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Interactive Journal for All... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart 
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quote:  It was said by oh so many voices a person must have their own choices and yet it is so very clear we hold our own hearts very dear ~*~ So in that moral atmosphere I begin a chain of events that may lead us one unto the other and hold all things so near and dear; Should one and all join in, no barriers, no fences, just clean air to clear our thoughts... it may become a garden, or a sky; it may be written deep, or high; but perhaps you and you might join to witness a gathering of sound and coin your thoughts here for some to view, wouldn't it be grand of you; but if you only choose to read...well God wish you all good speed... I hope we gather as one kind with ever effervescent waves of mind, and sing to heavens that they hear, and wave our hearts out in the clear; then hold some hands when they need held, and listen to the peals of bells... when candles lit and stars sing sky, I wish you all the best, and I? I shall sit just there, and wave at you... for that is what I know to do. A new journal is now open. ~*~ Quote, courtesy, Reflections, by way of Karen Blaize; Photo, courtesy, Janet Marie, by way of always [This message has been edited by Sunshine (05-14-2006 06:23 PM).] |
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| © Copyright 2004 Karilea Rilling Jungel - All Rights Reserved | |||
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
I think I'm gonna leave that. Just like me to start out by screwing up, huh? laughing It feels like home already.  |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Isn't home wonderful? You can fix it if you wish...but of course, there's always chance for reposts, and reposits, somewhere in here...  |
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time prophet Member
since 2003-07-30
Posts 371In New Zealand Amongst the Ancient Trees |
Then let the sun rise upon the garden.  |
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*Alli4000*
since 2004-03-21
Posts 3188The World of Poetry |
 Butterflies are beginning to fly into the garden   |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
The countdown has begun. Our last "planning meeting" before we hold our legal professional state seminar beginning Friday. Our chapter has held them before, but because of retirement, passings, and priorities, our membership number is low. Our local chapter, because of its' geograhic point in our state, usually get the highest numbers. In a few hours I will know whether or not we will be in the black with what little "profit" we will see. As a "non-profit" organization, our main gifts at the end of each fiscal year is to have local chapters and the state organization to be able to give scholarships to students - we use to focus on the legal field, but opened it up to any student willing to take on the paperwork. I know the funds aren't much - they can pocket as much as $750 if they gather both local and state funds...but still, nothing to sneeze at... So Friday we begin registrations and social time; Saturday is packed with speakers and continued legal education; then Saturday night we hike those who want to go to a local winery for dinner and music by a talented, local artist; and then Sunday is board meeting. When you're going - it's all fun...when you're hosting...it's more like chaotic fun! So starts the week! [This message has been edited by Sunshine (05-14-2006 06:36 PM).] |
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Kielo Senior Member
since 2002-02-11
Posts 1109 |
Hello all... I've found my way home again. I checked, and it does appear that the last time I was here was quite some time ago... I lost my internet. I still don't exactly have it back, but I'm not living at home now, so that's how I'm here. I'm in this house right now just hanging out all by myself because everyone is out... it's amazing how things have turned out. I've been here almost exactly a week now. I love it. I haven't been this happy... well... ever. When the last journal started, I was a very happy child. It all started June 28th... I was just too excited to say anything. I was afraid that if I said something everything would fall apart... my happiness used to be far more fragile. I've just decided that I make no sense when I'm happy. Sorry. What I'm trying to say is that I'm living with my girlfriend and I'm here alone now because her parents are at work and she's in school, so I'm here to visit. No, that's not what I meant. Let me try again. I'm in love! HAHA!  *bounce bounce*It makes me very happy.  Anyway, I've missed you all, and I'll try and not disappear again. Ki Wisdom outweighs any wealth |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Welcome home, Ki! So glad you're safe, sound, happy... and adding to our sharings! |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Geez Kari...I have not a clue as to what you're talking about.  But that's not news, with me is it? Believe it or not, I'm STILL cracking tile. But this time, it's for my window seat! How sweet is that? I wanted to thank you properly for starting this thread--I tried to tell folks the other was for everybody too, but nobody believed me. laughing And that's not news with me either. But an update on the house. It's not finished. And we're living in it. So everybody knows what THAT means. It will NEVER be finished. So now I am campaigning to sell both houses and buy a new one. Already built. And inspected. shaking my head here... I feel like Cinderella. Without the fairy godmother. But hey? I've got my own room, with doors too! I can even lock them if I move the file cabinet in front of 'em!  "laughing and crying, yanno it's the same release" -- Joni Mitchell and Ki? Warmest hugs my little crazed buddy--tell me, when you disappear, where do you go? I've been having this urge of late... |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Consider this a hit and run... But now that I have access at home maybe I'll return to the scene of the crime! If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Huggles and snuggles and a smooch for you!  Great to see ya Larry! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Hmmmm...what is Sunshine talking about. Well... I belong to Salina Legal Professionals, which is a chapter's leg off of the State level of Kansas Legal Professionals. [Didn't everyone know that? ] We hold three meetings a year, and each chapter is on the "round robin" tour...and I think the next one is in Emporia...I'd have to go look.Anyway, all seminars are primarily for Continued Legal Education. But don't think for a moment that we don't have fun, too! For those who can get to their location on Friday night, they are feted wonderfully [we've even had a few Mardi Gras nights in our past...] and then, hangovers and all [for those who imbibed] we hit the classroom hard on Saturday for as many as six educational speakers at times. We will have five speakers on various subjects for our Saturday morning. We arrange for breaks, lunches, etc. We have exhibitors come so the ladies who believe they are really supposed to be out shopping...can!  Sometimes on Saturday nights, we just go wherever we wish. But some chapters arrange for a special evening in Fall and Spring, and we've arranged for an Italian buffet at the Smoky Hill Winery, featuring Ann Zimmerman for our entertainment, a local mediator and songstress who has a wonderful voice and a great following. I can think of many poets here who would truly enjoy her songs and lyrics! Sunday is Board Meeting morning...again, the host chapter provides the means for breakfast and such... Now...whatever "profit" comes after all expenses are paid out are split, 60/40 to KLPI and hosting chapter; 50/50 at Annual Meeting [more expense because it's a bigger deal...] and everyone crashes Sunday evening after a super weekend. The last time Salina hosted an event, it was Annual meeting, I was up as President for State, and it was truly a long, extremely happy, joyful weekend, as I had friends and family from all over the USA drive and/or fly in for the event. I will never forget that time...nor my state organization family and blood family/friends for helping me get to that status. No one does anything alone. And it was an arena of experience that I never for a minute thought I would achieve, until I saw it, and thought..."I think I can do that." A mind is a wonderful thing... And Serenity? This was a trick comment on your part to get me to add to the journal, right?  |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
So Karilea, basically you are saying that you don't have enough to do around here so you seek fulfillment elsewhere? You are just amazing. All of my spare time is consumed by involvement at church. But that probably isn't surprising since I have a degree in theology. Which qualifies me to be genuinely in awe of Denise. By the way, the Serene one is very clever. It's nice to know she still has her touch. And that smooch was mine, right? I have to come back to say what I was unable to deliver in an email: "Yanno inno, Dear, dear friend, And the knowing is of such great value to me. Bless you for your faithfulness. Always I will treasure your friendship. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. [This message has been edited by Larry C (09-21-2004 02:51 AM).] |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
*waves* night all, this chick's done with life for today. and then He created the horse... |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Damn Kari... no offense meant and I hope none taken, but if I were you? I'd be TIRED. Hell, I'm just me, and I'm TIRED. I'm gonna go snuggle up with a Larry and a Skyfire, and see if I can find holes in the lids that keep the dreams in...or out? grin |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Go brew your dreams little one...I'll be plenty tired before the weekend is over. Then I have two days of work...and then by the 29th? I'm OUTTA HERE!!!!  [We've got to get Kit to turn that harley around!] |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
 A new garden!I'm so excited!!! Thank you Karilea... Hi everyone!! I'll be back....does anyone have a bench? |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
    This, our start where we may dwell in bright sunlight, or memories' well, to hear the common sense of man, to learn from all to do what we can... This, a refuge for one, and all... where we write our thoughts at the Butterflies' Ball... |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
Well, I'm here, even when I'm not.  ???I'll be back later today, to sit on that reflecting bench awhile. |
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Susan Caldwell Member Rara Avis
since 2002-12-27
Posts 8348Florida |
Autumn winds whisper Soft, gentle promises of new life Of beginnings not so long ago Never contemplated Autumn brings with her Reason to slow down Time to appreciate the cycle of things Time to see the beauty of newly colored horizons Autumn grows through to winter Giving warmth like no spring nor summer I will hold her in my arms Cradling the tiny piece of me and mine Thankful for a Daughter and the Autumn she brings Just thought I would let everyone know that my daughter is having a girl and her name will be Autumn. "cast me gently into the morning, for the night has been unkind" |
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Paula Finn Member Ascendant
since 2000-06-17
Posts 5546missouri |
Ah what better place for a unicorn than this mystical garden of our minds...just the lace I need to come to get away from the...well lets just say the strife if life...thank you Kari |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Karilea, thank you for the bench. I think I'll sit and reflect awhile also. Susan..Autumn is one of my favourite names! and seasons!Ser? Hugs and love to ya lady! Ki..I'm so happy for you! Kacy, Come sit beside me and we'll chat. Oh my... TP, Sky, Paula, Alli and Larry... Why just look at us already tending our new garden.  |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
When is the baby's due date, Susan? My littlest ones are scattered throughout the year...and they are such joys to hold and behold... And Autumn is a soft, serene name... Did someone need some hummingbirds?   |
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Susan Caldwell Member Rara Avis
since 2002-12-27
Posts 8348Florida |
Autumn is due Feb. 14th. |
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Kielo Senior Member
since 2002-02-11
Posts 1109 |
*wave* Where do I go when I disappear? Well, nowhere special, until recently. Usually when I disappear it's just because I've been kicked off the internet. Usually I just sit at home and stare at walls and such... Most recently I've been here, at Krystan's house, and as grateful as I am for that, it is partly just because I have nowhere else to go. Anyway, I will try and stick around. |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Ahhh...we are expecting our 10th grandchild February 6th. ....and if it's a girl they will call her Summer. Thank you for the hummingbirds Karilea... My favourite! |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
I miss our hummingbirds, they've all gone South for the winter  We had *thinks* four or five different ones, and they were two different subspecies, it was pretty neat to sit and watch them. They're so tiny! ^_^and then He created the horse... |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Rhonda, If it matters they came to us and we're taking good care of them! Nancy Lee, We've got three but I'd like one from my son. It still could happen though I refuse to make issue of it. You are richly blessed in that regard. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
Well my KID is not yet 17, so I DON'T want a GRANDKID yet. LOL. But if she were closer to 27? Then I'd say...bring her/him on, diapers and all! LOL, I've heard from 'experts' that being a grandparent is more fun than parenting. Meanwhile, I'm content to stay away from the Huggies. And WHY is it that kids born in spring or winter are often called Summer? and those born in summer are sometimes called Autumn? |
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garysgirl
since 2002-09-29
Posts 19237Florida, USA |
Hello All!!  Speaking of hummingbirds, there are about ten of them that have gathered around two feeders on Gary's parents front porch lately. In fact, since hurricane Ivan last week. I think all their food must have gotten blown away in the other places around here. I have some pictures of the hummingbirds from last year, but not with me here right now. I'll sit a while on the bench later and show them to you all. They are so cute!! Cute just like little babies, Susan. By the way, Susan, we were down your way last week from Tuesday night until Friday morning. We had to evacuate. We were at McClenney. I would have called you one of the days we were there and chatted with you if I had known your number. I thought of you, since Jacksonville is only about 30 miles aways from there, I think. And, Nancy, I saw a whole string of power trucks from up your way Sunday or Monday (my days are kind of turned around.) They were going to Pensacola, probably, to help us all out with the power. They were from Quebec, Canada. There have been crews from all over the US and Canada. Aren't people good? Hey Kielo, isn't love grand??? Yep, it sure is!! Goodnight all!!  |
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suthern
since 1999-07-29
Posts 20723Louisiana |
Kari, You're just taunting me with those hummingbird pics... I tried all weekend to get a picture of the gang that hangs around my sister's feeder... but even their greed didn't make them gullible... They must have x-ray vision cause even when I sat INSIDE and across the room... they'd vanish every time I picked up a camera!! *S* I don't like my life much right now... Can I just crawl into a corner and stay? Will someone pay the rent? *S* |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Taunting you? Hardly...the good fortune for these photographs was our recent trip to Colorado Springs. I was amazed at how genial these little creatures were until I realized - heavens! - they were ALWAYS surrounded by people. My dad had a way with the hummers and keeping them up close and personal long enough to get shots - but his cameras were from 20-30 years ago...so you can only imagine the quality. No, dear, not taunting, just sharing. I'll make some room in my luggage...you can come to CA with me with attend my high school reunion, which should be a hoot and a holler of everyone else wondering why their friends don't look as good to them as they think they look in their own mirror! Truthfully...I was always the wallflower at any large social function in high school - so it will be quite the experience to see how things go this round. C'mon Ruth...there's always room for one more... |
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suthern
since 1999-07-29
Posts 20723Louisiana |
Sunshiney One: Oh, lady... you are sweet. *S* I was teasing about the taunting... even though I'm still shaking my head over the expertise with which those busy little flutterers avoided my camera... My zoom's powerful enough I didn't need to be close... but I did need to have the camera in my hands... and they were having none of it! LOL And I do appreciate the offer... but... you'd break your back hustling gigantic luggage for nought... I won't even go to MY reunions! LOL |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada |
Just popping in to say a quick hello to all, and to tell Karilea that I LOVED those hummingbird pics on page one! That feeder is a little different than any I've seen before. Do you know if it will keep out wasps? We had a horrible time with wasps coming and going from the hummingbird and oriole feeders here this year (ants too).  |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
Kit you had wasps where you are? Sucks to be you, I've seen four wasps in the last week, and that's all I've seen since last summer. It's been nice though, I'm petrified of wasps *grin* And isn't it amazing how the ants can manage to get into the feeders? Even when we hang them far off the ground, they still manage to climb up the side of the house and onto the feeder @_@ and then He created the horse... |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
* * * I was sitting right where I'm sitting now, and my son walked in and caught me crying. "Mom?" He is fourteen and can't fake concern yet. "Vivaldi..." I said, smiling through tears. "Why do you do this stuff to you? Damn mom, it's downright masochistic!" He was standing there, taller than me, with that fine hair that a peter pan boy refuses to shave, but is still somehow proud. "Put on some AC/DC," he suggested. I did, but I wondered if it was for me or for him. But I enjoyed the moment and I love the fact that even though I now have a sanctuary, they seek me out, and my doors are open. We were watching television the other night, in my little cocoon, and I said, "I knew it was going to be like this." It was not a complaint, but contentment. I was pleased actually. All this extra house, and still, the dogs were fighting the kids for space with ME, smile...with me... But then Zachary pointed out to me, that this room is most like "home". He had something on his mind and was hedging, so I hit the mute button and asked him direct, "What is it, son?" He looked kind of embarrassed. "Could you spread some of your things around the house more?" ??? (huh?) "It's more like home that way." Then I realized, that indeed, I had packed our livingroom (my former bedroom) and simply moved it over here. I hadn't even understood that they were homesick - shame on me - I should have known when my daughter dug out that old "Ferngully" tape that the kids had watched to literal pieces. (Like an omen, it shredded in the VCR.) * * * I talk to them alot yanno. I apologize alot along the way. I told them that I understood that their childhood had been snapped shut abruptly, and we disussed finally, the pain of them losing their grandfathers in one week. The pain of them losing me to depression and illness. And the pain of losing the illusion of a father, who doesn't know how... I told them that the move was a new start for us all. I told them we have a few more years together as a single family, and that I wanted them to be as wonderful as their childhood had been. I asked them to tell me always, if I was doing something wrong. "Do we do anything wrong mom?" asked my daughter, Krista, always worried, my mini me. "I miss the snuggling." I confessed. "But I understand it's weird to hug when you have new breasts." "MOM!" but she laughed while she blushed scarlet. * * * Pray with me they aren't scarred too badly by me. I'm "home" afterall. And that, my dear friends, was the nicest thing I discovered about moving. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
quote: ~*~ I'm typing in the "near dark". A dear friend said to light a candle, I did...but the TV and one tired esconce-type lamp give a little more light, but I still [after all these years] don't recognize my keyboard everywhere...I must be losing "touch"...and of course, being that I have certain eye symptoms, it is a braille touch that I am reaching out for... just so I don't embarrass myself... albeit... Ladies, gentlemen...the things that have been shared here in the last day have been truly enlightening...and I will be back with more, later... |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karen, You're just at home in anybodies garden ya' know! Kids are incredibily ressilient and yours have you. It doesn't get better then that! Of course we'll pray for you all. Peace... If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
It's quiet now. So quiet, even the crickets are sleeping. This, is the pensive time, the pondering time, when shadows of moonlight play over hills and valleys, and blind men read signs with fingertips touching warm... it's quiet now. Breathing comes to one, the fine hairs on the nape of one's neck feels the air of longing, and it is easy enough to turn in. But the moon pulls...it wakes one and brings them to the window to peer up...and in clear skies, it is a magnificence unto itself. Only a lover would see the light then, cast down upon the one standing at the window... and perhaps can even sense the deep soul sound of song as it trembles the body... a quiet come home would suffice... it's quiet now, but the moon may soon hear another song, and climb a little higher into the heavens. |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Okay fine! I'll shut up and go to bed. I thought for sure somebody would want to have some fun but no! Sheesh... *muttering* "I can't sleep...that's all." If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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jellybeans Member Elite
since 2000-10-13
Posts 2298 |
smiling at the hummingbirds....I saved the pages to disk and will try to come back and post again we were host to about 35 hummingbirds this year and yes you could get close enough to them to watch them blink, but I just never got my 'watching' and 'picking up a camera' to blend....somehow I needed to wathc them more than I needed to capture them. hugs to all I miss you guys |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
*pokes Larry and runs away* ooh 35 hummingbirds? I don't think I've ever seen that many ^_^ That would be way too cool to see. I'm making supper tonight (spagetti ^_^) so I should go and attend to that and attempt to NOT burn anything and then He created the horse... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Hummingbirds.... ...seems they have a mothy cousin. The Sphinx moth is almost as large as a hummingbird, and has a very LONG, needle like tongue that loves to sip out the nectar of plants like Impatiens...[I love the name of that little flower...I emulate it now and then...] I stood close enough tonight to a Sphinx moth that I could have reached down and touched it; yet, to let it be, to watch it flutter like a hummingbird, less than two feet away from me, observing as its tongue reached out and sipped nectar from flower to flower...was like witnessing a small miracle of everlasting...This has been a marvelous weekend. Our chapter's year of preparation for our Kansas Legal Professionals, Inc. Seminar weekend has gone so well, even the minor hitches were gone unnoticed by the participants. You can figure that after tweaking introductions at 2:00 a.m. Saturday morning, only I would walk off with everything else in my briefcase except the papers I had just printed off. But as I live only 3.2 minutes from the facility that we were holding the seminar, no police officer dared stop me going and coming and I made it back home and back in four minutes. Think about it... But what speakers! Gads...even I didn't know I had delivered a powerhouse of information from so many varied areas that would be so well received. You think you are doing your best, but when the evaluation sheets come in and if a score could be tallied...we exceeded, humbly, 100%. We veered course because of the way the hotel was set up, and had a catered lunch; every person on the team knew their job and had no questions; notes were quietly passed to remind members of this, or that...and things went so smoothly, ever local chapter member kept waiting for an earthquake to open up under us because nothing EVER goes this smoothly! Oh, there were a few wonderful faux pas moments but they were handled so expeditiously that no one other that the hosting chapter ever realized... And then, tonight? Oh, tonight! Even though our weekend isn't over, so many of the chapters, when hosting a weekend, let their member/guests go and do whatever they wish for the evening. But sometimes, our chapters plan evening entertainment, and ours was, in short, wonderful. You see, in Kansas...you can generally count on the wind blowing 24/7. But this weekend? This weekend, we were blessed with clear skies, an almost full moon, heavenly stars, and a night at the Smoky Hill Winery north of town, where we enjoyed an Italian buffet, wines, [one Sphinx moth], and the lovely musical entertainment of Ann Zimmerman, an attorney/mediator/educator/environmentalist/ and daughter of a plumber, and yes, if you think she writes songs about that, you are right. The evening went magnificently. Even lovely segments of Canadian geese left a nearby lake and flew only a few hundred feet overhead of us...some three times...and you know what? The gals from the eastern part of Kansas who don't normally see sights like that went, "ooh, aah..." And while Ann was singing? We had a garden snake visit the deck where everyone was sitting so there was some commotion, but I sat there, calmly [perhaps too tired to move after introducing everyone all day and being the general MC] but I thought... "so comes the snake into the mix, and reminds us that among the good, runs adversity..." and run, it did. It froze for a moment, probably more scared than the women who had jumped upon their chairs and/or upon the fencing along the deck...and still I sat, wondering at its beauty... and my tea sat well within me. The winery did a fine job of sales; our entertainer did fine on sales of her CD's...[oh she has a marvelous quality of music...if anyone is interested, see http://annzimmerman.com and, tomorrow...there will be photos... oh, it's good to be home for a couple of days. Wednesday, I leave for my other home, California...to visit family, see friends, attend a reunion, and with any luck? See and feel my Pacific, and tap into the ocean again. Yes, it will happen... Oh...by the way? I fixed a baked onion cream cheese dip that all of the members want the recipe for, so...if you don't have it [and you won't find it, because the recipe I took off the internet isn't what they got] let me know, and I will be glad to give you my version because it disappeared in about 95 seconds.... it's a karilea-version [I can't help it, I'm just that way...] Hugs and love to all... K [This message has been edited by Sunshine (09-27-2004 06:47 PM).] |
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Krawdad Member Elite
since 2001-01-03
Posts 2597 |
'Shine, what kind of a garden is that in your lead off pic? Looks like a floodplain field of stinging nettle to me. Ouch!  I'm all for using native plants in the garden (like you should see my "yard"), but I think you're taking it too seriously!  e |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Rhonda...I felt that and it felt kinda good. And Karilea you just continue to amaze me. I must come back and absorb that report. good nightIf tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Whilst Jeanne is playing leather and trix on Florida tonight, I thought I'd share another nervous moment of my life. (Alright, alright, it doesn't compare with howling winds and ripping roofs, but hey Fla? it's all I got and I am nervous too) A member of the band came by tonight. wait. Let me type that properly. A member of the band came by tonight. grin. That would be enough to make him blush. But he blushes easy for a guitar player - he admits his natural constitution is more suited for bass, though bass bores him to tears. He came in and I asked him if he liked poetry. (I was testing him.) He said he might, he wasn't sure, was it like, um, poetry or could he understand it? I said I hoped it would be both and double-clicked on a gig of mine--then I ran for my guitar, wanting him to fine tune the drop down "C" my son had tuned me in, knowing "E" and "G" were flat. Wow. He liked my poetry. "I get this" he said, nodding emphatically. "The repetition? Lyrical..." "Tune this right" I shoved a guitar into his unhungry hands and he complied, tired, listening, ting ting ting....filing my complaints into the unlisted. "Beautiful" I thought. I wasn't done. "Do that song," I begged of him. He said "no," he needed amp. "that I can provide..." I said, swirling ice cubes impish drink, "come with me." So I took him to the back room painted dark grey (cause black was just too obvious) of my son, and he had his Jackson just plugged in. My friend walked in and he said "damn". "Show me." I held a cig on lips, and he asked my son, "son, do y'mind?" "Not at all" My son respected him, and handed him the axe. He took a simple G7 chord and rode the rails and it was like it all came back again. I watched his friends' bob head to chords, jamming, just the way we did. Exactly. I was smiling the nods. A simple basic chord in slide. Not tuned down in drop down "C", but just a simple walk up the neck. I smiled and said, "let's make a deal" and then he looked at me and said, "I'd do this just to hang out here" and my son followed us down the hall, swearing that if his little sister learned to play better, he would be intolerable. I told him he was barely tolerated now. "I like the way you write," said my friend. "I've always loved the way you play..." "Write me lyrics." "Write me tunes." He said he loved me anyway, though he had a wife. I grinned. * * * I'll be seeing him again. Besides, I prolly love his wife more than he does. * * * Angelhugs to Florida.  |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Kraw, that introductory picture was taken by our venerable Janet Marie. I will snag her up and remind her to come in and tell us first-hand what, indeed, those lovely plants are [I figured they were hostas] but I cannot promise that she will respond anytime soon - she's had her hands full! Larry...I had so much wonderful help pulling the event together - our chapter is a well-oiled machine... Ah, the member of the band...I've GOT to show this thread to my brother...he's a musician, you know... And I'm off to finish up our weekend. Ciao! [This message has been edited by Sunshine (09-26-2004 10:05 PM).] |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
What a way to wrap a weekend, snakes and all... Organizations that hold continued education seminars are not easy. First, you have to "please everyone". Seeing as how so many fields are specialized anymore, that limits what one can do to bring people to "your house". Then, of course, you only have "so much time" to do what you can. Keeping things "interesting" is another gambit altogether. And planning the whole weekend from social hour to final wrap up is a testament to endurance of spirit.... Our highlights of the weekend happened each day: we had terrific bartenders and food enough for everyone to go back for fourths...lots of laughter, jokes, sharing of lives; on Saturday we had five grand speakers who kept things going going gone!; Saturday evening, we had most every member go ahead and come to our evening at the Smoky Hill Winery, with entertainment by Ann Zimmerman [and folks, the website is annzimmerman.com so please please please visit it...because she IS an angel!] and even with the snake that came up from the vineyards to listen to Ann sing, well, it only added to our evening... Our Sunday meeting went well, albeit long, but still, expeditiously...because our members do not let themselves be run over with rulings that don't fit their cognizance. Even in my own home town, the day wasn't over until I wrote my thank you letters to all of the people that provided us with such a wonderful weekend. That was about two hours ago. In 48 hours? I am on my way to California for a trip to remember.... I will be in and out with connections and such... so please, please...give me something to look forward to in this thread....I want to keep up on everything! |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
Sunshine you want something to look forward to? *grins* not many people look forward to my horse updates so I won't bore you with that hehe. Suffice to say that it was an awesome ride today, and I'm going to make another attempt at a morning ride tomorrow I'm glad your weekend went so well And Larry, it always feels kinda good to be poked by Rhonda. I think it's cause I'm so special and all. *grin* no modesty here tonight hehe. What's the latest on Florida? I've got family in Deland and my grandmother hasn't called with any updates lately, so I'm assuming that she hasn't heard from them (she's in Vancouver) either. I'm kinda starting to worry (don't tell my parents, they say I worry too much). and then He created the horse... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Sky, I would LOVE to hear about your horse and anything you wish to share. I love horses, and it has been my dream to have a horse own me. [We never truly own animals...] So please, share your horse stories...I have a one or two... |
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Janet Marie Member Laureate
since 2000-01-22
Posts 18554 |
Krawdad....you know your plants and floodplains sir... Yes thats Nettle and I was good and rashed up but the pics were worth it...lol Just beyond the treeline at the end of the path is the Meramec River, and in spring much of that area is underwater. The pic was taken in Castlewood State Park here in St. Louis, Mo. I would love to live as a river flows, carried by the surprise of its own unfolding. |
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garysgirl
since 2002-09-29
Posts 19237Florida, USA |
Hello all. Good to see you all here.Hugs, Ethel |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
well I didn't go for my morning ride. I like sleep too much, especially when it's still dark when I get up. I think tomorrow morning though... maybe... o.O and then He created the horse... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Sky, when you next go for a ride, I want to know from point to point, your thoughts and feelings.... ~*~ Tomorrow, or, if you wish, in less than eight hours, I will be on my way to California, my home state. While it will never be "home, again", it will be "home, today" for me. To hear that the area surrounding where I will be landing had a bit of rock and roll today only seemed to me...quite apropos. For that very state has always been rocking and rolling...with, or without, whatever may be. I think I need to go back and start studying just where the continent of our fine United States actually started...for it only makes sense to my mind that where it started...is where it will continue to grow...or falter.... I mean, how many earthquakes do we hear about on the east coast? And when will Hawaii stop growing? Volcanoes are a product more of growth, not outright destruction; although what is built by humans can be destroyed, that is not what earth has in mind, if it has a mind...which to the best of our knowledge, it doesn't...but...what if it did? And what if Mother Nature had a mind? Good God.../dess/ what would she and Earth think of us for what we do to it each day? Well, since I know, and you know, that all we are going through is just a force of nature...we will not worry about it. We can only deal with it. Hmmm...for some reason, the "Twilight Zone" theme music is going through my mind... ah well, that is what happens when the "vacation zone" hits you and it is hitting me just fine...I am about to unplug the computer and plug in from afar... and afar...and afar... Martie? You ready to have some laughs? I am. Some writing, too... Oh kids...watch out...two poets in one city... what could be better than braiding words? |
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jellybeans Member Elite
since 2000-10-13
Posts 2298 |
Jellybeans waves to all this is wonderful....it is a much needed break from my work which is driving me insane...more so than previously anyway... its like being in Alice in wonderland and I never know when its "off with her head" sigh I finally got up the gumption to complain to the 'queen's' 'boss' and lets see if it gets worse or better....might end up finding myself in line with the unemployed...*shrug* |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
Sunshine- my thoughts and feelings from point to point, eh? Hmmm... I might even be able to make that into a poem ^_^ jellybeans- aren't jobs just grand?  and then He created the horse... |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Karilea Welcome Home!! |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Hey Sky, I have 98 horses. Wanna ride with me? If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
Larry are you serious that you've got 98 horses? If it's true, I'm soooo jealous. Although I'd never find the time for 98 horses, and that would be a two hour chore at feeding time... I think I'll stick with my goal of 15 horses. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Martie! I'm home, all right! And I love the fog!!! The feel and smell of home are far different than Kansas...and I hadn't realized just how much I have missed it! Everyone has been wonderful...the flight was great...in fact, read here... ~*~ The Reunion Adventure It’s easy to put a sad face on getting up at 4:00 A.M. on a weekday – if you are going to work. But when you are not going to work and are in the beginning of a ten-day adventure, why, getting up isn’t hard at all. In fact, it is one of the easiest things to do! Add to that another passion of driving under a full moon on the edge of a starry night…and it is easy to see that some optimistic people, such as myself, would end up smiling all day. Thus began my morning – and my trip back home. The 90 mile road trip to Wichita seemed to melt under my tires…I was at my destination to drop off my car with nary a hitch. The shuttle service was rapid and smooth; E-tickets are THE way to go…and being as I arrived quite early, there was little to do but enjoy the Kansas sunrise before my flight left. However, that is when I met John, the self-ascribed Boeing “computer nerd”. Give an ear, and hear all about John, but in an hour’s nutshell, he was friendly, talkative, retired Air Force pilot who had never believed he would get into computers, but he had done so, willingly. In speaking of his step-son and the surprises that children can throw at you, he brought up the fact that his son had written two fictional books which were off to the publishers. I smiled. This was my “in”. “I write, too.” “Most women do.” “Poetry”. Now I waited for the silence. He smiled. “My step-son writes poetry, too, but I only found out by accident.” I smiled a little wider. And then he admitted…”You’d be surprised if I told you that I write poetry, too, but I never tell people about it.” What am I, ham salad? So of course, I had to bring up our favorite home…and I invited John, and his son, to give it a look-over…and if they liked it, and could find one Sunshine hanging around, to go ahead and let me know if they ever wanted to join. Now the smile was on the other face… What a way to start one’s vacation... ~*~ See? As a very good friend of mine would say, it's all about fun! I will see you soon!!! Karilea - if I whisper, will you listen? Keeping in mind, I must stand close... [This message has been edited by Sunshine (10-01-2004 11:49 AM).] |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
So glad your trip started off well ^_^and then He created the horse... |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Hi Karilea...I'm so glad to hear that all is well! You are going to leave a day by day here, right? I'm looking forward to seeing you next week! |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, Does Ron pay you a commission? You're good! Rhonda, Silly girl! That's the horsepower under the gas tank. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
Larry - aww, I was getting all excited. Er... just what do you drive that has 98 horsepower? Or do I WANT to know? *leaves before she says something that would send this thread to MC* and then He created the horse... |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
LMBO Well if it helps the gas tank is next to some handle bars. I bought a Roadstar 1600cc brand new in July! WooHoo!!! (Mine is like the one with the black leather bags.) Yamaha Roadstar Silverado If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Skyfire
since 2000-12-27
Posts 3381Riding |
oooh I'm jealous ^_^ I've never been on one before, I think it would be just the cat's pyjamas and then He created the horse... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Continuation – 9-30-04 through 10-01-04 To continue with Wednesday, what a homecoming I received by my brother and his family. It has been over 12 years since I had last been home. My brother had been busy working with his family, and never was able to come out and visit me. Kids and work take up time, a subject about which I know as much as anyone else. And of course, it wasn’t until late 1999 that I finally got involved with home computers, which were his life [programming, etc.] so at that time, I guess both of us felt we didn’t have much in common with each other. Over the two-day period we were able to spend with each other, we learned differently, of course. My brother and I were beginning to feel like Siamese twins separated at birth, there were so many similarities that were once again tying us together – mentally, physically, emotionally. We could only hold this new found information close to us as time would soon separate us again – and for a period of time unknown, but surely not for as long as it had, before. Wednesday evening, Thursday and Friday morning passed much too swiftly. It was enjoyable, dancing around family and feeling as if our mutual interaction was a daily occurrence, so easily did I move into their house and family life style. His step-daughter brought me a bouquet of gorgeous salmon-colored roses; I held my grand-niece, fed and changed her, and felt her to be more of a granddaughter than niece, so lovely and comfortable was she, in my arms. It was a joy to be with all of them. I baked and cooked in their kitchen, did dishes by hand…and it brought back some wonderful stories for my brother and myself to share with his daughter and family. The hours slipped by easily, and irretrievably. My brother shared events in his life that I had moved away from – he was never good with writing letters, and I let him talk, for my world had given me time to send letters home, and he felt fairly caught up with me until about 1992, the time that Mom died, and the letters seemed to cease coming. Seeing as how my brother had never written me – I figured phone calls would suffice, but those were few and far between as well. We didn’t quite reconnect on a more personal level until 1996, but it was in 2002 that my brother and I truly started talking again – and we have the computer world to thank for that. When I finally figured out the value of instant messenger, there weren’t many days that went by that I didn’t have some sort of communication with my brothers. Photos flew over the wires of the Internet, and I got to see him in a way and manner I had never expected – he loved Renaissance; he let his hair grow long the way some musicians do; and I found out that his love for composing and creating music held a very certain muse for him – our mother; just like our father often a’mused me with words and thoughts, energies and insight. Toward the end of our visit Robert shared with me, to the best of his ability, his music, his voice, his songs. We sang together some of our growing up years music – tunes and songs he had played to entertain people at restaurants and cafes while he worked his earlier years' day job. He shared with me the dreams he was not able to fulfill. The choices that he made, some good, some bad, he shared with me. But above all, he shared with me the parental decisions he had helped his stepchildren with, and beamed in delight that his children had followed his advice. He has a lot to be thankful for. I promised my brother that I would be back soon. Life is, to use the cliché, much too short to not keep some promises “sooner” than others. I will be back, Robert, for another visit, to not only see how you are doing, but to see how that grandbaby has grown as well, and to share with her photos of when she was only one month old. I love you, and yours. ~*~ In the late afternoon of 10-01-04, my high school girlfriend picked me up from my brother's and we headed south for Santa Maria, but not before a side trip to Jocko’s in Nipomo. If my brother is reading this now, he’s smiling. All I knew about Jockos is that it was the favored eating establishment of my mother and father, on the few times they would go out to dinner. I remember that Mother would dress up for an evening out with our father, when dinner was more of an occasion as opposed to just, “let’s go somewhere quick…” and as we entered the establishment, I wondered if I would be “too casual” in my summer duds. Not to worry – the overall casualness of the 21st century had more than caught up over the times of the 20th century [circa 1965] when going out was a rare treat for many wives and husbands, and had I dressed up like my mother use to do when planning a night out at Jocko’s, I would have been out of place. While the dress code had relaxed, the attentiveness of our waiter had not, and although I had only heard of Jocko’s famous steaks and food, I was unprepared for the fact that the quality of that had NOT diminished at all. So my girlfriend and I enjoyed a toast to ourselves and our ability to move along with the world and not let it take us over; we oohh’ed and aahh’d over the quality of the meal, and we laughed and giggled like girls again. Catching up on some 20 years was going to take a little more time than we had imagined. We arrived safely at the Radisson a couple of hours later, unpacked, and continued to talk through it all. It was quite comforting to know that we hadn’t done all of our talking in a short time…we covered highlights of our lives, but we realized we were about to head into the nuances of all things under the surface. But in so many ways, our ability to pick up where we left off has never forsaken us, and for me, that was a very good thing to acknowledge, indeed. One matter that hit my senses very hard came about most unexpectedly. My girlfriend is as compassionate as she has always been. Our hotel is on the south side of town, less than a mile or so from where my parents raised us. All I did was say, that was my street – and she said, "yes, I remember," and turned the corner to head toward the home I was raised in. As we neared it, I saw the stone retainer wall my father had put up – just like it was the last time I had been home. I saw the house, which had been kept in its original color of a pleasant, light green, with white trim. Just like my parents had left it over 12 years ago. I had not expected that. Not at all. For a person who doesn’t cry much – at least not in front of other people, the sudden, unexpected release of tears came as a surprise to me, but not to my friend. I thought I could drive by, see the house still standing, and either appreciate the way the new family was taking care of the yard and such, or be disappointed that it had fallen into disrepair, the way some folks are… I was pleased to see certain things that my mom and dad had left with the house, were still in fine shape. I am home. ~*~ Friday evening continued easily, and with both my friend and I feeling the effects of our fine meal taking a pleasant, lulling effect over our bodies, it was simple enough to turn off the lights around 10:30 after the news, and start to drift asleep. What I found even more enjoyable, however, was the quiet talking we did in the dark. The soft sound of peaceful voices, filling in a gap that was reminiscent of a Walton Mountain’s family of good night voices…those last tones of “almost asleep” rocking us gently, quietly, as the calming arms of Morpheus took over, and bound us to one another again even more distinctly and surely than our youth ever had. Only the “good times” of Thelma and Louise are to await us. ~*~ Karilea - if I whisper, will you listen? Keeping in mind, I must stand close... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Saturday, October 2, 2004 Who knows what one will do when on vacation, or what things of interest will be most moving. For my girlfriend, it was of the utmost importance to locate a T-handled reamer. SHOCK So on Saturday, that was what we had set out for. I wasn’t in a buying mood [best time to go shopping] but was willing to walk off my breakfast in following her around. For whatever reason, however, she decided to stop at one of the more expensive Malls [not WalMart, Kmart or Target] “just to look”. I like to look. No problem. What I didn’t expect to find was one classy outfit, however. This great three-piece suit said, “come over here…” so I went to inspect the price tag. $200. YIKES! Another look, and the tag was marked through with a second slip of paper…$119.00. Hmmm….ok, who is talking to me, anyway? A look up at the top of the rack… “All items, $89.00” Oh, geez…and I promised I wouldn’t be buying any clothes on this trip. I PROMISED…. Well, I can fix this! I pick up the outfit and march over to the sales lady to “verify” the price. [It’s GOT to be wrong!] She scans it for verification. “$89, right?” “Well, no.” AHA! “Sixty-nine…” Now, seeing as how this is the year of my graduating class, wouldn’t YOU think that someone was pointing you in the direction of what it is, exactly, you ought to be wearing later Saturday evening, and not the suit you lugged some air-miles from home? Thinking to myself that, ok, even hubby would agree that you couldn’t beat a 70% discount, I thought, “well, it won’t fit.” And the slacks didn’t but the top and jacket did…hmmm…. “Hey, friend…go get the other suit that was hanging there [there were only two…] and she, being pleased as punch that I was “going wild…” gleefully skittered to the rack and back and said, “here, quick, before you change your mind.” The second set of slacks fit. The cuffs rolled beautifully back…the classic cut was “me”. Oh geez…. Will this require new shoes?  Nope! We eventually found the T-handled reamer, too… Even hubby approved…of the suit, doesn't know yet about the T-handled reamer...which wasn't for me... ~*~ Soon enough, “reunion time” rolled around. How disappointing to learn that they have had a reunion every five years…and this year was the first year that most of the out-of-towners came home, and the local grads STAYED home. Ah well, some 50 out of close to a 400 member graduating class DID show…and it was wonderful doing all of the things that people do at reunions, like talk, drink, talk, eat, talk, stand around, talk, etc…. And it was amazing how some folks had changed SO much…and others had changed SO little! And none of us were “old”…just finely mellowed and slightly weighted with maturity, grace, and acceptance of those whom, in school, we hadn’t thought fit to accept then. THAT is showing “class”… Even more amazing were the number of self-admittees of the “I was shy” club. You were? But I always saw you with such and so…and the things that others remember of you…even MORE amazing. I truly had not realized just how much people knew of me, including the fact that I had wanted then, as now, to do nothing more than write, and share poetry, thoughts, feelings, and imagination… It was a good, no, wonderful evening. ~*~ Sunday morning found several of us banding together for brunch. Even more laughter, faces that hadn’t appeared the night before were crashing the scene now, with tears of welcome and joyful hugs…and the furious exchanging of cards and e-mail addresses…because, it seems, we are all now at a point in our life where it is becoming vitally apparent that we dare not let time interfere with connections again… What a wonderful weekend… With even more joyful moments to look forward to! |
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Copperbell Senior Member
since 2003-11-08
Posts 956 |
That's awesome Sunshine. Reunions are interesting...people who you didn't even hang around feel like close friends... and how some people change and others don't. At my reunion there were two guys who were good friends in school and didn't even recognize each other. I as well had such an awesome weekend...I went to a show (the performers are old friends of ours) and we stayed at a hotel and hung around until the sun came up...it's been years since I've spent any significant time with these guys. I'm still glowing. |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Karilea! You look gorgeous in that suit! Now please, what is a T-handled Reamer???? Just don't bring it with you to Glendora...huh!  |
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James_A_Fraser Senior Member
since 2003-09-03
Posts 972Out Making Anticlines |
T-handled......hmmmm.... I will not make the joke....I will NOT! |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Never mind...I looked it up on google! |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
I prefer the B-handled version myself...... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Hi honies! I'm "home" again...but the "home of CA" will always remain. What a blessed time I had... there will be more reading to come, as well as some wonderful pictures... and I would like to thank the poets who took time to meet me. OMG...what a wonderful experience. My brother, who shared his wonderful music and lyrics with me. And now...for a slight "Ta-Da" and then I will be back with some reminiscing. Does anyone remember my little sharing of submitting my poems for the Kansas Poet Laureate position? Well, I made the first cut. I will be the second person to be judged this coming Friday, October 15. I stand in the company of 12 other poets from around the state of Kansas. It would be nice to know how many submissions were received. However, I doubt I will be able to uncover that information...regardless, I am one of 13. Hmmmm...and this judging will take place on a Friday? LOL... It's good to have constant contact again [internet access was not always a plus...LOL...] So, until I can get back with more of my journeys, photos, and such, just know, I came back a changed person. Hopefully, all for the better...  |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
[Note...this will catch all up onto my last day in CA...but there is a poem that ties up the ending very well...entitled "View from the airport carpet…" Enjoy! ~*~ 10-05-04 4:00 a.m. It is so easy to slide through a vacation, albeit trying to capture every moment. Oct 4 slipped away so fast. Yvonne and I woke up relatively early [early for Yvonne – I am still on KS time]. I went downstairs for Y’s café latte and a cup of coffee for me. Upon return, and four sips later, the latte was deemed undrinkable, so the search for a Starbucks was on. We showered, dressed, and packed efficiently and quickly. The café jitters were starting to get to Y. After a bit of dickering over our bill [no major problems – it was just that my ISP provider gave me an out-of-town number which was “local” but still incurred long distance costs…some questioning by me of “how is one to know, when dialing a “9” to get an outside line, a local number placed, and no operator’s canned voice coming on saying, “dial 1” or “add area code” to provide fair warning that the number dialed is actually another town’s number…and I got the $150 phone bill down to $35. As the techno-age wears on, we continue to learn more and more… So the secret is – check the phone number prefix in any local phone book to see if that is one that is actually in the town you are staying in. Simple as silk on glass. Car packed, motor running, latte-starved, we were on the great search for the Starbucks downtown. After obtaining her “café latte, lo-fat, no foam” drink, my friend went from “do you want nice, or do you want me?” stage of her morning and we proceeded on to a Baker’s Square restaurant for breakfast. I normally never eat breakfast on a weekday…except when traveling. Breakfast was great…probably because we were both just plain hungry after the long weekend. A lot of emotion had been spent, and it was a feeling of natural refueling to tackle the forthcoming week. As I had purchased a few small things, I needed to “lighten my load” so we proceeded on to a pack and mail place to ship some stuff back home. MUCH less expensive than paying over-weight charges at the airport! Yvonne took me on to the Enterprise office and I picked up a Chevy Malibu. Not too shabby…an upgrade because I arrived early and their “intermediate” size car had not yet been returned. [Car? Yep…still a “small town”]. However, driving around my old stomping grounds by myself, and later with my cousin, showed me that in essence, CA greed has remained unchanged. If there is a chance to take a small spot, build an overpriced, albeit cheaply built home and ask for an outrageous sales price, then it WILL happen. My cousin proceeded to explain that salaries here – in the blue collar jobs especially, are not much more or about the same as mid-west salaries/compensation. And yet, these homes range in price from 3 to 10 times more than what the rest of the nation pays. It is simply amazing. It never used to be this bad…or at least, if it was, back in the 40’s and later 50’s, I was simply not aware of it. The building market was never this outrageous some 20 years ago. Or this spread out! The sugar beet fields are gone. There are still some strawberry fields, yes, but the “agri” sense of my hometown is gone. My cousin further explained that people “live on” credit cards. We’re not talking about high-spenders, or irresponsible folk. They simply cannot survive any other way, if not for the credit that you and I work so hard to maintain. I may have said it earlier, but it’s worth repeating…about the only thing that has stayed the same are the street names. While showing my cousin’s husband some photos on my computer, and showing some nature shots of Kansas and its’ weather, he commented…”we never see skies like that” and I was struck anew of the rainbow skies under which I reside. No…they never see a sunset of pinks, golds, mauves and purples, nor reddish-orange/royal purple, dark skies like I see come over us. At least, not in all areas of CA…we are that far south that the haze of smog has even overtaken our small, once clean, valley air. “Your skies are so crisply blue…” as he observed fall pictures of golden cottonwoods and azure skies. Yes, they are. ~*~ 10-05-04, and it’s not quite 5:00 a.m. here on the west coast. I cannot seem to get off of Kansas time, which overall is ok, the shock won’t be quite so great once I return. When a person gets to this age, some bodily functions just won’t stand much adaptation, and if I were to push it to fit this time zone, there would probably be a price to pay, physically, when I return home. So…go with the flow. Today I will leave for the southern climes of CA…and take my time in getting to Camarillo. If I see some place that I want to stop…then I’m stopping. Whatever comes my way…will be explored. We always say, “oh, we should have stopped…that would have been a great photo opportunity.” The opportunities are splayed before me today… ~&~ Tuesday, Camarillo… Time spent alone, contemplating, can be good for one’s soul. Won’t go into the details now, but my alone time in Camarillo was well worth that singular day which gave me much to think about. Everyone should experience a bit of time like that to themselves; whether it be through reading, or writing; sitting alone in the quiet, or listening to music. Feel the time around you – let it be your friend, and embrace it thoroughly. Look into the eyes in the shadows of your soul, and do not fear them. Look back on the memories of your life, acknowledge all – feats, fears, wrong-doings, and especially the things you’ve done well. All of this is the makeup of your mentality, and your well-being. Accept, as they say, what you cannot change, and change that which you can. Change is good… ~*~ Wednesday found me following a dear cousin’s suggestion…instead of going on Hwy 101 toward LA, I went west on Los Posos Road, but MISSED the slight turn of the road [it was 6:00 a.m., heavy fog, and still quite dark!] I ended up at the guards’ shack on the outskirts of Port Hueneme…and immediately began to pull out my driver’s license and roll down the window…I’ve been lost before, and knew what to expect. The guard was very kind, having been in my neck of the woods during his growing up time…and asked if I knew where certain places were in location to my town of Salina. Oh yes! We enjoyed a nice chat, and he guided the “lovely lady” around, pointed her in the right direction, and returned my license. For being such an early hour of the day, he was in a wonderful mood… I followed Route 1 then, the “scenic” route of the California highway system, and enjoyed the ride immensely. Got out onto one of the camping beaches before sunrise, and just listened. For those of you who are landlocked and never hear the real sound of the ocean, I am only sorry that I cannot give you that joyful sound. Any recorded ocean sounds are only good for “so long”, or are repetitive, and you can hear the small “click” and recognize the waves of before. Such is not the way it is with the ocean. There is no repetition…each wave crashes upon itself in various sounds…and all of them are good… Later in the morning I arrived at my aunt and uncle’s home in the LA area, and spent a few hours there. My grandmother woke enough to not only recognize me, but speak to me as well. She is failing fast, and it will be a blessing to all when she does decide to let go. This lovely person I held hands with is not the person even she would recognize. I doubt she has seen a mirror in a couple of years…she is waiting to die. Hopefully, now that she saw her first-born granddaughter, she will let go, God willing. That afternoon, I headed north/north-west…and with a little help from a flower-girl via cell phone, found my way to Martie and Taylor’s home. And what a home! Warmth, comfort, and love felt like the vines and vast shrubs and flowers that lead you into their home. Eclectic is another word we can ascribe to Martie and Taylor now…with all things bearing some deeply rooted feeling or memory. What a thrill it was to be with them for two nights and a full day! Our first night together found Taylor “holding his own” with his chemo treatments! You go, Taylor! They invited me to join them at one of their favorite restaurants, where it was two bottles of wine for the price of one! Well, that is yet another of the “good deals” I’ve run across on this journey [and if I have missed sharing several of my good deals and marvelous fortunes, I’ll get back to them some day…] The dinner was excellent, and we ate out on the patio in the open air. It is easy to see that Taylor’s floral business makes him quite well known in the area…there wasn’t a stranger to be found, and vocal greetings floated across the air with almost every bite of food we took. Glendora is a wonderful, small community, nestled at the foothills of Michelle’s Mountain. Due to caution, the hills were closed to travelers…it is fire season. So, no hike up the hills this time, but perhaps… Next time. Right, Martie? And Taylor…you keep that wonderful spirit of yours UP! On Thursday, Martie and I spent some wonderful time together, and we did a bit of housecleaning, then fed the birds, dog, and cat, and even fed the stray peacock that Martie has taken in. Oh, I must mention Taylor’s having found a young pigeon, as well, that fell out of its nest. You can only guess who was raising this bird, named Bird, to fledgling status, and when I left, it was all but ready to take on the world, on it’s own. Go, Bird! A couple of poets were able to come and meet up with us in the Fullerton Arboretum…what a delightful day! I was introduced to Martie’s fall-up leaf tree…I even got to sit on Martie’s special bench. If you want a relaxed, laid-back time…and you’re in the Glendora area, call on Taylor and Martie…they will show you a home that is filled with love. On Friday morning, Martie and I scrambled some words. She also scrambled breakfast, and what a great meal that was. I found out just how much we are alike, which pleased me even more. It is pleasing to know that the “sisterhood” between Martie and I only strengthened in real time. I left some words behind with her, which I understand she added to…and I am looking forward to seeing that poem, and how it turned out. I then took leave of Martie and Taylor on Friday morning around 9:00 a.m. or so…and leaned back into the car and let it guide me home to Santa Maria. The trip “home” to Santa Maria was probably much of what homing pigeons experience. Set your nose in the right direction, and you are there. It seemed that short of a drive. My family, being the kind they are, left a door open for me. I ‘netted for a short while, knowing that my ISP service is not what it is cracked up to be…and any “local” number isn’t necessarily local. When my cousins arrived home, we had a wonderful dinner with plenty of drinks to go around…and all hit the hay early in order for me to be transported to San Luis Obispo at o-dark-thirty Saturday morning. Saturday morning, October 9, 2004… I am typing this as I sit in the Phoenix airport. I tried calling my adopted sis…but she is not in. Ah well. You will have to bear the brunt of the story. My SLO flight was cancelled because the overnight incoming flight was cancelled due to … fog. All of the passengers that were to have boarded that flight were “courteously” bussed down to Santa Barbara…a 90-minute drive. Once at the SB airport, they inserted my name in backwards [go figure] and had me waiting in SB until 3:35 PST. HUH? Not fair! I was already in line, so proceeded to show the very nice young man ALL of my information and that is when he found the goof…but he couldn’t let me on until all other passengers who were “goofless” had boarded…he would call “standby” and that would be my cue. I cued in all right…and still can’t leave Phoenix until 5:34 p.m. tonight. It is now 12:35 p.m. Phoenix time, so I am quite sure I will not be one of the harried passengers that will be running down my plane. What an opt time to finish my book, except this floor is exceptionally hard. That’s right. No on-line connection, but an electrical plug under the phone lines, so…I’m recharging my phone battery while catching up on my journal. Never leave a moment to waste. I MAY have to buy another book, however, because my four-hour flight home is going to be QUITE long… And I may stay over in Wichita tonight depending on the weather and the time I get in. Even I know how far to push myself, and a 20-hour day may be JUST a bit too far! Better to get up first thing in the a.m. and head out fresh. What’s to stretching a vacation just one more day. Heck, I even thought I could board a Houston flight, and visit our friends down there, too…but THAT flight doesn’t leave until even later than my Wichita connection… So the vacation is on the verge of ending on a fine note. I find it a bit comical to observe for all of your enjoyment that I am not the only female on the floor, using a computer and recharging batteries. There are two other lovely blonde ladies enjoying the carpet with me. I doubt one would ever see a man doing this. But that’s ok. You know now we ladies tend to multi-task without complaint, and truly make the most of our time! ~*~ Thanks for "tripping" with me! [This message has been edited by Sunshine (10-12-2004 03:29 PM).] |
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jellybeans Member Elite
since 2000-10-13
Posts 2298 |
 just wanted to share a photo of my daughter and son that I found. It was in pretty bad shape but I worked on it and restored it over the weekend...it will be a year soon, and my muse is thankfully silent...as am I...but I miss you all ...very much jb sends her love |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
JB, do you know how this pleases me, to know that you would share such a lovely sight on this particular thread? Some things are meant to be found out in their own time... This, I know. Thank you, sweetheart, for putting this very special photograph here, for all of us to share with you. |
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jellybeans Member Elite
since 2000-10-13
Posts 2298 |
thank you lady, for this thread woven of friendships in which I feel safe to share my love and my sadness...you all mean so much to me... |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
JB?  ..Thank you. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
JB...and all of our poet friends... this is the safest home I have ever encountered. There truly is no fear here...we speak our minds, we come on in...we travel safe, in Ron's home.... he has many doors, several windows that light our way... and if he runs across this particular comment, he will know how very grateful I am in so many ways for all he has given over the years, how many thousands of lives he has helped change.... I will never be able to give back enough... Never. But I can keep trying! |
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Kielo Senior Member
since 2002-02-11
Posts 1109 |
Hello all. Just dropping by to say hi. I have a job again, so I may be around regularly in a couple weeks. At the moment I'm actually AT work. I got here at 12. Working until 7 tomorrow morning... Which I suppose is actually this morning. About 5 hours left to go. I'm bored out of my skull. I work front desk at a hotel. Obviously there isn't much going on at 2:20am, so I just sit here and wish I was in bed. I wouldn't normally complain, but I only found out I was working the shift at 9pm today. Someone is sick. I don't know if I've been around since my girlfriend moved to Edmonton... but I miss her like crazy. We talk all the time on the phone, and we're nearly halfway between when she left and when we get to see each other next. Depending on how coherent I am, I may end up reading this whole thread... but at the moment I think I'm going to go try napping. I miss you all. I've been thinking of you. Kielo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Kielo - if you're so bored that the only entertainment is "this whole thread"...then I most certainly wish you a good nap! LOL...you gave me my first chuckle this Sunday morning... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
I shared, tonight, a poem with my brother, who inspired it to begin with. I was very concerned that perhaps his emotions would take over, as his meds do cause some emotional override at times...but he did well in reading it. Why am I stating this? Because, I guess, if you can manage to go ahead and speak with your heart through your hands and create poetry...then by God, people, share it with the ones you love.... it is THAT important. Just as important as letters and notes and phone calls... And Magnus? If you read this? Yes, Sir...I know already, that priorities have changed, and the job, and other things, no longer come first over family... for time is much too short in so many instances, Sir...so you will be pleased to know that we "talk" most every night [easier on my brother, who sometimes is short on breath, but his fingers work] so we correspond mostly through IM and e-mail, and have been doing so these last two years...BUT...there is NOTHING like a hug... nothing. K |
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Magnus
since 2001-10-10
Posts 14135South Carolina, USA |
No, dear lady....there is nothing like a hug. It goes much further than any internet connection ever will. We are all blessed to have this given to us. It has brought continents into our dens and living rooms, cultures and thoughts, friendships by the droves. laughs a minute and tears as well...so much we have now, and the price is so minute compared to what we can derive from it. Yes, it seems too often a funeral seems to be about the only thing that brings families together. Family reunions don't draw the crowds that were drawn 20 years ago. Our fathers and mothers are either dead or aged, they cannot travel far...and for those of us, those that no longer have their parents to call...Oh God, to be able to just once more say hi, such a gift it would be. Love those you have while you can. Put down the pen and pick up the phone....send that email NOW, not tomorrow... Tomorrow might be too late...one never knows. Thanx Sunshinyone....for bringing me here. I will try to take the time to read what you have given to us....just bear with me, ok? |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
See post #74 if this confuses you... /pip/Forum29/HTML/001721-3.html#74 quote: I want to thank everyone of you who wished me luck and truly believed that I would receive the nod. The next nomination deadline is anticipated to be in the summer of 2006. I guess that gives me time to hone my craft, perhaps get published [again] and overall improve my chances for the next round. At least I won't be bummed out around my birthday! Hugs, Karilea [This message has been edited by Sunshine (10-21-2004 06:37 PM).] |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Neat thing happened today. I sent the new Kansas Poet Laureate a congratulatory e-mail...and he responded. THAT is a good thing... |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
...hey you? What does KANSAS know from poetry anyhow???  (I tease, but just a bit. So my bias is showing...in my particular case, what hasn't?) Have a hug, my sister, and write me something sweet? |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Yeah Karilea, write something sweet for Karen. You are our poet laureate, right? And you thought I wasn't paying attention! If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Serenity, Larry...you are both big hugs, y'know that? Truly, I'm not bummed at all [we leave that for you, sissie... ] and after looking at the background of some of the losers I stand in very good company.  I've been thinking of contacting those who tried and failed, start a "Poets of Failure" group, and encourage everyone to go ahead and follow through with whatever they had put in their statements that they were going to carry through, IF they made the cut for Poet Laureate.  What do you think???Serenity, my muse is in hiding, but I think I found a "something sweet" for you [Larry, serenity will share...] and if this wasn't what you were hoping for, I know that after a little while, when she smells the coffee, my muse will return... In my Perhaps It is in the soft light of tiffany lamp meditation meets quiet, reflection greets wisdom, in my perhaps, lies hope. In my perhaps, are many opportunities as so many more possibilities lie within, many more so than just maybe, or even, we’ll see. A soft promise that indicates kismet is just around the corner, where serenity awaits, perchance it be today, or in whim of tomorrow’s fancy. Perhaps seems more a pledge, awaiting blood’s ties to thoughtful reverence. Perhaps is akin to a slip stream of expect, awaiting with trust that wishes shall be fulfilled. In my Perhaps rests the underlying encouragement that all things shall be as ever was and if asked what aura surrounds my perhaps, trust me… it is orb-hued green. |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Sweet, indeed, Kari! I thank ye much. and psssst...I love your idea. As for your muse? hmmm...you suppose YOUR muse and my muse are off together somewhere? amusing thought, eh? sheesh |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Well, why it may not be a "bad" idea, serene one, I did a little research this morning on most of the applicants [one or two couldn't be found via internet] and you know what? With the exception of one...all are either KU, KSU, Wichita University Professors and/or published authors. One of the exceptions is a lady I want to go meet - she's around 94-95 years of age!!! In 2001, an article said she was "just beginning to write" and I understood from the interview that she lives in a "world of clutter"...maybe our muses need more clutter? I'll do a little more researching on this marvelous woman of silver hair [and silver-colored nails to match, or so says the article] and get back to you about her...she seems to be quite an interesting character! But in the meantime, I'm dusting off my novel and sticking my nose back into that project...which is PROBABLY the reason why my muse is missing!!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Some five years and a little short of four months ago, I was looking for a place of substance in the world of poetry. I had originally been with a website of "angelic poetry"...and not that mine ever was [in its attempts] or is now...but it felt right at the time. However... no one is so angelic [with extreme thank yous to those who are and nod to Earth Angel and others] that their site was doing for others, that it did not seem...constricted. They had no way of doing so many things...like being a safety deposit for poetry...never ever did they mention anywhere that one should "back up" their work...I wonder at the words of mine that once were, now floating in a netherzone.... and I praise this site every day. So many clues as to how to keep one's work safe...so many guidelines as to why one should regard the rules and regs... so many ways to do things right. That is why I stay with this site. So many are copying this with their regulations, requirements, and overall look of this site, so many dream the dream that the sitemaster of this site dreamed...but no one has of yet, that I have found, stayed true to their goal... and I wish them all well. I have even joined up with one, or two... however... There is NO place like home... I left home once... and I may explore next door... but I know where good is... and I know where I'm staying, for as long as one or two of us have breath. Thank you, Mr. Wizard. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
If there would be a night where I could wish my delight it would be to see a full eclipse and the feel of .... on my lips... |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
Stories, folks... Tell stories. I'm tired of politics. Please? He was a man of sorrows |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ah, GG...yes, dear. A good story goes a long way. Let me get a few things done, dear, and I will be back in with a story or two of my own. In the meantime, let's see if we can rap on serenity's door...  Serenity! You in there??? C'mon out... we need a story! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
For you, GG, from a few years ago... ~*~ Showering Thoughts and Falling Back Being more of a shower-person than a bath person, it comes as no surprise to me that my mind works just as well [or not] under the sting of the hottest water. I will stand for long, long moments just allowing the trickle and stream of water to hit and hurt and cascade over and down, allowing the only movement to be the wrinkling of my fingertips as time ticks on… Mom always said that I thought too much…and she was right. There is nothing grammatically correct about my thoughts, they stream as much as the water rivulets from the showerhead does, on and on, with drops reaching here and there and down and bouncing back up if they connect just right on this skin of thought. Water droplets all around, only to dissipate into a foggy mist or just dry up, period. It was 4:00 a.m., but it was really 5:00 a.m. when I awoke without use of alarms or recorded sounds or anything but this internal clock of mine. I don't despise the Fall Back time of setting clocks and alarms and VCRs, microwaves and pendulums, for most people will gain that hour of sleep, and I will gain an hour of active thought. I am most comfortable with myself, but unfortunately, some are not. It is hard to be a wakeful person when you are married to a sleepy person. No matter what I would do when awake at these oddly quiet hours, whether it be reading, ironing, watching TV or trying to kid myself that I may someday be a for-real author, I would be chastised by those who would sleep. Favorite word that pops up by my sleepyhead aroused from slumber is "you're obsessed." A guess on my part would be I feel that time is slipping by. Didn't we just exhibit and example that with the turning back of the clocks, which won't gain us any real time, because we will just give it up and back and away when we forward through it in Spring of next year. And I just plain do not want to miss any of it. |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, That was a gorgeous write with so much food for thought. Goes well with coffee! Thanks. I'm sure glad Karen was willing to share... If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
You're the best thank you.I spent all morning helping run a mock electioon for my highschool. This is a good break to come home to. Someday (soon hopefully) you will be a for-real author, and you'll have fans awake in the mornings reading over and over because they just don't want to miss any of it. Thank you so much for your story! Enjoyed Always, Alyssa He was a man of sorrows |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Alyssa...keep a secret? Shhhh... In about an hour, I am going to submit, via request by a publisher, a novel I have been working on for two years now...well, almost three...[bummer thought, hey?] but it has been through its spawning, a metamorphosis [editing] and until unbiased eyes read it [as some here at Passions had a chance to read it in Prose some time back, before the kindly Wizard poofed it...]... then hopefully it will morph into a true book. Heck...all things can go wrong, this I know...sometimes I think Murphy's law sits on my shoulder, but... and I hold this BUT close to my heart... too many of the fine folk of Passions believes it can be. What more then, I say, should I question? These are educated, fine folk. I even got a wink and nod from the highest of sources. But, m'dear, I will tell you straight. It was my brother who said to me, "sweetheart, follow your dreams." There are too many who will say that dreamers are losers. Not so. If it weren't for the dreamers, the practicals would never exist. So... In a few hours, I am going to punch a button and submit a work of ... love. A baby, ready to be birthed. A moment, which will either exist with this publisher, or not. If not... then at least I know I tried, yes? And guess what? I will try, again. I know too many wonderful folk who are "making it" right now...and when their moment of publication comes, I know they will be here to share it with us. We have to get over being "shy". My largest fault..."someone can do it better than I can." Well, sometimes we have to admit that the "someone" is in our own mirror. GG, thank you for helping me share with others. Love, Karilea |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
Karilea? The absolute best to you. If I had any luck I'd offer it to you... but then, I don't think you need any luck. Dreamers always win. Not that I fall anywhere within the bounds of optimism... but I know the facts when I see their smiles, your smile... If you'd like, though, I'll cross my fingers for you. Always, Alyssa He was a man of sorrows |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you Alyssa. I pushed all the keys last night, wrapped things up as best I could, and submitted the package around 5:41 a.m. Central time this morning. I'm emotionally wiped. This was as big a deal to me, dear, as seeing my children having their babies... Now, keep pinching me and reminding me to BREATHE... For now is the PREGNANT time... |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, Could I have a picture of that? I like pregnant! If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Larry, for you, I'll dig through my photos, scan a picture, and post it here. It will take a while, but I know I have one... ~*~ Update. My brother is doing BETTER! What a scare! If he can get through the pneunomia phenomena, they will send him home. IF... A great big IF that I am placing in HIS hands... because HE has answered SO MANY prayers for me lately...even my girlfriend whose son went through an emergency brain surgery for a meningioma [as my spouse experienced] came through it like a champ...and IT was the size of a tennis ball... anyway, my friend believes I have a pipeline. I don't. But it DOES help. And if those of you whom I have spoken to recently about just this thing are reading tonight, tomorrow, down the road... tell me...what can it HURT? Because, you see...it's not just MY prayer...it is all of the prayers that we ask for ANOTHER.... and we won't always have the response WE want, this, I know...BUT... sometimes we do. And sometimes it's just smart medicine. So who prayed that the docs would do the right thing? I know, I do.... ok, I'm preaching to some who are already in the choir, and I'm also jabbering...because... the manuscript is officially under review. My brother is JAZZED... and we ROCK ON! [the "imp" side of me who wears pragmatic like polyester wants to downplay my enthusiasm over chance, and hope...but I'm putting up a fair fight, I tell ya!] [P.S. To those of you who have sent me e-mails, have I said lately, how much I love y'all?] [P.P.S. Doesn't that sound like a serenity statement?] |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Karilea? C'mere... And it's great news about your brother.. The prayers have not stopped. Love ya lady~ |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thanks, honey... it's always fun being attached at the hip! |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Well Karilea you have had and still have my prayers. Your example is an excellent example for others to live by. Thanks sweetie. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ah Larry...you're nothing but a wonderful big brother...you know that, right? |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Now I can't complain about never having had a sister! You're the best dear girl, just the best. I've very excited about the improvements your brother is making! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
First, our good news...my brother is doing So Very Much Better...he is still trying to get over the pneumonia that set in, but we are interchanging bits and pieces daily via IM [thank GOD for computers] and he is slowly improving. He thanks everyone for their prayers and well wishes. Secondly, a good number of you know that my former boss, Lawton Nuss, went on to the Supreme Court two years ago. Yesterday, he was inducted into the Salina Central High School's "Hall of Fame". I found his speech to be truly "Lawtonesque", given the week that we have gone through. I have provided a link for those of you who would be interested to see what he had to say. It's nice to see the "not-so-popular" kids do good, y'know? http://www.saljournal.com/content/2-0-/module/displaystory/story_id/3598 /format/html/displaystory.html Now, to borrow from our Mysterious one... Carpe Diem! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Well, the prayers continue to be answered, and I thank all of you who have been so kind as to send individual notes and have been keeping both me and my brother in your thoughts. Robert has been moved from ICU into a regular room - once this pneumonia has been kicked, he will be going home again. About time, too - he's starting to get feisty! As for me, a few of you know that six months ago my yearly mammogram showed a small, very small, spot. Well, that follow-up came today, and there was no way I was leaving the office until I saw both slides. Oh there was a definite, spring-pea sized spot six months ago. Today's film showed absolutely nothing in the way of a spot, shadow, zip, nada! "Out, out, damn spot!" could've worked. Prayer could've worked. A change in diet could've worked...and I learned something today. I understand there is a study going on where they are researching how caffeinated products such as soft drinks are linked to small spots, tumors and the like. Well, isn't it strange that I did NOT know that six months ago, but had voluntarily gone to a reduction of soft drinks and increasing water consumption...[still need a cup or two of coffee each day for that kick start - but have cut back on that, as well...] I urge all of my PiP sisters, and my PiP brothers, to encourage YOUR family members [and you gals] to PLEASE get your yearly mammograms. We don't need to wait for the once a year "month-a-thon" to get us there...and our lives are much too precious to us to not have a baseline to give the doctors a good idea of our normal selves... If you ever give a present to me...give me your promise to take care of yourself and yours. Love, Sunshine [This message has been edited by Sunshine (11-10-2004 06:21 AM).] |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
 Thank you Karilea..for the reminder... AND for taking care of YOU! It's up to each and every one of us to do all we can to stay healthy. Love ya lady~ |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
So how do they flatten a mans breast? If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you, NancyLee... When my mother was diagnosed with cancer, it was one of those that was inoperable. Knowing my mother as I did, I know exactly what she said to the doctors - "give me something that will keep me pain free, rush me towards my end, and let me go with dignity." My mother was just 61 years old. My mother smoked. My father smoked. My siblings smoked. I was the only black sheep in the family. And I remember distinctly, why. Back in the days pre-dishwasher [heck, Mom had raised six hands that could wipe a plate and scour a pot - laziness could be expensive...and she would still have to feed us - hence, we were here dishwashers... ] but I digress.I believe sincerely there is nothing MORE disgusting [well, yes, maybe a few things, but this one is in the top ten] when one doesn't thoroughly wipe out a dirty ashtray before dumping it in hot soapy water. EEEEEWWWWWWW..... THAT one time act alone when I was young turned me off and away from cigarettes on its own. Back in the day of my childhood, when one was known at the grocery stores, and all of their little ones, too...it was nothing for my mother to write a note to the lady at the checkout stand to allow me, a minor of 12, to bring home for her a pack of cigarettes. I hated that walk to and from the store. I never minded the walk if I were picking up some groceries that my 12 year old arms could carry - even if the bags got heavy - but just to go for that cellophane wrapped, lightweight box made for the heaviest weight of all. You see, it was 1964. My world had recently undergone a change of Presidents by assassination...things were moving rapidly in my young mind on how quickly things could change, and the newest term I had picked up for cigarettes was the term, "coffin nails". And now there were ads, not many, but now and then, commercials proclaiming the dangers of smoking. I hated those single pack trips. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
LOL...you know, Larry, a friend and I were talking about what tests the men go through... I'm not sure YOUR test is a whole lot more fun than ours! Send your sister, female cousins, girlfriends, whomever... you know the drill, Mr! |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Well dear lady my wife has had a radical mastectomy. I know the drill too well. Cancer free for seventeen years! But it got her sister at 51.  Indeed I know the drill.If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Took my mom Larry...at 46. And your Nancy Lee cancer free for 17 years...that's great!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Larry, I didn't know, and I apologize for coming across in the wrong light. It is that just so many of my female friends of various ages still have the attitude that they are immortal... Please accept my apologies, dear. |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, Oh lighten up! Even our family still has a sense of humor. Love ya' babe.If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
LOL...oh, I am much lighter, absolutely! Didn't realize the weight had been so heavy! I truly did not know of your family's history, Larry - I have a feeling you are pushing more and more females into taking care of themselves by making sure they get their tests... So many men could care less. You're my CHAMP!  |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, Not only should breast cancer be cured. Women should be keeping their anatomy! And my wife reminded me it's been nineteen years. Woohoo!!! If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
I hate cancer, not matter the kind. I really hope everyone here keeps themselves healthy. My sister noticed a lump on her breast a few weeks ago. She went in to a free clinic and they discovered not only a lump there, but one in her cervyx as well. She couldn't have a biopsy scheduled because of no health coverage but she finally got that. She'll have a biopsy done on the 18th. She's 21 and relatively healthy, so she should be fine. But yeah, I'm remembering again why I hate cancer so much... He was a man of sorrows |
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nakdthoughts Member Laureate
since 2000-10-29
Posts 19200Between the Lines |
just hugging you all~~ M |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Hey M I'm in for a group hug any time! Thanks. Allysa sorry about your sis I pray everything turns out okay. And a hug for you too. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
As I had feared yesterday when things went awry, my brother is back in ICU. His heart rate is continuing to give him fits and starts. That he is not on his computer tells me a lot...because I know he would not give up that connection with me if he had anything to say or do about it. From here, I do not know if he will ever leave the hospital or not. All I can hope, is that he is being kept from pain, and that he knows my love is there with him. I never thought this particular journal would see any notations such as this. But then, I've seen more in PiP in a short five years than I would have ever have thought to see in a lifetime of experiences. God bless you all. |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
I'm so sorry to hear the discouraging news Karilea.. Robert continues to be in my thoughts and prayers. |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, You guys are in my prayers. Let me know if there is anything you need. 'Cause I believe in supercharged prayers too. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you so much. Larry? A supercharged "let 'em rock and roll" to get him where he belongs to be is all he needs...I'm not giving up...but if need be, just letting go. |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Just trying to say that I stand in solidarity with you and think I partially understand what you are dealing with. Courage dear lady, courage that's all. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Yes, Larry. I know. But he would get a kick out of that supercharged prayer. I know my brother... And I know his wishes. |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
hugging you, and wishing peaceful painfree dreams for your brother |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Dear Sissy...my prayers are with your brother too. I'm sorry I've been so gone from here...Taylor's problems have taken front row center...but I haven't forgotten...never! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you Kacy. I truly appreciate your thoughts. Martie Sis...honey, don't I know your hands have been full? Absolutely. There are good things going on with Taylor that will bring him back to a quality life. You just keep nursing him as you are, and you will both have much to look forward to. I've always known your thoughts were with those you love...I've watched that beauty stem from you all of this time now. Since meeting you in person, all of that solidified into reality. My brother is lucky to have your thoughts over him. |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
Karilea? I'm so sorry for the discouraging news. My prayers are with you both. You hang in there, okay? He was a man of sorrows |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you, Alyssa. When I was visiting with my brother, we spoke honestly about him and his condition and what he would put up with, and what he wouldn't want to go through. Now it seems his heart isn't going to hold out, and this came on rather suddenly - it had not been a concern until about a week or so after I left and returned home. There are so many illnesses in the world, but emphysema, to me, is probably one of the worst to live with, both for the patient and for the family members. It's a slow suffocation over time, and there is nothing they can do to reverse the process. My brother knew this years ago when my father urged him to quit smoking, but alternatively it is also a genetic trait passed down the line, and it seems that many of my family members have suffered from emphysema from one degree to another, especially on my father's side, and particularly the men. But I do so appreciate your prayers and concern. Thank you so much for that. [This message has been edited by Sunshine (11-13-2004 06:27 AM).] |
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jellybeans Member Elite
since 2000-10-13
Posts 2298 |
you have mine as well lady...tis wise words you speak about knowing the difference between not giving up and letting go... hugs and love |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thanksgiving, this year, my brother's birthday, and I have much to be thankful for. He is back out of ICU, and they are now talking Rehab for some two to three weeks, and if all goes according to plan, he will be home soon enough. Home. Where his new grandchild is waiting for him, his daughter and sons to once again lean on his advice and love. The little miracles are all around us. The first doctor that told his family some weeks ago, "it doesn't look good, he won't make it to tomorrow," talked to him the other day, and was told by my brother, "they didn't believe you, and believed otherwise. You're off the team now, doc." I told my brother, who knew of your prayers for him, that sometimes we have to pray for more than the person involved...we have to pray for those who surround our loves, pray that they are guided in skill, and thought. He is going to share that with the doctor, because he knows the doc will come back... I want to thank all of you for your prayers these last few long weeks. Not only for my brother, but for those who we have seen in Announcements as well. So many people are struggling in their lives right now. We can only pray at times that their last days will be easy, and comfortable, because we cannot forestall death. Sometimes, death can be a miracle, as well. Because it teaches us that we can continue living for others, even in the face of our loss. I'm rambling...this was meant simply to be a thank you to all who have voiced your love, concern, have given of yourself in prayer, and notes. You are what makes Passions a home.   |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Karilea, Hopefully that supercharged prayer last weekend helped. And bless you dear friend for everything. Peace and joy in the holiday season it doesn't get any better than that. & If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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Mistletoe Angel
since 2000-12-17
Posts 32816Portland, Oregon |
Hi Karilea! I just wanted to commend you on a wonderful, fun-loving journal you've started up here. I just updated mine after a long seven-and-a-half month wait and saw you had posted one and believe we all need the encouragement so just wanted to compliment you on it, yay! Please know that my heart also goes out to your brother. I have seen some similar effects like his before when volunteering at the Christian Community Center back in Denver. They need our utmost guidance and comfort, and you are doing just that for your brother! I enjoy your journal, dearest friend! Sincerely, Noah Eaton "You'll find something that's enough to keep you |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Noah! How wonderful to see you here! Thank you. I've been trying to read up on yours, and see that you have been involving yourself with children and helping as magnificently as you always do! I say again, you gave yourself a very appropriate PiP name... My brother, thanks to everyone's prayers in assisting the doctors and my brother, is doing much better! Of course we all know that he will never be rid of his emphysema in this lifetime...but he came out of the pneumonia and is now in Rehab after a MONTH's time in ICU. And what is wonderful is that he is writing again...and laughing and enjoying some quality life experiences... God is good... On a personal front, the contract arrived last Saturday and I mailed it on Monday, all signed and witnessed and am now awaiting to hear back so we can proceed on to the next step. What was REALLY neat, though, was today's Salina Journal... In the Arts/Trend section...here were several books to give as Christmas gifts...featuring Kansas writers. Isn't that great? Wait...haven't reached the punch line yet... One of the Kansas authors was being presented by the same publishing house I am working with!!! Now...THAT was a bit of excitement for both my husband and myself! There are SO MANY publishing houses out there... What's more...there are SO many people writing!!!! I mean, look around... we're 8,000 plus in members of varied writing styles...and quite a number of us are just AVID READERS...and in conjunction with that comment I think I am safe in saying, we don't really know WHO is reading us...[thank goodness Ron has our work "copyrighted" to some extent!] So, Noah, Angel... ...I wanted to thank you for bringing this thread back up to the top, so I didn't "self-bump"...that I can again share with anyone the message to, PLEASE...follow your dreams...as far as they will take you... and for goodness sake...do it long before you're about to turn 53! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
My own Christmas Present to me...how many people give themselves such a gift? I think it is the first time I have ever done this, and it sure feels good... Sent my whole packet to the publishing house today...received notification moments ago that all has been received, opened just fine, I'm to have a "happy holiday season" while the New Year's elves get underway with my "baby", who made the electronic trip to PA just fine.... and there's no backing out now... who would want to? This "feeling" feels so GOOD.... and I love the fact that I can share it here, with PiP.... and with Ron, because I don't know that it would have happened without Ron, and his home and invitation to come in and join the family.... Thank you, Ron... You're just one, wonderful wizardy Santa... |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
Congratulations... And merry Christmas. I'm glad this year will be so full of smiles for you! Always, Alyssa He was a man of sorrows |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you, Alyssa...and with the way you write, I anticipate getting some of that good kind of news in the future from you, as well! Have a wonderful 2005! |
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GG Member Elite
since 2002-12-03
Posts 3532Lost in thought |
You're either too kind or you just have a problem with lying... but really, thank you. And I'm so excited for you that the year gets to begin on such a great note. This just has to be a good year! I'm pretty sure the year will be good for me, too. See, I anticipate reading this great author's book, and that certainly is not a bad thing. Happy 2005... Always, Alyssa He was a man of sorrows ...I am a girl of tears. |
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Ladycat
since 1999-07-05
Posts 782At the edge and a doorway,TX |
I'm always the white rabbit of the group.. Late Late Late again. I had to go back and read everything and I have to say that it was a wonderful read after such a miserable time during some of the holidays. On a positive note, it is a New Year with new things to be discovered and new places to go and hopefully some new poets to meet. I look forward to another year of living, loving and excitement. I hope that everyone has a wonderful New Year and hey just when you thought that the holidays were over there is always Valentine's Day... Make sure that you have someone you love to share it with even if you have to be right here on the boards cause we all love everyone here. *hugs and kisses* Blessings Love, Ladycat Insanity in individuals is something rare but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule.-Friedrich Nietzsche |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Nope, GG...I don't do that... And Ladycat, aren't you glad that the White Rabbit eventually always gets there? So glad you joined the group, and please feel free to add your thoughts to this at any time. After all, it IS interactive... meantime, I am working on the sequel, so I imagine that my New Year will be as busy [or not] as I make it...and I think that's a good thing for people to do, to make their own busyness...at least that way, I know I'm never bored! Write on, poets! Hugs, Karilea |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Today, and yesterday, a couple of things came to mind... I heard on the Radio today that the song "Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head" is 35 years old...and in some ways, still as good as it ever was...an uplifting, hopeful song...and it came along with Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid...and now that movie is 35 years old, too... why does it seem like yesterday? That is what the movies and songs do to us...bring us back to moments where we are youthful and lithesome, and full of promises that we don't even know exist... Enchantress' thread on music titles has been doing this to me, more and more...bringing back lyrics that bring back memories... so before I say anything more, I will end it here for now, and go reflect on a song or two... hmmm, hmmm hmm hm hm hm hmm hmmmmm... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
 I think I've posted my quota of poems in open today... but this photo taken at dark O thirty in my neck of the woods... looking like daylight....only dark... so here we go with some extemporaneous thought... and when it should be black as night you throw some ice and snow and light and in the dark I see again albeit it cold, and then, it's when you chill the best, I seek your warm and know I'm safe and away from harm... so throw the ice and snow and such and still I will hold to you so much that you shall melt and bring the spring and thoughts of fey and happenings... and if I am here alone in talk still I see you beside me in walk and we shall chalk it up to this... things eternal are things I'll kiss... and thank you for all that is, and thank you too, for one lone Wiz... who allows us places to place our trust... and one prayer that won't find dust... and since he peeks, but says no word... I shall smile, for all absurd can be found in other sites... but some thanks are found in iced sights... Thank you, Ron.... |
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kayjay Member Elite
since 2002-06-24
Posts 2015Oregon |
Your quest to look at O dark thirty Gives me thoughts I'll phrase quite curtly. Alhough I give you answer courtly Were I so called, I'd answer tortly. Neat pix and write! Through rubble and trouble and dark of night |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Memo to self. Seek help. If for nothing more than to stay on track with one thing at a time. "However!" [I talk to myself a lot this way...] "Work is nothing like that. They throw this and that at you and you jump from case to case and know what is where, when is what, and why. Most importantly you know why!" "Yea," I say..."and what of it?" And the voices go on to say that flitting from this project to that project IS okay...after all, we're still in the pregnant stage of waiting on the publishers to tell us where they are in their planning, working, etc., with the exception that.... after four weeks, I will be writing them tomorrow to ask "whassup"? and I will insert little tidbits like the local folks who have joyed with me now asking, "what's the latest" and then I will add a bit more, like Aussies who ask, "what's the latest" and then I will list, some state by state, country by country, names of people who are asking "whassup?" and let them know that while the initial listing that I gave them of 100 names is only 100 names...there's still a whole lot of names that are asking that they don't have and by gosh I'll push a little fire under their, er, business.... does that sound like a good idea? "Sure," the inner voice says... "sure." And of course I know that the sequel is here, waiting for me to get back to it, but if the first book doesn't sell then what good is a sequel, so some gremlin inside me says, "here, take this prose, adapt it for that application" and I do, and I send it to my brother, and he says something magical to me and my mind goes reeling.... and there's a third book in the making... and THEN.... there's another voice, of historical nature, who goes WAY back to something I've been before...and with a few words... there's a fourth book... is THIS how writers get started? Or is this just organized chaos with gremlins needling me to keep me involved before my baby is born? |
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nakdthoughts Member Laureate
since 2000-10-29
Posts 19200Between the Lines |
well at least you are way ahead than most with 2 more manuscripts ready... I would be patient...don't forget the beginning of the year brings, taxes, inventory etc... Send a thank you note about the care and consideration you had been given so far and ask if there is anything more you are supposed to be doing...at least that way you will sound like you want to make sure you have everything to their liking...and not theirs to yours. hugs M |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ah Maureen...thank you sweetheart. I sent off a note this morning [everything is done by E-mail for the most part] and Maureen, everything you suggested was just about what I said...and my contact person from pre-production assured me everything is "in" production and then linked me to the following: quote: [AQ - Author's Questionnaire] I need to go get another box of patience. May I pick up some for anyone else? On to the next book! |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
YOUR BROTHER? Y'mean to tell me that all this time, it was YOU, the sweet demeanored Sunshine who held the magick quill that writes the books? Oh but you are sly...I thought your brother looked elvish! Hrmph! *ahem* Seriously tho, Kari, I do sympathize. Although I tend to think it's more part of your nature to need to "do" something, as you have that "drive" that I seem to lack. But since you're talking about writing here, I guess I can explain what I've been doing this past week. Since the brainfog that has been so stubbornly clinging to me since well before last year has lifted somewhat, I've been reading, reading, reading. (I couldn't read for a time, no comprehension and yep, it infuriated me--sigh, I groused about that somewhere here in the blue.) I went to my mom's, who has the largest paperback fiction collection I have ever seen and chose six. (and that was without leaving the kitchen) *smile* All bestsellers--different styles, but I wanted to see what the public, therefore the publishers, considered a readable book. (That's right, I went commercial.) The Hanged Man's Song--nice little munch of a read by John Sandford. (Hmm...nice plot, no holes, sometimes a little too tidy, but all in all, I enjoyed the exploits in that one. Then OH. Well yeah. I should. I read his bio. Pulitzer prize winning journalist. Well there had better not be holes, huh? Then I picked up Mssr. Sidney Sheldon. (I think I told you about that.) And for those of ya'll who haven't heard me read, I'll have to fill you in. No I do not read entire novels aloud. What I do is speak a running commentary, and in Mr. Sheldon's case, much of it was quite rude too. I rolled my eyes as I licked my fingers to turn the page, saying "Oh PLEASE--spare me" but like the proverbial train wreck I kept reading. "Expletive!" I erupted once, calling him a choice name normally reserved for those I know intimately. "What?" My husband asked. "Not you. Not this time. Him.." I snarled. munch-read-munch I repressed the urge to write, "Whattsamatta boy? You had to leave a cocktail party to fulfill your contract?" in the margin. (It was my mom's book, afterall.) munch-read-munch I finally got to the ridiculous ending, and I closed the cover, and asked Sidney aloud: "Are you mocking me?" and then, for the first time in years, I regressed to my bad habit of book-throwing, thundering to the ceiling, "My mother paid money for that!" Yep. I was insulted alright. (The message in that one is don't forget to respect your reader.) I made a mental note to myself. Then I picked up One True Thing. That one touched home, and I stayed up all night reading that one straight through, and I confess I cried as she so aptly portrayed the debillitating and heart-breaking effects of chemotherapy on the main character's mother, while intelligently delving into the psychology of family roles. I gulped, remembering, but I had to go on. At one point in her story, Anna Quindlan seems to protest her own medium, saying "people like their stories tidy, all wrapped up in ribbon" (paraphrased, sorry) And that life wasn't really like that. And she did pretty much wrap up her storylines, but she left one thing dangling, and I respected her stubborn refusal to sum it all up, and I thought it lent insight to her choice of title. I read others, but none quite got my attention the way that Clive Cussler did. After reading about 200 pages, I said aloud: "This man has a cocaine habit." I said this because, this guy is just amazing. He offers so much info, mixing his facts with fiction, blended so well, that I found myself saying over and over, "It's a STORY, Karen." The plot lines are incredibly complicated. The action is non-stop, and yep, I was frowning at some of the ludicrous devices used to rescue his main characters from seemingly impossible situations. The snob in me was starting to wince that left eye, and raise the right eyebrow--UNTIL, I got to the part where, Clive's hero, Dirk Pitt, is in a situation that would call for nothing short of Divine intervention for me to believe in the story enough to continue, and yanno? That's what Clive Cussler offered up. Clive Cussler shows up, himself, in the middle of his novel, to rescue his beloved fictional character. "I have seen you before," Dirk Pitt said to the author, smiling. "More than likely you'll see me again too." I howled. I loved it. I "got" it! He KNEW it was ridiculous, and he was winking at his readers! OH GLORY, he let us in on his joke. And with that one little twist, I made a mental note of another lesson: "Don't take yourself too seriously--maintain a sense of humor." So anyhow, you might wonder why I am wasting all this time reading when I should be writing, huh? The truth is, I'd wasted time writing before because I'd never read with same discerning eye as I am reading now. I need to know what kind of a book I want to write. I need to know my point of view and stick with it throughout. <--my previous fatal error nodding, 1st person narrative? Who was I kidding? It's tough to flesh out a character, much less to the extent that the said character, (er, me) could show up on virtually every page and carry the whole show. note to self: work on the third person and then there's just the nasty little points of grammar of which I know better, but maintain bad habit. note to self: maintain bad habit and you will write badly (laughing @ Nan with a wink) note to self: keep Strunk & White handy and have an adverb alarm installed in your brain, Karen. So anyhow, to sum it all up, my writing buddy, give yourself a break. If you're not enjoying the process, it's gonna show. Remember there's people like me out there who might read your book. laughing But um, no pressure, right? WRITE |
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Sunshine
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Oh, the wisdom you show, little one...I cannot wait for you to "maybe want to read this book" from the storehouse that is your mother's kitchen. Because I'm looking forward to your CRITIQUE! Now, back to werk so I can come home to run to Kanopolis to see my old boss give a keynote speech so I can come home jazzed about life and WRITE... Yep...got to get off my duff. And my brother DOES look elfish...in fact...check your e-mail! ROFL....[er, soon...] |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
*laughing* Kari? I could almost smell the lemongrass... adorable pic! ty! |
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Sunshine
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Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
He was so afraid I was going to put it *here* - he hates that picture...me? I love it! Onward, writeword... |
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Sunshine
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Expounding on serenity's comment: quote: And yet, I don't think they would diagnose me as "manic"...[key notes, "Yet," ... "think...] I do manage to sleep at night, sometimes as much as six hours, and the now and then 7 hours...after which I wake up groggy...and I'm sure it's from trying to capture that last dream string... And when I'm really really tired and think that I could fall asleep if some kind soul snapped their fingers, the minute I lay down to indulge... I'm up. When you're married to someone that could sleep 10-12 hours if given some dark time, it makes for some irritation on both sides of the blanket. But I feel better when doing something, even if it's thinking. Sometimes I don't even see it as thinking...more of following trails. That sounds wierd, I know, but that's the way it is. This thought takes me down that path - a curve, a stone wall...look for another door...all a part of the process of several "different themes or topics" on what my mind is exploring. Sometimes it feels just darn good to give it a more concrete project [in my relaxation time] like poetry or writing on either of the two books I'm working on. But is this natural? I mean, we talk about standing in some one else's shoes, walking a mile or so...with my luck, someone would do that for the 15 minutes that everything seems "ok". I'm not saying I'm not ok...I'm just saying, why is it that there seems to be this drive? Gads, it's a good thing this isn't a well visited thread... |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
"Don't just do something--STAND there!" (I think that was on the cover of an old Psychology Today issue) That one hit home with me and never quite left. |
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Sunshine
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Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
(tapping foot...fingers on desk...pencil against teeth...) I don't like waiting on others.... But I AM coming along on the third novel... |
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Sunshine
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Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ah...a little bit of...serenity... quote: Wow.... They date it some months ahead of time so if anyone has anything to say, well, then, the application will be denied. But it's still a really great piece of mail to receive on any day.... ~*~ On top of all of this, I have been working as much as possible [considering what normal "work" does to one's moods] on the third book, reading inbetween some wonderful "writer's stuff" from Julia Cameron; and then last night? Dreamed a dream about the second book. I do believe that Cameron's suggestions of how, when, where, why, and because...are filtering and filtrating through...me. Which is not all bad. Not at all. I'm a bit behind the times, I'm sure, but since they were just introduced to me, I would like very much to share with anyone who reads this note, Julia Cameron...and the three books that I have ordered, two of which have arrived: The Right to Write; The Artist's Way; and The Vein of Gold. If you have never read her, please do. One of my recent poems was based on what she had to offer [me]; if you have read her, and found her to be as interesting as I do, please feel free to share; and if you have read her and disagree, please, leave your comments here as well. I like to know the pro and con thoughts of others on books that I am taken by, because in the whist and gist of being swept away by mental mind melding, I am sure I am overlooking something. |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie "The information on this certificate has been made a part of the Copyright Office Records" I'm so proud of you!! |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
 I can hear the swish of air as those celebration balloons lift off! |
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Sudhir Iyer Member Ascendant
since 2000-04-26
Posts 6943Mumbai, India : now in Belgium |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Congratulations Kari! I once called you the hardest working poet at Pip. Time to add to the job description methinks. And thanks for the tips on writing tips! After spending all night in construction of a simple paragraph, lawd knows I am in need. (Funny, I used to believe thatI wrote to be understood. If my self-analysis was correct and that is true - seems I've failed miserably. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Serene one, when I'm "here"...it's not work, it's fun...it's inspiration time, it's the pool that I swim in to refresh myself... |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Sunshine, Thank you for this thread. It is a quiet work night/morning because students arrive Tuesday this week as President's Day is Monday. So I sat and skimed. And read more of other sites. Loved the Journal idea. Learned more about you and a few others. Enjoyed. I hope your brother is well/or better.I know of Emphysema and cancer. Have been through both with loved ones. Have a best friend even now going through cancer. She went to a beauty parlor and asked them to shave her head. She could not take finding her hair all over her bed mornings, and throughout the house days. Does not want a wig and has opped for hats. She is a winner, but has a short life prognosis.. I Can't be with her until July and I pray she is still okay by then. Left a lot of hurt and pain at home to come to work today. My Jackie having so many problems. It is hard to watch a loved one hurt so much. I think Sernity may understand her a little, not sure as I do not know enough about her life. But I know there are others on this site who would know how to help her.I just do not know who to confide in. One thing sure. I loved this thread.I am an old journaler,(they called it keeping a diary in my early years).LOL~~ Anyway Thanks. I so enjoyed your trip "home" too and your new suit. marty |
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Sunshine
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Marty...thank you for the eyes. And comments. I will keep your friend in my prayers. ~*~ Right now I am wondering at "fate" and how it plays a part in lives. Some could call things "coincidence" as well - some might even refer to "parallel universe". Which brings up the question: If you write it, can whatever "it" is become true to life? On a very strange subject, I think it can. But in order for it to do so, one has to be very open to all things. It's always good to put the pen down now and then, and read. Reading opens up horizons again, creates new sunrises and sunsets, and in general, takes one away from one's rut. Because anything done over time, again and again, can be a rut, and sometimes we must lift our lives and spirits to new sources, so that we are inwardly refreshed, and revisited with new vision. All this in a prelude to art becoming life. The novel I wrote [and over which I am still patiently waiting on the publishers to get back to me - but I've had training in waiting, so I'm good on this one! ] is all fiction. But my fiction is having its way of becoming reality. In the book, the heroine finds herself buying an old house, and that house has spirits.We are in the process of buying a house. The moment I entered the front door, I felt so very welcome. As I went through the main level of the house, it was WAY too easy to mentally place furniture here, there and over in that corner we shall place...etc. etc. But it was when we went upstairs...and upon entering the master bedroom, my husband said, "I don't like this room, you can have it." I felt very much at ease in this lovely southwest corner of the house, and was more than willing to take the room on as my own. Then when I got home and returned to the website where the house is shown, by gosh, in the virtual reality film of the house - there are definite pictures of what appears to be "spirits". Now, I as well as anyone else can say "it's just a reflection of some light from somewhere else." Except that the light stream would be steady, and this "apparition" is floating in the middle of the master bedroom. Heh. I kept my mouth shut until our bid was approved by the sellers, and even until we signed up our house for sale, before I showed my husband that part of the film. Let's face it, he doesn't even want to "talk" spirits! But they are my new muses...and they are welcoming, and waiting for me to "come home" again. This is so in tune with parts of my own writing to be published, that I do not find it so much eerie as I think that it involves "fate". Something that was meant to be. I just hope the spirit that has been with me in my old home office decides to pack her diaphanous gown and come with me. She will certainly enjoy her new housemates. |
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Sudhir Iyer Member Ascendant
since 2000-04-26
Posts 6943Mumbai, India : now in Belgium |
you could name her Espirit 'registered trademark' ... whatever |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Well, Suddie...there are two...and a name just came to me... heh... Chi-lea... LOL... or some other appropriate name... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Premarketing of the novel has begun...  |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
And I am here to say a heartfelt congratulations, as well as a thank you. I'm nearing the last chapter of "The Right to Write" and I have to say, I giggled through some of it. Not because it was silly, but at my own silliness. I see now why you wanted me to read this book. Virtually every chapter addressed some aspect of my whining and protestations--and quite often, word for word! I wrote a few things down that I especially want to remember--hell, I may even cross stitch them for framing to go over my desk. The first one I wrote down cracked me up, but also filled me with wonder: 1. Suffering is optional. So easy, so simple, and I'm so surprised. I had this image of writers--chain smoking angst and hard drinking too. How convenient. and sheesh.2. Learn to "grab". As in time...as well as a lot of things that I won't address here. But quite often I have put myself last, thinking I can make up for it later. She's quite right though, in that novels are written a sentence at a time. I have door now, bless 'em, and I need to learn to shut them. 3. The Wall of Infamy. This was a big one for me, because I do write from negative aspects of my life and memories, to the point of making some who read uncomfortable. I asked a friend once about this, saying, "They ask for my stories--so why is it I can tell a story from twenty years ago and it's considered entertainment, but one from "yesterday" is not?" My friend answered, "Because the ones from yesterday are personal." I thought about this a long time--and yanno? The stories from twenty years ago are no less personal as I re-live them as I write them. So I was indeed nodding as I read, that negative emotion can be an impetus of positive creation. I truly felt personally validated reading that. Which leads me to-- 4. Keep the drama on the page--Slam the Iron Door! This helped me to divide number three up into two parts. I asked myself if my personal confessions were in fact, pleas for understanding/validation. Um, yeah, of course they were. But before I started the flagellation that I tend to do, I recalled a method therapy, used in domestic violence/rape crisis/suicide hotlines, and that is simply to allow someone to talk. Over and over again. So I should let everyone know that I appreciate the patience of my public grieving, and the spitfire anger of some of my memories of abuse laid out in poetry. It may have bored you all to tears, but it helped me--and apparently a few others who also braved the criticism to say, "It happened to me too." God/dess bless you all for that. The second half of that, is "Slam the Iron Door". That means develop a conveniently deaf ear to the critics, especially those who wrap a personal assault in the wrapping of "constructive critique." We can tell the difference by this--personal assault is generally vague--"constructive critique" address the work, not the author. And I'm still nodding here, as I have been guilty of that too, so I have to apologize to those who felt the wrath of unfair critique from me, and I'll try to do better in the future. (And until then, should I slip, or if someone else should hurt your feelings, "Slam the Iron Door." There is a lot more, and I'll take the time to make some more notes before I pass on the book. I'll prolly go buy a copy (as you said that I might.) But I did want to thank you for the timely loan. I have spent five years at Pip, trying to "become" a writer--and yes, that means I have spent five years at Pip looking for others to validate me as a writer. I may never seek to be published. I may get a wild hair and start submitting stuff tomorrow. All I know is that inbetween now and then, the only thing I know for sure is that I will write. So...thank you Kari. Every page of that book was like a warm hug of assurance. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
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since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Serenity, besides the fact that a writer can tackle anything one sentence at a time, in The Right to Write there was also an interesting part where one of Julia's friends decided to "cut himself off from everything so that he could devote himself to writing." He was already a renowned author...he had worked, played, socialized, and wrote to his heart's content, but he wanted to "delve" into his writing even more, so shut himself away from everything else in order to do so. He also shut off his reservoir. He quit life, and his writing dried up. That, too, was quite an eye-opener. As with most two-dimensional understandings, whether through reading books or reading e-mail, we know two things. Someone took a moment to sit down and write what we are reading. That's all anyone sees. What we fail to see is that the writer did NOT sit down and spew forth everything we are taking in, in one sitting. There were probably coffee trips, a load of laundry was done, a child was kissed, a bathroom break if the coffee was made , and we, the reader, have no idea how many times the writer left the notes to ponder on the next thought before coming back to finish the message/story/book.And we need not be chain-smoking alcoholics to write. We do, however, need to remember that we all require someone who believes in us. As you pointed out, there are enough people out there who are critics. But not enough people who can give a critique...of the writing alone. I have found myself in the delightful and quite scary position of my son-in-law sharing with me his novel. We communicated through e-mail and then he visited yesterday and we had a face-to-face. Because I wanted him to see my face and how pleased I was he was following his dream. I wanted him and my daughter to know that writing, as with all other priorities, needs to be "scheduled" into their lives so that she won't get frustrated when he needs to write, "NOW". [However, if she finds him supposedly writing and he's playing solitaire, he's on his own.] And they had been doing some other reading as well. Like understanding the comment from Stephen King..."sometimes the book just writes itself." Only one who writes will ever really understand that phrase. People who don't write, won't. The energy that I received from reading The Right to Write has stayed with me. Chances are the next book you may want to purchase is The Author's Way. She has a delightful part beginning at page 44. When you see it, you'll understand. I ordered these two books and The Vein of Gold through various sources all at the same time - got a hardback for the price of a soft-cover...and all for around $35, shipping included. A worthwhile treasure, indeed. Happy reading, serenity...and better yet? Happy writing! [This message has been edited by Sunshine (03-27-2005 09:33 AM).] |
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Sunshine
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As I know this will not be read by most, the following will also be seen in Prose...because it feels so good to me just now. The Chocolat Wind I am reminded of the movie, Chocolat, when the winds of change come through, and the rousing of the inner soul begins. This is how it is just now…the winds are stirring, and changes are in the flux of time, between use to be, and what is to come. Sometimes we think we know… sometimes, surprises are in the breach. The world seems to turn too fast some days, and slows down when one would want to be busy, and discard the process of thinking. The media bombards personal senses with disparate themes and if one dwells too often in the skimming of life, one can drown. Emotions are played finer than a violin, with the strings threatening to twinge into a break, so finely drawn is the bow. We shift in the wind; we feel the onslaught, we turn our cheek, we raise our face if the wind is fair; we lower our eyes if it carries rain. We wonder if we are becoming undone in the wind; if it carries a scent of us to others; if it swings souls to change. We feel the difference of a season, and reach to touch something invisible. This…this is how it is right now. The season of change, and the winds of time are blowing around me. Some days, it starts at my ankles; and other days it whips my mind. I remember the younger times, when I knew by scent of the gist it played; today I know by the familiarity of time its return. This is the moment when I am with the wind, and it is part of my own presence. We are one, this day. We, the wind and I, are whisking through rooms and changing spaces. We are renewal and remembrance. Moving dust, we bring life again, feathering pages of books, and memories. We, the wind and I, are challenging every move, and discarding every reason we never had. Yes, this makes sense, when hope was hung on a fantasy, and not a dream. Therein is a difference, and therein lies the road ahead. It is a grasping time of merrier-go-rounds that an age lets one grasp, only once, well, maybe twice, and I am reaching with this wind to grasp that ring that was always the lottery winning of another. There is too much going right just now, and this is one time the wind and I will not falter in forging ahead. We will carry the change of time to a destination that has been awaiting both of us, all of these years. Sometimes the wind needs to be blessed, because when we really see its force, we are in awe of its weight and might. We forget to bless the quieter times, when it carries to us a dream. |
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Sunshine
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Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Doing a little bit of tango, foxtrot, and oomph-pa-pa here... quote: Yep, I'm dancing. Received word just yesterday from PA that we were at the "Stage of Two Options." One, they could now place the manuscript in line for an editor to go over it for one more spelling and grammatical check, format the book, send it to me for a final review over a two week period, return it to them, they would make the revisions, if any, and then I would have 48 hours to give it one final look-over, and then on to the cover production artists. OR, Option 2...format the book "as is", send it to me NOW [or within the next two weeks] and follow the remaining steps. Option 1 will add 3-4 months before press time. Well, as we are in the process of moving, I thought "ok, gal, this is what you need to do. First, don't panic. Everything is coming together. Let them give one more set of eyes to the book, and buy the time you need to get into the new place, get situated and set up, and then the book will come back to you, in a comfortable time, and comfortable space...and then, if all goes well, it will be out Before Christmas...hmmm...and what better gift to give than a book? Think marketing..." So I chose Option 1. Smiling here... With all of the heavy hearts we've been holding lately, I hated to let anyone think that I'm only thinking about good stuff...but on the other hand, with all of the heavy hearts out there, maybe we need a little "good stuff"... because I so appreciate all of the support and backing I've received from all of you. The e-mails that land in my mailbox are generous and kind; the sincerity I feel from your words are like a magical balm, and the smiles I've felt from all of you...well, let's just say if the sun was hiding behind clouds, you all make it come out! Thank you, everyone, for the care, concern, and love you give to this venture! |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie Thank you for sharing this wonderful time of your life with us! I swear, I feel as excited as I know that you do! |
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Janet Marie Member Laureate
since 2000-01-22
Posts 18554 |
Soon there will LOTS MORE eyes on those pages...and it wont be for spell checks. Spellbound very cool Kari...thanks for keeping us updated..and congrats. |
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Nightshade
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962just out of reach |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
YES!! YES!! YES!! ..and yes, we all need a bit of "good stuff" right now. I am so happy and proud of you!!! |
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sweetcollege_girl Senior Member
since 1999-12-03
Posts 872just about where I want to be |
Hurray Sunshine! Thank you for giving a bright spot in an otherwise dismal rainy afternoon! I'm so happy for you! ~~SCG~~ |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
I would like to thank EVERYONE who is a member of PiP, and who has taken the time to read the initial prose pieces that eventually inspired a novel, originally entitled The Diary and later became, because of contractual timing and choice names, Yesterday’s Love. Today, I am proud to announce, came the first official Press Release in the Salina Journal: quote: I would like to take a moment to thank ALL of the PiPsters who have been reading this journal [seeing as how I should keep it within one post, more or less, since I made one of the official announcements here…] and especially thank those who were so very thoughtful to send me not only their best wishes, but some additional input on PublishAmerica. It’s always good to see the Pros and Cons of a business. What was shared with me was some of the things I had uncovered initially, and some later matter that I was able to put to rest with a very serious e-mail to one of the contacts at PublishAmerica. In that e-mail, the woman voiced some exasperation at the fact that basically, the higher some strive, the more arrows there are. What I have found, however, is that PublishAmerica also puts up in their own website the same pros and cons. But don’t we all know this feeling? So often we watch someone with a new way of doing things come along, saying, “we can make a difference” then wham, they get sideswiped by others in the media who will put them down because, simply, they did come up with a better way to incorporate more into a world for others that was once otherwise closed off to those who had that kind of dream. Sam Walton immediately comes to mind. Bill Gates comes to mind. And four entrepreneurs here: http://www.usatoday.com/money/smallbusiness/2004-08-31-startup_x.htm What I find interesting, however, is that one of my peers [whom I met years ago in a legal association, befriending over time] asked, “what is the name of the publishing house?” I thought hard and long in those seconds between the question and the response. After all, I was trying to keep myself as a guinea pig and go through the motions alone so I wouldn’t inadvertently let anyone else go astray [perhaps in a try well met, yet failed.] But when she said her attorney was working on his own book, I thought, “well, why not?” and shared what information I had with her. Today I learned that her boss’s manuscript has been accepted, and he received basically the same information I did. He, too, received a contract. Being the skeptic [that seemed to match my own research] he was, he went ahead and signed the contract and sent it back in. His thoughts? Per his assistant… “He figured, what did he have to lose? He wasn't out any money. He'd be published and he'd have fun with it to boot!” Have fun with it, to boot. And there is the nut, the key. Have fun with it. Most of you know me in one way or another, through my writing, my five plus years here, my interaction with you. I love to share. I was sharing my “prose” with you when it decided to turn itself into a novel. It was highly encouraged by several of you whom I care so much about, to “get it off that dadburn internet!” in one voice or another. So I did. I asked the Wiz, and he “poofed” in his way of poofing things, and I felt a loss. It went deep and swift, even though I had all of the chapters right here, in my own computer. But what I had shared, was gone. However, several of you continued to say, “keep me apprised…keep me updated….tell me how it’s going.” Well, it got up and left! Smiling It left so far, that it wrote itself into its own book. So, my last word for the moment, is to say…thank YOU. Thank you for the encouragement to continue with a small piece of prose. Thank YOU for the continued encouragement when the story disappeared from Passions. And thank you…for allowing me to spread a bit of unreal oh-whoa-what-is-happening-to-me-right-now moment with all of you…because I am working very hard not to say, hey, look at me. Trust me, I know what I look like in the mornings… Bottoms up…this is the cheer…to you…for all YOU have done for me. Ron? This is the moment where I say, “thanks” in a subtle way [watch for mail] and for all of the training, education, learning/leaning situations you’ve given me; Kit? for the atta-girls; Sharon? for welcoming me to Passions….; Nan…for being everything you are and then some… then, the members, all of you… and for those of you who have met me half-way all of these years…. stay with me. Keep me rooted. Keep me sane. Don’t praise what is wrong. Now is the time for the truth. Tell me what I do wrong; and sometimes when I do right? Write me, and tell me, yes. This is who you are. You see? Like I told a very near and dear friend…I don’t plan on getting big. I plan on staying little, and continuing to learn, and grow. Because “big” always makes a very loud, aching, moaning sound when it falls. [This message has been edited by Sunshine (04-09-2005 07:37 AM).] |
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garysgirl
since 2002-09-29
Posts 19237Florida, USA |
YIPPEEE!!! I am so proud of you, Karilea!!! I'm excited, too!! Hugs, Ethel |
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kayjay Member Elite
since 2002-06-24
Posts 2015Oregon |
Just adding my cheers, felicitations, hugs and all the rest of good stuff for you in this time. Ken Through rubble and trouble and dark of night |
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Mysteria
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328British Columbia, Canada |
Now sit back and have fun! |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
I should have been here earlier....to tell you how proud I am of you....Yippeeeeee!! |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Hmmm..seems to me a few years ago I talked to you regarding this major happening in your life. I am so very very proud the time is now. |
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AllyKat Member
since 2005-01-30
Posts 73jeffersonville,in |
Wow. I proud of you too. Even though I don't know you that well. Things have progressed here on PiP. So has the poetry. I can tell. Things have progressed in my poetry as well. I've been writing so much poetry since last week. At least 2 poems a day! Well...Heres ally signing off PEACE OUT! I remember us together |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
The beginning of a new beginning. Kind of like that thought. But a funny thing happened a couple of nights ago, just before we signed our life into debt for a new home once again. We knew that even though "unadvertised", the minute we learned we wanted the house we're moving into this week, that our current house immediately experienced a "high rate" of foot traffic from the day it went on the market and over five days' time. As said, even "unadvertised", it had a Sunday home Open House and the realtor enjoyed some 30 "groups" as the realtors call walk-ins. Well... Over the last few weeks I've learned who those "groups" are. In a large sense, people who know us, through business and/or work and acquaintances...and the like. But last Thursday night, I had to chuckle. Because what I received was one of the kindest, most heartwarming side comments I have ever heard in this, my newly acquired life. What? you may ask. Smiling here. My husband and I were at dinner after a last "walk through" of the new home just prior to the signing on Friday. A lady/friend/mother I know who is the Clerk of the District Court of our County walked by, spied us, said, "hi" and I asked her to visit for a moment, as I don't see her too much in person, but talk to her a great deal when I need to rapidly get things done at her office. "So, when are you moving?" "How did you know?" "I went through your Open house!" We laughed, and she said that she and her family do "that" on weekends at times, just to see how people keep up their homes, to see different interior decorating styles, and the like. Then we talked about families, recent illnesses, work, etc. She mentioned that her oldest daughter had been out sick with this "stuff" that's been going around, and that night, because the daughter had begged so much, they had gone to one of her soccerball games, even though she couldn't play. In a few moments, the daughter showed up, leaving her father at the front counter where he was paying for the meal, in order to "retrieve" her mother so they could leave. In an effort to introduce us, and bring a continuity of "you should know who this is," my friend tried to explain to her daughter why it was she "should" know who I was. That they had gone through our house a few weeks ago, and tried to describe a few of the rooms. In a magical, mystical moment [for me], the daughter leaned close to her mother and whispered, "the writer's house?" Can you, oh sure, yes, you can! imagine my surprise, awe, pride, joy at the thought that this young lady thought of me as a "writer!" Heck, I'm still having a hard time thinking like that! Oh, yes, she sure did remember my office filled with angels and fairies, books and more books, and she even looked into the closet where I keep all of my binders filled with poetry... "the writer's house." The glow upon her face was not simply in my imagination; I looked at my husband and he said, "why don't you..." and I turned to the young lady, asking, "Do you like to write?" "Oh, Yes!" "And do you like poetry, as well?" "Oh, YES!" Smiling at her, seeing the deep sincerity build in her beautiful brown eyes, [or what I could see as being brown] I spoke again. "I belong to a poetry group on the internet, and I also belong to a poetry group that meets every other week or so. In fact, my granddaughter comes with me, and," [now speaking to her mother] "we don't speak down to the younger members; we try to introduce college level material to them." Turning back to the young lady, I said, "do you think you would be interested in coming to a meeting, or learning more about the internet site of poets that I enjoy so much?" "Oh Yes!" I gave her my little business card that carries my phone number and such, and she thanked me. Her mother, my friend through business, seemed very pleased. But I thought afterwards, that I should be calling my friend this weekend, and ask if her daughter, and perhaps even my friend could join us during April at the poetry meetings at Capers, the one restaurant in town that holds itself open for such activities. Today I started moving into my new house. Tomorrow I shall make an appointment for a new poet's future. And then come back here, to my other home, hoping that all of you are well... [This message has been edited by Sunshine (04-16-2005 07:58 AM).] |
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Jeffrey Carter
since 2000-04-08
Posts 2367State of constant confusion! |
Kari, I must say, WOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! you go girl! I want a copy hehehe |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Karilea sissie...what a lovely story ...."the writer's house"...and it will follow you into your new house....which will also be "the writer's house". Because it surrounds you, wherever you are, even the air is the chair you sit to write, you see? Well, I do! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Unusual Facts: quote: Like this??? |
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Dark Angel Member Patricius
since 1999-08-04
Posts 10095 |
I'm off to find a wall "we all have wings, but some of us don't know why" |
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timothysangel1973
since 2001-12-03
Posts 1725Never close enough |
Congrats to you. Ya know, a few years ago, I sent my manuscript for a book that I had written into a publisher and they rejected me and it just made me feel so bad about my writing (and self). Crazy I know. I should have kept sending it and sending it until someone seen it's value. But I didn't, and in a really bad moment with my self, I destoyed the work. Dumb I know, and now I know better and that is why I had to go buy a new PC... I SAVE EVERYTHING haha I have thought about submitting some of the recent work that I have done, just to see what happened. I'm not at that point in life that having something rejected would really bother me to the point of it's destruction. It will happen, and YOU are living proof. Your story is so inspiring, and I can't wait to read it all (I will send ya the cash for an autographed copy) lol cause' I want to have a peice of history from "the writer lady". Congrats again - you make all us women writers proud m'friend. Best to you and yours Tima I may hate myself in the morning - but I'm gonna love you tonight |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
And for the perfect quote of the day... any day pick a day... quote:-Unknown |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Well, beck's bells... A very good and dear friend sent a link to me today, and it is MORE than interesting... if you follow this link.... quote: You'll find out [as it says, probably more about you than you wanted to know...] when I typed in my name, I found this... quote: Oh, I so like #3.... But the upside? I'm "almost" a 10! |
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Alicat Member Elite
since 1999-05-23
Posts 4094Coastal Texas |
SunnyOne, you're selling yourself short. You're at the very least a 12.  |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
LOL, I thought you were in the teens all along but then I am numerically stressed! can't do a simple algebra equation these days without taking my sox off LOL...never mind...perhaps the private joke is best left silent CONGRATS lady Sunshine! |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
"But, m'dear, I will tell you straight. It was my brother who said to me, "sweetheart, follow your dreams." There are too many who will say that dreamers are losers. Not so. If it weren't for the dreamers, the practicals would never exist." Been reading your thread again! Gain a lot of insight about you and pick up some good thoughts. More to go. be back, martyjo |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
"And now there were ads, not many, but now and then, commercials proclaiming the dangers of smoking." "I hated those single pack trips." You were talking about trips to the store to buy a pack of cigarettes for Mom. I had to go and buy two or three cigarettes! Times were poor and it was all she could afford each trip. Yes, the storeowner would open a pack and sell cigs singly. I never did smoke either. Years later a friend, young teenaged gal went to a dance. Her Mom said she could hold a cigarette in her hand so as not to look different than the others. Even at 14 I knew that was being false to your beliefs! |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
One of the exceptions is a lady I want to go meet - she's around 94-95 years of age!!! In 2001, an article said she was "just beginning to write" and I understood from the interview that she lives in a "world of clutter"...maybe our muses need more clutter? I'll do a little more researching on this marvelous woman of silver hair [and silver-colored nails to match, or so says the article] and get back to you about her...she seems to be quite an interesting character!" Back to the poet laureate story... Did you ever follow up on this lady? martyjo |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
One last note to tell you how much I enjoyed this thread. And Serenity! Love the way you read books, to learn... Wish I could sit with the two of you and just listen to your thoughts as they sneak past your lips. But reading is great also. I could read the two of you in dialog all night. Another thread soon? And more news about the book ? best, martyjo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
MartyJo...you're a treasure! Thank you for pulling out so many lines that mean something to you! As for sitting down with Serenity? NOW THAT...would be one heck of a time! Because you see, I would most likely keep my mouth shut, and just listen!! Kacy...numbers were only something I used, fractionally, for baking. And checking accounts. They put me in a chair once to manage a department's budget...Yikes! Don't you know I had to use a system each and every time to get that danged thing to balance. So I don't put much stock in what folks are numbered...by others. But...I AM smiling at my friend Ali. Thank you Sir. And, I do believe you've said it quite diplomatically - I do sell myself short. That very fact has been pointed out a number of times - and if I knew a way to change that fault, I would. ~*~ I hope to have some "good book news" soon. In giving the publishing house 3-4 months to comb over the pages, I am expecting the proof back within the next few weeks. Now, it was my choice, due to the move and all, so there's no gritching on my part - until the end of the fourth month. Then you might hear some thunder...LOL... I did, however, have an idea for a cover [if you have seen a recent posting in prose, you'll know!] and that idea has been passed on to the art department. Whether they will think on it as a possibility is now in their hands. But wouldn't it be nice... Now, did anyone take up that link? Did you enjoy it? |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Sunshine, You and I have to set a date to sit by Serenity's feet and just listen LOL.. Now to that "link" I usually open anything that looks intriguing, putting on my thinking cap as I type. best, martyjo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
An early note of Thanks…. A little over four months ago [yikes!] as stated above, my publishing company gave my baby [manuscript] to the editor[s] who would “have the proof back to [me] within three to four months”. Suffice to say, it is rather apparent they do not work in legal or news publication worlds, where deadlines are deadlines. Except, perhaps, when they are up to the infernal “contract [cutoff date] time.” I have learned a lot at this site. I thought I knew, and I thought I had, “patience” and knew “stuff”, as in “stuff happens” and “patience is bought here by the pound…” before I lucked upon Passions. I have learned so much more. And where to find more… I know from previous experience through Passions that what we want isn’t always necessarily going to happen when we wish, especially when it comes to birthing a book. Oh, yes, there are exceptions, but those exceptions never really make the “rule”. Call those exceptions, “a moment” or even “fate”. Yep, that works. Ron’s idea [with some pushing and shoving from friends] gave those of us who were here a few years back the courage, movement, impetus, moment…to say, “Yeah, I think I’m good enough to submit my poetry/prose” for an anthology. And then there were two. And then, three. While Ron may need to be nudged, now and then, into realizing just how much good he has done over the last few years to poets and writers who dream of someday being an author…I doubt he really doesn’t think about what HE did…he’s more in tune, [I sense] of what he can do for others, how to make the site more computer/people friendly, how best to SERVE those who all have a common bond…. writing. But he always takes things a few steps further. In those ways, he has widened not only his world, but all of ours. By taking those initial few steps further [some three/four years ago], I found out that not only did I really want to write more, but that I had gained the courage/heart to receive more pink slips. You see, several DECADES ago I sent my work in to publications, and received the “thanks, but no thanks!” letters and sometimes, one, two, even three or more times was, then, enough. Let’s face it. I was skinny, had always been kidded about my low self-esteem, and figured that “those folk” probably knew what they were talking about. Being the person I was then, versus the person I have evolved into [if Ali is reading, let’s talk about evolution of all natures… ] has changed, so other things must have changed, too. But I think the guiding light was [again] Ron. When a few of our wonderful members saw my “prose/story” in Ron’s Prose Forum, they wrote, and I ad-lib, “take that “bleep” story OFF the internet so it isn’t stolen” and words to that effect. God bless them! Knowing that we have specific rules about making requests to remove our work, and given that most of those entries had dealt a great deal with responses, and such, when given the reason behind the request, Ron kindly “poofed” all of my 20 or so “chapters”. Clicking in to the prose forum the following day/evening, I was…hollow. My work…was gone. LOL… But it was gone at my request. Still, this very hollow, aching feeling continued. Sometimes, the receiving of praise is how we go on, how we subsist in the every day world. The words of praise, encouragement, excitement, belief, enjoyment, etc., all of that was gone. I felt as if I had stripped others of something. It later dawned on me that I had followed their request; that their belief in me was so great! that they, too, wanted to make sure that, regardless of copyrights on PiP, my work stayed with me, and that I carry it forward to its conclusion. So, to those poets, readers, mentors, and friends, I say, thank you. To Ron? An early Thanks…. I received word today that I may probably see my proof by the end of next week. [Don’t even ask about the timeline – I think I covered that above.] That my work is not “lost” among the masses of people who all wish a chance to succeed, or even just get published, is vindication enough that I’m supposed to be in this place, at this time. I have been blessed with a great number of family, friends, poets, acquaintances, and co-workers who have asked about the book’s progress. My response? “Soon”. How could it be, any other way? [This message has been edited by Sunshine (08-18-2005 10:42 AM).] |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
"may probably ???" groan...and all of us will have to sit tight a bit longer before we can delve into this long awaited book Patience may be a virtue... but I'm really tired of being virtuous! (LOL, don't anyone dare say anything!!) We shall wait....even impatiently. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
God bless your ever-lovin' heart, Kacy! SOON! |
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Nightshade
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962just out of reach |
As the saying goes, "good things come to those who wait."  ...and wait...and... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ah Chris...my sis...thank you sweetheart. I know you are stringing out summer as long as you can! But you know what? When you appear? It's summer all over again! |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
It was good to read this sissie...good for me....and good for you to write it. You give me hope ...if you can do it, then so can I!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Yes, Sissie...it's always been my belief; if I can, you can! Please...do! |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
ok, so two can OMG, now I may have to tell a story about a toucan! LOL |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Kacy? M'friend...be our guest! We're waiting! |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
For some reason the words "before the ice cream melts" popped into my head as I read your latest post. You analize it.....Maybe it means before you think it will be, it will be..... Hope to be hearing more real soon! martyjo |
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LeeJ Member Patricius
since 2003-06-19
Posts 13296 |
I'm always amazed upon reading you how alike we think...and are...as I've found a lot of poets to be, upon meeting them...it's like a link, joining, and you, my dear lady are a part of that link, always and forever... How can you properly thank the owner of this web site? For his dedication and encouragements to others to do as you have accomplished...just look at where we've come? I've been overwhelmed at the outpoor of friends in this site, not to mention, even though a rookie amongst a big league of wonderful articulate writers...well, I've been blessed in so many ways... I'll probably be pushing and shoving all the Pipsters to be first in line for a copy of that book, so don't forget to let us know when and how. Hugs dear friend, and thank you for all the encouragement you've blessed me with...if not for you, we would not be. I'm so lucky to have met you and so many others here. Your book will be very very successful...I just feel it. thanks |
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Munda Member Elite
since 1999-10-08
Posts 3544The Hague, The Netherlands |
Oh my goodness Sunshine... I just realized I never replied to this topic! Am I too late to congratulate you and tell you how happy I am for you... not to mention how proud? Way to go girl. You shine! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
MartyJo, I like the way you think... what can be better than ice cream... and not missing a drop of it! LeeJ - the more we get to know each other, the better I like it... Munda...honey...as long as you read, and nod, and enjoy right along...it's ok that you haven't commented...just keep smiling, and PLEASE...keep writing! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Hey Karilea, I need some hummingbirds. They are so facinating to watch. I don't know what this thread is all about, but just thought I would say "Hi". |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Hello Sue! It's just a journal of things, and everyone can participate with anything they wish. Come back, Sue... tell us what's been going on with you! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Hi Karilea! I just been trying to get my head above water (so to speak). Sigh! It's not easy. I have also been trying to write a poe,, but my muse seems to have left me again. She sure takes alot of vacations. Wish I could take as many as she does. I sure need atleast one. |
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Gentle Spirit Member Patricius
since 2000-10-09
Posts 13989 |
sitting here, smiling and waiting. HUGSSSSSSSSSSSS |
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kayjay Member Elite
since 2002-06-24
Posts 2015Oregon |
Not last nor least, I hope, but I'm as pleased as can be! All of us here have such faith and pride in you. KJ Through rubble and trouble and dark of night |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
The Proof Has Landed.... And the two week review begins. Color me your choice of happy... |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
I am happy for you, Karilea! |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Well, I'm pretty sure that's anything but blue! Big hugs for you dear lady. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Terrific News. martyjo |
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Ringo
since 2003-02-20
Posts 3684Saluting with misty eyes |
Karilea- You already know my thoughts on this, girl... however I know that the reading of the proof is the last step before Nirvana, and a HUGE moment... Now, if I could only get this smile off my face at your closeness to achievement... http://www.mysticwicks.com |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
well, as long as the proof hasn't landed in the pudding! lol, that reply seemed funny when it first hit me, but maybe isn't LOL it's getting late and I am just getting goofy, but wanted to holler CONGRATS! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Sue, I'm pretty happy too! Larry...this is one time when blue is NOT the right color...LOL at your insight! Thank you, Martyjo Ringo...Nirvana...dare I dream??? Kacy? You crack me up!!! Truly truly truly...what a wonderful feeling to be sitting at one's desk, reviewing words not seen for over six months, all laid out in a display as I could have only HOPED for...my editor has Great Taste in what I would have liked in format and design... and then they did something that surprised ME! Of course, I cannot tell...yet. LOL... So of the 415 pages [WOW!] that were returned to me, I am on page 91 as I go through it one more time with a fine-toothed comb, and Visined-eyes. Damn...am I one happy puppy! Move over, Duncan...I'm coming to the porch! Hugs, all! |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie....Every time you say proof, I think that you are saying poof...you know, the way you do? |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thanks for the hefty chuckle, Sis... I needed that! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
that I/we/you started as one, and so; this kiss of an interactive journal…of hit and miss, sometimes tendencies to write, or just think, and the year’s gone that fast, in a blink. So much has happened to so many of us, it is difficult to fathom the unending goodness of our members, those who have come, and gone, those who stay, no matter what – and those to whom we’ve reached out to touch, in tenderness of circumstances, then doubling efforts in time of true crisis. We take the scales and set upon them our highs, and our lows – sometimes they balance out; other times…they are tipped so heavily in adversity, we think we are alone with our weight of trials and tribulations. But we are never truly alone, if we share. And what is a true crisis? It can be as personal as one’s employment – all the way to natural catastrophes [as we have all seen recently.] ~*~  This is where I have been spending my time, recently, in the upper corner of the shaded area – the “offroom”; a combination bedroom and office, [“bedfice” just didn’t work for me!] And when one believes in a lot of things, a lot of things can happen. And so, it does, and life goes on, even when we wish we could stop the world and ask some whether or not they’d like to get off now. [Chances are, they would decide to tough it out, and stay. My salute to serenity, and her family, for their amazing staying power…in light of everything…they’re one fine family of stick-to-itiveness]. So I’ve been standing here at this “do I / don’t I” spot of some good news, in face of all of the brown stuff that’s recently been handed out to our friends and family members. Although serenity doesn’t know it, I had a little private chat with her today, and I heard her say, “what do you mean, you’re not letting people know what’s going on! You foolish girl! Get with it!” Truth is – I did hear her say that…loud and clear. Because if circumstances were reversed, I’d be telling her the same thing. And when she gets back in full force and has time to spend with us again, I want her to know just how much she is in my thoughts. So, serenity…this post is for you. And then I had a chat with an angel. And she seconded the emotion…of going ahead, and sharing some good news…. Today I sent back to the editors the second editing of the 2nd proof of my novel. As hard as things can be, and as emotional as the last couple of weeks have been for so many of our “family”, you must know how sensitive I was when I wrote the editor last week and asked if I should change the main character’s name – as she was dubbed Katrina back in 2002. I did not want anyone to think I would capitalize on our recent weather, or that I was hard-hearted and would capitalize on a “now” world-wide name. In one way, I had to laugh. Three years ago, when I shared with some folk the name of the main character, there was the remark, “Katrina? Whoever heard of such a name?” Well, by now? Just about everyone. The editor said, “No, leave it alone. By the time it [the book] comes out, people will most likely be wearing I Survived Katrina T-shirts.” She could be right – because enough people heeded the warnings, as did serenity and her family – and got the heck out of the way. Thank God. So many of us, and rightly so, can become hamstrung by our own choices. And when we rear up against where they lead us, we have to realize that it was by our choice we are where we are. Such as it is with all decisions – right down to how this freak of nature’s recent activity has once again become a political brouhaha; can we ever outguess Nature? My sense is – we can only second-guess, so why are we wondering why no one can ever be prepared? We are, in some ways, no better off then Pompeii. And yet? We are – when people heed the warnings, of all sorts. Animals, forecasters, and even wiser folk….those who appreciate the sensitivities given them, and who share, willingly.Serenity? This post is for you. You and your family are survivors – and you will come out ahead of the game. Whether you return home, or not, you will still bring to wherever you come to be, a strong sense of the best of what we know here – that is, survival is not for the weak, nor unwilling. We are all very proud to know you as a poet, friend, and sister of heart. And for my angel? Thank you… |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Karilea is an author!! Only authors have writing nooks...utterly charming as that one! |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Karilea...I want you to know how very very proud I am to say I know you.. as a friend, a fellow Pipster, a mentor, and now as a published author of what is going to be a Best Seller!! I have never ever met a woman with such class, integrity, grace, beauty, and a tender touch of fairness. Thank you for always being there, for not just me but everyone here at PiP. Yes..leave the name Katrina..please. My wiz says so! He says it will work! But, you have faster poofing powers than he does! heh heh Love you lady~ |
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Bridget Shenachie Senior Member
since 2002-01-23
Posts 1056Kansas USA |
Karilea! Just dropping in to tell you how very proud that I am - of you and your finished novel. I am totally in awe of what you have accomplished, my friend. Can't wait to see the first copy hot off the press. Shenachie |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Sunshine, you always bring a bit of brightness to these blue pages. They have had to be a little extra blue lately. But do not let that diminish your acomplishments. We are all proud and will readily say, "I know her" when the book is out for us to buy. congratulations.. martyjo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Ladies? Thank you so much! I got the "third" proof back tonight - cross checked it - most of my changes had been accepted - and the few that weren't - can pass - and...somehow? The editor and I broke a few rules. SHHHHHHHHH I'm learning SO much, I'm giddy, bleary-eyed, tired, butt-sore, LOL...and happy. Things are coming together! Thank you for checking in. |
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iliana Member Patricius
since 2003-12-05
Posts 13434USA |
SIL...... .....you make us all so proud. When Cathy asked where you were the other nite, I told her I bet you were busy editing. Looks like I guessed correctly! ......jo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Exactly so, Jo. The process was not easy, and I have learned so much, as stated above. Combine that emotion with the day job, and I left myself wide open for various levels of stress to take over. I absented myself from Passions a wee bit because I was simply overwhelmed with all that has been going on, not just with my life, but with so many others. It seems like one tragedy over another has taken place in the last few weeks, both here on my street, among my Kansas friends, as well as my thoughts for serenity's family, and others - and my body finally said, "it's 'back off' time." But something has been sparked within me again to continue on with the second book and get it done and out of the way. [I can only hope that they don't name another danged hurricane after my female character!] I have a much better idea now of what is expected, and what to do to get the second one in even better shape than the first one was, prior to sending it in. The editor was wonderful. It is my loss to see her being transferred to another section of the publication department - but I have a feeling I will work with her again in some other aspect of getting book[s] published. In the meantime, my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to all of our Passions friends and their families who have come under the auspices of the hurricane, and the devastation to lives, homes, and communities it has caused. However, a link was shared with me recently, and I wish to share it now with all of you that come in to read this IJ. It did give me pause for belief and hope and an underlying sense that there are good reasons for sending down strong roots where one loves to live. After reading through the first link, make sure you go to the second link... . http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast/friendship_oak.html . http://www.usm.edu/gulfcoast/katrina/friendship_oak.html I love you all... Karilea |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Sunshine, Thank you so much for this url. I love the old Oaks. Amazing this still stands . Maybe there is hope for me.. LOL best nartyjo |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Oh, Joy!!!! ~*~ From: Anthony To: karilea Sent: Tuesday, October 04, 2005 1:09 PM Subject: Yesterday's Love Dear Ms. Jungel, Please find your cover design, attached as a PDF file. Read the back cover text carefully, as it is difficult to make changes once the book goes to print. Please confirm receipt within 24 hours so we can get your book to the printer on schedule. Sincerely, Anthony [last name] Cover Designer PublishAmerica ~*~ I would go ahead and try to manipulate a way to show this to you now...but... I don't know how. Suffice to say, it seems that whatever talents I do possess all seem to be encapsulated in this book. My response back to Anthony was, of course, to ask the questions of "who do I talk to now to find out the cost and proposed publication date - i.e., when is it going to go to market! You folks have been wonderful, asking about it in e-mails and such - and I'm so glad to share the fact that you're not alone! I want to start taking pre-orders, but it would be nice if I could know a price, don't you think? I think you who are planning on ordering one, though, are going to be pleased just with the looks of it! So I'm off to do the happy dance...as the days grow shorter to a winter of wonder! Hugs, Sunshine |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie....Can I dance with you??? Gleeeeeee!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Of course! It seems time we could share some good news...the best being, of course, that serenity is once again back with us! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Welcome back, Serenity! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Congradulations Karilea! I am so happy for you. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Just a little update for my friends. It seems just yesterday, our southernmost friends of the USA were hit with two whammies…and so many of us stood by the wayside, wanting to do something…in the most helpless of all ways…all that most of us could do was give up our prayers, and I’ve a feeling there was a whole lot of prayer going on. It seems, to my best knowledge, that those poets [of ours] who were in the path of the various storms, came out – in one piece. Not whole, in the sense of what they were those days before the storm hit – but alive. Children, husbands, wives, mothers, sisters, brothers…intact and in connection with one another. For the most part, for what we know, those we know in the blue halls and walls…are safe. Sane is another topic entirely, and I insert that little bit, for serenity. And don’t we know, that where there is tragedy, somewhere else there’s happiness. I believe that is why the word serendipity was created. Some of us experienced some good things, while bad things were happening to our friends. So, we waited until the family was together again [remember how quiet the boards were?] until we could count noses, again…and it seems that our family is coming home. So, now that I have heard, and seen, of our southernmost friends, I would like to share a little bit with you. Some good news. In a very few short weeks I will be putting into Announcements and Links an “official” notice of the publication of Yesterday’s Love. Some of you have seen the cover. Some have not. Here is its unofficial first unveiling:  My excitement has been…thankfully, around town, contagious! That’s the fun! [The excitement of Passions’ members was always accepted, humbly, from all of you…for you’ve been my peers and compatriots for well over six years now…and this family, in particular, is full of nothing but love, and respect. How can I thank YOU?] But the work is just beginning. Some of you know that several months ago, my chiropractor and his wife, who were both excited with and for me, invited me to have my first official book signing at their offices. The Mrs. had read portions of the draft, and wanted “more”. Her husband, the doc, said, “hey, that’s not right. She doesn’t like to read THAT much!” He was so impressed that the story kept her going, that he insisted well over a year ago that when it was published, THEY would have the “grand opening”. True to their word, I was asked to submit the following for their newsletter: quote: Plugs are good, but it is true – these people became not only healers of the physical body, but of the emotional give and take one goes through when it comes to giving birth to such an event Such as it is, when the body fatigues, but the mind continues on. Sometimes we need a little assist to keep going. There are several among us who understand this on a purely emotional level. Thank you for that. And so it begins. The official publication date [yet another omen?] is on my birthday. [Hey, God? Thanks!] However, pre-orders will be taken prior to the “official date” as I have asked, and received in very timely fashion, answers to my every question. Another thing I did…because I never want to assume of anyone, anything, and that was to ask Ron if it was “still OK?” to “advertise” in A&L. In his typical giving fashion, Ron went one better. He told me that if I write a plug for “a stranger”, he would place such on the Main Page. The gifts of Passions in Poetry just keep getting better and better all of the time. So, if I continue to seem “away” for a while, it is because I’m gearing up…and smiling all of the way. Thank you…to all of you who have encouraged me, cautioned me, held me up, and floated with me…to all of you who continue to believe in yourselves, and work hard enough to follow your dreams [that isn’t easy, you know!] and…a final thank you…to one very well deserving young lady, who had a small laugh with me at a big storm, and understood why I would go so far as to badger the editor on whether or not I should change the protagonist’s name. Both said No! What is it they say? Seeing is believing? Well, that time is almost here! Come, join me…and then dream...and write...on! [This message has been edited by Sunshine (10-13-2005 09:37 PM).] |
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Nightshade
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962just out of reach |
I'm so proud of you Karilea!! I'm so happy for you !! Brava dear, dear lady !! |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
CONGRATULATIONS KARILEA!!! ~Wishing you serendipity by the bucketful~ |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Thank you, sisters... we're going to have fun now! |
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Ringo
since 2003-02-20
Posts 3684Saluting with misty eyes |
Karilea, you already know my thoughts, and looking at the past few posts on here, I am even more excited for you. My only thought is... "do they actually serve tea?" When is the official unveiling? I need to know when to start scanning the NY Times book section When all is said |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
The "official publication" date is on my birthday, Ringo... and believe me, I don't think I'm going to feel my age... not by a long shot! |
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Bridget Shenachie Senior Member
since 2002-01-23
Posts 1056Kansas USA |
Congratulations, my friend. These are joyous days! Shenachie |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Oh sissie!! How I wish I could be at that first books signing!! |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
You do us all proud, Lady Sun.....proud! ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
Congratulations my dear friend. I'm so very proud to call you that. |
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Magnus
since 2001-10-10
Posts 14135South Carolina, USA |
very proud of your accomplishments...but don't understand why you need a Chiro, other than to help keep your head on straight... HA! Keep marching Girl....lead the flock.. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
You are absolutely right, Magnus, we all need to keep our head screwed on straight. Thank you for bringing that to my attention. Our good doctor did much more than that, however, as he spent precious time encouraging the will, and subsiding various storms. I have been most fortunate in having two good docs listen...and encourage, and be so damned generous with their "atta gal!" prescriptions.... This weekend produced a bit of work for advertisements, newsletters, sound bites, and such. I have run a number of things past some wonderful perfectionists and they have all added a comment or two. [It's hard to get things right on enthusiasm alone!] Still so much work to do - but this is the enjoyable part of doing for one's self...and the hardest part, too. We can always be professional for another; but when we do it for ourselves? It's a real fight being "you" and being "someone professional" and I have a whole NEW regard for people like our host, Ron Carnell. I do believe that in this technology, he definitely worked himself from the ground up - and knows exactly how to present himself to a world of strangers. I have a lot to learn. But such a willing student, am I! |
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vlraynes Member Rara Avis
since 2000-07-25
Posts 8229Somewhere... out there... |
Karilea?... I know I haven't said it in awhile... but just wanted you to know that I'm VERY happy for you... Congratulations, my friend... and I echo my serene sister... I, too, am proud to call you my friend... "When the power of love overcomes the love |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Vicky? Click your heels... and Ron's home becomes the Yellow Brick Road...I sware... ~*~ It's been quite a week, since All Hallow's Eve. My grandchildren Christopher, Michael and Emily were dressed, appropriately, as Knights defending their beloved Princess...the outfits were prepared by my daughter [who is quite talented, and won't admit it!] and I wasn't so ill from my inner ear problem that I couldn't hug and hold them for as long as they would allow. Trick or treaters were few as the neighborhood is at this moment in time, a bit on the elderly side...I think we had 13-15 kids or so. I grew up under the scare of tricks in treats, so I veer toward giving away quarters and such... That same day, I heard from two Pipsters, one on the west coast, one on the east, who had received notice that the novel was "available...." and they let me know, immediately, by the magic of internet...and so, I quickly emailed Publish America, and they told me that my authors copies would probably arrive by 11/2. Wrong. November 1. A lot of you have seen the Announcements and Links, so I won't repeat that. But since then? It's been wonderful. Oh, yes, a bit of work, here and there...and a lot of new ideas, thoughts, feelings...emotions galore! For example...I've decided on a new "business" name...JungelPrints. ~*~ Several months ago, a retired school teacher who gets her hair done where my mother-in-law has her set Saturday appointment...found out [through Mom-in-love] that I was in the process of having a novel published. She, being an avid reader, started up with the questions, and those Saturdays that I saw her would always be full of questions. Well, several weeks ago, she had asked for, and I obliged her with, the draft of the first three copies. Before I had even seen the book's covers. Then? She disappeared. I didn't see her again, and wondered if I had "done her in"...perhaps her disappointment was so great, that she had changed her appointment time to avoid me. [Oh, for those of you who don't know? I can put myself under a fairly good paranoia trip!] Then the cover art appeared, but not the friend...I was appalled. Had I disappointed her so much? OMG...BUT, I took a risk, and mailed her a copy of the cover art. I figured if she was going to stay away, she might as well have some color go along with her. Ron could probably attest to the fact that six years ago, I wouldn't be baring my soul as I am doing now. See what you PiPsters can do by being so open, honest, and loving? I saw my retired friend this last Saturday. Not only had she read the three chapters, but confided as to why she had been gone so long. Surgical...and all that. [To keep the egg OFF my face, I didn't tell her what I had feared, but did offer up my sympathy over her problem. If I were to tell you...you'd burst yours!] Then she went on to tell me that she shared my three chapters with her best friend a retired school teacher, who happened to be an English Major! Ok, so my heart plummeted. But let me back up. When I came into the shop, her arms were busy waving me in, towards her. I had my author's copy in my hand, and she dang near lunged for it. Thank GOD the hair dryer unit was down and her head could only travel so far! She seemed to be so tickled to see me! She clutched my copy as if it were hers, and hers alone! It was then that we started to talk, and then we got to the part of the comments on behalf of her friend. "She said one word!" My heart floundered.... "Awesome!" My heart lifted! My friends had been kind...my family had been kind... here was an unknown stranger...who didn't know my face, didn't know me...the kindest act of all...speaking out to a stranger. Then, my friend said, as she held the book to her bosom..."We both feel that this is going to be a very successful read. But you must know, she was not happy that you didn't share more than three chapters!" She went on to say, "She is so well read. She reads Everything - you should see her library! But you have been the first fiction writer in a long time, that made her look forward to turning every page, just to find out what happens next." Ah.... words I heard from my own PiP family. God bless you folks for putting those words in that woman's mouth. It's a circle, it is. ~*~ A few other things came and went this week...primarily, fingerprints on the author's cover. Loving orders coming in via email. Support....like I've never experienced. Reality...almost ready to rest and go "boom"...I think when my order gets here sometime soon next week...and I have to lift the boxes? I will know what Ron felt when he started the anthologies.... Ron, did I thank you yet? May I thank you again? Today my husband, the one who didn't want me to get my hopes too high up in case the book never realized itself in print, sent me a link to Forbes Book Club. Where my title and name reside. As I told a few friends...I'm there, but so are a million others. So I must be.... one in a million? Even my day job can't get me down right now... Thank you for sharing this with me. I love you, too. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
Girl, you are on a roll! Thanks for sharing with us. The kiddies are adorable! Martyjo |
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Tracey Member Elite
since 2001-08-29
Posts 2808where insanity meets breeding |
This is such great news, and I'm SO proud of you and this great accomplishment. I still remember reading those first chapters and thinking what a brilliant read it was, and how it should be a book. AND NOW IT IS!!!! And we can all say "we knew her when". I'll be signing up for one of those autographed copies, and I will treasure it. Congratulations Karilea, I can't think of anyone who deserves it more.  You can never win or lose |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
MartyJo, your book is on its way. Tracy, you just let me know when. Those are just three of my grandchildren. I have three others that are older and younger than this band of grandma huggers... And oh, how the hugs are returned! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Karilea, you know how happy I am for you. May the blessings keep coming your way. And, may all your dreams come true. |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie....I thought I already told you....YOU ARE ONE IN A MILLIAN!!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
LOL...Yes you did, Martie...but you've got stars in your eyes...I know! I saw them! Thank you Sue. Things are keeping very busy, here...but you know I've been thinking of you and of all that studying you are doing! Keep at it! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
I can hear Dee now... singing, "It's my journal, I can cry if I want to, cry if I want to..." She would tease me that way. Oh, she could tease in so many wonderful ways and you knew it was a tease, even if you weren't looking at her...you could tell just from the pre-giggle, that something would land on you, even if you didn't want it to, like a gooey jello pudding of loving words, she would splat you with her wit and whim, because if she wasn't down, by God, you weren't going to be down, either! In our recent and tragic loss of a beloved sister, I told my younger sister that it was all because of her that Dee came into our lives some 45 years ago. So I blame my kid sister...for someone wonderful who shaped all of our lives. I can blame my parents, too...for their warm and loving ways, and I can blame Fate, as well, for throwing us all together in a sack of opportunity. Dee was special to all of us in some of the most individual ways. She could read people, so truly, there was NO privacy in our house. She was either super-sensitive or she was blatantly inquisitive - but she always got to the core of things. She was as good at being the butt of practical jokes as she was at passing them out, too. I think Daddy loved to tease her simply to her hear laughter ring throughout the room. Times were not always good for our Dee. She lost her mother at an early age. She floundered between foster homes as her father tried to help raise her, and her older sister. When she first came to be with us, she was pretty sure she was not meant for much education. She did poorly in school, because she believed that the most she should ever think of aspiring to would be that of a kitchen maid or washer-woman. Mom and Dad pretty much turned her around with some nagging, encouragement, and what we would call "tough love" today. They didn't let her squander her education - and she was soon making grades and found a love for education that never left her. I remember once, long ago, sharing a dream I had of her, with her. I told her I saw her surrounded by children of all kinds - young, old, various nationalities. In that dream, I felt her warmth and love pouring out from her to all of the children around her. She never married. But the children part came to be, I think. You see, she surrounded herself with children in the Big Brother/Big Sister program. She found herself working for the state of Arizona, in the SRS department, making sure that "her" children received their father's or mother's financial support. She gifted our own children with wierd and wonderful [and sometimes irritating] presents during the holiday, or any day. My oldest daughter received on her first birthday, a pull-ratchet chain saw. Dee sent it solely because she knew the noise would get on my nerves. She was right. At my age of 28, I figured I would never let a "birthday" get to me. I was dismayed then, as much to my surprise, I woke up on my 30th birthday and felt a tremendous, sudden jolt of loss. After all, what had I done in 30 years? NOTHING! I think it was about 7:30 a.m. when Dee called and calmly started listing all of my silver linings. I was a wee bit irritated that she wouldn't listen to me and my sorrow, as she slowly spoke of several reasons that I should see joy in all I had accomplished in my few years of adulthood. She wouldn't even let me rain on my own parade! She was something else. She was a glue among family members. She was a diplomat, a keeper, and a visionary. Full of encouragement, she always made sure that we knew in our hearts her belief in us. One of the conversations I had with her when she was this wonderful teenager and I had yet to hit puberty was when she had come home from her first year in college, and was studying biology, and she had encountered her first microscope. "I had a marvelous thought today!" "Yea? What?" the ever-eager child of me asked. "Well, I was looking through a microscope and oh my! [she spoke with enthusiasm, always!] what one can't see with the naked eye, but with a bit of glass placed so and so, there's so much to explore!" I remember waiting, but she was thinking, so I had to ask, "like what?" So she went on to explain about seeing butterfly wings under a microscope, and veins of leaves, and it made her think of taking a larger microscope [this was way before the advent of Animal Planet] and watching ant colonies and such and then she said, "I think it would be like looking through God's eye, watching down on all of us. Wouldn't it be funny if we were nothing more than a colony of ants, to Him, as He watches us through a microscope?" Just that fast, she made me large and tall, and small and insignificant, with that one statement. In a sense, she had a way of always making sure one knew their worth...and made sure we also knew how to share that very worth. Since she was taken from us, she has invaded my mind and heart even more with thoughts of past conversations and wonderful times. I remember some of the not-so-wonderful times, as well - and as always, from Dee, they became lessons of heart. To the few that knew of our recent loss of love, I was able to tell them that Dee will probably be one of my most insistent, nagging, bothersome muses... and I believe this. Because she was never one to say, "well, that's good enough, you've done all you can do." Nope. She was always the one to say, "Ok, good job, now... What's next?" To our Dee...who will forever be remembered as the one who would never let any of us down. I love you. Alta Delores Harned Sept. 20, 1943 - November 14, 2005 |
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Gentle Spirit Member Patricius
since 2000-10-09
Posts 13989 |
love you, and am soooo very happy for you and so very, very proud.... |
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Fagin Member
since 2004-05-07
Posts 126Ca |
You hit the nail right on the head sis i miss her so much... |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
A month, and a day...since my Fagin commented... Things are going well, most probably because I have an Angel Director guiding things now. The year turned over in quiet sound to a new peace - not one that has yet been seen 'round the world, but one within the heart. I am not a seer, although I see the last of the daylight leaving the horizon in one glorious last flame, leaving the evening to cloudy skies but a well spent day in high'd light... The book is "going well" in the sense that those who read it, are coming to know a sense of "yes, this is peace..."... The month starts out well with the first few days bringing good news to many...among them, writers who put themselves forward and are now being rewarded with a new promise.... I kissed a baby today, and with it, left the promise that there may be a peaceful future for it to grow up in.... my eldest grandchild called, ready to come with me this night, after all of her many activities that 13 brings, to join us at our first poetry meeting of the year; and in that meeting, we will be welcoming a new guest - a published poet, who wishes to join us.... my brother spoke to me from a care center, regaining his health as much as can be expected, a joy in my life, as he was from day one [although even he will agree with me, he tried to circumnavigate all of this love he ever thought he should have...] I have spoken to friends, near and far... Yes, it has been a good first week to the New Year in several ways.... even as I read of the lasting tremors of last year in some beloved poet's heart, and mind...in my own heart, she already knows she is one hell of a survivor.... even as I hear that China demolished over several million possible births of female children because they are nothing but a hindrance; even as I see grocery stores now dumping food in whole, which they use to sell, reduced, because of the fear factor that some media has instilled over some minor possibilities... Yes, they said, you wear those rose colored glasses and never tell us the truth of your pain. You are right, I said, because I would have you only know the best of all things, for the things that are bad, well, they come to bite you in the end, regardless.... so while I may, and if I may, I might, continue to bring forth the light....of some little better time, some little better song...while I still can.... then this...is why I am here. God bless you all. . [This message has been edited by Sunshine (01-10-2006 06:37 AM).] |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Sissie....you made me cry again...or maybe it's just that bright light that shines from you that got in my eyes? |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
And a wonderful New Year ahead for all of us who do indeed wear those Rose Colored Glasses. I have been told the same thing many times. But it is the only way to go. Happy 2006 to all of you and thank you Karilea for that wonderful book. It took me away from all the other stuff that drags us down. martyjo |
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Fee Member
since 2000-08-07
Posts 381Melbourne, Australia |
Its time to find the me that I locked away inside of me and forgot about. Life is too short and I am going to live it to the fullest. That path ahead is unknown, but one I am looking forward to following. The love and encouragment on this path, from the people within these blue pages, is worth more than any word could express. Moving forward, not looking back. Hugs Fee Expressions, |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Dear Fee… You were the last to respond on the 21st of January. Thank you. Since then, as many of you know, my life became even more topsy-turvy, and I want to thank those of you who sent emails, letters, flowers, prayers, yes, I want to thank you, publicly. Even those who sent private prayers that found their way to my heart. No stamp, no “ding”, no overt sign, but yes, you and I, we knew. I am so very, very pleased that a few of you got to know my brother, Robert / Fagin. To say that I miss Robert, would liken the moment to asking the world to stop, I wish to get off for just a brief moment. Where I would go, I don’t know. But it isn’t that easy, as so very many of us know. Things keep tasking us, one day at a time, to continue, and bless those who say, “it will get easier.” Is that before, or after, we cry so hard that we believe we will turn inside out? Oh yes, so many of us have been in this position, not once, nor twice, but seemingly too far into “it” that we think we cannot live through it. Yet, God insists, “go on, and multiply.” Oh, he never said in which manner we are to multiply, did he? We can multiply moments via smiles, via words, art, sensitivity, willingness, compassion. A four letter word for that is “hope”. A five letter word for it is “faith”. On the day Robert slipped onto a new plane, an order for a book came in. It was not easy to honor a commitment of “day in, day out” that I had given myself, but I did it. I called my boss[es] and explained by leaving messages to two of them that my brother had died, and I would have to deal with phone calls and such and would be in “later in the week”. My husband called a third boss to let him know, and his surprise that I had a brother told me more than I wanted to know. I had mentioned my brother to him many times. In fact, his height was one thing they had in common. Monday, February 6, was not a good day. In the quiet, I waited for the “ding” of the IM. The morning ding, when he was up at 3 or 4 a.m. in California, waiting for me to wake up at 4 or 5 a.m. in the Midwest, to question “why are you up, kiddo?” The better question always being, why the heck are YOU up, buster?” Illness screws up our sleeping, our normal. But who anymore is really normal? We laughed over that, gave the “cup” sign that one of us had to go find some brew, and then back to chit over chat and chug some beans. “Yours is white, right?” Oh, he knew his sis. I don’t know why so many years passed between us when we didn’t call or write; I don’t understand other than the fact that others spread before us, and we were unable, or too tired, to call except on “deemed” occasions. I know that my brother went through some times that I am too late to know about. I can say the same for him. But it was in the last few years, the “golden” moments that I thank God for the Gates in our lives…that we grew closer. Maybe my handwriting was too fancy, and his was print; maybe it was because he couldn’t afford the call, and I was too busy managing chaos…I don’t know, but we finally came together over some magical little box that let us share tunes, and words, and love, and emoticons that took on some great meaning. ~*~ This is an interactive journal. I hope that whoever reads this will bring back a memory of one of their beloveds, a moment when something turned over, like a worm turning dirt – when something finally went right, and an electric reconnection was made, even if not by computer, but by some force greater than anyone might admit to. There is no age limit. There are no boundaries. In this journal, there is only the capacity to share, and know one another a bit better. There is only room for love, and compassion. There is only room for you. Thank you for understanding, as I share. Love, Sunshine |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
It always comes across as an honor to reflect on those that have shaped our lives. But in the same breath, it seems that I tend, anymore, to encompass the generations before me that would bring you and I to this point. And I am not talking just about mothers, and what they have given us, or kept from us, for reasons of their own. Protection, perhaps. Selfishness, or fear, maybe. Quite possibly at times, they didn’t share things with us because they just didn’t know to do so, resulting from their own confusion of understanding. I am also talking about fathers who have come to mother their children, and again, when it comes to Father’s Day, I will be able to reiterate some of these same sentiments. Because so many of us have to do all of the above. We have come into a time and place where it is not wise just to be “one or the other”…sometimes many of us have to be both. Aunts and Uncles fall into this genre as well as do grandparents. It is a time of giving, and acknowledgment of those very gifts. Happy Mother’s Day to all of those who care for those that need caring. ~*~ On April 15 I celebrated my first year in my “new” home. Realization of my fortune came to me in several ways, of how fortunate I am in both the ownership of home, warm friendliness of neighborhood, a loving family, and great and good friends. It came to me at a very low time, when I was in the middle of making a transition, working towards a huge change, trying to keep from burning bridges that I knew shouldn’t be damaged. Keeping a sane balance [read, no screaming allowed] was hugely tiring, and my muses decided, probably wisely, to back off. But how much I missed them. Then a very loving thing happened, which scared the stuffing out of me. The love was in connection, and the scare was just that. A very close, more than comfortable friend/sister was in trouble, and I was called on to forget myself [the loving part] and to be here for her [the scary part]. There is no doubt in my mind that you don’t know of whom I speak; for we are that close as a family. It is quite safe for any one of you to think that my energy was taken up in energy being passed from me to them, all of them, as a family, as a whole. In the middle of that, I was interviewing for a new position. It didn’t surprise me that on the day my “sister” came through her operation, I would hear of my own new beginning. On the day I knew our poet would be going home, I would be giving a resignation to a position I have held for 15 years. Or that the poem “Transform/Change” would come about would be not just to commemorate a time in my life, but one for our flower girl, as well. I have had some wonderful emails from many of you, wondering where I had gone, what was I doing, why was I so quiet. In liquefied essence, it is easy enough to say that my plate has been full. But now it is time to set the table again, for the new banquet about to be. Our Martie is home, and the wind brings new beginnings. It is time to smile again. ~*~ As I finish this entry, I will remark on one other matter, because, and only because it pleases me to do so. I recently remarked to a very dear friend that I had felt a great deal of depression lately, and I knew in my heart that I had very little to be depressed over, with the exception of recent losses of loved ones. Indeed I had and have much to be thankful for, in many ways. All I can say in any understanding of this recent depression is that those I care for are undergoing matters of their own which are tugging at their own sensibilities, and I feel their pain, anguish, despair, even perhaps some fear, and I sense these emotions with some great understanding that I do not always comprehend. Even though I try very hard to do so. So on this Mother’s Day, which has come to feel like Easter and Christmas as well, I have done some things that may, in some way, on some day, let those who truly know me [or wish to know me] may realize what it is I have left behind for them, and which in some way might become a legacy of memory, even if they do not read this small posting. My husband and I have been planting new memories, today. Roses, and trees. Lilies, and flowers. The beginning of a new landscape, a new beginning in our home that feels so much like home, now. No longer a house that we live in, but a place of welcoming, a place for those who wish to be renewed may come to find conversation, libation, and nourishment. In our “grand-parent-hood” time of living, we have come to a place where we are fortunately happy to begin, again, a new chapter. My husband and I will soon begin our 27th year of together. The gathering of roses to plant, today, meant more to me than what he will ever know, until he reads this. The need for Peace roses, which I wanted most, will mean even more, once he reads this. And I know he will. And in reading this, he will hopefully realize that Passions, and my friends here in our home of poetry, mean as much to me as any relationship I have ever known, and I have had many good relationships of friends, and family. Finally, I give thanks to all of you for remembering me during the times of two recent losses. On this day, I was grateful to plant color. My adopted sister Dee loved color…she loved to paint in greens and browns and sometimes a bright orange, to remind herself of vibrancy. My brother loved color – in shades of fire-engine red and deep blues; he colored his music in shades of tangerine and indigo; in his heart he wore the colors of Native American, for it is true that we have a link to the lineage. He loved me in turquoise and tanned deerskin. So thank you, Ron, for allowing this place to be, even when we don’t seem to appreciate it as much as we should, or forget that we are in Your home, and don’t act as responsibly as we should. As parents, we tend to kick our kids out of the home when it gets to be too much and especially when they are of age to find their own nest… but as any errant child learns, we do come home to find where our roots really belong…and perhaps, as some wild child will, we come home again to gain nourishment, to gain wisdom, before we make the attempt to go out into the real world, hopefully to find our own way. In this way, Ron, you, too, have been a Mother in the virtual world; a new link to new relationships, to new beginnings. You have provided a constant source of ever-present memory; of times and troubles, pursuits and accomplishments; you have provided substance, and values. No one needs to go very far, that they cannot look up the time they have lost in reading, or posting, and not be able to catch up with all of us in our socio-virtual history in the making. So, again, my thank you to Ron, for reminding us of your mother, her love, in the way that you have put up the ever-continuing, expanding walls of this, your home. I end my circle…to Mothers…no matter what form they take. " It matters not this distance now " Excerpt, Yesterday's Love |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Today I come back to this thread, via "Copernic" on a search to see where my life might lead one on an internet search, via the course of finding others poems and prose plagiarized throughout the internet. As I read through some of these pages, I came to find, yet again, the compassion and love of our members. The heart that they show, tells me that those who came here "first" in their find for poetry and the arts, are true and kind,and giving. If anyone might read this...I want them to know, "thank you", for helping me in my times of need; for being "there", and for being honest with their own words. Plagiarism is fast becoming a four-letter word in my book, and I want you to know that I will be an advocate on your behalf to help you out if you think your work has been lifted, and given another name. God bless. Sunshine |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
About two weeks following the last entry, I was "let go" for no reason from my last legal position. Easy come, easy go. Some of you have been made aware of this fact. Some of you have not. Be that as it may, I did not realize until I was put in the position to "be free" just how much pressure/stress I had been under. I know that, now. I spent four months looking for a position outside the legal field. In our small community, looking outside is as hard as looking inside. Bottom line, after several interviews for various positions, I was finally hired by a school/business known to me in the past [which may have helped] but in addition, it might have been my attitude...to go into a position where I could use what talents I have, plus learn new programs, like Publisher and be given some creative license. I was "hired" in mid-June, and my first day was July 2, 2007. Sometimes we have to remember that what we ask for, can come to be. It takes time, of course. It takes faith, as well, in whatever one has faith in. It takes positive attitude, and an inner will not to be drug down into despair. Four months can be a very long time, time enough to not remember all of the above. Yet, and with so much surrounding us on how we can be better to ourselves, so many of us do not even wish to find a way to lift ourselves out of the holes we dig with our own hands. Now, considering that Mother Nature comes into play, there are things that are taken outside of our hands. I've been there, too. Some other of our members comes to mind, also; and I know their struggles, and I realize their values, and I applaud their spirits. Because they simply do not let the negative rule their lives. And this is what this entry is all about: not letting negativity rule one's life. I will be pleased if anyone else reads this additional post; if not, that's okay, too. Because I'm "putting this fact out there", and those who know, will know, and truly, there is no need to comment further. Those who believe in the extraordinary, receive such back to them, and sometimes? It multiplies with yeast-like activity. It's a grand thing... Now, should anyone from my current employment find this, and read this, it is my ultimate pleasure to add: You are ALL wonderful people. The things I have heard/seen/experienced in this short time are all positive. I have comparisons that you do not have. And that's OK. Because I haven't named names, and neither have you, but what you still might see as an "ah, okay, geez, dang" moment? Well, it's less than you will ever experience overall, if you continue where you are. You've got it good, very, very good. And I'm just pleased to death that you've all welcomed me in. Thank you! And for our poets and authors here? There is life outside what we know the best; there is education beyond and above what we thought we knew; and there is life, beyond what we think we bury. Write on, live well, and know that revenge? Isn't worth an eyebrow's uplift. " It matters not this distance now " Excerpt, Yesterday's Love ~*~ KRJ |
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Drauntz Member Elite
since 2007-03-16
Posts 2905Los Angeles California |
My dear kind lady, I'll take time to read the whole Journal. I hope that you had 4 months easy time. The old boss...whoever let you go ..no good words.. shall I send a nasty email to them? wish you happy and have a great weekend. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Drauntz, you are a god-send, indeed. Go ahead, read, laugh, enjoy, cry....because it all encompasses some time, some loss, and some gains. Above all? No regrets from this poet. Because all is a learning curve, all. Life, love, education, religion, poetry, other experiences far and outside of my realism, all is out there for us to learn from. I do not kick anyone down, simply because I realize that they have to inhabit a space known to them, be it right or wrong; and if it is wrong, then other powers will eventually bring them to a light, or to a space all their own, and I'm sure it won't be pleasant. Yes, m'lady friend, I'm the Pollyanna, and the one who wears rose-colored glasses. I'll ask some intelligent questions now and again, but I will always see both sides, to the best of my ability, and I will never, to this point in my life, and hopefully beyond, pre-judge anyone. I guess that's why my Dad nick'd me, "Sunshine". |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
You go ... to bigger and better. Sometimes what we think is so devastating is really a blessing. But you know that don't you? latearrival. |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Sometimes I do, my friend. I make my share of mistakes. I've been blessed with a lot of understanding friends. Some smile, offer advice; some smile, and say nothing. I love them, either side. Write on! |
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