Happy New Years!!!!!

My tree with birdies from Minx's Den!

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are a Bette!

You are a Bette -- "I must be strong"

Bettes are direct, self-reliant, self-confident, and protective.

How to Get Along with Me

• * Stand up for yourself... and me.


• * Be confident, strong, and direct.


• * Don't gossip about me or betray my trust.


• * Be vulnerable and share your feelings. See and acknowledge my tender, vulnerable side.


• * Give me space to be alone.


• * Acknowledge the contributions I make, but don't flatter me.


• * I often speak in an assertive way. Don't automatically assume it's a personal attack.


• * When I scream, curse, and stomp around, try to remember that's just the way I am.

What I Like About Being a Bette

• * being independent and self-reliant


• * being able to take charge and meet challenges head on


• * being courageous, straightforward, and honest


• * getting all the enjoyment I can out of life


• * supporting, empowering, and protecting those close to me


• * upholding just causes

What's Hard About Being a Bette

• * overwhelming people with my bluntness; scaring them away when I don't intend to


• * being restless and impatient with others' incompetence


• * sticking my neck out for people and receiving no appreciation for it


• * never forgetting injuries or injustices


• * putting too much pressure on myself


• * getting high blood pressure when people don't obey the rules or when things don't go right

Bettes as Children Often

• * are independent; have an inner strength and a fighting spirit


• * are sometimes loners


• * seize control so they won't be controlled


• * figure out others' weaknesses


• * attack verbally or physically when provoked


• * take charge in the family because they perceive themselves as the strongest, or grow up in difficult or abusive surroundings

Bettes as Parents

• * are often loyal, caring, involved, and devoted


• * are sometimes overprotective


• * can be demanding, controlling, and rigid

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy

Happiness is

Tamales from my BFF-Dawn.
Seeing Annie smile.
Finishing my Christmas shopping.
Giving my Schlotzchy's gift card to a homeless man so he can have a meal.
Giving Annie 3 gift cards to give to her kids.
Having my friend Robyn win my donated gift.

Having wonderful friends like my readers who have taught me the importance of "Paying it Foward", Grace and Humility. You all know who you are.

Kellie--I am saving up for my Nudu Hat!!

Catching up on the meme....

12/13
For the next 8 days post something that makes you happy, everyday.
My husband!!

12/14 Taking my friend Janet and Mom to Janet's church

12/15
My job! I am sooo thankful for my job.
Tomorrow will be hard though. Mom's leaving.
But on a brighter note, Mom and Bill arrive tomorrow afternoon!

12/16 Ahhhh, boneless Asian Wings from Pizza Hut! (I know, I know)
MIL left today = sadness

12/17 OK, my mom is in Texas! Yayz!

12/18 Giving gift cards to a friend in need.
Going out to dinner with the parents.

12/19 Glad today is Friday!!

12/20 Happy my parents are here.
Happy it is Winter Solstice and cold again.
Happy there is a reason for the "x" in xmas.

Meme

So I posted everyday on my other blog and forgot to do the same here. Will need to copy everything over!!

more animals

My friend A is having a rough time. Teenage daughter has a bit of a problem, they are trying to move, broke, 2 other kiddo's, and no money for Christmas.

Pagan Yule Story

http://www.pagannews.com/cgi-bin/articles1.pl?530

Pagan Yule Story

http://www.pagannews.com/cgi-bin/articles1.pl?530

Charity

Which Positive Quality Are You? Your Result: Charity   You are Charity. The spirit of giving has been promoted by every religion. Charity is kindness. It is compassion for our fellow man. Charity doesn't ask anything in return, and in this way it serves as the opposite of greed. "Be charitable with many."
Love
Friendship
Courage
Peace
Faith
Which Positive Quality Are You? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Meme

For the next 8 days post something that makes you happy, everyday. Tag 8 others to do the same.

December 12th: My mother in law is here. *luv*

Also:

The first five people to comment in this post get to request a sketch of a character of their choosing from me. In return, they have to post this in their journal, regardless of their drawing ability level. If you absolutely can't draw, I don't see why you wouldn't be able to offer drabbles or icons or something instead.

It will be dribble and drabbles sent off to all. Don't ask for anything specific. I will send something.

Anyone who reads this is tagged. Anyone who comments gets sumpthin'

My MIL is coming for a week long visit! We have not seen her for over a year and are so excited!! Will try and post pics this week. :)

OK, I think I've got it all done:
Tues: Year end check up and flu shot
Wed: OBGYN
Thurs: Mammogram

Whew!

Iggy

Iggy is now Daisy May. She is a GOOF! She was playing with her toy on the coach and I looked over to see her in a literal downward dog position. No time to get my camera!

I hope everyone has a nice Thanksgiving. We did. And my hubby started his new job today!

2 incidences to two people I know...read and pass on

AMERICA'S CHILDREN ARE IN CRISIS-
ASSAULTS ARE REACHING EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS


The Statistics:
The U.S. Attorney General's office reports that over 603,000 sexual predators have been released from prison, are registered and are living within our communities. It is also reported that less than 10% of sexual predators are ever caught. This means that there are over 7 million criminal predators living within our neighborhods seeking vulnerable and unaware children on the internet, the telephone and in places where kids gather.

Study Results:
Experts in the field of psychology and law enforcement conducted an independent study that revealed that most parents and guardians tell their children not to talk to strangers and to never go with a stranger. The fact is that predators almost always make themselves known to the child before they strike. Predators will sometimes even go as far as to groom a relationship for weeks before they assault a child.

Resolution:
The experts have found that it is not enough to TELL our children how to stay safe. We must SHOW them by giving kids a visual, a multisensory learning experience. It was also learned that children learn best when taught by other kids.

Solution:
Armed with this information, the Network's founders gathered together parents and children who had suffered to create the "ABC's of Protection" film that demonstrates the ten approaches that predators use to gain the trust of children. Since 1990 volunteers with the Good Knight Network have presented the G-rated film all across the nation to families, at schools, churches, festivals and corporate events. The film has proven to build confidence within children and inspired them to volunteer to share the film as Good Knights to other children. This "pass it forward" formula has reached over 18 million families to date with positive results.

FACTS TO REMEMBER

* 7 out of 10 girls and 3 out of 7 boys will be victimized before they reach age 18
* 603,245 sexual offenders have been released and are registered throughout America.
* Only 10% of sexual offenders are ever caught and convicted.
* 90% of sexual offenders are never caught which means that over 7 million avoid detection and are seeking unaware victims.
* Two out three violent sex offenders in jail victimized someone under 18 years of age
* Within 3 years of release, 8% of rapists are re-arrested for rape and 27% re-arrested for another violent offense
* A typical predator will travel up to a 100 mile radius of his or her home to obtain a victim.
* Most predators are known to the victim before the offense takes place. Only 4% are the true definition of stranger.
* Most children go unaware and willingly when abducted because they are tricked. Less than 2% of abductions are violent.
* A typical predator will victimize 30-60 children before they are ever caught.
* Crimes against children have gone up 444% since 1986
* 44% of all rape victims are under 18 years of age

Happy Thanksgiving!

To all my wonderful cyber family!!

Iggy

My husband picked her. We pick her up this week after she has been spayed. She is a sweet and gentle soul, from what we can tell. She is coming from the Austin SPCA. They do a booming business, which is good.

It's a bit bittersweet. You can get a new pet, but you can't replace the one that left. Just like people, they are unique in their own right.

Veteran's Day

Thank you to all who have or are serving!

A historic moment happened on my birthday....

Alrighty then.....

My Liberal Identity:

You are a New Left Hipster, also known as a MoveOn.org liberal, a Netroots activist, or a Daily Show fanatic. You believe that if we really want to defend American values, conservatives must be exposed, mocked, and assailed for every fanatical, puritanical, warmongering, Constitution-shredding ideal for which they stand.

Take the quiz at www.FightConservatives.com

Birthday and Voting

Today is my birthday. Yay! 47, wow...*blinks*

My birthday wish is for a better government for the next 4 years. And Peace.

Soul Coaching

I am a day late. Ah well, according to Soul Coaching, that's OK! I am excited to start on this journey. So many of my blogging BFF's are participating. Feel free to follow along on this new journey with me!

My daughter's Etsy Shop

Manifested Dreams

Blessed Samhain

So, I decided not to go to thr group Samhain event for several reasons. BIggest one was my instinct said "stay home". Not sure why.

Other being the delicateness of my stomach the last few days. Urp. I think part of the problem is I ran out of Prilosec, so we will be stopping at the pharmacy today.

So I found a nice small ritual on my wiccan newsletter for Samhain to honor pets. Short and sweet. If it had been anything else, I would not have been able to do it. Still a bit painful.

As the veil is still very thin, I may do some rememberances tonight.

I voted. I had to stand in line for an hour and a half but I voted.

I was tagged by Confessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom to join the Pink Sisterhood. It is very important that women who cannot afford mammograms still get them.

I am at a very high risk for Breast Cancer. My mother is a survivor and my grandmother was. I have had 7 benign tumors removed. My best friend was diagnosed this year. Her doctor told her she didn't need a mammogram because she had no risk factors. She insisted because her insurance paid for one a year. It's a good thing she insisted.

I have had two other friends diagnosed with no risk factors. All 3 were in their 40's.

Let’s help save lives, by visiting The Breast Cancer Site. By simply clicking once a day, three mammograms per click will be funded for people in need. Do it because you care.



I am tagging everyone who reads my blog on a regular basis. Please, spread the word.

Mrs B's 31 Days of Halloween

Don't forget, there are only a few days left of Mrs B's 31 Days of Halloween! Go take a look, sign up to win and explore her fun blog!

Conversation

Hubby: "Thanks for getting me all decked out"

Me: "You're welcome."

Me: "Probably a good thing it was with just me and not me and DD."

Hubby: "Yeah, we'd STILL be in the fucking clothes departmeent"

Go here to vote!

http://celticanamcara.blogspot.com/

A full moon and a nice pot of Pilots Tea.......*sigh*

On a side note: check out this great shopping extravaganza and contest at Indie Fixx!

http://indiefixx.com/

one of the give-aways has one of my favorite embroidery pattern sources: Sublime Stitiching: http://www.sublimestitching.com/

Fire Fancies Altered Art Contest

I have titlted it "What Does the Future Hold"

I was going to use "Through the Looking Glass" but Alice told me not to. :)

So this has been a long busy week and it's almost over!!!! Tomorrow is Friday and the weekend and relax!

I am SO geeked at all the spookieness on tv from now until Halloween. Yay!

Don't for get to visit Mrs. B's 31 days of Halloween for cool stuff. And make sure you check out the other links on her page for cool poems, funny jokes and fun Halloween crafts.

We got our urn and Chloe's ashes today. She's home.

Practical Magic is one. I LOOVE that movie! Will watch after Bill Maher is over with.

Chloe's ashes are ready. I'll pick her up tomorrow.

Don't forget Mrs. B's 31 Days of Halloween! Click the link on my sidebar and see some amazing artists and great giveaways!

Conversation

between me and Hubby:

Dominoes Sub Commercial

Me: Mmmmmmmm.....

Hubby: All 4 look like they have shit on them that I don't like..

Me: You mean vegetables?

Hubby: Yeah, that shit.


If i wasn't already on the floor, I would have been shortly

My favorite holiday

Check out Mrs. B's 31 Days of Halloween!

I am SO excited about this debate!!!

OK

I am slowly coming back. It was really hard on me when Chloe passed. Now things are SO busy at work that I am exhausted when I come home.

Just know that I am catching up with all of your blogs and reading, reading, reading. I don't always comment, but I ALWAYS read. everything. Nad please know that I don't EXPECT you all to comment every post I make. I love it when you do, but I'll never be mad if you don't. I knnow there are many out there that have a hard time with it. And that's OK.

I love you all!!

midwest musings

Well, that didn't work.......

2001-2008 Chloe Jane Campbell

You were only with us for a short time, but were loved like no other. We'll miss you Booger.

So I meandered over to Rapunzel's Blog and did I ever get a surprise! I was awarded with this award:



Now it is my turn and it was SO hard. If I did not pick you, it's because I tried to follow the rules (I hate rules). The rules are as follows:

1. Only five people allowed.

2. Four have to be dedicated followers of your blog.

3. One has to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world.

4. You must link back to whoever gave you the award.

OK, so here we go:

1) Kelli of African Kelli
2) Clare & Kansas Rose (they go hand in hand as they are my FIRST blogging buddies)
3) Sorrow from http://sorrow11.wordpress.com/
4) Suzie Sacred Space
5) Robyn of http://talesofinglewood.blogspot.com/
(and naturally Rapunzel).

Goddess! This is like picking your bestest friend out of all your best friends! :(

Well, just a lot of wind. And cloudiness. It would be SO nice if it rained!

Will post photos of my Namaste gift swap later.

Hurricane Ike

Earlier in the week it was anticipated that the "eye" was due to hit Austin. As of today, hopefully, only 40-50 mile per hour winds. Our smallish city (41,000) is home to some "refugees" from Houston/Galveston/and where ever.

Sad note. I called the police department today to see where we would go in case of a tornado. "Please call back tomorrow, we'll have more info". I'm pretty sure the high school is one place and I'm sure the Fire Department would let us in.......

Dirt left everywhere.
Body odor so bad we had to put a fan in the window.
Scratch in the newly refinished dresser.

4 hours late and 7 hours after that, they finally got our bathroom floor replaced. bastards. they left a fucking muddy mess too.

"You have to walk the way you are pulled"

Author of "Eat, Pray, Love"

Week-end

Yesterday we went to Red Lobster for Daddy's b-day celebration. Early, as b-day is not until Friday. I should say husband so you don't get confused. Anyway, tonight is Poppyseed Chicken.

Grocery had an amazing sale today. 110 bucks worth of groceries for 80. Buy 1 getone free, buy 2 get 6free. Yep, no kidding.

Ahhhh, tomorrow off and then Wednesday, work at home as they coming to replace the floor in the bathroom.

My new Taiwanese made "do-rag"

drinkarttea.com

From my friend Autumn

Two wolves.

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.He said, 'My son, the battle is between two 'wolves' inside us all.One is Evil. - It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good. - It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.' The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: 'Which wolf wins?'The old Cherokee simply replied,
"The one you feed"

I am tired. I don't know why. And soooooooo out of sorts. I can't explain it. People in the outside world are annoying me. You try and be nice, especially after some else was nice to you, then the stupidity falls out. Rudeness, callousness, and like I said, just plain stupidity. Texans are bizarre.

I guess I need to read today's Daily OM and take it to heart.

DD found her mother. And Aunt. Things did not go very well, I am sorry to say. I really feel for her, but I think I have butted in enough. She is a grown up after all.

Daily OM

August 19, 2008
Tearing Down To Rebuild
Rethinking Complaining
We all know someone who has elevated the process of complaining to a high art. Sometimes funny, sometimes exhausting, these people have the ability to find a problem just about anywhere. In its more evolved form, complaining is simply the ability to see what’s not working, in one’s own life or in the external world, and it can be quite useful if followed to its natural conclusion—finding a solution and applying it. However, many of us don’t get that far, and we find that complaining has become an end in itself. In small doses, this is not a big problem, but if complaining has become a huge part of our identities, it may be time to take a good look at how we are spending our energy.

Complaining is a person’s way of acknowledging that they are not happy with the way things are. In a metaphorical way, when we complain or criticize, we are tearing down an undesirable structure in order to make room for something new. But if all we do is tear down, never bothering to summon the creative energy required to create something new, we are not fulfilling the process. In fact, we are at risk for becoming a stagnant and destructive force in our own lives and in the lives of the people we love. Another issue with complaining is that we sometimes tend to focus on other people, whom we can’t change, as a way of deflecting attention from the one person we can change—ourselves. So transforming complaining into something useful is a twofold process that begins with turning our critical eye to look at things we can actually do something about, and then taking positive action.

When we find ourselves complaining, the last thing we need to do is get down on ourselves. Instead, we can begin by noticing that we are in the mode of wanting to make some changes. But rather than lashing out at somebody or an organization, we can look for an appropriate place to channel this energy—not our neighbor’s house, but possibly parts of our own. Finally, we can ask ourselves the positive question of what we would like to create in the place of whatever it is we want to tear down. When we do this, we channel a negative habit into a creative process, thus using our energy to change the world around us in a positive way.

www.womenforwomen.org

I am now the proud sponsor of Victoria from Nigeria. I hope we can make a difference in each others lives.

Sign

Daily OM
August 18, 2008
Small Steps To Big Change
Making Big Change Easier
When we decide that it’s time for big changes in our lives, it is wise to ease into them by starting small. Small changes allow us to grow into a new habit and make it a permanent part of our lives, whereas sudden changes may cause a sense of failure that makes it difficult to go on, and we are more likely to revert to our old ways. Even if we have gone that route and find ourselves contemplating the choice to start over again, we can decide to take it slowly this time, and move forward.

Sometimes the goals we set for ourselves are merely indicators of the need for change and are useful in getting us moving in the right direction. But it is possible that once we try out what seemed so ideal, we may find that it doesn’t actually suit us, or make us feel the way we had hoped. By embarking on the path slowly, we have the chance to look around and consider other options as we learn and grow. We have time to examine the underlying values of the desire for change and find ways to manifest those feelings, whether it looks exactly like our initial goal or not. Taking small steps forward gives us time to adjust and find secure footing on our new path.

Life doesn’t always give us the opportunity to anticipate or prepare for a big change, and we may find ourselves overwhelmed by what is in front of us. By choosing one thing to work on at a time, we focus our attention on something manageable, and eventually we will look up to see that we have accomplished quite a bit. Forcing change is, in essence, a sign that we do not trust the universe’s wisdom. Instead, we can listen to our inner guidance and make changes at a pace that is right for us, ensuring that we do so in alignment with the rhythm of the universe.

Update

You guys are all so wonderful!!! I recovered from my panic attack, thanks to a day of laundry and cleaning! lol! I start a prescription of medicine due to a high family history of heart issues. Thankfully I have higher than recommended "good" cholesterol.

I enjoyed a Lammas celebration with the Pagan group I joined through the UU church. We made corn.husk dollies. I hope Brigid is not too offended that I have scanned her.

I hope she doesn't mind that I scanned her. She is so much prettier in person! One of our members did a Brigid and baby! Too Cute.

This is such a warm and caring group. I am SO glad I have been befriended.

F*CK! F*CK! F*CK! Results back from my blood workup. Cholesterol WAY too high. "Cardiac Risk" THAT'S a scary fucking phrase. Not goo since it runs in my family.

*sigh* Now I have to make a doctors appointment. I'm sure I'll have to go back on cholesterol medicine which I HATED. Diet, exercise, YES, YES, YES, I'll have to start. Good thing I found my TaeBo tapes. (Maybe this will be a good excuse to buy the Zumba Tapes). Plus, this all started a mild panic attack. FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK

Where's the cold air?!

Feather Cleanser

This is made with a large Pheasant Feather, a small owl feather and a tiny Pheasant feather. The large one has sage stuffed into the quill. it is bound with turquiose leather. I used this because of the bright blue in the small Pheasant feather. Sorry the pic is not too clear.

I'm Only Here For The Kim.

Enter a word for your own slogan:

Generated by the Advertising Slogan Generator. Get more Kim slogans.

Anyone else experiencing weirdness with blogger?

I went to another class given by Rose Twofeathers Hernandez. She is the amazing woman I took the Medicine Bag Class from. Last night was a Feather Smudger/Fan. Fun, fun , fun. I will post a photo later if bollger lets me. >.>

Blessed Lammas!

Ugh

Took Chloe to the vet. $300.00+ dollars later. *sigh* But the tests are necessary since she has Epilepsy. On top of the $191.00 two weeks ago for her normal shots and nail trim. We are officially BROKE.

But we did go to the grocery anyway and played mini-putt. Now our bellies are full with tater tots and sloppy joes.

I got most of the green peppers cut and frozen. I parboiled the tomatoes, peeled them and will chop them tomorrow. Then into the freezer. After that the beans.

Off to peruse my new Seasons of the Witch Calender!

Went to the Round Rock Express game, pretty much just for the Nolan Ryan statue give away. Wandered around, decided it could still rain (thank you Hurricane Dolly as we need it) and headed off to our favorite Mexican restaurant in town.

Hit the mother load at the Farmers Market Tuesday. Taters, maters, japanese green beans, onions, peppers and oatmeal bread. Also, found a group in Round Rock for fresh dairy from a farm about an 1 1/2 away. My blogger buddy Heather gets her goodies from there. I can't wait to get all signed up!

Your Inner Retro Girl Is

1960s Hippie Chick

What Retro Girl Are You?

And this is one of my favorite artists!

You Are Best Described By...

Meditative Rose By Salvadore Dali

What Famous Work of Art Are You?

I keep forgetting to post this. I went to my church's Pagan Circle. There are 2 men so it is not ladies only, but that is OK. The ritual was to honor a group member's cat who recently crossed. We all were able to like a candle in honor of our pets/familiars. After, we told tons of pet stories and then closed the circle.

Yummy food and fellowship followed and then it was time to go home. All of the folks are warm, generous and the most calming set of people I have met in a long time. Some of them are very involved in the Unitarian Church we all attend. All in all it was great and I'll be there for the monthly get togethers!

And who says Monster Job.com doesn't work. My hubby just got a call for an interview. He never even applied! They do look people!

So this week I the Farmers Market had some yummies. I bought the last of some new potatoes and 3 peppers, Texas grass fed ground beef, a roasted local chicken, sampled a different honey from a vendor (I got local honey last time), sampled some bison jerky (YUM),and entered a drawing for local foods from the market.

Since I started this I feel different. In a good way. Thank you Heather!!

I knew I forgot something:Fredricksburg Peaches!

So, my BFF's surgery went extremely well and I am relieved. Juli left me a message and has updated everyone on Beth's e-mail list.

She was pretty chipper when I talked to her last night other than having to get up at 5am. Juli said she is chipper no other than her scratchy throat and the hospital food. lol! This is the same person who called me shortly after her son was born, bitching because she wanted to go home. That's our girl!!!

I may be visiting Portland in September with my job!!!

My BFF is having her surgery, probably as I write this. She is having her mastectomy today. Please keep her in you thoughts, prayers, and candle lighting.

So. tonight I am going to the Womens Pagan group tonight. The woman who I met at the Unitarian Church and holds the meetings in her home is a delight to talk to. I am looking forward to it. A little nervous about it, but excited none the less.

I am asking a favor to you all who can interpret dreams. I had a doozie last night. Please let me know and I will e-mail you privately.

I went to our Farmer's Market on Tuesday and came back with some great goodies. A huga bag of carrots, fresh eggs, 2 vegan brownies, some great red potatoes, and Wild Mustang Grape jelly. This week I hope to get some meat. I was a little late in getting there so I missed some good stuff.

The newsletter I receive about our Farmers Mkt said even with the rain last week, 300 cars came through! YAY! If I can't find what I want I am trying to make a conscious effort to buy Texas made products at the grocery or co-op, and if I can't find that them I am buying organic. It is much more expensive, but the more we try maybe eventually, the prices will come down.

Our food bank newletter has an interesting link. The new VP (I think) is trying to eat on the weekly food stamp amout provided to those in need. $21 dollars a week!!!! He has been blogging about it. I think it is pitiful that our nation, one of the wealthiest, cannot provide more.

Here is the Medicine bag I made

I hope everyone had a great Independence Day! We did. We started out Thursday night by going to dinner at a local Mexican restaraunt. Camino Real. Yum!!

Saturday we shopped. Plante K, Barnes and Noble, WalMart, and Lowes. Then we played Mini Putt and Scee Ball! We found a small mini putt place in Round Rock, nice and shady, with a large arcade, batting cages, and go-karts. More reasonably priced than the BIG one closer to us.

As I have signed up for No Graze Days with Rapunzel and Heather, I figured I should go grocery shopping. I missed going to the farmers market on Tuesday, so I ventured into Austin to Wheatsville Co-op. Amazing. I tried to buy Texas made when possible, then if not purchased organic. It will be an interesting feat to do this.

I purchased some brats from Texas meat markets, so we will be grilling those tonight. I figure between this place and the Farmers Market, it will be easier to make the transision. Mmmm, bread from New World Bakery in Kyle. Wheat Beer from Austin.

Plus, they had some of my favorite magazines and some new ones.....I'll have to get a co-op membership. Intentional Communities, Living Crafts, Giant Robot and Edible Austin.

I took a nap this afternoon and ended up sleeping about 5 hours. UGH, NOT good.

Hugs!

Join me in No Graze Days!

http://simple-green-frugal.blogspot.com/

I'm Hello Kitty Water Fairy! made by: Jen



Made by Jen

Your fairy is called Hex Iceglitter

She is a bone chilling bringer of justice for the vulnerable.

She lives in places hexed and tainted by black magic.

She is only seen in the light of a shooting star.

She wears black feathers and rose petals. She has icy blue butterfly wings.

Get your free fairy name here!

This is hysterical

19 As a 1930s wife, I am Very Poor (Failure) Take the test!

http://www.magatsu.net/maritaltest/

Tonight I went to a class at Book Woman and made a Medicine Bag. It was amazing. And so simple really. She said you can find most information on line. The bags are made out of soft leather and sewn or woven shut, decorated with beads and animal hair (mine is buffalo hair) and filled with herbs, crystals, or other items. I am sending mine to my girlfriend who has breast cancer.

I wish all you wonderful women could have been with me!

Busy week. Or so it seems!

Sunday I decided to take th plunge and try a new "church". It is a Uniterian Universalist and the most intriguing thing was they have a pagan group. So I went. It was the most refreshing experience I have had "church" wise in a long time.

The "minister" or whatever you choose to call her is petite, with shorn hair and tattoos. They spoke from one of Dr Martin Luther Kings speeches. No hellfire and brimstone. Just Community, Children, Social Action, and Family.

I was warmly invited to the pagan group that meets once a month by one of the members. Plus, she has a sewing/knitting/crochet/spinning group. I am looking forward to discovering more about this group and "church".

One of the most delightful things about the service were the children. Dressed as fairies, Darth Vader, and Selkies (which I was DELIGHTED that she knew about). And after the service an "Amen and Blessed Be" to all congregation members.

Tonight I attended a wake. A newish friend from work, his mother passed away. He was her caregiver, a bachelor. Knowing his background from another friend, I especially wanted to be there for him, as I know there is not approval from everyone for his life choices. He gave me a smile and a welcome my first week of work. I am blessed to know him and have him as a friend.

I forgot to wish everyone a Happy Summer Solstice!

And I just now read that Tasha Tudor died. I am so sad.

Newest update on BFF. She will need to have a mastectomy. She will know by the end of the month (June 30) if she has clean nodes. So, my new mantra is "cleannodes,cleannodes,cleannodes"

My friend is having her surgery next Wednesday. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers and magickal caldrons.

Tonight is our club night at the tea house. I have chosen to discuss poetry about war. I was inspired by a radio program showcasing Split this Rock Poetry Festival.
http://www.splitthisrock.org/

I am also taking Julie's post about her friend Jillian with me and we will make Stars of David for her sons' project, to honor the victims of the Holocaust. It's so worth it!
http://www.blog-me-til-midnight.blogspot.com/

Happy 1 year Anniversary!

This sucks

My BFF from high school just posted that she has breast cancer. She is only 46. We graduated from high school together. I tried to call her but she is not home. Soooo, I called my mom and of course started to bawl. Poor thing she is out to dinner with family and ducked into the ladies room to talk to me.

This REALLY sucks.

If it is a "normal" ductal carcinoma, she will just have a lumpectomy and radiation. So, please my dearest friends keep her in your thoughts and send TONS of healing energy. You all have special gifts that may help. And I need you now, for her.

Oh, I'll be GREAT company tonight for my hubby. We are going out to dinner. Maybe another glass or two of wine....

I hate asking for help. Even if it is just something like this. There are so many bigger problems in the world, that my wants seem minuscule.

Please, please remember to get regular mammograms. Especially, if you have a family history like I do. I have been having them since I was in my 30's.

Love you guys

Hubby has gone back to the military hair cut. It's too hot any other way and he has a THICK head of wavy hair.

Other than that, not much else. I have abandoned all books right now to read New Moon. The second in the Stephanie Meyers series.

I got all of DD's pictures cleaned up and any that weren't framed now are. Plus, some of MIL and DH's dad as well.

New shorts for DH and some new shirts and a pair of capri's for me. Grilling chicken and corn on the cob tonight. We'll have a side of buttered new potatoes.

Had lunch with my friend Karen, from high school. It's so nice to have someone here from "home" whom I have known for so long. It was nice. Short but sweet. We are going out to dinner later this month.

Hubby's employers are jerks. Enough said. But he is finally over his illness.

Good news, I got New Moon in paperback today. *sigh* Happiness awaits me. I haven't been this excited to get a sequel since "Flowers in the Attic". Ahhh, summer beach reading in the 80's.

muuuuwahhhh!

I signed up and I will receive the name of the woman I am sponsoring within a few weeks. I am so excited!

I have searched and I finally found a cause I am willing to back:
http://www.womenforwomen.org

Now, I need to decide which country....it's NOT easy reading these stories.

Here are some of the photos I am using. The completed photo gallery will be too be for me to scan. Let's see...there is mine and hubby's high school graduation picture, a picture of us at a reception before he left for the service, me in college, he in the service and some photos of our daughter when she was younger.

So

Looking forward to Friday. Yes, I KNOW it is only Saturday, but I am having lunch with a friend from high school , who lives in the area. She had to cancel last week because of a school conflict with one of her 3 boys. It will be fun to reconnect.

I am stuffy and blurry. Thank you Forrest Gump!

I am now going to sort through pictures to copy, print off and add to a collage photo frame.
Yes, they still make them and I have one from a few years ago. OK, from the looks of the "fake'" pic in the frame, twenty years ago. Anyway, going to make it a family one with baby pics of me and hubby, school etc and some of our daughter, up to this year. I refuse to use the "real" pics because I have had a few ruined using these before.

It would be nice to have one from daughter, of her and BF that was taken here in April. HINT, HINT. (She has that camera)

Yes, Bustillo, I will post some from MY childhood!

>

Seems much longer since my last post. Feeling kind of apathetic lately. Not sure why. Hubby has not been feeling well with the sudden influx of heat. He has no air at work, except in the office, where he's not at. He got sick to his stomach yesterday. Tells me not to worry, been through it before in Phoenix. *sigh* Can't help but worry!

10 Things to Remember About Memorial Day

Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend and a chance to get the year’s first sunburn. Here’s a handy 10-pack of facts to give the holiday some perspective.

read more | digg story

Today we moved stuff from the small storage unit we originally got before the bigger one. On the way there we saw this HUGE sale in one of the lots of a business park. We snagged: drop leaf table, oak color $25, magazine rack $2, Eagle framed picture $5,assorted red, white and blue napkins and placemats $10 (a pretty good sized stack).

Good Day Tater!

From last night:
Just got back from the Round Rock Express Game. They lost but we had loads of fun. One of theplayers from Omaha kept hitting fouls above our heads and smashing into the Suites. Like 3 in a row! Got 2 Nolan Ryan Statues and a couple of Shiner Black, yum! *giggle*

Happy Memorial Day

And THANK YOU to those who have served in ANY capacity in the armed forces, during peace time or not.

And to those who have lost loved ones in their family to the war.....thank you even more for having one so brave in your family.

SUCCESS

Hubby had a very bad day at work. So I started to surf ancestry.com again. Ta!Da! Found Ollie Campbell and Bessie Ellis' marriage license. MUwAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHHA! I SO ROCK!

kbyefornow

I am proud of the company I work for. They have set up a fund to help the victims in China. I scurried down to the credit union to have them transfer a small amount from my account to the disaster relief fund.

Today was also Hot Dogs for Babies! 5 bucks got you a dog any way you like, chips, cookie and a pop.

I signed up for ancestry.com and now I am stuck! WAH! So close!

Saturday

Excited!! We have tickets for the "Round Rock Express" farm team base-e-ball game. Best seats in the house, that we could get.

July 19th Astros play the Cubbies and we will be there with David.

It's gonna be a fun (hot) summer (hot)!

It's so fuckin hot. 99. But feels like 96 according to Yahoo Weather. BAH!

Anywa, I went to the Farmers Market again today. Chatted with Riva, then purchased a lovely 1/2 rostisserie chicken, Nepali Pasta Salad, Kefir, and soap and lotion. I have been doing really well on my "use what we have" and have been using all the products that I thought I wanted and never used. Liquid soaps, lotions, etc. As my friend Susan, amy not be making her soap anymore, I figured I'd try some made in Austin.

So, I got Patchouli Lavender Lotion, Patchouli Lavender Soap, Citrus Zen , and Patchouli Peppermint. Plus, she has a website and lives in town. www.sunrisesoaps.com

We took a walk last night and the night before with the dog. It was beautiful with the full moon and last night she hung low in the sky. Each night I have been bathed in moonlight as I sleep and it's been sooo peaceful.

Shopping and such

So went back to Sanrio today for DD. Everything is now 40% off. Stocked up on her supplies, got one or 2 things for me and a couple of Christmas gifts.

Off to Border's to exchange my DVD-Frida. One of the 2 did not work and they had 1 left. They were gracious enough to exchange it even though I didn't have my receipt. The young lady behind the counter said it didn't take and you could tell by looking at the DVD. To technical for me. lol!

The to the NEW Vietnamese market. Awesome, I tell you. Got some more Ramune as it is even cheaper there than anywhere else I have found. Also, I found some Red Bean Ice Cream bars. Tons of fresh fish. Aaaaaand, tanks of live fish. Tilapia swimming around waiting for their demise. Really, I can eat it at a resaurant. But to go buy something that is LOOKING at me, THEN watch someone butcher the crap out of it, take it home cook it and eat it? Noooooooooo.

Off to clean out some cupboards.

March of Dimes

Tonight I made brownies for the bake sale at work tomorrow. This is another project to benefit March of Dimes. So far we (my department) has donated a basket for raffle, fruit cups for breakfast and now baking. I think I am the only one who baked from my team, but the other stuff we did together.

It's a small move in a big direction.

So, today after work I went to our towns Farmers Market. It was nice. I got a vegan brownie to try (will let ya know), some awesome salad greens from a local farmer, organic and fresh picked. Somehome made cranberry, pistachio granola and homemade tamales.

Hubby took me out to dinner. Tomorrow will be 1 month away from our first wedding anniversary. I couldn't be happier. June 14th. Flag Day.

I am reading the most awesome book. From Me to We. It's about giving more of yourself to those in need. And if you don't know what or how, a good place to start is here: http://www.africankelli.com/2008/04/23/the-peace-t-shirt-project/

Peace T-Shirt Project

My friend Kelli is doing another wonderful project to help those in need and spread peace. Her Peace T-Shirt Project. Donating a new and (or not) decorated shirt. I found some nice ones on sale and snapped up all 4 they had left. I wasn't going to decorate them but then I had an idea. The results are above. Splatter painted, like graffiti. I am requesting these go to Mozambique. Here they speak Portuguese. What better word to put on the shirt than "Paz" or "Peace"

Godspeed Kelli. Someday I hope we can meet in person.
http://www.africankelli.com/2008/04/23/the-peace-t-shirt-project/

Happy Mother's Day to all my friends!!

Good Reads

2 books on tape:
Good Dog. Stay. by Anna Quindlen
Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg by Gail Carson Levine
and paperback
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

Home

home, home, home, home! YAY! I got home last night. I am SO glad to be home. It was fun but I missed my hubby and dog. And I don't sleep as well away from home, so I crashed Friday early.

We Are Fam-I-Lee

Dream Board May 3rd 2008

Here is my dream board. This was a piece I commited to do with my frined Sacred Suzie and other bloggers. I like Suzie, have a hard time asking for money. So, instead I used "debt free". We also wish for our oen home represented by the fireplace. I believe in other beings, which is represented by the faerie door in the bottom corner. And like a majority of us, world peace. The other items just represent me and/or who I wish to be.
Peace

Happy Beltane

Or May Day depending on your background!

It has been a whirlwind with the kids here. I am slowly catching up on blogs. Please be patient! I'll get caught up on everyone's soon.

I leave Sunday for Beaumont TX for work. I will be there until Friday so I am packing up tons of reading and crafting, since I will be stuck in a hotel for most of my time. But that's OK!

Mini vacation

Our DD and her BF left yesterday. Oh, what fun we had!

After the lunch at Formosa Tea House, we came home and relaxed a bit and then off to dinner at Camino Real, one of the local mexican restaruants.

Friday saw us at one of the local Harley Davidson places for gifts and then off to HELLO KITTY!!! Yes, a Sanrio shop in Austin. PLUS, everything was 25% because they are closing that store in that mall. BUMMER! Daddy was getting a bit "pinked out".

Then a drive through downtown Austin and South Congress to get a glimpse of the cool shops and the city itself. Back home to cook out.

Saturday we went to BACK to Sanrio, more stuff. Then to South Congress and the kids took me out to lunch at Zen. Yummy! Then we cruised up South Congress and stopped in some of the awesomely funky shops Austin has to offer.

Back home to a BBQ with friends. We now have enough food for all this week andprobably next!! Though I am slowly running out of Ramune......

Sunday it was crappy out, so we went to Border's, back to Pf-ville to pick up pizza and we loafed about and watched movies. Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle and Night of the Living Dead (original).

Sadly, enough Monday rolled around and we hung out, ate chatted and just "being" until we left for the airport. *sigh*

Kids made it home fine, YAY, we are pondering what to do on the next go round!!!!

Thursday April 24th

Peach Sorbet and Green Tea Jelly


Edit: OK, it looked really pertty when we first got it. It was all icey and slushy, but by the time we thought to take a picture...well...it got all melty.

Kung Fu Tea Ceremony


Aaron coveting Tea-amisu

Creepy

but necessary.

I received a postcard in the mail today about a sexual offender living in my town. I am thankful they do this as there are a LOT of young ones where I live.

Caution

For those of you who post your art work online, beware:

http://drawn.ca/2008/04/18/illustration-book-plagiarizes-dozens-of-artists/

Needed a slight layout change

don't know how to customize my own. O well!

Kids will be here in 6 days!!! YAY!!

Tea House Discussion

Our Tea House Discussion group tonight discussed the movie "Frida" about artist Frida Kahlo. Then a discussion on Taiwan.

Yummy Chai-puccino smoothie with bubbles and Green Tea-amisu made by Riva. YUM!

OK, I give, I AM Marianne,

"When I fall in love, it shall be forever."

Which Jane Austen heroine are you? created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Marianne Dashwood You're Marianne Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! More dramatic and emotional than your sister Elinor, you have no trouble saying what you think and showing people how you feel about them. However, you usually know when to keep your mouth shut. Marianne Dashwood 95% Catherine Morland 90% Fanny Price 75% Elinor Dashwood 70% Emma Woodhouse 70% Elizabeth Bennet 55% Anne Elliot 50%

Loved

You all are so great! And just know that if you are even a semi frequent commentor, it's not you. This is something that happened several months ago. It's just that I worry I may have done something. If I did I am sorry.

We are so excited! Daughter and boyfriend are coming to visit for a long week end. They will be here on the 24th. YAY!

???

Sometimes I don't understand. Myself or others. I come home, I eat , I watch TV, sometimes we play cards, and then I sleep. I have not felt very inspired lately. Even after watching Randy Pausch last night. The man is dying, yet he finds inspiration in everyday life. Do I go buy his book? I want to. But then I am afraid I will not find what I am looking for. But then do I need to "find" anything? Why am I so lazy?

Then, I have been perplexed by some past blogging friends. People who I used to correspond with ALL the time. Shut down and shut out. It isn't anyone currently reading or commenting. This happened quite awhile ago. I have felt the pain of other internet friends who have been hurt by nasty comments and "stalking". I felt lucky.

No one has ever left nastiness on my blog. Just the occassional annoying link to some absurd site.

I don't know. Just random babblings from a tired brain.

http://download.srv.cs.cmu.edu/~pausch/

Travel

Off to Houston again. Short trip. I will leave tomorrow, do the visits on Tuesday and be home Tuesday night. I will be on line tomorrow afternoon and evening though!

Renewal

Well, I have yet to find my Turkish Evil Eye ward, but I did find my small amethyst, my small jar of polished hematite pieces, and a couple of stones brought from Illinois to Texas. I need to make or find some pretty Runes to use.

I also got out my Tarot cards. I shuffle, I cut and I pull. Renewal. The final sentance in the paragraph states "To be in the present is to be alive, optimum-and that is renewal."


Namaste

Box Elder Bug

A sign of summer?

What Witches Want

My friend, Laura Stamps, has just published her second novel What Witches Want.
For an excerpt please follow this link:

http://whatwitcheswant.blogspot.com/

And for an excerpt of her first novel, The Witches of Dixie, please go here:

http://thewitchesofdixie.blogspot.com/

Now, for MY favorite part, you can order AUTOGRAPHED copies directly from Laura.

These are fun, great reads from an accomplished author. With lots of spells sprinkled through.

I am proud of you Laura!!

Faerie hugs!

So today I did a banishing ritual found on my friend Sacred Suzie's blog. It feels good to have completed this. And it was so simple.

So my parents left Friday morning. We had so much fun. Too much Riesling wednesday night when we cooked out. lol! Pork chops, chicken, german potatoes, and mom's "homemade" coleslaw, and bolillos.

Thursday we went to lady Bird Johnson's Wildflower Center. Beautiful. If you are ever in the area, it is a must see. Plus, a great lunch! lol! Hibiscus Mint Tea and Chicken Salad on herbed focaccia bread. YUM.

Pizza for dinner that night and then they went back to their fifth wheel for a good nights sleep. Hopefully. We had a bad storm and they left late (9 am) and headed off for their first destination, Little Rock. They should be home by tomorrow.

Remember

Busy

My parents are here (happy), but they are leaving tomorrow to go back to Indiana (sad). But we are having fun in the meantime.

Yesterday we ad lunch at Kerbey's in Austin with my cousin, her hubby and their two year old. Great food. I had a grilled cheeseon sourdough with lettuce tomatoe and chipolte mayo. Homemade tater chips. YUM. Split a microbrew with my stepdad and mom. Mega dark and it had a hint of molasses. Or has cousin's hubby says " Moles Asses"

Then we made our way to Round Rock to see what was in the Histroric District. Sadly, not a lot like other places I am used to but we did happen upon Keria Teas. I am on their mailing list so it was fun to see the shop in person. We had scones with clotted cream and tea. Even my step dad. Made a few purchases.

Head to THE round rock which was part of the Chisholm Trail. You can see wagon wheel marks in the creek if you look closely.

Bookstore for Texas books and the movie Pan's Labyrinth. Grocery for food and wine and hubby grilled for was all.

Today we are off the the Lady Bird Johnson wildflower center at the university for lunch a tons of pretties blooming.

Pizza tonight as they leave early tomorrow.

SCORE!

Frida~1/2 off at Border's. $7.99. YES

Which Jane Austen heroine are you? created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Marianne Dashwood You're Marianne Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! More dramatic and emotional than your sister Elinor, you have no trouble saying what you think and showing people how you feel about them. However, you usually know when to keep your mouth shut. Marianne Dashwood 95% Catherine Morland 90% Fanny Price 75% Elinor Dashwood 70% Emma Woodhouse 70% Elizabeth Bennet 55% Anne Elliot 50%

OK I was not successful at finding the picture of my buddha statue with the lit candle BUT the thought is still there.

It has been lit for Sorrow, Sacred Suzie and Lola Enchanted. My friends have been going through some particularly tough times.

But this does not exclude any of my other friends who may be experiencing strife along the road of life.

Wordless Wednesday

Travelling for work.

Will catch up more over the next few days!!!
HUGS

Hubby's niece (w/the glasses) dancing at their church, for Easter.

Happy Easter!

FYI
I am on Yahoo Messenger, feel free to add me if tou like.

This is what the war has done to my family

I've never talked about it here. This is my cousin's son. My cousin is a year older than I am. His son would have been 25, just three years older than my daughter.

No one need comment. I'm not looking for sympathy or comments. It has been over two years ago. It was hislast tour and he knew something was not....right.

I was watching Bill Maher and they had a man from CNN on talking about the war. And how only 6% of the population really even think about it. That was disturbing.

Most have forgotten.

Please don't.


Name: Eric A. Fifer, 22

Rank/Branch: Sgt., Army

Unit: 82nd Airborne Division

Hometown: Knoxville

Died: Oct. 7, 2005, Haqlaniyah, in a shootout while on foot patrol

Blessed Ostara

More random thoughts

Ugh, I am SO tired of hearing the new EX Mrs. McCartney whine about the money she DIDN'T get.

There is a war going on, REMEMBER?
Teachers getting pink slipped because of funding or lack thereof.

Go f*ck yourself.

Random Thoughts

I am a member of a book club/poetry group and it got me thinking. Why have I chosen the artists/writers I have over the years? Having grown up in an environment such as mine-teachers-specifically English teacher, Microbiologist and Art teacher I can understand some of the choices I have made.

Classic such as Jane Austen, The Bronte Sisters, Edith Wharton, Monet, Georgia O'Keefe, Ansel Adams, Robert Frost.

But some of the choices I have made are unusual. Sylvia Path (in turn, worrying my mother), Diane Arbus, Frida Kahlo, Truman Capote, Anne Sexton, Van Gogh and Gauguin. Suicide, tragic deaths and lives.

As an artist myself, I was never really the tragic soul I thought I should be.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Weird Dream

So I took a nap. Not unusual for the weekend. I dreamt that I was meeting some of DD's friends. She picked out my outfit. Black and white with red accents, Gothic Lolita..... :shrugs: I wore it!

Edit: For those of you who are not sure what I mean, photo:

I took a vacation day. YAY for me. Did nothing. Again, YAY for me. Going to Houston to see a friend of hubby's tomorrow. Annnnnnnnnnd....I now have all of the Spiderwick toys from McDonald's except 1!

My day

So I found out I didn;t get the job. Kinda bummed but I'll get over it.

Hubby picked me up and I got the best surprise in the mail! Fruits Basket Ultimate Edition Volumes 1 & 2! Plus, great singing card (Age of Aquarius) from my daughter. What a treat! As well as the Hello Kitty cell phone charm I ordered off of her etsy site (manifested dreams). It looks SO cool on my hot pink cell phone.

Thanks for making my day sweetheart!

http://www.coolyourdiet.org/

http://earthhour.org/user/QdSn

News

Hubby got the job!!!! I have yet to hear on the one that I applied for. Still hoping!

Watching Little Women, with Wynona Ryder and Clare Danes. Ah, to have lived in that time....

Wordless Wednesday

Sign?

Sunday, Mar 2nd, 2008 -- All the time, money and extra effort that you have invested in yourself are now ready to be shown to the world. This isn't the week to idly stand on the sidelines and watch. Others are waiting for you to help lead them. But don't fall into the trap of thinking you must take on all the responsibilities. Just point out the direction and let everyone else take it from there.

Rick Levine
Tarot.com
My horoscope for today. Maybe it's a sign about the job I applied for.....

What Kind of Witch are You?

You're a Witch that wants to do way to much. You wanna save the world and nothing will ever get in your way. You'd trample people who oppress others to set them free. With magic, you feel that you can make a perfect world.
Take this quiz!








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