Monday, January 19, 2009

Blue Monday - Shakespeare Pictures

It's Blue Monday! To participate:

1. Post about something blue on your blog. It can be pretty, ugly, funny, old, or new as long as it's blue. Leave a link to this blog on your post.

2. Place the Blue Monday button on the top of your post so that people can easily spot it. Place another
Blue Monday button on the sidebar of your blog.

3. Return here and link in with Mr. Linky by leaving your name and the
Permalink to your post. To create a Permalink, click on your Blue Monday post title and copy all the stuff in the http window. It is a longer address so that people can find your post even later in the week--whenever they get a chance to visit. For those who just can't wait, Mr. Linky will be up after midnight!

Do NOT link in until after your post is up.

4. Visit other Blue participants by clicking on their links. Make someone's day; leave a comment.
I appreciate it when you take the time to leave a comment for me.

5. Check back later to make certain you visit all the Blue participants. (That's why the Permalink is so important.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Most of you know that I'm a retired high school English teacher. One of the highlights of my life was when Johnny and I went to Stratford-upon-Avon, England--the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The English say "upon-Avon" meaning that the Avon River is located in there. It's just as correct to say Stratford, England.

I stood on the very floor that Shakespeare crawled upon as an infant. I'm still impressed with that memory. I bought these prints at the gift shop and had them framed when we came home. Of course, I choose blue mats. They hang on a wall in my home.



The bottom print is Shakespeare's actual home. His father was the town mayor, as well as a maker of gloves--in the days when there was a great demand--every man, woman, and child wore gloves. They were not a poor family. The house is well preserved and a delightful tourist attraction.


Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616--best accounts cite this as his birthday. This picture, the one I keep on the top, is the Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried.



His tombstone is inscribed with the following words, penned by the bard himself:

Good friend for Jesus sake forbear
To dig the dust enclosed here!
Blest be the man that spares these stones,
And curst be he that moves my bones.


Is it any wonder that no one has ever bothered his grave!

Now you all know how high school English teachers decorate their homes!

I'm so sorry that it took forever to get Mr. Linky. My local internet service is giving me trouble.
Blue Monday Participants
1. jsprik
2. SUE
3. Envoy-ette
4. The Muse
5. Heidi Pocketbook
6. Lisa
7. bj
8. Charlotte
9. White Iris Designs
10. Judi
11. Gemma
12. Carlotta
13. Sheila
14. Sweetie
15. Susan
16. Barbara H.
17. Pagan Sphinx
18. Andi
19. Linda\'s Blue Gate
20. Beverly
21. Elizabeth
22. Mamapippa - Belgium
23. charli and me
24. Sherrie
25. Jeanne
26. claudie from canada
27. Kathleen Moser
28. Mojo, NC, USA
29. Candy
30. Kymber @ A New Day Dawning
31. Melissa
32. Linnea
33. Diane
34. Carrie - Oak Rise Cottage
35. ellen b
36. Lana G!
37. Shirls Rose Cottage
38. Cam
39. Auction Girl Vintage
40. Shelia
41. Darlene
42. Helen
43. Dixie
44. Sandra - Cottage Dreamer

Powered by... Mister Linky's Magical Widgets.



75 comments:

Susan @ A Southern Daydreamer said...

no mr linky?

Lorrie said...

I don't see Mr. Linky either Sally!

Carrie said...

Hello Sally,
I also do not see Mr. Linky. This is the link for my post:
http://oakrisecottage.blogspot.com/2009/01/gifts-that-feed-passion-for-blue-and.html
Carrie

The Bliss Journey said...

What a nice momento of your visit. Mr Linky is MIA
http://focusoninteriors.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday.html
Kathleen

Carrie said...

Your Shakespeare prints are very nicely framed.
As a former English teacher, I also have framed pictures and other items from my trips to England's literary sites. This reminds me to post about them soon.

Eleanor said...

This brought back my memories of visiting Stratford about 20 years ago. It was a hot summer's day and we had scones and tea at a little tea room on the way. The bees buzzed around our cream and jam scones and reminded me of all the references to summer and flowers in the Bard's work!

Anonymous said...

Well thank you for the history lesson. I didn't know any of it.

Hugs,
Chris

Anonymous said...

Morning Most Smiling One. I don't see Mr. Linky, but I'm being Blue with you this morning. We've been there, too! I'm such a romantic, I loved Anne Hathaway's cottage more! :)
Be a sweetie,
Shelia :)

Unknown said...

no mr linky?? :(
The picture are very pretty, & a wonderful historical story as an accompaniment. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Good morning Sally, I am visiting early today before this gang of mine wakes up. My computer time has been so limited.

Sally your Shakespheare prints are wonderful. I love the way they are framed and enjoyed the history behind them. My visit to his home would be a memory close to my heart too. I truly enjoyed your post today.

Hugs...Jeanne

Anonymous said...

No mister linky here either.
Claudie

Missy Wertz said...

Very nice prints Sally and nicely framed. I love reading what you you learned about him while there. How wonderful that you got to go.

Happy Blue Monday!

LADY JANE said...

Sally,Your prints are beautiful! I am smiling at the fact that on all your posts I learn something,oh the true teacher in You!
Perhaps you have Inspired Mr. Linky to go visit Shakepeare himself....
I will try this for now...
http://ladyjanesemporium.blogspot.com/2009/01/shirley-temples-anyone.html

bj said...

UH, OH...Mr. Linky went missing...
ANYWAY...I love your beautiful prints!
I'll come back around later to see if Mr. Linky has been found....:O)

Candy said...

Just found you this morning. Have never participated in something like this so will give it a go.
On your love of Christian fiction...have you read Francine Rivers? I love her books.
Blessings, Candy

Shirl said...

Hello Sally, I'm joining Blue Monday today and came here to link up but don't see Mr. Linky. Can you link me up?
Your prints are just beautiful!
Bless You, Shirl
Shirls Rose Cottage

Unknown said...

What a great bit of history you've shared with us!

Sweetie said...

I love the prints and really enjoyed the history lesson. I didn't enjoy history in school but find it facinating now.
Sweetie
http://www.sweetiesworld-sweetie.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

I will leave you this till Mr.Linky decides to show his face....
http://whiteirisdesigns.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday-happy-birthday-evan-plus.html

;)

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Sally, love your blueness!

Here is my link for Mr. Linky...

http://thequintessentialmagpie.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday-ducks-and-such.html

XO,

Sheila :-)

Anonymous said...

Hi Sally
How lovely and how very interesting. I didn't know any of this. No wonder is right!!

Is there no Mr. Linky???

have a lovely Blue MOnday but may it be very cheery
Judi

Anonymous said...

Oh the memories of our visit to Stratford! Love your prints Sally!

I am not seeing Mr. Linky either so I will leave you my link as well as my sister Ellen's. Have a great day!

http://happywonderer.wordpress.com/2009/01/18/blue-monday-6/


http://airmiles.wordpress.com/2009/01/18/blue-monday-what-the-dr-ordered/

Andi said...

What lovely prints and the blue mats are perfect.

I have a Blue Monday post but no Mr. Linky. I'll check back later this evening.

Hugs, Andi

Heidi Pocketbook said...

Where oh where has Mr. Linky gone?

Link to my Blue Monday:
http://bargainhuntingmom.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday-china.html

Sally, what interesting pictures and the stories behind them. It must have been the trip of a lifetime for you and I'm so happy you were able to go. Each time you look at those pictures it must be a thrill!

Happy Blue Monday :-)

Anonymous said...

That must have been a fun visit! What great mementos of the trip.

I know Mr. Linky was being persnickety on another site this weekend -- looks like he's still having problems.

My Blue Monday post is here:
http://barbarah.wordpress.com/2009/01/19/blue-monday-kinkade-throw/

Missy Wertz said...

Though Mr. Linky is not working, everyone is doing a pretty good job visiting through our blog rolls and your comment section. Blue Monday is still working!

Dixie said...

Ah the veritible Mr.Linky strikes again (and again)... what's up with him... Mr.Linky has been a "stinky" as of late...

I enjoyed your Shakespeare lesson... and the beautiful artwork... There is so much history to be found in Europe... I love it too!

Happy Blue Monday...even without our stinky Mr. Linky... hugs. Dixie

Carlotta said...

Love the pictures, and appreciate the lesson today. I love Shakespeare and didn't know any of that info before today. After reading that inscription, I wouldn't dare move his bones. By the way, where's Mr. Linky today?
~Carlotta~

Missy Wertz said...

Here is my link if you need it

http://missy-thingsinlife.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday_18.htm

Anonymous said...

Mr. Linky is no where to be found on my screen either. I would love to have prints like that hung in my home. What a wonderful trip you must have had. I don't think there is any thing in my home without meaning. I can see where a school teacher, or someone like me who loves to read and go to plays, would love these prints. I hope you have a great day.

Shelly said...

Love the history lesson. Now why can't history teachers make history that interesting? I loved traveling and getting things I could later hang or use in my home. Unfortunately through military moves, and heaven only knows what, I no longer have the stuff. And since Mr. Linky is asleep, I'll leave my link here later--as I haven't posted yet, thanks to my computer not working well.
Shelly

Nanna said...

Happy Blue MOnday Sally! Great post ! now where's mr linky LOL
Helen

jlshall said...

Sally, I love your Shakespeare prints! When we were in Stratford, I didn't buy any souvenirs. Instead, I lost my wristwatch in one of the pubs there. But it was worth it, just to walk around the town and see a production of the RSC.

Here's a link to my Blue Monday post. Have a great day!

Darlene said...

Hi Sally,

I'll check back later for Mr. Linky. Your photos are beautiful and I LOVE the story. Have a fabulous Blue Monday!

Judith said...

Hi Sally - My post is up but like everyone else I cannot see Mr. Linky.

I found your post interesting and love the prints but just to say that Stratford upon Avon is probably the correct term as there is another Stratford in the UK which is about 5 miles from me and that is where the Olympics 2012 will be held and it is nothing like Stratford upon Avon!!! Judith

Anonymous said...

Oh how mwonderful.... I would LOVE to go to England ..... and to see all thing Shakespeare...... he was brillant..... and your prints are just lovely...
Hugs
Linda

Anonymous said...

Oh good heavens.... Sally please delete my comment I DID NOT proof read and spell check before I hit send..... being the English teacher I know you are appalled...
Linda

April said...

Hi Sally,

How exciting that must have been to visit Shakespeare's birthplace! I love the prints you purchased and framed. They'll always serve as a reminder of your unforgettable trip.

Enjoy your day! ♥

Charlotte said...

I know exactly how you felt Sally. We visited Stratford Upon Avon in 1999. We visited his house and also Ann Hathaway's home. I bought prints of both of the houses but have not framed them. They are smaller than yours.
I just don't know what to think about Mr. Linky. He was on duty all day yesterday but gone again this morning. I posted my Blue Monday on my Doll blog.
Happy Blue Monday w/o Mr. Linky.
Charlotte

Sue said...

Love the prints, Happy Blue Monday.


Sue

akawest said...

Your prints are beautiful. Thank you for the interesting tidbits about Shakespeare's family. I never knew anything about his family.

You have given me something to share with my husband, tonight. He is a big fan of Shakespeare. Puck featured heavily in our first date in 1984.

When discussing what we will miss when we move, he answered, "Shakespeare plays and my golf buddies. That is it."

I wonder what made us stop wearing gloves. I remember wearing white gloves with party dresses, as a little girl. Why didn't my own daughters wear them? Hmm, the answer will be my quest for today.

Happy Blue Monday. Mine is here .

Neabear said...

http://neabear.blogspot.com/2009/01/drive-home-from-church.html

Uh-oh. Looks like Mr. Linky is not behaving himself again. Or having another attitude. Susan at Between Naps on the Porch and Tam at The Gypsy Corner both had problem with Mr. Linky last week. Anyway, I love your Shakespeare pictures. I included the link to my Blue Monday here. Happy Blue Monday!

Unknown said...

Looks the evil mr. linky is acting up again. my photos are up

http://thepaganeye.blogspot.com/2009/01/blue-monday_19.html

Those Shakespeare prints look very interesting.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Beautiful Sally.. I love all of those Shakespeare prints, especially the church. I have a 'thing' for beautiful churches...

I have some framed (also matted in blue) pictures of the Blue Bonnet Festival in Texas. We went to that wild flower festival for several years and got our prints framed.. (possibly a new blog for me)..

Hugs,
Betsy

Unknown said...

I'm late getting my post up. Can't find Mr. Linky!
http://diane1876.blogspot.com/2009/01/anitque-shop-inspiration.html

That sounds like a place I would love to visit too Sally. I love the blue mats you chose to frame the pictures.

Diane

Anonymous said...

Hi Sally
Here is my link
http://kbbryant.wordpress.com/2009/01/18/blue-monday-13/

Thank you for hosting this each week. How speecial to have seen Shakespeare's home and church and have the prints too.

Kathy b

bj said...

Well, ANYWAY....
I have some BLUE up on my post today so won't you PLEASE come by to see me at SWEET NOTHINGS.....

~♥~ Monica S said...

You're an english teacher?? WOW! I like Shakespear!! But although England is not too far from us.. I still haven't been to his part of the country...

In my country we start english classes in 4th grade.... and those of us that like it.. keep it up all through to the 12th year of school! and beyond!

Monica

Libby's Library said...

I learn something new, every time I drop by your place!

Anonymous said...

Great history lesson !!
Keep warm
Diane

Anonymous said...

Thank you for the great information on Shakespeare. It's amazing the things we learn while roaming the blogs.

I've just started my personal blog and wanted to start participating in Blue Monday. My link is:

http://www.cottagedreamer.com/2009/01/blue-monday-my-dishes/

Sherrie said...

Hi Sally,
Mr. Linky still isn't there. Your Shakespeare prints are wonderful. Would love visit England some day!! It is one of my if-we-win-the-lottery dream trips. Have a great day!

Sherrie

My post is here:
http://sherrie-plummer.blogspot.com/2009/01/monday-memes.html

Anonymous said...

mr. linky seems to be AWOL..here is my link
http://blog-diggidy.com/index.php/archives/1165
Have a great Monday everyone!!!

Anonymous said...

I came to the comments to see if I was the only one not seeing Mr. Linky, but I guess not. We'll keep our fingers crossed.

http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/01/blue-devils.html

I love your treasured memories. I've always hoped to visit, too.

Four Paws and Co said...

The pictures are beautiful! Great post! ♥

Mamapippa ... said...

You can find my entry on:

http://mamapippaphotography.skynetblogs.be/post/6636599/blauwe-ramen----

I miss Mr. Linky ...

Envoy-ette said...

Ok, I'm not crazy. (couldn't find the link) Perfect mats for your pictures!
(Midwestern Family)

Kathy said...

I love your prints, Sally. What a wonderful trip!
xo...Kathy

Sue said...

Sally,

Having problems,, when link back to my site----it is the wrong blue monday--help


sue

The Muse said...

Oh...I was here in the wee hours of the morning...alas that mr linky was elusive!...but as i have a moments break from drafting..I have returned...and found he is UP ! so, I have indeed left my link!

Great pictures you have there...I am sure you treasure them not just for the beauty...but because they are so memorable to you. I am so happy that you were able to visit England and tour such historical sites!

The Raggedy Girl said...

Happy Blue Monday!
The pictures and the story behind them are so special. And bad bad Mr. Linky!
Roberta Anne

bj said...

Darlin' girl...even with it not working, you are waaaay ahead of me using Mr. Linky..I have not a clue how to do it and I want to learn...I have a fun idea swimming around in my head but I need a Mr. Linky to help me..I will see if I can find instructions on google..
Glad you are up and goin', now....
xo

Gemma Wiseman said...

Beautiful prints attractively framed. I too am an English teacher. My home would not be complete without a touch of Shakespeare. I have a delightful, large bust of the bard in the centre of my mantelpiece. Unfortunately, I will never be able to visit his birthplace, so I must content myself with wonderful images like yours!

Salmagundi said...

Those pictures are special and the frames are perfect. I bought some prints in England, too, - my favorite kind of travel memento. Sally

Happy To Be/ Gl♥ria said...

Great Blues today Sally love that you do this..have a great day dear friend...hugs and smiles Gloria

squawmama said...

What wonderful prints... I just loved them. Thanks for showing them to us SAlly... Have a great day

(((HUGS)))
Donna

Mojo said...

I figured with the cold weather that's blanketed most of the country for the last week, it was time for something "warm".

sara said...

love the prints....and the history!!!

kymber said...

Hi Sally,
Thanks for starting this - what fun!
I have lots of blues to share so I am joining in the fun!
Blessings,
Kymber

nikkicrumpet said...

Very pretty prints...I can see why you had them framed. They look great!

Blondie's Journal said...

Very nice post Sally. I love the framed pictures. What a nice way to remember your trip to England.

xoxo
Jane

Theresa @ Take A Sentimental Journey said...

Love this post Sally.In my father's geneology studies, he found out that we are related to Shakespeare.

ellen b. said...

Hi Sally! We both posted on my favorite country to visit! I love your prints. We were at Stratford on Avon in 1973 with a singing group Dear and I were part of...
We saw a a play by Shakespeare there too. Very cool...
Happy late Blue Monday to you...

Anonymous said...

Glad to see the the form is working and thank you for this opportunity to "show off" my new blog.

Sandra

Anne Fannie said...

Hello Sally, I have been gone for the past 3 weeks and I just got back today. It was to late for Blue Monday this week.
I love your post, enjoyed reading it, and your prints are lovely.
Love, Ann