Goddess - The Virgo Chronicles

It's been two years?

2011-10-19T09:01:00.001-07:00

Apparently so! Two years ago I said I would start blogging everyday. HA! Life has a funny way of getting in it's own way, doesn't it?

So much has been going on, so I will start by saying that the past few years have changed me a great deal. I have seen ordinary circumstances bring out amazing things in the people I love. I have seen more love and generosity in these couple of years than I think I ever have. Maybe it's the manifestation of what I try to live by, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived - that is to have succeeded." (Emerson)

I think this was made plain to me this weekend. Saturday was a super busy and painful day. My Dad has esophageal cancer and had appointments and treatments at Humtsman Cancer Hospital all day on Friday. Of course, Saturday morning, I was a hurtin' girl. But, up I was at 6:45 to pick up my Bountiful Basket! It has helped me stay on track for Weight Watchers having all those fruits and veggies in the house - not to mention how much money we save on groceries. I came home, prepped all the food (my head pounding the entire time). Lindi offerred to buy me breakfast (!) if I ran a few errands with her. We went to the pharmacy, a few other places, and then stopped by our local "Quickey-mart." As we were sitting in the parking lot, a woman tapped on my window. It was obvious she was in distress, but she was trying to hold it together. "I hate to ask, but do you have any money you can spare? I'm trying to get home and don't have enough for gas."

I look over and her truck is parked by the gas pump - loaded with things as if she's homeless. And as I look, instinctively, I reached in my pocket. Now, most people would tell me that she's using it for drugs, or booze or whatever. But somehow, I knew what it took for her to ask. Somehow, I knew she had to swallow a lot of pride to tap on my window. And it didn't matter to me. I pulled out my cash and handed it to her. "It's only 5 dollars, I hope this helps." She smiled at me as if I'd given her a million.

Then, to my left I heard, "I've got two more dollars coming, one sec," and Lindi handed me the bills she received as change. I handed the money to her and she grabbed my hand and said "God Bless you," and, in that moment, I've never believed anyone meant those words more. I watched her walk into the store, come back out, and add two gallons of gas to her tank.

As we drove home, I said to Lindi, "Thank you for helping me be a better person." She asked why I thought that. "Well," I explained, "some spouses would tell me not to give money to the homeless or the needy because they would throw it away on soemthing. Instead, when I feel the urge to help, you tell me 'Here's two more dollars.' I'm lucky to have you."

And it's true. I am lucky to have people around me who see that giving of self isn't about what you lose, it's what you gain.

For example, I was lucky enough to be part of Steph Chow's Jam Exchange. I asked for two partners and received partners from Oregon and Georgia. We sent one another two jars of our homemade jams, so I have four jars of BEAUTIFUL jam from two lovely ladies. I sent two of my best away to them, and also sent jam to Steph for being amazing and partnering us all up.

When Karen, my darling "sister-wife" from New York, told me she was having a bake sale to raise money for her mother's non-profit, of course, the first thing I thought was 'I'm going to send her some jam.' The next thought - what if everyone who participated in the Jam Exchange sent only one jar? Wouldn't that be cool, too?

Fingers flying, I sent an email to Steph, who in turn not only posted it on her blog, but sent jam to Karen as well! So far, Karen has received 36 bottles of jam - it was like a little support from all over the country. At $3 a piece, that's $100 for the Judith Parrotte Memorial Literacy Fund to help children and adults learn to read.

It's the little gifts that can mean the world to someone. To me, it's a jar of jam. I have many others. To Karen, it's hope. And you can never put a price on Hope. Or Generosity. Time after time, I am amazed.

And so the Autumn is here

2009-09-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Spoice Latte and Pumpkin Bread from Starbucks sure starts out a season right.

I know I haven't been blogging. I've been infused with the Facebook bug for some time now, but Facebook just doesn't have everything or every avenue or ROOM for all I want to say. So I am going to try blogging everyday for 30 days - let's see where it gets me.

Tonight will be an amazing evening. Lindi, Sarah and I will be heading over to Shane and Chet's tonight for some finger foods and to watch "Glee." Now, if you don't know what "Glee" is, you are sadly one of the people that picked on me in High School. It's a show based around a Glee Club, basically show choir. I absolutely love it.

I have a lot in my brain right now and I am sure of the course of 30 days (give or take a Sunday off) it will start to come out. Bare with me while the blogs are small and not very entertaining nor informative. I'm just a simply girl, really.

Quote of the day: "Families is where our nation finds hope, where wings take dream." — George W. Bush

Never Forget

2009-04-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

Over the last three days, I have been learning a lot about the Holocaust. With the 21st being Holocaust Remembrance Day, the 28th being Oskar Schindler's (Schindler's List) birthday and May 1st being the day of German surrender, it's been at the forefront of a lot of our minds, I am sure.

I happened on a website that really opened my eyes. A gentleman took a tour in 1993 of the sites of the camps in Poland and took many pictures of how they stand today. He relays his personal stories of his encounters with the people and the overwhelming feelings and sites he experienced.

Many things stuck out in my mind, but nothing more so than the end of his story on his last day.

If you have the time or the inclination, it is an amazing read. I would encourage you all to read through it and learn, as I did.

http://remember.org/educate/intro.html#table

Never Forget.

A Lesson

2009-04-17T15:07:00.001-07:00

This has been a trying week. A friend's husband was removed from the heart trasnplant list becasue they have found liver disease as well. So, for the past 3 days, I've been gathering information for funeral expenses and seeing what can be done to help this family.

It's amazing to me - I send out an email asking my friends for help and suddenly, I have a $100 donation, a free location for a wake and food for the asking. My friends and Auxiliary Sisters are amazing.

As I am perusing my emails for the day, I come across one from a High School acquaintence, BS. I get emails from him every month keeping all of us apprised of people in our graduating class. It's kinda cool. Well, this month, he sent one out about his wife, who has a terminal brain tumor, which was both uplifting and very sad to read. He's currently unemployed, and she's been a stay at home mom, so she doesn't get any kind of assistance except Medicaid. He was talking about some of the things he wanted to do for her before she passes, like, he would love a Disneyland vacation for their family or a big TV so she could watch her shows. They have no money for a funeral and the first thing I am thinking of is how I could help.

He directed us to his personal website to read more about her journey through Cancer and as I am reading his blog, up comes a nice blog about why Marriage is only for a Man and a Woman.

I've been asked by a few friends why I don't support same gender marriage. I'll give a few reasons here in my blog. It has nothing to do with equal rights. It has everything to do with what is right for our country, and for children everywhere. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as a Christian, and as a scientist, I must say marriage is for a man and a woman.

God follows a pattern. He calls witnesses. We call these witnesses prophets. Amos 3:7 says "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets". These witnesses, or prophets testify of truth. They testify in the same two ways anyone else does: by speaking orally, or by writing it down. The written word has become scripture. The oral word comes from modern prophets. In order for us to know that one who speaks God's word is a prophet, there's one more step. The Holy Ghost gives us knowledge and testifies the truth to our hearts and to our minds. A modern prophet has testified that marriage is between a man and a woman. The Holy Ghost has testified to me that he is a prophet. The church is not a democracy. We don't tell the prophet what to do, God does. God speaks. His prophet speaks. The Holy Ghost tells me he's a prophet. I listen.

That was the Mormon perspective. Mormon's don't stand alone on this issue. Most Christian faiths believe the same on this issue. The general Christian is similar, minus a modern prophet. God created Adam and Eve. Adam was a man. Eve was a woman. God married them, and set up the family blue-print. Matthew 19:5 says: "...For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?". Mark 10: 7 says: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife". Paul also wrote this to the Ephesians in Ephesians 5:31: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh."

God condemns the taking of life. The powers that create life are equally guarded. Two men cannot create life. Two women cannot create life. A man and a woman can. The life created by a union between a man and a woman should have a father and a mother, equally committed to that child's care. That's why we have marriage. Marriage is a formal recognition before God, a government, and between the man and woman making the commitment that the partners will support each other and their children. We guard this life-creating unit we call marriage with care because that unit, and that unit alone can create life. Misusing the power to create life is perhaps as bad as taking life. Not all marriages turn out well. Some are even abusive, but creating a new definition for marriage will not resolve this problem. It will only make it worse. This holds true for anyone who believes in a Supreme Being. Whoever you call God, He (or or even She) created men and women so that only male-female relationships can create life. He obviously intended it that way.

Some will argue that this is a religious issue, and has nothing to do with law. In fact, law evolves from social folkways, to mores, to laws. Take murder for an extreme example. People don't like their relatives getting killed (folkways). They polarize against it (mores). They make laws against it. Murder is a moral issue, and a religious one. It's also a civil one because of that natural evolution into law. Marriage has always been understood as a union between a man and a woman. We didn't choose the legal arena for a battle about what marriage is. People (certain judges come to mind) decided to try and change the definition of marriage. Now we must step forward and defend what has held true for thousands of years and defend against an unproven idea that will not work.

What?

I take a deep breath and read it, keeping in mind, they are very LDS. He doesn't out-and-out say anything bad about gays, so that's a plus, but it is obvious he is very narrowminded about same-gender marriage.

So, now, I have a choice. I can help them because they are in need, but why should I when he doesn't respect my family?

Instead, I wrote him a letter.

"Dear BS,

I am sorry to hear about J. I have some information on funeral arrangements and things when the time comes if you need it. I am assisting my Partner's friend with arrangements for her husband who was denied a heart transplant and also has only weeks/months with us on this earth. J may qualify for a $255 burial benefit and could also qualify for assistance with a cremation through Salt Lake County if you are residents. I have access to a lot of information that I am more than willing to share. Please let me know if you need it. I am happy to help in any way I can.

On another note, I was reading your personal site and came across your post regarding Marriage. While I don't take things personally and allow others to have their own opinions, please realize that there are families that exists outside of the traditional family that you enjoy.

My partner and I have a daughter, and without the protections of Marriage, our family is in constant jeopardy. Without paying an attorney thousands of dollars, I cannot claim my partner's body for burial, as you can claim yours. I am not automatically allowed into the hospital room when and if my partner is dying, as you are allowed for yours. The fact that we have built an entire life together, created our family, are dependent upon one another financially, emotionally, etc means absolutely nothing. I have one two occassions, not been allowed to see my own daughter, that I have helped raise, until my partner has arrived.

There are no differences between our families. Both of our unions were blessed by God, yours in the Temple and mine by the Church of Christ. We both take financial, physical, and emotional responsibilities for our families. In fact, I pay more in taxes to have my family on my health benefits than you would to have your family on yours due to Federal Tax laws. I am actually penalized financially for who I love and committed to for eternity.

For just a moment, I would like you to consider going through this ordeal without the rights and priviledges you are afforded by being legally married. It would not only be devistataing, it would be compounded by the laws which only recognize you as a "friend" and not her next of kin. Imagine being barred from your children because you are not considered their "parent."

These are the issues I struggle with in my family every single day.

I support your faith and the expression of it. I also encourage you to realize that same-gender marriage does not erode the Institution of marriage - it strengthens it. My family prays for our family to be protected like yours in this way every single day.

Thank you, and God Bless J and your family during this time. You are in my prayers. "

10 Years seems like Yesterday

2009-03-26T09:05:00.001-07:00

His blond hair was cut short in stark contrast to the last time I saw him in High School. Back then, his hair was wild and long. But that afternoon, he was sitting in my kitchen with a Marine 'do and a guitar on his knee.

I remember the day was exceptionally hot, so he wasn't wearing a shirt. He proudly showed me his beautiful tattoos - ink he had earned, not just bought for fashion. I always knew he had a remarkable talent for music and I had heard him play before. But today, it was just him and I in my kitchen.

He told me I was special... a very special friend to him. We didn't know each other well, we had only really met in passing. But when he came home from Iraq and found out his name was on the Soldier's tree in front of my house, and when I greeted him with yellow roses at his home, he knew I was "cool."

He remembered the last musical he saw me in. I had forgotten he played in the band for that production.

His voice was sweet and hung in the air, the notes of his song wrapped around me like a comforting blanket. His toughened finger strummed the strings and I smiled without thought. I can't even remember the songs he played, but I remember how he made me feel. In that moment, I felt that he and I were kindred.

I had a glimpse into what would make this high school friend such an amazing man. Compassion. Humor. Valor. Fierce loyalty.

10 years ago, three men took him from me - from us all. 10 years ago, a wife lost a husband, a boy lost a father, a mother lost a son. And the world lost one of those amazing souls that graces us for only a moment, but changes it forever.

We lost you, Marc, but we didn't lose your memory. And we are all better people for the journey.

I miss you.

In Loving Memory
Marc Todd Atkinson
August 16, 1970 - March 26, 1999

http://www.odmp.org/officer/15232-police-officer-marc-todd-atkinson

Check this out on Perezhilton.com

2009-03-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

Hey There!

You must see this on Perezhilton.com: http://perezhilton.com/2009-03-10-lesbian-iron-chef-pregnant-and-her-girlfriend-is-pregnant-too

OMG! I KNEW I loved Cat Cora for a reason - Greek AND a lesbian! WOOT!

Fwd: FW: I bet the guy was just going to take the cat's picture

2009-03-02T12:20:00.001-08:00

Are you KIDDING ME?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neb. deputies say man stuffed cat inside 'bong'

March 2nd, 2009 @ 12:43pm
By
ERIC OLSON
Associated Press Writer

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A man who tried to mellow out his cat by stuffing her into a homemade bong is facing criminal charges - and catcalls from animal lovers.

Authorities cited a 20-year-old man on suspicion of animal cruelty Sunday after catching him smoking marijuana from a contraption that had a cat stuffed inside its 12-inch by 6-inch base.

The man told Lancaster County sheriff's deputies the 6-month-old female named Shadow had been hyper and that he was trying to calm her down.

The cat was taken to the Capital Humane Society, where she appeared to be in good condition Monday, executive director Bob Downey said.

"What the human mind doesn't invent, huh?" Downey said.

The suspect did not return voice or text messages left on his cell phone by The Associated Press.

Deputies discovered the cat trapped in the device after responding to a domestic disturbance call at a residence the suspect shares with his grandfather, Sgt. Andy Stebbing said.

Deputies resolved the dispute and left the house, but they returned minutes later after discovering there was an arrest warrant on the suspect for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Upon re-entering the house, Stebbing said, deputies saw the suspect smoking marijuana through a piece of garden hose attached to the duct-taped, plastic glass box, in which the cat had been stuffed.

"This cat was just dazed," Stebbing said. "She was on the front seat of the cop car, wrapped in a blanket, and never moved all the way to the humane society."

The suspect was cited for misdemeanor animal cruelty and taken to the Lancaster County Jail on the arrest warrant. He was released after paying a $400 fine.

Now he faces new charges for possession of marijuana and paraphernalia stemming from Sunday.

Stebbing said the animal cruelty charge could be raised to a felony if the cat dies or is found to have suffered injury.

Downey said tests would be done to determine whether the cat suffered lung damage.

"To the eye, the cat looks OK," he said. "It cowers in the back of its cage like it's a little bit afraid but, obviously, given the way it's been treated, that's not surprising to me at all."

Why I heart Sean Penn

2009-02-23T09:59:00.001-08:00

After accepting the Best Actor Oscar last night for his role in Milk, Sean Penn had this to say...

"Finally, for those who saw the signs of hatred as our cars drove in tonight, I think it's a good time for those who voted for the ban on gay marriage to sit and reflect and anticipate their great shame in their grandchildrens' eyes if they continue that way of support.

We've got to have equal rights for everyone.

I'm very, very proud to live in a country that would elect an elegant man President and a country, for all its toughness, creates courageous artists."

Well said, Sean. Thank you for being an ally.

I Love Keith Olbermann

2008-11-11T09:56:00.001-08:00

By Keith Olbermann
Anchor, 'Countdown'
msnbc.com
updated 7:13 p.m. MT, Mon., Nov. 10, 2008

Keith Olbermann
Anchor, 'Countdown'

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Finally tonight as promised, a Special Comment on the passage, last week, of Proposition Eight in California, which rescinded the right of same-sex couples to marry, and tilted the balance on this issue, from coast to coast.

Some parameters, as preface. This isn't about yelling, and this isn't about politics, and this isn't really just about Prop-8. And I don't have a personal investment in this: I'm not gay, I had to strain to think of one member of even my very extended family who is, I have no personal stories of close friends or colleagues fighting the prejudice that still pervades their lives.

And yet to me this vote is horrible. Horrible. Because this isn't about yelling, and this isn't about politics. This is about the human heart, and if that sounds corny, so be it.

If you voted for this Proposition or support those who did or the sentiment they expressed, I have some questions, because, truly, I do not understand. Why does this matter to you? What is it to you? In a time of impermanence and fly-by-night relationships, these people over here want the same chance at permanence and happiness that is your option. They don't want to deny you yours. They don't want to take anything away from you. They want what you want—a chance to be a little less alone in the world.

Only now you are saying to them—no. You can't have it on these terms. Maybe something similar. If they behave. If they don't cause too much trouble. You'll even give them all the same legal rights—even as you're taking away the legal right, which they already had. A world around them, still anchored in love and marriage, and you are saying, no, you can't marry. What if somebody passed a law that said you couldn't marry?

I keep hearing this term "re-defining" marriage. If this country hadn't re-defined marriage, black people still couldn't marry white people. Sixteen states had laws on the books which made that illegal in 1967. 1967.

The parents of the President-Elect of the United States couldn't have married in nearly one third of the states of the country their son grew up to lead. But it's worse than that. If this country had not "re-defined" marriage, some black people still couldn't marry black people. It is one of the most overlooked and cruelest parts of our sad story of slavery. Marriages were not legally recognized, if the people were slaves. Since slaves were property, they could not legally be husband and wife, or mother and child. Their marriage vows were different: not "Until Death, Do You Part," but "Until Death or Distance, Do You Part." Marriages among slaves were not legally recognized.

You know, just like marriages today in California are not legally recognized, if the people are gay.

And uncountable in our history are the number of men and women, forced by society into marrying the opposite sex, in sham marriages, or marriages of convenience, or just marriages of not knowing, centuries of men and women who have lived their lives in shame and unhappiness, and who have, through a lie to themselves or others, broken countless other lives, of spouses and children, all because we said a man couldn't marry another man, or a woman couldn't marry another woman. The sanctity of marriage.

How many marriages like that have there been and how on earth do they increase the "sanctity" of marriage rather than render the term, meaningless?

What is this, to you? Nobody is asking you to embrace their expression of love. But don't you, as human beings, have to embrace... that love? The world is barren enough.

It is stacked against love, and against hope, and against those very few and precious emotions that enable us to go forward. Your marriage only stands a 50-50 chance of lasting, no matter how much you feel and how hard you work.

And here are people overjoyed at the prospect of just that chance, and that work, just for the hope of having that feeling. With so much hate in the world, with so much meaningless division, and people pitted against people for no good reason, this is what your religion tells you to do? With your experience of life and this world and all its sadnesses, this is what your conscience tells you to do?

With your knowledge that life, with endless vigor, seems to tilt the playing field on which we all live, in favor of unhappiness and hate... this is what your heart tells you to do? You want to sanctify marriage? You want to honor your God and the universal love you believe he represents? Then Spread happiness—this tiny, symbolic, semantical grain of happiness—share it with all those who seek it. Quote me anything from your religious leader or book of choice telling you to stand against this. And then tell me how you can believe both that statement and another statement, another one which reads only "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

You are asked now, by your country, and perhaps by your creator, to stand on one side or another. You are asked now to stand, not on a question of politics, not on a question of religion, not on a question of gay or straight. You are asked now to stand, on a question of love. All you need do is stand, and let the tiny ember of love meet its own fate.

You don't have to help it, you don't have it applaud it, you don't have to fight for it. Just don't put it out. Just don't extinguish it. Because while it may at first look like that love is between two people you don't know and you don't understand and maybe you don't even want to know. It is, in fact, the ember of your love, for your fellow person just because this is the only world we have. And the other guy counts, too.

This is the second time in ten days I find myself concluding by turning to, of all things, the closing plea for mercy by Clarence Darrow in a murder trial.

But what he said, fits what is really at the heart of this:

"I was reading last night of the aspiration of the old Persian poet, Omar-Khayyam," he told the judge. It appealed to me as the highest that I can vision. I wish it was in my heart, and I wish it was in the hearts of all: So I be written in the Book of Love; I do not care about that Book above. Erase my name, or write it as you will, So I be written in the Book of Love."

Adventures at the U

2008-07-25T00:12:00.000-07:00

When you're not looking, suddenly, you become a science experiment.

So, I had kept my standing appointment with my breast surgeon on the 15th. I wanted him to see the girls post-vanco. They didn't seem to be getting any better. The nurse was rather faint when she did my pre-appointment check and when the Dr. came in, he was accompanied by med students. I am all for education, so, bring on the med students. All of them were rather speechless.

Dr. Jay (that's what we'll call him) was very concerned and didn't think the infection was gone. Now, keep in mind, the colors of my breasts were changing rapidly, the size was increasing, the pain was intolerable and I had just finished an IV course of the most toxic antibiotic known to man. Okay, the infection isn't gone. I'll go with that. He gave my Percocet for pain, another anti-biotic and Ibuprofen for swelling and off I went on my merry way. He also ordered a CT to look for Cancer since the whole MRI thing didn't work out to well.

Lindi and I noshed at a lovely Italian eatery in the Avenues, Cucina, and then went back up the Huntsman for the CT, then back home for the evening. I took my first round of meds and was cruising right along... until it was time for my second dose. Then came the nausea. And vomiting. In massive amounts. I took two anti-nausea pills and made myself sleep... and upon awakening, the vomiting resumed with a vengeance.

So, at this point, my breasts are turning a bluish color, I can't keep water down, I am in so much pain I am curled on the couch and I make a phone call to Dr. Jay. He said, in no uncertain terms, that I was to be admitted immediately. Lindi came right home from work and I was put in a nice window bed at the U.

And here goes the adventure in medicine.

The first group - and yes, I mean group - of doctors to see me clinically was Infectious Diseases. Now, there's a welcome wagon. Funny enough, they all agreed I was not infectious and did not currently have an infection - and probably never did. Now, this is the premise we had all been working under this entire time. The lovely female doctor of the bunch told me that at some point in my healing process after my breast reduction, I had Pyoderma Gangrenosum following Breast Reconstruction. Now, that sounds like a lively diagnosis, doesn't it?

Basically, it's rare. It could not have been predicted. When the surgeon cut into my breasts and did my reconstruction, the breast tissue did this little mutation kind of thing - it decided it didn't like to be bothered and start to die. Yes, the tissue just decided to die. That's why it took nearly 9 months to heal completely. Had the Wound Care doctors been aware of this kind of disease (did I mention rare?), I could have been treated with steroids and medication they use for rejection of donor organs and been healed much quicker. Frankly, it's a testament to the Wound Care Doctors that they were ever able to heal my breasts to begin with.

So, after my fine needle aspiration, which the breast tissue considered traumatic, it decided to freak itself out again.

The Infectious Disease team said that in most cases, if steroids don't work, complete Mastectomy is the only way to stop it from spreading. Lindi and I spoke after they left and had some heartfelt tears and coming to terms with a mastectomy. No woman wants to completely lose her breasts. I wanted a reduction to be able to do a regular breast exam, to be sure to catch anything that would come my way, not to cause myself to have a mastectomy at 35. But Lindi, being amazingly strong, convinced me what I knew in my heart - I am still as much of a woman with or without breasts.

Oh, and they took pictures.

The next group of doctors to come into the picture was the Plastics. Plastic Surgeons. They had no clue and differed to Dermatology. But at least they gave me Lortab.

Dermatology took pictures, then did a punch biopsy. Dr. Betsy (a lovely lady from the south) did an amazing biopsy. I didn't feel a thing.

And so began the daily ritual. Morning shift of the nurses would come in, ask to see my breasts, give me pain medication and nausea medication; Infectious Diseases would come in, look at the girls, take pictures; Plastics would come in, look at the girls, take pictures; Dermatology would come in, look at the girls, take pictures, and then it was time for lunch.

The parade became crazy. I started writing doctors names on the wall just to remember who in the hell had gazed at my breasts!

After 6 days, the biopsies and blood work and cultures and tests all came back. The consensus: Fat Necrosis (dying breast tissue). The Plastics didn't want to jump the gun on Mastectomy, so the Derms took over my case and decided to listen to Infectious diseases and start me on steroids, Calcium and Vitamin D. I have 2 weeks of that before I go back into Dermatology with a new treatment plan.

I think I was mostly frustrated because during this whole ordeal, I saw my surgeon, Dr. Jay, once. He was the one who admitted me, and where was he? He should have been giving me my treatment plan and diagnosis, not some random Dermatology Doctor. In fact, when the guy who was covering Plastics consultation came to my room and said they were releasing me, I strongly and firmly said, "You are not releasing me without A: a diagnosis and B: a treatment plan." He looked shocked. I had been sitting in a hospital room for 6 days and had yet to be told what all of these doctors were ruling out or testing for and then they were done with me, send me home? My ass.

The Plastics doctor left and came back with the two Dermatology doctors who I'd been working with. The first one, Dr. John, (Chairman of Dermatology, I later found out) said the same thing, that they were going to release me. I looked at him and said, "I don't think so." He kinda blinked at me and I calmly said, "I have been in a hospital bed for 6 days and I still don't know my own diagnosis. I still don't know my treatment plan. I am not any better today than when I came here. I am on the same medication (pain killers and anti-nausea drugs) than when I started. Wouldn't you be a little apprehensive about leaving, too?"

He nodded and I think it finally sunk in a bit. Everyone had been so busy testing and taking pictures, they left the patient completely out of the loop! He gave me a diagnosis and a two week treatment plan and then he said, "and we'll go from there, okay?" At that point, I was fine with that - at least it was a direction - something to shoot for - a treatment to try!

So, the run down of Dr's include, Dr. Jay (MIA), Dr. Betsy, Dr. John, Dr. Justin, Dr. Jackie, Dr. Claudia (and two colleagues I didn't catch their names), Dr. Mann... and these were the ones I can remember. I am sure there were more medical students than I ever really paid attention to.

So, I am home. After a little SNAFU with the pain meds (they forgot that I started vomiting after I took Percocet and sent me home with - Percocet), I am feeling much better. I had visits in the hospital from my dear friends Christopher, Teinamarrie, Shane and Dawn and of course, my family. Lorene sent the most beautiful Gerbera Daisy arrangement (thanks Rene), my family sent an amazingly gorgeous pink and yellow Lily arrangement and the Ladies at the VFW Auxiliary also sent a blue and yellow arrangement. My hospital room looked like a florist shop. Dawn brought me lilacs from her own garden, which were simply gorgeous. The flowers brighten up my living room. I should have gotten good pictures when they were still in perfect bloom!

I am very weak and very tired and wish this ordeal is over so I can go back to work and be vaguely normal again. I still need a spotter when I take a shower (embarrassing) and can't sleep in one position very long (annoying). But my kitties keep me company and I am catching up on all the TV I can handle.

Well, until next update - be well.

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY to LORENE! I am so sorry I missed your birthday.

And the saga continues...

2008-07-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say I have gotten better. I really do. In some ways things are progressing and others... ugh.

The staph infection took a turn for the worse and my doctor determined I had MRSA, which is a medication resistant staph infection. Very scary stuff. She changed my medication to vancomycin, which is the only medication they are currently aware of that fights MRSA. It, in a word, sucked. I had to dose every 8 hours and the treatment itself takes an hour and a half. They had to place a midline, or a fake vein, in my arm because the vanco eats vein tissue. Yes, it eats the tissue. I have to say, the midline was much better than the IV placement and a lot less painful. The dosing screwed up my sleep schedule badly though since I couldn't get more than 4 hours of sleep at a time.

I continued the treatment until last week, when I visited the radiologist and they drained two large pockets of infection, one from each breast. Now, I have had migraines, spinal taps, broken fingers, dislocated knees and shoulders and by far, the needle aspiration last week was the most painful thing I have experienced. Thank goodness for Lindi who helped me focus my thoughts on her and not on the 18 gauge needles sticking out of my breasts! They removed about 15 CCs out of one and 10 out of the other, and, gratefully, it showed the vanco did it's job and killed all present infection in my body.

So, now, surgery. I met with a general surgeon for a second opinion and he agreed I would need surgery, and I definitely need a breast specialist. They will probably take the remainder of my breasts, which I am trying to get "okay" with. The surgeon was very sweet and encouraging when he told me of the options of removing fat from my belly and remaking my breasts or implants. I was very strong in my words about how I feel about implants after the hell my mother went through. I think I would rather be without breasts than risk all of the complications of rebuilding. I meet with my breast surgeon on Wednesday to go over all the details and set a surgery date.

My job has been amazing. I was approved for short term disability within 24 hours of submitting all the paperwork via fax AND they also approved FMLA (even though I didn't file for it) in ADVANCE of me needing to return to work, in case I need to take additional time off when I finally return to work. When i have a surgery date, I only have to make one phone call and my STD extends another 30 days. Wow. I have two co-workers who are working my client and have just jumped in to do whatever they can to hold down the fort. I don't have to worry about a thing.

Needless to say, I wasn't able to plan and execute our annual BBQ event for Lindi's b-day and I feel really bad about that. We still had a nice day together, albeit indoors and sitting a lot, but she seemed to enjoy having me with her all day long.

My family and a handful of amazing friends have really stepped up to make this latest bout of the breasts tolerable. I am so blessed. I'll keep everyone posted on the latest.

OHMYGOODNESS!

2008-06-22T23:08:00.000-07:00

I was recently informed I am now officially a slacking blogger. It's been almost six months since I've posted anything. Now, I am sure you know, nothing stops moving in my life in six months. Well, maybe my fingers, but that's just about it.

So, to put everyone's mind at rest, Let's catch up on the last few months, the highs, the lows, the in-betweens.

During the Winter months, I taught an Excel class for community education. It was a great class. I had about 14 students including my sister and her old friend, which made the class that much more, let's just say, entertaining. They all left the class knowing more than before and I felt like I really made a great impact.

I've also had the opportunity to use my officiant ordination, four times so far this year. Now, that has been one of the most enjoyable things I've ever done. I've married four very different, and very wonderful couples. Okay, scratch that, 3 were wonderful, one was very annoying, but I will tell you about that later. Two of the weddings were for co-workers, which is always great. I've been able to use my writing skills, communication and interpersonal skills and be involved in a fundamental way to the joining of two peoples lives. I have 3 more bookings scheduled through the rest of the summer, as well. I even have a temporary website here.

Sarah is now full-time in cosmetology school and doing fabulous. She's already graduated her freshman term and is on the salon floor getting her 2000 hours of hands-on training. She's colored and cut my hair, colored and cut Lindi's... she's had a turn at almost everyone in the family! So far, no casualties, unless you count the occasional snip to her finger. I think she's really found her niche.

Grace's youngest Aunt Buffy passed away suddenly and her family reached out to me for support. It was a real hard time for Grace's mom and Grace herself. I was actually able to sit in a room with Claudia without fear of a rumble, so there's progress there. It's a huge loss for them and I was glad I could be a support.

I've also been very, very active with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary. When my soldier came home, I missed writing and sending packages, and my friend Elizabeth got me involved in the VFW. They have so many programs for military veteran, current veterans and their families. I was elected Secretary for the auxiliary and have enjoyed the time invested with them so much.

I got a new tattoo on my back. It takes up my entire left shoulder blade. It's a beautiful winged blue bird landing on a green-leafed tree branch. Above it is the word MOM and below is DAD. It's obviously for my parents, the two people who gave me roots and wings. My mom loves it, my dad is warming up to it.

There's so many little things all sewn up in there, but those are the major points of interest, I guess.

So, why am I at the computer at midnight on a Sunday when I should be getting sleep for work? Well, it kinda went like this:

After my breast reduction, I developed some significant scarring on and in my breasts. I waited a couple of years for everything to settle and I went back up to Huntsman to see about the scarring and encapsulations. The doctor who took over my previous surgeon's practice wanted to test the tissue in both breasts, just to make sure it wasn't the big "C," so he performed a fine needle aspiration, which basically is a small needle that takes 10 stabs of tissue to examine. He did this twice. In each breast. It didn't hurt, was just kinda annoying and sore.

Good news: I don't have cancer. Bad news, the testing gave me a staph infection. A RAGING staph infection. So, I've been home for a week, in and out of ERs and Dr's offices and now get the wonderful experience of home IV antibiotics. Plus side, I'm not in the hospital in an uncomfortable, crappy bed eating indigestible food. The home health nurse trained Lindi how to do my daily IV's and she's turned into quite the nurse. Down side, poor Lindi has to take care of me during her vacation.

The IV antibiotics seem to be working, but certainly not fast enough. I've seen maybe a 10% decreased in redness and swelling, but the pain is horrible. I'm going to file for medical leave and really take care of these little buggies. I certainly don't want to mess with staph. I could lose, like, a lung or something.

Maybe I'll take a language course at home. Catch up on reading. Surf the net. Cure Diabetes. Who knows? I've only got time on my hands.

Well, I'm gonna run to bed. I'll be back. Really. I will be back. Promise.

Rest in Peace, Carol

2008-01-23T09:23:00.001-08:00

Carol Reden lost her fight with Cancer this morning.

She was surrounded by family and is now at peace.

A Woman of Valor (Proverbs 31)

An accomplished woman, who can find? Her value is far beyond pearls.

Her husband's heart relies on her and he shall lack no fortune.

She does him good and not evil, all the days of her life.

She seeks wool and flax, and works with her hands willingly.

She is like the merchant ships, she brings her bread from afar.

She arises while it is still night, and gives food to her household and a portion to her maidservants.

She plans for a field, and buys it. With the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.

She girds her loins in strength, and makes her arms strong.

She knows that her merchandise is good. Her candle does not go out at night.

She sets her hands to the distaff, and holds the spindle in her hands.

She extends her hands to the poor, and reaches out her hand to the needy.

She fears not for her household because of snow, because her whole household is warmly dressed.

She makes covers for herself, her clothing is fine linen and purple.

Her husband is known at the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.

She makes a cloak and sells it, and she delivers aprons to the merchant.

Strength and honor are her clothing, she smiles at the future.

She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the lesson of kindness is on her tongue.

She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Her children rise and praise her, her husband lauds her.

Many women have done worthily, but you surpass them all.

Charm is deceptive and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears God shall be praised.

Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

True Riches

2008-01-17T12:55:00.000-08:00

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window. The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back.

The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation.
Every afternoon, when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed began to live for those one hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.

As the man by the window described all this in exquisite details, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine this picturesque scene.

One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man could not hear the band, he could see it in his mind 's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words.

Days, weeks and months passed.

One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away.

As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch, and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the real world outside. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window besides the bed.

It faced a blank wall.

The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window.

The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall.

She said, "Perhaps he just wanted to encourage you."

Epilogue:
There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations.
If you want to feel rich, just count all the things you have that money can't buy.

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T14:55:00.001-08:00

My Holidays were nothing short of amazingly fun, laid back and thoroughly enjoyable. I was lucky enough to have Christmas Eve off, so I had a nice 4 day weekend to wrap up all of the projects I had going and take time with the people I love.

Lindi's Store Christmas party was on the 22^nd, so we enjoyed an amazing buffet of American and traditional Mexican food. (Mole' anyone?) The next day, we had another McDonald's Manager and his wife over to play the Wii, since we had been talking about it. We're going to plan a cooking night were Lorena teaches me to cook mole' and tamales and Lindi will teach Lorena how she makes her enchiladas. And Jason will just sit back and have an amazing dinner. Slacker.

We spent our Christmas Eve with Lindi's family at her Aunts and Uncles house where we enjoyed her cousins amazing food and our niece's adventures with Christmas presents. The weather wasn't very enjoyable as it had just blanketed everything, but we made it there safe, and home safe. Sarah spent the night at our house, so we opened our Santa stockings and hung out until well after midnight. Santa was very, very good to me and gave me a beautiful white gold, sapphire and diamond ring, with matching pendant and earrings. Gorgeous, just gorgeous.

Christmas Day, we met at Lindi's mother's house and enjoyed our Sticky Bun Breakfast tradition, opened gifts, then headed to my parents house. We really had a great time with my family. We were all laid back and the presents were thoughtful and funny. We fell into bed pretty early, since both Lindi and I had to work the next day. I ended up with a screaming migraine from Friday through Saturday, but thanks to Lindi and lots of medication, I was ok.

In lieu of a New Years Party, we held our very first Wii Party with our closest friends on the Sunday before, since we can really only have a handful play at a time. Oh, my God, we had a total blast! Bowling and boxing and all sorts of mayhem. We're going to have to do it again very soon.

New Years was pretty uneventful, which it always is, since Lindi has to go into the store on New Years Day early to finish month-end. I spent my day installing and getting my new World of Warcraft account set up and playing online. Amazing graphics. I was so impressed! I'm going to have to be very, very careful about spending too much time on WOW and making Lindi a widow. That's okay, though, she bought 2 new Wii games, so we have our gaming nights together – but separate!

It's official, I am teaching the Excel classes! There are enough students and I got all my paperwork finished, including getting fingerprinted for the FBI – jeez! Now, I am arranging my lesson plans and activities to make sure I am organized. I am so thrilled and excited. My sister and her friend are taking the class, and Lindi can even sit in for free, so that's nice.

I also found out my adopted soldier made it home okay, (YAY!) so I will probably be adopting another soldier in the next couple of weeks. It has been so rewarding to do, I can't imagine not having a soldier-friend. soldiersangels.com/

Well, this update is pretty long, so I will leave it at this and just wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

A Soldier's Night Before Christmas

2007-12-21T09:37:00.001-08:00

by Michael Marks (Also titled The Soldiers Night Before Christmas)

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figu re stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.
'What are you doing?' I asked without fear,
'Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!'

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said 'Its really all right,

'I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night.
It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at Pearl on a day in December, '
Then he sighed, 'That's a Christmas Gram always remembers.'

'My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam,
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile. '

Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
'I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

' I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..

' Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.'
'So go back inside,' he said, 'harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right.'

'But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
'Give you money,' I asked, 'or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son.'

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
'Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone ,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

'For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.'

Authors Note:

A Soldier's Christmas was the first in this series of patriotic writings, drafted on Pearl Harbor Day 2000 when in the wake of the 2000 Presidential Election our nation saw the right of US Armed Forces personnel openly questioned and debated. I felt it unconscionable that at the onset of the Christmas season, those serving to defend our nation would hear anything but our love and support. It is our challenge to stand for their rights at home while they stand for our lives and safety overseas. This poem went out and quickly spread around the world in emails, letters, magazines. I received letters from Marines in Bosnia, soldiers in Okinawa, from a submariner who xeroxed a copy for everyone on his sub. Moms wrote, dads, brothers and sisters. I have saved and cherish every letter and set out to continue writing throughout the year.

http://www.snopes.com/holidays/christmas/glurge/different.asp

Gift Wrapping - From a Male Point of View

2007-12-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

by Dave Barry

This is the time of year when we think back to the very first Christmas, when the Three Wise Men; Gaspar, Balthazar and Herb, went to see the baby Jesus and, according to the Book of Matthew, "presented unto Him gifts; gold, frankincense, and myrrh." These are simple words, but if we analyze them carefully, we discover an important, yet often overlooked, theological fact: There is no mention of wrapping paper.

If there had been wrapping paper, Matthew would have said so: "And lo, the gifts were inside 600 square cubits of paper. And the paper was festooned with pictures of Frosty the Snowman.

And Joseph was going to throweth it away, but Mary saideth unto him, she saideth, 'Holdeth it! That is nice paper! Saveth it for next year!' And

Joseph did rolleth his eyeballs. And the baby Jesus was more interested in the paper than the frankincense."

But these words do not appear in the Bible, which means that the very first Christmas gifts were NOT wrapped. This is because the people giving those gifts had two important characteristics: 1. They were wise. 2. They were men.

Men are not big gift wrappers. Men do not understand the point of putting paper on a gift just so somebody else can tear it off. This is not just my opinion: This is a scientific fact based on a statistical survey of two guys I know.

One is Rob, who said the only time he ever wraps a gift is "if it's such a poor gift that I don't want to be there when the person opens it."

The other is Gene, who told me he does wrap gifts, but as a matter of principle never takes more than 15 seconds per gift.

"No one ever had to wonder which presents daddy wrapped at Christmas," Gene said. "They were the ones that looked like enormous spitballs."

I also wrap gifts, but because of some defect in my motor skills, I can never completely wrap them. I can take a gift the size of a deck of cards

and put it the exact center of a piece of wrapping paper the size of a regulation volleyball court, but when I am done folding and taping, you can still see a sector of the gift peeking out.(Sometimes I camouflage this sector with a marking pen.)

If I had been an ancient Egyptian in the field of mummies, the lower half of the Pharaoh's body would be covered only by Scotch tape.

On the other hand, if you give my wife a 12-inch square of wrapping paper, she can wrap a C-130 cargo plane. My wife, like many women, actually likes wrapping things. If she gives you a gift that requires batteries, she wraps the batteries separately, which to me is very close to being a symptom of mental illness. If it were possible, my wife would wrap each individual volt.

My point is that gift-wrapping is one of those skills like having babies that come more naturally to women than to men. That is why today I am presenting:

GIFT-WRAPPING TIPS FOR MEN:

* Whenever possible, buy gifts that are already wrapped. If, when the recipient opens the gift, neither one of you recognizes it, you can claim that it's myrrh.

* The editors of Woman's Day magazine recently ran an item on how to make your own wrapping paper by printing a design on it with an apple sliced in half horizontally and dipped in a mixture of food coloring and liquid starch. They must be smoking crack.

* If you're giving a hard-to-wrap gift, skip the wrapping paper! Just put it inside a bag and stick one of those little adhesive bows on it. This creates a festive visual effect that is sure to delight the lucky recipient on Christmas morning

YOUR WIFE: Why is there a Hefty trash bag under the tree?
YOU: It's a gift! See? It has a bow!
YOUR WIFE: (peering into the trash bag): It's a leaf blower.
YOU: Gas-powered! Five horsepower!
YOUR WIFE: I want a divorce.
YOU: I also got you some myrrh.

In conclusion, remember that the important thing is not what you give, or how you wrap it. The important thing, during this very special time of year, is that you save the receipt.

My Inner Geek

2007-12-14T11:23:00.000-08:00

Free Online Dating from JustSayHi

In other news...

2007-12-14T11:04:00.001-08:00

Courtesy of Danielle

Your Score: Juniper Berries

You scored 100% intoxication, 25% hotness,
75% complexity, and 75% craziness!

You are Juniper Berries! You're a drunk. No, really. Cool it with the hooch. Just kidding. You're really good at adding flavour to boring old life. You can be astringent at times, but once the harshness passes, you're quite relaxing. And you smell good, too.

Link: The Which Spice Are You Test

A Rather Spectacular Party

2007-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Lindi and I really had a fantastic time at my company party. They rented out the Olympic Ice Oval for a Casino Night. We were treated to delicious food and 100 “points” to turn into chips for gaming. We mingled and she got to meet the important peeps at work, and sit with all my friends, who just adored her and said the nicest things about me. We played 21 and roulette, but the real fun was at Craps. For the first couple of hours, I couldn’t win much, but the last 30 minutes was a blast.

For every 100 points you had, you received a raffle ticket. So, with only 20 minutes left to go, and me on the dice, we turned our little 200 points into 900 points! Every time I rolled the dice, it was a winner. Our whole table was hootin’ and hollerin’ like it was Vegas – Very, very fun.

They had some amazing gifts for the raffle – probably about 30 total. iPods and CD players, NBA tickets and dinners to nice restaurants, all sorts of things. I put our tickets in the tumbler and just knew we were going to win something. Then I glanced over and could see people with 40-50 tickets – obviously we were outnumbered.

They went through all of the prizes and we didn’t win anything, although I had a premonition the lady across from me would win a large prize, and she did when I said she would. Not bad for one out of 800 employees.

Then came time for the Grand Prizes. I looked at Lindi and focused on her, then closed my eyes and pictured her winning the Grand Prize. I concentrated on it until they called the number. I opened my eyes just in time to watch her stand up, rip the top ticket off her roll and say “I’ll be right back.” When I realized she had just won the Grand Prize, I was the one doing the screaming! She was calm and cool as ever.

She had her pick of the three Grand Prizes – but she chose what I was hoping she would – a Wii system with sports package! I have been trying for the last 2 Christmases to get one for her. The other two prizes were a 27” flat screen TV or a weekend stay at the Anniversary Inn, which would have been nice since our Five year is in 2008. Honestly, we would have been pleased with ANY of the prizes, but it was so sweet to see her win. My sister said the reason we won is because I wanted it so bad for her, I wasn’t selfish wanting something for me. I think it’s because she has been through so much with me this past year, she deserves something nice.

We braved the snow storm and got home around 11:30, unwrapped the Wii, and played until 4am. It felt just like Christmas Morning! It is a blast – we will definitely have to have a Wii party.

We received an invitation to MaryEtta’s 50th b-day party on Friday and we are so excited to go. It came delivered with an old time 45 record from the year she was born. I can’t believe she’s turning 50. Her spirit is so young and happy and I love being in her energy.

The Craft Fair went very well – I made enough money there to cover all my expenses for my craft projects for my family – now that’s success.

Tuesday and Wednesday I was pretty sick with the stomach bug, so I stayed home. I didn’t even get to play the Wii. That’s okay. Now I'm back at work and working hard, as you can see…

We’re going to work on our Christmas Cards tonight together and get them in the mail. I really wanted them to be done before now, but I haven’t had the time, really. I am so excited to be able to gather with friends this season and enjoy them that the other tasks often get missed. That’s why I have Lindi – to keep me sane.

Fwd: ... A Note from the Universe

2007-12-13T11:24:00.000-08:00

From: The Universe
Date: Dec 13, 2007 2:48 AM
Subject: A Note from the Universe
To: crimsondove

Doesn't it happen like that, Connie? I mean, isn't your entire life proof? One day you're scrimping, the next you're in the money.

One day you're lonely, the next you have friends.

Lost, then found. Ill, then well. Low, then high.

Yet with hindsight, it becomes ever so clear that the only thing that ever really changed was your thinking. Even though you were free to think as you pleased the whole time.

History need not repeat itself -
The Universe

PS: Think of the money we just saved on self-help books.

Holiday Party

2007-12-07T13:35:00.000-08:00

Tonight is my company party. I am really looking forward to it, but I almost feel like some yahoos have taken all the fun out of having a Holiday gathering with the people you work with.

I've been told because of the behaviour of past parties, the alcohol will be limited to two drinks per person, which is okay with me, and we received an email reminding us that our behaviour at an outside venue reflects on ths company as a whole.

I want to know exactly what happened last year that made the management afraid of having a Holiday Party - but no one is talking. Something about some chick laying across the tables, maybe showing a little more of her body than appropriate... something about a group of guys and dirty dancing... I don't know, but I wish I would have gone last year!

So, in the spirit of company parties the country through, I've posted the do's and don't of holiday partying on a corporate level.

~~Don't party your way to a pink slip~~

OK, so I read through the article and it bored me to tears, so I decided to just list the highlights... and add some of my own. See if you can guess which is the real advice.

• Pace your drinking -- or don't drink, period. Booze doesn't give you license to do anything that wouldn't be appropriate at the office between 9 and 5.

Don't be such a stiff jerk that you can't be around people who imbibe. Shoot, we didn't marry you, so you don't have to agree with our glass of wine or judge us for our beer. You could probably use a drink yourself.

• Don't hit on, and don't hit up: Don't use the party to hit on a co-worker (if things go badly, you'll live with awkwardness daily) or to hit up your boss for a promotion or raise (socializing at the event is fine, but save requests for the appropriate forum).

The only time you are really going to get your manager to listen to you is after the second round of Seven and 7's. Take it from there. But don't stick your tongue down anyone's throat. That's just tacky.

• Eat before you go. Don't assume you'll get enough ballast from whatever's served at the event.

Eat before you go. Don't assume the food that's served is even edible.

• Photos live on. Don't dance yourself into a sweaty mess or do anything else you'd cringe to relive in photo form.

Photos live on. Be sure to bring your own camera for "job advancement opportunities."

• Leave before it's obvious that you should. No one will remember that you left early, but they will remember you asleep on the coats. The top brass are usually long gone by mid-evening. Follow their example.

No one pays attention to when anyone leaves. Seriously. And if they do, they are probably just making sure no one is stuck in the bathroom.

• Can't trust yourself to get through the party without a misstep? Don't go.

Oh my hell. Are you really that much of a loser you can't go to a cocktail party? How about a wedding reception? Been to one of those?

Bottom line, have fun, don't be a jerk and get home safe. I fyou are too worried about what you look like, everyone will notice and it will be a complete waste of time and booze.

You're Gonna Look Better in your Holiday Sweater

2007-12-07T13:09:00.001-08:00

OK, so it's no secret I love shopping and hanging out with gay men. I am of the opinion that you can never have too many gay men in your life.

I read the Ross Blog daily because I think he is just hilarious and fun and it's like a visit with a gay man every single day. Plus, his talky blogs are to-die-for-funny.

Today's sample is HILARIOUS! I can imagine me and Shane S. doing the same thing.

Enjoy!

I Forgot All About Enid Greene

2007-12-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

So I am sitting at my desk, wrapping things up for the day when a call comes in, quickly flashing on my screen, then dissapearing. Apparently the caller realized he'd called the wrong desk. But as the name flashes on my ID, I am transported back to 1991, working on the SLCC Newspaper, and having a new reporter shadowing me as we do restaurant reviews and interviews ...Brandyn.

Could it be? Naw, it's not possible. He does have a unique name, though.

So I call the number back and get voicemail.

"Hi Brandyn, this is Connie in Operations. You called me. Then hung up, so I am sure you probably didn't need to talk to me. But you should call me back. I think we went to College together."

The next morning, Brandyn calls back, "OH HELL! It really IS you!"

The next 15 minutes were spent catching up on life. He's worked at my company for 13 years and is the Manager of IT. The Manager. He remembers all about our exploits and interviews, even reminding me that we had interviewed Enid Greene and what a wack job we thought she was. I had completely forgot all about that. We reminiced about the crazy Editor and Assistant Editor, who were getting married, and who honestly scarred me. It was great to catch up.

Oh, and he dialed my number completely on accident. Completely. What are the odds?

The Universe is responding to my quest of positive and fun people. We'll be having lunch next week and I am sure it wil be as if 15 years haven't passsed at all.

Just pure awesomeness.

Oh, the Connection via Text

2007-12-04T10:56:00.000-08:00

Me; “So, I had a dream about you last night. And Nicole. I dreamed the three of us were on top of a building, on the roof, taking a photography class. But we didn’t have any cameras. Ironic, no?”
Corinne; “Ha ha! Weird! I just signed up last night for a photography class for next semester!”
Me; “Shut up!”
Corinne; “For real!”

Time and distance – small insignificant things between true friends. Miss her guts, but she will be coming to visit me this week for milk and cookies, or somesuch.

Last night shaped up to be a very nice evening. Sarah came over and we had chicken garlic pizza, chocolate chip cookies and I started my craft making projects. I came home early from work because my migraine was starting to come back, so I took my anti-nausea meds, and they made me a wee tired, so sewing on my machine wasn’t the best idea I’ve had, but I did get a lot accomplished. Then we watched the masterpiece Nacho Libre.

“Chancho, when you are a man, sometimes, you wear stretchy pants in your room. It’s for fun.”

Tonight will be more Sewing with Connie projects, and hopefully some incense making, depending on if I get my supplies in the mail today. One can hope!

LOVE out to Toni – good thoughts on the new meds and healing.

My message from the Universe for today:

Here are 3 sure-fire steps that will take you from wishing upon a star to being one:
Imagine your dreams as if they already exist.
Speak as if they already exist.
And act as if they already exist.

Have a great Tuesday!

Cinnamon Stars (Zimtsterne)

2007-12-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

I’ve been receiveing the 12 days of Christmas Cookies from the Food Network, and it’s really fun – cookies from all over the world. They had a traditional Greek cookie recently, too, which made me smile. I may make those for Christmas.

Here’s one that caught my eye. I’m going to have to try it. Soooo Pretty!

These are a classic German Christmas cookie; you'll find them in most every German household as soon as St. Nicholas' Day (December 6) rolls around. These gluten-free cookies are a cross between a macaroon and a meringue, with a hint of nutty spiciness. We find them truly addictive. They're designed to keep for a long time - they get chewier as time passes.

Difficulty: Medium
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Inactive Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 dozen stars

2 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar, plus more for rolling
15 ounces sliced almonds, with skin (about 4 1/2 cups)
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 large egg whites, room temperature
2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

Sift the confectioners' sugar.

Put 1/2 cup of the sifted confectioners' sugar, 10 ounces (3 heaping cups) of the almonds and all the cinnamon in a food processor. Process until the nuts are finely ground, with just a few larger pieces.

Whip the egg whites in a large, clean bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until they hold soft peaks, about 1 minute. Gradually add the remaining confectioners' sugar while whipping, until the whites are thick, creamy and somewhat stiff, about 2 minutes more. Set aside 2/3 cup of this meringue for topping the cookies.

Fold the ground almond mixture and the lemon zest into the remaining meringue to make a stiff dough.

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Lay a sheet of parchment or waxed paper on the work surface and lightly dust with confectioners' sugar. Turn the dough out onto the dusted paper, flatten and dust with more sugar as needed, and then lay another sheet of parchment or waxed paper on top. Roll the dough between the papers until it is about 1/4-inch thick. Flip the dough over and gently peel off a sheet of the paper. For ease when cutting, lay the paper back on the dough, flip again and gently pull off the other side of the paper so that the dough is fully released from it.

Cut cookies with a 3-inch star cutter and place about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. (Excess dough can be rerolled.) Use a small spoon, brush or offset spatula to spread the reserved meringue over the top of each cookie, taking care not to let the meringue drip over the sides. Press or sprinkle remaining sliced almonds in a decorative pattern into the meringue.

Bake cookies until bottoms are light golden brown and meringue is set and crisp, about 30 minutes. Turn off the oven and open the oven door to release heat and dry cookies out in the oven for 10 more minutes.

Busy baker's tips: The dough can be frozen between the sheets of paper for up to 2 weeks. Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days.

More Focus, People

2007-11-29T11:36:00.001-08:00

Well, I spoke too soon. I thought everything was going swimmingly at work, but it looks like MY part of Open Enrollment is just beginning. I have a huge error report that needs to be addressed and umpteen problems. So, how does a girl deal with it? She ignores it and blogs! Just kidding.

I have narrowed down my Christmas projects for this weekend and Lindi is doing great by scout-shopping for me so I know what to budget. I am really looking forward to adding these projects and items to my repitiore and my website, which Mike got back up for me yesterday. I am excited to start my RGS business back up again. Really, Summer and Christmas are the only times I think it will be running, I just don't see us exploding the market just yet. Brynn is working hard to get her inventory all built up, so that is great news for the website. We have our Craft Fair here at work on Wednesday, so this weekend will be focusing on those items and the inventory for the website, as well as making a few Christmas gifts.

After the success of the cakes on Tuesday, I have decided to only do cakes by special request and not really go "into" it as a business (sorry, Johnathan, I know you wanted me to...). Could I? Sure. I would love to have a home bakery and make beautiful wedding cakes 3 times a month, but really, baking is my hobby and stress relief. I don't want to make it into something that I have to do, I want it to remain a luxury. So, special requests it is!

I jumped on eBay and got a few resource books for my Excel classes. I spoke with the District and found out that I need to come up with my own curriculum, which is no big deal since I used to teach in a computer lab as a job anyway. My mother told me she was proud of me for going back to teaching, which is really what I planned to do with my life before... well... life happened. How many people get to do something part-time that has always been their dream? I'm one of the lucky ones that can do that and give back to the community at the same time. My dad thinks it's the best part-time job I could get and Lindi is so happy for me - she might take the class with her mom. It's great when those who know you the best see what will make you happy in life and support it fully.

I am meeting with the couple whose wedding is in April next week. They sent me the sweetest email and asked me to officiate, and they have picked their Charity to donate part of my renumeration to - No More Homless Pets! I knew I liked them. The ceremony is 99% written, I just pretty much have to show up and sign the paperwork. I am so excited to help them on their special day.

It's the first time in a long time I have been living in my authentic self - doing what makes ME happy - and not worrying about what others think. I had gone to a movie with my friend Shane S. and we talked about living in our potential and not working toward our dreams but working IN our dreams. He has a dream to move to France and sing in their full-time Opera. He has a beautiful voice, no real strings to staying here, and still wasn't sure until he asked himself what would make him happy. He is so committed and working each day to live IN his dream and will be moving to France in May. His family and friends are totally behind him. Shane is an inspiration to me.

So, I opened myself up to the things that make me happy - creativity, teaching, spirituality, community - and all four came back to me with opportunities to express myself and do great things. I am blessed with the support of my wife and my family and friends and I just feel like I am living in my promise. Everything I do takes time, but isn't a burden. I just feel like ME - I have missed this feeling!

Hope your week finds you well and happy!

And Then, there was Turkey…

2007-11-27T11:19:00.001-08:00

I thought the summer was bad – ha! The last few weeks have been packed and packed with things and friends and football and turkey. It’s pretty hard to catch up, but I will try.

Saturday the 10th, I went to an auction at South Valley Universalist/Unitarian and had a blast. I donated one of my custom cakes and Brynn donated a basket of her lotions, bath gels and bath products. They had decorated in a Cruise Ship theme – and it absolutely looked fantastic, all the way down to deck chairs and lighted palm trees. I ended up getting a pair of tickets to the Allies Dinner for Equality Utah (normally $100 apiece, I paid a little less…) and some other items, which made for a nice donation. Free refillable Margaritas and a gorgeous dinner were just the ticket for a wonderful evening with friends!

Sunday the 11th, C’s 36th birthday at the Olive Garden. Good times, lots of laughs, Pomegranate Martinis and Gnocchi. I love those little potato pillows. Seriously. In Love. Lindi and I really enjoyed ourselves. Happy Birthday C!

Friday the 16th, Planned and executed a surprise baby shower for a co-worker – only to find out his wife went into labor the same day! So, we had a party without him!

Tuesday the 20th, National Day of Remembrance for the Transgendered Community. I was commissioned to provide a beautiful cake for the TEA (Transgendered Education Alliance) Party following the Candlelight Vigil in remembrance for all those lost to violence or medical neglect due to their transgendered status. I took a few pictures of the cakes and the vigil, which moved me to tears.

One of several children who came to pray for those we lost.

A field of names – the ones in white passed in 2007. We remembered each of them, spoke their name, how they passed, and sent our wishes to the Universe for them to rest in peace.

Reverend Sean Parker Dennison lighting a candle in hope.

Afterward, we had a party and awards ceremony for the Individual and the Group who most positively impacted the Transgendered Community for 2007. Here are the cakes I provided for the reception.

“Chocolate Enchantment” Chocolate with Chocolate Fudge filling, White Chocolate fondant and handmade flowers, bows and edible pearls

My new Signature Cake, “French Vanilla Pirouette”. French Vanilla cake with Red Raspberry filling, frosted with Meringue frosting, wrapped with 50 French Vanilla Pirouette cookies and topped with Lindt Swiss White Chocolate shavings. Yummy!

They were so pretty, no one wanted to cut them, so I had to do the honors. Once I did that – they were gone…

Thanksgiving, was great. We had it at my Mom’s and we all pitched in, bringing our specialties and I brought the new recipe for the year, Gingerbread Pumpkin Trifle. It was amazing! Good times were had by all, a little family drama, but a lot of love.

Lindi and I had Sunday off together, so we reorganized the craft room, moved the computer desk and rearranged all the furniture, put up the new wrapping station table and made it easily accessible for Connie’s Christmas Projects as well as getting incense together for a work Holiday Boutique!

Last night was Monday Night Football, featuring the Steelers and the Dolphins, so we had to invite D and T over for spaghetti dinner with salad and garlic bread, chips and dips, bbq little smokies and snickerdoodles, (and lots of trash talking), while their teams fought on the cold, raining and sloshy gridiron. The whole game was just unreal, with the way the field was trashed, but we laughed and enjoyed each other’s company. I think we might plan weekly Monday Night Football plans.

Next week is my work’s Holiday Boutique and Holiday party, so we are gearing up for the Christmas Season. It is always so packed. I am doing a lot of holiday crafts as presents this year, so my evenings will probably be spent in my craft room.

Oh, and great news! In the New Year, I will be an instructor at a local Community Education program. I’m starting with two night classes in Excel, but it might blossom as the weeks go on into something bigger. The pay is minimal, but the rewards are endless. I am truly excited!

Horoscope for the Day

2007-11-06T09:17:00.001-08:00

Now that the Moon is in your stable 2nd House, it's time to build structure into a project that you already started. This doesn't have to be hard work, for you are mentally charged now and are thinking of new ways to push yourself along your chosen path.

Try not to get too frustrated if it's difficult for you to focus today; just let your thoughts flow and pick a few good ones to put into action.

It Will Be Me

2007-11-02T14:48:00.001-07:00

Melissa Etheridge

If you hear a voice,
It the middle of the night,
Saying it’ll be all right,
It will be me.

If you feel a hand,
Guiding you along,
When the path seems wrong,
It will be me.

There is no mountain that I can’t climb,
For you I’d swim through the rivers of time,
As you go your way, and I go mine,
A light will shine, and It will be me.

If there is a key that goes to your heart,
A special part, it will be me.
If you need a friend, call out to the wind,
To hold you again, it will be me.

Oh, how the world seems so unfair,
Creating a love that cannot be shared,
As you go your way, and I go mine.
A light will shine And it will be me.

I see ever after,
There’s a place for two,
In your tears and laughter,
I’ll be there for you.
In the sun and the moon,
In the land and the sea,
Look all around you,
It will be mine.

There is no mountain that I can’t climb,
For you I’d swim through the rivers of time,
As you go your way, and I go mine,
A light will shine, and It will be me.

It will be me… it will be me.

2007-11-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

I have my first Wedding! YAY! The couple I met with a couple of weeks ago emailed me when they got back into town and told me they would love to have me officiate their wedding. I am completely thrilled, because I just love their energy and their outlook on life. I am so excited! We will schedule a time to meet once more, go over the ceremony and the suggestions I gave them and finalize the contract. Whoot!

Tonight is going to be fun as well, I am taking my wife on a date to a movie, and then probably endless shrimp at Red Lobster. She’s been craving it since last night.

My dad took his Expedition down to Dee at Advanced Auto Salon to have it detailed after the deer hunt and he could not have been more thrilled. She took such good care of him and his vehicle was to die for when she was finished with it. I tell ya, the girl knows her stuff. THANKS DEE!

Not much to update today, just doing really well… releasing the spiritual and emotional toxins is hard work! But I am so blessed with the positive people who surround me now, and their love and support.

"Live your life with Hope in your eyes, Kindness in your heart, and Fire in your soul, and all regrets will be left behind" - S. Martinak

Wonderful Halloween!

2007-11-01T12:53:00.000-07:00

Lindi and I really had a beautiful Halloween. I was able to rush home from work with a perfect Pumpkin, carved it and placed our candles outside on our porch. It was really beautiful when we were done.

One candle was placed to the north, south, east and west, thanking the Guardians for their protection throughout the year
One candle surrounded by cat figurines thanking the animals here and passed for their companionship, love and protection
One candle for those we love who are just beyond the veil to join and mingle with us this night and ask for their protection against those who would do us harm
One candle for the Goddess, thanking her for the bounty of the year
One candle for friends, family, and strangers travelling during the evening that they do so in safety and harken them to our door for respite from the cold.
The Pumpkin in the middle

When we were finished, the neighbors thought we were having a seance until I explained to them what the candles meant.

We ended up having 3 times as many trick or treaters this year and it was really fun. Our cats hung out on the porch and enjoyed having all these people come and visit. I went outside and closed the evening by giving thanks once more and snuffing the candles. I slept very peacefully last night as I felt surrounded by the Love of the Universe and felt good in my decisions I've made recently.

I know I am where I am supposed to be.

Doesn't mean I don't feel the loss. But I know the loss is for what was, not for what it became which was toxic and hateful. I don't need that in my life - at any level.

I hope your Halloween was beautiful and wonderful!

2007-10-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

A time of thinning the veil,
A time to honour and welcome the old ones,
A time to clear out fears,
A time for inner peace.

We have gathered our crops
and been Blessed with abundance of nourishment and love
to sustain us through the dark winter.
May we honour the Earth for all that has been given.

Let us remember those who have gone before us, who draw closer to us now.
Let us also remember those animals, gifts from the Goddess,
who have died that we may eat,
who have provided us with love,
who have protected us from harm,
let us thank them all.

May the Goddess as wise one and the God as the lord of the shadows, bless us this Samhain,
And guide us through the dark days until we come once again to the light.

Blessings to all on this Sacred Day.

FANTASTIC Weekend!

2007-10-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

Friday night = Pampered Chef Night and what a night we had. Denise's House was full of friends and we had a great time with appetizers and Margaritas. We had a lot of laughs, and it was a fantastic time.

Saturday Night Lindi, Sarah and I went over to our friend Lisa's house for a Halloween party and had a really fun time, then dropped over to D and T's house and played drunken poker 'til 2 in the morning! We had such an amazing time with our friends. Oh, man, we were tired on Sunday.

Monday was my first day back at work and I kinda felt like I was back "home." Everyone was so fantastic to me and although my work load isn't too much, it's a whole different ballgame being back in the office. Open Enrollment is in full swing, I'll tell ya.

On a more personal level:

I've been working on moving on and moving away - away from those who have been close to me and who are no longer, those whose life paths have deviated into harmful ways, those who no longer enrich my life, those who claim to be beside me in life but who are really non-involved, those who no longer share in a common good, those who say they respect my spiritual path and yet openly mock it, those who have hurt me whether it be intentional or otherwise, those who have made no effort in friendship over the past year but still claim friendship...

Moving into communing with those who have been with me in my journey and who understand my truth, moving with those who see what I am doing spiritually and respect the path I walk, encircling those who encircle me, and accepting me, with flaws and perfections, as a beautiful human being, seeking truth and love and willing to give both to those who are willing to do the same. It's a lot harder than one would think, I can tell you that.

My Manifestation of Today: Releasing Things and Those who Seek to do me Harm

~ I lovingly observe my attachment to my anger against those who offend me, and against my own thoughts and feelings that offend me.

~ I lovingly release this resentment and open myself to faith that, in community with others, I can respond creatively and compassionately.

~ I lovingly observe my attachments to my own body, mind, ego, thoughts, and feelings. I lovingly observe my attachments to other people and things, the way I become unconsciously absorbed with them. I notice the ways I think and act as if I own them.

~ I lovingly release my own body, my so-called possessions, my ego, thoughts, and feelings. I lovingly release my clinging to other people and things.

~ I open myself to loving myself and all other people and creatures and things, as free, sacred, miraculous beings. I open myself to delight in them, to enjoy them, to honor them, and to serve them as they may have need and as I am able.

~ I open myself to Love in all it's forms. I open myself to feel the divinity within myself and Love as the very essence of my being, to enjoy and serve mankind with my awe and my actions.

Catch up

2007-10-19T23:17:00.001-07:00

Oh lordie. Things have been so crazy lately I haven't had time to do much else, let alone blog. Where to begin?

I began an intense spinal therapy last Monday and have been going to the doctor for daily treatments. I have been doing spinal decompression, and while it's not a forceful treatment like being adjusted by a chiropracter, it's been pretty draining. Basically, they attach my lower body and hips to a machine while I lay down and it slowly stretches me to allow my discs to go back into place naturally. Then, they use a TENS unit to deliver electrical stimulation to my lower back to speed healing, numb the nerves and promote circulation. My job has been so understanding, they are allowing me to work from home for 3 weeks so I have the freedom to do whatever therapy I need to in order to get better. It's been hard, and I still have one more week, then I continue therapy for an additional three weeks with strengthening exercises and physical therapy. It's an emotional roller-coaster, but I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

Lindi and I celebrated our 4th anniversary on the 10th. We stayed low key as I haven't really been up to traveling much. I love you, honey. D and T took Lindi and I out to Olive Garden as my belated birthday present on our anniversary - how appropriate since D was our best woman at our wedding! I love our monthly outings with our BFFs! Such good people...

Last week, as I was loving on my half-tailed, transgendered, cross-eyed little boy-cat, I noticed what I thought was a mat on his fur. I ran my fingers over his rear leg, only to find a HUGE infected puncture wound! Mini was so good, he let me shave the site, open it up and get all the gunk out of it (twice) and clean the wound up. We did that for a couple of days, but we took him into the vet just to make sure he was okay. Our new vet, Dr. Miles, said Mommy did a good job and gave me some antibiotic liquid to give him twice a day for 10 days just to make sure the wound would heal quickly. Also, it turns out, Mini has a medium grade heart murmur we need to watch. Other than that, our little loveable misfit is perfectly healthy! He is soooo good at taking his medicine because he knows afterward, it's Mommy-Mini love time. Plus, it tastes like bananas.

I highly recommend Dr. Miles at the Cottonwood Cat Clinic - we moved all our records over to her and are going to take a cat a month into her for check-ups, teeth cleaning and their shots. Next year, we're going to run tests on Mini to see if the murmur has progressed and decide if we are going to put him on long-term meds. Poor little boy.

Speaking of cats, Lindi and I are the proud new owners of a micro-fiber couch and loveseat combo in mocha. It is beautiful! Four of the five seats recline, so we were able to get rid of our cat scratched la-z-boy. I went out the same day and got a new scratching pad, post and door hanger, and their favorite Cosmic Catnip - and they haven't even thought of running their claws through our beloved couch. I read about using the spray, and a vet recommended not to use it because some cats feel the need to "mark" over the scent. That's the LAST thing we need. They took to their new scratching sites very well, and loved the fact that they are adorned with catnip every other day - just enough to keep them interested, plus LOTS of praise when we catch them scratching the appropriate thing. Hopefully, we will keep the couch and loveseat looking beautiful for a long time to come.

PS: I heart microfiber!

I highly recommend getting a sisal scratching post. My cats don't really dig the carpet kind, although they will use it. The sisal (rope style) feels more like the trunk of a tree and they can't get enough of it. I got a scratching pad for the floor (their new sleeping spot), a stand up sisal post so they can stretch and scratch and a sisal pad that hangs on the door and has a bell... they think that's the best toy at 3am!

My business partner and I are gearing up for the holiday season and getting gift baskets together with our products to sell on our website, eBay and in a little boutique in Sandy. I am so excited to see this adventure flourish!

A close friend referred a co-worker to me earlier this week to perform her wedding ceremony in April and I am so looking forward to it. They specifically wanted a non-denominational ceremony and I fully support that. I get to meet the bride on Monday and work with her to get her ceremony just right and offer some other services if she needs them for her big day.

I think that's what I love about the Universal Life church - you can hold whatever faith you have, and still support others by way of weddings and commitment ceremonies without compromising who you are or who other people are. There is so much to gain from respecting one another's beliefs. I expect I will learn as much from working with other people as anything. I can still have my belief in my higher powers and not offend anyone, in fact, they don't even really need to know how I petition or pray. It's a personal thing, you know? I was thinking I would serve the gay community more, but, as it turns out, my first wedding will be a straight couple!

Sarah's knee surgery healing is going really well... but she was in a car accident with her ex-bf on Tuesday night. Thank goodness for airbags and seatbelts. She was in the front passenger seat and was t-boned in an intersection, and they had to cut her out of the car. She's pretty bruised and sore, but she is doing well. A small chip on her front tooth will be fixed here soon and she'll slowly get back to normal.

Oh and I can't wait for the Pampered Chef party on Friday!!! Margaritas, good friends, my sister and shopping! What could be better than that?

As you can see, Comcast has changed their picture storage, so I will be migrating all my pictures to the new system soon. Please bear with me...

Hope all is well in your world. Peace and love to you all!

In Preparation for Talk Like a Pirate Day

2007-09-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

You are The Cap'n!

Some men and women are born great, some achieve greatness and some slit the throats of any scalawag who stands between them and unlimited power. You never met a man - or woman - you couldn't eviscerate. You are the definitive Man of Action, the CEO of the Seven Seas, Lee Iacocca in a blousy shirt and drawstring-fly pants. You’re mission-oriented, and if anyone gets in the way, that’s his problem, now isn’t? Your buckle was swashed long ago and you have never been so sure of anything as your ability to bend everyone to your will. You will call anyone out and cut off his head if he shows any sign of taking you on or backing down. If one of your lieutenants shows an overly developed sense of ambition he may find more suitable accommodations in Davy Jones' locker. That is, of course, IF you notice him. You tend to be self absorbed - a weakness that may keep you from seeing enemies where they are and imagining them where they are not.

What's Yer Inner Pirate?
brought to you by The Official Talk Like A Pirate Web Site. Arrrrr!

Tale of the Gingerbread house

2007-09-13T13:49:00.001-07:00

Someone asks the question - what happens to a Gingerbread house after the season?

Exclusive Report

(funny funny funny)

Yes, It's Official

2007-09-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

Marriages, Commitment Ceremonies, Baptisms, house blessings, Handfastings, Funerals - I can legally do it all. Although the "wedding" one is the only really legal event. I have information being sent to me by the County Clerk and everything.

Just call me Rev. Connie.

Happy 34th Birthday ... again...

2007-09-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

What an amazing weekend. I felt very, very loved by my closest friends. Thank you to all who helped me celebrate!

Friday night, a group of us gathered at Go Sushi, my favorite sushi restaurant, for an evening of Happy Sushi! It was great to introduce some of my work buddies to my life friends - and everyone enjoyed each other's company. The owner even gave me free sushi for my birthday. What could possible beat that? We were at dinner for close to 3 hours and really had a blast.
Bad phrases overheard at the table?
"Shut up and put it in your mouth!"
"Pink Taco!"
"If I can put it in my mouth, you can put it in yours."
It was awesome.

Saturday night, a few close friends gathered for cocktails and, eventually, drunken karoke. We invented a new drink, called "The Connie" (Mango Rum mixed with Mountain Dew Live Wire), and enjoyed them in mass quantities... in order to be brave enough to sing karaoke!

The neighbors chillin'

Shane with his Karaoke Headset of Death!

Sunday was family day with a big dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory, complete with a beautiful two tiered cake with fresh roses, pasta, laughs, and wonderful, wonderful people. I gathered my family and Lindi's family together and invited a few very close friends to round out our table of 20 - it was amazing.

Christopher and Teinamarrie

My favorite - Browned butter and mizithra cheese...

My beautiful "Twinkie" flavored birthday cake! The roses were amazingly beautiful! The cake was so huge, we served half of the bottom layer, and sent the other half either home with people or to the back room for the servers, who dived into it with reckless abandon. There were about 12 people standing around it with forks trying to get in!

Lindi's brother Bill presents the cake to my mother for inspection. I was so happy my mother was able to come - in her little Jazzy wheelchair! My sister is in the turquoise, my dad is standing behind Bill.

And then, I walk into work to find this:

Yes, they decorated with confetti, crepe paper, a 12 pack of Diet Coke and 10 balloon kitty cats. I kept my little colony of balloon animals - Now they are on my desk, all facing me, watching me work!

Blessed Blessed Blessed! Thank you for all your wonderful well wishes and a fun weekend. I love you!

On the home front, Sarah's knee surgery went very well. The surgeon said her knee looked really good and this surgery should last her a long time, thank goodness.

2007-08-31T10:14:00.000-07:00

Back in High Form

2007-08-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

The first Letter to the Editor I've written in about a year made it into the paper. I really love writing letters about things that tick me off. It's so rewarding when they are published. At the SLTrib they also allow comments on the articles, so it's interesting to see what my other editorialists are saying. So far 23 agree and 7 disagree. Fine by me!

I am Delighted. Simply Delighted!

2007-08-20T10:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. Sometimes I feel like I need to return to work just to get away from my weekend.

Thursday was the sushi outing with the Sushi Crew... PSara, Kyle, TM, Christopher, Chris, Shane and Christian. We visited a new little establishment, I heart Sushi at about 350 South State. It was very, very good - even compelte with green tea ice cream. Shane, Christian and I were in rare form, Napoleon Dynamite references, and funny, funny jokes abounding. Dinner is always better with gay men, for some reason.

Friday evening was pizza and movie night for me and Lindi. I rented a movie I was told everyone must see documentary, Jesus Camp. (You can also go here) Let's put it this way, I thought I knew about evangelical christians from going to Bible school and Bible camp when I was younger. I was sorely mistaken. Jesus Camp takes you through an Evangelical Bible Camp (Kids on Fire) and shows you how they are teaching their children to be "Warriors for God." It shows you a "home schooling" environment, a church environment, even young kids preaching helfire and damnation. It is profoundly disturbing.

Hey, I am all for being whatever religion you choose and devoting your life to it. When you start brainwashing and indoctrinating 5-6-7 year olds to pray to George Bush to stop abortion when they don't even know how babies are made, and tell children that age that they are phonies and fakes and they better get on their knees and start praying for forgiveness, and they do it, that seems more like emotional child abuse to me. You can convince a child of anything. It doesn't make it right.

Saturday, I was a little down in the dumps, so I decided to cleanm the kitchen and make two recipes I had never made before from the Food Network. I also went shopping for ingredients to make Baby Baklavas and some phyllo turnovers and tyropitakia (cheese triangles). I bought way too much phyllo dough for the baklava for Christopher's wedding, so I have to use it up!

I made Cream Cheese pie (I used fresh strawberries for the top instead of pie filling - it turned out beautifully) and Chicken Georgia. MMMmmm.

Sunday morning, I got up before Lindi and went to the store to fill our kitchen with snacks and drinks for her upcoming "Pre-Season Football/Couch" day. We had just finished our breakfast when my mom called to tell us she was going to the hospital because she was severely dehyrated and in a lot of pain. We arrived just as the doctor was finishing up his evaluation, and both he and her nurse took excellent care of her. She was doing much, much better by the time she went home. We were there until about 4. Then we went to Lindi's parents for a BBQ at 6 that evening. We were pretty tired little campers when we collapsed that night.

My birthday weekend is shaping up pretty nicely. Friday the 7th, a bunch of friends are meeting at Go Sushi for dinner, Saturday during the day might be a movie with some other friends, Saturday Night will be a party at Mo Diggity's and Sunday will be the big family dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory. I love my birthday. Love, love, LOVE it!

This week will be baking and finishing up a little book I am making for Dawn with her wedding pictures. I finally got the digital pictures printed, so I can begin. I am so excited!

Question of the day: If you were stranded for 7 years on a desert island and could only have one food, what would it be?

Message to Myself

2007-08-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

1,001 Posts and Counting!

2007-08-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that? I have over 1,000 posts? Pretty crazy stuff.

Today is going well so far. I busted arse last night to complete a lot of work, so today is a slower day, which is good. I'm having some pain today, so any chance I can get to slow down before Open Enrollment is a very good thing.

Last Night was dinner at Woody's (shout out to the Cottonwood High crowd) of fried pickles (mmmm) and real American beef burgers and the latest episode of Big Love (shakes head - this show is getting crazy). What the hell is up with Nikki and the money and spending like she's insane? And the power struggle with Barb and Margene for "public wife"? I can't wait to see how this is gonna shake out.

For my lovely friends and bloggers who made it with me through 1,000 droning posts: THANK YOU!

You had my heart
and we'll never be worlds apart
Maybe in magazines
but you'll still be my star
Baby cause in the Dark
You can see shiny Cars
And that's when you need me there
With you I'll always share
Because

When the sun shines
We’ll shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath
I'mma stick it out 'till the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we still have each other
You can stand under my Umbrella
You can stand under my Umbrella

These fancy things,
will never come in between
You're part of my entity
Here for Infinity
When the war has took it's part
When the world has dealt it's cards
If the hand is hard
Together we'll mend your heart
Because ...

When the sun shines
We'll shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath
I'mma stick it out 'till the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we still have each other
You can stand under my Umbrella
You can stand under my Umbrella

You can run into my arms
It's okay don't be alarmed
(Come into Me)
(There's no distance in between our love)
So Gonna let the rain pour
I'll be all you need and more
Because ...

When the sun shines
We'll shine Together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath
I'mma stick it out 'till the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we still have each other
You can stand under my Umbrella
You can stand under my Umbrella

It's raining (raining)
Ooo baby it's raining
baby come into me
Come into me
It's raining (raining)
Ooo baby it's raining
You can always come into me
Come into me

B, eleven, B, B, eleven...

2007-08-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

OK - friday night Bingo with the Cyber Sluts was AMAZING! We had such a fun time. We were joined by Christopher and Teinamarrie, Aiden, PSarah and her boyfriend Kyle. It looked like there were about 50-75 people in the gymnasium of the First Baptist Church, surrounded by the loverly Cyber Sluts, trying not to get charged with a "party foul" that would require any patron to run around the gym and beg for cash in order to continue to keep playing. Party Fouls included marking the center space without being told you could, elbows on the table, calling a BINGO when you didn't have one, or not standing up and spinning around when you only have one more space left to Bingo. HILARIOUS! They served Hot Dogs, drinks, chips and candy for $1 - we easily spent just $20 on food and Bingo cards, and another $20 on Party Fouls and donations. $40 per couple for 3 hours of Gay-tastic entertainment is a dang good deal if you ask me.

All money goes to a selected charity of the evening, and Friday night was no exception, raising about $1,200 for the Center and one other Charity. Whoot!

Saturday, we both worked. Nuff said.

Sunday, we went to church at the South Valley Unitarian Universalist Society. We had a very nice time. The Universalists are a group of people who, well, basically believe that we all believe differently, should support one another, sustain our environment and have our own journey to enlightenment. There are people who have a Christian faith base, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Wiccan (both modern and oldstyle pagan influenced) and everywhere in between. They gather to offer worship and support to one another. The alter is decorated differently each week, and done by the parishoners. It was very interesting.

They also sponsored a pancake breakfast (delicioso!) and invite newcomers to eat without donation - our presence was donation enough. I thought that was sweet. We got to sit down and talk with the Reverend and just get a feel for the place. Lindi didn't get that feeling she was looking for, so we may check out some other churches.

The Unitarian church is unique in that it doesn't teach you what to think, it encourages you TO think. They are also one of the very opening LGBT churches in existence. We had a lovely time.

This week is going to be a little busy, but I think it will be fun. Tuesday, my business partner and I are going to meet to discuss our future plans for the website. Thursday will be sushi at a new sushi place (yay!). And all this week will be putting things on eBay for TM, and generally cleaning up our house. We need to get some rooms painted.

My birthday parties are coming together nicely. I ordered my b-day cake from the same lovely lady (Rep Christine Johsnon) who did TM's wedding cake and I am really excited. I call it a "Twinkie" cake because her white cake tastes just like my favorite little snack. Plus, it's going to be in pink. Love it. TM is also checking into the club to see if the owner will do a little cover charge discount and the money can go to charity. She's pretty sure she can make it happen. Lindi's got the "family" party locked down at the Old Spaghetti Factory.

I love my birthday!

Rest In Peace Peppy

2007-08-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

My love and heart out to Toni, Rob and her Grandparents at the loss of Peppy the Poodle.

For Toni:

We Have A Secret

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

Bingo and Hot Dogs

2007-08-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it looks like Lindi and I will be joining the Scuderi's and some other wild and crazy people at Bingo with the Cyber Sluts tonight! First of all, I love bingo. Second, when you play with a bunch of gay people in a Baptist Church to raise money for Youth Programs and your Emcee's are drag queens - talk about a FABULOUS TIME! HELL-OOO!!

There should be hot dogs and other eatables when we get there and we'll just have a fun night out.

Looks like Lindi and I will also be able to get away for our anniversary out to Wendover, which should be fun. I was worried about that since we were moving to this new pilot, but my vacation was approved, thank goodness.

Work is going well, home is going well, life is just going well. I am excited for my Pampered Chef Book Party in September as well as Margarita Party in October. This ought to be a blast. Plus, I can get stuff for Christmas Presents. We're already shopping, we really want to enjoy this Christmas.

My mom and I are going to be taking 2 days a week to get her out of the house and go to the Therapy pool at Pioneer Valley. She doesn't like public pools, and with her health in decline, she needs to be in a controlled environment, so I'll be taking her to PVH. They have great therapists there and I think it will do her good to get out of the house, as well as me to spend more time with Mom. :)

Well, back to work. Hope your weekend is fantastic!

2007-08-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Archimedes: Μoυ δώστε μια θέση όπου μπορώ να σταθώ και θα κινήσω τη γη.
'Give me a place where I may stand and I will move the earth.'

Good Week - Crappy Weekend

2007-08-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

Let's just say these past 7 days have been an adventure.

Work has been progressively more challenging, and yet, much more entertaining. I have definately found out who is in my corner. I actually had my boss tell me "If Connie's ain't happy, ain't no one is happy..." Glad she realized it! Just kidding. The new pilot program is working really well and I feel my client is really under control and I have the support I need, which is always fabulous.

Lindi had a great time in Vegas, learned a lot, taught me a lot of what she learned loved the new bedroom and is now going to teach others in her organization.

I ended up catching the massively bad cold that was going around the office, probably because of my stress level. I took a half-day off on Wednesday, was ok on Thursday, then couldn't speak when I woke up on Friday! This virus ripped right through my head and chest and I laid, practically motionless, in bed until yesterday. Today was my first day back at work, and although it was hard, I am glad I came in and got things caught back up.

I had another meeting with the Manager today and we are working on a career path to get me promoted in 6 months, then promoted again in another 6 months. He said it is agressive but definately do-able.

And last, but not least, my 35th is coming up soon! It looks like Lindi is planning a dinner-outing on the 9th for family and best friends and Teinamarrie might be helping me plan a bigger friends get together on the 8th. It's been so long since I've seen some of my friends, it's crazy.

I've come to terms with some hurtful realizations recently about some so-called "friends", who really aren't anymore, and just kinda let them fall by the wayside, on purpose. There is only so many times you can invite a person to participate in your life, you know? So, I am letting go, trying to find peace with it all, and I am sure they don't even realize what they have lost while losing me. And in fact, I wish them only the best in life, because to wish them otherwise would only be harmful to me.

There comes a point when you realize, hey, I am almost 35 and I am not the geeky little 15 year old I used to be. I don't need to run my life my anyone else's approval. Either you want to enjoy my company, or you don't. Either way, I will continue to move and grow and become and be. I don't need to live in your shell of shallowness, I can express myself and be wonderful! I don't have to fit your definition of a "worthy" person. I was born worthy.

I don't know what I would have done for sanity in the past few months without the phone calls and emails from those who love and support me. To be honored by participating in two weddings of people who are such a joy to my life and have always shown their true colors - it's breathtaking. To be sought out for my opinion and company has been wonderful. You know who you are and you are the BEST!

Tell Me my Babies aren't Tuned into the Universe...

2007-07-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island (AP) -- Oscar the cat seems to have an uncanny knack for predicting when nursing home patients are going to die, by curling up next to them during their final hours.

Oscar the cat doesn't like to be put out in the hall when a patient is dying.

His accuracy, observed in 25 cases, has led the staff to call family members once he has chosen someone. It usually means the patient has less than four hours to live.

"He doesn't make too many mistakes. He seems to understand when patients are about to die," Dr. David Dosa said in an interview. He describes the phenomenon in a poignant essay in Thursday's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

"Many family members take some solace from it. They appreciate the companionship that the cat provides for their dying loved one," said Dosa, a geriatrician and assistant professor of medicine at Brown University.

Full Story Here.

Animals understand life and death better than most of us do anyway. This is one example of a cat who helps confused patients find comfort in their last moments. Just an amazingly beautiful story.

Man must pay alimony to wife despite her domestic partnership

2007-07-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

Judge: Domestic partnership doesn't stop wife's alimony / Man ordered to continue alimony even if wife uses other woman's name / Ex-husband plans to appeal

LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- A judge has ordered a man to continue paying alimony to his ex-wife -- even though she's in a registered domestic partnership with another woman and even uses the other woman's last name.

California marriage laws say alimony ends when a former spouse remarries, and Ron Garber thought that meant he was off the hook when he learned his ex-wife had registered her new relationship under the state's domestic partnership law.

An Orange County judge didn't see it that way.

The judge ruled that a registered partnership is cohabitation, not marriage, and that Garber must keep writing the checks, $1,250 a month, to his ex-wife, Melinda Kirkwood. Garber plans to appeal.

FULL STORY HERE AT CNN

Ok, bitches. Now you get what us Gay activists have been saying, and now you get to feel it in your wallets.

Don't want us to marry? Don't want us to receive the legal status as a married couple? Then guess what? When you divorce because your wife comes out of the closet, and she finds her life partner, you STILL get to pay her alimony - because cohabitation and marriage are two different things.

Especially when you signed your divorce decree WITH the alimony stipulation even after you knew she was living with another woman.

*SMACK*

You don't get it both ways.

As more and more heterosexual men get hit with this exact same circumstance, I'll be proponents of gay marriage will increase.

30 random ways to a happier life.

2007-07-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

I've highlighted the ones I love...

...courtesy of Nickblog

1. Learn early on to enjoy warm soda. Trust me, it comes in handy. While you're at it, learn to drink black coffee.
2. Let go of your need to make all the choices all of the time. Other people have better ones sometimes.
3. Learn to play guitar, juggle, ride a unicycle, do a backflip and play Scrabble.
4. Avoid trends. Go for timeless fashion.
5. Skip the iPhone. Get a Blackberry.
6. Learn to enjoy warm beer. (this one is more advanced, but well worth it).
7. Pick a team in any sport and be a hardcore fan.
8. Combine all of your e-mail addresses.
9. Own a car that doesn't own you. There may be no bigger waste of stress than worrying about the looks of a car. Let it go.
10. Love what you love. Don't trick yourself or others.
11. Cut out people that bum you out.
12. Find joy in condiments. Similarly, acquire tastes just for the hell of it. Like Sauerkraut and Whisky. But not together. Unless you're high.
13. Stop imagining that people are saying things about you. They're mostly just worried about themselves.
14. Ignore social constraints if more convenient or sensible than abiding by them.
15. Learn to play D&D. If you're already laughing this one off, learn it immediately.
16. Feel free to simply let parts of your past go.
17. Get rid of the stuff you're hoarding. It's an emotional drain.
18. Don't get too attached to any one material thing. It's just stuff.
19. Learn the basic rules of the major sports.
20. Get good at frisbee.
21. Whoever makes you happy most of the time, that's "the one."
22. Change is unavoidable. Embrace it, on every level.
23. Learn how to use a gun.
24. When it comes to parking, pay the most for the closest once in a while.
25. Treat yourself to nice underwear. Life is too short.
26. Get a passport, even if you never plan on leaving the country.
27. Learn how to play poker.
28. Don't be too afraid of "street meat."
29. Always be ready to let go of your original plan...

Enough!

2007-07-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Breaktaking.

Shame on NBC for censoring the truth and the beauty of this American Musical Hero.

"There is no US and THEM!"

"The two men appeared out of nowhere..."

2007-07-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

(first line of HP-7)

What a week and weekend!

Monday, Sarah officially got the remainder of her things and moved into Grandma’s house. It’s weird not having her around, but she wanted to try a new place, a change of scenery. Lindi and I are planning what to do with that other room, probably a den/craft room.

Thursday, I came home and decided to make a special meal for Lindi – for no good reason. I made homemade au gratin potatoes, from scratch, mind you, New York Strip steaks, medium rare, marinated in garlic and black pepper and grilled, green salad and banana cream pie for dessert. It was nummy.

Friday evening, Lindi and I spent a quiet evening together, then I went out to get the new HP book at Midnight. It was quite the adventure, and actually, the crowds weren’t too bad. I was home and in my recliner at 1 am and began reading. I went to sleep at about 3 out of sheer exhaustion.

Saturday morning, I got back up at 10 am and continued reading until Lindi and Sarah came in at about 4:30. The grandparents were out of town, so Sarah wanted to stay overnight with us (I think she missed us, really) They took me to dinner, we played cards and they went to bed while I stayed up to 1am and FINISHED THE BOOK. 24 hours ~ 759 pages ~ pure happiness. I stayed up ‘til 4 watching TV until they awoke to open the store, and I collapsed into a coma until Lindi came home at 2:30.

About the book – yes, people die. Beloved characters, even. Made me sad, but you knew it had to happen. It showed more of Harry’s compassion. That was good. It wasn’t really surprising, the ending. It was a fine ending, and she set it up to end in almost any way your imagination could go, which just showcased her talents. I had read some spoilers and I am here to say that they were not that accurate, although a couple were close. I can’t wait to see it on the big screen.
Lindi is out of town this week at a convention in Vegas and I am really not sure what to do with myself. I get 4 days of solitude. There are some friends to catch up with, dinners to be had, alone time and sleep I have been missing.

So, today I am at work and raring to go (not really). I am part of a new pilot program, which is a great opportunity for me, but it’s going to take some getting used to. I moved from my old desk to a new one (with a view, no less) and sitting around new people. Instead of being grouped with other BR's, I am now sitting with my team - each of us serving a specific set of clients. It's going to cut down on emailing and IMing and shold prove to really facilitate client focus. I am used to a very quiet environment, and this one is a little nosier than I am used to. Thank goodness for headphones.

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY LORENE! (ha,ha) Hope it is filled with love and happiness!

My love and thoughts out to Toni. Chin up, sister. We love you guys.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY

2007-07-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my loving, beautiful and wonderful wife! Many more year of happiness and health. I love you!

My Uncle Mike

2007-07-10T10:35:00.002-07:00

Michael Maverakis 1920 ~ 2007

Michael Maverakis passed away on July 1, 2007 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born on Sept. 1, 1920 in Sunnyside, Utah to Emanual Michael Maverakis and Alice Blavos Maverakis. Michael attended West High and the University of Utah. He married Tessie Mary Anast Maverakis on Dec. 5, 1950 in Nevada. Later they were married in the Greek Orthodox Church.

He served in the Merchant Marines, worked for Trans Ocean Airlines as a radio operator. He retired from the Los Angeles Police and Fire Department in Communications.

Michael loved fishing, gardening, cooking, walking and being with family and friends. He always had a big heart and cared more for others than himself.

Michael is survived by his wife, children, Paula Butler, Mitchell Maverakis, Stephanie Bambrook and Christopher Maverakis; his siblings, Emanual Maverakis, Nick Maverakis, Irene Maverakis Work; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, Emanual Michael Maverakis; his mother, Alice (Blavos) Maverakis; and his sisters, Mary Winders and Lula Bukosky.

Services will be held on Thurs. July 12, 2007 at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 279 S. 300 W., Salt Lake City, Utah. The viewing will be Wed. July 11, 2007 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City. Interment will be held at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery following the funeral service at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on 7/10/2007.

Guest Book • Flowers • Charities

Highlights of a 07/07/07 Wedding

2007-07-10T10:35:00.001-07:00

One bridesmaid didn't show. One bridesmaid passed out. Other than that - C&T's wedding was FABULOUS! And we are exhausted... still.

Our Saturday morning started with the gathering of clothes, and cutting of 15 pounds of hard cheeses for the cheese tray. We arrived at the church at 11am for rehearsal and decorating. Logistically, Lindi was in charge of turning a sanctuary of 150 chairs into 11 tables with chairs surrounding them in 15 minutes, so she was planning that while we were tying ribbon on bottles of bubbles and wrapping candy bars.

The day actually went very well, even if we lost a bridesmaid. I had purchased the bridesmaids dresses online and had got an extra one in case we needed matching material for any reason. So, when the one Bridesmaid went MIA, the bride chose her other cousin to stand in her line... and wouldn't you know, the extra dress I bought fit her like a glove! It couldn't have been better if it were planned!

We walked down the aisle to Pachbel's Cannon and placed a flower in a vase at the altar to represent our well wishes for the couple. By the time we all placed a flower, the vase was filled and a beautiful "community" bouquet was created with all sorts of different flowers with different meanings. The bridesmaids carried white roses in our bouquets with cobalt tank-style dresses and the groomsmen wore white roses, black tuxes and cobalt ties. The bride walked down to the Classical music that is usually played for English Royalty, which is very appropriate! The Bride wore a simple champagne colored floor length gown with a tiara and lace cascading veil that almost reached the ground. She looked classic. The groom wore a black tux with periwinkle accent. We were a gorgeous wedding party.

When the couple was reintroduced to the party, they were escorted through a tunnel of guests blowing bubbles. Daddy-daughter dance: "I Loved Her First", Son and Mother dance, "Moon River", Couple's Dance "Somebody."

The cake was a gorgeous white creation of Rep. Christine Johnson - three tiers with roses and daisies and simply the very best wedding cake I have ever tasted. She also created the flowers as a present from Michael Marriott and his boyfriend Adam. WOW were they ever stunning!

My baklava went over very, very well. There was still a ton of food left, but that always happens. Better to have too much than not enough. Fresh fruit, veggies, cheese, sourdough breads, strawberries, homemade salsa - it was a feast.

When everyone was gone, Lindi was a pro getting the sanctuary cleaned up with everyone's help. I couldn't do much, but Sarah vacuumed everything, we had extra hands putting tables and chairs away and cleaning everything up for services the next day. We finally fell into bed about 2am.

The church was hot, the food was great, the dancing was fun, the company was awesome and we all had a great time, celebrating the new marriage of two amazing people.

B R E A T H E

2007-07-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

This week has just been crazy, and that is quite the understatement.

I got my bridesmaids dress from my seamstress and it is quite the stunner. I am so happy with it, it fits like a glove and it a gorgeous shimmery cobalt blue. Something I will definitely wear again, I am sure. I finished tying over 200 koufeta and placing them in a gorgeous mahogany basket.

Yesterday, work was slow, so I took advantage of my personal time off and took the afternoon to run errands. I ran to my parents and visited with them for a while, did some more wedding shopping, bought the couple their champagne flutes for toasting, got my nails done, got Lindi's birthday presents, and last night I finished making 80 pieces of baklava for the dessert table.

Today, I need to cut up 15 pounds of cheese for cheese platters, decorate the champagne flutes and mahogany basket with ribbon and burn the CD with the music for the wedding. If I can take a half a day today, that would be fabulous.

Whew.

There is usually a wedding in the LBGT every year that is the "event" of the season. I am sure this is it, like My wedding was in 2003. It is going to be busy, hot and a whole lot of fun! There has been many varied challenges to this wedding including the death of one of the planners (Goddess be with you, Chad), vendors backing out, changes in the line - but we've gotten through them all. We can't wait to celebrate!

Sunday, we had a bit of bad news. My Uncle Mike passed away. He is married to my great aunt Tessie, my grandfather's sister. He and my father were very close, growing closer over the last few years. They would go to lunch together every week when Mike was up to it. Uncle Mike was, in many ways, the father my dad always wanted. Mike accepted people for who they were, not for what was expected for them to be. He always had the sweetest smile. He never judged me or any of my family - we were just his family.

I am sad for my father, but happy for Mike and his release from his earthly body, which was so painful.

His funeral will be the 12th, since we are waiting for people to come in from out of town. My work has been wonderful, giving me the day off with pay and any other time off as I need.

So, I am ready to P A R T Y tomorrow, get my groove on and just enjoy some happiness!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANE! I hope this year brings you all the happiness in the world!

Your Daily Number: 5

You may find yourself discussing or embarking on a trip today. Not a great day for details; it's better to take advantage of today's self-promoting energy to get off the beaten path and be social.

Horoscope for Virgo

2007-07-03T08:32:00.001-07:00

Lack of clear direction at work today could make for a cascade of problems. You don't, however, have to contribute to it with such a critical attitude. Instead of blaming anyone else for shortcomings that may be out of your control, stay as positive as you can. By focusing on your response instead of other people's behavior, you'll be able to maintain a high level of efficiency, even in a difficult situation.

2007-06-28T12:48:00.001-07:00

My Score: 162
Yeah Baby!

You're Stuck with Me

2007-06-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

Well, the offer was made, and I politely declined. So, we won't be moving to El Paso anytime soon. I was up for the adventure but I know that the Goddess puts me right where I need to be and where others need me to be. I have made myself a little roadmap of things I want to learn and accomplish at my job and I am slowly picking away each month. There is room to grown, why shouldn't I grow too?

It's amazing how much information is out there. When I sat down and started looking, I have tons of online courses available to me - the topics are not all related to my current position either. And they are free. Oh, yeah, I am taking some classes, baby.

The C&T wedding plans are going well. My dress is at the seamstress now and should be completed this week. I am halfway through making the 220 Koufeta (Almond Favors) and will be picking up the supplies to make 150 servings of baklava tomorrow. The gentleman who was going to do the decorations for the wedding passed away on Monday. It's been an emotional rollercoaster for the Bride and Groom. I couldn't imagine dealing with a death so close to your wedding, so we are stepping up and helping wherever we can.

Sarah has decided to spread her wings a little and move into her Grandmother's basement. While it's not really her own apartment, it will be her own "space" where she comes and goes as she pleases and such. I am excited for her to develop a little more independence, although she is already a pretty independent girl. We will paint her room and put our computer desk in there to give us a little more room in the bedroom and probably a table for our crafting stuff. It will be nice to have a little more room for the two of us.

Now, before you get mad, of course we will miss her. But she's literally 3 minutes up the road. I am sure Lindi will have a bit of empty nest syndrome. I will just have to throw a few parties and get her a couple of hobbies and I am sure that will help.

And the pic of the day, courtesy of stuffonmycat.com:

Yes, this is how I feel today. Pretty much.

Blessed Solstice!

2007-06-21T10:40:00.001-07:00

As the sun spirals its longest dance,
Cleanse us
As nature shows bounty and fertility
Bless us
Let all things live with loving intent
And to fulfill their truest destiny

Blessed Solstice to You and Yours!

El Paso

2007-06-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

So, here's the thing. I have the opportunity to move to El Paso with my company. They are opening a new location and need people who are already engaged in their jobs to be there - kind of like mentors who already know the process. It would be permanent.

I want to go, and yet, I am still torn. I am about 75% at this point in favor of the move. And then I start thinking of everything I would need to have answered in my mind before I am at 100%. Do they pay a relocation package? What if I hate it and want to transfer back to SLC? Is there a pay grade change? Will a company come and move us or would be doing all the moving? Would they subsidize housing?

The answers will soon come.

Lindi says she's up for an adventure, but isn't sure about leaving her family just yet. I haven't broken the news to my parents. A bunch of my friends say they will miss me, but it might be a fun new chapter in my life. Sarah would probably stay here in SLC, so it would be just the two of us.

The cost of living is about 10% cheaper, and the housing market is better than SLC. The weather doesn't get as cold as Utah, and it's not as humid as southern Texas, since El Paso really is just across the border from New Mexico and isn't facing water. The warmer weather would be great for Lindi's arthritis.

I am still weighing the pros and cons. What do YOU think?

2007-06-16T15:02:00.000-07:00

Your Inner Color is Blue

Your Personality: Your natural warmth and intuition nurtures those around you. You are accepting and always follow your heart.
You in Love: Relationships are your top priority, and this includes love. You are most happy when you are serious with someone.
Your Career: You need to help others in your job to feel satistifed. You would be a great nurse, psychologist, or counselor.

What's Your Inner Color?

TAG, I'm It!

2007-06-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

So, Hilary tagged me at Superfluous Juxtaposition for the meme 5 Weird Habits about Yourself and 8 Random Things About Me. I couldn't pick. I did them both.

The first player of this game starts with the topic five weird habits/8 random things, and people who get tagged need to write an entry about their five weird habits/8 random things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next five people to be tagged and link to their web journals. Don’t forget to leave a comment in their blog or journal that says “You have been tagged” (assuming they take comments) and tell them to read yours.

So, here we go.

5 Weird Habits about Yourself.

I have a routine when I wake up and if I don’t follow it, my day goes down the proverbial sh*t-hole. I wake up, I pee, I blow my nose, wash my hands, brush my teeth. In that order. It can vary from here, but those are the basics.

When it’s time to go to sleep, I have a routine, too. I pee, check my alarm, check my cell phone, set the sleep-timer on the TV for 45 minutes, put one pillow horizontal, one vertical, lay out my glasses and nightly drink and then I can sleep. Anything out of order and I won’t sleep until it is. (I don’t think I am OCD, but I guess I could be.)

I never brush my teeth at night. Well, not never, but rarely. I know I should. I just don’t.

Once a week, I like to re-arrange my desk at work. I like to line the pens up and clean the surface. It just looks better that way. And when I first get to work, I have a routine to set up for the day before I can effectively get anything done… oh, dear. OCD seems more and more more likely….

I bounce my leg up and down consistently throughout the day. Weird nervous energy.

And 8 Random Things About Me

As a child, I never had Chicken Pox. Or Meales. Or Mumps. But I broke every one of my fingers.

I didn't have my tonsils out until I was 18.

I like Oreos and OJ together.

My hair grows a half and inch every 3 weeks.

I have 2 tattoos.

I want more.

I feel like a lady when I am drinking tea. I love tea. go here: www.adagio.com

My nickname at work is Martha Stewart. I like to decorate things and bring in treats.

I have tagged Lorene, Toni, Danielle, Geoffrey and Rosemary!

Is It Over Yet?

2007-06-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Holy cow! I finally get a moment to catch up on everything I've been putting off - mainly blogging. I won't promise to be better, because that is just a way for me to put you off, really. I will try - as soon as things ~~slow down~~ ~~after June~~ Okay, okay, I will just try.

Let's start at the beginning.

Beautiful Sarah officially graduated on June 1st. Cottonwood High was packed - and we all had to sit in separate seats, but we enjoyed it just the same. After Graduation, Lindi, Sarah, her best friend Jess and I went to Arctic Circle (her choice, not ours) for a quick meal, then home to host a Grad Night party for her and her friends. They were laughing and giggling until 3:30 when I had to tell them to go to sleep or face my wrath. They slept.

June 2-3 was Gay Pride Day and Brynn and I were able to get a booth this year. Lindi was a fantastic help. After a few snafus with chairs and tables, we were very pleased at the turnout. Saturday was slow but steady - we were able to get our feet under us so to speak. We were place in a corner lot, which was perfectly placed under trees with lots of space behind us, so our friends used our booth as a meeting place and an area of respite. We brought a cooler of water and soda, which was a very good investment. We were placed in between a vendor from Arizona, who sold me a rainbow kitty cat hat and the Pampered Chef, who gave me a trifle bowl!

We ran our booth from 11-7, and then enjoyed the En Vogue concert. WOW. We sold out of some of the incense so we made our way back home, I made 300 more sticks, Lindi spoon fed me Raisin Bran and then we collapsed into bed.

Sunday the 3rd was a mad-house. Seriously. We did as much business in the first 2 hours on Sunday that all of Saturday combined. As the parade ended and people entered the festival, it just got crazier and crazier. Thank god for Brynn, who helped me keep up. We were going strong until about 4 when we winded down and could breathe a little bit. We packed up and left at 6.

I sold out of a lot of the incense and will have to make more for the online store. I gave away 70 business cards and made about 20 contacts for our mailing list. All in all, we pulled in about $450 after booth rental and insurance.

It was a great experience and now we have a better understanding of that kind of festival. I really had a great time.

Saturday the 9th was Sarah's BBQ to celebrate her 18th birthday and her graduation. My parents, Lindi's parents, Sarah's father's parents, family and friends gathered for hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken legs, and carne asada, 5 different salads, 10 different beverages and a HUGE chocolate sheet cake, played games and at the end of the evening, toasted marshmallows and made s'mores in a portable fireplace. It was fantastic. I couldn't have done it without my loving sister, who kept me in check and helped me tremendously. We were cleaned up, food put away and in bed by 12:30. Yessssssssssss.

Sunday, however, my body told me it had had enough and wouldn't let me go any further. I spent the day in jammies and relaxing with medication.

And so comes Father's Day (no biggie), my beautiful sister and brother in law's birthdays (fun) and Teinamarrie and Christopher's Wedding. The lady who did the alterations on my wedding dress is going to make my bridesmaids dress, and just in time. Lindi is getting fitted for her tux (roawr) on Thursday. YAY!

And now, back to work. I shall fill you in on more comings and goings (with pictures) later in the week. SMOOCH!

Sorry I Haven't Been Around

2007-05-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

If for no other reason than I haven't really felt like blogging much. I am tired most of the time and doing all I can do to keep peppy and perky is taking it clean out of me. I guess I could just highlight my life with bullets.

I bought Lindi a new car, a silver Honda Civic with a moon roof and everything
Sarah is graduating on June 1st and we are celebrating June 9th at our house with our kick-off-to-summer bbq
We have a new kitty. She's cute.
I cut off all my hair and donated it to locks of love. Money went to Huntsman Cancer.
My brother sold his house and moved to Nephi
My job is great. I've already received commendations
My back is worse
Hosted a beautiful Bridal shower for a dear friend which was a huge hit, complete with personalized Cookbooks, handmade soaps and custom caramel boxes with the couples pictures.
I started my incense company and have a booth at Pride Day. Brynn and I already began selling at Earth Jam, which was fun... Looking forward to Pride!

Oh, and if you haven't heard from me and think you were supposed to, I am sorry. Email me and get back in touch. Life is crazy, and frankly, I am weeding some people out of my garden. I am to the point again that I am sick of extending hands and pleasantries for people who ignore me or could care less. As Toni would say, "I don't give a rat's a**!"

Dawn's Shower

Connie and Brynn at Earth Jam

My Beautiful Incense

Lindi and Sarah at the Zoo

Moving On

2007-04-03T06:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a rough couple of weeks. Losing Raymond put into perspective a lot of things for me. I know I have a very short time on this earth and I am determined to make the best of it. I am grateful for the wonderful and supportive people around me and for reconnecting with past friends whose paths are shockingly parallel to mine. I am also grateful about the future, making plans to go to Q4U with old friends to remember Raymond, arranging with the Rollins' Mom to be the one to cut my hair for Locks of Love, and just getting in touch again.

I have received over $200 for Huntsman Cancer, so I am about half way to my goal of $500. My old boss at eBay contributed $100 and so did Denise! I couldn't believe it! THANKS FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT!!!!!

My incense business is starting to take off. The samples I have distributed have been very well received, I have finalized my product line, designed my logos, finalized my blends, I have purchased RisingGoddessScents.com and the webmaster is designing the website. I put in my application for a vendor at Pride Day, I have a list of the Farmer's Markets and people who would like to distribute the line. It's almost like Christmas, watching the packages come every day with supplies of essential oil or bags or labels... plus, my house smells really really good when I make my incense.

I have two body product lines I will be distributing - one exclusively. I am so excited to see the handmade soaps, lotions, oils, salts, lip balms and other treats that come out of it.

I am also excited for the Bridal Shower I am giving for Dawnita. The invitations went out and the day they were received, I got many phone calls to compliment me just on the invitation. These are the ones I had made - no two are the same. It's going to be a beautiful shower.

We invited a new kitty into our house recently, a little short haired black and white named Baby. Sarah brought her home - she needed a place to go. Okay, I thought 5 cats were bad, but 6 is almost too much!!! We might be trying to find a home for a few because there's just waaay too many in our little house. Baby is getting her shots and getting fixed (we just went through her first heat - OHMIGAWD) and then we will probably look for a permanent home for her.

We have started the planning of the big Sarah event - celebrating her 18th birthday and her graduation. We took her to the Melting Pot to celebrate and we had a total blast. We rode the Trax downtown, which is an adventure in itself, with drunken people and smelly people... wow. She's officially 18 and a lot smarter than I was. I never thought I would say "Yeah, why don't you guys get a hotel room for graduation night..." She wants to party and have a good time, but doesn't want to drive. Hell, I am fine with a hotel room, as long as I know where she is, and she's not on the road, you know?

I haven't heard officially on the permanent position for ADP although I am the only temp left in the department (they let the others go on Friday). I am told I will be getting a phone call from HR this week with the official offer, and I am told the salary range will be about 30% more than I have ever made before, which is a fantastic thing. This will probably enable us to pay off our debts and start our house hunting.

Well, back to work I go. Hope you have a fantastic day!

Wise Words from my Sister

2007-04-02T07:41:00.001-07:00

Today, before you think of saying an unkind word,
think of someone who can't speak.

Before you complain about the taste of your food,
think of someone who has nothing to eat.

Before you complain about your husband or wife,
think of someone who's crying out to God for a companion.

Today, before you complain about life,
think of someone who went too early to heaven.

Before you complain about your children,
think of someone who desires children, but they're barren.

Before you argue about your dirty house that someone didn't clean or sweep,
think of the people who are living in the streets.

Before whining about the distance you drive,
think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.

When you are tired and complain about your job,
think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job.

And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down,
put a smile on your face and thank God you're alive and still around.

French Toast

2007-03-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here at my desk eating delicious French toast with bacon and thinking of the day. I've been in low moods since the funeral last night and doing everything I can to buck up and move on.

The funeral was beautiful, albeit very LDS. I was asleep for a lot of it. I was able to sit with Margaret, my long time best friends Serena and Wayne's Mom, Stephanie and her husband Shawn and Grace. Their support was amazing.

I learned a lot about Raymond. I learned that he was just as kind and gentle with others and he was with us. The fact that I never heard a bad word from his mouth was supported by his speakers and other family members. To everyone, he was just Raymond, a sweet man. He was an accomplished photographer and his photos can be found on www.laughingfatman.com. I learned how much he loved hockey, especially the Grizzlies, and Q4U.

Stephanie almost took my breath away when she told of how Raymond drove to SUU to find her when she failed to call him when she arrived, as she promised. And her comments about him and us sitting in the garage brewing beer and talking and laughing brought tears to my eyes. I thought the roof would cave when she said beer, but it didn't. She's got some bawls, that one.

I lost it when a trio sang "Danny Boy" and when Stephanie's family friend played "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes. And I laughed when stories were told about Raymond's trampoline (WWF wrestling with cousins, jumping off the roof, etc), jousting on the Graveyard shift using rolling chairs as shields and Raymond's crutches as jousts, and the love that everyone shared for such an amazing man.

I had been feeling so badly that I had lost touch during the worst days for him, that I couldn't be a comfort. But then I realized something. Raymond did something that hadn't been done in a very long time - he united a group of friends that had lost touch for more than 5 years. That is what Raymond would want - for us to continue keeping in touch to remember him the way he was, and to keep laughing.

In Loving Memory

2007-03-28T08:02:00.001-07:00

Raymond L. Brown
Gentle Giant

Raymond Lamar Brown passed away peacefully Sunday March 25, 2007 after a long hard battle with multiple physical problems.

Raymond was born to Ren and Carol Brown February 17, 1968 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was blessed throughout his life with a good natured love of everyone. His greatest joy was giving to or helping some one else. He loved designing and editing the Avis newsletter without thought of remuneration or recognition.

Raymond never met a person who wasn't a friend. He truly subscribed to the idea of see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.

He is survived by his parents, brothers, Allen - Sandy, David (Gwen) - Kanab, Curtis (Leslie) - Kirkland WA; sisters Susan Talmadge (Walt) - South Jordan and Karyn Clement - Orem. Also 12 nieces and nephews and two grand nieces, and many Aunts and Uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 29th at 6:00 p.m. at the Hunter 4th ward, 7035 West 3605 South, WVC, UT. Burial will be in Moccasin, AZ on Saturday, March 31st at 12:30 p.m. Utah time, 11:30 a.m. Arizona time. The family would like to extend our deepest thanks to the ICU staff at Cottonwood Hospital.

Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on 3/28/2007.

I have many fond memories of Raymond. He was my beer-brewing buddy. Grace and I would go to the Rollins' garage and spend hours with Raymond and Wayne, making home brew, playing games, shooting the sh*t and having a great time.

I can't remember a Halloween party without him, for many many years. His laugh was goofy and made me smile everytime. He was a gentle soul with a unique sense of humor and mischief.

He suffered from Diabetes, and within the last couple of year, developed Leukemia. He had too much pain to live comfortably in this world and I am grateful that his Spirit has been released and can roam free.

Oh Goddess
There is great sadness
A cherished one has gone

Emptiness engulfs me
Loss languishes within
Help me bear this grief
Accompany their spirit
Comfort we who grieve

Let us rejoice in their life
May their essence be recorded
In the Great Book of Shadows
Renew our remembrance with joy

The wheel of life turns,
The cycle of rebirth continues.
Those beyond life,
You are remembered today.

Lady and Lord,
In your gentle embrace,
Our dead you have taken.
All thread of life are cut,
All threads are woven anew.

May the wheel turn,
And begin the cycle again.

May our blessings be received.
You are remembered.

2007-03-19T09:46:00.001-07:00

Be Brave... Go Bald

Cancer affects us all in one way or another. Cancer research is vital to ending the disease. Connie wants to help.

Connie has committed to an unusual task - not only to raise a minimum of $500 for the Huntsman Cancer Hospital, but, if she reaches her goal, she will SHAVE her head and donate her beautiful mane to Locks for Love, an organization that makes natural hair wigs for children with Cancer.

With her family's support behind her, she will honor her word, and the memory of her Grandmother and others lost to Cancer, when the $500 goal is reached.

The fundraising will end on April 30, 2007.

Want to see Connie go COMPLETELY bald?

Click here to donate via PayPal

or you can contact Connie to receive the address to mail Checks or Money Orders for HCI. Please Forward this link to friends and family.

Join me - Make a difference in the life of a child, and make a difference in the fight against the disease.

Sick and Sore

2007-03-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

Couldn't tell you what happened but I started throwing up last night and haven't stopped. My sides hurt, my head hurts and my jaw muscles are stinging. Thank God for promethazene.

Clotted Cream and the Emergency Room

2007-03-08T09:25:00.001-08:00

Doesn't sound very good, does it. Well, so far, that sums up my week.

Monday, a few of my friends here at work and I were talking - come to find out that they are all fans of tea. Well, I just so happen to have 14 different kinds at my house and had the idea of a Tuesday Tea Party. I stopped by London Market and picked up some Devon Cream (otherwise known as clotted cream) and some traditional blackberry jam - but they were out of crumpets, so I had to settle for English Muffins.

Tuesday, I put out a display of my teas, muffins, cream and jam and we done had ourselves a nice little morning tea party. I had never had clotted cream before, but it was beautifully rich and not sweet - a perfect compliment to the jam. I was reading up on it and it can be used in sauces and in regular cooking too, and since I bought the BIG jar (at $12.50 a piece) I think I am going to make some cream sauces with it too... it was so fun, we have planned it for every Tuesday!

I then got the call from my Mom - she had been throwing up since 10pm the night before, couldn't keep her pain meds down and her pain was out of control. I rushed to the house, picked her up and took her to Pioneer Valley ER - and I have to say they Dr and the Nurse who took care of her were absolutely superior. The doctor consulted me as if I were her colleague and luckily, my mom had her last 4 blood tests in her medical file she keeps with her - and we found out that her sodium had dropped to the point that she was constantly nauseated - and had been that way since December. It was a good catch on the part of the Doctor and although she wasn't completely out of pain, she was sent home much more comfortable that when she went in.

Her Primary Care doctor saw her on Wednesday and was mad they didn't admit her. Well, if SHE would have answered the pages the ER doctor sent, she could have had a right to an opinion. Since she didn't, she can kiss my butt. I think PVH was absolutely thorough and let my mom go home to recoup in her bed than to be drugged out of her mind in the hospital. I tell you what - my mom is 150 pounds soaking wet and she took TWO rounds of morphine like she was a lumberjack.

Work is going well, and they are putting more and more responsibility on me. I love it here - and they love me, which is a great match.

Sarah returned from her trip to Reno with the grandparents, and she was sick almost the whole time, poor thing. I am so glad she's home.

My blog will be moving in the next month or so - my friend Michael, who owns Awen Web Design, is designing me a customized blog! He is an amazing web designer, so I am excited to see what it will be... The location will be at www.crimsondove.net. I'll let you know when the blog is up and going! :)

Have a fantastic Thursday!

2007-03-03T09:29:00.001-08:00

This Full Moon Eclipse in Virgo heightens your emotional sensitivity and can make you feel rather unstable. If you have built your world on shifting sands, there could be a bit of collateral damage. This isn't necessarily life-changing, but you must pay careful attention to anything that doesn't withstand the changes. Don't get sidetracked by making long-term plans; just focus on what needs to be done right now.

I'll Wait for You

2007-03-02T14:58:00.000-08:00

The snow in Montana was three feet high
The lady at the counter said: There ain't no flights
And so he called her on the telephone
He said: I'll rent a car and I'll drive home

And she said: I'll wait for you
Like I did last year
At Christmas time with your family here
And your truck broke down out in San Antone
And the gifts stayed wrapped until you got home
Oh, this ain't nothin' new
Sweetheart, I'll wait for you

Now he's on his cell phone in a Coupe Deville
Talkin' to the one he loves and always will
His heart is breakin' 'cause she's there alone
Her heart is achin' 'cause she wants him home
She says: I'll wait for you like in '68
When our child was due, but I said, he'll have to wait
Until his dad gets here and stands by my side
Remember, Dear, our son's first cry
Oh, this ain't nothin' new
Sweetheart, I'll wait for you

He didn't stop all day to eat a bite
And he finally got there around midnight
The doctor said, she's in a better place
She said to give this you this note just in case

And it said, I'll wait for you at Heaven's gate
Oh, I don't care how long it takes
And I'll tell Saint Pete I can't come in
Without my love and my best friend
Oh, this ain't nothin' new
Sweetheart, I'll wait for you
P.S. I love you, too
Sweetheart, I'll wait for you

Today

2007-03-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

... Is a little darker, a
little more saddening
a little less happy and little more maddening
a dear soul has danced away from us
and into the arms of her beloved...

I read of Kathy's passing this morning and it hit me pretty hard. She was the activist I always aspired to - one with compassion and tenacity, a strong fist and an even stronger embrace.

How can anyone look at her passing as anything but a horrible tragedy?

Her strength in fighting the LDS Church, in fighting the US Postal System, in helping Sara fight breast cancer, then fighting to simply live after Sara was gone proved too much. How blessed she was to live so richly and devouring each and every bite life had to offer. How lucky she was to find her soul mate - and need to be with her forever.

I guess, in the big picture, she did what anyone would do. Cross Heaven and Earth to be reunited with the one she loved. How brave we all should be.

Kathy Worthington

2007-03-02T13:11:00.000-08:00

Kathy Worthington 1950 ~ 2007 Kathy Worthington was born Oct. 20, 1950 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She died at her home in Taylorsville on February 22, 2007. The fourth child of six, Kathy grew up in Utah, Arizona and California. Kathy loved school and loved to learn about the world. She discovered her love of languages at the University of Utah. Never one to do anything halfway, Kathy went to Mexico in 1972 to study Spanish. While there, she met and married Rudy Juarez (later divorced) and had two girls: Rita Lucia (Lucy) and Sonia Cristina (Cristy). Kathy also busied herself helping to build a community for the poor, and taught English for three years. Upon her return to the U.S., Kathy's hands were full raising two children and working full time. In 1989 Kathy came out as a lesbian. She immediately immersed herself in the gay community and soon gained celebrity status via her prominent role as a gay rights activist. She organized women's social and support groups, planned political rallies and was on the board of the Utah Stonewall Center in its early days. She founded the Womyn's Community Newsletter in April of 1991, which was published for four years. This influential publication played a pivotal role in creating a cohesive lesbian community in Utah. In 1992 Kathy's heart was utterly won over by Sara Hamblin, the woman whom Kathy described as her "wife, life partner and best friend." The two participated in political rallies, marched in Washington, and were married at "The Wedding," the huge group union ceremony performed at the 1993 March on Washington for gay rights. Kathy and Sara were legally married in Canada in 2003. In their 14 years together they traveled widely, visiting 17 countries as well as much of the U.S. Sara was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995. They immediately became experts on the disease. Through their studies and determination, they successfully fought off the disease for 11 years.

After a battle with the U.S. Postal Service, her employer from 1986 to her death, Kathy was granted leave in May of 1997 to care for Sara during her cancer treatments, a highly celebrated victory for the gay community. Sara died at home in Taylorsville on February 21, 2006 with Kathy and their family by her side.

Kathy's reach extended beyond even her own imagining. Her name is everywhere, from her direct and poignant postings regarding Sara's battle with breast cancer on bcmets.org, to her prominent work in the ex-Mormon community. She was the founder and administrator of the preeminent website providing information on resignation from the Mormon Church, www.mormonnomore.com.

Her work in the gay community cannot be overstated. Kathy's generosity reached even further. She agreed to translate for a woman who was shot by her husband. Once, while discussing this series of events, Sara summed up Kathy's irrepressible drive to reach out to others: "Kathy gets confused about words sometimes. Maybe in Spanish the word 'translate' means to take someone under your wing and do everything you possibly can for them, no matter what time of day or night, no matter the distance, no matter the danger. If that's what the word means, then Kathy did an excellent job of 'translating.'" Kathy was a healing and informative force unleashed upon the world. Kathy changed lives, from Sara's, who said she went from being in the closet to "out on the front porch with spot lights turned on," to close friends, to those she never even met through her work in the community and on her websites.

Kathy is preceded in death by her wife, Sara Hamblin, their "Big Boy" Chiffy, mother Luella, father Dale and brothers Rick and Allen. She is survived by daughters, Cristy and Lucy, former husband Rudy Juarez (Ronnie), sister Dolly (Larry), brothers Marty (Gayleen) and Craig (Debra), and her cats Missy and Squeaky. Jude, Dianna, Kathy, Annette, Chuck, Penny, Mandy, Marie and Misty are special friends who were very close to Kathy, and have been especially supportive in this last year. Marilyn knows what comfort she brought to Kathy, and her family is overwhelmed by their appreciation for her. Special thanks to Margie and Alma for their support. Kathy's family extends their thanks to those who loved and followed Kathy through her eventful and influential life. Kathy's wish was to be cremated and her ashes joined with Sara's. The two were never meant to be separated.

A memorial for those who wish to celebrate Kathy's life will be held Sunday, March 4, 6-8 p.m. at the I.J. and Jeann' Wagner Jewish Community Center at 2 North Medical Drive, SLC; 581-0098. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Utah Pride Center (www.utahpridecenter.org) or Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (www.bestfriends.org). A tribute to both Kathy and Sara may be found at www.geocities.com/kathywut/homepage.html.

"Sometimes I feel downright wealthy," Kathy once said. "We are managing to do so many things that are exciting and fun that I feel very fortunate." Those of us whose lives were touched by Kathy's spirit feel just as fortunate to have known her.

For Today...

2007-03-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

The Moon brings emotional issues home to you when it enters your sign in the late afternoon. This is a great time to look back over the past few weeks before clarifying your current goals. Be sure to clean your plate so that you can start your new cycle. And don't be afraid to share your fears, for this can deepen the bond between you and someone you love.

2007-03-01T21:19:00.000-08:00

Well the scope went well. I do have a hiatal hernia, but not as bad as they thought, so with time and medication it should heal on its own. Loved the doctor, plenty of drugs, the whole afternoon was a blur.

I'm kinda tired now so I am going to go lay down.

Tuxedo Strawberry Grooms Cake

2007-03-01T20:50:00.000-08:00

Here they are!

Weekend Update

2007-02-28T14:36:00.001-08:00

I know it's not the weekend, or Saturday Night Live, but here I am anyway. Take it or leave it!
I ended up making a trial run of Dawn's Groom's Cake and it was beautiful. I learned how to dip Tuxedo Strawberries, which was really fun, and the white fondant cake with chocolate ganache turned out beautiful. Now my challenges are to flavor fondant because I can't stand plain. Yuk. Our family and neighbors love it when I have a new project because they get to eat the trial cakes and goodies. I will have one more dry run before the wedding just to make sure I have everything perfect for her perfect day!

I have been collecting all the things I need for her Bridal Shower invites and as they come in the mail I get more and more excited for the partay! :)

I will be at home tomorrow - and there is so much work to do before I leave. I am having a scope to see if I really do have a hiatal hernia and if I need surgery. Yay. I am looking forward to the Versed, though. Ha ha!

If I post tomorrow, it may be drug induced, and I won't remember it - which might be fun in and of itself.

WISH ME LUCK!!!

B o r i n g Thursday

2007-02-22T11:08:00.001-08:00

I am settling into my position here and more and more is being laid on my plate, which is fantastic. By the end of March, I will be fully trained to take over the client, and more than qualified to be hired full-time permanent. I am still a little stressed, but I really enjoy the work, it's something I know well and am very proficient at, and the people here are fantastic. It's a quite place, relaxed, not as high strung as eBay, thank God.

I'm kinda nervous about the scope on Wednesday. Eating has become a real challenge now. We went out for Fish n Chips to celebrate Ash Wednesday and I was having a hard time swallowing the potatoes. I'm thisclose to an all liquid diet at this point. Everytime I hiccup, I feel like someone is driving through me with a sharp knife. Ugh.

The monthly menu planning has been pretty successful! I am really pleased. I am working on March now and have already filled it with some meals, but I am going to have Lindi and Sarah put in their selections too - make it a real family effort. After the initial shopping trip of $200, my weekly shopping has drastically dipped. Plus, it's nice to be able to look at a calendar and know what is being cooked - and I am not the only one cooking, which is lovely.

Sarah is going to her Prom at the end of March and is on the lookout for a beautiful Prom dress. I am so excited for her, I was hoping she would go. I didn't want her to miss out. I can't believe she is going to be 18 in less than a month. Wow.

Oh, and you HAVE to make these brownies. They are AMAZING:

The Ultimate Brownie

The Ultimate Brownie is my absolute favorite brownie. It is tall like a cakey-brownie, but is dense like a fudgy-brownie. I'm sure it will be one of your favorite brownie recipes too. Shout out to Anna from Cookie Madness!

INGREDIENTS:
8- 1 ounce squares of unsweetened chocolate
1 cup butter
5 eggs
3 cups sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
1-1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2-1/2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 pan.

Melt chocolate and butter in a saucepan over low heat; set aside. In a mixer, beat eggs, sugar and vanilla at high speed for 10 minutes**. Blend in chocolate mixture, flour and salt until just mixed.

Stir in the nuts. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake for 35-40 minutes. (Don't overbake.) Cool and frost if desired, but that is not necessary.

** It's not required, but this is when it's very nice to own a stand mixer.

Love this song...

2007-02-20T13:28:00.001-08:00

The sun can't remember how to shine
And the colors all have faded into shades of gray
There's no life in this hollow heart of mine
Ever since you went away

Close your eyes and feel me hold you
Can you lead me through this ordinary world
Let the sky cry restless rain
To wash away the miles between us
'Cause without you, it's just an ordinary world

If time could find a way to turn around
I would walk along the stars 'til I was back at your door
Every word, every word was spoken but without a sound
And I found out what my heart is for

Close your eyes and feel me hold you
Can you lead me through this ordinary world
Let the sky cry restless rain
To wash away the miles between us
'Cause without you, it's just an ordinary world

Hold your breath, here I come
Down the road unwinding
Back, to your arms
'Til we melt
Underneath the blinding sun
Can't remember how to shine
And the life in this hollow heart of mine

Close your eyes and feel me hold you
Can you lead me through, through this ordinary world
Let the sky cry restless rain
To wash away the miles between us
'Til love can come redeem us
'Cause without you, it's just an ordinary world

Dr's Appointment

2007-02-20T09:45:00.001-08:00

Argh. I love my doctor. I really do. I think she is brilliant and talented and love her to pieces. I just don't like it when she says "This is something we really need to check out..."

She thinks I have a hernia or a stricture in my esophagus so I get to have an upper GI scope on March 1st. Can't say I am looking forward to it, but I am looking forward to the versed - oh, happy drug induced sleep.

The only thing that makes my stomach and esophagus feel good is coffee... the same thing that irritates it. Geez.

Well, that's what I get for having an amazing doctor.

Productive Weekend

2007-02-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

I loved this weekend! I was able to spend some serious quality time with the family and that is always so nice.

I am hosting a Bridal Shower for my bestest friend Dawn and I am so excited about it! Lindi and I went shopping and bought all the things so I can make 20 invitations (Jolee's Boutique purple daisies, butterflies, stamps, ink, paper, vellum, cards, embellishments, eyelets...) and got a hella deal on heart napkins and plates since it was after Valentines Day. SWEET! I planned the menu and the games (not the lame ones) and even contacted AvenueSweets about a very special guest gift - customized for the happy couple. Dawn even asked me to make the Grooms cake, a beautiful white fondant cake with chocolate ganache and tuxedo strawberries. I am thrilled to be a part of her big day.

When we returned home from shopping, Lindi and I took on a huge project - our Kitchen. Since I don't have a craft room, and limited storage space for all my baking supplies, we had installed a large silver restaurant rack on the wall to help store everything. We had purchased plastic drawers to store all my craft supplies... but as my collection grows, the space runs out. Lindi and I gutted the kitchen - removing duplicates, broken things, even glasses we never use and put all my craft project supplies on the kitchen table to put away later.

That took us into the evening, and since Lindi had to open the restaurant on Sunday, we watched our weekend movie, The Departed (WOW!) and I sent her to bed at 9pm. I then took to the kitchen and organized EVERYTHING - throwing away things I will never use, labelling all the drawers and getting everything protected. It looks amazing. When I looked up, it was nearly 3:30 am!

Lindi normally wakes up at 3:45 to open the restaurant, so I made her breakfast, came upstairs and gently woke her up with a Diet Pepsi and Breakfast sandwich and fell into bed - sleeping almost until she came home from work.

Sunday was the day I reserved for Sarah's Valentine's Day dinner - since I have TWO Valentines I have to have 2 dinners! I made her favorite : Chicken Parmesan, Cesar Salad, garlic bread sticks and Orange Dream Pie. We had a beautiful candlelight dinner and some laughs, mostly at Lindi's expense. They finished dinner and took dessert (some oatmeal cookies I made) to her mother's house while I cleaned the kitchen (three days worth of dishes! ick!), and then fell into bed...

I am excited to be planning a Poker Night and Dinner with D and T... I laugh so much when I am around them. It's good to spend time with good friends.

Have a great week!

Horoscope for Today

2007-02-16T08:03:00.001-08:00

Let go of your need for perfection today, for things won't necessarily follow your detailed plan. Instead, you might try to do everything differently now, for this could allow you to make an important theoretical breakthrough. Treat even the most boring job as an opportunity to discover something new. Remember, no one is keeping score, so it really doesn't matter if your productivity slips a bit.

A Week of Weirdness and Clarity

2007-02-16T07:51:00.001-08:00

OK. I still have a heavy heart concerning my friend. Well, actually, I have a heavy heart concerning more than one, so I think I am reaching a point in my life where the drama has become too much. I haven't seen this much un-adult like behavior since High School, and frankly, I would rather not go back there.

So, my anthem for today is to define what a friend is and what they aren't in my life and to really put energy out there to those who have given energy back to me.

1. When I apologize sincerely, there is not need to drag on and on and on about the subject or to treat me rudely. A real friend forgives and moves on, accepting the apology gracefully.

2. Not everything I do in this world is directed at someone. I do things for a reason. Recently I had an opportunity to accept a well-earned apology from an old acquaintance, which I did. My speaking to this person was for me. Me alone. It was not done viciously or disrespectfully or as a slap in the face to anyone. It was about ME. If you can't accept that, then maybe you need to take a look as to why you feel so strongly - maybe you are the one who has unresolved issues.

3. When I extend invitation after invitation to get together, which go repeatedly ignored or declined, I take it personally. When a get-together occurs and I am told about it, then not invited, I take it personally. I don't want to hear about how it was a mix up, especially when it's happened more than once. It is obvious you don't want to spend any time with me. On the other hand, I will be taking invitations from others who genuinely want to be around me and see the value of my friendship, of which there are many. My dance card will be full.

4. A friend is there in a moment's notice, not when it suits them. They are there to share both joys and sorrows and extend themselves to show they care. From now on, I will only reciprocate to those who show that energy to me. Otherwise, it's a waste of my time.

5. I am so blessed to have some real friends in my life, those who have shown so much to me and who I am happy to be around. They make me laugh and show me the real person, not the facade. I will only be around people who uplift my spirit, not drag it down. If someone drags you down, they aren't your friend.

6. Some things, and people, are better let go.

When it is all said and done, if I were to die tomorrow, I will not leave things unsaid. Those who I love know I love them. Those I have hurt know I am sorry. I have a huge heart and lots of room for lots of people. I consider myself to be a pretty good person and a good friend. And in the end, that's all that matters.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2007-02-14T10:20:00.001-08:00

I have discovered an amazing local place that serves candies to die for. I originally heard about them on 101.9 The End and decided to take a look, and ended up getting Lindi's V-Day present there. All I had to do was email a picture and they wrapped it and sent it. It was beautiful!

You should visit and buy some for yourself.

The Nougat is amazing, soft and flavorful. I had my order, no lie, in 24 hours. I got Lindi the Leather Photo Box with hand-made caramels, and they are worth every single penny. Mmmmm.

Today's Horoscope

2007-02-14T07:46:00.001-08:00

It's tough to relax completely today, for you are being pushed and pulled by the circumstances unfolding before your eyes. You cannot control the external events, but it's crucial to take responsibility for your own reactions to what's happening. Even if you can't change the world, you can change your attitude.

How true that is!

Very Cool

2007-02-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

My Kua Energy

September 10th, 1972

Energy Number: 5

"The Compassionate Mother"

In Feng Shui, you are considered a "West" person.

Living for you is nurturing others with your talents and gifts. You are a great networker and collaborator, and when you work with others you are at your best. You are so used to giving to others that in order for you to have great energy, you need to let others take care of you. Having young and creative friends around you will stimulate you, and your creative genius blossoms by being in these relationships. Meditation and spirituality are part of your daily upgrowing as without a higher source your life is mediocre.

Your Directions:

Success: Southwest
Health: Northwest
Relationship: West
Wisdom: Northeast

Interesting Thursday

2007-02-08T13:41:00.000-08:00

An email can change your entire day, you know? I've had 3 of them in the last week and I've had about as much as I can take.

The first email was from an acquaintance telling me that a friendship I thought I had established was, in fact, entirely fictional. Fictional? I wrote emails and had chats with this person online... or so I thought. This person exists, but never wrote to me. In fact, the acquaintance did that. It was some new information about an old situation that I had resolved months ago, so I just kinda let it roll off my shoulders, but still... really unnerving.

The second email was from an old boyfriend. It was sad and sweet all at the same time and made me smile quite a bit. I was flattered as he reminisced about our old days and how the connection between us would always be there, even if we haven't seen each other for years and years. Walking down memory lane really made me examine how far I've come in my self respect and all of the lessons I've learned from all those I've loved.

I even took some time to give thanks for the lessons in each of my relationships ~
From M, I learned to be patient and what it feels like to be proud of your partner
From B, I learned how to stand up for myself
From N, I learned never to compromise my own beliefs
From S, I learned how to let someone go and that it's ok to be friends
From M, I learned that it's ok to be wild and free and uncontained
From E, I learned that you can't will things into being
From C, I learned that being a woman is beautiful and powerful
From G, I learned true tenderness and strength
and Lord knows I am still learning lessons from Lindi, only one of which is how to be a good mom and another is how to be a kid at heart.

I have been so blessed to have all these people in my life to take with me on my journey - simply because they are all still with me, everyday, helping me to make the decisions I make, shaping me to be who I am. I used to regret things I've done, but I've transitioned into acceptance, I think, only because I am not the person now I was back then.

And the final email was one that cemented in my mind just how far I've come. Actions I took in regard to another relationship hurt someone I care the world for. Of course, I had no idea, and it's all a huge misunderstanding. Rather than crying in the corner and begging for forgiveness, which I probably would have done as little as 6 months ago, I calmly explained the situation, that there was nothing to be upset about, apologized, and in my heart, gave permission for the situation to be whatever it's going to be. If this friend chooses to remain in my life, it is her choice. It is out of my control.

I know who I am. I know my value. I don't hurt people on purpose for any reason. But sometimes, in the course of life, you will do something that hurts someone in a domino-effect kind of way. You won't know you've done it until the damage is done, even if it is a misunderstanding. So, the best I can do is apologize and leave it in her corner. If she knows my heart like I think she does, then she will choose to remain in my circle. If not, then I wish her the best on her journey. My energy remains within and with those who I love and who reciprocate and can see the radiance of my heart.

Interesting

2007-02-01T12:35:00.001-08:00

If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee. (Hardly seems worth it.)

If you farted consistently for 6 years and 9 months, enough gas is produced to create the energy of an atomic bomb. (Now that's more like it!)

The human heart creates enough pressure when it pumps out to the body to squirt blood 30 feet. (Ew. Just ew.)

A pig's orgasm lasts 30 minutes. (In my next life, I want to be a pig.)

A cockroach will live nine days without its head before it starves to death. (Creepy.) (I'm still not over the pig.)

Banging your head against a wall uses 150 calories a hour (Don't try this at home, maybe at work)

The male praying mantis cannot copulate while its head is attached to its body. The female initiates sex by ripping the male's head off. ("Honey, I'm home. What the...?!")

The flea can jump 350 times its body length. It's like a human jumping the length of a football field. (30 minutes..lucky pig! Can you imagine?)

The catfish has over 27,000 taste buds. (What could be so tasty on the bottom of a pond?)

Some lions mate over 50 times a day. (I still want to be a pig in my next life...quality over quantity)

Butterflies taste with their feet. (Something I always wanted to know.)

The strongest muscle in the body is the tongue. (Hmmmmmm......)

Right-handed people live, on average, nine years longer than left-handed people. (If you're ambidextrous, do you split the difference?)

Elephants are the only animals that cannot jump. (Okay, so that would be a good thing)

A cat's urine glows under a black light. (I wonder who was paid to figure that out?)

An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain. ( I know some people like that.)

Starfish have no brains (I know some people like that too.)

Polar bears are left-handed. (If they switch, they'll live a lot longer)

Humans and dolphins are the only species that have sex for pleasure. (What about that pig??)

I have a cold sore

2007-01-23T10:45:00.001-08:00

And bought myself some Carmex. I forgot how much I love this stuff! Does anyone remember in High School how it was the "cool" thing to always have Carmex in your pocket?

I am so weird.

A Recap

2007-01-23T10:17:00.000-08:00

I don't know where to start. I am so sorry. I feel like a total dipwad for not updating my Blog sooner than this. I guess I am just in that place of Life being more important than Blogging... I am sure I will get back into it again soon.

On the job front, I started a new job at the end of December that has turned into a fabulous opportunity to go full-time and permanent. We will see how the next few weeks unfold.

Sarah officially graduated on January 17th - the date of her last class! She received a $500 scholarship to any Utah college and will be starting SLCC in Cosmetology probably in the Fall. Right now she is just enjoying the freedom and working her little tushie off at McD's.

I am in a wedding in July, and doing a Bridal Shower for a seperate bride in April... and my plate is so full! I love weddings, but two so close together might make me cry! Luckily, I may only be doing one wedding cake instead of two.

Lindi is - great - as always.

Discovered a new restaurant. Pine in Murray. FABULOUS food and amazing atmosphere. I took Lindi there last Friday as an un-Valentine's Day dinner and really enjoyed it. We started with Crab Cakes and Beef Barley soup, then I had Chicken with Caper Chardonnay sauce and Lindi had a HUGE NY Steak. We shared dessert - Chocolate cake - which was plenty for both of us. I think I will plan an adult dinner for the Gang here soon. Delicious food. Did I mention how much I liked this place?

Well, back to work. Have a fabulous day!

S is for Santa

2006-12-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

The Season ended with a beautiful Santa tin with 3 caramel/chocolate covered apples and a note from our friends Deanna, Tracy and Britany! Those stinkers! How sweet are they?!

Christmas was a busy but amazing day. We started out on the Eve with Lindi's extended family, eating mostly vegetarian (with the exception of the turkey of course) and watched Sage open presents for the first time. She's almost 2 an she definately got the concept of opening presents!

We then went home and had Christmas with our little lesbian family - we were all so spoiled.

Christmas Morning, back at Lindi's Mom's house for their family Christmas. Breakfast was amazing. We only made Lindi's Mom cry twice, so I guess that was good. Again, we were spoiled.

Christmas afternoon was spent with my family, more turkey, and more spoiling.

We decided this year was a lot of thoughtful presents - our families really put thought behind them and that was wonderful! I got a LOT of Pampered Chef and cooking supplies. I am stoked.

I start my new job tomorrow. I wish I could say I am excited, but I am really not. I didn't want to start over again. I hope the job will welcome me and I can make ti my own.

I hope you all had a joyous holiday with family and friends!

MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY CHANNUKAH, BLESSED SOLSTICE!

A is for Angel

2006-12-23T14:37:00.000-08:00

Our Secret Santa struck again!

A beautiful Silver Angel was on our doorstep this morning. I guess it sums up our feelings about this season - so many Angels blessing us all throught the year.

M is for Music

2006-12-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

Christmas wouldn't be complete without music - and that's what the Secret Santa brought for is! Celine Dion's Christmas CD. Beautiful and perfect for all the WRAPPING I have left to do!

I never did tell you what happened at Lindi's Christmas Party! Everyone was so sweet to me - I am sure they all knew what had happened since we had to get Sarah on Lindi's insurance right away. No one mentioned eBay or how my job is going, which is usually a big topic of conversation.

We were at the Loco Lizard which is wonderfully modern Mexican with the best Margaritas ever! It was beautifully decorated and there was a HUGE table full of presents for the Managers. Her bosses buy 20 different lovely presents for their Managers, ranging from iPods to Jazz tickets to CDs and DVDs so they can play White Elephant exchange and still have a really nice gift when they leave.

Earlier in the week, Lindi had mentioned she wanted to get me an ipod for Christmas, when she noticed that her boss had bought 5 of them for the Managers. She was hoping to win one of the iPods for me for Christmas.

Anyway, during the dinner, Lindi's boss handed her a bag and told her it was something she had left at the office. Puzzeled, she looked in the bag and saw an iPod - one of the ones her boss has bought for the game. She took her boss in the next room and asked her what this was for. Her boss told her that with the recent events (losing my job), they wanted to make sure Lindi had a really nice present to give me for Christmas. Lindi was stunned and taken aback quite a bit. She told Lindi that she is family - and family takes care of each other. Her boss also knows I have a few health problems and wanted to make sure Lindi knew that if we needed anything - a loan, an advance, anything, that she could come to them and they are there for her.

I also found out that her boss didn't know that their Managers didn't have the option to add their Domestic Spouses to their insurance (the crew can) and would be checking on that immediately with their benefits broker.

Maybe losing my job and bringing the plight of committed partners who lose health insurance will have a ripple effect - this could mean workplace equality for Lindi and the other Gay and Lesbian managers in the business - perhaps this might trickle up to the Corporation and McDonalds will finally be able to call itself truly LGBT friendly. They have always been very warm and welcoming, so I don't doubt that they would consider this as a positive thing.

Who knows. At any rate, this may affect a little change. And Lindi knows how very loved and appreciated she is. What a Christmas Blessing!

T is for Towel

2006-12-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

A beautiful Christmas Tree kitchen towel was the next present in the Secret Santa Bag - and it is very lovely. We are so blessed!

In other news, I got a new position a mere 5 days after being canned from eBay. It must be some sort of record. Naturally, it's not a permanent position, it is temp to hire, but I have no doubt that it will turn into a great opportunity. It is with ADP as a Benefits Admninistrator. When I talked to the placement executive, she told me she had been trying to fill the position for weeks, but no one she found was qualified. She actually told me I was the answer to her prayers, which made me feel fantastic!

Good news - $2 more and hour than eBay. Bad news - can't wear sweats to work anymore. Bummer.

S is for Stocking

2006-12-14T13:25:00.000-08:00

OK, now we know that whoever is doing this knows us. 3 cute stockings filled with goodies with our initials on them were delivered to our doorstep from the Secret Santa. Now this is getting really fun - we keep trying to guess who it might be but we are totally at a loss.