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My Friday

I am without profound thought this morning. This can be a very good thing.

I am, however, ecstatic! Since I’m off tomorrow, today was my official weigh-in day on the scales here at work… and I have lost 2.5 pounds in one week alone. Actually in less than a week since I’m weighing in a day early. I worked my ass off for it, too – a lot of hard work and sweat. The 135 mark is broken (okay it still makes me sick to type these numbers knowing I dropped 20 pounds a year ago and gained it back) at 134.5!! YAY BON!! Total loss is now 7 pounds. It’s no Biggest Loser total, and it’s not going as fast as last year – but hey it’s still going.

My friend just came in this morning with a sausage biscuit in celebration of my birthday tomorrow. And you know I didn’t turn it down. Damn.

Tomorrow night I’m going out to eat with my most fave people in the world. I’m looking very forward to that!!

What’s wrong with this picture? The subject of the last two paragraphs was FOOD. Think thin Bon – think THIN.

Thought for the day: You know you’re a nerd when you have the Thesaurus bookmarked on your bar.

Posted by  |  March 11, 2010 | Categories: Health, Thoughts | Leave a comment

Guilty

Have you ever thought about the saying ‘guilt by association’? For some unknown reason, I woke up thinking about it this morning. It’s a subject that can run so deep that it actually ruined my last hour of sleep. Because, of course, my ever-wandering mind decided to take it on a bon-trip. **Said while doing a James Gandolfini eye-roll**

Guilt by association. Here’s one term in life that’s very simple – it means just what it says. Lays it right on out there. If you associate or align yourself with someone who is guilty, it makes you guilty as well. Say I give you two very good examples. I consider the first one external, inflicted on you by an outside source, with little to no control on your part – and the second internal, something you as an individual decide to do or participate in.

Once upon a time there was a successful business owner. He had a wonderful family, many friends and the respect of his employees. Along comes a snake of a man that he allows to infiltrate his company. Said snake secures his self a comfortable position in the business, and begins annihilating the business owner’s employees of long tenure with his dirty tongue and slithering acts. The workers were hurt the business owner not only allowed this to happen but to continue, and eventually the entire crew was forced to seek employment elsewhere. The business owner lost the respect of these employees. Guilt by association, or alignment.

Once upon a time a lady fell in love with a man. It was a whirlwind romance, and all happened within a short period of time. It was made apparent to her almost from the very beginning that the man was an atheist. The lady was a Christian, and the fact that she was with someone who rebuked the Lord bothered her considerably. She was in love though – so she consistently made excuses and thought one day, someday… he’ll come to know and accept the Truth. One day the truth came out all right, but not the kind of truth she’d hoped for. This truth had a very ugly head, beastlike even – the relationship ended there. In retrospect, to this day the lady bashes herself for ever allowing herself to be with someone who denounced the Word of God. Guilt by association, or alignment.

Sometimes it’s hard in life to disassociate ourselves with a person we know we should not be aligned with. It can be very difficult to just say no. Oftentimes mistakes have to be made to learn to do ‘the right thing’ – I’ve certainly made my share of those mistakes.

Align yourself with good people, always try to do the right thing, and help others whenever possible. Not only will it make you feel good and draw you closer to God, but you’ll be avoiding the old guilt by association thing.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by  |  March 10, 2010 | Categories: Relationships, Religion, Thoughts | Leave a comment

First Impressions

Anyone who knows me knows what a sucker I am for a good writer. Yesterday I happened upon a piece that made a huge impact on me. I’ve since researched it to find not only are there many variances of it, but the author to be unknown. That’s a real shame, because this brilliant composition deserves to be credited with a name. Another variance of the title I found is ‘A Time Comes In Your Life’. I believe the original to be ‘The Awakening’. Please take note that I did not write it.

This piece stands further apart from just about anything I’ve ever read. I relate on a personal level with virtually all of what is written. This is really good stuff… hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

 

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The Awakening

 

A time comes in your life when you finally get…when, in the midst of all your fears and insanity, you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out…ENOUGH!

Enough fighting and crying and blaming and struggling to hold on. Then, like a child quieting down after a tantrum, you blink back your tears and begin to look at the world through new eyes.

This is your awakening.

You realize it’s time to stop hoping and waiting for something to change, or for happiness, safety and security to magically appear over the next horizon.

You realize that in the real world there aren’t always fairy tale endings, and that any guarantee of “happily ever after” must begin with you…and in the process a sense of serenity is born of acceptance.

You awaken to the fact that you are not perfect and that not everyone will always love, appreciate or approve of who or what you are…and that’s OK. They are entitled to their own views and opinions.

You learn the importance of loving and championing yourself…and in the process a sense of newfound confidence is born of self-approval.

You stop complaining and blaming other people for the things they did to you – or didn’t do for you – and you learn that the only thing you can really count on is the unexpected.

You learn that people don’t always say what they mean or mean what they say and that not everyone will always be there for you and everything isn’t always about you.

So, you learn to stand on your own and to take care of yourself…and in the process a sense of safety and security is born of self-reliance.

You stop judging and pointing fingers and you begin to accept people as they are and to overlook their shortcomings and human frailties…and in the process a sense of peace and contentment is born of forgiveness.

You learn to open up to new worlds and different points of view. You begin reassessing and redefining who you are and what you really stand for.

You learn the difference between wanting and needing and you begin to discard the doctrines and values you’ve outgrown, or should never have bought into to begin with.

You learn that there is power and glory in creating and contributing and you stop maneuvering through life merely as a “consumer” looking for your next fix.

You learn that principles such as honesty and integrity are not the outdated ideals of a bygone era, but the mortar that holds together the foundation upon which you must build a life.

You learn that you don’t know everything, it’s not your job to save the world and that you can’t teach a pig to sing. You learn the only cross to bear is the one you choose to carry and that martyrs get burned at the stake.

Then you learn about love. You learn to look at relationships as they really are and not as you would have them be. You learn that “alone” does not mean lonely.

You stop trying to control people, situations and outcomes. You learn to distinguish between guilt and responsibility and the importance of setting boundaries and learning to say NO.

You also stop working so hard at putting your feelings aside, smoothing things over and ignoring your needs.

You learn that your body really is your temple. You begin to care for it and treat it with respect. You begin to eat a balanced diet, drinking more water, and take more time to exercise.

You learn that being tired fuels doubt, fear, and uncertainty and so you take more time to rest. And, just as food fuels the body, laughter fuels our soul. So you take more time to laugh and to play.

You learn that, for the most part, you get in life what you deserve, and that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophecy.

You learn that anything worth achieving is worth working for and that wishing for something to happen is different than working toward making it happen.

More importantly, you learn that in order to achieve success you need direction, discipline and perseverance. You learn that no one can do it all alone, and that it’s OK to risk asking for help.

You learn the only thing you must truly fear is fear itself. You learn to step  into and through your fears because you know that whatever happens you can handle it and to give in to fear is to give away the right to live life on your own terms.

You learn to fight for your life and not to squander it living under a cloud of impending doom.

You learn that life isn’t always fair, you don’t always get what you think you deserve and that sometimes bad things happen to unsuspecting, good people…and you learn not to always take it personally.

You learn that nobody’s punishing you and everything isn’t always somebody’s fault. It’s just life happening. You learn to admit when you are wrong and to build bridges instead of walls.

You learn that negative feelings such as anger, envy and resentment must be understood and redirected or they will suffocate the life out of you and poison the universe that surrounds you.

You learn to be thankful and to take comfort in many of the simple things we take for granted, things that millions of people upon the earth can only dream about: a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, a long hot shower.

Then, you begin to take responsibility for yourself by yourself and you make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never, ever settle for less than you heart’s desire.

You make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting, and to stay open to every wonderful possibility.

You hang a wind chime outside your window so you can listen to the wind.

Finally, with courage in your heart, you take a stand, you take a deep breath, and you begin to design the life you want to live as best as you can.

~Author Unknown

Posted by  |  March 9, 2010 | Categories: Life Struggles, Thoughts, Writing | Leave a comment

New Week, not weak

I recently regained possession of my old high school annual. This book has remained hidden for years in the attics of where ever I lived at the time; safely tucked away in a box with other ‘childhood’ memorabilia. There’s a reason I haven’t had it out in almost twenty years. You see, I couldn’t get it out and look at it unless I was in the mood to be accused of wanting to look at old boyfriends. Told, why else would I want to look at pictures of when I was in school? And everyone knows, within the walls of a high school yearbook, therein lies only one’s past boyfriends… and nothing else. Pardon the sarcasm.

While at my guys house this weekend, I retrieved it from the trunk of my car and we both sat down and took a stroll down memory lane. It’s been so long since I’ve looked at it that I’d forgotten about certain teachers and friends! It was very cool to be able to peruse through old memories of adolescent times in high school and junior high again. My boyfriend and I went to the same high school and junior high, in the same grade – so it definitely was something we were able to enjoy together.

The Academy Awards (Oscars) were last night. I watched as much as I could of it before bedtime, but I obviously missed the best parts. I’ll have to youtube the acceptance speeches later on.

I am happy to hear about the best actor and best actress award going to Jeff Bridges and Sandra Bullock – I’ve always had the utmost respect for both of them. I’m gonna have to see both of these movies, my mouth’s already been watering to see ‘Crazy Heart’ since I first heard of it’s release.

This is a four-day work week for me, yay. I made that little joke a while back about taking a Friday off on my birthday, well I did just that. It’ll be well-earned, that’s for damn sure. I think it’s supposed to be raining but  as we say here in the south –  ppsshh, that don’t bother me none….

Posted by  |  March 8, 2010 | Categories: Entertainment, Hollywood, Miscellaneous, Thoughts | Leave a comment

Camille’s Big Adventure

I’m home now. But I have to say I have no idea what just happened theze past dayz.

I knew something waz up when Momy came in the front door yesterday and sez *aww, I got you a bunch of stuff*. She did, too – everything from snackz, new litterbox and litter, to thiz funky looking gadget I later learned I would be travelin inside of.

Momy was in the best mood yesterday. I think someone gave her a bunch of treatz or somethin. She was talking to me nonstop and lovin on me, well I didn’t mind that. That’s when my world gotz turned downside up.

I liked the gadget I later learned I’d be traveling inside of. It’s shaped like a tent – I heard Momy say this, anyway. It gotz windows on all sidez, and a soft bottom. Much better than that hard box with a little gate door she put me in the other timez. That one waz like a jail.

I even got inside the gadget on my own akord. Momy thought I looked cute and took picturez. But she waz missin the real reason I liked it… I thought it waz a gadget. You know, a toy – like my tubular thingy that lights up that Momy’s friend Keefer got me for Christmas. Well, they even pop open zactly the same! I think Momy callz it string-loaded. Anyway, I didn’t know she waz gonna zip it up on me and carry me

OUTSIDE OUTSIDE oh GOD I’M OUTSIDE  😦 😦 😦 😦

My world haz ended. I’m goin back to the pound I JUST KNOW I’M GOIN BACK TO THE POUND. I can’t hear what the Momy’s sayin because the poundin of my own heart drownz her out. Why are my meowz not loud enough to make her take me back home??

The big machine we’re riding inside of must be tranzporting us both to hell. I think Momy feels bad for me cuz she unzipt the gadget that I was traveling inside of and let me out. At first I thought it waz good to be free, until I saw all thoze bird-holderz in the sky whizzing by. Whiz, whiz, whiz… so fast… I couldn’t take it so I gotz down in the floor and cried. And cried. And cried.

Hmm, console? That thing that Momy restz her arm on while she drivez, so thatz what itz for? To console? Okays. Momy talked me into it, so I rode beside her on that as long she went slow. Nice and slow. Once she broke lawz and speeded up, those bird holderz in the sky started whizzing about again and I couldn’t take it. Back to the floor I go.

Momy places me back inside the gadget, here we goez again. She carriez me and the gadget to what iz certain to be the pound. Openz door and

WHOA I SEE A FAMILIAR FACE I know this guy

Oh itz Keefer… I know Keefer. Okay, is he in on this takin me back to the pound thing? Momy unzipt gadget, but do I dare come out?

In the dayz to follow I play with Keefer a lot. See, he getz bored eazy so I must keep him entertained. I didn’t sleep good last night. I decided to get on Keeferz bed the next dayz. Itz a big bed much bigger than Momyz. Birdz birdz birdz, everywhere – they is loud! Keefer opens blindz for me to look outside the bedroom window and chatter at them. I like this setup Keefer haz here. Unlike mine and Momyz place this one iz on the ground. I can see all creaturez up close. I can smell em, really I can.

An I can smell bacon and eggz cookin too. Score one for the Camille for gettin the human folk up and at ’em early-like. Theze humanz love bacon and eggz more that any humanz I ever did see. An, they alwayz gives me a little bit of the bacons. Wide padio door to look out of, front glass door to look out of, I believe I’ve located my kitty heaven.

I think I left no territory unchartered. Gotta go back and check though. Knowz one thing – Keefer must think I’m slow because therez two doors that are *shut*. I know whatz behind doorz – roomz. If they let me come back here again I’ll have to find out whatz in em. Kay, other than those two roomz, no territory left unchartered.

Theyz actin funny. Somethinz up. My string-loaded tunnel and toyz are up and gone. I saw Momy take my litterbox somewhere else. My food iz gone.

OH GOD SHEZ TAKIN ME BACK TO THE POUND AGAIN. I MUST RUN NOW.

They’ll never find me under here. Specially under a bed thiz big. I’ll just stay here for now.

Hmm Keefer’s gotz my favorite mouse in the world. He’s in there in the big room rattling it, he knowz better than that. That’s MY toy. I must go correct him

SCOOP oh I shoulda known it waz a trick you tricksterz

Back inside the gadget.

I cried the whole way home again. Momy, that speeder – shez not ‘sposed to go that fast it’s just dangerouz. Some humanz never learns. Whiz whiz whiz, my headz spinnin. My throat’s gettin sore from cryin.

I can’t believe it, I’m home. This iz home again, how did it happen? How many dayz have happened? Ten? I’m tired. And hungry. And I really need to take a crap.

And I need sleep.

Therez no place like home. Umm, I hope Momy takez me with her next week too….

Posted by  |  March 7, 2010 | Categories: Humor, Pets, Travel | Leave a comment

It’s a birds life

It’s one gorgeous day out there today, so just a quick little update. Can you believe I have to take my electric grill back for a refund? Damn thing is tripping the breaker both on the balcony and inside. I’ve lived here two years and have never had the ground tripped… just weird. Oh well, I’ve had to resolve myself to the fact that I’ll be using a George Foreman for my grilling out purposes.

My guy bought me a new industrial-strength fan over yesterday, along with a new shower head that is totally gonna rock my world. I’ve admired his fan for some time now, and this one mirrors his. A full metal, heavy, LOUD, macho-man of a wind machine. Love it. Before he left today, he hung my two birdhouses for me, one each in the corner of my balcony. I do hope to see mama and daddy building in them this Spring, instead of in my ferns! 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tonight will be the first night my furbaby Camille gets to have a sleepover at my guy’s house. I know, I know – she’s a cat. But cats can travel. And she doesn’t think she’s a cat. Plus, I’m tired of leaving her for a day and a half at a time. She can come with me. Umm-hmm… I’ll be sure to let you know how it goes. 🙂

Posted by  |  March 6, 2010 | Categories: Home, Miscellaneous | Leave a comment

TTLFTF

Thank the Lord for the Friday. It’s a beautiful day outside, and looking around again – there’s so very much to be thankful for. I could take up an entire blog listing my many blessings, and have done so before. I’ll spare anyone reading this today and instead thank God for them in silence. 🙂

My weekly weigh-in shows a second week in a row of losing 0. Zip. I just don’t get it. *Smacks self in face* Okay okay, yeah – I do get it. Although I’ve been maintaining my calorie intake, I haven’t been exercising every single day like I should. This week I’ve sneaked a nap or two in after work when I should’ve worked out instead. I know what I’ve gotta do in order to accomplish this – get my ass buttocks in gear. High gear. After all – Spring is almost here! I can actually see a poem coming out of this.

Tonight my beau is coming over with a couple of steaks and we’re gonna try out my new electric grill I got to cook out on my balcony. I’ve gotta run by the market on the way home and score a potato to bake for him. Okay, I might get a small one for myself but I really need to stay away from the whites. Which I’ve pretty much gotten used to doing without, anyway. I can’t wait until it really is Spring, because I’ll be out there cooking my meat every night on it. Now, if I just had that hammock…

There’s a special 20/20 on ABC coming on tonight that features the story of Jaycee Dugard. This is the lady who was kidnapped by a pedophile as a child and held captive in he and his wife’s back yard for a period of eighteen years. I cannot imagine the pain and horror this lady went through – there was such a large portion of her childhood, and life, stolen. This special promises to be a good one, it’s the first we’ve seen of her since her and her children’s rescue from that certain hell. There’s two specials airing tonight, and I’m not sure if it’s the 9pm or 10pm show. I dvr’d both to be on the safe side.

Well, our own Carolina Panthers has decided to say boobye to Jake Delhomme.What a great guy he is, but as they say ‘you do what you gotta do’. Unfortunately, sometimes the most difficult thing to do in life is doing what must inevitably be done. He will always hold a large piece of outstanding history with the Panthers, and I sure do wish him the best.

Posted by  |  March 5, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous, Thoughts | Leave a comment

More waves…

I’m guessing I need to take on a little lighter note after yesterdays blog. I’ve had more than a couple people ask me ‘who were you writing about?’ It’s natural curiosity to question the identity of the Village Idiot, or perhaps if my overly-detailed description is even authentic. Well, it’s authentic all right. Furthermore, I have personally lived this certain hell of knowing such a person. Of course, the individual shall remain nameless. Those of you who are close to me already know of the person I wrote about. Realistically speaking, it’s possible that we all know someone of this very nature.

A lot of people probably think I’m obsessed with the sea and waves, as much as I’ve talked about it in the past. Well, maybe I am. To me it’s intriguing, mesmerizing. It is also ever-demanding of our respect. Being face to face with a huge tidal wave is a continuing dream I’ve had my entire life, and I’ve written about on a couple of occasions.

And dreams always seem to come to pass – in some way, shape or form.

For years now I’ve thought that maybe, just maybe, someday I’d like to take a cruise. Just to see what all the fuss is about. Well, this just puts a whole different spin on the term cruising.

How about being out to sea on a cruise ship, and a massive set of waves pound the bow busting out 5 large windows in a public area – killing 2 people and injuring 14? A passenger said there were three ‘abnormally high’ waves that hit, with the second and third being the largest. The waves were 33 feet (10 meters) high and flooded cabins and busted windows and frames in a restaurant. My God, that’s just the thing nightmares are made of.

This was a 12-day cruise that traveled from Barcelona, Spain to Genoa, Italy. It occurred approximately 24 miles off the coast of Cabo de San Sebastian near the Spanish town of Palafrugell. Of the two who were killed, one was German and the other Italian. It’s indicated the weather was the cause of the waves, as the wind was reported to be 45 mph.

I do adore the ocean. But I do believe I’ll rethink the whole cruise idea. Just put my ass on a plane and land me somewhere near the clear blue water for a week. I’ll find my way to the ocean. And I’ll be just as happy, thanks.

Posted by  |  March 4, 2010 | Categories: Ocean, Thoughts, Travel | Leave a comment

The Ruin of the Village

As I travel to work this morning, it’s so peaceful. The long stretch of highway that still harbors undeveloped land is my serenity during the drive in. As I gaze at the car traveling ahead, I take note of the rhythmic falling of frozen snow from it’s body. It seems to align perfectly with the melodic voice of Gary LeVox in the background. Yeah. Peaceful.

And I think. And wonder. Why it is that certain people try so hard to ruin other’s peace.

Now, I realize the true definition of a Village Idiot does not correspond perfectly with the traits and characteristics of the person I am so describing here. But bear with me, if you will. I happen to think the term Village Idiot has a nice little jingle to it, so… that’s the moniker I choose for this individual.

The Village Idiot works very hard indeed. The Village Idiot will make it her life’s goal to create drama and manipulate others. The Village Idiot thrives on tension, hostility and mental anguish.

The Village Idiot proclaims to be a Christian, all while holding many years of hatred in her heart. She will use the word God and Jesus only when she feels it will be of true benefit to her. The icy heart of the Village Idiot will never be open to the truths and silent hells of others. To the Village Idiot, there is no ‘other side’ of the story, because it is her way or no way.

The Village Idiot is unable to hold her sharp tongue, for either enemies or loved ones, including her own children. Having cut and edited another person’s story in order to better accommodate her own drama-filled life, the Village Idiot is a professional story-teller.

The Village Idiot doesn’t have many friends, and unbeknownst to her, the few she has must walk on eggshells. The Village Idiot has on-again/off-again relationships with the majority of the people in her life. She is consistently on the outs with her family and friends.

The Village Idiot will express her views in a manner that displays her own true ignorance. She forms her opinions without ever attempting to check facts beforehand. Politics, religion, family life – the Village Idiot believes she knows it all, and wants others to believe it as well.

The Village Idiot blasts others for performing acts that she herself performs on a daily basis. There will be no reasoning with the Village Idiot, for reason itself does not exist within her brain. The Village Idiot will smile to your face, and her razor-sharp tongue begins to wag as soon as you walk away from her.

The Village Idiot will never be fully aware just how large of an ass she consistently makes of herself. How, in her absence, her own family and friends discuss her psychotic ways.

In my ever-continuing endeavor at aging gracefully, I find that my toleration factor for the Village Idiot has completely and totally disintegrated. And guess what? It’s one thing I have no desire to get back.

Posted by  |  March 3, 2010 | Categories: Family, Life Struggles, Opinion, Thoughts | Leave a comment

The waves continue

It’s supposed to snow later today. So once again, I don my scarf. I’m hoping this will be the very last time I have to use my scarf. Somehow, it’s just hard for me to associate scarves with the month of March, although I know many would argue that. I associate March with the coming of Spring, kite-flying, mine and my daughter’s birthdays, and pretty pastel Easter eggs (even if the eggs are just a prequel to the month of April).

The tales of the rescue efforts in the aftermath of the Chilean earthquake are just chilling, but they consume me. I simply cannot stop reading about them. Headline story on Fox News this morning is “Tsunamis Sweep Away Entire Towns in Chile”. There seems to be much talk about the earthquake, aftershocks and rescue efforts – but there’s really not much talk about these gargantuan waves that are still taking lives.

In Talcahuano, a family sat huddled together on the floor of their seaside home. Their only light a lantern, listening to a battery-operated radio – they were warned by firefighters to remain calm and stay inside. No warnings of a tsunami, until it slammed into their house – sweeping the family under water. The home was crushed by two giant containers that came in with the sea, and the family was separated by the currents. A third container actually further prevented more family members from being drug out to sea. The family desperately tried to gather back together, and did – a mother and father, their 11-year old daughter, their 76-year old father, and a sister and their family. But still missing is their 76-year old mother.

Story after horrifying story continues. How about the group of 40 retirees vacationing at a seaside campground in the village of Pelluhue. The bus they piled into was swept out to sea, along with trucks and houses. Only five bodies have been recovered – at least 30 still remain missing. Two waves in this instance were reported to be 6 meters (18 feet) high, and a third being even higher. I cannot imagine the magnitude of these waves.

Reading stories like this just rips my heart out.

Earthquakes aren’t the only events inflicting damage, the resulting tsunamis are sweeping away homes, businesses and entire ports and towns. Through their defense minister, the country has now admitted it was a huge mistake for the Navy not to issue Tsunami warnings. There were port captains who knew enough to call warnings – in doing so they reportedly saved hundreds of lives.

I can’t help but think back to those nightmares I sometimes have of the huge tidal waves. Any issue you may have going on in your life right now cannot begin to compare to the sheer devastation and gut-wrenching grief and despair down in this country, or any country affected by a massive earthquake and it’s accompanying tsunamis. I only have to glance in front of me to see how blessed I am at this moment… and realize how quickly it could all be wiped away – in the blink of an eye.

Posted by  |  March 2, 2010 | Categories: Catastrophes, Dreams, Life Struggles, Weather | Leave a comment

01 March, 2010

Hard to believe another month has started in the year. It gets me a little nostalgic this morning… especially after the great night out I had with my girls Saturday night.

Guess I wasn’t aware just how much each and every one of us needed that night, and the laughter that always accompanies it. My bestfriend ended up coming after all, which made me very happy. We were still missing one, though – there are seven of us… but we still had our usual blast even considering we were missing our Dawn.

The 1985 and 1986 graduating year. Seven ladies all growing up together on the same side of town during the 70’s and 80’s – running together, playing together, going to school together, eating the same Zack’s hamburgers (which is still open to this day), celebrating our accomplishments, and sharing our laughter and heartbreaks.

Now it’s 2010. That’s 24-25 years past our graduating classes – which seems like a lifetime ago. Now we share our children’s laughter and heartbreaks, and celebrate their accomplishments. With life, comes change. All of us have changed – yet in a way, have remained exactly the same.

Each of these ladies are so special and dear to me. The qualities and characteristics of the women we’ve grown into has now formed an even stronger bond between us. Each of us is a link, making up a chain.

The relationship we have continually reminds me of the movie “Now and Then”, released in 1995. In fact, it reminds me of it a lot.   Check out the trailer.

We’re already planning our next outing – which I’m really looking forward to. We’re going to a Vineyard! Hoping to do that sometime late this month or early April. And I can’t wait. 🙂

Posted by  |  March 1, 2010 | Categories: Friends, Thoughts | 2 Comments

Weekends are made for….

Late start I’ve got here this morning, but that’s okay. What are weekends for, anyway? Rest, catching up on things, and possibly a little fun thrown into the mix. That’s my definition of weekends anyway.

Had dinner last night at the Mex restaurant that I could eat at just about every day of the week. SO good – I’ve discovered a dish from the light menu that is simply to die for – chicken tacos. You’re probably thinking ‘chicken tacos, what’s so special about those?’ Well I kinda ask myself the same thing… I don’t know why their’s are so good, I’ll just stick with the fact that they are, and move on.

I watched an awesome movie last night, released back in 01, but I’d never seen it. Men of Honor, starring one of my fave actors DeNiro and Cuba Gooding Jr. It’s a courageous tale of an African-American sailor who dares to dream of becoming a US Navy Master Diver. The movie is even more powerful being that it’s a true story. It still amazes me the perils that black people were put through back then – to me it’s still downright embarrassing. This is a truly amazing movie – male or female either one, you should check it out if you’ve never seen it.

Out to dinner with my girls tonight. These are the girls from my graduating class in high school. I’ll try to get a good enough group pic and post it later. These are some awesome women, and I love the fact that we’ve all remained close – in fact we’ve only started having these little gatherings for the past couple of years. Unfortunately my best friend isn’t gonna be able to make it tonight, so we’ll miss her but make the best out if it. We ALL have sore jaws and stomach muscles the next day from all the laughs. Now that’s truly a good time to be had. 😉

It’s windy and cold today. Well, guess it’s not that cold with a forecasted high of 52. One could easily be fooled by looking outside though, with the sun shining high in the Carolina blue sky.

And the day is slipping away, slowly but very surely. Happy Weekend to all!

Posted by  |  February 27, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous, Weekend | Leave a comment

Needful things

You really can’t get any two more different ramblings than those which I have right now. This is me, though. A smorgasbord of thoughts running rampant through an already overactive mind that’s currently working overtime. So I have to unload sometimes, and this blog is my dumpsite. This is my life.

The Life of Bon.

Oh, they’ve finally labeled it. It’s taken this long. (Initial thoughts on Ft. Hood.). The Ft. Hood attacks are now officially being termed as “an act of radical Islamic Muslim Terrorism”. Geez, why couldn’t they have labeled it as such when the details of the attack first surfaced?  In my humble opinion we have a buffoon as the Homeland Security Secretary, Ms. Janet “The System Worked” Napolitano. America is slippery at best with her holding this position. I trust her about as far as I can throw her since she’s already been proven a liar. Oh, she needn’t feel alone in her position… I believe her to be just one of many buffoons within the current administration.

When the hell are the higher-ups of this country going to stop worrying about offending the people of Islam by using the term radical Islamic Muslim terrorists? Radical. Islamic. Muslim. Terrorism. Say the damn words! And often. Because it’s alive and well.

On a much different note, I was recently sent a survey via email correspondence that ended up telling you some of the qualities that your perfect mate would possess. Laughable, I know, because those little survey things are never really accurate anyway. But, it got me thinking, what are we really looking for in life from a partner? And is it actually possible to find your soulmate?

Oh yeah… I must go there. So off I go.

  • True sincerity.
  • He will be honest and forthright.
  • He will have high goals set for the future, and consistently work hard to achieve them.
  • He will possess confidence in his self without being haughty or boastful.
  • He shows kindness and consideration to wait staff, clerks and the general public who services him.
  • Noticing a stranger in a tight spot, he will stop to help them.
  • He’ll keep his manners about him even when he thinks no one is watching.
  • He knows what he wants in life and how to get it – furthermore, gets it.
  • He will have a patience level beyond that of anyone I’ve ever known.
  • He will have class, and strong moral values.
  • He will be a non-smoker. (Only because I have to stay quit myself.)
  • He will love his children unmercifully.
  • He will provide a strong sense of stability, and is reliable.
  • He will have impeccable hygiene.
  • He’ll enjoy taking that occasional trip or vacation.
  • He will be tall.
  • Loves to laugh and cut up, but also knows when to be serious.
  • He will do his best to protect me at any cost.
  • He’ll be a hard worker in whatever profession he has.
  • He will be able to calm me when I am in disarray.
  • He will believe the Bible is the Truth, and love and trust our Lord.
  • He’ll respect my southern belle beliefs.
  • He will never show even the slightest hint of violent behavior.
  • He will love animals.
  • He will have me on his mind 24/7, and I’ll know this only because he tells me so.

And I will never, even once, doubt his love for me.

Sound like a lot to be looking for? I say, nah. These are the essential traits I’m in search of. As well, I would expect everyone has that mental list of necessary traits they’re seeking in a lifetime partner. Realizing that no one is ever going to find that exact match, neither do I believe we have to settle. The truth is, we are all sinners saved by Grace – so there’s not a perfect one of us out there. But there are certain key elements we must insist on in order to maintain a long and successful relationship. These just happen to be mine…


Posted by  |  February 26, 2010 | Categories: Love, Miscellaneous, Opinion, Political, Rants, Relationships, Thoughts | Tags: , , , , , , | Leave a comment

True Olympians

I have enjoyed the Winter Olympics so much. This year’s winter games seem to have captured my attention in a way they never have before. Unfortunately the tragedies in this year’s games, starting with the luging death of Olympian Nodar Kumaritashvili – will forever be embedded in our minds. My thoughts and prayers still remain with his family and his grief-stricken mother and father, and many friends, family members and fellow Olympian athletes. He has been described as a real joy to know.

The word perseverance has forever been redefined for me. One hell of a lady, this Joannie Rochette is.

The Canadian figure skater has made the biggest impression on me. Most of us know the story by now. Her parents arrived in Vancouver Saturday night, and her mother had a massive fatal heart attack just hours later. Joannie was forced to make the decision whether to skate or not for her Olympic dream on Tuesday.

She made it well-known from the very beginning that her mother Therese was her inspiration and backbone in figure skating. In a January interview with the Monitor, Mrs. Rochette described the approach she took toward her daughter Joannie’s skating. “I always encouraged her to have confidence in herself, to believe in her dreams, to consider the progress that she has accomplished over many years,” said Mrs. Rochette, who conducted the interview in French, via e-mail. “But in periods of great stress, I also have the necessary distance to remind her of a rule she knows well: above all, skate for herself, for her own pleasure.” Later in the interview she says of her daughter, “The hurdles she faces motivate her to rise above them. Joannie has always been naturally determined and persevering.” In 2008, Joannie wrote of her mother, “Even if it requires quite a big deal of humility at 22 to admit you need more of your mother, I expressed it and she drives from home to St. Leonard once a week to come supervise with her unique eyes my training.”

Knowing her mother would insist on her to, Joannie made the decision to skate –  her father has stood solidly by her. Last night, she gave the performance of her life in the ladies short program, and held all it together right up until the very end. Watching the raw emotion of her and her father in the audience was, well simply agonizing. My heart breaks for both of them – here is an only child who has just lost her precious mother, and a husband and father who has just lost the love of his life.

I shed a lot of tears watching her last night, the very last performance of the female skaters. It must have been torture for her to have to wait that long to perform. I found my tears still abound as I watched her on the news again tonight, as well as when I came across these pictures of her performance that I’m posting the link to here. Please, if you haven’t already seen, click through them.

I would love nothing more than to see this young lady take home the Gold. No, I’m not abandoning my country. Aafter witnessing her performance last night I honestly believe she deserves it. With her determination and perseverance, I honestly will not be surprised if she takes the prized metal home with her.

Determined and persevering. It is with respect and admiration that I use her own Mother’s words.

Update 2-26-10:

Joannie got the Bronze metal. 🙂

Posted by  |  February 25, 2010 | Categories: Catastrophes, Sports, Thoughts | Leave a comment

It’s a Grasshopper’s world

A good friend of mine, who also happens to be a coworker for many years now, recently asked me about blogging and my thoughts on it. She has so much she wants to get off her chest that she thinks writing a blog might be the very venue she needs. It took me all of two seconds to tell her yes, I believe it’s an excellent tool to serve as that release valve. As we continued our conversation on the subject, I realized there’s one thing that seems most appreciated by everyone that blogs – the fact that it belongs to you. Within these walls, you can talk about whatever the hell you want to talk about – as long as no one gets hurt. I certainly wouldn’t list names of any of my friends or family on here, or discuss my work (other than stating, as I have before, that I love and appreciate my job and the people I work with). And umm, those of you who actually know me realize this is not me being a suckup, it’s just fact.

In my (short time of) blogging, I’ve written about politics (an all-time fave, though it always heats me up), relationships, world news, pet peeves, giant peeves, loves and hates, holidays, my childhood, celebrities, finances, weather, you name it. Yes, it IS a giant release. If you don’t believe me – try it!

I do have high hopes that my friend will start one.

I received the ‘story’ below via email from my Dad just a few minutes ago. Once I read it, I immediately had my hand set on the ‘forward’ button and thought, nahhh… this shit’s good enough to *insert here* in blog. So, that’s just what I’m gonna do.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. (Or, if you’re a dem, loosen up and acquire a little laughter out of it. Seems to be a shortage of that these days.) Pay attention to the color coding… it’s hilarious.

Posted by  |  February 24, 2010 | Categories: Humor, Political, Writing | Leave a comment

Good scents

I’m right about ready to take a Friday off. Although it’s only mid-February, it seems like forever since I’ve had a three-day weekend. We tend to get spoiled around the holidays with all the time off, and get a real slap of reality when it comes time to get back to basics. I need a day off.

Actually, I think I’ll request my birthday off. Yeah. That’s on a Friday this year. What better day to take off than your birthday?

I’m actually proud of myself. Today I’m in a pair of jeans I haven’t been able to pull up in a very long time. I’m now able to look at myself in the mirror and tell a bit of difference, albeit slight, in my shape. It’s an awesome feeling.

As I stepped outside I immediately noticed the air has that smell about it today. You know – that sweet smell? It’s the smell of Spring. Call me crazy, but I believe most of you have smelled it before. It’s out there today, that’s for sure – and it’s very presence was unexpected. What a wonderful scent….

The birds, if nothing else, are busy prepping theirselves for Spring. All the chattering, whistling, building and playing – I love watching it. Can’t wait to get my balcony back in order again – hummingbird feeder up, couple ‘o hanging baskets, put the palm tree back outside. I need to get a stand for my now-enormous fern that I’ve kept alive all winter – I plan to put it outside my front door and get a new one for the balcony. I need something I can easily lift up and down off the hanging chain on my balcony, and I simply cannot lift the big one anymore. And, I already have a new citronella bucket ready to go. 🙂

Yep, this ole’ girl’s still anxiously awaiting Spring’s arrival. I can think of nothing else. But for now, everybody remember to…

Thought for the day:

Years ago I preferred clever people.  There was a joy in beholding a mind bearing thoughts quickly translated into words, or ideas expressed in a new way.  I now find that my taste has changed.  Verbal fireworks often bore me.  They seem motivated by self-assertion and self-display.  I now prefer another type of person; one who is considerate, understanding of others, careful not to break down another person’s self-respect.  My preferred person today is one who is always aware of the needs of others, or their pain and fear and unhappiness, and their search for self-respect.  I once liked clever people.  Now I like good people.

~Solomon Freehof

Posted by  |  February 23, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous, Thoughts | Leave a comment

Rejuvenated

What an awesome weekend, though it went by too fast. Doesn’t it always? I woke up this morning thinking I had another day left, and I do hate when that happens.

My eyes are bothering me bad, almost to the scary part. My vision is blurred to the point I have to get right up on something in order to read it… all this has come about very quickly, like within the past year. Or less. I simply MUST have them checked soon, especially with the issues that have recently come to light with my own Father’s eye problems.

I’d love to have yesterday as a do-over. It was the most perfect weather… in the sixties and sunny. Before going over to visit his family, we washed the cars – and by God they looked good when we were done. The neighbors must’ve thought we’d never washed a car before because I was out there taking pictures when we were finished. Of course, it rains this morning. That’s the way it always goes, but it’s all good. We enjoyed doing it, and even got some much-needed vitamin D from the good ole’ sun shining down on us.

So – once again, I have a Bon-amazement story. My guy treated my windows with this stuff called Rain-X. Now I’d heard about this stuff before, and I know Auto-Bell uses something similar when you take your car there. He told me that I wouldn’t even have to use windshield wipers in the rain if I didn’t want to. Now I admit, I had a little trouble believing that – but I found out he was right this morning. My gosh, that stuff is incredible! I tested it out at 55 mph in heavy rain, no wipers! He’s right, they weren’t needed. So nice!! **Insert Rain-X spokesperson here** In fact, I’ve never seen quite so well in a heavy downpour. I find it simply amazing. Guess you can tell it doesn’t take much to impress me.

The lake was especially beautiful this morning. Under the gray sky, it took on a dark bluish-gray hue, with light mist topping it. It was all I could do to keep my eyes off it, that mystical look about it. I sometimes oftentimes wish there was a place to pull over and just gaze at it for a few minutes… the tranquility and peace it brings me is indescribable.

Seems like things always come back around full-circle. I still get a bit nostalgic and emotional at times, even when I seem to be convinced I’m long past that. All of you people who have loved one person for a long time, had your heart crushed , and then found love again – realize how lucky you are. Constantly remind yourself of it, if you must. Realize how awesome it is to have someone finally love you the way you deserve to be loved, the kind of love that’s gentle, warm, heartfelt, full of compassion. Some people don’t get those second chances. I’m reminded of how fortunate I am, how lucky I feel, whenever I hear the song Broken Road. (click here for song/video).

I set out on a narrow way, many years ago
Hoping I would find true love, along the broken road
But I got lost a time or two
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through
I couldn’t see how every sign pointed straight to you…

Every long lost dream led me to where you are
Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true…

That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you
Yes He did

I think about the years I spent, just passing through
I’d like to have the time I lost, and give it back to you
But you just smile and take my hand
You’ve been there, you understand
It’s all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Every long lost dream led me to where you are
Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you

But now I’m just rolling home into my lover’s arms
This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you

Posted by  |  February 22, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous, Music, Relationships, Thoughts | Leave a comment

One break, comin’ up

I’m making myself do it – take a blogging break. I’ve been a good little girl and wrote on this thing every day now for a while, and have very much enjoyed doing so. If nothing else, it’s a release spout – and it quenches the thirst I’ve always seemed to have for writing. I do believe we’re gonna have some serious blogging breaks on this beautiful weekend… 60º today, and 66º tomorrow! I suppose my guy was right when he said there will be a lot of bikes out on the road this weekend, I hear ’em already. Everyone please be very careful and mindful of this.

Got a lot of errands to run today and I’m running behind. Couple of stores to hit, car to wash, nails to get done, and I’ve got to round up something to make to take to my guy’s brother’s house tomorrow. They’re grilling out in celebration of his Mother’s 60th 59th birthday. Darnit we were told wrong. Good thing we weren’t making the cake.

Yay, Spring…. although it’s officially not here yet, at least we can pretend for a little while this weekend. 😉

He's lookin' for Spring too....

Posted by  |  February 20, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous | Leave a comment

Colors of life

Well, the forecast for this weekend is sunshine and temps around sixty for both days. Baby, we’ve got some serious Spring fever out there brewing. You folks around my area, we’d be nuts not to get out there and enjoy this upcoming weather. I’m salivating just writing about it.

So I get a breaking news email this morning (I subscribe to these from CNN ever since 9/11). It reads: “Iran may be working on secretly developing a nuclear warhead for a missile, IAEA draft report says.” May be? Is this a surprise to anyone? If so, please – it’s time to replace that idiot cap with your common sense beret.

I got to sleep in an extra half hour this morning since the pressmen aren’t working OT today. My furbaby Camille didn’t take into account this time difference, and came up to me on the bed this morning meowing very loudly in my ear. Apparently this altered her schedule in a huge way. After all, she was supposed to already be in her bathroom sink drinking her morning dosage of faucet water. Too funny.

Ever hear the term “He/she just showed their true colors”? Believe it or not, everyone has them. But like a rainbow, those colors come in many different hues and tints… as well as shades. I have a very good friend (before you even think it – no, I’m not disguising myself as a friend) who happens to be one of the smartest girls I’ve ever known in my life. I’ve always respected her opinion and have often sought her advice, and will continue to.

This friend has been engaged to be married for several months now. Like myself, she was married to her first and only husband for 20+ years. She finally met the man who seemed to be her soulmate. Long story short, as of recent, those true colors have came out and has made very evident the personality he, even if only currently, has. More often that not, this doesn’t become apparent until you’ve already recited your vows. She is a strong woman. It is because of this she was able to say ‘enough’. This is such a tough thing, one of the toughest things in life to go through…. and I am so very proud of her.

At my weekly weigh-in today, I’ve lost another two pounds. I’m ecstatic over this – although I’ve literally worked my ass off this week I didn’t feel like I’d lost any. I also took my daughter out for mexican last night, and knowing my weekly weigh-in was today I silently stressed over what to eat. I ended up with some chicken tacos off of the light menu that were so good that I believe I’ll get them next time too! Total weight loss now is 4.5 pounds. I know it doesn’t sound like much, but whenever I think that I’ll just pick up my 5-pound dumbbell at home to remind myself that it IS.

Happy Friday…Happy Weekend, everyone. And guess what? Happiness is a she. 🙂

Happiness is a rebound from hard work. One of the follies of man is to assume that he can enjoy mere emotion. Happiness must be tricked. She loves to see men work. She loves sweat, weariness, self-sacrifice. She will not be found in the palaces, but lurking in cornfields and factories, and hovering over littered desks. She crowns the unconscious head of the busy person. ~David Grayson

Posted by  |  February 19, 2010 | Categories: Miscellaneous | Leave a comment

Yeahhh, I’m the Tax Mannnn… ♫♪

Oh, Yay. Let me, like the many countless others on the social networking sites and twitter, state the things I shall plan/do with all this mega money I shall get back on taxes. Hmm. Money, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

I am one of an apparent couple of people who are not getting anything back on taxes. The average person I’ve spoke with this year is receiving a refund of between $6000 to $12000. The lower end of this was a person of lower-to-poverty level, and the higher end was a low-to-mid bracket person (>$50K) who happened to make the smart move of buying their first house last year. Bammo – an automatic $8 grand in your pocket. This doesn’t include all the extras…

I make less than a teacher’s salary. So no, I am not up there in the higher tax bracket. I do not own anything. I do not claim unnecessary exemptions throughout the year to get more money on my paycheck. Furthermore, I pay out as much or more taxes as all of these other people. So what’s the deal? I’ve done comparisons down to the T, and there seems to be no reasonable differences to warrant my refund of zilch.

One guy I know normally has trouble feeding his own family and has health problems that need addressing. Now he’s bragging about his new 42″ plasma television, his-and-her trips to the mall for new wardrobes, and last but not least, joking about accidentally punching in an extra set of 00’s at the ATM machine and opting to stick it in their pocket in lieu of getting upset about it. I feel like punching this person out. At his height and weight, I could justifiably do it.

Facebook is crawling with all the lucky ones’ status updates. Here’s one I woke up to this morning:

• Tax return season! I have my list made of things to catch up on / pay off, as well as some things I have wanted for a very long time, like a laptop.  Tell me all the things you haven’t been able to afford until now… what are your plans and where are you going??

I’ve seen some comments made to this such as paying off (a couple of) credit cards, to buying a laptop, to putting it into cd’s to ‘let it grow’… here’s some extras:

• We got a couch, love seat and new tv. I’m taking a girl’s weekend trip… paid up up the house payments. It felt great to pay some bills up and I’m so excited about my trip…..never been away from home unless I was having a baby, lol.

and how about this one:

• I got a nice amount back, so I went out and got a laptop, which I have always wanted. I got my sweet man an iPod touch for his birthday because he wanted one and I love him (smile) – put some towards bills and will put some away so I have some saved for a change. What a great feeling!

Good God. I guess, no I know – that I’d be excited about my newfound rewards too. The difference in me and these people? I would NEVER broadcast these earthly earnings to either my work or my social networking site. Geez, why would you? I understand being happy about the money, okay even ecstatic – but why would you want people to know? For one I, who as of this very month has been 3 years without a raise in pay at work, would consider it bragging. Plain and simple.

A friend of mine is so right – if you didn’t believe something smells foul in Washington before, you’d better believe it now.

Go ahead, call me a Curmudgeon at Large. But let’s put the shoe on the other foot for a bit, shall we? And see how ‘they’ would feel if the tables were turned….

Posted by  |  February 18, 2010 | Categories: Finance, Opinion, Political, Rants, The Angry American | Leave a comment