tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25252061608172842002024-01-19T12:50:53.166-07:00Pond-er Deeply (and other good stuff)I write with the belief to both inspire and challenge the human experience, welcoming criticism, for there is no person on earth who fails to intrigue me, and thereby touches my soul in some significant way :~)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-43532578103510050752014-04-08T12:03:00.000-06:002014-04-08T12:03:40.940-06:00Noah of an Alternate Universe<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In My Opinion:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />In case you haven't seen the movie Noah and were still thinking about it...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />...in my opinion, Aronofsky stole the concept and character from the Bible just to make a "save the earth" statement that animals and growing things might be more important to God than man. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You are seriously joking, right?? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">He also communicated that man's WORST evil EVER is how he has collectively harmed "nature." </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Imagine this: Of all the thoughts in the heart of mankind, every imagination, purpose and desire was ONLY evil. How often? Continually. (Genesis 6:5)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The man's</span> portrayal of both God ("Creator") and Noah is VERY twisted and disgusting -- truly NOT an interpretive Biblical movie in any sense of the word -- as Aronofsky himself has stated. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Definitely an AU (Alternate Universe) story -- utterly altered reality and remiss of original intent.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But -- by using this title and promoting it as the flood of the Bible, he has been able to draw moviegoers that perhaps would not have gone to his movie under a different guise. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pure plagiarism, plain and simple.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">'ya think? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-67534771306596499092013-05-30T12:10:00.002-06:002013-05-30T12:10:37.087-06:00Why Not A Book?TIME is my culprit. Taking the TIME to just do it. It seems like a
"forever" thing to accomplish...and I always have so much catching up to
do just in everyday life. Yes. TIME. That is my culprit. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-70148887187967200242013-03-13T07:28:00.000-06:002013-03-14T08:14:47.675-06:00Ramblings of a Future Memoirist<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="luna-Ent">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQtnZX43dTw/UUCKqX1tLmI/AAAAAAAAAq4/J4QtPMgho6g/s1600/rambling+cartoon2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQtnZX43dTw/UUCKqX1tLmI/AAAAAAAAAq4/J4QtPMgho6g/s400/rambling+cartoon2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<h4>
ram·bling [ram-bling] </h4>
</div>
</blockquote>
Adjective<br />
1. aimlessly wandering<br />
2. taking an irregular course, straggling<br />
3. spread out irregularly in various directions<br />
4. straying from one subject to another, desultory<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="luna-Ent">
<h4>
des·ul·to·ry [des-uhl-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] </h4>
</div>
</blockquote>
Adjective<br />
1. lacking in consistency, constancy, or visible order, disconnected; fitful<br />
2. digressing from or unconnected with the main subject, random<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Thinking through the above definitions, I would have to say my title is very apropos, but not to the extent of being desultory. If I were to pond-er anything that's desultory, I would write of my mother. And if I were to now write about her...well, THAT would indeed be desultory on my part.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />I have not seen it feasible to write an autobiography that would be of any interest to anyone, since I am an <i>unknown</i>; meaning, I am not a familiar public figure that would warrant interest. But more and more over the past year or two, the genre of memoir has teased my muse. Perhaps it is time I take it to heart.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I would first write of my intriguing 3-month hitchhiking trip from Minnesota through the Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec provinces of Canada to Bangor Maine and then westward home through the States.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Next would be going back in time a few more years to my spur of the moment decision to travel with a new friend to Chicago, ending up stranded in Madison Wisconsin, living in a near-penthouse apartment, and becoming part of a major drug ring including behind the scenes of the largest rock festival following Woodstock.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Naturally, I could not resist telling of my notable childhood memories and sibling stories, of my beloved daughter and 2 divorces (before I finally got it right), and how this laid the groundwork for who I've become.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But one more story must be told...the one I call <i>Another Perspective</i>. It's the one where I delve into my changing relationship, knowledge and understanding of God throughout these various events. Yes, <i>another perspective</i> indeed!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Many many people have told me again and again that I simply must get my stories in writing -- that they're all very interesting to listen to and there's so much to be learned. I don't know about all that.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What I do know is this: I've pushed to have an adventurous life without regrets, and I love to write. I've also met a lot of people who always seem surprised at all I've done and everywhere I've been.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>And somehow, that just seems like the right combination to write...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> a memoir...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> or two...or three...or even four<span style="font-size: large;">!<span style="font-size: large;"> </span> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">(You know, just to have<span style="font-size: large;">...</span><i>Another Perspective</i>.)</span> :~)</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-52010620302547929622013-02-14T11:56:00.000-07:002013-02-15T12:40:11.295-07:00Control the Dog -- or Me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjteeCmTFe8/UPm4vGWKtcI/AAAAAAAAAp4/fxpYq3Gdg40/s1600/P1010510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjteeCmTFe8/UPm4vGWKtcI/AAAAAAAAAp4/fxpYq3Gdg40/s320/P1010510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">C</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">an you believe it!<span style="font-size: large;">? </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Awake at<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">2 <span style="font-size: large;">a.m. and </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm thinking about </span>y<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">esterday<span style="font-size: large;">'s</span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>trip to<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> the dog park</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>with our two dogs<span style="font-size: large;">. At <span style="font-size: large;">t<span style="font-size: large;">wo</span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">in the morning!!</span>???</span> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The youngest canine is Brandy Bojangles<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> a year and a half old <span style="font-size: large;">C</span>ocker Spaniel<span style="font-size: large;"> --</span> recently spayed<span style="font-size: large;"> --</span> which is why she could finally <span style="font-size: large;">go</span> to the park. <span style="font-size: large;">Brandy</span> usually barks fearfully and incessantly at the mere sight of another dog or human<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Y</span>et, once in the park, she took it all in without a sound. </span> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But this writing is not about Brandy.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The second dog is my husband's three year old, female, Dalmatian/Aussie mix named Zephyr. </span></span>That afternoon Zephyr did something I had never seen her do before. She jumped up on someone, resting her paws on their chest, then quickly got down as I verbally directed her. But she did it again...and again...and <i>again!</i>...and<span style="font-size: large;">...</span>to more than one person<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Zephyr had caught me so off guard that I never even had the thought to physically restrain her from doing it again. Why hadn't I simply taken her by the collar, apologized, and walked away<span style="font-size: large;">?<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Everyone involved appeared both surprised and almost entertained by her behavior<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I</span>t was obvious, that for some very uncomfortable moments in time, I did not have control of my dog. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But this is actually not about Zephyr either.</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Laying there</span> awake in the wee hours of th<span style="font-size: large;">e</span> morning, I <span style="font-size: large;">became</span> immensely disconcerted <span style="font-size: large;">about</span> Zephyr. That's when I <span style="font-size: large;">realized</span> the urgency of <span style="font-size: large;">ho<span style="font-size: large;">w much</span></span> I truly need to regain control of<span style="font-size: large;"> a lot more than <span style="font-size: large;">a dog<span style="font-size: large;">. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>This is <span style="font-size: large;">really</span> about me</i><span style="font-size: large;">, </span>I thought.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Just like that warm engulfing sensation you feel when you step into a hot tub and slowly immerse yourself, I felt strangely comforted and even inspired by yesterday's episode. My mental muscles rejuvenated as I lay there pondering the benefits of a more controlled, more </span><span style="font-size: large;">disciplined life.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was time to get up and lay out a plan.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">To <span style="font-size: large;">have reasonable control of things around me (including a dog), I must first take control of myself<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">. And, control over <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">the physical body begins with <span style="font-size: large;">mental discipline<span style="font-size: large;">, because the <span style="font-size: large;">body <span style="font-size: large;">won't quit <span style="font-size: large;">un<span style="font-size: large;">til</span></span> the mind giv<span style="font-size: large;">es</span> <span style="font-size: large;">in</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">What a person thinks about -- considers, ponders and <span style="font-size: large;">focuses on -- is what they become. That is <span style="font-size: large;">a</span> law. So I will <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">tend to</span> <span style="font-size: large;">my moment by moment ponderings<span style="font-size: large;"> by giving greater heed to <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">the kind of nutrition<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span>I'm feeding my mind</span> with. That's fair and simple.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Diligently <span style="font-size: large;">disciplining the mind <span style="font-size: large;">will enable my physical body to <span style="font-size: large;">attain <span style="font-size: large;">the </span></span>desired results I seek<span style="font-size: large;">, for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> I <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">cannot </span>function well <span style="font-size: large;">without significant<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> physical endurance and vitality. This </span></span>will also mean a balanced diet and exercise. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I may have the good food and great cooking <span style="font-size: large;">part of it under control, but there <span style="font-size: large;">remains a</span> very pres<span style="font-size: large;">sing</span> need for me to <span style="font-size: large;">concentrate</span> on the exercise <span style="font-size: large;">side<span style="font-size: large;"> of th<span style="font-size: large;">at</span> equation.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I</span></span> am encouraged<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">by knowing</span></span> I am<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>fully e<span style="font-size: large;">quipped <span style="font-size: large;">for success<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Next</span>, I can begin to branch out into my <span style="font-size: large;">environment, to have better control of my surroundings</span>. This will include m<span style="font-size: large;">y/our dogs, my home and yard, the care of my mother, and...even taxes. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">A</span>ll these things ha<span style="font-size: large;">ve</span> one <span style="font-size: large;">essential aspect</span> when it comes to <span style="font-size: large;">cont<span style="font-size: large;">rol<span style="font-size: large;"> -- the <span style="font-size: large;">element of</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>t</b></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b><i>ime</i></b>. <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><b>Time</b>~~ (<i>as defined by Juilius O'Hara -- Peter Lorre in Beat the Devil, 1953</i>)</span></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Time. Time. What is time?<br />
Swiss manufacture it.<br />
French hoard it.<br />
Italians squander it.<br />
Americans say it is money.<br />Hindus say it does not exist.<br />
You know what I say?<br />
I say, time is a crook!</span></blockquote>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, you know what I <span style="font-size: large;">say? I say,<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I <span style="font-size: large;">will need to be more assertive in how I u<span style="font-size: large;">tiliz</span>e my time, because </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">t</span></span></span>im<span style="font-size: large;">e i</span>s <span style="font-size: large;">an irreplaceable commodity <span style="font-size: large;">that requires stewardship</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">There<span style="font-size: large;"> it is<span style="font-size: large;">...</span>all laid out. I cannot<span style="font-size: large;"> -- I <i>will</i> not -- fail. I can only succeed<span style="font-size: large;">. I will regain<span style="font-size: large;"> the </span>control I <span style="font-size: large;">desire and need in my life. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>And</i>...</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> I will have the presence of mind to</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> simply take<span style="font-size: large;"> Zephyr </span>by the collar, apologize, and walk away.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-414498838876489642013-01-18T14:17:00.002-07:002013-03-14T08:19:30.490-06:00Hearsay? Or Heartfelt?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5p2lm_Ehss0/TaNTLVft9hI/AAAAAAAAAYM/p78jmzX6oQw/s1600/051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5p2lm_Ehss0/TaNTLVft9hI/AAAAAAAAAYM/p78jmzX6oQw/s320/051.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How is it possible that one vet would refuse to take a look at my<span style="font-size: large;"> declin</span>ing dog to see whether or not there was something that could be done to ease her pain<span style="font-size: large;">;</span> while another vet wanted to see her right away, do a blood panel, and even offered to keep her in the hospital overnight to give her <span style="font-size: large;">one last</span> chance of recovery? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The first vet is spoken highly of by her clientele and is probably ranked <span style="font-size: large;">among</span> the top 5 out of over 100 local veterinarians. The <span style="font-size: large;">second vet</span> is perhaps not as highly favored in the community, and runs a walk-in clinic <span style="font-size: large;">along with</span> a not-for-profit service that caters to the tight budgets of many elderly pet owners. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The first was our top choice after trying four other vets in the area over the past 5 years. After talking to her office staff and many of her customers, we were convinced we had found </span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">the best of "the best" for our 3 dogs -- </span></span>not only <span style="font-size: large;">quite</span> capable, but a very compassionate vet also. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">At least that's what we thought up until our eldest -- a 9<span style="font-size: large;">+<span style="font-size: large;"> year old Cocker Sp<span style="font-size: large;">aniel</span></span></span> [<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: red;"><span style="color: cyan;"><a href="http://ponderdeeply.blogspot.com/2011/04/g-is-for-ginger.html" target="_blank">click here</a></span></span> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">t</span>o <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">read </span>my 2011 post <i><span style="font-size: large;">"G" is for Ginger</span></i></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">]</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> -- took a sudden turn for the worst. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ginger had a Protein Losing Enteropathy we had managed to keep in remission for nearly 2 years through a carefully monitored holistic diet. But, the symptoms were back with even more vengeance than before<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was the day before the winter solstice -- th<span style="font-size: large;">at</span> time of year when the noon sun is at its lowest level above the horizon. <span style="font-size: large;">About mid-</span>morning, Ginger let me know it took all she had within her to simply lift her head up a few inches <span style="font-size: large;">above</span> my lap.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I put a call into our new vet.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>We were <span style="font-size: large;">all set to <span style="font-size: large;">just</span> <span style="font-size: large;">drive to the clinic</span></span>, when <span style="font-size: large;">vet#<span style="font-size: large;">1</span></span> returned my call. I told her how I knew my little girl was <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">on her last leg,</span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">but</span> I just wanted to make sure she wasn't in too much pain -- that she was comfortable. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">To my surprise and dismay, <span style="font-size: large;">t</span>his person had the nerve to scold me. Something about a typical case of IBD (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and me needing to get serious about treatment.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Is </i><span style="font-size: large;"><i>she for real??</i> I thought. </span>She admittedly had never seen Ginger, and was looking at 2 year old blood work -- not a biopsy. <i>You've got to be kidding me! Serious about treatment?!</i> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I phoned the other vet.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Vet#2 saw us right away and wanted to do fresh blood work. Our dear little <span style="font-size: large;">fighter</span> was severely anemic, so we all decided it best to leave her in the hospital overnight. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">When the phone rang that morning, I knew who it was befo<span style="font-size: large;">re I answered</span>. Yes,<span style="font-size: large;"> i</span>t had been in the wee hours of th<span style="font-size: large;">at winter solstice, <span style="font-size: large;">December 21st, </span></span>that Ginger quietly and comfortably finished her <span style="font-size: large;">epicurean</span> escapade with life. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Heading out the door, we grabbed her favorite dusty orange afgan -- the one she always dragged
to the front door to tell us "take me with you" when we were leaving in the car.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The vet only charged us for the blood work. No office visit. No exam fee. No hospital charges. Only for the blood work that confirmed we had done everything possible for our little Ginger Girl. Unbelievable!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There was one place in the backyard Ginger was always forbidden to go. We
called it "the pit." Relentlessly, she'd head to that spot to eat grass
or sniff out some unknown critter. Then <span style="font-size: large;">w</span>e<span style="font-size: large;"> woul</span>d clap our hands loudly for her to
get away and she would jump and run like it was some sort of game. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Talking things through, it only made sense to us for the "forbidden
spot" to be her final resting place<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wrapped in her favorite afgan, together with her most favorite toy, we placed her in her most desirable spot in the yard, topped off with a headstone! If there was ever such a thing as doggie heaven, this would be it!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As far as vets go...I guess there's <i>hearsay</i> compassion, and then there's <i>heartfelt</i> compassion. As you can about guess, the only similarity between those two is they both <span style="font-size: large;">begin with</span> <span style="font-size: large;">the word </span>"hear." Quite <span style="font-size: large;">s</span>eriously<span style="font-size: large;">,<span style="font-size: large;"> w</span></span>hen it involves our other two dogs, the choice is obvious. </span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjteeCmTFe8/UPm4vGWKtcI/AAAAAAAAAp4/fxpYq3Gdg40/s1600/P1010510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjteeCmTFe8/UPm4vGWKtcI/AAAAAAAAAp4/fxpYq3Gdg40/s200/P1010510.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">W</span>e<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span>are <span style="font-size: large;">so </span>thankful to <span style="font-size: large;">God to </span>have<span style="font-size: large;"> had those 4 and a half year<span style="font-size: large;">s of healing with our beautiful <span style="font-size: large;">rescued </span>Ginger Girl <span style="font-size: large;">(</span>who <span style="font-size: large;">actually rescued us). And thankful too, for</span></span></span> the years ahead with our Zephyr and Brandy Bojangles, who have helped <span style="font-size: large;">us to move forward..</span>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">...<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">just </span>second nature for a dog<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span> :~)</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-52998191209828562352012-12-07T13:56:00.000-07:002012-12-07T14:27:38.146-07:00Author Unknown<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever heard of <i>Author Unknown</i>? </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Do you know anyone who has ever met him or her? </span></span></span></span>Have you ever thought about how many centuries this individual has lived? (You think I jest!)</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is somewhat a<span style="font-size: large;">stounding<span style="font-size: large;"> to consider the number of truly profound and mostly inspiring poems written by this <i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">U</span>n</span>known</i> <span style="font-size: large;">"character<span style="font-size: large;">."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here are just 3 <i>Unknown</i> <span style="font-size: large;">thought provokers </span>that I particularly enjoy -- especially at this time of year when <span style="font-size: large;">our kindness and consideration barometers <span style="font-size: large;">might be pushed to their limits.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Charity</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks1AUvphzYY/UMJQEsiFggI/AAAAAAAAAog/56cIUTgtEdo/s1600/the+good+the+bad+and+the+ugly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks1AUvphzYY/UMJQEsiFggI/AAAAAAAAAog/56cIUTgtEdo/s1600/the+good+the+bad+and+the+ugly.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There is so much good in the worst of us,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">And so much bad in the best of us,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">That it ill behooves any of us</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">To find fault with the rest of us.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Pray Don't Find Fault</b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJQ1n80phYA/UMJRFeql4JI/AAAAAAAAAos/SYMKKVtj92g/s1600/man+who+limps.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJQ1n80phYA/UMJRFeql4JI/AAAAAAAAAos/SYMKKVtj92g/s200/man+who+limps.jpeg" width="120" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Pray don't find fault with the man who limps<br />
or stumbles along the road,<br />
unless you have worn the shoes he wears<br />
or struggled beneath his load.<br />
There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt,<br />
though hidden away from view,<br />
or the burden he bears, placed on your back<br />
might cause you to stumble too.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Don't sneer at the man who's down today<br />
unless you have felt the blow<br />
that caused his fall or felt the shame<br />
that only the fallen know.<br />
You may be strong, but still the blows<br />
that were his, if dealt to you<br />
in the selfsame way, at the selfsame time,<br />
might cause you to stagger too.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Don't be too harsh with the man who sins<br />
or pelt him with word or stone,<br />
unless you are sure, yea, doubly sure,<br />
that you have no sins of your own. <br />
For you know perhaps if the tempter's voice<br />
should whisper as softly to you<br />
as it did to him when he went astray,<br />
it might cause you to stumble too.</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">High Resolve</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dlc57K3ZqTo/UMJRs8XuGEI/AAAAAAAAAo0/ELaRXnrUysM/s1600/hand-held+heart+candle.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dlc57K3ZqTo/UMJRs8XuGEI/AAAAAAAAAo0/ELaRXnrUysM/s200/hand-held+heart+candle.jpeg" width="134" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'll hold my candle high, and then</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Perhaps I'll see the hearts of men</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Above the sordidness of life,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Beyond misunderstandings, strife.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Though many deeds that others do</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Seem foolish, rash and sinful too,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Just who am I to criticize</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What I perceive with my dull eyes?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'll hold my candle high, and then,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> Perhaps I'll see the hearts of men.</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-10444492822997505712012-12-06T13:55:00.000-07:002012-12-07T08:53:23.841-07:00The Cohen Brothers Couldn't Have Scripted It Any Better<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>Note: <span style="font-size: large;">Found this in my unpublished archives <span style="font-size: large;">from 2 years ago<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> --title included<span style="font-size: large;"> --</span></span> </span></span></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>and thought it <span style="font-size: large;">would</span> be fun just to post my<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">notes "as is"...Ho-Ho-H<span style="font-size: large;">o<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PduL1hy1Tg/UMEEW6CrtRI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/G-lbqrFBJgk/s1600/holiday+film.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PduL1hy1Tg/UMEEW6CrtRI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/G-lbqrFBJgk/s1600/holiday+film.jpeg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">...we were fighting a series of events (catastrophes, disasters, tragedies...the usual stuff)<span style="font-size: large;"> -</span> Christmas Eve Day - basement floods (Shirley's carpeted bedroom);</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">_early next day - kitchen floods (during prep of Christmas dinner), pipe falls apart, can't use sink, guest arrives (room in basement); </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">_</span>drank wine, ate dinner, drank more wine, dessert(s);</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">_next day - basement floods (again!?), Silver Grill for breakfast, still went to True Grit (escape!), say goodbye to guest, can't do dishes;</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">_next day, Monday - call plumber early, go to showroom to pick out new faucet, talk to plumber, kitchen out of commission until Thursday...</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">_<span style="font-size: large;">and...</span>I just came down with a little head cold, the sore throat kind. Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas<span style="font-size: large;"><i>.</i></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">_</span>trying to figure out how to write all this with a humorous slant for my blog. I don't think I'm there yet.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-66468362345304030052012-11-21T12:53:00.000-07:002012-12-06T12:04:03.672-07:00Kathy Twist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jq8VdJzpCAo/UK0plV5JBeI/AAAAAAAAAoA/eykqDHY2w9M/s1600/Rockwell+Child+Thanksgiving.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jq8VdJzpCAo/UK0plV5JBeI/AAAAAAAAAoA/eykqDHY2w9M/s1600/Rockwell+Child+Thanksgiving.jpeg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Traditional.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Like</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span> a Norman Rockwell. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Usually, I <span style="font-size: large;">tend to be</span> <span style="font-size: large;">somewhat </span><span style="font-size: large;">unconventional. </span></span>BUT.<span style="font-size: large;">..<span style="font-size: large;">t</span></span>his Turkey Day <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I <span style="font-size: large;">am actually <span style="font-size: large;">g</span></span>oing<i> traditional. </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">That's what we call it in our neck of the woods, anyway<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'll be <span style="font-size: large;">roast</span>ing a 22 pound bird in a brown paper bag. Don't chide<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> The ol' <span style="font-size: large;">bird</span> will get nice and<span style="font-size: large;"> browned AND<span style="font-size: large;">..<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span>even <span style="font-size: large;">the white meat will be moist.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Tom T</span> will get to enjoy<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">a</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">n Italian Extra Virgin rubdown </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">with a full Scarborough Fair <span style="font-size: large;">(i.e. parsley, sage<span style="font-size: large;">, rosemary and thyme<span style="font-size: large;">) </span></span>of flav<span style="font-size: large;">or...yummy!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">But even before <span style="font-size: large;"><i>big bird</i> hits the oven, my doz<span style="font-size: large;">en </span>red garnet "yams" will be doing a prick-'n-tick cook off (<b><i>prick</i></b> the skins with a fork<span style="font-size: large;"> and</span> <b><i>tick</i></b><span style="font-size: large;">-off the minutes till done)</span>, then set aside to cool before their fabulous makeover later in the day.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mr. <span style="font-size: large;">T will</span></span> be dressed with the convenience of <span style="font-size: large;">p</span>or<span style="font-size: large;">k (yes, I<span style="font-size: large;"> said <i>pork</i>) Stove Top. <span style="font-size: large;">Okay, okay. Nothing truly traditional (from my era anyway) about Stove Top Dressing, BUT...Lord knows I've tried a lot of scratch<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">programs: 2-day dried bread, fresh bread crumbs, corn bread, to<span style="font-size: large;">rtilla, etc. Stove Top<span style="font-size: large;"> wins <span style="font-size: large;">-- unmodified.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">My beautiful fresh gree-ee-e<span style="font-size: large;">e<span style="font-size: large;">n beans</span></span> will <span style="font-size: large;">have</span> an early garlic saute and jump into a sultry veggie better-than-boullion bath, before joining their <span style="font-size: large;">cream-of-mushroom-soaked craisin frien<span style="font-size: large;">ds in the casser<span style="font-size: large;">ole dish. Tucked in with French's Fried Onions and <span style="font-size: large;">prettied</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">by slivered almond<span style="font-size: large;">s<span style="font-size: large;">, it's enough to a<span style="font-size: large;">ppease <span style="font-size: large;">an</span>y palate.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hand-mashed red potatoes...<span style="font-size: large;">in their skin<span style="font-size: large;">s...after boi<span style="font-size: large;">ling their half naked quarters in fresh chopped (not minced) gar<span style="font-size: large;">lic</span> water<span style="font-size: large;"> touched by <span style="font-size: large;">the</span> Extra Virgin. Aha<span style="font-size: large;">!</span>..now I get to be naughty.<span style="font-size: large;"> <i>Real</i> butter <span style="font-size: large;">(unsalted) and <span style="font-size: large;"><i>real</i> milk (<span style="font-size: large;">2%) added for creaminess.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Turkey g<span style="font-size: large;">iblet gravy -- of course! <span style="font-size: large;">J</span>ell<span style="font-size: large;">ied cranberr<span style="font-size: large;">y sauce. (Actually tried making it fresh one year.)<span style="font-size: large;"> And, Hawaiian Sweet Rolls<span style="font-size: large;"> -- everyone knows how <span style="font-size: large;">addicting</span> those are, right??</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">And what to drink? <span style="font-size: large;">W<span style="font-size: large;"></span></span>ine. Pinot Noir. Willamette Valley or one of the Napa vineyards.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">P</span></span>robably a R<span style="font-size: large;">ie</span>sling, too...for my mother. All compliments of my <span style="font-size: large;">brother.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wondering whatever happened to the garnets? Those precious jewels got skinned<span style="font-size: large;">, sliced and smooshed into a good-sized glass baking dish, enhanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, black pepper<span style="font-size: large;">, brown sugar and uns<span style="font-size: large;">alted butter<span style="font-size: large;">.<span style="font-size: large;"> Not to forget those<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">t</span></span>oasty melty marshmallows <span style="font-size: large;">seeping into <span style="font-size: large;">all the crevices as they make th<span style="font-size: large;">eir</span> way to the table.</span></span> Oh my!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">When all is said and done -- <span style="font-size: large;">d</span>essert. <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Warm</span> lattice apple pie topped with vanilla bean ice cream, paired up with a slice of award-winning pumpkin <span style="font-size: large;">pie, crowned</span> with<span style="font-size: large;"> vanilla-pecan real whipped cream. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">A<span style="font-size: large;">hhh</span>...traditional sounds sooo good right now.<span style="font-size: large;"> But there's<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span>on<span style="font-size: large;">e</span> part I haven't dared to mention yet...<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">T</span>he prelude. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dare I tell of our delectable fresh-squeezed margarita mix? <span style="font-size: large;">B</span>lood<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">or<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span>navel </span>oranges and key limes awaiting the perfect ratio of silver tequilla and contreau <span style="font-size: large;">(</span>this time<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> the cadillac<span style="font-size: large;"> -- Grand<span style="font-size: large;"> Marnier)<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">And dare I <span style="font-size: large;">admit to indulging in all the afternoon appet<span style="font-size: large;">izers<span style="font-size: large;">? </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">s</span>lightly spicy <span style="font-size: large;">Italian dry salami with a <span style="font-size: large;">tidbit of applewood smoked cheddar atop a Monet vege<span style="font-size: large;">table round<span style="font-size: large;">; </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">the intense flavor of asiago resting on a <span style="font-size: large;">Zesty Salsa pita cri<span style="font-size: large;">sp; </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">cream cheese and peanut butter filled celery sti<span style="font-size: large;">cks<span style="font-size: large;">; </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">an array of marinated <span style="font-size: large;">Greek and Italian <span style="font-size: large;">o</span>lives; </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">and a finishing touch of<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>unsalted roasted walnuts and pecans. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yes<span style="font-size: large;">, it appears that <i>e</i><span style="font-size: large;"><i>ven <span style="font-size: large;">I</span></i> can handle</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> traditional<span style="font-size: large;"></span>. <span style="font-size: large;">O</span>r, as my mother would say: </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Traditional, with <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">a</span><i> Kathy <span style="font-size: large;">t</span>wist</i><span style="font-size: large;">. :~)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">P.S. I will probably be adding pictures in a couple of days.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">P.P.S. No pictures...lesson learned: I simply can't be drinking like I'm in my 20's or 30's, <span style="font-size: small;">when I'm actually in my 60's, and expect to hav<span style="font-size: small;">e <span style="font-size: small;">wonderful food photo<span style="font-size: small;">s.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-62961604290284549192012-11-20T06:16:00.000-07:002012-11-20T06:49:53.274-07:00Everything Seems to Happen at Once<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhpRNUnUdUM/UKuImRMz0qI/AAAAAAAAAno/aSESiqTh2KI/s1600/too+much.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhpRNUnUdUM/UKuImRMz0qI/AAAAAAAAAno/aSESiqTh2KI/s1600/too+much.jpeg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Have you ever noticed how there are times in life where <i>everything seems to happen at once</i>? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">While fighting a sinus infection, a</span> tooth filling falls out, the sewer mainline pipe backs <span style="font-size: large;">up<span style="font-size: large;"> into the basement shower, and <span style="font-size: large;">the thawed swordf<span style="font-size: large;">ish is waiting to become that evening<span style="font-size: large;">'s <span style="font-size: large;">dinner. Which do <span style="font-size: large;">I</span> ignore and which one gets attention first?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">That was <span style="font-size: large;">the most recent episode</span>. I opted for calling the Drain Doctor<span style="font-size: large;">s<span style="font-size: large;"> first. <span style="font-size: large;">Everything else <span style="font-size: large;">got</span> scheduled<span style="font-size: large;">, including the swo<span style="font-size: large;">rdfish.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The<span style="font-size: large;">re was also a</span> mid-summer <span style="font-size: large;">mini-ser<span style="font-size: large;">ies<span style="font-size: large;">...</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I <span style="font-size: large;">am</span> </span>actually manag<span style="font-size: large;">ing</span> to prepare a great dinner <span style="font-size: large;">after having a rather rough night and fighting to stay awake all day<span style="font-size: large;">, <span style="font-size: large;">w<span style="font-size: large;">hen</span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">a</span> favo<span style="font-size: large;">rite neighbor <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">decides to ring </span>the bell</span>, all 3 dogs bec<span style="font-size: large;">o</span>me obsessed with barking, and <span style="font-size: large;">my</span> invalid<span style="font-size: large;"> live-in mother <span style="font-size: large;">suddenly ha<span style="font-size: large;">s</span> increased shortness of breath.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">What did I do? I quickly headed to the ER<span style="font-size: large;">, leaving three dogs<span style="font-size: large;">, my neighbor AND my dinner ALL hanging.<span style="font-size: large;"> No other good choice -- right?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">But, I a<span style="font-size: large;">sk: </span></span>Is this <i>normal</i>? </span>Does this sort of thing -- I mean the timing of it all -- happen to <span style="font-size: large;">anyone else</span>? Or, is it something I've <span style="font-size: large;">s<span style="font-size: large;">imply brought upon</span> myself? </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">PLEASE tell me: <span style="font-size: large;">I</span>t<span style="font-size: large;"> is <span style="font-size: large;">indeed -- normal.<span style="font-size: large;"> <i> </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Right?!</i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-23656560301418803952012-11-07T06:36:00.000-07:002012-11-07T09:18:25.740-07:00Less I Too Become A Ruminant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VxAsqtL3BwI/UJqEO3CUXyI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/Lw87HRUktw0/s1600/cow+grazing.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VxAsqtL3BwI/UJqEO3CUXyI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/Lw87HRUktw0/s1600/cow+grazing.jpeg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">With all the<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">diverse</span></span> political opinions <span style="font-size: large;">t<span style="font-size: large;">hrown back and forth</span> today for gra</span>zing, and all the mult<span style="font-size: large;">i</span>vari<span style="font-size: large;">ous social media </span>chewing the cud, I concluded it wise to again review my purpose and goals for writing, less I too become a ruminan<span style="font-size: large;">t. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As I <span style="font-size: large;">thought more deeply about the direction I want to take, I recalled a post I had written nearly 2 years ago<span style="font-size: large;">. I <span style="font-size: large;">believe it good to <span style="font-size: large;">bring it forward and recommit.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Of All The Things<span style="font-size: small;"> (January 18, 2011)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">The other day I received an email with the following quote:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Of all the things I've learned in life,<span style="font-size: large;"> I <span style="font-size: large;">k</span></span>now<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>that<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>change is<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>the strongest truth.</i></span></div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"> ~Janice Van Dyck</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Briefly I considered the words, then immediately I wanted to <i>change</i> them. I thought:<i> Change is perhaps the one constant in life, but it is not the strongest truth</i>.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carefully,
I reread it and began to acknowledge that she was not talking about me.
She was speaking of all the things she herself has learned in life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">But my thoughts grew louder within me: <i>There
is a simple principle - a law - the strongest most powerful law in the
entire universe. It's the Law of Believing...all believing equals
receiving and all receiving equals believing. It is a greater law than
all the other laws of physics, because it transcends everyone of them</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
even began to wonder if others would read what she wrote and
even...(gasp)... agree with her! At that point I finally realized I was
being tempted, to not only pit the knowledge and understanding I've
acquired in life against hers, but to do it in writing. And I didn't
even know who she was!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pausing, I asked myself: <i>Do I
really want to get into that kind of writing? Do I really want to start
picking apart what others say - whether I think it's relevant or true
or vital or not</i>?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Without hesitation, I replied: <i>No, I don't. Absolutely not! There's a place for commentary and opinion writing, but that's not where I want to go - not at all</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Logically, the next question is: <i>Then where do you want to go, Kathy?</i> The answer is simple. I have one purpose - one mission: <i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>I write with the belief to both inspire and challenge the human experience, welcoming criticism, </i><i>for there is no person on earth who fails to intrigue me, and thereby touches my soul in some significant way</i>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">It
is not my intention to cast opinions that tend to judge the relevance
or validity of what someone else may have thought or concluded. My
desire and goal in writing would be defeated if I wrote in a framework
that might tear down the very place another has reached by scaling their
own mountain(s). Honestly, how welcoming would that be?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Totally
unaware, Janice Van Dyck has touched my soul in a significant way. She
has pushed me to reconsider my purpose and to decide whether or not my
mission is still real to me - still where I choose to be. And - of all
the things I've learned in life - she has inspired me to write of
judgments and comparisons that we, at times unknowingly, superimpose on
one another.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;">Although we've never met, please allow me to say, "Thank you, Janice."</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"> ~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, you caught me. Yes, </span>I actually brought out an older post to be re<span style="font-size: large;">-chewed..</span>.much like the cud<span style="font-size: large;">. <span style="font-size: large;">So, I admit it...p</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span>erhaps I<span style="font-size: large;"> am</span> part ruminant after<span style="font-size: large;"> all<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">. ;~<span style="font-size: large;">)</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tR9Os6sOY/UJqAeatM4gI/AAAAAAAAAnA/5EVgWpkOfS0/s1600/grazing+cows.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tR9Os6sOY/UJqAeatM4gI/AAAAAAAAAnA/5EVgWpkOfS0/s1600/grazing+cows.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span> </span></span></span> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-73370656647442467682012-11-01T14:57:00.000-06:002012-11-01T14:57:50.354-06:00Potential is Not a Valid Argument<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With all the talk this year, about abortion, pro-life, planned parenthood<span style="font-size: large;"> and the such like, I cannot resist throwing in my plug nickel's worth<span style="font-size: large;">. <span style="font-size: large;">A</span></span>t least I rest assured that m<span style="font-size: large;">any will feel that's what my thinking may be worth. We'll see...</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I've always advised <span style="font-size: large;">young <span style="font-size: large;">single girls to never marry <span style="font-size: large;"><i>potential</i>. <span style="font-size: large;">To l<span style="font-size: large;">essen the degree </span>of disillusionm<span style="font-size: large;">ent, <span style="font-size: large;">n</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">ever confuse a man's <i>potential</i> with <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">factual</span> reality.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> It's simply not wise.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Rather,<span style="font-size: large;"> a</span> <span style="font-size: large;">savvy young lady should look into <span style="font-size: large;">a</span> <span style="font-size: large;">man's</span> track record for what's valid before considering a marital commitment<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">no matter how great the <i>probabilities</i> are of his possibilities.<span style="font-size: large;"> A <span style="font-size: large;">guy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">could</span> have great savoir faire<span style="font-size: large;"> [adaptable; knowing what to do <span style="font-size: large;">in any situation] and the <i>appearance of becoming</i> the most successful and loving husband<span style="font-size: large;">...</span>ever<span style="font-size: large;">...,<span style="font-size: large;"> yet never apply himself.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Potential</i> is simply not valid criteria to base a marriage on.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Likewise true of pregnancy.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I honestly believe <span style="font-size: large;">what is written in the <span style="font-size: large;">Bible [the original Word of God given to man]. It is important to note that the first human being, Adam, <span style="font-size: large;">b</span>ecame a living soul when God breathed the breath of life into him...and not a second before.</span> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">L</span>et's just consider th<span style="font-size: large;">at this</span></span></span> has never changed.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">A fetus<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">would</span> not become a living soul, until it <span style="font-size: large;">takes</span> it<span style="font-size: large;">s first breath.<span style="font-size: large;">..and not a second before. <i>Potential</i><span style="font-size: large;"> -- even the <i>greatest</i> <i>probabilit</i><span style="font-size: large;"><i>y</i> of <span style="font-size: large;">a reality -- <span style="font-size: large;">would</span> not make it <span style="font-size: large;">a live <span style="font-size: large;">human being</span>. <span style="font-size: large;">That's right</span>. It <span style="font-size: large;">would have</span> to take it's first breath of air to actually be that wonderful new baby girl or boy.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why, you might ask, do I refer to <span style="font-size: large;">the fetus as <u><i>it</i></u>?</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">B</span>ecause a fetu<span style="font-size: large;">s is only the</span> <i>potential</i> of being born a baby boy or girl<span style="font-size: large;">, even though it may already look like one. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Be<span style="font-size: large;">sides,</span> even Jesus Christ -- God's only conceived <span style="font-size: large;">son --</span> was <span style="font-size: large;">referred to as an <i>it</i> and <i>thing</i><span style="font-size: large;"> prior to being born<span style="font-size: large;">, in spite of the fac<span style="font-size: large;">t that</span></span> Mary had already been told it would be a boy. Seriously.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, <span style="font-size: large;">i</span>s it a cri<span style="font-size: large;">me to prevent, stop or kill<span style="font-size: large;"> <i>potential</i>?</span></span> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps it shoul<span style="font-size: large;">d be when considering a young man whose <i>potential</i> has die<span style="font-size: large;">d within him, stopping him from ever becoming what he <span style="font-size: large;"><i>possib</i><span style="font-size: large;"><i>ly</i> could have been. <span style="font-size: large;">But, the last I checked, <span style="font-size: large;">that</span> is not yet a cri<span style="font-size: large;">me. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Besides, who would <span style="font-size: large;">we pin it on if it was? <span style="font-size: large;">Seriously.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">With the same logic, <span style="font-size: large;">h</span>ow could we <span style="font-size: large;">consider, even for a moment, that <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">stopp</span>ing</span> the <i>potential</i> of a fetus from the <i>possibility</i> of becoming a living soul -- a live and breathing baby girl or boy -- is<span style="font-size: large;"><i>, </i>of all things<i>...</i></span><i>murder</i>??!<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Doesn't <span style="font-size: large;">an individual</span> have to first be alive [meaning, breath<span style="font-size: large;">-</span>life] in order to be murdered? And doesn't a person have to <span style="font-size: large;">be <span style="font-size: large;">alive</span> <span style="font-size: large;">to have certain <span style="font-size: large;">u</span>nalienable<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>rights? <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm being <span style="font-size: large;">somewhat </span>rhetorical, of course.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Is abortion</span> <i>pl</i><span style="font-size: large;"><i>aying God</i><span style="font-size: large;">?</span> <span style="font-size: large;">If a pregnan<span style="font-size: large;">cy is terminated because a fetus aborted from <i>natural</i> causes, does that make God a murderer? <span style="font-size: large;">Our lovi<span style="font-size: large;">ng </span>heavenly Father, God, in whom there is no darkness...a <i>murderer</i>??! <span style="font-size: large;">You have <i>got</i> to be kidding!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Don't misunderstand me. I think potential is <span style="font-size: large;">tremendous, e<span style="font-size: large;">specially when it is realized.<span style="font-size: large;">..e</span>specially when you get to see the baby! But<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> potential is not a valid argument.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">R</span>emember</span></span>: Killing <i>potential</i> is not a crime. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Not <i>yet</i><span style="font-size: large;">, anyway<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-55186591521376136912012-10-26T13:25:00.001-06:002012-10-26T13:32:53.577-06:00No Status Quo Ante* In My Future<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sDWc5EOQKI/TXp7BnM3d4I/AAAAAAAAAO8/gewK-cJK2-w/s1600/Feb+20%252C+2011+download+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sDWc5EOQKI/TXp7BnM3d4I/AAAAAAAAAO8/gewK-cJK2-w/s200/Feb+20%252C+2011+download+020.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">An entire summer and more than half of autumn have crept away without nary a word from yours truly. There are good reasons for this, I tell myself. Really? I query. Truly and assuredly, I reply.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Admittedly, it was quite a large log that fell into my pond. One that brought little needful rest and even less consolation that life would ever return status quo ante. I turned the page, and... "Lo and behold!" an unexpected new chapter lay before me. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was not a cute little 3 or 4 year old girl playing nurse with her dollies -- this was REAL. Dry weight and vitals were to be recorded each and every morning. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Combined with checking for edema and ease in breathing, </span>medication decisions would be made. I soon realized that I had become an unlicensed, live-in practical nurse. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">My 87 year old mother was no longer just a simple matter of blind and crippled; she now had chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">The cardiologist directed a low-sodium diet of 2000 mg or less -- daily. This alone was enough to engulf my time each day. But I knew I also needed to balance that intake with potassium -- daily. What was set before me, I felt, <span style="font-size: large;">would soon become</span> an all-consuming and overwhelming task.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">About 60 days into it, I seemed to be adjusting quite well, when, "Lo and behold!" another new chapter lay before me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">My beloved husband saw an infomercial that <i>perfectly</i> answered his fitness needs. Seriously. I saw it and agreed that this was the right thing for him. In less than a week, we were diving into... <i>INSANITY!</i> I do not jest.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's the REAL question: Why am I saying, <i>we</i>? Yes, why <i>we</i>, indeed!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">No sooner had I begun to get comfortable with a "low-sodium, equal potassium" style of food planning and preparation, then now having to accommodate <i>Insanity</i>'s program of <i>Elite Nutrition</i>. This would require 5 equal-caloric meals per day of high protein, moderate carbs and low fat. <i>And I agreed with this!!!??</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Did I say something about <i>a large log that fell into my pond</i>!? I may be mistaken, but I think it was more than one! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ah...don't take this wrong. I'm not complaining. I pulled it all off and am even writing again. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">No, I am far more concerned as to why I would think that anything I engage in would ever be status quo ante. Why would I even entertain that as a possibility? That has never been the case in my life, and I should rest assured, never will be. It's simply not who I am or wh<span style="font-size: large;">at</span> I wish my life to be. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">There are good reasons for this, I tell myself. Really? I query. Truly and assuredly, I reply. Truly and assuredly<span style="font-size: large;"> --</span> <span style="font-size: large;">t</span>here is no status quo ante in my future.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Status <span style="font-size: x-small;">quo ante - Latin<span style="font-size: x-small;"> for</span> "the way it was before."</span></span> </span> <i> </i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-24754842013482575622012-05-17T12:45:00.001-06:002012-05-25T08:53:25.470-06:00Or, Better Yet -- Fax It?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdHdEO1voxE/T7VGoHd1dNI/AAAAAAAAAmg/mhBYPrLgU7c/s1600/fax+image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdHdEO1voxE/T7VGoHd1dNI/AAAAAAAAAmg/mhBYPrLgU7c/s200/fax+image.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever had to copy-and-send additional info to an insurance or medical billing company? I would almost bet my bottom dollar that they won't receive it -- the first time, anyway. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Inevitably, it <i>always</i> gets <i>lost</i> -- even if it's mailed in their own postage-paid envelope or faxed directly to the <i>right</i> person. It never fails. It was planned to happen this way. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">You discover the mishap when their Explanation of Benefits or billing statement arrives in the mail. It simply doesn't agree with the extra info you so diligently gave them. So, you call.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Following fifteen minutes or more of jumping through hoops with your fingers punching in numbers to satisfy the automated system, a live voice appears, wondering why on earth you thought it necessary to call them.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is the one who almost always doesn't understand what you're talking about (or you can't understand what <i>they're</i> talking about), so you ask for a supervisor. After another five or ten minute wait, you decide to hang up. You'll try again at a <i>better</i> time. [HA!]</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Finally reaching a CSR (Customer Service Rep) who knows what's up, you are informed of the inevitable:</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It might be lost...but give it just one more week. They always run a bit slow in that department. Can you call back then?</span></span></b></i></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wanting to sound cooperative, you agree. It really doesn't make any difference though. In one or two weeks you will again hear the inevitable:</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Certainly it's lost by now. It's been over a month. Did you mail it in or fax it? I know this is an inconvenience for you, but... </span></span></b></i></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now here's the clincher...</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>...could you mail it in again? Or, better yet -- fax it?</b></i></span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">As if this will make any difference. Obviously, they're not only buying time, but also playing the odds that you will choose to simply give up and agree with/pay whatever the EOB or statement says.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'd like to think that I practice what I preach in choosing my battles wisely, but this is one I'm not at all certain as to the smartest way to go. I mean, it involves money, and I seriously watch every penny. On the other hand, too much hassle can cost me more than just money.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Both Citibank and Chase have informed me that I am in the top <b>less-than-2%</b> in the U.S. Can you believe it!? There is really that small of a percentage who actually reconcile their credit card or bank statements. The vast majority of consumers today simply trust their electronic systems...or so I was told.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Besides the hundreds of dollars saved in unaccountable adjustments made to receipts and statements, I've also recovered nearly $1000 cash from card companies and banks over the past 8 years. It's not a fortune, but I believe it's better than having kissed it all goodbye. Wouldn't you agree?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps I am choosing my battles wisely after all. Now, if I could only remember this the next time I hear that annoying yet inevitable:</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>...could you mail it in again? </b></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Or, better yet --fax it?</b></i></span></span></blockquote>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-721397527826477942012-05-04T11:01:00.001-06:002012-05-04T11:01:23.697-06:00Seriously...No Comment<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know it's hard to believe, but in pondering my extensive lack of words to write, I have made an interesting observation:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It seems that whenever I have to actually take the time out to seriously focus on my life, then take the time to do what is needed to adjust or fix all my ongoing affairs, I simply have no opinion -- one way or another -- on what anyone else is doing with theirs...or...even my own, for that matter.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I have yet to decide whether this is a good thing...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> or not ;~)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-87507333147160505702012-04-04T13:20:00.000-06:002012-04-04T13:20:26.679-06:00Thankfulness For Life Helps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oy9Fsmik1Es/TYNSoQ98kYI/AAAAAAAAAQE/2mBojpbQm7Y/s1600/hatched+peacock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oy9Fsmik1Es/TYNSoQ98kYI/AAAAAAAAAQE/2mBojpbQm7Y/s200/hatched+peacock.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My mother is back from her ten day stay with my brother. The first 3 days seemed somewhat rough going, but we adjusted and actually managed to survive the transition without any serious damage. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thankfulness for life always seems to help.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Nearly a week later, I was taking my beloved husband to the ER for acute stomach and side/back pain -- less than 2 weeks after being there with his mother. He's doing fine...nothing catastrophically serious anyway. But it caused me to pause in thankfulness for having something as simple as -- <i>life</i>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Then he got his paycheck. It was 4 days short on pay. I'm still not at all sure how everything got covered those 2 weeks, but I know I chose to remain calm and confident that we would survive without any major consequences. Of course, remaining thankful for life certainly didn't hurt.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When the 3 dogs got cabin fever yesterday, because of sudden inclement weather, and I felt like strangling each of them for ignoring every single command...guess what!?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thankfulness for <i>life</i> really does help! </span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-68943447860269316802012-03-21T09:42:00.000-06:002012-03-21T09:42:13.970-06:00There Is Always A Choice<div style="text-align: right;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Just finished reading my conclusion of last year's journal writings: <i>nearly every entry speaks of balance, focus, purpose and freedom</i>. It's interesting to realize that God's Word answers each of those things, when it is truly the only rule of faith and practice. With that Word, life becomes simple, balanced, focused, purposeful and I become free.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.hubimg.com/u/1029130_f496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://s3.hubimg.com/u/1029130_f496.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of HubPages.com</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Change. Now there's another wonderful theme. I believe that one is befitting 2012. It only takes a teeny tiny tweak to alter the course of any subject, and I have a few subjects that really need to find new paths to travel on.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are decisions I can make -- that I have control over -- which can make a difference in not only a day, but my week, and thus my year. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It can be something as simple as grocery shopping Friday (or even Monday) mornings, rather than Sunday (or even Saturday) afternoons. Or, taking a shower at 6 AM rather than in the afternoon. Or, riding my bike in the mornings while our 3 dogs nap. Each choice I make to vary my norm in the here and now, will alter my future.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If a particular picture (physical or mental) upsets -- causes mumblings or possibly even depression -- then get a new or different picture! Why hold on to something that makes us feel miserable? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Contrary to what our minds may occasionally try to tell us, <i><b>...there is always a choice</b></i>. </span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-80621232386257381422012-02-23T11:44:00.017-07:002012-02-23T12:01:48.449-07:00Profound??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hlKTUC5ru3A/TcrG0hM1gCI/AAAAAAAAAjI/YwIUBK9Twbs/s1600/Journal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hlKTUC5ru3A/TcrG0hM1gCI/AAAAAAAAAjI/YwIUBK9Twbs/s200/Journal.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Pondering deeply? Not quite. But of course that doesn't mean I wouldn't like to be. I simply need to get my focus back -- focus for writing.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I was such a prolific writer in my 30's...makes me wonder what it would've been like for me if blogging was available then. But, that was then and this is now. Profound? Hardly.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For the past 4 weeks, I've been using our little 2 year old Gateway netbook to access the internet -- not sure yet whether I like the keyboard or not. It also explains why I haven't been too social lately. Guess I'm like a lot of other people, wanting things simple and convenient, or not much happens. Of course, I'm assuming I know how a lot of other people are. I could be dead wrong. Yes, me. Profound? There are those who think I may have just qualified myself. (haha)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My mother left to stay with my brother 6 days ago...she'll be back in 4. Her third day away found us at the ER with my mother-in-law (who also lives with my husband and myself). She had fainted. They never figured out exactly why, but we learned she had a good case of the flu. She's 72.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Other than that, nothing very interesting has been happening in my life lately. </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our car is running fine. Our 3 dogs are fine...considering what it is to have 3. The house is hunky-dory. My decluttering plan is going...well...progressing as I had about expected. </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Everything is actually quite fine.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I have to admit, life is pretty much the same it's been for awhile -- that is, considering all things to be considered. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">(Sounds like one of those wonderfully profound remarks from the movie The Matrix -- doesn't it? Well...doesn't it????)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Okay,...so I definitely need help. I admit it. Now <b><i>that</i></b> is deeply profound ;~)</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-17569877300873375562011-12-15T11:47:00.001-07:002011-12-15T11:53:31.334-07:00Thinking of God at Holiday Time!??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0PsG_N-Mntk/TupCB6qXPGI/AAAAAAAAAlw/WZHlBxUxI_0/s1600/Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0PsG_N-Mntk/TupCB6qXPGI/AAAAAAAAAlw/WZHlBxUxI_0/s200/Christmas.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Amidst the hustle and bustle and "Buy me!" of the holidays is not the time to be asking anyone how they feel or think about God. Why not? Because this is the one time of the year more than any other that, basically, is God-less. (I have my opinion...you may have yours.)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Guess one might say that sounds a bit calloused, but I simply cannot believe someone took a poll about "feelings and thoughts of God at holiday time," and wrote about it as if it is some sort of barometer on the subject for our country. Good grief!! Six months from now those same people will more than likely say something totally different. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's not that these people are hypocrites; it's just that buying more "stuff," out of our tired-economy wallets, brings out the darker side of our nature. (sigh...) Has anyone noticed!??</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So...let's <b><i>not</i></b> stop and re-evaluate our priorities and values just now. And let's <b><i>not</i></b> stop long enough to hear, "Yes, Virginia, there <i>IS</i> a Santa Claus." Definitely, <b><i>not</i></b>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Instead, let's just make it through all this hustle and bustle and "Buy me!" time of year without too much wearing-away of the edges, and see if we can spring into the New Year thanking God that we made it!!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Ho-ho-ho!! Merry Christmas!!</i> :~)) </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-38267687365965471682011-12-12T10:28:00.002-07:002011-12-12T10:31:46.462-07:00I'm Going to Do It<span style="font-size: large;">Starting today. This is it. I've simply let it go way too long. That's the sum and gist of it all. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I mean, why not? There's absolutely nothing stopping me. As a matter of fact, everything in the universe -- and I mean "everything" -- is compelling me to move on it. Ignoring it is affecting way too many other things...and especially, people. Isn't that the true deciding factor? Affecting people? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, perhaps...but the real crux of the issue is that the "people" it's affecting is <i>moi</i>...</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Me :~)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, this is it. Finally. I am going to take care of...<u><b>me</b></u>. :~))</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What does this all mean? What is "it?"</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Clutter!!!!!!!!!!! Not-so-good, old fashioned, clutter!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh...so you have a similar issue!?? And here I thought I was the only one who let things go this far. Hhhhmmmmmm...</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm pulling out a dark green 33 gallon bag from the garage and heading over to those junk and "keepsake" drawers and closets. Then some quick and final decisions: throw? sell? or store? No inbetween-ers. </span><span style="font-size: large;">No exceptions. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">To be vigilant in life, one must be clear headed. To be truly clear, one must travel light -- both mentally and physically. For many many months now, most of my efforts have been on the mental. It is time to set in order my <i><b>physicals</b></i>.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What are <i>you</i> doing to make way for what you love in life?</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-31723004927080966152011-11-01T12:09:00.007-06:002012-02-23T12:10:38.042-07:00Lobster and Lamb<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A 25th wedding anniversary should not be taken lightly, especially during the past few decades of multiple divorces, and </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">especially</i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> if the couple is happier than when they first married! I must admit, my ideas for celebration were just a bit on the side of grandiose, but what the heck...it only happens once!</span></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am highly particular about fresh herbs and gourmet taste in food, so I figured we would have to either spend <i>a lot </i>of money eating out, or I'd have to do it myself. It was my mother-in-law who said it was sort of sad I couldn't have someone else cook for us here -- the way I like it. The light came on in my tiny brain, and I thought of my favorite chef...someone who once took beef tongue and made it so delectable, you'd think we were eating Chateaubriand!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">He enthusiastically agreed when I approached him, but to my great dismay, a major conflict in schedules and timing developed just 2 weeks prior to the event. *huge drawn out sigh* We were back to square one, but I stayed with my original menu plan: lobster and lamb.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I had a no-fail, in-oven, lobster method I had acquired from the blog, <a href="http://transparentmama.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: #f6b26b; color: #660000;">Transparent Mama</a>, and a fabulous wine and liquor store just down the street (right next to Whole Foods Market I might add). What more could I need! It was set in motion, and, on the first of June, 2011...voila! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5z1P9iUlH-o/TrAKwRKYEcI/AAAAAAAAAks/Ul2-RL4iVkY/s1600/P1000869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5z1P9iUlH-o/TrAKwRKYEcI/AAAAAAAAAks/Ul2-RL4iVkY/s320/P1000869.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean lamb kabob topped with crimini mushrooms sauteed in a garlic-basil infused olive oil, served alongside a tender 5 ounce Maine lobster tail, accompanied by roasted asparagus with hollandaise and a fluffy, twice-baked potato topped with sour cream and asiago-cheddar. (Note: all on one plate designed for easy cleanup :~)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yummmmmy! So much food that we opted out of a salad. But we included tiny Italian rosette rolls, and of course, wine :~)</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Although a white would be standard with seafood, or possibly a pinot noir to best compliment both entrees, we leaned more toward a Bordeaux -- which we knew would at least work well with the lamb. It proved to be a surprisingly good choice for the entire dinner.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpDSHUG9o8o/TrAOC4kVMVI/AAAAAAAAAlA/8m-47n3eQkY/s1600/P1000868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fpDSHUG9o8o/TrAOC4kVMVI/AAAAAAAAAlA/8m-47n3eQkY/s320/P1000868.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chateau Guichet, Bordeaux 2008 -- Not top-shelf, but nonetheless, rich and balanced.</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ah yes...although the camera missed the shot, we even squeezed in a sweet finish. My husband, Kelly, went for the Sicilian flair and had cannolis, while I became French indulgent having vanilla creme brulee.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kelly, insisted I include the picture he took, showing his contentment. There's one thing that puzzles me though...what did he do with the lobster shell?!!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOOsxbyp8L0/TrAOVWtWEYI/AAAAAAAAAlY/Lrui0CiyvpQ/s1600/P1000872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOOsxbyp8L0/TrAOVWtWEYI/AAAAAAAAAlY/Lrui0CiyvpQ/s320/P1000872.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Nineteen, Twenty...my plate is empty."</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nineteen, Twenty?? Okay...it's from an old, old...actually, <i>very</i> <i>very</i> old counting rhyme. But who's counting! Unless, of course, it's your Silver Anniversary!</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-63678250416600461882011-08-10T21:52:00.001-06:002012-01-13T11:17:21.877-07:00Almost Up and Running...<span style="font-size: large;">First, I'll write of significant events in my personal life that have come about over the past couple of months...along with a few pictures, of course. Then I'll be digging into two or three deeper subjects that seem to have risen from some hidden place within. I trust it'll prove an interesting voyage for all...including me :~)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-16336095861793251432011-07-29T10:37:00.000-06:002011-07-29T10:37:31.848-06:00I Haven't Run Away...<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Tomorrow I turn 60. This is so saddening, yet, so exciting at the same time! I will be camping with my husband, my mother-in-law (seriously) and my little cocker -- for 3 days and nights in the Arapaho National Forest at 9350 feet, just north of Black Hawk, Colorado. One of the evenings, we'll be celebrating 2 of our birthdays at Seasons' Buffet in The Lodge Casino...</span></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I will write more about it upon my return :~) </span></span></span></h6>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-28079411725600562922011-07-25T21:27:00.003-06:002011-07-26T12:53:42.554-06:00Birth Order Funk<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">Birth order isn't important</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To a juggernaut,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">An umlaut,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To sauerkraut,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">Or even an argonaut.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">But it's important to me.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">And, the order of birth doesn't matter</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To a patter,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">A shatter,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To splatter,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">Or even a cake batter.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text"> But it matters to me.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">The order of one's birth brings revelry</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To a rivalry,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">And chivalry</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">To devilry,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text">Or even a call for the cavalry.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;">So should it be<span data-jsid="text"> -- to me!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span data-jsid="text"><span style="font-size: small;">(Inspired by Lisa Cihlar, poet and friend.)</span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-82875089642727302202011-07-14T10:53:00.002-06:002011-07-14T10:56:14.904-06:00What A Day It Is...<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What a day it is, turning it around in my mind. Picking up remnants in the yard from last night's storm. My sick little doggie, Ginger, taking an extra long walk this morning, then eating a scrambled egg after having refused breakfast for over a week. Facebook? Someone asking, <i>If our nation falls, will it be because of debt or condoning homosexuality</i>? (sigh) And, I've been thinking about posting the pics I took late yesterday afternoon of the tiny green hummingbird that visited my petunias. Made my care and storm-protection of those huge baskets well worth it :~)</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ah, yes! And I am actually contemplating the possibility of writing again...will see what develops.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I believe it really all began with my 25th wedding anniversary...</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2525206160817284200.post-60637757204946232702011-06-24T13:52:00.003-06:002012-02-23T12:14:22.383-07:00Dead Calm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSEs5vRewcQ/TgTqgmdX6YI/AAAAAAAAAj8/S3AYp-jWPxA/s1600/dead+calm+sailboat2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSEs5vRewcQ/TgTqgmdX6YI/AAAAAAAAAj8/S3AYp-jWPxA/s1600/dead+calm+sailboat2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sitting in a sailboat in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight -- dead calm. That's me in the sailboat. No motor. No cell phone service. But plenty of food and water, so I'm actually handling it rather well. For now, the solitude is somewhat soothing. Although I am wearied by the passing of time, I realize that once I decide which direction I want to go...the wind will be there.</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05246661245845728004noreply@blogger.com5Colorado, USA40.547200422002653 -105.0732425625000138.541690422002652 -108.58293156250001 42.552710422002654 -101.56355356250002