The REAL Tower of Guard

Too cool!

A Song of Joy by Caroline Furlong

Upon seeing a photo of this iconic island with the tide out, my first thought was, “Holy cow – that looks like Minas Tirith!”

My second was, “Where is this place and what is it called?”

This is Mont-Saint-Michel, a mountain church and fortification turned monastery turned tourist attraction. It is in Normandy, France, and it could serve as a dead ringer at low tide for Tolkien’s fictional Minas Tirith (the Tower of Guard), formerly Minas Anor, the Tower of the Sun.

Could this have been the inspiration for the capital of the Gondorin? So far as I know from studying Tolkien and his magnum opus the answer is no, it isn’t. But it is fascinating to think that it might be. Learn more about Mont-Saint-Michel below, readers!

Interesting facts about Mont Saint-Michel

Le Mont-Saint-Michel is an island commune in Normandy, France. It is located about 1 kilometer

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Anybody Want To Buy Her A Drink?

During our visit, I was honored with the opportunity to speak to a couple classes, as well as with the faculty, to share my wartime experiences. During one classroom session, the professor put Lilya on the spot and asked for her impression of America.

Impromptu public speaking in a foreign language isn’t easy. But she nailed it.

Without missing a beat, Lilya replied: “This is the greatest country in the world. But most Americans don’t know it.”

Thank you, ma’am!

From “My Ukrainian Wife’s First Visit To The United States” on The Daily Signal.

and subject to the jurisdiction thereof

A notable, and overlooked, part of the 14th amendment.  All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.

Up to now, it’s been interpreted by basically being ignored when it comes to illegals– ie, those who are not subjecting themselves to our country’s jurisdiction.

I’m curious if it’s been applied to give citizenship to the children of ambassadors and their staff– they’re here legally, but are “subject” to the country they’re representing.

This is an an outstanding way to get it argued in court…and makes me wonder what exactly Trump is releasing rabbits for.

New Baby

here’s the Contessa.

Gosnell Movie Review– The Scratching Post

Reblogged; minor quote below, go read the rest there.

If you don’t know the story, Kermit Gosnell was an abortionist operating in Philly. For decades, he ran a filthy, illegal, chop shop where he killed hundreds of babies and at least one woman as well. Like the Muslim rape gangs in England, he was able to escape punishment for many years because the authorities refused to police him the way they police the rest of us. Because of the nature of his business – abortion – Kermit Gosnell was left to wreak havoc with the full knowledge of the government and press.

Chinese City May Get Fake Moon – Coast to Coast AM

An aerospace executive in China has announced plans to launch a satellite which would serve as an artificial moon designed to illuminate a city at night.

Source: Chinese City May Get Fake Moon – Coast to Coast AM

It would be from a satellite–er, an artificial one– and I think this sounds AWESOME!

Reblog: Three Useful Definitions

At TOF Spot:

The words thanks to N. N. Taleb are

1. Pedophrasty
2. Bigoteering
3. Partializing