Life and Times of a Bored Person

On the Road Again!

2007-06-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

Guess what I have now? A driver's license. Not only that, I have a truck and I feel like I am almost human now. Next step, get a better job. Stay tuned.

Photos of Nate the Great

2007-06-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

My favorite little man will be three on the 30th of the month. Wow! So hard to believe. What is the best gift I can give him? Time. I am trying so hard to quit smoking cigarettes, so I will have that time to give him. Just look at him!

Wish me luck and pray for me to find the strength to overcome this addiction.

Life is returning ever so slowly to normal. So close to being able to drive again. I will be going to get my license on 6/8/07 ~ I hope. I have got a truck, insurance and my reinstatement fees paid. I have to take both the skills test and the written test.

George Carlin's Proposal to Solve Two Problems

2007-05-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

I thought this was too funny and a very, very good idea:

Bush wants us to cut the amount of gas we use. The best way to stop using so much gas is to deport 11 million illegal immigrants! That would be 11 million less people using our gas. The price of gas would come down. Bring our troops home from Iraq to guard the border. When they catch an illegal immigrant crossing the border, hand him a canteen, rifle and some ammo and ship him to Iraq. Tell him if he wants to come to America then he must serve a tour in the military. Give him a soldier's pay while he's there and tax him on it. After his tour, he will be allowed to become a citizen since he defended this country. He will also be registered to be taxed and be a legal patriot. This option will probably deter illegal immigration and provide a solution for the troops in Iraq and the aliens trying to make a better life for themselves. If they refuse to serve, ship them to Iraq anyway, without the canteen, rifle or ammo. Problem solved. If you think this is a good solution to both of the problems, forward this onto your friends.

I am nearing the end of my ordeal with license and legal charges that I incurred last year. I have applied for the charges to be expunged and should be clear in about 4-6 weeks (county offices, jesh!) and my last ADSAP class is tomorrow. So, next week I will be getting a license - I have already received several unsolicited lectures as to the dangers of drinking and driving. I have endured this with very little grace and almost no patience. Thanks to my friends for listening to me whine for over a year. I love you guys - all three of you - with all my heart.

Feeling Better

2007-02-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

I have resolved some of the issues that were involved in my last post, "Valentines Day Curse Strikes Again". The issues I resolved are mine, not Rick's. He is still holding on to the idea that I did the unforgivable. I know better.
We went to dinner and a movie last night. Had dinner at O'Charley's (passable) and went to see Ghost Rider (great effects and story). Very little discussion, but the little that was said I was able to maintain without emotions overcoming me. I basically told him that if he believed that I was honestly trying to reconcile with my ex then maybe we were wasting our time and all we had left was friendship; and maybe not even that. I also told him that since he called me his ex's name while drinking on several occasions, then maybe he really wanted to be with her and not me. He backed this up by saying at least I didn't call her and tell her I wanted to move to the area she was living. Whatever.
I am to the point that I don't care which way it goes, but I know I will not wait around forever for him to figure out what he can or cannot accept.
Other than all that, I am still searching for a job and it is the most frustrating process. I spend my days searching for a job and not much else. The weather here is great, nearly 70 every day and down in the 40's at night. Spring has sprung! Thank you God!

Valentines Curse Strikes Again

2007-02-21T16:50:00.000-08:00

Now I remember why I hate Valentines Day. Even if this happened a few days after, it is just too close for comfort.

Rick overheard me speaking to Fannie's father and I was venting about him being controlling and overly jealous. I made a remark of how if things didn't work out I had been thinking about moving back to Columbia, SC. I have three children who live there and I lived there for 10 years. Since Rick heard this he has basically ended it with me and told me he cannot trust me and if I wanted to be with my ex then that is what I should do. I never said I was going back to my ex, just thinking of moving back to Columbia if things didn't work out. I had lunch with him today and he told me I might as well have had sex with someone else, cause a "knife in the heart feels the same either way". The reason I was venting....He called me his ex's name at a really awkward moment; if you get my drift. It hurt and maybe subconsciously I wanted to make him jealous. We were both drinking. I know now for 100% I cannot drink and lose control of my feelings. I have verified with my ex everything I thought I said was what I said and there was no misunderstanding that I was wanting to reconcile.

Rick has shown me several times how jealous he is and he is controlling. I have apologized for hurting his feelings, he says he has trust issues and cannot forget what I did. I don't know if what I did is so unforgivable. Yes, I should have talked to him and not someone else. If anyone out there has an idea let me know; please.

I am not sure it is worth working on if I am going to be punished for my mistakes like this. I was basically living with him, he promptly dropped me off at my mother's and told me the next day that he didn't think he would be able to work this out. We had lunch today and he made a date with me for Friday night. Why? I know I have to keep my emotions under control when I am around him. I am just waiting to see how this pans out.

How can you be so happy one day and the next day think it is not worth working out? Help!

Too bad the media didn't find this "newsworthy" - I DO!

2007-02-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

I received an email from my Momma and wanted to pass it on here. Our troops get so much negative press and there has to be more stories like this happening over there everyday. I wonder if the support of the war would increase if items like this were made known and things like body counts were unknown. I support our troops one hundred percent, but I still believe a quote I heard once -"War doesn't prove whose right, it just proves whose left." I don't know who said it, as many movies as I watch it may just be a movie quote that stuck with me. I have always been of the mind that war is a necessary evil and I continue to pray for Peace, Love & Happiness for all.

Here is the link to that story:
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/THISWILLMAKEYOUPROUD.HTML

Just keep swimming.....

2007-02-05T06:34:00.000-08:00

Just about sums up my life right now; just keep swimming.
I am looking for a job again, I got laid off at Sonny's Camp N Travel on December 5, 2006. I was told there was not enough work for everyone that worked in the service department and since he had just hired his brother to "manage" the service department, I was going to be laid off. I miss it and I know I am missed as Rick is still struggling to get parts for his repairs when that was not an issue when I was there. If Rick is not getting his parts, then I am sure the other tech's are in the same situation.
I have three more classes left to complete my requirements for Pretrial Intervention. Then I can have all that expunged from my record and start looking at county jobs also. I get my license back on April 28, 2007 and then I get to pay for SR22 insurance for a few years. I have so learned my lesson. Driving is one of my favorite things to do and I so miss it. The only driving I do is on a golfcart now and that can only go as far as Jeannie's house.
Rick and I are doing good. It is so nice to be with someone who appreciates the little things I do for him. As he is going through a divorce, we try to be discrete about our relationship. I stay half the week at Mom's and the other half at his home in Bonneau.
Please keep the prayers coming and I love you all my friends.
PS>>I am so proud of Tony Dungy. He deserves his Super Bowl ring and all the glory that comes with it. A lot has being made of his gentleness and caring this week, and it makes me very proud to see a fine gentleman become a role model for our children. In recent years we have not always had good role models for our boys and I can honestly hope that that is changing now.

Counting My Blessings.

2006-12-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

This holiday season has been very depressing for me and I keep having to remind myself that I have so many blessing and have so much to thank God for everyday. First of all I got laid off of the job I dearly loved. I didn't love the people I worked with directly, but made a couple really precious friends. As the company is getting ready to be taken over in January, I was told I could come back then. As of yesterday I was told by the President of the new company that I was no longer any employee of Sonny's; therefore I did not have a job to come back to. I sent in my resume and application, as instructed and am waiting for a reply. I had moved in with my boyfriend and have had to move out due to some circumstances beyond our control. My youngest daughter's grandfather passed away this past Saturday and it has been very difficult for her to deal with. So, I am counting my blessings repeatedly, to remind myself how lucky I really am.

1. I have a wonderful family, who loves me and would do anything for me.
2. I have a wonderful man in my life that wants to spend the rest of his life with me and is willing to do anything we have to to accomplish that goal.
3. I have the best friends that anyone could hope for. I may not communicate with them as often as I would like and most of them live in different cities; but I know they are always there for me and I am always in their thoughts and prayers.
4. Last, but definitely not least; I have a loving Savior that is watching over me and rooting for me through all my trials and tribulations.

So, that is my list of blessing. Here's hoping you know what your blessings are and that you are as thankful for them as I am of mine.
Peace, Love & Happiness to All.

Update

2006-11-29T04:33:00.000-08:00

Wow, it has been a long time since I posted anything on here or even read any of the blogs I frequent. I have been very busy trying to work, do community service, go to classess for PTI and enjoying my new man's attention. I have been fishing some and caught some pretty nice Striper, the biggest being 30" and about 11 pounds.
Thanksgiving was spent in the emergency room. I have developed a nasty allergy to peanuts and the turkey was deep fried in it. I guess I am just not the brightest, I carefully avoided all nuts or so I thought. Even my family didn't put peanuts and peanut oil together.
I hope all is well with everyone and I will try to update more often.
Peace, Love & Happiness.

I want my Country back!

2006-10-17T03:54:00.000-07:00

My mother sent me this and I thought it fitting for our times:

By Rick Roberts - 760 KFMB AM
I don't mean to go off on a rant here, but here's the bottom line, I want my country back.
I want my kids to be able to walk to the store or walk to school without being abducted by some 3-time convicted child molester. And the politically correct powers that be in this country just can't seem to get over themselves with "CAN'T WE JUST HELP THIS PERSON!" No! You can't. But they're let loose to prey on more children. I want my kids back. I want my country back.
I don't agree with everything this President does. I've never agreed with anything 100% that any President has done or said. You know, I was very young during the Vietnam War. So I probably missed that thing by a hair. I don't know whether I would have agreed with that or not at the time. I was too stupid to have an opinion at that point and time even though I thought I did. I want my country back.
I want some semblance of respect for authority, whether I agree with it all or not. I want the Boy Scouts to be "boy" scouts, not boy and "we think she's a girl" scouts. I want Girl Scouts to be "girl" scouts not Girl Scouts and "Bruce." I want my country back.
I want to be able to wake up in the morning knowing that I can walk outside without some gang-banger on parolee taking my life.
Or being able to go down and purchase a car without having to worry about 90% of the parts being made overseas in some sweatshop.
I want my politicians, when they finally do get my vote, to do what the hell they said they were going to do in the first place. I want the Abramoff's of the world to be labeled what they are....nothing more than organized crime in a better suit. I want them to say something and when they say something look at me in the eye. And mean what they say, not say what they think I want to hear. And then do what they want to later politically or any other way.
I want to be able to go out and work and make a decent wage and buy a home. Half the people that are listening to me right now can't even afford to buy a house unless they're working three jobs.
And I want America to be America . All of those opportunities, all of those things that made her great, I want those returned to the forefront. If you want to come to this country we welcome you with open arms. We simply ask that you abide by our laws. I don't want you to snub your nose at our laws, then take advantage of our opportunities, and then cling to the Constitution - most of which you can't even read because you don't speak the language. I want us to secure our borders because the country is worth securing. The people that live here are worth protecting. I want my country back.
I want my children back. I want some semblance of what this country used to be. It's worth protecting. It's worth defending. I don't recognize this country anymore. Not politically, not philosophically, not spiritually. Whether you like it or whether you don't, God was a part of building this great nation. To remove God is to take away the very foundation of what this country was all about.
I don't care about your political correctness! I don't want to know your sexual preference! I could care less about all of that. Stop making it the headline of the day! That's not America . I want my country back!
And the only way I'm ever going to be able to get this country back is if I reach out to the brothers and the sisters that all feel the same way and we say "Hell, No! You can't have our country." It's not for sale! Take the price tag off this country! Take the price tag off the heads of our children! Stop it already!
To politically-correct-psychobabble-hug-a-tree-experts ~~ you are not qualified to release sex offenders back into our neighborhoods. The southern border, more than any other border, needs to be secured tomorrow. For all those that wish to come to this country to take advantage of her opportunity, to live under a Constitution~ a living document that breathes in and out just like you do ~ this country is not for sale. I should know. I'm one of the owners. You can't sell it without my permission.
I want my country back!
By Rick Roberts - 760 KFMB AM

Fall Bike Week 2006

2006-10-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend! I went to Bike Week in Myrtle Beach with my new guy friend, Rick. We rode around, looked at a lot of gorgeous bikes and then went to a really nice hotel and ordered room service. It rained on the way back, so we stopped at The Kickin Horse Saloon for awhile. I don't think he wanted the weekend to end anymore than I did. Time to sleep now.
I am happy and hope it stays this way.

For my good Friend, Patty.

2006-09-06T04:23:00.000-07:00

Good Advice

2006-08-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

"Make a decision and stick with it. After all, you know what the truth is and you know what should be done about it. Don't be afraid to speak your mind, for you have the authority now to tell it exactly like it is. Granted, you may upset someone with your uncharacteristic obstinacy, but don't let this be your primary concern. You need to say what is real and then deal with the consequences as they play out."

Against my better judgment, I gave my heart away and it got bruised. I had plans to spend the night with my new man on Friday & was blown off. I am shocked. This man is almost 20 years older than me, but doesn't seem to learned some of the basic considerations that we should all have by nearly 60. It is cool though, at least I was not in too deep and can walk away and hold my head up high. I work with this person, so will have to see him everyday. I can deal with that; I have dealt with worse situations and lived. I knew I was not ready, but was talked into this relationship. Live and learn.

I really hate this game!

Waiting.....

2006-08-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Life has settled into a peaceful lull. The waiting is the only difficult chore I have at this point. Waiting for time to pass, so I can go on with the "normal life" I used to take for granted. I know one day all of this waiting will be over and I will be able to do the things I cannot now. For now, I just have to wait. Wait for my PTI to begin and then end. Wait for the time I can get my license back again. Wait for the SR22 period to be over. Wait to be on my own again. Wait to open my heart & soul to someone who will honestly appreciates the person I am and not judge me for these mistakes I have made. You have no idea how suffocated I feel. Simple things I used to do, like going naked from the bathroom to my room or listening to my stereo on 22 first thing in the morning to get going, I miss them so very much! Driving to Columbia to see Fannie or going anywhere by myself, I also miss those things and long to be the person I was before I screwed up. I was talking to a friend of mine, a teacher for mentally challenged students, who had just got her second DUI in the last month. She is basically living on people's couch, and I feel the same way. Yeah, I have a bed and my own area, but nothing private or totally my own. I thought about it later after talking with her, "Wow, I am not the only one that has done stupid things like this at my age!". Honestly, I have kicked myself for "not acting my age" and getting in all this trouble at my age. I know my story better than most and I was deprived of the "wild years", I have always been a mother. First to my sister & brother and then to my own children. I have constantly been told, in my past and present, to act my age by my Mother. I really don't understand that, because I don't feel like I am pushing 40. I still am the same person basically that I have always been. Maybe a little wiser, but still very naive - by choice! Maybe a little more cautious - but still not afraid of much of anything (well, except spiders; but I have always been) and definitely still optimistic about love, life & mankind.
So, here I am waiting.
Peace, Love & Happiness!

Update on Aunt Katie

2006-07-26T18:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Everyone for your thoughts & Prayers for my Aunt Katie, she is recovering and fighting to get out of the hospital. Just like normal.

Prayer Request

2006-07-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday (my goodness, it has been less than a week, but seems much longer), my Aunt Katie & her husband Ray Hayes were in a horrible car accident. My Aunt had to have surgery to repair her brain covering and bring her forehead back to the normal position; it was pushed 4 inches back. Yesterday, we were breathing a sigh of relief. She was sitting up and eating and laughing and crying; just being a normal person. Well, last night she started leaking cerebral fluid from her nose. When my step dad went to visit her this morning, they were not able to go back into ICU; even though everyone else could. Bad sign! They did surgery on her, obviously and we have heard nothing from my step dad so far. Really worried now. Please pray for her. Thanks!

2006-07-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

I found this on one of the blogs I visit, it is by Yankee Bob. I found it really summed up alot of what I am feeling right now, thanks Yankee Bob.

Here it is:

In my past life I had a kick ass time. In my current life I am challenged to find fun. In my past life I had many many friends. In my current life I tend to be alone a lot. In my past life I was spontaneous. You never knew what I'd do nor where I'd end up. In my current life I'm dependable and predictable.In my past life I had adventures that would make you wonder if I was telling the truth. In my current life adventures come from vicarious living.In my past life I had trouble beyond compare. In my current life I get into trouble when I forget to take out the garbage.In my past life nothing was real. In my current life everything is very real.In my past life I thought I knew what living was. In my current life, I'm still wondering what it's all about.Comparisons don't get you anywhere. Now is just different. It's less adventurous but safer. It's less trouble but also less interesting. It's boring most of the time but not as frustrating. It's just how now has shaped up. So why is it so hard to take? Daily. Hard. To. Take. Maybe I'm not cut out for being all grown up?

The State of Mind Address

2006-07-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, where do I begin???
Not many people even read this blog, so I guess it really doesn't make a big difference where I start. Or if I skip around a lot. Hell, it doesn't matter if I say anything at all really.

Home life.
I live with my Momma. I don't even see the end of this path and it makes me feel like the biggest loser in the Universe. I found out this week that I will not be able to get a drivers license until April 25, 2007 at 12:01 am; like the damn DMV will be open then! Why do they even put that on the letter? If that date sounds familiar to my many readers out there, it is the same night I screwed up and got my DUI. The reason they gave me so long was, well I am a dumbass. I refused the breathalizer, I got a DUI and I left the scene of an accident twice that night; therefore I lost my license three times that night. Once for not taking the test, once for DUI and once for losing all my points. So, after I get my drivers license back I get to pay for SR22 insurance for three years. How the hell I am suppose to pay for all that and regular bills and eat; I just don't know. Basically, home life sucks; cause I hate living with my Momma. I wish she would do something other than exist. She has given up on life and wonders why she is so unhappy! Her only activities are playing on the computer, going to the WH for coffee with the geriatric group and doctor's appointments. I feel like a shit for being critical of her, but damn she is only 61 and acts as if her life is over.

Work.
I really love my job most days. I am the low man on the totem pole, so my views are not as respected as others in my department. The place I work is 90% family and it is nice most of the times. My immediate supervisor is the owner's sister. Bless her heart, she is not the brightest crayon and very scattered brained too boot. She tries too hard to do everything and ends up accomplishing very little. And this is the pattern she follows everyday. Everybody that knows me knows I am very detailed; almost to the obsessive point. This woman makes me crazy with her lack of organization. The part time woman that works with us is a puzzle to me, very moody and since she only works part time a lot of her work is scattered too. The technicians that work in the shop love that they finally get their parts and supplies in a timely manner and have heaped kudos on me galore. I am too critical of myself and feel like I should be doing more to help with the organization of the department, but I feel as if I am shoveling snow in a blizzard.

Personal Life.
I have got to spend a good amount of time with the children and have enjoyed it immensely. I have made a commitment to be without a relationship for a year. I am lonely. I hate being alone. I feel like an empty shell. That is so pathetic. I have very few friends and I have no choice but to keep it that way. I cannot drive and I live with my parents. I am kind of confused about one person in my life right now. I work with him and socialize with him. He is coming out of a horrible divorce and it really scarred him, plus his health is not the best. I have known him for quiet a while and it is really ironic how he keeps showing up in my life. Believe me, I am not ready for anything more than a friendship and he has not infringed on that in the least. He does make comments at times that throw me off and I find I really enjoy being around him. I will let you know how I feel about this all when I figure it out. My best friend has been very supportive thru this time in my life and if I didn't have this job I would be out of here and sitting in Seattle right now. I feel like I have been a poisonous friend lately though; I feel like I never have anything good to report. Only bad news and lets face it who wants to always hear that shit?

So, there it is. Come back(all two of you that read this) in a few months and maybe, just maybe I might have something positive to share.

A Day with the (Other) Cool Kids

2006-07-09T17:41:00.000-07:00

Stephanie, Molly & I went to the waterpark today and had a great time. I cannot believe they like to hang out with me, but really they do!! Of course, it was hot and humid but at least we had a little bit of a breeze to enjoy.

They were equally confused by this sign, how about you? I really think the blood coming from the head wound is a nice touch.

Happy 4th of July to All

2006-07-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July. Thanks to all the Military, we get to enjoy a day of celebration.

Pray for Peace, but Fight for Freedom!

Getting By with a Little Help From Friend

2006-07-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

A mouse rides on the back of a frog in floodwaters in the northern Indian city Lucknow June 30, 2006. REUTERS/Pawan Kumar (INDIA)

Superman Returns

2006-07-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

I went and saw the movie Superman Returns and I personally think it was well made and definitely worth seeing. I saw it at the IMAX theater, but think it would be just as fabulous in a conventional venue.
As a child who grew up reading comic books, and Superman being one of my favorites, it was nice to see the way the scenes in this movie actually depicted the comic book scenes from the past. Also, the final scene pays tribute to Christopher Reeves in a way that touched my heart.

Kevin Spacey plays Lex Luther and as always, his performance lacked nothing. He is one of the most versatile actors of our time and did an excellent job. Brandon Routh plays Superman and was an acceptable choice, but who can replace Reeves?

I am not really great at this movie review thing, basically because I usually fall asleep at all movies I go to. I didn't with this one, that says a lot in my opinion. For other movie reviews follow this link. Superman Returns is not on there yet, but I am sure it will be eventually.

Bad Habits

2006-06-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

A 26-year-old chimpanzee enjoys a cigarette at the zoo in Xian, China in August 2005. Xiku the chain-smoking chimpanzee has almost kicked his deadly habit thanks to the efforts of zoo keepers in China, but it has taken a beer or two to help get him through detox.(AFP/File)

Maybe he needs one of these.....

A Day with the Kids

2006-06-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a very nice day with the children. My Momma got all of us tickets to go to Whirlin Waters for a day of FUN. To say the least my sister-in-law and I are tired and drinking coffee and recovering. The children (Fannie, Delaney, Lance Jr. & Alex) are still going. The park is pretty tame compared to Adventure Island in Tampa, but still a nice days outing.
I hope everyone is having a nice weekend with their families and I am going to slather on the after sun lotion.
Peace, Love & Happiness!

Fate's Twisted Sense of Horror

2006-06-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

Today in History....

June 19 1999
While taking a walk, horror author Stephen King is struck by a van piloted by a distracted Bryan Smith. King's extensive injuries (broken leg, broken hip, lacerated scalp and collapsed lung) remanded him to a hospital bed for three weeks. Smith would later die in his sleep on Stephen King's birthday.

Does anyone else find this as strange as I do???

Sweet Sixteen for Stephanie

2006-06-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Stephanie, is celebrating her 16th birthday today. Sarah Beth and I went to her surprise party on Saturday night. It was fun and I believe she was trully surprised.

Today in History

2006-06-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

Jun 13 1920
The United States Postal Service rules that children may not be sent via Parcel Post.

In the United States, parcel post is generally one of the most inexpensive ways to ship, and often one of the slower methods. It is often associated with heavier packages, although according to the United States Postal Service website, items mailed via parcel post can weigh up to 70 pounds. This system was started by US President William Howard Taft.

So, you can send them another way?

Check out the new stamp being released this year!
American Motorcycles
In early August, during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, SD, the role of motorcycles in American culture will be recognized on four "American Motorcycles" stamps featuring digital illustrations of a 1918 Cleveland, a 1940 Indian Four, a 1965 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide, and a circa 1970 chopper. The Cleveland, Indian and Harley-Davidson stamps are based on motorcycles in existence today. The circa 1970 chopper featured on the stamp was created by stamp artist Steve Buchanan in consultation with professional chopper builders. Although lacking various safety features such as mirrors and turn signals that are usually required under today's laws, this chopper would have been street-legal in 1970.

2006-06-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

Mood of the day, here's hoping your's is better!

Maybe I am not so angry after all....

2006-06-09T18:22:00.000-07:00

In my opinion I believe my self to be an angry person. Not the raving maniac that you see in traffic or the type who would go "postal", I have these visualization sometimes of violent acts that I would like to do. In the past, I have acted on them, but mostly I don't. While reading on the Internet tonight I think I may have found someone who couldn't control themselves. A woman angry that her new puppy had died pushed her way into a dog breeder's home and repeatedly hit her on the head with the dead Chihuahua. Well, that is just one other person, so I continue reading and find a Des Moines pastor shot a mentally disabled boy with a BB gun after he ignored the pastor's warning not to knock on his door. Okay, I read on. I know I enjoyed my animals in the country and believe they mellowed me out. I truly miss them and believe that most people who have the chance to be around them would feel the same. Even though the whole incident ended peacefully, The Egg Farmers of Ontario have laid charges against a farming couple who became locked in a tense standoff with police when the federal food inspectors raided their chicken farm. The couple and about 40 protesters became involved in a shoving match during a 10-hour standoff with police on March 23 at their farm in Spencerville, south of Ottawa near Hwy. 401. At one point, someone used a front-end loader to push an OPP officer back from the entrance to the farm's driveway.
Maybe I am not so angry after all....

Progress

2006-05-31T06:25:00.000-07:00

Would you call it progress if a cannibal used a knife and a fork? Sure, any compromise in behavior is definitely progress.
I have made a lot of progress over the past month. I know what I want and am working on my "game plan". It is a game, is one of many things I have discovered. We are all just players in the big game of life and the out come is mostly in our hands. Outside influences can only effect you if you allow them, but there are things out of our control also. I have learned also that the past is called the past for a reason, it is already behind you and regardless if it just happened yesterday, it is still in the past and cannot be changed.
I had court on the child neglect and possession charges yesterday and was offered PTI; pretrial intervention. Upon completion, it will be as if I never was arrested. The DUI and leaving the scene of the accident; times 2 hearing was last week and I have lots of fines to pay and have lost my license for 6 months. I can live with that. So, all that is in the past and I am looking forward to moving on in a positive direction.
I am still clean, no alcohol or green. Both have been offered and I had the strength to refuse. I can actually take a drug test; which is something I have not been able to say for years!
I start a new job doing office work at a RV dealership on Thursday. It is less than 10 minutes from my mother's home, so after the fines are paid and I am able to save towards my getting my own place again I know it will be close to Momma and the area I grew up in.
I am still on the Prozac, but may be ready to wean off of it soon. I will decide later.
Thank you again for all your prayers, I feel them constantly and really appreciate them.
Peace, Love and Happiness to you all.

I am Back

2006-05-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

I am back from the Crisis stabilization Unit and I do feel somewhat better. I still want to smoke the green, but I do not want a drink. The counselors told me the urge will be there for about 6 months...so by Christmas I ought to be over the toughest part of my recovery and even then I may have cravings for it when confronted with it. Seems such a long time, but I know the end result will be a better life, not to mention a better job and the money I used to spend on that may just materialize into a new Harley; that is my goal.
Thank you to all my friends, especially Badpatty & Loner, for all the prayers.

WTF?

2006-05-08T18:45:00.000-07:00

I went to the hospital. They kept me overnight; still sleep escaped me as I was in a strange place and everything on my mind. I did get 3 1/2 hours; which is more then I have got in a row in months unless I was pass out drunk. Since I am still sober and want to stay that way, that is not an option. They had to give me two Ambien for me to get that much sleep and I am only 112 pounds. Should have put me out for at least 8 hours.
Anyways last night they told me that they had a bed at MUSC that would available today. When I woke today, the bed was no longer available, huh? So they found a bed at a place call Crisis Center. They failed to tell me it was a shelter; which I don't need. (I have family, a church and friends if I really need a place to go) About 5 pm these two ladies show up to pick me up. Mind you I am in a long nightgown and slippers. As we are walking out to the car they are transporting me in, they start asking questions about any previous Department of Mental Health care that I may have received. since I have never used them I told them there was none. They said that that was awful hard to believe since they had record of someone with my same birthdate and SSN received service in 93. I had services for my son and since I took him and was the adult, I had to give my information. Then they start asking me where I got the valium that was found in my system and about the pot I smoked the day I was admitted. I answered there questions and stated that I had only been off pot for about 14 days and knew it would show. They basically called me a liar. Then they told me that this place was for current issues, not 30 years worth of baggage. I told them to take me back to the hospital. At this point they began talking between themselves as if I were absent or deaf. They were discussing there day and then said, "And now we have this white girl giving us a hard time." I am proud to be a Cherokee and I am far from being a girl anymore. They pulled up at the hospital and the driver told the passenger, "Let her out." They dropped me off, dressed as I was outside the emergency room door.
I don't like to complain. The room at the hospital was filthy, blood on walls and floors. The tag on the bed said it was cleaned on 4/29/06. Then the way I was treated by the so called help I was receiving, I may just have to complain and my Momma is ready to see heads roll. (In this process they told me they couldn't recommend another hospital, like MUSC; huh?)
When I went back in the hospital and told them all this with my Momma, they had me sign a hand-written promisary note that said I wouldn't kill myself or anyone else before I sought treatment tomorrow without calling 911 and coming back to them. Like I was planning on hurting myself or someone else, I only wanted help with this depression. Like I would want to go back to them anyways. I will go get help somewhere else tomorrow, but I feel like the place I went was only interested in covering their own asses from a lawsuit.
Not only do I hate myself, I really am beginning to hate SC and regret coming back from Tampa.

See you when I get back

2006-05-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

I am on my way to the hospital to check myself in to get some mental help. Please pray for me. I don't want to hate myself anymore. All my friends, I love you and will let you know when I am back.

A Hard Look at My Life as it Stands Now.

2006-05-06T04:01:00.000-07:00

I am a screw-up.
I do not make good choices.
I miss Wonderful Man.
I have to take some responsibility for how the relationship ended, because I know I can be one mean bitch when I get angry and drink. It has been 11 days since I have had a drink and I want one (or a million) so badly. On April 25th I was charged with leaving the scene of two accidents (I hit two parked cars leaving the bar after meeting with Wonderful Man) and a DUI. My other charges that I wouldn't talk about before are as follows: Child neglect by a custodian( Nate the Great was with me during fight and drinking; asleep, but still with me), possession of weed and paraphanalia (I did not know it was there, and truthfully it was a piece no longer than 5 cm, the paraphanalia was not mine, but in the house that belonged to me). I cannot really say I think I am an alcoholic, as my body is not addicted to it...I am a depressed person with no self worth and have been for years (Lots of baggage: molested as a child, horrible husband who remarried without divorcing me, step-mother who killed herself, just to name a few). Anyone who knows me probably thinks I am happy and secure; it's an act that I have gotten real good at. I hate myself.
I am basically homeless.
Now, I am not wanting anyone to feel sorry for me; I deserve everything I have gotten myself into. I may be going to jail, as I don't think I will be able to pay my fines. The lawyer representing me on the first charges wants 6500.00 more to handle the second set of charges; the first set I paid 5000.00. If I go to jail, I don't think it will be to good for my depression. I would never hurt myself intentionally; but I could careless what happens to me. All my family and what few friends I have not pushed away care more than I a capable of doing for myself. I HATE MERI!

I AM still alive.

2006-04-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

A lot has gone on, and since I now live so far out in the country that Internet service is limited by a small town monopoly I have not been able to update this Blog.

I am searching for new employment, which will probably involve driving at least 40 miles one-way to; but the pay off is worth it! I have chickens and ducks (ducks just gave us 15 duckling) and turkeys. I can see ALL the stars in the sky at night and the quite is almost deafening. I also have a beautiful garden going and am nearly ready to plant the spring veggies.

I also have had a lot to think about in my choice in men and will fill in the blanks when I figure it out.

My mother just had her birthday Monday and we had a wonderful day. My sister, my mother's beast friend; Sheila, and I went downtown with her for window shopping and lunch and wonderful little lunch restaurant named Joseph's(http://www.josephsofcharleston.com/ ). I am so grateful to be so close to my family. I have even been going to church with my sister and her family. It is amazing how much more I appreciate them after being gone from this area for so long.

Last, but not least, Happy birthday to Bad Patty. Have a drink for me.

Wonderful Man is Dead

2006-02-13T08:43:00.000-08:00

.....well not really; but he might as well be. Over the past few months I had seen a really different side to Wonderful Man. And of course, it ended pretty badly; I have basically been in hiding for the last week.
After numerous fights and disagreements, I had become very cool towards him and since I do not hide my feelings well; he knew it. I never thought I would end up in an abusive relationship again. I really cannot go into any details, as my lawyer has asked me to not discuss it. I have discovered how many friends I actually have and that I am blessed by the Lord in more ways then I thought.
My plans right now are so scattered, but once I figure it out, I will let you know the final results.

On a better note, my Bestest friend is coming to see her mother this coming weekend with her gentleman friend. I am so excited to get to see her! Lord knows I can use a hug or a million!

Unbelievable Article

2006-01-27T09:56:00.000-08:00

Judge to Rule on Merit of Christ Case
I cannot believe I saw this in the news. Obviously, a priest in Italy has broken two Laws by "abuse of popular belief" and "impersonation" for his claim that Jesus did live and was born to a couple named Mary & Joseph in Bethlehem.
The priest's atheist accuser, Luigi Cascioli, says the Roman Catholic Church has been deceiving people for 2,000 years with a fable that Christ existed, and that the Rev. Enrico Righi violated two Italian laws by reasserting the claim.

Seahawks vs. Steelers

2006-01-27T09:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, I really thought the Colts would be going to the coveted game this year; but it was not to be. I hoped the Bucs would at least get past the first round; but it was not to be.
I don't want to even express my pick for the Super Bowl!

My best friend sent me an amusing fact. Did you know that nine of the ten most watched TV programs of all-time are Super Bowls? Thanks LB.

Happy Birthday to Little Mama

2006-01-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

Today my daughter turns 17. Wow! We are taking her to Applebee's for dinner tonight, I should have pictures to post later. Happy Birthday to Sarah Gamble.......U R loved by many!

New Picture of Nate the Great

2006-01-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

I would say that Nate, the Great approved of Christmas.

Keeping up with the Pervs

2006-01-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

My brother forwarded me a site that will show all the registered sex offender on a map; so you will be able to click on each one to see a photo and details of their criminal involvement. Please save this and check regularly. I was surprised that my search turned up 179 offenders. The website link is: http://www.familywatchdog.us/

Teletubbies Revisited

2006-01-23T12:58:00.000-08:00

When my children were very young, one of them (Names are concealed to save any undo embarrassment) was hopelessly addicted to the Teletubbies. We had large stuffed tubbies and slippers and sheets and on and on. Well, today my grandson has found a VHS tape of the Tubbies. Now do not get me wrong, I loved this program. It was a really cool show for young children and I could enjoy the cheerful little innocent cherubs also; not like Barney who irritated me.
When I did a search for the Teletubbies this is what I got as the number one find.

White People Harmful to the Environment???

2006-01-20T07:58:00.000-08:00

According to an article on "Global Warming Could Spell Disaster for Blacks" the following statement was made: Relatively, Blacks are environmental Good Samaritans. Per capita, we (meaning blacks) emit approximately 20 percent less carbon dioxide than Whites – well below 2020 targets set by the U.S. Climate Stewardship Act. Not only do we use more energy-conserving public transportation, we spend considerably less per capita on energy-intensive material goods.
Where I live currently, there is no public transportation available for me to use. I would use it if I could, but rural areas rarely have that service.
Living in the South most of my life, I have heard a lot of black/white issues, but this one tops the list as absurd. EVERYONE will be affected by global warming in a negative way. EVERYONE needs to make an effort to keep pollution down. Why does EVERYTHING have to be a black/white issue?
I got this article off of BET.com; whichmakes sence that it is biased. That brings up another question I have; why now do we not have White Entertainment channels, magazines or websites?

Need a Getaway, but little cash?

2006-01-14T03:55:00.000-08:00

Spirit Air offers $9 fares to and from Turks & Caicos Islands
Conditions: Must be purchased on Spirit's website.
Offer will expire at 11:59 PM tonight.
The fares do not include local airport charges or government taxes and fees. Spirit said that government fees on international flights can be up to $125 round trip.

A Scarlet Letter for Misconduct in Tucson, AZ

2006-01-14T03:38:00.000-08:00

It’s not a scarlet letter. But it is a bunch of letters on a red tag stuck to someone’s house — if the occupants have gotten into trouble with the law for such things as parties, noise or litter.
Sounds like just another way to control how citizens use their "private property". Just goes to show how a couple of stupid assholes can ruin it for everyone.

Kids & A New Job in a familiar Place

2006-01-14T02:51:00.000-08:00

Over the Christmas Holidays, the children kept me busy doing one thing of another. They went and saw the movie Fun with Dick and Jane, not really my kind of movie. Jim Carey irritates me, but they enjoy his antics. We spent a lot of time at home, just hanging out and enjoying being together. I think everyone had a real nice Christmas.
I have encountered computer issues with installing my camera; missing parts of Windows XP Service Pack 2 CD. I have tried so many times to correct this error; I am at the point where I don't know what to do. Any ideas; please help!
I just couldn't go back to the Misfit Cleaners and work there one more day. I am not a wimp or lazy by anyone's definition of the words; but that was too hard of work for too little pay. I am now doing Customer Service at home. It is with a company called Work at Home Agent and seems to be okay. At least I don't have to leave the home.
Went over yesterday and spent the morning with my Momma and Sheila, planting flowers in her yard. My dad just completed (well 99.2% complete, needs to case in the bottom only) his latest project. He built an outhouse in his backyard. He told me the symbols on the front indicates either male or female; crescent moon for female and star for male. Once I figure out the camera issue, I will have a picture. Currently it is still in camera, just waiting to be downloaded.

Health Alert for DeKalb County

2006-01-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

A DeKalb County health inspector found a frozen guinea pig tucked in a freezer at La Sabrosa restaurant, 2857 Buford Highway. According to the chef of the restaurant it was for his personal consumption and even had a recipe that said to serve with salad and beer. Despite the frozen critter being found in the freezer where customer's food is kept, the inspector gave them an 87 on their inspection; which was up from it's previous inspection score of 79.

I really hope this is not one of JJ's & Stace's favorite restaurants, because I am sure this would ruin it for at least one of them.

More Drunk News

2006-01-06T07:58:00.000-08:00

Giving homeless alcoholics a regular supply of booze may improve their health and their behavior, the Canadian Medical Association Journal said in a study published on Tuesday.
The participants in this study experienced less encounters with law enforcement and also fewer hospital emergency room trips.

"The alcohol gets them in, builds the trust and then we have the opportunity to treat other medical diseases... It's about improving the quality of life." said Dr. Jeff Turnbull, one of the authors of the report.

Jumperpool.com

2006-01-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

Most of my friends and family know that I have lost several people I care about to suicide. My step-mother, Sandy, my cousin, Charles and a very good friend of mine, "Lissa. I am including a link to the Jumper Pool, a site I have mentioned before. I am prone to depression, as I believe a lot of people we all know are. Maybe even someone reading this right now is. I am just too stubborn to take a permanent solution to a temporary problem and I personally know my God would not want me to hurt everyone I love this way. NOTHING IS EVER THAT BAD! The Jumper Pool site promotes getting HELP, not jumping to your death.

www.jumperpool.com

Photo of Jumper ....note the horrified look on all the by-standers faces!

What?!?

2006-01-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

The School of Textiles and Design at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have begun what is believed to be the world's first-ever study on how women's clothing affects the bottom(AFP/Illustration).

Hmmm..... I really don't know what to add other than why is it just limited to the female bottom???

Bionic Dolphin

2006-01-03T06:05:00.000-08:00

I found a very cool watercraft while surfing the Net. It is made by Innespace Productions and is called the Bionic Dolphin. As you can see from the pictures is really looks like a dolphin and actually maneuvers like one also. They have other products like Jonah, an ocean rescue vehicle and the Shark, an electric dry ambient submersible.

Drunk New Alerts

2006-01-03T05:30:00.000-08:00

A new law goes into effect today that will require firstime driving under the influence offenders to wear orange vests emblazoned with the phrase "I am a Drunk Driver." The idea is to shame the drunk driver's into not becoming a second time offender. With over-crowding of jails and the billions of tax dollars it requires to maintain them; I think any thing is worth a try!

A judge in Kingston City faces censure after appearing in court as a lawyer and judge while drunk. Unfortunately, in NY they would not have a law like Tennessee; just might offend someone!

Wait a Second for New Year's

2005-12-30T19:33:00.000-08:00

This interesting bit of trivia came from my best friend. She just celebrated her birthday. When she is asked how old she was she said, "Twenty-one with experience." She is the one person who knows everything about me and still likes me.

Amusing Trivia
A leap second will be inserted in the world's clocks just before midnight on New Year's Eve. So, Jan. 1, 2006 will occur one second later than it would have otherwise. Leap seconds are needed occasionally because modern atomic clocks measure time with great accuracy, while the rotation of the Earth can be inconsistent.

Have a Happy & Safe New Year!

In Memory of James A. Dungy

2005-12-27T14:16:00.000-08:00

James "Jamie" A. Dungy was laid to rest at the Garden of Memories in Tampa, Florida today. May God bless his family and help them through this difficult time. Tony Dungy is one of the most respected men in the NFL and in the Tampa & Indianapolis Areas and my heart hurts for him and his family. Please remember him in your prayers.

Tis the Season

2005-12-24T06:23:00.000-08:00

Well, the shopping is 98% finished. I have been in more stores in the past month, than I have been in the whole past year. It really hasn't been that horrible. No crying fits or moody moments. My sister and her family came to visit last night, and of course those were the gifts I was putting off until last, since they were local. My Momma goes out there every Christmas morning to see the kids open their presents; so I will just send mine with her; but I wish I would have had them last night. Everytime we get together, I cannot help but miss Lance and his family. I know one day he will be closer and he is alot closer than he was when he was in England; but I miss my little bro so bad sometimes. My sister got me a precious gift. It is coasters with pictures of the kids in them. Too Cool! I have got to get ready to drive to Columbia and trade the kids. I get to pick up my oldest, Sean, and my youngest, Fanny. Peace, Love & Happiness to you all.

Gifts that just keep giving

2005-12-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

Everyone is looking for the perfect gift this time of year, here a few ideas.....

1. Be like a virgin again, one time use only.

2. A facial.

3. Jawbone.

I really don't want any of these, but someone you are shopping for might. This is what I want:

Merry Christmas and Blessed Yule!

Home Fires Burning Again

2005-12-14T12:48:00.000-08:00

The ac/heat repairmen came and repaired the heat.

It was the thermostat.

Quick Update on The Life

2005-12-12T06:02:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, I had the heating repairmen come out at "fix" my heater; which has been acting loopy since Thanksgiving. They declared it was working and left. Friday evening it took a dive again. Called the Owner and he said he would try to get someone out here......grrr. So, here it is Monday morning and I am again waiting on these gentlemen to repair this damn thing! I believe it is the thermostat, but they did not seem to even hear me when I offered that suggestion. I could almost read their thoughts, "Thermostat?!? What the hell does she know about this stuff?". Anyways, we will get it looked at today, if I have to call the Owner every hour.

Phew, I feel better getting that out.

My Wonderful Man and I went out Saturday night. Both of us had to work all day Saturday, so we decided dinner out and maybe stop by our friend, Danny's, for awhile and make an early night of it. We had a good dinner and seeing Danny is always a good time. He was getting up early to go fishing; so we only stayed a little while.
Sunday morning we woke up around eight o'clock and went to the Waffle House with his sister and nephew. His mother had seen somethings at the Swap Meet that she wanted for her kitchen and I figured between the four of us we would remember what she liked.
That taken care of we headed up to Columbia to see my daughter Stephanie and her step-sister Katie ride in the Blythewood Christmas Parade. For a small town parade, I was very impressed. Before we left the Columbia area we went by a quickly visited Fanny and Christopher. She is getting so excited about Christmas. On the way home, we stopped by Wally World and got the Christmas Tree. I think if I wouldn't have got it soon, Sarah Beth was gonna bring one home on her own and knowing her; somebody would have been missing a tree out of their yard.

This morning Wonderful Man and I debated whom was to stay home a get the heater problem resolved. I won, as I make less than him hourly. I was able to add links to my sidebar this morning; I am learning more and more about this Blogger; finally! Going to clean house now; lucky me. Owner of our home came by and said the thermostat needs to be reset (???) and gave instructions on how to do it. I guess I will try; but not to confident he knows what he is talking about.

WTG BUCS & COLTS....great games from the previews that I saw, since I was too busy to watch yesterday.

Harm Ye None

2005-12-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

The Wiccan religion has but one law: Do what you will but, harm ye none. If you think about it too long you will realize that it is the same as any other religion; just not as wordy. If you harm someone the hurt that you sent on to them will come back threefold. A witch in Palm Coast, Florida, Jill Pagan, is claiming she is being victimized by one of her fellow witches. She woke late Sunday night to a crash and discovered that someone had thrown a rock at her front door with a note attached, reading: " 'You've been warned. Stop what you're doing.' " Since the note was in the ancient language of Theban, a language used almost exclusively by witches, she suspects one of her fellow Pagans.
Sounds like a prank from some kids that have internet access to me.

The Day the Music Died

2005-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

John Lennon touched the lives of most everyone in my generation. For me the attraction to John was his peace-loving nature and to-the-point attitude. To be perfectly honest, the Beatles were not one of "my things". Being born in 1967, I missed all of the Beatlemania, but I saw the wonderful person that John Lennon was later in his life. I honestly believe that if John were alive today, at 65 years old, he would still be active in finding a peaceful resolution to the war. My Wonderful Man picked up a Life magazine special edition dedicated to John, and it was cool seeing all the photos of him, the Beatles and Yoko. I remembered a lot of them and some I had never seen. The one that blew my mind, and I did remember was of John and David Chapman just hours before he gunned him down. The murder of John Lennon, 25 years ago today, rocked my senses. I couldn't, and still cannot, imagine why anyone would kill this peaceful man. Yes, he had become reclusive and could be very opinionated. One incident of his blunt style was a letter he wrote back to a fan who after hearing the album Imagine, offered spiritual advice and included a pamphlet, "Four Spiritual Laws", which he wrote on "this might help". To the fans surprise John responded personally and basically told the fan to back off.
The world is definitely a better place because of John Winston Ono Lennon.

Hookie Day

2005-12-08T06:38:00.000-08:00

I normally am such a good drone and go to work everyday, but today I just do not feel like going to the Misfit Cleaners and I believe I am going to stay home and try to figure out how to add some things to my blog. I have a Moon Phase module that I would like to add and maybe a picture to my profile and blog links for the ones I frequent; but darn it I have not been able to figure it out. I am almost to the point of calling BadPatty; whom I know would be more than happy to help out after he has a good laugh. He thinks I am smarter than I really am....what a good friend!
Anyways, I think this girl deserves the day off from a job that I hate. Not sure what excuse I am going to use, but I will think of one! Maybe I will look over the want ads. Maybe I will just spend the day with my favorite Sarah Beth; she always wants to hang out with me even when I don't even want to be around myself. Maybe I will just drink all day and clean the house; which needs it. Maybe I will ride down to the beach. Oh, the possibilities!
The job interview went well on Monday; it lasted over an hour and didn't seem half that long. It is a Shipping/Receiving Supervisor position with a beauty manufacturing company named Ahava. The pay is a lot better that what I make now, no benefits; but I have none now. It would really be nice not to have to work 6 days a week (and never get 40 hours) and not to have to work so hard (i wet-press laundry all day).

Joke of the Day

2005-12-08T06:12:00.000-08:00

For all of you that don't know me, I am a "Beach Blond", I have this weird hair that changes from blond in the glorious summertime and to a dark red in the frigid winter time.
Here is a picture of me in the wintertime, for those that do not know me. I love blond jokes, cause let's face it, if you cannot laugh at yourself you need to have the stick removed. Here is a couple of cute blond jokes:

Two bored casino dealers are waiting at the crap table. An attractive blonde arrived and bet twenty-thousand dollars ($20,000)on a single roll of the dice. She said, "I hope you don't mind, but I feel much luckier when I'm completely nude. With that, she stripped from the neck down, rolled the dice and yelled, "Come on, baby, Mama needs new clothes!" As the dice came to a stop she jumped up and down and squealed..."YES!YES!I WON,I WON!" She hugged each of the dealers and then picked up her winnings and her clothes and quickly departed. The dealers stared at each other dumbfounded. Finally, one of them asked, What did she roll?" The other answered, "I don't know - I thought you were watching."
MORAL - Not all blondes are dumb, but all men are men.

Do you know what you call a smart blond?
A Golden Retriever

Deer Suicide???

2005-12-06T15:22:00.000-08:00

Either they misjudged the distance or they couldn't take the traffic. For reasons that mystify authorities, five deer that made their way onto the top of a five-story parking garage suddenly leaped to their deaths Sunday. apparently, they got trapped in a parking garage and decided jumping was the only way out. What a shame, these animals are running out of room. On the other hand, sounds like they need more hunters in WV. The dangers of overpopulation of nuisance deer are obvious to most. I apologize to all vegetarians, but deer can be dangerous if there are too many of then in one location. The carcasses were given to passers-by for butchering.

Nate, the Great Recovering

2005-12-06T14:44:00.000-08:00

The surgery went well today. He is a little sore tonight, but thanks to his medication he is resting. Thank you all for your good thoughts and prayers. His mother, father, and I were at the surgery center at 8:15 am. They took him back and gave him some "sleepy gas" by playing airplane pilot with him. As soon as he was out the procedure took about 25 minutes. He goes back for a follow up on January 3, 2006.

Tony Stewart Claims 2nd Championship

2005-12-06T04:30:00.000-08:00

I am way behind in acknowledging my favorite Nascar driver and his accomplishment. Many people do not like Tony Stewart, but I personally believe he has matured a lot since his first championship win. The 2005 NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion, Tony Stewart, picked up the ring and the check at the Waldorf-Astoria Ballroom in New York City on December 2, 2005. His total winnings were $13,578,168, surpassing Jeff Gordon's record winnings; $10,979,757 in 2001. I believe he worked hard to achieve this goal and deserves all this and more.

"Lewd Rubbing"

2005-12-05T03:11:00.000-08:00

“Lewd rubbing” shuts down Paris Statue.

I normally have no use for any of the news that comes out of France, unless of course I heard that it had vanished like the lost city of Atlantis. Then my only comment would probably be, “Who is missing it anyways?”

The effigy of 19th Century journalist known as Victor Noir has long been popular with women visitors. This is partly due to his reputation as a romantic figure, and partly because of the effigy's design. Officials concerned about damage to the icon's groin area have erected a fence around the grave, and a sign prohibiting indecent rubbing.

I just found this too funny not to share, have a great Monday! I have another job interview today, so maybe I will get lucky. Good luck to Patty, too!

One other thing, not that I intentionally related the above story to this...(or did I, hmmm?), Nate, the Great will be having his circumcision done tomorrow and I ask for prayers and good thoughts to be sent our way. Anyone that knows me, knows I hate hospitals and doctors equally, and am very afraid of being in their clutches.

Here is another photo of Nate, the Great aka Spidermanboy.

The Colts Rule!

2005-12-04T12:51:00.000-08:00

Enuff Said.

Joke of the Day

2005-12-02T03:03:00.000-08:00

George Bush, Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld are flying on Air Force One. The President looks at the Vice President, chuckles, and says, "You know,I could throw a $1,000 bill out the window right now and make somebodyvery happy." The Vice President shrugs and says, "Well, I could throw 10 $100 billsout the window and make 10 people very happy." Not to be outdone, the Secretary of Defense says, "Of course, then, I could throw 100 $10 bills out the window and make a hundred people very happy." The pilot rolls his eyes and says to his co-pilot, "Such arrogant asses back there. Hell, I could throw the three of them out the window and make56 million people really happy."

Compliments of Cousin Sissy. Thanks, sweetie.

Headlines that Caught my Eye

2005-11-28T20:03:00.000-08:00

A young man in Nepal, believed to be the incarnation of Buddha has allegedly gone without food for six months. His mother is named Maya Devi, the same as Buddha's mother said he is a quite, aloof boy. The 15-year-old Ram Bahadur Bamjon, does not speak and visitors are only allowed to see him from a distance of 165 feet.
Also, in Sacramento, California a statue of the Virgin Mary has begun crying a substance that looks like blood. Thousands of such incidents are reported around the world each year, though many turn out to be hoaxes or natural phenomena.

On the lighter side (or should I say heavier)...

Fatter rear ends are causing many drug injections to miss their mark, requiring longer needles to reach buttock muscles, according to researchers. I wonder how much was spent on this research?

And on the down side....

My poor Bucs! Even though Simms is looking better each time he plays, the team as a whole could not get it together this past Sunday against the Bears. Our kicker, Bryant suffered a hamstring injury that may force them to bring another kicker in this week. The Buccaneers only touchdown was made by Mike Alstott. Better luck next week, guys! Tonight it is all about the Colts. After all, how can they go wrong with Tony Dungy as their coach??

A Visit from the Children

2005-11-28T06:02:00.000-08:00

I drove down to pick up the children on Wednesday, which was only the busiest traveling day of the season. On the way to pick up the children, a rig turned over and stopped traffic for about 30 minutes. To say the least, I was happy to see our little home when we finally got here. I live in a small three bedroom trailer. It is great for Brett, Sarah Beth, Nate the Great and me; but when you add four others to the mix it becomes a bit cozier! Molly, StephanieÂs best friend, came to visit with her this time. She is a riot to be around, and her and Stephanie together keep me laughing constantly.
They went and saw the movie Yours, Mine & Ours. They have also got a great deal of Christmas shopping done and spent alot of time together. I had to work Friday and Saturday, so they were on their own some. One morning they walked up to Applebee's, where Sarah Bath works, to have lunch. We went to Wannamaker park with my Momma and played for about 2 hours, which Savannah & Nate thought was great. I honestly think the older children had just as much fun as the younger. I took Eli, the son of Cherrie, with us and that gave someone Savannah's age for her to play with. Afterwards, we stopped at the Waffle House for coffee and food. My Momma's best friend, Sheila, joined us for coffee. It is nice to see that my Momma has a friend like her. The last day they were here, the girls went to the mall ( again!) and the guys went to the flea market. I took them back to Orangeburg to meet David about 7pm and tried to not cry on my way home. Even with four days to spend with them; it wasn't enough. I believe they had a great time and they are looking forward to being here again at Christmas.

Here is the latest picture of Nate, the Great. Check out the new haircut. Little guys just don't sit still for haircuts that well, and this is what we ended up with.

I fixed It

2005-11-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

I somehow made it where no one could post a comment. I think I have it fixed, but I am not too bright; so let me know if it is not fixed. Peace, Love & Happiness.

Death v. Life without parole

2005-11-26T03:00:00.000-08:00

The death penalty is being debated again. Do we have a right to decide whose life ends and for what reason? And what of all the innocent people that have recently been released from death row, due to DNA evidence that cleared them? There is no perfect system to ascertain someone's guilt. Then you have public defenders standing up for the convicted, sometimes against high dollar lawyers. Considering most public defenders are just out of law school and learning as the go, I do not believe this is a working system. Additionally, the death penalty is not given to individuals equally. If it was, alot more people would receive it, regardless of education or economic status. As we are approaching the 1,000 execution since the death penalty was resumed, I cannot help but wonder if this could be another innocent man that will pay the ultimate price.
Finally, to make the death penalty effective, the way they are carried out needs to be changed. Now, it is all behind closed doors, with just a select few witnessing it. Back in the day, they were public and gave the public a first hand look and the consequesnces of the deed.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-24T06:54:00.000-08:00

I hope that everone has a wonderful day with their Families & Friends. May god Bless you! Peace & Love, Merilyn & family

Bah Humbug Already

2005-11-23T02:53:00.000-08:00

I am not a real big fan of the holidays. My children never knew it. I did the normal baking, decorating and Christmas light sight-seeing that every parent does. I will continue that with them always, but honestly I never seem to get "into it". Got home last night pretty late for me, around 4:45 pm to find out my furnace is not working. I called the landlord; thankfully I am renting ~ or so I thought initially. Well, he said he was going out of town on Wednesday and he would try to get someone out here before the weekend! I called Brett, as he was visiting some friends on the way home and had not arrived yet, and his friends had a heater that we borrowed (The landlord had advised buying one and he would reimburse me for it.) and I had a small heater for Sarah Beth's room. The grandson, Nate the Great, stayed at his other grandparents house, so I didn't have to worry about him freezing to pieces. The children are due to arrive from Columbia Wednesday, so I am going to have to buy a heater for the living room after all. I swear I could here the electricity spiking last night when I plugged in these two heaters. I don't even want to think what this going to do to my bill! Besides that, I am freezing. I still have not got used to the cold up here and I am not a really warm-natured person anyways.

We will be having Thanksgiving dinner over at Gena & Kevin's. I have a list of what I need to bring, and I am sure it will be a great time. It means a lot to Brett, and it means a lot to me to see him happy. My parent's opted to go out to eat and my sister is going to her in-laws, so I know my family doesn't mind me not being there with them. I wish all of you a Happy Turkey Day and pray all of your furnaces are in good working order. Peace & Love.

More Photos from a Ghostly Wedding

2005-11-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

Judy Mundy & Gena

Tommy
Tara & Larry
Tony

Gena & Brett
Merilyn

Good Morning

2005-11-20T06:05:00.000-08:00

No Justice for Tampa Mother

2005-11-20T05:53:00.000-08:00

No Justice for Lisa Wilkins

On March 31, 2005 four children crossed the street on their way home from a community center event. They were run over by a car and left to die in the road. Over 200 witness saw the vehicle stop briefly, turn off the lights and sped away, grinding gears as it went and also, dragging the three year old child into the next intersection. Their mother, Lisa Wilkins, told them she would be back for them after it was over and to wait for her. This mother, who was six months pregnant at the time, was on her way to get her babies when she saw the commotion of the accident. Two of her children were dead and the other two injured severely.

On April 5th the driver of the vehicle who ran over these children came forward; with her high priced lawyer, Barry Cohen. Jennifer Porter, an elementary dance instructor, admitted to being the driver of the vehicle that fateful night. When the accident happened, she called her parents instead of the police. She took her car and hid it with the help of her father instead of contacting the police. I was sure that justice would prevail, but it wasn’t to be. On November 5th, Judge Emmett Lamar Battles handed down Miss Porter’s sentence. She received 500 hours community service, two years house arrest and three years probation. Her father received nothing for his part in concealing evidence.

I feel sick to my stomach.

What is a Witch???

2005-11-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

Any of my close friends will tell you that my beliefs are a little different than most, but I believe this memo perfectly describes how I feel about what I believe in; thanks Sandi!

I AM A WITCH!
By Sandi Thomas
When I stand up for myself and my beliefs, they call me a witch.
When I stand up for those I love, they call me a witch.
When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts, or do things my own way, they call me a witch.
Being a witch entails raising my children to be strong people
Who have a solid sense of personal and social responsibility,
Who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in
And, who love and respect themselves for the beautiful beings they are.
Being a witch means that I am free to be the wonderful creature I am,
With all my own intricacies, contradictions, quirks and beauty.
Being a witch means I won't compromise what's in my heart means I live my life MY way.
It means I won't allow anyone to step on me.
When I refuse to tolerate injustice and speak up against it, I am defined as a witch.
The same thing happens when I take time for myself instead of being everyone else's maid or when I act a little selfish.
I am proud to be a witch! It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I "should" be.
I am outspoken, opinionated and determined.
By Goddess, I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that!
So, try to stomp on me, try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me.
You won't succeed if that makes me a witch, so be it.
I embrace the title and am proud to bear it. I love this, I can call myself a witch now and not feel bad about it!

Yesterday in the news, there was a story of four women in Orissa that have been charged with being witches. These four women were locked in a room for three days by six men and two women. They were allegedly forced to pay a fine of 500 rupees each and forced to consume human excreta. In 1999, the Government also passed an act against witchcraft, the Witch Prohibition Act-1999,according to which six months imprisonment and a fine of 2,000 rupees can be imposed on a person found guilty of torturing innocent women. Most of the so called witches are women, and their alleged victims are women too.

This is just one more reason I am glad to live in the USA; where I can believe what I want and not be imprisoned or harassed for those beliefs.

Blessed Be!

The Old Bridge is Kaplewy....Almost.

2005-11-16T02:58:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, the "Old Cooper River Bridge" & "New Cooper River Bridge" have stood in our beautiful port city. They have been well used for commuting, bridge runs, drag racing and a few stupid individuals have jumped from them; only to find themselves up to their arses in muck and mud and still alive. Yesterday they detonated another section of the bridges, this time sucessfully. Last time alot of the explosives didn't detonate and clean-up took three times as long as it should have. The next blast is scheduled for December, as long as the debris has been removed from this explosion.

The 10:00 am blast drew hundreds of onlookers, which concidering we are in the South that is a small number! Below is a picture of the "Old Cooper River Bridges" and of the "Newest Cooper River Bridge". Very big difference, huh?

A Visit from the Children

2005-11-13T05:36:00.000-08:00

We went and picked up the children on Friday evening. We got lucky and only had to go to Orangeburg; the half way mark to meet my ex-husband. Silly me, I thought he was being nice by doing this, come to find out he had to pick up a tractor in Orangeburg! He digs graves for a living and has contracts with a few graveyards, one of which is only a few miles from my home. Made me wonder why this is the first I am hearing of this?!? Anyways, I got my beautiful children for the weekend. I work six days a week at "The Misfit Cleaner's", so Saturday I got up and went to work like a good little drone. And of course, since I had plans to hang out with the kids, I had enough work to keep me there until 2:30 pm! I swear I am stepping up the job hunt first thing Monday morning!!!

I got home, tierd and the back hurting so badly all I wanted to do was go to bed. Couldn't do that, the kids are here and they had been bored all day waiting on me. Also, we had an oyster roast to go to ay Larry & Rosemary's home. Sean decided to go with us and the girls went to the park and then over to Tony & Susan's with Nathan.

Bonehead Idea of the Week

2005-11-12T03:30:00.000-08:00

A benefit for poor and abused children, Auction for Angels, has temporarily been cancelled due to poor taste of one of the sponsors. The owner of a strip club included his corporate logo on an invitation picturing a young girl. Don't get me wrong, I think it is great the owner, Joe Redner wants to donate to a worthy cause and I have nothing against his line of business; but have a little taste! The girl pictured is very, very young according to the news article in The St. Pete Times. To read the article; clink this link: http://stpetetimes.com/2005/11/12/Hillsborough/Furor_threatens_benef.shtml

Watch out Y'all, She has her Driver's Permit!!!

2005-11-12T02:41:00.000-08:00

On June 19, 1990 I gave birth to this beautiful baby girl, Stephanie Marie. She is pictured on the right with her sister, Sarah Beth & her nephew, Nathan Xavier. As the years have passed, she has grown into a wonderful young woman. She has accomplished much, sometimes succeeding & sometimes failing, but always trying as hard as she can. On Friday she took and passed her written driver's test and she only missed a few questions. Wow! I am very proud of my children, and know that soon there will be a day when they go home to their own families and I will not be a part of their everyday life. Will I be sad? I don't believe so. I have enjoyed every stage of their lives and whole-heartedly look forward to watching them experience the rest. With four of them in their teens, that is basically all I can do, watch.

Sean is on his own, working for UPS and thinking of going to Japan to teach English. Sarah is a mother, and a darn good one too. Christopher, who also lives in Columbia is so independent and into his own life I don't get to see him much; I sure hope he slows down and enjoys the ride. Stephanie and Savannah live in Columbia; the idea of changing schools was to much for Steph and Savannah is a Daddy's girl. So, I didn't fight either of them when they wanted to live with their Dad. I get to see them on weekends and they always go way too quick. I jokingly call my cellphone the "Momma Hotline", they call me or I call them at least once a day.

Frankenstein Takes a Bride

2005-11-10T02:59:00.000-08:00

Kevin Morris & Gena Mundy
Began their married life together on October 29, 2005 in the presence of their Families and Friends!!!

On October 29, 2005 we had the honor of attending my mate's sister's wedding. Gena & Kevin met 5 years ago and their first date was a Halloween Costume party. So to celebrate their weeding they had a Costume Wedding. The "Bride of Frankenstein", Gena was given to "Frankenstein", Kevin by "Grandapa Munster", Ronnie Mundy. Grandpa was accomplanied by his wife the "Witch", Judy Mundy. "Eddie Munster", Tristan Mundy - the bride's 10 year old son and the "Werewolf", Brett Mundy the bride's brother were also part of the wedding party. The Bride was gorgeous, that is until The Groom gave her a kiss and alot of green makeup ended up on her face.

A good time was had by all and the celebration lasted well into the night. Lots of food, music, warm bonfire made the evening a hit. I hope their married life goes as well as the wedding went. I will add more pictures as I receive them. The Wedding Party

Bloody News from Tampa has me wondering

2005-11-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

As I said in the previous post, I just recently moved from Tampa Bay, Florida. One of my favorite websites to visit is www.jumperpool.com and if you visit; keep an open mind. The site reports on the idiots who decide to take their life, usually at peak traffic times, from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. On 10/19/2005 an elderly driver drove to the Skyway toll-booth with a body lodged in his windshield. The toll-booth worker initially assumed this was a Halloween prank; until he saw all the blood.

Being a former resident of this beautiful city, I have personally sat in the Driver License office and witnessed an elderly gentleman try 6 times to read the eye chart for renewing his license. The clerk renewed his license even with the difficulties he obviously had seeing. The driver mentioned above was suffering from dementia, not poor eyesight. Do they even have a way to check for dementia at the Driver license office? Considering the large number of elderly drivers on the road these days, I personally believe this should be looked into a little more.

Things as they stand now

2005-11-08T08:39:00.000-08:00

Until June 2005 I had been living happily in Tampa, Florida. I ended a friendship of over 20 years over my daughter, Sarah Beth. I ended a relationship that I was staying in just to be there. So, when things just finally got to be too much I packed up the apartment and towed the Poopmobile home to Charleston, SC. Yes, I am back where I grew up and so far it seems like it was a good thing.

When I first arrived here, I took a bartending job at a place called Nowhere. Catchy name and I thought it would do until I found a job better suited to my skills. I had so many issues with the way things were done there as far as paperwork; I was fired. Just days before I had started seeing a wonderful man; a man that I was warned that if I got involved with I would lose my job. So, I guess that was that. I immediately found employment at a drycleaning plant; another job to fill the void until I find The Job. I like my boss and one person there; the others I ignore completely. Reverse prejudice is alive and well in The South, let me tell you. I am the only caucasian in the plant other that the owner and the counter people; both of whom I have little contact with all day. I just pray every night I will find something better....soon!

My wonderful man, Brett moved in with me on October 1, 2005 and it is going well. I know I am not the easiest person to live with, but I have lived with worse (ie: former friend of over 20 years for one) and hope this is the last time I have to get use to someone else's habits and quirks. We have had a couple of issues, but I wouldn't trade him for anyone else. He enjoys my family and friends. We spend alot of time with my grandson, Nate-Nate, since my daughter works nights at a grocery store called (no kidding) Piggly Wiggly. The picture above is of Nate-Nate and me waking from our naptime when he was about 2 months old.

So, I guess I moving back home was a great idea. I cannot believe I fought living this close to my family for so long.