Did you know? More people are buying costumes for their pets. Americans spent $490 million on costumes for their pets in 2019—more than double what they spent in 2010.
Learn more about the origins and history of Halloween.
From the Desk of Pennwell Gray
Daily thoughts. Points to ponder. Soulful reflections. The Musings of E.M. Murphy.
Did you know? More people are buying costumes for their pets. Americans spent $490 million on costumes for their pets in 2019—more than double what they spent in 2010.
Learn more about the origins and history of Halloween.

As we embark upon the July Fourth holiday weekend, I am reminded of what this time means to me.
I spent many years volunteering for the USO and the Fourth of July was filled with activities to not only celebrate the birthday of our country, but to honor and thank our service men and women – and their families.
Continue reading “Happy Birthday, America.”Today is Canada Day! Happy Canada day to all my readers and friends!
Learn more about the origin and history of this commemorative day here.
To the fathers, grandfathers, step-fathers and those like a father … this day is made just for you!
In honor of National Flag Day.
“Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and your government when it deserves it.” — Mark Twain
May we remember, or choose to acknowledge, that our flag is a symbol of our freedom. It is a symbol of respect for those who fought and sacrificed for our country. It is a reminder that if it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t have the privilege to speak out, be heard and fight for what we believe in – no matter what we believe in.
May we look back on our history and not erase it, but acknowledge it and learn from it.
May we bury the wrongdoings of our ancestors and work together on truly uniting.
May we work together as a people and not be told how to think or what to do by our government or the media. They are not cult leaders, but elected officials who represent all people – not just some people.
Let’s not fuel the current climate of racism, hate and intolerance, the us against them mentality.
Let’s unite in a country where we are free to be, you and me.
When most Americans think of Memorial Day, they conjure up images of beach destinations, barbecues and the first official weekend of flip-flop season. It’s a carefree few days filled with fun, laughs and when the weather permits, lots of outdoor activities.
They plan what time the traffic will be at a minimum, load the cooler and pack the sunscreen. Jimmy Buffet sings a tune and everyone looks forward to wasting away in Margaritaville.
Continue reading “Respect. Honor. Sacrifice.”Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms – including dog and cat moms – everywhere. Have a great day!
“Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother.” – Unknown
Tomorrow at sundown, Passover begins. I encourage anyone who isn’t versed in the history, religion and traditions to learn more: https://toriavey.com/what-is-passover/
And to all of my friends and family, Happy Passover. ❤️
It has been said that America is the most Irish country in the world and as a Boston girl, I would know.
At the age of five, I had a brogue. It was ever so slight, the faintest lilt of a melody rolling off my tongue. My pronunciation of ‘bathin suit’ and ‘vawlume’ left no doubt that there was a twinge of green coursing through my veins. But that’s what happens when you spend five days a week being taught by a nun from County Laois (pronounced leash) in parochial school. Continue reading “10 Fun Facts about the Irish in America”