A Day in the Life of the Lioness

Snow in Michigan

2011-02-02T13:20:00.002-05:00

I hate it! We just got dumped on with about a foot of snow. It's white. And cold. And messy. I'm wanting to get away somewhere warm.

Just checking my blog to see if any of my former online blogging friends are still around. Nope.

Peace people.

Good as New!

2011-01-15T10:23:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted to this blog in well over two years. I don't think I would've even remembered having it still if it weren't for HockeyDino, a friend of mine, getting his Facebook account hacked three times in the past year (not worth writing the details about - I don't know them, anyway). He reminded me of Kimba The White Lioness while we were chatting yesterday.

Funny, I haven't thought of the lioness in a couple years...seems like a lifetime ago that I blogged under my childhood alias. In fact, it seems like a lifetime ago since I've blogged (or written ANYTHING - other than school papers) under my adult nickname, even, "Kiki B." Time simply hasn't allowed my creative forces to spring forth to over-flowing, I suppose.

Anyway, it's a new year. A time for bright, new beginnings! So who knows...maybe you'll see Kimba The White Lioness on the prowl again soon?!

Enjoy your year (if anybody is even out there anymore) who followed my writings. Send me an email, if so. Would love to hear from you.

P.S. I just discovered (when Googling my screen name) that there are other Kimba's out there in the vast Internet. Some, even, masquerading as The White Lioness! Hmph! (The nerve of them!) Be assured, there is only one TRUE Kimba - and I'm your girl! ;) LOL

WANTED!

2008-12-02T06:39:00.002-05:00

WANTED: Men and women with the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job, and the nerves of David before Goliath. Needed to prepare the next generation for productive citizenship in the twenty-first century, often under adverse conditions. Applicants must be willing to fill gaps left by unfit, absent, or working parents; satisfy demands of local bureaucrats and state politicians; impart healthy self esteem; and oh, by the way, teach content!

Hours: 50 to 60 hours per week

Pay: Growing respectable

Reward: The luxury of always knowing that you are doing something significant with your life
*************************************************

This little tidbit describes where I've been lately, and how I've been spending much of my time.

I wish I could tell you an exciting tale of how I've been accomplishing nothing more than the carefree slacker lifestyle, become a beach bum in a tropical island paradise wiling away the hours every day by socializing with the locals and sipping Pina Colada's with li'l umbrellas hanging out the sides... but alas, no.

Several months ago, I made the decision to change careers (a 22-year career) from the Medicolegal field to that of Education. Much of my time recently has been spent embarking upon that transition process, as well as my return to the university to undergo the necessary classes to complete my Teacher's Certification. Yes, the professional has become the student, and will eventually become the teacher. I plan to teach students in public education. Yes, you heard me right - PUBLIC.

Many have asked me "why" a person who is well established in her career, life, and finances would alter the path she had chosen so long ago. My answer? Simply because I long to influence the lives of the next generation in an impactful way. I hope to encourage and impassion the youth of today to become their own personal best in life. I want to inspire this generation of children and teenagers, empowering them with the necessary tools to foster lasting change for the good of all people. This generation of youth is tomorrow's leaders. It is through this effort, education, that the world's tomorrows shall be altered - hopefully for the better.

That said, much of my time recently has been spent in classes or doing homework, or conducting observations in the school system. It's a lot of hard work, but I'm committed to this decision and I'm actually enjoying the process, despite the stressors of exams approaching in two weeks. I've done well this semester, a perfect 4.0 GPA, though it has been a struggle at times juggling my school agenda, part-time work, and family life. I have a three-week school break coming up in-between semesters shortly, and I'm in desperate need of a respite... a time to relax, refresh, and refuel before my next round.

Carried Upon the Billowing Breeze

2008-11-30T17:36:00.002-05:00

Every Autumn, I have recurrent thoughts about a person who was of great importance in my life. Though his memory is forever bound within my heart, it is during that change of season each year that the memories seem more alive to me, more vibrant than at other times...

I remember some of my friends idolizing certain music stars like Ted Nugent or Aerosmith when I was growing up. They vowed to pluck away at those skinny little guitar strings until their fingers bled, in their quest to achieve the ultimate ‘Rock Star’ status. In my mind’s eye, I still vividly see them strumming away at this melody or that, amplifiers screaming, their sound resonating off the concrete basement walls during some of the jam sessions I attended.

There were furthermore those friends who aspired to one day become the next best
female figure skater the world would ever know, surpassing the US Olympic Champion at the time, Dorothy Hamill. Ice skates would be donned and laced to the hilt for hour after hour of grueling practice week after week. Gliding across the ice they’d go, poised, hurdling through the air, and dancing on skates until their little legs could barely support their frames any longer.

Personally though, I never had an idol that I looked up to. I never aspired to be “like” anyone. Although I received much pleasure from music, sports, and the Arts every bit as much as the next child, the only person I ever really remember observing and being somewhat awestruck by was my own father.

I’m not certain as to why my dad stands out in my mind as my “hero” of sorts. For sure, he never came to my rescue by slaying a 50-foot fire-breathing dragon that was on my tail and endeavoring to massacre me. Nevertheless, he was my knight in shining armor in the battlefield of life on numerous occasions while I matured. Looking back, I recognize now how his being the warm, devoted, upright person that he was on a daily basis had an enduring affect on me becoming the good person that I would become as an adult, more so than observing any famous person from afar ever could have. Largely because of him, I am who I am.

My father, Richard, was born into a large family in Hamtramck, Michigan in 1936. He was the
youngest of six children, five vivacious boys and one eccentric girl. His family dwelled in a yellowish two-story brick home on Wyandotte street, just off of Joseph Campau. The houses in that neighborhood stood shoulder to shoulder. It was quite the hefty-sized home and occupied much of the city lot wherein it was situated. There was a narrow dirt alleyway running behind the backyard, where the aluminum garbage cans were stored in metal racks. Trash was collected by city workers there. The backyard was like a matchbox, half-filled with an assortment of vibrant flowers that Babu, my grandmother, lovingly nurtured. The other half was overflowing with a large vegetable garden containing beans and cucumbers, lettuce and potatoes, carrots and celery, and every imaginable item grown that would be eaten fresh, as well as canned during the harvest. It was their custom and the way they always did it back in the old country. At that period in time, Hamtramck was a predominantly Polish community culturally. Its residents were largely bilingual, many of them having just emigrated from Europe. My grandparents were amongst them and began their family when settling there.

Being the youngest, and my dad always said the cutest of the children, he got away with a lot more than his siblings did in life. When chore time came ‘round, the natural order of things guaranteed he’d be left with the most minuscule of tasks for completion, as my grandmother always assigned responsibilities beginning with the oldest child first, on down to the youngest. “Richie, go sweep the dirt off the back porch”, my grandmother would say when the bulkier tasks requiring completion had already been doled out. “Yes, mama”, my dark-haired, blue-eyed father would reply. He was an obedient child, compliant, and one who matured into a fine young gentleman. He entered the US Army immediately after high school graduation. There he became an amphibious truck driver, which is a military vehicle that is capable of operating on land or in water.

Thanks to his older siblings, my dad had an enormous amount of extra time on his hands while
growing up in the city. As a result, his interest in music raged. He never played a musical instrument, himself, but oh, how he adored the sounds of music and listened to it any time or place and in any form that he could. If there was a concert in the park or a live band performing at a tavern down the street from his house, the sweet melody reaching his ears, that’s where he could be found. The radio, record player, or television set were always alive with the hum of a skippy beat when he was near. It never took him very long to begin snapping his fingers with the rhythm or tapping his toe on the floor, as my dad and whoever the artist-of-the-moment happened to be, dramatically belted out the lyrics together in their deeply masculine voices. Half the time, I don’t believe he was even conscious of his singing, but others noticed, particularly if we were in public. They would merely grin at him, in the same manner in which my dad’s own lips were constantly turned up in delight at the corners. He was always a joyful guy. If we were at home in our living room, up he’d bounce off that hideous gold velvet couch to the middle of the red shag carpet where he’d dance, dance, dance ‘til his heart content. My younger sister and I would glance at each other humorously, raise our hands in front of our mouths with embarrassment, then giggle at him as we watched, the way little girls do when they think their father’s acting like a silly goose.

One time in particular on a dreary, drizzly Saturday afternoon, when my dad was at home babysitting my sister and me, a song was playing on the radio. The drum and guitar sounds exploded in full force, and the song began. It was music by Elvis Presley, his favorite singer, entitled “Blue Suede Shoes. “ His face lit up as he recognized the tune instantly. He cranked up that old radio dial and said, “Kimmy, come stand on daddy’s feet and we’ll boogie to the music!” He held my petite hands within his own while I perched atop his shoes, balancing myself in place, as he danced me around the room like a princess on her throne, spinning and twirling me, hopping, sliding, and bopping across the floor. I never laughed so hard in my life, as did my sister when it was her turn next. I must’ve been about six or seven years of age. Over the years, we shared many dances similar that one until finally, I was deftly capable of dancing on my own two feet to the beat. It’s an understatement to say that I attribute a great deal of my love for music to my father, crediting him for having fostered his own affection for it in my home environment when I was young.

As time drifted on I grew, as children do. My father’s love for song became my own while I sang everywhere in life, church and school choirs, special events, eventually a band, and learned to play the clarinet, as well. I gained a great appreciation and admiration for classical as well as modern music through the head start my dad imparted in my life. As for the dancing, that tradition continued to take place over the years, as well. Music always abounded. Eventually, it was passed on down to my own children through me. My kids enjoyed it every bit as much as I did when I was small, their lithe bodies attempting to balance atop my feet as I’d swing them around the room in sync with the beat. Music makes for happy times.

There is one dramatic thing that changed in my life as a child though. My father became ill shortly after this recollection began. He suffered his first heart attack at the age of 45 and was diagnosed with a congenital heart abnormality. He underwent cardiac bypass surgery and remained somewhat healthy for quite awhile. His name was added to the countless names on the donor list for those in need of a heart transplant. Unfortunately, he didn’t survive until that perfectly matched heart would arrive. His own had simply given out. My mom found him deceased, sitting peacefully in his Lazy Boy chair when she came home from an impromptu shopping excursion one evening 17 years ago. He would’ve been 72 years old this month, had he lived. I miss him dearly every year as the autumn season rolls around and the leaves begin to change their color. It saddens me that my children never had the opportunity of knowing the magnificent man that he was, their grandfather.

Sometimes, while I sit very still beneath the ancient oak tree in my yard, I’d swear I hear his singing still, those melodies carried upon the billowing breeze. “Don’t worry, dad. The music carries on”.

Lost in Space

2008-11-20T23:09:00.002-05:00

Okay, not really. Just busy in life! I realize it's been six months since I've been here - I know, I know! I'm so sorry! Truly, I am. I didn't mean to worry anyone with my absence. In my own defense, I told everyone I'd be gone awhile. Six months is a long while, I suppose...

(Kevin, I've seen your messages. Elaine, I've gotten yours, too. Carol, I've gotten yours. Kim, I've received yours as well. You're wonderful people). It was nice of you to think of me and to care enough to write. I have wondered how everyone has been, too, I just wasn't motivated enough to blog and as a result, didn't come in here or check on anybody, either.

A lot has happened in six months. I really will fill whoever is still around in, when I get the time to write a serious blog and not just a message update, so y'all will stop your worrying about me.

Do you know what I did today? I deleted my MyBlogLog and Blog Catalog accounts that were linked to this blog. Yes, the accounts that led you all to me. Why? Because I had literally thousands of messages waiting for me since I last checked my pages in both places (it's been six months, people) and as usual, when I'm overwhelmed I tend to draw up inside myself like a turtle inside its shell in hopes of escaping the hyperstimulus upon my life. Even now, though I'm here, I have said absolutely nothing to anyone of any importance. I'm just occupying space and time, and that's the real reason why I haven't blogged. I've had nothing I've felt led to say.

At least I didn't delete my blog page, right?

So, I said all that to say this... I don't know when I'll be in here to blog. I know it's difficult to understand, but I truly am busy and having a tough time juggling all my responsibilities right now. Blogging (writing) was always my recreational thing, my spare-time fun... and I simply don't have time for that in my life right now. I hope you understand.

See everyone on the flip side. It'll be sporadic, at best. Please take care. And BTW, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!! Though times are tough for the whole country right now from an economic standpoint, I think if we each take a few moments to look inside our hearts, we can come up with one thing (at least) to be thankful for in our lives! Things can ALWAYS be worse.

And so it begins...

2008-05-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

Warm sunshine streaming down
Azure skies with occasional puffy, white clouds
Children’s laughter
Bonfires by night
Insect repellant
The scent of fresh cut grass lingering in the breeze
S’mores
Weeding the garden
Fresh grown sweet corn, beans, and tomatoes
Juicy, sweet watermelon
Volleyball on the beach
The penny candy store
Fetch with the dogs
Flashlight tag
Swinging at the park
Tourists
Green growth, life, and flowers galore
A game of baseball
Barbecue chicken, ribs, steak. . . everything!
Hot rods, cruises, car shows
Sandy beaches and gentle waves
Animals at the zoo
Lots of laughter
Family, friends, and good times
Swimming, floating, sun bathing
Rest and relaxation
Fireworks
Music under the stars
A good book
Going up north to the cabin
Get-togethers
My birthday!

And so it begins... summer, that is. This is Memorial Day weekend coming up - the official start to the summer season. Being the summer baby that I was born to be, it's no surprise that I live for summer weather. That said, this will be my farewell blog for the season. I realize my presence has become more and more scarce online over the past couple months as the spring arrived, but now it's time for a break altogether. I would like to thank each and every one of you for reading, for commenting, for being there. I appreciate you all very much and hope to see you again when the autumn descends upon my great state and I return indoors once again for a long, cold winter. Your friendship and your readership is greatly valued!

Yes, I'll still pop in every now and then to say "hello", but won't be doing much blogging, myself. So, enjoy yourselves this summer! Spend some time with your loved ones and friends! Best wishes for much happiness, peace, and all the GOOD things in life!

HUGS!

The Love Boat...promises something for everyone

2008-05-17T07:30:00.001-04:00

My husband is an exciting man. In fact, his nickname amongst the guys at work is “Ed-venture”, because he is fearless and creative. He has a unique ability to turn even the most mundane of tasks into an adventure for his work crew, and oftentimes elicits much laughter in the process (which makes their long work days seem not-so-long at all). He is admired by many, and really is the “life of the party”.

That said, you won’t be surprised to hear that those same characteristics ring true in our private lives at home, too. Though I’m oftentimes up for his wacky antics, occasionally I have to draw the line due to my own fears. “What fears, Kim? You are invincible!” Ha! How I wish that were true. I will let you in on a little secret. . . two secrets, actually:

1. I fear deep water.
2. I am somewhat claustrophobic.

(Ahhhh, now you understand?!)

Well then, it should come as no surprise to you to hear me say that I was slightly ambivalent when my husband arrived home from work yesterday with a “brilliant” idea for our next big vacation together – a 12-day Mediterranean cruise. Trapped aboard a boat. A big boat. With thousands of other people. Like a can of sardines. And a small stateroom. Unable to leave at-will. In the middle of a vast, deep, dark ocean. Full of sharks. Out to sea, like sitting ducks at the mercy of the waves and the weather. For days and days and days. Like the Titanic.

Gulp. Breathe.

I realize that to many, a Mediterranean cruise seems like a beautiful, exciting, romantic , fantasy-type of vacation. Sharing good food and fun and lots of laughter with the one you love. A different port-of-call every morning; Venice, Florence, Rome, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Athens, Barcelona. A dream come true, really. Except for the part about being stuck on a boat with thousands of people. In the midst of deep, dark water. For days on end. That thought alone makes my heart race and my throat go dry.

My husband has tried to convince me that the boat is so huge (a “floating city” is what he called it, I believe) that I won’t feel “trapped” on it. I'm not convinced. He encourages me that I won’t get seasick and end up spending every day in the confines of our cabin puking my guts out - because the boat is a LARGE, heavy ship that cuts through the water producing little motion at all, and will not be tossed about by every wave. Unless there's a hurricane. He reminds me how much I love people in general, and especially meeting new friends in the relaxed environment of a vacation where there is music, dancing, and entertainment. Yes, that's true. He entices me with my own lifelong dreams of traveling to different lands experiencing different foods, cultures. And it all sounds SO WONDERFUL – except for the boat. And the deep, dark water.

So, I figured I’d ask for a little advice from you all in hopes of diminishing some of my anxieties over the prospect of a cruise. Has anybody ever been on one before? If so, would you please be so kind (and honest) as to share your experience with me? Did you like it? What were the pros and cons? Are there any little tidbits of advice you could offer a first-timer to ensure a pleasurable experience? Did you get seasick? Do you feel motion at all?

HOPE FOR HUMANITY - ACTION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

2008-05-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

To guarantee the human rights of children is to invest in the future. Children's rights are the building blocks for a solid human rights culture, the basis for securing human rights for future generations. As human beings, children are entitled to all the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the various covenants that have developed from it. But children also need special protection and care. They must be able to depend on the adult world to take care of them, to defend their rights, and to help them to develop and realize their potential. Governments pay almost universal lip service to this ideal, yet have signally failed to ensure that the rights of children are respected.

Children suffer many of the same human rights abuses as adults, but may also be targeted simply because they are dependent and vulnerable. Many times in many nations, children are tortured and mistreated by state officials; they are arbitrarily or lawfully detained, often in appalling conditions. In some countries, they are subjected to the death penalty. Countless thousands are killed or maimed in armed conflicts. Many more have fled their homes to become refugees. Children forced by poverty or abuse to live on the streets are sometimes detained, attacked, and even killed in the name of social cleansing. Many millions of children work at exploitative or hazardous jobs, or are the victims of child trafficking and forced prostitution. Because children are "easy targets", they are sometimes threatened, beaten, or raped in order to punish family members who are not so accessible.

The spectrum of abuses faced by children in the family and community ranges from ill-treatment in institutions to violence within the family, from child trafficking to child bonded labor. The vulnerability of children to such abuses often depends on other aspects of their identity such as gender, ethnicity, or economic status. This is a powerful reminder of the indivisibility of human rights. The denial of one set of rights leads to the abuse of others. Children denied an education because they are girls or because they are poor and forced to work are condemned to a cycle of marginalization, poverty, and powerlessness that involves further violations of their civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

Stand up for the basic human rights of children – the right to life, the right to be with family and community, the right to health, the right to development of personality, and the right to be nurtured and protected – since the children are too small to stand up for themselves.

Humankind owes the child the best it has to give!

Use your space to make the world a better place! Blogging for Hope!

Amnesty International: www.amnesty.org
Women Trafficking & Child Labor Eradication: www.wotclef.org

How Swede It Is!

2008-05-08T10:14:00.001-04:00

HEY, HEY HOCKEYTOWN!
I feel the need - the need for Swede!
RED HOT - FIRE ON ICE!
Catch the Red Wave!
WATCH FOR FALLING STARS TONIGHT!
Are You In?
LET'S GO RED WINGS!

Hockey-blog / Photo-blog today - obviously. OOPS! Except for the last pic - that's my hubby. But being the typical testosterone-type male that he is, he needs his ego stroked from time-to-time, and I didn't want to exclude him, so I'm letting him be with the BIG BOYS today (Better, honey? =) who have my attention for the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs Round 3 Game 1 tonight! Ooooo-la-la, especially that Zetterberg! Yikes!

Feeling Thankful

2008-05-07T08:07:00.005-04:00

We have our annual fund raiser coming up at the dojo this Saturday. Every year we have a kick-a-thon in which all the students (approximately 300) training at the dojo donate their time for two hours, throwing as many kicks as possible into the bags. Of the funds we receive from those who sponsor us, 100% is donated back to a local organization called “The Rainbow Connection”. It’s very similar to the Make-a-Wish Foundation in that their primary focus is to fulfill dreams for Michigan children with life threatening or terminal illnesses. Depending on the amount of money collected, sometimes we’re able to grant the wishes of more than one local child; which is a blessing.

Though it’s always wonderful to receive a gift from someone, for those who haven’t yet discovered – there is nothing more fulfilling in life than giving a gift to another, especially if it involves giving from the heart for the benefit of an innocent child who is seriously ill. Being a parent, myself, I cannot fathom how difficult it must be for those parents to endure the agony of watching their own child suffering long term; not to mention the hardships that the children themselves must bear. It’s a good feeling to know that the small token of our time that we volunteer is poured back into the lives of others who are less fortunate, where it helps to brighten their outlook and hopefully makes them smile; if only for awhile.

In light of that, it makes me appreciate even greater how truly fortunate I am to have healthy, happy teenagers / young adults in my life. I feel very blessed and thankful, and will try to remember just how grateful I am for their health, their wholeness, the next time they’re aggravating me immensely – instead of stressing over what (to some) would seem like such petty issues in the broader spectrum of life.

So. . . hug your children today! Tell them how much you love them, and how precious they are in your eyes! Let them know they are special. I know I will.

I love my babies - no matter how big they get!

My guilty pleasure for the day

2008-04-26T15:17:00.000-04:00

My daughter arrived home from college yesterday. The semester is over and she’s back home for four months. When she arrived home with the six (you heard me right – SIX) 30-gallon garbage bags full of dirty laundry (including a few articles of young-men’s clothing that didn’t belong to her – and I’m not asking about) I just sort of sighed and thought. . . where in the world did I go wrong?. . . But then, this morning (OK, more like noon) when she finally woke up and turned on the music, all was WELL AGAIN in my household! (Low, Low, Low, Low, Low, Low, Low, Low!) She is such a joy to have around. I’ve missed her innate ability to brighten up a room just with her presence and smile. She managed to have me smiling and singing right along with her within moments of arising from her sleep. She also informed me that she and I are going dancing and karaoke-ing this evening. Sweet. =)
So anyway, here’s my own “guilty pleasure” for the day (Shhh – don’t tell anyone, K?) =P

(P.S. – Sorry I’m not very sociable with anyone lately. I guess I just haven’t had much to say. Just have a lot going on and a lot on my mind right now. Think of everyone often though).

If Everyone Cared

2008-04-24T07:15:00.000-04:00

Did you ever wake up with a song playing over and over and over again inside your head, like a broken record? That's how I awoke this morning - Chad Kroeger's gravelly voice lulling me into wakefulness with this song... mellow, contemplative, serene. Enjoy.

(Comment on YouTube if you liked her vid.)

From underneath the trees, we watch the sky
Confusing stars for satellites
I never dreamed that you'd be mine
But here we are, we're here tonight

Singing Amen I, I'm alive
Singing Amen I, I'm alive

[CHORUS]
If everyone cared and nobody cried,
If everyone loved and nobody lied,
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride,
We'd see the day, when nobody died

And I'm singing

Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive
Amen I, Amen I, Amen I, I'm alive

And in the air the fireflies
Our only light in paradise
We'll show the world they were wrong
And teach them all to sing along

Singing Amen I, I'm alive
Singing Amen I, I'm alive

[CHORUS (X2)]

And as we lie beneath the stars,
We realize how small we are,
If they could love like you and me,
Imagine what the world could be

[CHORUS (X2)]

We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day when nobody died

Another "Familiar Fragments"

2008-04-23T11:12:00.000-04:00

Once again, a scary glimpse into my thought fragments. . .

I was bummed out the other day when I realized after the fact that the Dalai Lama was in Michigan at U- M giving lectures, and I had missed them. I remember when he was here 15 years ago. I sat in on some of his talks. I was very impressed with his peaceful character, his ideals. I wish I could’ve gone back to see him and hear him speak again. I didn’t know he was going to be here until it was too late. Figures.

The wilderness. . . shall blossom abundantly. Isaiah 35:1, 2 (Holy Bible)

I have a headache on the right side of my temple. It’s trying to throb and is bordering migraine. It must be stress-related. Give me drugs, please. I haven’t had a headache since before leaving for vacation. I feel a huge knot of tension in the middle of my upper back, too, right in the center of my scapula, as well as my cervical spine area. New line of work required. Anybody need a crazy blond on staff?

Hey, I have a great idea! How ‘bout you come do dirty laundry for me! Please? I want to go out and play, instead!

Got KC and the Sunshine Band on the brain again. I know, I’m a throwback to the 70’s music era sometimes – roller-skates, disco ball, and the whole funky thing. But what can I say? How ‘bout – “DO A LITTLE DANCE- MAKE A LITTLE LOVE – GET DOWN TONIGHT! – GET DOWN TONIGHT! WHOO!” (Currently shaking my groove thang)! Can ya feel it, I ask?! My youngest daughter is shaking her head at me and saying, “Mother, puh-lease! You’re scaring me!” LOL (But if my older daughter were home from college, she’d be saying, “Yeah mom – shake it, girl - Go momma! Go momma! Go momma!”) Hmm. . . . what’s wrong with this picture?! Funny, how they can all be so individually different from each other.

I feel the need. . . the need for speed! Zoom-zoom-zoom! T-tops are comin’ off today! Warm sun. Fresh air. Need a hat, or I’ll have a tangled mess. Stay off the roads if you’re smart! I stop for nothing!

Today is my son’s birthday. My baby. My youngest child. No longer a baby. Now a teenager going through puberty, himself. Awww. My days filled with the simplest aspects of motherhood are over. I now can only endure the teenage years and young adulthood with my children – which are okay, I suppose. But I want a new baby to snuggle and hold and love and take care of. Too bad my hubby had snip-snipping done. He turns deathly pale when I suggest medical reversal of his vasectomy - then does an about-face and runs away. Hey bubba – where you goin’?! Come back here and gimme some of that!

Remember: Do not mix up the cilia with the celiac. Vast difference, both. Thank you.

I hate it when I’m sitting in a restaurant and somebody continuously has a thick, productive, hacking cough. It makes me lose my appetite. Sounds like they’re hocking up a chunk of lung or something. Yuck! Hungry no more.

It’s my Sunday to lead. I pray that lives will be changed through the ministry that music can bring. Leading Praise and Worship is so much more to me than just another “performance”. When I take the platform, I want to cease to exist as an individual, and only be seen as the vessel that is used to usher the congregation into the very presence of God, the throne of grace. So please don’t look to me – look to Him. Don’t see “me” – but only the one who was called to lead you there. I am merely human – I will fall. He will not.

Did you ever see a blue frog? I have one! Here, in my pond. Look-see, I’ll show you.

Why is it that my health insurance company can never accurately manage my account? Why must I watch every stinking penny? I’m tired of their repeat “errors”. They should be covering certain aspects of my family’s health care in full; yet, have neglected to do so, thereby claiming I’m responsible for specific payment amounts. NO, I’m not! Check my policy guidelines. YOU are supposed to cover that completely! Sheesh. Must I do everybody’s job for them? Get with the program, people!

Those of you who don’t actually “know” me in real life would have a hard time believing I’m a very serious professional who works in the medicolegal field, huh? But you know, it’s just so BORING, and you gotta do what you gotta do to liven things up a bit. If you want to know the absolute truth, only wacky people can endure in the field of medicine – it takes a rather unique sense of humor to be able to find beauty in the cleansed colon or irritable bowels. Just thought you should know. Keep that in mind the next time you go for a surgical procedure, ok? LOL

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy. Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry. Sunshine on the water looks so lovely. Sunshine almost all the time makes me high.

I’m supposed to be working, but I’m distracted today. ADD mode has kicked in with my return to work – funny, that. I’m having mischievous thoughts, too – don’t ask. You DON’T want to know, trust me. Focus, Kim. Focus. Back. To. Work. Focus. (Come on baby, and rescue me!) My mind is useless today. Devoid of even the remotest of intelligence. Up in the clouds. Far, far away. Sigh.

I love stumbling across blogs that inspire me. Hats-off to the inspirational-ists!

Don't Mess With Me, Mo-Fo!

2008-04-20T11:12:00.003-04:00

Yesterday evening at dusk (about 8:30 p.m.), as I was walking out of the Port Huron Meijer’s store with my daughter, Kayla, a most unusual thing occurred. We were proceeding through the parking lot toward my car with a couple bags of groceries when we suddenly heard a woman’s scream. It was just one scream, but filled with angst and tears, I could tell. And it was slightly muffled, as if someone were trying to stifle it. My daughter and I glanced at each other then looked around as we approached my vehicle, trying to discern from which direction it had come. We saw nothing. We heard nothing. As we got into my car, I suddenly had the oddest feeling strike me. As a result, I decided at that moment not to leave directly, but to quickly drive up and down a few rows of cars just to take a peek.

As I neared the end of the row we had been parked in, I suddenly saw it – a man struggling with a woman, attempting to get her into a mini-van. She had her feet firmly planted on the asphalt pavement and her arms spread wide, holding on for dear life to each side of the sliding door while he was trying to dislodge her grip and shove her inside, covering her mouth with one hand. She was terrified. He was pissed.

Shocked and furious, barely thinking - I stopped my car abruptly and shouted to my daughter, “lay on the car horn, and don’t let up”. I got out and ran toward the man, screaming, “Hey mother fucker, let her go!”, then BOOM! - slammed a wicked front kick right into his face as he turned his head my direction, having been startled by both my screaming approach as well as my car horn blaring.

Well, thank God it was enough!

Enough to draw the attention of other passersby, who decently stopped to see what the ruckus was all about and help out. Enough of a distraction for the poor lady to break free from her struggle. Enough to have put an abrupt end to what was about to become a very violent crime that would likely have changed the life of the victim forever. Enough.

Of course, some of the men in the parking lot subdued the would-be attacker until the police arrived. I believe they even landed a few of their own blows at his face and gut in the process. Good for them. And I did my very best to hug and comfort the poor woman, who was absolutely terrified afterwards.

Ladies, do yourselves a favor. Stay alert. Be prepared. Always. Take a self defense class. Keep in shape. Don’t shop alone. Carry pepper spray or mace...something. Be proactive in not becoming the victim in today’s backwards society. There are bad people in the world. I live in a very GOOD area, and this still happened. I am NOT a big person (5’7”, 118 lbs.) and under certain circumstances I may not have been effective in helping this woman – but I am a martial artist. And for the first time in my life, I was very thankful for the past three years of time and grueling dedication that I’ve put into training, as it allowed me to react instinctively in a dangerous situation without fear. (Although, I was pretty shaken up afterwards, when the adrenaline rush wore off).

But...it proved useful to aid in helping another. It was worth it.

The choices we make today affect the quality of life we have tomorrow. Choose wisely.

My Love Affair With Kokomo...

2008-04-10T06:35:00.003-04:00

Steamy... Sultry... Sexy... Sweet... KOKOMO! (eat your hearts out!)

SOUPY - be very, very jealous!

(Not the greatest slideshow/vid, but all I could find quick-like. Use sound for full experience!)

Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you
Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego baby why don't we go
Jamaica

Off The Florida Keys
There's a place called Kokomo
That's where you wanna go to get away from it all

Bodies in the sand
Tropical drink melting in your hand
We'll be falling in love
To the rhythm of a steel drum band
Down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you
To Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego baby why don't we go

Ooo I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We'll get there fast
And then we'll take it slow
That's where we wanna go
Way down to Kokomo

To Martinique, that Montserrat Mystique

We'll put out to sea
And we'll perfect our chemistry
By and by we'll defy a little bit of gravity

Afternoon delight
Cocktails and moonlit nights
That dreamy look in your eye
Give me a tropical contact high
Way down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you
To Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego baby why don't we go

Ooo I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We'll get there fast
And then we'll take it slow
That's where we wanna go
Way down to Kokomo

Port Au Prince I wanna catch a glimpse

Everybody knows
A little place like Kokomo
Now if you wanna go
And get away from it all
Go down to Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take ya to
Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego baby why don't we go

Ooo I wanna take you down to Kokomo
We'll get there fast
And then we'll take it slow
That's where we wanna go
Way down to Kokomo

Ooo I wanna take you down to Kokomo

"Leavin', on a jet plane...

2008-04-10T06:35:00.002-04:00

... don't know when I'll be back again..."

Does anybody remember that song? I know a few of you do (wink). An oldie, but a goodie!

Anyway- I realize I haven't been the best correspondent of late; shame on me - time just goes by way too fast and before I know it, one day is ending and a new one has begun! (My plate is rather full these days, so-to-speak). But you'll be happy to know that I have NOTHING important to say, anyway, so you haven't missed much! =)

I do have some wonderful news to share though...

That song that I began my post with? Well, it happens to be true. I AM leaving! In fact, later today. And thank God for that -I totally need a vacation! Have been swamped at work lately and have felt like pulling my hair out on more than one occasion, I might add. Of course, I'd never do that because I'd be one ugly lioness bald. (scary thought)

So, until next time - ciao!

Growing Slowly Wise

2008-04-05T21:47:00.004-04:00

Earth's wisest sages this impart:
The tongue's great storehouse is the heart.
- Folk Proverb

There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few that will capture your heart... pursue those.

Never Alone

2008-04-01T11:36:00.003-04:00

This morning I awoke to steel grey, drizzly skies. The air was chill and damp and I snuggled deeply into my robe while gazing out at our pond, beyond the trees. Among the many deer grazing upon fresh spring grass hopped the rabbits, their white tails bouncing behind. They, too, were enjoying their tender young greens. Gliding along so gracefully in the pond was a lone duck of black-and-white colored plume. I retrieved the binoculars so as to look for his mate, who surely accompanied him. Alas, she was nowhere to be found. Despite his singular beauty, it made me sad to see him there... all alone in the cold, dark rain. It made me grateful that my journey through life is not alone.

P.S. - Does anybody know why all my blog posts are ending up dated with April 1, 2008 instead of the actual posting date?

Stilletto Heels and Fishnet Stockings

2008-04-01T11:36:00.001-04:00

Nevada is only one of two states in which some prostitution is legal (in brothels); Rhode Island is the other (brothels).

Do you think that Prostitution should be legalized? Why or why not? Under what circumstances? Street solicitation? Brothels?

(I wonder if anybody will actually state that they DO think it should be legalized... are you brave enough?) Free thinkers welcome.

"Plaaaay Ball!"

2008-03-25T10:36:00.014-04:00

"Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and Chevrolet..."

"Take me out to the ballgame..."

Outside of hockey, baseball is my most favorite sport. It's definitely my favorite summer sport, both to watch as well as play. My youngest son is a HUGE baseball fan, and a decent player, too. It's a sure sign of Spring in Michigan when the professional baseball season begins.

Today is Opening Day for the Detroit Tigers, and I'm a huge fan of theirs. I only wish I had tickets to the game, so I could head down to the city to beautiful Comerica Park to support "my guys" with all the other rowdy fans instead of going to work. It's great to watch the game on TV, or listen on radio (something my dad and I always did when I was a kid and we couldn't get down to the old Tiger Stadium to see a game) but nothing, NOTHING compares with being there in person, part of the energy of another Opening Day in Detroit!

The weather forecast is a bit "iffy" in regards to off and on rain showers, but nobody will care (it's better than snow) come 1 p.m. when the first pitch is thrown.

Hottie Justin Verlander will be on the mound pitching to start the season off for the Tigers. It looks to be a promising season - hear them roaaar!

Let's Go Tigers!

Words of Wisdom...

2008-03-25T10:36:00.010-04:00

Seek peace, and pursue it.
Live an honest life and walk uprightly.
In all things, give thanks.
Be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath.
If a man thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
Don't be weary in well doing.
Where there is no vision, people perish.
Love is patient and kind.
Wisdom is far more valuable than precious jewels.
Be hospitable to one another, without complaint.
Love keeps no record of wrongs.
Whatever you do, do it heartily.
Study to be quiet, and to do your own business.
It's not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.
Amend your ways, and your deeds.
Be watchful.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.
Honor one another above yourselves.
In your patience are your souls possessed.
Encourage one another, and build each other up.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Love never ends...

The Name of the Day is ... "McBean"

2008-03-25T10:36:00.008-04:00

Have you ever paid much attention to other people’s names before? I happen to find language itself very interesting, and names are no different.

Today’s ‘Name of the Day’ (which simply means that I LIKE a specific name) is sponsored by none other than the name: (Ta-da )- “McBean”. Why? I’m not sure. I guess for a few reasons. First, it stumbled across my desk this morning and caught my eye. Second, I like the way it sounds when spoken. Go ahead, say it out loud now – you KNOW you want to! “McBean”. Doesn’t that sound distinguished!? Next, it makes me wonder what it means. Yes, I know I could simply Google the name and find out, but that’s too easy; besides, I prefer my own little game of imagination instead. The name itself reminds me of... BEANS! (No surprise there, right?) When thinking upon it and speaking it aloud, I see images of the descendents of the name “McBean” flocking to Ellis Island from the Scottish lowlands around the year 1900. Their knees are exposed, because they’re wearing these short little plaids of green, brown, yellow, and white while coming abroad from their homeland – BEAN colored plaids, they are! When speaking, they have this nice little lilt to their voices that is smooth and comforting. I wonder if there was such a thing as bean farmers over there. What kinds of beans did they grow? Green beans, string beans, wax beans? Finally, the name “McBean” reminds me of McDonald’s coffee. So I think I’m going to go get some now!

Have a GREAT day. . .it’s BEAN fun (not been, bet ‘bean’ - Get it?! Sheesh, laugh a little, already)!!! As a matter of fact, all this McBean talk has made me hungry. I think I’ll get a McChicken sandwich, too, while I’m at it!

This is actually a PICTURE of the real McBean (Pinto McBean!) in Alberta, Canada. How cool is that?!

Simple minds. Simple pleasures. What can I say?!

The good-old-U-S-of-A

2008-03-19T08:28:00.006-04:00

I come from a long line of United States Military family members. At one time, I even considered joining, myself. For reasons that are irrelevant to this blog, I never did enlist. Despite that, I was raised in what would be considered your typical middle-class-working American household under the watchful eye and loving hand of an Army dad who later became a restaurant owner/operator, and a part-time grocery store clerk mom who focused the majority of her attention on us three kids while at home, but who also believed in contributing to the family income via working outside of the home in her spare time. Our family was by no means "perfect", and we were far from "rich" monetarily, but through it all there was much love that abounded, and there was an even greater commitment to the bettering of our family lives, home, community, and the country in which we lived. We were taught that as our family was so richly blessed in many ways, it was not only our responsibility and our duty to reach out and bless others in kind - to give back, but our PRIVILEGE to have the OPPORTUNITY and FREEDOM to be able to do so.

A very large part of my upbringing submersed me in not only the concept of Christian morals, values, and beliefs, but also very patriotic ideations. I was taught that the United States of America was the GREATEST country in the world; that she represented GREAT principles that were attained at the loss of many, many lives over the years throughout several wars - all for the sake of MY continued freedom (in one capacity or another), and that of my future children. I was taught the personal values and appreciation for all those who had gone before me, sacrificing their civilian independence for a military lifestyle to insure that this GREAT nation would not only survive, but thrive. Freedom of speech. Freedom to think. Freedom to choose. Freedom how to live. Freedom of religion. More freedoms than any other nation in this world. And they did it all for me... and for you. Today is no different.

So, no matter what your own personal beliefs may be at this very difficult moment in time in our nation - whether you're for the war or against the war in Iraq; whether you're for President Bush or against President Bush; whether you're for foreign policy or against foreign policy; whether you agree or disagree with many issues involving this nation at this present time - I would humbly ask that you would learn to honor and respect all those service men and women who have served over the years (and who continue to serve daily) of their own free will and volition for the sake of this nation's future freedom and liberties. Don't make what all those who have gone before us, for the benefit OF US, to have been done in vain.

You may not agree with what's taking place in the world around you whatsoever, but is it too much to ask - to EXPECT -that you have the maturity and decency to still honor your President, honor your flag, and honor your nation at large, even though you disagree with policy? What has happened to the civil citizens that once this nation had? Do you no longer believe in what this great land stands for? Freedom. Liberty. Justice. For ALL.

In the midst of a troubled nation where it's citizens behavior can oftentimes be viewed as treasonous, I will STILL proudly stand in the midst of you all - alone if need be - as one of the remaining few who proclaim, "I love my country. I love my flag and all that it proudly stands for as it waves in the breeze. I will honor my President, even when I don't agree with him. I will pray for those who serve for my freedom, and that of my children's. I will never give up on finding solutions to our problems through proactive, positive measures. I was born an American, and I will live my life conveying to its fullest all that the word 'American' should mean to the world today: Righteous. Honest. Sincere. Hard working. Compassionate. Free. Proud... until the day I die. This IS the land of the free and the home of the brave. This IS the greatest nation is the world. I vow to do MY part in insuring that what my forefathers gave their lives for will not be lost in either my generation, or the next." America, I salute you!

Yes, you have the right to speak freely about your concerns and disputes over current events and policies - and be very thankful that you do, because if you were in most any other nation in the world, you would NOT! But next time, before you automatically lash out about American issues that you are in disagreement over, maybe it would be a good idea if you think before you speak - because I really don't believe that negativity and destructive attitudes, like pointing the finger at any one person or thing in blame, is conducive to actually SOLVING any of America's problems today. Do you? Stop focusing on just the problems exclusively, and learn to work TOGETHER again for solutions.

"Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams..."

2008-03-17T15:16:00.012-04:00

One day, when I'm rich and famous... (or at least once my kids are grown and gone!) I have dreams of travelling to Europe. Being that I still have romantic notions about princes of might and valor, pretty princesses, and knights in shining armor, I would love to visit some of the great castles of Europe. One of the very first I would see when venturing to Ireland would be Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo; about 30 miles away from the city of Galway.

It was founded about eight centuries ago (around 1228) by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family following the defeat of the native O'Connors of Connaught. It served as a mighty fortress for many years to come, and it's ownership changed hands numerous times over the centuries.

As you can clearly see, it's set amidst the backdrop of spectacular forests, lakes, and mountains, and has an almost magical, ethereal quality to it's physical characteristics that stirs up little-girl fantasies of fire breathing dragons and jousting knights attempting to win the hand of a fair maiden.

Although it has undergone many changes over the years, it appears to still retain the beauty of it's former glory. It's actually a hotel/castle now, so people can STAY in it during vacations!

As with most luxury hotels, this has the typical spa treatments and exercise rooms available for its patrons to frequent, but what this particular one has that all the others do NOT is... a school of Falconry! Yes, I'm serious! Isn't that unique? I would definitely have a visit with the school (and the Falconer's not bad, himself, either I might add)!

Around 1985, a group of Irish-American investors actually purchased Ashford Castle and restored it to the luxurious castle that appears before us, today. (In fact, it's certain to be BETTER than ever, because castles were typically not built as places of luxury in their origin, but of necessity). There are hundreds of beautiful acres to the estate where visitors can relax while picnicing, fishing, hiking, etc. in addition to exploring the grand castle itself, gardens, and grounds.

Many rich and famous Americans have stayed within the castle walls (Jack Nicholson, The Reagans, Molly Ringwald, Johnny Cash, Harry Belafonte, John Travolta, and more) and I can't wait until MY name is added to the list of guests! (I better start saving my money NOW, I'm sure!)

So tell me... where do YOU dream of going?!

Top o’ the mornin’ to ye! Come on in and listen to me bunch o’ blarney!

2008-03-14T12:39:00.010-04:00

A chairde, Cead Mile failte (Translated: Dear friends, a thousand welcomes to ye!),

Being that it’s St. Patrick’s Day weekend, I thought I’d share with ye a bit o’ the Irish superstition and folklore that’s been handed down from generation to generation. In fact, some Irish stories have been in written form since the 8th century, but most originated over 2,000 years ago when the druids passed stories on orally.

The most famous of these legends (or infamous, if ye prefer to refer to them in that manner), is the Irish fairy more popular than them all – otherwise known as the Leprechaun! Standing only about two-feet-tall, these little old shoemakers with rosy cheeks and twinkling eyes look friendly, but they're actually quite the tricksters. Being aloof and unfriendly little fairy souls, leprechauns aren't easy to spot. No, indeed. They spend all their time busily making shoes, and stashing away all the money their craft brings them in a hidden pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow. Everyone's heard o’ the legendary pot o’ gold, and the only way to track one is to follow the sound of a leprechaun hammering the shoes. They say if ye catch one, he'll promise to take ye to his pot o’ gold, if ye can just keep him in yer sights! But these tricky little fellows know just how to get ye to look away. Once ye do, they've disappeared and yer chance of riches is gone, gone, gone! Keep in mind that they’re given to excess, so if ye hear one a’ hammerin’ shoes this weekend, ye need only bring out the bottle o’ whiskey, pipe tobacco, snuff, and Guinness to capture his attention!

Then there’s the trefoil, or Shamrock. It was at one time called the “Seamroy”, and it symbolizes the cross and blessed trinity. The legend of the Shamrock is directly connected to none other than yer old friend, St. Patrick, and his teachings. When preaching in the open air on the doctrine of the trinity, he is said to have illustrated the existence of the ‘Three In One’ by plucking a Shamrock from the grass growing at his feet and showing it to his congregation. Before the Christian era though, the Shamrock was a sacred plant of the Druids because its leaves formed a triad. (Personally though, I prefer the four-leaf clover; but that's another story!)

Finally, another well known legend is that of King Lir, his children, and the swans. It is said that King Lir’s wife (the children’s jealous stepmother) had all four of his children turned into swans for 400 years! The sentence is now long passed and the four died as ancient humans, but to this day it is illegal to kill swans in Ireland! (Although, I fail to see WHY anybody would WANT to kill swans, anyway. They’re beautiful!)

And now, for yer grand finale – a poem about me favorite little green fella o’ the weekend – written by Sheri Amon.

The Legend of the Leprechaun
by Sheri Amon

Oh, the leprechaun, a mysterious fellow,
An Irish fairy he be.
An unfriendly sort who keeps to himself,
A miserly fellow is he.

Making shoes for his living, not a bit does he spend,
Instead stores it all in a pot.
At the end of the rainbow his hiding place is,
And to find it will bring you good luck.

If you happen to hear a shoemaker's hammer,
tis the sound that a leprechaun makes.
Find him and corner him, he'll tell you his secret,
If a stare you can maintain.

Look not away for this fairy is tricky,
He'll attempt to sway your glance.
Gone will he be, look away for a moment,
And you'll lose your one only chance.

So then, have ye some corned beef and cabbage and green beer this weekend! And do yerself a favor if ye catch that leprechaun, kick up yer heels and dance ye a little jig over his pot o’ gold!

Go mea dai Diatha! Slan go foil. (Translated: May God prosper you! Bye for now!)

You're a naughty, naughty boy!

2008-03-12T19:06:00.003-04:00

Psst. . . How well do you REALLY know your spouse?!

What is this, “The Year of the Intern”?! Every time I turn on the TV lately, the headlines are plastered with news of saucy political sex scandals taking place amongst America’s politicians.

It all takes me on a journey back in time to the days of “Slick Willie” (AKA President Bill Clinton) and the good ol’ Monica Lewinsky political sex scandal.

Reporter: “Mr. President, have you at any time in the past engaged in sex acts with intern, Monica Lewinsky?”
Slick Willie: “No, sir. Absolutely not. I swear that I have NEVER had sexual relations with that woman”.

www.cnn.com/ALLPOLITICS/1998/resources/lewinsky/timeline/

Yeah. Right. We believe you. (Currently winking).

More recently than Slick’s incident, has been the Sex, Texts, and Lies scandal that recently rocked the community of Detroit with their Mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick, having had a long term sexual affair with his Chief of Staff, Christine Beatty. The circumstances of this particular scandal evolved out of a Whistleblower’s lawsuit which involved the unjust firing of two former Detroit police officers, and the Mayor perjuring himself under oath (lying on the witness stand ) pertaining to that case. Apparently, unbeknownst to the Detroit City Council, he (the mayor) made a secret deal to cover up those facts, which cost the taxpayers in the city of Detroit only a measly. . . $9,000,000.00. . . http://thedetroitreport.com/

Is that all?! (Currently shrugging).

Yeah. Right. Somehow, I’m quite certain the citizens have better things to do with their money during a recession than throw it away on a gangster mayor who is getting caught up in his own lies.

(This story is still in progress, but it appears highly likely that the mayor will be criminally charged by the prosecuting attorney, end up disbarred - he is an attorney, himself -, and could spend up to 15 years in prison for the coverup).

Today, I click on the television only to be greeted by the caption that the New York Governor, Eliot Spitzer has resigned after getting caught in a call-girl scandal that has basically made a mockery of his “straight arrow” image. He also will be faced with the prospect of criminal charges being filed against him, as well as possible disbarment (hmm. . . another lawyer).

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080312/ap_on_re_us/spitzer_prostitution

In his situation, apparently Federal law enforcement officials placed a wire tap on the 48-year-old father of three’s phone line, thereby catching him off-guard in the act of repeatedly spending thousands of dollars on a call-girl at a fancy Washington Hotel.

Yeah. Right. (Currently scratching head with index finger).

Is it just me, or does anybody else seem to think that real life politics nowadays has begun to mimic the latest episode of the “Sex and the City” television drama series? I find myself thinking, “Jeez, I can hardly wait to see next week’s episode (not!)”.

When I was watching footage of the consequences of the latest political sex scandal erupt earlier today, I noted that the Governor’s wife was up there with him, publicly. Thinking back, I realized that’s exactly the place where I saw the Mayor of Detroit’s wife when his “shit hit the fan”, and further still, that’s exactly where we found Hillary when Billy Boy came clean.

I mentally asked myself WHY in the world these women were standing beside their men under such embarrassing, pathetic, criminal circumstances. Don’t get me wrong – I love my husband, too. But on the same note, I think if he were ever in the position of these men, where he was a prominent political figure, community leader, and role model for youth and citizens alike, the ONLY reason I’d ever be by his side under similar circumstances (on a stage publicly after incidents of sexual promiscuity and alleged felonies had taken place) would be so that I could have the perfect setup to haul off and blast him across the face with my slap where everyone could see - if for no other reason than the simple fact of the embarrassment he would have caused his family to suffer (as well as that of his supporters). I could NOT have just stood there like a puppet-on-a-string by his side acting like everything was alright. I’m just not "fake" enough to do that, and I honestly think I would buckle under the stress emotionally, and not be able to control my arm from arising all on its own . . . WHACK! (No, I do not have impulse control problems! I’d just be extremely pissed! What’s he gonna do – press charges for assault?! Yeah. Right. My husband, the filthy, lying, political criminal? Not likely. )

Thinking along these lines though got me wondering. . . how well do we really know our spouses or significant others?!?!?!?!?! I mean, we think we do. We believe we do. But I’m sure these women all thought they knew their spouses, too, and didn’t. . . not really.

What do you think???

Collage-style Art

2008-03-07T13:59:00.003-05:00

I find collage-style artforms very interesting to view. I enjoy the busy-ness of the art, the color variations, subjects, textures, depths, and framings. I oftentimes find myself thinking, "Is there a moral to this picture? What is the message the artist is trying to convey?" while viewing it. "Do I agree with the artist's perspective? Have they utilized good skill in arranging the collage?" , etc. I believe it's a rather unique form of creativity that captures my attention in a dramatic way.

Below I've posted a few variations that I find quite good. Please feel free to leave me your comments as to whether or not you like them. If so / if not, why / why not?

Collage-style Art

2008-03-07T13:57:00.002-05:00

Collage-style Art

2008-03-07T13:54:00.001-05:00

Collage-style Art

2008-03-07T13:51:00.002-05:00

What do you think? Leave a comment.

I Spy...

2008-03-07T10:36:00.003-05:00

...with my BIG blue eye...

...a handbell, a lemon, a doggy bone, the number "6", a pocket watch, a rabbithead and ears, a camera, a four-leaf clover, ALIENS, an alligator, a candle...

DO YOU?!

Have a GREAT weekend!!!

Familiar Fragments (also known as - ADD moments...)

2008-03-01T19:20:00.011-05:00

When the sun is shining, I face the world with a very optimistic attitude. Sunshine makes the world a friendlier place to be; everyone around always seems happier.

Fresh Ricotta cheese in lasagna tastes so good. (Sometimes I substitute it with cottage cheese that I have in the refrigerator if I forget to buy the Ricotta, but there really is no comparison between the two in terms of flavor). How do Italians make theirs?

Why do the dogs hate the wild critters so much? Is it a territorial issue for them? Surely, they are smart enough to know that a possum or raccoon poses no threat to their domain (German Shepherds). Or are they?

The arrival of all the spring nursery catalogs has me anticipating the growing season! I can’t wait to dig my hands into the dirt and plant more flowers and veggies. I have been craving fresh grown eggplant, cucumbers, and tomatoes lately. The store-bought ones never seem to be very flavorful during the winter. I didn’t cut back my roses like I should have in the fall. I need to do that very soon, too.

Perfect 4.0 GPA and 3.9 GPA – it doesn’t get any better than that! How did I ever produce such smart kids? God has really blessed me. I hope and pray it continues through high school and college.

What is going on with the Red Wings lately? I’m very discouraged. I can’t watch anymore. I can’t listen, either. Just wake me up when it’s all over and tell me the final outcome, okay?! UGH!

Look, a Robin! Take heart, spring is near. Another desolate winter will soon be past. I need to keep reminding myself of this.

Baseball sign-ups this week! YES! I’m pulling out my hats this week. My son keeps bugging me to go practice throwing and batting with him, but there’s still snow all around. It doesn’t seem like baseball season is just around the corner. . .

I wish my daughter were more responsible with her stuff. She is too old to think that money grows on trees anymore; but she sure acts like it. I hate that. Next time, she’s going to be on her own - to be taught a lesson. I love to help but I won’t be taken advantage of.

If I close my eyes and imagine, I can actually smell the aroma of fresh cut grass and flowers blooming. I want to mow the lawn and bask in the warmth of the sunshine on my face. Smiling.

Do we have a Material Safety Data Sheet for fast drying Liquid Paper? (AKA White-out)

I need to remember to schedule summer vacation time off this week. What will we do this summer? Sometimes I think teaching would be nice, because you can have the whole summer off each year. Michigan summers are too short. Vacations are even shorter. 30 kids five days a week would be difficult.

I like the way the alveoli look hanging from the respiratory bronchioles on the model. They remind me of grapes. They’re pretty.

Will the next president of the United States actually be any different from the current president? Can an administrative change in person actually foster an improvement in society (during their term)? I used to think so. On a smaller scale, I think it’s possible. . . but on a larger scale. . . I’m not so sure anymore, given the condition of the country. I don’t feel very hopeful in view of any of the candidates who appear to be “leading” in the polls. (Hockeydino for president??? Hurry, finish frying your fish, Dino baby)!

Shake, shake, shake. Shake, shake, shake. Shake your booty! Shake your booty! Shake, shake, shake. Shake, shake, shake. Shake your booty! Shake your booty! Oh shake it, shake it. Shake it, shake it – very well. . . This song makes me want to get up and dance. (It makes me think of RollerKaty, too. I should visit her blog). You go, KC & the Sunshine Band!

Why is the cost of everything going up, but my paychecks are not? If housing in Michigan is decreasing in value on average of 25%, why is our assessment going up (and thus, our taxes)? I have to remember to call the township hall and ask about this.

I don’t like baths. I like showers. Baths are like sitting in dirty, yucky water. How can you get clean that way? There’s body particulate surfacing and floating on top in the water. Eeew - baths are just wrong!

I like the Allegra-D 24-hour. It doesn’t over dry like some OTC drugs do. But it makes my blood pressure go up 10 points systolic. I think I need to get the plain Allegra.

“Sticks and stones can break my bones but names will never hurt me”. That is such a lie. Why did my parents teach me that? Words CAN hurt. Why didn’t they know that? Words are powerful things. Choose them wisely. Use them wisely.

I think I’d like to buy a cow to keep in my pasture. They’re such gentle giants, and I like to sit and watch them being lazy. It seems like they’re always so content just lounging around. . . chewing. They remind me that it’s ok to SLOW DOWN in life from time-to-time and “smell the roses”. I have a horrible habit of running at mach speed routinely in life. They’re very friendly, and have the sweetest-looking expressions on their faces. The farmer’s cows down the road know my car and run (ok, so I’m exaggerating – they actually more like. . . saunter) over to the fence when they see me coming. They think I’m bringing them treats – which, of course, I am! But my husband says they’re lazy, stupid beasts that stink horribly and get fly-infested in the summer and need to be cow-prodded to get moving anywhere when you want them to move! He says he’s NOT getting me a cow because I’ll become too attached to old ‘Bessie’ and never let him kill her to eat! (Well of course not, silly guy! I want the cow as a PET, not food. Don’t you know there are literally pounds of undigested red meat lodged within your 45-year-old male bowels?! “Give me meat- give me potatoes”! You need to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean white meat and fish – not cows! I don’t mind the occasional steak on the grill, but not my PET!) Oh well, I trust his judgement. He was raised in the country and worked on farms and ranches in his youth. He knows what he’s talking about; but I still want a cow for my pasture.

Tomorrow I want to go driving to take pictures. I hope it’s sunny outside. Pictures look nicer when the sun is shining, don’t you think?

My daughter is home for spring break. I told her she could help me with spring cleaning – she laughed!

All I Can Do Is Cry!

2008-02-27T06:32:00.005-05:00

Coney dogs, soup, tuna salad, meatloaf. . . If you’re like me at all, you love the taste of onions in just about every food dish.

What I DON’T like about onions though is the way my eyes become irritated, burn, and tear from the gaseous natural vapors the onions give off when chopping them up.

Well, cry no more! Some mini genius has actually developed a pair of glasses-like goggles, similar to swimming goggles, with a foam seal around the edges to keep the onion fumes away from your eyes when cutting them up! A local reporter in my area recently conducted a test to see if these things really worked and believe it or not, they DID! The reporter stated that swimming goggles could actually accomplish the same task in keeping the fumes away from your eyes, but the onion goggles are handier because they are easier to just slip on and off your face than swimming goggles would be.

Great idea for around $20!

www.dynamic-living.com/onion-goggles.htm

Look deeply into my...cyclops??

2008-02-26T17:30:00.006-05:00

Some of y’all out there crack me up! I really mean it! A true laughing-out-loud eruption that bursts forth from the belly (including snorts, tearing eyes, and even gasps at times)!!!

I love reading through the variety of blogs in the blogosphere. There’s the serious ones, the humorous ones, the inspiring ones, the angry ones, the sad ones, the informational ones, and on-and-on everywhere in-between. I love being captivated by everyone’s creativity (and if I didn’t have to work for a living, I’d spend hours each day just perusing blogs for curiosity sake! Yes, my backside would get big and wide, but I’d at least be entertained, ok?!). Even better though is the concept of the social aspect that Blog Log has, linking the blogs together so I can get to “know” the creators of the masterpieces, as well, and not just the material produced. Awesome!

“Variety adds spice to life”, isn’t that how the old saying goes?!

I suppose the same is true for me, too (that I’m spicy? Yep, at times) But I’m referring to aspects of my personality at the moment – being varied. No, I’m not saying I’m plagued with a multiple personality disorder that you might encounter depending upon the time of day you visit me; nothing THAT interesting, I’m afraid! Just that there are many parts to the “whole” of me. Yes, I know my blogs are generally very serious and compassionate – partly because that’s the mood I’m in when I finally sit down to write something, and partially because that is a large part of who I am - I’m “sweetness”! (LOL)

But believe it or not, there’s also a rather sassy side to Kimba, too, that you’re yet to experience. It’s inevitable that she shall show forth her witty head eventually. Yep, at times I’m quite sarcastic, other times intellectual, or sympathetic. There are times still when I’m funny, wacky, and extremely goofy. Other times, on rare occasions, I even become quite corrupt with my thought processes and would guarantee to make you blush! (oh, I will - just ask my hunky husband!) I do try to reserve those moments for the not-so-faint-at-heart though.

For example, I am totally shocked to hear that some of you think I am so sensitive and easily offended! Yes, I’m a kind, loving, sincere person, but I’m really not as thin-skinned as you seem to think - I assure you. I have after all been around for 42 wonderful years (and have the saggy, floppy boobs to prove it - NOT!); indeed, I have seen and heard many-a-thing in my long and lanky days! It’s true! Just look deep into my cyclops and you’ll see that I do not tell a lie!

(Ok, Ok. . . so there were a couple “inside” jokes thrown in there specifically for ‘you-know-who’s’.)

Apart from that, I really think you’re all pretty great out there, and I enjoy reading your “stuff”! Keep up the interesting reads! Drop in on me once in awhile and say “hello”. I’d love to hear from you!

Oh, by the way, I decided I’d actually go ahead and break my own rule and post my pic in this blog for the curious-minded that have asked. . . yep. . . why not?! Love to y’all!

Not bad, huh?! =P

HAPPY Sunday morning!

2008-02-24T07:50:00.005-05:00

I guess it's "pick on old folks" day...

AN OLD COUPLE AT THE DOCTORS

An old couple go to the doctor. The old man goes in first to have his physical. When the doctor is done with him, he sends the old man back into the waiting room and calls the old woman in.

The doctor tells her, "Before we proceed with the examination, I would like to talk to you about your husband first."

The old woman says, "Oh, no, it's his heart. I told him to lay off the eggs."

The doctor says, "Well, I asked your husband how he is feeling and he told me he felt great. He said that when he got up to go to the bathroom, he opened the door and God turned the light on for him. When he was done, he would shut the door and God would turn the light out for him."

The old woman responded, "Damn it, he's peeing in the fridge again!"

A SLIGHT FLATULENCE PROBLEM

An old lady goes to the doctor and says, "I have this really bad flatulence problem, but they don't stink and don't make a sound."

The doctor says "O.K., take two of these pills every day for two weeks and come back."

A week later the lady comes back really mad and says, "Now, not only do I fart a lot, but they stink really bad!"

The doctor then said, "Now that we have your sinuses cleared, let's work on your hearing!"

A SLIGHTLY CONFUSING SITUATION

An 80 year old couple were having problems remembering things, so they decided to go to their doctor to get checked out to make sure nothing was wrong with them. When they arrived at the doctors, they explained to the doctor about the problems they were having with their memory. After examining the couple, the doctor told them that they were physically okay but might want to start writing things down and make notes to help them remember things. The couple thanked the doctor and left.

Later that night while watching TV, the man got up from his chair and his wife asked, "Where are you going?"
He replied, "To the kitchen."
She asked, "Will you get me a bowl of ice cream?"
He replied, "Sure."
She then asked him, "Don't you think you should write it down so you can remember it?"
He said, "No, I can remember that."
She then said, "Well I would also like some strawberries on top. You had better write that down because I know you'll forget that."
He said, "I can remember that; you want a bowl of ice cream with strawberries."
She replied, "Well I also would like whipped cream on top. I know you will forget that so you'd better write it down."
With irritation in his voice, he said, "I don't need to write that down! I can remember that."

He then fumed into the kitchen.

After about 20 minutes, he returned from the kitchen and handed her a plate of bacon and eggs. She stared at the plate for a moment and said angrily: "I TOLD you to write it down! You forgot my toast!"

How well do you see?

2008-02-19T20:08:00.005-05:00

"One does not see anything until one sees its beauty..."

Oscar Wilde

Are you dancing to the beat of your own drum?

2008-02-17T14:39:00.001-05:00

When there's a song in your heart, sing along!!!

The Earth declares His glory

2008-02-15T07:48:00.004-05:00

From the rising of the sun...

...unto the going down of the same...

...the Lord's name is to be praised.

Psalms 113:3

This is how I shall start (and end) my days. I have much to be thankful for.

I have won an award!

2008-02-13T11:16:00.006-05:00

ART PRIZE AND AWARD

This award was given to me by Sandy G. from: atyourservie.blogspot.com

(Thanks so much Sandy! As you're well aware, I NEVER win ANYTHING, so this will be very treasured!) I will savor it, but will also be happy to pass this award on to some wonderful bloggers, as well.

Art Prize and Award

"This prize has arisen from the daily visits that I dedicate to many blogs which nourish me and enrich me with creativity. In them I see dedication, creativity, care, comradeship, but mainly, ART, much art. I want to share this prize with all those bloggers that entertain me day to day and to share this prize with those who enrich me every day. Doubtlessly, there are many and it will be hard to pick just a few, the people I will name today deserve this prize, as do the very long serious list of bloggers I also enjoy to read, but I will name the first 5 and will leave the rest of the work to all the bloggers that visit other's blogs and are nourished by them."

The rules of passing on this award are as follows:

- post award in your own blog: A Day In The Life Of The Lioness
- indicate its origin and a link to the sight: Sandy @: http://atyourservie.blogspot.com
- give it to 5 blogs that you enjoy.

I am proudly passing this award onto:

Latoya - christiansuniting.blogspot.com
Colorado Baby- sharinggifts4u.blogspot.com
Ashley- ashleynay.blogspot.com
Britta- powwowa.blogspot.com
Colin- cotojo.bloglanding.com

You must copy and re-paste this info when posting your award and passing it on!

Tagged By the authors of Sharing Gifts - THANK YOU!

2008-02-13T10:47:00.002-05:00

I have been
taggedby the authors of Sharing Gifts
with this fun tag:

-- START HERE --

Anger is only one
letter short of danger

If someone betrays
you once, it is his fault;

If he betrays you
twice, it is your fault.

Great minds discuss
ideas;

Average minds
discuss events;

Small minds discuss
people.

He, who loses
money, loses much;

He, who loses a
friend, loses much more;

He, who loses
faith, loses all.

Beautiful young
people are accidents of nature,

But beautiful old
people are works of art.

Learn from the
mistakes of others

You can’t
live long enough to make them all yourself.

Friends, you and
me…

You brought another
friend…

And then there were
3…

We started our
group…

Our circle of
friends…

And like that
circle…

There is no
beginning or end…

Yesterday is
history.

Tomorrow is mystery.

Today is a gift.

So now,
let’s see how many circle’s of friends we can make
by simply adding your link on this Friendship Meme!

1-Catsy
Carpe Diem, 2- Catsy
Downloads,
3-Out of the Blue, 4-
A
Day to Savor and Relish 5- A
Piece of Idea 6- Write
Shy 7- Stupid
Wise 8- onlinememorylane
9- See Me For What You Will
10- Michelle’s
Small World 11. Chez
Francine 12. La
Place de Cherie 13. Le
bric à brac de Cherie 14- Life
15- Sharing Gifts
16- A
Day In The Life Of The Lioness
17- ADD YOURSELF HERE!!

--End here--

I now tag the
following bloggers: Ashley and Britta! and anyone else who
wants to join in :)

WHO'S THE ONE THAT BROUGHT THE JUNGLE FAME? KIMBA!

2008-02-10T12:28:00.000-05:00

“So why did you choose Kimba as a screen name?”
“Kimba The White Lion – wasn’t that a cartoon?”
“Is there a meaning for your name - kimbathewhitelioness?”
“Kimba – one of my favorite cartoons as a kid!”

These are only a few of the comments / questions I’ve received about my online name. I suppose that if you’re old enough to know who KIMBA was, then I doubt I’d need to explain WHO he was, because you’ve likely seen the cartoon as a kid. But if you’re NOT old enough, I’d be happy to bring you up to date on him; as well as my screen name.

In reality, ‘Kimba’ isn’t just my screen name. It is in fact my true nickname. Having been born in 1966 (the first year the original Japanese anime series entitled “Kimba” was translated into English and broadcast on NBC in the USA) it was just an automatic that I would be deemed “Kimba – the white lioness” by my family and friends. I was after all named “Kim” and was blonde-haired, blue-eyed, and white. That, coupled with the fact that as I grew I apparently exhibited character traits synonymous with the Osamu Tezuka character of Kimba the Lion, the name basically stuck with me from early on.

As a child, the nickname didn’t bother me at all. In fact, I was rather proud of it. Kimba was a hit series when I was little and I enjoyed watching it on Sunday mornings before church. (www.kimbawlion.com/synopsis.htm or www.50yearsofkimba.com ) The little lion himself was the “Jungle Emperor”. One of the things I grasped about the character, even as a five-year-old, was that despite his ‘position’ in the jungle, he always showed love, compassion, and strength of character. He was honest and just. He had overcome great odds to take his rightful place in the animal kingdom. It would be fair to say that he was my first (and only) TV idol.

Until I went through college and took psychology classes, I had occasionally wondered if my true nature and character had developed into its fruition partially based upon that nickname given to me at birth. Although I suppose it’s possible that the words spoken over a person’s life can be attributed to manifesting in one way or another in reality, mostly it became clear to me that scientific evidence confirms that our personalities are already fully formed by the time we are five years of age. . . which would be right around the first time I ever remember watching the lion series (and therefore blowing a hole in my own theory). . . So then, I concluded that “who” I was (my nature) had been dictated most certainly by genetics as well as the environment in which I was raised throughout my early years.

Either way, the name of the “Power Cat” has always stuck with me into adulthood, too. I suppose I could have put a stop to it had I truly wanted to; but in junior high school I remember doing a report on white lions and afterwards deciding how much I loved the association with the “King of Beasts”, and kept it!

In reality, white lions are very rare and elusive. They come from only the Timbavati region of South Africa, and for many years they were considered to be mere legend. (www.lairweb.org.nz/tiger/lion.html) In fact, to the African Elders they were believed to have been angelic messengers sent down from God. The mysterious white color of the lion’s coat was explained in spiritual terms by the Elders as signifying enlightenment and purity that stretched beyond all racial connotations; white is sunlight - all the colors of the spectrum in one – it is beyond color, creed, race, or gender. The white lions were viewed as a unifying symbol across world culture. They were (and still are) prized for their rarity and held sacred. In society today they are protected, of course. (www.whitelions.org/)

(Not bad for a nickname, huh?!)
Anyway, I can still remember the little jingle that accompanied “Kimba the White Lion” on TV:

KIMBA THE WHITE LION

Kimba ( it was repeated 8 times)!

Who lives in the deepest, darkest Africa? (Echo- Africa)
Who’s the one who brought the jungle fame?
Who’s the king of animals in Africa? (Echo- Africa)
Kimba the white lion is his name!

When we get in trouble and we’re in a fight, (echo- in a fight)
Who’s the one who just won’t turn and run?
Who believes in doing good and doing right? (Echo- doing right)
Kimba the white lion is the one!

Kimba (repeat 8 times)!

I’d be interested in hearing who of you has heard of the lion before, and any memories you have of the show??? Do you remember Claw??? I understand there was a re-make of the series at some point, but I’ve never seen it before.

TGIF!

2008-02-07T23:17:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are on the brink of Friday again! Thank God! I’m pleased to say that my days and work week typically go rather smoothly; but unfortunately, this week was NOT typical in the least. Work was very busy and at times odd. Let me re-phrase that: Work itself wasn’t odd, but my colleagues were. It seemed that even those who are generally even-keeled were uptight and cranky over simple issues that under normal circumstances wouldn’t faze them or alter their psyche and behavior.

(Are we in a full moon cycle? Is everybody PMS’ing at the same time? Sorry, but I can offer no logical explanation for their insanity; maybe just some Midol - like a WHOLE friggen’ bottle, please!) Yup, that oughta do the trick, I believe.

So tomorrow, I shall go to work armed and ready – a smile on my face, kind words from my lips, and Midol in my hands! I will offer it liberally and generously to all who suffer affliction, in an effort to close out the work week on a brighter note than we functioned the last few days. There will be no freaky Friday!

Great idea!

(Hmm. . . I wonder whether I’m really on to something . . . does Midol have a satisfactory effect on the MALE gender, as well?!?!?! I will consult the PDR upon arrival in the morning!)

I can tell already that work is going to be a happier place tomorrow. Change your world – take a Midol!

TGIF! Wishing you all a WONDERFUL weekend!

PROPOSED SPENDING INCREASES

2008-02-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

Some useful information when considering which candidate you shall choose:

http://www.ntu.org/main/page.php?PageID=141

Total Proposed Spending Increase (annual, in BILLIONS)

Obama +$287.0
Hillary + $218.2
Huckabee + $54.2
Romney + $19.5
McCain + $6.9
---------------------------
Giuliani -- $1.4
Paul -- $150.1

Source: National Taxpayers Union Foundation calculations

HOW MUCH DO YOU REALLY KNOW ABOUT THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES?

2008-02-07T08:03:00.000-05:00

Rarely will you see me use my blog as any kind of a political forum. The main reason for that is because I feel that during election years we are already so bogged down, as a result of being inundated with the candidacies and political jargon taking place around us for months on end. Because blogging is more of an entertainment source or creative outlet for me (social), I oftentimes choose not to come face-to-face with all the stressors of the "real world" when I'm blogging (like politics). But on occasion, you may catch a glimpse of what my political views are by either a comment I leave on your own blog, or something I re-post here. This is one of those occasions.

WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE FOR RON PAUL – by Hockeydino

Albert Einstein said, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result."

Americans apparently are too set in their ways to take the time to discover there is a man who can and would lead us to a better place. It's not the man though, it's the message.

McCain is no conservative. Romney will be one if you want him too. Huckabee will raise your taxes. And with the two socialists on the left, you will get a bigger government and more taxes.

If you believe in freedom, liberty, and prosperity the only route is to have less government, and more money in your pocket. You'll have more money to invest, to spend, to help others. You'll have the freedom to do what you want with your money. You'll have the ability to give more money away if you so choose.

When you support a front runner, you've compromised yourself. Sure if you want higher taxes, want to feel like you are voting for an American Idol candidate, or want things to be the same all with the mask of "change" then vote for the front runners.

Here are 101 reasons to vote for this guy. Of course if you want the opposite of these things, then vote for the other candidates that will continue to take this country in the wrong direction.

Your vote is never wasted if your candidate doesn't win. Your vote counts no matter who wins and it will be heard.

1. He Supports the Constitution. (Wow, Go Figure!)
2. He Believes In Religious Freedom.
3. He Has Never Voted For A Tax Increase.
4. He Is Against Public Funding Of Abortion.
5. He Is Against Funding Abortion Abroad.
6. He Is Against The National I.D. or Real I.D. Act.
7. He Believes In The "Just War Theory".
8. He Supports The Rights Of Private Property Owners.
9. He Wants Us Out Of The U.N.
10. He Wants Us To Trade With Nations And Not War With Them.
11. He Is For 2nd Amendment Rights.
12. He Opposes NAIS.
13. He Wants To Shrink The Federal Government, Not Expand It.
14. He Has No Plans To Start A War With Iran Or Anyone Else.
15. He Wants To Bring Our Troops Home.
16. He Does Not Belong To The CFR (Council On Foreign Relations).
17. He Has Not Received Campaign Contributions From Rupert Murdoch (Like Hillary).
18. His Running Mate Most Likely Will Not Have Shot Anyone In The Face.
19. He Wants To End The I.R.S..
20. He Wants To Cut Spending?? Really, Cut Spending.
21. He Is Against Eminent Domain.
22. He Is Against The NAFTA Superhighway.
23. He Is Against The North American Union Or SPP
(It Exists- Google It).
24. He Is For The Principle Of Sound Money.
25. He Is Against The Idea of The Amero Money System
(Google It).
26. He Is Against The Federal Reserve's Monopoly On Monetary Regulation.
27. He Is Philosophically Opposed To Big Government.
28. He Voted Against The Misnamed Patriot Act That Stripped Us Of Our Rights.
29. He Is For The Bill Of Rights.
30. He Knows The Meaning Of Liberty .
31. He Was 1 Of 4 People That Supported Reagan Early On.
32. He Has Been Married For 50 Years, Which Is An Achievement These Days.
33. He Is Not Married To Hillary.
34. His Supporters Love Him.
35. He Is A Once In A Lifetime Candidate.
36. Because His Record Is Consistent.
37. He Is Against Funding The So-Called War On Drugs
(Another Unsuccessful War).
38. He Is Actually Against Funding Many Unsuccessful Federal Programs.
39. He Does Not Want To Ruin Healthcare By Nationalizing It (Like Hillary, Obama, et al.)
40. He Is A Student Of History.
41. He Votes In Accordance With The Constitution.
42. He Will Not Forcibly Implant Us Or Our Troops With Microchips Or Like Devices
(It's For Your Safety, Of Course).
43. He Is The Only True Conservative, In The Traditional Sense, left.
44. Republicans Love Him Because He Is For Small Government.
45. Democrats Love Him Because He Will End The War For Oil.
46. Libertarians Love Him Because He Wants The Government Out Of Their Business.
47. He Is The Only Electable Republican Candidate.
48. He is Against The Creation Of A Surveillance Society
(See London ).
49. He Supports Home School Rights.
50. He Wants To End The Corporate Welfare System That Is Destroying Our Government's Credibility.
51. He Tells It Like It Is. He Is Truthful.
52. He Reads.
53. As A Doctor, He Is Informed On The Healthcare Issue.
54. He Has Not Been Hannitized.
55. He Has The Courage To Speak Out Against What Is Wrong.
56. He Will Be Good For The Economy
(Freedom Generally Is Good For The Economy).
57. He Wants Us Out Of The WTO And Like Organizations.
58. The I.R.S. Is Scared Of This Guy.
59. He Is Smart Enough To Prefer Gold Over Paper.
60. He Knows The Term FIAT-CURRENCY and knows what it means.
61. He Wants To Secure Our Borders.
62. He Favors Guarding Our Country Over Policing The World.
63. He Opposed The War In Iraq From The Beginning.
64. He Authorized The Hunt For Osama Bin Laden.
65. He Believes Local Governments Are Better Suited To Handle Their Own Issues.
66. He Is Willing To Listen And Reason With Others.
67. He Is A Christian Who Believes Christ Was Right When He Said, "Blessed Are The Peacemakers".
68. He has never voted for an unbalanced budget.
69. He has never voted for a federal restriction on gun ownership.
70. He has never voted to raise congressional pay.
71. He has never taken a government-paid junket.
72. He has never voted to increase the power of the executive branch.
73. He voted against regulating the Internet.
74. He does not participate in the lucrative congressional pension program.
75. He returns a portion of his annual congressional office budget to the U.S. treasury every year.
76. He Is Against Selective Service Registration.
77. He Is Against A Mandatory Draft.
78. He Is Still Not Married To Hillary.
79. He Has The Support Of The Youth.
80. His Campaign Has People Across The Country Motivated.
81. His Supporters Are Enthusiastic.
82. He Is Educated.
83. He Wants To Apply The Golden Rule In Government
(How Radical).
84. He Believes in Freedom Of Speech.
85. He Believes In Individual Rights
86. He Believes Those Rights Come From Our Creator.
87. He Does Not "Move With The Herd".
88. He Has Delivered Over 4,000 Babies And Values Life.
89. He Doesn't Have To "Act The Part" Because He Is What He Is.
90. He Has Not Waffled On The Abortion Issue As Every Other Republican Candidate.
91. He Has Faced Tremendous Opposition With Dignity.
92. He Is Optimistic
93. He Values The Traditions That Have Kept Us Free.
94. He Understands That Monopolies Are Bad Things.
95. He Understands The Difference Between Individual And Government Responsibility.
96. He Understands Inflation Is Not Just The Prices Going Up, But Rather The Value Of Money Going Down.
97. You Will Feel Good About Your Vote For A Change.
98. You Will Know You Have Done The Right Thing.
99. For The First Time In A Long Time, You Will Not Be Voting "For The Least, Worst, or Lesser of 2 Evils".
100. You Will Help Undo The Damage Done To Our Country Over The Last Several Decades.
101. He Is Our Last Hope For A Free Nation.

Long live Amercia - if you want it.
Source: www.hockeydino.com

Do you think it is over for Ron Paul?
by Sean Michaels
(Libertarian)
Source: http://www.nolanchart.com/article2501.html

Do you think it is over for Ron Paul now that Super Tuesday is over? This is an absolute win for Ron Paul. We all always knew that Ron Paul was not going to get enough delegates to steal the nomination. He just needs enough to bring to the convention, which he has. The plan was to make it to a brokered convention, so that the message would get out to all of the republicans. The delegates are in fact uncommitted and many of them may not even know who Ron Paul is.

By having a brokered convention, they will all hear the message, no matter how the media has tried to black him out. The media will have no choice but to show the good doctor and his message as the whole thing will be televised. It will be run by the GOP, not the biased main stream media. This is what we need. Everyone will be watching if there is a brokered convention, Republican and Democrat. Whether the good doctor gets elected or not, the seed of freedom will be planted.

People will start to awaken from their apathy and question the things going on around them. It happened to me, and all it took was hearing Ron Paul speak 1 time. I used to watch Fox News almost exclusively when I was in the Army, and even after I had gotten out. I didn't even notice that the Neocons were hijacking the Republican Party. After hearing Ron Paul speak in length, and agreeing with so much of what he said, I did some more research on him and the Libertarian Party. I realized that I am not only a conservative Republican, I am also a Libertarian. Ronald Reagan once said, "If you analyze it, I believe the very heart and soul of conservatism is libertarianism". This speaks volumes to all those who think that Mitt Romney is a conservative and it is laughable to think that McCain is. Having said that, I think that no matter which way you lean politically, we all have a little libertarian in us. We are all Americans. This country was founded on the platform Ron Paul is running his campaign on.

We have gotten far away from what our founding fathers intended for us. But know this; the message absolutely does not have to "finish fourth, along with the candidate". Not if We the People keep fighting. Even if Ron Paul doesn't get the nomination, the reason it is about the message is because people die, but the message doesn't have to. It is up to all of us to carry on that message. If you truly believe in the words that Dr Paul speaks about freedom and liberty, then the message can never "finish fourth".

This is called the Ron Paul Revolution. Even if Ron Paul isn't elected, and the status quo continues, then it is still a revolution. I am not saying that people need to arm themselves, but that We the People must rise up and be heard. Let the powers that be know that we will not give up our freedoms anymore. We need to be organized, and that is what this campaign has already started. The meet-ups. The forums. The blogs. The websites. It is already there. This is the framework for our revolution. There are many things we can do to continue the fight.

Don't Give Up!

Stand proudly behind the Freedom Fighter Dr. Ron Paul.

The Mouse that roared: Why Ron Paul won the election
February 6, 2008 by dougwead
Source: http://dougwead.wordpress.com/

Well now, Republicans say, we have a nominee. That may very well be but there was only one clear winner in the confusing GOP nominating contest and it was not John McCain. The winner was Ron Paul. And the effects of his win will be felt for years to come.

Ron Paul made a classic political mistake. He told the truth. In debate after debate he pointed at his party, his president, his fellow contenders for the GOP nomination, shouting aloud like the little boy in the proverbial story, "they have no clothes" and lo and behold, we looked and they didn't. They were all naked.

He showed that the conservative movement has lost its way, its moral authority and its logic. He showed us that we have become a red team versus blue team. That since we have decided that this is a political war and all normal rules are suspended, conservatives can do liberal things to win it. Conservatives can run up big deficits if it helps their side win. They can dole out needless pork if it elects another "conservative" to congress. They can go to war if it makes their president look like a leader and wins him another term.

But in the process, Ron Paul showed us, that we have lost our way. We are no longer conservatives. We are fighting for power not for principles. We have become corrupted by the process and the only way back is to retrace our steps and find all the things we discarded along he way.

Barry Goldwater lighted a similar fire with his Conscience of a Conservative. Its truth and arguments were so obvious and so honest that one laughed aloud while reading it. But Goldwater, himself, was doomed to political defeat. And Ron Paul had no chance to win this election either. One could see that when he first opened his mouth.

And yet, the words and arguments of Ron Paul are still resonating. They still hang over this election. They are haunting and troubling. They are producing blogs and papers and books and like Goldwater's revolution they will one day very likely produce their own Ronald Reagan. And when those heady days happen a small but hearty band of pioneers, who first had the nerve to join him and start shouting from the street, "They aren't wearing any clothes," will be able to say that they could see what the country missed. They were there when history was made.

John McCain and his poorly chosen words, of staying in Iraq a hundred years, have almost guaranteed that he will be the answer to the trivia question, who was the Republican candidate who lost to the ticket that claimed the first woman and black for the presidency? Another question may very well be, "What other candidate ran that year and launched the movement that has dominated national politics for the last generation?"

And the answer will be Ron Paul.

Care to join me on a trip to the moon?

2008-02-01T15:47:00.000-05:00

Last night before karate class began, my daughter Kayla and I were on the mats stretching a bit before Sensei entered and we would begin our structured warmup time as a group. I’m not sure how many of you are familiar with the standard layout of a karate dojo, but it’s basically a large open space (sort of like a small gym) except the floor area is covered with large mats for safety during training. This type of setup accommodates large groups being able to train simultaneously. Thursday evening classes at the dojo are for all ages (12 through adult) as well as belt ranks, and there’s typically a decent number and variety of people that gather to train.

As it was, I was standing up on the mats approximating head level as I threw front kicks to stretch my hamstring muscles and glutes (back of the thighs and butt). At the same time, I was listening to my daughter’s conversation with one of the younger siblings of a friend of hers, who also trains in our dojo. The sibling was sitting on the bench next to the mats, just watching and chatting casually with Kayla. I’d guess the cute little girl must have been about four or five years of age, maximum.

As I mentioned, my daughter was on the mats next to me sitting down while stretching out, and at the same time talking to this little girl. I heard her explaining to the child about the homework she had to do before karate class. It was obvious the girl adores my daughter (who is 13) and really looks up to her, because she was hanging on every word that she said while she spoke. I didn’t find this unusual at all; oftentimes little girls will look up to older girls as role models, and my daughter is a good student academically as well as a brown belt disciplined in the art of karate.

In any event, I was only half paying attention to their conversation when I heard my daughter tell the little girl that she had been “studying for her upcoming science test on the moon”. Well, the little girl obviously misunderstood the way Kayla phrased what she had been doing, because the next thing I knew she excitedly jumped up, ran to Kayla and exclaimed, “You mean your mom’s really gonna let you go?!”

Haaa!!!! Hee-hee!!!

Let me tell you, THAT certainly got my full attention!

Oh my goodness, it was so cute! Everyone stretching in the vicinity who had also overheard their conversation realized at the same time that the little girl must have misunderstood the context, and we all suddenly burst into fits of laughter. The child actually thought Kayla would be going to the moon to take a science test! She said it so sincerely and so innocently, that we simply couldn’t help ourselves from cracking up at the misunderstanding.

Boy-oh-boy, it’s a good thing that in addition to exercising my body regularly I have always done Kegel exercises to maintain tone as well, or I swear I would have pee’d my pants right there on the spot from laughing so hard!

Oh well, I’d be willing to bet that my daughter will think twice about how she phrases things to young children again in the future, now knowing that they take things VERY LITERALLY! And
it’ll be a long time before I forget that one! Silly and simple!

Kids say the funniest things sometimes, don’t they? Can you think of any similar silly things that your kids have ever said or done?

(P.S. – By the way, dojo means “school” in Japanese and Sensei means “teacher”.)

Are you an Early Bird or a Night Owl?

2008-01-29T08:34:00.000-05:00

This re-post from a National Geographic article for today might explain a newly discovered reason WHY you like to rise early or stay up all night long... and it's hopeful that this discovery could lead to assisting with some form of resolution for those with sleep disorders in near future:

Early Birds, Night Owls: Blame Your Genes

James Owen
for National Geographic News

January 28, 2008

Those who struggle to get out of bed in the morning may be able to hold their genes responsible, new research suggests.

Scientists have discovered that a person's waking habits are mirrored by body cells that are equipped with their own daily alarm clocks.

The work represents the first internal look at the biological clocks of those suffering from sleeping disorders, said study leader Steven A. Brown of the Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Zurich, Switzerland.

"One of the big surprises was that so much of our daily behavior was genetically encoded," Brown said.

"The idea that skin cells are telling us anything about our behavior was, for me, quite fascinating," he added.

The study investigated the circadian rhythm—the brain-controlled phenomenon that governs various body functions over a 24-hour period—of extreme late and early risers.

Larks and Night Owls

Suitable volunteers were recruited by the study team using TV advertisements shown between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m.

"We got both our early types and our late types that way," Brown said. "Some had not yet gone to bed, while others were already up."

Skin cells taken from the volunteers were cultured in the lab and injected with a bioluminescence gene found in fireflies.

These altered cells lit up or dimmed according to an individuals sleeping patterns, according to the study, which appears in today's online edition of the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Cells belonging to habitual larks glowed for the shortest period, while those of night owls glowed the longest, the study found.

Brown likens the effect seen in late risers to that of someone keeping time with a slow wristwatch. "You end up being late for everything," he said.

"Now imagine your watch was fast, meaning that it had a time period of less than 24 hours. Then you'd be early for everything," Brown added.

"The study reveals that genes, not just environmental factors such as day length, have a major influence on our circadian clock," he said.

(Related news: "Early Risers Have Mutated Gene, Study Says" [March 30, 2005].)

Brain Link

"Human daily body rhythms are a complex, brain-related phenomenon," Brown said, "but it's directed by the same molecules that are present in your skin."

"These cells give an accurate picture of an individual's daily body clock," he said.

"The findings provide the first insight into the molecular workings of the central clock in your brain," he added.

"By looking at slave clocks in the skin, we can get a better understanding of the way the [master] clock in the brain is working."

The research may lead to new treatments for people suffering from sleep disorders, the researchers said.

"Such treatments could potentially be used to reset a patient's 24-hour cycle to more sociable hours, so they wouldn't find themselves awake watching TV in the wee hours."

This would probably be done with drugs that target the circadian clock pathway, Brown said.

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BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

2008-01-27T10:15:00.000-05:00

The GREATEST beauty

can be found

in even the simplest of things.

You need only

be looking

in the right direction.

Free your mind...

... open your heart.

Whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely... think on these things.
Phil. 4:8

KINDNESS COUNTS

2008-01-23T06:53:00.000-05:00

KINDNESS COUNTS

This morning as I awoke, I was considering “kindness”; what it consists of, ways to express it, etc. During my pondering, I came to the realization that although I am not any kind of super human being or Wonder Woman that can alter the state of the universe, I do possess within my being the potential for ‘greatness’ by exhibiting basic human kindness to those that I come into contact with on a daily basis. I mean, I realize that a feeble ‘me’ can’t singlehandedly wipe out hunger in the world, put an end to sickness and disease, nor rid the world of all its perils and evils; but there are some simple things that I CAN do that just might make a change in the lives of the limited people whose paths cross my own.

As I considered this concept, I realized that generally what EVERY person in the world today needs is: love, attention, acceptance, and kindness- no matter what their station in life may be. Although we all vary from person-to-person as far as appearances and personalities are concerned, deep down on the inside (where it really counts) we all still harbor those very basic “needs” to one extent or another, as mentioned. So I thought…what could “I” do during the course of my day (on a regular basis, of course) that actually might influence those around me in a positive manner?

The answer, I feel, is really quite simple…

It doesn’t take a grand plan to make a difference in the world today. It doesn’t take a lot of money, or even a lot of time. It just takes the internal desire to WANT to make a difference in the world. Am I prepared to try to do that? Yes, I think I am.

It’s the simplest, littlest things we can do, like making brief eye contact and smiling toward the pharmacist who fills your prescription, despite the fact that she is tired and feels ill herself while on the job. It’s exercising an attitude of gratefulness by saying “thank you” to the bus driver who transports your kids to and from school safely regularly. It may be complimenting a co-worker on what an excellent job they’ve done on a project they’ve completed recently, or even complimenting them on their physical appearance- “I think that outfit you’re wearing today is sharp!” It could be lending a helping hand to the little old lady who’s attempting to push her grocery cart to her car through the slushy parking lot. Maybe all the kindness that’s needed is holding a door open for a woman and her four kids as they pass through out of the cold; or wishing “Good Morning” or "Have a nice day" to a neighbor you rarely speak with during the busy-ness of life.

What I realized was that it doesn’t take much to be kind, to be caring, to be sincere. In the cold, hard world of today, I believe that people respond positively to the simplest generosity when somebody just takes the time to reach out to them, even if only in some small way. It really doesn’t take much to brighten a person’s day and make them feel better about themselves and this world in which we all live together.

So… send that smile! Lend a helping hand! Give that kind word or gesture! It only takes a moment to do so, don’t you think? Perhaps if we all begin to take spontaneous moments throughout the day in our own lives, it could start to bring about change in the world…one person at a time…one day at a time… who knows?! It’s a start, at least.

Kindness is Contagious- Pass it on!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland... literally!

2008-01-20T19:53:00.000-05:00

Talk about a real, live Winter Wonderland?!

If anyone is interested in a glorious winter getaway in Michigan, there is an awesome place in northern lower Michigan called “Garland Resort”. It’s just outside of the town of Lewiston, which is not far from the city of Gaylord; amidst huge, picturesque mature conifer trees (basically in the middle of nowhere) which happen to be spruce and pine forests, for those who were unsure. Although I am definitely NOT a “winter person” per se, I must admit that even I was tempted by the beauty of this log-style lodge to endure the great white snow covered fields, glistening icy lakes and streams, and all the groomed trails a snowmobiler or cross-country skier could ever ask for! Lots of whitetail deer, too!

The resort itself is rather large in size and cozy in style with a variety of types of accommodations available to choose from, ranging from the basic hotel-style room to spacious fireplace and jacuzzi suites, cabins, or condo rentals for the whole family. It’s an all-season resort that is located on a golf course for summer fun, but during the winter months the area becomes a different type of playground altogether, enticing all sorts of winter sports fanatics; and it’s still very family friendly. You can rent snowmobiles or cross country skis right onsite and peruse the hundreds of miles of groomed trails which are all neatly labeled for the novice (like me) for a day or for a weekend. It’s all very convenient. They have horse drawn sleigh rides if you’re looking for more of a romantic getaway, plus there are other ‘couples’ style packages available for purchase including a “Dr. Zhivago” weekend. You can rent ice skates and glide across the frozen pond, take quiet walks on their tranquil grounds, or attend the huge outdoor bonfires at night, which is fun for the whole family! Of course, you’re free to bring all your own gear and equipment, too, if you have it (which is a money saver)!

For the night life, there are a variety of small-town taverns open in nearby cities and some have live entertainment; or there’s a GREAT restaurant on-site called “Herman’s” which also has good live entertainment on the weekends. The all-you-can-eat dinner buffet there was scrumpdeli-icious (my term for scrumptious and delicious combined!) and included foods like prime rib, crab legs, smoked salmon, chicken, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and a ton of stuff I can’t even remember - desserts included; ALL very tasty and for a reasonable price. I was impressed with the value dollar-for-dollaras well as the high quality of everything ranging from the food to activities to accommodations. My husband and I will definitely be going back there again next winter!

So if you’re ever planning to be in the area, give them a try- you won’t be disappointed! Check out their site!

www.garlandusa.com

Elvis, My Dad, and I...

2008-01-11T11:16:00.001-05:00

A few nights ago, while I was relaxing in the family room flipping through the TV channels, I came across an old documentary-style film about Elvis Presley. Being that my own father has always reminded me of Elvis, and I miss him dearly (he passed away almost 17 years ago from a congenital heart abnormality) I paused to tune in for a bit; that and the fact that of course, I adore Elvis, too!

The show was basically covering his early years in the entertainment industry, the days up to and immediately after he broke into music on a national level; the mid 1950’s. The narrator was giving some background information on the difficulties Elvis faced in the music business with a changing society that was on the brink of the rock era. Much to my surprise, it appears that Elvis was not very well received in his origins. The generation of folks ruling the airwaves at that time who had the power to determine what we the people would see on TV (the FCC and the networks) were very conservative-minded, family-focused, and “square”. They didn’t like his rockabilly style or the fact that he couldn’t seem to stand still while singing to an audience. Further, they were greatly disturbed by his “lewd and suggestive movements” on stage; they felt them to be inappropriate for family viewing (gyrate that pelvis, Elvis!) They predetermined that Elvis was loved by the teenagers of the day, but not the mature people (who held the money, as well as power and control) and those adults attempted on numerous occasions to censor Elvis’s performances; and in some cases even blackballed him in an effort to shut him down completely. NBC, for example, even insisted Elvis dress up in a tuxedo and sing “Ain’t Nothin’ but a Hound Dog” to a real, live Bassett Hound if he was to broadcast on their network at all. Elvis later stated that was the most ridiculous and embarrassing performance of his lifetime. Of course, that did happen right after a rather spicy performance on the Milton Berle show, where Elvis really showed his stuff!

I’m not sure who this documentary was authored by, but it had me feeling rather sympathetically towards the King’s humble beginnings. Several of the shots that were taken of him backstage and during his time outside of the limelight clearly conveyed his stressful demeanor, his troubles, and his overall loneliness in life. I think that no matter how successful Elvis eventually became after this point in time (from a monetary and popularity aspect) that he must still have continued to carry those same stressors, insecurities, concerns, and inner loneliness, because I have seen them all on his facial expressions during performances of his that I’ve viewed as well as looking back at the still photography of him; expressions of confusion, longing, loneliness, despair, fatigue. Plus, considering his later drug and/or alcohol abuse that led up to his early demise, one would assume that what those pictures portrayed were in fact true. What a sad thing that he was gone so soon. He truly was the King of Rock-n-Roll!

And that thought brings me back to my own dad – how much he always reminded me of Elvis; and how much I miss him still. In another month, it will be 17 years since my dad left us. His departure wasn’t “sudden”, as he had struggled with congenital heart problems from early on; but it was definitely unexpected. I still remember to this day exactly what I was doing when I heard the news. The call came while I was working in the hospital. It was my cousin on the phone. She said, “Kim, are you sitting down?” Anyone who has ever received a call like that knows the shock I felt upon hearing those words. My dad had died while home alone, peacefully relaxing in his Lazy Boy recliner (which was determined by my mom upon viewing his posture). The dog, Fluffy, was still sitting on his lap when my mom returned home from the store. It saddens me immensely when I think of how my children have endured growing up without the joy and presence of this wonderful man in their lives – my father. It has been such a great loss to them; to me. Although he wasn’t perfect, he was my pride, my hero, my knight in shining armor, my daddy…

My dad was definitely NOT a great singer like Elvis, and his dancing left much to be desired, too. But that never stopped him, nope. He’d still tell me to climb right up onto his feet, grab hold of his hands, and whirl me around the floor to the beat of the music, when I was a young child. I owe much of my musical aptitude to my loving father, who fostered that environment while I was growing up. Yes, he certainly loved music. And I loved (still love) him.

Anyway, since I’m thinking of him now, I thought I’d post an old picture of him in my blog for today as a sort of tribute to him, to his life. I’ll post Elvis’s, too. Don’t you think they sort of resemble each other?

Comic Books & Rubber Bands

2008-01-07T22:53:00.000-05:00

Comic Books and Rubber Bands...

Driving down the road in my car is more often than not the only “free” time that I get on a regular basis these days. That being true, I have majorly come to appreciate the long drives down winding country roads that are necessary for me to get from here to there, even for the simplest of things like grocery items. My vehicle has evolved into my own private sanctuary, the inner sanctum wherein I am granted the opportunity to meditate upon and ponder many-a-thing about life’s issues that the busy-ness and day-to-day activities of being a working mom don’t routinely allow. It’s my quiet time. It’s my private place. It’s true that recently I have had many serious issues to consider while in the stillness of my own space; everything ranging from finances to education to marital issues. But today…today, that was not the case at all.

Today my heart was light and my mood was jovial. I actually was able to relax and enjoy the beauty of the autumn scenery before my eyes that the countryside has to offer adorned in its reds, golds, and oranges of the season. This is, after all, one of the reasons why I continue to choose to live in the “sticks”, as my family members prefer to refer to it; this “God-forsaken place” where no pavement or streetlights exist, according to them. To me though, it’s become home in every sense of the word, and the beauty of my surroundings far outweighs any inconveniences in geographic distance from man’s modern life. 13 years in the country… time sure flies by. I wouldn’t trade a minute of it for a thing.

As I was saying, my private time today was actually quite relaxing and pleasant. I found my thoughts drifting off to another time though, another place than what the world of today has become. I wound up in an era- a realm, if you will, that was much simpler than that which we presently live in; a figurative “realm”, of course. It was a time from my youth. I imagine that every adult treasures their youthful thoughts and memories, and I am no different in that capacity. As I rolled along in my vehicle enveloped in the mist, drizzle, and grey skies, a song came wafting up from days gone by, thrusting words and melody alike into the forefront of my mind. I can’t remember when the last time I had heard this song was…possibly when I was nine or 10 years old, perhaps? Who would’ve guessed that the little jingle had been so effectually ingrained within the memory compartments of my brain that it would one day resurface to bring me a little smile and much joy at the mature age of 41? Not me, I say.

So what is the song, you ask? Well, it’s probably not one that the average person would likely know, let alone remember from their childhood. However, anybody who knows me would definitely confirm that I am far from average when it comes to certain things- musical aptitude being one of them. I’m afraid I’m a bit eccentric with my taste in lyrics and rhythms. This song evokes more than just the musical memory within my being though. The music, along with the inner visualization of the TV commercial scenario that accompanied it back in the day, actually imparts peacefulness and joy from the inside-out.

Picture this: There was this big old boat; I believe it was a white paddle-wheel style boat with a red wheel, cruising down a wide, peaceful river. The scene shows a large group of people- vacationers perhaps, hovering about on the large, open-aired space of the deck facing the wheel. In the midst of the smiling people proudly stands the “captain” of the boat, adorned in typical skipper garb. He reminds me of Captain Kangaroo, but has hair that is more salt and pepper in color than the Captain’s pale white. His smile is just as friendly though. He is socializing, laughing, and chatting in a care-free, friendly manner with the passengers of the boat. The sky is blue, the weather is warm, and life is good for this group of folks who range in age from toddler through their golden years. Suddenly, you hear the gentle, flowing sound of music begin in the background and the captain begins to sing…

Comic books and rubber bands Climbing to the tree tops. Falling down and holding hands Bicycles and red pop. Remember when you were a kid? Well part of you still is… And that’s why we make FAYGO!

Yep, you guessed it! It was the Faygo pop commercial. I have the strangest of memories sometimes, I amaze even myself! Needless to say though, it was a wonderful diversion from the typical adult thoughts that I am forced with juggling routinely. Thanks for the memories, Faygo!

Afterthought: Faygo pop is STILL widely available in the region in which I live. I wonder whatever happened to Towne Club pop? Does anybody remember that one?