text:
a personal space to muse about my days because I have never been able to maintain a journal
Friday, December 17, 2010
Happy Friday
My Redhead is back in the US of A! She called last night from JFK to let us know she was stateside. This first semester in London has been a long strange trip (thank you, Jerry) but I think she's going to do so much better next semester, moving on with the lessons she's learned, and not just the academic ones. Now, she'll spend a few days in NYC seeing buddies.
My Blondie is in San Francisco at her conference. She gives her talk today, and as long as she remembers to breathe and speak slowly, she'll be great. Just like me, when she's a little nervous or very excited about something, she starts talking very fast-you'd think I could have given her some other trait-but knowing the Roseola, she'll have practiced a few times yesterday and will be fine.
They will both be home on Sunday. Lou and I are ready to see them, to listen to them argue, to have them pretend they are little and snuggle into our arms and laps. I never thought ahead about my children as adults, and yet suddenly they are two young women who amaze me to no end. That I had a part in shaping these vital women humbles me. Sometimes I think about how I wanted things differently than I was raised-things in their places, no piles of books or papers or stuff and furniture that wasn't hand-me-downs comes to mind-but I now realize that doesn't matter. They will shape their own spaces physically (most likely minimally!) but they will always carry with them that emotional strength that comes from knowing they have been loved and supported through everything they try. I can't think of a better gift to have given them.....
XXOOXX to my girls, with a LYSYB thrown in for good measure!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
San-Dee the Plumber
riding on that success, we really decided to take the rest of the afternoon off. We have a shopping list to create in anticipation of the kids being around and I've got some coasters I want to make for the people at work for the holidays.
Last Wednesday we had our year-end party at work. We went to the local site of the music schools, B2R, and learned to be in a rock-n-roll band (it was the corporate party experience they offer to the public). We were told to channel our inner rock star. A few of us did dress up, most as a genre of rocker as opposed to a specific person. I channeled my inner Janis Joplin. I probably did it since this is the second year in a row I have missed dressing up for Halloween at work because it hasn't been on one of my work days. It was fun. It was funny. Our band learned and performed Wild Thing. I was lead guitar. There are rumors that the video shot of the learning process/performances will be uploaded to youtube. That could be a BIG mistake.....nobody was that good, even the groups that had some of the music teachers in them. But, it was very relaxed compared to other parties, and everyone had fun, and that's the most important part.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Happy Holidays are upon us!
I have received an early Chanukah gift, as if Chanukah wasn't early enough this year (first candle is Wednesday night). Lill and Jack got me a wireless mouse. To most computer literate people this probably is one of those "duh-uh" sort of things, but to me, who doesn't get rid of anything that still might have a useful life no matter how inconvenient, it's a luxury! Right now, the coffee table is shoved closer to the couch to allow Lou's wheelchair to roll up to the love seat, so the space to move on the couch side is very narrow, not to mention clogged with the cords of my laptop and mouse. Now, I get to take away one, cutting the chance of tripping by 50%! Thank you, kids!! Now the other wish list things move up a notch-nothing really spectacular-I'd like a timer for the kitchen that continues to make noise rather than one beep or ding, I'd like a new turkey baster since ours got cracked in the junk drawer. And that's about it. Everything else is non-material; I'd like continued health for myself and continued recovery for Lou, I'd like my girls to continue to grow as women taking on the world on their terms and to keep thinking I'm cool no matter how I age or what I wear:-), I'd like my sib and sibs-in-law to be happy doing what they are doing. I'd like my friends, both physical and online, to know they are appreciated in ways I cannot verbalize-imagine, an English major having trouble with words.
So, now I'm off to sew Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas chotzkes for the folks around here and get my chocolates started. Next thing you know, it'll be cookie press cookies.....
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Thanksgiving 2010
I have much to be thankful for this year: my body remains cancer free, my family and friends remain close to my heart and sources of joy to me, and most importantly, Lou is back on his feet! "Das Boot", the huge boot given to him at the last doctor visit to protect his foot while he begins to stand and move about again, is working well enough that he is back in the kitchen--a huge relief to me (and though he has been good about my cooking, I'm sure it's a huge relief to him!) I took this picture about 10 minutes ago while he was happily starting sloppy joes. So, once again we'll eat well at the O household.
It's very weird that no one will be home for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. It's a good thing we had one last weekend in Cleveland. Lou directed, I cooked, and it came out really good. I still do not, and never will, understand how people enjoy cooking....
We've got a relatively quiet weekend planned, I will continue to file paperwork and hopefully get some sewing done. Between the boot and the wheelchair, Lou is fairly mobile on his own, which I'm sure is a great relief to him instead of having me push him all over the house. Although, I have to say, for a man with a PhD he can really be dense sometimes. He was feeling a little cabin feverish when I got home today from work, and suggested he come to the store with me for the short list. Excuse me, the afternoon before Thanksgiving? When everyone and their brothers who hasn't gone out of town is in Safeway for their short list? Well, we went, and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Just being out and about- picking ribeye roast for New Year's, chickens for when the girls are home- really lifted his spirits. So, we are getting back to a.b.normal around here, and that's a good thing!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Good day!
I got bills paid-always a good thing.
I made a big pot of stuffed cabbage to lift Lou's spirits during this recovery phase. Of course, when I told him I had a big surprise for dinner: stuffed cabbage, he asked where I'd gotten it. Such little faith-there are a few things I can wipe up in the kitchen-so I told him from my two little hands. Hopefully it will taste as good as it smells simmering right now, we will know in about an hour.
I signed up for a second online quilting bee, and this one will really stretch my learning curve. there is a wonderful blog about taking 15 minutes to play-the premise being to take 15 minutes daily to experiment, create, move outside your box or comfort zone. One of the criteria for this round is that one does not use an established block pattern, so it will be interesting to see what others come up with. Fortunately, my block is in the second half of the year.
Tomorrow I hope to take Lou out for a ride to the orchard to get apples for homemade apple sauce. It may be one of the last "top-down" weekends for Miss Lucy, so I want to be out enjoying the sunshine. And since both girls will be home in December, we will have a late latke party with homemade apple sauce.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Snow, already!
Lou's dressing change went well. His foot is not nearly as weird as I think we both thought it would be-right now with the stitches still in, it looks sort of like a hot pocket-you know, the curved edge with the ridges. Most of the ball of his foot has been saved, so that's a good thing, too! He took a nap when we got home, then we had some quality personal hygiene time. He is still not allowed in the shower, but he shaved, rolled up to the sink in the wheelchair and I washed his hair, then we did a sponge bath and fresh clothes. I think this part is just as important as the healing of his foot-he feels better, he looks good, and he's taking more responsibility for dealing with things himself. I think the one time I shaved him after his stroke was enough for him to realize he needed the manual dexterity to do it himself. Tonight, another milestone: he rolled himself over to the dining room table for dinner. Granted, it would have been pretty sloppy trying to eat soup and skirt steak on the couch, but we didn't have to. Of course, Omi wants to see a picture of his foot; so I'll take one when I change the dressing tomorrow.
I haven't gotten any coasters done, but I did make a major dent in the paper on the table. A lot was just recycling that needed to be organized-lots of circulars, etc. but I had to go through it to make sure there wasn't any mail mixed in. I have a neat stack of bills to write out tomorrow morning, then file the receipts and the table will be presentable for eating. We are having our good friend Mariann visiting on Monday night from CA. She is at a conference this weekend in DC, and staying over for a few days of sight-seeing. After our visit, I may bring up one of the portables and put it on the corner of the table (shades of junior high and high school sewing!) so that I can sew up here while we listen to music. I've realized that if I'm keeping Lou company in the bedroom when he stretches out to watch some TV, I'm getting nothing done. He's content to stretch out and listen to music as much as stretch out and watch TV-probably more so. We've always watched TV like a movie house-no lights on. At least when we elder respite I can crochet or knit in the den. If we're listening to music I can be sewing in the corner, I think I'm safe as long as the ironing board doesn't move up here to the living room. (Again, shades of junior high and high school...) that ironing board was a fixture in my mom's home-not only did it get used for ironing, it was convenient for mail, magazines, and sometimes books. I think when we had the party for out of towners the night before we got married, lots of our friends expected to walk in and see the ironing board set up to be used as the buffet.......
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Thursday Nothing
Tomorrow we have the first dressing change on Lou's foot, and will get our next set of instructions. I'm ready, and I think up to the challenge. i think I might actually get some stuff done around the house, too. I have lots of coasters cut and ready to put together, and then I can concentrate on aprons. My friend, Angie, even in SC is badgering me about keeping to the schedule we made for getting "product" created. She should talk, since she moved I don't even think she can FIND her jewelry fixings....but, that's what friends are for.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Running on half-full
I decided the best thing was to do the "mindless' chores yesterday, so I vacuumed, oiled the wood, organized the baby blankets to send out this week, and started laundry. I have one load left to dry and fold, then that task gets checked off, too.
Today I am going to sew my online bee block so I can honestly say I did it in October!! I have learned so much this past year and I'm looking forward to the next one. And the community of friends I've made has been fantastic. I don't think I could have gotten through the cancer adventure or Lou's stroke/vascular problems/amputation adventure without them and my family.
So, to fill y'all in on eldercaring: for their 35th anniversary, we sent a super-sized Tower of Treats from Harry and David, and my sister-in-law made a photo album for them. Not only were the gifts a HUGE success, but greatly appreciated for their fun factor. Peg loves having all the little boxes to open, and Si loves all the treats. She may not recognize a lot of the photos, but it's giving him a lot of joy to look at and explain to her. So-we done good!! We are a little more at ease for the present because Si has arranged for respite night care, at least on the nights before he teaches, and has a whole team in place now. Of course, he's complaining about keeping track of all the comings and goings, but in all honesty, what else is he doing with his time?
One thing I really need to acknowledge here is family. My cousin has been on stand-by because he lives about 10 minutes from the house and we have repeated told Si to call if he's in a jam. Well, that happened this week when he needed to pickup a prescription for Peg. He finally called the cell, but Alan didn't answer right away and Si didn't leave a message. When Alan called back, he found that Si had tried the house, and Alan's wife, Marcia, was already on her way over to help out. What can I say? Technically, these folks aren't related, and these adventures are definitely not on their radar, but they stepped up to the plate and hit a grand slam. They also made my sister-in-law almost cry when I told her about it--me too--love you both, lots!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
We can make it!
Lou had his surgery on Thursday, and the doctor ended up doing a tma, trans meditarsal (sp?) amputation. There was not enough circulation to guarantee the skin would heal if just the bad toes were taken, so he had to go down far enough to be sure good flow would heal the skin flap. It was done as an out-patient surgery; I brought him home thursday night. It was fine while the hospital meds were still in his system, then the roller coaster began. We have had 48 hours of 7-9 level pain, moderated by "tolerable" pain when the drugs kick in. It is extremely painful, but they did warn us this would happen. Unfortunately I feel so useless as there is really nothing I can do to help. Fortunately Lou has fallen into a deep sleep for the last hour and a half which is what he needs. Deep enough that the vacuum running did not even wake him. So, while he is sleeping, I am doing some long neglected cleaning chores and laundry, and hoping to get to my sewing blocks this afternoon. One good thing that was a brilliant idea on his part: we are using the computer desk chair to get him from the bedroom to the living room and back since he cannot put any weight on the foot.
We had our first frost last night. Thankfully we heard the forecast while listening to the radio, so all the plants that can't take a frost got moved into the house. They need a good watering, but I think they are happy to be under the grow lights again. Nobody seems too shocked to be back inside.
I do need to make a quick run to the store today, and then we will settle into NCISes and later the baseball game: GO GIANTS!!!!!!
Monday, October 25, 2010
It has been SO busy!
I have been so busy I'm not sure what I've been doing! A week ago I sat down and sewed for the first time in forever. I hate to admit it-but last December I was asked to angel a Halloween package for a lady who had been stiffed twice on Halloween swaps. I agreed right away, then stuff happened and we all know what that means. Anyway, I felt guilty that I hadn't gotten it together, so I made the apron and put together a sweet package of fun Halloween stuff. I combined a few patterns to get the look I wanted, and the best part-the black material has little green bats that glow in the dark! I just love the look of the tiered layers in the back.
So, it went out to Canada last week and I hope she enjoys it. Next on my list is Lillian's smock type apron for her shaking experiment. She needs to keep the fine dust off. Then, hopefully, I will make up my mind about what to sew for holiday aprons. Lou has been really good about not saying anything about the mountains of material that are growing in the dining room, but it isn't fair to him to continue piling with no end in sight.
I probably should babble on about other things, but I'm getting tired and still need to set up coffee and get clothes ready for work tomorrow. Maybe I can be better about writing in the future-or maybe not-
Friday, October 8, 2010
Lost in space
So, to repeat:(I really hate it when stuff I type gets lost because I hit the wrong key)
The doctor's office has set Lou's surgery for Monday morning. Hopefully he will finally be out of pain once he heals. I am so ready for him to be comfortable again.
My friend Angie has resurfaced in South Carolina. I am glad that she did not disappear completely after getting riffed at work. We had a nice catch up on gchat, and now I have a phone number for her, I can bug her again.
It was strange: going into the fabric store without Angie today. Most of the fabric forays over the last 2-3 years have been with Angie, a bigger fabricolic than I am. But, I survived. I got an outerwear zipper for a jacket I'm repairing, a nice half yard bundle of 5 fabrics to try some gift ideas, and a nice tight cotton weave for Lilli's apron. She needs it to keep the dust off from her rock shaking stuff-so I'm going to get it done this weekend and it will go out next week.
Then I went to AC Moore but they don't have the 99 cent gloves in yet, the kind that stretch to fit anyone. We have found these are the best for Lou to wear to keep his fingers warm when the temperature drops, those fancy Reynaud's Syndrome gloves I bought last year were junk. Expensive junk, but still junk. At least we have a few pairs from last year to get us started this fall.
Then I got a call from Lill that she needed some sequined material to finish her Halloween costume. I went back to G Street and got an exact match for the dress I made her-at least I think it is... so, that will get packed up and off to the post office tomorrow morning, too.
I found a bunch of nice longsleeved tops at Tar-jay today and have gotten them packed up with Sarah's Madeleine costume. I can't find the noise canceling headphones, but they may be downstairs in her school stuff. I will search tomorrow morning when I am fresh.
We are having absolutely spectacular fall weather today, and the weekend is supposed to be just as gorgeous. I sure hope so!
and best yet, my sewing machine is ready for me to play tomorrow. things are really good in my world today!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Sunny day!
In a spurt of energy this morning I got laundry started and paperwork organization started. the laundry's easier! Lou has been telecommuting so his wardrobe doesn't change much, comfy pajama pants or sweats, and a thermal shirt. I only work three days, so i don't go through much "good" stuff, then it's mainly jeans and t-shirts. The paperwork on the other hand...... let's just say a mountain has grown up on the table and the kitchen counter, and hopefully it will all be filed by tonight, tomorrow morning, tops. I have to be honest, a lot of it is just stuff that came in the mail and I didn't get into the recycling bin right away. But now it's separated out and I will get back to it after a short nap. I love napping on afternoons like today.
Tomorrow afternoon, after the grocery shopping, I am going to sit down and do some sewing. since Lou is not a football fan, I can watch downstairs and sew and not feel guilty at all. I get to watch, I get to sew-win/win as far as I am concerned. Lots of stuff on my to-do list, I doubt I will start anything new, I just need to get back in that sewing game. I'm about 8 inches short of finishing the latest crocheted baby afghan and to be honest, I hope the family stops having babies for a year or so. There have been four babies born since June, and I am two blankets behind already. It's nice, two girls and two boys. But, I need a break from baby afghans.
The next round of our online quilting bee will be starting soon, and I'm excited because I have learned so much this past year from these other women. I still have some blocks to catch up on, and they have graciously not given me crap about it. So, I have lots of things to start and stay busy with.
Happy weekend!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Tuesday, tiring Tuesday
Looks like I'm getting back into the business-two people at work have asked me to do a few sewing jobs for them. One was nice enough to say, "I know I could take this to the cleaners', but I'd rather have someone I know and trust do it". it involves repair on a beaded bag that was her mother's-I know it's a cherished item and I'll treat it as such.
The Beebalm is getting ready to start another round. I'm hoping over the weekend to catch up on the blocks I didn't finish, and be all ready to start fresh. It's so amazing to me to be involved with a group literally all over the world.
Meetings for the Pomegranate Guild start this month, too. I feel bad, all the planning meetings were on my workdays, so how can I feel like I really did anything as one of the content organizers? I did make a few suggestions, and I can up with something else that might be fun-has anyone out there ever made wine charms? I think if we could get a variety of Jewish themed charms, it might be fun.
Well, off to baseball.....
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Back at home
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
two in a row
Today I went out mid-morning to walk to the bagel store for snacks, and it was such fun to see all the toddlers playing by the fountain in front of the bookstore. School has started here, so only the really young ones are out and about. It was also nice to see that most of the moms didn't mind if the kids splashed their hands in the water. They aren't supposed to playin it, but they are allowed to stick their hands in to splash. I hope someone shows them how to make paper sailboats and they have races. Maybe I'll have to do that.
A new Jewish year is upon us and I have thoughtfully answered my 10Q questions and sent them to the vault for safekeeping. It was interesting to see last year's questions and answers, and to see how my focus has shifted. I am no longer consumed by my cancer diagnosis-I have dealt with it and am moving forward. Yes, I'm reminded every day when I look at my chest and see the scars and the fake nipples, but it's just another thing, like the scar on my hand from falling on the broken piece of drainpipe at the lake when we were kids.
Tonight we will pack up to drive to Cleveland for the weekend, and give my father-in-law some respite from caring for his ailing wife. Lou has stepped up and done a lot of cooking over the last two nights and we're going to eat well! Maybe we'll go for a drive and see how the trees look there-it's farther north and may be more into "fall" then we are yet....
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
baseball and grapes
There is not much else to say tonight that doesn't sound like a major whine, and since there is no cheese to have with my whine, I guess I'll just have to skip it!
Friday, September 17, 2010
We got trouble
It is going to be very TOUGH to wait until Chanukah and Christmas to send this little treasure out. Being a great believer in reading to children, reading with children, listening to them read to me, I'm not sure this little book will stay at Auntie San-Dee's until December. Part of the reason is because it's so precious. Another part is that all the next generation seem to be cat people, and this will prompt wonderful conversations comparing Bingo to those living at home.
On another note, I could say I've been away from blogland because I've been sewing, but that wouldn't exactly be the truth. I have not been sewing, I have not been doing much but a little crochet and a lot of driving back and forth to Georgetown University Hospital. Fortunately, Lou is home, his circulation is better, and I am hoping to resume life "as I knew it" over the next few days. Getting the Roku box from Lill and Jack does not help-now it is easier to watch Netflix instant stuff than if I'd had to take the laptop into the bedroom, hook it up, etc. Now all I have to do is press the remote. Well, at least my fingers are getting some exercise, right?
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
My new sweatshirt
And on a completely different subject, can we have a vote on whether the period belongs inside or outside the quotation marks? I believe current grammar style is that it belongs inside the mark, but I think it belongs outside to "finish" the comment. Any opinions?
Friday, August 27, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
The Ends
I have missed my sewing machine. I have missed that sturdy feel of new cotton before it's washed. Most of all, I have missed making the time to sew for pleasure again. That ends tomorrow. I have a new bulletin board, rescued from the trash at work, and I am going to list my projects to keep on track. I do much better with lists. I have one angel apron to make, then a few for family and friends, and then I want to play around with some ideas for Lilli for Halloween. The Oriental Trading Co. catalog had ostrich feathers on sale, and I think they would be great for angel wings. But, I have to think about it.
News! News! Sarah has an official address in London as of the 29th. I still find it hard to believe she is "across the pond" and I only hope she will keep up her blog once classes start. It is a joy to read her writing.
Lou's health continues to improve; surgery on his clogged arteries is scheduled for Sept 9. Once he's pronounced fit from that, the discussion about his toe will continue. I'm hoping the increased blood flow to his foot will help heal it and the doctor won't have to amputate. Actually, I'm in favor of Omi and Jeff's suggestion that he go someplace warm, with piranhas, so they can eat the dead tissue off. I'm thinking the Keys might be nice....
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Weather, the good, the bad and the ugly
This morning I woke up to gray. To be honest, Violet woke me up because she was hungry. Can't we teach dogs to open the fridge and get their own food in the morning? Better yet, maybe we should get those metal dentures for her, then she could still eat dry kibble and I could use one of those self feeders. But, at 16 I'm not sure we should change her routine. She's a high strung pound puppy who really doesn't adapt well to change.
However, I digress (I love that word!). Not only is it gray, but the telltale sounds of rain falling are greeting me. I can't even say we need the rain because we've had so much of it lately. I can say I'm glad there's no wind with it, there are still people without power from last Thursday's torrent. So, in a span of less than 24 hours, we've had it all, again.
My heart says "ah, perfect day for sewing or getting back into bed with that new book" (and Lilli, it is not Nora Roberts, you'll probably like this novel when you're home again) but my head says "get the laundry started and you can watch the ballgame, if there's no weather delay, while you iron". Being an adult and realizing one's responsibilities is not always fun. It does have its compensations, though, Stephan Strasburg is on deck to pitch today and he is a joy to watch, even when he's not having a day like his opener when he struck out 14. Yes, baseball has been very good to me......
Saturday, August 14, 2010
it's the little things
Sarah left for London Thursday evening, and I spent most of yesterday trying to recuperate from the last minute craziness of getting her packed. Today I finished cleaning up Lilli's room so my nephew can sleep there, he's coming in from Oregon via California for a few days. first really long plane ride for him, and the first time he's coming to DC on his own. I'm excited, there's so much cool stuff to do here.
Once he leaves, I will organize my sewing space. I recycled this very large cork board from work last week and plan to list my projects on it so I can get to them. In anticipation of actually getting some holiday sewing done, I ordered about 10 yards of Chanukah themed material last night online. Nothing like stoking up the stash!!
It's good to be back online. Have a happy weekend.
Monday, August 2, 2010
August news
Lilli went to Hawaii (fully paid) for a week long workshop on volcanoes. The pictures are fabulous, and in the hundreds, but she did some really cool things and had a great time.
Sarah is on the home stretch before she goes off to London. We have lots of errands to run before the 12th, but it will all get done and she will be off on a real "aventure" as she used to say when she was young.
Louie is doing well with the hyperbaric therapy and hopefully will not have to have surgery on his toe. We'll probably find out next week.
And me-I have decided that I have done enough talking and that it is time to get sewing! so, after Sarah leaves, I will make my master list of projects to sew and begin them. Lots of aprons on the drawing board, lots of coasters and I need to catch up on my quilt blkocks which are siting and staring at me! and maybe, just maybe, I'll get some pictures done and Alan can finally put my website up.
so, that's the news from lake O, and I hope your spirits lift with the sun and get you moving on something you want to do, too!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Miss a few days
you'll know why I sent you, and buy the book because I'm sure it's a great story, but I know the pictures will be worth everything. Julia is a very talented photographer among the other skills she multitasks, and her California pictures on her blog keep me from missing CA too much........
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Ready, set, go?
However, I digress. This post is actually about admitting to something I unashamedly try to get out of at the first opportunity: cooking a meal. I love to bake; I do not love to cook. I do not practice, therefore I am not very good at it. I married a man who can cook, so why should I learn? Anyway, we planned a wonderful dinner for last night to celebrate our 29th anniversary. Lou came home from the hyperbaric therapy exhausted and out of sorts-he let himself become dehydrated without realizing it. I made him take some pain pills for his toe, then he drank two glasses of water before he laid down. Meanwhile, I have Sarah O, Sara B and Henry all ready for dinner. What could I do? I seasoned the steaks, put the bread in the oven, the corn in the microwave, and the green beans on the stove top. I set up the electric skillet I use for latkes, and started cooking, trying to time things to get to the table together. (Don't even ask why we weren't grilling them in the 90+ degree heat) AND--it happened!! everything came out when it was supposed to, and it even tasted good. I was a wreck. Too much pressure for me. Sorry, darling daughters, cooking meals is not a skill you could ever pick up from me. Making stand-up ducks on a crayon lake, cookie press cookies, poppyseed cake-anytime. Meals-go talk to your father.....
Friday, June 18, 2010
I love it!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Into the 90s!
In 1991 (or so) the patent for crushing ice and delivering it through the door was granted. Today, I bought a new side by side fridge for the kitchen that has such a device. (It also has a lock in case we have little people visit who would use it until their cup runneth over.......) About three years ago we bought an energystar fridge, making us feel very eco. Since we are basically cheap, we got the traditional freezer on top model. Unfortunately, unless you are about 4'6" tall, every time you reach for something not exactly in front of your face, you have the opportunity to hit your head on the thicker walls of the freezer. I know this from lots of experience over the last three years. I finally told Lou I'm tired of hitting my head. Since he has trouble bending to look in the lower regions, a freezer on the bottom was not in contention. Of course, since my kitchen was built in 1954, and upgraded in the XXs, the dimensions of fridges have changed. Let's just say people will get used to opening and closing the side door with the doorknob really fast if they don't want scrapped skin.
I also bought a new dishwasher. This has been under discussion for about 5 years. It wasn't too bad that it just took a LONG time to run a cycle. It wasn't too bad that it was noisy-we could turn it on and go to bed and not hear it. But when it started backing up and out the emergency overflow and ran all over the counter and the floor, I felt it was telling us something. Since we rarely run it more than once a week unless the girls are home, winding a dish towel around the emergency overflow to guide the water into the sink and backing that up with sponges was working pretty well. You can imagine how the girls accepted that. So, yesterday was the day-I did get talked into the model one up from my original choice, but with good reason. It's one of those ones that senses how much detergent to use, but more importantly, you can run a top rack only cycle. Since we tend to use a lot of glasses and small plates that will fit there, it seemed like a good deal. So, they both come Friday and I will be very happy!
Memorial Day weekend was Commencement Weekend at Brown. Sarah has now commenced. Her sister and aunt conspired to make it unique with personalized t-shirts and m-n-m's (which are definitely one of the coolest things out there and worth whatever they cost!). I am trying to be a gracious person-I am trying not to resent not being able to spend time with Lill, Jack, Lou, Omi, Jeff and Jude in Providence on Thursday and Friday because I had to go to Cleveland and fly in with Si and Peg. Having help with her for the restrooms and plane was the only way he could come to the commencement and I was not about to let anything ruin the weekend for Sarah. I hope her kids fry in Hell because they would not help out for the weekend. Okay-so I guess I'm not that gracious.
Lastly, we bought our roma tomato seedlings today. Hopefully Dave next door will rototill the garden area tomorrow and we can prep the ground and get them in. Pickled tomatoes--here we come!!!
Maybe, just maybe, I'll even get to start sewing again!!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Mother's Day
Saturday, May 8, 2010
It's raining
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Lou is recovering and gaining strength every day. Today I asked if he cared if I went down to sew for a little while. I am 3 months behind on the bee blocks. So, since Lizzie had been waiting the longest, hers was first. she sent us a brown and white print, and asked us to incorporate it into a block that said something about us. Here's what I did:
The springlike flowers represent my love of the outdoors, the two space prints stand for Lou and Lilli, the scientists, and the last print represents Sarah, the soon to be Asian Art authority. I picked a circular pattern block because I believe in the continuity of life and its cycles. though a fancy symbolism for the white and brown print strips would be nice, it doesn't exist-I was making borders to get the block to the size needed.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
A month?
On April 9, while we were out for Mexican, my husband suffered a minor stroke. He would not let me take him to the emergency room as he really didn't have stroke symptoms; his symptoms mimicked a spine problem. Given his disintegrating discs, I let him overrule me. When we called the doctor on Saturday morning, he told us to get to emergency where an MRI confirmed that he had had a stroke. Thank G-d we are so lucky: he has only lost the co-ordination in his right hand and leg. His face is fine, his mind is fine. We are so lucky that our local hospital, Suburban, is a National Stroke Center, in conjunction with NIH. After a weekend in the hospital, he was moved to a rehab center. What angels the people who work there are! He made incredible progress and was discharged last Friday afternoon. The Home Health Care nurse came yesterday, and we have appts scheduled with a physical therapist and an occupational therapist. This is in tandem with the deterioration of his toes that has been going on for a while-but I'm not going to talk about that, some readers are too sensitive.
I'm tired. Not only is there the mental stress, but the physical stress related to doing everything. But, I'm fortunate to have lots of friends who are constantly calling and checking in. One of them brought dinner last night-such a mensche kind of thing. Today we did a big shopping and will set up multiple meals to cook-yes, I know it is hard for many of you to believe I can cook-but Lou will be giving directions, so we will not starve.
Violet made a big hit out at the rehab place. Once I got her shots updated and verification of that (good bye dishwasher, once again), I could take her out to the center. Good thing, I was tired of cleaning up "reminders" that she didn't want to be alone. She let lots of people pet her, and didn't bark unless someone came into the room too fast for her. Fortunately we are done with that.
so, this afternoon I will be cooking, laundry, and hopefully catching up on my quilting bee blocks. Hopefully the sunny day outside will inspire me.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Helping Hand
The gist of this ramble is that true friends are hard to find, but wonderful for the spirit and heart. If you have a few, nurture them and let them know they are important to you. and with the wonders of email and free long distance evening calling plans, remind those friends far away how much they mean to you. I do, and it warms my heart
Monday, March 22, 2010
Spring has come
Of course, with spring comes Passover. Since the bandies will be coming down to the district for the spring break week-they just miss the cherry blossom festival-there has been a request for a seder. We will do it in the true O household style, but hopefully this year we will not have people balancing spoons on their noses. We did a test run of the major foods and took them into Ohio over the weekend, and they were GREATLY appreciated. Tomorrow after work starts the reorganization of the house to accommodate company. I really need to get my sewing in one space, my books in the bookcase, and the bedroom cleared out for company. it will be a major effort, but it will get done. Ah, I know you all are snickering, how many times have you heard this before? But, i have this feeling that this might just be the lucky time it happens!! Don't burst my bubble.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Ah, William...
Beware the Ides of March
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Sunny Days!!
I am still having pain in my back, and trying to avoid the pain meds because they put me to sleep. I am also trying to get used to typing with the pads of my fingers as I finally broke down and spent the money to have acrylic nails put on. the anti-cancer drug makes my nails really soft, and they are breaking off so low I'm afraid I'll end up with an infection at the worst, and severe pain at the least. they do look pretty nice-I got "sport length" ovals done. Now I need to figure out if I can still do everything else I normally do without using the tips of my "nails".
Everyday now I see a few more daffs coming up in the flower beds. it's such a nice reminder that spring is around the corner. I need to get more birdseed as the big eaters are back. We will have a real adventure when we start cleaning up the yard though we are really lucky not to have lost many branches from the snow weight. As best we can tell, it's just a few on the camellia tree.
I haven't heard from my partner from the martini swap, so I really think this will be the last one for a while. I have to dig out the post office receipt with the tracking number to make sure it was delivered. I find it hard to believe that people can't find a little time to let the sender know the package got there... oh well.
I'm still struggling with the February quilt block because Lizzie wants it to be something that represents each maker, and I'm not an embroiderer, or applique-er, etc. I'm sure I'll figure something out soon-I have to otherwise I will be getting behind again, and I don't want to do that. I have been browsing quilt block websites and am in awe of what I am seeing. I think my favorites are the traditional block patterns done in non-traditional ways. Even though I'm enjoying this tremendously, it hasn't taken over as first love: that will always be aprons. don't know why, just is.
Time for a pain med, off to la-la land.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
It's not the Ides of March, yet
But that isn't really what I wanted to unload. I haven't been writing very faithfully, and I haven't been following my bloggy friends very faithfully, either. I have been just too tired. this working 9 to 5 instead of 8 to 4 in the winter is just dragging me along. It's finally getting lighter when we leave in the morning, and now it's lighter when we get home, and I'm feeling a little better. I think I need my sunshine.
And by the way, as if having cancer wasn't stressful enough and a knock on the old immune system last spring, my body has decided to rebel and I have developed shingles. This is truly another reason why growing older sucks. Pain, rash, itching, blisters, oozing crud; it doesn't get any better than this...
But, I digress. I really wanted to jump on and blog a quick note that the snow is finally almost ALL gone, and that the daffodils are sending up their green shoots!! We may have some jonquils, too, and if you want an explanation of the difference, go over to Julia's blog at "our simple life". Actually, just go to look at her wonderful pictures. she's a scientist with an artist's eye.
And now for the final bit of good news: (Drum roll, bells and whistles) Sarah has been accepted into the Master's Program in Asian Arts at Sotheby's Institute of Art in London. the degree is actually awarded through the University of Manchester, and that's not so shabby either! More news will follow as details become available.....
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tinkerfrog is Back
Still snowing!
On the other hand, Lou was busy all day with teleconferencing. So, the government moved on at our house! I also took the opportunity to start catching up on sewing, I've finished both December and January blocks from the Bee Balm, and I'll work on February's tomorrow. I'll finish KS's dress, and pack up the treats for Valentine's day and hope I can get to the post office eventually.
It is obvious we will not be going to Ohio this weekend. The PA turnpike is closed. And that's if we could even get to it. It started snowing last Friday, our street got plowed yesterday. If that's any indication, we'll be enjoying the home fires until the beginning of next week. Thankfully, I was raised to always have a "back-up" and we still have plenty of food and "liquid" refreshment. Violet has been going out to the patio under the deck and can still walk there as the winds haven't filled that area up. The snow in front is higher than she is. Lou saw fox tracks in the snow that sort of stopped at the walkway, I'm hoping the animal took shelter under our bending bushes where there is some cleared space and leaves, etc to push around to stay warm. I'm hoping it's the red fox KS and I saw running through Stone Ridge's trees last December.
The only birds I've seen outside are two mourning doves--no wonder people think they're dumb. I've thrown seed out on the snow, but it gets covered quickly, so I hope they go back to their nest and hunker down like the rest of us.
It is unbelievably quiet outside, and very peaceful. Stay safe if you're in the snow, too, and may your power stay on (peuh,peuh, peuh).
Monday, February 8, 2010
On to Blocks!
I was feeling really guilty that I hadn't finished my apron swap package, so that was my first project today. I finished a sweet satin '50s hostess apron, with fluff, tulle, and a glass applique--definitely not my strongest sewing skill. the package includes a hostess glass, guest invitations and glasses, and a condiment tray from the neighborhood Good Will. she's a bargain hunter, she'll love it. After a cup of tea, I'm going to tackle my online quilting group blocks that backed up due to the everything that happened in Nov-Dec-Jan with the family craziness.
Note to group: I got stuck trying to get out to CVS, Dave helped me push Miss Lucy back into the drive while Lou took the steering wheel, there isn't a plow in sight, there are only going to be two buses on Cedar Lane today, and the latest prediction on the storm hitting tomorrow afternoon has been revised to 10-20 more inches. I love living in the South.....
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Record breaking?
We are in the midst of a record breaking snowfall. I am so glad I live in the South where it doesn't snow very much (and what idiot said that?)
This is the view out our front door at 8 AM this morning. Last night at 8 the walkway had been shoveled so Violet could walk around.
And this is the view of the driveway that I used the snow thrower on last night. We had about 12 inches when I cleared it. Can you tell?
Fortunately we have all we need to be safe. Hopefully by Monday our street will be plowed.
It's a winter wonderland here, and we are setting up a nice chicken soup to simmer. We'll turn on the music, I'll get to some sewing, and we will be off the streets and out of trouble!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Red Letter, Red Heart
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Another note: baking GALS has opened round 16, so if you have some time to bake, some cash to mail a package to a service person, go and see if any of the bios interest you.
Another note: Check out the great martini recipes posted as part of the Martini Madness apron swap at flirty apron. I'm a gin purist, but some of the others sound pretty interesting.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
But the ice show is not what this post is about. It's about another Friday Night Sew In set for 2/19/10. Again, it doesn't have to be sewing, it's just an opportunity to dedicate some time to UFOs (UnFinshed Objects). I will probably take Will's blanket so that maybe he can get it before he graduates from high school--he was born last October but I didn't hear about it until November.... so, go to http://www.handmadebyheidi.blogspot.com/ and register. Follow the instructions and get in on the give-away, and happy finishing!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I love birthdays!
I really raked it in already, too! Lilli (and Jack, I assume...) got me two CDs I wanted, Rosanne Cash and Susan Boyle. Rosanne's is the the first part of the essential list her father created for her as a teen-it's very cool. Susan's is a little disappointing as she sounds the same on almost all the songs; they didn't vary style very much. But, she has an amazing voice. Then I got a birthday check from my in-laws, always the right size and color! At work we had cake, two kinds because not everyone eats chocolate, do I really know those people? and my cube neighbor, Sean, gave me a newly released dvd of Dr. Who, 1963-1966. VERY COOL. My friend Angie and her mom are giving me a kitchen aid mixer, professional grade, that is a duplicate at their house--and I am not allowed to not take it. I am so blessed with friends and family!
The day (well, on the west coast) started with my little sister (in law) calling to sing me happy birthday, not realizing it's tomorrow. That was fun, and we had a good laugh. Tonight my brother called to get wishes in before we got busy celebrating tomorrow. That was nice, too.
This has been a great day! and it's not over yet.....
Sunday, January 17, 2010
FNSI-oh yeah!
So here is my entry into the Friday Night Sew In:
Sarah and I went to the fabric store and got Butterick 4914 and a springy matte jersey print.
I traced her size, cut it out, and started putting it together. I also spent most of Saturday sewing, thinking I could finish it for her to take back to school today, but that didn't happen because I hurt my knee coming upstairs for a try-on. I did have to adjust the side and shoulder seams, but it sure looked cute while she was trying it on. Sleeves are basted in and a ballpark hem will be done, and I'll mail it up to her. She wouldn't let me take any picture to show the work in progress on...but that's KS for you.....
I will also work on my bee balm blocks this weekend, and fix Lill's jeans so she's ready for camping. It feels good to be sewing again.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Ah-ha, a great Ides of January idea!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Happy New Year
Sarah will be home for another week, and hopefully get what she needs to get done, done. She, too, is a marvel. I learned a lot about Asian Art when we drove to Cleveland; she explained her paper to me and other aspects of dynastic China. it was cool-definitely a "speak in Brown to me" moment.
Speaking of the downstairs, I am at the thinking stage of prioritizing my UFOs to see if they can get finished. This is a recurrent theme on many of the blogs I visit, so I feel I am in esteemed company. Either that, or we all start way too many things and get sidetracked into other projects. Gee, quilting comes to mind--how I never got into it earlier is beyond me, and to see the stash I've built already, in a few short months, is gratifying-or sick, depending on your point of view.
Tomorrow I have promised to finish up errands with Sarah, then the time will be mine to start on sewing stuff. I have a few online quilting bee blocks to do, all the sets of coasters I cut but didn't make as Christmas gifts-I will be so far ahead next year!-the prototype for the martini madness swap which I promised to Lilli, the baby blankets to finish before the boys graduate from high school, Lilli's blouses, and Sarah wants me to look at a few patterns she bookmarked. Then, there is the mending and patching of jeans to get to. So, if I can carve out that time for myself, I have lots of things to keep me happy. Or, I could just curl up with a nice cup of tea and some of the "new to us" books from yesterday's jaunt to the used bookstore.
Last, but not least, I need to report that I did bake cookie press cookies this morning for the girls as promised. I colored them, but only pressed out trees and swirls. I did learn two things: one- I don't like gel food coloring, and two- like riding a bike, I haven't forgotten how to make them. My Grandma Reva, not to mention Aunt Lill, would be proud.


text:
Read the information provided by the Isle of Man Courts of Justice. Obtain the forms from the Isle of Man Courts of Justice and complete accordingly.
2: Allied Services Trust Charity
If you do not have the confidence or the facility to complete the form yourself and/or you do not have the funds to pay a commercial entity Allied Services Trust can assist.
Instruct an Advocate or other provider to help you. Charges vary in the commercial sector for preparing the Enduring Power of Attorney. If your Attorney instructs a professional to register the Enduring Power of Attorney there will be an additional cost incurred for this work.
At the point of registering your Enduring Power of Attorney a fee is payable to the Isle of Man Courts of Justice. The registration fee is your responsibility.
If you hold assets in or if you live or are likely to need treatment or care in England and Wales, you should consider preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney. Isle of Man Enduring Powers of Attorney are not recognised in England and Wales. Click here
If you choose to appoint a professional Attorney from a commercial entity they will charge for the administration service that they provide. You should consider how you will pay your professional Attorney. If you need help for a long time costs will be your responsibility and can deplete your assets considerably.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
This is part of the Pagan Experience 2016 prompts. Each month brings a new prompt with options for alphabetical weekly prompts tied to the monthly topic. For this blog, I'll be doing a monthly post on the associated topic.
"You have no concept of privacy," Hawthorne's mother says to me over tea. She practically hisses the words at me, except she is a bit too dignified for that sort of nonsense. I hold my teacup like a lifeline. "I didn't want to have anything to do with you."
"I won't write anything," I tell her.
"You're a liar," she says. She lifts her tea with grace I've seen shadows of in Hawthorne. His family home is incredibly regal. His mother watches me with hawk-like dark eyes, heavily shadowed with eyeliner.
I am a liar; I'll end up writing about her all the same. The first time I sit down to write a story about her, I mumble an apology. I can almost feel her disgusted glare. Most of the spirits of the West are magnificent and awe-inspiring, yet they rarely leave the impression that I am less than them. Hawthorne's mother can't wait to bring it up through perfectly white clenched teeth. 'Little bird' is not an endearment from her blessed lips.
The idea of 'being silent' is as foreign to me as any writer. Writing, I've heard, is cannibalism. When my partner and I heard that, driving home and listening to NPR, I couldn't help but exclaim my agreement. I struggled to articulate just why it was so true, though. Writing consumes.
My writing as a teenager was the shallow consumption of the self. Being a teenager is an exploration of who we are and who we want to be, though those adventures never really end. The hormones just stop slamming you face first into a brick wall (for a time). My teenage life was kicked off with a bleak adventure to the 'otherside' via a few handfuls of over-the-counter painkillers and a trip to the ICU. I was as self-centered as any teenager. For a year or more I wrote pages every day about my life. All the minutiae was recorded. My emotions existed to be stripped down to the page.
Rereading the journal months after I'd written in it, I fell asleep.
It was when I hit adulthood that I began writing more honestly. Having jobs, fucking up my life, reading more literature, coming to terms with the monster called depression – my writing morphed from the whining posturing of my teenage self into whining reality. I felt as though I were coughing up my own spine. And I realized how quickly I could switch myself around telling stories.
"Don't turn this into a story," I remember my mother telling me one day after I'd begun entering adulthood. We sat at a red light, waiting for it to turn green so we could turn down towards her friend's house. I had no idea what she meant then. I have no idea what she meant.
Everything is a story to a writer.
I wrote about myself in roundabout fashion. I was never myself. I was always masked, always someone else. It made the feeling of my tongue being yanked from my mouth more tolerable. Half the time I wasn't writing about myself but just a feeling. My deepening connection to writing came as I formed the Otherfaith. Writing became divine. When I was full of awe at the spirits I needed to capture it. I hammered it down with words. The emotion and experiences always fractured into pieces, but I was able to bottle some.
It was no surprise to me that one of my oldest spirits appeared, when I was in the throes of inspiration, to show me how to symbolically devour my own flesh. I considered it a useful spiritual skill. Of course it was a metaphor for my 'process' as well. Writing ripped off and processed all the parts of myself. I could break them down and string them out. I could make them better. I could edit them to shreds.
I could edit the spirits to shreds.
The Llewellyns
Evelyn Llewellyn, Hawthorne's mother, only takes Lady Grey tea. I sip coffee and hunch my shoulders when I meet with her. Over a year of marriage to Hawthorne and I'm no better terms with his mother. Her long nails tap, tap, tap against the table of the cafe we're meeting in. It's one her family frequents. I scratch my neck. She sips her tea, her bright lipstick not leaving a trace on the mug. I wish I had half her sophistication.
"I'm sorry," I offer.
"This is why I didn't want my daughter marrying you," Evelyn says. She shakes her head. Her hair is just as dark as Hawthorne's but completely straight. Hawthorne is a hot mess; his mother is prim and proper and well-dressed. I've thought of bringing that up to her before. She'd probably blame me and my human cooties – or human influence. Same thing.
"I guess it's why the Clarene wanted me to marry Hawthorne?" I say with a soft laugh.
Evelyn breathes sharply through her nose. I stifle a despairing cry.
"No concept of privacy," she snaps at me, not for the first time. "You couldn't keep your nose out of it even if you tried."
I did try, for the record.
"She just wants your story told," I protest. "I didn't even realize how deep your history was until."
Evelyn appears to slam her fist onto the table, but no loud bang shudders through the cafe. I certainly feel no tremble of the table against my own hands.
"Enough. *I* didn't want the story told, much less for your fingers to be all over it."
I grit my teeth. "You know, the story involves *my* family too, I have just as much right."
She slaps the table this time, and the harsh sound does fill the room. The rest of the cafe falls silent and their eyes turn to us. I flush.
"I am the head of this family, which you are a part. You will not make an embarrassment of me."
I lower my eyes to the table and nearly break a tooth with how hard I clench my jaw. The only one embarrassed here is *me*. Evelyn is one of the oldest spirits I've met in the West, yet she acts as if I have the power to topple her expansive empire. I knew marrying into Hawthorne's family would provide its own challenges. But having Hawthorne *with* me while I deal with his mother might be nice.
"I'm still going to write it," I mumble.
"I know you will," she sneers. "You're incapable of *not* doing so."
I stare into my coffee.
It's a story worth telling, damn it.
I call Hawthorne's family the 'Llewellyns' out of ease. Whatever their name truly is, I can't speak it. Evelyn would rather string me up by my entrails than let me know her holy name. I've called Hawthorne by 'Llewellyn' since I've known him. I only began applying it to his family as a way to differentiate between my spirit family and his, the one I married into when we wed over a year ago.
Hawthorne's entrance into my life marked a decided shift in how I approached my magical and spiritual practice. Writing had factored into my religious life as a footnote. With his insistent appearance at my home, writing became the practice. Part of it was an attempt to cope with Hawthorne. I told him often he was just a character. I disavowed him in as many ways as I could. If I could just write him into smaller fragments, maybe he would disappear.
In hindsight, Hawthorne showed me how to engage in inspired writing. He taught me how to journey through words. Every attempt at cutting him down failed. He was certainly the starry, dark-haired brat I'd imagined him as, but he dodged all my flailing efforts to deny his selfhood. In trying to write him out of existence I was forced to learn the line between writing for myself and writing with the spirits. Writing journeys of him were infinitely more accurate than throwing my mental goop at the paper. (I eventually learned how to turn my idea muck into more concrete energy, though the experience of that was as unintended as most of my religious work.)
Being himself, Hawthorne didn't mind being talked about. I could peel away his skin and pluck his heart out and he'd be happy as long as somebody was watching. He was, and is, a perfect match for me in a myriad of ways.
His family is another matter.
Evelyn – his mother – was a myth when I first knew her. She appeared as a silhouette in visions, her distinct profile striking every time I saw it. Hawthorne shrunk away from mention of her. I didn't need to meet her to know she had an iron fist on her family. But as my journeys shifted focus, off of Hawthorne and onto spirit I'd never really know, she faded from memory. It wasn't until we married that I had to confront her.
I offered her tea with a bowed head and many apologies. She sat stiff, like the Laethic spirits I'd met, and her hair fell in a determined line down her back. She was pale as the moon. Her lips could become a captivating smile. She never smiled at me.
She was an adopted sister to the Dierne. That much was obvious from the star imagery adorning every space around her. Her children were all part of the Dierne's Court. It was later, when I was unintentionally stumbling into her history, that I saw her fighting alongside the silver god of sexuality and consent. She appeared far younger than I'd ever known her, blood dripping from a cut above her eyebrow and a gun dangling from her hand. She was muddy. I had never seen her with a speck of dirt.
She hissed at my knowing of her.
Writing is cannibalism.
Evelyn enjoyed my writing of her as much as any mother would. I can't even count how many writers have horrid relationships with their family. Laying bare the sins and secrets of their kin earns ire. Writing puts down in ink our own perception of reality. The ink clashes with another's. We cut them up and eat them so we can create sense, create beauty, create nice flowing sentences with the perfection combination of words. We find what tastes good.
And then we offer it to others.
Evelyn was, surprisingly, less defensive of her family than of herself. Then again, she trusted the rest of her daughters to have more sense than Hawthorne did, running off with a human writer like he'd done. But her ire toward me when I played with her origins was pale compared to her rage when I cracked open the egg of my own spirit family.
Star spirits seem exceptionally good at conveying a thousand years of disgust in one look.
The Blakes
I stare at Blake's strung up body. Her stick-thin arms drape over the stone chair in the middle of the gurgling room. She is shadowed by the huge tubes behind her, the cords threaded from her body winding up and dumping some energetic equivalent of bodily fluid into the swirling, bubbling liquid in tubes. She wears the colorful silks I associated with the *Glateau Elves*, a variant of the Western fairies that make up the majority of spirits in the Otherfaith.
She tilts the remnants of her head sideways. I flinch at the slick sound, like eggs cracking against a counter. She has no mouth to speak. Her face is long gone. Instead of the flat-face the Glateau are known for, her neck meets a whirling mass of light and blood and sparks. Maybe I want to retch. My shoulders quiver.
A few months after my small spat with Hawthorne's mother, I was completely and totally minding my own business. I didn't have time for the epic journeys that used to influence my life. We were moving, for fuck's sake. (A simple month or two of moving radically altered my approach to nearly every aspect of my life, but especially online.) I didn't want new revelations or ideas for stories. Trying to get my life in order, I was thinking.
My beloved spirits had a different idea.
Alynah Blake came thundering it, as she does.
"Hey, little one!" she called, tossing a hammer half her height in the arm before catching it. She held it loosely as if it were some small paperweight. "Tell a story for me."
"I'm kind of busy," I protested. Busy cleaning dishes and listening to Panic! at the Disco.
"Story time!" she exclaimed. She yanked me toward her.
Alynah is electricity. She is also stars and fire. She's a unicorn and a wolf and a kirin. Being close to her makes your eyes water. Static ripples through you. She hurts.
So I listened when she gathered herself around me. I plopped myself down in front of my laptop and wrote like she damn well wanted.
There may be some misconceptions about how I weave my stories. They don't come fully formed. I have to string together inspired visions with more drab world-building. Part of why I slowed in my story-writing is because my vicious editorial side came out. She would roll her eyes at my works. I knew I could write better. I wrote what flowed, what felt good. My self-editor wanted what read well. Cut it up, piece it together, weave it back with marvelous ribbons.
A few stories did come easily to me. 'The Red Room', about Aletheia 003 and William, gushed out of me in a day. Most of the 2013 stories are like that. I cut open a creative vein and let it bleed everywhere. Now I'm more likely to chain myself up like Blake and seal all my wounds with cement. It hurts more when I rip them open. But it gives me a new feeling to write about.
Blake's story was the more common drip-drop I'm accustomed to. Alynah Blake instigated my writing of it, but she gave little advice.
I knew a few things about Blake before writing her: she was the first Blake and who we all got our names from; she was from the Temple of the Fathers (a part of the West) and a Glateau Elf; she didn't have a face. I'd heard from other spirits that she was a 'time-traveling demon' who had 'erased her face' from history. An over-exaggeration, of course. Story-building, I could see her face. She was foggier than most spirits, but she was there. An impression left on a pad of paper that you only find when you rub charcoal on it.
She'd had huge golden eyes, a tiny flat nose, and hair over five feet long. "Ridiculous hair," I thought. Hair longer than I was tall.
And before I'd married into the Llewellyns, Blake had been the head of my family.
Not that it mattered. By the time I came into the picture she was already the deathly still body sitting deep within the house of the Blakes. Alynah had known her before she'd been reduced to that, though, and like any good chaos spirit decided to bring chaos into my life by overturning everything I'd known about my spirit family. I knew Hawthorne and I were twins (which in the West meant we were 'created' at the same time). I knew I was related to the Blakes. I'd known since I was little I was related to some of the older spirits in the Otherfaith. I had gone through pride, anxiety, rejection, and settled at acceptance.
Alynah struck down and insisted that, no, believe her, there was so much more to the story.
I wanted to know more anyway.
Blake had been young and naive and new to the West. And in a moment, as fast as a lightning strike during monsoon season, the pieces of my spiritual life fell together. The Blakes and the Llewellyns were so damn close because Blake and Llewellyn – Evelyn Llewellyn – had been close. At least before Blake's skull had been split open to release all the potentials that she held in her.
Where the Llewellyns were restrained chaos, Blake was overflowing with energetic possibilities. I saw her pulling spirits out of her gut. She skipped through time leaving splotches of herself behind. And the more she pulled out, the less she could keep it all together, until her face started cracking, until she starting oozing out a toxic gas full of spirits wanting out of her.
That was where Alynah came in. Alynah and her hammer. She wasn't a hive-off of Blake but instead forced into the family through her mother Althea, who gifted her the last name 'Blake' despite Blake's own vehement disagreement. Blake had cursed Althea to be despised by Alynah. Althea knew that hatred couldn't compare to what Alynah would do to Blake, though.
All that remains of Blake's face is a violent splatter of light and magic. It glows to this day still. But Alynah cracked open her head and let out all the spirits dying to get out of that shell.
Evelyn Llewellyn flashes her claws at me when I tell the story. Maybe the wound is too new still. All the memories she and Blake had together, with Blake hopping through time and interrupting Llewellyn's life with colorful explosions, shimmer around her. Or maybe she just wants me to shut up.
Writing is cannibalism, but I find myself butchered even when I'm holding the knife.
Thank you for reading. 'Of the Other People' is a site dedicated to the Otherfaith, a modern polytheist god religion. We are supported through Patreon and want to give special thanks to our patrons Jack at Drawing Stars and Leithin Cluan at 'from stone onto sand'. If you enjoy the writing here, consider becoming a patron!


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Ryan Cumming, the volume editor, is the director of ELCA World Hunger Education. Other contributors include Anthony Bateza, St. Olaf College; Wanda Deifelt, Luther College; Mary Jane Haemig, Luther Seminary; Carter Lindberg, Boston University; and Kirsi I. Stjerna, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary.
In this critical time in history, this volume argues that what is urgently needed is a clear, biblically based, theologically grounded rationale for the manner in which the church speaks and acts in the political arena. This volume includes essays from leading Lutheran theologians, a summary description of what this means for local ministry, and a study guide to encourage conversation and action.


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This is industrial metal I guess but it has such a awesome collision of riffing and beat it almost feels like dubstep. And what a name for a song! "Creeping Robo-Jesus"
Till Death is the band and they have some other tracks up on their Soundcloud for free download but none in my opinion as good as this track.


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So as the New Year approaches, a lot of people will be setting goals, myself included! I recently started working with a personal trainer, which has been an immense help and I will probably write about it in the near future. But for now, let's talk fitness motivation!
Fitness motivation with PLT Sportswear
I always feel like your gym gear can really impact your confidence and motivation in the gym. I always feel like I perform better when I'm wearing a bangin' matching set. So today I'm going to be trying to motivate you to be a little more active in 2019 with the help of Pretty Little Thing! They kindly sent me some of their activewear to try out and share with you guys, along with some fitness motivation for the new year. I love all the pieces I received, I hope you do too! Stay tuned for later in the post where I'll be sharing my top fitness tips and motivation!
Pink snake print set: Top & Leggings
I have been obsessed with snake print this season, so this set was a must have for me. The leggings fit like a glove and the top sits nicely too. I won't lie the top isn't the most supportive of materials, I don't believe it's meant to act as a sports bra. So if you like a bit more support whilst exercising, maybe pop a sports bra on underneath!
Grey & pink set: Top & Leggings
Another cute set which offers slightly more support than the previous one. These leggings are quite long (but then again I am 5 ft 4…) but they are the perfect high waisted gym leggings! They're also super sweat resistant, so you won't feel too sweaty during a workout!
These leggings can also go with a similar sports top, with a caged back detailing. Personally I prefer the other sports top with these leggings, but this is a cute option too!
Classic sportswear: Black slogan leggings & vest top
This sports vest top is super comfy, and a great option if you aren't completely comfortable in a cropped sports top in the gym! Again, this vest is sweat resistant and great material! The leggings again are fab quality and high waisted, they make me feel so secure too!
The navy slogan leggings
Personally these are my favourite leggings of the lot, I absolutely love the 'PLT Sport' writing down the side of the leggings! These are super comfy too, and I love the waistband slogan detailing as well!
Motivate yourself to get fit in 2019!
I know finding the motivation and will power to get fit is tough, it took me so long to start working out regularly and actually enjoying it! Most people feel a little sluggish after the indulgence that the Christmas period brings, and a lot of New Year's resolutions are fitness related!
I'm going to try my best to motivate you to not just head to the gym twice then give up, and actually form a routine! I go to PureGym and I also have a Personal Trainer, who has been an immense help in my journey! So here are my tips and tricks to be your best self in 2019!
- Plan workouts into your daily routine. Having time set aside to actually workout can make it seem like less of a task! Figure it if you have more time/energy in the morning, afternoon or evening and work out how many times a week you plan to go! 3 times a week is a good starting point which will also lead to results!
- Find what you enjoy. Not everyone is a gym buff, many people find it a boring and tedious environment! Personally, I've learned to love the gym, but any form of exercise is good! Maybe you enjoy running, yoga, Zumba, or group sports! Try different types of exercise to find out what you actually like.
- Focus on your health, not your size. This has been a big one for me! Focusing more on being healthy and exercising for my health not my shape has helped change my perspective a lot! Focus on how exercise and healthy eating benefits you.
- Turn everyday activities into exercise. Try turning things you do everyday into a form of exercise. Take the long route to work, walk instead of getting the bus, get off a stop early, or take the stairs instead of the elevator! Little things like this are a great way to boost your physical activity without taking anytime out of your day!
I hope you maybe feel inspired to set some attainable health and fitness goals for the new year, and maybe grab yourself some amazing new sportswear from PLT! Have a great new year, and a fab 2019!
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ISLAMABAD-Federal government failed to complete the much-needed bio-mechanical laboratory in federal capital despite the lapse of 16 months.
According to sources in Pakistan Sports Complex, there was a dire need to construct international-standard bio-mechanical lab to help cricketers and athletes overcome minor flaws in their action and techniques.
According to details available to this scribe, it was badly felt to construct a world-class bio-mechanical lab in 2003, but no work was further done on the project and the file was kept in wilderness for 8 long years before finally it was once again taken up in 2011 and after further two years delay, the PC-I for the project was approved in 2013 and two years time was fixed to complete the project and a hefty amount of Rs 50.8 million was allocated for the completion of the bio-mechanical lab.
According to the sources, Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) officials started work on the project and within two years, the initial structure was completed in 2015, but the overall cost of purchasing the machinery allocated in the PC-I exceeded and the much-needed bio-mechanical lab remains to be functional and instead of releasing the entire Rs 50.8 million amount, the government had released Rs 40.5 million.
When contacted, acting PSB Director General Dr Waqar in this regard, he confirmed that after hectic efforts, he presented the proposal to federal government in 2003, at the that time, only four countries had bio-mechanical lab facilities. "This project would have helped cricketers and other athletes a great deal in overcoming there flaws."
"The building is completed and now we need further Rs 80million to install machinery. As soon as the government releases the funds, the lab will be functional within six months, which will not only help athletes to remove errors but also help them improve their techniques as well," Dr Waqar concluded.


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Task-related functional connectivity dynamics in a block-designed visual experiment
Di, Xin
Fu, Zening
Chan, Shing Chow
Hung, Yeung Sam
Biswal, Bharat B.
Zhang, Zhiguo
Date of Issue2015
School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Published version
Studying task modulations of brain connectivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is critical to understand brain functions that support cognitive and affective processes. Existing methods such as psychophysiological interaction (PPI) and dynamic causal modeling (DCM) usually implicitly assume that the connectivity patterns are stable over a block-designed task with identical stimuli. However, this assumption lacks empirical verification on high-temporal resolution fMRI data with reliable data-driven analysis methods. The present study performed a detailed examination of dynamic changes of functional connectivity (FC) in a simple block-designed visual checkerboard experiment with a sub-second sampling rate (TR = 0.645 s) by estimating time-varying correlation coefficient (TVCC) between BOLD responses of different brain regions. We observed reliable task-related FC changes (i.e., FCs were transiently decreased after task onset and went back to the baseline afterward) among several visual regions of the bilateral middle occipital gyrus (MOG) and the bilateral fusiform gyrus (FuG). Importantly, only the FCs between higher visual regions (MOG) and lower visual regions (FuG) exhibited such dynamic patterns. The results suggested that simply assuming a sustained FC during a task block may be insufficient to capture distinct task-related FC changes. The investigation of FC dynamics in tasks could improve our understanding of condition shifts and the coordination between different activated brain regions.
Functional connectivity
Dynamic connectivity
Visual system
Time-varying correlation coefficient
Sliding window
Dynamic connectivity
Visual system
Time-varying correlation coefficient
Sliding window
Journal Article
Series/Journal Title
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience
© 2015 Di, Fu, Chan, Hung, Biswal and Zhang. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
Get published version (via Digital Object Identifier)


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By B15m1lah. Chair. At Saturday, November 03rd 2018, 09:36:39 AM.
The single most overlooked feature to consider when looking at buying office chair is the base. It is standard for these chairs to have casters or wheels. However some chairs come with only four spokes, or for legs with wheels; others with five, or six. It is important to get a chair that has more than four legs. With only four legs, depending on the orientation of the chair, it can be easy to tip out of the chair. Because of the head rest, someone sitting in the chair will be inclined to sit back and lean back in the chair. If the chair has only four legs, i.e. a base with four wheels, if they are leaning back between two of the legs, the chair could tip over backwards. (The taller back of an executive chair makes this more likely than with a smaller, standard office chair.) With five or more wheels, the chair becomes more stable. Of course, the other determining factor of the stability is the width of the base. Again, high-end executive chairs will have a wider base.
Reception/Guest Chairs - Most reception and guest seating options are more affordable than an ergonomic office chair with the minimal need for adjustability. A good reception chair or guest chair may cost no more than $75, if you are searching for a sturdy chair that will fit the average person. Prices on reception chairs increase with more trendy designs and fabrics, however these chairs are not necessarily better. Keep in mind the client or customer that will be spending time in your guest chairs as most accommodate specific weight capacities of 250 lbs. or less. Specialty guest chairs that are more durable and constructed of stronger frames can be purchased to accommodate heavier users, but will be more expensive due to the high quality materials.
Relaxation chairs are an ideal way to relieve stress and promote relaxation in your body and leave you feeling refreshed. The 'Relaxation Chair' provides a matchless balance of style, seating comfort and back support. Relaxation chairs are a perfect way to relax without having to go to bed and it can be of benefit to the entire family in or out of the home. These chairs are not only relaxing but looks good too, it becomes in beautiful design, style, colours and finished with different materials.


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Baskets & Storage
From vintage style baskets to unique 1940's-inspired buckets, we make sure that you can keep your elegant home aesthetic while still maintaining a modern sense of practicality and organization. Like all of our specially selected homeware, these baskets exude a certain joie de vivre and old-world allure while giving you a decorative way to keep your home in order.
Your home should be an ideal, calming oasis where you can retreat after a busy day, so it may benefit you to tuck away from clutter to make your house as inviting as possible. Our vintage style baskets are a great way to keep the great feel of your space while also keeping it organized. All those odds and ends that you find around your home can be neatly and stylishly hidden away. Also, you can even have a basket full of candles or linens ready for a cozy evening with guests!
There are dozens of ways to master the warm elegance that French country homes exude with practical little secrets scattered around your house. Whatever you may need to tuck away, we have the perfect technique to hide it. Not only will your space feel calmer with less clutter, but our original storage choices will actually enhance the decor of the room.
Enjoy a browse of our gorgeous vintage style baskets and unique storage items to see how you can achieve simple organization that matches your personal style. Let your style thrive as you personalize your home down to every practical detail.


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GLIAC -- The Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) has announced its weekly awards following the sixth Saturday of the 2018 football season. Ferris State junior quarterback Jayru Campbell earned GLIAC Offensive Player of the Week honors for the third time this season, while Northwood redshirt freshman defensive back Keenan Williamson captured GLIAC Defensive Player of the Week recognition along with his teammate Northwood junior kicker David Riser who claimed GLIAC Special Teams Player of the Week accolades.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Jayru Campbell - Ferris State
Ferris State University junior quarterback Jayru Campbell had another stellar performance on Saturday (Oct. 6) in leading the third-ranked Bulldogs to a decisive 42-24 triumph over Michigan Tech in the "Battle At The Ballpark" played at Fifth Third Ballpark in Comstock Park. The nation's leader in passing efficiency, Campbell completed 20-of-24 throws for 291 yards and three scores while adding 33 yards rushing on 12 attempts with another score. All told, he accounted for more than 300 yards of total offense and four scores as the Bulldogs rolled up 616 yards of total offense. Ferris State jumped out to a 21-0 first quarter lead, led 28-0 at halftime and held a 42-7 edge at the end of three. Campbell did not play in the final quarter for FSU, which remained unbeaten at 6-0 overall and 4-0 in the GLIAC.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Keenan Williamson - Northwood
In just his second career game, Northwood redshirt freshman defensive back Keenan Williamson had a big day for the Timberwolves in NU's 27-24 road win over Northern Michigan. Williamson had two interceptions, both of which came in the end zone to stop NMU drives. Williamson also had four tackles for the NU defense in the victory.
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: David Riser - Northwood
Northwood junior kicker David Riser connected on all five of his kick attempts in Northwood's 27-24 road win over Northern Michigan. Riser went 2-2 on field goals (25, 38 yards) and all three extra point attempts to accumulate nine point in the victory.
OFFENSE: Christian Martinez (NU), Jake Mayon (NMU), Daronte Powers (DU), Austin Brenner (AU), Jacob Wenzlick (MTU), Ryan Conklin (SVSU), Austin Paritee (GVSU)
DEFENSE: Isaac Darkangelo (NMU), C.J. Thornton (DU), James Prater Jr. (AU), Marvin Wright (MTU), Austin Edwards (FSU), Justin Whitted (SVSU), Kwanii Figeuroa (GVSU)
SPECIAL TEAMS: Deandre Caldwell (NMU), Austin Brenner (AU), Michael James (MTU), Sy Barnett (FSU), Jacob Matus (SVSU), Collin Cribley (GVSU)
Follow the action on Twitter @GLIACsports and use the hashtag #GLIACFB


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I know that a mediums' development is something to be taken seriously, therefore progressive training is the perfect way that I can provide a consistent and yet bespoke training which takes into account where each student is in their development.
I also know that regular training with the same tutors provides the opportunity for the student to digest the learning and then practice with the same group of students both in class and between classes, through a network of past and existing students that come together regularly. A large plus point to consistent training by the same tutor is that the tutor gets to know the student and understands their needs and ways of learning.
The Progressive Groups also have the benefit of a coaching session from our ACC accredited Coach, who will tailor the session to what each students needs, to identify and work with any self-limiting beliefs that could be holding them back in their mediumship and look at ways to move beyond these.
The Progressive Groups take place in both England and Scotland monthly, students will progress from year one followed on by the advanced stages of another two years of programmed training.
I have two groups in the United Kingdom, consistent programs are taking place in the below areas:
Within the Central Belt of Scotland, I am based in the beautiful city of Stirling where the group meets once a month, to assist in the CCPM Module of developing the art of mediumship. This Group has international students who fly in from Mainland Europe to participate.
This group is based in the Northwest of England, it attracts people from many other regions of the country too, again using the successful CCPM Module in progression training, I deliver a monthly program designed to assist the students develop their mediumship.
Due to the success of the CCPM Module in the Progressive Groups in the UK, they are now being introduced into mainland Europe and the USA.
If you wish to find more information regarding entry into these programmes, then please contact us through the contact page.


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Occasionally acquiring medical insurance coverage generally is a type of concern if we're unaware in regards to the things that have to be kept in thoughts before managing any type of economic matters. With the widespread internet utilization all over India, now you'll be able to compare well being insurance coverage on-line with out having to pay go to to all brick and mortar outlets of well being insurers in India. Combining the service and security of a bricks-and-mortar insurance company with the convenience and know-how of the Internet, helps individuals and small businesses find affordable well being insurance and handle their benefits. Amongst several insurance coverage providers, Apollo Munich is a reputed insurer that acts as a trusted associate. Here is a checklist of top 5 standout well being insurers in India that surpass all different well being insurance corporations in India. The Apollo Munich Health Insurance Company got here into existence after the merger between Munich Health and The Apollo Hospitals Group. Crucial illness plans can be found each as standalone well being insurance policies and as an add-on to a typical well being plan.
Is nicely aware of this upsurge development and facilitates policy seekers with detailed information about each well being insurer in India on one platform so that they will make a straightforward and quick comparison of all accessible mediclaim plans.
Once the procedure for health insurance renewal online is over the mushy copy of your new well being coverage will likely be emailed to you and you can even get the print-out of hard copy. All health insurers in India cost increased premium for their well being insurance policies if candidates have unhealthy behavior like chewing tobacco or smoking.
A person well being insurance coverage coverage gives protection to an individual particular person as much as a set sum insured chosen by the person throughout a policy 12 months. It is necessary for every buyer to seek out insurance coverage plan that most closely fits the health needs. Therefore, each particular person buying insurance pays the same price as everybody else shopping for the same coverage, and every individual will get no less than the minimal stage of protection.
Deductible : The quantity that the insured must pay out-of-pocket before the health insurer pays its share. One of the crucial influential elements in figuring out well being insurance coverage premiums is the age of the insured particular person. For an instance, should you go for one of these well being policy with sum assured quantity of Rs. 5 Lakh, you possibly can claim as much as Rs.5 Lakh in case you fall sick and the disease is covered beneath your health policy. One of these health insurance policy supply monetary protection towards expenses for therapy of some specific life-threatening important illnesses like most cancers, large coronary heart assault and the likes. Coverage limits: Some health insurance insurance policies solely pay for well being care as much as a certain dollar amount. With a view to select a good medical insurance plan one must always remember the personal health wants.


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We've all heard of Mark Zuckerberg, but how familiar are you with Ruchi Sanghvi or Aprille Ericsson? Stem Trailblazer Bios celebrates innovators in fields such as aerospace engineering, computer engineering, genetics and theoretical physics. By Lerner Publications for grades 3-6, these biographies are attractively designed with colorful graphics and photographs.
True Books from Scholastic has a new sub-series: The New Criminals. This series explores contemporary crime conundrums; titles include Cybercriminals, Poaching, Illegal Animal Traffickers and Modern Pirates. This well-indexed and visually appealing series is best for grades 3-5.
Calling All Innovators: A Career for You, also by Scholastic, is designed for students in grades 5-8 and explores contemporary careers. Titles include Apps: From Concept to Consumer, Genetic Engineering, Robotics, Food Engineering, Software Development, and Deep Sea Exploration.
In the realm of history and social sciences, the popular You Wouldn't Want to Be… series by Scholastic has branched out to You Wouldn't Want to Live Without… What are some of the things we wouldn't want to live without? Soap, cell phones, clean water, antibiotics, books, electricity and toilets, just to name a few. Cartoonish illustrations and time lines reveal how some of the resources we take for granted developed and aided civilization. This series is in-demand among children grades 3-6.
Another kid-approved series recently expanded upon is the Who Was-- series, affectionately known as "the big head books" by children because of the outsized faces on the covers. The series grew to include What Was-- and now offers Where Is--. Titles include Where is the Brooklyn Bridge, Where are the Great Pyramids, Where is the White House and many more by Grosset & Dunlap for grades 3-7. If these prove as popular as the Who was-- and What was-- series, we can expect a fresh wave of history and geography buffs.
Whether the young people in your life are drawn towards STEM or the humanities, there is sure to be a fascinating new series for them to discover at the library.
-Suzanne Summers LaPierre