Has she gone mad?

Seriously, folks... black???

This is my tiny little attempt at saving the planet. I don't try to fool myself into thinking that there are so many people reading this blog that they're digging Mother Earth's grave. I doubt the energy used could power an easy bake oven. However, a dark screen does use less energy than a bright one. I figured, why not switch. I am taking a poll to see what everyone thinks, if anyone even has an opinion on this inconsequential matter in such perilous times.

I'll be a monkey's uncle

I firmly avow that anyone my age or younger can re-create their entire childhood from youtube clips. Here is exhibit A.

??????? Part II

This one is even better, if that's possible.

Vegan Burger with Sprouts

I just polished off a vegan Boca Burger with sprouts & ketchup as I unpacked my compact flourescent light bulbs & Whole Foods cat food. Dang if I ain't a dirty hippie.

Well, I just wanted to wish everyone a belated Christmas. I hope yours was more better than mine. I spent mine in a half-conscious stupor in bed. I didn't go anywhere for 3 days. I'm feeling much better now. I was very much spoiled but felt good passing some of the fortune along to the Elephant Sanctuary. I highly recommend them if you're looking for a worthwhile charity. Also, I have not sent out Christmas card one yet, but do still intend to do so, so please forgive me when you are wished a Merry Christmas in February. Perhaps I'm just early.... you'll never know.

This morning ALL the Leavitts, all 28.9 of them, got together for pictures. I'll be sure to upload them when I get copies. I hope they turned out. I was very much enamored by my nephew Connor (also born on May 27) and his stylin' duds. I, of course, am broke out worse than ever as I'm trying to find a more natural skin care regime. Maybe photoshop will work wonders.

Speaking of .9 kids, my sister in law is due very shortly and I was wandering around Target having a gander at the baby stuff. Man, I can't believe how pampered and spoiled today's babies are. No wonder they grow up into spoiled teenagers. I found this, which I would love for myself. This picture doesn't do it justice... seriously, it's the comfiest thing I've ever seen in my life. Or take this, which would have made mealtime the highlight of my day:

I could go on. Let's just say that they make car seats for babies with cupholders, in suede & leather, Aeron-style, and with more options than my car. Kids & moms today have it so rough.

Amen, Brother!

?????

The Saddest Song Ever

The Vincent song reminded me of this Harry Chapin song. I downloaded it from iTunes and tried to listen to it, but dang if it won't make me bawl.

Flowers are Red
by Harry Chapin

The little boy went first day of school
He got some crayons and started to draw
He put colors all over the paper
For colors was what he saw
And the teacher said.. What you doin' young man
I'm paintin' flowers he said
She said... It's not the time for art young man
And anyway flowers are green and red
There's a time for everything young man
And a way it should be done
You've got to show concern for everyone else
For you're not the only one

And she said...
Flowers are red young man
Green leaves are green
There's no need to see flowers any other way
Than they way they always have been seen

But the little boy said...
There are so many colors in the rainbow
So many colors in the morning sun
So many colors in the flower and I see every one

Well the teacher said.. You're sassy
There's ways that things should be
And you'll paint flowers the way they are
So repeat after me.....

And she said...
Flowers are red young man
Green leaves are green
There's no need to see flowers any other way
Than they way they always have been seen

But the little boy said...
There are so many colors in the rainbow
So many colors in the morning sun
So many colors in the flower and I see every one

The teacher put him in a corner
She said.. It's for your own good..
And you won't come out 'til you get it right
And are responding like you should
Well finally he got lonely
Frightened thoughts filled his head
And he went up to the teacher
And this is what he said.. and he said

Flowers are red, green leaves are green
There's no need to see flowers any other way
Than the way they always have been seen

Time went by like it always does
And they moved to another town
And the little boy went to another school
And this is what he found
The teacher there was smilin'
She said...Painting should be fun
And there are so many colors in a flower
So let's use every one

But that little boy painted flowers
In neat rows of green and red
And when the teacher asked him why
This is what he said.. and he said

Flowers are red, green leaves are green
There's no need to see flowers any other way
Than the way they always have been seen.

Dennis (Scary Scary Night)

I've forgotten about this song until it was re-worked into the heartbreaking video.

The violence of ice

Seeing the pictures of the ice storm reminds me of what happened to me 10 years ago.

It was October 1997. I was attending AQ. An aging Joe Piscepo hadn't been heard from in a decade. Mom and I had just returned from a jolly jaunt in the Greater DC area.

We arrived home and mom & dad were in bed. It was round about midnight. I started to hear straining & cracking coming from outside. I flipped on the porch light and had a look. What I saw horrified me.

Ice was coating everything. This giant tree I'd watched grow from a twig was losing branches before my eyes. They were snapping and cracking and falling to the earth. Those that hadn't were drooping mournfully.

I knocked on my parents' door and told my mom the branches were all breaking off the tree. They didn't seem to mind. After all, it was late. They were sleeping. And what could they do? What could I do? I felt tormented as my tree gave up its life and there wasn't a thing I could do about it. There was no way to save it.

The next morning I looked out to survey the damage. It broke my heart to see the state it was in. Surely, I knew, this was the end for my old friend. It was diseased anyway, and my dad was planning its demise well ahead of this storm. This was surely the end.

I am comforted today to know what I have read. The earth is alive, a living thing, with a soul. Along with all of us, it will be resurrected into its perfect form, a lush paradise as the Garden of Eden, and maybe I'll see my tree again. It's a shame we couldn't be sealed.

The earth is alive and very much has a soul and tries so hard to be good, to spring forth soaring trees and dainty flowers, to house jellyfish & tigers & vultures. But its having an increasingly more difficult time doing so. Dang, what a downer.

Happy Birthday, Bill of Rights!

On December 15th, 1791, the Bill of Rights took effect. On December 15th, 2007, the biggest gathering of new Dennis Kucinich contributors and supporters will happen in living rooms across the country - with your help: http://events.dennis4president.com

Together, let's make December 15th the day that changes the game for this campaign. Let us say that we worked together to create meaningful change. On December 15th, let us make a media splash, and arm Dennis Kucinich with the money he needs to spread his message.

Remember, Dennis Kucinich is a candidate that takes no corporate or lobbyist contributions, so the only group that Kucinich will owe anything to when he becomes President is you, the American Citizen.

All six of CNN's "undecided voters" were Democratic operatives

CNN hits bottom and digs: All six debate questioners appear to be Democratic Party operatives. So much for "ordinary people, undecided voters".
In a nutshell, CNN's six "undecided voters" were:

A Democratic Party bigwig
An antiwar activist
A Union official
An Islamic leader
A Harry Reid staffer
A radical Chicano separatist

Enjoy!

My New Favorite Scripture

I went to the temple Friday with Blaine and was reading since there wasn't anything to do at the time.  I came across this in Job and of course it instantly touched me.

Job 12:7-10

But ask now the beasts and they shall teach thee; and the fouls of the air and they shall teach thee: Or speak to the earth and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the Lord hath wrought this? In whose hand is the soul of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.

This is very unexpected to come out of the OT.  It's even a little hippie for the peace & love of the NT.  But I couldn't agree more.  I was reading Moses and the creation and other things and I really felt the Spirit testify of the divinity of all of creation.  I'm a huge fan of nature.  I love the Planet Earth documentary which beautifully shows all the majesty of the earth and the fragility of it all.  I can't even begin to describe how it moves me.  

It also makes me indescribably sad as I think about the wanton destruction that takes place.  I weep for the people who destroy the earth and it's creatures for greed.  I completely understand that there are places where people have to make a choice between feeding their family and clearing an acre of rain forest.  But the corporations that destroy our planet with their toxic chemicals or the poachers that kill for animal parts that can bring them riches get no sympathy from me.  They are destroying my home.  They are polluting my air.  They are killing the diversity that keeps this planet ticking.  If you scroll down below you can see a film of a bird imitating the chain saws that are killing its home.

Looking at all the variety and beauty and grandness of the world, I know there was a Creator.  One can suppose and imagine that such a thing could come about without one, but it is not likely.  And I don't see a conflict between Creation and Evolution.  Both can happen.  Heavenly Father loves order.  I can completely understand how He would use evolution to create this planet and all of the inhabitants on it.

I defy you to "speak to the earth" or "ask the beasts" and see if you don't find something more and bigger than any of us or anything we can contribute to mere chance.  If you can, I hope you can at least recognize the amazing-ness of it all.

G's Green Tip o' the Day

I have been on a quest to find a natural deodorant that really works. I thought I had found it in baking soda, which totally worked, but after a few days gave me a rash. Then I bought a store-bought natural deodorant that seemed to work but then wasn't as well. Then I tried vinegar. Yep. Plain old vinegar, one of natures wonder products. This stuff works better than my regular non-natural deodorant. I just pour a bit in my palm, rub my hands together, and apply it with my hands.

For those who don't know, traditional deodorants are horrible for you. They contain any number of chemicals, one of the worst is aluminum. It swells up your sweat glands to keep you from sweating (thus the antiperspirant effect) which is very unnatural and unhealthy. This is how your body releases toxins.

So I'm very excited to have this new thing. I really hope it keeps working so well. I don't smell like vinegar once it's on and dried. And I know it's chemical free and not tested on animals. It's also very cheap and requires little packaging. I'm just getting into the wonders of vinegar.

I'm Thankful for The Gospel

Right now we're studying the New Testament and are teaching James on Sunday. It's so full of great stuff. It confirms to me that what I'm working toward is the right thing. I'm fighting for "the least of these". I'm working for peace.

I have gotten so much from going to church, including my marriage. Beyond that, I have peace and support and great appreciation for all around me. It's really made me a better person. I'm going to volunteer at a Thanksgiving dinner for the hungry. We all need to take care of those who are without, and I'm done flapping my gums and actually doing it.

Happy Thanksgiving.

What I Am Thankful For: Day 2

I am so thankful for all of God's creation. I am constantly awed by the beauty and wonder of the natural world. I can't imagine living without lots of green space, trees, animals, birds, and even the sky and the rain. I highly recommend the BBC production, Planet Earth. Anyone who watches that and doesn't see the majesty of this world we live in wasn't paying attention.

Being out in nature soothes one's soul and reminds us that there are other things out there besides our selfish wants and desires. It reminds us that this big blue marble we live on is very much alive. You can feel her spirit if you try. You can also get a little better picture of heaven and Heavenly Father by taking it all in.

Sadly, I live in Suburbia and there's not a lot of nature around. I recently put some pictures on my Flickr page that show the trees I pass on my way to work. That's one example of the bit of nature we have. There is also a park not too far away from where I live. I also understand they've just opened a new one that sounds like it will be even better. I will definitely have to check it out.

One last thing... I absolutely cannot overemphasize that animals do definitely have souls. They have personalities just as you and I. They are all sacred, from the majestic Siberian Tiger down to the naked mole rat. As I'm oft to say (sometimes in jest), they are all God's creatures. But they really are. Even the snakes & spiders. I love them all.

Boycotting Christmas

Almost, but not quite. Blah and I have decided we're sick to death of the commercialization of Christmas. We're especially done with the idea that husbands must buy their wives giant diamonds or BMWs. Our gifts to each other are extremely small and we're happy with that.

I had decided some time ago that I don't want "things" for Christmas. My first pick in lieu of a gift would be a donation to the Kucinich campaign. If anyone should want to do that, you'd have to send me the money and I'd make the donation. If that's too "out there" for some people, I've decided on The Elephant Sanctuary as a backup. This is absolutely my favorite charity and working there would be my dream job. It's a fabulous sanctuary for retired circus & zoo elephants. Oddly enough, it's in Tennessee.

What I'm Thankful For - Day 1

The thing I’m most thankful for is my family.

Blah, I don’t know what I’d do without him. I never thought I’d find someone to love me, but I have. And he’s my best friend which makes it all the better. When I feel like it’s me against the world, I know I can come home at the end of the day and spend some time with my biggest champion and comrade. He really gets me, which is a very rare thing these days. I feel so safe and happy when I’m with him.

My parents have made me who I am today, for better or worse. They provided me with a safe, loving home and family to grow up in. That may not sound like much, but I’m eternally grateful for it. I miss them like mad and wish I could be with them now. I’m very sad they’re working on selling my childhood home, but they’ve both worked so hard and lived so modestly their whole lives that they deserve every last comfort that retirement can provide. And that includes a new home “up north” away from the insanity of suburban sprawl.

Those of you who know my brother know what an awesome guy he is. We had our share of fights growing up, but he’s one of my favorite people. I so admire his sense of adventure and love of life. He’s accomplished so much in his life and I’m really proud of that. If I could have a do-over in life, I’d try to be more like him.

I’m also so grateful for all my extended family that I also miss during the holidays. I wish I could see you all more often. You are in my prayers always.

I licked that bag good, I tells ya, I did! AKA: Scaredy Cat

Our family had a bit of excitement last week. After a long day of sitting in the sun at a peace festival tableing for Kucinich, I was exhausted and fell right to sleep while Blah was out at the store. I woke up to hear a loud commotion that sounded like our three bookcases falling over, but I was too tired to acknowledge anything. Blah got up and I hear more ruckus, still don't care cuz I'm sleepin, dangit. Then I hear him calling for me. I bolt out of bed and head out to the living room sincerely hoping he's not calling me to fight off a robber.

I come out and he's standing by our slider begging for help. I have no idea what's going on. I'm just glad nothing seems too out of sorts. That's when I see poor little Girl Scout mixed up in the blinds with a plastic bag. Blah picked her up and I tore off the bag. Apparently it had gotten hooked on her leg and she was running around for dear life, wetting herself in the process. When I got to her she was completely out of steam.

We cleaned her up and brought her out of the bathroom. Buster was beyond spooked by her. She was still fearing for her life and pushed away from Blah, bruising his sternum and gashing his chest open. Buster wanted nothing to do with Scout for a few days, literally trying to kill her. We had to keep them separated and it was a bit stressful on all of us. But everything is all good and we're all proud of our big, brave Girl Scout. She did lick that plastic bag. She licked it real good.

I am such a dork and proud of it!

At work yesterday I had C-Span playing in the background and was waiting for this to happen. I got so giddy and excited as he started reading charge after charge and as various votes took place. It was a real education in how these things happen. I must admit I don't have a good handle on exactly how congress works.

Sadly, these charges were brushed aside as quickly as possible. But as I listened to Kucinich and others read charges ad nauseum, it made me realize that anyone who dismissed these articles is aiding in these war crimes. If they could impeach Clinton for lying about such trivial "matters", how much more does Cheney deserve it for leading us into this war unjustly, sending our young men and women to die, not to mention all the innocent Iraqis.

1982 in Video Clip Form

This totally takes me back.

Proof that people suck

This breaks my heart in about 18 different ways.

Proof that they make everything...

Go buy Planet Earth. Make sure you get the BBC Richard Attenbourough version.

It's Kucinich Time

I love this article and the pictures from Esquire. I know you will, too.

I'm News!

Lookie me. This comes up when you Google Kucinich Houston.

Another Debate (Late Nite Crazy G Ramblins)

I'm sitting up at work trying to wrap up so I can go home. It's 11:30 in the PM. I watched the most recent debate online here because Bill Gates doesn't like the Macs. It was the usual Hillary/Obama show with them throwing Kucinich 45 seconds every half hour. But, as he said, he doesn't need as much time as them. He is able to say more in his little scraps of time than they can say in an hour. Awesome job representing for the little guy. He knows what real people are thinking about.

Please enjoy this most recent screen shot I've captured from a poll that's currently running. And people say he's not electable. This is just another example of him kicking butt which he'll continue to do all the way to the White House. Then I'm just gonna sit back and say to everyone, "I told ya so!" I won't be so crazy then. Bah, I think I need to get my very tired head to bed.

One last word... We'll show 'em all, Kooch. We'll show 'em all. We gotta fight the good fight. Are you with me?


I think that's a yes. Atta boy.

G Time

Today is my first day off in some time where I didn't feel like crap. I'm taking advantage of it. I'm having yummy Panera and then I'm going to go shopping, or at least looking. I'm perpetually on the lookout for new pants. It couldn't be lovelier out if it tried.

I've been walking to work a bit again. I haven't been working on "me" lately. And I've been just about to either snap or jump out the window. I have a ton of This American Lifes to catch up on. The one I'm on now is about detectives. David Sedaris talks about when he was a kid. Apparently someone in his large family decided that towels were toilet paper.

I Wish This Weren't True....

Poll: Bullshit Is Most Important Issue For 2008 Voters

Stress

I'm having one of those times in my life where I feel like I'm going to have a meltdown. I have been insanely busy at work and it's all I can do to keep up, if that's what you call it. That, plus being sick, has got me on edge. But the clincher is this campaign. I am so worried about what will happen if we fail. I worry because I don't know what I'm doing. I worry because there are far too many people willing to settle for what the media feeds them.

It really saddens me to think that so many people are satisfied to go along with policies that will destroy our country, if not our planet. We seem to be on the brink of war with Iran and surely nothing good can come of that. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. We commit unspeakable acts against Mother Earth. We forget to take care of one another. Children go without health care. Countless cats & dogs, puppies & kittens meet their demise in the back of so-called "shelters" because irresponsible pet owners allow over-breeding.

These things go on and too many people don't care. This is what I'm fighting against. Too many people watch their Fox reality TV. This all has me far too stressed and a fair amount sad. How do we get the word out? How do we get people to care? How do we fight against the elite? I wish I knew.

Awesome Ad

I love this ad. I had another meeting last night. It was a very good turnout. Some crazy-awesome ideas were thrown out. And once again I had to stop by the Whole Foods on my way home. I can't wait until ours opens here. After the last meeting 2 weeks ago I bought some of their 365 Grapefruit Shampoo for Oily Hair and dang if my hair didn't feel a million times better after just one wash. It's very cheap stuff, too. That doesn't upset me any.

To Refresh Your Memory...

Just a few more hours!

The Conference Call!

I just got off a conference call with The Man himself! After the MSNBC debate, Dennis got on a conference call with all his supporters. It was wicked awesome to hear him. He is so inspiring. Makes me want to quit my job and move to Cleveland to work for him full-time. But as long as I have rent, that's not an option.

This whole thing is so awesome to me. I feel like a crazy radical in the 60's working to change the world. Except in reality I feel like I'm working to save it. Then we'll worry about changing it.

After Dennis talked for a while and answered some questions, Sean Penn came on. He talked about how devoted Dennis is to Cleveland.

I am just so stoked. What would America be like if everyone had health care? If everyone had education available? If the country were run on solar power? If we had a Department of Peace that had as much influence as the Pentagon? It is just too beautiful to think about. Excuse me while I put on some Dylan and get my love beads out of my Bug.

THIS is why I'm fighting the good fight!

Let me just say that I knew the heath care situation in this country was in a dire situation, but I had no idea how horrible until Saturday evening when I was talking with a friend.

Her dad (who is only 50) had a catastrophic medical problem just over a year ago. He was self-employed and unable to get insurance, which is a whole other ball of wax. It was discovered he had anurisms about to burst and had to have them fixed. He was about to DIE, but the hospital wouldn't do a thing for him until he paid $20,000 up front. (This is one thing I've never heard of before.) His family did what they had to do and got him the surgery.

What anyone failed to tell them was that there was a very decent chance he'd have a major stroke due to the surgery, which of course happened. The physical therapy which was recommended by his doctor was only $70,000, I believe. That was, of course, impossible after all the other medical expenses incurred at this point ($300,000 +). So they got what they could afford, which was home therapy, but there wasn't much that could do for him.

At this point, even today, her dad is completely immobile. He can use one arm, maybe the other to some extent. If they had been able to afford the proper therapy, it's expected he'd be walking right now.

In the past few weeks, something else has come up. He has seizures from the stroke and has broken several teeth because of them. Now he has about 4-5 absess teeth which have caused his eye to swell shut and horrible pain. Because he has no insurance, no hospital will take him. They tried to go in through the ER. Nothing. He had a seizure in the ER and they wouldn't even give him a pill, wouldn't draw blood. Luckily, the family had some meds to give him before they turned around to take him home.

He's finally about to have the surgery to remove the teeth. Because of his heath he needs a cardiologist along with the oral surgeon. It's going to cost them all the money her mom & dad made from selling their family home and moving in next door to my friend, and then some I'd guess.

I'm sorry this is so long, but after she told me all the details Saturday I sat there with my mouth hanging open. I couldn't believe that they would deny someone vital medical services without huge sums up front. It makes me so very angry, sad, deflated, but most of all DETERMINED. We must fix this country and Dennis is the only one who's going to do it. Please do all you can. I'm muddling my way through this, my first campaign.

Who Says Animals Don't Have Souls

Aside from this being one of the most awesome pictures I've ever seen, this story is just too sweet & touching.

Daugher of a Preacher Man

I've been having very crazy dreams lately, which I'm prone to do in spurts from time to time. This one was about my parents, specifically my dad. Turns out, the neighbors across the street were building a retirement home. My dad couldn't be outdone, so he built a huge MegaChurchHome combo thing. For locals, it was something like Joel Osteen. He was so bent on impressing people I was relegated to the nosebleed section. The thing was in Denver and in order to cram as many seats in as possible, they were very close together. With the thin air I was really struggling to breathe. My ribcage kept hitting the back of the seat in front of me.

Then it was eating time. There were the most gourmet foods you ever did see and people were dining out on this enormous balcony with hardwoods around the edge and a glass floor for the rest. I remember wandering around through all the tables trying to find something to eat.

It was very bizarre and not at all like my dad. My dream this morning was about me making the rounds at my apartment picking up bags of garbage and putting them in a little red wagon.

I never said I was normal.

I love this video!

Love at Home

Yesterday I wasn't feeling so well so I decided to stay home from church. Then, as soon as Blah left, I decided that I should go. I was so glad I did. I showered and got ready and missed about 45 minutes of sacrament meeting. As I walked in the church and through the foyer, I heard the meeting being piped in. Someone was singing Love at Home. I opened the door and saw Blah. Then I saw who was singing. It was one of my students, one of the most awesome kids I've ever known. He was really good and it was one of the sweetest moments I've had. I really felt the spirit. I now know there was a reason I was supposed to go. If I had missed that, I'd have been really bummed.

My Life These Days

I got my tooth fixed. This temporary crown feels like a wad of gum. I don't much care for it. I'm just glad the worst is over, though.

I went to my first Kucinich meeting the other night. There were some cool people there, but not many showed up. Doing it has made me feel energized, I must say. I am absolutely driven to make a difference. I probably spend more time than I should on the internets reading about election stuff. It's really interesting to learn about. I'm really feeling motivated to dive in head first. I'm thinking about trying to be a delegate. Crazy, huh? In this instance, it's really fortunate I live in such a conservative area. I'm not likely to have much competition.

I can't really explain what's come over me. I guess just learning about how crooked this country is from the top to the bottom has instilled this urgency in me. I feel like if I don't do it, who will? I know Kucinich isn't for everyone. I know he's a long shot. I know he's "unelectable". But he's someone I really believe in. And all the people saying he can't win just makes me all the more determined. Mainstream media shutting him out, censoring him, and discounting him makes me very determined. I have me some of that German blood, after all.

I've kind of been on a one-track kick lately, and I apologize to those of you who are bored. But if you're bored you're probably not reading this. Ha ha. Seriously, I thought about making a special blog for political rants, but have decided against it. This is me, for better or worse.

Strength through Peace.

"The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend" -A. Lincoln

The Buster Song

I think my beloved Buster has a twin and this is him.

Dentist & Drains

Well, tomorrow's my big day at the dentist. I'm expecting to have to get a crown and not too much looking forward to it. But, I will be a big girl and go. My broken tooth never did start hurting to speak of. I'm glad I made it til insurance would cover it. I just hope there isn't some hidden catch. Seems like there always is.

My husband and I both lose lots of hair down our tub and so we're always showering in about 5 inches of water. Draino wasn't working at all anymore and I'd given up hope. Then, at Target, I found this. It's a plastic stick with teeth you shove down the drain and pull out with all the hair caught on the teeth. It worked a million times better than any chemical but obviously doesn't use chemicals. I'm so happy that our shower drains now with no problems. I sound like a commercial. Sorry. I just want to pimp this earth-friendly product.

Race for the Cure

I'll be participating in the Komen Race for the Cure, a 5K walk, in Houston on October 6th. I'm trying to raise $500 for breast cancer research. I'm really excited about this and even started a fledgling team. Visit my page and contribute what you can. I'd really appreciate it! If you're local and want to join the team, you can do it there as well. You all rock! Thanks!

Prayer for America

All I can say is AMEN.

Can't Wait For the '08 "Election"

We're off to a great start, folks. I know he's a long-shot candidate, but trying to censor his popularity? Cutting him out of pictures? It's going to be a long 14 months.

Breaking News

I just found out Ira Glass is coming to Houston on January 12th. We'll see if my husband loves me enough to take me...

Am I a Dork?

I’ve been a slacker and haven’t really written anything here in ages. I wish I could say I’ve been up to all sorts of fun things, but I haven’t. I’ve been into my new obsession. Crosswords. Yes, that’s right, kids. Crossword puzzles. I could do them for hours and often do. I started doing them as a way to work my brain and I’ve really been digging them. Can’t say I’m good at them, but I’m getting better.

I’ve also been trying all sorts of fun natural bath products. My most recent has been using baking soda for deodorant. Much to my surprise, it really really works. Unfortunately, it also dries out my skin really badly, so I’ve got to play around with it. I once tried a Toms deodorant, and I stank like a month old egg salad sandwich the second day I used it. But it turns out plain old baking soda does the trick.

I’ve also been working at the New Testament. Like I mentioned before, I really enjoy it. I’m not much of a teacher, but even just preparing is great because I’m learning so much.

Work is slow for me this week, what with our main listing agent on a well-deserved vacation. That’s why I have five minutes to post and to upload pictures no one cares about. Oddly enough, I haven’t been much for the computer at home. I think it’s been a couple of days since I’ve been on the thing.

Well, that’s me in a nutshell right now. I’m glad to say I’m not fleeing any hurricanes or anything dramatic. That would make for more interesting writing, though.

By Popurlar Demand

Punch Bowl Take 2
Originally uploaded by areageek

This picture was requested some time ago. It's our updated version of the Punch Bowl Picture. We haven't changed a bit.

Grandma & Me

Grandma & Me
Originally uploaded by areageek

Just one of several pictures I've uploaded in the last two days. I'll have more coming soon.

Cheney Circa 1994

Interesting....

Light of the World

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light undto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
-Matthew 5:14-16
__________________________________________________________________

Blah and I are teaching Sunday School at church to the 14ish year olds, and believe it or not, I love it. I am not that great of a teacher, but I absolutely love preparing the lessons. I love reading the New Testament, which is what we're teaching this year. I've never read it much, I hate to admit, but now that I'm really diving in it's really great stuff. We have one boy in our class who really inspires me. He hasn't been baptized because his parents don't want him to. His grandparents are members and great friends of my in-laws. This kid comes every week he's able to, which is most every week. He wants so much to be baptized and is just about the only one in our class who really talks or volunteers to read. He has a great testimony which he shared today as he spoke. He really impresses me and I hope he holds on until he's 18 and can be baptized. He has some rough adolescent years ahead of him, but I really think he has enough testimony to make him stick it out.

I haven't gotten too preachy on here or preachy at all. It's just not my style and it used to make me very uncomfortable when other people would do it. But since we started teaching earlier this year I have really felt my spirituality and testimony grow. I love my church. I love the feeling of peace and comfort I find. I love the hope. I love reading about Jesus Christ and seeing His message and the countless lessons to be learned. I love his Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes. It's Sunday so I thought I'd just share a little bit of this today and share a verse I love, one of our Scripture Mastery verses. I haven't worked on learning them, but I think I really want to.

Best Picture Ever

Best Picture Ever
Originally uploaded by areageek

Can we get a little more volume on that jacket?

Kucinich visits AFL-CIO

Interesting Poll

I found this test to see which presidential candidate you most agree with. It's just one little poll and may not mean much, but it is curious who comes out on top by far. Hint: He's not some flashy pretty-boy candidate.

http://www.dehp.net/candidate/index.php

And here are the results: http://www.dehp.net/candidate/candi_graph2.jpg

Lastly, here's the guy that made it: http://www.mattwaterman.net/

Dunksies

It's been 4 years since I was baptized by my future husband. It was a mostly good day, save for a small difficulty with another friend. I can't believe how different my life is now. It's really been a blessing, if only by bringing us together, nevermind all the other wonderful things that have happened. Time really does fly, but at the same time I can barely remember the days before I was married. Life can be hard sometimes, but it sure is a blessing to have someone awesome to share it with.

God Bless Homer

Will this be me someday? We'll have to wait & see.

Hunka Hunka Birthday

Happy 40th Birthday to Gregg Jefferies, the hottest thing this 18 year old ever saw. Here is a poster that my brother got me for my 16th birthday and the rest, shall they say, is history.

Enjoy this photo tribute to the One Who's Autograph I Could Never Get But Almost Did Once. As if him turning 40 wasn't bad enough, I just discovered he's eligible for the Hall of Fame.

I'd go on, but I'm not obsessed anymore. Honest.

I've Picked a Horse

With the election only some 19 months away I figured I better decide on someone. I'd sort of sworn off mainstream candidates of late, and by that I mean any Republicans or Democrats, but I'll be darned if I haven't found one of my old boys to get behind. Though I'm not sure anyone would call Kucinich a mainstream candidate. Still, he's pro-peace, pro-environment, anti-gun, voted against the war, a vegan, for universal health care, and just a little bit odd. What more could you ask for? I love this campaign logo of his. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens.

Now remember, we're friends which means you can't make fun of me for this. Well you can, but not too much.

Peace Out.

He's no Shakespeare

My Simpsons Movie Review

It was actually good. It was actually really good. Perhaps I say that because I went in expecting it to be bad. But it wasn't. There was one shot that was totally creepy and unnecessary. I won't say what, but you'll know it if you see it. In fact, I can't believe they got away with it, even if it is a cartoon.

One Hour, Twenty Minutes

Well folks, time is almost here for the event of my generation. The Simpsons move opens in just over an hour and the man and I will be there. I'm going not expecting much. I don't want to be let down. I'll give my review soon.

It's been a crazy week. Monday and Tuesday I worked like mad woman trying to catch up after the vacation. Yesterday I was sick as a dog with a toothache/headache/nausea and left early. Today I took the day off and went to the dentist. He figures it's sinus pressure. Yea for no root canal! I left work yesterday about 3:00 and went right to bed and didn't really get up until about 11:00 this morning. It was awesome. Yea for NyQuil!

I gotta shout out to my cousin who I assume has a new little girl today. He already has one of the most adorable little girls I've known. I hope all went well and can't wait to see pictures and the real thing.

EPA Warns Human Beings No Longer Biodegradable

WASHINGTON, DC—The Environmental Protection Agency issued a bulletin Tuesday warning the bodies of American citizens, with their large concentrations of artificial, synthetic, and often toxic substances, have been reclassified as industrial waste.

"The average human body is now only 35 percent organic," EPA chief Ralph Sanderson said. "Due to changes brought about by modern detergents, silicone implants, and processed cheese food product, it is no longer safe to allow human tissue to come into contact with our nation's topsoil."

Sanderson said the EPA is seeking funding to construct a massive, federally managed human-body containment facility in the Mojave Desert to safely and viably store human remains.

If It Had Come Out 20 Years Ago This Woulda Been Mii

Just typing the 20 years in the title makes me feel REALLY old. I can't believe how many videos like this there are on The 'Tube.

Kiwi

Kwik-E-Mart

Kwik-E-Mart
Originally uploaded by areageek

The local 7-11 was semi-decked out in Simpsons products. We were fortunate enough to score some Krusty-O's and Buzz Cola. I just wish they were full-blown Kwik-E-Marts. We had to settle for this though. Visit my other pictures if you dare.

Vacation '07

I've been home for a few days after my trip home. I loved going home but it's good to be home. I'm still in "college mode" where you have home - your house/parent's house/hometown and home - your dorm/campus. Michigan will always be home for me, but I can't deny that home is also where all my stuff is and mail is sent to.

I had a lovely time. I got to see my oldest friend Sarah and her adorable little girls. I also got to see lots of family and enjoyed it thoroughly. I even got a sunburn as we all sat out on the deck in the gorgeous, gorgeous weather.

I got to see my beloved School Section Lake. It was really surreal. The place was packed with campers (the thing) but eerily absent were any campers (the people). I'd have sworn I arrived there just after the rapture. There were 5 or 6 fifteen year old boys swimming in the lake. I wanted to take a picture of the lake even though it was a very gloomy day. I was high up on the hill far away from the actual lake and heard the boys accusing each other of looking at their "weiners". Nothing says 15-year-old like that word. So I quickly took one picture and left as I was feeling very eerie. Everything was just as I remembered except for new fire pits. That was really comforting. I had a hard time finding it and getting back to the highway. I got to traverse several dirt roads.

We also went to Michigan's Adventure for a little bit. Unfortunately, my tummy and head don't last long there anymore. We played ski ball, rode the tilt-a-whirl, and ate Dippin Dots. We were just lucky there was no rain. It was fun, but I wish I could have done more than 5 rides. And again, I was determined to do the Corkscrew, the bane of my existance. But alas, I could not. Someday I will conquer it, my friend.

I ate and ate while I was home. Not only did I have several restaurants I wanted to hit, ma also made some of my favorite treats. I had my Scandanavia Shuffle and Riviera salad at Arnies, two trips to Yesterdog, Brann's salad (but they don't have their slim sam on the menu, sadly), Arnies cake and more Arnies cake, Brandywine brizzy (breakfast), and seashell salad, one of the nectar of the gods.

I need to get back into my exercise regime, but the rain here is conspiring against me. Blast my added poundage! Blast yummy vacation food! And I just got used to actually having NPR. Houston isn't very enlightened that way.

I Seriously Must Have This!

As you all know, I'm addicted to the Wii in as much as I don't really exercise like I was since my lazy mind justifies that swinging my arm with the Wii is as good as a half hour walk. Well, I guess I'm not the only one. They've come up with this and I must have it!!! I'm officially saving my pennies.

Honk! Honk! Honk!

Tired Of Traffic? A New DOT Report Urges Drivers: 'Honk'

Dumb Quizes

I just posted two quizes that I took and sometimes these stupid things are dead on. I like the mouth one because it was only one question. They're both very accurate, though.

My Mouth

What People Think of Your Mouth

People see you both as reserved and sweet. You tend to be very sensitive and detail oriented. The smallest things can please or annoy you. You tend to be internally moody. Perceptive and intuitive, you understand people quickly - though you usually won't tell them.

What Does Your Mouth Say About You?

My Soul

What Your Soul Really Looks Like

You are a wanderer. You constantly long for a new adventure, challenge, or eve a completely different life. You are a grounded person, but you also leave room for imagination and dreams. You feet may be on the ground, but you're head is in the clouds. You believe that people see you as a bit small and insignificant. People pay more attention to you than you think. Your near future is a lot like the present, and as far as you're concerned, that's a very good thing. For you, love is all about caring and comfort. You couldn't fall in love with someone you didn't trust.

Inside the Room of Your Soul

HAPPY Anniversary

It was 8 years ago yesterday that a dear elephant named Shirley was taken from a zoo where she spent decades in solitary confinement (which is cruel for these exceptionally social animals) to the Elephant Sanctuary in, of all places, Tennessee. This was documented in a fabulous and heartbreaking documentary, The Urban Elephant. They showed her keeper, a sweet older chap who had looked after her just about as long as she'd been there, working to load her into the truck that would deliver her to freedom. She was so reluctant to go. Previous to being at the zoo, she was in the circus. No doubt the endless travel had not been pleasant and she wanted no part of that again. If only she knew! This was followed by a heartbreaking scene that always reduces me to mush. She arrives at the sanctuary and her keeper must say goodbye to her. Clearly he loves her very much and though he knows it's best for her it's a very difficult time. He says, "I don't know who the first person to put a chain around her was, but I'm proud to be the last one to take it off."

As if her freedom weren't happy and joyous enough, something remarkable happened her first night at the sanctuary. She was in a pen overnight and when the sanctuary keepers came in to see her in the morning they heard all sorts of trumpeting and the bars between her and the elephant next to her were bent. Her neighbor was a girl named Jenny and they were obviously desperate to be near each other. Turns out these grand ladies were both in the same circus decades earlier and clearly remembered each other and were so happy to see their old friend. The two were inseperable until about a year ago when Jenny died.

This one episode is enough proof for me that these animals are thoughtful, intelligent, soulfull creatures that are worthy of our respect, love, and care. I find it absolutely barbaric that they are still used in circuses and other ways for human amusement. The only thing that keeps me sane sometimes is the knowledge that those who abuse them or any other animal will get their just "reward" one day. They will be held accountable.

Please feel free to read the firsthand account of Shirley's arrival at the sanctuary's site: http://elephants.com/shirley/shirleyarrives.htm. They do fabulous work there and there's plenty of other information there as well.

Elephant abuse under the big top at Ringling Brothers circus

At least these circus folk will get their just reward one day...

The Saddest Thing Ever

This story broke my heart the first time around and does so again. This boy was beaten and brutalized yet somehow he survived only to succum to suicide. May he rest in peace.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/4936659.html?plckCurrentPage=0

The Funniest Thing Ever

As one who suffered her own humiliation in school, I can appreciate this. Luckily, I've never been through anything even close to it. I can't believe anyone whold subject those kids to that! Ah, but it's funny to look back on and is part of what crafted Matt into his awesome self.

How DARE She!

It's funny how I can be sometimes. I'm playing around on the 'Space and see my old timey 5th grade best friend has a new friend in her list. This particular new friend used to live across the street from me all while I was growing up. We were friends as kids, even though I didn't really like her. You know how it goes, right? Then in 7th or 8th grade we had a huge falling out and have barely spoken since. I can't really remember what happened, but I seem to remember a torn-up Michael J. Fox poster in our shared locker. Let me tell you, that's something you never get over. There was also an issue of a stolen bookmark. Like I said, folks, this was a serious falling out.

So, what grinds my gears is these two gals were never friends that I knew of. Or were they? It's been eons since the glory days of CPHS. And clearly she can see me on there, so why am I not her friend? What am I, chopped liver? The silly thing is I wouldn't really care except I can't snoop on her page without being her friend. That always cheeses me off.

How silly am I to even give this snub a moments thought, especially when coming from a friend I never liked in the first place that I've barely said two words to in 20 years. (Dang, I'm old!) I'm not really upset. I just find it funny that there's a part of me that even cares. I just want to snoop. Is that so wrong? What else is MySpace for?

Letter People

This is one of the most disturbing things I have ever seen/heard. You'll want to skip to about halfway through when the music starts.

FREE WII!

Anyone who wants a Wii can pick one up at my place. I no longer want that demon machine in my sight. If no one claims it in the next 24 hours it's likely to be disposed of "Office Space" style. My joy at becoming pro at both bowling a couple of days ago and baseball today was short-lived as I've lost both pro rankings. I even got swept in a tennis match, best of 5. Should I blame it on the new Wii-mote cozy I bought today? Or is it a vengeful God punishing me for taking a break from preparing my Sunday School lesson. Maybe I'll keep it. Maybe tomorrow will be a better day. I'll keep you all informed.

My Walk

I dug through my drawer for an acceptable waking outfit. I put my shoes on and noticed how worn they are. I really must replace them someday. Grabbing my beloved mp3 player and stuffing it in my pocket I try to recall what TAL I get to listen to. Oh yeah. Camp. I really must take out garbage as there's day old chicken packaging in there and it's libel to make my dear husband wretch once it starts stinking.

I open the door and step outside. What in the name of all that is good and holy??? I'm punched in the stomach by the humidity. For a moment I wonder if I should have my bathing suit on instead of shorts and a tshirt. I realize it's going to be a long 35 minutes. But I have Ira to keep me company and fire him up on the old player. It feels good to be doing this again, even if it's torture. Ira starts to lull me to Paw Paw, MI where he's reporting on summer camp for kids. I'm regaled with stories and songs of this magical place called camp.

My familiar route is getting more and more For Sale signs in yards, I note. Is that a bad thing? It's a lovely, if too homogeneous neighborhood. I pass by one red brick home after another. Must have gotten a deal on this brick, I think to myself. God bless the person who invented the HOA and deed restrictions! This camp thing sure sounds like fun. Maybe if I'd been able to be sent away to a place like this where no one knew me as a kid I could have fit in more than when I was in school. The comraderie is intriguing and enticing.

Woah, what's this? This woman is relating a story of when she was at camp and a rock shot through the window and landed right in her soup. It said "We don't want your Jew camp". Then these men in bedsheets riding horses burned a cross outside the mess hall. They started taking the counselors away one by one. Then they took the girl. The 50's sure were scary. What the...? She's now saying it was all a lesson in politics? What in the world. Next story isn't much better. The camp stages a mock hostage situation, again to teach some twisted lesson. Maybe I'm glad I never went to camp.

Okay, I'm starting to wind down. Too bad I have a ways to go. I'm drenched in sweat. I can't believe those stories! I also really can't picture Ira hanging out at camp with a bunch of 10-year-old boys. He doesn't seem like a camp person.

I arrive home and open the door. The air conditioning hits me as if I'd dove into the Arctic Ocean. I'm immediately chilled and quite out of breath. I did a good thing. I'll finish TAL tomorrow.

I'm Gonna Win a Dundie!

This is the coolest news ever!!! I just wish DS games worked on the Wii. Christmas is only 6 months away!

Professor Blah

I just have to share with everyone how awesome my husband is. We've recently been given charge of teaching Sunday school to the 13-14 year olds. My favorite age group! I'm going to miss the little ones in nursery, especially Maria. I had to go in there yesterday to make a delivery and she immediately ran up to me and was so excited to see me. She's a doll. But that's not my place anymore. Mine is in the daunting arena of teendom. Teenagers intimidate me. They always have. At least I have Blah to help me. This week was our second week teaching them. Or should I say it was his second week.

I've never taught kids like this, much less a real lesson. So far Blah's done the teaching and I've done the sitting next to him while he teaches. This week I'm going to dive into it more. It's hard for me because I still have so much to learn about the gospel. I don't feel nearly qualified to teach. But my husband is infinitely better at it than me. He's so well-informed, especially on the New Testament which is what we're on. He's writing a book on the life of Jesus and has done tons of research and is always reading church books.

You should see how he teaches those kids. He's really good and I'm in awe of him. He has such passion in addition to the knowledge. I feel like I should be sitting with the kids listening and learning instead of being there as any sort of "teacher". And the kids love him. I hear compliments all the time from parents about how their kids just love him. He's been filling in a bit in the teens' Sunday school. He really has a knack for it. But to hear him, he's barely passable. He's so modest, except he really believes he isn't that great. I wish he would get it.

The Onion at its Finest

Investigators Blame Stupidity In Area Death

WHEATLEY, AR-Police are fairly certain the deceased was operating under the influence of being an unbelievable dumbass.

My Day Off* *General Lee not included

Wanna know what I'm doing right now? I'm laying in bed. Darn straight! Today is the first official G Day in far, far too long. I've been working so many Saturdays lately I've felt as if I'd go mad if I didn't get a little alone time. Well, today I didn't get out of bed until 9:30. I staggered out to the living room where I watched my husband play Wii for a half hour before Wait Wait. I listened to that and got to hear about the below-mentioned Weeee story and also got to hear an ad for Bill Moore Real Estate as a Houston Public Radio sponsor. Thank goodness. We're getting too many people from our ads on the crazy conservative talk radio channel. I then played the Wii a bit myself and got a fitness age of somewhere in the 60's. Then I spent the rest of the day in bed either reading Bruce Campbell or watching an entire disc of Scrubs. The cats were just as lazy. Before I watched Scrubs I made a Chef Boyardee pizza. I've decided that's my comfort food. It totally reminds me of Beth babysitting us in the summer. This time, however, there was no ground up General Lee in the crust. I think I'm getting enough iron in my diet already. I ate almost the whole thing while watching some 4 hours of Scrubs. I seriously thought I was going to puke. But you know what... who cares. It's not like anyone was here to see me make a pig of myself. It's not like anyone's going to find out. It's just between you and me, right? And I know you won't tell anyone. You're my friend.

It's now 8:00 and Blah will soon be calling to say he's leaving work thus bringing an end to G-apalooza. I think it's just what Doctor Sanity ordered. These days always go too quickly. But this time I did exactly what I wanted when I wanted. I even got a food coma nap in. The cats were just as lazy. They were each sleeping in a chair in the bedroom all day and then Scout came and laid with me for a while. It was a good day. And there's the call. I must bid you adieu. I do say I think I'll try to burn off a couple of the 5436586 or so calories I've consumed today and play a bit of tennis. Kisses & hugs all round.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

I saw this news story from good ol' MI. It really cracks me up, for some reason. Poor guy, but I kinda wanna try it.

Wiiitis

My cousin commented on one of my Wii posts with this article and I thought I'd share with all of you. Be on the lookout, ma! Maybe you'll get a boost in business. You said you get arms sometimes, not just hands.

Jonestown

Up until about 24 hours ago I knew precious little about this piece of Americana. But before work yesterday I spent some 2.5 hours watching a PBS documentary on the subject. It was far more disturbing than I could have imagined. I'm afraid I'm not well versed on this type of cult, so maybe he's par for the course. But Jim Jones was one creepy sick individual. There's no two ways about it. I know this is obvious to all those who know the slightest bit about him. Watching the film really fascinated me and disturbed me. I'm the first one to admit that I have a morbid curiosity which probably explains my obsession with the 1918 Flu and the Cold War. I somehow feel guilty for having a new-found interest in this. I don't like what happened in the slightest, but I'm really interested in learning more.

I also have to admit that there is a huge part of me that thinks the idea of carving out a little slice of utopia in the rain forest sounds like a Jim Dandy idea, pun intended. Lord knows the way this country is headed (ie. Paris Hilton, SUVs, health care, Iraq & politics in general, crime, etc. etc. etc.) makes me keep a suitcase packed and passport handy at all times in case I ever get the nerve to make the big move to Canada/England or fall into money and can buy my own island. On the very very uppermost layer of the surface, all of the charity work and race relations work Jones did would be admirable if he weren't such a mad man. I have to wonder if there was any part of him that believed in what he was doing just for its own sake, or if it was all entirely methodical. I tend to believe the latter, though there is a part of me that thinks all that work came from somewhere genuine somewhere deep deep DEEP down inside the man.

I could go through a list of item after item after item about what I thought was creepy and truly disturbing about what I saw, but I won't. I'll just say that at the end as they played the Death Tape over footage of the people living there and dying there, I couldn't believe the horror. Even tonight as I lay down to sleep it haunted me. I'm glad I saw it, but I think it will be a while before it leaves me.

My Mii Husband

My Mii Husband
Originally uploaded by areageek

Blah in Wii form. I think he turned out pretty darn good.

My Mii Family

My Mii Family
Originally uploaded by areageek

Miis for me, Thewbert, and the folks. I don't know about the ones I made for my parents, but Matt & I came out pretty darn good.

Wii

Okay, folks. I just gotta say that I love the Wii. I love it more than I thought I would. Right after we bought it I felt a bit guilty about spending the money on it. We've had numerous game systems just in the brief time we've been married and sold all of them except the Genesis which has been in a box pretty much since we bought it. But the Wii is different. The Wii is wicked fun.

I don't know if it's just that it's more interactive. I doubt it's the cute Miis one can make. And I don't think it's all the old school games you can download onto it. I think it's all of these things. I don't give a flying flip about "graphics" like the other systems pimp. I'm totally not interested in shooting games, at least the realistic ones. I love the Wii because it's so different and just plain "fun". People don't have enough fun nowadays.

As a sort of aside, I got a documentary about Coney Island not too long ago and even though the rides and amusements were pretty primative, did it ever look FUN. Not scare the piss out of you giant roller coaster fun, but just good old clean God-fearin American fun. I so longed to go there and ride the Steeplechase which is a ride where you're on sort of carousel horses but they're on a hilly track and you just ride down in a sort of race. They had fun houses and things like that. Just plain and simple, nothing flashy. That's what I'm talking about.

Back to the Wii, that's the sort of fun the Wii is. The graphics are very clean and pretty cartoonish. They're bright pretty colors. I play tennis and baseball and it's just a good time and lots of exercise, I hate to admit. Especially the boxing. You can do all these different practice things such as batting practice, putting, tennis where you try to hit a target. You can also do a thing which will give you your Wii Fitness Age which is fun. It's any number of things they might have you do. You do three tests and it spits out an age based on balance, stamina, and maybe speed. It's just fun to see what you can come up with.

I think my favorite game on the machine is tennis. It's a little tricky with the motion sensor being too touchy sometimes. But I really do like it and most days I don't completely suck. I also like golf now that I've gotten the hang of it. And baseball is fun, but typically your team is full of Go Tards. But I love batting.

Also with the Wii you can hook up to wifi and download all kinds of old games from NES, Genesis, etc. We have Sonic, Zelda, Columns, Mario Kart, and a couple of others.

I'm so glad we got the machine. It's wicked fun. I was so hoping to bring it to MI when we come, but I don't think that's gonna happen. I don't want to check it, that's for sure. And I'm not sure about actually bringing it in the carry-on. I wanted to show mom & dad how cool it is and how they're on my baseball team. I wanted to bring it so Sarah could try it. But alas, I really don't think it's going to happen.

Winston

Winston
Originally uploaded by areageek

I just got around to scanning this picture of my beloved Winston Buckley. Sometimes I forget how much I miss him, but lately that hasn't been a problem. This is a most awesome picture, if I say so myself. He was just a few months old at the time. I pray he's safe and well and that I'll see him again someday. I just wish this picture was digital or looked better scanned. But this is him and he's the most awesome cat ever.

I'm 27!

I just took a Wii fitness test and my age was 27! I think it was as high as 81 before. I <3 the Wii!

My Birthday

One of the benefits (really the only benefit) of having one's birthday fall near Memorial Day is that you can usually guarantee a long weekend in which to celebrate. I had 3 days planned of bliss and merriment which I was especially looking forward to on a couple of fronts. First, I've been working a lot of Saturdays of late and just having one off is a bona fide treat. Second, Blaine and I actually had a non-Sunday day off together which meant that we could go out and have fun and play. That is a very rare treat, indeed.

Saturday, I left home about 11:00 to quickly run to work to get some flowers that were delivered there. The plan was to bring them home, then run a couple of errands and be home by 12:30 or 1. When I walked in the front door at work one of our sellers just happened to be there to sign some documents he didn't get in his email. I was the only person there so I tried to sign him up after some mad scrambling to get them printed and so forth. He was signing a standard sales contract which I'm more or less familiar with from working Saturdays lately. I've learned to present offers and know the variable and negotiable parts. This dude was asking the most detailed questions about every bit of that contract. I can dig that he's not used to them. But in the biz we all know it's just standard legaleze. Then I went upstairs and took care of some other things that needed to be done. Long story short, I didn't leave work until after 1:00.

After a couple of stops I made it to Target under a menacing sky. I wasn't in two minutes when the skies opened up. I was in my new-ish pretty favorite brown sandals and wasn't getting them drenched in the downpour. I wandered around Target for at least 2-3 hours waiting for the rain to let up. I think I finally made it home about 5:30 and then only had the energy to veg out and play my new Harvest Moon girl edition I bought that day. So much for laying in bed and reading all day.

My birthday started out as a typical Sunday with the exception of a very yummy breakfast in bed. We went to church and then came home. My visiting teacher was coming, and I knew that. She came and went. Then my in-laws came over for a few minutes. Then our home teachers called and wanted to come over. We had two chairs set up in the living room across from the couch. I felt like Mike Douglas after the last of the folk left. I kept shaking everyone's hand and thanking them for stopping by. Great to see everyone, don't get me wrong. But again, so much for laying in bed and reading.

Then Monday came. I wasn't doing nuthin with no one no how except for going out with my husband. We travelled into Houston like big kids and went to some girly stores. Blaine said I could go wherever I wanted and he wouldn't say a thing. So we started out at the Container Store and then went to Niko Niko's in Montrose. Their tzatziki was to die for! The pita was so good! Man, I could have eaten that by itself for lunch. I had no time to decide what I wanted so my actual lunch was pretty much chosen at random. It was good for what it was, a spinach & feta phyllo pie. But it had nothing on the tzatziki. After that we made a couple more stops before coming home and relaxing for the rest of the day. Finally a day went as planned. It was a great feeling.

I got tons of great books and very pretty flowers and even a phone call from my brother. As ma said, at least we know he's still alive. For all my griping it was a good weekend. Having people over to visit isn't the end of the world and is actually pretty nice. Being able to help out at work, especially helping sweet Robin isn't a bad thing. And being "forced" to wander around Target sounds like a pretty good way to spend a day off.

I've decided I really need to enjoy this year especially since this is my last year in the prized 18-34 demographic. Yea! My opinion matters for one more year! Go me!

Grey Hair

Today is an appropriate time to announce to the world that yes, I have a grey hair. Maybe two. I can't tell for sure. It's pretty much right where I part my hair. Every time I see it I really notice it and actually kind of like having it. It's my little insignificant statement to the world that I'm sure no one else notices. I absolutely refuse to pluck it. I want it to be out there for all to see because of that. I am not vain in the least. Well, I guess I have a tiny bit of vanity. Most everyone does. Why else would I bother with the tiny bit of makeup I put on? But one thing I know is this... I want to grow old gracefully. I want to take a stand against covering up grey hair by dyeing it or plucking it. I don't want to spend 100 bucks on a 1 oz. bottle of magical eye cream. I'll never ever do botox or plastic surgery. There is far too much vanity in the world already. Like I said, I have a modest amount of it and love the pretty things like my new skirt. But that's about the extent of it.

My hair also kind of makes me feel old. It's just right there, stark as anything to me because I know it is there. My face is starting to show the ravages of time a little bit, but that's so gradual. The grey hair was just *there* one day. It's the begining of the end in a morbid pessimistic sort of way.

But don't let me mislead you. A couple of weeks ago I was talking to our newest agent and she thought I was her daughter's age which is about 10 years younger than me. That made me feel pretty good. I take after my mom that way, I guess. She was a winner every time she played the game at Cedar Point where they guess your age.

So today is going to be pretty tame for me. I get a special breakfast complete with smokey links. I get to open a few pretty presents. And I might make the husband play the Trivial Pursuit with me. And maybe, just maybe, I'll pick the girliest most horrid movie for him to watch and ask him to do so with me for my birthday. Grease 2 comes to mind. Monday, however, is going to be different. We are going to Niko Niko's which is supposed to be out of this world. It's Greek food and I haven't had any since moving here, save for 1 gyro, I think. I've been wanting to go to this place for at least 2 years. I'm very excited. I printed out their menu and I kind of want one of everything. I was very pleased to see that they do have a cheeseburger so the husband will be able to find something to eat. We may also go to the very pretty Ikea and maybe just maybe West Elm. We'll see. Best of all, though, I just get to spend the day with my husband. The only day we ever spend together is Sunday and that's taken up by church. It will be awesome to be able to go out and have fun. We both need it with the stress at our jobs.

My Pretty Green Skirt

My Pretty Green Skirt
Originally uploaded by areageek

This is my new happy thing. I got it at this sporting goods store. Who new they'd have pretty clothes! As Blaine likes to say, this is me in skirt form. Is it wrong for pretty green things to make me so happy?

Goodbye My Friend

I had a really bizarre weekend of dreams. It was a veritable parade of friends who've come into and gone out of my life. First was my former BFF, Target shoping mate, & maid(tron) of honor. It wasn't a happy dream at all. Then was Matthew. In that dream I found him somehow and we were reunited. I ran up to him and his familiar lanky frame and gave him the biggest hug. We were so happy to see each other again. It was such a happy dream. I haven't thought of him in so long without feeling hurt and angry but in this dream there was nothing but joy. It's made me really miss him and our friendship. It's been about 9 years since we were really friends.

The first night I met him I was at AQ with Stacey and the three of us walked into Eastown to Kava. Matthew was this tall, lanky chap in a suit coat and scarf smoking a pipe and had a shaved head except for a thick, long curl in the middle of his forehead. I'd never met anyone like him. We walked the 10 minutes to Kava, my first time, in the crisp fall air with the smell of his pipe whafting through the air. We talked about everything, deep thoughtful things, and paused in a bus stop shelter on our way home. We all walked hand in hand, with Matthew in the middle. Stacey & I were often his bookends for the next several years. We went through all kinds of drama together. Matthew would drift in and out of our lives. He was such a delicate, old soul. I've never known anyone else I could say that about. I was really shocked when I found out he was only 17 just a day or two after we met.

He left AQ and went back to the east side of the state and would come for visits or we'd make time to see him before shows at Pine Knob. Things were awesome for years up until I graduated from college and moved in with Stacey. He came to visit right after we moved in and though I can't remember anything special happening, that was the last time I saw him for a long time. Then when Stacey and I became friends again, I got to see him more regularly. But something cheesed him off and we haven't spoken since 2001. I'm pretty sure it had something to do with him not "getting" my friendship with Blaine.

I emailed him some time later and he made it sound like our friendship was only out of misery & convenience. This post is long enough without me elaborating about what an interesting and unique person Matthew is, much less how great our friendship was. Besides all that it's really personal. But he told me he was really lucky to know me. And I gave him one of the best nights of his life up to that point when we went to see the Cranberries. Now, that was a story. Him telling me that we were friends because "misery loves company" was incredibly hurtful and absolutely untrue.

I've been going through some real changes lately and one of them is this need to reach out to people. I'm sure my dreams were a part of that. The last one was about Stacey and I barely remember that one. The Matthew dream was cruel because it actually allowed me to remember the good times with Matthew and made me miss him. Losing friends makes me so completely sad because in my eyes, I make friends for life. I'm too feeling, too emotional, to have people come and go as they do.

Why am I writing all this? I don't know. I just feel compelled to. I wish everyone could know Matthew and the interesting person that he was (is?). I'm looking for a huge shoulder to lean on? No one I know now has any real idea who he is. I'm looking for solace where there is none. Same thing with Michelle. I've cried countless tears but there is nothing I or Blaine or anyone can do. Cherish those people in your life who mean something to you. You never know when they'll decide to move on to bigger and better things.