If this photo looks familiar, it is one of my first post. The difference is that many more of you are seeing it now. I want to thank all of my readers. Your companionship, ideas, interaction, advice, and yes sometimes friendship has meant more to me that I ever thought it would!
Wishing you the best year ever!
THANK YOU,
Awake
It's Christmas Eve and I'm trying to find a wonderful Christmas Greeting for you, but can't seem to. However, I have found some exceptional ones from my blog buddies, and thought I would share them with you. If you want to laugh, be amazed, see something very cute, even something sexy, then click on the links below. These are my-
Top 5 Christmas Greetings
A Voki Christmas by DrowsyMonkey
Merry Christmas Around The World by LadyBanana
(Has Several) - Dear Santa Define Good is my favorite by Liquid Illuzion
(Semi) Wordless Bra Tuesday by Olga The Traveling Bra - (I would just LOVE to see this on a certain someone! (Don't ask, I wont tell. tee hee!)
A Christmas Miracle by Caroldee of And So It Goes On
These past few days every time I turn on the National new I've heard about the terrible weather in Seattle. It's always the first place mentioned, so I asked my blog buddy Kim to write about it, and this was her response.
This is my 1st guest post so please help me to welcome her by visit Kim at http://asthepumpturns.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Here's the thing about native Northern Californians, there are two breeds. The first being the kind that get snow and the others that don't.
I am from the land of No Snow. It's a nice place filled with grapevines and mild temperature winters. Basically, heaven.
Then I moved to Seattle, Washington.
Now, maybe I am blowing this out of proportion, this Seattle Winter Snow Storm. People in Chicago and other mid-west states are getting it far worse then I am, but this is my blog post and I can whine if I want too. Not to mention on twitter it has it's own hash tag, so it must be important, right? Agree with me people.
So here's the lowdown on the Seattle Snow Storm or for my twitter peeps #seatst, yes it's snowing, in Seattle. So far, by my estimates about a foot overall, however, I am not a meteorologist, so don't quote me. The way that downtown Seattle is laid out, is that, well, there are a lot of hills, like First Hill, Beacon Hill and Capital Hill, and the hills are, well, steep. Imagine, if you will, San Francisco, then add a foot of snow with a nice layer of ice underneath that. You have SNOWMAGEDDON. Yes, I named it Snowmageddon, it's catchy, huh?
Snowmageddon as struck and caused chaos in my city, meaning, people don't know how to drive in the snow/ice. I drive a Jeep Grande Cherokee with 4 wheel drive and believe me 4 wheel drive doesn't work on ice, don't kid yourself. Driving slow and in control does, which is what I have been doing, while also avoiding the crazy idiots who think it's okay to change lanes just as they would if it was overcast outside and also trying to drive 80 miles an hour with chains on, yeah it doesn‘t work. Also, if you see an ambulance sliding down a frozen over hill, I would suggest you and your Dodge Neon not attempt it, just sayin'. There is also the small little fact that the roads aren't very well maintained so driving down the main arterial streets is similar to four wheeling in the backcountry, I'm not exaggerating.
If you can't drive in it you might as well grab your skis and ski down the hill, right? Yeah, I've heard reports of it, haven't seen it yet, but heard about it, I have seen people taking plastic dinner trays and sliding down on them. Also, if you live in the ghetto, a freezer door works well too, interestingly enough.
Seattle was so not prepared for Snowmageddon 08, side streets are stuck in feet of snow, the main streets are filled with divots and almost impassable surfaces, yes, I know only a foot and a half of snow. Silly, right? Not to us, Seattleites, we have not gotten this much snow in many, many years. Some say the last big storm was five years ago, some say it was nothing close to this, who knows, really.
The amazing part of this whole ordeal is the sense of community one feels, we are not alone in this crazy snow. As I drove to work this morning, I see groups of people helping each other dig cars out of snow banks. I see people helping each other walk on icy sidewalks and laughing and throwing snowballs. It's an amazing sight among all the havoc. I guess this is what makes this place so special, to me, anyway."
~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you Kim! You did a great job!
Sledding down Denny on Capitol Hill
I found this holiday meme at Momma Mia, Mea Culpa blog, and really liked it! I got permission from blog owner Meleah Rebeccah to use it. I will use a condensed version. Meleah is trying to figure out which new profile photo to use for the coming year. She is looking for feedback. It was a difficult decision for me because she is drop dead gorgeous, and highly photogenic. What do you think? Click here to vote!
How Do You Do Christmas?
1. Real tree or artificial?
Artificial.
2. Favorite gift received as a child?
I was a spoiled only child so hard to say. Mini pool table maybe.
3. Worst Christmas gift ever received?
For me it might have been the first year when I was almost an adult (16ish) and hardly got any gifts after being lavished with them all my life. Bummer!
4. Mail or E-mail Christmas card?
Mostly snail mail.
5. Favorite Christmas movie?
It’s a Wonderful Life.
6. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Lots - Shrimp, home made pies, mixed nuts, eggnog. Black olives are a tradition. I use to love them as a kid & put them on my finger tips & eat them. Got to have black olives!
7. Clear lights or colored on the tree?
Colored!
8. Favorite Christmas song?
Bing Crosby: White Christmas. Bing is one of my favorite top 3 singers of all time.
9. Do you celibate Christmas at your home, or do you travel?
I usually go over to both Aunts houses, (Rochester).
10. Open presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?
Both. I usually go to one Aunts on Christmas Eve & open up presents. Then the other aunts Christmas day & do the same.
11. Most annoying thing about this time of year?
When Santa gets his tummy stuck in my chimney. You think he would have learned by now!
12. If your from another country - How do you celibate differently then Americas?
Rochester NY is going to have it's 1st significant snow storm of the season. "A winter storm warning is effect from 8 AM this morning to 10 PM EST this evening." "Snow will develop later this morning. The snow will become steady late this morning through the afternoon when it could be heavy at times. The heavy snow be accompanied by some thunder. Accumulation 6 to 10 inches. Windy with temperatures steady in the mid to upper 20s. Northeast winds 10 to 20 mph becoming east and increasing to 25 to 35 mph." This storm is considered a moderate one for the area.
The Rochester city school district is closed, which is a big deal here. Many other schools are closed as well. See link below for the latest information.
The good news for Rochester is that it will be all snow and no ice. I hate those mixed precipitation storms that are so hard to clean up. Rochester can handle this, but today will be messy and a good day to stay home. I'm going out soon to do some shopping before the storm hits. I will put one of my snow shovels in my car, and leave it there all season. Then I will stay home safe & sound. It's a good day to make out Christmas cards to send to the relatives. ;o) The next storm is Sunday. It won't be as bad as this one. Click on the link below for the latest weather information.
This post was based on info from rochesterhomepage.net
UPDATE: Generally the Rochester area received 8" to 12" of snow. The official snowfall at the airport was 8.4". The next day many schools remained closed. Digging out was difficult due to the amount of heavy snow, and the cold. The road salt didn't have much effect because of the cold. 2 smaller storms would follow yielding 1'-4" each. As of 12-24-08 snowfall for the season was 43.8" normal average is 23.7. Buffalo had 42.9". Syracuse had the most with 64.3". Click here for snowfall stats.
D&C Local Paper: First snowy round slams Rochester region
photo credit
I'm back on-line, but still working out the bugs. I don't know how to turn of the pop-up block which makes it difficult to go to your blogs from my reader. I can circumvent it, but it's time consuming. I'm way behind in reading blogs. I sill need to pay my old server, but at least I'm on-line. ;o) Please be patient with me. It might take me awhile to get to your blog, but I'm coming. I also will be applying for more on-line jobs.
A funny thing happens when your virtually out of work and can't pay bills. Yes, they have cut off my Internet service. But please don't take me out of your reader or forget about me. I'll be baaaack!
P.S. I'm on a library computer that has a time limit. :o( I miss you guys!
Dear Mom,
I knew the date, but the significance of it didn't hit me until tonight. My reaction was to say SOB out loud. And you know I don't swear much. You died today. How many years has it been? You died in 1981. I almost forgot. I almost made it though the day. But I didn't. I remembered. SOB! For a second a few memoirs of the night you died swept in, and I began to tear up. Another year has gone by without my mother, and best friend.
Sometimes I wonder how my life would have changed if you were still in it. I probably would have gone on to more college. Would I have been open about my sexuality with you? Would I have suppressed it for a longer time? I don't know how my life would have changed, but I bet it would have changed mostly for the better.
Yes, it gets easier with time. Most days I don't even think of you. Then other days I really wish you were still here on earth. I've come to realize that I've suppressed some of the memoirs I've had of you. Subconsciously, I've taken some of the best memories and locked them deep in my mind. Somehow I know that. I would not be as sane as I am if I remembered you well, and knew that I'd never see you again on earth. Seems like a sick, cruel, joke. So I remember your 10 year fight with cancer. I remember several surgeries, several bouts of chemo, and radiation therapy. Told in the hospital room to be careful not to knock over the glass bottle and brake it because you just had part of your lung removed, and your lung would collapse if I got clumsy. I felt your venerability. I remember you walking with the quad-cane, then wheel chair, then bedridden with a catheter. Paralyzed from the waist down by that tumor on your spine. That last month that you could hardly eat a thing except for custard that the neighbor made. Refusing food. And that night that you died. And all through it, you tried to remain positive, enjoy your loved ones, believing God would heal you. I remember mostly the bad times because It would hurt to much to have a clear memory of the good times.
When you died a part of me died with you. I can't name the part of me that died, but it was something good, vital that is now gone. Maybe forever. So be it! Maybe in heaven it's not so easy for you to be without your only child. Maybe you needed that piece of me. That's fine! You keep it mom. When we are reunited it will all workout, and be clear.
Your loving daughter forever...
Coldplay 42
"Those who are dead are not dead They're just living my head"
Comments is now closed. I have to move on. Thank you for caring!
Dec. 1st & 2nd ONLY. Walgreen's has a coupon deal. It's $5 off a purchase of $25. To print out the coupon click here.
About two months ago I tried a different way of networking. Google Blogger had recently come out with their "Follow this Blog" reading list. (look to your left, please click and join me!) I thought I'd follow the Blogger reading list trail. I clicked on one icon from a blog buddy, which lead me to another, & another, so on. If I came to a dead end, I would just double back. Of course being the choosy type, I looked over the persons profile & blog first to see if we might match. Then I left a comment, and added my name to their "follow this blog" list. I was pleasantly surprised when most of the people returned comment. In fact some are becoming regulars to my blog &, visa versa. I'm a bit slow to update my Blog Roll, but it should triple in size soon! ;o)
Remodeling Update - I took a breather from remodeling for awhile, but need to finish. It's about 90% done, but I'm stuck. I'm trying to find a Blogger compatible mail box icon that links directly to my e-mail. I'm also looking for a Blogger "Top Commenters" list that links individuals listed to their blogs. The one that I've seen does not work correctly. The count is off. If you have any suggestions I'd appreciate it. Remember they have to be Google Blogger compatible. By the way, I will be taking the "Political Non-Partisan Sites" list down soon. If interested you might want to bookmark the links.
So what do you think of the remodeling so far? Is there something that you would really want to see that I don't have? I am open to suggestions. ;o) Thanks!
photo credit
Idea stolen from LadyBanana. Please visit her so I don't get in trouble. ;o)
photo credit
Just a short, honest, list of things that I am thankful for this year.
~ A loving family.
~ Making friends on the Internet.
~ Food Banks & subsidized rent.
~ Being in good health.
~ A significant decrease in depression and anxiety.
~ Having a very nice agency to work for even though things are very slow.
~ God having control of my life, even when my life feels out of control.
What are you thankful for?
I called my agency today. Things have been slow for months. I've had to stop paying credit cards to keep a roof over my head. I've had to skip paying some bills, so I will soon get double, and triple bills. I haven't slept well because of all this. And I'm not even telling you the worst of it.
Today my agency told me that the main facility I work at is not offering any more work until January 1st. What a shock! I might get a little work elsewhere, but that's the main place. I'm applying for another job, but even if someplace wanted to hire me tomorrow it would be a 6-8 week wait before they could. I'm in health care field, and they do a police background check which takes time. Then they hold the 1st paycheck at a job. Not a good situation.
I grew up an only child in a large house. My parents expected to have more children, but couldn't. I had everything I ever wanted, and then some. I had so many dolls in my bed that there was hardly any room for me. A whole room was converted into my playroom complete with miniature pool table, and huge toy chest. I was spoiled, and didn't know it.
Although I've worked as a Nursing Assistant I've never really had financial problems. Not like this. Not until recently. Now I'm one of those people who stand in line at the food bank (cupboard) hoping that they don't run out of certain items before I get there. I'd never thought I'd have to do that. I never thought I'd be here. This Thanksgiving might be the first Thanksgiving in my life that I won't have Turkey. I can't afford it.
At any rate, I don't want you to feel sorry for me; but I would GREATLY APPRECIATE YOUR PRAYERS!!!
P.S. I want to thank those of you who give to your local food bank, or donate your time. It's noticed, and appreciated! ;o)
UPDATE: Jan 2, 2009
My agency now says that the lost of their main client might be permanent.
My good blog buddy, and Twitter buddy Meleah Rebeccah is on vacation in Mexico. It's a lavish family vacation five star style. Wow! You can read about it at her blog called Momma Mia Mea Culpa. Well, you know the old saying, "When the cats away, the mice will play." The beautiful Meleah recently directed me to her YouTube video. So while she's away, I just couldn't help but let you have a peek too. She has real talent! Of course she has taken her computer with her so we can keep up with her adventures of Mexico at her blog. By the way, is she naked in that bathtub?
So Happy Together-An Unhealthy Obsession With My Apple Computer. The Movie.
I guess my name is appropriate. Originally I chose it because I often work the night shift, so I'm up when everyone else is sleeping. I also have bouts of insomnia. But lately it's been different. I just don't want to go to bed. I mean physically in bed. When I'm in bed, and all is quiet my mind focuses on the problem, and things aren't that good. It tries to dig for the answer that just doesn't seem to be in my brain right now. It's like a sadistic hide and seek game. So lately I'm online, or watching TV. until exhaustion wins, and I fall asleep in the most comfortable chair in the world, my old beat up Lazyboy. I sleep with the remote in my hand. Three times this week I've pressed record on my DVD/VCR player. I guess I've been sleep taping, as opposed to sleep walking. Now if I can only figure out how to sleep house clean, I'll be all set.
My computer monitor has slowly been dying. Last night it bit the dust. I preformed CPR, but no luck.
I realized that old monitors are plentiful, but where? I just had to have one ASAP, but don't have any money, (employer has cut my hours drastically.) Nobody that I asked had an extra monitor so... I got on a local telephone chat line.
I call now and then just to talk. Sometimes I find out how the roads are after a storm. This time I asked the guys if they had a "free monitor with NO STRINGS ATTACHED!" Why is that guys don't understand English? Several wanted me to sleep with them, or give them a "b--- job" for their monitor. One guy said that he would buy me a brand new Dell computer if I would be his um, girl friend. NO THANKS!!! It looks like I could have a whole other occupation if I wanted to. Sheesh!
At any rate, one sweet guy was online. He went out of his way to meet me in a public place, and give my his old computer monitor. When I thanked him he replied, "Oh, I'm glad to be rid of it. It was just taking up space." I could tell he was saying that just to make me more comfortable. He was so sweet, and such a gentleman that I wished I was straight for a minute. So Eric, wherever you are...THANKS! Your my knight in shining armor!
By the way, this monitor is older then mine, and the picture isn't good. So if any of my local regular blog buddies has a better free monitor, I'd be interested. I'm just glad to be online again. Sorry if I'm late commenting on your blogs. I will be making my rounds starting tonight!
P.S. It's always a good idea to meet strangers in a public place. Um, I mean, if your going to meet strangers do it in a public place. ;o)
P.S.S. God always seems to provide for me. Thank You God! ;o)
Folks, I was very fortunate to get a good guest poet to write this poem. Guess who the poet is? Before I write the poem, let me explain how this came about. Actually, it's a bit complicated so with Jaffer's permission the majority of "The Story" has been taken from his post. He explained it well.
The Story
Olga the Travelling Bra, Jaffer, and I were talking about Sugar Snap Peas yesterday on Twitter, which all started from Jenn’s post about a salad bar in la-la land. Besides being busy globe-trotting, Olga wants everybody to toss that bag of chips out the window and start eating healthy.
One way to begin is to try a bag of Sugar Snap Peas. And because Olga wants you to at least try some, Jaffer proposed that we do a meme. But what kind of meme ?
I suggested writing a short poem and Jaffer jumped on the idea.
So if you are seeking a healthier life and add your artistic creativity to that, then grab a bag of sugar snaps and try your hand in composing a sonnet or a quatrain or an ode describing your experiences.
Make it funny, romantic or sarcastic, we want to see them all !
Need more inspiration ? Read Olga’s poem ! And Jaffer's poem too!
I'm having computer problems. For the last week it's been acting up. I lost the picture for awhile tonight. It's back on for now, but I don't know for how long. Please send me your good thoughts & vibes. Thanks!
UPDATE: It seems to be the monitor.
"The Water Lily is a symbol of dignity and nobility, since the lotus can appear beautiful and clean even while growing in the mud. This is a dedication to the achievements of courageous people who can keep their good qualities, even in the mud of difficulty."
credits: words & photo ..the words have been slightly altered
I've received this cute Lemonade Award from Lady Banana.
Thanks LB!
Now for the rules:
* Put the logo on your blog or post.
* Nominate at least 10 blogs which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude!
* Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
* Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
* Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.
I am giving this award to my current Top 12 Commentators. Since LB is on my Top Commentators list she is more than welcome to have it back. ;o)
Lady Banana
Momma Mia, Mea Culpa
Throwawayblog
Spiritual Brush Strokes
I Need a Martini Mom
Girl in a Glass House
Sonnie's Daze
DrowseyMonkey
Debo Hobo
Chronic Nerdemia
Life's a Beach
Cutie Booty Cakes
Speedcat Hollydale Page
CLICK HERE TO PLAY
This post has been stolen from LIQUID ILLUZION so please go over, and visit her before she sues me! Honestly, she has one of the coolest blogs that I've ever seen!
photo credit
Well folks, I never thought I would see the day when such a war would brake on the intenet. Yes, it's HAT War! The question is... Who has the best hat? I have spoken with two of the candidates, (click here, please join). Or tried to speak with them. But was snubbed by both that were in the Twitter room. They seemed to intent on winning the vote of someone else, and cast me aside. You would think they would at lest shake my hand! I've seen McCain & Obama shake many a hand. Ahhh, it's a sad day. But one of those hats must be chosen, for the good of our country. After all, we can not have a hatless country. Who would you vote for? All 3 hats can be seen at Speedy's Blog...
Speedycat Hollydale Cast your vote on this blog.
You may also check out the blogs of the other candidates...
Nurse Amanda Hugankiss
Renny BA (apparently sponsored by Olga The Talking Bra)
Once you decide, please come back and tell me how you voted. Perhaps you can help me choose.
Doctor Anonymous on Blog Talk Radio will interview my blog buddy Kim from AsThePumpTurns It will be on Friday
9:00 PM - EST. Kim is a 1st year nursing student who is also a dialysis tech. Broadcasting form Dallas, TX. ...Please tune in! ;o) I think that you can call in to the show & ask her questions too.
Click here for the link.
In 1984 Walter Mondale selected Geraldine Ferraro to be his running mate (VP). They lost to incumbent Pres. Reagan, and George H.W. Bush. Before Ferraro lost, there was such a feeling of hope, and elation. Women thought that they would make more inroads, be on more equal footing with men. We thought that things would be forever changed. But they weren't. Ferraro lost, and there were no changes. It was like nothing of significance ever happened. It would be almost 25 years before we had another chance. If you don't remember that. If you didn't feel elated, and hopeful. If perhaps you're to young to remember. Then with all due respect, you will not understand this post, or my feelings.
Last night Senator Obama became President elect, yet I didn't feel happy. In fact I feel a bit bitter, and marginalized. He could have taken women with him in his victory by choosing a female running mate, but he didn't. Hillary would have been the ideal running mate in my mind, but another woman would due. You're probably thinking that there weren't many women to choose from because there aren't many women in politics. Well, that's my point. Although women have made progress there still aren't as many women who hold high paying, (or power), jobs as men like lawyers, physicians, executives, and engineers. "Women and men are taxed at the same rate, but female workers are still paid only 77.8 cents for each dollar made by a man for the same job, according to the National Committee on Pay Equity...The vast majority of minimum-wage paying service jobs are still performed by women." We are the majority, slightly over 50% of the population, who are still being treated like a minority.
Last night and today I feel like I, (and women kind), have been kicked to the curb by a man. A black man, yes, but still a man. I feel marginalized. Was it one step forward and two steps back for women? Did Hillary & Palin make any lasting difference, or are we back to 1984?
I'm sure that in the months, and years ahead that I will be glad that Obama is my president. I voted for him, and have a similar beliefs. I will be thrilled when he brings our troops home from Iraq! I think that he will do a lot of good. But when I go to work I will see nurses who are predominately women, and doctors who are predominately men. I may be payed less then male CNA's. And my life will not be changed. He could have changed my life too, but he chose not to take me along for the ride.
So if I don't do cartwheels at this time. If I act a bit bitter over the next few days or so, you'll know why. To me this is a bitter/sweet victory, and I'm feeling the bitterness right now. Allow me to have my feelings. Allow me this moment. Please understand that I remember 1984.
I don't want to get into an argument. This is just how I feel. Thank you!
On the eve of the election Sen. Obama has lost the woman who helped raise him. His grandmother, "Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer." Obama recently interrupted his election race to say goodbye to her in Hawaii. "Dunham helped raise Obama from the age of 10." Click here for more about Ms. Dunham's life.
My thoughts & prayers are with the Senior, and his family. Obviously this is a bitter/sweet time in the Senator's life. If your so inclined you can send a card, or an email to Obama here.
The photo is of Sen. Obama's grandparents, Stanley and Madelyn Dunham, on a park bench in New York City while he was a student at Columbia University.
sources: see links above
Originally I just wanted to post some photos of the pretty governor so that I could l@@k at her once more. Do you blame me? But wait! I caught wind of some headlines. In fact many newspapers are saying that she will run for President in 2012. Some even speculate Palin vs. Clinton in 20012. Two female Presidential contenders!? I'll be in estrogen heaven!
Palin in 2012? You betcha! She's the darling of social conservatives, a Republican rock star. She is still pulling thousand into McCain Rallies, but they're not coming to see him, she is the magnate.
The 44 year old, folksy, beauty has "electrified the Republican Party's conservative evangelical base -- its most reliable voting bloc."
"If they do in fact lose on Tuesday she becomes one of the central figures for 2012. Clearly, Palin is a star with the social conservatives but many of the country-club Republicans just find her completely unpalatable," said Matthew Wilson, a political scientist at Southern Methodist University in Dallas."
Does Palin want to be President? In her interview with Elizabeth Vargas of 20/20. Palin says, "I'm not doin' this for naught."
Gov. Palin lacks polish, and knowledge, as well as experience. After all she was plucked out of obscure Alaska, and placed on the campaign trail faster then she could field dress a moose. But don't worry Republicans. Your party will prepare her for 2012. "Historically, "Republicans tend to pick the next guy in line," and, "strangely enough," Palin is the next guy in line. She'll be well financed and is "perfectly positioned" to run the "anti-government, anti-Washington campaign" that Republicans will call for after four years of Barack Obama." I just hope that after she's polished that she still winks at the camera. I just love that!
Don't worry Republicans, she'll be back!
YouTube Video: Photos of Gov. Palin
Sources-
Reuters: Win or lose, Palin to be a political force
ABC: Transcript Excerpts from Vargas' Interview w/ Palin
I found this cute quiz at Lady Banana's blog. So of course I had to steal it. ;o)
You Are 35% Witch |
 It's unlikely that you're a witch. At least, no one thinks you are. You may still be interested in witchcraft, but you're by no means a stereotypical witch. While you don't seem all that witchy, people may think you're a bit weird. You're definitely a little offbeat. No one really knows what to make of you sometimes. |
Hey Rochester New York - Senator Hillary Clinton will be speaking at MCC (Monroe Community College) at 3:00 Today! It's a 'Get Out the Vote' rally in support of Democratic Congressional candidates Maffei, Massa and Kryzan. It's open to the public. It will be at MCC's Stabins Physical Education facility.
Source: R News
New 10
I'm not sure if I like this picture or not. What do you think?
Photo credit
If you have been wondering, no, I have not seen a therapist yet. I'm doing good depression wise. The anxiety is better too. I have stopped having panic attacks when I pull into the parking lot at work. However, the depression seems to come during winter. Last winter was one of my worst times. I wouldn't put in writing how bad it was. It is suppose to snow soon, and I'm getting apprehensive. I can't go through that again.
For those of you who are new, this is why I'm not crazy about therapy. In a nut shell, I knew two people when I was younger. They both had mental problems. They both went to a therapist for many years, and both became therapists. Today they are significantly worse. They are the two most mentally ill people that I have ever met in my life. And they are therapists!
A friend of mine is going though therapy, and frankly I don't know if I could go through the CRAP that she is. Is it me, or do therapists purposely take away hope? Will they try to pump me full of drugs too? Will they tell me that I have 12 things wrong with me, will never get cured, and take away my hope too? Will they ask me if I'm suicidal too? And what if I said yes, would they lock me up? I'm not suicidal now, but many depressed people are. I just don't want to go through the crap that my friend is. I think that she is brave, but it angers me the way that she is being treated. And honestly, how can I put my mental welfare into the hands of a therapist, especially when I know two very mentally ill therapists? Therapy obviously didn't work for them. They just got worse, even after 15 + years of treatment.
If you have been to therapy I would love to hear both success stories, and horror stories. I want to know what goes on in therapy, and is it effective? How where you treated? What was done to you?
Added Later: I just started reading this, but it looks interesting...
HealthyPlace.com Depression Community
Also a different page on the same site Herbs & Women Hormones
Photo credit: Hey, check out "The Dragon Fly Initiative"
This is another very easy Meme. I made this one up. First for a little background...
The Republican National Committee in their infinite wisdom spent about $150,000 on Gov. Sarah Palins wardrobe. Yes, they are throwing money out the window. They bought most of her clothes form Neiman Marcus & Saks Fifth Avenue. I'm all for Pretty Palin looking fine, but couldn't they have bought clothes at JCPenney, and Macy's for a fraction of the cost? Now they are saying that they will donate the wardrobe to the poor.
Give her wardrobe to the poor?! I can do a lot better then that! It's simple. Sell her wardrobe on eBay. Sell it one outfit at a time. Gov. Palin is a Republican rock star, and an historical figure. People will pay big bucks for the clothes she has worn. I bet they could easily triple that $150,000. THEN give the money to FoodLink, or some other food based charity. In the Rochester area, people attending food cupboards have increased 30% recently. You can buy an igloos worth of canned goods for $150,000+.
Well, that's my 2 cents worth. Now about the Meme. It's simple, just answer the question "what you would to with $150,000", and make sure to give some background info. You can do it off the top of your head, no need to get out the calculator unless you want to. Then pass this Meme along to a few others. Simple!
As for me, I would use my $150,000 for the following...
1.) Get out of debt. Yes, I ran up the credit cards like most of us did. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about the debt that I owe.
2.) Go back to College. Heck, for that kind of money I could get a Master degree, and earn an income 3 times as much as my (C.N.A.) Certified Nursing Assistants certificate allows me.
3.) Buy a new car. Nothing expensive, I need the money for other things.
4.) Give some money to my relatives. Especially the older ones in their 70's & 80's that won't be around much longer. :o(
5.) Give some to Food Link. People really need help now.
6.) Put some in a good retirement fund, and some in the bank.
7.) If I have any left over I might put a down payment on a house. It's a buyers market. A lake side cottage, or house would be perfect.
I tag everyone on my top commenter's list, plus everyone else who has left a comment this month.
P.S. Folks if you can spare any money, or even have some extra food around the house please give to Foodlink, or your local food cupboard. Some people are really hurting now. Believe me, I know.
Photo credit
I just got a comment from my blog buddy Jedi Master Daryl He's been having trouble with my feed.
He writes - " Hmmmm... I have no idea why my blog doesn't want to play nice with your feed.
I just tried redoing the link, and that didn't help.
When I click on your name and post on my blogroll, 1/2 the time it goes to an old post or just the outline of your blog, and the other 1/2 it actually goes to the right place.
I guess that is okay if I manually check your blog. But the problem is that it doesn't seem to want to pull your blog to the top when you write a fresh post. It seems to be stuck on a post you wrote like 8 months ago.
I have no idea why. Sorry. :-(
Is anyone else having any problems with my feed in any way? Please let me know, and when you think the problem started. I'm trying to figure out what is happening here. THANKS!
Ellen DeGeneres Urges Californians to Vote No on Prop. 8 (27 sec.)
Added Later: PFLAG: Explanation of Proposition 8
When I first started blogging I read a good book about how to blog. I remember some of the ideas, but unfortunately have forgotten the title of the book. Some of the following are taken from that book, other ideas are from the Internet.
1.) Have an "About" page - Tell readers something about you. Make it short, to the point, but interesting. Tell them something that is different about you then most.
2.) Use readable fonts - Take a good look at your blog as if your seeing it for the first time. Can you read the font? Is it large enough? Are the colors in such a mixture that it can be read? Recently I saw a blog that had black font on cranberry colored background. I couldn't read it because of the color combination. My blog buddy LadyBanana found this cool tool so you can "test your blog in many browsers... If you are wondering if your blog looks good in all browsers check it out. It take a little while to work." - BrowserShots (Thanks LB!)
3.) Place Social Bookmarks on your blog.
4.) Page Load Speed - There are still a large number of Internet users that use slow dial-up connections. Even with high-speed connections some pages just don’t load very quickly. "Most of your visitors will be fairly impatient and pages that load slowly could chase them away...Factors that influence the load times of pages include the number and size of images, extra items like flash, the amount of excess code, and the size of your pages." It will be more user friendly to keep the number of post per page low. A good example of this is my blog buddy eastcoastlife. She keeps the number of her posts per page low, about 3. (Maximum should be 7.) As you can see her blog certainly doesn't suffer for it, just the opposite. She gets tons of visitors, and often 70, 80, 90 or more comments per post! Way to go eastcoastlife!
5.) Make sure your blog has an RSS feed - Some people may not read a blog simply because they don't have that option available.
6.) Post should be the length of an E-mail - Most posts should be brief, about 1 to 3 paragraphs long. I realize that some of us need to get things off our chests, but try to fit some short posts in too. Many readers have dozens of blogs to read, and may not comment on your blog if most of your posts are long.
7.) Reader focus - Present your posts in a way that speaks to your visitor's wants and needs. It's fine to have a personal blog about yourself, but write mostly posts that you think would be of particular interest to your readers.
8.) Typographical errors - Check both spelling and grammatical errors so that your blog looks more professional. Admittedly I'm not the best at this, but at least I make an attempt. Run it through spell check, and grammar check if you have it.
9.) Use tags - This will organize your posts, and help readers find a specific past post that may interest them.
10.) Read the source list below - It will give you many more ideas... Happy Blogging!
Sources -
9 (+1) Tips For Writing User-Friendly Content
10 Styling Tips to Make Your Business Blog More Uses Friendly...
4 Characteristics for User-Friendly Websites (#4 taken for here)
101 Blog Tips I learned in 2006
Blogging Tips for Beginners
So You Want to Be a Blogging Star? by NY Times
Blogging Tips - Hundreds of Resources For Finding Content...
The following story has been altered, but is based on fact.
My good friend Bev Hanson lost her brother. As kids, we were neighbors. This was in the days when neighbors were treated like family. Our neighbors the Hanson's, shared birthdays & holidays with us. Bev was several years older then me. Her older brother Marvin was the brain of the family. Younger brother Bill was my age, and suffered an untimely death.
Bev was very pretty, and sociable. She was the Senior prom queen. Later in life she would believe that she had a 6th sense. She claimed to predict things that would come true.
Marvin was the brain of the family. He played chess at a very early age. His first memories were of being in a play pen. When he grew up, people would tell him that he should have been a college professor.
Bill was the baby of the family. He was about my age. A very likable, handsome man. Recently Bill was in a car accident that took his life. Bill was buried in the cemetery across from his home.
A week after the funeral Bev went over to Bills house to sort out his things. They needed to get rid of everything, and sell the house. She claimed that she saw Bill. She wouldn't say what he said, or did. But just that she had seen him.
A week later Marvin (the intellect) went to Bill's house to help sort out things. He said that he was sitting on the couch when Bill came right over and sat next to him. Bill said "Hi Bro". Then faded away.
If it had only been Bev that saw Bill I might have dismissed it. But Marvin? Marvin the brain? No way! I was shocked!
Could the ghost of Bill be in that house? Or maybe he came over from the cemetery across the street?
What do you think? Have you ever seen a ghost, or had an encounter with one?
Deborah at Debo Hobo dot Com tagged me for this fun, and easy Meme. This one is very flexible so anyone can do it. Just post an old photo of a bear, or other stuffed toy that you liked as a kid. If you didn't have a stuffed animal then you can substitute a doll, or some other toy. If you don't have a photo you can borrow one from the Internet like I did. Then just tell us a bit about your old toy, and tag 2 or more other people.
I use to have a black cat that had a radio inside it. I didn't care for stuffed animals, but I liked the radio. I loved dolls, and toy guns. I had so many dolls in bed with me that I barely fit in bed. ;o)
I'm going to tag mostly some writers of some new blogs I've been reading. I tag...
The Dragonfly Initiative
DrowseyMonkey
LIQUID ILLUZION
I Need a Martini Mom
Wonders Never Cease
Cutie Booty Cakes
Sona Says
Musings of a Wannabe Mommy
shrimplate
Mom Knows Everything
Posh Totty
Hahn at Home
LADY BANANA
As The Pump Turns
If anyone else wants to play, go for it!
Photo credit
This happened here near Rochester, NY, in the suburb of Irondequoit. It made national news - MSNBC. They took the story from our local station WHEC-TV. This is the article condensed. Would you consider this a hate crime?...
Several Obama signs have been stolen from people's front lawns but what happened to a family in Irondequoit is a whole lot worse. They are the only black family on the street and their Obama sign was burned.
On John's (not his real name) front lawn was the burned metal frame of what was his Obama sign. Set on fire at night and for John, it brought back memories of attacks against African-Americans.
"They would terrorize good God-fearing Americans, usually black, by burning items - usually a cross on their lawns. I just see this as an act of domestic terrorism or something very similar to what the KKK used to do."
The street isn't a busy one, and the house is tucked away. On TV news they, said that there were several other Obama signs on the street, but this one was the only one burned.
"CNN Political Commentator David Gergen says he's worried about what might happen before the election. "There is this free floating sort of whipping around of anger that could lead to some violence. I think we're not far from that."
John says the burning of his political sign. "It made me feel as though an act of domestic terrorism has been delivered to my little part of the world, my very own property."
Irondequoit Police say they're going to investigate, although it's very tough to solve these crimes.
The local chapter of the ACLU said, in their opinion, this was a hate crime."
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Folks, Sen. McCain, and Gov. Palin have been trying to link Obama to terrorism. Among other things they say that Obama was friends with a "terrorist" named William Ayers. Obama was a casual acquaintance with Ayers when he was 8 years old. Young Obama could hardly be held accountable for Ayers's behavior almost 40 years ago. There has been other instances. Please read this good article from the Associated Press: Congressman says McCain "sowing seeds of hatred. "Rep. John Lewis, a Georgia Democrat and veteran of the civil rights movement, says the negative tone of the Republican presidential campaign reminds him of the hateful atmosphere that segregationist Gov. George Wallace fostered in Alabama in the 1960s...During some rallies featuring McCain and Palin, supporters have shouted "traitor," "terrorist," "treason," "liar" and even "off with his head." With all these accusations against Obama I wouldn't be surprised if John's (the Irondequoit man) house was burned down! McCain really needs to stop implying that Obama is a terrorist, or this will soon lead to violence!
Please folks, read the facts on this...
FactCheck.org He Lied" About Bill Ayers? ..."McCain cranks out some false and misleading attacks on Obama's connection to a 1960s radical."
PolitiFact.com: A radical Ayers Allegation ..."This attack is false, but it's more than that – it's malicious. It unfairly tars not just Obama, but all the other prominent, well-respected Chicagoans who also volunteered their time to the foundation."
WashingtonpostFactChecker: Did Obama "lie" about Ayers? ..."The McCain campaign is distorting the Obama-Ayers relationship, and exaggerating their closeness. There is no evidence that Obama has "lied" about his dealings with Ayers. It would be more accurate to say that he "told the truth slowly," a regrettable but commonplace practice among politicians seeking to avoid embarrassing questions."
I feel privileged to have a blog buddy like Tracy Jo. She is one of the nicest, kindest, most spiritual people that I have "met". Tracy Jo gets her painting ideas mostly from dreams, or images that have inspired her spiritually. You can see a spiritual theme in her beautiful paintings. As you can see, she has been blessed with a wonderful talent. Currently she is selling prints of these three paintings with more to come. You can now view over a dozen of her paintings on her website. Check it out, and feel free to sign her new guest book while your there.
Spiritual Brushstrokes Paintings by: Tracy Jo. Click here to visit her website.
Note - This is not a paid advertisement.
"Just in case Sarah Palin was planning a night out with her girlfriends to go see a Madonna concert, she’s not welcome! We’re sure it was on Sarah’s to-do list, seeing that it’s the busiest time in her life, and the election is a month away. But Madonna wants her to know that she’s been banned from coming to her shows.Read the rest at - Hollyscoop
Madge performed at the Meadowlands on Sunday and told the crowd: "Sarah Palin can’t come to my party. Sarah Palin can’t come to my show. It’s nothing personal. Here’s the sound of Sarah Palin’s husband’s snowmobile when it won’t start," followed by a loud screeching noise.
Wow. Madonna really needs ..."
"Ten years after his brutal murder, those who knew him best -- and those who learned of him only at the end -- remember that week in October and reflect on the legacy of Matthew Shepard.
On Wednesday, October 7, 1998, Matthew Shepard was found tied to a fence on the Wyoming prairie, barely alive, his skull fractured and his brain stem crushed. Comatose, he was taken first to a Laramie hospital, then to a better-equipped one in Fort Collins, Colo., where he died five days later. We may never know what his killers, Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson, intended to do when they first approached Shepard at Laramie’s Fireside Lounge. We only know that, whatever their intention, they ended up murdering him.
Almost instantly, his death became a flash point in this country’s reckoning with gay people, and the cute, clean-cut 21-year-old became a symbol of the ravages of intolerance. The tragedy sparked vigils around the world and led to federal hate-crimes legislation that bears Shepard’s name, currently pending in Congress. (Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama has promised to sign the bill if elected.)
Shepard’s impact can also be felt in the work of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, headed by his mother, Judy, whom we spoke with for the following oral history -- along with friends and Laramie residents; the police chief who oversaw the investigation into the murder; and artists influenced by that tumultuous week."
Click here to read more of this article from The Advocate.Recently LadyBanana asked me a question which I have answered here. I have noticed that some people have done the Meme "7 Things About Me." I thought that I would use that Meme to answer her question, it's in the first one. Thanks for asking LB! ;o)
1.) LB asked, "I know you are a very private person but I'd love to know more about what keeps Awake, awake!!! ;)" I had a previous night job. Even though I now work different shifts, I can easily slip into the night mode. Also I have occasional insomnia. So you will see me online at all different times.
2.) I have named my old computer. She's "my old lady".
3.) I like short term real life searching games. For example, when I lose my keys it's like a game to me. I keep calm, and start searching. If I find them right off the bat, I am sometimes disappointed. Of course if I need to be at work I might not be into the searching game. (Maybe I should have been a private detective?) ;o)
4.) You may have wondered why I am discreet here. It's for several reasons. I'm naturally a private person, and don't feel comfortable talking a great deal about myself. I'm semi-out of the closet, but not out at work. Also I have a former stalker who lives in my area that I don't want to alert. That's why I don't use my real name, or have my photo up.
5.) I've composed music since I was 13. Many of my songs are gospel related. Not to sound conceded, but I honestly think a few songs would hit the top 10 on the gospel charts.
6.) I wash my hands so much I sometimes soak my towel. I guess that's from being a Nursing Assistant for many years.
7) I must have a common face. People sometimes approach me thinking I'm someone else. Either that, or my parents gave away my twin. ;o) Example - In a restaurant a woman came over to my table. She thought I was her niece. It was only when she got up close to me that she realized that I wasn't. I have been mistaken for someone else several times. Other times some people say that I "look familiar". I tell them that "I guess I just have one of those faces."
I'm not going to pass this meme on, but if you want to do it, go right ahead!
Get in on the savings. Today is Domino's "Customer Appreciation Day" Oct 02. Get a 14", 1-Topping Only pizza for $4.99 + tax. Reg. price is $10.99 + tax. Carry out only, limit is 5. Delivery available on purchase of 2, or more pizzas. Contact Domino's for more information.
Guess what I'll be eating during the debate? ;o)
The Joe Biden, Sarah Palin match is tonight folks. It's their one, and only match so don't miss these VP contenders. It should be a crackerjack of a fight! Do you think there will be a knock out?
In this corner presenting... Choo Choo Joe Biden -
"Joe Biden is a U.S. senator from Delaware, first elected in 1972. He was born in Scranton, Pa., in 1942 but now lives in Wilmington. He graduated from the University of Delaware and earned a law degree from Syracuse University. He made a brief run for president in 1988. Biden is married to Jill Tracy Jacobs Biden. He has three children. His first wife and a 13-month-old daughter were killed in an automobile accident in 1972. He withdrew from the presidential race on Jan. 3, 2008. He was announced Aug. 23, 2008, as Sen. Barack Obama's vice presidential nominee."
Where he stands on the issues.
How truthful has he been?
In depth biography.
In this corner presenting... Sarah Barracuda Palin -
"Sarah Palin is governor of Alaska. She was elected in 2006; her previous experience includes leading the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. She also served as the mayor and a councilwoman in Wasilla, Alaska."
Where she stands on the issues.
How truthful has she been?
In depth biography.
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Letterman's Top Ten from last night...
Top Ten "Things Overheard at Sarah Palin Debate Camp:"
10. "Let's practice your bewildered silence."
9. "Can you try saying 'yes' instead of 'you betcha'?"
8. "Hey, I can see Mexico from here!"
7. "Maybe we'll get lucky and there won't be any questions about Iraq, taxes or health care."
6. "We're screwed!"
5. "Can I just use that lipstick-pit bull thing again?"
4. "We have to wrap it up for the day -- McCain eats dinner at 4:30."
3. "Can we get Congress to bail us out of this debate?"
2. "John Edwards wants to know if you'd like some private tutoring in his van."
1. "Any way we can just get Tina Fey to do it?"
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Not sure who your going to vote for?Take this cute, fun, quiz, and see which candidate your most in tune with. It over oversimplifies sometimes, and in doing so can be a bit inaccurate, but it will give you a general idea. It's a good tool for comparing candidates. Have fun. ;o)
Some good non partisan websites to check out the facts...
Fact Check
CNN: Controversy brews up around VP debate moderator Ifill
