A Revision

Tuesday, January 31, 2006

Hey, I Gotta Go to Work...

I always thought of myself as Charlie Brown. Imagine my surprise...

Marcie

You are Marcie!

Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

I even look like her!

Labels: Quizzes

Your Hat Personality Is A

Beret

What Hat Are You?

Okay...I am going to have to make up another of my own quizzes...

Labels: Quizzes

Monday, January 30, 2006

Olympics Over!

Well, 2006 Blog Olympics are officially history but it sounds like it will be an annual event. Lazy Daisy's daily reports of the events were informative and fun.

There was a tie for the overall gold medal winner. Congrats to them both for they are worthy of their victory. Both train several hours a day to get their blog into shape. Running 2Ks spends up to 5 hours a day blogging while Uisce has created an 80 hour day to fit blogging into his life. All the work it takes to get a gold, makes me glad for my silvers.

My Medals:

Medal for Longevity.
338 days of blogging

Medal for Updates.
0.939 days between post

Medal for Comments
25 comments

Medal for Out-Links
16 out links

Medal for Internet
Presence
Score 885

Medal for Least Errors
96 errors

Sunday, January 29, 2006

Gen 2:7

I know there is a God because people have a soul and a spirit. Animals breath,live and have instinct but people are unique in having a soul and a spirit that gives us intellect, imagination, feelings and the ability to decide.
We are rational beings, given even the ability to decide whether or not to believe in a Supreme Being; that is free will and only man has it.

"And Jehovah God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul."

Thank you, Deborah for believing in the Soul.

Saturday, January 28, 2006

Blog Olympic Bronze Medal Reception Here!

Welcome everyone to the first ever Blog Olympic Bronze Medal Reception. We will open with a band performance by the original Friends of the Friendless Marching Band which was led by Lucy Ricardo with a bass drum. Scroll down to the "Friends of the Friendless" song (don't overshoot and press the Friendship song, although you might want to listen to that one too) on this incredible audio performance .

Today, as conductor of the new Friends of the Friendless Marching Band and an Olympian as well, I am pleased to see so many of the Olympians and FFMB at this celebration for the Bronze Medalists.

Let us give a big hand to Barbara, who hosted the Blog Olympics...(thunderous applause lasting a few minutes..............and a standing ovation..........). Barbara is a member of the FFMB too as are many of the Olympic competitors and the cheering section. Meet other band members after the ceremony. They are goofing around at the back of the hall!

Before you take your coats and boots off, we will be going on a march around the Olympic Gardens in celebration of the bronze winners of the comment event. Stop at each of these winners' blogs and say hi then make your way back to the blogatorium.

Bronze Medalists:

Wendy of On the Go.
Gnome of A Random Gnome's Random Lair.
Jake Silver of The Jake Silver Show.
Isabella of Zeno's Bar & Grill.
Su of Susanna's Bilinghay Blog.

Now we will ask the Bronze Medalists onto the platform. Don't they look fabulous with their medals hanging proudly around their neck...(more applause and stomping of feet)...I have some questions for these Olympians...(applause continues, the conductor continues to speak as well)...now, please answer one at a time...(puzzled looks...more applause...but no answers...)

Oh, (light goes on so conductor holds up the questions from the cue cards as the applause continues...)

What was on your mind when you were on the podium receiving your medal?
Do you plan to change anything for the next competition?
Have you met new friends at the event?

Yes, that is all...(a silver medalist taps the conductor's shoulder)...Yes, of course, all Olympians are welcome to answer.

I hope the caterers show up quick. Please sign the guestbook as we wait for the food to arrive.

Back of the hall:

Olympians/FFMB
Mar is the newest band member. She is a drummer.
Sister Celtic is the cymbalist.
Erin is a drummer.
Lazy Daisy, Network executive and cub reporter, is the tenor saxophonist.
Infamous David is the bassoonist. Good to see you, David.
Stephen is the baritonist.
T. Stormcrowe is the truant Olympian and bagpiper in the band.

From the Watching and Cheering Section is
Dwayne, drummer and Imran, guitarist.

Food is here...

Other members that were unable to participate or attend the events, are pleased to be a part of this Bronze Celebration in a true friendly manner. Sabrina on the left, you can't see Bad Alice and myself for we were changing the rear left tire, Ardist left rear, Azure bent over to tie her shoe,Texasgal at the rear waving, Pearl rear right, Brother Terry, at the front right, Dave missed the last shuttle so will be a little late, Emily in passenger seat, Andrew at the wheel, Raehan was still looking for a babysitter so missed the shoot, Ry was overcome with emotion (giggling too much) and stepped out of the frame to compose herself, Zeb refused to get his picture taken and Mango took the photo.

Lish and Mompoet help dish out the pizza...

Have fun!

Friday, January 27, 2006

Friendly Friday Pre-empted by Olympics

****IMPORTANT FFMB UPDATES****

Instead of our regular Friendly Friday march, there will be a Saturday version honoring the bronze medal winners of the Blog Olympics. It will be an all night celebration and the FFMB (Friends of the Friendless Marching Band for those not in the know) will be assisting in honoring these Olympians. All Olympians invited! Supper will be served. Due to other obligations, the reception will be a late event starting at 8 pm my time on Saturday Jan. 28. (Check out the clock in the sidebar) Media will be present. The party will be a non-alcoholic event. The only addictive activity permitted will be blogging.

Mompoet, the kazooist in the band, is going to write a special Friends of the Friendless poem for our Feb 3 march but she needs OUR help. Go to her site to give her a hand!

Anyone wishing to join our happy (and friendly) band is asked to leave a comment stating they wish to join and choosing which instrument they wish to play.

I continue to need more nominations for our Friendly Friday visits. Remember, these sites need to fit the requirements of having 0-5 comments and/or less than 10 visitors a day.

Banners are available for everyone. Help yourself.

Thursday, January 26, 2006

Blog Olympics-My Medals

Before you get too congratulatory for me, I should explain that in the Blog Olympics hosted by Barbara of Trying to Catch Up, gold medals go to the top 10%, bronze goes to the bottom 10%. Everyone else gets a silver.

Today, I read this quote from author, Kent Crockett, from his book "I Once Was Blind but Now I Squint."

"Most people would assume the silver medal winners would be happier than the bronze medalists since they received a higher honor, but that wasn’t the case. The bronze medalists, who came in third place, were found to be happier than the silver medalists, who finished in second place.

The former Olympians explained how they felt about their medals. The third-place winners were thrilled just to have won a medal. The silver medalists, on the other hand, felt like losers because they didn’t come in first."

Then he goes on to say, more importantly, "What happens to you is not nearly as important (in your eyes) as how you perceive what happens to you."

Medal for Longevity.
338 days of blogging

Medal for Updates.
0.939 days between post

Medal for Comments
25 comments

Medal for Out-Links
16 out links

2 more days of Olympic Activities.

For complete Olympic coverage, check out the Lazy Daisy Network.

Wednesday, January 25, 2006

A View of Starting Over

Women
opening with strength
arms raised
and linked
over a coffee table
movie stars and video clips
tracking the laughter
until
I raise a single arm
above my body

Different Women
mirrors, coffee cups and tears
captivating the viewers
by lowered arms tucked inward
hands clenched against the others
until
the hurt erupts
followed slowly by healing words
then peace
then friendship

I watch
arm still raised
while I look longingly into their mirror

girl before a mirror by Picasso

Tuesday, January 24, 2006

Our New Prime Minister

Conservative leader, Stephen Harper and his wife, Laureen, take to the stage in victory.
The Harpers are from western Canada.
Yes, the west is in!

"Finally, we have a handsome prime minister."

Monday, January 23, 2006

Carnival of Compassion

This week I am hosting the Carnival of Compassion. This is a celebration of life, death, healing and disease.

Why celebrate death and disease?
Because it is through suffering that one learns the about healing and life.

This week I want to take a look at a mental health disease known as Bipolar Disorder or Manic/Depression. This is characterized by alternating moods of euphoria and depression. With treatment, such as medication and psychotherapy, a normal life may be achieved. Many people are only aware of the untreated cases that make it onto the news but these are not the norm. There are many individuals with this disorder that are coping with life ( a family, a job etc) while they learn and achieve a balance in their moods and cognition. They are often gifted in some manner.

Meet three bloggers that have this disorder.

Bipolar Guy struggles with his illness but exhibits high creative skills and is a member of Menza.

Jane is active in the blogging community. Talking about compassionate, she definitely is. She's also a creative, popular and responsible individual.

Sabrina struggles with her illness, sometimes going off her medication but while pregnant she went back to school and made the honor roll and deans list.

An amazing web page that supports people with bipolar illness is the Icarus Project. It has several forums and media displays. Individuals have an opportunity to share what works for them.

John McManamy , a former journalist, has an informative web page and blog about his Bipolar Disorder.

Before you leave the carnival grounds, there is one more blogger with the disorder that I want you to visit.

Remember, everyone has something to bear. Learning and understanding about other people's burdens brings us closer to where a real carnival of compassion counts, in the heart.

To submit to host your own Carnival of Compassion, visit the web page for information.

Sunday, January 22, 2006

The first round of the Olympiad at Barbara's.

My name is Carol.

I am an Olympian.
I go for the gold.
I am a winner.

Acts 17:26-27

"And He made them from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;"

Spirituality is woven into the human heart of being

seeking a God
then
now
in the future

looking for help
from the created
or the Creator

Saturday, January 21, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

On Saturdays, I write from the journals of Carol the teenager who had a huge crush on Chevy, lost weight to win him and didn't.

Oct 6, 1975
Chevy thinks I'm nuts or was. It makes me so embarrassed. Oh well, he got the last laugh. As long as I succeed in avoiding him, I'll by okay. But I can't think too deeply about it either.

Oct 8, 1975
I'm afraid of past eating habits! They haunt me all the time. I do yoga afterschool everyday for about 40 minutes. I hope my waist gets smaller.

Oct 11, 1975
I'm so scared, or I was, of going back to eating like a pig. I think I'll be okay. Stomach is kind sore. I haven't had my period for so long. I hope I didn't wreck that, too.

Oct 12, 1975
When Mango stayed overnight, she said that she didn't like Tony DeFranco (teen idol) anymore. Well, that goes for me too but I don't want to forget that period of my life. It was a stage of me growing up. Although posters still hang in my room, I feel no love or want for them. Yet, I can't seem to take them down, because it would be such a definite statement that I'm over that stage. Tony stands for all the crushes I had and went through. I can't bare to destroy those memories.

I'm glad I asked Chevy for his autograph. The only real contact we had- is there. When I'm older, I'll look back at it and remember how much it meant to me although it ended everything for him and about him in me. It will stand, like Tony, for crushes. I lost weight for him, he kept me on it. He was my goal, dream. Its still shining like a star, never to be reached.

Labels: Excerpts from a Life

Excerpt from a Life

Early Years
November 18, 1973
November 22, 1973
November 25, 1973
Grade 9
February 22, 1974
April 5, 1974
June 11, 1974
June 20, 1974
July 5, 1974
July 12, 1974
July 28, 1974
August 22, 1974
September 18, 1974
October 1, 1974
October 12, 1974
October 19, 1974
October 21, 1974
October 25, 1974
October 29, 1974
November 5, 1974
January 7, 1975
January 8, 1975
February 27, 1975
April 9, 1975
Outrageous Magazine
Ballot
June 2, 1975
July 19, 1975
August 14, 1975
New Year's Eve
August 15, 1975
August 27, 1975
An Epilogue

Labels: Excerpts from a Life

Friday, January 20, 2006

Friendly Friday

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band! Are you ready for a one of a kind march? Are you ready to visit three original bloggers who are busy at being themselves, which is not always easy, y'know.

To help you get into the mood, I have something very special to share with you. Our cymbalist, Sister Celtic used a internet program called Picasso Head to design this beautiful portrait of our FFMB. (She is having a Picasso Head competition on her blog which you might like to look into. Competition ends Jan 31, Tuesday.)

Is this not beautiful or what? That is me at the bottom, see the "C" for both Carol and conductor.
Notice who signed this photo and that we are wearing our bearskin caps from last week!

(Get ready band members, you never know who might be asked to use their special gifts for Friendly Friday.)

This week's featured site is Brother Terry. I like his blog because

of this quote, " A guy who falls into a trap, might realize something bad has happened to him and try and crawl out, but a person born in a trap doesn't even know he's in there. The trap is that you think you're following Jesus because you're living just like your Christian friends and relatives, when in fact you are all only following each other!"
I envision interesting Bible discussions
he is a great story teller
he loves poetry

Also check out Ardist at River-Tree Whispers.
He is a poet who does haiku. (Our trombonist might want to take special note.)

Then visit T. Stormcrowe at The Amazing Shrinking Man! and also here. He suffers from morbid obesity but is doing an incredible job of taking the weight off. He also is one of the finalists in the Best of the Blogs.

So have fun and let them know we are there!

Let the nominations continue.
Banners available here.

Labels: Friends of the Friendless

Thursday, January 19, 2006

Hey I Made A New Quiz!

Just How Competitive Are You?

Barbara, the flutist for the FFMB, is having an Blog Olympiad Jan 22-27,2006. Anyone is welcome to participate but perhaps take this quiz first.

I like to laugh ...

Housework...

I like to read...

At work...

If life were a bowl of cherries...

My pet is...

I exercise...

If I went for a balloon ride, I would...

My vaction is crammed full with...

A Blog Olympiad is...

10-15 You are laid back but sometimes this leads to a lack of motivational skills that are necessary to improve yourself. Give yourself reasons to try and don't give up.

16-24 You are a well balanced individual who knows when to push and when to relax.

25-30 You are very competitive which motivates you to excel at almost everything you do. Learn that it is okay for someone else to win every once in awhile.

Labels: Quizzes

Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Something Special for Next Week

I will be hosting the Carnival of Compassion this coming week. This program is sponsored by MedSim which is a free on-line directory of quality, lower cost international healthcare providers. The common theme is one of life, death, healing and disease.

Thank you Barbara for the good example.

Its Time...

Time to get out into the real world after a week and a half of being at home with this monster of a cold. I still have an ugly cough, plugged ear, stuffed nose and that sick cold feeling.

I've found a couple of helpful cold home remedies from fellow bloggers. I haven't tried them all but they sound easy and inexpensive to try. If you have any more, please tell me.

Rhiannon said, "I just always remember to never touch my face with my hands until I get home and wash my hands. Then when I come home I immediately wash my hands in hot water rinse then throw a bit of hyrogen peroxide (germ killer) on my hands rub it around my hands for about 20 seconds then rinse my hands off. Its easy and quick! One of my alternative medicine Drs. taught me this years ago now a lot of people do it I hear. He called it the "Hollywood test"..apparently a Dr. tried this test many years ago with a bunch of famous Hollywood families and their kids,etc..they all did it for over 2 years and only 2 people out of thousands in that test trial got any kind of flu, while everyone else around them in school and such did!"

Rhiannon also gave me this advice for my plugged ears:
"I know it sounds crazy but I've found that a pepsi can actually help with inner ear pressure..its been a life saver for me at times..try it and see what you think or no?..its what they used to do back in the days "of old"..:o)"

I asked her if it had to be Pepsi, and she said that Coke would work as well but not diet or decaffeinated. My Husband bought me home a decaffeinated diet Coke and I can verify that it doesn't work.

Mompoet gives this recipe for cold sufferers. I made this with not quite the right ingredients but it still felt soothing and gave my cough a rest.

So here I go, see ya later...

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Federal Election: Jan 23, 2006

This morning at the breakfast table, my eldest daughter hands the front section of the newspaper to me. I had been about to look at the Entertainment headlines. My daughter, who is politically astute but not quite old enough to vote, points to the riding profile of our district, "Read this!"

Going down the list of candidates, I exclaim, "The First Peoples National Party!" (I am a First Nation person, by the way) My daughter immediately removes the paper from my hands and says, "No Mom, you can't waste your vote. Don't just think about yourself. Think about what is best for Canada."

Kids these days...

Monday, January 16, 2006

Sore Throat, Cough, Fever and an Ear Infection...

A week and a half ago, my son caught a bad cold. He had a recurring fever, sore throat and was coughing so bad he was gagging and throwing up. His cough was responding well to steam from the shower so he would sit in there with a stack of comic books. Last Sunday evening, he was coughing continuously. I phoned a health link number where a nurse is available for advice. Do I take him to the hospital emergency or what? The wait times are notoriously long, I have heard of waits up to 6 hours. She told me what to look for before taking him to the hospital. If he couldn't swallow his own saliva, if he couldn't get enough air (flailing of arms, blue lips or a change in his color) would be indications that he had to go to the emergency ward. Yes, that is what she said but still, talking to her gave me some reassurance that he would be okay for the night.

I had learned these accupressure points for coughing from a book put out by the Prevention magazine. It is called New Choices in Natural Healing. I use this technique for persistent cough but that evening nothing was helping. Later his cough finally calmed down.

My Son looked so peaceful as he lay in bed, his fingers learning to press on K27. I felt so relieved.
I took him to our family doctor the next day. He had this virus for exactly a week.

I knew it was only a matter of time until his primary care giver, me, got it as well.
Since last Monday, I have missed all regular work days and church services. I am feeling somewhat lonely but still it feels good to be taking the time to heal. I have been watching a lot more tv being out of commission, and I saw this commercial of a fellow with a cold who had to go to work, the world couldn't do without him for a few days. He takes this medicine and off he goes. Then he takes a night time version to sleep and then the day time one again to be able to go to work...STOP...

These viruses are getting worse. I also developed an ear infection as well. I woke up in the middle of the night with a bad earache, I took an acetominophen and fell back asleep. Then I woke up in the morning with a strange echo in my ear. My daughter was home and her words frightenly doubled in my ear. To keep calm, I carried along, putting up the Friendly Friday post until the time came when I could call the doctor, an hour later. I saw her and she said it was inflamed but not infected yet but to pay attention to it and if it got any worse to go to the walk in clinic on the weekend.

I can't help but feel I should've been given antibiotics right away. I didn't think that at the moment though. This doctor is replacing my regular doctor who is on maternity leave. Both of them are just out of med school, I think. I had a really good doctor for seventeen years then she had to go and retire. It is very difficult to find a family doctor here. I went to three doctors before I found one that I felt comfortable with and was close to where we live but this lack of experience concerns me.

Well, it got worse. Saturday, I woke with the same problem in the other ear. I was shaking uncontrollably and a fever developed. After taking another acetominophen, my fever dropped and my husband took me to the clinic. The wait times are long but it wasn't too bad for a Saturday morning. We waited for 1 1/2 hours while a little girl's high pitched greetings to everyone resonated in my ear.
The doctor seemed surprized at the infection, yes in both ears. I am on antibiotics. My right ear is really plugged at the moment, ringing and I hear my heart beating. I am trying to trust that I will be okay. I have an appointment with my regular doctor this afternoon.

I was to have gone to see a Beatles tribute group yesterday with my family. Obviously, I couldn't go.
They love the Beatles, inheriting it from their Father. I am really grateful that it is me who is sick and not them.

Sunday, January 15, 2006

Romans 1:20

"For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse."

When you hear a piece of music,
you know that there was a composer.
When you see a painting,
you know there was an artist.
When you feel silk,
you know there was a silk-maker.
When you taste a turkey dinner,
you know there was a cook.
When you smell your favorite perfume,
you know there was a perfumer.

When you listen look feel taste or smell
the splendor of this world,
you know there is a Creator.

Saturday, January 14, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

Up to now, I have had fun writing and sharing my teenage self.

Quite a lot to write about so hold on!

August 27,1975
You know I've just been thinking! I'm thin. Of course I knew that long ago but it was my dream for oh so long. Sometimes I couldn't get to bed thinking about it. I'm so happy, proud etc.etc.

Even if Chevy doesn't like me, he did notice me!

Went to doctor's office because of my problem. The doctor said its nothing serious. Thank goodness!!

August 29, 1975
Had trouble deciding whether or not to go down to 110 lbs. I guess I will although everybody but Mango is against it. I want to be like Cher!
I feel weak and without energy lately but...
Oh yeah, I got another new top. Wouldja believe its a small! How positively beautiful. I wish I had a 24" waist. Still faithfully sticking with exercises, although it is with less energy.

September 3, 1975
Registration day. Mango's first day at high school. She was nervous. It's gonna be fun having Mango in the same school.
Saw Chevy in the line-up. He didn't do nothing!

Debbie K. said I look beautiful. Hoo man! She said she was wondering who I was. Karen said she's proud of me.
Everyone tells me I'm skinny enough and that I don't need to lose anymore. Well, I'm gonna go down to 110 lbs. anyways.

September 7, 1975
Exercises are really helping. I'm happy, trying to keep myself busy instead of thinking about supper. I'm sitting in front of Mom's mirror. When I'm smiling, I don't look too bad.

I wonder if Rlynne ever reads my journal. She better not!

September 9, 1975
Went to the hospital tonight. I had to get an enema.

September 13, 1975
Afterschool I was admitted into the hopital. I had so many enemas. Stayed there until yesterday. The doctor said the only problem is my diet.

Well anyways, while coming home with Mom, we saw Mango, Aline and Cindy. They said,"Its Carol."
I opened the window and said, "Walking the streets again, eh?" I kinda rolled my eyes and Mango looked hurt. I was jealous.

September 19, 1975
Just came home from the hospital. I hope everything will go okay.

September 21, 1975
My short life is already falling apart! My digestive tract is wrecked and I'm only 16!!!
I feel like I'm gonna die anyday. There's my life depending on whether I sh-- or not. Whether I weigh 110 with a 23" waist or not. Emotional, nervous breakdown. God must be punishing me. I never felt like this before. I want Mom to hold me and say everything will be fine. I want to run outside and breathe and live. I want to sleep and sleep, forgetting everything. I want to be like normal people instead of groveling at people's feet. I wanted to hit Mango because she is healthy. I want to be healthy. Losing 73 lbs does have an effect on you-you go crazy. You go stark raving mad.

Will I gain it all back? Mom said no, I was sort of crying this morning. Takes me-I want someone to cry to. Someone to rock me and take care of me. I'm still a child, facing grown-up problems. Facing the antagonizing fear of loneliness and death. Feeling it and not knowing where to turn or who to turn to. Mom will think I'm nuts or too melodramatic.

God-okay, you did it! No, what am I saying? Sorry-it's me who did it. I'm to blame. I have no willpower, no strength, no health. Nothing, not even my daydreams help.

September 22, 1975
I took my yearbook to school. Asked Chevy for his autograph. Really! He just shrugged his shoulders and signed.

Labels: Excerpts from a Life

Friday, January 13, 2006

Friendly Friday

Welcome FFMB! What do you think about the hats I found for this week's march. Aren't they fab?

...Kathhh...now...
Barbaaaa...(Slight kerfuffle in the ranks)There is enough for everyone!

Mind our friendly reput...Hey that one is mine.....

uhum...

Now that everybody has their very own head warmer, let's march and smile...Yes of course, fallibly friendly...no harm done.

Imran who writes Passionate About Life is the featured friendless site of the week. I like his blog:

because he wrote "Many go about in their daily routine fast in their lives, only to stop to relax during a scheduled vacation time they take off work, when the simplest form of all is the simple things we see in life daily."
because of the opportunity to learn a different culture in Singapore.
I like his investigative reporting style.
along with helpful partner, his son.
because there is a lot of different avenues to go down on his blog.

Peeing in the Shower

Rendiciones

I still need more submissions for next week's Friendly Friday!
Get your Friends of the Friendless Marching Band banner here.

Leave your caps here.

Labels: Friends of the Friendless

Thursday, January 12, 2006

Sister Celtic has a great artistic activity for everyone to try. This site is called Mr. Picasso Head where you can design your own Picasso paintings. This creative activity helped me deal with a sorrowful discussion with my sister.

Painting #454444

Sister Celtic will be hosting Picasso Head competitions. See her site for more info.

My Blog is Best at...

Hey, I made up this quiz!!!

Try it.

Every blog is best at something...

1. It is the day of the Federal Election. You blog about...

A the hair styles of the candidates.
B the pros and cons to each candidate's platform. Encourage people to vote.
C hand make cut-outs of each leader along with their formal and casual attire
D copy the hand made cut outs of the leaders but post them as shreddies.

2.You witness a robbery so you blog about...

A what the worst criminals wear.
B nothing. You don't want to speak before the investigation is done.
C a fictional account of the robbers' and victims' day preceding the robbery,
D the secret videotapes of in-court precedings that you took with your cell phone.

3. Your a Mommy Blogger but one day...

A your daughter refuses to wear the outfit you chose for her. You write about your devastation.
B you take a day to write only about you.
C you decide to write as if your child had the keyboard.
D you run away from home and blog about it from far-off destinations.

4.You get a negative but well written comment about your kitty...

A you delete the negative comment as they don't look good.
B you reply in a positive but stricken way.
C your kitty replies the next day about the effect the comment had on him.
D you and your kitty track the sucka down.

5.You have nothing to blog about so...

A you post pictures of your lips wearing your favorite shades of lipsticks.
B you visit other blogs and leave comments on theirs.
C you finish editing your music video and post it for all to see.
D you steal the ideas of other blogs, especially those from the nice bloggers. They never complain.

I'm afraid there was a program I was using, but it wasn't working so we will have to do this the old pen and paper way.

If you had mostly:

A's then you are the most Superficial Blogger out there but many like attractiveness.

B's are the Nicest Bloggers. You have a lot of friends. Remember to be nice to yourself too!

C's are the most Original Bloggers. You might be lonely for awhile until discovered. Or better yet, go and mingle.

D's are the most Popular Bloggers, the blogger that people love to hate!

Labels: Quizzes

Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Hey, I Wanted to Win a Blog Award. What Do You Think the Odds Were?

35%

There's a 35% chance that I'll win a Bloggie™.
What's Your Chance to Win a Bloggie™?

Nooooooh!
I really wanted to be a Best of Blog's Most Inspirational blog
but
I didn't make the final cut.

Hmm...

Come on, make me feel better,
tell me that I have Most Inspirational or
the Funniest (well, I can hope) or
the Most Serious or
the Best Conductor of a Band or
the Best You-Name-it Blog!

All ideas are welcome...

Labels: Quizzes

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

Come on, try it...

Talking about Corner Gas, a funny Canadian sitcom set in Saskatchewan, how would you do at being a gas attendant?

Hey, I was hired!

More tv time?

When I am reading a book, I can get quite absorbed. As I already stated in the previous post, I am a currently reading a novel called "The Idiot." This is a serious and intent look at life.

I had to laugh at a fellow blogger's advice that I watch more tv. I read his comment after just finishing watching a Canadian sitcom called Corner Gas. It takes place in a small fictitious Saskatchewan town called Dog River. To be honest, I have only watched a couple of episodes but it is terrific and oh, can I relate...

You see, there is one character, Hank, who is the town simpleton. In this episode, he was unsuccessfully trying to convince a town meeting of a great idea he had. The town needs tourists and what better way to attract them but through having a giant replica within their town. (I don't know about other countries but this is a common practise in Canada. We have a a giant moose in Moose Jaw, a giant Easter egg in Vegerville, a giant nickel coin in Sudbury etc.)

Hank cannot express himself well nor persuade, this qualifies him to be an idiot, according to 21st century television. Now this fellow is perhaps worthy of the title, idiot, unlike the genius in Dostoyevsky's book. Dostoyevsky's character is cultured and intelligent. I don't understand why people insist on calling him an idiot except that he is unlike them.

The problem for me is that I related to Hank, not Myshkin. I do not express myself well especially under stress. I am familar to the prairie world. I still have to read further to understand the cultured world of 1869 Russia.

So while reading a book, I also experience it.

I really needed the advice I was given to watch tv. I needed to see a 20th century idiot or at least our society's depiction of one. It is surprising to see the difference between the two.

I needed this comedic break. It brought the story into my world. I can deal with it better in Dog River, for now anyways.

Monday, January 09, 2006

Carol's Book Blog

Originally, I had planned to keep a running commentary on whatever book I was reading. Then I discovered all the other blogs out there and didn't want to limit myself. I decided to go one day at a time and write whatever suited me. Each day reflects a different aspect of myself.

Today though,

I am reading a book by Dostoyevsky called "The Idiot." I have not read any novel by him before, although Russian masters such as Tolstoy amaze me.
I am reading about a man who others think of as an idiot. He is an epileptic, wounded so that he is thought of as strange and slow.

He speaks of substance.
He speaks well.
I see no evidence.

He only
thinks what others don't think of
and sees things that others don't see.

Labels: Books

Sunday, January 08, 2006

Psalm 19:1

" The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands."

Need proof?

Saturday, January 07, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

I am going over my old journals every Saturday. I started keeping them in 1974. Chevy, a boy I had a crush on, is still in the picture, I am still dieting and Mango is still my buddy.

August 15, 1975
This evening around 7:30 pm, Mango and I went uptown. Chevy rode by. Mango said he looked at me through the corner of his eye. We had to cross while he waited. How embarrassing! I never looked at him. Mango said he was watching me all the time.
He never drove so we went inside Mango's house. After awhile, Mango phoned his place:
Mango: "Is Carol there?"
Chevy: "Who is this?" (He knew.)
Mango said, "Mango."
He didn't say anything so Mango said, "Well, I must have the wrong number."
He said, "Yeah, you must." in a I-know voice and like he liked it!
So then we went outside and he was in his car on Queen St. waiting to go. Mango took off, so did I, which was very stupid!!
Then he went straight. Never saw him anymore last night. I hope he was looking for me, but right now I'm not too sure because why would he go straight? ( I have got to step in here, and answer my younger self-"Perhaps because you and Mango took off!!")
But then again- funny how he came out right after the phonecall!! Hmm- have to think about it.

August 16, 1974
What if Chevy just wanted to see if I was outside after the phonecall? What if he thinks I'm chasing him and that's its funny? I hope he doesn't but I can't understand why he drove straight.

August 18, 1975
Don't feel too bad-I'll just have to wait and see how he acts. Til then-well, all I can do is hope.

Tried on tops and sorted out which ones fit and which ones don't.

Labels: Excerpts from a Life

Friday, January 06, 2006

Friendly Friday

Welcome members of the Friends of the Friendless Marching Band
to a very special Friendly Friday!
I've been practising this countdown all week.

The winner of FFMB's
first ever
Friendless Site of 2005 trophy is...

10.I can't wait...
9. And the winner is...
8.here is the envelope...
7.just a second...
6..my hands are trembling...
5..I better do one more quick tally of the votes...
4. hold on...
3. maybe, I should go to the bathroom first..
2. ...
1. Uh-hum, and the winner is...

...our very own Stephen of From the Edge to the Center!!!!

He is at the back, playing his baritone.

Here is what the FFMB liked about Stephen's blog:

this quote by Stephen, "I promised myself I'd have everything figured out by the time I turn 35. While that's not going to happen, obviously, I will accept the things I can."
"I like the blog title and graphics. He seems like a nice guy."
"I loved his pictures, graphic and the fact he wrote a novel."
And I, Carol the conductor, want to point to the original review of From the Edge to the Center

Everyone go and congratulate our buddy, Stephen, the winner of the prestigious FFMB award for 2005.

Stephen, how about an acceptance speech?

Stephen says, "Holy cow, folks!! What can I say...I I appreciate all the support. I'ts good to be a part of this group. I love all the blogs listed in FFMB...I posted on this site for a while without a single documented pair of eyes ever seeing anything I wrote. It's nice to know someone looks your way...Thanks, everyone!"

What a great turnout at the polls.
Team spirit abounded.
Everyone ought to be proud.
Now go find me some more friendless sites for 2006!
Get your banner now.
The cost may go up in the new year.

Labels: Friends of the Friendless

Thursday, January 05, 2006

Wednesday, January 04, 2006

How Weird Are You?

I was tagged by Jennifer for this meme.

I already admitted to being weird (see # 40 on the "I Like that I am..." list) and since I have been blogging awhile some have probably become accustomed to that fact but for those with any doubts here is a review of 5 of my weird habits from my 2005 blog. Feel free to add on...

I am so weird that in the past I have kept scrupulous track of the hours that I have spent houseworking. I also kept track of the accumulated overtime which I unfortunately never did get paid for.
I once wrote a terrible haiku tribute to my pal, Mango and posted it on my blog.
I have several phobias, some of which are listed here. Today I had to deal with my dentophobia. I am glad to report I survived but not without constantly bugging the dentist's helper for more suction and battling with the tv remote control which would not work. No matter, the dentist shut John Ritter off anyways.
I am a compulsive book buyer. The book shelves overfloweth at a faster rate than I can readeth them.
Did I ever tell you about this huge crush I had on a fellow?

2006 is sure to reveal more weird facts that I unconsciously let slip out, so there is no need to say anything consciously at the moment.

Yeah, for Mango Lane. Check out her "I am weird, too" list in the comment section!
I am getting desperate, Raehan, and will accept your one really weird habit! Visitors, see the comment section but prepare yourself.
Sister Celtic has quite the story. Read a preview of her 50th birthday antics in the comment section.
Mompoet is weird, too. Alright!

Here are the official rules. (I have changed mine abit but will include the original here)
Rules: “The first player of this game starts with the topic “five weird habits of yourself,” and people who get tagged need to write an entry about their five weird habits as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next five people to be tagged and link to their web journals. Don’t forget to leave a comment in their blog or journal that says “You are tagged” (assuming they take comments) and tell them to read yours.”

Tuesday, January 03, 2006

Don't Forget to Vote

The polls are still open, Band Members, until Thursday midnight.

Monday, January 02, 2006

The Early Years

The bullying had happened before I kept a journal. I wish I would have kept a record but my mind recalls enough...

I entered grade one as a quiet child. There were no cliques then, I was accepted. The teacher thought I was slow though. The next year she placed me in the "B" class.

The grade two teacher liked me and could see that I didn't belong there.

In grade three, I was back with the original group. Along with gaining weight, I was really good at spelling. So what is the matter with that? Well, this impressed the teacher and besides that, she liked me too and would praise me from the front of the class, saying what a good worker I was. I don't think they appreciated that. I was the teacher's pet.

I had made a good friend though that year. She moved in from a country school. Her name was Laurie. (the same Laurie from the Excerpts of a Life) We became friends after the teacher asked her to help me clean my messy desk. I have always been blessed with good friends.

I remember the problems starting especially in grade four. I started developing early and some of the boys used to grab me. I was so fearful, as I never knew when this would happen. I've only recently realized that I was being sexually abused.

Grade six was in particularly bad as well. During this year, the popular girls joined in with the taunting. They loved to put tacks on my desk seat and watch to see if I would feel it. They would laugh if I didn't because I was overweight.

The teacher once put me in a row with all the native and misfit boys. We used to have math contests where we would go to the board and complete math equations. I was really good at math so my score brought ours up. I remember our group's elation as one of the native boys completed accurately and quickly his equation. How our team cheered! I loved the comraderie we shared in that moment. That was the highlight of the class year for me.

That grade six teacher was my favorite. He also put me in a special group of the "smart and caught up kids" to make a paper mache map for the class. I appreciated these little acts as they kept me going.

Grades seven-nine were the same. They cruelly put me down whenever there was opportunity. I remember once in Guidance class, the issue of bullying came up. The teacher asked us what we could do if we were bullied. I shyly answered, "Ignore it." One of my tormenters from across the aisle, whispered to me,"Now we will bug you all the more."

I was in an Industrial Arts class, when one of the girls came up to me, she wasn't one of the regulars, and said something, I don't remember what, and I replied to her, "What have I done to you?" I remember crying, but I don't know if it was in front of her. I hope not. I had been so strong up 'til then.

It is hard for me to fathom now the cruelty of children. This was not just a few, there were many involved. It was in fashion to pick on Carol. Like I said, I had a group of friends but they weren't with me in the same classroom. I met Mango as well in the summer before grade six so I had a strong support group.

I had to get this out and I cried as I wrote it. The damage that was done to my self esteem is still present but I have a feeling that 2006 will see more healing from the damage of these years. It is my hope and prayer.

Thanks for listening,
Carol

This was brought on by Barbara's post on bullies.

Labels: Excerpts from a Life

Sunday, January 01, 2006

The Book of Ruth

I read the Old Testament book of Ruth a few days ago. An Israelite woman named Naomi, while living in the foreign country of Moab, loses her husband and two sons. She is left alone except for her daughters-in-law. She sets out to return to Judah and is followed by these two woman. However, only Ruth stays with her; the other is convinced to return to her family.

I was captured by the phrase which was used by Boaz, a relative of Naomi's, in regards to Ruth.
He said, "...all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence" in Ruth 3:11.

Boaz's statement made me examine the woman, Ruth, more carefully. What type of woman is worthy of these words?

She believed in the God of Israel. Boaz said that Ruth came to seek refuge under God's wings. 2:12

Ruth was a kind and respectful person. Naomi knew that both of her daughters-in-law were kind by their treatment of herself and the deceased husbands. "And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, 'Go, return each of you to her Mother's house. May the Lord deal kindly with you as you have dealt with the dead and with me.' " Ruth 1:8

Ruth demonstrated loyalty to her Mother-in-law by remaining with her. This makes me wonder what type of woman Naomi was to have earned that love and devotion from her daughter-in-law.

Ruth was determined once she made up her mind. Naomi's insistence that she return to her home did not sway her; she knew what she wanted to do.

Once they were in Judah, Ruth demonstrated that she was a hard worker. She gleaned (picked up what was left after the field workers had harvested) all day in the field to get food for her Mother-in-law and herself. "So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley." 2:17

Ruth was a humble person. She listened to the words of Naomi without hesitation. 3:3-5

Ruth was a grateful person. Listen to her response to Boaz, " I have found favor in your sight, my lord, for you have comforted me and indeed have spoken kindly to your maidservant though I am not like one of your maidservants." 2:13

Boaz recognized Ruth's wisdom in not looking for a young man but setting her hope on Boaz. As he was a relative of Naomi, he would be able to redeem Naomi and Ruth's household by raising up the name of their deceased through their offspring. 4:10

Ruth was an obedient and submissive woman. She listened to Naomi's advice and followed her wisdom. 3:3-5 There is no doubt that she was one of the holy women that adorned themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit, submitting to her husband, which the apostle, Peter, spoke about in 1Peter 3:1-6

Ruth shows an excellent path to follow.

A Revision

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Tuesday, January 31, 2006

Hey, I Gotta Go to Work...

Monday, January 30, 2006

Olympics Over!

Sunday, January 29, 2006

Gen 2:7

Saturday, January 28, 2006

Blog Olympic Bronze Medal Reception Here!

Friday, January 27, 2006

Friendly Friday Pre-empted by Olympics

Thursday, January 26, 2006

Blog Olympics-My Medals

Wednesday, January 25, 2006

A View of Starting Over

Tuesday, January 24, 2006

Our New Prime Minister

Monday, January 23, 2006

Carnival of Compassion

Sunday, January 22, 2006

Acts 17:26-27

Saturday, January 21, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

Excerpt from a Life

Friday, January 20, 2006

Friendly Friday

Thursday, January 19, 2006

Hey I Made A New Quiz!

Just How Competitive Are You?

Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Something Special for Next Week

Its Time...

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

Federal Election: Jan 23, 2006

Monday, January 16, 2006

Sore Throat, Cough, Fever and an Ear Infection...

Sunday, January 15, 2006

Romans 1:20

Saturday, January 14, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

Friday, January 13, 2006

Friendly Friday

Thursday, January 12, 2006

My Blog is Best at...

Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Hey, I Wanted to Win a Blog Award. What Do You Think the Odds Were?

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

Come on, try it...

More tv time?

Monday, January 09, 2006

Carol's Book Blog

Sunday, January 08, 2006

Psalm 19:1

Saturday, January 07, 2006

Excerpts from a Life

Friday, January 06, 2006

Friendly Friday

Thursday, January 05, 2006

Wednesday, January 04, 2006

How Weird Are You?

Tuesday, January 03, 2006

Don't Forget to Vote

Monday, January 02, 2006

The Early Years

Sunday, January 01, 2006

The Book of Ruth