Once I get home there is so much to do.
Lots of lost time to make up in clearing out, cleaning up and rearranging the rest of the lower level. My deadline is self-initiated and self-imposed, but I want to begin the new year better than I did the last, er....uh. That is to say, I wish to end twenty-twelve on a more positive....
OK. Let's just admit I've allowed the last [good long while] to get away from me.
And then I allowed the overflow of that mess (and disappointment) to run my life and get the best of my outlook and demeanor.
And on top of all that chaos, I allowed myself to be lead away from my own plans and time lines in order to help out extended family, instead of concentrating on my life, my plans and directions, my little family.
I really am quite the middle child prototype.
Brian had time off from work that I had wanted to utilize in positive ways - trying to finish moving the heaviest pieces of furniture around and then get the large sewing table relocated to the lower level. His muscle combined with Karl's is critical, since I can no longer be trusted with heavy objects and a weak peritoneal lining.
Being at Gran's instead of home on Bud's days off has been a letdown, since so much progress had been made up to this point in time. Everything I wanted to accomplish is at a standstill again - rats!
And of course, now that it's snowed so heavily, it will be a while before the trestle table can be carried 'round to the backside of the house - the hill will be treacherous until the grass is much drier.
Let's put it this way:
One of my new ongoing tasks will be to stop making certain everyone else is happy and content before I am -- unless, of course, they pay really well and provide health care benefits at a reasonable cost.
12.28.2012
12.27.2012
It's almost over
Oh, I know most of you think I am referring to 2012...but I am not.
Nope. I am talking about my stay with Gran.
Yup. I am here for two overnights and the surrounding days (generally the half day before, the full day in between night one and night two, and then the early half of the next day).
If you didn't get that, trust me...it doesn't matter.
And you might think that at 101 years of age she's a bit "feisty," but I am telling you she's been just pure cranky from the word "go." Yeah, there's a difference between feisty and cantankerous - and she did not blur the line in the least.
Mean.
Spiteful, even.
Well, I have just a little over 31 hours to go, so I am simply keeping this stupid grin plastered on my face until it's over. I will be getting a little relief around noon tomorrow, when an aunt, uncle, and cousin come to call on Gran midday.
Thank you, Lord, for small gifts!
Nope. I am talking about my stay with Gran.
Yup. I am here for two overnights and the surrounding days (generally the half day before, the full day in between night one and night two, and then the early half of the next day).
If you didn't get that, trust me...it doesn't matter.
And you might think that at 101 years of age she's a bit "feisty," but I am telling you she's been just pure cranky from the word "go." Yeah, there's a difference between feisty and cantankerous - and she did not blur the line in the least.
Mean.
Spiteful, even.
Well, I have just a little over 31 hours to go, so I am simply keeping this stupid grin plastered on my face until it's over. I will be getting a little relief around noon tomorrow, when an aunt, uncle, and cousin come to call on Gran midday.
Thank you, Lord, for small gifts!
12.26.2012
Which one of you....
....ordered this stuff?
Seriously!
All of it....all at once! ? ! ?
Are you crazy?!
You take some of this back at once - do you hear me?
*Sheesh.*
Seriously!
All of it....all at once! ? ! ?
Are you crazy?!
You take some of this back at once - do you hear me?
*Sheesh.*
12.25.2012
Merry Christmas!
Thanks for looking in from time to time and reading my posts.
Here's wishing you and yours a very wonderful holiday season, and a new year filled with peace, happiness, health, and prosperity!
- From my family to yours
Here's wishing you and yours a very wonderful holiday season, and a new year filled with peace, happiness, health, and prosperity!
- From my family to yours
12.24.2012
Timing is everything
Wanted to get my hair cut, and I figured today may be the day for it. So I hot-footed it to our local shop only to find they closed the doors and turned out the lights by three o'clock this afternoon.
Three!
What time did I arrive, you may be wondering.
3:12 PM!
Yup, timing is everything.
Three!
What time did I arrive, you may be wondering.
3:12 PM!
Yup, timing is everything.
12.22.2012
Weird
We had a garbage collection service for a while, but only because they bought out our first choice collection service. And this (usurper) service we subscribed to was a large 'pain in the rubbish' from the very beginning.
They were problematic. They were sporadic. They were hit or miss. They were sub-standard. They were non-responsive. They were messy. They were Waste Management.
At some point - at least one full month AFTER I told them to take a hike; that I wasn't going to pay their exorbitant and outrageous rate hike (PLUS an additional rate to cover a fuel bill for their collection trucks) - I had to call them again to let them know their container was still sitting in front of my home, and that I expected they would retrieve it in short order.
Well, that second call was in early NOVEMBER!
It wasn't until mid-December that a truck stopped out in front of the house a finally snagged the recycling bucket from the yard. The wind was having a pretty fabulous time knocking it about up until that time.
We had a second (dark green, square-ish) container up near the front porch which we used to toss the cat doot bags into, from which we would collect them all into another larger bag that would go out to the curb on trash collection day. It was a system which worked for us.
This second dark green box sat against the front porch, behind the stairs, and was usually shielded further from view by my car - the Duke. So imagine my surprise this morning when I opened the front door to quickly pitch the bag of freshly harvested cat bombs into our green bucket, only to find - - - NO GREEN RECEPTACLE!
That's right, you guessed it. Someone help themselves to our bucket full of feces baggies!
But I think I am more upset that they didn't take the two larger offerings of complete cat box changes away with it all! I mean, those were neatly bagged and ready to go.
;)
Some people, right?
They were problematic. They were sporadic. They were hit or miss. They were sub-standard. They were non-responsive. They were messy. They were Waste Management.
At some point - at least one full month AFTER I told them to take a hike; that I wasn't going to pay their exorbitant and outrageous rate hike (PLUS an additional rate to cover a fuel bill for their collection trucks) - I had to call them again to let them know their container was still sitting in front of my home, and that I expected they would retrieve it in short order.
Well, that second call was in early NOVEMBER!
It wasn't until mid-December that a truck stopped out in front of the house a finally snagged the recycling bucket from the yard. The wind was having a pretty fabulous time knocking it about up until that time.
We had a second (dark green, square-ish) container up near the front porch which we used to toss the cat doot bags into, from which we would collect them all into another larger bag that would go out to the curb on trash collection day. It was a system which worked for us.
This second dark green box sat against the front porch, behind the stairs, and was usually shielded further from view by my car - the Duke. So imagine my surprise this morning when I opened the front door to quickly pitch the bag of freshly harvested cat bombs into our green bucket, only to find - - - NO GREEN RECEPTACLE!
That's right, you guessed it. Someone help themselves to our bucket full of feces baggies!
But I think I am more upset that they didn't take the two larger offerings of complete cat box changes away with it all! I mean, those were neatly bagged and ready to go.
;)
Some people, right?
12.21.2012
Love me some Michael Buble'
Let's face it, who doesn't love Michael Buble'?
Oh, sit down, you, and keep your raspberries to yourself.
I absolutely enjoy crooner tunes, and Michael Buble' covers so many of my favorites that I fell in love with him years ago as he started out singing songs from the tail end of the big band and swing era through Dean Martin and the Rat Pack, Bobby Darin (yum), Tony Bennet, Rosemary Clooney, Satchmo, etc. The GOOD stuff.
Well, last year I happened to see MB's televised Christmas special, and boy! - was it a stinker. Trust me, I'm not asking you....I'm telling you. The writers and producer should have been shot....it wasn't pretty. So I really didn't hold out much hope for this year's efforts, but I watched all the same - cuz I loves me that pretty, pretty, Michael Buble'.
Oh, those Canadians (they had me at Nathan Fillion).
Anyway, I caught the MB second telecast tonight, but darn if I didn't start watching at the exact same point as two weeks ago! So, I don't know how the opening went, nor do I know what songs I missed during the first fifteen minutes! However, I did catch the Rod Stewart portion - and that man cannot lip sync to save his life. Boo!
Does he at least perform live when he's in concert? I was even more non-plussed watching him lip sync the second time around, and it was so obvious and disingenuine that I found myself becoming angry. That's not a good thing (becoming angry over a Christmas special), so I found something else to do while Mr. Stewart faked his way through a solo musical number. Then, I simply ignored him while he and Micheal sang a duet.
At some point Michael sang a duet cover (re-worded for the holiday season) with a country singer, (Blake somebody'r-other) and vocally, it was a horrible pairing.
So, after Brian heads to work tomorrow, I am going to erase the bad taste in my ears and play a wealth of Christmas music.....sung beautifully by my boys (and gals).
[sigh]
Oh, sit down, you, and keep your raspberries to yourself.
I absolutely enjoy crooner tunes, and Michael Buble' covers so many of my favorites that I fell in love with him years ago as he started out singing songs from the tail end of the big band and swing era through Dean Martin and the Rat Pack, Bobby Darin (yum), Tony Bennet, Rosemary Clooney, Satchmo, etc. The GOOD stuff.
Well, last year I happened to see MB's televised Christmas special, and boy! - was it a stinker. Trust me, I'm not asking you....I'm telling you. The writers and producer should have been shot....it wasn't pretty. So I really didn't hold out much hope for this year's efforts, but I watched all the same - cuz I loves me that pretty, pretty, Michael Buble'.
Oh, those Canadians (they had me at Nathan Fillion).
Anyway, I caught the MB second telecast tonight, but darn if I didn't start watching at the exact same point as two weeks ago! So, I don't know how the opening went, nor do I know what songs I missed during the first fifteen minutes! However, I did catch the Rod Stewart portion - and that man cannot lip sync to save his life. Boo!
Does he at least perform live when he's in concert? I was even more non-plussed watching him lip sync the second time around, and it was so obvious and disingenuine that I found myself becoming angry. That's not a good thing (becoming angry over a Christmas special), so I found something else to do while Mr. Stewart faked his way through a solo musical number. Then, I simply ignored him while he and Micheal sang a duet.
At some point Michael sang a duet cover (re-worded for the holiday season) with a country singer, (Blake somebody'r-other) and vocally, it was a horrible pairing.
So, after Brian heads to work tomorrow, I am going to erase the bad taste in my ears and play a wealth of Christmas music.....sung beautifully by my boys (and gals).
[sigh]
12.18.2012
Un-freakin-believable
On the road taking care of business, on my way to a destination (with a time line to stick to), and I am stuck in the "fast lane" (you know, the far left, passing lane) southbound on Telegraph, and people are moving frustratingly s-l-o-w.
Why are they moving slow? you would ask yourself. Well, I did.
I know others were.
When given the opportunity, I moved to the right - out of the passing lane - and proceeded to pass the obstruction, which had been about seven cars ahead of me. There, at the head of the line of traffic, blithely unaware of the plight of everyone behind her, drove a woman in a black minivan.....having a conversation with one (or more) of the three young people in the back of the vehicle!
"People can have conversations with others in the car and still drive," you counter.
Well, for the most part I would tend to agree with you. But NOT this broad.
Her conversation kept her oblivious to the fact that she was impeding traffic in several ways - mostly by moving along at the blistering speed of thirty-seven to forty-miles-per-hour, when the speed limit is a posted fifty - and most folks clip along at roughly fifty-five to sixty through much of Bloomfield Hills and far western B'ham, etc.
Her conversation was a clear distraction.
Her conversation was with her hands!
No, I don't mean she was 'Italian-talking.' I mean this chic was having a conversation using ASL, for crying out loud! A full blown, American Sign Language, Helen Keller, I-can-see-you-but-I-can't-hear-you kind of dialogue with a passenger in the back of the vehicle, so her attention clearly was not on her driving.
"HEY! Hang up and drive, you loon!" I wanted to yell. But she wouldn't have heard me if I had.
She wasn't paying attention to what was going on around her - AND SHE WAS DRIVING!!!
Why are they moving slow? you would ask yourself. Well, I did.
I know others were.
When given the opportunity, I moved to the right - out of the passing lane - and proceeded to pass the obstruction, which had been about seven cars ahead of me. There, at the head of the line of traffic, blithely unaware of the plight of everyone behind her, drove a woman in a black minivan.....having a conversation with one (or more) of the three young people in the back of the vehicle!
"People can have conversations with others in the car and still drive," you counter.
Well, for the most part I would tend to agree with you. But NOT this broad.
Her conversation kept her oblivious to the fact that she was impeding traffic in several ways - mostly by moving along at the blistering speed of thirty-seven to forty-miles-per-hour, when the speed limit is a posted fifty - and most folks clip along at roughly fifty-five to sixty through much of Bloomfield Hills and far western B'ham, etc.
Her conversation was a clear distraction.
Her conversation was with her hands!
No, I don't mean she was 'Italian-talking.' I mean this chic was having a conversation using ASL, for crying out loud! A full blown, American Sign Language, Helen Keller, I-can-see-you-but-I-can't-hear-you kind of dialogue with a passenger in the back of the vehicle, so her attention clearly was not on her driving.
"HEY! Hang up and drive, you loon!" I wanted to yell. But she wouldn't have heard me if I had.
She wasn't paying attention to what was going on around her - AND SHE WAS DRIVING!!!
12.16.2012
Really?
Is there such a thing as "adult onset premenstrual migraines"?
[internet research and reading]
Yes, apparently there is such a thing, and it is less likely to occur in perimenopausal women, but it has been known to happen.
Well, crap!
[internet research and reading]
Yes, apparently there is such a thing, and it is less likely to occur in perimenopausal women, but it has been known to happen.
Well, crap!
Half done with the month
Yup, December is now on the downward side of the proverbial 'hill.' One good push and the month is done, and the year is over!
Hallelujah.
What a craptastic year it's been, too.
On the plus side, Karl took a photography class, attended all but one session, AND turned in ALL assignments either by or before the due dates! Phew....but YEA! Grade point average slides up a notch. :)
What's more, his instructor will be happy to write him letters of reference in order to find possible employment with a photography studio - to do retouching, mending of old photos, etc. If not direct employment, then as a contracted or referred commodity to get one-off jobs from people looking for a service the studios don't do themselves. :)
Furthermore, Karl has also decided (on his own) to take an "educational" class. That is to say, he decided it was time to throw an academic course into his studies, in order to begin rounding out his requirements to complete his AA degree! This is PROGRESS!
Thank you, God, for little (big) nudges.
Hallelujah.
What a craptastic year it's been, too.
On the plus side, Karl took a photography class, attended all but one session, AND turned in ALL assignments either by or before the due dates! Phew....but YEA! Grade point average slides up a notch. :)
What's more, his instructor will be happy to write him letters of reference in order to find possible employment with a photography studio - to do retouching, mending of old photos, etc. If not direct employment, then as a contracted or referred commodity to get one-off jobs from people looking for a service the studios don't do themselves. :)
Furthermore, Karl has also decided (on his own) to take an "educational" class. That is to say, he decided it was time to throw an academic course into his studies, in order to begin rounding out his requirements to complete his AA degree! This is PROGRESS!
Thank you, God, for little (big) nudges.
12.15.2012
I do not want to rehash yesterday's tragedy of Newtown, CT.
Stupid people are saying that if there had been more permissive gun laws, this wouldn't have happened.
Jack asses!
Think on this: The mother of the young man who committed this horror was the owner of those weapons! Not only that, she purchased them in order to protect herself from her son.
Huh.
Stupid people are saying that if there had been more permissive gun laws, this wouldn't have happened.
Jack asses!
Think on this: The mother of the young man who committed this horror was the owner of those weapons! Not only that, she purchased them in order to protect herself from her son.
Huh.
12.12.2012
Wouldn't you know it
The one day where I have nothing to piece and no need for such beautiful, full sunshine flooding through the window, and it's a sunshine downpour!
Good day, sunshine. [doffs her hat]
Good day, sunshine. [doffs her hat]
More yumminess
Cranked up the ol' crock pot for another round last night.
Made my usual barbeque-like sauce and filled the pot with 4-5 pounds of country-style ribs. Very lean, but lots of it. It took a little jostling before everything could be worked into the bottom of the pot, so that every piece made contact with the heated ceramic for the first few hours.
I figured to 'let it crock' until it literally fell apart...which it did (for the most part). But that meant overnight - which I have never done before.
Covered the mound of meat with enough water to be certain nothing would dry out as the liquid cooked down, and went to bed.
The smell was intoxicating.
This morning it took just a little time to pull apart the remaining chunks of meat, but it fell to pieces at the merest provocation with two forks. The boys have had a decent repast for brunch, and the cats have all had their fill, as well.
So, what's next? There's plenty to get done around here, I simply need to pick a direction and go.
Made my usual barbeque-like sauce and filled the pot with 4-5 pounds of country-style ribs. Very lean, but lots of it. It took a little jostling before everything could be worked into the bottom of the pot, so that every piece made contact with the heated ceramic for the first few hours.
I figured to 'let it crock' until it literally fell apart...which it did (for the most part). But that meant overnight - which I have never done before.
Covered the mound of meat with enough water to be certain nothing would dry out as the liquid cooked down, and went to bed.
The smell was intoxicating.
This morning it took just a little time to pull apart the remaining chunks of meat, but it fell to pieces at the merest provocation with two forks. The boys have had a decent repast for brunch, and the cats have all had their fill, as well.
So, what's next? There's plenty to get done around here, I simply need to pick a direction and go.
12.11.2012
Today - a little better
The bathroom sink faucet is fixed, and the water is back on. Hooray!
After scouring two local hardware shops for the PF washers I needed (I hoped was all I needed to fix the major leak), I managed to get directions from an empathetic (and wiser) sales associate to a plumbing specialist/business the next town over; and they happened to have the correct washer for my sink!
The kid behind the counter asked if I was certain I only needed the washers and not the entire replacement cartridge. So I inquired after the cost of the cartridge, just in case the leak could not be managed with swapping the rubber washers.
"$30," muttered the sales boy.
"OK," I said. "Just the 2 washers, please."
"Really?" he questioned.
Hmmm, I thought to myself. Perhaps I should buy the cartridges, and pay for them with my fictitious money......from my fictitious job.
"Is it 'buy one, get one free' today?"
"No," he said, unappreciative of my wit and sparkling personality.
Back at the ranch - after purchasing two new washers at just over $2 each, and a set of inexpensive but perfectly utilitarian wrenches ($8+ tax), the drip is gone and the water is back on! Well worth the gas and mileage....and the self-satisfaction.
After scouring two local hardware shops for the PF washers I needed (I hoped was all I needed to fix the major leak), I managed to get directions from an empathetic (and wiser) sales associate to a plumbing specialist/business the next town over; and they happened to have the correct washer for my sink!
The kid behind the counter asked if I was certain I only needed the washers and not the entire replacement cartridge. So I inquired after the cost of the cartridge, just in case the leak could not be managed with swapping the rubber washers.
"$30," muttered the sales boy.
"OK," I said. "Just the 2 washers, please."
"Really?" he questioned.
Hmmm, I thought to myself. Perhaps I should buy the cartridges, and pay for them with my fictitious money......from my fictitious job.
"Is it 'buy one, get one free' today?"
"No," he said, unappreciative of my wit and sparkling personality.
Back at the ranch - after purchasing two new washers at just over $2 each, and a set of inexpensive but perfectly utilitarian wrenches ($8+ tax), the drip is gone and the water is back on! Well worth the gas and mileage....and the self-satisfaction.
12.10.2012
Efforts
In an effort to make myself feel better, I spent the last two hours peeling, chopping, sauteing, seasoning, and crafting a magnificent crock pot full of chicken and vegetable soup.
The debate is on over whether it will be served with noodles, dumplings, or wild rice.
Hope it helps to heal my psyche - it's pretty bruised.
The debate is on over whether it will be served with noodles, dumplings, or wild rice.
Hope it helps to heal my psyche - it's pretty bruised.
By the way
No, the person with whom I wanted to speak at the local shop (where I found out they are looking for a quilt instructor) was not in today.
Possibly tomorrow.
[sigh]
Possibly tomorrow.
[sigh]
Geez
What an absolute fool I am, thinking I could just waltz out to my neatly assembled tool bag and find my assortment of wrenches waiting for me!
I clearly remember repacking it after the fiasco of finding my tools scattered hither and yon from various uses over the year - mostly on the part of Brian and his handy do-it-yourself art projects; chainmaile, boffer equipment, etc.; a bicycle repair (not really, but it was a good thought on his part); crude chipmunk-trapping attempts.
As I cleaned out the garage in fits of....in fits of - what? Well, just in fits, really. I cleaned the garage in phases over the spring and summer, but never really finished for all of the sidetracking that occurred - like in finding my errantly placed tools, and so on. I would then set about collecting everything and get my tool collection back in its rightful place.
Seems I should have placed it under lock and key afterward.
Now that I am earnestly attempting to fix the bathroom faucet leak (stream, really), and have finally managed to locate the stupidly placed shutoff valves for the bathroom sink (basement ceiling joists), and have broken a wrist getting them to turn off, I can't go the next step to disassemble the handles because I no longer have the correctly sized wrench with which to proceed.
NOW, I must dress and head out to the local hardware store to first buy a wrench (which hopefully will fit -- something a smidgen larger than 9/16ths), then come back home to open Pandora's plumbing 'box' to reveal the specific washer/screw configuration, then head back out to the hardware conglomerate in hopes they have the pieces I need (in stock), so that I can once again return home to finish off the plumbing issue.
I'm thinking matches and a little accelerant might be easier. Can you have a "pre-fire" fire sale?
I clearly remember repacking it after the fiasco of finding my tools scattered hither and yon from various uses over the year - mostly on the part of Brian and his handy do-it-yourself art projects; chainmaile, boffer equipment, etc.; a bicycle repair (not really, but it was a good thought on his part); crude chipmunk-trapping attempts.
As I cleaned out the garage in fits of....in fits of - what? Well, just in fits, really. I cleaned the garage in phases over the spring and summer, but never really finished for all of the sidetracking that occurred - like in finding my errantly placed tools, and so on. I would then set about collecting everything and get my tool collection back in its rightful place.
Seems I should have placed it under lock and key afterward.
Now that I am earnestly attempting to fix the bathroom faucet leak (stream, really), and have finally managed to locate the stupidly placed shutoff valves for the bathroom sink (basement ceiling joists), and have broken a wrist getting them to turn off, I can't go the next step to disassemble the handles because I no longer have the correctly sized wrench with which to proceed.
NOW, I must dress and head out to the local hardware store to first buy a wrench (which hopefully will fit -- something a smidgen larger than 9/16ths), then come back home to open Pandora's plumbing 'box' to reveal the specific washer/screw configuration, then head back out to the hardware conglomerate in hopes they have the pieces I need (in stock), so that I can once again return home to finish off the plumbing issue.
I'm thinking matches and a little accelerant might be easier. Can you have a "pre-fire" fire sale?
12.07.2012
Shopping list
Toilet paper
Kleenex
Pasta
Cat box liners
Crushed canned tomatoes
Printer cartridge
Canned cat food
Packing tape (clear)
Christmas gifts for the boys
Trash can liners
Airborne tablets
Windscreen squeegee
Where do you keep your lists?
Kleenex
Pasta
Cat box liners
Crushed canned tomatoes
Printer cartridge
Canned cat food
Packing tape (clear)
Christmas gifts for the boys
Trash can liners
Airborne tablets
Windscreen squeegee
Where do you keep your lists?
Just curious, Maria
Have you had a chance to experience Craig Ferguson, yet?
Try it at least a couple of times. ;)
Are you signed up for classes for the coming semester?
We really do need to catch up.....SOON.
Try it at least a couple of times. ;)
Are you signed up for classes for the coming semester?
We really do need to catch up.....SOON.
12.05.2012
Long day
Long day.
Sunny day.
Semi-busy day.
Worthless day.
Feels like wasted day.
One more day.
Day of loss.
Day of threats.
Lost day.
Wednesday.
Tomorrow is another day.
G'night, day.
Sunny day.
Semi-busy day.
Worthless day.
Feels like wasted day.
One more day.
Day of loss.
Day of threats.
Lost day.
Wednesday.
Tomorrow is another day.
G'night, day.
I know, right?
Weird is when your blog readership spikes 300 views in one day, presumably because of one three-year-old post that mentioned Craig Ferguson in the title.
The man is a demi-god, I grant you. Attractive, intelligent, funny as the month is long, tall, sexy [wiping chin drool]....and that brogue!
But honestly, 300 views because of a title?
You people are funny.
Sadly, the link included in that particular post was lost when the business hosting it went "belly up" about two years ago. Sad, because the book review/interview with Mr. Ferguson was comic genius.
Thanks for visiting, and have a great day. :) A great, great day. [insert heavy Scottish brogue]
The man is a demi-god, I grant you. Attractive, intelligent, funny as the month is long, tall, sexy [wiping chin drool]....and that brogue!
But honestly, 300 views because of a title?
You people are funny.
Sadly, the link included in that particular post was lost when the business hosting it went "belly up" about two years ago. Sad, because the book review/interview with Mr. Ferguson was comic genius.
Thanks for visiting, and have a great day. :) A great, great day. [insert heavy Scottish brogue]
12.04.2012
The time has come
I am excited to say the time has finally arrived for the first entry of my lovely PQ1 into a competition!
Deadlines were missed late last year/early this year because of film jobs and a number of classes butting in during what would have been prime finish-that-quilt time.
So I sat expectantly on my precious "egg", waiting for JoAnn Fabric to start the entry period for their third annual "Quilt Your Colors" contest. Since their requirements were that every scrap of material used in the creation of your entry HAD to be purchased from them, I was limited to what colors I used to build my beautiful quilt.
When I couldn't finish in time for the 2011 contest, I consoled myself with the thought that it would be ready (and so would I) for the following year...I just had to keep it under wraps until then. NOT an easy thing to do given how proud I am of the way it turned out.
Patiently I waited for the end of summer for the first announcements to appear - and the sign-up period - but it didn't come. I called and emailed their corporate office to ask the question again and again. "When will the contest be announced?"
As it turned out, the answer was "never."
They could have said that MONTHS ago! If they had, I could have been teaching and drawing an income all summer/fall/now!
You see, employees cannot enter their contest, and I am certain PQ1 is a winner. I thought that once it won, then I could teach at JAF and enter the quilt in other competitions around the US, or internationally.
Sadly, now they are no longer in need of quilt instructors at the three closest stores, so here I am at square one - BUT....
The deadline for entry into the AQS competition is literally around the corner, so I am earnestly readying my paperwork and photos, and trying to finish up a secondary piece to enter at the same time. Monetarily it is the best thing to do. If I can't get the second offering done by the 15th, I am OK with only entering PQ1 this time around.
Yes, normally this would have been the sort of thing I post at www.truenorthquilter.blogspot.com , however, since it is a cross of mild ranting, a bit of a daily update, and of interest to me (my life, my blog, etc.), this is where I chose to post it.
Photos of the secondary quilt entry can be seen on the quilt blog (listed above), but photos of PQ1 won't be made available until March. When you see it you'll understand why.
;)
Deadlines were missed late last year/early this year because of film jobs and a number of classes butting in during what would have been prime finish-that-quilt time.
So I sat expectantly on my precious "egg", waiting for JoAnn Fabric to start the entry period for their third annual "Quilt Your Colors" contest. Since their requirements were that every scrap of material used in the creation of your entry HAD to be purchased from them, I was limited to what colors I used to build my beautiful quilt.
When I couldn't finish in time for the 2011 contest, I consoled myself with the thought that it would be ready (and so would I) for the following year...I just had to keep it under wraps until then. NOT an easy thing to do given how proud I am of the way it turned out.
Patiently I waited for the end of summer for the first announcements to appear - and the sign-up period - but it didn't come. I called and emailed their corporate office to ask the question again and again. "When will the contest be announced?"
As it turned out, the answer was "never."
They could have said that MONTHS ago! If they had, I could have been teaching and drawing an income all summer/fall/now!
You see, employees cannot enter their contest, and I am certain PQ1 is a winner. I thought that once it won, then I could teach at JAF and enter the quilt in other competitions around the US, or internationally.
Sadly, now they are no longer in need of quilt instructors at the three closest stores, so here I am at square one - BUT....
The deadline for entry into the AQS competition is literally around the corner, so I am earnestly readying my paperwork and photos, and trying to finish up a secondary piece to enter at the same time. Monetarily it is the best thing to do. If I can't get the second offering done by the 15th, I am OK with only entering PQ1 this time around.
Yes, normally this would have been the sort of thing I post at www.truenorthquilter.blogspot.com , however, since it is a cross of mild ranting, a bit of a daily update, and of interest to me (my life, my blog, etc.), this is where I chose to post it.
Photos of the secondary quilt entry can be seen on the quilt blog (listed above), but photos of PQ1 won't be made available until March. When you see it you'll understand why.
;)
12.03.2012
Sad thought
The person who sits somewhere thinking I spelled "commentary" incorrectly.
Their way: "commontery"
[sigh]
Their way: "commontery"
[sigh]
12.02.2012
Silly lil' thought
The best place for a nun to get a tattoo:
"My Habit Tats"
Think about it for a while...you'll get it.
Eventually.
...two, three, four.
"My Habit Tats"
Think about it for a while...you'll get it.
Eventually.
...two, three, four.
Volunteers?
Anyone want to come on over tomorrow and help me clean the leaves outta my eaves?
Too bad it's been raining the last two days (those leaves are now good 'n soggy), but it'll be pleasant enough tomorrow (temperature-wise) to get the dirty deed done. And done it must get!
So it is written, so let it be done.
Too bad it's been raining the last two days (those leaves are now good 'n soggy), but it'll be pleasant enough tomorrow (temperature-wise) to get the dirty deed done. And done it must get!
So it is written, so let it be done.
Seriously?!
[fill this space with expletives - lots and LOTS of expletives]
What is the matter with someone who finds it necessary to make somebody elses life a rich source of amusement by screwing with their online connectivity? Why steal email accounts?
Why?!?!?!?!?
Day 2.75 and counting in working with gmail services (slower than sh*t), to retrieve command of my own darned accounts. Yes - "accounts." I have proven who I am sufficiently, now return me my ship (to quote a MI band). I have spent the better portion of the past two+ days emailing with "Ricky" to fix the situation. And when I haven't been chit-chatting with Ricky, I've spent a good deal more time changing passwords for all of my remaining email accounts AND online payment options.
Sheesh! (and that's as polite as I can be for the time being)
Seriously, people?!?! Get a freaking job if you're that good at something, and try to add to humanity/society instead of tearing it down!!
What is the matter with someone who finds it necessary to make somebody elses life a rich source of amusement by screwing with their online connectivity? Why steal email accounts?
Why?!?!?!?!?
Day 2.75 and counting in working with gmail services (slower than sh*t), to retrieve command of my own darned accounts. Yes - "accounts." I have proven who I am sufficiently, now return me my ship (to quote a MI band). I have spent the better portion of the past two+ days emailing with "Ricky" to fix the situation. And when I haven't been chit-chatting with Ricky, I've spent a good deal more time changing passwords for all of my remaining email accounts AND online payment options.
Sheesh! (and that's as polite as I can be for the time being)
Seriously, people?!?! Get a freaking job if you're that good at something, and try to add to humanity/society instead of tearing it down!!
12.01.2012
If...
If a man gives you his number and doesn't make a huge deal about it....and you don't find it 'til (much) later (on a note he gave you), is it safe to assume he wants (or wanted) you to call?
How long is 'too long' to wait?
How long is 'too long' to wait?
11.30.2012
Ticking things off the list
These last couple of days have been filled with a number of activities, and I am still catching up with all of the undone stuff from my time on that last film.
Did you catch that, universe? LAST film as a scripty.
Today we made our way to campus in order for Karl to have his assignment printed for presentation. Then, had to make haste returning home for another appointment (for him). After which, there was then a drive across (a few) town(s) to get the Duke in for his 25K checkup and an oil change.
Busy, busy, busy.
Tomorrow will be much the same, sad to say. All I want to do is rearrange the furnitue and quilt a bit....uninterrupted!
Ah well, maybe next week.
Did you catch that, universe? LAST film as a scripty.
Today we made our way to campus in order for Karl to have his assignment printed for presentation. Then, had to make haste returning home for another appointment (for him). After which, there was then a drive across (a few) town(s) to get the Duke in for his 25K checkup and an oil change.
Busy, busy, busy.
Tomorrow will be much the same, sad to say. All I want to do is rearrange the furnitue and quilt a bit....uninterrupted!
Ah well, maybe next week.
11.29.2012
Signs
Do you believe in 'signs'?
I don't mean "stop," "yield," "school zone," and so on. I mean the sort of sign that fate - or the universe - hands you from time to time.
The sort of OBVIOUS smack upside the head with a two-by-four (proverbially or otherwise) that makes your inner squirrel sit up and say "huh?"
Ah-haaaa -- I sense some of you nodding with understanding.
The lightbulb finally went on, did it? ;)
Well, all the powers that be took the time to get together in order to whallop me across the face with the biggest, stinkiest, wet fish ever to get this point across.
"What point?" you ask.
I don't mean "stop," "yield," "school zone," and so on. I mean the sort of sign that fate - or the universe - hands you from time to time.
The sort of OBVIOUS smack upside the head with a two-by-four (proverbially or otherwise) that makes your inner squirrel sit up and say "huh?"
Ah-haaaa -- I sense some of you nodding with understanding.
The lightbulb finally went on, did it? ;)
Well, all the powers that be took the time to get together in order to whallop me across the face with the biggest, stinkiest, wet fish ever to get this point across.
"What point?" you ask.
POINT: I am not to be doing script supervision any more - ESPECIALLY in the state of Michigan - and here's how I know:
 |
| Oh yes............crystal clear! |
I mean, when your Rockports BOTH blow out...in EXACTLY the SAME place...on the SAME EVENING, while scaling the same rocky, re-bar-treacherous, asbestos-covered, cold rooftop of a derelict and arson-riddled building in Detroit, that's when you know the universe (and God - and His friend, Fate) want you to stop doing something.
Your wish is my command. [bowing]
11.27.2012
Huh? Where am I?
I just made my way to the lower level in time to witness the second of Flop's hairball hurls. After cleaning it up I walked over to my bed and was surprised to find it already made!
? ? ? ?
I couldn't remember making my bed this morning until I remembered falling asleep (and waking up several times) uncomfortably on the couch.
Apparently...I also fell asleep with two lights on!
On the bright side (no pun intended), I am almost back to a normal sleep pattern. [phwew]
? ? ? ?
I couldn't remember making my bed this morning until I remembered falling asleep (and waking up several times) uncomfortably on the couch.
Apparently...I also fell asleep with two lights on!
On the bright side (no pun intended), I am almost back to a normal sleep pattern. [phwew]
Arrived yesterday
Driving through the height of the wretched snow storm, I arrived at Gran's for two overnight stays and the surrounding daytime hours.
You may say for 101 years she's just being 'feisty,' but let's be honest here. She was cranky from the word "go."
Just gotta keep this stupid grin plastered on my face for another 30+ hours. Concentrate on laying out a few blocks for when you get home....or, write a bit.
Open up the window and jump (just make sure you bring the car keys).
You may say for 101 years she's just being 'feisty,' but let's be honest here. She was cranky from the word "go."
Just gotta keep this stupid grin plastered on my face for another 30+ hours. Concentrate on laying out a few blocks for when you get home....or, write a bit.
Open up the window and jump (just make sure you bring the car keys).
11.22.2012
Nothing like it
Had Thanksgiving dinner with mom, who was on her last stint with gram for the year. She made the usual fuss and bother (a.k.a. HUGE dinner with all the fixin's), only this year there was a little larger crew around the table to eat it.
Usually, it's just mom, gram, my sons and myself around the table, but this year my younger brother made a magical appearance, and one uncle was there, too!
Gram was beside herself with glee, so all-in-all, a very good day!
We of course came home laden with leftovers....but this year I was most appreciative of it. Now, I won't have to worry over whether the boys have something readily available to snack on while I am working long days on this turkey of a film project.
THANK YOU, Mom! I love you.
And the dinner was delicious!
Usually, it's just mom, gram, my sons and myself around the table, but this year my younger brother made a magical appearance, and one uncle was there, too!
Gram was beside herself with glee, so all-in-all, a very good day!
We of course came home laden with leftovers....but this year I was most appreciative of it. Now, I won't have to worry over whether the boys have something readily available to snack on while I am working long days on this turkey of a film project.
THANK YOU, Mom! I love you.
And the dinner was delicious!
11.20.2012
What have I gotten myself in to?
We've gone from a burned out apartment complex, with a scabbed together, unsafe, nail-riddled, needle-infested, ankle-twisting, health hazzard of a shack (and it's immediate surroundings), to the Packard Plant remains - with more of the same...but at extreme heights!
I say it again - "ART FILM" MY ASSSS-TERISK!
More when I thaw out.
I say it again - "ART FILM" MY ASSSS-TERISK!
More when I thaw out.
11.16.2012
Absence
Yup, I have been away for a bit.
I received a call right around eight in the evening this past Tuesday, asking if I would be interested in stepping into a scripty job. Their script super walked away, taking the book with her, and leaving them in a lurch for the next day. Actually, the next ten days!
The daily wage is dismally, APPALLINGLY low, but I need the work and, in this case, I also need what little pay I will make during my time on this piece of dung.
"Art film" my butt. Yes, it's a piece of dung.
I may live to regret it...we'll see.
Working with a fairly young (but NOT green) film team, and I know a good deal of them! Lots of friends and former crew mates from other film jobs. Nice to see friendly faces, and to be appreciated and warmly welcomed - at least by them.
Judging from the apologies and stories I have heard around the camera, this is going to be a tough gig. The director does not believe in (OR RESPECT) continuity, so everything will be an uphill battle. And, after my day one, I can understand the mindset of the crew, and the pitiful looks I am getting from one and all.
Not only is continuity unnecessary, it is trampled on with gay abandon by this nut job. Thrown under the bus and scoffed at. I hope he gets an eyeful when he sits with the poor, poor editor for the months it will take to review and edit all the footage into something resembling a storyline.
I received a call right around eight in the evening this past Tuesday, asking if I would be interested in stepping into a scripty job. Their script super walked away, taking the book with her, and leaving them in a lurch for the next day. Actually, the next ten days!
The daily wage is dismally, APPALLINGLY low, but I need the work and, in this case, I also need what little pay I will make during my time on this piece of dung.
"Art film" my butt. Yes, it's a piece of dung.
I may live to regret it...we'll see.
Working with a fairly young (but NOT green) film team, and I know a good deal of them! Lots of friends and former crew mates from other film jobs. Nice to see friendly faces, and to be appreciated and warmly welcomed - at least by them.
Judging from the apologies and stories I have heard around the camera, this is going to be a tough gig. The director does not believe in (OR RESPECT) continuity, so everything will be an uphill battle. And, after my day one, I can understand the mindset of the crew, and the pitiful looks I am getting from one and all.
Not only is continuity unnecessary, it is trampled on with gay abandon by this nut job. Thrown under the bus and scoffed at. I hope he gets an eyeful when he sits with the poor, poor editor for the months it will take to review and edit all the footage into something resembling a storyline.
11.11.2012
Feelings
FaceBook, schmacebook!
You know when you post a comment (a compliment, really) on a friend's page, and you go back later to look at the content again, only to find that the "likes" and comments have grown in number, but you haven't seen any notifications of that all day....?
You schmacebookers will understand this .
Then you look a little closer and realize that your comment and 'like' vote aren't even there any more!?
Um, ouch.
?
You know when you post a comment (a compliment, really) on a friend's page, and you go back later to look at the content again, only to find that the "likes" and comments have grown in number, but you haven't seen any notifications of that all day....?
You schmacebookers will understand this .
Then you look a little closer and realize that your comment and 'like' vote aren't even there any more!?
Um, ouch.
?
11.08.2012
Leaving well enough alone
Ya know when you're standing in the kitchen, slapping together turkey burger patties, and you realize you may have said something in a message....
and then got to thinkin' you wished you had said it better...
or had added something a smidge clearer, or not quite so serious;
or maybe you need to make sure what you *think* you said was ACTUALLY what you wrote, and you find you really aren't adept at typing with your elbows....
and you end up accidentally downloading a bit of Scandanavian porn just because you wanted to clarify a point that maybe didn't require clarification or fine tuning?
Yeah, me too.
Next time I'll just clean my hands off first.
and then got to thinkin' you wished you had said it better...
or had added something a smidge clearer, or not quite so serious;
or maybe you need to make sure what you *think* you said was ACTUALLY what you wrote, and you find you really aren't adept at typing with your elbows....
and you end up accidentally downloading a bit of Scandanavian porn just because you wanted to clarify a point that maybe didn't require clarification or fine tuning?
Yeah, me too.
Next time I'll just clean my hands off first.
11.06.2012
BOO-yah!!!!
[unbridled joy]
Just called my mother to share the news about our President!
I could hardly believe the announcement made only a couple moments ago, as I had been watching the returns stack up throughout the night, but by 9:30PM I was earnestly terrified with the mounting returdlican votes.
My stomach churned early on with every state painted red on the tally boards; they severely outnumbered the blue. Once it seemed the RR team was accumulating too many electoral votes I just had to find anything else to watch - thank the Lord for PBS.
Take that, former Senator Romney!!!! Take that!
I kept my sanity and my president!
Just called my mother to share the news about our President!
I could hardly believe the announcement made only a couple moments ago, as I had been watching the returns stack up throughout the night, but by 9:30PM I was earnestly terrified with the mounting returdlican votes.
My stomach churned early on with every state painted red on the tally boards; they severely outnumbered the blue. Once it seemed the RR team was accumulating too many electoral votes I just had to find anything else to watch - thank the Lord for PBS.
Take that, former Senator Romney!!!! Take that!
I kept my sanity and my president!
Finally, we're off to the polls
Four years ago Brian, Karl, and I attended the polls together. For each of the boys it was their first time ever to vote in a national (in any sort of, really) election. And standing there with them I felt so proud.
I wanted a photo to mark that special marker in their lives, but the boys gave me a hard time about it, so I have only my memories of standing with them in a long line outside of our polling building, in the sun and crisp autumn air.
We elected the right man in 2008, and my family will do so again today. Brian is currently at work, but Karl and I are now on our way out to make history happen once more. Bud will make his way to vote after work, and then....we will watch in wonder and horror as the spectacle unfolds.
I wanted a photo to mark that special marker in their lives, but the boys gave me a hard time about it, so I have only my memories of standing with them in a long line outside of our polling building, in the sun and crisp autumn air.
We elected the right man in 2008, and my family will do so again today. Brian is currently at work, but Karl and I are now on our way out to make history happen once more. Bud will make his way to vote after work, and then....we will watch in wonder and horror as the spectacle unfolds.
11.05.2012
Regrettables (for the most part)
I wasn't going to post yesterday's entry because it went from good to worse, then sort of u-turned at the very end - but, it's how I'm feeling. It's how I do feel, so it would be wrong for me to deny my own me-ness when I feel it; when I experience it.
After all, this is my blog. My journal. MY chronicle.
I am enjoying the return to regular daylight hours from "daylight savings time" [scoff]. Easier to be up at an early hour, what with the sun arriving so much later over the horizon, and returning to the western horizon so much earlier, too.
I love the temps and colors of the fall, but I SO miss the daylight.
And thank goodness this political season is almost over...I can't handle the incessant ads. I am hating the ENDLESS onslaught of rhetoric and counter-rhetoric between (if we're lucky) 8-15 minute bites of any show - including the news!
I think we - as a nation - should stand up and draw lines, right now, for all of those politicos to come.
We should demand that political ads of any sort (amendments, proposals, candidate-based, etc) not take up more than X-amount of minutes in a broadcast day. That the frequency and cost cannot surpass [an insane amount of dollars and time]. They become mind-numbing and insanely abusive over time.
Mudslinging is never the way to get any point across...people simply tune out after a while. I know I did.
SO glad it will be over soon.
On an extremely positive note - "Castle" was wonderful, again, tonight!
After all, this is my blog. My journal. MY chronicle.
I am enjoying the return to regular daylight hours from "daylight savings time" [scoff]. Easier to be up at an early hour, what with the sun arriving so much later over the horizon, and returning to the western horizon so much earlier, too.
I love the temps and colors of the fall, but I SO miss the daylight.
And thank goodness this political season is almost over...I can't handle the incessant ads. I am hating the ENDLESS onslaught of rhetoric and counter-rhetoric between (if we're lucky) 8-15 minute bites of any show - including the news!
I think we - as a nation - should stand up and draw lines, right now, for all of those politicos to come.
We should demand that political ads of any sort (amendments, proposals, candidate-based, etc) not take up more than X-amount of minutes in a broadcast day. That the frequency and cost cannot surpass [an insane amount of dollars and time]. They become mind-numbing and insanely abusive over time.
Mudslinging is never the way to get any point across...people simply tune out after a while. I know I did.
SO glad it will be over soon.
On an extremely positive note - "Castle" was wonderful, again, tonight!
11.04.2012
Weekend flurry and furry
Glad to say the weekend is half over (slightly over half), and I will be back home again in the wink of an eye to continue with ongoing projects. I hate leaving things in a lurch half through - or, in process.
We saw two deer cross the road in front of us as we left our subdivision early in the morning. I don't think Karl has seen deer that close up for quite a while, and it wowed him as they casually strolled from the curb on our right to the other side of the street. No running or frantic weaving and jumping. They simply stepped onto the roadway much as a pedestrian would in a crosswalk downtown.
It was enchanting in the foggy morning hours, and it seemed to set the tone for the hours ahead.
Karl had a good day in class; he presented his two-part project in front of the class (not easy for him to speak in front of a group of strangers) and listened to comments and suggestions with an open mind. While he wasn't thrilled with the idea of sharing his two montages (because after the first two presenters - each only sharing one apiece - he was disappointed in the quality of his work), he did reluctantly come to understand the need for following directions and doing the best you are capable of doing, instead of just trying to get something done without applying yourself to the task.
He came to understand that despite the arm-twisting, yelling fits, stalling tactics, and just out-n-out arguing about 'why this project was necessary at all,' that he did achieve a goal. He saw that it was fulfilling and satisfying to stand among the small handful of folks who finished and complied with the requirements instead of slinking behind a desk and hiding because he had nothing to offer.
I honestly think he exhibited a great deal of pride after getting over the embarrassment and fright factors. Although, I also feel that the following few assignments will also be met with stalling and lame excuses. [sigh]
Yea!
In other news:
Staying with the Gran for one overnight period. Glad it helps the family, but sometimes I feel like a pinch hitter; only thought of, and called from the dusty dugout recesses when nothing else can be worked out.
As I grow older my familial feelings shrink to encompass only a basic few people. I feel less included in (and wanted by) what should be a sprawling group of folks - and so I distance myself even further to keep from feeling the sting. Removing myself (or staying remote from situations - not just familial) before someone else has a chance to do it has always been a better operating standard for me. I learned it in my teens as mom moved us around a lot, and it was a habit I had to re-institute in my twenties to keep from crumbling.
I am the outsider with a camera. The observer. We'll call you. One day. Every other month. Maybe.
Beating people to the punch has always been the way I navigate life. It may not be a great way of life, but I am still walking the planet. Bitter (maybe) but still walking.
Anyhow, I did manage to see Wuthering Heights for the first time! Gran turned on her favorite movie channel, and there it was!
So, maybe the weekend wasn't "furry" so much as 'deer hide-y', and a little chaotic location-wise.
We saw two deer cross the road in front of us as we left our subdivision early in the morning. I don't think Karl has seen deer that close up for quite a while, and it wowed him as they casually strolled from the curb on our right to the other side of the street. No running or frantic weaving and jumping. They simply stepped onto the roadway much as a pedestrian would in a crosswalk downtown.
It was enchanting in the foggy morning hours, and it seemed to set the tone for the hours ahead.
Karl had a good day in class; he presented his two-part project in front of the class (not easy for him to speak in front of a group of strangers) and listened to comments and suggestions with an open mind. While he wasn't thrilled with the idea of sharing his two montages (because after the first two presenters - each only sharing one apiece - he was disappointed in the quality of his work), he did reluctantly come to understand the need for following directions and doing the best you are capable of doing, instead of just trying to get something done without applying yourself to the task.
He came to understand that despite the arm-twisting, yelling fits, stalling tactics, and just out-n-out arguing about 'why this project was necessary at all,' that he did achieve a goal. He saw that it was fulfilling and satisfying to stand among the small handful of folks who finished and complied with the requirements instead of slinking behind a desk and hiding because he had nothing to offer.
I honestly think he exhibited a great deal of pride after getting over the embarrassment and fright factors. Although, I also feel that the following few assignments will also be met with stalling and lame excuses. [sigh]
Yea!
In other news:
Staying with the Gran for one overnight period. Glad it helps the family, but sometimes I feel like a pinch hitter; only thought of, and called from the dusty dugout recesses when nothing else can be worked out.
As I grow older my familial feelings shrink to encompass only a basic few people. I feel less included in (and wanted by) what should be a sprawling group of folks - and so I distance myself even further to keep from feeling the sting. Removing myself (or staying remote from situations - not just familial) before someone else has a chance to do it has always been a better operating standard for me. I learned it in my teens as mom moved us around a lot, and it was a habit I had to re-institute in my twenties to keep from crumbling.
I am the outsider with a camera. The observer. We'll call you. One day. Every other month. Maybe.
Beating people to the punch has always been the way I navigate life. It may not be a great way of life, but I am still walking the planet. Bitter (maybe) but still walking.
Anyhow, I did manage to see Wuthering Heights for the first time! Gran turned on her favorite movie channel, and there it was!
So, maybe the weekend wasn't "furry" so much as 'deer hide-y', and a little chaotic location-wise.
11.02.2012
The sounds of the zoo
I don't know what it's like where you live...what creatures you share your home with. Here, the morning noises are a strange mix as everyone wakes to begin their days and activities.
Personally, I live with two trolls and three cats.
Ah, yes...and the forty pound acrobat squirrels, who jump on (and romp 'round) my roof and gutters; the precocious chipmunks (which once were cute - until they managed to invade my house walls); the massive flock of sparrows, wrens, and chickadees bellowing in the bushes along the driveway, and; the lumbering groundhogs who simply must die before they can bore any more ankle-wrenching, lawnmower-swallowing holes in my backyard!
For now, I am content with the early morning ticking of the clock from the kitchen, the infrequent drone of the refrigerator compressor, and the ocassional car passing on the street. Soon enough my trolls will begin to low in their beds, trying to remain asleep but knowing they should rise.
That's when the girls and I will make our noises. Ha!
Personally, I live with two trolls and three cats.
Ah, yes...and the forty pound acrobat squirrels, who jump on (and romp 'round) my roof and gutters; the precocious chipmunks (which once were cute - until they managed to invade my house walls); the massive flock of sparrows, wrens, and chickadees bellowing in the bushes along the driveway, and; the lumbering groundhogs who simply must die before they can bore any more ankle-wrenching, lawnmower-swallowing holes in my backyard!
For now, I am content with the early morning ticking of the clock from the kitchen, the infrequent drone of the refrigerator compressor, and the ocassional car passing on the street. Soon enough my trolls will begin to low in their beds, trying to remain asleep but knowing they should rise.
That's when the girls and I will make our noises. Ha!
11.01.2012
10.26.2012
Opposed to oleo
We're picking up steam, people, but please, keep this in mind: I like my oleo applied with a warm, gloved finger. Or, at the very least, a spoon. You folks are using spatulas. That's not appreciated.
Yesterday's blog entry received a number of 'comments', but of course, they are highly suspect as SPAM, so they weren't published. Yes, in fact, I would have to say the SPAM detector filtered out all recent 'comments' as SPAM - sadly. Even the more intelligently worded tome (below) had me going....until the very end.
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In closing, this anonymous commenter encouraged me to "Look into [their] web blog : _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .com"
My mama didn't raise no turnips. For that matter, she didn't give birth to no turnips (that I know of). Do I look like a turnip?
Then this particular SPAM-o-gram tickled my fancy as one of the less clever entries in the now daily 'contest':
"I havе гeаd so many aгticles rеgarding thе blogger loveгs exceρt this ρaragгaph iѕ in fact a nіce аrtiсle, keep іt uρ. Feel free to visit my web site ; " (yes, they added a site I will not make visible)
See, the trouble with publishing your comments (you 'anonymous' people), is that it would make me look equally stupid and pandering. Most of you spammybots have a deplorable grasp of style and creativity. You rarely reference the particular entry you comment on, and most often use a generic bull shit-written string of gibberish sentences (dead giveaway - see orange example above).
If you were sincere - and REAL - you wouldn't be "anonymous," would you? If you weren't SPAMmers, you would have no problem using your actual names or blogger IDs when sending a comment (if you had an actual blog you wanted to share). I won't promote websites unless there is a damn fine reason, just so ya know.
See, in using your real ID there would be a link to your site already built in to your signature. Or, you could subscribe to (or 'follow') this blog (or any other) in a legitimate fashion, perhaps creating a more conducive (and trustworthy) relationship of I-read-you-and-you-read-me. That's a link to your blog as well - if it's real.
Ahhh - an atmosphere of trust. A believable and friendly blogger kinship. [giddy with the thought] Not a turnip convention. Feh!
Keep your oleo. I prefer butter, anyway.
Yesterday's blog entry received a number of 'comments', but of course, they are highly suspect as SPAM, so they weren't published. Yes, in fact, I would have to say the SPAM detector filtered out all recent 'comments' as SPAM - sadly. Even the more intelligently worded tome (below) had me going....until the very end.
"Үour stуle is sо unique соmpared tο othег pеoplе I've read stuff from. I appreciate you for posting when you've got the opportunity, Guеѕs І wіll just bookmаrk this pagе."
In closing, this anonymous commenter encouraged me to "Look into [their] web blog : _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .com"
My mama didn't raise no turnips. For that matter, she didn't give birth to no turnips (that I know of). Do I look like a turnip?
Then this particular SPAM-o-gram tickled my fancy as one of the less clever entries in the now daily 'contest':
"I havе гeаd so many aгticles rеgarding thе blogger loveгs exceρt this ρaragгaph iѕ in fact a nіce аrtiсle, keep іt uρ. Feel free to visit my web site ; " (yes, they added a site I will not make visible)
See, the trouble with publishing your comments (you 'anonymous' people), is that it would make me look equally stupid and pandering. Most of you spammybots have a deplorable grasp of style and creativity. You rarely reference the particular entry you comment on, and most often use a generic bull shit-written string of gibberish sentences (dead giveaway - see orange example above).
If you were sincere - and REAL - you wouldn't be "anonymous," would you? If you weren't SPAMmers, you would have no problem using your actual names or blogger IDs when sending a comment (if you had an actual blog you wanted to share). I won't promote websites unless there is a damn fine reason, just so ya know.
See, in using your real ID there would be a link to your site already built in to your signature. Or, you could subscribe to (or 'follow') this blog (or any other) in a legitimate fashion, perhaps creating a more conducive (and trustworthy) relationship of I-read-you-and-you-read-me. That's a link to your blog as well - if it's real.
Ahhh - an atmosphere of trust. A believable and friendly blogger kinship. [giddy with the thought] Not a turnip convention. Feh!
Keep your oleo. I prefer butter, anyway.
10.24.2012
Opinions
Dear Mom -
This has been bothering me since dinner at Gram's, therefore, it must be important (TO ME). So I'm just going to say it so I can stop ruminating over it.
I am not a "drama queen." I am a rabble rouser.
There IS a difference.
Thanks.
As you were.
This has been bothering me since dinner at Gram's, therefore, it must be important (TO ME). So I'm just going to say it so I can stop ruminating over it.
I am not a "drama queen." I am a rabble rouser.
There IS a difference.
Thanks.
As you were.
10.22.2012
Oh, tell me why
This is an ongoing pet peeve.
Overheard during a newscast:
"...Police are also looking over those tapes as well."
Look here, news directors, news writers, news producers, and NEWSCASTERS (i.e; "talking heads") - if you use the word "also" in a sentence during a story, you do NOT need to use the phrase "as well." It just makes you look (and sound) stupid.
How come I can't get a job?
Overheard during a newscast:
"...Police are also looking over those tapes as well."
Look here, news directors, news writers, news producers, and NEWSCASTERS (i.e; "talking heads") - if you use the word "also" in a sentence during a story, you do NOT need to use the phrase "as well." It just makes you look (and sound) stupid.
How come I can't get a job?
'lo, "longtime lurker"
Well...I don't think I actually stipulated that the alliteration had to begin strictly with "o", did I?
No, I don't think so.
Cleaning out the ol' inbox this afternoon (and all subsequent email-related boxes) and I found a legitimate [gasp] response/comment in with the SPAM. I know!!
But that's how it's been lately, due to the SPAM that bloggers (myself included) are now receiving to drive up usership for useless sites that claim to drive readership for blogs that use their site to increase traffic to the actual blogs.....
ARGH!!! I know, right! Did you follow any of that?
Suffice to say, we all need to keep our guards up and stay vigilant online, because nefarious no-good-niks will insinuate their way into anything you will allow them to (or, won't protect yourself against). I've had to direct comments to the SPAM filters alone, then parse out the actual legitimate responses from the poopy stuff to publish.
Yes, I said "poopy."
Hey, whether you blog or not, whether you read blogs or not, those creepy types will try to weasel their way past your defenses given any means possible. So, if you comment and don't see it published right away (and you didn't write it in symbolic Chinese characters or hieroglyphs), give me a few days to filter and load, eh?
I do appreciate your time and your feedback, unless you're trying to advertise your lawn care services or penis-growing pills via the comments section.
[sneering hatefully at the screen]
I [a-hem] don't need the penis-growing pills. Nice try, though. [shaking head in disbelief]
Oh, and by the way - longtime lurkers are hugely welcome! Hello, out there. :)
No, I don't think so.
Cleaning out the ol' inbox this afternoon (and all subsequent email-related boxes) and I found a legitimate [gasp] response/comment in with the SPAM. I know!!
But that's how it's been lately, due to the SPAM that bloggers (myself included) are now receiving to drive up usership for useless sites that claim to drive readership for blogs that use their site to increase traffic to the actual blogs.....
ARGH!!! I know, right! Did you follow any of that?
Suffice to say, we all need to keep our guards up and stay vigilant online, because nefarious no-good-niks will insinuate their way into anything you will allow them to (or, won't protect yourself against). I've had to direct comments to the SPAM filters alone, then parse out the actual legitimate responses from the poopy stuff to publish.
Yes, I said "poopy."
Hey, whether you blog or not, whether you read blogs or not, those creepy types will try to weasel their way past your defenses given any means possible. So, if you comment and don't see it published right away (and you didn't write it in symbolic Chinese characters or hieroglyphs), give me a few days to filter and load, eh?
I do appreciate your time and your feedback, unless you're trying to advertise your lawn care services or penis-growing pills via the comments section.
[sneering hatefully at the screen]
I [a-hem] don't need the penis-growing pills. Nice try, though. [shaking head in disbelief]
Oh, and by the way - longtime lurkers are hugely welcome! Hello, out there. :)
10.21.2012
Ovation
The boys worked together this afternoon to rake up the mass of dead leaves in the front yard into the ditch, and for good measure, Bud obligingly took down some of the (unwanted) volunteer trees along the foundation in the front, and in the back corner near the electric meter. [massive rounds of applause and gleefulness ensue]
I'm thinking about topping the darned forsythia, too, and making it severe! Need to get some root killer from the home improvement center, to see about truly killing off this invasive stuff once and for all. Should make digging out the roots an easier chore next spring.
Also, there are predictions for rain this afternoon and all of tomorrow, so the gutters in front need to be cleaned out of this year's foliage before the mess gets any worse - and more entrenched. Mid-seventies for much of this week, so all outdoor stuff needs doing....and quickly!
Yug!
Stay tuned.
I'm thinking about topping the darned forsythia, too, and making it severe! Need to get some root killer from the home improvement center, to see about truly killing off this invasive stuff once and for all. Should make digging out the roots an easier chore next spring.
Also, there are predictions for rain this afternoon and all of tomorrow, so the gutters in front need to be cleaned out of this year's foliage before the mess gets any worse - and more entrenched. Mid-seventies for much of this week, so all outdoor stuff needs doing....and quickly!
Yug!
Stay tuned.
10.19.2012
October observations (of the feline sort)
Cleo - the epitome of a housebound tabby
Hobbes - the meticulously over-groomed foghorn
Hobbes - the meticulously over-groomed foghorn
Flop - our opulent 'fraidy-cat'
10.18.2012
Obrigada, objectivity
Yes, it seems stepping back from the keyboard and forgetting about trying to fascinate or please people who simply don't care (or can't be bothered to comment, ask questions, share commonalities and anecdotes, etc) has made me feel a bit better about doing this just for me. If you feel less than apt to at least say "hello", well then.....
:^P to you.
And you SPAMming clowns out there who feel I am ignorant enough to publish your dreg remarks (poorly written, seemingly contrived by idiots, and less than clever), to have remarks under my entries all for the sake of bolstering my ego, well - go suck a goat!
:^P to you.
And you SPAMming clowns out there who feel I am ignorant enough to publish your dreg remarks (poorly written, seemingly contrived by idiots, and less than clever), to have remarks under my entries all for the sake of bolstering my ego, well - go suck a goat!
Operation "Omission"
I have opted over the first two-plus weeks of October to remain silent rather than rant. To practice abstention over my need to explain, or question, or expound.
I exercised silence in hopes of finding my voice once again - but it's still missing.
The feeling that I have nothing to offer persists. Nothing that anyone would give a rat's ass about, anyway. My melancholia is evident in spades, and I resent it!
This time of year is usually my favorite. The cooler days; the languid afternoon sun shining down at awkward, elongated angles; shorter hours of daylight; falling evening temps; the changing colors of the trees and foliage around the yard. It all normally buoys my spirit and raises my happiness meter to new heights.... but not this year - and I don't know why.
Over the past few weeks I have hidden away from all of my normal activities. Found a deep recess in the attic space of my psyche and burrowed in, wholly surrendering to oblivion and ennui. Eshewed the handful of brilliantly sunlit days (when I would normally revel in them with my quilting projects) and ignored the overabundant dark and rainy days, keeping myself cloistered and walled off from the daily disappointment of the less-than-satisfactory responses to job applications (mostly), the ignorant SPAM comments being shovelled in this direction, and the daily barrage of Karl's strange, Autistic-shunning friend seeking help and guidance she laughingly will not give credence to.
She is a time waster and an emotional drain. An 'ask hole,' and unworthy of the space in my head and the indigestion she has caused. A walking whirlwind of discontent. But, she is another story foranother. No!
I've told you already, she is a drain, and I won't go there any more....never-in-a-million-years!
At any rate, I am feeling a bit more optimistic this afternoon, so I thought it might be a good time to share a little information. Don't know how enlightening or significant you may find any of it, but here it is.
Karl's photography class is proceeding down it's slow, slow path. It's not the sort of class he thought it would be (maybe that'll teach him to read the darned class description when mom suggests it), and it is a bit of a backward step for him, but at least he is getting outside the house once a week and having to deal with meeting new people and being in unfamiliar territory.
We (Karl and I) had lunch with Maria in Ferndale about a week ago, and had a very nice time at a restaurant named Como's. Always wondered about that spot every time I would pass it coming home from a film gig in the D. Now I know!
Thank you, Maria -- a-g-a-i-n!
I had some farm animal materials to give her (pulled from my stash, Mom) for the charm block challenge happening in the quilting guild she belongs to. I hope she can use them, or pass them along to others who can. Goodness knows it's all sat long enough in my collection!
My surprise was in receiving one of her wonderful tote bags with a flap! Made of beautiful, upholstery-like material, it's lined and has interior pockets, and a very long strap which is wide and comfy for over the shoulder use. Thank you so much, lady, I've already had an opportunity to use it and will continue to do so!!
Been contacted for a scripty gig but most likely will be turning it down, as 'they' are unresponsive regarding questions I have, and have yet to send the script for a breakdown (production begins 10/29). Rushing for every little scrap of time is not my ideal way of working. Plus, the daily rate is absolute crap - AGAIN!
Damned California production companies thinking they can undervalue MI talent while taking advantage of the incentives (what little remains of them). I may as well continue to look for 'regular' work outside of the industry during those three weeks as opposed to all of the driving I'd be doing; spending money on gas and a place to stay, and bringing home little $ for bills and the bank. Not worth it. SO not worth it.
On top of all those detractors is the real issue of arranging a ride for Karl to and from class for those three weeks. He can't afford to miss that much time....so, it's a definite "no" for this cheap Cali-indie.
Yes, Bud is still with his company, working 40 hour weeks, and they are gearing up for the holidays already - annoying music and all. Hoping it would incentivize him to find other work while the finding is good (for his ilk), but he seems determined to stick it out at M's and continue internalizing the grief and sniping of his workmates and staff. [tsk, tsk] He'll have an ulcer if he never leaves there.
Karl had been contacted by Target over a week ago, and had a cursory phone interview ending with the vague promise of a return call in a week's time. Yeah, yeah...right.
No, he hasn't heard from them again. Yes, we know it takes time. Yes, we are aware this particular wheel grinds slowly (if at all), but please understand how eager he is to find a job at a place he would prefer to be.
Tall order without the Autism thrown in for good measure. At any rate, we wait. See? This is why I have omitted myself from blogging of late.
Tick. Tock. Tick.
Hope things are well for you, wherever you are.
I exercised silence in hopes of finding my voice once again - but it's still missing.
The feeling that I have nothing to offer persists. Nothing that anyone would give a rat's ass about, anyway. My melancholia is evident in spades, and I resent it!
This time of year is usually my favorite. The cooler days; the languid afternoon sun shining down at awkward, elongated angles; shorter hours of daylight; falling evening temps; the changing colors of the trees and foliage around the yard. It all normally buoys my spirit and raises my happiness meter to new heights.... but not this year - and I don't know why.
Over the past few weeks I have hidden away from all of my normal activities. Found a deep recess in the attic space of my psyche and burrowed in, wholly surrendering to oblivion and ennui. Eshewed the handful of brilliantly sunlit days (when I would normally revel in them with my quilting projects) and ignored the overabundant dark and rainy days, keeping myself cloistered and walled off from the daily disappointment of the less-than-satisfactory responses to job applications (mostly), the ignorant SPAM comments being shovelled in this direction, and the daily barrage of Karl's strange, Autistic-shunning friend seeking help and guidance she laughingly will not give credence to.
She is a time waster and an emotional drain. An 'ask hole,' and unworthy of the space in my head and the indigestion she has caused. A walking whirlwind of discontent. But, she is another story for
I've told you already, she is a drain, and I won't go there any more....never-in-a-million-years!
At any rate, I am feeling a bit more optimistic this afternoon, so I thought it might be a good time to share a little information. Don't know how enlightening or significant you may find any of it, but here it is.
Karl's photography class is proceeding down it's slow, slow path. It's not the sort of class he thought it would be (maybe that'll teach him to read the darned class description when mom suggests it), and it is a bit of a backward step for him, but at least he is getting outside the house once a week and having to deal with meeting new people and being in unfamiliar territory.
We (Karl and I) had lunch with Maria in Ferndale about a week ago, and had a very nice time at a restaurant named Como's. Always wondered about that spot every time I would pass it coming home from a film gig in the D. Now I know!
Thank you, Maria -- a-g-a-i-n!
I had some farm animal materials to give her (pulled from my stash, Mom) for the charm block challenge happening in the quilting guild she belongs to. I hope she can use them, or pass them along to others who can. Goodness knows it's all sat long enough in my collection!
My surprise was in receiving one of her wonderful tote bags with a flap! Made of beautiful, upholstery-like material, it's lined and has interior pockets, and a very long strap which is wide and comfy for over the shoulder use. Thank you so much, lady, I've already had an opportunity to use it and will continue to do so!!
Been contacted for a scripty gig but most likely will be turning it down, as 'they' are unresponsive regarding questions I have, and have yet to send the script for a breakdown (production begins 10/29). Rushing for every little scrap of time is not my ideal way of working. Plus, the daily rate is absolute crap - AGAIN!
Damned California production companies thinking they can undervalue MI talent while taking advantage of the incentives (what little remains of them). I may as well continue to look for 'regular' work outside of the industry during those three weeks as opposed to all of the driving I'd be doing; spending money on gas and a place to stay, and bringing home little $ for bills and the bank. Not worth it. SO not worth it.
On top of all those detractors is the real issue of arranging a ride for Karl to and from class for those three weeks. He can't afford to miss that much time....so, it's a definite "no" for this cheap Cali-indie.
Yes, Bud is still with his company, working 40 hour weeks, and they are gearing up for the holidays already - annoying music and all. Hoping it would incentivize him to find other work while the finding is good (for his ilk), but he seems determined to stick it out at M's and continue internalizing the grief and sniping of his workmates and staff. [tsk, tsk] He'll have an ulcer if he never leaves there.
Karl had been contacted by Target over a week ago, and had a cursory phone interview ending with the vague promise of a return call in a week's time. Yeah, yeah...right.
No, he hasn't heard from them again. Yes, we know it takes time. Yes, we are aware this particular wheel grinds slowly (if at all), but please understand how eager he is to find a job at a place he would prefer to be.
Tall order without the Autism thrown in for good measure. At any rate, we wait. See? This is why I have omitted myself from blogging of late.
Tick. Tock. Tick.
Hope things are well for you, wherever you are.
9.30.2012
S'long, September
Let the alliteration begin!
Make way for "Oh"-verbearing October. I invite you to join in - if you think you can keep up. ;)
Make way for "Oh"-verbearing October. I invite you to join in - if you think you can keep up. ;)
9.28.2012
Not here for your cross purposes
Hey! I blog because it's therapeutic (some days).
I blog because it shares information with [my] family, friends, and interested parties, without having to spend a lot more time retyping the same answers to similar questions over and over.
I blog because (for the most part) I enjoy it.
Over the last week I have had three really odd comments from solicitous neenerheads, people I do not know....most of which had nothing to do with the blog they commented under. Now I find I am receiving the oddest tripe in the form of comments....written in Chinese characters, no less!
Seriously, if you think you can promote YOUR blog by way of insincere flattery and BS - think again! I don't require comments to validate my existence.
Good luck with your self esteem issues, though, and trying to promote yourself elsewhere. I know how to filter and use my delete functions.
Bye-bye, doo-doo heads.
I blog because it shares information with [my] family, friends, and interested parties, without having to spend a lot more time retyping the same answers to similar questions over and over.
I blog because (for the most part) I enjoy it.
Over the last week I have had three really odd comments from solicitous neenerheads, people I do not know....most of which had nothing to do with the blog they commented under. Now I find I am receiving the oddest tripe in the form of comments....written in Chinese characters, no less!
Seriously, if you think you can promote YOUR blog by way of insincere flattery and BS - think again! I don't require comments to validate my existence.
Good luck with your self esteem issues, though, and trying to promote yourself elsewhere. I know how to filter and use my delete functions.
Bye-bye, doo-doo heads.
9.26.2012
This just struck me as funny
Yahoo article:
"She may have kept a poster of Tom Cruise on her wall as a kid, but Katie Holmes' first big, real-life romance was with another tall, dark and handsome..."
Did you catch it? Was it obvious, or is it just me?
Tom Cruise: 5'7"
Joshua Jackson: 6'1.75"
And, may I add, Katie is a good couple of inches taller than Cruise in stocking feet.
"...another tall..."???
Heck, I'd be willing to bet the poster was taller than the actual thing. ;)
"She may have kept a poster of Tom Cruise on her wall as a kid, but Katie Holmes' first big, real-life romance was with another tall, dark and handsome..."
Did you catch it? Was it obvious, or is it just me?
Tom Cruise: 5'7"
Joshua Jackson: 6'1.75"
And, may I add, Katie is a good couple of inches taller than Cruise in stocking feet.
"...another tall..."???
Heck, I'd be willing to bet the poster was taller than the actual thing. ;)
9.24.2012
Everybody say "oopsy"
If you read here periodically you may remember that one of our cats has had health issues pertaining to her urinary system.
Cleo (Brian's cat) has had struvite crystals (akin to kidney stones), which was always an odd coincidence since Brian has had (and continues to be plagued with) stones.
At any rate, over the last year - give or take - Cleo has run into another issue, which we've managed to hurdle as a family on those 'crappy' occasions. She becomes blocked (not constipated), and when that happens, our first warning of a bumpy day to come begins with her violent vomiting and extremely hot ears; continual, fruitless trips to the cat box; quiet whimpering; butt crawling; malaise; straining and dripping butt mud.
It's a long road for her, but it finally culminates in a large stool or two.
We try to keep her cordoned in a small area and we line the floor with layers of newspapers. We supply a small, make-shift cat box for her mental comfort, and keep her company and give her support when the going becomes extra rough. When she begins to leak wet stool ("dripping butt mud"), I clean her bum after each try at evacuating stool - for this I am licked furiously, but lovingly. Eventually, she is able to go.
She won't accept milk, and rarely drinks water while having an episode. It's a wait-and-see ordeal, usually resulting in positive results anywhere from four to six hours after it begins.
She very recently had one of these bouts and I read online where a vet recommended a small amount of Metamucil be added to water and/or food to help 'grease the wheel.' So, we rushed to the store and bought our girl a small supply, and hours later (after adding it to very wet canned food), plop went the weasel! It was also suggested that canned pumpkin or mineral oil be added to the diet on a fairly regular basis. Well, one of these will be added right away to keep her from suffering like this again.
We were so relieved for her that I lay down on the sofa with Cleo and we took a catnap. However, before we closed our eyes, I neglected to pick up the small container of Metamucil-spiked water, and I awoke to the sounds of one of the other cat lapping at the water!
Um....oopsy.
Cleo (Brian's cat) has had struvite crystals (akin to kidney stones), which was always an odd coincidence since Brian has had (and continues to be plagued with) stones.
At any rate, over the last year - give or take - Cleo has run into another issue, which we've managed to hurdle as a family on those 'crappy' occasions. She becomes blocked (not constipated), and when that happens, our first warning of a bumpy day to come begins with her violent vomiting and extremely hot ears; continual, fruitless trips to the cat box; quiet whimpering; butt crawling; malaise; straining and dripping butt mud.
It's a long road for her, but it finally culminates in a large stool or two.
We try to keep her cordoned in a small area and we line the floor with layers of newspapers. We supply a small, make-shift cat box for her mental comfort, and keep her company and give her support when the going becomes extra rough. When she begins to leak wet stool ("dripping butt mud"), I clean her bum after each try at evacuating stool - for this I am licked furiously, but lovingly. Eventually, she is able to go.
She won't accept milk, and rarely drinks water while having an episode. It's a wait-and-see ordeal, usually resulting in positive results anywhere from four to six hours after it begins.
She very recently had one of these bouts and I read online where a vet recommended a small amount of Metamucil be added to water and/or food to help 'grease the wheel.' So, we rushed to the store and bought our girl a small supply, and hours later (after adding it to very wet canned food), plop went the weasel! It was also suggested that canned pumpkin or mineral oil be added to the diet on a fairly regular basis. Well, one of these will be added right away to keep her from suffering like this again.
We were so relieved for her that I lay down on the sofa with Cleo and we took a catnap. However, before we closed our eyes, I neglected to pick up the small container of Metamucil-spiked water, and I awoke to the sounds of one of the other cat lapping at the water!
Um....oopsy.
9.23.2012
Oh, and, Terry Sawyer...
If that was really you leaving a (somewhat) strangely-worded comment on a year-old blog entry, thank you. It was a kind (strangely-worded) comment, and I truly appreciated it. Thanks.
[tiny flattery blush]
Pssst....I am assuming you were using an iPad (or other sort of tablet) to write it on. I have a friend who also uses an electronic "pad", and suffers a lot of typos and word-corrected app-foibles in her messages.
Hope to read you again some time, when you aren't at war with the press. :)
[tiny flattery blush]
Pssst....I am assuming you were using an iPad (or other sort of tablet) to write it on. I have a friend who also uses an electronic "pad", and suffers a lot of typos and word-corrected app-foibles in her messages.
Hope to read you again some time, when you aren't at war with the press. :)
What the hey?!!?
Why is the Motor City being dragged into this? I dunno, but here is one rather snarky Detroit-inclusive comment left on the blog of a person named Terry Sawyer:
"Hey Corcoran, may I suggest you check out Detroit sometime. It has everything you're looking for in a "dream city." Or maybe Cleveland. Or wherever. Just please NEVER come back." -- ERRXN.
Totally unsure of what this is all about, except I did read the two verbal-fisticuffs rants of Terry Sawyer (respondent) and ['something']Corcoran (hang on...I'll go look again. OK, so it's Michael Corcoran) -- yellow-page journalist with nothing to do, apparently, but incite trouble.
As I began to say, I read the two inciting quips and retorts for incite and found I would have been better off cleaning out the cat box to pass my time. Sorry, Terry.
It seems our Mr. Sawyer took umbrage with an article penned by this Corcoran fella some time back, regarding the later's attitude of woes (in spades) surrounding the seemingly lackluster condition of Austin, TX. [did ya follow that?]
So, Sawyer blogged a response (or two) slamming Corcoran's diatribe (and Corcoran), then things seemed to take a nasty turn, each responding - and responding again - to the other's reactionary poo-slinging.This was months ago, and quite frankly, it appears the Corcoran fella is a little disgruntled (and well off the mark) in assuming Sawyer was aiming to make a name for himself by generating a stink using Corcoran as fodder for a well-read 'blogicle.'
See, from what I can tell, Sawyer already has a following and didn't need to dress-down Corcoran for more notoriety; but he (TS) did dispatch the windbag (MC) ably, to my Austin-ignorant eyes, and to that end I salute Mr. Sawyer.
However, I read through the comments to Sawyer's initial response, only to find Detroit included in a rather derogatory and unkind backlash-sort-of comment (included above). So, hopefully this all explains my early blog for the day.
While we have our (many) issues here in the Great Lakes state (starting and ending with the crap-headed gov), please refrain from using (and abusing) us in what is most definitely a southern boy brawl. We aren't hurling northern and mid-western epithets at you boot wearers, please try and play nicely with us northerners, why don't ya.
"Hey Corcoran, may I suggest you check out Detroit sometime. It has everything you're looking for in a "dream city." Or maybe Cleveland. Or wherever. Just please NEVER come back." -- ERRXN.
Totally unsure of what this is all about, except I did read the two verbal-fisticuffs rants of Terry Sawyer (respondent) and ['something']Corcoran (hang on...I'll go look again. OK, so it's Michael Corcoran) -- yellow-page journalist with nothing to do, apparently, but incite trouble.
As I began to say, I read the two inciting quips and retorts for incite and found I would have been better off cleaning out the cat box to pass my time. Sorry, Terry.
It seems our Mr. Sawyer took umbrage with an article penned by this Corcoran fella some time back, regarding the later's attitude of woes (in spades) surrounding the seemingly lackluster condition of Austin, TX. [did ya follow that?]
So, Sawyer blogged a response (or two) slamming Corcoran's diatribe (and Corcoran), then things seemed to take a nasty turn, each responding - and responding again - to the other's reactionary poo-slinging.This was months ago, and quite frankly, it appears the Corcoran fella is a little disgruntled (and well off the mark) in assuming Sawyer was aiming to make a name for himself by generating a stink using Corcoran as fodder for a well-read 'blogicle.'
See, from what I can tell, Sawyer already has a following and didn't need to dress-down Corcoran for more notoriety; but he (TS) did dispatch the windbag (MC) ably, to my Austin-ignorant eyes, and to that end I salute Mr. Sawyer.
However, I read through the comments to Sawyer's initial response, only to find Detroit included in a rather derogatory and unkind backlash-sort-of comment (included above). So, hopefully this all explains my early blog for the day.
While we have our (many) issues here in the Great Lakes state (starting and ending with the crap-headed gov), please refrain from using (and abusing) us in what is most definitely a southern boy brawl. We aren't hurling northern and mid-western epithets at you boot wearers, please try and play nicely with us northerners, why don't ya.
9.17.2012
Just a couple of disjointed things
Yeah, I know. "What's new?"
:^P
Last night was a little nippy, as sleeping weather goes (if you like sleeping with the windows open), but because it never really got too warm in the house yesterday I had the windows closed, and had considered whether or not to set the furnace to a low temp and have it on standby - just in case.
As the temps fell through the low sixties by nine o'clock, and then well on into the low fifties by bedtime, I made the decision to set the furnace at a cool 66*F (knowing that the thermostat and the furnace are about two degrees off from one another).
I reasoned that by the time the interior temp of the house would have reached the mid-sixties (if it did) the furnace would keep it in our comfy summer sleeping range.
What I failed to remember about our little program-able thermostat was that there were four timed settings that needed to be overridden, and when I adjusted the temp at 10PM, that didn't mean it would still be in force at 7AM, when the program jumps to 71*F.
Oops!
I awoke to the sound of the furnace, rumbling and blowing, heating the house from whatever temp it had fallen to, to our balmy seventy-one degree setting.
Well, if nothing else, the cats really appreciated it. There was purring going on all over the place as they scrambled for kitty-happy heat vents!
To make matters worse, I then turned on the news to scope out the amended forecast for today, only to learn we were to experience high seventies (nearly 80*) today, and here I was essentially jumpstarting the warmup! So, I switched off the furnace then flicked on the attic fan to cool us off for the inevitable warm up!
What a rube! In a flash I sent the interior temp back to 66*F! (I despise you, Con$umers Power)
The other item is simply this:
Have you ever tried the Kroger brand rice cakes? They are delicious, and a bit less expensive for the quantity and quality. We especially love the "Yogurt & Berries" and the "Caramel" flavors! Give them a try, you won't be disappointed.
The hard part is to not love them until the bag is empty (in one sitting).
OK, I am outta here. Still cleaning and purging, and balancing those darned accounts....but I can see the end of the tunnel approaching! Next up, shifting furniture!!!
Have a good day, whatever you're doing.
9.16.2012
M*A*S*H*-iversary
Has it really been forty years since the network premiere of the best television show EVER!?
40 years!
During its illustrious and storied run, M*A*S*H* won no fewer than 14 Emmys and 8 Golden Globes! Not many shows can boast of such a tremendous record. Fewer still even come close to either of those credentials! Eat your fake hearts out, you producers of "reality" TV.
Oh, how I miss the "four-oh-77th" and those wonderful characters. The writing was clever - even when heavy-handed - and the acting and direction were brilliant.
And what a cast!
Time for a M*A*S*H*-athon, dear friends. Meet me in front of the telly tomorrow and we'll hunker down for a good long time.
September 17, 1972...it was a very good year.
9.14.2012
Hmmmm
There seems to be a lot of reminiscing going on with the blog entries over the past couple of days. Lots of hits on pieces going back to the creation of the blog - and the early years.
Julie Gaydos, are you looking for photos of yourself to post on FB? LOL You should know I ended up erasing a lot of them about a year ago (of everyone) from those SHS days - and I most likely will eliminate several more shortly.
You really should get yourself a camera (or a friend with a camera) and take more up-to-date pictures anyway. Quit living in the past. ;)
UPDATE
Turns out it probably wasn't Julie looking into those really old posts to find photos of herself for FB.
Whatever.
So, whoever you are....HELLO! Do you have any questions about anything thus far?; please don't hesitate to leave them as a comment. Or, simply send an email, and I will get back to you fairly quickly.
9.12.2012
Clean up
Last night's dinner consisted of the leftover salmon, cut up and tossed into a pan of white sauce made with evaporated milk, chevre' cheese and herbs, and lightly sauteed onions and peas. All of that was ladled over Trader Joe's lemon and cracked pepper noodles.
[grunty-sigh] It was delicious! The perfect meal to end a perfect weather day.
Happiness on a plate! [sigh]
MEOW! [covered in grey velvet fur and wide green saucers for eyes]
It's early enough this morning, yet (now that fall is closer than ever, and the earth has shifted on its winter axis) that the sun hasn't begun to beam over the roof line to the edge of the porch, but Cleo doesn't know that. She can't be convinced to wait patiently, and wants what she wants - NOW. Wants what she has become accustomed to over the last four months - that after-breakfast sojourn to the "out" and her sunny spot in the grass, to roll and loll and eat and sniff the air and listen.
"Not yet," we tell her, but she trots to the door and waits; nose pressed to the seal, ears pricked and feet at the ready. If we don't move in her direction, she'll turn and give us the mournful meow, and that look.
The "I-don't-understand-what-you-don't-understand-why-aren't-we-outside-yet?-have-you-forgotten-how-to-open-the-door?" look.
It'll be at least three hours before the sun has reached the perfect position and dried her spot on the lawn enough to lie in, but you can't tell her that.
I want the "out", mom. Please. [blink]
Today will be warmer (as will tomorrow), in the mid-eighties say the weather weenies. Then, by weeks' end the temps will dip back into the seventies once more. YEA! Cool evenings and mildly temperate days - that's all I need. All I want, really; so I guess I can (sort of) empathize with the pup. [blink]
Today will consist of more cleaning up (a continuation of the past few days), de-cluttering, and bill paying. Perhaps a little more checkbook balancing, to boot!
Oh! [squeal of delight]
Dare I dream of it? Shall I utter it aloud?
Maybe even a bit of furniture reorg?
[squeal number two]
Let's not get ahead of ourselves, shall we. Let's keep our heads, woman! 'One foot in front'...and all of that rot.
Still.......
Clean up on aisle three!
9.11.2012
2008 says "merry Christmas" to me
Aahhh....it's honestly more like 2009 or 2010, really, but who's keeping track anyway?
I have wanted Bud's old tires moved out of the middle of the garage floor (to a less inconvenient spot) for quite some time now. Every time I've asked for his help in moving them - or for him to simply do it himself - I would come up against vague mumbled promises and grumbly attitude.
I can do without the 'tude!
It wasn't only that the tires were (have been) in the way all this time, but because they were useless and BALD and unsafe to use for any reason, I couldn't understand why he brought them home!
I could never figure out why he didn't have them removed from the rims and dispensed with when he finally bought himself a brand new set of tires. I mean, he....they...were all right there in the tire place!
Since that time (the advent of the new tires), many are the occasions when the suggestion had been made to throw the four wheels into the back of 'the Duke' and get the dirty deed done.
Every time I journeyed into the garage in a fit of cleaning (in hopes of carving out a place to park for the winter), I was stymied by those darned tires!
The great tower of tread-less rubber.
I could barely move them without straining something vital, and they were an even bigger nuisance to try and maneuver around.
So, yesterday, in a fit of whatever mood I was in, I dragged the boys outdoors and had them assist me with a little garage remodeling. Not much, mind you (nowhere near enough to my liking), but it was a fabulous 22 minutes!
We took the AC unit out of the LR and stored it; cleaned out a smattering of useless bits and pieces just laying about, reconfigured some of the larger standing items...and removed those darned tires before Bud could utter a noise.
I didn't give him a chance or a choice...just said grab 'em and let's load 'em up and get 'em stripped down to the rims! Today! [insert cracking whip noise here]
Well, long story medium-sized:
We got the tires to the dealer in short order, and the rims were laid bare in less than fifteen minutes - and for far less than I anticipated it would cost!
Without saying "I told you so", once we arrived home I simply told the boy "thank you" for getting that nasty task out of the way, and pointed to the 23" of floor space the rims have been allocated - on what may become his side of the garage (provided he can continue cleaning out a spot for his v-dub).
Ha! Merry Christmas, indeed.
Atrocities
It's NOT "wetten."
There's no such word in the English language! [hissing venomously]
We have "wet" and "dampen", and those would be appropriate and CORRECT, given you understand how to use the English language - you non-foreign-raised, Anglo, newscaster moron!
9.10.2012
Mmmmm...nummers!
Made salmon, eggplant parmesan (in a crockpot, no less - after pan-frying the eggplant), and crudites with homemade tzadziki!
I feel good and the boys are happy, so something must have turned out right. ;)
Once upon a time
There was once a period in my life (my entire life, actually) where I could eat anything I chose without repercussions - of any sort. But I suppose too much of anything can be detrimental in some way, eh?
Even if the item in question is usually suggested to support a healthful diet....for a woman......of. a. certain......age.
Yes, even pistachios. [insert sinister music riff]
I love pistachios, and they love me. However, more than a modest handful at one time (per day) can lead to...well... . . . . . . .
...mud butt.
9.09.2012
Activities
What do you do when you feel especially bitter?
I'm trying to work through my bitters by 'laying it out there' - and then cleaning.
Purging (more like).
I am mercilessly cleaning my space, and neatening the whole place, and throwing away my past cling-ons.
I am moving on - and hopefully upward, too....now that the load is lighter.
Began the purging and cleaning yesterday afternoon, and I am hopeful it will give me a clearer mind and a more positive aura (and a more peaceful heart). I need all three in the worst way.
Have a good Sunday, no matter what you are doing.
Now, where's that shovel?
What's this!?!?!?!!!!
"Dr. Goodluck Davis" wants to give me a loan!
Lil ol' me!?
Be still my SPAM-hatin', 4sshole-identifyin', dirtbag-proof, non-rose-colored-glasses-wearin' heart!
And of course, he's not the only one, but it was the most amusing name in the SPAM bucket this morning, so he gets the bull's eye spot today.
Congratulations, Dr. Goodluck Davis!
9.06.2012
And one more thing
This venting is more for my peace of mind to just "get it out there," so if you want to skip this post that would be my (strong) suggestion.
OK, well, in all honesty, probably several more 'things'.....but I promise this will be brief (-er).
1) So, she says "I was enjoying getting to know you."
May I point out, she really never got to "know [me]" as she was extremely busy running her mouth about all of her woes, everything the world was doing 'to her', why me-ing and sobbing over everyting bad, brought on by her own mismanagement and stupidity over the years -- and recent months.
If you can't pay your mortgage or your taxes some day.....it will catch up to you. But by all means, buy and keep a frigging-expensive car you don't need and can't afford either! That'll make it all better.
Oh, and she was so busy lamenting and venting that she never asked about my life or family, except enough to have points to commiserate on.
2) "...I didn't foresee you getting up upset and blowing me off."
I didn't get "upset," per se', I simply did what she had been instructing me to do all of this year, and sporadically over the past several years (when I was begged to watch her house and "let me know if/when [insert random child name here] shows up at my house or goes in").
I tried to stop the loud music one of the girlfriends of the returning addict son, and when I could accomplish nothing on my own I contacted Boohoo Pam. She was online posting diet homilies on FB, so I tried messaging and emailing.
No word from her sent me to step two (her idea, all that time ago) - call the cops! I contentedly waited (because it wasn't an emergency), and eventually, the noise was addressed and taken care of.
May I further point out, that even after the boy came over to complain about my complaining (about current gf's noise), I loaned them tables to use for their lackluster attempt at a garage sale.
And 'further' further point out that I didn't 'blow her off' in any way, shape, or form. We ("me and mine") went about our ensuing days as we normally have done and still do - coming and going, trying to make eye contact and wave (if appropriate), while she hid in the shadows and acted as she always has. When she wanted or needed something there was contact, otherwise, she had no use for me/us.
3) As for the "actually, I should be the one upset, but I never stay that way..." garbage, "...I am sorry you think we are such bad people; I know we are not" tripe is projecting her thoughts and not a reflection of mine. Hey, good, free, vaudeville theater/entertainment is good free entertainment, man. She made a spectacle of that family, nobody else. When she needed a hug and a shoulder, she came over and asked for one, then spent hours hiding here from her son (with his phone) while he lay passed out on her floor.
I tried to tell her to pray and believe, to keep moving forward. She waffled and bemoaned and cried wolf and made snap decisions and then had a mega load of regrets -- and then would repeat it all week after week.
My sons are not issues or problems or out of control. God has blessed me with the willingness and instinct to keep them on the right track when all around us things and people could have badly influenced them; and He provided good family friends to help guide them and listen to them when my sons needed it to not be mom. He has been merciful and I have been a diligent parent. They are fine young men!
It's life! Stop putting your woes and ill thoughts at my doorstep! Grow up and try to behave as a human and not a sniveling dog. Put your head up and shoulders back and walk upright in the sun. Stop cowering and pointing fingers and assuming what YOU DON'T KNOW!
Obviously, you must think you are 'that sort' of person or you wouldn't be so "sorry" and apologetic, nor would you feel compelled to wonder what other folks are wondering.
4) Yes, hopefully a much quieter family will move in once you're gone, and a much more normal-behaving, friendly, more affable, less whiny, more responsible sort of people will find their way into the neighborhood...but time will tell.
Okey doke, so if you didn't heed my warning and went on to read this post anyway, and now you want your time back, forget it! I can't get mine back either, so I suppose we should all just move along. Tomorrow will be a better day.
9.05.2012
Sorry, Jean
Guess venting last night wasn't enough. I had to get it out of my system, once and for all.
I'm feeling much better, now.
9.03.2012
Go figure
Trying to figure out why it is that when I have a day where there is absolutely nothing planned, - no obstructions, appointments, worries, have-ta-do's, family obligations, etc. - why it is that the weather feels the need to toss a kink in the works. Why it gets in the way. Why it works against me.
Argh! Blast! Dagnabbit! Confound it! Poop!
Yes, I am aware this all makes me sound the eentsiest bit paranoid, but hey! If the humidity fits....
I've had to take a break (when there is no time to waste) and turn on the AC to suck the humidity out of the house just so I can quilt.
Sheesh [and grumble].
9.02.2012
Day 2
Had a brief - and somewhat lackluster - breakfast with Brian. He was "sort of" hungry, but not too interested in eating. I suggested oatmeal or Cream of Wheat (yes, brand name and therefore capitalized) and toast. Something light but likely to stick with him (and in him) for a bit this morning.
He chose oatmeal (I despise oatmeal) and I had the toast and peanut butter, A glass of milk for each; he had tea a little earlier.
We made small talk. The cats mewed for more food and made nuisances of themselves.
The morning has been still and overcast, and you can feel the humidity creeping upward almost by the minute. It's fairly quiet in the neighborhood - a nice change.
I put a few more lines of stitching into the commissioned piece, then realized I used the wrong color thread for that area, and had to pu......
Spoke too soon. Some idiot garage-saler pulled up into the driveway across the street and honked, because their door wasn't open and the shit wasn't on display! They honked!! Can you imagine the gall? Of course, this wench across the street (A.K.A. Redneck Theater) has a sign out at the main street with no time listed, and folks are used to eight or nine A.M. start times for these things.
But to pull up to a house and honk?! Come on!
She left her addict son in charge of it last weekend, and he decided to open the doors at 11AM, putting the sign out at the main street around 10:30. Rolled the tent flaps down around 4:30PM or so, and was surprised not to have made any money! Then, decided to pull the signs and do nothing on Sunday!
Ah, well. To each his own, I suppose.
The honking cars pulled away after a shouted exchange of "when do you open?" and "we open around ten" (yes, there were two cars), and then the garage door creaked open about four minutes later.
It's now a full fifteen minutes past the honking, and the garage door is now closed; the boy has jumped in a car...to go pull the signs I imagine. How enterprising!
Yup, RNT mom is a fine example for her children. It will be a shame to see them leave the neighborhood. [mock sincerity or extreme sarcasm - you choose]
10:11A.M. - The Sunday calm is shattered, and a squirrel in the maple out front is annoyed and scolding the world.
Well, I've got things to do today which includes leaving the house soon, so I guess I will have to ask Karl to fill me in on the rest of the RNT swan song.
9.01.2012
8.30.2012
I'm splendid!
Quilting's a bi*ch...but I'm splendid.
In this humidity (although, now the weather weenies are pointing our attention to the dew point any more, rather than the humidity level) the quilting is a tough (and s-l-o-w) go.
It's almost enough to make me wish I liked digging ditches instead of quilting. But I have to get this project done, and it's not going down easily.
Blaaaaaaahhghgh!
8.28.2012
Holy smokes!
Received a phone call from an HR person for a health care facility/hospital position I applied to yesterday!
In fact, I responded to four different positions in four surrounding cities for the same organization yesterday, and I was delighted to get the message from Brian when I walked in the door!
It's been so long since I've spoken with anyone about anything (job-wise), that I am afraid I am going to trip over my tongue.
I've already phoned in my response to the HR person's call, and left a message on her voicemail, so I guess now we wait and see how long before she gets back to me.
Prayers muttered, finger's crossed. I'll let you know how it goes - when it goes........if it goes.
8.27.2012
Infinitely frustrated
Infinitely frustrated with the weather. I cannot quilt with this much humidity!
The material is so damp that it won't slide over the bed of the machine (under the needle) without a tremendous amount of effort. The stitches either end up too long or the material becomes hung up, causing the needle to drop in the same place twice. The later issue causes an ultra-short stitch length or a build up, just because I can't get the material to move!!
This is the second lost day to the crap weather, and time is desperately short for this project!!!!!
[primal scream]
What an absolutely horrid day. Humidity through the roof, and while it isn't in the eighties or nineties (just yet), it is just too cotton-picking hot and sticky.
Maybe I belong in Norway....or Nova Scotia.
Oh!....or Newfoundland.
Wherever it is, I certainly do not belong here, in this state...or, maybe even this country.
I would miss my sons, for I am also certain they would not want to come with me, but I would have the cats - and that's enough. Except for my mom and my kids, they are all the family I have; and what are you without family?
OK, besides 'alone,' I mean. Smart asses.
So, yes. I guess my issues today are the crap weather and my family.
Ah, I dunno, it's Michigan, after all. Let's see if things don't improve in ten minutes. And if not "improve," then at least change.
8.26.2012
8.22.2012
On a more positive note
I did manage to successfully avoid washing a sinkful of dishes.
I LOVE a good success story. Don't you?
Ho-hum
I truly wasn't going to post my last entry. And after writing it, I 'sat on it' for the better part of a week thinking I would eventually change my mind and would simply delete it.
Too much vigorous ranting, lately. But hey - I've got a pretty low BP, so I must be doing something right!
I let myself become busy doing other things around here. Looking for work (as always), cleaning out storage stuff and dusting cobwebs, quilting, quilting, quilting. Aaaa, you get the idea.
I really felt as though I had nothing worthwhile to say - on anything - and therefore opted to remain silent for a few days.
Well, I guess you can tell I was still bugged by the dropped 'playdate' thing, so I posted the blog.
Oddly, I still don't feel like posting anything else, though.
I feel empty. Lackluster. Unimportant. Inconsequential.
I feel 'ho-hum.'
Finally managed to finish piecing the commissioned quilt I have been working on, both top and backing, so today will be spent stretching and basting it in preparation for quilting. With any sort of luck I will needle the first lines into by this evening. I still have ten days before it needs to be in the buyer's hands.
[sigh]
8.16.2012
Go figure
A-a-a-n-d there's the phone call.
[grumble]
So, we've allowed ourselves to become used to the changes. We've actually become so used to the inevitability of not whether it would happen, but when it was going to manifest itself, that we only ever really lay bets down on the "why" of it all.
In all honesty, I think if there weren't the actual last minute changes, player swaps, and all the rest of the garbage we (Karl) has put up with over the years, it wouldn't feel right. It's become our 'normal.'
For the last six years, Karl has worked with a collective string of CLS and MRS support people, assigned to help him improve his quality of living, his social skills, his chances for employment, yadda yadda yadda. It's all just been a load of bunk!
These people have no vested interest in helping their "clients", but in simply padding their resumes, so that they can become more attractive to future employers themselves. They have all been here today and gone tomorrow.
The people at the top of the local MRS office pile have no concern for the "clients" either, and are simply in their chairs to collect a nice fat, government-funded salary - and benefits - all the while dispensing lip service to anyone bold enough to run the gauntlet of switchboard rubes and disturb their quiet day.
One will leave quite a few messages before ever receiving a reply, and the responses are usually full of air and promises, and are followed through with little to no action.
I've even called the office of the person responsible for governing the local office 'do-nothing,' and the response to that action was to ultimately receive a call from the person I complained about.
Time to don my hipwaders and scale that officious mountain a little further to go over that head as well.
Where do I have to sign up to find a job with that sort of job-security and such low expectations and so little responsibilty?
Karl's newest MRS rep is on a sort of summer vacation , after only just starting to work on Karl's case. He's new to the office, don't ya know. He explained that once the school year ends the funding for office work is reduced; consequently reducing the paid man hours for the reps; therefore, he wouldn't (most likely) be in touch with Karl until fall, when the hours and pay are back to normal, and he can once again pick up where we left off in June to help provide support for Karl in his quest to find work as a person with special needs.
Tick tock, tick tock. [crickets chirp idley in the background]
On another front, but same topic and subject (assistance for Karl): the newest CLS support person was hired and got to work, scheduling with Karl a more weekly sort of visitation/activity day, thereby almost assuring that Karl wouldn't have lost (AKA "wasted") hours from his allocation of funded support.
This was a good thing. Granted, it was another change, but a forward sort of change - so we let ourselves get excited.
Back to the jist of this post/rant:
Yet, here we are, and already the last minute phone call....sheesh! And the kid was all set to walk out the door!
I know life happens (for everybody, and some things can't be avoided), but seriously?! Every time?
If I were Karl, I would see no reason to ever desire to leave my room, either. I mean, except for a trip to the bathroom (or to the kitchen) - what's the point?
[grumble, grumble]
So, the new school year is upon us, and......
Honestly, if I had to choose one of the following as the worst case scenario (from Karl's point of view), I would have a really tough decision to make. Now that we are looking forward to hearing from the new MRS dude (because now he'll have more paid hours to work with), the question is - will Karl have a harder time gathering himself together to head out of the house for yet another meeting (with hopefully something to show for it), or will he be more dejected by having this new person meet with him for a portion of the new school/fiscal year before moving on, at which point we'll be back to a new square one?
8.14.2012
Farewell to an icon
I haven't been blogging a lot lately. I've had my head down either looking for work or trying to knock out this current quilt (there's a looming deadline).
However, I do allow myself a little news here and there, and I was saddened to learn of the passing of Helen Gurley Brown. She was a one-of-a-kind sort who took no prisoners and told it like it was. There was no sugarcoating or mincing words with that chic.
Yes, she was a bit of a 'shock jock' in the sixties and seventies, but she was exactly what the female population needed to drive home Betty Freedan's point regarding equality for women - in the boardroom, the bedroom, and everywhere in between!
Her pioneering spirit, and determination to put men in their place, will be sorely missed, cuz they broke the mold when she was cast.
Rest in peace, Ms. Brown. Sincerest condolences to your family and dear friends. Thank you for all you did to make my world a little less competitive and a lot more open. I will try to keep your significant balls rolling.
8.12.2012
Is it just me...
...or did these particular summer olympics seem to go on and on and on?
The broadcast of the closing ceremony needs to happen here in the states, but for the most part - stick a fork in it. The 2012 Summer Games are finally over.
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