text:
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas Morning 2011
My tree is small, and my apartment cluttered, but there's just as much brightness and love here on Christmas Day!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Christmas Eve 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Mis Estudiantes y Yo Celebramos la Navidad
Monday, December 19, 2011
book review - The Story of Hollywood
First published in 2006, The Story of Hollywood was the recipient of the National Best Books Award 2007, and was also a Film, TV, Radio IPPY Silver Medal Winner 2007. Leonard Maltin has given the book his highest recommendation, and Los Angeles magazine calls The Story of Hollywood the best book on the neighborhood to come out this decade.
During the course of his research, Gregory Paul Williams saw so many buildings being destroyed and lost in Hollywood that he soon realized he was mapping out an incredible place that was about to become the stuff of myth rather than reality. This made him not just want to record its history, but get actively involved in its preservation, which led him to serve Hollywood Heritage as the chairman of its Preservation Issues Committee for two years.
Since its publication, Williams has become acknowledged as an expert, spokesman, as well as an advocate about his hometown and its historic architecture.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
What can I possibly add to the accolades showered upon The Story of Hollywood, An Illustrated History (BL Press LLC), as its paperback hits the streets? As I opened the 405 pp. coffee table book, the first photo that caught my eye was that of Ginger Rogers accepting her Academy Award for Kitty Foyle in 1940. Although a black and white photo, the glamor practically jumped right out at me. I've seen thousands of black and white photos of thousands of celebrities, but most are forgettable. The image of this glamorous lady, as actress/dancer, star, triggered in me a deep-seated feeling, a wish, a dream that had beckoned to me to come to Hollywood in the first place many years ago. Something that I wanted to find, something that I wanted to experience like never before became a quest. Unfortunately I did not grow up in Hollywood, but just to know that glamor did exist and to see it in an old photograph sent my imagination reeling. Even if you do not have great imaginative powers, The Story of Hollywood will bring visions of Hollywood in its heyday to vibrant life.
Hundreds and hundreds of beautiful photos adorn the pages of The Story of Hollywood from its beginnings to the present. The book is divided into seven fascinating sounding chapter headings: 1. In the Valley of the Cahuengas, 2. A City of Homes, 3. No Dogs, No Movies, 4. Main Street of the Movies, 5. Boulevard of Broken Dreams, 6. Radio Days and 7. Lost Hollywood. Let me tease you with a tiny fact or tidbit of information from each chapter that will give you just a glimmer of an idea of what this spectacular book has to offer.
Just picture it - the not-so-familiar of yesteryear right before your eyes! At the onset you will see a picture of the very first homestead in Hollywood, an adobe near Franklin Avenue and Outpost Drive built by Don Tomas four years into California's statehood in 1854. Behind it are the Santa Monica Hills upon which today rests the famous Hollywood Sign. There's also a look at the very first Joyriders in a jalopy along Hollywood Boulevard in 1909. In Chapter Three-No Dogs, No Movies-we are offered a glimpse of the first Hollywood studios. The original Paramount Studio was on Vine in 1916 and Metro in 1919 was housed at the corner of Cahuenga Boulevard and Romaine St. Did you ever think that studios could start so small? Or did you ever imagine a movie theater so huge? Well, Sid Grauman built Grauman's Egyptian Theater, called a temple of art and one of its very first premieres was Douglas Fairbanks in Robin Hood in 1922. The poster of Fairbanks towered over Hollywood Boulevard. What fun to see people on the rooftop of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel watching a movie premiere across the street at Grauman's and to see vintage photos of Barbara Stanwyck, Bette Davis, Ingrid Bergman and even little Shirley Temple out on the town. In Radio Days, we are treated to the beginnings of radio programs that originated in Hollywood, like William Powell and Myrna Loy in The Thin Man, as well as George Burns and Gracie Allen and John Barrymore among many others. Finally in Lost Hollywood we see the more familiar in the origins of the Metro system RailRoad from Hollywood Boulevard to NoHo (North Hollywood) in the early 1990s.
Did you know that the famous Pig 'n Whistle Restaurant was around in 1929, or that in 1934 Sardi's was in competition with The Brown Derby or that in 1941 since Orson Welles' Citizen Kane was boycotted by William Randolph Hearst to play anywhere, that it ran exclusively at the El Capitan Theater on Hollywood Boulevard? Also that Capitol Records built the first circular office tower in 1954 - still a landmark in Hollywood, or that the Emmy Award as we know it was redesigned in Hollywood in 1949? All of these facts have tremendous meaning to trivia buffs who savor show business and the changing face of Hollywood through the years.
Wow! What a beautiful coffee table book that makes a great addition to anyone's home library, a perfect gift just in time for the holidays. I will use it as a reference and will treasure it always!
Jeffrey Cornell Produces CD Everything Christmas
Originally from Oshkosh, WI, Jeffrey Cornell took tap lessons as a kid. He moved to LA at the age of 19 to begin a dance career, and ended up dancing in films, TV specials, Las Vegas, and Nightclub acts. He was in the first national tour of 42nd Street, opening New Year's Eve in Chicago, 1983. He transferred into the Broadway company of the popular show in May of '84.
Jeff wrote his first Christmas song ("Christmas Wishes") for his company Christmas party in 1985. The song was sung on stage at the Majestic Theater by his dear friend Beth Leavel (who also transferred in from the National tour.) When he moved back to LA in the summer of '86, he started writing more.
Through the years, the Christmas songs have been sung in nightclub acts, churches, concerts, and stage shows.Everything Christmas, his personal collection of original compositions through the years has a few such future classics... like listening to the score of a Broadway show, there's a big, dramatic pulsating orchestral sound...and, the lyrics are uplifting, infusing you with peace, heart and love, feelings that only Christmas can generate.
The album's wonderful music arranger is Kirk Hunter and features the vocal talents of both seasoned and up and coming performers like David Burnham, Michelle Duffy, Derek Klena, Daniel Tatar, Pat Whiteman among others.
Highlights include: the dramatic spirituality of "Christmas Angels" performed so solidly by Michelle Duffy, "The Christmas Light" sung by Tom Lowe, "It's Truly Christmas Day" essayed by Julie Garnye, the warmly happy "Somewhere Beyond the Snow" sung with boyish charm by Derek Klena, the beautiful "Christmas Grace" conveyed warmly by David Burnham, "I'm Counting on Christmas" with vocals by Katy Tang, and Cornell's very first composition "Christmas Wishes" with Daniel Tatar.
It's truly special when a new album of original Christmas songs hits the airwaves, especially one in which it is obvious from the getgo that the composer truly loves the season. Every note and lyric reflect just that, as Cornwell shares abundantly his own personal hope and joy that are Christmas.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Friendly Christmas Brunch
|telling Father Christmas my Christmas Wish
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Christmas Roses
What was Mary's wish for Christmas?
Out of the corner of her eye all she could see was this huge pot. She turned her head. No, it was a vase full of the reddest roses she had ever seen. She opened her eyes wide. "Oh my", she sighed, "He remembered. He remembered what I said." As she looked down at her feet and tried to move them, they would not budge. "What about my arms?" she thought. "Yes, success. I can move them!" She turned on her left side in an attempt to lift the vase from the side table. She ached so much. It was difficult but she reached out her arms, touched the vase and...over it went crashing to the floor, causing every rose to be thoroughly drenched with water. "Oh, no!" she screamed, "It's happened again. I've ruined Christmas!"
Monday, October 24, 2011
book review: Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy by Ozzy Osbourne
Book review: Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy
by Don Grigware
John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne is an English vocalist, whose musical career has spanned over 40 years. Osbourne rose to prominence as lead singer of the pioneering English heavy metal band Black Sabbath, whose radically different, intentionally dark, harder sound helped spawn the heavy metal genre. In his subsequent solo career Osbourne achieved a multi-platinum status in addition to the one he had earned with Black Sabbath. It was during his Sabbath days that, due to their dark style of music, Osbourne became known as the "Prince of Darkness". In the early 2000s, Osbourne's career expanded to a new medium when he became a star in his own TV reality show, The Osbournes, alongside wife/manager Sharon, and two of their three children, Kelly and Jack. As of December 2010, Osbourne has sold over 100 million albums worldwide both as a solo artist and a member of Black Sabbath.
Osbourne published a humorous autobiography in October 2009, titled I Am Ozzy. Osbourne says ghost writer Chris Ayres told the singer he then had enough material for a second book. Therefore, on the heels of the New York Times bestselling I Am Ozzy comes a sequel entitled Trust Me, I'm Dr. Ozzy, Advice from Rock's Ultimate Survivor. Ozzy's alcohol/drug habit for the past four decades caused him to have his DNA scientifically mapped last year to see if it could be explained how he has managed to survive for such a long time under the influence. Obviously, the advice Osbourne gives to readers is good common sense, and not to be taken seriously. In fact, there is a disclaimer at the book's beginning stating, Dr. O's memory of events between 1968 and the present are not entirely reliable.
The book is divided into twelve chapters labeled Hazardous Contents. Each chapter heading is quite funny, such as Pruning, described as Cleanliness is next to Ozzyness or Surgery with the subtitle If You Want Something Done…Do It Yourself. Family is called the other F word, so with titles such as these, the reader knows he is in for lots of belly laughs. Any research in the book has been supplied by co-author Chris Ayres, such as actual quizzes that appear throughout and factually-based tables of medical tips and suggestions.
To give you just a tease of what to expect, many of the patients have asked questions such as the following:
Should I really drink eight glasses of water a day?
Ozzy's answer?
I tried drinking eight glasses of water a day for a while, and my bladder felt like a red-hot fucking cannon ball. I need to pee a lot as it is…I might as well just live in the can. The practical advice is: get your daily supply of water from eating fruits and vegetables. Above and beyond that, drink as much as you need to prevent yourself from being thirsty. Plenty of common sense here!
In another question someone tells that they sent an e-mail about hating their job to a friend and accidentally copied their boss.
What should I do?
Ozzy's advice?
Look for a new job.
There are amazingly frank questions about sex, dating and everything else under the sun. Osbourne answers them all with tongue-in-cheek candor. There are some amazing medical miscellany like gargling with piss and even what exactly to stock in your medicine cabinet such as: for hangovers? four bottles of brandy; for constipation? two sticks of dynamite. A bit extreme you say…over-the-top? Yes, of course, but, folks, this is Ozzy Osbourne and he gives his fans exactly what they expect: a bottle of Ozzy Osbourne wrapped up in a whole lot of zaniness As he himself says: the only advice I am qualified to give would have you end up dead or in jail.
Outrageously funny stuff! Buy it!
Available in bookstores from Grand Central Publishing/October, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Happy Birthday, Don!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
First Friend
Did you comprehend love at age 12? You were taught to love your mother and father...I mean... beyond that... When you made a new friend, was there ever something special between you that you couldn't describe? Did those feelings confuse you? My new friend Gerry made me feel that way in grade 7 at John J. Lynch Jr. High School. I couldn't wait to see him every day, to talk to him, to walk home from school with him, and eventually hang around with him on Saturdays, but I knew that my feeling for him ran deeper. I didn't understand it. What to say? What to do other than keep it locked inside of me? If I had been asked to put my feelings into words, I would have been speechless. And what about his feelings? Did he feel the same way about me or was I wanting more than he could ever possibly give me?
Check back soon for this new fact-based story.
Check back soon for this new fact-based story.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
San Diego Safari Park in Escondido
See the gorillas in their habitat! I have always been fascinated by gorillas, monkeys...the entire ape family. May do a story real soon about one man's love for this very special wild beast. As I looked at the gorillas at Safari Park across the ravine, and as they gave me literally their backsides, I realized how comical and engaging they are. Would love to get to know them better. Remember Gorillas in the Mist? It's my favorite Sigourney Weaver film of all time.
And see the giraffes, who, according to the guide, "grow like weeds." Those poor creatures must develop terrible arthritis as they get older. How do they keep their long, long necks and heads so erect? And we complain!!
And see the giraffes, who, according to the guide, "grow like weeds." Those poor creatures must develop terrible arthritis as they get older. How do they keep their long, long necks and heads so erect? And we complain!!
The Zoological Society of San Diego owns the land for Safari Park, and the animals, many of whom are endangered species, live in natural habitats with truckloads of food delivered daily. Giraffes, rhinos, antelope, deer, flamengos, ostriches, gazelles, Sumarian asses, sheep, elephants, gorillas, meerkats, lions, cheetahs, and other wild beasts are there for the eye to see eating, playing, and reproducing. What natural beauty! There's also a balloon ride and carousel for the kids to ride. No horses, please, but only replicas of wild beasts to ride on this merry-go-round!
Those are Ostrich eggs to the right of the bird, which she keeps safe from mountain predators.
Zebras together. The tram ride offers a 25 minute turn around Safari Park, but you must walk to see the gorillas and other beasts. It's worth it! Take the kids and spend a day in this beautiful sanctuary.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
at others
at yourself
to your heart.
at others
at yourself
to your heart.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Shows with Icons
I saw An Evening with Shirley MacLaine at this venue on May 6, and as much as I adore MacLaine, I couldn't help but realize that the woman could sit and read the phone book and she would have fans hanging on every word she said. She looks great at 77, still has a wonderful sense of humor and is as down-to-earth as all get out. Nothing has changed about her. Thank God, for we need intelligent spokespeople like her and Jane Fonda, who are first and foremost accessible to us and then go out there and struggle tirelessly to make the world a better place.
There were many slides and film clips of MacLaine's personal as well as movie/television career and a few choice comments about old Hollywood and its legendary stars like Elizabeth Taylor or Bette Davis or Clint Eastwood, and of course some metaphysical talk as well as Democrat/Republican remarks involving the lady's politics. But it didn't matter because Shirley MacLaine is a true icon and is pleasurable to listen to. It's as if we were sitting in her living room, sharing her life with her, and everyone had a good time. The two+ hour show included questions from the crowd which were innumerable and which MacLaine had to put a lid on after about 40 minutes. Otherwise, we would have been there all night. I love how she credits her success to her discipline as a dancer, that it made her go forward and always sustained her. I especially loved her comparison of life to the theatre and how we are the costumers, make-up artists, hairdressers, actors, directors and producers of our daily lives, and how it is our responsibility to give it our all. Brava!
Friday, March 25, 2011
In Honor of Diva Dona
My guest blogger Dona Eduardo Gregorio is receiving much attention these days. Visit her:
The Chronicles of Columnist Diva Dona. Go to latest reviews blog and you will find her link listed to the right.
She's quite the little international flirt!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Retro Birthday Parties in Black and White
Birthday Parties
I think I'll write a novel and title it Me and Stan's Friends. What an assortment of characters! I love them all!!
Hoorah for Seniors!!!
Who had the unmitigated gall to remark that seniors are dispensable?
"They're too old to understand or appreciate what's out there" is a frequent complaint from those obviously out of touch with reality. The government makes budget cuts, denying them benefits, because they consider them at the far edge of the productive work force. This is hardly true, as seniors give back more to society than anyone else. Entertainers, painters, writers, chefs and other artists just get better with age. It is difficult to imagine any field where a senior would not fit in successfully. OK, they may not be able to build a bridge or run a marathon, but most professional careers that require depth of expression and wisdom will be blessed to boast of senior participation.
Let's look at the world of entertainment and celebrity seniors. Grandma Moses, Anna Mary Robertson was a self-taught painter and did not become famous until her late 80s. Imagine Christmas books without her beautiful outdoor wintry scenes! Tony Bennett, who sings better than ever in his 80s, puts out a CD that becomes an instant best-seller and does a TV special that soars in the Nielsen ratings. What about actress/author Shirley MacLaine? In her 70s she still makes films and is acting at the top of her form in a plethora of feisty character roles. In In Her Shoes, her sparkling performance as the grandmother stole the movie right from under Cameron Diaz' and Toni Collette's noses. And what about Cloris Leachman, who attempted dancing in her 80s on TV's Dancing with the Stars? Let's not forget Betty White, still beautiful at almost 90. She's knocking 'em dead in Hot in Cleveland, where she now gets to spout out gutsy one-liners like Golden Girl Sophia! If she's not a model for seniors to live up to, I don't know who is!
The list of senior contributions to our society goes on and on. Lesser known seniors are also getting a lot of attention in the media. My 75 year-old neighbor was recently commended for rescuing his granddaughter's kitten. He did not call the fire department, but got a ladder, climbed up the tree to the branch where the kitty was cowering, grabbed hold of it and then backed down slowly with the precious furry creature in tow. He's a hero, not only in his grandchild's eyes, but with the entire town. He accomplished more in that one act than a dozen men half his age. My 96 year-old grandmother did the unthinkable. She went bowling for the first time in her life and helped win a major tournament for the members of her senior residence. What a sport!
Seniors do not deserve the bad rap they are getting. Their enthusiasm for life, and just plain stamina and courage in tackling the obstacles of the everyday world put them up on a pedestal for everyone to admire. Oh...and in the love department? - they've still got the stuff!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Don Visits Firehouse 61
The topical issues of a play are always inspiring. I think I should continue with an old idea of writing a fictionalized version of my great-grandfather working for the railroad in New England. Adventure, intrigue...who knows where that could lead?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Short play
In the Blink of an Eye
A Play in Two Scenes
by Don Grigware
September, 2010
Dinner with the Jenkins Family
(The time is October, 1958. The place is the kitchen table at suppertime around 6 in the evening. The Jenkins are a middle-class family living in the suburb of any typical American city. Dad is a businessman; mom a housewife. Their children: Tony is 13; Marsha 17. Mom is dressed as nicely as dad; the two kids are neatly groomed.
(before lights come up, a radio is heard in the background with the latest news:
WKRC Top News Headline at 5:00 pm
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration officially opened for business today. President Eisenhower has emphasized that NASA's development is to preserve the role of the United States as a leader in aeronautical and space science and technology and to encourage peaceful activities within and outside the atmosphere.
On the local front, Holyoke Junior/Senior High School, in accordance with the President's wishes, introduces the most accelerated academic program to date for college-bound students, including intensified courses in math, science and foreign language.)
Richard, how was your day?
The usual. Carstairs signed on the dotted line. A car loan. Oh, Mrs. Carstairs asked to be remembered to you.
How sweet! How is Mary?
What do you mean dear?
Well… if memory serves me correctly she had surgery about a year ago. I haven't seen her at a single church social in…over a year.
She looks great! Looks… in the pink!
Did you ask her how she was feeling?
I forgot about her operation, but Bud mentioned a long time ago that she was doing fine.
Well, I'm so glad she's finally getting out again. I don't know how I'd do in that situation.
Whatever do you mean dear? You're the most resourceful person I know.
Not when it comes to health. Health is the number one worry, and we can never be sure of what will go wrong. (pleased with herself)
More mashed potatoes, dear, or meat loaf. You've hardly touched your meat.
(pause) Marsha, you're not eating your potatoes. Tony, vegetables – you need them! Clean plates, or no dessert and I've made everybody's favorite. It'll go to waste. Tony, did you do your French homework?
French, yuck! I mean, oui, oui, ma mere.
Tres bien. Marsha, how's algebra going? Did you do ok on the test today?
It was sooooo hard. I think I passed though.
She failed!
How do you know that, Tony?
'Coz, whenever a test is hard, she flunks it, especially algebra.
I do not, shrimp.
Do too!
Do not!
Do too! (sticks his tongue out)
At least I don't put frogs in teachers' desks when they're not looking!
Frogs? You take that back, sewer face!
Enough is enough, children! I feel like a teacher disciplining her class.
Tony, down the hatch with that milk. Calcium for the marrow of your bones.
Tony, are you listening to me? Milk? Good. Now apologize to Marsha, and
Marsha you do likewise to Tony. Marsha, potatoes!!
(eats reluctantly) Sorry, shrimp, I mean little brother!
(looks at Mom) OK, sorry, sorry!
That's better! Now, Tony, what's this about putting a frog in teachers' desks?
I didn't, dad. I swear! Robert Van Dorn told Marsha about Eddie doing that to Miss Blume, and Marsha didn't believe that Eddie would do that, so she blamed me!
Eddie is a straight A student, dad. He's as quiet as a church mouse. You know that!
But how do you explain Tony being responsible?
I guessed because I saw Tony with that frog in the hall just before it happened in Miss Blume's class second period.
Tony, where did you get a frog?
I held it for Troy while he visited the nurse. It was on the floor, the box, I mean and the frog jumped out before the bell rang. It hopped over to Miss Blume's desk and into an open drawer. When she saw the box on the floor next to my desk labeled Hermie, she blamed me.
I want you to apologize to Miss Blume. Did she give you any punishment?
Yes, a detention tomorrow, but I already explained that the frog was Troy's…
But did you apologize?
No, I guess I didn't. There wasn't enough time.
You have to make time. You are responsible for what happened. You should never have taken the frog from Troy in the first place. I want you to apologize to Miss Blume first thing tomorrow.
Yes, mom.
Well, it seems that my children had quite a day. Marsha, what makes you think you passed the test?
I don't know. Wishful thinking. I studied a lot last night.
Did you? Every time I looked in your room, you were on the phone talking.
I was studying with Katie over the phone. She helped me with the equations we had for homework. That's what the test covered.
OK, well…we'll see. Let me know about your grade tomorrow. If you didn't pass, you really need to talk with Miss Grey. After failing last week, you can't afford another D or F in math.
What's so important about math anyway? I'm never going to use it. It's a big waste of time.
It's not. It's good mind training.
Listen to your father. He ought to know. His work at the bank involves math on a daily basis.
Yes, but I'm going to be a hairdresser. How will math help me there?
Adding up your tips. (laughs)
(laughs too) I'll buy that!
Mom, may I be excused? I promised Troy I'd bring Hermie over to him.
You mean that creature is in my house. Where, where is that frog?
Don't worry, mom. He's in the box on the floor in my room.
Why didn't Troy take him from you at school?
He was sick. The nurse sent him home and his father came and got him before I even had a chance to talk with him. He called and asked if I could bring him over tonight.
(looks at dad) Dear?
Dear, let me talk to Tony for a minute. Tony, let's go to your room.
(looking terrified) But dad?
No buts. Respect your dad.
Yes, mom. (they exit)
(from the bedroom we hear a couple of paddles and Tony yelling. "I'm sorry, dad. Please, stop! I'm sorry. It won't happen again." Mom and Marsha eat silently. Marsha appears frightened by what she hears.)
(long pause)
Well, Marsha, do you want to help me clear the table and get the dessert?
(dad returns)
Tony called Troy. He'll be over to get Hermie in about an hour. Seems he was never sick at all. Tony made that up. He's grounded. He can't leave his room until morning.
What's for dessert?
You'll see. It's a surprise.
(phone rings)
Hello, Jenkins residence.
Oh…hello, Miss Grey. Yes, oh no, that's alright. We're almost finished eating supper.
She what? (Marsha looks scared, gets pie from the sideboard and starts to put out plates, etc on the table) I can't believe it! I just can't believe that Marsha would do such a thing! Well, of course, why don't you come right over…we're about to have dessert. You're welcome to join us. Yes, that would be fine. See you in a while.
(mother faces father and Marsha)
That was Miss Grey, in case you didn't hear. She told me that Marsha, I just can't believe my ears, she told me you cheated on today's test. You copied off Katie's paper right in front of her.
I didn't, mom. I swear, I didn't.
So Miss Grey is a liar? Is that what you're saying?
(crying) No, but I can't believe she's coming over here. Please call and ask her not to come. I'm so embarrassed.
Why does she have to come over here tonight?
Because she felt it is too important to put off. You do want to graduate, don't you?
Why don't you go to your room and do your homework. I'll call you when she arrives.
Oh, mom! I feel so ashamed.
Explain that to Miss Grey. I think you should be happy that you have teachers who care that much about you. Miss Grey really cares about your welfare!
But, I really didn't cheat intentionally. I just looked over at Katie's paper a couple of times, and Miss Grey jumped to conclusions.
Then why did you and Katie have the identical score?
It's not English;
it's math, mom.
Marsha, that's not a sign of respect. Go to your room this instant!
I'll call you when Miss Grey gets here.
Whatever you say. You always win.
(Marsha exits crying)
(dad gets up as if to follow Marsha, but mom stops him.)
Darling, don't! Let her be! (pause) I hope she likes blueberry pie.
Who? Marsha?
No, Miss Grey. I've invited her for dessert. I hope she likes blueberry pie.
If you made it, I'm sure she will
(Mom and dad look at each other)
What a day!
Yes, indeed, everything was going fine up until tonight. Kids! Why don't they behave more like we used to?
Were we really that innocent and blameless?
Yes, but more importantly we had total respect for our elders.
I don't like being too strict…. I wish life were simpler! I really wish I knew the answer.
(mom and dad look at each other and shake their heads)
And what if she didn't cheat?! Maybe her glances at Katie's paper were as she said…just glances.
I trust Miss Grey. She's a conscientious teacher. She knows cheating when she sees it. We have to support her. Offer her a little dessert, treat her nicely, and she'll be in our camp. Fair exchange, if I do say so myself.
You're right, Ann. You're always right.
We can't let Marsha get away with this.
Not with anything, for that matter. (he firmly hits the table with his fist. Mom goes behind him, puts her hands on his shoulders to show she agrees.)
( lights fade.)
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _
(Background music in the dark during brief changes: "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys, "Kids" from Bye, Bye Birdie, and "We Are Family".)
Breakfast at the Gelders
(The time is April, 2012. About 7:00 am. The Gelders are a typically dysfunctional family – mom, dad and two children: Bruce: 13 and Maribell: 17. Dad is well groomed; mom, in jog suit; kids are very sloppily dressed; Bruce has tattoo on arm and two earrings; Maribell has a nose ring and wears tight spandex pants. Mom is a career woman.)
(no one on stage; alarm rings off)
(mom enters from jogging, takes off her headband and ipod and looks around: gets some juice from the fridge as dad enters with his laptop; no dialogue ensues as the two go about their business, each deeply engrossed in his own world.) (mom plays voice mail messages: we hear: You have one new message 6:45 am: Louise! Oh my God, turn on the news. Did you hear what happened to Obama? I'm horrified! Do you think dance class will be cancelled this morning? Call me asap! beep)
(dancing around)
One, two, three, four…one, two, three, four…
(bumps into dad)
(on cell) Christ!? What now?!
I'll be there in about 20. No! You can't mean it! She what?! Fuck! What an asshole!
(entering, headset on)
Anything nourishing in this Goddamn place?
Have a poptart!
Hey, Missy, don't pack me a lunch! I'm eating out today! I need some greenstuff.
Here's a twenty. Enjoy!
Fuckin' twenty dollars! That won't even keep me in soda for the day! I need at least a fifty.
(digs in purse and hands him another bill)
That's all I have!
(unappreciative, giving her the finger)
Don't do me any favors!
(enter Maribell)
I'm not hungry, but I'll have a latte. (snickers)
Go to Starbuck's. I'm not a restaurant. When is your counseling appointment?
How the hell should I know?
I told your counselor I'd be there, but I can't remember if it's 9:30 or 10:30.
So get there at 9:30, and if you're wrong, wait an hour! What's the big fuckin' deal?
I do have a life you know.
Yeah? Like what?
I have a big contract to draw up this week and am needed at the office. 9:30 or 10:30?
I think it's 10:30. I'll call you as soon as I get to school.
Do you think we could talk for a minute?
Talk? About what? Your enlarged prostate?
Is that meant to be funny?
( she screams at the top of her lungs)
(all is quiet)
Thanks for the attention! I wanted to let everyone know that I'm leaving tonight.
I didn't have a moment over the last couple of weeks to tell you. I'm leaving for a while.
You mean…for good!?
At least for a while. I'm moving in with Catherine.
She's a tramp! She's half your age! You don't know what you're getting yourself into!
(she sits, weeping)
Look, your mom and I have not been happy, and it's affecting all of us. I'll still see you guys on the weekends.
Who'll give us our allowance?
Your mother is still here; she's
not leaving.
She's a tight ass! She gives us zilch.
Yeah! She can't even cook. I don't blame you for leaving!
Look, I'm sorry, I will send you guys your allowance on the Sunday of each week, and let me know if you need any more. You can reach me on my cell anytime after 5 pm.
That sounds fair. I like Catherine personally. She used to be my best friend. When she quit smoking, she got weird and turned against me. Became a real snake in the grass! I think she should've kept on smoking; it kept her loose and free.
I think she's a slut. But she puts out, and I'm sure that makes you happy!
Look kids, I appreciate your good wishes, but I have to go.
(looks at mom, thinks about going to her, but changes mind and exits.)
(regains a little bit of her sanity)
This has been coming on for a while, kids. I'm actually not surprised.
He'll be a good father to you; he always has been.
Whatever! He's always thought of himself first. We've been a second priority.
Yeah, but a bigger allowance is a pretty good promise. Let's hold him to it.
As far as I'm concerned…
As far as you're concerned, you pick up the pieces and find yourself a stud. You'll live, Louise! Get over it!
I can introduce you to one of Bobby's friends. You should go younger, Louise. You're still somewhat appealing.
Somewhat, huh? Thanks, kids. (in jest) I'm happy for your support.
Yeah, but don't count on it. Our needs come first.
So what else is new? When did I ever come first?
(picks up bag of rolls and starts tearing bread)
And what's with all this bread? (to mother) No wonder your thighs are hefty. Why do we always have so much bread around here?
(starts tearing bread apart too)
Yeah, it's a waste. Maybe we should feed the birds.
(Maribell and Bruce start throwing pieces of bread at each other like two kids, as Louise picks up her cell and dials her best friend, Carrie)
Hello, Carrie. It's Louise. Great! Stan just walked out and I've got two reckless infants talking back and throwing bread around the kitchen. It's a wonderful life!!!
Who's the bitch talking to?
Probably one of her idiot friends. That Carrie is the worst. She's such a whore. How many husbands has she had, Louise? Eight?
(doing her best to ignore their voices)
Carrie, do you want some company for a while?
No, I mean for a couple of months. The kids? They can take care of themselves. They're doing alright without me. They never listen to anything I say anyway.
Hey, Louise, aren't you driving us to school this morning?
Can't you see, I'm busy. You can walk. It's a beautiful day.
I don't want to walk. My feet hurt from running in PE yesterday.
(Opening her laptop and starts to work)
Shit, I just forgot, I have an essay due.
Carrie, I have an incoming call, can I call you back. Thanks.
Hello. Yes, this is Mrs. Gelders. Myra Frank, yes, how are you? Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
(Bruce perks up and looks worried)
What? Genie? … (pause) … She's what? Oh, that can't be. That's impossible. … Oh, I see. Yes, I suppose we can. I don't think my husband will be able to, but Bruce and I will be there. Yes, Mrs. Frank, at … (Frank obviously hung up) 7.
(hangs up)( she faces Bruce)
Mrs. Frank says that Genie is pregnant.
So, why look at me? She screws around with just about the whole town. Why am I all of a sudden guilty?
Because you are her boyfriend. You have been going out with her for the past year and a half. Did you know she was pregnant?
How would I know?
Mrs. Frank says that Genie told you yesterday. You haven't said a word to me about it. (looks at Maribell)
Did her sister Mary say anything to you?
Yeah, she said something, but I stay out of other people's business. So what if Bruce knocked her up? That's life!
You knew about this and you didn't tell me?
Yeah, so what! They had fun.
You are underage. (looking at Bruce) You are 13. I warned you about going steady and about the consequences. And you young lady are way out of line.
It's not my fault. I tell you I'm not to blame. It was one of her other studs. And I wouldn't trust what Mary says. You should see what she and Maribell do in the girls room between breaks at school. They go into a stall and get naked and go down on each other.
Perve! What, have you been spying on me in the girls room? That's a riot, Bruce, and I'm trying to stick up for you here.
And you, Louise, how am I out of line in your book? Just because I say what I feel? You got pregnant with me, so you and dad had to get married. And you were underage too!
That was a completely different time and a different set of circumstances.
How? Can't you accept the fact that you're guilty too? If we act like this, you caused it. We're just trying to be like you. (laughs)
Yeah, bitch! (laughs too)
This is just great. (sits down) My husband walks out and leaves me to pick up the pieces as usual.
What pieces? (kicks bread aside on floor) Is that what I mean to you? I'm nothing but a piece? Of … shit? Is that how you see me?
(picks up carving knife)
You've never loved me. You've always looked out for yourself and protected yourself but you've never cared about me.
(grabs mom around the throat with knife)
Bruce, stop! She's guilty, but let's not go the length, not yet at least! Put down that knife! You're having a bad day, that's all! Put it down!
Listen to your sister! Put down the knife and let's talk about this sensibly.
Your sense of what's right and mine don't mix. They never have.
Put down the knife, Bruce! I'll give you my entire savings account, but don't do this to me!
(in an agitated state, thinks for a moment, throws down the knife and sits down crying)
I hate you. I hate my life… and it's all your fault.
Stop talking like that! What's wrong with you? You made a mistake. We'll talk to the Franks tonight and somehow make things work.
I'm not talking to anyone. I'm clearing out of here. I want that money!
Genie will have an abortion. No one will know. Don't go to extremes!
I don't care if the entire world knows. I haven't done anything wrong. I'm a victim here, not a perpetrator. And so are you, Em!
(starts to leave)
Bruce, sit down! I have to get you the money, remember?
OK, call the bank first!
(pulls revolver from her purse)
You're going to listen to ME first!
You've got to be kidding? Where in the hell did you get that? Mommy's got a pistol?
What a laugh!
It's no joke. Your dad bought it for me for protection.
You'll never use it.
I will do what I have to. (with the authority of a sheriff) Now, sit down!
(sitting reluctantly)
OK, I'm sitting down. Happy? Put that gun away.
Yes, mom, please put the gun away. We don't deserve this kind of treatment.
And I do, I suppose?! I want the two of you to listen to me and listen good. Clean up your mess! I am your mother and I want every goddamn piece of bread off this floor. Get down and pick up your mess!
You're kidding, right?
Do I look like I'm kidding? (cocks revolver)
Now, pick up those GD crumbs!
(Bruce bends over as if to pick up the bread, then suddenly bolts for the door)
(Mom shoots him in the back, he falls, Maribell screaming)
Now, Maribell, get down and pick up those crumbs! You haven't been the most obedient little bitch in the world and so you can make up for it now. Get down there!
Why are you doing this to us?
To you? It's always from your angle. Think about someone else for a change.
(Maribell grabs mom's leg and attempts to trip her, they fight for the pistol, the gun goes off and Maribell falls bleeding, but she's still alive)
Help me, mommy! Help me! Please help me!
(Mom sits down confused, drops the gun and just stares around at what has happened. Her reactions are without remorse. She goes to the phone in an attempt to make an emergency call and changes her mind. She picks up her headset from the table, puts it on and jogs out the door. Maribell draws her final breath.)
In the Blink of an Eye
should have a total of
4 actors
1 playing both Richard Jenkins and Stan Gelders (dads)
1 playing both Ann Jenkins and Louise Gelders (moms)
*1 playing both Tony Jenkins and Bruce Gelders (sons)
*1 playing both Marsha Jenkins and Maribell Gelders (daughters)
*Young adult actors play children.
One quick costume and hair change in between scenes.In Scene One, Mom should have big stylish wig and be well groomed like June Cleaver/Harriet Nelson/Donna Reed
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text:
Autism… …..it is all my fault. My baby wasn't planned. I thought I couldn't get pregnant. I was Anorexic and Bulimic. I wouldn't eat for days and then I would binge and vomit. …..it is all my fault. I didn't eat properly when I was pregnant. I worked 12.5 hour shifts where I was on…… Continue reading Autism. It is all my fault.
Category: tired
So proud.
So proud. So exhausted… ….but more proud! 3 nights of next to no sleep. Huge meltdowns. Stimming. Repeating the same thing over and over. Anxiety, huge anxiety. But…. …..she did it!! Tonight was the school xmas fayre. Being in the last year of primary meant the children were given more responsibility. They were given their…… Continue reading So proud.
Lonely at Christmas.
Lonely at Christmas. At this time of year I start to feel lonely. I see photos of people having fun at Christmas parties on social media. I see pictures of people having friends over for a chat and glass of wine. I see get togethers and coffee dates. I feel lonely…….and envious. We can't do…… Continue reading Lonely at Christmas.
Help? Anywhere?
We are going through a rough patch with my girl at the moment. She is being so, so very challenging and controlling. Puberty arriving has not helped matters. This morning I was chatting to a Mum about it; offloading after a stressful morning. Her reply? "Ring Social Services and tell them you aren't coping and…… Continue reading Help? Anywhere?
Just grumpy?
It might be just me getting older, but I feel like I cannot tolerate people anymore. It might be just because I have a child with a disability that not many people understand. It might be just because I have a child with a disability that people are aware of but don't make the effort…… Continue reading Just grumpy?
Proud Mum!
Just when you start to sink in a sea of negativity, someone comes along and throws you a life line and you remember why you have been tredding water for so long. There are alays positives. ALWAYS. Even when all you can see is black, there is always a rainbow shining for you somewhere. Even…… Continue reading Proud Mum!
To whom it may concern.
To whom it may concern, 6 weeks school holidays…..what were you thinking? I am writing this at my wits end. I have had a very bad day and I feel that most of it is your fault. Please, 'maker of the 6 week rule', explain your reasons to me. You obviously do not have children.…… Continue reading To whom it may concern.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Trunk show in Chester Friday
CHESTER -- The Lori Warner Studio/Gallery will feature Ann Lightfoot's Spring Jewelry Trunk Show on Friday from 1 to 7 p.m.
Join designer Ann Lightfoot in the gallery for the debut of her new spring collection. Using natural stones, silk, linen and sterling silver, Lightfood creates jewelry that reflects her unique sense of color, texture and scale.
The Lori Warner Studio/Gallery is located at 21 Main St. For more information, call (860) 322-4265.


text:
the medicine cabinet
In this bathroom, I am safe
from the taunts, threats and
terrible smells that rise from his bed.
I stand in front of the mirrored medicine cabinet,
pick at the chipped paint around the edges, run
my fingers over the cracks that spider out from the center.
Quietly, I go through the things that remind me of better days,
when he smelled of Old Spice and peppermint toothpaste
instead of vomited beer, sweat and unwashed armpits.
I savor the feel of the old badger-hair brush,
sniff his dried up L'Occitane shaving soap
as I engage in a tug-of-war with time.
I dab a little of his aftershave on my skin,
wrinkle my nose at the fact that it smells exactly
the same as it did twenty five years before.
I hear him cough and sputter, hear him call out for her.
She won't be back; we all know it.
He knows it too, I suppose.
God, how I wish he would puke in the damn toilet
like a normal person.
I should let him wallow in his own filth,
drunken filthy pig that he is.
But I am not that kind of man.
I close the cabinet, glare at the overgrown child
who wants his daddy back.
It is time to change the bed sheets.
Copyright © 2011 by Christopher Chaffin – All rights reserved


text:
Umling La Pass in Ladakh, at an altitude of 19000 Feet or 5883 Mtrs, became the highest motorable pass in the world dethroning the Mana Pass in Uttarakhand and road to Uturuncu in Bolivia when BRO opened this road to civilians in 2017. Many adventure enthusiasts have already visited this coveted pass last year and added this extreme accolade of visiting the highest motorable road in the world in their adventurous life. In today's article, I am going to write in detail on how you can plan a trip to Umling La pass which is located nearby Hanle village in Ladakh. If you are interested in knowing more about the highest roads and passed of the world, you can, of course, check my article on Top 13 Highest Motorable Passes or Roads in the World – The Myths & The Realities.
The 54 KM long road passing through Umling La Pass connects the villages of Chisumle and Demchok and took six years to be built by BRO under Project Himank. Hats off to the whole team of Project Himank who took this daunting task of building up the road at such a staggering altitude. BRO had to give special training to all the workers for the construction of this road and is said that every hour workers had to come down to acclimatize themselves. I cannot imagine the hard work undergone but well the result is we now have the highest motorable road in the world in India. As Umling La pass is near to the Hanle village, you will be spending a couple of days in Hanle and hence, will be exploring it as well. In Hanle village, apart from witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the cold desert, you can visit Hanle Monastery as well as the second highest optical observatory in the world with an installed telescope of about 2.01 meters (6.5 feet) diameter. Hanle observatory is operated Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru and is situated at an altitude of 4500 Mtrs. The details of making a trip to Hanle is detailed out in my comprehensive travel guide of Hanle.
Umling La pass is very near to the Line of Actual Control between India and China. Hence, one needs to get inner line permit to visit this region including Hanle. The permit for visiting Hanle is sufficient to make a trip to Umling La Pass. You can get the Inner Line Permits online now and pay the fee at tourist reception center at Leh. However, in order to get the permit for Hanle, you will have to visit DC office in Leh and get the permit stamped as per the old method of getting the permit. Carry the printout and visit Leh DC office to get the permit for Hanle. In case you are visiting Umling La pass from Demchok side, please prepare the permissions from army for which you will need some good contacts in army to get the permission.
Well, the region of Changthang around Hanle and Umling La pass is very scenic but that the same time it is harsh, unforgiving and difficult to survive especially in winters. As it is at a very high altitude, the lack of oxygen makes survival difficult if your body is not properly acclimatized to its high altitude. Hence, one needs to plan his/her journey extremely carefully to acclimatize properly and reduce the chances of acute mountain sickness. I highly recommend that you travel slowly and acclimatize properly before making the trip to Umling La pass. Do not forget to read my article on Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Location of Umling La Pass
Umling La pass is about 105 KMs from Hanle Village, which itself is located about 275 KMs from Leh town of Ladakh district in Jammu & Kashmir, India. The GPS co-ordinate of Umling La pass is "32.6930000, 79.2718610" and soon you will find it available in Google maps as more people visit the place in coming season. Thanks to dear traveler cum friend Devender Bijania for sharing the GPS coordinate. Just to get an idea about the direction, you can use my rough sketch of google maps directions for Umling La Pass map below:
Disclaimer: The map has been drawn considering the rough idea of maps and talking to people who have visited it. Please use it only for informational purpose and direction sense only. It will give you an idea about the location and I request in case you have the KML file for the route of Umling La pass, please do share with us so that it can help many other adventure freaks looking to travel to Umling La pass in coming years.
Altitude of Umling La Pass
Umling La Pass has become the highest motorable pass or road in the world located at a stagerring height or altitude of 19000 Feet or 5883 Mtrs.
Season for Traveling to Umling La Pass – Ladakh
Well considering you will have to traverse various rough roads especially after Hanle, I will highly suggest that you make the trip to Umling La pass end of the season around September. In early June, the Photi La Pass will have snow, so the route might not be open and then it is more like snow melting time up to July when water crossings are ferocious. Hence, late August when monsoon resides from North and September month seems to be the best time to make a trip to Umling La pass. In winters, it will not be possible to make a trip to Umling La pass at all. So, in the months of November to mid-May, the roads to Umling La pass will be snowbound. Even in the month of May or early June, there is lot of uncertainty as the snow bounds roads are not actively kept open by army.
How to Reach Umling La Pass – Ladakh
You can reach Umling La Pass after reaching Hanle from three routes. However, you should also know how to reach Hanle first and again. In order to reach Hanle, you can take the direct route from Leh to Hanle as:
1. Route from Leh to Hanle
Leh – Karu (36 KMs) – Upshi (13 KMs) – Kumdok (19 KMs) – Kere (53 KMs) – Chumathang (34 KMs) – Mahe (22 KMs) – Nyoma (25 KMs) – Loma (22 KMs) – Hanle(51 KMs) = 275 KMs
This is the general route to Hanle that most people take to visit this ever beautiful place in Ladakh. You can reach in about 9 – 10 Hrs depending upon the number of break you take in between. The route along with distance between the subsequent places is as follows:
2. Route from Pangong Tso Lake to Hanle
Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man (9 KMs) – Merak (12 KMs)– Kakstet (4 KMs) – Chusul (24 KMs) – Tsaga La (33 KMs) – Tsaga Village (20 KMs) – Loma (23 KMs) – Hanle(51 KMs) = 176 KMs
There exist a direct route between Hanle / Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso as well and in most general cases, you will always be doing it from direct route of Pangong Tso to Hanle because you can exit Ladakh from Tso Moriri towards Manali – Leh Highway after visiting Hanle and Tso Moriri without coming back towards Leh. Secondly, both Hanle and Tso Moriri is higher than Pangong Tso so as per acclimatization schedule you should stay near Pangong Tso before spending night at Hanle and Tso Moriri. However, all depends subject to the approval of permits for this route via Chusul. Foreigners anyhow are not at all allowed to go beyond Man – Merak Villages as permits are not issued to them for this route.
You should always carry your own water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and you can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
3. Route from Hanle to Tso Moriri
After visiting Hanle, you can opt to go towards Tso Moriri from where either you can go to Ladakh or you can exit towards Manali via Manali Leh Highway. There exist three routes to reach Tso Moriri from Hanle, one via Mahe bridge, other via Salsal La and Kyon Tso – Nidar – Nyoma route. Below is the route which you can follow to reach Tso Moriri from Hanle via Mahe bridge:
Hanle – Loma (51 KMs) – Nyoma (22 KMs) – Mahe (25 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Tso Moriri / Korzok (53 KMs) = 161 KMs
The other route goes via Salsal La near Chumur whose permits are hard to come by but if you are able to get them then nothing gets better and adventurous on your Ladakh journey. Below is the route which you can follow to reach Tso Moriri from Hanle via Salsal La – Chummur village:
Hanle – Salsal La (62 KMs) – Charchagan La (23 KMs) – Tso Moriri / Korzok (60 KMs) = 145 KMs
Finally you can also take the third route from between Tso Moriri and Hanle as Hanle – Salsal La – Kyon Tso 1 – Kyon Tso 2 – Thitzorbit La – Nidar – Nyoma – Mahe – Tso Moriri. This is very less frequented among all three routes we discussed to reach Hanle and chances of getting stuck in marshes of Kyon Tso twin lakes are pretty high.
Reaching Umling La Pass from Hanle
Starting 2018, no person is allowed to visit Umling La and permits for Hanle is not enough to travel to Umling La pass. You will be stopped at the checkposts and will not be allowed to travel to Umling La pass. This pass is not yet open for tourists because of falling in sensitive area too close to the border with China.
Once you have reached Hanle, you again have three routes to visit Umling La Pass. Umling La pass is about 105 KMs from Hanle Village. If you have a permit to visit Hanle, then there is no extra permit required and if you are coming from the Koyul side then you need to have a permit for passing Koyul as well. Refer DoW Maps for Hanle and Koyul routes: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang
The route you can take is Hanle to Photi La Pass to Photile Village (57 KMs) and then follow the route from Photile Village to Umlinga La pass for about 50 KMs at an altitude of 19300 feet. You will come across two bridges/ water crossings while going to Umlingla Pass from Photile Village. There is another route from Ukdungle village as well but it is more of a dirt track only all the way except few KMs. Hence to sum it up, the three routes to reach Umling La Pass from Hanle are:
- 1. Hanle – Photi La (35 KMs) – Photile (57 KM) – Umling La (105 KMs) : This is the most recommended route to reach Umling Las pass from Hanle in comparison to all other routes.
- 2. Loma – Dungti – Fukche – Koyul – Demchok – Umling La : Well, there are lots of iffs and buts for following this route because you will need special permission from the army to visit beyond Fukche towards Koyul and Demchok. Demchok is the border village on Indo – China border and half of the village lies in China while other half lies in India. Hence, getting the permission to visit this village as a civilian is extremely tough and can result in waste of day in case army does not allow you to go beyond check-posts at Fukche or Koyul.
- 3. Hanle – Ukdungle (30 KMs) – Umling La (101 KMs) : The road between Hanle to Ukdungle is very rough and almost a dirt track. Better avoid unless you have 4×4 or used to ride/drive on rough roads. Once you reach Ukdungle, you can follow the trail towards Umling La pass crossing the nallas/bridges that falls on the first route. Hence, you can do kind of both routes as circuit.
Preferred Vehicles for taking to Umling La Pass
Of course, the higher ground clearance vehicles are preferable and AWD or 4×4 ones will surely add the much-needed comfort and peace of mind. The road ahead of Hanle towards Photila and Photile have some tricky sections in between and then further to Umling La pass there are a couple of water crossings which could be nasty at times. I will highly recommend that you take 4×4 vehicle in case you wish to take the Ukdungle route. I will keep my reservations for hatches and sedans going towards Photi La and Umling Pass pass as of now. Once, BRO completes the road constructions and makes it fully tarred, it is better to then attempt Umling Pass on hatchback or sedan. I hope you have already read my article on 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh
Pro Tip: If you are doing a self drive to Umling Las Pass and Leh – Ladakh, then make sure to read my article on 40 Must Have Things to Carry on a Self Drive Trip to the Himalayas
Suggested Itinerary for Umling La Pass – Ladakh
In order to visit Umling La Pass from Hanle, I will highly recommend that you stay two nights in Hanle in order to make a trip to Umling La pass from Leh. One day you can relax the night before visiting Umling La pass at Hanle and next morning leave early to give yourself ample of time to visit Umling La pass from Hanle. It will also give you a chance to relax at Hanle and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Hanle ad a star-studded night sky. Of course, an opportunity to capture the shots of milky way galaxy from your camera. Hence, I will recommend the following plan for Umling La pass trip:
Day 1 | Leh – Upshi – Chumathang – Nyoma – Loma – Hanle
- Cover Landscapes eroute
- Cover Hanle Monastery and Hanle Observatory
- Overnight at Hanle
Day 2 | Hanle – Photi La – Photile Village – Umling La Pass – Hanle
- Visit the World's Highest Motorable Pass – Umling La Pass
- If you are adventure seeker and have experience in riding or driving on dirt tracks and bad roads, you can try to take the route from Ukdungle. A word of caution that this route is better to be only taken if you have skills to ride/drive in such terrain else stick to Photi La route which in comparison is little easier to ride/drive than Ukdungle route.
- Overnight at Hanle
Day 3 | Hanle – Tso Moriri via Mahe OR Salsal La OR Kyon Tso – Nidar
- Cover Korzok Monastery
- Kyong Tso 1 or Kyong Tso 2 Lakes if following the route from Nidar
- Overnight at Tso Moriri Lake
Day 4 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Taglang La – Rumste – Upshi – Karu – Leh
- Cover Tso Kar Lake and Taglang La (some part of Manali – Leh Highway)
- Overnight at Leh
You can also check the most common and very well balanced itinerary for whole Leh – Ladakh region covering all major tourist destination including Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highway, at the below link: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh
Accommodation or Stay Options near Umling La Pass – Ladakh
As Umling La Pass is just a mountain top far away from civilization, the closest stay options or accommodation near Umling La pass is at Hanle village where stay will be available for tourists. There is a well-known guest house in Hanle by the Sonam Guest House which offers about 10 rooms in all with a big dining room. Many of them have attached toilets and few shared ones. It was also known to be by the name of Padma Homestay earlier. Sonam Dorjay is the guy who runs it while Padma is his wife.
Contact Details of Sonam Guest House, Hanle – Ladakh
- Contact Person: Mr. Sonam Dorjay
- Attributes: Very good friend of mine, knows DoW and its vision very well, very down to earth local ready to support & help other locals of the village
- Contact Details: http://padmahomestay.in/
- Location: Hanle, Khaldo
Sonam Guest House Hanle, offers SPECIAL DISCOUNTED RATES to all the readers/followers of the Devil On Wheels website through our Destination Specialists. In order to avail the discounts, you can use the online booking form at the link: Book Here
Medical Facilities near Umling La Pass – Ladakh
As it is one of the remote places in Ladakh itself, you will not find anything major as medical aid near Umling La pass. You may need to visit nearest primary care center at Hanle village or Rhongo village. Otherwise, army camps may help out in case of an emergency for medical aid. Hence, it is highly recommended that you carry your own medical kit for basic health issues and do not rely much on medical facilities nearby Umling La Pass. The medical kit or first aid kit must always be present with you. Also, as you understand it is a very high altitude region, carrying Oxygen cylinder with you will be extremely helpful in dire circumstances.
Food Joints near Umling La Pass – Ladakh
There will be no eating place or food joint around Umling La pass. The nearest food you may get will be at army posts, local village dhabhas at Koyul, Demochok and of course Hanle. I will suggest taking packed food from Hanle village and if you are staying at Sonam Guest House, then better ask them to pack food for you. I will further advise that as a contingency of such remote location, it is better to carry some spare food in case you get little late somewhere due to roadblocks or landslides.
Phone Signals at Umling La Pass – Ladakh
The moment you will leave Hanle village, you will lose any connectivity whatsoever all the way to Umling La Pass and back. Recently, a BSNL phone tower has been put up in Hanle and at times the phone connectivity is present in the village. However, do not rely much on it. There is one satellite public phone installed at a house in Khaldo village in Hanle. The home with a phone also offers homestay accommodation.
Petrol Pumps near Umling La Pass – Ladakh
The nearest petrol pump is at Karu (about 240 KMs) from Hanle. You need to carry enough spare fuel with you to complete the trip. It also depends upon which route you are taking and add the required fuel based upon added distance you need to travel from Hanle. Karu is near Leh only, so no matter which route you opt, Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri or Leh to Tso Moriri, you should carry some spare fuel. You may also find some black fuel at Hanle or Chumathang. You should also read: Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
ATMs near Umling La Pass – Ladakh
You will not find any ATMs near Umling La Pass or Hanle village. Hence, it is always better to carry cash from Leh itself.
This region near Hanle / Umling La Pass offers one of the most beautiful landscapes that you will even see within Ladakh. Hence, if you are planning a bit of adventurous trip and not traveling with family, I will suggest to surely including Hanle and Umling La pass in your trip plan. This region of Ladakh is still a bit secluded offering a different feeling and aura. I hope the above information will be useful for your upcoming trip Umling La Pass and other places within Ladakh.
And by the way for any questions you may still have about your Umling La Pass trip, feel free to post them under Ask A Question section of our website or using the ASK YOUR TRAVEL QUESTION form available below in the article. You can also post questions and connect with other fellow travelers in our community forums. In the end, if you have been to Umling La Pass before, kindly share your thoughts and other information you might feel is worth sharing with other fellow travelers and help them.


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Well, last night I did and I was pleasantly surprised to see how many blogs my mushrooms showed up on without me even knowing.
I really enjoyed reading all the nice things people had to say about my mushrooms :)
This is what PT Ford of WhyTravelToFrance had to say about Jean-Michel.
"Santa Monica California-based artist, Eva/Effunia, makes the most adorable custom-made mushroom plushies ever. This one is called Le Champignon Jean-Michel, who sports a removable painter's palette, paint brush and beret, with a requisite black and white striped shirt. The moustache is perfect. The polka dotted head is brilliant and reminiscent of the mushrooms in Mario games. This French mushroom's favorite colors are red, blue and white and his favorite drink is a cafe au lait. His favorite expression? C'est la vie! Mignon!"
Isn't that nice?!
And then I also found Jean-Michel on the Super Punch blog! Thanks everyone that has written about my plushies :)
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
4 comments:
- bourgogne said...
i want one now! :D -pt
- February 5, 2009 at 11:37 PM
- Ruth said...
I have googled myself, but I don't get very much - its steadily growing though.
It was really nice what that man wrote about you :)
- February 7, 2009 at 7:35 AM
- Bethany Hissong said...
Just one more step on your walk of fame!!!
- February 11, 2009 at 6:27 AM
- Kaylovesvintage said...
very cool
- February 16, 2009 at 1:36 AM
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As we process the reply forms that were submitted last weekend, a picture of next year's class at the Hopkins-Nanjing Center is beginning to form. The following is based on students who have confirmed enrollment with our HNC Office of International Admissions. Chinese citizens will make up half of the total student body, but their admissions process with Nanjing University is still ongoing. For now, let us introduce next year's class of international students!
50% Certificate
There will be citizens representing:
Finally, the Hopkins-Nanjing Center is excited to welcome its first second-generation student! The daughter of an HNC '89 graduate will be joining us this fall in Nanjing.
We encourage all enrolling students to join the Facebook group we created for your class to get to know each other over the summer. Check your email for more information.


text: I know you have been playing pinball since you were 5. That's the reason why we decided to publish this nice fantasy pinball game on Unblocked Gamez. Your aim is to score as many points as you can going through all the levels. Keep the ball up in the game and if you loose, well… no problem. This is a free pinball game. Just hit play and keep playing!


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Is there really a better marriage than chocolate and peanut butter? Ok, peanut butter and jelly is pretty good. And so is macaroni and cheese. And... lots of other things. But really, who can turn down chocolate and peanut butter?
So I made ice cream.
Oh yes, more ice cream
The chocolate by itself tastes mostly like chocolate pudding.
Good thing I like chocolate pudding.
And, because I'm like that, I added some chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. The rest of the bag are sitting in a bowl in my cubicle, staring at me, just like the donuts in the kitchen. But I know what's waiting for me at home, so I will try to resist.
I'll probably fail, but it's worth a try.
I wish I had let the chocolate mixture cool in the fridge for longer. I started making it so late in the evening that it didn't get into the ice cream maker to churn until 9pm and it was still a little bit warm. After and hour and fifteen minutes, it was just starting to cool and harden. The final result is (delicious) a bit more like the consistency of creamy sorbet instead of ice cream. If I had either cooled in the fridge for longer, or let it churn for longer, I'm sure it would be more like store-bought chocolate ice cream.
Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream
From Tasty Kitchen
2 cups Whole Milk
1/2 cup fat free milk
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 pinch of salt
3 Tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup chopped Peanut Butter Cups
In sauce pan over medium heat, stir together whole milk, sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Heat until milk starts to steam, but before it starts to boil
In small bowl, stir together fat free milk and cornstarch. Whisk until no lumps remain and add to chocolate mixture. Bring to a low boil. Boil until thickened to consistency of chocolate pudding. Remove from heat.
In separate sauce pan, heat cream to boiling. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until chocolate is melted and incorporated.
Stir cream into cooling chocolate mixture. Place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap and refrigerate until cool, at least 1 hour.
Follow ice cream maker's instructions to churn ice cream. Once it has chilled and thickened, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of peanut butter. Do not over mix. Transfer ice cream into freezer safe container and fold in the remaining 1/4 cup of peanut butter and chopped peanut butter cups. Cover and freeze until solid.


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Reflecting on my Tapa Cloth
1. Are you pleased with your Tapa Cloth? why / why not?
Yes because it took a lot of hard work but it was finally finished
2. What did you find easy when you were creating your Tapa?
Drawing the flower in the centre
3. What did you find tricky when you were creating your Tapa?
My grid
4. If you made another Tapa, what would you change and why?
My border because the diamonds were hard to draw
5. Who / What has helped you in creating your Tapa?
Isabella helped me
6. Did you use any of your own cultural patterns in your own Tapa? Which ones? What do they mean? If you didn't use your cultural patterns, what did patterns did you use? Where did they come from?No I didn't
7. What geometric elements does your Tapa Cloth show? Reflection, Rotation, Translation.
I used Reflection and Rotation


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Restaurant Assistant Manager
Dorchester, MA 02043
Restaurant Manager Qualifications:
- 2-3 years as manager of a high-volume full-service concept
- Strong leadership skills
- Demonstrated ability with technology: POS systems, Microsoft Office suite, etc
- Demonstrated problem resolution skills
- High attention to detail
- Lives company vision and culture daily
- ServSafe Certified
- New store opening experience a strong plus
Restaurant Manager Responsibilities:
- Assist General Manager with day to day operation of a multi-million dollar operation, including all budgeted sales/cost goals
- Uphold and maintain company mission, culture, and vision for all staff. Be a brand champion!
- Oversee/assist with inventory, purchasing, receiving/storage of product
- Assist with recruitment, hiring, training, and retainment of hourly team members
- Ensure 100% guest satisfaction and responding to all feedback in a timely manner
- Strong visibility and availability to staff and guests at all times
- Maintain the physical condition and appearance of the facility at all times
- Ensure all company policies, as well as state/federal/local laws and ordinances, are 100% compliant
- Healthcare/Dental coverage after 30 days
- 401(k)
- 2 weeks PTO after 90 days service
- Voluntary benefits available including life insurance, disability, vision, accident coverage
- Attainable Quarterly Bonus
Be part of an internationally known brand!


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Executive Coaches for Nonprofit Leaders
One of the best decisions I've made this year was to renew my professional relationship with my executive coach, Jim Sharp. Although not a fundraiser by training, his advice has always provided me with a great perspective on both managing my career and maintaining the sanity of my personal life (and never forget how critical this latter part is to the former!).
The Chronicle of Philanthropy recently cited another interesting use of coaches by NPOs:
Philanthropy Today: Executive Coaches Help Vet Nonprofit Job Applicants
People seeking top-level nonprofit jobs can now expect to be interviewed not just by nonprofit recruiters and their potential bosses, but also by executive coaches who advise the organization's top executives, says The Wall Street Journal.
The extra step is part of an effort to reduce turnover, the newspaper says.
After interviewing candidates to help her run Family Justice, the New York charity she founded, Carol Shapiro finally found one she liked, but didn't pick the job candidate because her executive coach found the candidate lacking in managerial experience, the newspaper reports.
Another contender who won approval from the coach got the job and joined Family Justice as chief operating officer in late February.
The interview by the coach benefits not just the charity but also the job seeker "because an executive coach can describe what this new boss will really be like," says Marilyn Machlowitz, a New York recruiter who handled Ms. Shapiro's search.


text: Human Rights Observatory US Ice Skaters Not Drowning Their Sorrow in Hamburgers Anymore Four years ago, American skaters Mirai Nagasu and Adam Rippon were upset that they failed to make the Olympic team. They drowned their sorrow in hamburgers that they ate on the roof of Nagasu's house, Rippon told NBC News. Now, the 24-year-old Nagasu and Rippon, who is 28, are roommates at the Olympic Village and they both delivered strong performances Monday, enabling the United States figure skaters to win the bronze medal in the team event. Nagasu, of...Read complete article© Voice of America - Monday, February 12, 2018


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The Oxford Dictionary defines Sarcasm as "the use of irony to mock or convey contempt" (Yes, I open up the dictionary sometimes). One can express sarcasm in numerous ways. It can be through your tone, behaviour, expressions, comments or just the eyes. Sarcasm has always been an important part of my life. No matter what, when, or why, I gotta be sarcastic. I agree it does annoy the hell out of a few people but at the end they accept defeat and laugh it away. There are a few people who don't actually understand when one is being sarcastic and also people who can't be sarcastic at all, such people need meds and deserve reservation for being stupid. Sarcasm creates humour which is very important if only you want a happy life.
I believe that only through humour one can stay positive and motivated the whole day. And I don't think there is any other easier way than being sarcastic to bring in some humour. Look at me, I insult and humiliate people in a funny way all day and find no time to be sad and gloomy. If you are tired of something happening everyday again and again, then add in a pinch of sarcasm and see how things develop.
Sarcasm can also be used when you are angry or pissed with someone, ready to pull their hair off. It's really fun. I call it Anger in Disguise. Imagine being sarcastic and the other guy has no clue what you're talking about and wait for him or her to turn all red with anger. But do mind not to try this stunt against people who could crush you and hand you a couple of broken teeth.
So, go ahead and join the Sarcastic Side since the Force flows pretty strong here.


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I've also bumped up the amount of time at the trot I ask her for while longeing or roundpenning, making her stick it out for at least three and working up to five minutes at a time. It's interesting for me to watch for her rebellious moments which almost always pop up when we're doing groundwork, mostly right when she starts to get a little tired or when I'm asking her to challenge herself mentally. She does some serious teenager head tosses and speeds up and in the roundpen sometimes even gives a little kick or buck, but as long as I wait it out and ask her to change directions a few times she calms right down.
Also, giving her those massages with long heavy strokes along her spine that the vet recommended is definitely having a beneficial effect! Where she used to move away from the saddleblanket when I would go to put it on her she now stands still and doesn't try to avoid it, and she also moves around a lot less when I cinch her up. I think it improves our relationship too and am taking advantage of her being relaxed after her massage to really get her sacked out in the areas where she's always been a little more sensitive - udders, mouth and nose.
I have another lesson this afternoon, we'll see how it goes!


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The 5 Ways Sales is like Pro Baseball
I'm a huge sports nut. Obsessive. I root hard for my teams to win and I take it my rooting to the extent that I want to learn everything I possibly can about my team's history, personnel, game plans, and future prospects.
By the way, my rooting interests lie completely within the bounds of my Philadelphia upbringing ("Ya gotta problem wit dat?"). Seriously, on the whole Philly sports thing – we get a tremendously bad rap around the county for lots of incidents that are single one-off kinds of situations. That could be an entirely separate post…
So with the Phillies locked in a tight divisional race with the rival Atlanta Braves, I felt the timing was good to post. One of the things I always look at are naturally-occurring parallels in life. I find it interesting when things naturally imitate other things. I have observed some funny comparisons that I've discussed with countless friends and buddies that are sales pros, and these 5 examples might hold some water for you:
(1) Swing at the ball
Success at the plate in baseball lies in having a solid approach to swing mechanics. Slumps occur when players begin to think too hard, press, and force things into happening. Having a repeatable physical process involving muscle memory is key to making solid contact. Actually when you think about it, the same can be said for just about any sport you can think of (golf instantly comes to mind), and other skilled endeavors such as playing a musical instrument, dancing, etc).
It takes a lot of time in the batting cages to perfect the timing and rhythm required to become a good batter. Keep in mind a "good batter" means you fail more than 70% of the time…
Sales is also much the same way. Your chosen process of qualifying leads, assessing opportunities, fact-finding and educating yourself on the client's needs, listening and sensing where the pain points are, developing a solution built to meet those needs, closing and then executing that solution, and then following up for additional opportunities to continue and grow that relationship are just some of the steps any good business development professional needs to address.
I'm not here to tell you that every conversation or engagement with a prospect/customer should be treated in a cookie-cutter fashion like taking hacks in a batting cage. I'm saying that you need to find that process that covers all of those bases, develop a process of ensuring that you cover all of those points, and you carry each task through to completion – every time you have an opportunity to. One missed piece of that equation means you swing and miss, or get caught looking as your competitor walks away with your client.
(2) Are you Coachable?
Regardless of your time/tenure/experience – you probably have things you could learn or be doing better. Face it – changes in technology, the overall marketplace, and business in general make you obsolete unless you adapt. What are you doing to improve? Do you attend workshops, networking or training events? Are you open to learning new things, even from less tenured members of your team (face it – they might have some unbelievable tips and tricks to show you)? What's your relationship with your direct supervisor like? Have you ever even considered speaking with any one of a number of folks in your support structure to see if there are ways to improve work-flows, work more efficiently, or save time, money, etc?
I'm not talking about taking tips from the batboy or anything, but I recall taking my favorite credit analyst out to lunch for a "brain-picking session" and I figured out a way to improve credit application approval percentages and make my clients and my credit department much happier!
(3) It's all in the numbers…
Sometimes we begin to get an artificially-inflated view of ourselves. Our pipeline might be swelling, the outlook for next month and for next quarter looks positive, and the sun seems to be shining. The reality is you are really only good for the team when you produce. Those with revenue responsibility ultimately must report results to ownership or stakeholders. Projecting forward into next quarter might be fine but the here and the now is really what's getting looked at, especially in a recovering, yet still crappy, economy.
(4) Need to get over tough losses – have a short memory.
Lose a big deal? Did a prospect make you jump through numerous hoops and lead you around by the nose just to take your price and shop it to another provider? Get over it and move on. Gaffes aside, sometimes these things are inevitable and almost expected to some extent. Be clear early on in the process and constantly ask, "If I can get done (a), (b), and (c) at that price, DO WE HAVE THE DEAL DONE?" But you and I know sometimes that's not even enough, so be mentally tough and roll with the ups and downs. Move on with a smile and keep swinging for the fence.
(5) Adapt and evolve.
You're the young phenom that comes up from the minors, throwing 99 mph and striking out batters at an alarming clip. The scouts all project you as a perennial all-star, and you're 6 weeks in the league you absolutely tear up the competition. Then as time goes by, people get a "book" on you and begin knowing your tendencies. Suddenly you're losing more than you're winning and you can't seem to get anyone out.
If you're not a baseball fan, you might not even know how common this is. The ability to adapt and evolve – develop a 3rd and 4th pitch in addition to your fastball and curveball is key. In sales, the ability to shift tactics to account for changes in your market or industry is vital to any kind of long term success. If servicing your accounts is part of your job description, how "wide and deep" can you go within an account (sell to other divisions, facilities, or partners?). It might be better utilization of advancing tools like online social media, lead generation, or web events, or simply changing your approach subtly to take a different tact. When things cease to grow, you must look look inward first before placing blame or making excuses (not that we do that, right?)…
Joe D permalinkSeptember 21, 2010 5:06 pm
I couldn't agree more. I think one of the most important things you said is to be mentally tough and to adapt and move on. Sometimes we get so stuck on the one that got away, that we forget there's plenty more deals out there to be made.
Comments are closed.


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Dental implant protocol for successful procedures by dentists and hygienists in Bulphan including knowledge on gold braces and tooth caps. The cost for the following is intended as a guide and may be more or less expensive.
We are committed to providing you with exceptionally high quality dental services. Looking for low-priced gold braces locally? We offer a choice of budget veneer treatments. Our broad range means that we have plenty to offer our patients. Our practice is run Dr. Rahul Doshi and Dr. Bhavna Doshi. Drs' Doshi have accumulated a wealth of experience in interdisciplinary multifaceted dentistry. Telephone 020 3355 8505 for more details. Alternatively book a Complete Care Assessment.
We take extra steps to ensure that our private clients can make an informed decision about their bridge dental treatments safe in the knowledge that they will be treated by dental professionals at the very pinnacle of their industry.
Want a whiter brighter smile? Our whitening treatments not only leave you with a gleaming stunning smile, they can be immediate and inexpensively priced. By working with a number of the top-rated dental practitioners covering Broad Green and brand names such as Inman Aligner Incognito Braces and Signature Complete Care for several years we can offer some fantastic dental procedures and white braces in SE England. We are both BACD and BILD registered.
Do you have faulty or fractured teeth in need of repair? Many of our dentists specialise in emergency dental solutions. We will aim to see you as soon as possible. If you would like to know what time we can offer our dental solutions, do ask us your questions by phone or through our contact form. We specialise in dental veneers.
Get in touch on 020 3355 8505 and a member of our friendly team can help you find the procedure you want.
5 out of 5 starsPublished 27 October 2017
Amazing results from the talented team. Could not be happier with the outcome of my smile. I never knew my teeth could look so good.
Thank you to everyone there for an all round incredible service. Read More.
5 out of 5 starsPublished 25 October 2017
I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at The Perfect Smile in Hertford. Dr Doshi and his team are extremely professional and put you at ease from your very first appointment, with particular thanks to Sophie, who has been very patient and kind and explains the whole process throughout. I'm looking forward to the end results in a couple of weeks time, but can also be assured that the team at the PS will be looking after my teeth for years to come. Read More.
With 8 locations, our practices are conveniently located for Bedfordshire, Berkshire , Buckinghamshire , Essex, Cambridgeshire and London


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This is a blog containing photos I've taken of my BJDs (ball-jointed dolls) that I have painted/customized. Sizes range from 17.5" to 31.5".
Doll companies of sculpts represented are: Dollshe, Volks & Alchemic Labo, Elfdoll, Dollstown, Alice in Labyrinth,
Spirit Doll, Abio Angel, Dollmore, Nabarro, Piposdoll, Domuya, Doll in Mind, Dollclans and Doll Chateau.
All dolls are customized by myself (with the exception of Doll Chateau Douglas & Lusion Dahlia that are factory).
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Chloe New wig
2 comments:
- dollseye said...
I'm looking forward to seeing Chloe's sleep face. I got one for Chelsea which arrived a couple of weeks ago but I haven't painted it yet. Chloe looks great in the outfit and her new wig!
- Christy said...
Oh thanks Jesse! I am looking forward to painting---alot!! I know I keep saying I will finish Dante...I have SUCH plans for him!! Once I get all my stuff out and get going it will all be done in no time... ^_^


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Merry Christmas!!
I am writing this as Timmy and I eagerly await his big brother and Daddy, who are still fast asleep. The Christmas tree looks beautiful with the lights reflecting off the gift wrap of the presents. I think everybody is going to be delighted with Santa's surprises- if they would only wake up!
I'll post photos after everything is unwrapped and the excitement settles down. I just wanted to pop onto my blog this morning to wish everybody a wonderful Christmas. Thank you for following my journey through this wonderful and difficult year. May today bring nothing but happiness and joy.
About Me
- Peggy
- I am a below knee amputee. More importantly, I am also Mommy to two boys, a very active 10 year old (Robby) and an mischievous toddler (Timmy). I have learned that being a parent with a disability can create some unusual and sometimes humorous situations. This blogger is available for hire! Let's talk and learn how a blog can expand your business.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Merry Christmas
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It's April Favourites time! April has been a funny old month. It snowed, followed by sunshine. It didn't really know what it was doing. That meant I didn't really know what I was doing. This month has gone really quick because I feel like I have been in this bubble of uni work, late nights and busy weekends. I don't feel like I have stopped, but I don't feel bad for it. I feel like a lot has happened, and I am really excited for the months to come. Some much needed R&R over the summer I think..
Anyway, that's then. Here is what I am loving now.
I went to see Jungle Book last weekend, and by far, this was my favourite things I watched all month. It was great. For those of you who haven't seen it, it does stick to the original story and yes, there are songs included. But it is amazing, the CGI in it is fascinating. I jumped out of my seat a few times, there were nearly tears and there were quite a few dance moves from me too. What more do you want from a kids film?
If you can still go and see it, then I would most definitely recommend.
My favourite picture this month came straight from my office. You may already know this, but it was the Queens 90th birthday this month, which I find pretty incredible! She still works and she is 90 years old. Can't really fault that can you? To mark the occasion we had a mini little afternoon tea in our office that consisted of a huge cream sponge cake, some scones and lots of cups of tea. We all wore tiaras and crowns, and it was just a lovely way to spend 20 minutes of our busy day to appreciate Queen Liz!
My favourite product this month has been a bit of a rediscovery. Soap and Glory thick and fast mascara! This is my second tube of the stuff, but I have a little bit of a love-hate relationship with it. I feel like you have to let it dry out slightly before it really gets good. And I have had this a little while now so it is definitely a little bit drier than when I got it.
It is so good! I find it gives a really nice dramatic look to the eyes. Great for when I am wanting something a little more 'wow'. It is really heavily pigmented meaning it comes out properly black. It gives length, volume and it doesn't clump or smudge. It just gives really fluttery lashes and looks amazing. I have been using it non stop!
This month I really discovered Sinead from Love Style Mindfulness. I have been following her on instagram for a while, but due to instagrams new setting I really noticed how much I was regularly liking her pictures. Honestly, her photography is on point. I looked into her blog, and got lost for a few hours. I really enjoy her words, almost as much as her pictures! She writes amazing fashion posts, and then lifestyle and general posts too.
One to check out for sure!
My favourite clothing item is a pair of heels. I have a funny relationships with heels, because I love them and I always will love them. I love looking at them and shopping for them, I love how they look on people and how confident they make you feel. However, I am not the best at walking in them. And if they're not comfy, I disregard them instantly.
But I think I have found the winning pair. This pair of simple black sandals from Dorothy Perkings are amazing! I have worn them at every occasion I can this month. They are not too high, but high enough to give you that heel feeling. They are super comfy and they are so simple and classy that they go with everything without making you look too over dresses.
I have feel a serious friendship forming between me and these heels.
Me and Matthew have eaten bad this month. Seriously, bad. We didn't go food shopping for three weeks of April, which means that takeaways and lots of buying food out has come in to play. But, there are two foods that I have really really been enjoying and are my favourites from this month! The first one is super naughty, but it is a summer staple. White Chocolate Magnums.
We saw them on offer at Morrisons and had to get them. And I ate my half of the box pretty quickly, and then had to have some serious self control whilst Matthew's lay untouched in the freezer. They are so good and I need some more in my life now!
The second thing I am loving this month is Hummus. I have always kind of liked hummus but one day I just got some and now I love it. I want to eat it all the time, and I don't even know why. I have just properly got a taste for it and became obsessed this month. Yummy.
April marked the month of my beautiful niece being Christened, so obviously that was going to make it in to a faourite post. It was such a lovely day. We live quite a distance away from each other so I don't get to see her as often as I would like, so when I do see her it is amazing to see how much she has grown and how much she is coming along.
I know I am biased but she really is beautiful, and so happy too. I do love a happy baby!


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Samizdata's David Carr has an interesting viewpoint on the possible significance of the Spanish election results for Al-Qaeda:
But in one sense, it may not matter why Aznar and his centre-right government lost. If Al-Qaeda did orchestrate the Madrid attack (and it appears increasingly likely that they did) then they will chalk this up as a major success. In their own minds, they have successfully terrorised the Spanish electorate into installing a government that was more to Islamicist liking.
That may not actually be true, but the danger lies in these maniacs believing it to be true.


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Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Grandma Phindy
Just a quick post this evening....
I just love this image from Phindys!!!
You have seen her recently done up Christmas fashion, so today I did her up in fall fashion.
She goes along with this weeks challenge over at Phindys blog which is fall, check it out and all the DT inspiration too here - www.phindysplacechallenge.blogspot.com
I colored her with copics and cut her out with a Spellbinders die and layered her to some DP that was cut with another Spellbinders die.
All for today - Take Care
Posted by stampqueen at 5:14 PM
Labels: Phindy's Place
1 comment:
- Anne said...
Hi Tera what a great image for autumn, I love the way you used Nana for different themes and this card is beautiful. Thanks for joining us in celebrating Autumn at Phindy's Place this week, hope you'll join us again.
Don't forget, this Friday it is Anything Goes as long as you use a Phindy image:)
- October 7, 2011 at 12:16 PM
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