snowball rollin' down a hill I worked the flat-house that I lived in from the basement to the top floor, and I got about a dozen young men to follow me. Then I tackled the next house and so on down the block and around the corner. Before long I had sixty men back of me, and formed the George Washington Plunkitt Association.

What did the district leader say then when I called at headquarters? I didn't have to call at headquarters. He came after me and said: "George, what do you want? If you don't see what you want, ask for it. Wouldn't you like to have a job or two in the departments for your friends?" I said: "I'll think it over; I haven't yet decided what the George Washington Plunkitt Association will do in the next campaign." You ought to have seen how I was courted and petted then by the leaders of the rival organizations I had marketable goods and there was bids for them from all sides, and I was a risin' man in politics. As time went on, and my association grew, I thought I would like to go to the Assembly. 1 just had to hint at what I wanted, and three different organizations offered me the nomination. Afterwards, I went to the Board of Aldermen, then to the State Senate, then became leader of the district, and so on up and up till I became a statesman.

That is the way and the only way to' make a lastin' success in politics. If you are goin' to cast your first vote next November and want to go into politics, do as I did. Get a followin', if it's only one man, and then go to the district leader and say: "I want to join the organization. I've got one man who'll follow me through thick and thin." The leader won't laugh at your one-man followin'. He'll shake your hand warmly, offer to propose you for membership in his club, take you down to the corner for a drink and ask you to call again. But go to him and say: "I took first prize at college in Aristotle; I can recite all Shakespeare forwards and backwards; there ain't nothin' in science that ain't as familiar to me as blockades on the elevated roads and I'm the real thing in the way of silver-tongued orators." What will he answer? He'll probably say: "I guess you are not to blame for your misfortunes, but we have no use for you here."

Chapter 6. To Hold Your District: Study Human Nature and Act Accordin'

There's only one way to hold a district: you must study human nature and act accordin'. You can't study human nature in books. Books is a hindrance more than anything else. If you have been to college, so much the worse for you. You'll have to unlearn all you learned before you can get right down to human nature, and unlearnin' takes a lot of time. Some men can never forget what they learned at college. Such men may get to be district leaders by a fluke, but they never last.

To learn real human nature you have to go among the people, see them and be seen..1 know every man, woman, and child in the Fifteenth District, except them that's been born this summer—and I know some of them, too. I know what they like and what they don't like, what they are strong at and what they are weak in, and I reach them by approachin' at the right side.

For instance, here's how I gather in the young men. I hear of a young feller that's proud of his voice, thinks that he can sing fine. I ask him to come around to Washington Hall and join our Glee Club. He comes and sings, and he's a follower of Plunkitt for life. Another young feller gains a reputation as a baseball player in a vacant lot. I bring him into our baseball dub. That fixes him. You'll find him workin' for my ticket at the polls next election day. Then there's the feller that likes rowin' on the river, the young feller that makes a name as a waltzer on his block, the young feller that's handy with his dukes—I rope them all in by givin' them opportunities to show themselves off. I don't trouble them with political arguments. I just study human nature and act accordin'.

But you may say this game won't work with the high-toned fellers, the fellers that go through college and then join the Citizens' Union. Of course it wouldn't work. I have a special treatment for them. I ain't like the patent medicine man that gives the same medicine for all diseases. The Citizens' Union kind of a young man! I love him! He's the daintiest morsel of the lot, and he don't often escape me.

Before telling you how I catch him, let me mention that before the election last year, the Citizens' Union said they had four hundred or five hundred enrolled voters in my district. They had a lovely headquarters, too, beautiful roll-top desks and the cutest rugs in the world. If I was accused of havin' contributed to fix up the nest for them, I wouldn't deny it under oath. What do I mean by that? Never mind. You can guess from the sequel, if you're sharp.

Well, election day came. The Citizens' Union's candidate for Senator, who ran against me, just polled five votes in the district, while I polled something more than 14,000 votes. What became of the 400 or 500 Citizens' Union enrolled voters in my district? Some people guessed that many of them were good Plunkitt men all along and worked with the Cits just to bring them into the Plunkitt camp by election day. You can guess that way, too, if you want to. I never contradict stories about me, especially in hot weather. I just call your attention to the fact that on last election day 395 Citizens' Union enrolled voters in my district were missin' and unaccounted for.

I tell you frankly, though, how I have captured some of the Citizens' Union's young men. I have a plan that never fails. I watch the City Record to see when there's civil service examinations for good things. Then I take my young Cit in hand, tell him all about the good thing and get him worked up till he goes and takes an examination. I don't bother about him any more. It's a cinch that he comes back to me in a few days and asks to join Tammany Hall. Come over to Washington Hall some night and I'll show you a list of names on our roll' marked "C.S." which means, "bucked up against civil service."

As to the older voters, I reach them, too. No, I don't send them campaign literature. That's rot. People can get all the political stuff they want to read—and a good deal more, too—in the papers. Who reads speeches, nowadays, anyhow? It's bad enough to listen to them. You ain't goin' to gain any votes by stuffin' the letter boxes with campaign documents. Like as not you'll lose votes for there's nothin' a man hates more than to hear the letter carrier ring his bell and go to the letter box ex pectin' to find a letter he was lookin' for, and find only a lot of printed politics. I met a man this very mornin' who told me he voted the Democratic State ticket last year just because the Republicans kept crammin' his letter box with campaign documents.

What tells in holdin' your grip on your district is to go right down among the poor families and help them in the different ways they need help. I've got a regular system for this. If there's a fire in Ninth, Tenth, or Eleventh Avenue, for example, any hour of the day or night, I'm usually there with some of my election district captains as soon as the fire engines. If a family is burned out I don't ask whether they are Republicans or Democrats, and I don't refer them to the Charity Organization Society, which would investigate their case in a month or two and decide they were worthy of help about the time they are dead from starvation. I just get quarters for them, buy clothes for them if their clothes were burned up, and fix them up till they get things runnin' again. It's philanthropy, but it's politics, too—mighty good politics. Who can tell how many votes one of these fires bring me? The poor are the most grateful people in the world, and, let me tell you, they have more friends in their neighborhoods than the rich have in theirs.

If there's a family in my district in want I know it before the charitable societies do, and me and my men are first on the ground. I have a special corps to look up such cases. The consequence is that the poor look up to George W. Plunkitt as a father, come to him in trouble—and don't forget him on election day.

Another thing, I can always get a job for a deservin' man. I make it a point to keep on the track of jobs, and it seldom happens that I don't have a few up my sleeve ready for use. I know every big employer in the district and in the whole city, for that matter, and they ain't in the habit of sayin' no to me when I ask them for a job.

And the children—the little roses of the district! Do I forget them? Oh, no! They know me, every one of them, and they know that a sight of Uncle George and candy means the same thing. Some of them are the best kind of vote-getters. I'll tell you a case. Last year a little Eleventh Avenue rosebud, whose father is a Republican, caught hold of his whiskers on election day and said she wouldn't let go till he'd promise to vote for me. And she didn't.

Sleep Well!

 

Word Shuffle Sleep

Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a moment to adjust your body so you are completely supported and relaxed. Slowly begin to deepen your breath, breathing in fully and exhaling out any tension. 

Today we will be trying out a word shuffle to distract our thoughts before we sleep. Our focus tonight is Wally Bear, our black and white Saint Berdoodle. 

Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax. Try to visualize each word vividly for at least 5 seconds: 

• Start with the first letter, "W":
• Picture a calm, clear lake or a gentle stream (Water).
• Move to the next letter, "A":
• Visualize a shiny red apple on a tree or in a basket (Apple). 
• Move to the next letter, "L": 
• Visualize a cozy lamp lighting up a room (Lamp). 
• Move to the next letter, "L": 
• Visualize a green leaf fluttering in the breeze (Leaf). 
• Move to the next letter, "Y": 
• Visualize a ball of colorful yarn (Yarn). 
• Move to the next letter, "B": 
• Visualize a bright, floating balloon (Balloon).
• Move to the next letter, "E": 
• Visualize friendly elephant walking through the grass (Elephant).
• Move to the next letter, "A": 
• Visualize a plane flying high in the sky (Airplane).
• Move to the next letter, "R": 
• Visualize a Beautiful rainbow after a rain shower (Rainbow).

Now we will try it again using different words with more details: 

W - Window: Imagine a large, clear window with white curtains gently swaying in the breeze. Outside, you see a lush, green garden with blooming flowers in vibrant colors—red roses, yellow sunflowers, and purple lavender. Birds are chirping, and a butterfly flits from flower to flower.

A - Acorn: Picture a small, shiny acorn with a smooth, brown cap and a textured, light brown body. It rests on a bed of crisp, golden leaves on the forest floor. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

L - Lighthouse: Visualize a tall, white lighthouse with red stripes standing proudly on a rocky cliff by the sea. The sky is a clear blue, and the waves crash gently against the rocks below. The lighthouse's beam of light sweeps slowly across the water, illuminating the path for distant ships.

L - Ladder: Think of a sturdy wooden ladder leaning against a large, ancient oak tree. The ladder's rungs are worn smooth from years of use. The tree's branches are thick and strong, covered in green leaves that rustle softly in the wind.

Y - Yacht: Picture a sleek, white yacht gliding smoothly over calm, blue waters. The sun is shining brightly, and the sky is a perfect, cloudless blue. You can see the yacht's sails billowing in the gentle breeze, and hear the soft sound of water lapping against the hull.

B - Butterfly: Imagine a delicate butterfly with vibrant, multicolored wings—orange, black, and white—fluttering gracefully from one brightly colored flower to another. The garden is alive with the hum of bees and the scent of blooming flowers.

E - Envelope: Visualize a crisp, white envelope with a neat, handwritten address on the front. The envelope is slightly warm to the touch, having just been brought in from the mailbox. As you open it, you hear the faint crinkle of the paper and see a neatly folded letter inside.

A - Anchor: Picture a heavy, iron anchor lying on the sandy ocean floor. The anchor is covered in small, colorful corals and surrounded by schools of tiny, shimmering fish. Rays of sunlight penetrate the clear, turquoise water, illuminating the anchor and creating a serene underwater scene.

R - Rock: Think of a smooth, round rock lying by a gently flowing river. The rock is cool and slightly damp to the touch, its surface glistening in the sunlight. The river's water is crystal clear, and you can see pebbles and small fish swimming lazily beneath the surface.

Here is another set of words: 

W - Waterfall: Imagine a majestic waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff, the water sparkling in the sunlight. Mist rises from the base where the water crashes into a clear, blue pool, surrounded by lush green ferns and vibrant wildflowers. The sound of the rushing water is soothing and rhythmic, echoing through the forest.

A - Airplane: Picture a sleek, silver airplane soaring high above fluffy, white clouds. Through the window, you can see the curvature of the earth and the endless blue sky. The cabin is quiet and serene, with the gentle hum of the engines providing a comforting background noise.

L - Lemon: Visualize a bright yellow lemon with a smooth, glossy skin. As you cut it open, the fresh, citrus scent fills the air. The inside is juicy and segmented, with tiny droplets of juice glistening on the surface. Imagine the tangy taste as you squeeze the lemon into a glass of cold water.

L - Library: Picture an old, grand library with towering wooden shelves filled with books of all sizes and colors. The smell of aged paper and leather bindings is rich in the air. Soft, golden light filters through tall, arched windows, casting a warm glow on the reading tables and plush armchairs.

Y - Yellowstone: Imagine standing in Yellowstone National Park, with its vast landscapes of rolling meadows, towering pine trees, and steaming geysers. Bison graze peacefully in the distance, and you can hear the bubbling of hot springs nearby. The air is crisp and fresh, filled with the scent of pine and earth.

B - Beach: Picture a pristine, sandy beach with soft, white sand that feels warm and comforting under your feet. The turquoise waves gently lap against the shore, leaving a line of seashells and pebbles. The sun is setting, painting the sky in shades of pink, orange, and purple, while a gentle breeze carries the salty scent of the ocean.

E - Evergreen: Visualize a dense forest of tall evergreen trees, their needles a rich, deep green. The ground is carpeted with a layer of soft, fragrant pine needles. The air is cool and fresh, filled with the scent of pine and the sound of birds singing in the branches above.

A - Amethyst: Picture a stunning amethyst crystal, its deep purple facets glinting in the light. The crystal is smooth and cool to the touch, with intricate patterns and sparkles within. Imagine holding it up to the light and seeing the way it refracts and creates tiny rainbows.

R - River: Imagine a gently flowing river winding through a picturesque valley. The water is crystal clear, revealing smooth pebbles and darting fish below. The banks are lined with tall grasses and wildflowers swaying in the breeze, and the distant sound of birds adds to the tranquil atmosphere.

Sleep Well!

Snowy Relaxation- a self-hypnotic script

Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a moment to adjust your body so you are completely supported and relaxed. Slowly begin to deepen your breath, breathing in fully and exhaling out any tension. 

Imagine yourself walking through a silent, snowy forest on a crisp winter morning. The tall evergreen trees are frosted with shimmering snow. As you walk along the path, you hear the gentle crunch of snow under your boots. Overhead, the winter sun sparkles through the snow-laden branches. 

Up ahead, you see wisps of smoke rising from a small log cabin nestled in the woods. You walk up to the cabin and open the heavy wooden door. You are greeted by the crackling of burning logs in the stone fireplace. The air is filled with the welcoming scent of cinnamon and baking bread. 

You take off your snowy boots and heavy coat. You make your way over to a large armchair positioned right in front of the fire. As you sink into the soft cushions of the chair, you wrap yourself in a thick, cozy blanket. Turning your gaze to the fire, you watch the flames dance and glow warmly. 

On the mantel above the fireplace, red stockings are hung with care. A plate of freshly baked cookies and a steaming mug of hot cocoa await you. You take a cookie and savor the sweet flavor, then cradle the mug in your hands, soaking in its warmth. 

Outside the frosted window, you see large snowflakes drifting lazily down from the gray sky. The world around you is still and silent, covered in a soft blanket of white. As you watch the snow fall, you feel your body relaxing deeply into the chair.

With each breath in, you breathe in comfort and tranquility. With each breath out, you release any tension or unease. Your mind feels quiet and peaceful as the falling snow. Here, you are safe, warm, and cared for. Fully at ease. Your body feels loose, calm, and heavy. You are perfectly relaxed.

Warmth surrounds you. Peace fills you. Breathe in serenity; breathe out tension. Relax and unwind completely. You are deeply relaxed, fully at peace. 

When you feel ready, you can slowly open your eyes, feeling refreshed and renewed. Bring this deep sense of calm and comfort back into the present moment.

The Spark

The animosity between the prince and the revolutionary leader had been palpable during the revolution. However, unbeknownst to their followers and the public, there was a spark between them that transcended their conflicting ideologies. Fate seemed to play a hand in their encounters, drawing them closer despite the circumstances that set them apart.

It started with chance encounters in the shadows of the palace gardens, where Amelia often sought solace and respite from the burdens of leadership. One evening, under the silver moonlight, they found themselves mere feet away from each other. There was an unspoken understanding, a shared vulnerability that connected them in that moment.

Their secret meetings became more frequent, fueled by curiosity and an undeniable attraction that neither could resist. Amelia saw a side of Prince Horatio that few knew - a prince burdened by the weight of his responsibilities, torn between his duty and the desire to explore a different path.

Likewise, Horatio discovered a different facet of Amelia - a fierce leader, yes, but also a woman with an unwavering dedication to her cause, masking her vulnerabilities behind a façade of strength.

As their clandestine encounters continued, a delicate dance unfolded between the prince and the revolutionary leader. Each meeting was filled with stolen glances, lingering touches, and heartfelt conversations that revealed the depth of their souls.

In their private moments, they cast aside the titles and labels that defined them in the eyes of the world. Prince Horatio opened up about his doubts and fears, sharing his aspirations for a better kingdom that blended justice with stability.

Amelia, in turn, bared her heart, unveiling the passion that fueled her revolutionary fervor and her vision of a society where all citizens could thrive. She spoke of the struggles she faced as a leader, and the weight of the revolution that rested upon her shoulders.

Their connection grew stronger with each secret rendezvous, and they found solace and understanding in each other's arms. They reveled in the shared dream of a kingdom that embraced the values of justice and individual freedom, even if their paths to achieve that dream were vastly different.

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, their love blossomed amidst the chaos and unrest. Yet, the reality of their positions loomed over them like a dark cloud, threatening to tear them apart. The burden of their roles weighed heavily on their hearts, for they knew their love was forbidden by the expectations of their followers and the kingdom.

In the midst of their secret love affair, they faced a choice that would shape the destiny of Honey Creek. Would they give in to the allure of their love, forsaking their positions and the ideals they had fought for, or would they find a way to reconcile their hearts with their responsibilities?

The journey of Prince Horatio and Amelia's love story became a tale of sacrifice, courage, and the pursuit of a love that transcended boundaries. In the face of adversity, they were forced to make choices that would determine not only their own fate but also the future of Honey Creek.

Their love challenged them to question the very essence of who they were and what they stood for. Through it all, they found strength in each other, knowing that even in the midst of conflict, they had shared a love that defied expectations and inspired hope for a brighter future.

Their love story became a whispered legend in the annals of Honey Creek, a testament to the power of love to bridge divides and unite hearts in the most unlikely of circumstances. Their actions in the shadows, though hidden from the world, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew of the clandestine love affair between Prince Horatio and the revolutionary leader, Amelia.

The Martelo

In the kingdom of Honey Creek, a tumultuous revolution engulfed the land, and amidst the chaos, a faction called "The Martelo" emerged as the driving force behind the uprising. Led by the charismatic and strategic Amelia.

As the revolution gained momentum, The Martelo's message resonated with the masses, drawing support from disillusioned workers, oppressed citizens, and individuals yearning for change. Amelia's rallying cries echoed through the streets, inspiring a diverse and passionate army of followers, united by their shared vision of a more equitable society.

The final battle between The Martelo and Prince Horatio's forces took place at the heart of Honey Creek, within the majestic courtyard of the royal palace. The air crackled with tension as the revolutionaries, armed with fervor and conviction, faced off against the once-mighty ruler and his loyal guards.

Amelia stood at the forefront of The Martelo, her fiery gaze locking onto Prince Horatio's. Her voice rang out, urging her fellow revolutionaries to stand strong in their pursuit of justice and to dismantle the oppressive structures that had plagued Honey Creek for far too long.

The clash erupted with a thunderous roar. The revolutionaries, wielding improvised weapons and unwavering resolve, launched a fierce assault on the palace guards. The courtyard became a battlefield, with swords clashing, spears thrusting, and sparks flying amidst the chaos.

Prince Horatio, surrounded by his loyal knights, fought with a desperate determination, defending the throne that was slipping from his grasp. The once-mighty ruler now faced an enemy that had harnessed the power of unity and passion.

Amelia, armed with a simple yet sturdy hammer, or "martelo" in the local tongue, displayed her strategic brilliance. She led her forces with calculated precision, exploiting gaps in the enemy's defense and orchestrating tactical maneuvers that kept Prince Horatio's forces on their heels.

As the battle raged on, The Martelo's numbers and determination began to wear down Horatio's forces. The palace guards, once unyielding in their loyalty, began to waver in the face of the relentless onslaught.

In a pivotal moment, Amelia and Prince Horatio found themselves face to face. Their eyes locked in a fierce exchange of wills, each representing the contrasting visions for the kingdom's future. Horatio, realizing the tide had turned against him, acknowledged the power of the revolution he faced.

With a heavy heart, Prince Horatio made a bold decision. He stepped away from the throne, a symbol of the power he once held, and surrendered to The Martelo. The battle came to an abrupt end, as the revolutionaries stood victorious.

Amelia, holding the martelo high, announced the end of Prince Horatio's reign. The kingdom was now under the control of The Martelo. Horatio, his power usurped, accepted the outcome with a mix of regret and acceptance.

In the aftermath of the revolution, The Martelo took charge of Honey Creek. Under Amelia's leadership, the kingdom underwent significant changes. The Martelo implemented policies to address economic inequality, protect workers' rights, and establish a more just and inclusive society.

However, as the new rulers grappled with the realities of governance, challenges emerged. Different factions within The Martelo held varying perspectives on the direction of the kingdom, leading to spirited debates and discussions.

Despite the complexities of governing, Amelia remained steadfast in her commitment to justice and equality. She sought to create a society that embraced the values of the revolution while fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity among the diverse factions within The Martelo.

Wally furry and funny friend Poem

Oh Wally, you furry and funny friend
Your antics and tricks never end!
A Bernadoodle with black and white hair
Bringing us laughter and joy without care.

Smart as a whip and friendly as can be
A sweeter dog the world may never see! 
You chase after balls and flashlights with glee
Then cool down with water from the hose with pure glee!

Your days are filled with playtime and more
Racing and wrestling, you're never a bore!
Friends from near and far love your charm
As you shower them with nuzzles so warm. \

At day's end you rest your tired head 
Dreaming of new adventures ahead! 
Faithful and true, gentle and kind
A better companion we'll never find.

Oh Wally, you are too good to be true
We smile and laugh each day thanks to you! 
Our lives filled with light by your love shown
Dearest, darling Wally - our home is your home!

Sleep Self Hypnosis Script II

Make yourself comfortable in bed and take a few deep, calming breaths. Feel your body sink into the mattress as you exhale away any tension. 

Imagine a brilliant white light at the top of your head, radiating warmth and serenity through your body. This healing light washes away any negativity, draining stress or anxiety down through your feet. 

Picture your favorite peaceful place. It could be a quiet beach, a meadow, or anywhere you feel most at ease. See the details vividly in your mind. Hear the soothing sounds, feel the gentle textures, and savor the calming scents.

As you breathe slowly and deeply, feel your body relaxing more deeply. Any busy thoughts or worries float away like clouds passing across the sky. Your mind is clear and focused only on this moment.

Repeat positive suggestions to yourself such as, "I am drifting into deep relaxation" and "My body and mind are calm." Feel your eyelids growing heavier with each breath. 

If any distracting thoughts enter your mind, imagine them written on leaves floating down a gentle stream. Let them pass by without judgment. Return your focus to your serene imagery.

Know that you are safe and at peace. Let go of any remaining stress and tension. Feel your body becoming heavier, your mind perfectly still. You are ready for a night of deep, restful sleep. 

Continue to breathe slowly as you drift off. The peace of this moment carries you through the night, waking refreshed and renewed. Know that you can return to this place of tranquility anytime.

When you are ready, take a deep breath and gently open your eyes, feeling relaxed and ready for restful sleep.

Scout Lake- Self hypnosis Guided Imagery

Find a comfortable place to relax. Take a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Feel your body sinking into the chair or bed, relaxing more with each breath. 

Imagine yourself walking along a peaceful trail around the tranquil Scout Lake. Hear the soft sounds of birds chirping in the trees around you. Smell the fresh, earthy scents of the forest. Feel a gentle breeze brush against your skin. 

Notice the beauty all around you - sunlight sparkling on the surface of the calm, clear lake. See lush green trees and plants thriving along the water's edge. This is a safe and serene place.

As you walk slowly along the trail, you begin to feel contentment and self-appreciation growing within you. You are focused only on the present moment. With each step, you feel more self-acceptance and inner calm.

Reflect upon all of your positive qualities. Appreciate your talents, skills, and strengths. You have so much to offer this world. Feel grateful for all that makes you uniquely you. 

Know that you deserve to feel good about yourself always. You are worthy of love, joy, and respect. Affirm your self-worth and value. Release any self-criticism or doubt. 

The beauty you observe around you is a reflection of the beauty within you. Feel positive and uplifted. The peace and tranquility of this place fills you completely.

Carry this renewed sense of self-esteem with you as you return from this walking meditation. Know you can come back to this lake anytime you need to nourish your spirit. 

When you are ready, take a deep breath and slowly open your eyes, feeling refreshed and confident.

Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this self-hypnosis script in any way. I'm happy to provide additional support to promote positive self-esteem.

Ode to Wally Bear the Flashlight Chaser

Ode to Wally Bear the Flashlight Chaser

In shades of onyx and alabaster clad,

Great Wally Bear the bernadoodle bounds with joy.  

His soul delights in pleasures simple, pure -

A flashlight's beam, a rubber ball, a toy.

With eyes that gleam and tail that wags in haste, 

He lives to give pursuit with tireless pace.

The dancing dot of light, it seems to taunt,

And laughing, Wally Bear resumes the merry chase.

O noble hound! Your heart knows but one care - 

To match the flashlight's roving, restless flare.

Though years may pass, you'll never cease to yearn

For bright beam's flickering, fading flare.

Stay ever young, sweet Wally Bear, and freely roam

To chase the dark, as dogs have always done.

Your lightning hunt brings laughter to this home.

To you, the game's the thing, the race far from won.

Facts on the Factions

In the kingdom of Honey Creek, a realm brimming with political factions and ideological clashes, three groups emerged, each staunchly opposed to Prince Horatio's rule. The Workers' Vanguard, The Golden Shield, and The Free Spirits represented distinct factions with disparate visions for the kingdom's future.

The Workers' Vanguard, led by the charismatic Amelia, embodied the spirit of socialism and economic equality. They fervently fought for the rights of the working class, rallying against the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of the few. The Workers' Vanguard saw Horatio's rule as perpetuating an unjust system that marginalized the laborers.

The Golden Shield, guided by the principles of justice and fairness, adamantly challenged Horatio's authority. Led by Evander, the faction sought to dismantle the existing social order and establish a society based on equitable distribution of resources and direct democracy. The Golden Shield believed that the concentration of power undermined the well-being of the common people.

The Free Spirits, under the enigmatic leadership of Adrian, rejected societal norms and sought to unleash the potential of individual greatness and personal freedom. They embraced the philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche, advocating for the pursuit of authentic self-expression and the rejection of external authorities. The Free Spirits saw Horatio's rule as a hindrance to personal autonomy and the realization of individual potential.

As tensions grew, Honey Creek found itself in a precarious state. The three factions, though distinct in their beliefs, shared a common discontent with Horatio's governance and a desire for change.

Recognizing the magnitude of the opposition, Prince Horatio sought to engage in dialogue with the factions, hoping to understand their concerns and find a path towards unity and progress. However, initial attempts at reconciliation proved challenging, as the factions remained steadfast in their opposition.

Horatio, a pragmatist at heart, recognized that true progress would require a delicate balance of compromise and firm leadership. He acknowledged the valid grievances raised by each faction and initiated a series of reforms aimed at addressing their concerns.

For the Workers' Vanguard, he implemented policies to improve workers' rights, establish fair wages, and bridge the wealth gap. Horatio sought to empower the laborers and ensure their voices were heard in the decision-making process.

To meet the demands of the Golden Shield, Horatio initiated changes to the social order, ensuring greater representation and inclusion. He implemented measures to reduce corruption, increase transparency, and foster a more equitable distribution of resources throughout the kingdom.

For the Free Spirits, Horatio recognized the importance of individual autonomy and personal growth. He championed artistic endeavors, promoted intellectual freedom, and encouraged the pursuit of passions, providing platforms for self-expression.

Slowly, the factions began to witness the sincerity of Horatio's reforms and recognized his willingness to address their concerns. Though initially skeptical, they cautiously engaged with the administration, channeling their energies toward constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Over time, a fragile alliance formed between the Workers' Vanguard, the Golden Shield, and the Free Spirits. United by their shared discontent with the existing power structures, they collaborated with Horatio's government to shape a path forward that blended their diverse visions.

Honey Creek underwent a period of transformation, as the factions contributed their insights and championed their respective causes within the realm. Though challenges remained, the kingdom experienced a profound shift toward greater equality, individual empowerment, and social justice.

Who is Sir Edmund?

Sir Edmund's origin story unfolded in a vastly different setting from that of Prince Horatio. Born to humble beginnings in a small village on the outskirts of Honey Creek, Sir Edmund grew up in the midst of adversity and hardship. His early years were marked by struggles, as his family toiled to make ends meet in the face of poverty.

From a young age, Sir Edmund displayed an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Despite the limited resources available to him, he immersed himself in books, absorbing the wisdom and tales of great leaders and thinkers from distant lands. It was through these stories that he found solace and inspiration, fueling his ambitions to rise above his circumstances.

Driven by an unwavering determination, Sir Edmund sought education and enlightenment wherever he could find it. He approached scholars passing through the village, listening intently to their teachings and engaging in thoughtful conversations. Through his natural curiosity and hunger for knowledge, he developed a keen intellect and a deep understanding of the human condition.

As he matured, Sir Edmund's talents and intelligence did not go unnoticed. His wisdom and sharp insights earned him the admiration and respect of those around him. Recognizing his potential, a wise mentor took Sir Edmund under his wing, guiding him in the ways of strategy, leadership, and diplomacy.

Under his mentor's tutelage, Sir Edmund honed his skills, learning the art of diplomacy, the intricacies of governance, and the principles of leadership. He delved into the works of philosophers like Sun Tzu, finding solace and guidance in their teachings on strategy and the art of war. It was through these studies that he developed a profound understanding of the human psyche and the delicate balance of power.

As word of Sir Edmund's intellect and abilities spread, he caught the attention of the royal court in Honey Creek. The young man from the humble village had risen to prominence, his wisdom and strategic acumen hailed as a valuable asset to the kingdom.

Impressed by his intellect and unwavering loyalty, Prince Horatio offered Sir Edmund a place in his inner circle. Recognizing the opportunity to bring about meaningful change, Sir Edmund accepted the offer, knowing that his skills could be put to good use in guiding the young prince on his path.

Sir Edmund's arrival at the royal court marked a turning point in his life. His humble origins and deep understanding of the struggles faced by the common people allowed him to provide a unique perspective to the prince. While Horatio delved into Machiavellian strategies, Sir Edmund reminded him of the importance of empathy, justice, and the well-being of the kingdom's citizens.

United by their divergent backgrounds and complementary philosophies, Horatio and Sir Edmund formed an unbreakable bond, each recognizing the value of the other's perspective. Together, they embarked on a journey to reshape the destiny of Honey Creek, blending their unique experiences and wisdom to navigate the complex challenges they faced.

A night in the Woods with Wally

Wally and Jason had been planning to go on a camping trip to Mirror Lake State Park for a long time. They had heard a lot of good things about the park, and they wanted to see it for themselves. They had booked a campsite online, and they had packed everything they needed for their trip. They were very excited.

They left their home early in the morning, and drove to the park. The drive was scenic and pleasant, and they enjoyed the views of the countryside. They listened to some music, and Wally sang along with his favorite songs.

They arrived at the park around noon, and checked in at the visitor center. They got their vehicle admission sticker, their map, and their campsite number. They also got some information about the park, such as the trails, the facilities, and the rules.

They drove to their campsite, which was located near the lake. It was a spacious and shady site, with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a tent pad. They unloaded their car, and set up their tent. They made sure to store their food in a secure container, to prevent any animals from getting into it.

They had some lunch, and then decided to go for a walk around the lake. They put on their hiking shoes, and grabbed their water bottles. They also took the flashlight, just in case.

They left their campsite, and followed the trail that led to the lake. The trail was well-marked and easy to follow. It was about two miles long, and it circled around the lake.

The lake was beautiful. It was clear and calm, and it mirrored the sky and the trees. There were some boats on the water, but they were far away and quiet. The lake was surrounded by sandstone bluffs, which rose up to 50 feet high in some places. They were red and orange in color, and they contrasted with the green of the trees.

Wally and Jason walked around the lake, admiring the scenery. Wally sniffed around the ground, looking for interesting smells. He found some deer tracks, some squirrel droppings, and some wildflowers. He also found some acorns, which he liked to chew on.

Jason took some pictures of the lake and the bluffs with his phone. He also took some selfies with Wally, who posed happily for him. He posted some of them on his social media accounts, with captions like “Camping with my best buddy” and “Mirror Lake is amazing”.

They came to a wooden bridge that crossed over a narrow part of the lake. Jason decided to cross it, and Wally followed him. As they crossed the bridge, they heard a loud splash from under them.

“What was that?” Jason asked.

Wally looked down and saw something moving in the water. It was big and dark, and it had two glowing eyes.

“Wow, look at that!” Jason said. “It’s a beaver!”

Wally barked and wagged his tail. He loved beavers. He had seen them on TV before, but he had never seen one in real life.

The beaver looked up at them and made a chattering noise. Then it slapped its tail on the water and dove under.

“Did you see that?” Jason said. “That was so cool!”

Wally agreed. He thought the beaver was very cool.

They continued their walk around the lake, hoping to see more beavers or other animals. They saw some ducks, some geese, some turtles, and some fish. They also saw some signs of other animals, such as otters, muskrats, raccoons, foxes, coyotes

They walked around the lake for about an hour, and then decided to head back to their campsite. They were getting hungry, and they wanted to make some dinner.

They retraced their steps, and crossed the bridge again. As they did, they heard another splash from under them.

“Look, it’s the beaver again!” Jason said.

Wally looked down and saw the beaver swimming towards them. It had something in its mouth. It was a stick.

The beaver reached the shore, and climbed out of the water. It dropped the stick on the ground, and looked at them.

“Is it offering us the stick?” Jason asked.

Wally tilted his head. He wasn’t sure what the beaver was doing.

The beaver made a chattering noise, and nudged the stick with its nose. It seemed to want them to take it.

Jason reached down and picked up the stick. It was wet and gnawed on. He smiled at the beaver.

“Thank you,” he said.

The beaver nodded, and made another chattering noise. Then it turned around and went back into the water.

Jason and Wally watched it swim away. They were both amazed by what had just happened.

“That was incredible,” Jason said. “The beaver gave us a gift.”

Wally barked and wagged his tail. He agreed. The beaver was very nice.

They continued their walk back to their campsite, with Jason holding the stick. They decided to keep it as a souvenir of their encounter with the beaver.

They arrived at their campsite, and made some dinner. They ate their food, and then roasted some marshmallows over the fire. They told stories, and sang songs, and laughed a lot.

They put out the fire, and got ready for bed. They crawled into their sleeping bags, and cuddled together.

Wally dreamed of beavers and sticks and lakes.

He would never forget this wonderful day.

The next morning, they woke up early, and packed up their things. They said goodbye to their campsite, and drove back home.

They had a great time at Mirror Lake State Park, and they made some new friends there. They would always remember their camping trip there, and they would always cherish their memories of it.

The End.