Friday, August 31, 2007

The Twins are here, the twins are here!!

Just a quick update to announce the arrival of our two little bundles of joy.
I will be taking a blogging break for a while as we adjust to the newest additions to our brood.

Take care all!

SM

Thursday, August 02, 2007

Wildlife tunnels??

I read an article in the paper yesterday about the widening of the Garden State Parkway and the effect on certain species of wildlife. In order to lessen the negative effects on certain species of lizards, amphibians and snakes, someone came up with the idea to build "wildlife tunnels" under the roadway. In theory, this sounds like a wonderful idea. The little critters (in theory) will utilize these handy dandy tunnels to cross from one side of the busy road to the other and won't have to worry about traffic.
Now, here's my mental image of the project.
A newly widened superhighway winds gently through the midst of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Various species of animals have set up residence on both sides of the highway. These animal families need to get to the opposite side, of course, for food, fun, and frolic. (Hey, animals have extended families too, and everyone loves a good family reunion!) Unfortunately, there is a nearly continuous flow of traffic. Way too many cars to allow the safe passage of a tiny frog or lizard. But WAIT! Not to worry! The brilliant humans have solved the problem. There are tunnels UNDER the road. Now Sal the Salamander can cross with ease.
Here it is from Sal's point of view:

One warm sunny day, Sal A. Mander crawled lazily from his murky puddle. As he did every morning upon waking, he pitter pattered over to his favorite mud spot and settled in for his morning bath. Sal sensed something different this morning. Something big.
"What is this strange vibration I'm sensing?" Sal wondered. (Salamanders are very sensitive to atmospheric change, you know.)
Then he saw it. The giant flat snake had grown even larger! Sal would have jumped right out of his scales, if salamanders had scales, that is. His heart pounding, Sal scurried to higher ground for a closer look. He could hardly believe his eyes. Now there were even more of those strange creatures with the round legs zipping over the giant flat snake's back.
"Those crazy humans must be feeding it again," thought Sal. "Now how am I going to get to Sally's house? Those zippies don't care what or who is in their path - they'll run right over me!"

Sal crept closer to the flat giant and bumped into Timmie, the cheerful timber rattlesnake.


"G' Mornin' Sal," quipped Timmie cheerfully.
"Hi Timmie," Sal said glumly.
"What's wrong, Sal?"
"Are you kidding, Timmie? Look at that! How am I supposed to get to Sally's house now? I'll never make it across the giant flat snake with all of those zippies up there!"
"No worries, Sal! Look at this." Timmie wagged her tail at a strange little tree-like object.
This was unlike any forest flora Sal had ever seen. It was a flat, shiny, yellow thing atop a green stick. There were markings on it that resemble all sorts of floor dwelling forest creatures walking, hopping and slithering into a long black hole. Sal was certain that it was some strange graffiti created by a flat snake artists trying to lure them all into the giant flat snake's belly.
Timmie sensed Sal's anxiety and explained the sign to him.
"Sal, this is a sign that the humans put here for us. Look over there - that is our safe passage to the other side of the flat giant."
Sal blinked, realized that he wasn't wearing his glasses, and quickly put them on. Now he could clearly see what was in front of him. Just a few yards away was the "black hole". Just outside of it was posted a sign, "WILDLIFE TUNNEL".
"Wild life?" wondered Sal aloud. "But I sort of enjoy my dull every day existence. Why would I want to enter the wild life?"
"No, no," chuckled Timmie, her tail rattling with glee. "Wildlife Tunnel - that is our path to the other side. We no longer have to cross over the top. Now we can go THROUGH."
"Ohhhhh," said Sal in amazement.
"C'mon, let's try it out!"
Sal and Timmie ran and slithered through the tunnel safely to the other side of the giant flat snake with hundreds, no thousands, of unaware zippies zooming along overhead.

So, do you think the brilliant engineers will post signs directing the fauna to the tunnels (like the one's that are posted so that the deer know where to cross)?


Sunday, July 29, 2007

Hairy Tongue and other random thoughts

Baby Ruth apparently has a hair on her tongue. She is holding her "Baby Tad" which is covered in dog hair despite having just been vacuumed, and pitter-pattering over to me with her tongue hanging out. This can mean one of two things - she ate something disgusting, or there is a hair on her tongue. My vote is for hair.....yep, that's it......a hair......
All is now well in our little toddler's world. Hairy Tad is on the floor, collecting more hair, and Baby Ruth is bouncing and spinning on the "Bounce and Spin Zebra".

If you happen to read my posts on occasion, you will notice that I removed the "Chinese Horoscope" thing. I dunno....thought it was dumb after re-reading it and it seemed to throw off the Feng Shui of my page.

Since my last post, the majority of my spare time has been spent training for the aforementioned Black Belt test. No amount of push-ups seem to be enough to get me to where I need to be. (In fact, as I type I am doing push-ups - mentally.....sort of like learning by osmosis.....I'm sure it will help, won't it?)

This afternoon I took my darling little canines for a walk. We came upon a house in the neighborhood that has been for sale for quite some time. It is a tiny little bungalow type cape thing with window boxes that hold very brightly colored FAKE flowers. There is a large "LUXURY - TWO BEDROOM" sign in one of the windows. As the dogs and I trotted by, I couldn't help but wonder how this place could possibly be luxurious or contain two bedrooms. Okay, two bedrooms maybe, but luxurious? If you're a hobbit, perhaps. Then, as I continued to stare, I suddenly got an image of the basement of this home. (I don't know if it actually has one or not.) In my mind, the basement is the complete opposite of the image that the seller is trying to portray on the outside of the house. It is dark and dingy and there are shackles on the wall. There are wooden benches along one wall with large eye bolts in them so that the "prisoners" can be chained there. Then there are the fingernail marks on the walls and blood spatters on the windows which are covered from the outside.
I don't know why this image came to mind, nor do I want to explore it further. I know one thing - I will NEVER attend an open house at that place, no matter how curious I am about the inviting "Luxury Two Bedroom" sign! (The place probably hasn't sold because all of the prospective buyers are now chained to the benches in the basement until an appropriate offer is made.)


Thursday, July 05, 2007

Methods of Thought

Earlier today I received an e-mail with the following link (thanks Mom):

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/law-of-attraction-should-be-renamed
-the-law-of-distraction.html


I purposely did not make the link "clickable", as I do not really want to promote this individual's ideology. However, reading the article would probably help you make more sense of what I am about to say. So, the link is there - just copy and paste it into your address bar if curiosity gets the better of you. ;-)

This is what my Mommy wrote in her e-mail. I have included it because it provides a quick summary of the article:
Here is a blog to read from someone who doesn't like the idea of the Law of Attraction. I agree with him in that many people may have the idea that you don't have to actively do anything to create what you want because you can just think it and then have it.

For those of you who know me, you most likely know that I am a firm believer in the "Law of Attraction". Of course, until the recent media hype, I had no idea what to call it, but now I know the buzz phrase. What is the "Law of Attraction", or, to be super cool, the "LoA"? Check out my sidebar link to The Secret for an in depth description. In my mind, though, the "LoA" can be summed up in the following statements/quotes:

"What we think about, we bring about"

"Like attracts like"

"If you build it, they will come"

"Energy flows where attention goes"

In other words, we are in control of our own lives and our own destiny, and it is up to us to choose wisely both in our thoughts and actions.
The debate comes in to play when portions of "LoA" lectures, videos, books, etc. are taken out of context. I liken it to taking a quote from the Bible without reading the rest of the passage. (Yeah, like THAT would ever happen)

Anywho, in case you still have no idea what I am talking about, I'll explain a bit further......many proponents of the "LoA" use health and wellness as a big selling point for the theory. The idea (very simply put) is that, through the power of positive thinking and conscious awareness, we can control the health and well being of our own body. This even includes healing oneself of a potentially terminal illness.

The skeptics will say that this is impossible; That only a deliberate and well planned regimen of pharmaceuticals and western medicine will affect the healing process. (Please understand that I am looking from one end of the spectrum to the other. There are many levels/schools of thought to this....very gray area, not black and white as I just made it sound.)

As the author of the.....oh, heck, here's the direct link.....Article
states, some people interpret the "LoA" to mean that they can get anything that their little heart desires simply by sitting around and thinking about it. The author begs to differ, and therefore titled his article "Law of attraction should be renamed the Law of Distraction".
Prior to reading his article, this was my reply to my Mother's e-mail:
I haven't read the blog yet, but wanted to comment on the not liking the Law of Attraction. The way I see it, like it or not, the law exists. It is somewhat like gravity, in my opinion. People may not like the fact that if they leap from a building without something to propel them upward, they will inevitably fall to the ground at the rate of 9.8 m/s/s. As for thinking and not doing, that is simple ignorance. Back to the gravity example, if I simply think about flying from a building and not plummeting to my doom, it won't work. However, if I align my thoughts and actions to this desire, then I will find a way to acquire a jet pack and will then fly rather than fall.

After reading his article, I find it very interesting that he claims to be such a skeptic of the law of attraction.
He sums it up in this one point:

this is a quote that the author used from a proponent of the "LoA":
"(4) Proponents say that by abiding by these, and avoiding "negative" thoughts, the Universe will manifest a person's desires."

Here is the author's rebuttal:

My experience tells me that (by and large) the only person/thing that will create forever positive change in my life is ME... yes, thinking plays a role but typically it's more about my actions, my life choices, my ability to persevere and deal with discomfort, my ability to adapt and... my drive to create something from nothing."

YES!!!!!!! Craig (the author of the article), that is exactly what the "LoA" is stating!!!! It IS up to you, the individual, to make your own life choices and adapt - to create something from nothing, if that is what you want to do! The only additional piece of information that the Law of Attraction proponents include in their statements is that an individual attains his or her goals with the ADDED ASSISTANCE of POSITIVE THINKING.
BTW, I fully agree with this, especially as it relates to health - whatever ailment someone has, if they TRULY believe that their chosen healing modality will bring them back to health, and they go forth with the "treatments", then they will find good health again. (Is there more to it than this simple statement? Yes, but I will only have your attention for a limited time, so let's leave it at that for now.)

Now, I do agree with Craig that there are people out there who misinterpret, or, I should say, under-interpret the whole concept. It is not through thought alone that we can achieve our wildest dreams. It is through the alignment of our thoughts, our actions, and (I'm going to take it one step further) our attitude that enables us to achieve our goals.

With all of that said, I do think that the whole concept of the Law of Attraction is becoming way too commercialized. It's one of those things that is much better received when it is not about making money. Alas, we are all learning a little something from it, and it is proliferating some sort of intellectual thought. Please realize also that this is not a new concept. There are books upon books about the power of thought and positive thinking, some of which date back centuries!

(keep in mind, that if your "wildest dream" is to become a green sea monkey and swim to the enchanted underwater forest where you will live out the rest of your days in bubbly paradise, you might want to rethink your goals.....or wait for your next incarnation - uh oh, another can of worms opens with that one, no?)

Please, send me your comments, e-mails, whatever....I'd LOVE to hear from you about this "controversial" topic!!!!

Monday, June 25, 2007

I have been Tagged for the first time

It seems that I have been "tagged" by Ciar Cullen. Gosh I feel so special to be part of the game.....

Here are the rules:
A. Each player lists 8 facts/habits about themselves.
B. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning before those facts/habits are listed.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 8 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.


1. I don't know 8 people with blogs to list at the end of this.
2. I used to manage a clothing store and now feel compelled to refold items (even ones that I didn't touch) when shopping.
3. I don't shop often, thankfully - see # 2.
4. I sometimes rearrange my basement "lair/office" space and then feel as though I've gotten new furniture.
5. My job at the Paper Mill ROCKS!
6. My first job was working in the bakery section of a "butcher shop" - I made hundreds of cookies. mmmmmmm.....
7. Please don't ask me to make cookies now, unless you want 90 dozen and have a very large mixing bowl.
8. Ciar Cullen is still my friend, even though she tagged me. :-)

I am tagging Hope. My only other blogging buddy that I know of.

Saturday, June 16, 2007

To Terry, Sandy, and others who have gone before me


Once again, I sit and work on my Black Belt written test. I have put much thought into it since the last post, but have not had time to actually work on it. Right now, I am taking a break from the hard thinking and am attempting to enjoy the beautiful weather outside in my backyard. I say "attempting" because of the ridiculous number of mosquitoes that quite enjoy my "sweetness". So much for sitting in my "thinking garden".
Now, perched on the deck swing, I shall explain my title......

First of all, it is important to note that those mentioned in the title are still physical entities on this Earth. Where they have gone before me is on the same journey which I am now experiencing. As I prepare for the upcoming big day, I can't help but look back over the past few years of training. (The view is an interesting one.)

Training for this test has been a great adventure thus far, and help along the way has come from numerous sources. This opportunity is something that I have anticipated for many years. Although I may not have been fully aware of it at the time, my training for this test began at least six years ago when I first entered our school. Many life changing events have occurred outside of my Martial Arts career, but I now am beginning to understand what was happening the first day that I stepped into the Dojo.
It was, if I recall correctly, one week (or so) prior to a Black Belt test. I was there to complete my registration form and pick up a uniform. As I completed my little tasks, the doors to one of the training floors opened and out came a bunch of very sweaty, very exhausted people. Something more than the sweat and fatigue caught my attention, however. (that is, aside from the thought of "Holy S*#T! What have I gotten myself into?") I noticed that this group of people of varying ages and walks of life appeared to have a certain bond with one another. I recall overhearing conversations about what they were going to have for breakfast the following Saturday and what they should eat the night before. There was a particular "energy" about them that I did not recognize as well as a certain amount of "aloofness". (I mean this in a good way.) (I came to find out moments later that they were preparing for a Black Belt test which was scheduled for the following week.)
Up to that point and for some time after, I must admit, I had thought of Martial Arts training as simply a class that people attended. Nothing more, nothing less. (Of course, I knew that historically speaking there was much more to it than that, I mean, I did see the original Karate Kid!) I just didn't expect to experience the "more".
I officially met Terry at my very first class. She was one of the people in that group that I mentioned earlier. I had the honor and privilege of learning the "rules" and proper basic techniques from Terry. I have not stopped learning from her to this day, although she is not presently training with us. I am frequently reminded of little "Terryisms" during my own training, and they are invaluable! Although I miss her fine tutelage at our school, I feel quite fortunate to be able to continue to receive the "isms" through the cyber world and such. ;-)
Another member of the aforementioned group was young Sandy. Sandy has also since moved on to more pressing endeavors at the present time, but as with Terry, I continue to learn from the lessons that Sandy taught me nearly two years ago.

What I am really trying to say is, I am now beginning to understand that "fog" that those sweaty, exhausted people seemed to have around them. It was a fog of knowledge and understanding. It was a fog of realization that we all have limitations and that in order to get past those individual limitations, we have to rely on those around us. It was also a fog of energy and intent and the ability to manifest things that we never thought possible before. (It was also the fog of stress, pressure and a boatload of information floating around inside a human brain.)

So, Sandy, Terry, (and the others) Thank you for being there at the beginning of my journey and for providing me with many of the tools that I need now as I approach the steepest part of the climb. I am truly grateful, and am thrilled to have this opportunity!

Sunday, June 03, 2007

Greetings, Earthling it's all a BIG TEST

Do you ever get the feeling that you are from a different planet?
I have been convinced for many years now that some day, "my people" will come back to get me. Maybe it has something to do with the dreams I had as a child of the space ships in the sky just beyond our neighborhood. Just thinking about it, although it is more than 20 years later, gives me a feeling of awe and excitement. In reality, I think that either "my people" forgot that they dropped me off, or this is all some cruel joke. Today, I feel quite sure that whether or not I am actually from another planet, it appears to other "Earthlings" that I am.
All right, here is the background on the alien thing. Bear with me....I'll get to the point in time.
The day began as any other non-work day. I got up, had coffee, walked the dogs, read the paper, etc. The plan for the day was to work on the written portion of my Black Belt test which is due in a couple of weeks. Now those who know me, and especially my fellow classmates (current and former) know well how consuming this testing experience is. The preparation in and of itself is enough to make you feel alienated from the rest of society. So, after my initial morning activities, I hunkered down with my test, laptop, and a few other resource materials and dove into the typing. This lasted for approximately 20 minutes before I got antsy and began exploring the ins and outs of the new laptop. Then, I built a new bird feeder and removed icky bugs from the window overlooking our backyard and new bird feeder. (Yeah, I was like this when I was actually in school too. It's amazing that I have a degree!)
With all of those necessary activities out of the way, I felt able to truly concentrated on the test materials.....so I made an egg burrito. It was one of the best darn egg burritos I have had in a long time!
Procrastination finished, I plopped back down and actually finished one question. (Essay questions, not the True/False jobbies) Actually, the questions are interesting and thought provoking and fun to research. So, being that they are such fun to research, and research can be done with books, and books can be found in a book store, it seemed high time to head off to the book store! Lady M and Baby Ruth also thought this seemed like a good idea, so off we went! (I did take along the test and laptop with the intention of working on the material in the cafe.) The next big decision was which store to go to. I chose Borders because, although on the other side of town, the cafe' is roomier and the whole place has a better feel to it. Of course, I inadvertently began heading towards the local Barnes and Noble and had to turn around to head back to Borders......should have followed my instinct, though. We arrived at Borders and braved the rain only to find that the Cafe' was closed (I assume for renovations based on the large tarp around it.....otherwise, I don't want to know why it's closed.) So, off to Barnes and Noble we go, but not to the one that I initially drove towards. This one is inside a little mall. Perfect for Lady M and Baby Ruth. They trotted off into the mall and I headed straight for the cafe' area for some coffee and a scone.
(This is where the "from another planet" thing comes into play)
I patiently awaited my turn in line, mouth watering over the coffee with soy milk and the blueberry scone that I was about to devour. The experience went something like this:
BARISTA 1: [mundane look on his face] "Can I help the next customer?"
ME: "Yes, could I have a grande coffee of the day with a little bit of soy milk, please an"...[he interrupts]
BARISTA 1: "OK that will be $1.87" *ka ching* goes the register
ME: [annoyed with being interrupted AND potentially missing out on that mouth watering scone that I shouldn't be eating anyway but now MUST order] "Uh, AND a blueberry scone, please."
BARISTA 1: [begrudgingly adding it into the total] *sigh* "blueberry?"
ME: "Yes, blueberry. Sorry, guess I didn't say it fast enough." (OK, uncalled for, but give a customer a chance to order, will ya? I had my scone, which was not spit on because I watched it the whole way to the counter and I slid over for my coffee which I witnessed being poured into the cup. Barista 2 placed the 3/4 full cup in front of me and placed the lid on it saying, "you wanted soy?"
ME: "Yes, please"
Barista 2 nodded and cocked his head toward the 3/4 full cup of very dark liquid.
ME: "Oh, is it in there already?" I asked while removing the lid and gazing curiously at the dark coffee.
BARISTA 2: "Yeah, it's in there."
ME: "Oh, uh, really? Uh, could I add a bit more, perhaps?" (my inner alien is saying, "it's in there? are you f-ing kidding me? I just watched you pour the coffee into the cup and it's just as black now as it was then, besides the fact that I just paid nearly $2.00 for a cup of coffee that isn't even full!")
BARISTA 2: "You want to add more?" (apparently he speaks inner-alien, because he sure gave me an odd look!)
ME: "Yes, could I?"
[BARISTA 2 gets out the soy mild and pours a few globs into my cup]
ME: "Perfect, thank you very much" - trying to sound pleasant.
Again, BARISTA 2 looks at me like I just came out of a steam room and forgot my robe.
ME: "Heh....gee...(yes, I said "gee") I feel like I'm from a different planet today."
BARISTA 2: [no smile, not even a smirk] "yeah, like us all, some days"
ME: [thinking, OK, now we are on the same page] "Heh heh....I just wish I remembered the trip, I bet it was a good one"
BARISTA 2: absolutely no comment, grin, smile, or other indication of amusement as he turns his head and looks at me as though I just turned green and began to beam up right in front of him.

I never did get beamed up, but I did have another interesting experience before we left the store. I met a lovely young man in the martial arts book aisle who was looking for a particular book. Prior to us speaking, I pulled a book off of the shelf to read the back cover. He glanced at it and said happily, "Oh, that's the one that I was looking for." I handed it to him and said,"looks interesting, enjoy". I had to convince him that I did not want to buy it because I was looking for something by Prof. Wally Jay. He inquired as to who that was and what sort of book I needed, so I proceeded to explain Small Circle Theory Jujitsu in 30 seconds or less. (This was good practice for me, as I need to talk about it on my test.) He then realized that the book he now had was not what he was looking for, but rather one with a similar title. I happened to know the book well ("The Way of the Peaceful Warrior" by Dan Millman) and informed him that he would have better luck in the fiction or Spiritual sections. We ended our chat, he went in search of the "Peaceful Warrior" and I levitated over to the Bargain books where I soon came across a bargain copy of "Peaceful Warrior" and "Sacred Journey of the Peaceful Warrior" combined under one cover. What a deal, I thought, as I grabbed the book. I must find that guy and give him this book!
Utilizing skills learned from watching The Secret, I found the fella sitting with a lady friend at a table. He had a new copy of "Peaceful Warrior" and I happily presented him with the bargain that I found. It occurred to me only after a brief exchange and a couple of silly comments on my part that it must have seemed very odd to his lady friend that a stranger came trotting over to their table and presented her beau with a book that he had been looking for earlier and had, in fact, already found. (oh well)
Finally, once again utilizing skills learned from The Secret, I managed to "manifest" and empty table and sat down to answer another question on my test. It was just about that time that Lady M and Baby Ruth showed up and were ready to check out.
So, here I am, twelve hours after beginning the work on my test, still trying to finish it...........Today's experiences reinforced for me the need for patience, kindness, and the importance of helping one another even in the most unlikely of ways. Also important virtues in the world of Martial Arts.......I think I just answered another question from my test......

Friday, June 01, 2007

Welcome Beni MLK Bu




Please join us in welcoming our new friend, Beni MLK Bu! (Pronounced "Benny milk Boo")

Baby Ruth (18 months in a couple of days, for those who have been out of the loop for a while) received a gift card from her aunties K and L, and we made a very special trip to Build A Bear today. It was a very difficult decision as to who to stuff and bring home. The finalists were Shrek, Winnie the Pooh, and the little guy in the picture. Obviously, the turtle won in the end and is now enjoying his new home on our living room floor.

The whole experience went rather well. Baby Ruth was enthralled by the stuffing machine and very much enjoyed collecting the little hearts that go into the animals. You're really only supposed to put ONE in the critter, but we sure tried for more. Then, of course, there were the shoplifting attempts. Apparently, according to Baby Ruth, anyway, a turtle just can't have too many skirts and "Hello Kitty" tank tops. Lucky for us, we found them in the bottom of the stroller before leaving the store. (My previous retail career taught me to always keep an eye on those "empty" strollers - now I REALLY know why.) It's the toddlers that you have to watch out for!
As it turns out, skirts really don't fit well on turtles - sort of makes them appear to be in "drag". We, therefore, opted for the "overall" look instead.
After the outfit shopping, it was time to name the little fella. Baby Ruth didn't want to say his name aloud, so she typed it right into the computer. The actual spelling was "BEN I,,,MLKB U", but we were able to translate.

Once again, Beni MLK Bu, we welcome you to our humble abode!

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Perspectives from the dirt

Once again, it has been quite a while between my posts. It really all goes back to the earlier post "Life gets in the way of itself". Busy busy busy.
Actually, it's not that I've been any busier than usual. I mean, there are the everyday chores, the doctor visits for Lady M and the Twins that she is "brewing", that thing called "work", and the training for the upcoming Karate test in August (this one's sure to be a doozy), but really, nothing "extra". I've just put the blogging on the waaay back burner. Enough excuses?

OK.

Lately I have been pondering perspectives. I ponder frequently, and try to do so from different points of view when possible. What got me started on this particular ponder was a recent softball game.
I play in a local "bar league" (AKA "lolly-pop ball") and this year am the manager of my team. (This sort of fell in my lap by default.) We play only on Wednesday nights, and have a blast each time we play. There are quite a few of my "co-workers" from the paper mill on the team, as well as pals from outside the mill. Many of us are former college players, either softball or another competitive sport. Now, we are older, wiser, and have day jobs. We are in the "B", or maybe even "C" league. I don't know which letter, but it's really more of a "beginner" league. We don't even have playoffs at the end of the season. I think the idea is for teams to earn their way into the "A" bracket, but we see things a bit differently, it seems. We are PERFECTLY content where we are.
We get together on Wednesday nights and play in the dirt. We try to tell ourselves that we don't care if we win or not, but being the natural competitors that we are, deep down we really want to score more runs than the other team. BUT, regardless of the final score, we have FUN. We blow off steam, we goof off, we take too long getting on or off the field (not on purpose, of course).
Here's where the perspective thing comes in. The other teams seem to take it so much more seriously. (I guess they really want to get to the "A" division.) They get upset when they make an error, and by upset, I mean angry. The umpires also get their panties in a twist on occasion. Very few smiles when things are going a bit awry.
This isn't the MAJOR LEAGUE for Pete sake!
We must drive them all crazy! We simply enjoy getting out there on the field. What is the difference? Are we more well-adjusted and happier with our lives? Perhaps.
I'm thinking, though, that we, as individuals and as a group, simply look at things from a different point of view. Our team consists of two current Div. I college softball coaches - they get paid to win games; numerous former scholarship players - they too, in effect, were paid to play; and quite a few people who are responsible for the lives and well-being of many people on a daily basis.
When Wednesday night comes around, it's all about the bat, the ball, and the dirt. It's fun. There is no pressure (as long as we have enough players....which is another perspective in and of itself).
My personal point of view, as team manager, has shifted slightly since last year. Although I have a ton of fun at the games, I do find my own panties in a twist each week as we scramble to find enough players from our roster to field a team. Most of the time we manage to get at least 9 together for a game. Then, the lineup must be done. My method of creating the lineup, prior to tonight, was ALPHABETICALLY. Do you think that is how they do it in the Majors? Tonight, I decided to live on the edge and go completely at random.
The absolute best part of all of this? Despite our fun-loving, care-free attitude and "strategically masterminded" line-ups, we have managed to WIN all of our games thus far!
Of course, it is not about winning or losing. Every one knows that it's how you play the game. Beyond that, however, it is how you perceive the game (life). There is a time and a place to be serious, no doubt. It is during those in between times (the "Wednesdays") that we should all take a moment or two to just go play in the dirt.

Monday, April 02, 2007

Tragedy and The Little Things

Earlier this afternoon, I began a post about the satisfaction that I felt after rearranging a small area of our home. The beginning of that post is in italics below, just as I left it prior to heading out for our days activities. I am not finishing the post in the manner originally planned due to a recent local newsworthy event which occurred at my Alma Mater. It was (and is) an absolutely tragic occurrence that has hit rather close to home in a sense. Before I go on about the "news", here is the beginning of my original post:

It is the smaller things in life that I find very exciting and fulfilling. I just finished the most lovely project, and I must say, I feel lighter on my feet. (NOT, however, lighter in my loafers, if you catch my drift - I'm light enough there as it is.)
What did I do?

I REARRANGED our computer station! Now, instead of turning sideways to reach the keyboard and see the monitor, we have the option of sitting in front of it! If you know us and have been to our house, you know that we try to maximize the space that we have by cramming as much into one room as possible.


Now, about this tragic story.
Last Wednesday night into Thursday, a Fraternity at a local college (my Alma Mater, as I said) held a party as part of the "pledging" process. As is expected at a college frat party, large quantities of alcohol were being consumed. A freshman, Gary D., who was pledging the fraternity, participated in the festivities. Gary consumed significantly more than his share of alcohol, passed out and was later taken to the hospital where he died the next day. I know of this only by reading it in the newspaper, so I have only the perspective provided by the reporters. I do not always trust what is written, but over all, the coverage of this event thus far seems o.k. According to quotes in the articles, Gary was not one to drink frequently or in large amounts. Unfortunately, this particular night was different. Gary did what was apparently expected of him in order to become part of a group (fraternity).
I do not mean to imply that Gary succumbed to peer pressure. I did not know Gary, but based on the quotes from those who did know him, he seems more the sort who would stand by his principles and do the right thing. Again, I did not know Gary.
What I do know, however, is that his story is one that should not be. It is also one that has been told before, and unfortunately one that will likely be told again with someone else as a main character. This is partly what makes it so tragic. I mean, it goes without saying that when a young person loses his or her life that a tragic event has occurred. The real tragedy here is that it is not a "freak accident". It is an avoidable event that finds away to repeat itself. In Gary's case, it seems that alcohol poisoning led to his death (this is an assumption, as autopsy/toxicology results, to my knowledge, have not been released). For other "young" people, it may be an alcohol related motor vehicle accident, or a drunken stunt gone wrong. (For those of you who know me, you know what I do for a living, and although I have not seen as much "devastation" as some, I have seen enough from both sides to know the pain and suffering that ensue.) Whatever the "reaction", the catalyst is often overuse of alcohol (or other drugs) and the result is all too often death or serious injury.

I mentioned in the beginning that Gary's story hit rather close to home. What makes it somewhat personal is that I attended the same school. I lived on campus, played two sports, was involved in many campus activities and am well aware of the fraternity that he was pledging. This is a relatively small school with a small campus. It has been 10 years since I graduated, and I still feel part of the "family". That is the beauty of the school. It is like a large, extended family.
The other reason that brings it close to home is that one of his Professors is someone whom I consider a very good friend. Prior to reading a news article this evening, I did not know that he was one of her students. As I was reading one article, she came very clearly into my awareness and I thought, "Wow, I think he was one of K's students." Before I could talk myself out of this thought, I glanced at the next article and right at the beginning was a quote from one of his professors - my Friend.
"Professor", I am not sure what the psychic connection is there, but it was interesting.

What is it that makes teenagers and early 20-somethings think that they are invincible? Clearly I was there once, but I just don't recall my thought processes at the time. (I'm a bad barometer, though - I was more of a "goody goody" - no drinking, no drugs - I can HONESTLY say that I didn't inhale. *wink*)
What does all of this have to do with my title, Tragedy and The Little Things?
Well, as I read the articles and glanced back at my blog, I thought about perspective and the little things in life. Today, as I bask in the glory of my newly arranged furniture, a family (immediate and extended) mourns the loss of a loved one.
Does this mean that I should not enjoy my new setup? That others who were touched by this story, or any other story of heartache should not find enjoyment in their daily lives?
Absolutely not.
What this means is that all of us should take time to appreciate what we have, appreciate those we love.
Express gratitude to those who love us and to those who help us along life's paths, as we lend a helping hand to those who need our love and guidance. Be patient and kind to one another and most importantly, ENJOY THE JOURNEY.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family and friends.

Friday, March 02, 2007

Our Zoo

Our humble abode is never lacking in excitement, depending, of course, on what you consider "excitement". Most this is now due to a very busy toddler, but the rest of our "clan" is never far behind.

Today, as we do many a day, Lady M, Baby Ruth, Big Dog, Little Dog, and I went for a nice walk in the park. These are always lovely until another dog passes by and "Little Dog" - a Jack Russell - tries to eat the passerby, regardless of the breed or size. She is a very "tough" little dog, despite the fact that she has only two top front teeth. Thanks to our brave "Little Dog", we made it safely through our walk without being accosted by any large dogs. It was upon our return home that our brave "Little Dog" showed her true nature.

One of our birds has a new favorite toy. A large plastic ball with a smaller ball with a bell in it inside the large ball. Birdie loves to jingle the bell, pick it up, drop it, etc. (She is actually obsessively trying to get the darn little ball out. - we have O.C.D. issues around here.) Anyway, as it turns out, our brave "Little Dog" who will readily take on any Doberman, German Shepherd, or any other large breed that she encounters is TERRIFIED of this ball and bell!

From the first jingle, "Little dog" began panting, pacing and darting from room to room until she could finally get to her "safe haven". It seems that as long as she is tucked securely inside her travel crate, all is well in her world. I guess it makes her feel like she is finally going to get out of this joint.

Joke of the day

I just had to post this one....

"11 minutes to go"

A cop was patrolling late at night in a well-known spot.

He sees a couple in a car, with the interior light brightly glowing. The cop carefully approaches the car to get a closer look.

Then he sees a young man behind the wheel, reading a computer magazine He immediately notices a young woman in the rear seat, knitting. Puzzled by this surprising situation, the cop walks to the car and gently raps on the driver's window.

The young man lowers his window . "Uh, yes, officer?"

The cop says: "What are you doing?"

The young man says: "Well, Officer, I'm reading a magazine."

Pointing towards the young woman in the back seat the cop says:

"And her, what is she doing?"

The young man shrugs: "Sir, I believe she's knitting a pullover sweater."

Now, the cop is totally confused. A yo ung couple. Alone, in a car, at

night in a Lover's lane....and nothing obscene is happening!

The cop asks: "What's your age, young man?"

The young man says :"I'm 22, sir."

The cop asks: "And her ... what's her age?"

The young man looks at his watch and replies:

"She'll be 18 in 11 minutes."

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Myself vs. I

Thank you for your patience during my extended meditation exercises. If only my personal experience was as relaxing as the cartoon me appears! I could attempt to explain myself for allowing so much time to pass between blog updates, but I simply have no excuse. Just like everyone else, we are a busy family. My work at the Paper Mill seems endless, but this is a good thing, as it pays the bills! I think that one part of my "anti-posting" campaign is due to a type of writer's block. It's not that I have nothing to write about - there are plenty of day to day events that could be construed as amusing, anecdotal, or educational. The thing is, as I read back over some of the past entries, I feel a lack of "funny" come over me. I want to "hear" that side splitting laughter coming out of my screen when others read what I have written. If not laughter, then a strong sense of "hmmm....." is good. Bottom line is, I've suddenly (ok, it's not so sudden) begun a heated competition with myself to see who can have the best blog entry, and since I know that I am the best, there is no competing with me! (When I say "the best", I mean in the competition between Myself and I - there is no comparison to be made with some of my other blogging friends -- i.e. TheEverythingGirl, Ciar Cullen, to name a couple.)
I am wondering, (Ciar Cullen, perhaps you can answer this) is this normal? I mean, in the "writer" sense. Not that I consider myself a writer, really, but there are a couple of things brewing that I intend to finish one day.

So, where does this leave us?
It leaves me sitting on the couch with a laptop right where it belongs - on my lap, pondering what to do next. One phrase keeps coming to mind - an entry that I have had in my drafts since August. (Where does the time go???) Now seems like an appropriate time to review that one. . . . . stay tuned.........

Life gets in the way of itself

Have you ever felt that life had a tendancy to get in the way of itself? What I mean is, do you ever feel so busy and aspire to do so many things, whether it is in one day or over the course of "time" that very little is accomplished? Sort of like running in circles, but more like an outward spiral. In keeping with previous posts regarding "The Secret" and other motivational inferences, I prefer to take a more positive view than this sounds so far. First, though, I think I need to explain more fully what I mean. Strap on your seatbelts - I am about to take you on a journey through my mind.....are you scared yet? *sinsiter cackle*

Wow! This is more challenging than I thought! All right, I'll begin with daily "aspirations". For me, as for everyone, I suspect, these things change depending on the day. It could be walking the dogs, petting the birds, cleaning the fish, playing with Baby Ruth, grocery shopping, house cleaning, laundry, an oil change for the car, or perhaps all of the above. (OK, so I don't do much of the grocery shopping, but I pitch in everywhere else......supermarkets frighten me.....so much food....so many people........) In addition to these tasks, which are on-going, there are the larger "one-time" projects - painting the doors, replacing doors, a bit of sewing, painting the trim, building a room or buying a house (this last to accomodate our growing family). As the weather warms, there is landscaping to think about. Next we have the walks in the park, blog updating, other writing, time for meditation, planning for the upcoming rec. softball season, and for me a very important part of life, Martial Arts - which leads right into the daily dietary considerations - to fast or not to fast.....and a wealth of other contemplations when it comes to deciding what to consume.....green things are good, processed things are bad.....and what about the air that we breath? the plastic toys? the "mainstream" diapers? aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!
(hey, I warned you that this was a journey through my mind......)
All right, so there are many activities that are available to be accomplished and completed. These are in addition to that little thing called "job". I love my job at the Paper Mill, and often welcome the opportunity to go there. Not because I want to get away from home, but because I enjoy what I do. It does, however, take time from the other things that I want to do. Overall, I feel very fortunate to have so many opportunities to do different things. BUT, the big BUT.......this is where life tends to get in the way of itself. Corporate folks might take the "time management" perspective and say that it is just a matter of managing my time and that I should, perhaps, keep a daily planner and stick to it. What that says to me is, "aaargh! one more thing that I have to do....I have to take the time to sit down to figure out how much time I have for each activity." -- not so helpful.

Where is the positive message in all of this? (A very good question, that is!)

Clearly, priorities must be set, and met. Family first. This includes SELF. We are no good to anyone else if we are not good to ourselves first. This is not an act of "selfishness", although it may sound like it. As I said, I am thankful to have so many opportunities to accomplish different things. The challenge for me lies in my effort to "quiet my mind". I am making an increased effort to set aside some time for daily meditation, in one form or another. The other things to be done are still going to be there afterwards, and if I am lucky, the Fairies (remember the Fairies? - scroll down....) will return and do all of the painting for me!

So, while life does sometimes get in the way of itself and trip us every now and again, we must focus on simply being. Everything will come together in its own time - just enjoy the journey!

Remember: "What we think about, we bring about!"

Weekend with Gram

My Mom came to visit this weekend. She used to come to see me, but not so much any more. Now that Baby Ruth is with us, she is the star of the show, as she should be. We had a lovely time going to the park, eating, and playing. Baby Ruth and Gram both seemed to enjoy themselves very much, as did both of our dogs. The little one loves to have someone new to snuggle with at night, and Gram fits the bill quite nicely!
As for the dogs, we seem to have some mixed up priorities in our household. We came to this conclusion one evening as we were playing on the floor with Baby Ruth and the dogs came pouncing in. With glaring eyes and a stern voice, Lady M, pointing at the sofa said, "GET UP THERE AND LAY DOWN!"
Who tells their dogs to get ON the couch so that the humans of the house can have the floor to themselves?? (uh, that would be us)
So, now the dogs have the right idea. They come into the room, see us playing on the floor, and hop right up where they belong - on the furniture. The big brown dog wanted to demonstrate this to Gram this past weekend as we were taking a short break from the movie that we were watching.
Into the living room she trotted and seeing Baby Ruth on the floor, promptly hoped onto the couch next to me. Now, it is very important for a dog to have things arranged just so, and the blanket that was on the cushion was simply not positioned properly. So, in large doggie fashion, she dug and flipped the blanket with her head, tossing it to and fro when suddenly her concentration was broken by a noise from the kitchen. Brown Dog popped up facing the kitchen, front feet on the arm of the sofa, with the blanket draped so daintily around her head and shoulders. We began to chuckle, and then we saw it. Lady M had been folding laundry and apparently an article of her clothing had been left behind. Well, Brown Dog found it. Standing with her front paws on the arm of the sofa and the blanket draped around her, Brown Dog was proudly displaying on her neck a rather large bra hanging by a single strap.

I know that it is not nice to laugh at others, and I did feel somewhat guilty for howling with laughter when I saw the confused look in the dog's eyes, but it was one of the funniest things that I have ever seen!