Excerpts from a Life

On Saturdays, I post excerpts from my journal. I am still at 1975 when I was 15 years old and had a huge crush on a boy I called Chevy. I thought I could win his heart by losing weight. Mango was my best friend. I mentioned on this past Thursday's post that Mango and I used to ask questions of one another and write them down. This was similar to the question memes that are quite prevalent on many of the blogs today. Mango and I called them "ballots" and we did them every month.

The following is a composite ballot of questions that Mango asked me way back then:

1. Why do you like doing these ballots?
"I don't know. I like asking questions, I like answering questions. Sometimes you can ask questions that you wouldn't ask off-hand."

2.If Chevy talked to you and you found that he likes you; how would you tell me?
"I would run up the road, twirling around, you'd know!"

3. Do you honestly and truly mean to be Chevy's steady?
"Maybe not go steady but dating him. I gotta play the field."

4. Do you think you're a serious person?
"At school, during classes."

5. What song would you like our "talented" group, Trilogy, to try?
"Lady Marmalade" (Yikes)

6. Do you believe in women's lib?
"Yes, I do."

7. Do you think you're a funny person, even just a little funny?
"Yeah, I guess so, a little bit."

8. Would you like to sing for an audience?
"Yes"

9. Would you like to direct a performance of Jesus Christ, Superstar if you had a chance?
"I wouldn't want to direct. I'd want to sing!"

10. (We had given a tape of our singing to the music teacher at Mango's school, Mr. Klassen. My older sister had also sent a copy of this tape to Lorne, a fellow she knew who was in a band and needed backup singers.)If Mr. Klassen or that Lorne guy says we're good, well, good enough to make it, would you be really and honestly determined to do it?
"Yes, I think so, if we could get a band."

11.Do you think we could make it, let's say we have a band, could we?
"If I'm not the lead singer, I think so."

12.What would you do if I started liking Chevy? (Just wondering)
"I'd wonder why, first of all, then I would get very upset and try to discourage you or something. I wouldn't talk to you for awhile."

13. Do you really like that story I wrote, not just because it of was of you and Chevy, but the way I wrote it?
"Yeah, but get a plot." (always the critic)

14. If Lorne says we're good, what will Trilogy do?
"Nothing, what can we do? We don't have a band!"

15. What do you think of my fake smile? (Mango was practising for the school photos. Don't be mad at me, Mango)
"It looks better than going like your last year's picture!" (Would you still be friends with this person?? I should interject that the purpose of the ballot was honesty)

16. What is your career ambition and your secret ambition?
"To be an artist and have a lot of boyfriends!"

17. How do you say good-bye very formally?
"I would like to thank Mango for this ballot and say farewell to all the people who have sneaked in my diary!"

Friendly Friday

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band!! I took my tuba with me on my trip so I could be all practised up for today. I see you have been practising as well. That's good, because a band is only as good as its members.

Join up now to be a member of the band. Just leave a comment stating which instrument you would like to play. Then return Friendly Fridays to go visiting the friendless.

The featured friendless site is Sabrina at Quick and to the Point. I chose her blog because I like:

• her honesty
• that she desires a communal village (she wrote about this in her first blog entry)
• that her blog is a way for her to deal with her struggles and feelings
  
• she is coping with a bipolar disorder
  

Also check out Ry and her cuddly kitty, KC, at Justme and my Midnight Thots.
Then visit Sister Celtic at Lopez Island Life.

There have been excellent nominations lately but I still want more...
Get your banner here.
Have fun!

I Love Questions

In 1975, Mango and I used to ask questions to one another and write our answers down. These questions, which I have found from fellow bloggers, remind me of those times.
I found these questions through Moira at Blue Abstractions.

1. Were you named after anyone?
I was named for my Father's Mother's sister. However, obviously this was my Father's choice as my Mother never called me by that name. I became known as Carol, which is really my middle name.
However,I named my eldest daughter by that original name. I also like a Canadian artist who was named this as well.

2. When did you last cry?
Yesterday, on the way back from my Grandmother's funeral.

3. What is your most embarrassing CD?
I don't have a lot of CD's; I have more LP's. Am I embarrassed by my Partridge Family albums? Hmm... Nah, I still like hearing, "I Think I Love You"!

4. Have you ever told a secret you swore not to tell?
I don't believe so. I have a hard time keeping anything from Mango though.

5. How do you release anger?
I take my irritability out on people that are more forgiving and understanding than those that don't really know me. (ie family and friends)
I vent to the same.

6. Do you trust others too easily?
Yes but I am trying to be more observant.

7. What class in high school do you think was totally useless?
Cosmetology. I didn't appreciate the difficulty of the quizzes where we had to label all the muscles of the face. The scalp massages were nice though, so I guess it wasn't totally useless.

8. Do you use sarcasm a lot?
No, I am too obvious with it and don't like to be caught.

9. Favorite movie(s):
I have enjoyed many movies but never know what to answer for this. As a child I really liked "Thomasina" and "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory". As a teenager, my favorite movie was "Jesus Christ, Superstar." My Husband and I enjoy old movies such as "Dark Victory" which starred Bette Davis. This was about a woman who had a brain tumor and how she dealt with her approaching death.

10. Which celebrity do you most resemble?
I have been asked if I was Sally Field once or twice.

11. What are your favorite colors?
I enjoy many colors. I tend to get tired of the color, if I choose just one.

12. What are you listening to right now?
The kids are home from school and have the television on.

13. What is the weather like right now?
It is getting winter cold now. -20C. There is packed snow on the roads sprinkled with gravel. I am glad to be inside.

14. Favorite Drink?
I drink a lot of water and carry a water bottle with me everywhere.

15. Favorite Food?
I like turkey and pumpkin pie. I like food that someone else has cooked usually but sometimes there is a recipe that surprises me with its tasty combination of herbs and spices.

16. Spring or Summer?
What is one without the other?

17. Hugs or kisses?
I like hugs that aren't obligatory.

18. Where would you want to go on your next vacation?
If I didn't have to go on an airplane, boat or over mountains, I would like to anywhere.

19. What books are you reading?
"On the Rez" by Ian Frazier. It takes me forever to read; it takes up my blogging time! I still want to finish "30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary." My Sister, who I just saw, likes to play games on the computer. One she found was on vocabulary so we played against the computer. I was pleased to see that my vocabulary is actually getting better even though I don't use a lot of the words in my regular speech.
Also, "Don't Panic" by R. Reid Wilson is on the pile of books, I'm still reading.

20. What did you Watch Last Night on TV?
I don't watch a lot of tv. My Daughter said last week, as I was flipping through the channels, "I know Mom is really sick when she is watching tv."

21. What's the furthest you've been away from home?
I have been to Europe but the farthest I have felt is when I moved away from home on my 18th birthday.

I'm Home

When Grandparents leave this world, often there is a literal branching off of the family tree. Aunts, uncles and cousins separate into their own section and there is not as much contact anymore except at funerals and weddings. So it is not only your Grandmother/Grandfather that you are losing.

For an introvert like me, the day after the funeral, I would have been content to stay cocooned with my Sister and her family but my Father's siblings entered my thoughts. They were hurting the most.

And is so often the case, these visits became a blessing to me.

My Aunt and her Husband were so happy to see us. My Husband surprised me by accepting a shot glass of whiskey but I protested when he was offered a second. There was laughter. Eyes were tender and real.

Then we visited my Father's younger Brother. He and his Wife were alone when we first arrived but soon two of their daughters appeared, one with her two young sons. As my Uncle held his Grandson, his family separated into their own family tree right before my eyes.

I am going to hold them to their invites though and help keep the forest alive. My Grandmother would have liked that.

Band Update

Hello FFMB! This is an update to the band roster.

psst... will you do me a favor while I am out of town for a few days? Will you visit your fellow band members and get to know them through friendly comments? (I know you are all good at that!)

The list is from newest to the oldest member:

J. Andrew Lockhart (jal for short) is the newest member. We finally have a trombone player and he will also be the instrument repair man. Wow!
Kathy plays the tenor saxaphone. Isn't she great?
Azure is a new member that plays the mandolin.
Rhiannon is the pianist. She plays really mean marching tunes. (I mean really friendly marching tunes!)
Mompoet is the faithful kazooist.

Mango is the flag bearer and a very good one, too. She can be reached through my comments as she is a blog groupie with no blog of her own!

Pearl plays the korean drums every Friday, well..sometimes she is a little late but I know I can count on her.
Barbara is the flutist and man, can she play!
Stephen plays the baritone. He keeps everyone in line when we act up on the bus.
Erin is a drummer as well. She is a little whacky but we like whacky in the FFMB.

Zeb is the guitarist. He doesn't say much but he is pretty cool all the same. Reach him through my comment section.

Raehan, the thoughtful accordionist. She sent in a note excusing herself for the month.

Some of the members have regularly missed band performances for the last few months. I continue to hope that they will show up again some day but until then I will remove their names... gasp... from the roll call.

Acts 2:32

"This Jesus God raised up again, to which we are all witnesses."

Peter, the apostle, spoke these words to the people in Jerusalem that had seen Jesus' crucifixion.
The witnesses that Peter referred to were himself and the other apostles; Jesus had appeared to them after His death.

Two of the reasons we accept history as truth is because of the reliability of the eyewitnesses and the documents they wrote.

Excerpts from a Life

I have been posting entries from my journal on Saturdays. In 1975, Mango and I were best of friends, teenagers and just a bit boy-crazy. I still had that crush on Chevy. Mango, my sister Rlynne and I formed a band called Trilogy. We were the singers. Unfortunately, there were no musicians. Mango and I did have a creative imagination however and created a magazine called Outrageous that chronicled Trilogy's success story.

For $5.00 CND, come on...

I trust that you know how to enlarge these pics! Notice the t-shirts that Mango and I are wearing.

Here is a poster of Chevy and I!!

Friendly Friday

Looking through the archives...


The march goes on, my Friends.

The featured Friendless site of the week is Tabitha Dial at Tabitha Dial's Blog: Where the Muse Matters. I like her blog because

• she likes the old song "Memphis." This is one of my favorites.
  
• she made a "I Like That I Am..." list.
• she started writing fiction at 9 years about girls rescuing boys!
• she's a poet. There is a link to her poems. D'ya see it?
  

Check out Kathy at Lazy Daisy Log.She is the newest member in the Friends of the Friendless Band, playing the tenor saxaphone. I hope everyone will make her feel comfortable on her first Friendly Friday!

J. Andrew Lockhart from Past Tense, blogs haiku and tanka. Give him a visit, as well.

New members, choose your instrument! There will a band update this coming week with a list of the band members.

Get your banner here and remember to submit the friendless sites you find this week. Have a friendly day. Now get going...

My Grandmother passed away this morning. Thanks for all the kind thoughts.

So Fine

I was having problems with the video, so I removed it for now. Sorry to disappoint all the McCartney fans!

Baby Carol

I Love You, Too

Grandma would tell me that I ran to her. Grandpa liked to tease and I was too shy for that. Grandma's gentleness was more to my liking.

When we were back home this summer, we went visiting relatives with my Grandmother. At one stop, she was into a deep conversation with a young cousin of mine from the reserve. I couldn't help but ask afterwards what they were talking about. She said that the little boy was talking about being bullied. She told him that he was intelligent and that the others were just jealous of him.

My Grandma is in the hospital now, not expected to live much longer. I am unable to be with her as she is in another province but I talked to her tonight. She couldn't answer but my sister, who was at her bedside, said she wanted to speak. I know what she wanted to say though and I will always be grateful for the many times she said it and the many ways she showed it.

Turandot

My Husband and I went to our first opera, Turandot. This was written by an Italian composer, Puccini and was first performed in 1918.

It is about a beautiful Chinese princess, Turandot, who does not want to to marry because of a female ancestor who was mistreated by an enemy of war. Turandot reluctantly agrees to accept proposals of suitors but will only marry them if they correctly answer three riddles. If they fail, they are beheaded.
The story follows one particular prince, Calaf, who is enamored with her divine beauty and sounds the gong thrice indicating his desire to try for her hand.

The stage settings were splendidly stark; the cast decorated the stage. The emperor was lit in gold above the teeming citizens that were clad in grey. The voices were strong and spellbinding while the story's music moved slowly to the climax, steadily and fearlessly.

This debut has given me a desire for more.

Hebrew 10:24-25

"And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near."

Christians ought to desire to be together, especially on the Lord's Day. The reason to assemble is not for an empty ritual but to show love to God and the brethren.

The Christians being admonished here in Hebrews were the ones that didn't believe in meeting regularly with other Christians. Perhaps they had a disagreement with someone or were disillusioned by hypocrisies or sinfulness in the Church. However, in the New Testament, these relationships were important and disagreements or misunderstandings had to be worked out. This is true today as well. A Christian is defined by God's Word and there are no lone Christians in the Bible.

"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity." Colossians 3:12-14

Excerpts from a Life

The following are taken from my journals as a teenager. I was a secret admirer of Chevy and losing weight steadily in hopes of capturing his heart.
My friend, Mango and I are exploring our creativity.

April 9, 1975
Wouldja believe I was in the hospital since Sunday. I passed out on Sunday. The doctor says I have low blood sugar.

April 20, 1975
Millions of things to write about are passing through my mind. I don't mean for my journal but for stories. I wrote a poem called "One Year Ago Today." I'm not finished it yet. Yes, I feel inspired to write...

May 15, 1975
Saw Cindy and Aline uptown. Cindy said, "Do you ever look great. I bet all the boys are after you." haha

May 20, 1975
Before typing, JoAnne and I were talking to Laurie in typing. Chevy was in there! For a long time, he never looked up then he finally quit typing and rested his chin on his hands and watched. Oooh, my legs turned into jelly.
Mrs. Krislock, art teacher, asked me if I would like to draw something for the Reinbolt Exhibition. Felt proud.

June 1, 1975
Went to Mango's in the afternoon. We sang into the tape recorder with the records. (This was way before Karaoke!)
Our best song was "I Got the Music in Me".
Mango sings really good. She could make with her voice. I really mean that!
I sang "Love Lies Bleeding."
Mango keeps on telling me how great I sing. I'm flattered but I don't think I sound that great. Mango is the one with the great voice. She can get all the little notes I can't.
I wish our group, Trilogy, would make it!

Friendly Friday

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band. I hope that today's nominated blogs will inspire you to leave heartening comments! If you haven't already, sign up today to be a friendly band member.




Read Dreaming Firefly's poetry in Glowing in the Dark, In Search of My Direction.

Read Celestial Void's meditative thoughts in Are You Out There ?

Visit Azure of Breakaway who encourages all bloggers when she says, "if u don't speak ur mind then hu will??;-)"



I chose Celestial Void as the featured site this Friendly Friday because I like:

• his searching for relevance in every day occurrences
  
• that he looks at the reality of life
• his poetry wonders
  
• when someone expresses their loss and wants to learn from it
  

Display your banner to show support for the Friends of the Friendless. Or do you think we should sell chocolates?
Start submitting friendless sites for the next Friendly Friday!

Beauty in Store

Old eyes
Orange hair
Orange poncho
High heels

I wonder at her confident brightness
pushing her cart past naive naked girls
who strategically compete with overflowing carts
of frozen fast pizzas and fries

I reach for the newspapers that catch these nude faces scowling
in their mundane existence,
not fringed smugly in orange
reaching for the People, on their day off

Following the shopper down the red worn carpet
the door automatically opens farewell
and I leave her in the parking lot as she clicks down the pavement
I shuffle off unmade

Oh yeah...

Your Blog Should Be Purple

You're an expressive, offbeat blogger who tends to write about anything and everything. You tend to set blogging trends, and you're the most likely to write your own meme or survey. You are a bit distant though. Your blog is all about you - not what anyone else has to say.

What Color Should Your Blog or Journal Be?

So You Like the Makeover...

Thanks for all the compliments, oh my...

I love "peas and carrots''! This is the name of this beautiful template by Richa. I may not be able to take credit for the new look but, boy, I put in a few hours, too. My Middle Daughter was a big help. There were a few problems with the graphics but after some figuring, tadaa...

There are still a couple of problem areas, but I hope to unglitch them someday. Its always those last few pounds...

Overcoming Anxiety

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpassses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."
Philippians 4:6-8

Evidently anxiety is not a new problem. Some Biblical remedies for anxiety are:

prayer

thankfulness

positive thinking

Prayer is a well practised stress reliever. It turns the mind from the problem but don't think that God will magically change the situation. Often, there is work to do. Prayer can strengthen the heart to find solutions.

Thankfulness is a reminder of the blessings in our lives. It removes the desire to complain about the circumstances.

The mind is powerful but needs to be protected from constant negativity. Your body will reacte to whatever it is told.

God's advice is trustworthy. Faith is the trust a patient has for their doctor.

Today, I am the patient, trusting in the goodness of God to heal me. Faith is built through the trials of life.

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.

My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2

Excerpt from a Life

These are journal entries from the 70's when I was in grade 10. I had a huge crush on a fellow I nicknamed Chevy and I went on a diet in hopes that he would like me.
Feb 17, 1975
"Boy, Chevy was really colorful today. He wore a purple top with a yellow shrink and these blue tweedy pants. It didn't look too good. Chevy's kinda skinny but it doesn't really matter."
Feb 26, 1975
"Didn't go to school. Same old thing again."

Feb 27, 1975
"Didn't go to school. Mango came over in the evening. Talked alot."
Feb 29, 1975 Saturday
"Well, Mango's off to a hockey game and I have to stay home because of my illness!"

March 24, 1975
"Well, I'm 140 lbs.

March 25, 1975
"Karen and I went to the cafeteria. Laurie and JoAnne were already in there. Laurie was mad because Chevy was watching them. His whole table was.
Karen sat beside Laurie and there was no place where I could sit where I could see Chevy so I just stood there. I was looking for him but couldn't see him. Then I saw him. He and his whole table got up and moved one table over, closer to ours it seemed to me.
I told Laurie that I had to talk to her so we walked out of the cafeteria. When we got back Karen said that Chevy watched me go out the door. I know its hardly anything but every little thing counts.
I am so sure that he likes me. Please!!"

Friendly Friday- Lest We Forget

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band! I am so glad to see you all, eager to spread your good comments to fellow bloggers that are in need.

The featured site this Friday is Mary of Uncensored Soul.
I like her blog because:

• I like her template-I can't help it, I'm noticing templates a lot lately
• she reminds me of my journals as a young woman, except I never travelled to Egypt on a whim
• >she is simple like a circle
• one of her interests is marching bands, say no more
  

Check out Samantha's Daily Thoughts of a Sotonggal. She is from Malaysia with an honest and friendly blog.

Get your FFMB banners here!

Remember

Carol "Tha Book Keeper" Holynator

Yes, I made Teh Blogfather's Site of the Day!

Remember that talk about maxing out at The Bay

Yes, we have to keep our patriot happy!

Hudson's Bay, the official clothier for the Canadian Olympic Team

Email from my Sister " Do this if you want to but not necessary"

"This is fun. Hope I receive it back from you"

1. What time is it: 12:15 pm.

2.Nickname: Mom (this was my Sister's good answer)

3. Piercing: None.

4. What is the most recent movie you've seen in
theatre? Go For Zucker at a Film festival. This is the review I wrote for it:

"Go For Zucker" is a German film about a dysfunctional family whose father is a pool shark that owns a brothel/nightclub. He is in danger of losing everything when he receives a telegram that his Mother has died. His brother, an orthodox Jew, who he hasn't seen in 40 years is arriving with the coffin. There are stipulations in the will that he and his brother must reconcile. The wall must be broken. The gambling brother lived in Berlin while the orthodox brother lived in Frankfurt. My husband thinks there might be a symbolic connection with East and West Germany. Hmmm...

5. Eye color: brown (same as my Sister's answer again. Am I the copycat?)

6. Place of birth: A small prairie city (a city in my home province is any thing over a population of 5000).

7. Favorite NEW foods: I like trying out new recipes. The last one was "Chinese Chow". Want the recipe, little Sis?

8. Ever been to Africa:Nope. Why do you ask?


9. Love someone so much it made you cry: Yes, especially when they are no longer here.

10. Been in a car accident? Thankfully, only minor ones, all in the parking lot!

11: Favorite Movie: Toss up between Dark Victory starring Bette Davis and The Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

12. Croutons or bacon bits: I use croutons more regularly than bacon bits. Actually I just put croutons on the grocery list a few minutes ago.

13. Favorite day of the week: Sunday!


14. Favorite restaurants: Foody Goody's- a Chinese Buffet. The kids love going there too not because they like Chinese food, for they don't, but they fill their plates with jello, pizza,(carrots so it looks healthy) and then ice cream etc.

16. Favorite Flower: gerber daisies









17. Favorite sport to watch: I don't like watching any, but I have watched hockey when we're in the playoffs.

18. Favorite drink: Milk.

19. Favorite ice cream: low fat mocha-chocolate with almonds

20. Warner Bros. or Disney: Disney

21. Favorite fast food restaurant: A local restaurant that makes great hamburgers and milkshakes. Mmmm.

22. What color is your bedroom: Would you believe taupe and deep red?

23. How many times you failed your driver's test?: Never,hah!


24. Before this one, from whom did you get your last email? Ms. Spam!

25. Which store would you choose to Max out your credit card this week: the Bay, my Daughter wants the latest Olympic wear.

26. What do you do most often when you are bored: Blog, but I do that when I'm not bored too.

27.When is your Bedtime: 11-11:30 pm ideally.

28. Who will respond to this e-mail the quickest?: Hard to say.

29. Who is the person you sent this to that is least likely to respond? My Sister wrote "Carol!" Well, I will show her...

30. Who are you the most curious about their responses to this questionnaire?: Everyone!

31. Favorite TV shows: I Love Lucy! and Seinfeld

32. Last person you went to dinner with: My family! We went to Foody Goody's of course. (Yeah, I know they have changed the name but it will always be Foody Goody to us)

33. Ford or Chevy?: Chevy, duh?

34. What are you listening to right now? Nothing

35. What is your favorite color?: It was orange but I might be changing it!

36. How many tattoos do you have: None but I wouldn't mind a henna tattoo on my ankle, someday.

37. How many pets do you have: I am wondering why my Sister wrote, "None." Last I heard she had a cat and a dog. Hmm. Time to touch base...
I have a cat.

38. Which came first the chicken or the chicken egg?:Definitely the chicken. God created the originals already grown.

39. How many people are you sending this e-mail to: back to my sister so she can eat her words and to all my blog friends.

Envious

Yes, I am feeling a little green as three of my blog buddies have broken out of their blogger templates and are now delighting in their new found beauty.

Its all about content, its all about content...

Go check out Jennifer , Barbara and Stephen's new look!

If anyone has advice to give me on achieving template savvy, let me know. ie web sites on making your own templates or pre-designed ones etc.

Which Sesame Street Character Are You?

Snuffleupagus You scored 54% Organization, 46% abstract, and 55% extroverted!

This test measured 3 variables. First, this test measured how organized you are. Some muppets like Cookie Monster make big messes, while others like Bert are quite anal about things being clean. Second, this test measured if you prefer a concrete or an abstract viewpoint. For the purposes of this test, concrete people are considered to gravitate more to mathematical and logical approaches, whereas abstract people are more the dreamers and artistic type. Third, this test measured if you are more of an introvert or an extrovert. By definition, an introvert concentrates more on herself and an extrovert focuses more on others. In this test an introvert was somebody that either tends to spend more time alone or thinks more about herself. You are somewhat organized, both concrete and abstract, and both introverted and extroverted. I bet you didn't think you were Snuffleupagus. Let's find out why. You are both somewhat organized. You have a good idea where you put things and you probably keep your place reasonably clean. You aren't totally obsessed with neatness though. Alloyius Snuffleupagus (and all Snuffleupagus') is not sloppy by nature, but he moves so incredibly slowly that it is impossible for him to be totally organized. You both are about equally concrete and abstract thinkers. You have a good balance in your life. You know when to be logical at times, but you also aren't afraid to explore your dreams and desires... within limits of course. Snuffy generally has very basic interests, but he explores his abstract sensitive side when he plays his snuffleflute. You both are somewhat introverted. Originally Snuffleupagus was very shy and was only Big Bird's invisible friend. However as he has aged he has started to build new friendships with new characters. Like Snuffy, you probably like to have some time to yourself. However, you do appreciate spending time with your friends, and you aren't scared of social situations. The other possible characters are Oscar the Grouch Big Bird Cookie Monster Ernie Elmo Kermit the Frog Grover The Count Guy Smiley Bert If you enjoyed this test, I would love the feedback! Also if you want to tell me your favorite Sesame Street character, I can total them up and post them here. Perhaps your choice will win!

My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender: You scored higher than 18% on Organization You scored higher than 29% on concrete-abstra You scored higher than 29% on intro-extrovert

Link: The Your SESAME STREET Persona Test written by greencowsgomoo on Ok Cupid, home of the 32-Type Dating Test

Who are you?

Hello, my name is Carol and I'm a blogaholic...

Blogaholics Anonymous is a fun webring for bloggers who are zealous for the craft. It is not a twelve step program.

I am going to take a more serious look at the steps and traditions from Alcoholics Anonymous today. When I wrote step 1 last week, it turned out to be a reminder of where I have been and where I don't want to go.

Step 2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Over 20 years ago, I needed a twelve step program. I was presented with the idea that God could help me. I did not expect God to be the answer. This was the beginning of my spiritual life.

Do I think He can restore me to sanity over something as perhaps, trivial, as blogoholism?
I do. I don't want to give it up entirely, just be moderately entranced.

1Corinthian 6:12 "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything."

An Excerpt from a Life

These are excerpts are taken from journals I kept as a teenager in the 70's. I had a huge crush on a fellow I nicknamed Chevy. I was overweight at the time and became convinced that he would like me if I lost weight.

January 8, 1975
I didn't go to school. I feel okay except I have to keep on spitting.

January 9, 1975
I still didn't go to school. Oh man, do I miss Chevy!

January 17, 1975
I went to school for the first time in a long time. I had a ball. Chevy is still super cute.

January 27, 1975
I hate exams!
I hate studying!
I just adore Chevy's eyelashes!
Laurie said she is proud of me cause I lost so much weight. She's proud? I'm bursting with it. When I'm slim, I just know Chevy will like me.

Another Day

We live near the airport flight path. Planes are a part of our view out the kitchen bay window.
Tonight, we heard a loud rumbling.
"What is that?" I heard as my Husband looked out the window and frantically headed for the back door. I followed.
In the northern sky, we saw a plane lit with an orange glow, sparks slowly emanating into the darkness.
It felt unreal; prayers quickly were said. I hugged my daughter as the plane rose and headed back for the airport.
We heard on the radio that everyone was safe.
Thank you.

Ode to a Friend

Even when I don't hear from you
I know that you are there
waiting to hear from me,
dear friend...

Yikes! It is Friendly Friday, I completely forgot...just a moment, stay right here while I find my conductor's hat...




Gasp, my tuba has shrunk...well... it will have to do this week.

Hello my friends! How ya doozing? Are you ready for another fantastic Friday? I can hardly wait to see who this week's friendless sites are! Yes, well...um, give me another minute,'kay?


Ahem, I thought I would try a thematic approach this week. I like poetry, so this week, I have found a couple of poet bloggers. They both are enjoyable but the site of the week I chose is the one on the left ;)

Xtessa is the featured site of the week.
I like her blog because:

• her poetry is personal, seeking honesty with herself
• her words are positive and hopeful
  
• she has a peaceful template
  
• but more poetry updates please

Also, please go and discover the depths of Uncle David's poems.

I also came across this site which all poets will appreciate. This is not a friendless site but you will enjoy Blogging Poets.

Band members, please help me find more friendless sites, my bookmarks are getting low! Also, don't hesitate to get the Friends of the Friendless Marching Band banner.

Have fun and make a lot of noise. See ya later!

A Bad Day

My Son was excited this morning that a friend had invited him over after school so I was surprised to see him at the door this afternoon. His friend decided to do something else. As a result, he was in a growly mood. When I told him what his chore was, he protested loudly and ended up being grounded from the computer and television.
He calmed down after supper but still hoped to get back on the computer. He decided to play with a train set that should be given away as it is too young for him.
I was looking for him this evening and my Husband called from our bedroom that he was in there.
I opened the door to find the two of them bent over my Husband's more sophisticated train set.

It is good to be reminded that things work out for the best, eventually.

CPR

Today, I took a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Basic Rescuer course.
Take this quiz. Perhaps, you would like to sign up, too.

Clearer

I have lost 7/8 Battle of the Blogs. This is a game on Blog Explosion where you pit your blog against another in hopes of being voted the best.

Carol, what are you doing??

Anyways after being defeated so many times, I went on the Member's Forum to ask what was the matter. It seems that the game is more about form and template (or chance. One fellow said he votes for the blogs on the left side of the screen some of the time and those on the right the other times).

I breathed a sigh before it hit me, this is life and relationships. Many people are attracted to others because of form and template, the shape of the body, the beauty, clothes and eloquence.

I am glad they thought the content was good (smile) but the orange, well...Perhaps the orange will go, along with the font variations. I mean, it wouldn't hurt to get a new wardrobe and hairstyle.

Then, I look back over my years and have to almost laugh when I think of the people that have walked by me, all because they didn't like my form and template.

But I realize, the content has always been good.

Hey, Blogger...yeah you, can you spare a dime or at least drop a comment in the plate. It gets pretty lonely here on the park bench, y'know. Sit down, I'll get a fire blazing in the barrel and we can visit, just like old times. Hey, don't leave before 30 secon....whoa there...yes I can run, those crutches are only for the sympathy votes...come on, sit down, I'm not going to hurt you, just wear out your ear for a minute before you move on...

Ariel


Which DISNEY character are you most like?
brought to you by Quizilla


Oh Ariel,
carefully crawling the depths
head and fins reaching for the sky
with a patient smile
as she notices the sharks
playing in the dark

Hallowe'en

When our children were small, my Husband and I had to decide whether or not our children would participate in Hallowe'en. I had a problem with its origins while my Husband did not. He did not want to make me go against my beliefs, so he agreed that they wouldn't partake in this popular festivity.

Most years,the children would stay at home when they had the class party. Then in the evening it became our tradition to eat out and do something special such as a movie. They look forward to this time still. They don't feel deprived. It has taught them that they don't have to be like everyone else.

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;" Colossians 3:23

Excerpt from a Life

These journal entries, which I take out of the chest every Saturday, started in 1974. I had a serious crush on a boy I called Chevy and started losing weight in hopes of gaining his attention.

January 7, 1975
"I didn't go to school yesterday or today. I went to the hospital outpatients. I might have an ulcer in my stomach. I don't know for sure but I do worry about Chevy, losing weight...almost anything.
I weigh 160 lbs now. That's a loss of 25 lbs altogether. I'd say, I'm doing pretty good, wouldn't you?"

Friends of the Friendless Matching Game

Barbara of Trying to Catch Up is the winner of today's friendly matching game! She is the newest member of the band, the flutist.

I like her blog because:

• I really like her sense of humor
  
• she likes books, philosophy and singing
  
• she has a son who blogs
• she has a banner for FFMB, yahoo
• she is an enthusiastic band member
  

Friendly Friday

• 

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band.

Today, we are going to have another "Get Aquainted" game. Below are listed all the band members and across from the names are the instruments. Match the member to their instrument and leave your answers in the comment section. The first to get most of them correct will be featured at the end of this Friendly Friday with "what I like about their blog" and a link to their site.

You don't have to be a band member to play but feel free to sign up for the FFMB if you wish by choosing an instrument.

Carol------------------------baritone
Mompoet-------------------majorette
Mango--------------------- tuba player
Marti----------------------- accordionist
Kenju----------------------- kazooist
Stephen--------------------- pianist
Zeb-------------------------- drummer
K8--------------------------- flutist
Raehan--------------------- another drummer
Pearl------------------------ clarinetist
Barbara--------------------- guitarist
True Jersey Girl------------ Korean drums

The following are links which will help you answer the above questions. Go here, here and finally here.
Remember, I will be checking at the end of the day to see who the lucky blogger is!

At the end of the day-
Hey FFMB, I guess I stumped the lot of you!

So I will tell you what I like about my blog:

• it is like a variety show ie. will the post be silly, poetic, religious, anxious, what?
• the sideblog of reviews and "current reads"
  
• the "Pretty Women" short story and not because of all the hits the name generates
• the weird orange color
• you gotta admit, Carol is a friendly and persevering conductor for the Friends of the Friendless Marching Band.
  

See ya next week and remember, I always need more friendless submissions.
To get the FFMB banner, look here.

Hello, my name is Carol and I'm a Blogaholic...

I just joined Blogaholic Anonymous.

Step 1 We admitted we were powerless over blogging and that our lives had become unmanageable.

Areas of my unmanagability are:
• My to-list has items left uncrossed off and I don't even care!
• Pages of my calendar are blank.
  
• Family and friends complain about how boring the blogtalk is.
• The same family and friends complain that I don't pay enough attention to them because I miss out on crucial parts of the conversation as I am checking my site meter. (Eg. My son is telling me about a bully on the bus and I respond by giving him that "dazed out by the computer" look. I don't even remember the conversation.)
  
• I obsessively revisit blogs umpteem times a day.
  
• I keep on Battling the Blogs (on BlogExplosion) although I lose most battles. My blog esteem is dropping yet I can't stop.
• I'd like to write a poem or a meaningful anecdote but my words are stuck in silly mode. Help, I can't be serious anymore!
  
• Yes, I admit that I am powerless over blogging and my life has become unmanageable.
  

We don't have a trampoline in the backyard but...

How Addicted Am I?

12.5 %

My weblog owns 12.5 % of me.
Does your weblog own you?

"This seems kind of low," I thought as I was telling my husband about the newest changes on the
Battle of the Blogs on BlogExplosions. Maybe I should redo it!



And I'm not going to say how much my blog is worth!

Overcoming Anxiety

Physical Tools In my Battle against Anxiety:

I have been doing a Yoga for Absolute Beginner's DVD before breakfast whenever possible. Yoga is a wonderful relaxation tool plus there are supposed to be other physical benefits as well. Although I have done yoga intermittently before, I am still a beginner.

I have been exercising for many years, but not only for the physical benefits: it helps the mind as well. I haven't been exercising since this stronger battle with anxiety began about a month ago. I usually do aerobics with a video, ride my exercise bike or go for a walk.

Then at the end of the day, I've been meditating, which I have done before as well. I usually sit in the cross-legged position 20 minutes while focusing upon the tingling in my hands. This position is uncomfortable and I probably won't be using it all the time. However, I think one of the purposes of meditation is to be able to concentrate so fully that the discomfort doesn't distract. I don't want the uncomfortableness to be a deterrent to the practise though.

I am trying to find a routine that fits all these methods into my day, trying to achieve flexibility with effectiveness.

Proverbs 24:3-4

"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established;
and by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."

I have dreamt that my Husband and I have somehow acquired a beautiful mansion, filled with beautiful furniture and art. I am filled with joy and amazement that this house is actually ours.
Upon waking, there is a pang of disappointment until I remember this passage.








Which book of the Bible are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Excerpt from a Life

Join me every Saturday as I read from my old journals. I currently am remembering a lengthy teenage crush I had on a fellow student who I nicknamed Chevy. In today's account, I am talking to a new friend, Debbie, who had been in grade 9 with my secret love.

November 5, 1974
"In the afternoon, in the school library, Laurie and I asked Debbie if she knew of anybody by the nickname of Chevy. She said no. She sat thinking for awhile and then said Chevowsky. I walked out of the library in embarrassment. I didn't think she'd guess right.
I went back to the library and Laurie said that Debbie had said, "That creep!"
I kept on bugging Debbie not to tell anybody. She said she wouldn't. I asked her if Chevy was nice. She said,"I guess so" but she couldn't remember what he exactly looked like..."

Friendly Friday

Hello Friends of the Friendless Marching Band!
Glad to see that your uniforms pressed and instruments polished.
It sounds as if you have been practising, too.
Keep it up.
The blog world needs people like you to encourage needlessly friendless sites.

As I read these blogs, I am constantly amazed because so many of them are indeed, just undiscovered.
So don't just sit there, go discover...


The featured site of the day is
Writergrll at Come Untogether

I like her blog because:

• of her ingenious fiction (I think it's fiction)
• I couldn't stop reading but still haven't found No 1 (help me out guys)
• frank even startling poetry

Other friendless blogs to visit this week are:
Peter at HoltiesHouse
who is an Australian retired man who writes with character and has lived in many houses.

Stunt Mother at I do all my own stunts
who writes really well about parenting and is a poet too. Check out her "Ode to Our Floor."


Remember to send me the friendless sites you find for next week
or
if you meet the qualifications, nominate yourself!

Check out the new banner for the Friends of the Friendless Marching Band.

Band Update

New Friends of the Friendless Marching Band Members:

Stephen has joined the band, he will play the baritone.

Erin will be playing the drums.

Pearl will be playing the Korean drums, pictured below.



I look forward to all these new members playing for tomorrow's Friendly Friday!

Overcoming Anxiety

I'm reading Don't Panic:Taking Control of Anxiety Attacks by R. Ried Wilson,Ph.D.
The following are tips that I am learning.

Useful Tips for the Anxious

Tip#1 Make sure that there isn't something actually physically wrong with you. Have you seen a doctor lately? A pain in the chest or trouble breathing can make you anxious. Get reassurance from a professional that your body is well. Knowledge is essential, understand what is going on. Wilson gives a long list of symptoms and possible illnesses. Great for the hypochondriac.

Tip#2 Believe in yourself. An "I can do it" attitude is a part of the healing package.

Tip#3 Learn to trust your body's unconscious ability to take care of you. Experiencing the body at work. Anxiety will only build distrust.

Tip#4 Once the symptoms start appearing, tell yourself that there is no emergency. Remind yourself of the facts eg. what your doctor has said.

Tip #6 Breathe from the diaphragm.

Tip #7 Learn a deep relaxation technique or meditation. I am experimenting with mediation which I have done before but I really didn't understand the significance of. Now I see that the ability to focus intensely on something outside of myself can pull me out of an attack. "Panic instructs you to focus on your body (wrong) and worry about what will happen next (wrong)." Meditation trains your mind.

As I write these, I am reinforcing these ideas to myself. I have a lot of practise to do. I'll let you know how it is going.

Overcoming Anxiety

Don't Panic: Taking Control of (If I had a little red faced icon, it would go here) Anxiety Attacks-
R. Reid Wilson

Eight Attitudes Required (oh, great)

Attitude #1 "I am not ashamed"
So I am going public and declaring myself unstable, anxiously speaking. There, I have disclared it, anonymously to bloggers, but still it is done. Be gone, you dastardly little red faced emoticon, you.

Attitude#2 "What can I learn as a student of panic?
Well, there is always something to be gained by adversity. I would rather not, really, but... if I must, then...sigh, I must. Let the lessons begin,oh Grand Master Panic.

Attitude #3 "I want to face the symptoms to gain skills."
Whoa, this attitude is pushing it! I do not like feeling that I won't be able to breathe or that I am going to faint. I don't like the rush of adrenaline and fear.
Oh, you didn't say that I had to like it!

Attitude #4 "Its okay to be anxious here."
Sure, it is okay to anxious here but what about there? I guess you're talking about the here and now concept.

Attitude #5 "I won't guard myself against anxiety."
You mean, not fight?
Well, I do like the idea of not worrying about what I will happen in the next 30 seconds. Living and only dealing with the present could definitely help. Okay, I'll lay down the shield but only for 30 seconds.

Attitude #6 "This is practise."
This means I can't fail, right?

Attitude #7 "I can tolerate uncertainty."
Yes, yes, but what is #8?

Attitude #8 "It's OK if it doesn't work."
Easy for you to say, you already got your money!

Grand Memories

Reaching for the warmth of your voice
I listen to the pictures you hold dear in your mind
~
laughing with the children
tongues encircling the salt lick
while cows wonder
~
my father, the eldest, fingering precious nails
hammers with carpenter's zeal
until the shed is decorated in steel
~
still older, fearful at the window
he watches the approaching hail that will drive them away
from the farm, his love
~
~

I hear the words, pictures
from your aged albums-
may I see them all by heart, too

Friendly Friday Banner

I have a surprise for all the Friends of the Friendless Marching Band members, past featured friendless sites and all other interested friendly people-a banner to proudly display on your blog! I couldn't wait until Friendly Friday to share it with you.


<a href="http://carolsbookblogs.blogspot.com/2005/08/friendly-fridays.html"><br /><img src="http://www.freewebs.com/xxworld-of-bluexx/FFMB%20copy.jpg" /></a>

Thanks to my middle daughter who is gaining in HTML knowledge every day!

You can place this banner on your blog template but it is best to first save your original blog template (copy and paste your template onto a word processing program and save on your computer)
Then right click over the above html code and "Select All". When the code is highlighted, copy, then go to your template and paste it into your blog html. Place it under the Powered by Blogger button under the----powered by---> code.
Preview this to see if it is where you want it to be. If it is not, then clear edits and start over again. If you like it, then "Save Template Changes" and republish your blog.
It is easier than it sounds but make sure to save your original html code.

Your Personality Profile

You are nurturing, kind, and lucky. Like mother nature, you want to help everyone. You are good at keeping secrets and tend to be secretive. A seeker of harmony, you are a natural peacemaker. You are good natured and people enjoy your company. You put people at ease and make them feel at home with you.

and

You are elegant, withdrawn, and brilliant. Your mind is a weapon, able to solve any puzzle. You are also great at poking holes in arguments and common beliefs. For you, comfort and calm are very important. You tend to thrive on your own and shrug off most affection. You prefer to protect your emotions and stay strong.

and

You are dreamy, peaceful, and young at heart. Optimistic and caring, you tend to see the best in people. You tend to be always smiling - and making others smile. You are shy and intelligent... and a very hard worker. You're also funny, but many people don't see your funny side. Your subtle dry humor leaves your close friends in stitches.

The World's Shortest Personality Test

Psalm 116:15

Yesterday, one of my brothers in Christ left this world. It is a sad time for his physical and spiritual family yet not for the one who left.
Neither is God sorrowful.

"Precious in the sight of the Lord, is the death of His godly ones."

Excerpt from a Life

October 29, 1974
I realize that my Chevy sightings are quite boring but I like him so I want to write down every time I see him. You know?

October 30, 1974
I'm still on diet!

November 1,1974
That Brick and Bella really bug me. I told Bella that I wished he grew up to be a fat, old man. Ha, ha on him!

November 5, 1974
I saw Chevy before science. He was standing with Brick and Bella. Brick started mimicking the way I was walking. Luckily, Chevy wasn't watching. But?

Friendly Friday

Hi FFMB!
There was some concern over the last couple of weeks over whether we should refer to ourselves as Friends of the Friendless Marching Band because of the unpolitically correct term "friendless" but I have decided to continue as is. Remember the spirit of the original founder-the late great Lucy- she would find some way out of every predicament so that is what we aim to do. Right?
Silence, not even the warming up of the accordian or the giggling of the majorette. Where are my band enthusiasts???
(I might have to go in search of these truant band members...hmmm....)

No need to fear, the music will continue... Come, march this way!

This is getting difficult to choose, but this week's friendless site of the week is David Diamond of
DD Sez . I like his blog because:

• of all the categories he made: baseball (Yankees, right?), funny stuff, news & politics, favorite quotes, rants, technology and he still has a need for a miscellaneous section!
• he seems to be kinda...um...silly. You gotta like that.
• he wants to celebrate a Native Oppression Day. Alright, someone finally wants to give us a National holiday!!
• I like his archive set-up.
  

Other great friendless sites, you just gotta visit too are:

Erin of Madisisms has a blog about the cute things her 3 year old daughter says. I wish I had made one of those.

Champs of A Guy's Life who writes about motorcycles, barbecuing and other typical guy things such as being accused of robbing a bank.

Alex of Moon River is a math student who writes about school, relationships, business and other stuff. I love the 36 methods of mathematical proof he found. Leave comments in the "chatterbox".

Please leave comments for these friendless four.
Hey, I need more friendless sites for next week! And more band members, sign up now...

On Account of Being Really Bored

Idea copied from Jennifer who stole it from Dan_ielle.

1) My uncle once: told my sister and I bedtime stories while we plotted to scare him by hiding with our talking Munster doll under his bed.

2) Never in my life: will I pierce my tongue or anything else.

3) When I was five: I hung on the metal gate crying for my sister to take me to school with her.

4) High School was: a time for dreams.

5) I will never forget: how difficult it was to accept the truths of Christianity.

6) I once met: my future husband.

7) There's this person I know who: is a welder, poet and musician.

8) Once, at a bar: I danced on a table, in Vienna after too much wine.

9) By noon I am usually: finished my exercising and making lunch.

10) Last night: I went to bed abit earlier because I had to be at work at 7 am.

11) If I only had: more boldness.

12) Next time I go to church/temple: will be on Sunday, Lord willing.

13) Terri Schiavo:put the issue of euthenasia in the minds of many.

14) I like: art, music, books, live theater, movies.

15) When I turn my head left, I see: file cabinet.

16) When I turn my head right, I see: my headset phone.

17) You know I am lying when: when I won't look you in the eye.

18) In grade school: I was overweight and shy.

19) If I was a character written by Shakespeare, I would be: Hamlet.(please not Ophelia!)

20) By this time next year: I will be stronger.

21) A better name for me would be: can't think of a name I would rather be. (Carol is a Song of Joy)

22) I have a hard time understanding: the workflow in the Microbiology lab. I persevered and finally got it but would never work in that department.

23) If I ever go back to school I will: learn something I really want to do just for me.

24) You know I like you if: I talk incessantly and joke around with you. Can't you tell?

25) If I won an award, the first person I would thank would be: God.

26) I hope that: I will grow in everyway but in size.

27) Take my advice: The Bible contains the Words of Life.

28) My ideal breakfast is: pizza.

29) A song I love, but do not have is: I Can See Clearly Now by Johnny Nash.

30) If you visit my hometown, I suggest: you come during the summer months. All the tourists do.

31) Tulips, character flaws, microchips, & track stars: I really want to figure this one out-arrghh.

32) Why won't anyone: tell Mango and I apart?

33) If you spend the night at my house: you will probably have to sleep in the basement on a bumpy hide-a-bed.

34) I would stop my wedding: if I believed he was the wrong man.

35) The world could do without: selfishness.

37) My favorite blonde is: the true ones, like all 3 of Mango's beautiful children.

38) Paper clips are more useful than: a paperweight to keep papers together.

40) And by the way: I am a good friend.

41) The last time I was drunk: that I can't remember but I do remember the first time I chose not to drink. I was taking my boyfriend, (future husband) to meet a friend who was also a former drinking partner. I chose to have a diet coke which put this fellow out but I was pleased that I was able to say "No." I never did drink again and that was probably 1984.

42) My grandmother always: says she loves me. I have got to phone her...

This is so true...

Your 80s Heartthrob Is

Michael J. Fox

Who's Your 80's Heartthrob?

101 Questions Answered

1. Spell ur 1st name backwards: lorac (reminds me of a Dr. Seuss character-Lorax)

2. The story behind ur blog title: A Revision-Not only are my words revised but I am revised as well.

3. Where do u live: in a comfortable condo in Canada

4. 4 words that sum u up: spiritual, loyal, fun, intelligent

Describe your.........,

5. [Wallet]: unorganized

6. [Hairbrush]:pointy

7. [ Jewellrey you wear daily]: wedding ring and watch

8. [Pillowcase]: black

9. [ Shoes]:I need new heels, badly.

10. [Music playing right now]: Trooper's Two For the Show (Canadian group on an oldies radio station)

11. [ What are you wearing right now]: jeans and a centennial t-shirt

12. [Hair]:I have a hair appointment tomorrow!

13. [ In my mouth]:?

14. [ In my head]: Blogging is fun!

15. [ Eating]: Nothing at the moment, but I am getting hungry, now.


16. [ Some of your favourite movies]: The Long, Long Trailer with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, there are too many really...To Kill a Mockingbird. I watch movies from different time periods and always find something that I enjoy like musicals with Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly and silent films such as Buster Keaton in The General. I liked Jim Carrey in Man in the Moon and Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind as well.

17. [ Something you're looking forward to] Supper, I am actually writing this enroute to Thanksgiving supper on Monday.

18. [ The last thing you ate] Soup, tuna sandwiches and salad.

19. [ Something you are deadly afraid of]: Sometimes, breathing...

20. [ Do you like candles] I do but seldom light one except during a bath if I am feeling stressed.

.: Do You Believe In:.

21. [ A Thing Called Love] Definitely

22. [ Soul mates]: Definitely

23. [ Love at first sight]: No, this is not love but infatuation. True love involves the inner person.

24. [ Forgiveness]: Most definitely


.: Other Stuff:.
25. [ If you could have any animal for a pet]: I am a cat person and but we have one already so I wouldn't mind a Japanese Fighting Fish but I am afraid that the cat would enjoy it more.

26. [ 4 Places you wouldn't mind relocating to]: I thought a lot about this one, even engaging my husband’s opinion, since, hey, he would be going too:
1.Florence, Italy- I would love to be in the midst of Renaissance art.
2. Manhattan, USA-This one is my husband’s idea. He said he would like to be in the middle of an urban center where you took a taxi everywhere. He has been watching alot of Seinfeld lately but this sounds good to me as well.
3.There is a beautiful valley around where I grew up. We both agree that living rurally in this valley would be the place to be. It would be near my home town, my family, the reserve where my Mom grew up and where I have cousins and it is beautiful and peaceful. It would be like going back home.
4. an acreage-south of our growing city there is another valley that is reminiscent of the first one I mentioned.

27. [ What are some of your favourite pig out foods]: potato chips (usually substitue a low fat version called Crispers), licorice,popcorn

28. [ What's something you wish you could understand better] The Bible

29. [ Anyone you miss that you haven't seen in a long time] My parents-they have both passed away.

.: In The Last 24 Hours have You:.
30. [Cried]: No

31. [ Gotten Sick]: Yes, I have not been feeling that great lately.

32. [ Eaten] Yes

33. [ felt stupid] A little bit

34. [ Hugged someone]: Yes

35. [ Wanted to tell someone you love them] No, I don't say it enough.

36. [ Met someone new] No

37. [ talked to someone you have a crush on]: No

38. [ Had a fight with your parents]: I wish

39. [Dreamed about someone you can't be with]:No

40. [ Are you the centre of attention or a wallflower] a wallflower who wants to be the center of attention

41. [ What type of automobile do you drive] Ford Windstar, I wouldn’t recomment it though.

42. [ Would you rather be with friends or on a date]:I like the dates I have with my husband.

43. [ Do you attend Church] Yes

44. [ Do you like being around people] sometimes

45. [ Who of ure friends have you known the longest] Mango, we have been friends for 35 years now.

46. [ Who do you argue the most with] Another more recent friend. We argue all the time and personally, I love it.

47. [ Who do you always get along with]: My husband and I are compatible.

48. [Who has the coolest siblings] Of I know, my husband's 3 brothers.

49. [ Who is the smartest] I would say my husband, if this refers to #48

50. [ Who is your hero]: Jesus Christ

51. Have you ever been searched by the cops? Kinda

52. Do you close your eyes on rollercoasters? I don't go on rollercoasters!

53. When's the last time you've been sleigh riding? 7 years ago, when the kids were younger.

54. Would you rather sleep with someone else, or alone? My husband.

55. Do you believe in Ghosts? No

56. Do you consider yourself creative? Yeah

57. Do you think O.J. killed his wife? Possibly

58. Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie? Jennifer

59. Can you honestly say you know anything about politics? I know a little

60. Do you know how to play poker? yes

61. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight? No

62. Do you kill bugs that are in the house? Yes but occasionally I'll throw them outside.

63. Have you ever cheated on a test? I did. I saw the answers beforehand and I still feel bad about it.

64. If you're driving in the middle of the night, and no one is around... do you go through red lights? No

65. Do you have a secret that no one knows but you? It is hard to keep my mouth shut with certain confidants.

66. Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees? Is that baseball?

67. Have you ever Ice Skated? yes and I wear a helmet. I don't risk a brain injury.

68. How often do you remember your dreams? Sometimes

69. When was the last time you laughed so hard you were crying? so long ago I can't remember.

70. Can you name 5 songs by The Beatles? I better be able to, I have a housefull of Beatles fans-Love Me Do, Help, Strawberry Fields, Eleanor Rigby, Let It Be

71. Do you know who Ba-Ba-Booey is? No, is it a friend of Barney's?

72. Do you always wear your seatbelt? Yes

73. What talent do you wish you had? I would like to be a writer.

74. Do you like Sushi? no

75. Have you ever narrowly avoided a fatal accident? no

76. What do you wear to bed? Pyjamas

77. Have you ever been caught stealing? No,I have never stolen anything

78. Do you truly hate anyone? No

79. Rock and Roll or Rap? rock and roll

80. Do you have a relative in prison? No

81. Have you ever sang in front of the mirror like your favorite singer? No although I think I might've tried.

82. Do you know how to play chess? Yes but am a novice.

83. What food do you find disgusting? Octopus and squid

84. Did you ever play, "I'll show you mine, if you show me yours"? No

85. Have you ever made fun of your friends behind their back? Perhaps but not in a mean way. (Not you, Mango)

86. Have you ever stood up for someone you hardly knew? I think so

87. Have you ever been punched in the face? No

88. When is the last time you threw up from drinking too much? Decades ago

89. Have you ever walked out on a movie at the theater? Yes and it was Shrek but I wasn't feeling well.

90. Did you ever sit through a bad movie, just to see how bad it can get? No. Some types of bad, I can endure, others I walk out.

91. Would you consider yourself obsessed with anything? Yes, you know the b... thing

92. Have you ever met someone famous that you really wanted to meet? No.

93. Have you ever been stood up? I think so.

94. When's the last time you screamed at the top of your lungs? Never

95. Did you ever do something that you didn't want to, just to fit in? Probably, but it was a long time ago.

96. Do you consider yourself "the biggest fan" of something? No, not the biggest.

97. I Want: to be worry-free

98: I Wonder: what people think of me (but am afraid to find out)

99. I Wish: that all my family becomes Christians someday.

100. I Always: worry

101. I Am: Done. Now it is your turn

These questions came from Dan_ielle's site.

Thanksgiving in Canada

Today, I am happy that we are invited to my in-laws for Thanksgiving as we have spent many of them turkeyless.

I have only cooked a turkey a couple of times. My children do not like turkey. They complain that it is too dry, probably an indication of my self imposed inexperience. Then there is the fact that no one likes all the turkey recipes I try out afterwards like Calico Creamed Turkey and Leftover Turkey Salad.

The years that we have no turkey, I crave it really bad and the turkey at Denny's is just not the same. One year, we walked by a place where there was a charity Thanksgiving meal going on and I was really tempted. It is not good to be envious on Thanksgiving Day.

I had my husband's family over once for Thanksgiving and found it so stressful that I am afraid to to do it again. So I am very thankful for the people that actually do all the work of making a feast then invite others and only ask for a salad and pop in return.

(Yes, yes, I'll do the dishes)

To Get the Speed of your Blog Page Analyzed for Free...

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Matthew 19:3-6

"Some Pharisees came to Jesus, testing Him and asking, Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason at all?
And He answered and said, Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning, made them male and female,
and said, For this reason a man shall leave his Father and Mother and be joined to his Wife, and the two shall become one flesh?
So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate."

Yesterday a co-worker and I were discussing the many divorces that occur these days. The point was made that often no one is aware that there are serious problems until a separation occurs.

I commented that if the problems weren't kept hidden perhaps others would be able to help.
Upon further thought, I realize that often there is not a lot of support for couples to stay together. If someone admits to having marital difficulties, sympathy and empathy might be expressed but not the importance of staying together. Seventy five years ago, marriage was understood as being permanent, but many don't believe this anymore.

Excerpt from a Life

October 25, 1974
Mango could have gone to her school dance but she didn't. She came over instead. And man what a ball we had!
No one was at home so we moved the record player to the living room. Then we sang individually to DeFranco records and had impromptu choreography. We critiqued one another. Mango is doing good.
For one of her comments of me, she said that I was really good and should be a choreographer. That made me feel really good.
It was lots of fun plus it is exercise. I think I lost a few pounds from it (at least one)
Then we (cassette)taped our Peace-In Show. Its really good! Honestly.
I had so much fun tonight. I'm glad Mango didn't go to the dance. She's my best friend but I can never tell Laurie that...

Friendly Friday

Hi Friends of the Friendless Marching Band! I hope that you are ever eager to extend your hand of friendship to friendless bloggers.






The featured blog of the week is Stringbeanjean of Haunt Me. I liked this blog because:

• of her experimentation
• I marvel at her random creative thoughts
• her posts are short and good
  
• like one of her commenters remarked, it is like finding a secret garden
• okay, she told me that she doesn't want any friends so approach cautiously. These types of friendless people usually deserve a close and appreciative look regardless.
  

There is only one friendless site this week. Please submit any that you discover.
Remember that the definition of a friendless site is that they have less than 5 comments per post and/or less than 10 visitors a day.

For any disgruntled featured friendless sites, please note that this is intended to be an honor but if for some reason you do not feel it is so, you have the option of renouncing your title. Please submit your renunciation speech as Marlon Brando did for his refusal of an oscar stating...
" I,(fill in your name), very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award. And the reason for this being..."
I will post your very polite comment on this page and remove all links to your site. Your site name and reasons why I chose your site to feature will remain.

Some sites that might offer help for those wanting more blog friends are:
BlogExplosion- a blog community that looks fun and offers many new ways to meet new bloggers. There are games and a forum plus bloggers are able to rate other blogs.
Problogger
-This is more for helping bloggers earn money but it has good tips for increasing readership, as well.
Rothacker Reviews
-This offers blogging/writing tips
Michele offers a Meet 'n Greet on the weekend. It is a fun place for bloggers to socialize.

If anyone knows of other sites that can help combat friendlessness, please submit these as well.