Networking Google Blogger Tip & Remodeling Update

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

Wordless Wednesday on Saturday "Lazy Cat"

Idea stolen from LadyBanana. Please visit her so I don't get in trouble. ;o)

photo credit

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

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?

~~~~~~~~

POEM

A Thanksgiving Alphabet

T...Turkeys, tablespreads, being together,
H...Happiness and homes to protect us from all weather,
A...Aunts and uncles, a reunion in Fall,
N...Nieces and nephews, family members all!
K...Kind-hearted kin coming over for dinner,
S...Surely you'll have fun, but you won't get thinner!
G...Gourds and pumpkins, mouths open wide.
I...Indians and Pilgrims we remember with pride.
V...Very special times-there could even be snow.
I...Imagine what it was like at Plymouth long ago.
N...Never forget how the settlers led the way,
G...Giving thanks and blessing this special day.

Author Unknown

~~~~~~~~

The idea for this post came from As The Pump Turns with permission. Please visit Kim. ;o)

No Work Till Jan. 1st

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.

Meleah Rebeccah's Obsession - Apple Computers

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.

Awake

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.

I'm Online Again! ;o) & Phone Chat Line

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)

Sugar Snap Peas (Poem Meme)

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!

Here is the poem by the mystery poet. Can you guess who s/he is?

Sugar Snap peas
You are such a tease
Your green crunchy yum
Makes me full in the tum
But one too many makes it
all fall out my bum.

A special note of thanks to Jeffer & the mystery poet who essentially wrote this post. ;o)

Computer Problems - Cross Fingers

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.

Wordless Wednesday - Water Lily

"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

Lemonade Award

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

Redneck Playstation...

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

It's HAT War!

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.

My Blog Buddy on Talk Radio Friday! Today!

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.

Wordless Wednesday - Praying Chihuahua

Photo & Story

Is it 1984 again?

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!

Sexy ...

Now That I have your attention please vote!

Barack Obama's grandmother has died

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

Pretty Palin in 2012?

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

Daily Intel: Sarah Palin, 2012

Photo credits: 1, 2,3

Disclaimer: This was not written with the intent of encouraging votes for her now, or in 2012. Although she may run for President, I won't be voting for her. I don't agree with many of her policies.