How do you (or would you) go about teaching/including your child about your practice/beliefs?
What kind of coming of age ritual might you suggest for your child and how would you approach them about it?
What might you tell them about being a Pagan in a Christian-centric community?
Oh, boy... I'll start off with this caveat: This is one of those hot buttons that I often end up jumping up and down about - be warned. This is simply what *I* believe - it's not what you should do - but keep in mind how YOU were when you were little, and it might make sense. Also - note the word "normally" - there are those young 'uns who are exceptions to the rule. I believe that they show themselves naturally, and their parents will be able to see maturity and understanding as the child exhibits it.
First of all - I *DON'T* teach or include children - ANY children, mine or otherwise - in my practice or beliefs. Those under the age of 12 aren't normally able to understand the concept of a higher power, or of gods/goddesses, or rituals and why they are there. They are too busy learning about the world as a whole, and how it affects them directly, and how they can affect the world - it's not a matter of higher powers placing that tree there because it was meant to be - it's a matter of how high they can climb it.
Those between the ages of 12 and 15 normally are too involved with themselves to pay attention to the world at large, and will only be interested in being a pagan for the sake of being different. They are not normally aware enough to appreciate the mysteries of what is going on in the world beyond what directly affects them - they are, after all, teenagers.
That being said - if I were to teach someone else about my beliefs, and I felt that they were old enough to understand them, the first thing that I would do is to basically have them sit down and write everything they currently understand about the god/dess. then have them write down questions that they have about what they DON'T understand. This gives me a basis on where to start from - I don't want to go over what they already know - I want to find out what they do know, what they understand, and where to go from there.
As far as a coming of age ritual - I'd ask them whether they *want* one, first. Some children don't want to be the center of attention, some do - some don't care. I'd also ask them what they'd want IN their ceremony, who they'd want to be there, what they'd want to do for it. I'd help them in planning what they want, with the idea that the end result is them feeling more mature and adult - which is, really, what a coming of age ritual is all about.
Regarding "being pagen in a christo-centric world"... Well, that's something that would happen as I continue teaching them. I believe what my mother always taught me about religions in the world... "Picture a bicycle wheel," she'd say, "You can imagine one, can't you? All the spokes running from the outside rim to the hub? Ok - well, think of it this way - the world is the outside rim. All those spokes? Those are the different religions and how people believe through their life's path. The hub of the wheel is what we get to as we travel through our lives and down our individual religious pathways.
"Just like the bicycle wheel can't support anything without the many different spokes to even out the balance of weight, the world can't survive without the many different religions and paths of life that we, as human beings, take. It is up to each one of us to appreciate the differences, accept them, embrace them, and know that our choices aren't the only ones in the world - but that we help support the world with them." I think my mother is a very wise woman regarding religion.
Part of what I would teach is that being in a christo-centric world doesn't have to be a bad thing - but I believe that religious intolerance is still something to be aware of. I don't advertise what religion I am at work - this isn't necessarily because I'm afraid of what "the man" might do to me. It's because I don't feel that my religion (or anyone else's, for that matter) is something that should be discussed at work - I feel the same way about politics and sex. Unless your work happens to be at a religious order, don't talk about religion. Unless you happen to work at a porn shop, or a sex shop, don't talk about sex. Unless you work with a politician, don't talk about politics. It's just not professional, and it's no one else's business what I do outside of work. At work, I'm on THEIR dime - which means that I need to be a positive representative of my company. Outside of work, I'm on MY dime - which means that, as long as I don't drag my company's name into it, I can do as I please with my religious / political / sexual beliefs.
~M
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
OOOH! 2 in one day! Can it be?
Yeah - I got to looking into the Witches Weekly archives and found this little gem of a question - I couldn't resist. I'm in a ranting mood! LOL
What are some things that people do in the name of paganism or neo-paganism that tend to annoy you?
Hmmm... I think that being so totally self-rightious about their religion is one that irks me... But then, that's not just in the Pagan or neo-pagan community - that's pretty much everywhere. Those who believe that their religion is the ONLY religion out there, and it's the only RIGHT religion to pick - well, they're as bad as those they rant against. There's a great quote from my fiance regarding religion, and it explains why A. I'm a solitary practitioner, and B. he's a devoted athiest: There is no religion which, when practiced fully, condones the subjigation, mutilation, or killing of another for ANY reason. Fred's decided that he will remain an athiest until all religions understand this, accept it, embrace it, and preach it fully and honestly. I don't blame him.
People who say that Wicca is better than all other religions are no better than the Roman Catholics who say that Roman Catholisism is better than all other religions... Remember that those who believed that there is only *ONE* true religion, and that one religion was the only way to go created the Inquisition - and it can go both ways.
Also - those who aren't willing to do the work and look into, understand, question, even dis-prove parts of, the religion they wish to be a part of... They irk me. I've had a few run-in's with people like this. I watched as they duct-taped together portions of each of the sabbat rituals into something that they liked, rather than keep with traditions - and then looked down on me when I declined the invite to join in... It's not that I'm not into doing things a little differently - but for someone who was booted from a coven for not studying the mysteries of the religion, and then deciding to simply make something up and call it "official"... Well, I have to say that it doesn't strike me as someone who wants to do a lot of soul searching for something as important as a religious belief. If you're not willing to work and question and dig into your religion, then you shouldn't be a part of it - and you certainly shouldn't be calling yourself the LEADER of such a religion.
Another thing that irks me to no end is the "fluffy bunnies" - you know the ones... The ones that bounce up to you at a party and have coven names like "The sparkle fairy princess coven of light and moonbeams", and member names like "Sunshine EverDance" and "Moondrivel RiverDance". They tell you that being a Wiccan is just the most nicety-nice thing in the whole world, and if everyone would join them and just be nice the world would be filled with sparkles and rainbows and lolly-pops and...
And about that time you just want to smack them - if only to shut them up, since it's obvious that they haven't a brain in their head to knock sense into. It's not that I'm cynical. I'm a realist. The realist doesn't see the glass half-empty or half-full; the realist looks at the glass, sees that they've got to make sure that it doesn't get knocked over while others are moving around the room, and understands that eventually, someone (most likely them) will have to take it to the kitchen and clean it. I see the world as it is, not as it "should be". Yes, it's true - if people WERE nice to one another, and DID get along, and COULD accept one another for who they were and not for any number of possible disqualifying issues, then the world would be a great (if boring) place.
The truth of the matter is that human nature won't allow such things to happen. We are, by nature, a group of materialistic, jealous, greedy bunch of creatures who want a lot, but don't necessarily want to give in order to receive. We can *choose* to be different... we can *choose* to accept that person across the room as different and not abandon them when the house we're both in is set on fire... But that's the whole point, isn't it. It's about choice - and we, as a group, have chosen not to do so. I don't like people. Individual persons are great, but people? Well, as K would say, "People are dumb, panicky, dangerous animals - and you know it."
So yeah - those would be the most that I have issues with within the Neo-Pagan and Pagan communities. Which is why I'm a solitary practitioner, and proud of the fact that I question my religion almost daily, and reconcile with it at the end of the day because I can prove to myself that it's the right one for ME.
~M
What are some things that people do in the name of paganism or neo-paganism that tend to annoy you?
Hmmm... I think that being so totally self-rightious about their religion is one that irks me... But then, that's not just in the Pagan or neo-pagan community - that's pretty much everywhere. Those who believe that their religion is the ONLY religion out there, and it's the only RIGHT religion to pick - well, they're as bad as those they rant against. There's a great quote from my fiance regarding religion, and it explains why A. I'm a solitary practitioner, and B. he's a devoted athiest: There is no religion which, when practiced fully, condones the subjigation, mutilation, or killing of another for ANY reason. Fred's decided that he will remain an athiest until all religions understand this, accept it, embrace it, and preach it fully and honestly. I don't blame him.
People who say that Wicca is better than all other religions are no better than the Roman Catholics who say that Roman Catholisism is better than all other religions... Remember that those who believed that there is only *ONE* true religion, and that one religion was the only way to go created the Inquisition - and it can go both ways.
Also - those who aren't willing to do the work and look into, understand, question, even dis-prove parts of, the religion they wish to be a part of... They irk me. I've had a few run-in's with people like this. I watched as they duct-taped together portions of each of the sabbat rituals into something that they liked, rather than keep with traditions - and then looked down on me when I declined the invite to join in... It's not that I'm not into doing things a little differently - but for someone who was booted from a coven for not studying the mysteries of the religion, and then deciding to simply make something up and call it "official"... Well, I have to say that it doesn't strike me as someone who wants to do a lot of soul searching for something as important as a religious belief. If you're not willing to work and question and dig into your religion, then you shouldn't be a part of it - and you certainly shouldn't be calling yourself the LEADER of such a religion.
Another thing that irks me to no end is the "fluffy bunnies" - you know the ones... The ones that bounce up to you at a party and have coven names like "The sparkle fairy princess coven of light and moonbeams", and member names like "Sunshine EverDance" and "Moondrivel RiverDance". They tell you that being a Wiccan is just the most nicety-nice thing in the whole world, and if everyone would join them and just be nice the world would be filled with sparkles and rainbows and lolly-pops and...
And about that time you just want to smack them - if only to shut them up, since it's obvious that they haven't a brain in their head to knock sense into. It's not that I'm cynical. I'm a realist. The realist doesn't see the glass half-empty or half-full; the realist looks at the glass, sees that they've got to make sure that it doesn't get knocked over while others are moving around the room, and understands that eventually, someone (most likely them) will have to take it to the kitchen and clean it. I see the world as it is, not as it "should be". Yes, it's true - if people WERE nice to one another, and DID get along, and COULD accept one another for who they were and not for any number of possible disqualifying issues, then the world would be a great (if boring) place.
The truth of the matter is that human nature won't allow such things to happen. We are, by nature, a group of materialistic, jealous, greedy bunch of creatures who want a lot, but don't necessarily want to give in order to receive. We can *choose* to be different... we can *choose* to accept that person across the room as different and not abandon them when the house we're both in is set on fire... But that's the whole point, isn't it. It's about choice - and we, as a group, have chosen not to do so. I don't like people. Individual persons are great, but people? Well, as K would say, "People are dumb, panicky, dangerous animals - and you know it."
So yeah - those would be the most that I have issues with within the Neo-Pagan and Pagan communities. Which is why I'm a solitary practitioner, and proud of the fact that I question my religion almost daily, and reconcile with it at the end of the day because I can prove to myself that it's the right one for ME.
~M
Argh! Foiled again!!!
Why is it, every time I find a comfy clothing item that I like, invariably the company that makes it either gets sold out and the new company stops making the product, or the company itself simply quits making it for what I see is no apparent reason?!
Take for instance, my FormFit(tm) undies... They are comfy, cotton undies that fit everywhere - they don't slide, they don't roll down, they don't cause chafing, the elastic is completely wrapped in the fabric, they were affordable... AND now that they're not their own company, but under Jockey, Jockey has decided to NOT MAKE THEM ANYMORE! They have something similar, but there's no guarantee that they'll fit - and since it's Jockey, and I have had issues in the past with Jockey fitting large women, I doubt that it will be the same.
So - I'm back to going to either Lane Bryant or Avenue to get my undies - and at a MUCH higher price. FormFit were 6 in a package for $12. If I'm lucky, I can get 4 for $20 at either LB or Avenue. Yay... I can't even find any on EBAY, for the Lord and Lady's sake.
While I realize this may not be a complete crisis or anything, it's bloody annoying to realize that my foundation garments are no longer being stocked - it's about as annoying as it is to find that my bra size keeps fluctuating between a 42DD and a 44DDD depending on the cut, maker, and fabric type. Bleh!
Oh - and I *HATE* shopping for clothes as it is. This means I have to actually go out LOOKING instead of knowing where to go exactly and just go in, buy it, and get out. GAH!
~M
Take for instance, my FormFit(tm) undies... They are comfy, cotton undies that fit everywhere - they don't slide, they don't roll down, they don't cause chafing, the elastic is completely wrapped in the fabric, they were affordable... AND now that they're not their own company, but under Jockey, Jockey has decided to NOT MAKE THEM ANYMORE! They have something similar, but there's no guarantee that they'll fit - and since it's Jockey, and I have had issues in the past with Jockey fitting large women, I doubt that it will be the same.
So - I'm back to going to either Lane Bryant or Avenue to get my undies - and at a MUCH higher price. FormFit were 6 in a package for $12. If I'm lucky, I can get 4 for $20 at either LB or Avenue. Yay... I can't even find any on EBAY, for the Lord and Lady's sake.
While I realize this may not be a complete crisis or anything, it's bloody annoying to realize that my foundation garments are no longer being stocked - it's about as annoying as it is to find that my bra size keeps fluctuating between a 42DD and a 44DDD depending on the cut, maker, and fabric type. Bleh!
Oh - and I *HATE* shopping for clothes as it is. This means I have to actually go out LOOKING instead of knowing where to go exactly and just go in, buy it, and get out. GAH!
~M
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Witches Weekly Question...
Who has been a spiritual mentor for you during your path? If you do not have one (or even if you do), what motivates you to stay on your spiritual path?
An interesting question... My spiritual mentor? Well... I guess that's been a sort of combination of friends and my Mother - and my own personal moral beliefs. I was raised with what those in the craft call the "Rede" since I was born, by a parent who was not in the craft - it was simply the most sensible thing she could come up with that made sense to us kids. Religion wasn't a big thing in our house - my father really wasn't a religious person, and my mom was disenchanted with the secular areas she had been exposed to. She handed me a stack of different religious texts when I was 13 and said to choose for myself.
As for what motivates me to stay on my spiritual path - Myself, I guess, is the answer to what keeps me on my spiritual path. I've always felt that there was something bigger that couldn't be defined or cubby-holed into a specific religion, that was out there... It's not that I believe in any one divine being - or that I believe in many of them... I simply believe - that's all.
I'm of a serious mind that Terry Pratchett has it right - believing in gods is sort of like believing in the Postman... You already know that they exist, that they'll be there every day, whether you actually are there at the postal box or not. It's what you do in your daily life that matters and reflects your personal beliefs, more than whether you happen to be standing there, waiting for the letter to arrive.
Of course, that begs the question as to whether I believe in a structured spiritual path and worship... No, I do not. If I did, I'd be a HUGE hypocrite, as I don't have a set time for me to do alter work or anything. I'm a solitary practitioner because I don't like dealing with other people's drama - nor do I like dealing with how other people feel that I "should" be worshipping. I believe that my daily actions and thoughts are enough for day-to-day things, and if I need something additional, such as advice or guidance, I can choose to meditate upon the question until I can find the best answer possible - whether that be within myself, or to ask someone else for advice to help me.
I don't believe that having high holy day celebrations or equinox rituals make me any better of a person than those who go to church each Sunday. I give thanks every day for the gifts I have received, which include my health, my family, the roof over my head, and the food on my table. I do this by doing the best that I can each day, and choosing to not wallow in self pity too much when things get hard for me.
I believe that each person is in charge of their own lives, and can choose to do good things or bad, regardless of how they were raised. There are very few exceptions to this belief, and those that are - well, there's something seriously mentally wrong that no amount of medication or treatment can fix. I believe that each person has the power to make their own way through life, without purposely hurting another person. I believe that indirect hurts are just as bad as direct hurts. I believe that each person needs to make atonement for their actions if they end up hurting another person - especially if they do so purposely. I don't believe that a spiritual leader has the ability to take payment for atonement and make it a "done deal" (indulgences, etc). I don't believe that sitting on your knees saying "hail mary's" or "Our Father's" is atonement, either. I believe that atonement comes from within, and affects the person wronged directly and personally - and can only be done once you feel true remorse at your actions.
So, there you have it - some of the things that I believe, and my answer to the Witches Weekly Question...
~M
An interesting question... My spiritual mentor? Well... I guess that's been a sort of combination of friends and my Mother - and my own personal moral beliefs. I was raised with what those in the craft call the "Rede" since I was born, by a parent who was not in the craft - it was simply the most sensible thing she could come up with that made sense to us kids. Religion wasn't a big thing in our house - my father really wasn't a religious person, and my mom was disenchanted with the secular areas she had been exposed to. She handed me a stack of different religious texts when I was 13 and said to choose for myself.
As for what motivates me to stay on my spiritual path - Myself, I guess, is the answer to what keeps me on my spiritual path. I've always felt that there was something bigger that couldn't be defined or cubby-holed into a specific religion, that was out there... It's not that I believe in any one divine being - or that I believe in many of them... I simply believe - that's all.
I'm of a serious mind that Terry Pratchett has it right - believing in gods is sort of like believing in the Postman... You already know that they exist, that they'll be there every day, whether you actually are there at the postal box or not. It's what you do in your daily life that matters and reflects your personal beliefs, more than whether you happen to be standing there, waiting for the letter to arrive.
Of course, that begs the question as to whether I believe in a structured spiritual path and worship... No, I do not. If I did, I'd be a HUGE hypocrite, as I don't have a set time for me to do alter work or anything. I'm a solitary practitioner because I don't like dealing with other people's drama - nor do I like dealing with how other people feel that I "should" be worshipping. I believe that my daily actions and thoughts are enough for day-to-day things, and if I need something additional, such as advice or guidance, I can choose to meditate upon the question until I can find the best answer possible - whether that be within myself, or to ask someone else for advice to help me.
I don't believe that having high holy day celebrations or equinox rituals make me any better of a person than those who go to church each Sunday. I give thanks every day for the gifts I have received, which include my health, my family, the roof over my head, and the food on my table. I do this by doing the best that I can each day, and choosing to not wallow in self pity too much when things get hard for me.
I believe that each person is in charge of their own lives, and can choose to do good things or bad, regardless of how they were raised. There are very few exceptions to this belief, and those that are - well, there's something seriously mentally wrong that no amount of medication or treatment can fix. I believe that each person has the power to make their own way through life, without purposely hurting another person. I believe that indirect hurts are just as bad as direct hurts. I believe that each person needs to make atonement for their actions if they end up hurting another person - especially if they do so purposely. I don't believe that a spiritual leader has the ability to take payment for atonement and make it a "done deal" (indulgences, etc). I don't believe that sitting on your knees saying "hail mary's" or "Our Father's" is atonement, either. I believe that atonement comes from within, and affects the person wronged directly and personally - and can only be done once you feel true remorse at your actions.
So, there you have it - some of the things that I believe, and my answer to the Witches Weekly Question...
~M
Friday, November 03, 2006
You know you've been raised by housecats when...
After your 3-day stint at work (10-hour days, not including the ride there and back), you spend most of your day off lounging, napping, and generally being lazy instead of doing things you *should* be doing - like cleaning the house, sewing your winter coat, working on wedding invites, etc...
Apparently I was raised by housecats. LOL. I was up at 7 am and fed the cat, then went back to bed and napped until 10... dreaming about sleeping. *snicker*
I'm off today, then work tomorrow, then am off for 2 days... Since my automatic deposit doesn't kick in until next paycheck, I'm heading in to pick it up today and deposit it - then it's back home to do something constructive - hopefully to finish the coat. I'll be food shopping on Sunday *shudder*. I hate shopping on the first weekend of the month. Those that I call "professional breeders" are out in full force after getting their welfare checks - with all of their badly-behaved offspring in tow. I realize that there are those on welfare who are NOT professional breeders. They are in that situation because it's necessary for the moment and they're working hard to get themselves off of it. HOWEVER - they have become the few, the noble, the ones that I end up lumping in with honest politicians and the Easter Bunny. See, the ones that I normally run into are those who are here in the US by questionable means, and/or those who are simply too lazy to work at all for a living - and are trying to convince their 16-year-old daughter that SHE needs to get pregnant now, so that they won't lose any of their welfare income.
I wasn't honestly prepared to have this be a political debate today, so I'm going to stop there and go catch my bus... This is, however, a subject that I'm sure I'll visit again...
~M
Apparently I was raised by housecats. LOL. I was up at 7 am and fed the cat, then went back to bed and napped until 10... dreaming about sleeping. *snicker*
I'm off today, then work tomorrow, then am off for 2 days... Since my automatic deposit doesn't kick in until next paycheck, I'm heading in to pick it up today and deposit it - then it's back home to do something constructive - hopefully to finish the coat. I'll be food shopping on Sunday *shudder*. I hate shopping on the first weekend of the month. Those that I call "professional breeders" are out in full force after getting their welfare checks - with all of their badly-behaved offspring in tow. I realize that there are those on welfare who are NOT professional breeders. They are in that situation because it's necessary for the moment and they're working hard to get themselves off of it. HOWEVER - they have become the few, the noble, the ones that I end up lumping in with honest politicians and the Easter Bunny. See, the ones that I normally run into are those who are here in the US by questionable means, and/or those who are simply too lazy to work at all for a living - and are trying to convince their 16-year-old daughter that SHE needs to get pregnant now, so that they won't lose any of their welfare income.
I wasn't honestly prepared to have this be a political debate today, so I'm going to stop there and go catch my bus... This is, however, a subject that I'm sure I'll visit again...
~M
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Wonder-Feast powers! Activate!!
Form of: Steamed water!
Shape of: various seafood!
Yeah - it's weird, but it works... sort of. I've come to the conclusion that I'm NUTS for doing this... Instead of a separate holiday dinner and thanksgiving dinner, I'm doing this combo feast thing... It's gonna be expensive, and I'm already stressing out about it. Not to mention the fact that my mother wants me to come up to visit for "official" thanksgiving - which I can't do since I'm busy saving up money for the holiday feast. I've sent an invite to her to come down HERE, but I doubt that will happen. I may have bitten off more than I can chew. That's not to say that it won't happen - it will. I just may not be able to pull off everything that I wanted to...
I am also starting the holiday blues... It happens every year. I worry about the lack of fundage for pressies, the food, the entertainment, the general well-being for my friends... and the lack of sunshine for myself. I've thought about heading to Aruba, but ironically, I would need money for it, which I don't have. *chuckle*
This year, on top of the dinner and the lack of money, I also have to worry about keeping my new job, doing photo shoots, finishing my winter coat and working on wedding plans... I think I may have two or three too many plates to spin here... I'm not sure... I haven't heard from anyone willing to help me with the wedding stuff yet, so I'm doing it on my own, like I did for the last one. I'm not going to worry about a bridal shower or bachelorette party - the last time, Kate was supposed to be in charge of it and she waited until the night before the wedding to even plan it.
bleh...
~M
Shape of: various seafood!
Yeah - it's weird, but it works... sort of. I've come to the conclusion that I'm NUTS for doing this... Instead of a separate holiday dinner and thanksgiving dinner, I'm doing this combo feast thing... It's gonna be expensive, and I'm already stressing out about it. Not to mention the fact that my mother wants me to come up to visit for "official" thanksgiving - which I can't do since I'm busy saving up money for the holiday feast. I've sent an invite to her to come down HERE, but I doubt that will happen. I may have bitten off more than I can chew. That's not to say that it won't happen - it will. I just may not be able to pull off everything that I wanted to...
I am also starting the holiday blues... It happens every year. I worry about the lack of fundage for pressies, the food, the entertainment, the general well-being for my friends... and the lack of sunshine for myself. I've thought about heading to Aruba, but ironically, I would need money for it, which I don't have. *chuckle*
This year, on top of the dinner and the lack of money, I also have to worry about keeping my new job, doing photo shoots, finishing my winter coat and working on wedding plans... I think I may have two or three too many plates to spin here... I'm not sure... I haven't heard from anyone willing to help me with the wedding stuff yet, so I'm doing it on my own, like I did for the last one. I'm not going to worry about a bridal shower or bachelorette party - the last time, Kate was supposed to be in charge of it and she waited until the night before the wedding to even plan it.
bleh...
~M
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Happy Candy Corporation Support Day!
OK - so I don't like the corporate thing that Halloween has become. I like what it was; I especially love the Dia De Los Muertos that the Hispanics celebrate (there's something about a lot of skeletons dancing around that amuse me greatly). I like what Halloween was when I was growing up: it was homemade costumes, home-made candy, bobbing for apples, and a fun party at the house with all your friends.
Now, there's warnings everywhere, heavens forbid you should even *think* of serving or passing out home-made goodies, and your children will beg you unmercilessly for a store-bought costume appropriate to their style of thinking... *sigh*
I will say that I love dressing up for halloween. I love the holiday for what I remember it as... I'm just not in love with what corporate fearmongers have turned it into...
~M
Now, there's warnings everywhere, heavens forbid you should even *think* of serving or passing out home-made goodies, and your children will beg you unmercilessly for a store-bought costume appropriate to their style of thinking... *sigh*
I will say that I love dressing up for halloween. I love the holiday for what I remember it as... I'm just not in love with what corporate fearmongers have turned it into...
~M
Monday, October 30, 2006
New schedule, and lots of fun this last weekend...
So, today marks the start of my new schedule. I have Monday, Friday and Sunday off now. I have to write it that way to remind myself that our weeks start on Monday and end on Sundays. I do get two days off in a row, which is nice, and I get to have Saturday nights now to do what I wanna do, instead of going to bed early and going back to work on Sundays - late.
Saturday, Fred's new fire troupe, Pyrophelia, made its debut at a party up in Klatskanie, OR. It was at an old friend of mine's house so I got to see him. I hadn't seen him or his family in... well, lessee... Not since the end of the nasty divorce I went through. I'd heard some really mean and nasty things said about him and his new girlfriend - specifically about their treatment of his son (my godson). Turns out, it was pretty much completely rumor and made-up crap by his ex-wife and her friends. My godson is fine, adjusting quite well to his situation, very happy, much more grown-up and well-mannered than he had been, and is very helpful and interested in the world around him. I can only attribute that to a combination of the ADHD medication they have him on and a good, stress-free, stable homelife where he gets the right kind of attention and immediate discipline when he needs it.
It was a great show, and I got to guest with them. I played around with Fred's fire fans, as well as my sword and my palm torches. We got video of the whole shebang, and I have to say that, other than not necessarily liking my outfit currently, I did pretty well. The rest of the troupe did really well for only having 3 weeks to practice, tops, and the audience, being mostly the local townsfolk, were extremely impressed and excited about having fire there in the first place. All and all, a good way to give the troupe its first teething session.
Afterwards we socialized with everyone. My old friend and I caught up a bit, and shared a few good hugs and some laughs. His brother, Donut, and I chatted for a good hour or so about travel outside the US and food. Donut just came back from yet another trip to China, and is headed out to Mexico today for another trip. He's a computer programmer, and makes really good money - so can afford to head out and stay at hostels for a week, wandering through countries and generally learning about the area and its culture. I envy that. I'd love to be able to head out and travel. On the other hand, I'd also be really glad to head home and spend some quality time with family and friends, too.
We made it back home around 3 am, and I was unable to make it to work yesterday from being exhausted and not getting enough sleep. That was ok, as it was a sort of "we realize you may or may not be able to make it here on Sunday - just call us and let us know" type of deal at work. Which was fine. Tomorrow is Halloween, and I will be getting to wear my Sari to work. Yay me! I'm actually quite excited, as I love it and haven't gotten to wear it very often. I'll hopefully get some good piccies of me and post them up.
The wedding stuff is proceeding. Currently my plate is more full of trying to get my coat done so I won't freeze in the mornings or evenings. I really want to get it done by the end of this week, at the latest. It's getting overly foggy and cold in the mornings and I don't enjoy it one bit. One of the downsides of living here in the Pac NW. I love the fall colors, but I hate the cold, and the lack of sunshine. *sigh*
Other than that, there's not much to report. I have been updating on my wedding info page, so if you're curious, please feel free to look and see what's going on there...
~M
Saturday, Fred's new fire troupe, Pyrophelia, made its debut at a party up in Klatskanie, OR. It was at an old friend of mine's house so I got to see him. I hadn't seen him or his family in... well, lessee... Not since the end of the nasty divorce I went through. I'd heard some really mean and nasty things said about him and his new girlfriend - specifically about their treatment of his son (my godson). Turns out, it was pretty much completely rumor and made-up crap by his ex-wife and her friends. My godson is fine, adjusting quite well to his situation, very happy, much more grown-up and well-mannered than he had been, and is very helpful and interested in the world around him. I can only attribute that to a combination of the ADHD medication they have him on and a good, stress-free, stable homelife where he gets the right kind of attention and immediate discipline when he needs it.
It was a great show, and I got to guest with them. I played around with Fred's fire fans, as well as my sword and my palm torches. We got video of the whole shebang, and I have to say that, other than not necessarily liking my outfit currently, I did pretty well. The rest of the troupe did really well for only having 3 weeks to practice, tops, and the audience, being mostly the local townsfolk, were extremely impressed and excited about having fire there in the first place. All and all, a good way to give the troupe its first teething session.
Afterwards we socialized with everyone. My old friend and I caught up a bit, and shared a few good hugs and some laughs. His brother, Donut, and I chatted for a good hour or so about travel outside the US and food. Donut just came back from yet another trip to China, and is headed out to Mexico today for another trip. He's a computer programmer, and makes really good money - so can afford to head out and stay at hostels for a week, wandering through countries and generally learning about the area and its culture. I envy that. I'd love to be able to head out and travel. On the other hand, I'd also be really glad to head home and spend some quality time with family and friends, too.
We made it back home around 3 am, and I was unable to make it to work yesterday from being exhausted and not getting enough sleep. That was ok, as it was a sort of "we realize you may or may not be able to make it here on Sunday - just call us and let us know" type of deal at work. Which was fine. Tomorrow is Halloween, and I will be getting to wear my Sari to work. Yay me! I'm actually quite excited, as I love it and haven't gotten to wear it very often. I'll hopefully get some good piccies of me and post them up.
The wedding stuff is proceeding. Currently my plate is more full of trying to get my coat done so I won't freeze in the mornings or evenings. I really want to get it done by the end of this week, at the latest. It's getting overly foggy and cold in the mornings and I don't enjoy it one bit. One of the downsides of living here in the Pac NW. I love the fall colors, but I hate the cold, and the lack of sunshine. *sigh*
Other than that, there's not much to report. I have been updating on my wedding info page, so if you're curious, please feel free to look and see what's going on there...
~M
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Oh Random! Oh Chance!
Had to put that in today, since it's a great punchline to one of my favorite taglines, and the Luscious Lil sent me OODLES of them today. Yay me!
Today is supposed to be filled with creativeness. I'd like to say that I'm looking forward to it, but I'm not - mostly because I don't have a table to set things on in order to cut the pieces out. I'm working on a winter coat. It's getting to that seasonably cool time of the year wherein, if I have to be outside waiting for the bus at 5:30 am, I need to have something warmer than a hoodie on.
The fabric is stuff that I picked up a few years ago at Pendleton Woolen Mills Outlet. It's a lovely black, white, and bright royal blue random weave, about medium weight. I'm lining it with a powder blue rayon/nylon fabric, machine embroidered into having flowers and vines everywhere on it. Anxiety may remember it, as I gave her some of the same fabric for her birthday two years ago, along with some trim. The torso portion will also have a 3rd inner lining set between the two, of lightweight polar fleece, in order to make sure that I'm actually WARM. It's going to be really pretty - it's also a pain in the ASS, as I'm modifying a cassock pattern to make the damned thing, and there's a lot of pinning, sewing and modification to fit my body type. *sigh* I swear, I need to have my head examined when I decide to do such things.
Before I do that, though, I have to get dressed and head down to the bank to deposit money into Fred's account, then pick him up his November bus pass. And it's raining. Perfect.
~M
Today is supposed to be filled with creativeness. I'd like to say that I'm looking forward to it, but I'm not - mostly because I don't have a table to set things on in order to cut the pieces out. I'm working on a winter coat. It's getting to that seasonably cool time of the year wherein, if I have to be outside waiting for the bus at 5:30 am, I need to have something warmer than a hoodie on.
The fabric is stuff that I picked up a few years ago at Pendleton Woolen Mills Outlet. It's a lovely black, white, and bright royal blue random weave, about medium weight. I'm lining it with a powder blue rayon/nylon fabric, machine embroidered into having flowers and vines everywhere on it. Anxiety may remember it, as I gave her some of the same fabric for her birthday two years ago, along with some trim. The torso portion will also have a 3rd inner lining set between the two, of lightweight polar fleece, in order to make sure that I'm actually WARM. It's going to be really pretty - it's also a pain in the ASS, as I'm modifying a cassock pattern to make the damned thing, and there's a lot of pinning, sewing and modification to fit my body type. *sigh* I swear, I need to have my head examined when I decide to do such things.
Before I do that, though, I have to get dressed and head down to the bank to deposit money into Fred's account, then pick him up his November bus pass. And it's raining. Perfect.
~M
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Oh joy!
So, Speedboy is currently suspended from school for punching another student in the face while they were in line for the bus. Since there's no school either today or tomorrow, this means he'll be home through Monday.
I ranted to his mother yesterday about it while I was at work because I was at my wits end with his actions and attitude. Supposedly the school was to get him started with counselling and special ed classes, but he's not in them, from what I can tell. He's in his normal 8th grade curriculum, with no counselling, no special classes, and no help - which means that he's just as bad off as he was last year. His mom (GothickAngel) and I chatted back and forth for a few hours about it, and she's going to be joining in on the parent-teacher conference tonight via phone (she lives in another state).
She, Fred and I will be kicking some major Boo-Tay about this whole situation, and if they refuse to do anything about it, or worse, promise that it's going to change and it doesn't, she and I are going to be taking this to the State BOE and see what THEY say about it. I'm tired of it. I'm tired of the unfulfilled promises, the condescending attitudes, the platitudes, and the overall uninterested-ness of the school to help Speedboy. Fred and I are doing everything we can, and it's not helping - since THEY have him 40 hours a week, THEY should be doing more to assist him, dammit!
GAH!
GothickAngel has offered to pay for counselling outside of school for him, should we end up needing to take him there. I'm thinking this would be a Good Thing, regardless of whether the school starts him in counselling or not. William Temple House does counselling for $5 / session, so I can take him down there on my day off during the week, and have him go through everything. Perhaps even get into a family counselling session or something, if necessary (or possible), so that all 3 of us are on the same page.
So, on to other things at this point - It's too early to get all worked up about this right now, and until this evening at 7:30, there's nothing further I can really DO about it, anyway.
Wedding preparations are proceeding well. I got the design down for the wedding invites, including the insert and the RSVP cards. Now I need to have the RSVP's and the outside of the main invitation copied onto card stock, paint all the base coats, and then have them copied in color en mass. Then I'll go back and highlight them all with white-lining. If you have NO idea what I'm talking about, you can go here and enjoy the basic lessons of illumination... These are some incredible designs that have been created - by hand - and painted - by hand... It's breathtaking.
I also need to head to The Paper Zone (or equivalent) and get some nice paper stock for the invitation insert, as well as the information regarding how to get there, etc... I'm hoping for some vellum-like or really light-weight substance with a light design on it, in a really subtle blue color.
I'm getting beads and charms for the favors. I have an idea - I just need to impliment it. LOL... We'll see how cool it looks once I create one. I'm also getting a tiara for the wedding. I don't just want to feel like a princess, I want to LOOK like one, too. *chuckle*
Other than that, I do need to go to work tomorrow and work on some decorations for the Halloween thing - I won't be there for it (that's my day off) but I would like to help out. Besides, I have to go in tomorrow to pick up my paycheck. Yay. And talk with my boss about what's going to happen with Sundays, since she hasn't gotten back to me on it. Yay.
~M
I ranted to his mother yesterday about it while I was at work because I was at my wits end with his actions and attitude. Supposedly the school was to get him started with counselling and special ed classes, but he's not in them, from what I can tell. He's in his normal 8th grade curriculum, with no counselling, no special classes, and no help - which means that he's just as bad off as he was last year. His mom (GothickAngel) and I chatted back and forth for a few hours about it, and she's going to be joining in on the parent-teacher conference tonight via phone (she lives in another state).
She, Fred and I will be kicking some major Boo-Tay about this whole situation, and if they refuse to do anything about it, or worse, promise that it's going to change and it doesn't, she and I are going to be taking this to the State BOE and see what THEY say about it. I'm tired of it. I'm tired of the unfulfilled promises, the condescending attitudes, the platitudes, and the overall uninterested-ness of the school to help Speedboy. Fred and I are doing everything we can, and it's not helping - since THEY have him 40 hours a week, THEY should be doing more to assist him, dammit!
GAH!
GothickAngel has offered to pay for counselling outside of school for him, should we end up needing to take him there. I'm thinking this would be a Good Thing, regardless of whether the school starts him in counselling or not. William Temple House does counselling for $5 / session, so I can take him down there on my day off during the week, and have him go through everything. Perhaps even get into a family counselling session or something, if necessary (or possible), so that all 3 of us are on the same page.
So, on to other things at this point - It's too early to get all worked up about this right now, and until this evening at 7:30, there's nothing further I can really DO about it, anyway.
Wedding preparations are proceeding well. I got the design down for the wedding invites, including the insert and the RSVP cards. Now I need to have the RSVP's and the outside of the main invitation copied onto card stock, paint all the base coats, and then have them copied in color en mass. Then I'll go back and highlight them all with white-lining. If you have NO idea what I'm talking about, you can go here and enjoy the basic lessons of illumination... These are some incredible designs that have been created - by hand - and painted - by hand... It's breathtaking.
I also need to head to The Paper Zone (or equivalent) and get some nice paper stock for the invitation insert, as well as the information regarding how to get there, etc... I'm hoping for some vellum-like or really light-weight substance with a light design on it, in a really subtle blue color.
I'm getting beads and charms for the favors. I have an idea - I just need to impliment it. LOL... We'll see how cool it looks once I create one. I'm also getting a tiara for the wedding. I don't just want to feel like a princess, I want to LOOK like one, too. *chuckle*
Other than that, I do need to go to work tomorrow and work on some decorations for the Halloween thing - I won't be there for it (that's my day off) but I would like to help out. Besides, I have to go in tomorrow to pick up my paycheck. Yay. And talk with my boss about what's going to happen with Sundays, since she hasn't gotten back to me on it. Yay.
~M
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Bwa ha ha ha ha! My Great Grand Uncle would be proud!
Ursula Vernon was featured the other day on Eros Blog - I was SO amused that I had to place the info here as well...
She explains it all here. The funniest thing about it is that she chose one of my ancestors to place on said poster... Hey, does that mean that I'm gonna get royalties? Nah. Probably not. *chuckle*
~M
She explains it all here. The funniest thing about it is that she chose one of my ancestors to place on said poster... Hey, does that mean that I'm gonna get royalties? Nah. Probably not. *chuckle*
~M
Sunday, October 15, 2006
updating...
So, today I updated my page here on the left side... You'll see there's nifty linkage to the wedding info and stuff. It'll be easier for everyone interested to go there and see what's going on, than worry about sliding back through the archives trying to find out information the night before. LOL.
The venue has been tentatively set - you can check out said nifty linkage for pictures of the site. The cost is going to be really reasonable. It'll mean that we will have to move across town from one spot to the other for the wedding vs the reception - BUT - that's ok. I think that's totally workable, not to mention reasonable, as most people will be coming from all over, and the reception can be held in a fairly centrally located spot.
I need to start working on updating the dress. I'm not going to wear my original Elizabethan. First, I was married in it the first time - bad juju. Second, while it's really pretty, it was a show-piece, and not really... well... me. So, I'll be wearing my blue Elizabethan, updated with pearls and seed beads all over the bodice, and some extra fabric over the skirt. I'll end up looking something like Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty or something.
I'm also going to splurge and get my hair profesionally styled for the day. I think I'm worth it, since last time I just left it down and didn't do anything with it. It was lovely, but hot.
I will say that I need help from everyone who can in making favors for the guests: ideas, creations, whatnot. Our colors are blue and cream, with touches of black. So - anyone who is living near me who would like to help a giddy bride-to-be out, please reach out and sma-- er, I mean, drop me a line. *chuckle*
I have 2.5 hours left and I will be able to leave here and head to Lil's house. She's been gracious enough to agree to run me over to Slasher's place for the birthday party they're having for his one-year-old. I got him a pirate ship... It's a Fisher Price Little People model (the ship only - this pic includes the rest of the packs you can get, too), and is adorable. It comes with a parrot that, when pressed, sings, squawks, and makes sounds like a cannon booming and splashing into the water. It also comes with a cannon that can launch it's cannonball out across the room. Bwa ha ha ha ha. Totally perfect, and it should last him several years of playing. Really reasonable price for it, too.
I am still enjoying my job, though I'll be glad when I get my new schedule. I won't have to work Sundays or Mondays, and won't have to work Fridays, either. Will be MUCH better on my sanity, as well as my attendance adherance, since Sundays will be getting me here at least 45 minutes late, no matter what I do. *sigh* Other nice thing: Fred and I will have Fridays off together, and I'll be able to go to Pirate Karaoke without having to ditch early like I did last night.
Other than that, nothing much is really happening. I'm trying to get as much planned as possible for now for the wedding, so I won't have to stress about it later on. I learned the last time that it's easier to just get what we can done, and worry about the rest of it as it comes up. Speaking of which - I need to start working on invitations, too... whee!
~M
The venue has been tentatively set - you can check out said nifty linkage for pictures of the site. The cost is going to be really reasonable. It'll mean that we will have to move across town from one spot to the other for the wedding vs the reception - BUT - that's ok. I think that's totally workable, not to mention reasonable, as most people will be coming from all over, and the reception can be held in a fairly centrally located spot.
I need to start working on updating the dress. I'm not going to wear my original Elizabethan. First, I was married in it the first time - bad juju. Second, while it's really pretty, it was a show-piece, and not really... well... me. So, I'll be wearing my blue Elizabethan, updated with pearls and seed beads all over the bodice, and some extra fabric over the skirt. I'll end up looking something like Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty or something.
I'm also going to splurge and get my hair profesionally styled for the day. I think I'm worth it, since last time I just left it down and didn't do anything with it. It was lovely, but hot.
I will say that I need help from everyone who can in making favors for the guests: ideas, creations, whatnot. Our colors are blue and cream, with touches of black. So - anyone who is living near me who would like to help a giddy bride-to-be out, please reach out and sma-- er, I mean, drop me a line. *chuckle*
I have 2.5 hours left and I will be able to leave here and head to Lil's house. She's been gracious enough to agree to run me over to Slasher's place for the birthday party they're having for his one-year-old. I got him a pirate ship... It's a Fisher Price Little People model (the ship only - this pic includes the rest of the packs you can get, too), and is adorable. It comes with a parrot that, when pressed, sings, squawks, and makes sounds like a cannon booming and splashing into the water. It also comes with a cannon that can launch it's cannonball out across the room. Bwa ha ha ha ha. Totally perfect, and it should last him several years of playing. Really reasonable price for it, too.
I am still enjoying my job, though I'll be glad when I get my new schedule. I won't have to work Sundays or Mondays, and won't have to work Fridays, either. Will be MUCH better on my sanity, as well as my attendance adherance, since Sundays will be getting me here at least 45 minutes late, no matter what I do. *sigh* Other nice thing: Fred and I will have Fridays off together, and I'll be able to go to Pirate Karaoke without having to ditch early like I did last night.
Other than that, nothing much is really happening. I'm trying to get as much planned as possible for now for the wedding, so I won't have to stress about it later on. I learned the last time that it's easier to just get what we can done, and worry about the rest of it as it comes up. Speaking of which - I need to start working on invitations, too... whee!
~M
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Petty annoyances...
I have now been awake for over 24 hours, and I'm not happy about it... Insomnia is really not a good thing for people when they have to work. I'm not sure exactly WHY I had it last night, but I did. Could have been due to the excitement of officially learning how to eat fire, could have been hormones... Not sure - whatever it was, I think I got a total of 2 hours sleep last night, and had to be up at 5 this morning to head in to work...
Only to find that once I got here, the outside badge plate wouldn't recognize my badge. Thankfully I arrived early enough that I could sit on hold for the toll free number into my work (because I didn't want to be late - nor did I know who would be scheduled to be here today) so that I could be let in said front door, since there's no security guards here.
Oh, and tomorrow being Sunday, I will be arriving at work one hour LATE, thanks to our beloved transit system, who insists that no one apparently needs my particular bus prior to 7:35 in the morning - and I live about an hour's bus ride away from work (give or take about 15 minutes for traffic). Nice.
Whilst updating the information for our wedding registries (we have LOTS now), I found that KMart SUCKS ASS for what they have available. Yes, I've been registering at KMart - also WalMart - because we have friends who are not financially stable, but who may want to give us affordable gifts. SO - we're attempting to cover everyone's options. In any case - not everything available at KMart is available at their "wedding section". It's making me totally agro - I'd love to get some bath sheets, but we can't put them on our list unless I take time and go INTO the store. Bleh. What good is online shopping if you're not going to allow ordering for everything you have available?
All sorts of petty things annoying me today - MySpace saying people are on when they're not... reps calling me for information on how to do something, then stating after the fact that they don't know the steps on how to do said something prior to getting to the point that they want to be at. argh, argh, argh...
Oh - and I won't be able to spend more than an hour or so at PK tonight because I have to wake up in the morning and go to work. I can't wait for my new schedule to start. Will be MUCH better, with Friday, Sun and Mon off... Yay me. I can deal with working during the days on Saturday, and by next tourney season, I should have enough seniority to request a different schedule with Friday/Sat/Sun off. Yay me again.
Bleh - I really just want to crawl back into bed and sleep for a good 12 hours...
~M
Only to find that once I got here, the outside badge plate wouldn't recognize my badge. Thankfully I arrived early enough that I could sit on hold for the toll free number into my work (because I didn't want to be late - nor did I know who would be scheduled to be here today) so that I could be let in said front door, since there's no security guards here.
Oh, and tomorrow being Sunday, I will be arriving at work one hour LATE, thanks to our beloved transit system, who insists that no one apparently needs my particular bus prior to 7:35 in the morning - and I live about an hour's bus ride away from work (give or take about 15 minutes for traffic). Nice.
Whilst updating the information for our wedding registries (we have LOTS now), I found that KMart SUCKS ASS for what they have available. Yes, I've been registering at KMart - also WalMart - because we have friends who are not financially stable, but who may want to give us affordable gifts. SO - we're attempting to cover everyone's options. In any case - not everything available at KMart is available at their "wedding section". It's making me totally agro - I'd love to get some bath sheets, but we can't put them on our list unless I take time and go INTO the store. Bleh. What good is online shopping if you're not going to allow ordering for everything you have available?
All sorts of petty things annoying me today - MySpace saying people are on when they're not... reps calling me for information on how to do something, then stating after the fact that they don't know the steps on how to do said something prior to getting to the point that they want to be at. argh, argh, argh...
Oh - and I won't be able to spend more than an hour or so at PK tonight because I have to wake up in the morning and go to work. I can't wait for my new schedule to start. Will be MUCH better, with Friday, Sun and Mon off... Yay me. I can deal with working during the days on Saturday, and by next tourney season, I should have enough seniority to request a different schedule with Friday/Sat/Sun off. Yay me again.
Bleh - I really just want to crawl back into bed and sleep for a good 12 hours...
~M
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Let's say I break into your house...
I'm not normally political here - I believe that people have a right to believing in whatever they choose to, as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else. I also believe that people have the right to believe those things without having to hear others rant on about their own beliefs (the old "if you don't like it, don't read it / look at it / consider it" thing is OH so right at times).
But every so often it comes to my attention via friends who are like-minded (or those who love to play devil's advocate - which I *LOVE* to play), and it just strikes me as totally, directly right on... The following gem, for example, was sent to me via Mum...
A lady wrote the best letter to the Editorials in ages!! It explains things better than all the baloney you hear on TV.
"Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Certain people are angry that the US might protect its own borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and, once here, to stay indefinitely. Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind these protests.
"Let's say I break into your house. Let's say that when you discover me in your house, you insist that I leave. But I say, "I've made all the beds and washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors; I've done all the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest (except for when I broke into your house).
"According to the protesters, not only must you let me stay, you must add me to your family's insurance plan, educate my kids, and provide other benefits to me and to my family (my husband will do your yard work because he too is hard-working and honest, except for that breaking in part). If you try to call the police or force me out, I will call my friends who will picket your house carrying signs that proclaim my right to be there. It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm just trying to better myself. I'm hard-working and honest, um, except for, well, you know.
"And what a deal it is for me!! I live in your house, contributing only a fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it without being accused of selfishness, prejudice and being an anti-housebreaker. Oh yeah, and I want you to learn my language so you can communicate with me."
Why can't people see how ridiculous this is?!
It's been one of those issues where I've hemmed and hawed about how I felt - but this particular analogy really put it into perspective... Is it the right perspective? Well, I don't know about that. I am not going to say whether it's right or wrong. But I will say that for every country I've ever **VISITED**, I've attempted at least a modicum of their language to show them that I am willing to learn. I have never ONCE assumed that someone knew my language if I wasn't in a predominantly English-speaking country. I also have never asked for anyone in another country to pay for my way, or my board or room, in return for doing their menial jobs.
I don't mind learning other languages, I actually rather enjoy it. I don't mind learning about other cultures - each one is rich in history (moreso than my own country, comparitively), and I love to learn about what it takes to make, say, a cup of tea. When you're in my country, however, just as those who helped me in France, Germany, Hungary, the Czech republic and Ukraine, I expect you to learn to speak my language. And if you're going to stay here, then you do so legally.
This is NOT a nazi-ism - it is a truth-ism. I don't believe that America is the end-all, be-all of societies (just ask my friends - they'll tell you EXACTLY what I think of political policies here at times). I do believe, however, that if I were to go live in Ukraine, I'd learn to speak Russian and Ukrainian. I'd go through what it would take to live there legally, and would never expect them to learn my language to make it easier for me to live there. That's just not the way the world works.
If you are here illegally, then you need to go back home and try for LEGAL citizenship for you and your family. When I get my paycheck at the end of two weeks, I don't enjoy knowing that part of my taxes go to paying for a war I don't believe in - neither do I like knowing that part of it goes to shelter your ass because you couldn't get here legally. I'm sorry that your country is in turmoil. I'm sorry that you feel you need to leave. There are other, better ways than sneaking across the border to live off other people's earnings.
~M
But every so often it comes to my attention via friends who are like-minded (or those who love to play devil's advocate - which I *LOVE* to play), and it just strikes me as totally, directly right on... The following gem, for example, was sent to me via Mum...
A lady wrote the best letter to the Editorials in ages!! It explains things better than all the baloney you hear on TV.
"Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Certain people are angry that the US might protect its own borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and, once here, to stay indefinitely. Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind these protests.
"Let's say I break into your house. Let's say that when you discover me in your house, you insist that I leave. But I say, "I've made all the beds and washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors; I've done all the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest (except for when I broke into your house).
"According to the protesters, not only must you let me stay, you must add me to your family's insurance plan, educate my kids, and provide other benefits to me and to my family (my husband will do your yard work because he too is hard-working and honest, except for that breaking in part). If you try to call the police or force me out, I will call my friends who will picket your house carrying signs that proclaim my right to be there. It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm just trying to better myself. I'm hard-working and honest, um, except for, well, you know.
"And what a deal it is for me!! I live in your house, contributing only a fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it without being accused of selfishness, prejudice and being an anti-housebreaker. Oh yeah, and I want you to learn my language so you can communicate with me."
Why can't people see how ridiculous this is?!
It's been one of those issues where I've hemmed and hawed about how I felt - but this particular analogy really put it into perspective... Is it the right perspective? Well, I don't know about that. I am not going to say whether it's right or wrong. But I will say that for every country I've ever **VISITED**, I've attempted at least a modicum of their language to show them that I am willing to learn. I have never ONCE assumed that someone knew my language if I wasn't in a predominantly English-speaking country. I also have never asked for anyone in another country to pay for my way, or my board or room, in return for doing their menial jobs.
I don't mind learning other languages, I actually rather enjoy it. I don't mind learning about other cultures - each one is rich in history (moreso than my own country, comparitively), and I love to learn about what it takes to make, say, a cup of tea. When you're in my country, however, just as those who helped me in France, Germany, Hungary, the Czech republic and Ukraine, I expect you to learn to speak my language. And if you're going to stay here, then you do so legally.
This is NOT a nazi-ism - it is a truth-ism. I don't believe that America is the end-all, be-all of societies (just ask my friends - they'll tell you EXACTLY what I think of political policies here at times). I do believe, however, that if I were to go live in Ukraine, I'd learn to speak Russian and Ukrainian. I'd go through what it would take to live there legally, and would never expect them to learn my language to make it easier for me to live there. That's just not the way the world works.
If you are here illegally, then you need to go back home and try for LEGAL citizenship for you and your family. When I get my paycheck at the end of two weeks, I don't enjoy knowing that part of my taxes go to paying for a war I don't believe in - neither do I like knowing that part of it goes to shelter your ass because you couldn't get here legally. I'm sorry that your country is in turmoil. I'm sorry that you feel you need to leave. There are other, better ways than sneaking across the border to live off other people's earnings.
~M
I scored a 39...
Below is Dr. Phil's test. (Dr. Phil scored 55; he did this test on Oprah - she got a 38.) Some folks pay a lot of money to find this stuff out!
Yes, it's time for a rather mindless, but interesting, quiz - as found on "Life in the Mundane". Read on, this is actually pretty interesting!
Don 't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself and send it to your friends.
The person who sent it placed their score in the e-mail subject box. Please do the same before forwarding to your friends (send it back to the person who sent it to you.) Don 't peek, but begin the test as you scroll down and answer.
Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready.
This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and prospective employees. It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question.
Make sure to change the subject of the e-mail to read YOUR total. When you are finished, forward this to friends/family, and also send it to the person who sent this to you. Make sure to put YOUR score in the subject box.
Ready??
Begin.
1. When do you feel your best?
a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon / early evening
c) late at night
2. You usually walk...
a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast, head down
e) very slowly
3. When talking to people you...
a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair
4. When relaxing, you sit with...
a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) your legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you
5. When something really amuses you, you react with...
a) big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile
6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...
a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed
7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...
a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes
8. Which of the following colors do you like most?
a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray
9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are...
a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers
10. You often dream that you are...
a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for something or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant
POINTS:
1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1
Now add up the total number of points.
OVER 60 POINTS: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care." You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.
51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.
41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.
31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.
21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.
UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.
~M
Yes, it's time for a rather mindless, but interesting, quiz - as found on "Life in the Mundane". Read on, this is actually pretty interesting!
Don 't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself and send it to your friends.
The person who sent it placed their score in the e-mail subject box. Please do the same before forwarding to your friends (send it back to the person who sent it to you.) Don 't peek, but begin the test as you scroll down and answer.
Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready.
This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and prospective employees. It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question.
Make sure to change the subject of the e-mail to read YOUR total. When you are finished, forward this to friends/family, and also send it to the person who sent this to you. Make sure to put YOUR score in the subject box.
Ready??
Begin.
1. When do you feel your best?
a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon / early evening
c) late at night
2. You usually walk...
a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast, head down
e) very slowly
3. When talking to people you...
a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair
4. When relaxing, you sit with...
a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) your legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you
5. When something really amuses you, you react with...
a) big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile
6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...
a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed
7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...
a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes
8. Which of the following colors do you like most?
a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray
9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are...
a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers
10. You often dream that you are...
a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for something or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant
POINTS:
1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1
Now add up the total number of points.
OVER 60 POINTS: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care." You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.
51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.
41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.
31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.
21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.
UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.
~M
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Insane in the Membrane!
So, the whole summer, Fred's fire troupe has been working their ASSES off in trying to get up money and toy donations for the Portland Transitional School. They got quite a bit of money, as well as a beautifully illustrated book, about 12 stuffed animals, some other toys, art supplies, and a pledge for more money.
HOWEVER - due to rumors and suggestive ads on Tribe.net, and people calling the school about them, the school decided to shut the entire thing down... This, from the email Fred received yesterday:
As Sara explained to you a few months ago the school does not feel comfortable with you fundraising or collecting items for CTS as we have received several calls with concerns about this.
As for the money you raised you may send it to the school. All other items should be donated elsewhere. The school supplies we suggest your local school district and the toys could be donated to Toys for Tots or a local social service agency.
Please respect this request.
Cheryl Bickle
Principal
I find it interesting that they won't take the toys, but they'll take the money... Since this school supposedly gets so little in donations for their students, one would think that they would be willing to take ALL the donations - and publicity - that they could get. But no... Due to some people not wanting this to succeed at all, the kids will get pretty much nothing.
Fred is devastated, to say the least. He's angry, sure, but mostly he's just upset that all that hard work for these kids will amount to nothing. And now there's the fear that if the money is handed over, it won't go to the kids or to help support the school...
Personally, I'd LOVE to ream the school a new asshole. I can understand concern about where money or donations might come from, and I can understand having concerns about having a new group giving charity donations. But there's such a thing as giving people a chance to prove themselves. Honestly.
As far as the ads were concerned, they weren't anything that Fire and Steel were able to control - it was a 'bot, created by Google, to put in what it thought would be pertinant based on word searches within the text of posts. It saw the words "single" and "adult" and decided that it would be a great idea to post up an ad about swinging singles in Portland.
As far as the rumours about Fire and Steel not accepting checks, that was just bullshit - no one ever approached them to ask whether checks would be accepted or not. It was simply assumed that they wouldn't, and thus a rumour was born. Nice.
So, apparently, the lesson that everyone was supposed to learn here is: Don't do anything nice for a group of people. They won't appreciate it, and you'll just get kicked in the teeth.
~M
HOWEVER - due to rumors and suggestive ads on Tribe.net, and people calling the school about them, the school decided to shut the entire thing down... This, from the email Fred received yesterday:
As Sara explained to you a few months ago the school does not feel comfortable with you fundraising or collecting items for CTS as we have received several calls with concerns about this.
As for the money you raised you may send it to the school. All other items should be donated elsewhere. The school supplies we suggest your local school district and the toys could be donated to Toys for Tots or a local social service agency.
Please respect this request.
Cheryl Bickle
Principal
I find it interesting that they won't take the toys, but they'll take the money... Since this school supposedly gets so little in donations for their students, one would think that they would be willing to take ALL the donations - and publicity - that they could get. But no... Due to some people not wanting this to succeed at all, the kids will get pretty much nothing.
Fred is devastated, to say the least. He's angry, sure, but mostly he's just upset that all that hard work for these kids will amount to nothing. And now there's the fear that if the money is handed over, it won't go to the kids or to help support the school...
Personally, I'd LOVE to ream the school a new asshole. I can understand concern about where money or donations might come from, and I can understand having concerns about having a new group giving charity donations. But there's such a thing as giving people a chance to prove themselves. Honestly.
As far as the ads were concerned, they weren't anything that Fire and Steel were able to control - it was a 'bot, created by Google, to put in what it thought would be pertinant based on word searches within the text of posts. It saw the words "single" and "adult" and decided that it would be a great idea to post up an ad about swinging singles in Portland.
As far as the rumours about Fire and Steel not accepting checks, that was just bullshit - no one ever approached them to ask whether checks would be accepted or not. It was simply assumed that they wouldn't, and thus a rumour was born. Nice.
So, apparently, the lesson that everyone was supposed to learn here is: Don't do anything nice for a group of people. They won't appreciate it, and you'll just get kicked in the teeth.
~M
As a dog!
I'm pretty well sick as one. So's Fred. We're both hacking at one another, sneezing, sniffling, generally feeling miserable - and I've lost my voice. Yippee.
I took today off (since I have the next two days off as well) in order to recouperate and get my voice back to being somewhat normal. However, this PK is going to suck for me and Fred - neither of us are going to be up for singing. *sigh*
Had to go through Speedboy's school bag last night. As per the usual, both Fred and I found LOTS of things that either he "lost" or was supposed to turn into us for signing but didn't because he couldn't find them. He has a binder, and folders, but doesn't use them. Just stuffs everything into the bag and then says "I lost it" when the teacher (or Fred or I) asks where things were. He's already doing horribly in math, literature and science - all because he can't seem to turn things in because he "lost" them. Horribly frustrating.
Last night I made Zuppa Tuscanna for dinner (just like Olive Garden - I swear!). I set up the crock pot for tonight's dinner of 4 bean soup with ham and veggies. Should be really, REALLY tasty. If it's good, I'll post up the recipe for everyone. :-)
I've found that it's difficult to get things together for dinner with the new job, unless I make use of the crock pot for those days when I'm working. I don't get home until 7:30 or so in the evening, so it's pretty difficult to get dinner on the table in a reasonable amount of time. Fred helps when he can, but he's home by 6, and is exhausted, so I'm learning more crock pot recipes for Mondays and Wednesdays - I figure he can do dinner on the weekends. LOL.
Other than that, not much else going on. I'm registering us for gifties at WalMart, too - so that people can actually AFFORD to get us some of the things that we really need (some of them are literally falling apart and need to be replaced).
~M
I took today off (since I have the next two days off as well) in order to recouperate and get my voice back to being somewhat normal. However, this PK is going to suck for me and Fred - neither of us are going to be up for singing. *sigh*
Had to go through Speedboy's school bag last night. As per the usual, both Fred and I found LOTS of things that either he "lost" or was supposed to turn into us for signing but didn't because he couldn't find them. He has a binder, and folders, but doesn't use them. Just stuffs everything into the bag and then says "I lost it" when the teacher (or Fred or I) asks where things were. He's already doing horribly in math, literature and science - all because he can't seem to turn things in because he "lost" them. Horribly frustrating.
Last night I made Zuppa Tuscanna for dinner (just like Olive Garden - I swear!). I set up the crock pot for tonight's dinner of 4 bean soup with ham and veggies. Should be really, REALLY tasty. If it's good, I'll post up the recipe for everyone. :-)
I've found that it's difficult to get things together for dinner with the new job, unless I make use of the crock pot for those days when I'm working. I don't get home until 7:30 or so in the evening, so it's pretty difficult to get dinner on the table in a reasonable amount of time. Fred helps when he can, but he's home by 6, and is exhausted, so I'm learning more crock pot recipes for Mondays and Wednesdays - I figure he can do dinner on the weekends. LOL.
Other than that, not much else going on. I'm registering us for gifties at WalMart, too - so that people can actually AFFORD to get us some of the things that we really need (some of them are literally falling apart and need to be replaced).
~M
Monday, October 09, 2006
It's a wedding!!!
The date has been set for the wedding... June 23, 2007. It was decided on based mostly due to weather conditions for the past 3 years, and the fact that there are no SCA events (that we know of) on that date that we're going to - I checked the handy-dandy An Tir calendar. For those who are interested in getting us stuff and things, here we are:
Target Club Wedd Gift Registry #: 010003993196702
Bed Bath and Beyond Registry#: 2523630
Sears Registry Number: 093008020002101306
Wal-Mart Registry Number: 26774658876
JC Penny - no registry number, look up by our names...
What we really *need* so far:
- stoneware bowls, in cobalt blue, preferably
- closet organizers for both our walk-in closet and Josh's closet
- frames (or gift certificates for framing stores) for artwork
I found The Memory Gardens as the venue for the wedding... It's all set, and the place is beautiful. Fred and I walked through it a few weeks ago, and it'll be perfect for a small, intimate wedding.
We'll be having the potluck reception at The Oregon Zoo, immediately following the wedding. Should be LOTS of fun for everyone. Not enough people got back to me with $$ for the tickets, so everyone will have to pay their own way in.
Lil has honored us with accepting to be our officiator at the wedding. I'm so happy to be married by my bestest friend - especially when she's so happy for both Fred and me. Yay us!
Mishu has honored me by agreeing to be my Best Bitch. LOL. I'm not having a huge grouping of Maid of Honor and bridesmaids... I'm bunching it all together into one, and that would be her. LOL. She and I both like the title Best Bitch, so I think it'll stick. I do have one bridesmaid/flowergirl - Anxiety insisted, and I decided I couldn't have my wedding without her...
The dreamcatchers are done. We have 60 or so of them - possibly more... I think we'll have PLENTY for everyone... LOL.
I *DO* need help with a few other things... If you're willing and able to help, please let me know and we'll get together and talk about it / work on it together:
- sewing the dresses and the kilts
- keeping me generally sane throughout this
There's about 14 days until the wedding at this update (6/8/07)... I'm going slightly insane...
~M
Target Club Wedd Gift Registry #: 010003993196702
Bed Bath and Beyond Registry#: 2523630
Sears Registry Number: 093008020002101306
Wal-Mart Registry Number: 26774658876
JC Penny - no registry number, look up by our names...
What we really *need* so far:
- stoneware bowls, in cobalt blue, preferably
- closet organizers for both our walk-in closet and Josh's closet
- frames (or gift certificates for framing stores) for artwork
I found The Memory Gardens as the venue for the wedding... It's all set, and the place is beautiful. Fred and I walked through it a few weeks ago, and it'll be perfect for a small, intimate wedding.
We'll be having the potluck reception at The Oregon Zoo, immediately following the wedding. Should be LOTS of fun for everyone. Not enough people got back to me with $$ for the tickets, so everyone will have to pay their own way in.
Lil has honored us with accepting to be our officiator at the wedding. I'm so happy to be married by my bestest friend - especially when she's so happy for both Fred and me. Yay us!
Mishu has honored me by agreeing to be my Best Bitch. LOL. I'm not having a huge grouping of Maid of Honor and bridesmaids... I'm bunching it all together into one, and that would be her. LOL. She and I both like the title Best Bitch, so I think it'll stick. I do have one bridesmaid/flowergirl - Anxiety insisted, and I decided I couldn't have my wedding without her...
The dreamcatchers are done. We have 60 or so of them - possibly more... I think we'll have PLENTY for everyone... LOL.
I *DO* need help with a few other things... If you're willing and able to help, please let me know and we'll get together and talk about it / work on it together:
- sewing the dresses and the kilts
- keeping me generally sane throughout this
There's about 14 days until the wedding at this update (6/8/07)... I'm going slightly insane...
~M
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Happy Anniversary, Love!
One year ago today, Fred opened his heart and home to me. We've spent the last year revelling in the most amazing relationship that either of us has ever had. Yes, we disagree on some things, but we don't yell, scream, rant or rave about it to one another - if we have an issue, we discuss it - and we can agree to disagree.
Our relationship has grown so strong, and so well - it's incredible. I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of his and Speedboy's life, every day - even when they're driving me nuts because they're boys. LOL.
We have a tentative date set for a wedding, as he's proposed to me (see the last entry). We're looking at mid-April, which should give enough time for us to get everything ready, but not wait forever, either. ;-)
Thanks to everyone for all your love, support, and congrats to us.
I love you, Fred!
~M
Our relationship has grown so strong, and so well - it's incredible. I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of his and Speedboy's life, every day - even when they're driving me nuts because they're boys. LOL.
We have a tentative date set for a wedding, as he's proposed to me (see the last entry). We're looking at mid-April, which should give enough time for us to get everything ready, but not wait forever, either. ;-)
Thanks to everyone for all your love, support, and congrats to us.
I love you, Fred!
~M
Monday, October 02, 2006
I do...
It started out like most mornings... I woke up around 4 am to Fred kissing me goodbye and wishing me a good day at work. We said we loved one another, and he took off for work. I then promptly fell back asleep into a really odd dream (been having a lot of those lately - have no clue why).
I woke up at 5am, noting that the lights were on - but they had been off at 4. I was confused... Then looked over and found Fred surfing on the computer. Wha....? I thought.
Turns out, the back wheel of his bicycle decided to freeze in its tracks about a mile from home, causing him to have to carry it all the way back here... at 4am... So, he decided that it would be a good idea to fix the bike today, so as to be able to head to work tomorrow...
Whilst getting ready for work, I mentioned that I would pick up the money for the rent, and he took out his debit card. He handed it to me with his pin number, and then said to deposit all but $20, since that's what he owed the gut truck (otherwise known in my circles as the roach coach). And then he told me to keep a hold of it for a while and not give it back...
I looked at him quizzically, and he said "I'm no good to you dead... Unless I miss my count, I have no cigarettes left. So, don't give it back for a while." He's been trying to quit smoking for a while now, and he decided that he was ready.
And we hugged, and I said thank you - at which point his eyes teared up, and he said to me...
"I know it's not our anniversary yet, and I don't have a ring to give you - hell, I don't have much of anything - but I would be honored if you would consent to marry me and be my wife..."
I, of course, said...
"I will," and we both proceeded to cry on (and at) one another for a few minutes, telling one another we loved one another dearly.
I was so sappy and out of it that I wore two different color socks to work today...
So, yes, it's official - we're engaged. No, we haven't set a date yet, and no, we probably won't have a huge wedding. We may have a pretty good-sized reception, but no big wedding.
~M
I woke up at 5am, noting that the lights were on - but they had been off at 4. I was confused... Then looked over and found Fred surfing on the computer. Wha....? I thought.
Turns out, the back wheel of his bicycle decided to freeze in its tracks about a mile from home, causing him to have to carry it all the way back here... at 4am... So, he decided that it would be a good idea to fix the bike today, so as to be able to head to work tomorrow...
Whilst getting ready for work, I mentioned that I would pick up the money for the rent, and he took out his debit card. He handed it to me with his pin number, and then said to deposit all but $20, since that's what he owed the gut truck (otherwise known in my circles as the roach coach). And then he told me to keep a hold of it for a while and not give it back...
I looked at him quizzically, and he said "I'm no good to you dead... Unless I miss my count, I have no cigarettes left. So, don't give it back for a while." He's been trying to quit smoking for a while now, and he decided that he was ready.
And we hugged, and I said thank you - at which point his eyes teared up, and he said to me...
"I know it's not our anniversary yet, and I don't have a ring to give you - hell, I don't have much of anything - but I would be honored if you would consent to marry me and be my wife..."
I, of course, said...
"I will," and we both proceeded to cry on (and at) one another for a few minutes, telling one another we loved one another dearly.
I was so sappy and out of it that I wore two different color socks to work today...
So, yes, it's official - we're engaged. No, we haven't set a date yet, and no, we probably won't have a huge wedding. We may have a pretty good-sized reception, but no big wedding.
~M
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