There was something so innocent about growing up in the 70's. A time in which playing from dusk to dawn was the norm stopping merely to eat and be back on your way again. It was a time where music styles were changing as well as family units. Mom's werent tolerating as much and were stepping out into the workforce. I was a product of these times. I remember all too well standing on the doorstep of my suburban San Carlos home of which I had lived all my life and saying goodbye to life as I knew it. My Mom had finally had enough of my Dad and his womanizing ways. But strangely enough, the only trauma I knew was giving up my house, not my Dad. He was never around anyway. I have no recollection of my Dad ever going outside with me or my brothers to play football or ride bikes. In fact, he rarely was home. He definitely was not my Uncle who really was my role model for what a good father should be. One who took us to the desert and the river and was there to laugh and joke with us. But my Dad preferred another life. One in which he would pay dearly for in the end. I call it the wine, women and song lifestyle....
I remembered when my parents got divorced. Everyone was so sorry. I was like why? I had already learned at the tender age of 11 that what you dont have, you dont miss. An absent father is what it is and I couldve cared less cuz how can you lose something that isnt there? As least that was my logic for all these years. But losing my house, my friends, my neighborhood was devastating to me at the time. But life has a funny way of placing you where you need to be and giving you the lessons you need and I will always be grateful for this time in my life. As a kid, I was always silly, laughing, playing and so full of life. And as these events and others began to unfold, my perception of the glass is always full no matter what and really believing that was born.
I cant quite say what had me look up the old 70's song by ELO, Telephone Line recently. I think I was on an old school kick of different songs that reminded me of certain periods growing up. Songs do that for me as do perfumes/colognes. They remind me of certain people and times. But why I landed on that exact song, I dont know. It has always been a melancholic song but one in which I seemed to totally relate to and I added it my play list. Ironically enough, Ive heard it several times driving in the car and something possessed me to buy ELO's greatest hits this weekend. (I know laugh at me for liking their music but hey they have some great songs!!! lol)
So now driving playing old ELO songs, I hit Telephone Line and it finally dawned on me who this song was for. It was for my Dad. We had somewhat of a relationship after the divorce but never saw him during high school. During college, saw him for some of the holidays as a 'good' daughter would do but I remember vividly ready to have my first child and him calling me not to ask how I was, but to whine about yet another surgery. (Self inflicted in my eyes due to choices already made) I remember deciding right then and there that I didnt want this selfish person in my life that I was done playing the 'game'. I think he saw my first child as a baby once but never saw him again after that even though I had another child. He died without me saying goodbye. I was at work when the call came and I remember feeling numb at the words spoken to me but...
So all these years later, I hear the lyrics to this song, and realize that they are for him and always were. I would very much like to talk to my Dad but it is too late. I know what I would say if he would just pick up the telephone line......
Monday, May 4, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Life and Its Lessons....
Ahh...Life and its lessons. Why is it that some seem so ridiculously easy while others seem to leave you dazed and confused with an altered mental status? If I could only answer that question with some sense of rhyme or reason, it might all make some sense. But there is no rhyme or reason in a lesson except that one is weak in that area and needs to shore up the belt. Plain and simple, cut and dry.
My biggest lesson as of late seems to keep repeating itself. I used to shake my head in sadness at my brother because he always seemed to hit the wall at 90 mph while Id cruise up to the wall and go around. Now, it seems I keep hitting the wall at 100 mph and then get up and and do it all over again... Isn't there a saying that goes something like this, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results". Well I guess I am insane based on this definition....lol
I have learned one thing though and that is some people are like swirling tornadoes in their own created whirlwind of energy. And me being the crazy adrenaline junkie that I am, I walk right up to the blazing tornado like a tornado chaser thinking how wild is this! Before you know it, I am sucked into this crazy vortex of energy and it is of no surprise when I get swirled around and around and get pounded that when I break free, I am beat up, dazed and confused going wow, wtf just happened to me?!?!
Uh, Sister, get a clue. Most people are selfish, out for themselves and have more lessons than one could ever complete even if they sat in school their entire life! So why hit the wall at 100 miles an hour? Why even bother going near these types of people who merely are energy vampires. My incredible intuition always spots them in an instance anyway. But my morbid curiosity draws me ever closer like a moth going to the light.
Perhaps, that was the lesson needed at this stage of my life is that I need to stay away from people with more than carry on luggage. As my dear friend stated, "Everyone has baggage, I am just looking for a matching set." I think part of my problem is at heart, I am a very sweet, genuine soul. And no matter how tough my exterior, the soft inner core is always sought after by those that do no inner work of their own to achieve that level of kindness.
My other lesson to learn is I can do nothing to help someone. As much as my heart might bleed for someone, they need to help them self as well as want to help them self. I recently met a Mom at hockey whose sweet 5 year old son was crashed out on the bench of the snack bar table. As we got to talking it turns out he cant sleep at all when his Dad is away on business. Apparently he is a very sensitive soul who cries when others get hurt. It made me flash back to when I was a child, and being the youngest with two older brothers, if they got hurt or in trouble, I would sit and cry for them.
Despite my beginnings, somewhere along the line, I garnered a pretty tough exterior with the ability to state what I think. One of the reasons being that people take advantage of kind hearted people and it didnt take me long to figure that one out. I also acquired a thicker skin from my working environment and from being a manager. It would be enlightening for me to hear what those who arent that close to me think of me. And what would be more fun to see is if I really gave a damn what the hell they thought...hahaha
But no matter how tough I appear on the outside, inside I am still the same sweet soul who sometimes cries with families when their loved one is sick and dying or someone is telling me a touching story about their life. To me it is not a weakness to be kind. What is a weakness is not being grateful to those who have crossed my path regardless of what they have done to me or regardless of the lesson they hand me. Perhaps, that is my life lesson of the moment, to be grateful for this past year even though most of the situations were hurtful and to completely understand my psychology as to the repetitive pattern that seemingly haunts me... And also to drive up to the wall going 100+ mph and go around it. But I must say going 100 miles an hour and hitting that wall in a porsche carrera is a feeling like no other!! hahaha
"The more one judges, the less one loves."- Honore de Balzac
My biggest lesson as of late seems to keep repeating itself. I used to shake my head in sadness at my brother because he always seemed to hit the wall at 90 mph while Id cruise up to the wall and go around. Now, it seems I keep hitting the wall at 100 mph and then get up and and do it all over again... Isn't there a saying that goes something like this, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results". Well I guess I am insane based on this definition....lol
I have learned one thing though and that is some people are like swirling tornadoes in their own created whirlwind of energy. And me being the crazy adrenaline junkie that I am, I walk right up to the blazing tornado like a tornado chaser thinking how wild is this! Before you know it, I am sucked into this crazy vortex of energy and it is of no surprise when I get swirled around and around and get pounded that when I break free, I am beat up, dazed and confused going wow, wtf just happened to me?!?!
Uh, Sister, get a clue. Most people are selfish, out for themselves and have more lessons than one could ever complete even if they sat in school their entire life! So why hit the wall at 100 miles an hour? Why even bother going near these types of people who merely are energy vampires. My incredible intuition always spots them in an instance anyway. But my morbid curiosity draws me ever closer like a moth going to the light.
Perhaps, that was the lesson needed at this stage of my life is that I need to stay away from people with more than carry on luggage. As my dear friend stated, "Everyone has baggage, I am just looking for a matching set." I think part of my problem is at heart, I am a very sweet, genuine soul. And no matter how tough my exterior, the soft inner core is always sought after by those that do no inner work of their own to achieve that level of kindness.
My other lesson to learn is I can do nothing to help someone. As much as my heart might bleed for someone, they need to help them self as well as want to help them self. I recently met a Mom at hockey whose sweet 5 year old son was crashed out on the bench of the snack bar table. As we got to talking it turns out he cant sleep at all when his Dad is away on business. Apparently he is a very sensitive soul who cries when others get hurt. It made me flash back to when I was a child, and being the youngest with two older brothers, if they got hurt or in trouble, I would sit and cry for them.
Despite my beginnings, somewhere along the line, I garnered a pretty tough exterior with the ability to state what I think. One of the reasons being that people take advantage of kind hearted people and it didnt take me long to figure that one out. I also acquired a thicker skin from my working environment and from being a manager. It would be enlightening for me to hear what those who arent that close to me think of me. And what would be more fun to see is if I really gave a damn what the hell they thought...hahaha
But no matter how tough I appear on the outside, inside I am still the same sweet soul who sometimes cries with families when their loved one is sick and dying or someone is telling me a touching story about their life. To me it is not a weakness to be kind. What is a weakness is not being grateful to those who have crossed my path regardless of what they have done to me or regardless of the lesson they hand me. Perhaps, that is my life lesson of the moment, to be grateful for this past year even though most of the situations were hurtful and to completely understand my psychology as to the repetitive pattern that seemingly haunts me... And also to drive up to the wall going 100+ mph and go around it. But I must say going 100 miles an hour and hitting that wall in a porsche carrera is a feeling like no other!! hahaha
"The more one judges, the less one loves."- Honore de Balzac
Friday, February 6, 2009
Been working on....
For as much as some of my blogs seem very superficial as of late, within I am always pondering the meaning of life, the universe and the lessons I need to learn. I truly believe in my heart that each of us makes a difference in this world that if we truly knew it, there wouldnt be the ridiculous mental suffering that we put ourselves through.....
For the past week, Ive been working on a blog which has really been adding to the multi facets of my own psychology but most importantly is being written to help a friend that truly needs it. Now whether this friend will get it or even read it, only time will tell. But write it I will. I honestly believe we run into people for a reason and half the fun for me is figuring out why!
My main purpose in life is to serve others. And not in the sense of being a slave to someone emotionally, mentally or physically. But in the sense to be there for my fellow brethern even when I dont feel like it! Many years ago, on a warm summer evening, I met the author Dannion Brinkely in person and listened to his story firsthand. And as I listened to his story, it all came to me that each of us is here to help others, not to be out for ourselves every second of the day. And as I listened to Dannion, he said something along the lines, it is the little stuff we do for people that really matters. Like a smile or an opening of the door. That was such a profound statement and has been with me ever since.
I hope each person I run into, I make a difference in their life regardless. That is why I love my job. Ive been blessed to work in an environment that each and every day has me counting my blessings.....So for my friends that follow my blog that are not subscribed but have written me on the side, I hope to be somewhat inspirational in the weeks to come.....
"Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment."- Buddha
For the past week, Ive been working on a blog which has really been adding to the multi facets of my own psychology but most importantly is being written to help a friend that truly needs it. Now whether this friend will get it or even read it, only time will tell. But write it I will. I honestly believe we run into people for a reason and half the fun for me is figuring out why!
My main purpose in life is to serve others. And not in the sense of being a slave to someone emotionally, mentally or physically. But in the sense to be there for my fellow brethern even when I dont feel like it! Many years ago, on a warm summer evening, I met the author Dannion Brinkely in person and listened to his story firsthand. And as I listened to his story, it all came to me that each of us is here to help others, not to be out for ourselves every second of the day. And as I listened to Dannion, he said something along the lines, it is the little stuff we do for people that really matters. Like a smile or an opening of the door. That was such a profound statement and has been with me ever since.
I hope each person I run into, I make a difference in their life regardless. That is why I love my job. Ive been blessed to work in an environment that each and every day has me counting my blessings.....So for my friends that follow my blog that are not subscribed but have written me on the side, I hope to be somewhat inspirational in the weeks to come.....
"Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment."- Buddha
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Whoa Dog!!
Whoa dog was the first thought that came to mind when I read this online article!
http://news.aol.com/article/woman-aims-for-worlds-largest-implants/331011
And of course the second thing that came to mind was dont women in Brazil want to have the roundest booties rather than biggest breasts?!?! I also have to admit I quickly looked for the photos that were attached to the article so I could 'check it' out myself....lol Now I can see you doing the same...shhhh....I wont tell anyone!
But I honestly can not imagine having a 38 triple K bra size. I mean how the hell could one afford custom bras? The article neglected to mention this small detail!! And over two quarts of fluid on each side and that amount while at a triple FFF?!? The term in your face takes on a whole new meaning when used in this context....
And as I sit here pondering the fate of her poor husband, hmm.....11 surgeries times at least 7500 bucks a pop, wow, he could be buying the toys of a lifetime instead of having to shake everytime he goes to sleep at night should these puppies decided to unleash and smother him while in la la land!! Oh man and what if one pops? Just think of the floodbusters cost!!!! Oh and think of all the weekly massages in order to maintain 'back' health.....Dude, this was one expensive broad you took on is all I can say!!! Now guys, I know, I know what you are thinking they might be good for but come on now......lmao
Being I love trivia, another interesting thought came to mind as I type this mindless blog, what are the biggest implants that you've personally seen? If you ask me that question, Id have to answer 800cc and on a woman who couldnt of been more than 100 lbs!!! Whoa Dog!
http://news.aol.com/article/woman-aims-for-worlds-largest-implants/331011
And of course the second thing that came to mind was dont women in Brazil want to have the roundest booties rather than biggest breasts?!?! I also have to admit I quickly looked for the photos that were attached to the article so I could 'check it' out myself....lol Now I can see you doing the same...shhhh....I wont tell anyone!
But I honestly can not imagine having a 38 triple K bra size. I mean how the hell could one afford custom bras? The article neglected to mention this small detail!! And over two quarts of fluid on each side and that amount while at a triple FFF?!? The term in your face takes on a whole new meaning when used in this context....
And as I sit here pondering the fate of her poor husband, hmm.....11 surgeries times at least 7500 bucks a pop, wow, he could be buying the toys of a lifetime instead of having to shake everytime he goes to sleep at night should these puppies decided to unleash and smother him while in la la land!! Oh man and what if one pops? Just think of the floodbusters cost!!!! Oh and think of all the weekly massages in order to maintain 'back' health.....Dude, this was one expensive broad you took on is all I can say!!! Now guys, I know, I know what you are thinking they might be good for but come on now......lmao
Being I love trivia, another interesting thought came to mind as I type this mindless blog, what are the biggest implants that you've personally seen? If you ask me that question, Id have to answer 800cc and on a woman who couldnt of been more than 100 lbs!!! Whoa Dog!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Gotta Love Texans!!
I was at the hockey rink waiting for the game to start when I read this article. Hysterical to say the least! Apparently, some crazy fun people, I can only imagine the age, decided to hack into computerized road signs and change the message....
But honestly, who would think of changing the message to this though?!?! Zombies In Area! Run ! I mean was this a person or persons who love horror movies? Or were they just intelligent enough to not change the sign to something more insidious in the event that they got caught? And who was the journalist who wrote in the below linked news article that stated there were no actual zombies sighted?!?! Say what?!?!? Are Zombies even real?!?? lmao
As you can see, I have lots of unanswered questions since this story is very deep! However, I would like to thank the journalist who was stuck with this assignment and made this article noteworthy right down to the Department of Transportation interviews. It is very lovely to view news articles that demonstrate the ease at which computers can be hacked and passwords retrieved!!! No one is safe. I mean would you rather have a zombie chase you down or have someone hack your computer and see what nefarious deeds you have committed?!? Oh where was I? Ah yes, about to do a blog on a much deeper subject.....
"Toodles"- Ona
http://news.aol.com/article/zombie-road-signs-attack-austin-texas/322482
But honestly, who would think of changing the message to this though?!?! Zombies In Area! Run ! I mean was this a person or persons who love horror movies? Or were they just intelligent enough to not change the sign to something more insidious in the event that they got caught? And who was the journalist who wrote in the below linked news article that stated there were no actual zombies sighted?!?! Say what?!?!? Are Zombies even real?!?? lmao
As you can see, I have lots of unanswered questions since this story is very deep! However, I would like to thank the journalist who was stuck with this assignment and made this article noteworthy right down to the Department of Transportation interviews. It is very lovely to view news articles that demonstrate the ease at which computers can be hacked and passwords retrieved!!! No one is safe. I mean would you rather have a zombie chase you down or have someone hack your computer and see what nefarious deeds you have committed?!? Oh where was I? Ah yes, about to do a blog on a much deeper subject.....
"Toodles"- Ona
http://news.aol.com/article/zombie-road-signs-attack-austin-texas/322482
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Goodness a gracious....
Okay first things first. It has been at least a month that my toilet has not been able to flush the easy way. By the easy way, I mean you just pull the handle and whalla. Apparently, the chain broke and so what did I in my ingeniousness do? I just took the porcelain cover off and reach my hand into the freezing cold water and pull the broken chain myself anytime I need to 'flush'!
Well that would be fine and dandy and as I have proven, we humans learn to adapt until such time as someone comes along to fix my problem...haha. But as luck would have it, now there are other parts leaking inside the toilet and the noise alone is driving me crazy!!! So being the type of person that can do anything I put my mind to, (cant say this is something I want to put my mind to), but due to above said noises, am forced to put my mind to, I asked myself how hard would it be to replace toilet parts.
So I start with the obvious. I peer into my toilet that is most of the time drained of water since Ive been shutting the main water supply off as it is leaking water from somewhere. (My water bill proved that last month.) Being I am not a plumber, I attempt to take note on what types of parts are inside a toilet. I have to be honest with you, I never cared before and hope never to care again! But suffice to say I believe a trip to Wal-Mart is in order since it is right up the street and their prices are reasonable.
So I mosey up to Wal-Mart only to find there are a myriad of toilet parts to be purchased. Help!!! At this time, I spot a man in the same aisle, but I don't want to bother him or have him think I am trying to pick up on him. I mean lets be real, do single people shop at Wal-Mart?!?!? I know I am there, but what are the literal statistics. Maybe I should ask the greeter.
Anyway, so I see something that says universal toilet repair kit. Okay that sounds reasonable and the parts within look like stuff I spotted inside my own porcelain. So I think I am good to go. WRONG. At this time, I spot a flush lever hanging close to the repair kit and I realize that the original problem I had was that the toilet wouldn't flush. So what is the deal? They sell something as a repair kit but leave out one of the parts??! Oh man, please get me back to my day job!!!
Anyway, I am quite pleased with myself that I found all the parts that I need to fix my toilet without having to ask the guy in the aisle :) What happens when I arrive home? Absolutely nothing!! Do you think I really want to fix my toilet? The answer is no!!! lol So the parts sit there for several days and nights and finally I cant take the noise any longer and decide to fix my toilet tonight.
I was so grateful to see there are instructions inside the repair kit! Wow, I think I may just be able to do this. After all, I can repair a broken nail you know. So as I read the instructions, I get lost on where the coupling nut is and where this and that is. But I eventually get it. All I can think of at this point, is why didn't I ask one my guy friends to come over and help me? After all I am a great cook and I totally don't mind doing the dishes. I can purchase beer too since I am legal!!!
Wrapping up this most ridiculous story, I forgot one major major piece to this puzzle. The tools to undo everything!! I must digress and mention that I had been in a LTR for 5 years and it has been 1.5 years that its been over. However, he had purchased extra tools for my house in order to fix things and when we were over and done, he took every little tool back to his small apartment. Well being the resourceful female that I am, I remember that my sons, have a tool kit somewhere in the garage. I am very excited because once I start a project, I want to finish it. Okay so I head downstairs out to the garage, find the tools and find a wrench.
Guess what? It was the wrong size!!! Sigh....I guess I am just not cut out to do man's work. Yes, you heard me man's work!!! Just leave me in the kitchen barefoot and not pregnant...
PS Will let you know when my toilet dilemma is solved. Yes I know you can not wait to hear more on this most fascinating subject.
"If women are expected to do the same work as men, we must teach them the same things"-Plato
Well that would be fine and dandy and as I have proven, we humans learn to adapt until such time as someone comes along to fix my problem...haha. But as luck would have it, now there are other parts leaking inside the toilet and the noise alone is driving me crazy!!! So being the type of person that can do anything I put my mind to, (cant say this is something I want to put my mind to), but due to above said noises, am forced to put my mind to, I asked myself how hard would it be to replace toilet parts.
So I start with the obvious. I peer into my toilet that is most of the time drained of water since Ive been shutting the main water supply off as it is leaking water from somewhere. (My water bill proved that last month.) Being I am not a plumber, I attempt to take note on what types of parts are inside a toilet. I have to be honest with you, I never cared before and hope never to care again! But suffice to say I believe a trip to Wal-Mart is in order since it is right up the street and their prices are reasonable.
So I mosey up to Wal-Mart only to find there are a myriad of toilet parts to be purchased. Help!!! At this time, I spot a man in the same aisle, but I don't want to bother him or have him think I am trying to pick up on him. I mean lets be real, do single people shop at Wal-Mart?!?!? I know I am there, but what are the literal statistics. Maybe I should ask the greeter.
Anyway, so I see something that says universal toilet repair kit. Okay that sounds reasonable and the parts within look like stuff I spotted inside my own porcelain. So I think I am good to go. WRONG. At this time, I spot a flush lever hanging close to the repair kit and I realize that the original problem I had was that the toilet wouldn't flush. So what is the deal? They sell something as a repair kit but leave out one of the parts??! Oh man, please get me back to my day job!!!
Anyway, I am quite pleased with myself that I found all the parts that I need to fix my toilet without having to ask the guy in the aisle :) What happens when I arrive home? Absolutely nothing!! Do you think I really want to fix my toilet? The answer is no!!! lol So the parts sit there for several days and nights and finally I cant take the noise any longer and decide to fix my toilet tonight.
I was so grateful to see there are instructions inside the repair kit! Wow, I think I may just be able to do this. After all, I can repair a broken nail you know. So as I read the instructions, I get lost on where the coupling nut is and where this and that is. But I eventually get it. All I can think of at this point, is why didn't I ask one my guy friends to come over and help me? After all I am a great cook and I totally don't mind doing the dishes. I can purchase beer too since I am legal!!!
Wrapping up this most ridiculous story, I forgot one major major piece to this puzzle. The tools to undo everything!! I must digress and mention that I had been in a LTR for 5 years and it has been 1.5 years that its been over. However, he had purchased extra tools for my house in order to fix things and when we were over and done, he took every little tool back to his small apartment. Well being the resourceful female that I am, I remember that my sons, have a tool kit somewhere in the garage. I am very excited because once I start a project, I want to finish it. Okay so I head downstairs out to the garage, find the tools and find a wrench.
Guess what? It was the wrong size!!! Sigh....I guess I am just not cut out to do man's work. Yes, you heard me man's work!!! Just leave me in the kitchen barefoot and not pregnant...
PS Will let you know when my toilet dilemma is solved. Yes I know you can not wait to hear more on this most fascinating subject.
"If women are expected to do the same work as men, we must teach them the same things"-Plato
Final Acts of Clemency
Reading this story this morning was one of the best pieces of news I've read in a while. Having followed this case very heavily via talk radio, I was outraged at the American judicial system for allowing a Mexican drug smuggler to walk back over the border one month later and state he had been shot in the ass by U.S. Border Patrol Agents and give the bullet to authorities.
What did our supposedly great judicial system do? An investigation of course! No matter that this piece of scum had already been arrested in the U.S. before. Oh no, they go after the two border patrol agents with full vengeance and give them over 10 year sentences in prison! Say what?!? What was comical in this whole situation was the agents in question were Mexican-Americans and the dude they shot was Mexican-Mexican. The usual trump card that would've been played was racism!!! But alas, couldn't do that here....hahaha. Just had to add that little piece of information to this story.
All amusement aside, I am very proud of President Bush for pardoning these gentleman. Below is the complete article should you want to read the watered down story. Trust me the majority of facts are missing from the highly controversial case. What I found very interesting and would like to note was these facts that were present in the article:
Clinton issued a total of 457 pardons or commutations in eight years in office. Bush's father, George H. W. Bush, issued 77 in four years. Reagan issued 406 in eight years, and President Jimmy Carter issued 563 in four years. Since World War II, the largest number of pardons and commutations — 2,031 — came from President Harry Truman, who served 82 days short of eight years. (http://news.aol.com/article/bush-commutes-border-agents-sentences/286363)
Quite interesting to see that democratic presidents tend to pardon the most criminals....
"I'm thirty years old, but I read at the thirty-four-year-old level"- Dana Carvey
What did our supposedly great judicial system do? An investigation of course! No matter that this piece of scum had already been arrested in the U.S. before. Oh no, they go after the two border patrol agents with full vengeance and give them over 10 year sentences in prison! Say what?!? What was comical in this whole situation was the agents in question were Mexican-Americans and the dude they shot was Mexican-Mexican. The usual trump card that would've been played was racism!!! But alas, couldn't do that here....hahaha. Just had to add that little piece of information to this story.
All amusement aside, I am very proud of President Bush for pardoning these gentleman. Below is the complete article should you want to read the watered down story. Trust me the majority of facts are missing from the highly controversial case. What I found very interesting and would like to note was these facts that were present in the article:
Clinton issued a total of 457 pardons or commutations in eight years in office. Bush's father, George H. W. Bush, issued 77 in four years. Reagan issued 406 in eight years, and President Jimmy Carter issued 563 in four years. Since World War II, the largest number of pardons and commutations — 2,031 — came from President Harry Truman, who served 82 days short of eight years. (http://news.aol.com/article/bush-commutes-border-agents-sentences/286363)
Quite interesting to see that democratic presidents tend to pardon the most criminals....
"I'm thirty years old, but I read at the thirty-four-year-old level"- Dana Carvey
Saturday, January 24, 2009
It's A Cakewalk
For years I've been using the term cakewalk without having a clue as to where it originated from aside from going to my school's Halloween carnivals and hoping that Id land on the winning number when the music stopped. Goodness, I recall using a lot of my tickets and walking around and around in order to attempt to win back my Mom's cake. (Lame!!)
But honestly, I can not say what possessed me upon waking this morning to decide to learn more about cakewalks. I awoke in a giggly, silly mood so perhaps that was the reason or perhaps I have too much time on my hands for the moment. But whatever was the possession, and yes I will do a blog about addictions soon, I found myself on Wikepedia searching for my answer.
I have to say I was very surprised at the answer! And I must add that Wikepedia's answer was too lengthy and this was more concise. "In the 19th century, cakewalk was a popular contest among slaves on the American plantations. It was a strutting dance, developed as a parody of white owners, in which couples with the most stylish steps won a cake as a prize. The dance may or may not have been easy but it was certainly a lot of fun, and eventually the term cakewalk begin to be used to refer to anything easy to do. The idiom "to take the cake" has the same origin." (http://wordsmith.org/words/cakewalk.html)
Imagine my disappointment to learn this information. And here I thought it was all about Halloween, shit... lol I am never ceased to be amazed at how much information one can garner on the Internet. It simply is mind boggling and truly is easier than a 'cakewalk'. So next time you use this term or take your kids to the school carnival and walk around hoping your number comes up like you do in Vegas, think of me. After all, life is a cakewalk!!! (Well some may argue with me that it is a proverbial hamster wheel, but that is a different blog!)
"It's not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on." - Marilyn Monroe
But honestly, I can not say what possessed me upon waking this morning to decide to learn more about cakewalks. I awoke in a giggly, silly mood so perhaps that was the reason or perhaps I have too much time on my hands for the moment. But whatever was the possession, and yes I will do a blog about addictions soon, I found myself on Wikepedia searching for my answer.
I have to say I was very surprised at the answer! And I must add that Wikepedia's answer was too lengthy and this was more concise. "In the 19th century, cakewalk was a popular contest among slaves on the American plantations. It was a strutting dance, developed as a parody of white owners, in which couples with the most stylish steps won a cake as a prize. The dance may or may not have been easy but it was certainly a lot of fun, and eventually the term cakewalk begin to be used to refer to anything easy to do. The idiom "to take the cake" has the same origin." (http://wordsmith.org/words/cakewalk.html)
Imagine my disappointment to learn this information. And here I thought it was all about Halloween, shit... lol I am never ceased to be amazed at how much information one can garner on the Internet. It simply is mind boggling and truly is easier than a 'cakewalk'. So next time you use this term or take your kids to the school carnival and walk around hoping your number comes up like you do in Vegas, think of me. After all, life is a cakewalk!!! (Well some may argue with me that it is a proverbial hamster wheel, but that is a different blog!)
"It's not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on." - Marilyn Monroe
Friday, January 23, 2009
Dating and Dr. Phil
I was watching TV a few afternoons ago and Dr. Phil was on. Now keep in mind, I rarely watch TV and when I do, it is educational, ie Discovery Channel, Food Network, Forensics, History Channel etc So it was a guilty pleasure to not only be watching TV in the afternoon, but to be watching a shhh, talk show!
Dr. Phil is supposed to be one of America's top relationship experts. And this particular day he did not let me down. The topic was Dating Double Standards. It was a show about how it is okay in our society for older men to date younger women, but it is not okay for older women to date younger men. Well of course that nabbed my attention and right quick.
I was very amused by his guest choices as well. He had a lady who was 58 who was still quite attractive and had dated several thousand men in her lifetime one as young as 17, ouch! Her daughter was seated next to her and wanted Dr. Phil to talk some sense into her. (I honestly think she was too far gone at this point) Behind the guests on a large screen, was a map of all the locations this woman had traveled in order to meet her online men. It was phenomenal to say the least. And of side note she had dated Prince Albert of Monaco for 5 years somewhere in her repertoire of dating. But despite all of this, she still hadn't found her 'man'.
Dr. Phil's advice? You are desperate!!! You need to take a break and re-evaluate what you are doing because it obviously isn't working. Then he parades another relationship expert, the lady from the Millionaire Matchmaker show, who also has her stab at the woman. This expert points and harshly says, "You need a 90 day detox!!!"
Well at this point, the show seemed to be a tad off track as it was supposed to be about dating double standards but who cared as it was amusing none the less. But it got me to thinking, Ive been on an Internet dating site for 5 months and I have met a few cool people. I even met one, though not in person yet, who is an amazing man that truly stands out above the rest. But what has it gotten me? I hate to be cynical though as that isn't my nature. I am a glass is always full kinda girl. But still, what do I have to show for it all? Now keep in mind, I am a very picky soul and would rather be alone than be with someone for the sake of being with someone but still life is more interesting when you have someone crazy fun to share it with.
At this point, I started to wonder if being on the dating site for 5 months put me in Dr. Phil's you must be doing something wrong category. Now granted, 5 months isn't that long of a time frame but still if results aren't forthcoming and I feel worse than when I started, who needs it!!! And as I had those thoughts, it seemed the advice albeit not directed at me about a 90 day detox, seemed like a great idea. So I did what Ive wanted to do for months now, deleted myself from the dating site and shall enjoy the detox...lol Now if a prince charming comes my way, I shall not be ridiculous of course, but then what are those odds?!?
Dr. Phil is supposed to be one of America's top relationship experts. And this particular day he did not let me down. The topic was Dating Double Standards. It was a show about how it is okay in our society for older men to date younger women, but it is not okay for older women to date younger men. Well of course that nabbed my attention and right quick.
I was very amused by his guest choices as well. He had a lady who was 58 who was still quite attractive and had dated several thousand men in her lifetime one as young as 17, ouch! Her daughter was seated next to her and wanted Dr. Phil to talk some sense into her. (I honestly think she was too far gone at this point) Behind the guests on a large screen, was a map of all the locations this woman had traveled in order to meet her online men. It was phenomenal to say the least. And of side note she had dated Prince Albert of Monaco for 5 years somewhere in her repertoire of dating. But despite all of this, she still hadn't found her 'man'.
Dr. Phil's advice? You are desperate!!! You need to take a break and re-evaluate what you are doing because it obviously isn't working. Then he parades another relationship expert, the lady from the Millionaire Matchmaker show, who also has her stab at the woman. This expert points and harshly says, "You need a 90 day detox!!!"
Well at this point, the show seemed to be a tad off track as it was supposed to be about dating double standards but who cared as it was amusing none the less. But it got me to thinking, Ive been on an Internet dating site for 5 months and I have met a few cool people. I even met one, though not in person yet, who is an amazing man that truly stands out above the rest. But what has it gotten me? I hate to be cynical though as that isn't my nature. I am a glass is always full kinda girl. But still, what do I have to show for it all? Now keep in mind, I am a very picky soul and would rather be alone than be with someone for the sake of being with someone but still life is more interesting when you have someone crazy fun to share it with.
At this point, I started to wonder if being on the dating site for 5 months put me in Dr. Phil's you must be doing something wrong category. Now granted, 5 months isn't that long of a time frame but still if results aren't forthcoming and I feel worse than when I started, who needs it!!! And as I had those thoughts, it seemed the advice albeit not directed at me about a 90 day detox, seemed like a great idea. So I did what Ive wanted to do for months now, deleted myself from the dating site and shall enjoy the detox...lol Now if a prince charming comes my way, I shall not be ridiculous of course, but then what are those odds?!?
Thursday, January 22, 2009
The Closing of Guantanamo
I jumped online to do a blog on an interesting subject when I read this absolutely outrageous article. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090122/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_suspected_terrorists
As I read the entire article, my stomach literally tied into a knot. I felt for our American military intelligence and was incensed at the castration Obama has performed on them and just 5 minutes into his Presidency! He seems to be saying, now children play nice in the sandbox because he says so. There is to be not hitting or biting or anything out of line or we will pull out our Army Field Manuel to see how to discipline you 'fairly'. No worries if you bomb, kill, or maim, that isn't the point, the point is "The message that we are sending the world is that the United States intends to prosecute the ongoing struggle against violence and terrorism and we are going to do so vigilantly and we are going to do so effectively and we are going to do so in a manner that is consistent with our values and our ideals," WTF?!?? Whose values and ideals are we talking about?!?!
I personally loved this action by Obama: Created a task force to recommend policies on handling terror suspects who are detained in the future. Say what?!?! Everyone who has ever sat on a task force knows that it just spins wheels. But we aren't just talking about what color to paint the Oval Office. This is America's freedom at stake here. Another action: Required all U.S. personnel to follow the U.S. Army Field Manual while interrogating detainees. OMG, dude like we have a suspect, lets refresh our memory on what we can and can not do to someone who had a bomb strapped to his body and intended to kill masses. There is a universal language that speaks to all and I am sure it is no where found in that manual.
And this one took home the prize: The order also orders the CIA to close all its existing detention facilities abroad for terror suspects — and prohibits those prisons from being used in the future. So like what is our intelligence supposed to do? Let these people roam loose to come back at us again in a more violent way? And as the article shows a picture of Obama signing, he has this to say, "We intend to win this fight. We're going to win it on our terms," as he signed three executive orders and a presidential directive. OMG, win it on our terms?!?! Whose terms are we talking about? The Illuminati?!?!
But above and beyond the posted photo, was the visual I had when I read this: In his first Oval Office signing ceremony, Obama was surrounded by retired senior military leaders. He described them as outstanding Americans who have defended the country — and its ideals. My stomach did a loop to think that men who are way beyond his intelligence factor were subjected to watching their own castration and that of their men....
This is a very sad day in America and to think that only a little over half the American people voted for him. (I was not one of them.) I guess there is just one hope left, prayer.....
As I read the entire article, my stomach literally tied into a knot. I felt for our American military intelligence and was incensed at the castration Obama has performed on them and just 5 minutes into his Presidency! He seems to be saying, now children play nice in the sandbox because he says so. There is to be not hitting or biting or anything out of line or we will pull out our Army Field Manuel to see how to discipline you 'fairly'. No worries if you bomb, kill, or maim, that isn't the point, the point is "The message that we are sending the world is that the United States intends to prosecute the ongoing struggle against violence and terrorism and we are going to do so vigilantly and we are going to do so effectively and we are going to do so in a manner that is consistent with our values and our ideals," WTF?!?? Whose values and ideals are we talking about?!?!
I personally loved this action by Obama: Created a task force to recommend policies on handling terror suspects who are detained in the future. Say what?!?! Everyone who has ever sat on a task force knows that it just spins wheels. But we aren't just talking about what color to paint the Oval Office. This is America's freedom at stake here. Another action: Required all U.S. personnel to follow the U.S. Army Field Manual while interrogating detainees. OMG, dude like we have a suspect, lets refresh our memory on what we can and can not do to someone who had a bomb strapped to his body and intended to kill masses. There is a universal language that speaks to all and I am sure it is no where found in that manual.
And this one took home the prize: The order also orders the CIA to close all its existing detention facilities abroad for terror suspects — and prohibits those prisons from being used in the future. So like what is our intelligence supposed to do? Let these people roam loose to come back at us again in a more violent way? And as the article shows a picture of Obama signing, he has this to say, "We intend to win this fight. We're going to win it on our terms," as he signed three executive orders and a presidential directive. OMG, win it on our terms?!?! Whose terms are we talking about? The Illuminati?!?!
But above and beyond the posted photo, was the visual I had when I read this: In his first Oval Office signing ceremony, Obama was surrounded by retired senior military leaders. He described them as outstanding Americans who have defended the country — and its ideals. My stomach did a loop to think that men who are way beyond his intelligence factor were subjected to watching their own castration and that of their men....
This is a very sad day in America and to think that only a little over half the American people voted for him. (I was not one of them.) I guess there is just one hope left, prayer.....
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
~A Time for Healing~
History was made today. America's first black President was inaugurated. And what was the craziest thing, was I didn't watch any of the history in the making. (Unless you count cycling through the TV channels to get to something else to watch then technically my eyes did glimpse a few seconds of it)
Anyone who knows me, knows I am a major history buff and am very into politics. So why was it that I was not front and center at the television to witness such an event? Well first I must admit that this was the first presidential race that I honestly did not follow heavily. Again, why when it was to be a very historical one? I mean our first woman or our first black man could possibly be the next president of the United States of America! Perhaps, it was growing up I once heard that a nation's leader is only as good as its people. And truly a good majority of the American people are slaves to the ever nasty media and can not think for themselves. Almost like sheep ready for slaughter. So whoever was to be voted in, was only to be as good as the people themselves.....
Well I shall answer why I was apathetic to this event in history. I truly was sick and tired of the presidential bashing of George W. Bush. Every time something happened here or even a leaf falling off a tree it was Bushes fault. Being a very patriotic American, I stand by my President. Truly, it isn't just the president that changes the course of this country. He has advisers and a cabinet that help make major decisions and we have a congress and a judicial system that are every bit as involved in major decisions as well. So why is it that suddenly a new democratic, black president is going to ride in and save the country? I am going to laugh four years from now when everyone is Obama bashing and is screaming for change. Get real people, one man can not do it all! To think that, is absolute ridiculousness. If one wants change, than one needs to start with themself and stop being a slave to the media.
Lastly, to finish off why I was not tuned into this most historical day, I being an individual who always sees the glass as full, believe this event is a time for healing. One of America's problems as well as most countries around the globe, is the racial differences that divide a country. Due to our past history of slavery and segregation, nothing not even time seemed to mend these wounds. However, today, with the inauguration of our first black president, these harsh wounds shall hopefully begin to heal. I mean if a man of color can make it to the highest position in the land, then truly those old hurts need to be buried and laid to rest by those that are still carrying them. And perhaps a nation that was subconsciously divided shall be whole once again. I know that is wishful thinking but it is my hope that peace and love will abound and we can all sing kum by ya around a campfire that is until the media comes up with another good divide and conquer tactic. But just speak with me in four years and we can have a cold brew, a hot dog, some apple pie and a good laugh...
Anyone who knows me, knows I am a major history buff and am very into politics. So why was it that I was not front and center at the television to witness such an event? Well first I must admit that this was the first presidential race that I honestly did not follow heavily. Again, why when it was to be a very historical one? I mean our first woman or our first black man could possibly be the next president of the United States of America! Perhaps, it was growing up I once heard that a nation's leader is only as good as its people. And truly a good majority of the American people are slaves to the ever nasty media and can not think for themselves. Almost like sheep ready for slaughter. So whoever was to be voted in, was only to be as good as the people themselves.....
Well I shall answer why I was apathetic to this event in history. I truly was sick and tired of the presidential bashing of George W. Bush. Every time something happened here or even a leaf falling off a tree it was Bushes fault. Being a very patriotic American, I stand by my President. Truly, it isn't just the president that changes the course of this country. He has advisers and a cabinet that help make major decisions and we have a congress and a judicial system that are every bit as involved in major decisions as well. So why is it that suddenly a new democratic, black president is going to ride in and save the country? I am going to laugh four years from now when everyone is Obama bashing and is screaming for change. Get real people, one man can not do it all! To think that, is absolute ridiculousness. If one wants change, than one needs to start with themself and stop being a slave to the media.
Lastly, to finish off why I was not tuned into this most historical day, I being an individual who always sees the glass as full, believe this event is a time for healing. One of America's problems as well as most countries around the globe, is the racial differences that divide a country. Due to our past history of slavery and segregation, nothing not even time seemed to mend these wounds. However, today, with the inauguration of our first black president, these harsh wounds shall hopefully begin to heal. I mean if a man of color can make it to the highest position in the land, then truly those old hurts need to be buried and laid to rest by those that are still carrying them. And perhaps a nation that was subconsciously divided shall be whole once again. I know that is wishful thinking but it is my hope that peace and love will abound and we can all sing kum by ya around a campfire that is until the media comes up with another good divide and conquer tactic. But just speak with me in four years and we can have a cold brew, a hot dog, some apple pie and a good laugh...
The Allure of the Online World
It has been years since Ive been online. I remember the excitement of logging into AOL via dialup. It seemed like forever before the you've got mail would ring through my speakers. You could practically cook a meal in the time it took to log online! And sometimes, I did just that as my computer desk was in the kitchen in those days. Times have changed though and dialup was replaced by high speed internet and AOL chat by Myspace and Facebook. But one thing that hasn't changed, is the allure of the online world.
At the tip of one's fingers, a new friend can come into your world like rain falls in the Amazon jungle. Dating sites abound and there are plentiful faces to choose from like being in a candy store with unlimited choices. And for those doing local online dating, it is like having a See's candy box all to yourself. You can reach in look for the candy of your liking, taste it and toss it back in the box if you don't want a soft center and you'd rather have a nut and chew.
The problem with the ease at which one can find a new 'friend', is that it creates a very disposable mentality. If the person you are with wears the wrong cologne or says something off color, bam time to get a new candy from the box. However, one should not be surprised as this all goes with the American philosophy of everything being disposable. In the old days it was major work to try and find someone of your liking. That meant perhaps a trip to the bar, perhaps a trip to the park with your dog, or perhaps hoping by luck and happen stance you'd meet 'the one' in the grocery store. Not today, merely log online and one can find someone in any country in the world.
I have learned one major thing about this online world and that is we make people out to be who we want them to be. Almost like a favorite pet that we decide to clone. We can turn them on, we can turn them off, we can LOL til the cows come home, we can be risque with conversations and discuss our deepest darkest fantasies and even 'cyber'. But regardless, this world is truly fantasy until one meets and goes through the trials and tribulations of real life ie, work, housework, traffic. Only then does the wit and charm and looks all add up to true compatibility. My friends have always thought me crazy as I am a hopeless romantic and believe that I will meet my prince charming someday and that he just may be online somewhere in this big world. They tell me they will believe it when they see it. Well, I have met someone online who is an amazing man and only time will tell. In the meantime, I shall remain in the allure of this crazy, powerful online world where the mind is king.
"Love all, trust a few. Do wrong to none."
At the tip of one's fingers, a new friend can come into your world like rain falls in the Amazon jungle. Dating sites abound and there are plentiful faces to choose from like being in a candy store with unlimited choices. And for those doing local online dating, it is like having a See's candy box all to yourself. You can reach in look for the candy of your liking, taste it and toss it back in the box if you don't want a soft center and you'd rather have a nut and chew.
The problem with the ease at which one can find a new 'friend', is that it creates a very disposable mentality. If the person you are with wears the wrong cologne or says something off color, bam time to get a new candy from the box. However, one should not be surprised as this all goes with the American philosophy of everything being disposable. In the old days it was major work to try and find someone of your liking. That meant perhaps a trip to the bar, perhaps a trip to the park with your dog, or perhaps hoping by luck and happen stance you'd meet 'the one' in the grocery store. Not today, merely log online and one can find someone in any country in the world.
I have learned one major thing about this online world and that is we make people out to be who we want them to be. Almost like a favorite pet that we decide to clone. We can turn them on, we can turn them off, we can LOL til the cows come home, we can be risque with conversations and discuss our deepest darkest fantasies and even 'cyber'. But regardless, this world is truly fantasy until one meets and goes through the trials and tribulations of real life ie, work, housework, traffic. Only then does the wit and charm and looks all add up to true compatibility. My friends have always thought me crazy as I am a hopeless romantic and believe that I will meet my prince charming someday and that he just may be online somewhere in this big world. They tell me they will believe it when they see it. Well, I have met someone online who is an amazing man and only time will tell. In the meantime, I shall remain in the allure of this crazy, powerful online world where the mind is king.
"Love all, trust a few. Do wrong to none."
Monday, January 19, 2009
I'm backkkk......
Okay first things first. I have recently been inspired to blog yet once again. Funny how another influenced me to bring out my dormant inner writer again. ( I just noticed there is spell check!! What more could I ask for?!?!) Since I very much live in my mind, what a fun way to show others that mental people are fun and don't merely need to be locked up!!!
To be technical, it has been since last July that Ive blogged and I merely stopped because as anyone who lives in Southern California can attest to, who sits in front of their computer in the summertime?!? Certainly not me! And I should add, last summer was an absolute blast. But truly life is as fun as you make it and I am one of those people who looks at life with the glass way full. So please enjoy my rants and raves and trust me I have them!!!
Mahalo
I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, And that enables you to laugh at life's realities- Dr. Seuss
To be technical, it has been since last July that Ive blogged and I merely stopped because as anyone who lives in Southern California can attest to, who sits in front of their computer in the summertime?!? Certainly not me! And I should add, last summer was an absolute blast. But truly life is as fun as you make it and I am one of those people who looks at life with the glass way full. So please enjoy my rants and raves and trust me I have them!!!
Mahalo
I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, And that enables you to laugh at life's realities- Dr. Seuss
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