Happy New Year ~ 2013

Thank you for joining me during 2012. Your comments and visits are always welcome!

Berries ~ red

On the limb with berries ~ red
Nibble fast you sleepyhead.
Winter waits for no one here.
Have a munch, then give a cheer!

I don't have to hibernate.
It's always nice to stay awake.
With berries ~ red I dearly love
to sit among these limbs above.

Good sleep, I wish to Sam and Clay.
My appetite bids me to stay.
When I am done I'll rest my head
and dream about the berries ~ red.

Ask

A glowing fire - encouraging thought.

"...you have not because you ask not."

This partial sentence comes from a biblical source. You may recognize it from The Book/The Bible; it is placed within Chapter 4, verse 2. It has been a challenge for me to find understanding of this. Ironically the more humble I become, the clearer the statement becomes. I'm not asking that any should look at this book and read this for themselves. My goal is simply to write what has risen within my heart. That is the reason for my blog after-all. I write about what has come to me, and invite others to share their own life experiences.

Ah, another year approaches and do I have a resolution or two? I am still walking the path that presented itself years ago. The difference being, I am willing to take it slower, enjoying the beauty either side of this path offers. Some may say, "stop and smell the roses," a common phrase, but I want my eyes to embrace the full view. Starting at the ground and whatever season arrives; to glory in tiny spring shoots, summer lushness, autumn's fallen leaves, or winter snow drifts. Then gazing upward toward skies of blue, grey, or midnight blue... I want to see and love every moment I can. So I ask that I might embrace all of life, without worldly cares to weight my soul.

Should you also be celebrating a new year at this time, please know I bid you well. The spirit within me would have you know it, but that's another thing for another time, perhaps. With a true and loving motive, ask so that you might have.

Thank you for reading. Happy New 2013!

Evergreen

Along the trail of snow ~ the sun begins to fade.
The golden rays' last glow ~ are covered by the shade.

Another day is gone ~ and put to rest for now.
Yon Christmas lights and song ~  align on every bough.

As darkness paints the night ~ the evergreen stands tall.
I pray with all my might ~ that beauty touches all. 

A way in(side) a manger

Ten gazillion pictures showing the baby Jesus in a straw-filled wooden box. Christmas cards, wrapping paper, and little nativities... straw/wood... what?

This photo on the Internet shocked me. I had no idea what a manger really looked like, much less what it was used for... back in the day(?) I don't know; maybe today they are still used to feed and/or water the animals. That is their purpose... and ideal for a sleeping child that needs a crib. And then there's the song:

"Away in a manger no room for a bed
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay."

Aha! A hay-filled rock-hewn manger for the small person who'd provide the world a way. A way to love. A way to hope. A way to live within the coming Kingdom of God. So the babe grew up and went about, describing the Kingdom of God. That's the gospel and most seem to have forgotten or simply don't know it.

My stuff gets real tired listening to Sunday school teachings of the same old, same old thing. I feel like jumping up from my chair and shouting out: "Why are we constantly relearning the same thing from year to year?" I'm beginning to understand why Jesus went on 'tour' so to speak. Because there's 'a way' that came out of that manger and moved onward toward life, I am enabled to move on too.

Thanks for reading.

I smell commercialism

["In the early 17th century, a wave of religious reform changed the way Christmas was celebrated in Europe. When Oliver Cromwell and his Puritan forces took over England in 1645, they vowed to rid England of decadence and, as part of their effort, cancelled Christmas. By popular demand, Charles II was restored to the throne and, with him, came the return of the popular holiday. "]  { http://www.thehistoryofchristmas.com/ch/in_america.htm }

 ~and now onward to America. Let's pause for the cause of Santa Claus! C'mon, put your HANDS together for the guy in the RED suit...........! An exclusive 'dcrelief' removal of the rose colored glasses:

http://www.thehistoryofchristmas.com/ch/in_america.htm

And just for fun:

http://youtu.be/bgFSSPlzBl4

Cold milk and strawberry cream cheese scones will be waiting ~

Living through Christmas ~ time

A friend shared a video titled, "Where's the line to see Jesus?" It's about a child at a shopping mall who sees all the children in line to see Santa Claus. The youngster has brought a gift, but there's no one there to accept it. He goes from adult to adult with the same question: "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

Experts claim the real birthday is September 11, 3BC; also known at that year as "The Feast of Trumpets." Ever since that time only tragic events have taken place on that date. Hmm?

http://www.askelm.com/news/n060911.htm


http://www.simpletoremember.com/vitals/Christmas_TheRealStory.htm

Musical interlude: Sounds of the season

Sounds of the season... coming at me and I listen with joy to many artists. This is a new group and I hope you enjoy them as much as I. 

What are you favorite sounds of the winter season?

Autumn and then...

Walking; the cold wind cuts through the trees;
the chill threatens to stop my adventure
but I am on my way, kicking leaves aside,
my smiles directed at the sky.

It's still Autumn; 
Winter wants to surprise me.

Standing; the cold wind commands the leaves
to fall as if a slow snow, accumulating in drifts.
Each move I make, crunch, crunch, crunch;
I am a child once more.

It's still Autumn;
Winter wants to surprise me.

image:  www.wallpapers.cz

November Thoughts & Stuff

My studio window faces my backyard. There is so much life there and I am blessed to see its existence.  Just last week an 8 point buck stared back at me for ten minutes. At the same time he watched his mate standing at my gazebo nibbling on hydrangea leaves. Beautiful creatures and I felt privileged to be allowed the view. One of those times I'm reminded to get my camera back on line.

Are you in awe of leaves that seem to change colors daily? Certainly this time of year finds me staring out the window to see what's new. Then there's the often copulating chipmunks. I can't help but notice when I'm watching the leaves fall like a snow storm. And when it's not them, there are squirrels doing the nature thing too. "Oh look, there's a purple leaf, and oh my goodness... is this the third time for that squirrel?" I'd almost think the leaves are blushing.

"Thanksgiving" is upon us and I want to stay home; travel and arm (injury) are not in sync yet. I'm one of those people who like to drive myself when I can on holidays. Then I don't find myself at the mercy of some one's time schedule. Are you like that?

As usual I'll watch the very early "Macy's Day Parade" live, from New York City. I'll still be listening for the phone to ring and hear my Mom say: "Hey did you see that float? You gotta see this float? Go look and call me back."  If the phone rings I know it won't be her, (being deceased some 15 years). But don't think that this gets me down or depressed; just the opposite as I realize those times are engraved upon my heart. No one can ever take them away.

Gee, on Friday is my birthday. I'm getting older. I'm thinking to visit the park nearby me and see how the trees there are looking. I hope the little red fox is still alive and living there. The best gift is downtime with nature for a companion. HB to me!

I do hope whatever you are doing this week or perhaps celebrating this week, you'll have joy, peace and love surrounding you.  Time to read more blogs. Many blessing wished to my blogging pals. Bye for now ~

Dwelling

Dwelling:  as in a habitat or residence... and dwelling: to ponder or focus one's attention on a subject. Therefore it was quite interesting to find I was dwelling on my dwelling. I'm not unique in this, no certainly not, but the solutions to my dwelling needs took some serious dwelling time to find what I needed... to dwell in peace.

Within two weeks I've been sent two roommates! You know me and my mantra: "God supplies all my needs." The Creator and I had had a couple of conversations about how I could show more love toward the people in my community. I didn't hear any voices... didn't see any burning bushes... but still I felt my Creator had the best answer. Oh sure I was getting a bit angry because I thought it was taking too long to find any solutions... I'm human and my will wants even when it's not time to receive. I think most people lose patience at times too, just like me.

The first roommate arrived and had a limited cash flow. She's a student and relies on a scholarship. So we agreed to subsidize her rent funds with household chores and food stamps. A great pairing of ideas and a peaceful existence has been found for both of us.

The second roommate is a young male who plays in a band and needs quiet time during the day to sleep. He was able to offer the complete cash flow needed. He also receives free laundry and food. After a week here he says he is quite happy.

So all my dwelling led to the acceptance of other people dwelling here. I had complete cable television and internet put in all rooms. Everyone uses the same laundry shoot; clothes are delivered back to their rooms within a day. Most importantly I find I have love for these two people and am very glad they came my way; and they think they are the lucky ones!

That's what has been happening behind the scenes at my dwelling. Have you been dwelling on something that needs a solution?

First touch ~

Frost you touched my cheek
Icy hot then cold.

A long slow tingling, 
on skin of Autumn gold.

Leaves of many shapes
dusted in your drift.

Icy leaves mingle
ensnared by your gift.

A winter prelude 
to the forest's first glow.

Has warmed my cheek
with thoughts of sweet snow.

A carousel of celebrations

November 2012

Thursday, November 1, 2012
All Saints Day (Christian)
This day honors known and unknown saints.
Monday, November 12, 2012
*BIRTH OF BAHA’U’LLAH (Bahá’í)
Born as Mirza Husayn’ Ali, into one of the leading noble families of Persia in 1817.  His Arabic title means ‘The Glory of God’.
Tuesday, Novemberber 13, 2012
**DEEPAWALI (Diwali) (Hindu, Sikh, Jain)
This is the start of the Hindu New Year.  It symbolizes the victory of good over evil.  It is also known as the “Festival of Lights”, where lamps are lit to symbolize hope for humanity.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
**Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) (Islam)
This observance takes place on the first day of Muharram, the month that Muhammad emigrated from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE (the Hijra). This holiday is also known as Muharram.
Sunday, November 24, 2012
**Ashura (Tenth of Muharram) (Islam)
Ashura in Arabic means “ten”, signifying the 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic calendar and marks the climax of the Remembrance of Muharram.

December 2012

Sunday, December 2, 20112
Advent (First Sunday) (Christian)
The Christian Church year begins with advent (meaning coming or arrival), which is also a time when Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Sunday, December 8, 2012
Bodhi Day (Rohatsu) (Buddhism)
This day commemorates the date of Siddhartha Gautama’s realization and presentation of the Four Noble Truths.
Sunday, December 9-Sunday, December 16, 2012
*Hanukkah (Fest of Lights) (Jewish)
In approximately 164 B.C, the Maccabees, a small group of Jews fighting for religious freedom, won victory over the Syrians.  Upon returning to the Temple, they found only one jar of oil to light the eternal light. In spite of the shortage of oil, the eternal light stayed lit for eight days. A special eight-branched candelabrum known as a menorah is lit over this period to celebrate the eight day miracle.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Christmas Day (Christian)
On this day, Christians honor the birth of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago.  This is the most widely observed Christian festival of the year.  People celebrate it by exchanging gifts, decorating homes and communities with lights and ornaments, and attending parties and meals.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Eastern Orthodox Christmas (Eastern Orthodox)
Members of the Eastern Orthodox Christian Church celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth on this day

Wednesday, December 26, 2012 - Thursday, January 1, 2013
Kwanzaa (African/Interfaith)
Wanting to encourage African-Americans to celebrate and honor their rich heritage, Professor Maulana Karenga founded Kwanzaa in 1966. The holiday, which means ‘first fruit’ in Swahili, is made up of seven principles: unity, self-determination, working together, sharing, purpose, creativity, and faith.  Seven basic symbols and two supplemental ones: mazao (crops), mkeka (mat), kinara (candle holder), muhindi (corn), mishumaa Saba (seven candles), kikombe cha umoja (unity cup), zawadi (gifts), bendera (flag), nguzo saba poster (poster of the seven principles) communicate these values. Candles are lit on each consecutive night in a seven-branched candelabrum; each lighting represents the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Black, red and green symbolize Kwanzaa.  Black represents the people, red signifies their struggle, and green stands for the future and the hope that emanates from the struggle.

Soon, after the sunrise

Where does the day lead... after the sun rise? Morning finds me cheering my spirit on: a new day, lots of minutes, new moments to experience, and how many times will I laugh? I don't wish to cry, but it's a possibility, and, 1...2...3...back to the music I love. Soon.

Even rainy days find me walking the land I now own. God help me dress it and keep it, as if my own little garden of life  were always here. Changing leaves of all the trees circle my home like a great salad... and I am the last large tomato of the summer! The glory of Autumn or what I've always known as 'The Fall'  fills my lungs with a crisp air... and the last scent of honeysuckle.  I head towards my studio where musical inspiration accompanies my morning's visual beauties. Such treasures so fresh in my mind and stirring the depths of  awe I feel; only music releases the morning's pickings. After the sun rise... I write. Soon.

I leave you with one of the many musical choices that stirs the writing spirit within me.  Where does the day lead... after the sun rise? I wait to know. Soon.

make sure there's a fairy

My niece requested a painting of yourself, and, oh, make sure there's a fairy!

Click on picture to enlarge... see it all. Thanks.

all hands on deck... eventually

I'm so grateful I cut my own hair two weeks ago! What?

What do you do when something happens that makes you sad? Hmm, here's an example. Five days ago I fell asleep in my new office chair. Slumped over putting pressure on my right side shoulder, arm, and hand. When I awoke my hand wouldn't move in an upward position. Looks similar to a dog's when it stands on it's hind legs begging; a limp paw. And since the exact same thing happened to my left arm two weeks before this event... I suspected a pinched nerve in my neck. So while I am still taking therapy for the broken, but healing shoulder, I have added therapy for my neck.

The hobbies are all on hold. I wait to return to my usual humble self. Just so you'll know when I post something really simple, even more simple than my usual simple... it's not because I'm on vacation. I'm simply limp. Meanwhile, should you notice a repeat post from the past... forgive the action.

I know... no more sleeping in the office chair.  And what to do because this result makes me sad? Chalk it up as another life experience. Look for positives things that can only happen because this did. May sound strange, but I often think bad comes along for me to have empathy for others, or some unknown measure of learning provokes another to challenge their direction. Or maybe I need to slow down a bit.

How about you? How do you deal with the sad things?

Bye for now ~

Assemble Congress; I'll wait

Monastery 249

An evening before Halloween I drew the shades tightly,
The thoughts in my head did bother me slightly.
A moon that I feared was cast all in green,
the eeriest moon that I'd ever seen.

The clouds in grey shadows flew like the ghosts
and dipped to the ground as unwelcome hosts.
Ooh, went the wind as they flew over the trees.
The wails of their cries ~ I fell to my knees.

You can't get inside I yelled through the window.
'Tis Halloween's eve ~ you're all hung in limbo.
Attendants came rushing and as they drew near,
I screamed at the ghosts: "We all mad in here."

Hahahahaha ~ hahahhahaha ~ hahahaha!
oooohhhhh ~oooohhhh ~ hahahahaha!



(No offense intended.)

Market meet

Market time! Going to market for some fresh stuff and fresh air. Mark my words; "we'll have fun!" What's in your wallet? Be sure to bring some spending money. Warning to shopaholics: pay the mortgage first.

Down the highway, then through the countryside, many venues of Autumn stalls fill the roadside. Treasure abounds and that's where I go when Autumn comes. Crisp cool air greets my journey and I'm excited to travel.

Pumpkins and flowers... a visual treat and can I copy that masterpiece for my own front yard display? Of course. Orange is the color for unity and brotherhood. Think about the Buddhist monks that wear the orange robes. In my yard it will look like a bit of peace; something we all need.

I spied a concrete bench to place in the yard so I can sit and enjoy my display. It's small but weighs a lot, so wherever I place it will be the viewing vantage point for a long time. Besides the old wooden bench  has finally gone the way of debris. Out it goes to the side of the road where limbs and bagged leaves will also appear soon.

Market time! So many people to enjoy. It's like I 'know' everyone there... and they know me. We swap tips on planting, painting, and thousands of other ideas. One giant family of market-goers converge in a universe of Autumn!

Here in the states there's so much isolation today. People work twice as hard to survive, never getting out much to be with humanity. The weather is a big factor for the summer. High heat discourages outdoor anything. We've become so sensitive to the elements. As the old saying goes: "If you don't use it, you'll soon lose it." Therefore the Fall or Autumn of the year is a better choice for some to leave their cozy couches... and computers. If nothing else, I now have 16 new Facebook friends! LOL. Might as well isolate in the summer heat with people I've actually met. That's a switch. Bye for now.

Monday funny

So, what's your favorite treat? Is it candy, pie, cake, or something more substantial like spaghetti??

Celebrating 23 years!

I 'loved' alcohol and drugs. I did. I did.  No, I was addicted. But I was considered a 'productive member' of society so who cared if I was bashed half of the time? Bashed and yet looking for the next dose of something. That's is until one Christmas I found myself calling 'round to see what, if anything, my friends had for me to use. That was the beginning of a downward spiral that stopped October 5, 1989.


This year on the fifth I will celebrate 23 years being 'clean and sober'. I earned my chair at the meetings I chose to attend. It is one of the greatest moments for me... more important that my 'navel' birthday! No regrets.

My wish is that everyone has a chance to challenge and change things that hold them back.  The very best to us all.

Jaye Nolan... Britain's Got Talent # 3

Hello. Today's post is something I don't normally do. My usual blah contains the essence of me, me, and more me. And I suppose maybe I am doing a bit of the same thing... because I like this lady's spirit and work. Jaye has allowed me to post her recent interview. Give a listen if you will. For those of you who live in Great Britain there are lots of opportunities headed your way... with Jaye!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNlDhHfd7Z0&feature=youtu.be

http://www.the-rhythm-of-life.com/

http://jayenolan.blogspot.com/

http://jayenolan.com/

http://paper.li/scattyjan

What's happening Sept-Oct. 2012

September 2012

Monday, September 17-Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)
Begins previous sundown at 6:00 pm. Observed for two days. Literally, "Head of the Year" marks the first and second day of the Jewish New Year and the anniversary of the creation of the world.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012
**Ganesh-Chaturthi (Hindu)
This day commemorates the god Ganesh, one of Hindu’s major deities.  Ganesh is known as the ‘Remover of All Obstacles’, and is called upon at the start of all new undertakings.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Yom Kippur (Jewish)
The Day of Antoment is the holiest and most solemn of all days in the Jewish year.

Saturdayday, September 29, 2012
St. Michael and All Angels (Christian)
This feast, also known as Michaelmas, is associated with the beginning of autumn and the shortening of days because it falls near the equinox.  St Michael is one of the principal angelic warriors and was seen as a protector against the dark of night.

October 2012

Monday- Sunday, October 1-7, 20112
*Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) (Jewish)
Sukkot celebrates both the harvest, as well as the 40 years that the children of Israel wandered in the desert.  Sukkot is one of the three major holidays, together known as the Shloshet ha-Regalim (three pilgrim festivals), and represents historically when the Jewish traveled to the Temple in Jerusalem.

Monday, October 8, 2012
*Shemini Atzeret (Jewish)

Tuesday, October 9, 2012
*Simchat Torah (Jewish)
This joyful holiday, “rejoicing the Torah” marks the beginning of the year-long reading of the Torah.  The Torah, which is also known as the Five Books of Moses, means "teaching," "instruction," or "law" in Hebrew.

Tuesday, October 16-Tuesday, October 23, 2012
**Navaratri (Hindu)
This translates as ‘nine nights’, starting on the new moon and ending on Dussehra.  This celebration is dedicated to the goddess of Durga who had nine incarnations and has the power to destroy demons.

Sunday, October 23, 2012
**VIJAYA DASAMI (Last day of Navaratri)
This festival is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month, Ashwina, and is the last of the 10-day annual festival of Navaratri. The festivities celebrate the victory of the forces of Good over Evil. It is also considered a day to begin new things in life.

Friday, October 26-Monday, October 29, 2012
**Eid-al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) (Islam)
Including the Hajj, this three-day festival celebrates Abraham’s test of obedience to Allah (God) when he was asked to sacrifice his son Ismael.  At the last minute, Allah replaced Ismael with a lamb.

So there you go... with more to come...

Wok this way

Inside my mind was a brilliant blog... waiting to be typed. Waiting to be consigned, and confined to the screen of word pad. A totally hysterical piece of work; I was already snickering with delight. But then I awoke and the said idea had left me.

My dream contained an adventure to go on. Far, far away and across the universe. But where exactly did I go and what did I do? Those were after all the main points of the story. The problem I'm having at the moment is listening to Aerosmith (in my head) singing: "Walk this way." Yet the photo is of an Ewok... what's the deal? Hmmm? E-wokked this way?

There are times when I'd love an adventure. Not the big travelogue stuff, but just a small overnight excursion. I might even possibly meet a tall, dark, and handsome stranger. And he would help me to use comas correctly. Oh no, now the Moody Blues are singing, "I know you're out there somewhere." Mind you all of these songs come up into my brain at the drop of a word. Does anyone else have this problem?

Finally I thought(smile) that maybe I would share a recipe. Wok this way?! I really have no desire to develop what cooking skills I have. Let's face it: whatever it was that I sat down to type has gone and refuses to reappear. I could use this as a description of how Fibromyalgia woks the cognitive skills. It takes all my thoughts and tosses them like a salad. Physically, it's like having the flu 24/7. "We're gonna wok, wok, wok, around the clock tonight."(Stop the music.)

So, there you go. If you're confused after reading this just think about where I'm at. And if you have any idea  'where' that is, leave a comment to let me know. Until then I'll pull on my boots... yes you know... "These boots were made for wokking."

Well it's not funny, yet what I wrote is the truth. Thank you!

Goodbye summer veggies ~ hello winter!

Admittedly it was a great summer with some serious crops. My buddy, my pal, and all-round sidekick had a killer garden. I was a little bit of help; mostly helped myself to eating whatever grew. Also I painted an old plastic owl and he was menacing looking.  The treasure of the garden. (Maybe not.)

Ah, the fruit of the labor!  True treasure.

And now ~ for our next amazing trick ~ winter veggies. I'll keep you posted.

we came, we saw, we moved

No, this is not a Halloween costume. Besides it's still September and I have a complaint to lodge with the world. Why don't people respect Gypsies? We're smart, we're happy, and most are pleasant to gaze upon.

You may think I'm a child 7-8 years of age? It's an old family secret and I'm actually 32. Many sights I've seen over the years... lived allover Europe. If someone gets chosen to be rejected or evicted we seem to be first choice. 

Then again, most  of us have homes that are mobile. I bought this little camper when I was 27; already had the truck. The tires are kept in good shape for times when I have to leave. Like the recent Olympics in London. In 2007 we were all moved to a temporary site with a "promise" of a new home soon. The Olympics have come and gone and we're still here. No view in sight of a "promised" home. Seems someone forgot about our agreement. 

Well, that's the way  it goes. For some of you, the following video might seem a bit over the top. I link to it to let you know that things have not changed very much. We still have a "Queen of the Gypsies." Long live the Queen! And we still seem to flush out the rudest people. Have a watch... bye-bye for now.

once upon a time... but only once

Once upon a time a wicked  ______   lived in the graveyard.  I had to pass the graveyard every day, twice, to get to school. In fact I had to go that way, all twelve years of my educated days. But whatever it was, I only saw it once... upon a time.

My mode of transportation was always via bicycle.  My first was a shiny black with big silver accessories. Every bike I saw I wanted. It became an obsession. At twelve years of age I had a plan; delivering newspapers to all the neighbors. Every new subscription won me a bonus. Every neighbor I saw I wanted, but I could only sign them up once... upon a time.

The graveyard had a little door. I stood there knocking on it, calculating the costs for daily delivery; dollar signs ($$) in my eyes. A raspy voice answered my knock, "What do you want little boy?" Immediately in my mind, appeared hundreds of bikes I'd coveted over the last few years of my young life. "I'm selling subscriptions for the daily newspaper. I can start delivering tomorrow. Would you be interested?"

'Raspy' answered, "You're talking about paper, but you want bikes?" I began to shake a bit; how did the voice know that? "By the way," Raspy asked, "are you the one who's been hitting my door with a newspaper? You have no idea how much that echoes through the cemetery; enough to wake the dead I tell ya!"

"I apologize. It won't happen again." Won't happen again; what an idiot! Yes, I did say that once... upon a time. Raspy took the paper after she/he made me peek at her/his form for two seconds. (Silent scream)

Until the day I was in a hurry to celebrate Halloween. I rushed my route to get home and change into a scary costume. It was going to be great. And my Dad was bringing home my new bike!! (I felt like howling at the moon.) Simply forgetting that I was on the last leg of my route I began slinging out newspapers and hitting porches, pooches, and doors... doors... uh-oh...once.... upon a time. Pedalling as fast I could from the cemetery... oh no... I was home and safe. I hadn't been turned into a toad or something worse.

OH Halloween, here I come. Home to the new bike! It was fabulous. I rode to the party, doing 'wheelies' and 'burn outs'; basically showing off. At midnight the bike disappeared from under me. One minute I was riding and the next minute, I was laid out on the ground. It was the same thing every year after that. Every Halloween, no matter what bike I rode to a party, collecting treats, or playing tricks, the bike I was on would disappear!!

I'm just an old man now and I met a former mate; we chatted about childhood days. He used to travel the neighborhood every Christmas and sell candy. The most popular choice were the fiery hot balls that you suck on. Your mouth explodes into pain! He told the tale of knocking at the cemetery door. A hideous creature answered, ordered the fire balls and lost it's voice. Since then every Christmas is devoid of candy in his stocking. It just disappears. (That got me to thinking about all the Christmas candy, over the years, which had shown up in my Halloween bag of treats!? However I kept my mouth shut; surely it wasn't that once... upon a time thingy?

I told him about my luck and the many, many bicycles. He cocked his head a bit to the left and asked, "You met Raspy?" So there it was out... I felt relieved knowing someone I knew knew about that creature. "Yes," I replied, "Why do you ask?"

"I've got your bicycles!" Sure enough, on the backside of the hotel he inherited from his Grandfather, were lots of bicycles. I knew them all. But there was one missing, hm? My mate and I decided to take a ride to the cemetery.... just once... for old time sake. And there found the last bike I ever owned... once... upon a time!

I now own a candy store right next to my friend's bike shop. And Raspy... what happened to she/he?  I don't know. Besides that was once upon a time... but only once.

The end. Thanks for reading this true tale, made up entirely by myself.

"Charlotte Town"

Charlotte is a beautiful city that I call home. Born and raised here, I am one of the few Charlotteans left. It's as if we are a nursery, letting go when our own individual passion is discovered. You will find us all over the world... and we are happy.

What have we received in return for sending our citizens onward? Our beauty, our weather, and various significant businesses have brought us a diverse blend of cultures. In my own neighborhood there are no less than six different countries represented.  They also hail from different states of America. The melting pot is very much alive here.

Hope is a word close to my heart. I observe the children playing up and down the street and I hope for their bonding to build for the future of our nation. I want them to get along. I want them to be happy despite all adversity. It is a gift to accomplish... and I have hope.

I'll close with a bit of history trivia.

In 1768 "Charlotte Town" is incorporated, which means the new town will have a courthouse and a prison. Even though the residents disagree with laws set forth by Britain, they hope that naming the town for Queen Charlotte will win favor with her husband, England's King George III.  (Wikipedia)

Charlotte Douglas International Airport: Queen Charlotte

Breaking news? really?

Hi, I just wanted to let everyone know that America does not have a brain eating epidemic. Our government issued travel warnings for a couple of states. Homeland-ish security says, "There's no problem," and they have set up meetings with the zombies to negotiate Florida. It's the first state to have had brains devoured. The department further states, "Washington is ideal for this meeting. We expect  to have a cerebral good time."

In the pink

Grandma was a mobster
her truck was painted pink
She'd haul a load of lobster
and clean 'em in her sink

Everyone knew Grandma
and listened for the horn
Today she mowed down Grandpa
bent him over in the corn

She cried all night and day
until she bought that mink
Insurance paid her way
for piercings and some ink

A ring went in her nose
a diamond in her tongue
A tattoo of a rose
she'd only just begun...

In-the-pink

yay!

Flocking for help

"They" say, experience makes the fella. It certainly turned out that way for me this week. I've had two very long days working with a helpful organization. (7 a.m. - 4 p.m.) I admit I approached the task with a bit of apprehension. I don't want to say that I felt it beneath my status to be there, but I really did, at first. Nothing and no one could have prepared for the joy I walked away with, from those two days. (If you're bored, leave now.)

(Most of you know that I was hospitalized seven times between April and August.) 

Okay so I got behind in my power bill. Yes electricity is one of my most favorite things to have around and ON. Literally I was backed into a corner of borrowing, stealing, selling my first born child, or seeking this helpful organization. Oh golly gee yes! I needed help. What? Yes, poor little dcrelief was sadly inundated with medical bills and cruising toward broke. 

Here's the real "meat" of my story: I had the extreme pleasure of meeting some of the nicest people in the world there. Gosh - we were all broke, devastated by the economy, or running out of children to sell. One minute I was talking with an 87 year old woman, raising four grandchildren, and the next, talking with a 24 year old, fresh out of prison, who wanted to attend art school. On and on it went, meeting, talking, and/or sharing the fears of America's future. Our future!

It was the first time in almost 20 years since I had been there... remarkably things were the same. Same method of herding the long line of sheeple into the help zone. But while we stood, a massive line of some 400 people, we began to connect. It was awesome! It didn't matter whether you'd lost everything or barely holding onto the little you had... we connected. Rich, middle-class, poor, and indigent... we connected because in one way or another, we needed help.

Because there were so many of us, many of us had to return the next day. So I found myself part of a large group spending the two days together, in expectation. We even began to applaud for each other as our names were called to come forward.( "Hey, hey, hey; you'll be out of here soon!") I just wish I could help my readers absorb the good naturedness of it all. Some might say: "This then, is America." To me that's not even an issue. To me,  this is what I want the world to be like. Hugging goodbye, blessing each other, and really wanting to see each other again... no words do it justice.

Strangely I had a brilliant idea...hmm? Maybe I will go once a month or so and hang out. Hopefully I won't need the help again. I sure did learn lots of things that I might have otherwise waited a lifetime to experience. For once I felt like a "people-person"; someone hanging out just to get to know people. I'd almost forgotten why I was there until my name was called. Tears were in the eyes of a few of us as we waved goodbye.

Thank you for reading this post. A long but necessary rendering of how humanity can exist. It's a choice.

What month is this?

September is for grooming
all the witches come to strut  ~
and the loathesome ogres grunt
when the wolves begin to hunt
and their teeth show wicked white
as they pant for blood at night.

September is for dwelling
in sacred shadows, dark  ~
the cackling of the witches
doth hold the ogres in stiches
when wolves begin to scream
the moon reveals their dream.

September is for resting
for the hallowed night is near  ~
thou witch of silvery voice
with ogres and wolves, of course
shall call the skulls to rise
to be the night time's eyes.

Coming to a theatre nearby  ~

Paralympics Closing Ceremony

All reviews I read have praised the Paralympics. My heart really wanted to be able to watch them up close and personal. Hopefully the next one will be given the same focus and attention as the regular Olympics. But it's NBC for USA... time will tell.

Please share if you were able to go to any event. Or did you get to watch it all? Share, share, and share!

Prepare yourselves

Yes, almost that scary time of year again. And no, it has nothing to do with the America Presidential election. Although I could place a few in the bushes to ward off the campaign volunteers knocking on my door, asking: "Are you registered to vote? Would you like for us to vote for you?"

That's right... don't even open the door. Four years ago they already knew my name, my home phone and cell numbers, where my secret diary was, and why I like red drawers.(Shh, I just had to let them vote for me last time, as I couldn't remember where my diary was.)(smile)

At my home there's certainly no shortage for cardboard rolls; half a dozen in a three day stretch. I know your thoughts! You might want to order some from me. Just enough to place in the bushes to frighten your own choice spooks. Yes, Halloween, here in the states... and maybe... coming to a town near you!!

There's no charge for the rolls, but the postage will make you think twice. So sit on your throne and reflect on what you need. Gives new meaning to: "I'm at your disposal."

:P

Bottom feeder

On my way to read everyone else blogs, I thought to leave a few words here. Yet nothing came to mind so instead I read everyone else blogs first. What a variety of people and the stuff they publish amazes me; certainly I feel overwhelmed by today's "catch" of good reads!!

I've been a bottom feeder for the last few weeks. Seven trips to the hospital emergency room has left me with a slight writer's block. Well, it's actually seven trips since April. But "land-a-goshen" a diagnosis has been finally found. This is to let you (or whoever is reading this) know that I'll be back in the saddle again... soon. Until then I'll be at the bottom feeding, and hope to be my clowning around self shortly.

Thank you :)

Paralympic Bloggers

Fifty athletes will write their own blogs!! See the story below.


["Samsung Paralympic Bloggers
The blogs will help to bring 'Everyone's Games' to life with exclusive behind-the-scenes accounts of 50 Paralympic athletes as they take part in the London 2012 Games.

Whether it's life in the Village, training with their coach or what inspires them, throughout the London 2012 Paralympic Games athletes from 18 countries and 16 sports will be using a Samsung GALAXY Note to capture their thoughts.

The programme forms part of Samsung's 'Sport Doesn't Care Who You Are' campaign, designed to challenge the public's attitude towards Paralympic athletes and sport, and to encourage a focus on ability not disability.

London 2012 Organising Committee Chair Seb Coe said: ‘This project will provide a unique opportunity to get a behind the scenes look at the Paralympic Games through the eyes of the athletes themselves.' "]

http://www.london2012.com/paralympics/news/articles/athlete-blogs-give-behind-the-scenes-glimpse-the-games.html

Exciting news to me. I've never heard of this being done before. Maybe we'll get a chance to read some of the fifty blogs. What do you think about this??

2012 Paralympic games

NBC provided 5535 hours of Olympic coverage. US Paralympians get 10 daily video high light package on Youtube. Seems like a pretty big variation. And this makes it very difficult for little observers like myself.

I've heard so much enthusiasm and doubt if the lack of coverage will defeat the spirit. Many people over here are big fans and so we'll see. I may have to rely on the fan's postings to get the best views of the games. Until then, I offer a unique video I found.


http://youtu.be/kKTamH__xuQ

In our world...

I watch the water cover my feet
the sand between my toes is neat...
The foam at play and I am smitten
by wondrous coast that is Great Britain...

The boats I sail along the shore

caught by the wind and waves of yore...

Are found by boys that love the sea

And soon they sail them back to me...

In my dreams are thoughts of agility

to conquer life through my ability...

My strength is stronger than the labels

of those who fear a life disabled...

So one may swim, one may sail,

one may ride into the gale...

Yet we are here to give our best...

and give the word, disabled, a happy rest...

In our world... we are the normal.

Has the Post gone postal?

Ben Ainslie fan arrested for painting post box in honour of Olympic hero

http://www.metro.co.uk/olympics/908247-ben-ainslie-fan-arrested-for-painting-post-box-in-honour-of-olympic-hero#ixzz24TZ3HTRB

Jessica Ennis's golden postbox vandalised with graffiti in Sheffield 

http://www.metro.co.uk/olympics/907873-jessica-enniss-golden-postbox-vandalised-in-sheffield#ixzz24TYn7mxs

Royal mix-up gives Laura Trott double gold postbox recognition 

http://www.metro.co.uk/olympics/907536-royal-mix-up-gives-laura-trott-double-gold-postbox-glory#ixzz24TZGicNo

Come on, just a little fun!!

Look what we found...

http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/360pictures/Day18/360-henry-stuart-closing-ceremony-15/tour.html

Britain's got talent (again)

That talent is coming from all parts of the world descending upon London very soon. Very soon you and I will find ourselves even more amazed by the determined spirit of  'these games'. Experiencing what they experience is not quite possible, unless we have a similar existence. But we are able to understand emotions, mental fortitude, and physical pain. So clear your mind and watch the games!!

Meanwhile, I will offer tidbits of information and photos that simply amaze. Thanks for reading ~


The London 2012 Paralympic Games are the second largest sporting event in the world, after the Olympics, and begin August 29th. Four thousand elite disabled athletes will compete in 20 sports. Many of the sports are familiar, like swimming, biking, but others — like boccia and goalball — are unique to the Paralympics.

Our host country: There will be 301 athletes competing for Paralympics GB next week; 186 men and 115 women. Seven of the athletes are under 16 while 10 are over 50.

Sitting Volleyball World Championships 2010: Britain!

Side note: The Games will mark an interesting debut for the Rwandan sitting volleyball team. It has been set up by two disabled athletes who both lost limbs fighting against each other on opposing sides of the Hutu against Tutsi war and subsequent genocide in the 1990s. Ironic!

Okay let's post ~ more another time.