Semi-Conscious Ramblings

Project 365 - 01/09/10 (My silly cat)

2010-01-10T15:05:00.001-08:00

This is my cat, Milo sleeping. There really isn't anything more I can say about it except...enjoy the picture!

I've attached a video link that demonstrates Mr. Milo in action...he really likes his catnip:
Milo and his catnip - a true love

Project 365 - 01/08/10 - (Game Night with the boys)

2010-01-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

This will likely be a short post as we stayed up WAY too late last night and then I never managed to get comfortable until I moved to the couch around daybreak.

Last night was our game night with our friends, Myke, Tyr, and Steve (seen above with dice and character sheet). We play World of Darkness, an old school paper and dice role playing game. In case you haven't played RPGs before - the general concept is that you have one person running the game, in this case, the Story teller, Myke. He creates a storyline of oddness and weird and our characters try to solve it or recover a particular item, etc. My character in this game is a 26 year old Forensic Pathologist who has zero social skills, an exceptional education and is terrified of dying. In these games we encounter demons, vampires, magic workers and other assorted folk. She wants to harness their power to "live" forever.

So anyway, last night, Glen's character and my character were finally introduced to everyone else through a slightly convoluted process. The fact is, getting the characters to meet and form a group in RPG is probably the most challenging detail that a story teller faces. Everyone creates a character that suits their personality and lets us live out some facet of our own desires - to be someone else. Trying to get all of them together can be a real pain in the butt for the storyteller (in this case, Myke, pictured below on the right)!

Glen got me into RPGs and I have played them every since. We met our dearest friends through these games and spending a Friday night with friends chatting, sharing our week and getting to play out some fantasy is a hell of a way to have some fun! I don't think Glen and I will ever stop playing these games in some way, even if we have to do it online through a game like World of Warcraft (WoW). But for now, we have incredible friends and a really amazing time!

Looking forward to next week boys!!

Project 365 - 01/07/09 (Sherlock Holmes)

2010-01-07T21:14:00.000-08:00

Today's picture is of our favorite movie theater. Glen and I went to see Sherlock Holmes today. After a week of agonizing pain from my hip and back, I was a bit nervous to see if I could actually sit through a movie. However, we found seats where I could stretch out my left leg when it was painful. I also made sure I had medication with me, just in case. It all worked out lovely and we were able to see the movie in relative comfort (those lovely new movie seats definitely helped as well)

(Warning: Spoilers Ahead)
Sherlock Holmes was an incredible movie. Now, mind you, I might be a little biased as I love Sherlock Holmes (the character and the book) and Robert Downey Jr.

I thoroughly enjoyed the romp that was the movie, there was hardly a moment to take a breath through the whole film. The addition of Rachel McAdams character was a stroke of genius and a fabulous foil/love interest for Sherlock. The introduction of magic had me a bit scared at first, fearing that they were veering too far off course but, as always, Holmes explains it all. Most of it was fairly easy to figure out but was amazing nonetheless. The action scenes were magnificent, all the acting was quite phenomenal, and Robert Downey Jr. shirtless was a lovely sight. Ahem, back to the movie...The plot was simple but yet complex as well, just as a good action film should be. Don't be fooled, this is not a cerebral movie, it is an action movie and should be enjoyed as such. What surprised me the most was the absolute beauty of the scenery. They didn't "Disney" it and make it all clean, the scenes were gritty and the people dirty (those that weren't rich, that is). Overall, it was just a really enjoyable film and they definitely set it up for future movies with the introduction of Moriarty...and I can't wait!

Project 365 - 01-06-09 (Millie's illness)

2010-01-06T18:59:00.000-08:00

So today's picture illustrates the joy of having a sick pug! We have a lovely 8 year old pug named Mildred, unfortunately, pugs tend to have some health issues associated with the breed. These include eye problems (check) , breathing problems (check), and anal gland issues (BIG check).

Yesterday I noticed that Millie's anal gland was swelling. It was already late in the day and I knew the Vet's wouldn't be able to do anything until morning when they do surgeries. So I gave her a shot of penicillin in her butt muscle and watched her. Sure enough, by 10pm the gland had ruptured. We had already made an appointment with All Creatures Vets for 8:15am. I took care of the gland and filled it with Panalog and waited until morning. After the rupture, we had to cover the couches and her favorite napping spots with things that could be washed.

This morning the antibiotics had obviously done their job (her fever was gone and the gland was flattened) but it had upset her stomach. Since they had told us to stop food at 6pm the previous night and stop water at Midnight, her stomach became even more upset and she began throwing up...a lot.

After coming back from the vet - he said what we did was perfect and told us to continue the shots of penicillin for the next 4 days. When she came home she slept for a while and then ate like crazy....apparently too much. So she once again began throwing up, the picture below may just look like a carpet - but it's a carpet on which I've cleaned her regurgitation on at least 10 spots...yes, that's how I spent my evening.

Ahhhh, the joys of pet ownership. But you know what - even with all the medical treatments, a $175 vet bill (luckily we has ASPCA pet insurance), and the endless cleaning of the carpet - I wouldn't trade the joy of my little Millie for anything! Pets are the only things that will ever love you unconditionally and we should try to match that love to the best of our ability!!

Project 365 - 01/05/2010 (My Happy Home)

2010-01-05T17:56:00.000-08:00

Today's picture of the day is of a wall in my home. For so many years I have moved from place to place, never staying in a place more than 2 years. This was my life from birth, my Mom and I are gypsies at heart and tend to feel stifled when we stay in place too long. However, I have lived here for 5 years now. When you move a lot, you tend to not 'settle' in and as an adult, I always made my house comfortable, but not 'homey'. Since Tony moved out of our home in October, we've been painting and moved in new furniture and finally put up a lot of the lovely items we received for our wedding. Tonight as I turned on the lights and lit the candles I realized how much I truly LOVE our home now. I'm happy to be here - a fact that may explain why I've resisted leaving it as much as I used to. For once, I feel settled and my home reflects not only my loves but the loves of my husband. I gazed upon my living room and just felt so amazingly happy.

Project 365 - 01/04/10 Milo in the Window

2010-01-05T17:25:00.000-08:00

Today's picture is of our youngest cat Milo in the window. He's an indoor only cat (as all cats should be for their health) but loves sitting in the windows or in front of the security door to enjoy the fresh air and watch the birds, bugs and activity outside. I love watching him observing and can see the intelligence in him as he observes the world around him. He's about 8 months old now and there's a story behind why we decided to adopt him.

My mother was visiting a family friend who had 2 cats that had just given birth to litters of 9 kittens each. Then, while exploring his farm, he found 2 more cats in the woodpile whose mother had been killed by a neighbor's dog. So he suddenly had 20 kittens to find homes for. My Mom and I have always been foster parents to animals, finding better homes for animals that others had given up on. My Mom was a veterinarian tech when I was young and only left the field after a severe accident left her unable to continue in her position. We always took in animals and found loving families for them. It was just part of my life and my childhood. So when I heard of these kittens I asked around the district to see if anyone wanted any of them. I had one friend who was willing to take four. She owns a small farm area and has the cats around to control rats and other vermin. My Mom made a trip and the next thing I knew I had four lovely kittens running around my house. We had named them Pearl (she had a grey circular spot on her head), Pearl's sister (obvious), woodpile (he was one of the ones found in the woodpile) and midnight (who is now our Milo). We already have a lovely Bengal Siamese named Marina who is 12 years old and had no intentions of adding to our family.

But as I observed midnight, I saw his intelligence. The defining moment was when we were outside and he decided to climb up the security door. While I had seen cats do this before, he then backed his way down to the ground...something I had never seen any cat do. I started noticing that no matter what trouble he got into (and that was often), he knew how to get out of it. That intelligence amazed me. He also was cuddly and loving. Glen and I discussed it, and decided to adopt him ourselves. Though it took a while for our pug Millie and Marina to adjust, we have never regretted the decision. He has added such joy and love to our lives, when we needed it most. By the way, his original name was Maida (after one of the Crow Girls from Charles DeLint's books - my favorite author) because he appeared to be a girl (even to my Mom who is used to sexing animals), when he developed secondary sex characteristics (testicles), we decided to change the name to Milo!

Project 365 - 1/3/10 (Marriage and my Goose)

2010-01-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

Today's picture has great and deep meaning to me. When I was young my Mom would tell me how few animals mate for life, and she focused on the Goose. She said she always hoped I found my goose in life. Shortly after I told her that Glen was the "one", she gave me a gift. Upon unwrapping the lovely box, I found this sculpture of a goose inside.

We are coming up on 5 years together and Glen is most definitely my Goose. In 2003, I was in a severe car accident that fractured my pelvis in 2 places and decimated the cartilage in both hips and my right knee. Some days the pain is worse than other days as the pelvic fractures never heal, they just suture over, sometimes they reopen and that is what I'm going through now apparently.

I tend to be one that pushes myself to the limits and so on Friday I cleaned the kitchen and bathroom and dusted the house, yesterday I deep cleaned our bathroom by cleaning all the walls with TSP and a Mr. Clean sponge (it makes it look like the room is freshly painted), I also cleaned the floor and rewaxed it. Well...that appears to have been too much. I awoke this morning to extreme pain. Let me explain that I have an exceptionally high pain tolerance (my doctor's hate it) but this pain left me on the couch sobbing. Glen immediately sprung into action by finding our heating pad, making my breakfast, retrieving the pills I needed (one of which required going to the pharmacy) and bringing back lunch. All while he didn't feel well either. And the thing is, I'd do the same (and have) in a heartbeat for him.

That's one of the things that makes a strong marriage...being willing to go the extra mile for your loved one. Being willing to put yourself second and your partner first. Marriage is never 50/50, it's often 70/30 but as long as the same person isn't burdened by the 70 all the time....it works.

So with great love - Glen is my Goose!

Project 365 - 1/2/10

2010-01-03T15:58:00.000-08:00

So this is the picture for January 2nd. We were in countdown all day to watch the last David Tennant Dr. Who episode (yes, we're Whovians). So this picture is us watching The End of Time: Part 2.

It was sad and melancholy but I look forward to the new Doctor Who (Matt Smith) and the new writer (Steven Moffat) who not only wrote my 4 favorite Dr. episodes (The Empty Child, Blink, The Forest of the Dead and The Girl in the Fireplace) plus has written Jekyll, one of the best miniseries on BBCA. The new Doctor Who premieres in Spring 2010 - so we shall see...

Project 365, Day One

2010-01-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

So I have joined Project 365 - the intent is to take a picture of something that interests you each day of 2010 and post it to your blog. I had difficulty choosing only one photo today. Forgive the blurriness of the sunset photos, I'm hoping this photo a day will increase my abilities as well. But for now, pictures:The sunset over the San Jacinto mountains

The sunset over the Little San Bernardino Mountains

The bouganvilla in my front yard

So I hope you enjoy my first pictures of the first day of 2010. I do so hope that you enjoyed them. I am quite looking forward to this year as I expect it to greatly exceed 2009.

May 2010 bring great joy and wonder to your life.

Happy New Year!!

Never again!

2009-04-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

Political or not, patriotic or not, love or hate our President - the memos released yesterday were shocking, horrifying and nauseating. As well they should be - if we were living in a nation where torture didn't disgust us, didn't make the bile rise in our throats, I would be terribly afraid. The intricacy of the memos details clearly that those who wrote them sought to justify their actions, in whatever way necessary. It is undeniable that our government sponsored the torture of prisoners. Whether you believe those prisoners should have been there or not, the fact is we TORTURED people!! Our tax money went to paying for this, the American Red Cross and the AMA did nothing to stand out against it when that is their JOB! Physicians, trained in America, watched as we mimicked the experience of drowning. Take a day where you accidentally 'swallowed wrong' and the fear and coughing - now multiply that by a conservative 10,000 degrees of fear. This is what we did to people.

I have tears in my eyes because the idea that MY government did this disgusts me and makes me feel like less of a person. Because, in all fairness, what did we do? We knew at some point this was happening - the leaks from Guantanamo, the slips from CIA, the word from an appointed defender. Yes, we yelled and maybe cursed the administration, but did we do ANYTHING! No. We should have marched on Washington, we should have protested, we should have protected those people because they are HUMAN. But we didn't. I honestly don't know why I didn't. I have fought for human rights for over half my life. I've marched on capitols and even trained people in the Amnesty International campaign that focused on America (back in 1999). I spoke out against our country and never feared, but under the previous administration, I was terrified. It is far from an excuse, but it may be an explanation. In so many ways, the fear of 1984 was upon us. We were being monitored, watched, listened to.....but we didn't know why or who they would target next. We regularly joked about making the wrong statement online or searching the wrong terms and ending up in Gitmo. But underlying these jokes was the truth - we were afraid. Our rights were being stripped from us and we sat frozen like a beaten child - afraid that if we moved or did something wrong it would only get worse.

This damn administration turned America into a weapon of mass deception - we lied, over and over and over, to the world. We lied about why we went to Iraq, we lied about Abu Gharaib, we lied about Guantanamo, we lied about secret CIA facilities overseas, we lied about bids on contracts, we lied about what was going on, we lied about so, so much. It is time to stop lying, damnit, it is time to stop pretending that because we have the power we must use it! My God, we TORTURED people . What for? To get answers? Well, numerous studies have shown that torture does not yield reliable answers. People put under that pressure will say or do anything to make the pain stop, to make the torturing STOP. So again, why did we do it? The only answer I can find is "because we could" and that is so completely irrational that I shudder when I type it.

I'm glad that the memos were released...but now what? Obama and Holder have both made it clear that what they stated was not a blanket immunity, that those who did things outside of what they were told to do will be prosecuted. What about those 'inside the law' - well, the laws that were being made up as we went along - what about them? They still tortured, they still defiled another human being in the name of 'duty'. Nuremberg proved that 'following orders' is an inadequate defense. But then, what about us - all of us - we were complicit to this. If you know a crime is going to happen and you don't report it, you're complicit to the crime. We knew what was going on...oh, we may deny it now and feign our shocked looks, but we knew. Just as a parent knows when their child has done something wrong, that gut feeling from our animal side, the warning in our brain that things aren't adding up, we knew.

I can't even imagine what the world thinks of us now. Actually, yes - we're thought of as massive hypocrites! We scream about stopping weapons of mass destruction and threaten countries for building bombs, but we're the ONLY country that's ever used such a weapon. We raise our fists against the torture of our troops in every war (or conflict) but then we do the same. Wait, no, that's not entirely correct. Most of the people we did it to weren't troops, they weren't fighters, they weren't part of an organization, they just were the wrong ethnicity hanging out with the wrong people. I don't deny that there are people in these prisons who deserve to be locked away. Don't misunderstand me there - but there are many, many more who were turned in by neighbors who wanted their land, or by governments trying to get rid of dissidents.

I am an American, and I have always been proud of that. But right now, I want America to demonstrate the amazing capacity for correcting wrongs that I know we are capable of. I want us to learn, to discuss and to make sure that this can NEVER happen again. Never again.

Update:
In response to an email sent by a friend, here are some clarifications:
I can understand that torture has been a part of war - but that doesn't make it right. I understand that your brother was at Gitmo and saw no torture, however much of the torture did not occur at Gitmo but rather occurred at CIA centers in other countries. It was conducted by NSA and CIA employees - not military guards. (This comes straight from the memos)

My hopes for the current administration are based on the fact that these memos were released and that we are taking ownership of what was done. The attack on the towers was horrific and many innocent people were killed, but we cannot use it as an excuse for everything. If that was the case, the Japanese would have had every right to attack us as well. We may have bombed in response to a military attack (a military target, which killed 2400 Americans), but we bombed and killed innocent civilians (199,000) too. Since beginning our military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq, more military have died than all the people from the 9/11 attacks. I had no problem with going after Osama Bin Laden, but when you send fewer soldiers than the number of police on the island of Manhattan, you can't actually expect to be successful. Iraq was never involved in Al Qaeda and while Hussein was a terrible man, none of that had anything to do with 9/11. The fact is much of the world wasn't significantly impressed by the number of deaths on 9/11 because they lose that many people each day to famine, bad water, disease, war and terrorism. We could have used the money spent on many of our contracts in Iraq to provide safe drinking water for most of the world. That would have done much to stop terrorism by simply improving our 'persona' in the world.

What, to me, is the absolutely baffling part about pushing for torture in this case is that it has been clearly shown that information gained by torture is rarely reliable and has often cost lives (as in the bombings of London tubes) by sending police and military into ambush situations.

I understand and respect your opinion on this and I agree I would do whatever was necessary to protect my family - actually, anyone I loved and cared about - but that mentality as policy can never lead to good.

Olbermann on Prop H8

2008-11-26T16:38:00.001-08:00

Let Freedom Ring

2008-11-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

In joining with A Modern Matriarch for the Let Freedom Ring posts. Here is my contribution:

No one should be denied the right to marry the one they love! No One!

If you want to add your picture to the post go visit Let Freedom Ring

Califonian Schizophrenia

2008-11-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

Once again, I am shocked by the California voters’ seemingly multiple personalities. We’re clearly seen and act as a liberal state. Our state was called for Obama without any data, because it’s just obvious that we would vote Democratic. But when it comes to our own propositions, California cannot seem to make up its collective mind!

While I seemed to vote opposite to the results of nearly every proposition, the one that just kills me is Proposition 8. For those of you who live out of state, or for those that had their head under a rock for the last year, let me explain Proposition 8 to you.

Prop 8 was designed to add an amendment to the State Constitution that states that marriage must be between a man and a woman. If that doesn’t sound preposterous to you, please go read another blog, because the rest of this one will probably piss you off!!

The fact that this passed only shows one clear thing…too many people are voting their religion. This is ONLY a religious issue. There is no group of people that should be denied the most basic human right of marriage. The people who were involved in the Yes on 8 campaign were mostly Catholic (specifically the Knights of Columbus – FROM MINNESOTA by the way) and they fought an evil campaign filled with vicious lies in their ads. They continually stated that if the proposition was denied that children would be taught about gay marriages in school. What??? Let’s be really clear about this, a NO vote means nothing changes….nothing! We don’t teach that now, why would we suddenly start! They wrapped these lies in comments about “saving the children” like there was some dangerous psychopath on the loose by the name of Homosexuality….oh dear. Oh my, if we don’t protect the children, they’ll be turned GAY!!! What are these people smoking???

If you think homosexuality is a sin, that’s your prerogative. I would like to point out that there are A LOT of other mentions of things that are sins in the bible that I’m sure you partake in, but hey, if you want to be a hypocrite, that’s your choice. See, I try to keep an open mind to even those with closed minds, but sometimes, on some topics, it is nearly impossible. I was substituting at my old high school this week and the kids were really involved in the election. Since it was clear that absolutely nothing was to be accomplished on Tuesday, most of the teachers turned on CNN in the classrooms and made it all about open discussions. We ended up focusing on the Presidential election and Prop 8 because they were all concerned about those issues. I was thrilled that so many students had been really listening to the information and positioning themselves based on an intellectual choice. However, when asked why they wanted Yes on 8 – most gave one of two responses, “Being gay is against my religion” or “They’ll start teaching about gay marriage in school” – UGH!! I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs for them to give me a reasoned opinion rather than rhetoric. But they couldn’t!

So this was clear to me, I asked both sides to give me reasons why to vote a certain direction on this issue:

Yes on 8 – why? Because my pastor told me so. Because being gay is against God. Because they’ll change what we learn in school if they have their way.
No on 8 – why? Because no group of people should have their rights refused by anyone, especially the government. Because it’s their life, they should be able to do what they want as long as it doesn’t impose on someone else’s rights. Because they should have the same rights as anyone else in this state.

Hmmm…..see the difference? Look, I’ll clearly state, I do not identify myself as a Christian. In my most basic, I’m a deist. I believe in a higher power and call it “God” for simplicity. I would never, ever, never decide that others should believe like me. That is a deeply personal decision and something that all people should wrestle with in their time. At the same time, don’t you dare put your Christian ‘family values’ on a damn ballot!! I hate it when people state that we’re a country formed on Christianity. NO! Read your history book, we are a country formed on “freedom of and freedom from religion!.” Granted, many of the Pilgrims actually came over to escape taxes or bad financial situations and not seeking freedom at all. But generally, they came over to get away from the overwhelming presence of the Church of England. Why? Because they believed it wasn’t right for a church to make the rules for the people! Hmmmm….that sounds like good advice!!

Now, this fight is FAR from over! Yesterday papers were filed by the ACLU to block the amendment. These suits stated that this is a revision, not an amendment, so it must first pass with a 2/3 majority in the congress. Finally, there is always the challenge that a state constitution can not deny rights that the Federal Constitution does not restrict. So there are many legal battles up ahead. I just wish it had been resoundingly defeated instead, as it should have been. I don’t want this decision made by judges and courts – I want Californians to scream at the top of their lungs that this is ludicrous and we will not stand by while people are denied this basic right.

So once again, I’m disappointed by the Californians. I was born in this state and have lived here for most of my life. I was raised to treat all people equally and thought that most Californians felt the same. I was sadly mistaken.

So to all you who voted No, well, it’s not over yet damnit! And if anyone who voted Yes is still reading at this point. Think, really examine yourself, and decide whether your choice is being made on a logical or purely religious level? I am married to a wonderful man and I feel truly blessed that we are allowed to marry, to be joined in a state recognized marriage, to obtain those rights granted to all married people in California and in the Country. I just cry at the fact that others are keeping that right from so many incredible couples who just happen to be same-sex. I really thought you were better than that California, apparently, I was wrong.

WFMW: Google Street View

2008-09-24T07:26:00.001-07:00

Today is Works for Me Wednesday over at Rocks in My Dryer. I have been quite lax in my posting lately, but this is a tip I simply MUST share.

Did you know that Google Street View has uses OTHER than spying on your neighbors, amusing yourself with people passed out on the roadside in Australia, or houses on fire? Yes my friends, I have found a fabulous new use for it.

How many times have you been thinking of a restaurant or store - you know where it is located, but the name simply escapes you? Ugh - you know the feeling. Well, now that Google Street View is nearly everywhere, you can use it. I'll give you an example...

I was trying to remember the name of this fabulous restaurant in Palm Desert. I knew it was on Cook and Country Club - but the name.....aaackkkk....not a clue. So I opened Google Maps and typed in "Cook Street 92260" (the name of the street and the local zip code). Once it popped up, I clicked on the button "streetview". At that point it shows a little orange outline of a man that you can move anywhere on the map. I moved him in front of where I thought the restaurant was and clicked. Sure enough - the street view came up, I shifted the view to the location exactly, zoomed in and:

Cork Tree Restaurant

I've already used this tip for restaurants, grocery stores and even gas stations. I absolutely LOVE it!

For more fabulous ideas, head on over to Rocks in My Dryer...you don't need a map for that one! (wow, that was a really lame joke....sorry)

Resumes speak volumes

2008-09-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

While none of us prefer to be judged by our resume, we really can't argue that it is a good starting point when beginning a candidate search. So maybe we should look at the resumes of the current candidates for president:

Looking at these four educational resumes*, without knowing their race or their gender, who would you give an interview to?

Obama
Occidental College (Los Angeles) - 2 years studying Politics and Public Policy.
Columbia University (New York) - B.A. Political Science with a specialization in International Relations. Harvard Law School - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude, Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Law Review
Biden
University of Delaware - B.A. in History and a B.A. in Political Science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
McCain
United States Naval Academy - Class rank 894 of 899
Palin
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester - Business Administration.
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - General Studies.
University of Idaho - 2 semesters - Journalism.
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester.
University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in Journalism

Hmmm......well, I know who'd I'd interview!! How about you?

**Information gained from Momocrats - go check them out! **

Some interesting links about Sarah Palin

2008-08-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have to say, as a woman, I was actually quite insulted by the choice of Sarah Palin as McCain's running mate. There are so many more qualified Republicans that would have been valid choices. However, this choice seemed to be pandering. A woman with little experience? It seems to me that this choice is made as a token and an insult. Assuming that a woman will vote for a ticket simply because of a woman vice presidential candidate is just condescending (we're all just such weak willed creatures)! And who knows, maybe it'll work. Actuary tables show that the chances of McCain (well any 72 year old) surviving to the age of 76 is approximately 85%. Are Americans really willing to risk someone so inexperienced as President, particularly at this dangerous time?

However, there is another problem with picking a candidate that people know little about ... people go looking for information. With only about 2 months until the election, this leaves little time for damage control and correction.

So here are some of the interesting reddit postings today ...
Is Todd Palin a shadow governor?
It doesn't look like she'll pull the evangelical vote either
She was in support of the 'bridge to nowhere' when she ran for Governor in 2006
Some odd behavior of hers with regard to a Dairy
She seems to have some misunderstandings about history
She doesn't want Polar Bears listed as endangered
She has five children - why is she only holding her youngest in this People pic (This pic just creeps me out - McCain looks so uncomfortable and even Sarah looks odd holding her own child) She may have used her power to (try to) fire someone other than her brother-in-law
A nice summation of what many reporters are finding
And of course, the tabloid-esque question: Is her youngest son actually her grandson?

I know that many of these tales could be false or merely misleading. But it does beg the question, did the RNC really look into Mrs. Palin's background prior to the nomination? Or is that the intent? Are all of these distractions in the campaign to take the focus off of the issues? Either way - the next two months should be VERY interesting...

Disclaimer: Let it be known that I would not have voted for McCain. Let it also be noted that if the Democrats had nominated someone with the issues of Sarah Palin as VP - I wouldn't be voting for them either.

It's Blog Day 2008 !!!

2008-08-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

So it is, in fact, blog day 2008 . . .
The general concept is to find five blogs you love reading and to share them with others (with a short intro of course)! I think that is just wonderful, though I've decided to go a step farther and also share five web-comics I adore. Why? you ask. Well, because in so many ways these web comics are like illustrated blogs - and they make me laugh on a daily basis. What could be better than that? So I'll be letting my favorite bloggers and artists know I'm posting them here so they know they're loved!

Bloggers (in no particular order)
** Friday Playdate - Susan is IMHO one of the funniest and most honest people that I've ever read. I follow her tribulations with her 2 boys (one of which has the croup right now) and her adventures over to China for the Olympics. I enjoy her pithy comments so much I even follow her on twitter! Her blog is simple, honest and a whole bucket load of funny - so go check her out....NOW!!

** Stop Screaming I'm Driving - Yes I actually enjoy her blog for more than the LOVELY sprinkles at the top of her page (mmmm...sprinkles....mmmmm)! She is funny and entertaining on a daily basis and I anxiously await each new post.

** Shalee's Diner - Shalee has been going through some tough times of late but has shown her lovely light through it all. The blog focuses on her love of her family, her faith, and how she brings it all together!

** WWdN: In Exile - This is Wil Wheaton's blog...remember him? Yes, the gray jump-suit wearing adorable teen on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Well, boy has he come a long way since then. An accomplished author in both fiction and non-fiction. He has published three books with anecdotes about his life, numerous manga and Star Trek storylines. He now does voice-overs and occassional acting (when the part really moves him). He has two grown sons that are the joy of his life and he wraps all this up into his amazing blog. Plus, if you're a geek, link to the propeller geek group he admins.

** Neil Gaimian's Journal - This is a personal favorite for me. I absolutely love, Love, LOVE Neil's writing and try to absorb every book he's ever written. He's currently travelling around in China researching another book. In his absence, his two lovely daughter and many other of his friends and webhelpers are keeping us up to date on the exitement.

And now for the comics
** Real Life Comics - Possibly the funniest comic on the internet. Though at times Glen and I do believe they've equipped the crickets in our house with mini cams. I can not tell you how many times we have a had a bizarre conversation on one day, only to see it echoed in the strip a few days later.

** Questional Content - A great daily dose for my geekdom. The story of a group of friends, some more unusual than others, and the very real 'foot in mouth' situations we all get ourselves into. Plus, Hanner is one of the funniest characters I've ever followed.

** Penny Arcade - A classic gamer's cartoon that has spawned a sensation currently invading Seattle (PAX). If you play RPGs, video games or are a geek in any way . . . you MUST follow this comic!

** Ctrl+Alt+Del - I don't even know how to describe this comic - part blog, part gamer's log, part insanity -- just a whole lot of fun!!!

** xkcd - I cannot describe this any better than the 'warning label' placed on the comic itself:

"Warning: this comic occasionally contains strong language (which may be unsuitable for children), unusual humor (which may be unsuitable for adults), and advanced mathematics (which may be unsuitable for liberal-arts majors)."

So - there are my contributions to the world of blogging . . . what are yours??

Something to believe in

2008-08-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

Along with millions of Americans, I watched the Democratic National Convention this week. I sat each night watching people I admired, people I doubted and people I knew little about give speeches about the state of our nation and the hope for a new future. I wanted to believe them and I wanted to know that change was coming. Tonight Obama delivered that faith to me.

As a teacher, I cheered when he spoke of guaranteeing quality teachers for students, ensuring that standards are met and that any child willing to give time to their country should be awarded with a college education. As a woman, I rejoiced at his admiration of Hillary Clinton and his desire to ensure equal pay for equal work. As an American I believed him when he promised to bring us out of the recession, to help us all keep our homes, save our jobs and make ends meet.

The last few months have been difficult on our family. My husband lost his job to the real estate shakeup (and some bad management) shortly after I had chosen to leave my accounting job for a restaurant and return to teaching. This left us living on unemployment and my substitute teaching (and tutoring) salary. All while we're trying to pay bills accrued while caring for ailing grandparents. Luckily we cut expenses and have wonderful parents that helped out when my car's thermostat decided to die. But still, it's a constant stress and a constant pressure. The job prospects in the valley are drier than the landscape and nearly everyone I know who lost their job are averaging 9-10 months before finding another. We decided to send my hubby back to school while I'm doing my credential online. This means a tight budget and probably very little time together. But we both believe in teaching and want to move forward in that direction. However, now I'm facing the possibility of losing my student loan. This isn't due to credit ratings or anything we have done - it's because of the subprime mortgage situation. This has made companies nervous about loans and many companies are pulling student loans - with a week left before classes start.

I have been absolutely ripped apart by all of this - the stress, the fear, the hopelessness. However, for one hour tonight I saw a light ahead and saw promises that could be fulfilled. I saw hope in the eyes of an honest man, a father, a husband, a son and a man of faith. There are no words for how much I needed to see that tonight and how much we all need to see a future that benefits more than the rich.

I will not attack McCain, nor will I attack his supporters. We all make the choices in the privacy of our home and we have curtained voting booths for a reason. I just know that this year, for the first time since I've been voting, I'll actually be voting FOR a candidate rather than against his opponent. And this gives me the most solid and real feel of patriotism that I have ever experienced.

Fishnets for Vigoda

2008-08-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

If you are curious why I have this pic, just blame Whitechapel...a little experiment in IntarWeb Culture Jamming.

WFMW: Offbeat Bride

2008-04-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've been quite absent from the blog for about a month. Why? you ask. Well, it's a little thing called my wedding! It is now 11 days away (eeeekkkkk!!!) and I'm running like crazy. Actually, I've calmed substantially over the last few weeks because I just feel we've got enough done and everything else is just bonus!

My Works for me Wednesday posting is for Offbeat Bride. This site has numerous pictures, suggestions, advice and even vendors to suit the specific needs of the a wedding that is far from common. Whether you're a tattoo sleeved piercing enthusiast who wants to wear a bright red leather minidress or just (like me) looking to add your own personal touches (read: Geeky Nerdiness) to make your wedding unique, this site has tons of recommendations. I love all the wedding photos and stories as well. It makes me realize that when the wedding truly reflects the bride and groom, the whole event is happier for all involved!

So if you're getting married soon, or just really wanting to look at some fabulous wedding pics, go check out Offbeat bride! And for other tips and hints, check out the other postings on Rocks in my Dryer's Works for me Wednesday!

Get your party on....

2008-03-12T20:24:00.000-07:00

It is a blog party going on over at Five Minutes for Mom, so get over there and check out the incredible blogs (over 1000 now!!). In the meantime, I'll share some of my favorite party pics with all of you...forgive me, I have some very wonderful and bizarre friends:

My dearest Michael - the hostess with the mostest!! All parties begin and end with him!

Mrs. Poopy, Dominique and my honey Glen on Halloween

Tyr - Michael's better (really??) half...

My honey and I on New Year's Eve 2006/2007 (at Tyr's house of course)

And finally, the day on which I decided the potatoes REALLY needed hats (don't ask me why...no, really, don't ask)

(In case you can't read the hats - they say Happy Potato Day)

So what are you doing still here...go check out the PARTY!!!

Spring Cleaning

2008-03-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Many of my favorite sites are focusing on Spring Cleaning 2008. They are challenging all of us to get our spring cleaning done and post pics of the progress. This may be insane, but I want to be a part of this.

Yes, I'm generally a neat freak. Yes, I am aware that I live with 2 men, a dog and a cat. Yes, I'm aware that I work a minimum of 10 hours a day. But in one week (yep, one week!!), I have Spring Break. So what better to do than make a nice, clean home for all of us?

So yes, I'm challenging myself to get some spring cleaning mojo going and start the cleaning. The best part is with a little tweak of my FlyLady routine, I can do this in a reasonable manner instead of my usual 'clean all day until I'm exhausted and can't do anything for the rest of my vacation' plan. Yay!

I'll be posting updates to the blog as they come! Wish me luck!!!

Update: Developed pneumonia on the last school day and spent the entire Spring Break in bed with extreme fevers, labored breathing and exhaustion. So yeah, no real cleaning got done!

WFMW - Wedding advice

2008-03-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

So, for this edition of works for me wednesday: backwards edition we are asking questions of our readers and awaiting responses! So please, please dear readers....guide me, advise me, lend me your knowledge in this matter....

My question is:

What are some great frugal ideas for a backyard wedding?

I'm looking for anything about the wedding or reception. We're marrying on May 3rd in Palm Springs, California (my hometown) at my Grandmother's house. We're 33 and 39 years old so didn't feel the full blowout of a wedding was appropriate. We'd rather use our money elsewhere. So we're seeking great ideas to cut costs without sacrificing taste or style.

So please post any ideas below and I will be eternally grateful!!

Thank you for your help. If you feel the desire to guide others in their quest for answers - go on over to Rocks In My Dryer.

Keeping control in a difficult classroom

2008-03-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

I promised I would speak of teaching and education on this blog and I do believe the time has come at last.

First of all, I'm a long-term substitute at a local Middle School teaching 6th grade earth science. That's 6 classes a day, 45 minutes each, with about 32-38 students. So 200 children walk through my classroom everyday and I have to reach ALL of them!! That's a challenge!!

I will begin to address the many challenges of teaching in this blog, but the first should come as no surprise to any instructor - Classroom Management! It is impossible to get them to learn anything if you can't get them to be quiet, sit still, stop stabbing each other with pencils, etc. (Beware ye readers - this is a LONG one)

My students are quite difficult; not all of them, just a few select individuals that required a bit more time than others. I will summarize some of them here:

1. The distractor, aka: "Turtle Boy" - this is the child in class who, bored with the work, decided to repeatedly say the word turtle in my class, over and over, until I sent him outside for 10 minutes. He has continued to be an issue, but I moved him to the front of the classroom - in a bench seat so he can stand if bored - and spoke to his mother. The problems have been limited. But the most important thing I did was sit down with him after class and talk about his behavior and the affect he was having on other students. He's a deeply sensitive kid and so when I mentioned that his behavior might keep OTHER kids from being able to work and result in them getting kept behind - that's when I saw it click!! Since then, he's been quite helpful and as long as he finishes his work, I give him a certain amount of lenience in his busy work.

2. The sloth, aka: "Whatever boy" - this particular student tests exceptionally well on standardized tests but refuses to raise a pencil in class or turn in a single sheet of homework. I'll admit, this one had me frustrated, baffled and angry. He didn't disturb the rest of the class, but seeing a child with potential choosing to waste it is heartbreaking. So one day, on one of his many lunch detentions with me, I started asking questions that had nothing to do with school. Through the 12 year old grapevine I knew he was dating one of my best students so we chatted about her. Slowly we developed a friendly relationship rather than battling. Then one day when we had the room to ourselves again, I simply asked, "So, what's up with the not turning anything in?" I had fully expected the traditional, "I don't know" but instead got a thoughtful statement about him realizing that the elementary school couldn't hold him back (he'd been held back once already - maximum in california) and so he just didn't want to try anymore since there was nothing the school could do to him. Wow! I was floored!!! So we began discussing how he's in a new school now with new opportunities. We finally worked out a system of work for him (he'd rather work at lunch or before school than take things home) and let him help others to demonstrate his intelligence. So far it's working and I've become an adult he can share things with now.

Well, this post is longer than I thought so I'll summarize with these two categories of students. You will notice one distinct commonality between these very different students...they both needed to be heard!!

Sometimes as teachers, we tend to look as kids as numbers (test scores, absences, tardies) and not for the very unique individuals that they are. I am learning now how to move past that and take the time to connect with EVERY student. It must be working since I have 7-10 kids before school and another 7-10 kids at lunch in my room. We sit and talk and they know they can talk to me privately at anytime. They also know that I have a duty to talk to counselors and CPS about worrisome things, but that doesn't stop them.

I love being a teacher but it took the difficult students to remind me why I like it so much! Funny how that works!

(I'll continue the list of students in the future - maybe some new teacher will benefit from the concept and another student will benefit from the approach)

Losing a source of income

2008-03-02T16:05:00.000-08:00

Well my bloggy friends - the last month has been difficult. For reasons of pride, or privacy, or....well, whatever, I have yet to share with you that we are now living off of a single income. Yes, a single, substitute teacher income, in one of the most expensive parts of California.

How did that happen you ask? Well, remember that gigantic bubble that seemed to grow without end over the housing market in California...yeah? Well it went BOOM. My fiance's job as support personnel at a real estate agency went with it! Luckily that qualified for EDD (unemployment) but due to a tremendous glitch at the EDD office, we've been battling for over a month to get any money. So since January 8th, we've been living off of my sub salary ($95/day) and my tutoring money ($30/hour).

But here is the surprising part -- we're doing quite well!!! The first week or two were tension-making, but we've cut silly costs. We've been using gift cards for anything extravagant (we received quite a few of those at Christmas time) and have had some lovely dinners and seen a few movies (sans popcorn and snacks). I'm actually very proud of the ways we've managed to
pick ourselves up and cut those budgets down without a single argument!

So...what have we been doing????

As avid readers we have fully taken advantage of paperbackswap and are just beginning to use their sister company DVDswap as an alternative to Netflix.
I've begun doing FLY lady which keeps my mind and hands busy at night and helps us from deciding to go out to dinner when I've already had a meal planned
I've discovered the joys of frugality with Target, Walgreen's, CVS and Rite-aid. This works well since Glen has more free time and can take advantage of those offers while I'm working my 10 hour days.
We've realized that fast food is not a necessity anymore and our waistlines are definitely benefiting.
But most of all, we've worked together to decide where to cut the budget and where to keep more money allotted. By both of us making the decisions, no one feels upset or controlled by the other.

In fact, his birthday was this week so I started with the free things I could do. I printed 16 little versions of happy birthday notes and taped them up all over the house so he would discover them throughout his day. Then I put up the "family" happy birthday sign (a special gift from my Mom). I made sure all of his sodas were in the frig and that everything was ready for him to make his daily breakfast. I had the towels washed and a fresh one on his towel rack, along with his pills laid out for the day.

Then I took advantage of a $10 Best Buy coupon, a great sale and a left over gift card to get him 2 Justice League movies he has been jonesing for!

Finally, I took our bag of coins to our local coinstar and was able to get him two of the star wars figures he wanted so badly.

And the funny thing is, I think we actually had a better day because of it! We had a nice steak dinner (at home) that evening and watched some shows on the DVR that we just never seem to make time for.

What I find most amazing is that we are doing this TOGETHER. No arguments, no blaming, nothing! He grew up getting everything he wanted. I grew up in a home where it was necessary to count coins to make sure we could get bread that week. But somehow we have found a very happy medium that hasn't stressed us to the point of breaking. I think that gives us a good prognosis for the future.

BTW - the EDD thing is finally sorted and we'll be getting the makeup check this week. I think I'm going to put the whole thing in savings since we've been managing so well without it!

So here is my question to you....what ways have you found to save money???

WFMW - Paperback swap

2008-02-26T20:53:00.000-08:00

Yet again, I find myself writing about something many others have discussed at length for this Works for Me Wednesday. However, I have found a wonderful use for paperbackswap if you have kids!!!

I have been tutoring the same young man for the last 6 years, since his first week of 6th grade. He's like my little brother now and I call myself a 'rent-a-parent'. By the time his parents get home each evening, the homework and projects are done, his grades checked and communication with the teachers is complete! It makes for a much less stressful family dinner time.

Well over the last 6 years he has accumulated a lot (and I mean A LOT) of reading books on the district list. Each of those has been an expense his parents have had to bear, but not this year! We listed all the old books on paperbackswap and have been able to obtain most of his reading books for this quarter in exchange. It has saved his parents money AND he was able to find some 'fun reading' books as well!

So for those of you have stacks of Bronte, Hemingway and Shakespeare from your children's English lit classes - fear not! They no longer need to take up precious bookcase or storage space - just recycle them! And the same goes for those seeking the lengthy list of AP and Honors summer reading - this is a great resource and it sure works for me!

So boogy on over to Shannon's Rocks in my dryer and tell us what works for you?

WFMW: FLYLady

2008-02-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

So every week Shannon over at Rocks in My Dryer hosts the Works For Me Wednesday Blog Carnival. This week I feel somewhat silly sharing because I learned about this site and program by seeing references in SO many of your blogs!

I am a FLYLady convert!! I've been reading about her lovely little program for quite some time now and decided to go over to the site and check it out. After a week of reading about it and psyching myself up....I did my first sink shine on Saturday. Now, let me digress for a moment to say that I have been called a neat freak numerous times. I like my house a certain way and believe that doorjambs and baseboards should be dusted on a regular basis. However, my lovely fiance is a bit...well....messy. So between us now sharing an abode and trying to combine 2 homes, the large assortment of pets in our home (including our roommate Tony), the small space in which we live and my insane work schedule, the house has become ... gasp ... a total mess! There, I've said it....you can all shame me if you will now! I can take it! ;-)

Anyway....There just seemed to be SO much to do that I felt overwhelmed and couldn't drive myself to get anything done. And that is where FLYLady stepped in. OMGoodness - what a divine concept. So now I shine my sink every time I use it, spend 15 minutes decluttering, go through 27 things...etc. The amazing part is that in the 5 days since I've begun this plan I've already noticed a tremendous difference! The house is looking (and staying) cleaner, my stress has nearly dissipated and Tony and Glen are pitching in even more!

So I have to say, FLYLady works for me - go check her out. And for more great ideas, check out Works for me Wednesday over at Rocks in My Dryer

WFMW - Cleaning up a big mess

2008-02-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

For this week's works for me Wednesday, I introduce you to my favorite little machine!!!"

Yep - that's right - the Bissell Little Green Clean machine. Now, why is it my favorite machine? Because it's a miracle at getting out those wonderful ketchup blobs on the carpet? Well, yes, but that's not the best part. It is, by far, the best wet vac a girl in a small place could hope for!

Just last night (at 10pm - of course) I walked into our bathroom into a big puddle! I turned on the lights to discover that the toilet had overflowed! Now while this is not, in itself, unusual, normally we catch it rising and turn off the water pipe before it's an issue. For whatever reason, we didn't hear or see this one - thank Goodness it had turned off and luckily for me - it was clean water - apparently it'd blocked up after washing the nasty stuff away. Phew! But of course, I now had a restroom filled with about an inch of water. I yelled at the fiance to get the green machine and started pumping away! After 2 empties of the reserve tank, the water was gone and all I had to do was clean the floor (and tub and toilet and cabinets) with bleach water. So -once again, my little green machine saved the day.

I know some people may have those lovely things called 'garages' to put an actual wet vac in, but we live in a 1000 square foot condo with 1 dog, 1 cat and a roommate (our 3rd pet) so having a tool that can serve multiple purposes is WONDERFUL.

Here is another time it came in handy....

"Ahhh..that's because as I was putting clothes in the washer, about to do a load of laundry, I noticed the pitch of the water sound change...hmmm, I said, something sounds odd. Let me see what's wrong. Suddenly I saw that the drainage hose had kindly removed itself from its pipe and all the water going into the washer was just as quickly exiting the machine and filling the floor! Luckily, I had to sense to slam the dial on the washer and stop more water from going through the beautiful cycle known as "make Jules life miserable". So for the next hour, I used towels, and the green machine (I have never loved that machine more) and pure adrenaline to pull up all of the liquid and reattach the hose. Of course, since we only have that lovely little cubby hole for a laundry area, to do all of this I had to remove the washer and the dryer! Woo and hoo! So we have a REALLY clean floor in our laundry cubby and I now have an extra load of laundry to do since now I have a rather large laundry basket filled with soaking, wet, dirty towels."

So, if you have one of these little monsters or are thinking of getting one - this is the best money I think I've EVER spent!!! And well, it works for me!!! (And for whatever reason, my fiance thinks the pic of the machine above looks like a meditating mutant samurai bunny - hmmmm...I wonder what a psychologist would say about that one)

To see other ideas, go to Works for Me Wednesday, which this week is being hosted by

The humor of us

2008-01-31T22:50:00.000-08:00

I should probably preface this blog with the information that my fiance and I are a very humorous couple in all of our dealings. No matter how bad things get, we can always find something or someway to laugh about it. We are very similar to Lois and Peter on Family Guy and find great humor in each other.....
So the other night I was having a terrible headache bordering on migraine. He asked what he could do and I asked him to get some Naproxen, which he graciously did. I looked at him in all seriousness and said, "With the way things have been going, I'm having an aneurysm and you'll be stuck taking care of me for the rest of my life" (It's been a bad week). He gave me the most sincere look with the deepest concern in his eyes and responded, "Oh honey, taking care of you would never bother me - it's the money it would cost to pay people to care for you that I worry about." followed by his most wry grin. I laughed so hard at that comment - it defines our relationship - when one of us is down or having troubles, the other will find the lightness and lift the spirit! Maybe that's why 3 years into our relationship we've never even had a fight!
I know that relationships always take work, but like I've said many times to my friends - there is a difference between work and 'working in a coal mine' work in a relationship - and I've finally learned that!!!

Bloggy Giveaway - Starbucks Card

2008-01-31T00:09:00.001-08:00

So, I started with WFMW and thought I'd end the day with a bloggy giveaway. I've only recently found this wonderful carnival and thought I'd join in this week. So I'm giving away a $10.00 gift cards for Starbucks.

So leave a comment with the following info:
1. Name (and e-mail if you're not signed in to blogger)
2. What is the biggest obstacle you encounter in your daily life (ie: messy kids, messy husband, small home)

I'll be using a random number generator on Sunday, February 3rd to choose the winner and will be sending out the card on Monday!

I look forward to hearing from you!

UPDATE: The contest is over and the card has been won by "Seven"! Thanks for playing!!!

WFMW: Skunk Smell

2008-01-30T12:25:00.000-08:00

So this is the beginning of my blog and my first WFMW. It may be a very odd intro tip but one that may come in extremely handy for some. And it only takes once!!! ;-)
Many years ago I was living on a farm and a particular male skunk decided to mark our house as his own! There are really no words to describe the smell of a male skunk spraying your crawl space - but burning tires comes close. Everyone knows that tomato sauce is a fabulous for getting the smell off of animals but you can't go around soaking a home in tomato sauce.

So the solution -- we found every tomato product in the house, put it in a very large dutch oven and kept it at a simmer all day. By the end of the day - the smell was gone!

For more great tips - head over to Rocks In My Dryer