I've been trying to come up with some ideas about how to celebrate our anniversary next month as I don't care to spend a couple hundred $$ on a gourmet meal, as for me food passes out in about 4 hours and I'd like to do something that will last longer than the next bowel movement, so I've been trying to come up with ideas in which Pooky and I might do something different.
Pooky isn't of a romantic nature, so my requests for such things, as I have learned, meets with about as much enthusiasm as being told you need a root canal.
Since Pooky has been working on writing a novel, I thought a writer's workshop would be just the thing. Only they run expensive! So I thought I'd look at our local community college and sure enough, they offer some classes, and reasonable prices, too! Darn thing is, classes are already in session, but should resume in April. Sounds like a plan to me!
While I was looking into the continuing education offerings I found that there is a community orchestra! No audtions required, and all you need is high school playing experience, which I have, so all I need to do is find out how much a monthly cello rental will cost! I could be making music again in just a few weeks!
I've been thinking about getting back into making music, but it is hard to practice and be musical in isolation, and I so enjoy being in an orchestra and greating an awesome sound! I have tons of music books that I bough about 6 years ago when I took up the cello after a 10 year hiatus. Lots of beginner's stuff to refresh my ability to read music, etc.
*Zing! Zing * I am psyched about the idea of playing cello again! I just hope that the rental is reasonable. Before I was able to rent a cello for about $30 a month, which is totally affordable. I believe I still have my music tuner, but will need to get some rosin, and somewhere I still have my end-pin holder (sometimes referred to as donut).
Since we have hardwood floors the end-pin will not stay in place and will scratch the floor, thus the need for a stopper for it. What's even more cool is that the college is within walking distance of our house (a good reason for me to start building my strength back up).
I've come to life with the idea of it! Thinking leads to stuff! But this is the good kind of stuff! Oh, I do hope this will work out! I really would enjoy doing this!
I found all of my Patricia Kristoffersen books last night and have found the doily that I think will be enough of a challenge for the 16 day period. Ultra Beauty from the book Ultimate Doilies (Leisure Arts #3401) has braided strips that are incorporated into the design. The use of safety pins is recommended to keep the braids together until stitched into place.
I had thought about tackling one of the doilies from Victorian Spiral Doilies Book One but decided against it when I read the warning that said patience would be required. Sure, I can muster up patience, but would rather save it for that time I am waiting in the line that doesn't move, I have to pee and eat, and the person being helped keeps taking forever.
This pattern calls for a 2.00 mm hook, which I don't have, and dread having to use either a Boye or Susan Bates hook. I'll just have to see what's available to me. (Grumble, grumble)
I only feel like one card today, from the Osho Zen deck. Today did feel kind of full of unlimited potential, but I only got as far as doing the laundry, changing my ostomy bag, watched a movie (Broken Flowers—I do not recommend it), thought about crocheting but Stash insisted on sitting on my chest, went to dinner at the local Thai restaurant, spent non-productive time on the computer, meditated for 15 minutes and realized that the last time I laid down on the futon I was deathly sick and so I thought about all of those memories and how far I've come since then and I felt like I had gotten somewhere insofar as advancement in my health, tried to get out of my head/mind and into my heart/chest because lately I feel stuck in my mind, and I tried to explore emotionally why I feel so prudish and didn't get very far with why I feel like a Virgo Virgin and not a Shrone out cruising for penis, joined the Crochet Olympics, ordered more thread to complete the doily I started last night, swooned over Mr. Doo a few times, allowed Smee to melt into me for his daily stint of kitty love, and somehow a couple of hours has passed during this time Pooky has worked on getting the taxes sent in so we can get our refund (which probably will go to the dentist since I was informed I need a crown {unfortunately this isn't a royal type of crown}), but before going to bed we had thought we'd watch one of the DVDs we still have, but now it looks like we'll just skip it, and I had wanted to go to the store to satisfy my junk food needs—too late to do that yet I am hungry for donuts or something just as fat-laden, which makes me wish sometimes I was a cat because a cat will eat the same kibble day after day and think it is the best food in the world.
I figure I need some incentive and motivation to crochet, so I signed up for the Crochet Olympics. Woo-hoo! 
I have 3 or so new books from Patricia Kristoffersen and I'll pick one of her doily designs. There are so many that look challenging...but being that I have six days, I will have to pick one not too insane I just realized I'll have 16 days so I may go ahead and pick a real wicked one!
My sport to watch is all of the figure skating. I have no idea who comprises the men's team, but have learned that the petrified (meaning she is old)Michelle Kwan is still trying to get a gold medal. (No, I don't think she is that talented—after two tries, give it up already!) I am incredibly fond of ice dancing. I blame this on Torvill and Dean.
Can you tell I have been going through old photos? I found this school photo taken of me when I was 9 years old. Then I found this fairly current photo of me in which I have a similar expression and smile.
Egads! How did I live with hair over my ears? I can't stand it now!
Let's see. The Shrone at age 9. Here are some facts you might be entertained with:
- My birthday cake had a 3 dimensional Pink Pather
- While in the 4th grade I got my first set of braces
- My best friend's name was Susan
- Spelling was my favorite subject
- Mr. Lintott was my teacher. My nickname for him was The Old Man (because he was elderly, but it wasn't meant as an insult)
- School started that year on August 31st
- Mork & Mindy was my favorite show
- I saw a speech therapist as I had a bit of a problem pronouncing R's and L's, which was somewhat important to correct since my last name is Carlson
- I desparately wanted to have bunny rabbits for a pet
- My favorite toys were a plush Snoopy and Woodstock that had thematic outfits that I could dress them up in and all of this stuff was bought at a store called The Friendship Station (I wonder how much my set would auction for now if it still existed? Some of that stuff has to be collectible now!)
[The cards are from The Witches Tarot, Vision Quest Tarot, and Osho Zen Tarot, respectively.]
For today's reading I was revisited by The Ace of Cups (she appeared on Wednesday) and have guidance from Spirit Guide (XX) and Projections (Inversed).
The Ace of Cups says to me new emotional experiences, a new direction, and of renewal. It is like a cup of fresh, cool water. This card reminds me to keep flowing, even if I feel like stagnating, which I have been due to the continual gray dreariness of the weather.
Spirit Guide (Judgment in standard deck) says that help from above, my spirit guide or Powers That Be, are active, and I should keep myself open to feeling their influence. Live in the mystery, be open of heart, let simple innocence replace the worrisome thoughts in my mind.
Projections (7 of Cups) tells me not to get caught up in my inventions and imaginations of mind, because this is keeping me from seeing things clearly. I am projecting too much and not being open to what really is. My emotions are clouding my perceptions, and I'm seeing what I wish for.
Bonus Card
Simultaneously as I was selecting a card from the Vision Quest Tarot, Pooky asked me if he should attend a job fair. One card out of the stack was face up and it was Mother of Earth.
She is about finances, of taking care of things, of abundance and security. She is Queen of Hearth and Home. While I don't see this card as really answering either way, to go or not to go, I interpret it to be very positive regarding how it made itself appear. If the card symbolizes taking care of family, and being grounded in a solid, physical form, how does this translate to him going to a job fair? Is it saying if you go you will find employment that will take care of your family? Or is it saying that taking care of your family is your responsibility, don't mess with what is working? I think this card needs further interpretation!
I was looking through my childhood collection of photos (as requested by a dear friend) to find a picture of me between the ages of 8-10. I came upon this picture taken of me with my beloved Buffy Moon, but notice that green thing in my lap! Yes, I was crocheting! I have no idea what I was making or why, but here is the proof that I have been at this craft for a very long while.
I know that I was taught to crochet when I was 8 years old, and didn't really make anything other than potholders. So I'm not sure why I am even doing anything in this picture—perhaps I was making a blanket for my dolls? Anything is possible!
A few words about Buffy Moon. She and her sister Trixy, were my birthday present for my 9th birthday. Sadly, Trixy had to be put down within a couple of days of getting her because she had a congenital condition and she wouldn't have been able to be a normal, healthy cat.
Buffy Moon was my little baby, and we did all sorts of thing together. When Buffy was about a year old, my mom (vowing not to let the cat go outside) decided that Buffy needed to go out and well, it was just a matter of tempting the fates because we lived on a highway where cars sped.
One night Buffy hadn't come in when called, and the next morning we all searched for her. My sister found her, dead in the ditch, and her head was crushed. My mom still had me go to school that day. I cried continuously on the bus ride there.
Buffy was a Siamese, gray tip, and had more of a seal point face. How I adored Siamese cats! One day I do wish to have a chocolate tip, apple face Siamese kitty, but only if Mr. Doo approves! He is Lord and Master and all must be approved through him! (Oh, and also it would have to pass Pooky's approval too. I think he has reached his limits regarding feline overload!)
I can sense my energy has been in a "hurry up and wait" restlessness, for a great transition has been culminating, and being on the brink of one phase to another is becoming tangible. My impatience surges and I have difficulty keeping it in check. In order to help direct my thoughts and energy during this period, I like to consult the cards for some guidance. I used my Osho Zen Tarot.
A three-card spread usually typifies mind, body, and spirit, or past, present, and future; however, today I just felt like drawing three cards with no attachment of their positioning.
Innocence XIX speaks to some sage insight and advice given to me by Nancy reading the piece I've written. Childlike innocence, seeing the world innocently, and not through jaded adult filters. This card speaks of letting go to accomplish this.
Letting Go is a minor arcana card (8 of cups traditional deck) and this card says that by letting go, allowing myself to be the drop of water that has fallen, innocence is regained. This card also speaks of my feeling of impending transition, of a new experience and journey about to begin. I also feel it is bringing to my awareness something that I am holding onto that I should release; I think that this refers to an emotion that I am gripping tightly, for I do feel a type of clenched tightness in my body as if I have been clinging tightly.
Healing (King of Water) is a card that has recently come up for me in a different reading, so the re-appearance of it so soon makes me take special notice of it. The Letting Go card mentions a type of healing to be experienced, and so these three cards inter-play with each other; synergy is the word I believe that describes how they combine.
Hmmm...I wonder if the Letting Go card could mean the arrival of the new dishwasher? It's supposed to come today between noon and 5pm!
Is there such a land drenched in solar radiation, embraced by a heaven of azure, and sweetly kissed with tickling zephyrs? Tell me where this place is, for I truly must go there, even if for just a day. I need reassurance that the natural color of the sky is blue and not varying intensities of gray. I need heat. I need dryness. I simply need!
Everything today feels old and inferior. I try to think of something new and improved and I'm so entrenched into a state of grayness that I am disoriented.
How can I be battling ennui when I have books to read, a kitchen to paint, cats to worship, a Pooky to swoon over, and yarn a-plenty? This persistent "been there, done that" is a taunting heckler in my mind. Is there truly nothing new under the sun?
Yes, the sun! That is the missing piece! Without the sun how can there be anything new? If I were a mushroom, toad stool, moss, mold, or mildew, I would love this murky mire of moisture, but I am not friend of the fungus or spore. I want to laugh with flowers, grow a foot overnight like a cucumber in July, and flaunt seductive blossoms to pollinating bees!
*Sigh*
The creative itch to write has bested me, some ideas I've been mulling in my mind are finally manifesting and I've written a short piece that I hope to eventually expand into something more. I'd like to have a few readers (3 or 4 of you) of what I've generated so far who would be willing to provide some feedback. If you are interested drop me a line or comment and I'll send you the file.
It's a little more than 1400 words, about 3 pages, so it won't take you very long. I'm mostly looking for feedback on humor, enjoyable writing style, and is the topic interesting to you? Of course I'm interested regarding other aspects of the piece, too, such as constructive criticisms. I'm a perfectionist at heart and long to be told how I might improve.
Hopefully I've piqued enough curiosity and interest so that I don't have to invoke Mr. Doo to use his awesome mind powers on you to bend you to his will!
As swiped from Hazlenut Latte
Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. Feline maintenance worker
2. Graduate assistant
3. File clerk
4. Wedding officiant
Four movies you would watch over and over again:
1. Babe
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. Little Women (1994)
4. Any of the Muppet movies
Four places you have lived:
1. Chehalis, Washington
2. Kunkletown, Pennsylvania
3. Kenmore, Washington
4. State of confusion
Four T.V. shows you love to watch:
1. Family Guy
2. Mythbusters
3. Medium
4. The Simpsons
Four places you have been on vacation:
1. Cape May, New Jersey
2. Victoria, BC
3. Redwoods in California
4. Disneyland
Four web-sites I visit daily:
1. Bloglines
2. Crochetville.org
3. Yahoo.com
4. My stats counters
Four of my favorite foods:
1. Cheeseburgers
2. Salt
3. Cheese
4. Death by Pork Taco
Four places I'd rather be right now:
1. Some place hot and sunny
2. Back to normal health
3. Graduated with my degree
4. Britain, between 1700s and 1920s
4 Places I want to visit:
1. Shrone, Ireland
2. Return to Yellowstone
3. India
4. Alaska
4 things currently on the floor in your car (trunk)
1. Directions printed from Yahoo
2. Bag of trash
I keep the car pretty clean!
God of Tarot by Piers Anthony is the first intallment of a three part story set on the planet Tarot. This first book covers the first 8 cards in an imaginary Tarot deck that Anthony creates.
Integrated into this book are bits of historical fact, such as a blurb about Pope Joan, and the history and origins of the Tarot deck. Anthony creates a world in which Tarot cards come to life containing real people and which anyone can interact with. However, there are dangers in interacting with these real scenes!
Sent to investigate the nature of these manifestations is Brother Paul, from the Holy Order of Vision. He is to determine what God is the true God, and who is behind the Tarot animations.
Anthony's usual wit and wittisms are peppered throughout the tale, and his rather sexist portrayal of women is strong. The women physically are a twelve year old boy's fantasy and exist for sexual release and pleasure.
Considering that this book was copyrighted in 1979, it doesn't read terribly dated. It is a fun series for some light-hearted entertainment with just enough fact to make it pithy.
Rating: 3 of out 5
Recommendation: 3 out of 5
"Spotty" as I'll refer to him, is still alive! He continues to swim vertically and will occasionally lie down on the bottom of the tank and then he'll swim normally for awhile, then resume his vertical treading, and so on.
The night I found him on the bottom of the tank, I was prepared to find him floating the next morning. I do down and see nothing, so I assume that Pooky scoopped him, but then I saw him swimming normally and I thought for certain that either a benevolent or malevolent force had been at work! I'd like to think it was the former and not the latter. Anyhow, Spotty seems to have regained something in the way of goldfish normalcy.
He appears to be moving his bowels, and he eats. All of the other fish are fine. Perhaps the tank could use a water change, so I'll talk to Pooky about that. He has been very busy with school and work and so tank maintenance has been awhile. The tank water looks clear and there isn't a build-up of green on the walls, so I don't think the water is bad.
Maybe Spotty is swimming us a message like the dolphins in Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy?
Part one of a sci-fi trilogy, Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis, reflects Lewis' signature trait of showcasing Good vs. Evil in a fantastical land.
Copyrighted in 1938, the science is terribly inaccurate from today's perspective (I am a geeky person who cares about such things), and also takes a snapshot of life during that limited time of 'peace' between World Wars.
Lewis' writing style is reminiscent of the long-winded Victorian writers who had the capacity to make a sentence last a paragraph through the abuse of colons and semi-colons, with long narrative descriptions that could have easily been summed up in just a few words. It is occasionally fun to read this kind of style, just to see how it contrasts today's choppy, concise use of language.
But, take away all of the descriptions and narration, the story itself is then condensed down into the last four chapters where the heart of the tale really lives. Here he presents to us a commentary of the moral state of humanity and of how we conquer new lands and peoples to exploit all of the resources from the environment, etc. It is clear that what he feels is missing from our world is our connection to a higher power or entity. Our world, in comparison to Malacandra, is the domain of the Bent One, who has allowed fear and deception to reign over love and acceptance of diversity.
This book is definitely not written for children like the Narnia series, but it would be suitable for young adults. My recommendation score is low because I do not feel that this is a "must read" book; however, it is a "nice to read" book if you find yourself interested in exploring Lewis' books outside of Narnia.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Recommendation: 2.5 out of 5
I'll start with the good news, then the not so good news.
Good News: New Dishwasher Ordered!
Ever since moving into The Pearl House, we wanted to rid ourselves of the antiquated dishwasher. It has to be at least 20 years old, if not more seasoned. It struggles to clean the dishes, and it literally growls and roars when it runs (not because of mechnical failure but because it has no insulation) and it doesn't fit anything over-sized.Enter Pooky's Christmas discount coupon from Home Depot! The corporation doesn't give employee discounts, but once a year they will give out a discount coupon, so we thought let's take advantage of it! Pooky picked out the model, which was fine by me. He did the research on Consumer Reports and Epinions.com and found that GE had one of the best models with all of the features we were looking for: internal food disposal, room for over-sized pots and pans, heavy insulation for quiet operation, built-in water heater, and much more!
It will arrive a week from today. I am doing my dance of joy just thinking about how swiller keen it will be to have a decent dishwasher!
Not So Good News: Goldfish Woes
One of our goldfish is sick and/or dying. We noticed that about two days ago it was swimming oddly, and last night I found it on the bottom of the tank still breathing, but not doing too well. I thought this morning I'd find it floating, but the darn thing is still struggling!There isn't much we can do for it other than comforting vibes, because it doesn't show signs of ick or other fish diseases Pooky is aware of. The reality of it is: the fish is 3 years old! This is like being 120 in human terms, or something like that.
I told Pooky he is NOT going to flush the fish, because it deserves a small but meaningful little burial and a kind word or two about how we enjoyed our time together, and stuff like that.
What is amazing about our goldfish is we initially bought 9 of them as starter fish for our new tank. We didn't expect all of them to live through the tank's start-up cycle, but the fish all made it through the nitrogen/ammonia battle, and all lived to tale the tale. One even hopped out of the tank one day and was rescued before Mr. Doo discovered it.
The fish have lived through a lot, and we even got them a larger tank when they out grew the initial one. We have some pretty large goldfish! All well fed and happy-hummy. Except one. I don't think it is going to make it. *sigh*
I had my interview today at my local Big Brothers Big Sisters to sign up as a Big Sister, aka BIG, and if I pass their sceening committee, I'll be eventually paired with a Little. I requested a girl older than 10 and she must either like cats or animals in generally, because I won't stand for being mean or abusive to my felines or animals in general. I also said I'd not want someone who has a juvenile criminal record for stealing or for violence. While I do want to help kids/teens with their problems as a therapist, I don't want to deal with stealing or violence with someone who will be coming to my house and interacting with in meaningful ways.
I forgot to mention that I'd prefer not to be paired with a vegetarian, because questing for the perfect cheeseburger is an integral part of my existance! Just kidding! I have entertained numerous times in my life of going veggie, but between my gut not processing veggies or fruits (especially raw ones)and the fact that I love the taste of meat, my attempts and experiments to be vegetarian have never lasted very long.
Above all, I would take an active interest in my Little's diet and make sure she eats a well-balanced meal while in my company, even if that means tofu and Not-Dogs and not questing for the perfect cheeseburger with her.
I had to answer what my sexual orientation or preference is, and what my religious inclination is, so that potential parents can approve or disapprove of me. We all know that if I said Wiccan lesbian that I'd be trying to turn their daughter into a feminist! LOL! OK, perhaps that isn't a laughing matter, and I should be more respectful. Sorry. I know that life doesn't often reciprocate, meaning if a Wiccan lesbian were to say she didn't want a heterosexual Christian because she feared they would turn her daughter into a provincial conservative people would say that the Wiccan lesbian is intolerant. Similar things would go for the atheist, too. Anyone who isn't the status quo/majority is suspect. I commented that I'd like to be listed as "spiritual". If the parents care that much about my beliefs, they can ask specifically.
I'm going to say something now that could piss someone off, but here goes (so be warned!). I can understand that the organization is looking for people who aren't pedophiles, druggies, criminals, and have safe driving histories. After all, I will be trusted with the mentoring of a child. I get the feeling that some of the parents wouldn't be able to become a Big because they would fail in more than one area. As someone once said, they license you to drive a car, to even be able to cut and perm another person's hair, but no such thing to become a parent. I've heard the rigorous screening process they put adoptive parents through, yet no one screens people who go about it naturally. I think that is too much like having 8 hot dogs to a package and hot dog buns come in 12 packs: it doesn't make any logical sense, and to try to understand it only makes your head spin.
Well, as I digress further into dangerous waters, I'll wrap this up by stating I realize that there would be too many issues to debate about how to screen people for natural parenthood, and how would you keep them from procreating anyway without taking away their basic rights to procreate, etc? Many people grow up with dysfunctional parents and turn out to be functional, and so on and so on. Yet, I still think that I can pose the question of the seeming illogical nature to how the system works.
On a much more positive, less dangerous water note, I am looking forward to be paired. I've already got some "free and fun" activities to test and see if my Little will enjoy doing them. On the top of the list: worship the felines! Next on the list: swoon over the felines! Third on the list: Teach her to crochet and love yarn! Fourth: Kitty love! and so on...
Ruby by Mary Summer Rain is Mary's second fictional work. Her other works include the No Eye's series of books, multiple reader question and her answer books, two memoirs, and more.
She is one of the greatest spiritual writers of our time. Her influences of Gnosticism, Edgar Cayce, and Native American spirituality, are apparent in her beliefs and wisdom.
Her books have been my mentors as I have travelled my own path of spiritual growth and development. I highly respect her not only as a talented author, but as a person.
Ruby is her newest book, a fictional story that posits reality is unlimited possibilities, one of these possibilities being that an elderly bag lady is really the incarnation of the MotherGod. There are three main characters in this book: Sadie, Savannah, and Ruby. Together Sadie and Savannah cross paths with Ruby and witness the elder women interact with many diverse people and perform seemingly supernatural things.
If you are familiar with Mary's previous works, this book reads like a distillation of her previous messages she has put forth in other books. This would be an excellent book to be introduced to Mary's writing because I think it would pique interest to delve into her more serious works.
The book struck me as being written for someone who is new to the concept of God having a female aspect, and is willing to explore the notion of God being both Father and Mother. Mary doesn't go into depth how Christianity converted the Goddess into the genderless Holy Ghost/Spirit; she glosses over that ancient cultures did worship Goddesses known by various names and images. The entire thrust of this story is that the Goddess is currently living among us cleverly "disguised" as a bag lady.
Since the notion of God being both male and female is something I've explored for almost 20 years, the book read for me like 'preaching to the choir'. Still, I love Mary's writing style and her ability to convey important messages while crafting a darn good story.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Recommendation: 3.5 out of 5
Egads! I am like the worst Shrone on the planet! In the past few weeks I have received some goodies from some of my admirers!
Song of Praise for Stacey
Stacey sent me this little number because I had mentioned I liked it. I haven't tried it on yet. I'm waiting for it to get warmer :-)
Song of Praise for Kimberly
Then Kimberly of European residence bestowed a doily pattern book, dark chocolate squares and tea upon me! (Hint, hint: Kimberly, don't forget to submit your Shrone nomination form!)
Last night I finished sewing up the seams and today was able to take it down from air drying. It took exactly 5 balls of Wool-Ease, the regular worsted weight size. I had only little snippets of yarn to spare. This is the smallest size the pattern gives directions for, in case you get inspired to make one.
I began to make the sleeve in the Iris Merino Style wool I got from Knitpicks. I've decided that I will enter this one into the fair and see if I can't score a 1st Place, since I didn't see much, if any, crocheted adult-sized sweaters. I'm still debating what to do for my thread entries. At the rate I crochet, I have to plan now! LOL!
Yesterday afternoon there was a blinding light streaming in the window in the computer room! What was this bright, shiny orb of fire? The very same that the ancient Egyptians called Ra, worshipping it as their God!
That's not all! There was this overhead as well:
Maybe it was a patch of cerulean just like this that gave the inspiration for the lyric: The bluest skies I've seen are in Seattle?
Outside of the house I captured this panormic:
Alas! The rainy streak has not ended to my knowledge. I will have to check with Weather.com tomorrow to see if there was any rainfall for today, but so far I haven't noticed any! Though the forecast calls for rain tonight...We'll just have to see!
I awoke this morning to a sound I have been wishing to hear: a songbird greeting the sun! It was a lovely melody and there was the sun, giving me a glimpse of the spring that is soon to come. I felt so inspired that I brought in the hummingbird feeder and cleaned it up in anticipation of luring some hummers here. Now is the time they will make their first appearances, establishing nests, etc.
*Making happy-hummy noises*
I've heard from my SP and I hinted a sweater would be a nice surprise, and she says she could do something like that for me. Drool! Drool! I would love a knitted sweater! Pooky is my sock-maker, but haven't been able to get him away from the endless socks just yet to work me up a basic pullover.
I don't think I could have too many basic pullovers!
I have been sleuthing to find out who my SP is! I can't stand not trying to figure it out. So far my thoughts are it is someone from Germany, or someone who lives in Bridgeport, CT. I shall have to dig more as I am still on the K section of SP participants.
I like the gal I have to spoil, and I hope she doesn't think I don't have a life, because I have been sending her goofy e-mails.
OK, I have an update about the rain. Olympia (the nearest town that I can get records for) has had 28 days of rain. It is about 25 miles north of Centralia, and so I'm assuming our local weather is pretty much like theirs. The total rain fall in this period of time is reaching 15"! The 10 forecast calls for rain, rain showers, deluge, Biblical flood, and 'I hope you can tread serious water'!
Thank you to the great bloggy friends who've answered my questions. Just a note, please post a comment for me to go to your blog if you do answer them so I can read your replies. I don't want to miss anyone :-)
Meanwhile, I've found some more delightful stuff to amuse myself while reading your answers!
From Sherry's blog:
Place an X in your confessions.
[ ] I'm afraid of the quiet.
[x] I am really ticklish.
[ ] I'm afraid of the dark.
[ ] I'm afraid of facing my back to open doors at night. (not just night!!)
[X ] I believe in true love.
[X] I've ran away from home.
[x] I listen to political music.
[ ] I collect comic books.
[X] I shut others out when I'm sad.
[ ] I open up to others easily.
[X] I am keeping a secret.
[X] I watch the news.
[ ] Yes, I own more than 5 rap CDs...
[ ] I own something from Hot Topic
[X] I love Disney movies.
[ ] I'm a sucker for blue eyes.
[ ] I don't kill bugs.
[ ] I curse regularly.
[ ] I have "x"s in my screen name.
[X] I've slipped out an "lol" in actual conversation.
[X] I love spam.
[X] I bake well.
[X] I have worn pajamas to class.
[ ] I have owned something from Abercrombie.
[X] I have a job.
[ ] I love Martha Stewart.
[X] I've tried alcohol.
[ ] I drink alcohol on a regular basis.
[X] I've tried a cigarette.
[ ] I've smoked a pack in one day.
[] I have cough drops when I'm not sick.
[ ] I can't swallow pills.
[X] I have many scars.
[X] I've been out of this country.
[ ] I can't sleep if there's a spider in the room.
[X] I love chocolate.
[X] I bite my nails.
[X] I'm comfortable with being myself around EVERYONE.
[ ] I play computer games when I'm bored.
[X] Gotten lost in the city.
[X] Seen a shooting star
[x] Had a serious surgery
[x] Hugged and/or kissed a stranger
[ ] Been arrested
[ ] Pushed all the buttons on an elevator
[ ] Made out in an elevator
[X] Swore at my parents
[X] Kicked a guy where it hurts
[x] Gotten stitches
[ ] Bitten someone
[ ] Crashed into a car
[X] Shoplifted
[ ] Been fired
[X] Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back
[ ] Stolen money/profitable items from work
[ ] Stolen supplies from work
[X] Had a crush on a teacher/coach
[ ] Slept with a co-worker (& married him :P)
[X] Been married
[x] Gotten divorced
[X] Saw someone/something dying
[X] Been to Canada
[X] Been on a plane
[ ] Thrown up in a bar
The Yes or No Meme from Lynlee, via Marvie:
Answer ONLY yes or no.
Made out with a member of the same sex?
No
Drove a car?
Yes.
Danced in front of your mirror?
Yes.
Been dumped?
No.
Stole money from a friend?
No.
Gotten in a car with people you just met?
No.
Been in a fist fight?
No.
Snuck out of your house?
No.
Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back?
Yes.
Been arrested?
No.
Made out with a stranger?
No.
Left your house with out telling your parents?
Yes.
Had a crush on your neighbor?
No.
Ditched school to do something more fun?
Yes.
Slept in a bed with a member of the same sex?
Yes.
Seen someone die?
Yes—my cat.
Been on a plane?
Yes.
Kissed a picture?
No.
Slept in until 3? ...or later?
Yes.
Love someone or miss someone right now?
Yes.
Laid on your back and watched cloud shapes go by?
Yes.
Made a snow angel?
Yes.
Played dress up?
Yes.
Cheated while playing a game?
Yes.
Been lonely?
Yes.
Fallen asleep at work/school?
Yes.
Felt an earthquake?
Yes.
Touched a snake?
Yes.
Ran a red light?
Yes.
Been suspended from school?
No.
Had detention?
Yes.
Been in a car accident?
Yes.
Hated the way you look?
Yes.
Witnessed a crime?
Well, technically I've participated in one if you consider smoking weed.
Been lost?
Yes. Happens frequently in Portland if we don't have a map
Been to the opposite side of the country?
Yes.
Felt like dying?
Yes.
Cried yourself to sleep?
Yes.
Sang karaoke?
Yes.
Done something you told yourself you wouldn't?
Yes.
Laughed till some kind of beverage came out of your nose?
No.
Caught a snowflake on your tongue?
Yes.
Kissed in the rain?
Yes.
Sing in the shower?
Yes.
Had a dream that you married someone?
Yes.
Glued your hand to something?
No.
Got your tongue stuck to a flag pole?
No.
Ever gone to school partially naked?
No.
Sat on a roof top?
Yes.
Ever been too scared to watch scary movies alone?
No.
Been pushed into a pool with all your clothes on?
No.
Been told you're hot by a complete stranger?
No.
Broken a bone?
No.
Been easily amused?
Yes.
Laugh so hard you cry?
Yes.
Cheated on a test?
No.
Forgotten someone's name?
Yes.
Blacked out from drinking?
No.
Played a prank on someone?
Yes.
Gone to a late night movie?
Yes.
Made love to anything not human?
No.
Choked on something you're not supposed to eat?
No.
Played an instrument for more than 10 hours?
No.
Cheated on a girl/boyfriend?
No.
Did you celebrate the 4th of July?
Yes.
Thrown strange objects?
Yes.
Felt like killing someone?
Yes.
Thought about running away?
Yes.
Ran away?
No.
Did drugs?
Yes.
Had detention and not attend it?
No.
Made parent cry?
Yes.
Cried over someone?
Yes.
Owned more than 5 sharpies?
Yes.
Own an instrument?
Yes.
Been in a band?
Yes.
Drank 25 sodas in a day?
No.
Broken a cd?
No.
Shot a gun?
No.
OK, I am very bored. The rain has gotten to me. Too many days of gray skies! Even the cats seem restless! So, amuse me for a little while with your answers! You can answer just one question or them all. You can even make up answers, or answer truthfully. Just don't send anymore rain!
1. What is your all-time favorite scene in a movie?
2. What do you think is your cat thinking right now?
3. What would be your cat's all-time favorite scene in a movie?
4. Of the following, where would you rather work? Drive-in movie theater or drive-in hamburger stand?
5. What is the rudest you will ever admit to being? Do you feel justified in being rude?
6. What is the nicest you will brag about being? What made you act so kind?
7. What was the last prayer of yours that was answered in your favor?
8. How often do you think of the following: Your husband/SO? Your child(ren)? Your cat/dog? Food? Sex?
9. Where would you like to be buried?
10. How naked have you ever been in public (not counting your childhood)?
11. What do you do when you get very bored?
12. How would you describe the color blue to someone who has never had sight?
13. Why aren't there any words that rhyme with purple?
14. Who was the last person to pay you a compliment? How did you respond?
15. How do you take your steak or hamburger?
I saw this quote today from a news story about Pamela Anderson taking on Colonel Sanders: "just another misguided publicity stunt by PETA in their attempt to create a vegan society."
I read it right after the story on Pat Robertson eating crow. Somehow, my early morning mind thought that the Anderson quote, re-worded could become a quote for Pat, too: "just another misguided publicity stunt by [Pat Robertson] in [his] attempt to create a [Christian] society."
It dawned on me: Could Pat be that stupid to continuously stick his foot in his mouth? His recent damnation of folks in Pennsylvania coming just a few months ago. There are websites which list his other proud moments. I've checked to make sure he actually has said the things attributed to him.
How does he get away with saying he is a Christian, let alone a man of God? Anyone else saying what he has said would have been run out of town long ago.
It irks me the stain and tarnish he continues to smear on Christianity. I can't say I know the Bible as well as Pat, but what I have read directly of Jesus' words, I haven't been able to find the message of hate, bigotry, and pure idiocy that Pat has been spoken in Jesus' name. I must have the wrong version of the Bible. I need the one that Pat owns.
He doesn't like tuna but he loves potatoes. He lies on his back 80% of the time. He shares a surname with a former British earl. His tail is naturally bent into two places giving it a corkscrew like appearance. On the hierarchy of cats (with Lord Doo topping the list) he isn't even on the list. He is none other than Theodore Montague, now with his own spectacular photo layout!!
Once in awhile a mutant is born. Not quite fitting in with its species it believes it is another creature. Demonstrated by behavior and preferences, the signs are readily apparent that the animal in question has an identity crisis. Such is the fate of Theodore Montague. He lays on his back viewing the world upside down. It is no wonder then that he doesn't act like a typical cat, running to the sound of the tuna can's seal breaking!
Yet, Theodore is loved for all of his idiosyncracies, even that really nasty one where he tries to suckle exposed skin. One might pause to wonder what goes through his upside down mind...he dreams of attacking the world's largest potato!
The ever mysterious, ever unknowable Mr. B. Is he more than just a pair of yellow eyes lurking in the shadows? Does he purposefully blend in to be invisible? Only the shadows know...
Enter into his darkness if you dare...Pull back the veil of mystery and step into the night...Gaze into his yellow eyes to discover ancient secrets of Bast and why cats have nine lives...Become one with The Void...Journey to the center of the Universe...
Most of the Universe is composed of what scientists call Dark Matter—the source of which is Gato Negro: Dos Ojos!
The record for consecutive rainy days is 33. The weather people say we have a chance of tying or breaking the record.
When I went to look at the forecast on Weather.com, I noticed something odd. But I can understand how and why this happened. Day after day the person writing the forecast keeps typing rain. The monotony and tedium is enough to get to anyone.
As of this evening's newscast, we've had 22 straight days of rain! They say in this time period we've acquired 25% of the average rainfall total.
Do you think I should start building an ark?
Forget global warming! I say think about regional flooding!
Yeah, this is what gave us our rainy reputation. Sometimes you've just got to live up the standards you set for yourself and believed by others.
Are you ready for some Smee cuteness? I broke out the camera to see if I could capture him not looking angry, and I was able to obtain proof that there are many faces of Smee!
Check out Smee's album, and feel free to rate them and also to leave comments! (Hint: I want you to rate them and leave comments!)
The good news is: I am trying to be more productive! Here's what has taken place: I have revamped the What is a shrone? page and have come up with a list of books for the 50 Book Challenge.
You'll notice that I have listed more than 50 books. There is a reason for this: I may or may not read certain books depending on how things go. That way I have a choice of what to read. I also may get into a book and think it sucks. Much of this list is for the LIOS program. I hardly made a dent in the reading list last year. I can't promise I'll read all of Incestuous Families since it is a big book. Thus, I thought I'd list the percentage read. It also will serve as an in-progress report. (Like you are all dying to know!)
Also, I'm curious: Is there a time of day you set aside for reading? When is that time, and do you have any reading rituals?
I used to read while taking a bath, but since the cats can get into the bathroom even with the door closed (it doesn't latch) my serenity is often interupted. Yes, I could block the door but they would then scratch and piss and moan to get in. There is no winning with a cat.
During the summer I was reading before going to bed. This was highly productive in how much I read, but then I would be up until 4 am, losing track of time.
I've not been one to read during the day, because there are too many distractions and haven't found a comfortable ritual for diurnal reading. Reading for me has become a noctural ritual. It just feels like the proper time of day for me to engage in this activity. So I either give up watching movies in the evening or I get more strict about putting the book down at a given time. I'm still working on it.
My sister gave me the gift for Xmas of going to the local "paint a piece of pottery" store and I decided well in advance that I'd make a new tuna plater for the beasties. They needed a larger vessel in which to enjoy the daily catch. I found the right sized plater and decorated it with appropriate nautical images, and then did my own Shrone embellishments of pink sky and floating cat head with large, red heart.
There are stamps to help the less artistically inclined so I relied heavily upon them to accomplish my design. The writing I did myself since I have spent years studying calligraphy. It is much harder to achieve perfect letters while using a paint bottle, but it came out good. The top is legible, but the bottom of the plate says: "and has come into harbor!"
The wonder beasties seem to not care that they are no longer crowded at the tuna trough. All that matters is that there is tuna and plenty of it! In fact Gato Diablo (aka Mr. Doo) has been howling for second and third cans of tuna, but I have not given into his demands. (I may come to regret this. He was using his spooky action at a distance mind powers the other night while atop the fridge. He was staring at Pooky and I with the unmistakable look of: Die! We of course didn't comply with his awesome mind powers.)
Painting pottery is fun and addicting. I wish I could go back and paint countless additional pieces, but will have to settle for awhile with the tuna plater. I do want to make Shrone-ware. I have in mind the perfect mug idea.
For my Secret Pal, here are my answers!
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?
I will use Lion Brand Wool-Ease, Bernat boucle, and Plymouth Encore, but I have fallen in love with Knitpicks Wool of the Andes! Heck, everything I've gotten from Knitpicks I adore and wish I could just keep ordering constantly from them.
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I don't spin, but I do crochet. Check out all of the things I've crocheted. I don't knit. That what my husband does. It makes for a nice balance.
3. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I transformed a leather pencil holder into my Clover Soft Touch hooks holder, and then for travel I use a plastic case I picked up at Michael's.
4. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
OK, I can technically knit, but can only do a scarf. Knitting just isn't my cup of tea. Maybe I will eventually take to it! As for my crocheting, I've got about 10 years of experience and I consider myself advanced or expert.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Indeed I do! I have a Meta-Wishlist and an Amazon.com Wishlist.
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
For soaps: Linden, Lavender, Milk, Lilac, Sandalwood, Lavdener/Vanilla, Frankincense and Myrrh, Rose, Violet
For candles: Lavender, Lilac, Sandalwood, Frankincense and Myrrh, Rose, Cherry, Raspberry, Christmas tree, Bayberry, Hollyberry
7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Cherry taffy or chew candies, Twix, Snickers, good chocolate that comes from Belgium or Germany or England, chocolate with caramel
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
Just about anything around the house is DIY since my DH is a carpenter and works at Home Depot. My craftiness has waned as finances have tightened.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I do have an iTunes account. I mostly listen to movie soundtracks, classical, but I do like Dido, Sarah McLachlan, Andrea Bocelli, stuff like that.
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I cannot stand orange, brown, yellow or bright greens. Forest green is ok.
Favorite colors: Deep pinks, purples (all shades), burgundy. Blue if it is deep. I love jewel tones.
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I have Pooky (DH) and five wonder beasties. If you read the Cast of Characters on the side bar you'll find out all about them.
12. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Not really. I'm more of a sweater gal.
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
I'm smitten with Wool of the Andes and Andean Silk from Knitpicks.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Anything Red Heart Super Save. That stuff is like a scrubber pad.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
Well, if we're talking strictly knitting, I have gotten a lot of sock yarn for my husband to knit socks! But if we're talking crochet, I've gotten a lot of yarn to make sweaters and halter tops.
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit crochet?
Doilies and sweaters.
17. What are you knitting crocheting right now?
I'm making a sweater for my sister.
18. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
It depends on what it is. Check first before making anything.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
This sounds almost like a sexual preference question.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I have all of the crochet hooks I need.
21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No, but I would like to have these eventually since I have been getting more yarns in hank form.
22. How did you learn to knit crochet?
My mom taught me when I was about 8 years old, then I didn't take to it until I was about 23 or so.
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
Maybe a year? I don't keep track of them to be honest.
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
I LOVE BABY STEWIE from Family Guy! I can't get enough of him! My favorite animal: the cat.
25. What is your favorite holiday?
4th of July. I'm not terribly patriotic in the sense most people are. My admiration for this day is different, but mostly I like this day because of two reasons: it is summer, there are fireworks.
26. Is there anything that you collect?
A lot of stuff that needs to be thrown away LOL! Actually, I love calligraphy pens and inks and writing stuffs.
27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
None.
28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?
More stuff from Knitpicks
29. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I have been de-mystified about Irish crochet, so this year when I get my act together, I'm going to attempt my first piece.
30. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
My husband does all of that. You'll have to ask him about my foot measurements.
31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
It is time for you to review my 100 Things About Me page. It has all of that information, plus much, much, much more!
Lately I feel like ripping Pooky's head off. I want to pick a fight with him. I want to gripe and bitch and piss and moan over every little detail. But I haven't. Yet. And I've been wanting to, but I know that my big black bug up my butt is about me and not him. I know why I feel fiercely toward him.
I feel incredibly awkward in my body. I don't feel sexy or sensuous. I feel fugly. The doctor gave me some ointment for the rosacea on my face and it has made it temporarily worse then before. I think it needs to kick in, as usually ointments worsen the problem before they help it. So that makes me feel like a big, red, crusty nose. Not very stylish.
Then, I feel totally awkward with my body. I'm not used to the ostomated me and have no idea how I can be sexy or stylish with a puffed bag. I've been wearing my winter clothes (read: 2-3 layers) so wearing form-fitting clothes to show off my bod isn't feasible, but if it were, I feel weird about it. I haven't grown into the new me and know I will have to rediscover my groove.
In my neather region I feel awkward, too. I feel different and having to actually feel that region with my mind is freaky because I've tuned it out for so long that tuning back in is scary.
To much information: the last time we had marital relations my bag kept crinkling and it sounded like someone was masturbating with a baggie. Not romantic or very sexy. Therefore, I think I'd like to buy one of those bag covers for "intimate moments". It should cut down on the rustle of plastic. Plus, who knows? A little satin and lace never hurt anyone.
I can't explain it, but I also just feel like not being touched. I feel like an angry cat that wants to lash out. I'm pissed feeling and the reason is inside of me, and I want to cry and throw a fuss. I want to hide under a bed and peer out at the world and strike and hiss at anyone walking by.
I'm tired of the endless days of rain. I need some honest sun and dry air. I'm molding. I don't like that I have to adhere to a budget. Money doesn't go very far. Why is that? I hate thinking about numbers. That's what upsets me. Numbers make me angry.
When will it be spring and the world mud-licious? I know that only I can be the source of my own joy, happiness, and inner sexy beast. I know that eventually I will find my groove and I'll be out cruising for penisSnake. Meanwhile, let me just have that argument that is brewing. Let me have it with myself. That way I know I'll win.