I have some weird thing with my throat that makes me cough or clear my throat sometimes. I don't know what it is. So far undetermined. In the past however, it was really bad. I was constantly clearing my throat and coughing. Because of said issue, my gag reflex works overtime. Guess I will never be a contestant on Fear Factor...not that I want to flaunt my breasts in a string bikini anyway, which we all know is the sick reason for that show...watch girls flop their breasts around in various disgusting situations. mmhhmm.
So anyway, my nephew got sick tonight, and let loose all over the upstairs. I can't even go near them now. This is unfortunate since my room is upstairs and I would now like to go to bed. My mom cleaned up the mess and then proceeded to spray lysol and fabreeze all over everything. All that does is cause me to asphixiate on top of the gagging. If somthing grosses me out I can gag just thinking about it. It's terrible.
I once had this roommate who had the most horrible gas, and that would have been enough, but then she used this wretched smelling talcum powder, and the combination was enough to drop a large rhinocerus dead in its tracks. So sad. the girl down the hall would let me hang with her until the deadly fumes had dissipated. It was worse than you can imagine.
This however, is just pathetic. Poor little buddy is all sick, and I am just trying to stay as far away as possible so I don't add to the situation. *sigh*
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Pride and Prejudice
I went and saw the movie again. I admit it, I am hooked. That scene where they have the argument. You know the one. Where Darcy finally confesses his love and Elizabeth tells him he is the last man she could be prevailed upon to marry? I love that scene in the new movie. It's like, he wants to kiss her, but he can't and he is agonizing. It's moving. =) Little sister also loved it but her boyfriend Mark was completely lost...poor guy. =P hehe.
So here is the list of books I have read so far this month:
Pride and Prejudice (Of course! Hadn't read it yet.)
Northanger Abbey (Also Jane Austen)
Wuthering Heights; I told myself that I was going to give this book another chance. I didn't love it. Two thirds of the way through I had to convince myself I could finish it. The writing isn't bad or anything..it's just so dang depressing. There is only so much I can take! I did finish it though and that's all I can say.
Drowning Ruth; I know I mentioned the first couple of these in a previous entry, but I don't think I really gave any details. This book wasn't my favorite, but I did enjoy it. It's basically about these two sisters. One of them dies tragically, and the other ends up raising her sister's
daughter and taking care of her husband who's been wounded in the war. WWI...i think. In any case, there is a lot of mystery surrounded the sisters death, and throughout the book you are getting little glimpses of the circumstances surrounding the event. I liked the way it was drawn out.
The Night Trilogy by Elie Weisel: Night/Dawn/The Accident
Who can read Night and not be moved, honestly? Ever since I went to the Holocaust museum back in the Spring I have been even more impacted by things having to do with it. It strikes me deeply in a way I can't explain...more than it ever did before. Dawn(fictional) was okay definitely interesting, and the Accident, which is also fictional, but could be the life of the author and you'd never know it, was very moving. I liked it alot.
Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller, the author of Blue Like Jazz.
I started this a couple of weeks ago, but just finished it. It's basically a travel journal. Well, it reads like a story, but it covers the authors road trip from Houston up to the Mnt Hood area in Oregon. I love the Northwest, and although I haven't been to all the places along the journey, I have been to most, and it was interesting to read their descriptions from a different perspective. What I initially liked the most about this book, is that it has the spirit of some things I'd like to write myself. It's not a difficult read, and I would recommend it to anyone.
I recently bought the Time Traveler's Wife among other things, and upon reading the first chapter, I became convinced I had read it before. I haven't remembered how it ends yet though. I think I'll read a ways further.
Anne of Green Gables is sitting on my bedside table, even though I've read it a couple of times before, I've been hankering to read it again. =) I also started Mansfield Park, but I only read a couple of pages before I got busy. So I am trying to decide if that's the book I want to finish first. We'll see. I wanted to get a head start on reading, since I need to average two books a week for the year. I did get a head start, but now I've been letting it slack! I did most of my reading the first week, and I have only finished one book this week. So I'd like to start something besides Moby Dick if you know what I mean. hehe.
I'm supposed to drive to Texas with Becky this coming week, so that should be interesting. Especially after reading that travel related book.
Well, that's my report for now! =)
So here is the list of books I have read so far this month:
Pride and Prejudice (Of course! Hadn't read it yet.)
Northanger Abbey (Also Jane Austen)
Wuthering Heights; I told myself that I was going to give this book another chance. I didn't love it. Two thirds of the way through I had to convince myself I could finish it. The writing isn't bad or anything..it's just so dang depressing. There is only so much I can take! I did finish it though and that's all I can say.
Drowning Ruth; I know I mentioned the first couple of these in a previous entry, but I don't think I really gave any details. This book wasn't my favorite, but I did enjoy it. It's basically about these two sisters. One of them dies tragically, and the other ends up raising her sister's
daughter and taking care of her husband who's been wounded in the war. WWI...i think. In any case, there is a lot of mystery surrounded the sisters death, and throughout the book you are getting little glimpses of the circumstances surrounding the event. I liked the way it was drawn out.
The Night Trilogy by Elie Weisel: Night/Dawn/The Accident
Who can read Night and not be moved, honestly? Ever since I went to the Holocaust museum back in the Spring I have been even more impacted by things having to do with it. It strikes me deeply in a way I can't explain...more than it ever did before. Dawn(fictional) was okay definitely interesting, and the Accident, which is also fictional, but could be the life of the author and you'd never know it, was very moving. I liked it alot.
Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller, the author of Blue Like Jazz.
I started this a couple of weeks ago, but just finished it. It's basically a travel journal. Well, it reads like a story, but it covers the authors road trip from Houston up to the Mnt Hood area in Oregon. I love the Northwest, and although I haven't been to all the places along the journey, I have been to most, and it was interesting to read their descriptions from a different perspective. What I initially liked the most about this book, is that it has the spirit of some things I'd like to write myself. It's not a difficult read, and I would recommend it to anyone.
I recently bought the Time Traveler's Wife among other things, and upon reading the first chapter, I became convinced I had read it before. I haven't remembered how it ends yet though. I think I'll read a ways further.
Anne of Green Gables is sitting on my bedside table, even though I've read it a couple of times before, I've been hankering to read it again. =) I also started Mansfield Park, but I only read a couple of pages before I got busy. So I am trying to decide if that's the book I want to finish first. We'll see. I wanted to get a head start on reading, since I need to average two books a week for the year. I did get a head start, but now I've been letting it slack! I did most of my reading the first week, and I have only finished one book this week. So I'd like to start something besides Moby Dick if you know what I mean. hehe.
I'm supposed to drive to Texas with Becky this coming week, so that should be interesting. Especially after reading that travel related book.
Well, that's my report for now! =)
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Books
I don't know why, of late, it never occured to me to go to the Goodwill looking for books. There is a place in town called The Book Exchange, where I occassionally go to buy used books. This morning though, my mom asked me to go to the Goodwill to look for some second hand thing she wanted. It was on my way home from a friends house. I decided while I was there, to browse the books. I bought a hard bound copy of Drowning Ruth by Christina Schwarz, and paper backs White Oleander and Mrs. Dalloway (I haven't read any Virginia Woolf yet). Altogether with my mom's thing I spent 7.55$. Wahoo. Fabulous. Tomorrow I am going to the book exchange to look for classics. I am a classics nut at the moment. Becky is loaning me the complete Jane Austen collection.
I swear that I am going to read Harry Potter one of these days. I started the first one about three, maybe four years ago. It's not that I didn't like it, but I put it down for some reason. I just have to be in the mood I guess. In any case, I am also borrowing them from a friend, so hopefully I'll get to those this year.
I was planning on finishing Northanger Abbey yesterday, but I ended up having to work, and there were too many other things to do. So I'll get to it this afternoon. I also started a book by Donald Miller called "Through Painted Deserts." I've only read one chapter, but love it so far. I think I'll just read it real slowly though, in between whatever else.
Mel loaned my Mansfield Park before I found out that Becky had the collection, but no biggie. I haven't decided if I am going to read it next or take a break from Jane Austen and read something else in between. *shrug*
So, I guess I just have books on the brain today. That and napping. I feel a serious nap coming on. ;)
hehheh.
I swear that I am going to read Harry Potter one of these days. I started the first one about three, maybe four years ago. It's not that I didn't like it, but I put it down for some reason. I just have to be in the mood I guess. In any case, I am also borrowing them from a friend, so hopefully I'll get to those this year.
I was planning on finishing Northanger Abbey yesterday, but I ended up having to work, and there were too many other things to do. So I'll get to it this afternoon. I also started a book by Donald Miller called "Through Painted Deserts." I've only read one chapter, but love it so far. I think I'll just read it real slowly though, in between whatever else.
Mel loaned my Mansfield Park before I found out that Becky had the collection, but no biggie. I haven't decided if I am going to read it next or take a break from Jane Austen and read something else in between. *shrug*
So, I guess I just have books on the brain today. That and napping. I feel a serious nap coming on. ;)
hehheh.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Pot O' Gold
Among other Christmas presents, I got about three old Jimmy Stewart movies, and a couple with Cary Grant and others. I love Jimmy Stewart. Love, love, love!!! Pot o gold was not my favorite of his movies, but I still liked it, though I confess I have a hard time disliking anything that he appears in. One of the movies, 'Rear Window,' I have seen, but mom knows I have been trying to collect all of the Jimmy Stewart movies I can get my hands on. I am also a Hayley Mills fan, so I am collecting those as well, and I have seen the Anne of Green Gables movies about a zillion times apiece. Does this make me seem old fashioned? lol.
Old movies are a passion which I cannot deny myself.
I am drawing towards the end of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice.' It's nice to finally read the book, as I have seen three different versions of the movie. My friend Melanie loves Jane Austen, and has read all of her books, so she's trying to spread it around I guess. =P
I love the book, but there's nothing really new to say about it, since the movies cover almost everything I have read so far. I know some people find this stuff old and dry, but I confess that i think it wonderful.
I also loved Jan Eyre, and I thought that if one Bronte sister was good, the other couldn't be that bad, but then I couldn't get very far into Wuthering Heights at all. I am determined to try again someday. So we'll see what happens.
Old movies are a passion which I cannot deny myself.
I am drawing towards the end of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice.' It's nice to finally read the book, as I have seen three different versions of the movie. My friend Melanie loves Jane Austen, and has read all of her books, so she's trying to spread it around I guess. =P
I love the book, but there's nothing really new to say about it, since the movies cover almost everything I have read so far. I know some people find this stuff old and dry, but I confess that i think it wonderful.
I also loved Jan Eyre, and I thought that if one Bronte sister was good, the other couldn't be that bad, but then I couldn't get very far into Wuthering Heights at all. I am determined to try again someday. So we'll see what happens.
Friday, December 30, 2005
Oh Christmas tree, Oh freaking Christmas tree.
Yeah. It's like that.
Actually, I love Christmas. I do. I love the whole season. Sadly however, this year I am sort of glad its over. I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off. So much for enjoying friends and family. heh.
I have hardly had time to check my email, let alone update the blog.
Yesterday I finally had time to go over to Becky's. We sat around and played games. When it got late we crocheted and watched Pride and Prejudice. Go Colin Firth! Woo!
Mel and I saw the new Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley. I wasn't sure I'd like it, but it was faaaabulous.
I can't remember that guys name who plays Mr. Darcy, but he was great and so was she. I think I am going to buy it when it comes out. Melanie bought me the book for Christmas. I have several books sitting by my bed, but I am not going to start any until the 1st. The primary reason being that I just have too many other things to do at the moment. The second reason however, is that I have to keep up with Joe's insane reading routine in 2006, and I I am stocking up now!
I'll probably be blogging about lots of books in the weeks to come...or at least they'll be mentioned ;)
I love the show 'House.' I can't wait for it to come back on next week. I've gotten a little attached to 'Bones' as well. I didn't think that would happen, but it has grown on me.
My top tv night used to be Thursdays, but it has changed to tuesdays. =)
Okay, sadly, 'she who remains dateless' must yield the computer to her 16 year old sister, so that she can chat with a boy ( who she just went out on a date with ) for the next two or three hours. *sigh*
It's been real fun.
Actually, I love Christmas. I do. I love the whole season. Sadly however, this year I am sort of glad its over. I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off. So much for enjoying friends and family. heh.
I have hardly had time to check my email, let alone update the blog.
Yesterday I finally had time to go over to Becky's. We sat around and played games. When it got late we crocheted and watched Pride and Prejudice. Go Colin Firth! Woo!
Mel and I saw the new Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley. I wasn't sure I'd like it, but it was faaaabulous.
I can't remember that guys name who plays Mr. Darcy, but he was great and so was she. I think I am going to buy it when it comes out. Melanie bought me the book for Christmas. I have several books sitting by my bed, but I am not going to start any until the 1st. The primary reason being that I just have too many other things to do at the moment. The second reason however, is that I have to keep up with Joe's insane reading routine in 2006, and I I am stocking up now!
I'll probably be blogging about lots of books in the weeks to come...or at least they'll be mentioned ;)
I love the show 'House.' I can't wait for it to come back on next week. I've gotten a little attached to 'Bones' as well. I didn't think that would happen, but it has grown on me.
My top tv night used to be Thursdays, but it has changed to tuesdays. =)
Okay, sadly, 'she who remains dateless' must yield the computer to her 16 year old sister, so that she can chat with a boy ( who she just went out on a date with ) for the next two or three hours. *sigh*
It's been real fun.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Go to bed spazz.
So, today was Becky day, where I was actually off from both jobs, and she came down from the mountain to hang out for awhile. We pretty much ran around like chickens with our heads cut off; otherwise referred to as Christmas shopping. haha. We were out and about for a long time, so when we came back to my house we were already exhausted.
I told myself I was going to bed early tonight, and I really haven't made it. Grrr at me.
That's alright. I needed to drop a note to a couple of people whom I have not spoken with in some time. It's sometimes hard to keep up with everyone, and things are really crazy now that it is Christmas time.
I am working on this afghan that has to be done by christmas, and let me tell you...it has a loong way to go.
I wanted to update because I hate to get so far behind, but I am so tired I think I might fall over. Amazingly I can still spell, but probably not for long. Typing incapacity is about to set in at any moment. I already can't think clearly.
yuiogyhdbkjdnfkjiabjnaendfbd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! K. Bye.
I told myself I was going to bed early tonight, and I really haven't made it. Grrr at me.
That's alright. I needed to drop a note to a couple of people whom I have not spoken with in some time. It's sometimes hard to keep up with everyone, and things are really crazy now that it is Christmas time.
I am working on this afghan that has to be done by christmas, and let me tell you...it has a loong way to go.
I wanted to update because I hate to get so far behind, but I am so tired I think I might fall over. Amazingly I can still spell, but probably not for long. Typing incapacity is about to set in at any moment. I already can't think clearly.
yuiogyhdbkjdnfkjiabjnaendfbd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! K. Bye.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Abby
Abby passed away on Friday. The memorial was yesterday. It was warm and light hearted...as much as one can be.
My favorite story was when Abby decided to spruce up one of her brothers fish by removing it from the tank and placing a hair clip on its dorsal fin. :p
Also how she used to let the cats all sneak in her window. (There are a lot of cats that live in the barn)
What I will remember about her most is her smile. Everytime I came to church, at some point I would find myself sharing a smile with Abby. Usually she was sitting on Maribeth or Miranda's lap at the time, sometimes smiling at me from where she was hanging upside down. That little girl just brightened up my life. You know how there are some people who can smile at you, and you feel it on the inside? That's what it was like with Abby. Everytime she smiled at me, I felt it on the inside.
I'm glad for her sake that God let her go home early.
We are the ones who have to live with sorrow, because we will miss her, but she is in a better place where there is no sorrow. Amen, at least, for that.
Say hi to my sister little Abby.
God bless you Nixon family.
My favorite story was when Abby decided to spruce up one of her brothers fish by removing it from the tank and placing a hair clip on its dorsal fin. :p
Also how she used to let the cats all sneak in her window. (There are a lot of cats that live in the barn)
What I will remember about her most is her smile. Everytime I came to church, at some point I would find myself sharing a smile with Abby. Usually she was sitting on Maribeth or Miranda's lap at the time, sometimes smiling at me from where she was hanging upside down. That little girl just brightened up my life. You know how there are some people who can smile at you, and you feel it on the inside? That's what it was like with Abby. Everytime she smiled at me, I felt it on the inside.
I'm glad for her sake that God let her go home early.
We are the ones who have to live with sorrow, because we will miss her, but she is in a better place where there is no sorrow. Amen, at least, for that.
Say hi to my sister little Abby.
God bless you Nixon family.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Looking For A Miracle...
It's snowing a lot outside. There have been like two hundred accidents in Spokane tonight, which makes me crazy. I mean, there are a lot of people who just slid off the road, and I do feel bad for people that have been in accidents. But there are also a whole bunch of morons on the road who think it is perfectly normal to do 50mph in a blizzard. These days it just makes me crazy to drive in this area. Are people this lame everywhere? Everyone is in such a friggin' hurry to get everywhere. They never think about the potential consequences. Grr. Sorry to sound so people bashey, but it makes me mad. All the innocent people on the road, and some idiot in a spazz to get somewhere messes it up. The snow doesn't scare me, it's the other people on the road. Most people are fine, but you never know when you might run into the few maniacs.
*sigh*
It's just a depressing night all around. I got off the phone with a good friend a little while ago, and things are not looking good for precious little Abby. Tonight the Doctors were basically telling her parents to brace for the worst. They think there is no blood flow going to the brain. I am far more familiar with brain swelling issues and things like that than I would like to be, since it is ultimately what killed my sister. The Doctors are saying there really isn't much more they can do. Tomorrow is pretty much make it or break it day. We are really looking for a miracle here. I know that God can do one. He still does them all the time. Way crazier ones than this. There was a Venezuelan lady on my DTS who contracted some horrible virus and got really really sick. The doctor basically told her husband that she was dead, her body was even cold. She said she saw this light and Jesus spoke to her, and her husband was holding her hand, crying, when he felt her hand start to warm up, he could feel the blood rushing through. She got totally healed. They both wept when they told the story, and that isn't the only one like that that I have heard. So you see, I know it can happen. The problem is...will it? who knows why God does what he does. If he wants little Abby, then he will take her, and we won't know the rhyme or reason. We'll just have to believe that there is one.
It's funny. You always think it won't happen to you, or to anyone you know and love. My church family is pretty close so...it really affects everyone. The thing is, you'd think that once it does happen to you, that it won't be so hard to believe it can anymore. Totally not so. I have put it aside. This is so near to home, and just as unbelievable as my sisters accident.
I can't think about it without nearly bursting into tears. I wish I knew this family better. I've always meant to go up to their house to visit and I never have, and I just feel terrible. My heart is just so with them right now.
That's about all I can say about this right now. I need to get some rest.
*sigh*
It's just a depressing night all around. I got off the phone with a good friend a little while ago, and things are not looking good for precious little Abby. Tonight the Doctors were basically telling her parents to brace for the worst. They think there is no blood flow going to the brain. I am far more familiar with brain swelling issues and things like that than I would like to be, since it is ultimately what killed my sister. The Doctors are saying there really isn't much more they can do. Tomorrow is pretty much make it or break it day. We are really looking for a miracle here. I know that God can do one. He still does them all the time. Way crazier ones than this. There was a Venezuelan lady on my DTS who contracted some horrible virus and got really really sick. The doctor basically told her husband that she was dead, her body was even cold. She said she saw this light and Jesus spoke to her, and her husband was holding her hand, crying, when he felt her hand start to warm up, he could feel the blood rushing through. She got totally healed. They both wept when they told the story, and that isn't the only one like that that I have heard. So you see, I know it can happen. The problem is...will it? who knows why God does what he does. If he wants little Abby, then he will take her, and we won't know the rhyme or reason. We'll just have to believe that there is one.
It's funny. You always think it won't happen to you, or to anyone you know and love. My church family is pretty close so...it really affects everyone. The thing is, you'd think that once it does happen to you, that it won't be so hard to believe it can anymore. Totally not so. I have put it aside. This is so near to home, and just as unbelievable as my sisters accident.
I can't think about it without nearly bursting into tears. I wish I knew this family better. I've always meant to go up to their house to visit and I never have, and I just feel terrible. My heart is just so with them right now.
That's about all I can say about this right now. I need to get some rest.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Nasty sickness.
It doesn't feel like so many days since I last posted, but then again, I guess I've lost a few with this flu or whatever that I have been having. At least it has mellowed down to snifflies, and most of my voice has come back. I will still be happy tomorrow when I finally have a day off and I can go to bed really early. =) Lovely sleep. Last night I actually slept through the night, which was a nice change from waking up not being able to breathe!!
Speaking of yucky sicknesses, these folks from my church have a little girl who's about six. She had the flu or something, but she started getting really bad on Sunday so they took her to the hospital. Now they found out that she has bacterial meningitis. She still isn't responding to the medicine and last night she coded and they had to restart her heart beat. It is so terrible. She is the most precious little girl, and I can't believe it.
I was planning on writing a lot more right now, but I just realised that I need to get ready for work if I want to get out of here on time.
edit: I never actually heard for sure whether Abby had bacterial meningitis after it was first reported to me. All I know is that she had encephalitis, and that the swelling in her brain wasn't allowing blood flow. Ultimately it was just a very wicked virus that swept through too fast, and did not respond to treatment.
Speaking of yucky sicknesses, these folks from my church have a little girl who's about six. She had the flu or something, but she started getting really bad on Sunday so they took her to the hospital. Now they found out that she has bacterial meningitis. She still isn't responding to the medicine and last night she coded and they had to restart her heart beat. It is so terrible. She is the most precious little girl, and I can't believe it.
I was planning on writing a lot more right now, but I just realised that I need to get ready for work if I want to get out of here on time.
edit: I never actually heard for sure whether Abby had bacterial meningitis after it was first reported to me. All I know is that she had encephalitis, and that the swelling in her brain wasn't allowing blood flow. Ultimately it was just a very wicked virus that swept through too fast, and did not respond to treatment.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Links
So last week I updated my links. There are probably a couple more that I could add, but I got the ones I wanted for now. I republished and everything and they all showed up, but then today when I looked at my blog, there were no links. So I went back and checked my template and they seemed like they should be okay, so I saved the changes again and republished one more time. Now they are showing up fine again, but Joe's didn't work so I had to go fix it, and now it's all good. I just wonder if its going to stay that way this time. hehe.
Random information:
Popcorn is one of those things I would really hate to live without. I love it microwaved, and I love it from a popper. The thing is, I really love it when it's hot and it really doesn't stay hot for very long. *sigh*
Oh, and I can occassionally be persuaded to eat kettle corn, if I am at the fair, or downtown during fireworks or whatever, when they've just pulled it piping hot out of the kettle. I can't stand it any other way. I prefer my popcorn salty and buttery.
If you've ever seen the movie "First Daughter" with Katie Holmes ( at least, I hope that's the right one) there is this scene in the theatre where Marc Blucas (Riley Finn from Buffy the Vampire Slayer fame) pours their candy in on top of the popcorn; "sweet and salty" he says.
Blech. That's just wrong.
When I am in a salty food mood, I don't want to pour my chocolate on top! Weirdos. hehe.
Well, that's all the random information I have for today. I've been working on some research for a writing project I want to do, so I ought to get back to it. =)
Random information:
Popcorn is one of those things I would really hate to live without. I love it microwaved, and I love it from a popper. The thing is, I really love it when it's hot and it really doesn't stay hot for very long. *sigh*
Oh, and I can occassionally be persuaded to eat kettle corn, if I am at the fair, or downtown during fireworks or whatever, when they've just pulled it piping hot out of the kettle. I can't stand it any other way. I prefer my popcorn salty and buttery.
If you've ever seen the movie "First Daughter" with Katie Holmes ( at least, I hope that's the right one) there is this scene in the theatre where Marc Blucas (Riley Finn from Buffy the Vampire Slayer fame) pours their candy in on top of the popcorn; "sweet and salty" he says.
Blech. That's just wrong.
When I am in a salty food mood, I don't want to pour my chocolate on top! Weirdos. hehe.
Well, that's all the random information I have for today. I've been working on some research for a writing project I want to do, so I ought to get back to it. =)
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Open Road
This weekend I took a little trip over to the Seattle side of the state. I needed to give a YWAM (http://www.ywam.org) friend a ride home to Renton. I have some friends who live in Orting, which is just a little bit south of Tacoma. I've been telling them I would visit ever since they bought their house three years ago. I finally made it this weekend. It's amazing that it's taken me so long to get over there. These are really good friends of mine. I guess life just happens.
In any case, I was going to come home Sunday night, but they closed Snoqualmie Pass due to rock slides. I decided to leave Monday morning instead (more daylight), and go down through Vancouver so that I could visit another friend on my way home. Why not! It's not like I get to see these people very often. So I stopped and had lunch with my friend, got caffeinated, and headed down Hwy 84, along the Columbia River Gorge, to come back to the Spokane area.
On my way from Orting to Vancouver I was having lots of crazy ideas. I mean, things that I could do with my time...with my life. I had a lot of interesting conversations this weekend. It was very refreshing. My friends are just so balanced. They are so wise. Sometimes they just help you get things in perspective. So that was great, and then there was the trip itself.
There is just something that happens to me when I am on a road trip. All of the things that don't make sense just sort of clear out of my brain while I am driving. I get recharged. A couple of years ago I drove home from San Diego by myself, and it was great. I had always wanted to take a drive that long by myself. Don't get me wrong, sometimes it's nice to have company, but I love to take trips by myself.
While I was with my friend Renee in Vancouver, we had a nice talk about life and what we are doing with it. We laughed at some of the crazy ideas we used to have, and the things that we are trying to stay focused on now. One of the things we talked about is something that has always been a struggle of mine. Basically it revolves around what we are "supposed" to do. What I mean by that is; go to college, get a good job, get married, have 3.4 children, buy a mini-van, bladdy blah blah. None of those things are bad, in fact, that is what most of us do. So, even though I didn't start out wanting to do all of that, I worked really hard at talking myself into it, because, for some lame reason, I just thought I had to.
The problem is, all of our lives don't end up looking the same. We don't all accomplish the same things. I have been obsessed with this idea of accomplishment, as if I have to have that diploma or whatever, to show that I have made something with my life.
So Renee and I just chatted about that. About where we are now and where we think we might be going. It made me think about some things...
The problem with going on a little trip like this is that it stirs up all these things in me that I had thought were dead. It always happens. I always end up questioning myself, and I don't mean in a bad way. It just makes me think...reevaluate.
So I started doing that and it was kind of nice (in a weird sort of way). I had a great drive home during which I felt inspired and recharged.
Unfortunately, I was home for about five minutes before the veil dropped again. Why is that? It's so weird.
Anyway, I am scheming about possible future endeavors. Muhahahaha!!!!
I have some new and crazy ideas up my sleeve for what I might do to make everyone think I will never ever settle down. =) Nice.
In any case, I was going to come home Sunday night, but they closed Snoqualmie Pass due to rock slides. I decided to leave Monday morning instead (more daylight), and go down through Vancouver so that I could visit another friend on my way home. Why not! It's not like I get to see these people very often. So I stopped and had lunch with my friend, got caffeinated, and headed down Hwy 84, along the Columbia River Gorge, to come back to the Spokane area.
On my way from Orting to Vancouver I was having lots of crazy ideas. I mean, things that I could do with my time...with my life. I had a lot of interesting conversations this weekend. It was very refreshing. My friends are just so balanced. They are so wise. Sometimes they just help you get things in perspective. So that was great, and then there was the trip itself.
There is just something that happens to me when I am on a road trip. All of the things that don't make sense just sort of clear out of my brain while I am driving. I get recharged. A couple of years ago I drove home from San Diego by myself, and it was great. I had always wanted to take a drive that long by myself. Don't get me wrong, sometimes it's nice to have company, but I love to take trips by myself.
While I was with my friend Renee in Vancouver, we had a nice talk about life and what we are doing with it. We laughed at some of the crazy ideas we used to have, and the things that we are trying to stay focused on now. One of the things we talked about is something that has always been a struggle of mine. Basically it revolves around what we are "supposed" to do. What I mean by that is; go to college, get a good job, get married, have 3.4 children, buy a mini-van, bladdy blah blah. None of those things are bad, in fact, that is what most of us do. So, even though I didn't start out wanting to do all of that, I worked really hard at talking myself into it, because, for some lame reason, I just thought I had to.
The problem is, all of our lives don't end up looking the same. We don't all accomplish the same things. I have been obsessed with this idea of accomplishment, as if I have to have that diploma or whatever, to show that I have made something with my life.
So Renee and I just chatted about that. About where we are now and where we think we might be going. It made me think about some things...
The problem with going on a little trip like this is that it stirs up all these things in me that I had thought were dead. It always happens. I always end up questioning myself, and I don't mean in a bad way. It just makes me think...reevaluate.
So I started doing that and it was kind of nice (in a weird sort of way). I had a great drive home during which I felt inspired and recharged.
Unfortunately, I was home for about five minutes before the veil dropped again. Why is that? It's so weird.
Anyway, I am scheming about possible future endeavors. Muhahahaha!!!!
I have some new and crazy ideas up my sleeve for what I might do to make everyone think I will never ever settle down. =) Nice.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Knife of Dreams(MAJOR spoilers!!!)
Joe, I am writing this post just for you....actually, does anyone else even read this journal?! haha!!!
So, Knife of Dreams. Book 11. Wheel of Time. If you don't want to know, you've read too far already!
*happy face*
I loved this book.
In fact, I am pretty sure I squealed with delight on more than one occassion. =)
First major smiley point; Prologue; Galad Damodred kills Eamon Valda and becomes, essentially, the Lord Captain Commander of the Children of the Light. Go relatives of Moiraine! woot!
I was like...did I miss something? Am I going crazy?! Did RJ just bring the Whitecloaks one step closer to actually, oh, I don't know, aligning with someone besides themselves for the last battle??!?! Neat.
First eyepopper; also prologue; Semirhage has just slaughtered the entire royal family in Seandar! That makes Tuon, officially, the Empress of Seanchan...it's just that nobody knows it yet! *wide eyes*
(About time we saw something happen with Semirhage, masquerading as Anath)
I love it. =)
The rest are not neccesarily in order. I just want to say that just in case! =P
#1 Moment that made tears come to my eyes; Nynaeve sending Lan off to the blight (ultimately to take back lost Malkier.) YES!!!!! You know the line...My husband, Lan Mandragoran rides to Tarmon Gai'don, does he ride alone? MALKIERI RIDES FOR TARMON GAI'DON!!! Woot! woot! You should see me, sitting there in my bed, crying, shaking my fist, saying all the lines outloud!! haha!!
#1 Moment that made me scream, jump up and down, dance for joy around the room, and holler "I Knew it.....I KNEW IT" ; Thom shows Moiraine's letter to Mat, confirming what we have suspected, that she is not dead, but trapped somewhere most likely in the land of the Aelfinn or Eelfinn.
I have been speculating for sometime that Mat would have to be involved in her rescue, because he is the only one who ever wins at the game of Snakes and Foxes ( though it's by cheating =P)
Also, I've been convinced it had to be through the Tower of Genghi (sp?) which Birgitte pointed out to Perrin in the wolf dream, when she helped him, and which we saw in book two when Rand, Thom and Mat were on Bayle Domon's boat...somewhere near Whitebridge?
I have just BEEN WAITING for some fool to mention the tower, and for those guys to remember that they already KNOW where it is. Sheesh! Catch up fellas!!! I didn't know the letter would be the key, I just wasn't sure how Mat was going to figure out he needed to go there! A whole lotta WOOT!! Moiraine is my favorite character, and nothing ( I mean absolutely nothing) gives me the happy happy joy joy feeling like her impending return.
Besides, the people who thought she was dead drove me crazy. I mean, she is Min's ONLY vision, that EVER would have failed. Min is gonna flip when she finds out....I can't wait!
#1 Finally, can we get on with it now moment; Elayne takes the Andoran throne. The borderlanders just sitting there is driving me batty. They can't move without the houses besieging Caemlyn thinking they are attacking, when all they want is to find Rand. For any resolution, she had to take the darn throne already!
Also good to know, is the Aes Sedai who was killing everyone off in the palace. I mean, for crying out loud, there isn't anyone left alive that can channel besides the windfinders. Seems like it anyway.
#1 *gasp* ; Rand's hand is gone!!! What the...?!?! At least Semirhage is captured, although that doesn't make me feel better. You've seen how our good guys are about letting the Forsaken get away. Moghedien much? At least Asmodean proved to be useful.
Big Yay!!!! Faile is finally saved. I actually like Berelain now, and Galina gets what's coming to her. What a load off! Also, Tuon and Mat are actually married now? Wowza, Prince of Ravens huh? hehe.
Random points:
Less of Cadsuane in this book, which I like because she drives me completely insane, whether Rand needs her or not. She might be right, but I hate stubborn people who act like God's gift. Cadsuane *knows* that Cadsuane knows everything. Can't wait till Moiraine gets thrown back into that mess. Plus, I think her being alive will be good for him. Remember how he always remembers her first, and aches at her name being the top of his "list."
How far have we gone since Elayne got pregnant? Is there a due date for the short people? Enquiring minds want to know.
Who the heck is Messana already? Does anyone know? OBVIOUSLY it is not Elaida, who coincidently also drives me insane =), but it must be a shocker if he is saving it for the last book.
Are Perrin's people EVER going to find out that Maighdin is, in fact, Morgase, the recent queen of Andor?!?! This is also bothering me. A lot. I don't know why.
I also want Perrin to find out who Balwer *was*, but I guess you can't have it all.
I am going to be one of those people having a breakdown when the series ends, over all the things not revealed.
At least I can sleep nights, knowing Moiraine is about to make a star-studded come back. =)
There's too much to cover,these are just some of the more major points, but in general, I loved this book. It was the best book in...I don't even know how many. I don't have as much criticism as Joe anyway, I just love the books, even when they are slow. This book definitely rises above the last few though, in my humble opinion.
I loved the end of book 9, but over all, I just enjoyed this book the most of any I have read in the past few years, and that is saying a lot, since I didn't dislike the others.
So, Knife of Dreams. Book 11. Wheel of Time. If you don't want to know, you've read too far already!
*happy face*
I loved this book.
In fact, I am pretty sure I squealed with delight on more than one occassion. =)
First major smiley point; Prologue; Galad Damodred kills Eamon Valda and becomes, essentially, the Lord Captain Commander of the Children of the Light. Go relatives of Moiraine! woot!
I was like...did I miss something? Am I going crazy?! Did RJ just bring the Whitecloaks one step closer to actually, oh, I don't know, aligning with someone besides themselves for the last battle??!?! Neat.
First eyepopper; also prologue; Semirhage has just slaughtered the entire royal family in Seandar! That makes Tuon, officially, the Empress of Seanchan...it's just that nobody knows it yet! *wide eyes*
(About time we saw something happen with Semirhage, masquerading as Anath)
I love it. =)
The rest are not neccesarily in order. I just want to say that just in case! =P
#1 Moment that made tears come to my eyes; Nynaeve sending Lan off to the blight (ultimately to take back lost Malkier.) YES!!!!! You know the line...My husband, Lan Mandragoran rides to Tarmon Gai'don, does he ride alone? MALKIERI RIDES FOR TARMON GAI'DON!!! Woot! woot! You should see me, sitting there in my bed, crying, shaking my fist, saying all the lines outloud!! haha!!
#1 Moment that made me scream, jump up and down, dance for joy around the room, and holler "I Knew it.....I KNEW IT" ; Thom shows Moiraine's letter to Mat, confirming what we have suspected, that she is not dead, but trapped somewhere most likely in the land of the Aelfinn or Eelfinn.
I have been speculating for sometime that Mat would have to be involved in her rescue, because he is the only one who ever wins at the game of Snakes and Foxes ( though it's by cheating =P)
Also, I've been convinced it had to be through the Tower of Genghi (sp?) which Birgitte pointed out to Perrin in the wolf dream, when she helped him, and which we saw in book two when Rand, Thom and Mat were on Bayle Domon's boat...somewhere near Whitebridge?
I have just BEEN WAITING for some fool to mention the tower, and for those guys to remember that they already KNOW where it is. Sheesh! Catch up fellas!!! I didn't know the letter would be the key, I just wasn't sure how Mat was going to figure out he needed to go there! A whole lotta WOOT!! Moiraine is my favorite character, and nothing ( I mean absolutely nothing) gives me the happy happy joy joy feeling like her impending return.
Besides, the people who thought she was dead drove me crazy. I mean, she is Min's ONLY vision, that EVER would have failed. Min is gonna flip when she finds out....I can't wait!
#1 Finally, can we get on with it now moment; Elayne takes the Andoran throne. The borderlanders just sitting there is driving me batty. They can't move without the houses besieging Caemlyn thinking they are attacking, when all they want is to find Rand. For any resolution, she had to take the darn throne already!
Also good to know, is the Aes Sedai who was killing everyone off in the palace. I mean, for crying out loud, there isn't anyone left alive that can channel besides the windfinders. Seems like it anyway.
#1 *gasp* ; Rand's hand is gone!!! What the...?!?! At least Semirhage is captured, although that doesn't make me feel better. You've seen how our good guys are about letting the Forsaken get away. Moghedien much? At least Asmodean proved to be useful.
Big Yay!!!! Faile is finally saved. I actually like Berelain now, and Galina gets what's coming to her. What a load off! Also, Tuon and Mat are actually married now? Wowza, Prince of Ravens huh? hehe.
Random points:
Less of Cadsuane in this book, which I like because she drives me completely insane, whether Rand needs her or not. She might be right, but I hate stubborn people who act like God's gift. Cadsuane *knows* that Cadsuane knows everything. Can't wait till Moiraine gets thrown back into that mess. Plus, I think her being alive will be good for him. Remember how he always remembers her first, and aches at her name being the top of his "list."
How far have we gone since Elayne got pregnant? Is there a due date for the short people? Enquiring minds want to know.
Who the heck is Messana already? Does anyone know? OBVIOUSLY it is not Elaida, who coincidently also drives me insane =), but it must be a shocker if he is saving it for the last book.
Are Perrin's people EVER going to find out that Maighdin is, in fact, Morgase, the recent queen of Andor?!?! This is also bothering me. A lot. I don't know why.
I also want Perrin to find out who Balwer *was*, but I guess you can't have it all.
I am going to be one of those people having a breakdown when the series ends, over all the things not revealed.
At least I can sleep nights, knowing Moiraine is about to make a star-studded come back. =)
There's too much to cover,these are just some of the more major points, but in general, I loved this book. It was the best book in...I don't even know how many. I don't have as much criticism as Joe anyway, I just love the books, even when they are slow. This book definitely rises above the last few though, in my humble opinion.
I loved the end of book 9, but over all, I just enjoyed this book the most of any I have read in the past few years, and that is saying a lot, since I didn't dislike the others.
It drives me crazy!!!!
My blog that is. I am such a rambler. I write my blog, and my online journal the way I might talk to someone who knew me well. I know that they understand me, at least to a certain extent...so I just ramble. Whatever's in my brain I just kind of spew out there. I know that this doesn't always make sense to a random passerby. The funny thing is, I really do hate to be misunderstood, and if I am having a conversation with someone, I will find ways to reword what I am saying in a way that is clearer, or makes more sense. I guess I just blog/journal for myself, so I don't neccesarily really care if it is completely concise. I suppose my friends will confront me if I say something offbase or completely psychotic. =)
Sometimes I go back later and read my journal entries though, and I am like....Girl, you are a freak. lol! Learn to be a little more concise!!! ha! I keep doing it the same way though!! Go figure. =P
Sometimes I go back later and read my journal entries though, and I am like....Girl, you are a freak. lol! Learn to be a little more concise!!! ha! I keep doing it the same way though!! Go figure. =P
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Drive Away! Drive Away!
As long as I can follow my somewhat frequent road trip urges, nobody has to get hurt. =)
I haven't planned an escape for awhile now. Last time I can remember leaving town was when we went to New York and D.C. the first week in May. Oh, I am such a liar. I was in a wedding in July, but that was only three hours away and it wasn't like a vacation, so I don't think it counts. However, I did also spend four days in Montana the first week in August, my bad. =)
So anyway, I am getting that itch again. Hadn't really thought about it until I realised that I might actually get my car back from the mechanic sometime in the fairly near future..
I have some friends in the Seattle area that I keep telling I will visit, but still haven't gotten around to it. I think they bought their house at least two years ago, and I still haven't been up to see it. I love the area, and winter will soon be upon us, so I might as well go before the passes get too frightening. If we get anything like in Colorado, then I guess I should have gone last week!!
There is just no telling with the weather these days. You can't count on it, and who knows what crazy thing might happen anywhere.
Other than my wanderlust, not a lot to say tonight. I haven't really written much lately, which is a little weird for me. Just busy I guess. Starting school and all that. usually I can spend hours in front of the computer, but now it's books an movies, so, oh well! usually I am a news junky too, but not lately. I need a break. I was watching way too much there for awhile...and it just drives you crazy when there's not a lot you can do to help anyone. Send money, yeah, but most of us wish we could do more. I *did* even try to volunteer with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, but I guess they didn't need anymore volunteers at the moment. That's okay. Not like I really have the money to send myself to New Orleans anyway, let alone Pakistan.
It's alright though. There is a time for all things, and tragedy isn't limited to the people of the Gulf Coast. No use asking for trouble. Often enough it finds us on its own.
Maybe that came out wrong?
I don't know. I have a lot of compassion for the people suffering, and I just know that we could easily be them. Maybe next time we will be. So, why worry about not being able to go help. Who knows, maybe God needs me right here.
I haven't planned an escape for awhile now. Last time I can remember leaving town was when we went to New York and D.C. the first week in May. Oh, I am such a liar. I was in a wedding in July, but that was only three hours away and it wasn't like a vacation, so I don't think it counts. However, I did also spend four days in Montana the first week in August, my bad. =)
So anyway, I am getting that itch again. Hadn't really thought about it until I realised that I might actually get my car back from the mechanic sometime in the fairly near future..
I have some friends in the Seattle area that I keep telling I will visit, but still haven't gotten around to it. I think they bought their house at least two years ago, and I still haven't been up to see it. I love the area, and winter will soon be upon us, so I might as well go before the passes get too frightening. If we get anything like in Colorado, then I guess I should have gone last week!!
There is just no telling with the weather these days. You can't count on it, and who knows what crazy thing might happen anywhere.
Other than my wanderlust, not a lot to say tonight. I haven't really written much lately, which is a little weird for me. Just busy I guess. Starting school and all that. usually I can spend hours in front of the computer, but now it's books an movies, so, oh well! usually I am a news junky too, but not lately. I need a break. I was watching way too much there for awhile...and it just drives you crazy when there's not a lot you can do to help anyone. Send money, yeah, but most of us wish we could do more. I *did* even try to volunteer with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, but I guess they didn't need anymore volunteers at the moment. That's okay. Not like I really have the money to send myself to New Orleans anyway, let alone Pakistan.
It's alright though. There is a time for all things, and tragedy isn't limited to the people of the Gulf Coast. No use asking for trouble. Often enough it finds us on its own.
Maybe that came out wrong?
I don't know. I have a lot of compassion for the people suffering, and I just know that we could easily be them. Maybe next time we will be. So, why worry about not being able to go help. Who knows, maybe God needs me right here.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
To End All Wars/Miracle on the River Kwai
So, I told myself that I was going to start keeping a journal of things I was watching, but since lately its been mostly t.v. shows and old Jimmy Stewart movies, I haven't really felt like following through.
Tonight I watched a movie called "To End All Wars," which is based on the book "Miracle on the River Kwai" by Ernest Gordon. David Cunningham directed this. He is the son of Loren Cunningham...wait...is he the son or grandson? I can't remember. In any case, Loren Cunningham is the founder of Youth With A Mission, and ultimately, that is where I learned about this film. When I was in Montana three years ago, there was talk about it being made. So I remember it recently and hunted it down.
It was great.
The movie is set in WWII and it's about a group of POW's who worked on the Berma-Siam railroad, crossing the river Kwai, which was called the railway of death.
It was a little slow...the ending kind of dragged, but not in a way that really detracted, I just kept expecting it to end. If its a little hard to get into in the beginning (there is a lot of narration), it makes up for it later on. It's not super high action or anything, but there is a lot of interesting content. Really about sacrifice and dignity, and cultural differences, etc. Gospel strong. There are really a couple of deeply moving points in the last quarter of this movie. Not bad for David's debut film.
In any case, I wasn't planning on writing reviews in here, but I figured since Joe shares all of his, it can't hurt to throw one in once in awhile!!! Plus, since I just watched it, it was fresh there in my brain. =)
I really need to go to my bed now, where I will be forced to look at French vocabulary, and read Philosophy for an hour before I can give in to sleep.
It might be a long hour....
Tonight I watched a movie called "To End All Wars," which is based on the book "Miracle on the River Kwai" by Ernest Gordon. David Cunningham directed this. He is the son of Loren Cunningham...wait...is he the son or grandson? I can't remember. In any case, Loren Cunningham is the founder of Youth With A Mission, and ultimately, that is where I learned about this film. When I was in Montana three years ago, there was talk about it being made. So I remember it recently and hunted it down.
It was great.
The movie is set in WWII and it's about a group of POW's who worked on the Berma-Siam railroad, crossing the river Kwai, which was called the railway of death.
It was a little slow...the ending kind of dragged, but not in a way that really detracted, I just kept expecting it to end. If its a little hard to get into in the beginning (there is a lot of narration), it makes up for it later on. It's not super high action or anything, but there is a lot of interesting content. Really about sacrifice and dignity, and cultural differences, etc. Gospel strong. There are really a couple of deeply moving points in the last quarter of this movie. Not bad for David's debut film.
In any case, I wasn't planning on writing reviews in here, but I figured since Joe shares all of his, it can't hurt to throw one in once in awhile!!! Plus, since I just watched it, it was fresh there in my brain. =)
I really need to go to my bed now, where I will be forced to look at French vocabulary, and read Philosophy for an hour before I can give in to sleep.
It might be a long hour....
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Blah blah, bladdy blah blah blah
Joe told me that I should use word verification, so I am. I mean, good advice you might as well take, know what I mean?
I am so tired. I am completely drooping with exhaustion. I've been up really late every night for the past week. Mostly moving, organizing, cleaning.
The worst part of the move is always the end. You know, when you're already tired, and you have all that miscellaneous crap that you have no idea what to do with. Random little boxes and whatnot. Mostly I just want to create a bonfire in front of my mom's house and roast some marshmallows. =) hahaha!!!! GOODBYE MISCELLANEOUS JUNK!!!!!!!!! =P
Last night I didn't get home until 9:30 p.m. I just couldn't take it anymore. I pretended not to see the boxes as I walked through the living room. I sneaked to my comfy bed and had a Smallville marathon with my little sister.
Still stayed up too late.
Grrr.
I am so tired. I am completely drooping with exhaustion. I've been up really late every night for the past week. Mostly moving, organizing, cleaning.
The worst part of the move is always the end. You know, when you're already tired, and you have all that miscellaneous crap that you have no idea what to do with. Random little boxes and whatnot. Mostly I just want to create a bonfire in front of my mom's house and roast some marshmallows. =) hahaha!!!! GOODBYE MISCELLANEOUS JUNK!!!!!!!!! =P
Last night I didn't get home until 9:30 p.m. I just couldn't take it anymore. I pretended not to see the boxes as I walked through the living room. I sneaked to my comfy bed and had a Smallville marathon with my little sister.
Still stayed up too late.
Grrr.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
The Current State of Things and a Lack of Faith in Mankind
Yesterday, to add to an already long and difficult day, I got in a car accident.
I swear my car is a magnet for destruction.
I was waiting to turn left onto a busy road, and there was noone at the stop sign opposite me. Traffic was taking forever, and by the time I finally went to turn a girl had pulled up at that other stop sign. The sun was in her face, granted, but I was there when she pulled up, and I don't know how she could have not seen me at some time during her approach. As I pulled out to turn I saw her take off, fast. In a split minute decision, and not wanting to hit her head on, I gunned it and tried to go straight, and get around her before she hit me, but she was going too fast. She slammed into me about where me left rear tire is on my drivers side.
Now, usually in an accident I don't freak out. As long as everyone is okay, the car can be dealt with. This time, already stressed about money and things, I about came unglued. I slammed my fists on my steering wheel and said a few choice words to my nephew and little sister who were also in the car.
By the time I exited the vehicle however, I had restored some dignity, and approached the girl with civility. She apologised, saying that the sun was in her eyes and that she never even saw me. We exchanged personal info. She did not have insurance, of course.
Now, the damage on my car looked real bad. I thought that the rear axle must be messed up; from the way my tire was tilting. Luckily, after my mechanic friend examined it, he told me that these little cars like mine don't always have rear axles that go all the way across. So he thinks he can fix it pretty inexpensively. My car has already become so scratched up as it is, and even if my insurance would cover it, I can't afford the 500$ ded. since I just paid for school. I decided to let Kenny fix it, and not report it.
Here I am, in my naivety, thinking that this girl would be glad. She won't a)get a ticket for having no insurance, b) get a ticket for failing to yield, and c) have to pay as much money out of pocket.
Man do I ever live in a faery tale world.
When I called her she informed me that she had never even seen my turn signal on at all (I thought she didn't see me in the first place?), and that she could hardly afford to put gas in her car, and no way was she going to contribute to my car getting fixed!
You know what? It really isn't costing that much to make my car *go* again, and the money does not upset me. The dishonesty upsets me.
In fact, I can't even tell you how horrible I feel after talking to that conniving little you-know-what! It just makes me sick inside.
Earlier this year, one of my oh-so-lovely neighbors, with his big ass truck, scraped the side of my car with his bumper. I should say *gouged*. Suspiciously my roommate recieved a mark in the exact same place on her car, a day or two earlier!!!!
Unfortunately, noone saw anything, and I can't prove it. I sneaked out in the night and examined his bumber, which just happened to be a little bit scratched with white paint. (My car, coincidently, is white.) Our road is narrow already, and so I guess that trying to get your huge truck off the curb in a drunken stupor, can cause these sorts of oversights.
What was I supposed to do? I hated to go up to their front door and start accusing, telling them how I examined their bumper while they weren't looking!! I decided to let it go. The damage was already done.
It wasn't the damage that bothered me, it was the complete disreguard for someone elses property, combined with the inability to accept responsibility. I understand that accidents happen to everybody. We all have bad days. I am willing to work with someone who can't afford to put gas in their car. In fact, in the case of this latest accident, I would have been willing to eat the cost myself. Now I am pissed. It's one thing for me to do so out of kindness, it's another thing for me to do it because the other person is an asshole!
I do believe that what goes around comes around. So I wonder what I've done to deserve all this?? Being a nice person apparently isn't enough.
Too bad for her though. I am sure she will get it back in the end.
This just reminds me about the state of things in general, and the moral decline that so many people deny is happening in our country. It's sad. We are so spoiled and selfish. I admit, I am not free from guilt. I ought to pray for our nation a lot more than I do. It grieves me so much that I would just rather hide my head under my pillow than deal....but we have to deal. We will deal, one way or another.
I swear my car is a magnet for destruction.
I was waiting to turn left onto a busy road, and there was noone at the stop sign opposite me. Traffic was taking forever, and by the time I finally went to turn a girl had pulled up at that other stop sign. The sun was in her face, granted, but I was there when she pulled up, and I don't know how she could have not seen me at some time during her approach. As I pulled out to turn I saw her take off, fast. In a split minute decision, and not wanting to hit her head on, I gunned it and tried to go straight, and get around her before she hit me, but she was going too fast. She slammed into me about where me left rear tire is on my drivers side.
Now, usually in an accident I don't freak out. As long as everyone is okay, the car can be dealt with. This time, already stressed about money and things, I about came unglued. I slammed my fists on my steering wheel and said a few choice words to my nephew and little sister who were also in the car.
By the time I exited the vehicle however, I had restored some dignity, and approached the girl with civility. She apologised, saying that the sun was in her eyes and that she never even saw me. We exchanged personal info. She did not have insurance, of course.
Now, the damage on my car looked real bad. I thought that the rear axle must be messed up; from the way my tire was tilting. Luckily, after my mechanic friend examined it, he told me that these little cars like mine don't always have rear axles that go all the way across. So he thinks he can fix it pretty inexpensively. My car has already become so scratched up as it is, and even if my insurance would cover it, I can't afford the 500$ ded. since I just paid for school. I decided to let Kenny fix it, and not report it.
Here I am, in my naivety, thinking that this girl would be glad. She won't a)get a ticket for having no insurance, b) get a ticket for failing to yield, and c) have to pay as much money out of pocket.
Man do I ever live in a faery tale world.
When I called her she informed me that she had never even seen my turn signal on at all (I thought she didn't see me in the first place?), and that she could hardly afford to put gas in her car, and no way was she going to contribute to my car getting fixed!
You know what? It really isn't costing that much to make my car *go* again, and the money does not upset me. The dishonesty upsets me.
In fact, I can't even tell you how horrible I feel after talking to that conniving little you-know-what! It just makes me sick inside.
Earlier this year, one of my oh-so-lovely neighbors, with his big ass truck, scraped the side of my car with his bumper. I should say *gouged*. Suspiciously my roommate recieved a mark in the exact same place on her car, a day or two earlier!!!!
Unfortunately, noone saw anything, and I can't prove it. I sneaked out in the night and examined his bumber, which just happened to be a little bit scratched with white paint. (My car, coincidently, is white.) Our road is narrow already, and so I guess that trying to get your huge truck off the curb in a drunken stupor, can cause these sorts of oversights.
What was I supposed to do? I hated to go up to their front door and start accusing, telling them how I examined their bumper while they weren't looking!! I decided to let it go. The damage was already done.
It wasn't the damage that bothered me, it was the complete disreguard for someone elses property, combined with the inability to accept responsibility. I understand that accidents happen to everybody. We all have bad days. I am willing to work with someone who can't afford to put gas in their car. In fact, in the case of this latest accident, I would have been willing to eat the cost myself. Now I am pissed. It's one thing for me to do so out of kindness, it's another thing for me to do it because the other person is an asshole!
I do believe that what goes around comes around. So I wonder what I've done to deserve all this?? Being a nice person apparently isn't enough.
Too bad for her though. I am sure she will get it back in the end.
This just reminds me about the state of things in general, and the moral decline that so many people deny is happening in our country. It's sad. We are so spoiled and selfish. I admit, I am not free from guilt. I ought to pray for our nation a lot more than I do. It grieves me so much that I would just rather hide my head under my pillow than deal....but we have to deal. We will deal, one way or another.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Right to Bear Arms.
*Disclaimer:
I know that this is all rambly, and some of it seems to contradict, although I assure it does not. It's my blog though, and I don't usually edit my posts, I just write what I am thinking at the time, so deal.
My little sister is completely freaked out by guns.
Last night my brother brought home a gun..well, he had gotten a new barrel or something, for a gun that my dad had owned for years already. ( I guess we had at least two guns on our property for *years* and I never knew! insane!)
Anyway, she freaked out. At least, she freaked out over the fact that the gun would remain on the property.
Who can blame her really?
She's 16 after all, and what do high school kids know about violence these days but guns? I mean, half of the high schools in America now require you to walk through metal detectors on your way to homeroom. It's not pretty.
My nephew lives with them as well. He is six. My sister (his mother) passed away a little over four years ago now. He spends a lot of time with his dad, who likes to hunt and stuff. Tristan is obsessed with guns.
Now, I am not trying to say that everything about guns is evil. We know, or ought to know, that guns don't kill people, people do. However, I just can't pretend to hide my head in the sand about all the violence and stuff on television these days...and video games? Yeah.
I don't lecture my 30 something friends about playing Halo, because I know that they have already well established belief systems, and I really doubt that they are going to go out and shoot somebody, or play around with guns because "they're cool". However, I don't have the same faith in my six year old nephew.
This day and age he is being raised in is so different even from mine , which wasn't really so very long ago ( I was born in 1976). Every where you look there is sex and violence. Case and point, yesterday I was at my mom's talking to my little sister, and CSI was playing in the background. We are all big Law and Order fans at home, CSI, all that stuff. My mom watches those forensic/court shows. Tristan is in the other room, watching cartoons, but he decides to come for a visit right about the time they are doing one of those close-up-gunshot-to-the-head kinds of scenes.
I just flipped out for a second. This was in the evening, but not late. Maybe around 7? I don't live with small children, so I don't always scrutinze what I watch as carefully as I should, but when I realised that he was watching that, I about came out of my skin. No small child should be seeing that at all. Period.
Kids are so impressionable. Heck, so are we! I mean, just look at how desensitized we've become! Still, it's worse for kids. I don't think that it's bad for Tristan's dad to take him hunting, or for him to teach him how to use a gun. The problem is, I don't think that is measured by safety and value of life. Not because the people around him don't have it, but becuase they don't show it. Everything he sees tells him how cool guns are, how the person with the most victims gets the bonus prize, how the bad guys win. It's a different time than when my grandparents had guns. It worries me for him. Whitney might be freaked out by that gun. She might steer clear of it completely, but what worries me, and assuredly what *really* worries her, is the fact that he does not have the same inclinations. Now, luckily, the gun is not loaded. In fact, there is no ammunition in the house, or anywhere that he could find it. So for now he's safe. but what if once, just once...
Well, I think you get my point.
So, my little sister is freaked out. And for a good reason.
Now for the flip side.
I want to buy a gun.
And I want to know how to use it.
Here's the thing. I don't think that complete ignorance of guns is exactly good either. A healthy fear is okay, but not an uncontrollable one.
I never want to have to shoot anyone. In fact, I am not even sure that I could. At the same time, I would like to be able to show somebody that I mean business if it comes to that. I don't even mean in any kind of situation. I will not carry a gun in my purse. But just look what's happening in New Orleans. What if I found myself in a similar situation?? I am not going to sit there and let some men have a go at a woman, because there is nobody there who can do anything about it. In my emergency preparedness kit, a gun will be included. It may be cliche, but I do agree with the saying; "if guns are outlawed, only outlaws will have guns." I am not saying that gun companies should be allowed to sell crazy semi-automatic weapons to the public at large, but if I want to have a shotgun in my garage, then that is my prerogative.
It's naive to think that you can outlaw murder by banning guns. You can't. Bad people do bad things. Good people who have lost all reason do bad things. There is a reason why we have the 2nd amendment.
We need to get back to some good old-fashioned values. Things need to change on a very basic level. Our nation has always had guns. We just weren't always as blood starved. If you raise your children in an environment that is satured with a disregard for life, they will absorb a disregard for life. So sure, have a gun, and teach your kids how to use it, teach them safety, but above all, temper that with regard for life & humanity. Moniter how much crap they get to watch, and yeah, that even includes the news. I am not talking about sheltering them so much that they can't live in the world, simply raise them in an environment not bent on desensitizing their mind into a general love of Nazi experiments!
If you think we're far from that you're wrong as well.
Stem cell research anyone?
I know that this is all rambly, and some of it seems to contradict, although I assure it does not. It's my blog though, and I don't usually edit my posts, I just write what I am thinking at the time, so deal.
My little sister is completely freaked out by guns.
Last night my brother brought home a gun..well, he had gotten a new barrel or something, for a gun that my dad had owned for years already. ( I guess we had at least two guns on our property for *years* and I never knew! insane!)
Anyway, she freaked out. At least, she freaked out over the fact that the gun would remain on the property.
Who can blame her really?
She's 16 after all, and what do high school kids know about violence these days but guns? I mean, half of the high schools in America now require you to walk through metal detectors on your way to homeroom. It's not pretty.
My nephew lives with them as well. He is six. My sister (his mother) passed away a little over four years ago now. He spends a lot of time with his dad, who likes to hunt and stuff. Tristan is obsessed with guns.
Now, I am not trying to say that everything about guns is evil. We know, or ought to know, that guns don't kill people, people do. However, I just can't pretend to hide my head in the sand about all the violence and stuff on television these days...and video games? Yeah.
I don't lecture my 30 something friends about playing Halo, because I know that they have already well established belief systems, and I really doubt that they are going to go out and shoot somebody, or play around with guns because "they're cool". However, I don't have the same faith in my six year old nephew.
This day and age he is being raised in is so different even from mine , which wasn't really so very long ago ( I was born in 1976). Every where you look there is sex and violence. Case and point, yesterday I was at my mom's talking to my little sister, and CSI was playing in the background. We are all big Law and Order fans at home, CSI, all that stuff. My mom watches those forensic/court shows. Tristan is in the other room, watching cartoons, but he decides to come for a visit right about the time they are doing one of those close-up-gunshot-to-the-head kinds of scenes.
I just flipped out for a second. This was in the evening, but not late. Maybe around 7? I don't live with small children, so I don't always scrutinze what I watch as carefully as I should, but when I realised that he was watching that, I about came out of my skin. No small child should be seeing that at all. Period.
Kids are so impressionable. Heck, so are we! I mean, just look at how desensitized we've become! Still, it's worse for kids. I don't think that it's bad for Tristan's dad to take him hunting, or for him to teach him how to use a gun. The problem is, I don't think that is measured by safety and value of life. Not because the people around him don't have it, but becuase they don't show it. Everything he sees tells him how cool guns are, how the person with the most victims gets the bonus prize, how the bad guys win. It's a different time than when my grandparents had guns. It worries me for him. Whitney might be freaked out by that gun. She might steer clear of it completely, but what worries me, and assuredly what *really* worries her, is the fact that he does not have the same inclinations. Now, luckily, the gun is not loaded. In fact, there is no ammunition in the house, or anywhere that he could find it. So for now he's safe. but what if once, just once...
Well, I think you get my point.
So, my little sister is freaked out. And for a good reason.
Now for the flip side.
I want to buy a gun.
And I want to know how to use it.
Here's the thing. I don't think that complete ignorance of guns is exactly good either. A healthy fear is okay, but not an uncontrollable one.
I never want to have to shoot anyone. In fact, I am not even sure that I could. At the same time, I would like to be able to show somebody that I mean business if it comes to that. I don't even mean in any kind of situation. I will not carry a gun in my purse. But just look what's happening in New Orleans. What if I found myself in a similar situation?? I am not going to sit there and let some men have a go at a woman, because there is nobody there who can do anything about it. In my emergency preparedness kit, a gun will be included. It may be cliche, but I do agree with the saying; "if guns are outlawed, only outlaws will have guns." I am not saying that gun companies should be allowed to sell crazy semi-automatic weapons to the public at large, but if I want to have a shotgun in my garage, then that is my prerogative.
It's naive to think that you can outlaw murder by banning guns. You can't. Bad people do bad things. Good people who have lost all reason do bad things. There is a reason why we have the 2nd amendment.
We need to get back to some good old-fashioned values. Things need to change on a very basic level. Our nation has always had guns. We just weren't always as blood starved. If you raise your children in an environment that is satured with a disregard for life, they will absorb a disregard for life. So sure, have a gun, and teach your kids how to use it, teach them safety, but above all, temper that with regard for life & humanity. Moniter how much crap they get to watch, and yeah, that even includes the news. I am not talking about sheltering them so much that they can't live in the world, simply raise them in an environment not bent on desensitizing their mind into a general love of Nazi experiments!
If you think we're far from that you're wrong as well.
Stem cell research anyone?
Friday, August 19, 2005
Caffeine Logic
I am certain that I drank one soda too many today. I am as antsy as I can be sitting here in this swively chair, and every time my phone rings I about come off the hook myself.
The people calling in are the same people that call in everyday, it's just that today rather than being annoyed with a few, every single one is driving me stark raving mad. Luckily, I get to log off in about 15 minutes, and then the running around with no head-life of a chicken-begins. *sigh*
I can't wait to go back to school...Okay, hopefully I will learn my lesson of consuming caffeine before I have to sit for long periods of time, but nevertheless....I feel like my brain is fried from lack of education. In fact, if I catch myself saying something like..."I seen," I am just going to collapse altogether. It seems to be an ailment of certain people I know. Not trying to be all judgmental of people who aren't educated enough to speak properly, just don't want to speak that way myself. =P
And, I confess, that frankly I don't understand why grown up people who speak constantly to other grown educated people, can't correct their messed up speaking patterns. It's weird. then again, I write just like a person who only writes in the land of internet chat jargon, so who am I to speak? This is exactly the reason why I need to go back to school. I *want* someone to correct my grammer! =P
Last night I bought a book; "Screenwriting for Dummies." So, we'll just see how that goes. Never tried my hand at it before, and I am trying to branch out. I need to before I go insane. the inner life of my work cubicle just isn't doing it for me.
The people calling in are the same people that call in everyday, it's just that today rather than being annoyed with a few, every single one is driving me stark raving mad. Luckily, I get to log off in about 15 minutes, and then the running around with no head-life of a chicken-begins. *sigh*
I can't wait to go back to school...Okay, hopefully I will learn my lesson of consuming caffeine before I have to sit for long periods of time, but nevertheless....I feel like my brain is fried from lack of education. In fact, if I catch myself saying something like..."I seen," I am just going to collapse altogether. It seems to be an ailment of certain people I know. Not trying to be all judgmental of people who aren't educated enough to speak properly, just don't want to speak that way myself. =P
And, I confess, that frankly I don't understand why grown up people who speak constantly to other grown educated people, can't correct their messed up speaking patterns. It's weird. then again, I write just like a person who only writes in the land of internet chat jargon, so who am I to speak? This is exactly the reason why I need to go back to school. I *want* someone to correct my grammer! =P
Last night I bought a book; "Screenwriting for Dummies." So, we'll just see how that goes. Never tried my hand at it before, and I am trying to branch out. I need to before I go insane. the inner life of my work cubicle just isn't doing it for me.
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