If my life were perfect, I would be a best selling writer and go on book tours to meet my readers. I would dress like Mary Higgins Clark and buy beautiful pieces of jewelry from jtv.com. I would have the house of my dreams with a huge kitchen with plenty of room for entertaining friends. I would laugh and have fun often. My husband would make me laugh. We would travel. We would have a vacation home near the ocean. We would enjoy great restaurants, live music, broadway plays, art museums, and zoos. I would probably never stop smiling.
In reality, life isn't so perfect.......but I have many things to be grateful for and I'm good at making my own fun no matter what happens around me.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Writers Digest
The latest issue of Writers Digest Magazine came in the mail yesterday. I have already read half the issue. It's full of great writing inspiration, ideas, and motivators to get a writer writing. I love reading writing magazines, writing books, and writing. It's part of me. Maybe I will never have a novel published or more articles published or my poetry appreciated but I write anyway.
I'm grateful for Writers Digest Magazine. "USING FRUSTRATION, HURT AND ANGER TO FUEL YOUR WRITING" by Bill O'Hanlon really jumped out at me in this Big 10 issue packed full of articles every writer needs to read. Often when things happen to me or I feel victimized, I keep it inside and not write. This article talks about the power that transfers onto the page when you write about it. I guess I should write a memoir about living in Alsea the last 10 years, and then another memoir about my feelings and experiences with religion, and then a memoir starting at the beginning in Libby, Montana. I guess my question that keeps raking at me is so I let myself write my heart out with novels or memoirs or juvenile fiction........will it arrive at the destination? will it be wanted? will it be taken out my house when my husband and I leave for a few days? Yes, I feel insecure about it. Number 9 says "write yourself out of or through a crisis," and number 6 says to "write to deal with fears or trauma." I've lived through too much loss and trauma. Maybe I should write how I want my life to be.
I'm grateful for Writers Digest Magazine. "USING FRUSTRATION, HURT AND ANGER TO FUEL YOUR WRITING" by Bill O'Hanlon really jumped out at me in this Big 10 issue packed full of articles every writer needs to read. Often when things happen to me or I feel victimized, I keep it inside and not write. This article talks about the power that transfers onto the page when you write about it. I guess I should write a memoir about living in Alsea the last 10 years, and then another memoir about my feelings and experiences with religion, and then a memoir starting at the beginning in Libby, Montana. I guess my question that keeps raking at me is so I let myself write my heart out with novels or memoirs or juvenile fiction........will it arrive at the destination? will it be wanted? will it be taken out my house when my husband and I leave for a few days? Yes, I feel insecure about it. Number 9 says "write yourself out of or through a crisis," and number 6 says to "write to deal with fears or trauma." I've lived through too much loss and trauma. Maybe I should write how I want my life to be.
Atlas Shrugged
I have been having fun reading ATLAS SHRUGGED by Ayn Rand. I have read some of her books in college and I am revisiting her writing. This book is about trains, which I love, and a great heroine, Dagny Taggart. It is a mix of philosophy, business, and great drama. I have been reading the 35th anniversary edition while listening to the audio book at the same time so I can become completely lost in the story.
It's fun to read about d'Anconia Copper Mines when it makes me think of my grandfather who was an engineer at the Anaconda Copper Mine in Great Falls, Montana. My grandfather died a month before I was born so I didn't ever get to know him.
The perfect place to read this book would be on an Amtrak vacation as you cross the country from one coast to the other and back again.
It's fun to read about d'Anconia Copper Mines when it makes me think of my grandfather who was an engineer at the Anaconda Copper Mine in Great Falls, Montana. My grandfather died a month before I was born so I didn't ever get to know him.
The perfect place to read this book would be on an Amtrak vacation as you cross the country from one coast to the other and back again.
My Garden
As I was watering my garden this morning and walking around my yard, I keep being reminded of things that have changed at times when we have been away from Alsea. Take for example, my Shasta Daisy......... The first thing that was done to it was a cutting of the center. I didn't do it. My husband didn't do it. I didn't give permission for anyone to do it. Then the crowded multiple plants stuck together were taken away and out of my yard leaving one plant. I didn't do it. My husband didn't do it. I didn't give permission for anyone to do it.
This kind of stuff happens when we are gone away from Alsea and I want it to stop. I come home to find the center branches out of new trees cut off to prevent it from growing too tall. I know how to do all this stuff or I can look it up in a gardening book or in a gardening magazine or look online at all the great gardening websites. I went through the OSU Master Gardening program in 1999 in Salem, Oregon so that I could learn more about gardening.
No one has the right to come into my yard to tend my yard and garden. No one has permission. I have lots of No Trespassing signs posted and I need to put more up along our 3.68 acres.
The point is that it makes me feel like until this mystery is solved, until I know who is doing this, until it is stopped, I can't leave with my husband for any length of time. I don't have the money for expensive cameras and monitors.
No one also has permission to come into my house. So many things have been missing over the years like photos, journals, books, original art. What is the point of drawing and painting when some of the art that I am most proud of was stolen? What is the point of writing when it is stolen out of my house? How do I protect myself from people coming into my house when I am gone? All kinds of things have been missing--fabric, documents about my inventions and the e-mails to the engineering department at OSU, letters, things I have written, etc. Not fair. How much do I have to lose?
Either it is a professional crook or someone is abusing their position of power and authority to get into my house.
Guess I am staying home. Guess I am not going to Ohio or Washington since no one is helping me prevent and solve the problem. I wrote to two national political leaders with no answers or response. I guess I have to give up all my dreams because everything I try is squelched. Guess I was born into the wrong area, the wrong time, around the wrong people in order to bloom and become all I can be.
This kind of stuff happens when we are gone away from Alsea and I want it to stop. I come home to find the center branches out of new trees cut off to prevent it from growing too tall. I know how to do all this stuff or I can look it up in a gardening book or in a gardening magazine or look online at all the great gardening websites. I went through the OSU Master Gardening program in 1999 in Salem, Oregon so that I could learn more about gardening.
No one has the right to come into my yard to tend my yard and garden. No one has permission. I have lots of No Trespassing signs posted and I need to put more up along our 3.68 acres.
The point is that it makes me feel like until this mystery is solved, until I know who is doing this, until it is stopped, I can't leave with my husband for any length of time. I don't have the money for expensive cameras and monitors.
No one also has permission to come into my house. So many things have been missing over the years like photos, journals, books, original art. What is the point of drawing and painting when some of the art that I am most proud of was stolen? What is the point of writing when it is stolen out of my house? How do I protect myself from people coming into my house when I am gone? All kinds of things have been missing--fabric, documents about my inventions and the e-mails to the engineering department at OSU, letters, things I have written, etc. Not fair. How much do I have to lose?
Either it is a professional crook or someone is abusing their position of power and authority to get into my house.
Guess I am staying home. Guess I am not going to Ohio or Washington since no one is helping me prevent and solve the problem. I wrote to two national political leaders with no answers or response. I guess I have to give up all my dreams because everything I try is squelched. Guess I was born into the wrong area, the wrong time, around the wrong people in order to bloom and become all I can be.
Young & the Restless
I've been watching the Young and the Restless on CBS for years. The neverending story teaches, entertains, and shows what can happen as the characters interact.
I love Victoria and Billy together. The fun, joking-around magic, when they are alone away from their battling families, take me to a place in my heart that is full at the moment that I watch. It's rare when the chemistry between two actors dazzle and radiate off the screen in this way. Victoria and Billy need their own prime time show but there has to be lots of fun and joking around with lots of laughter.
I love Victoria and Billy together. The fun, joking-around magic, when they are alone away from their battling families, take me to a place in my heart that is full at the moment that I watch. It's rare when the chemistry between two actors dazzle and radiate off the screen in this way. Victoria and Billy need their own prime time show but there has to be lots of fun and joking around with lots of laughter.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Publishers Weekly
On page 132 of the July 19th, 2010 issue of Publishers Weekly is an essay that every children's writer, every teacher, every person who cares about gifted children and anyone who loves books MUST read. All children's writers need to read it to see what an impact they make when they take the time to reach out and communicate with readers and how important it is to visit schools.
"Tour of Duty: Why one children's author keeps visiting schools" by Lynne Jonell is worth the price of this issue. I read it to my husband. The first paragraph is what every first paragraph should be and after I read that to him, he agreed to listen to the rest. I didn't get very far before I started choking on tears since I feel passionate about gifted children. I had to stop more than once. It is a powerful essay. Gifted children should be taught in schools on three levels--at their academic level in all subjects and above their level to challenge and for enrichment. Review should not predominate but be kept to a minimum. Now in most public schools throughout the country, gifted children only review. Sad and tragic! President Obama is working hard to encourage excellence in schools but there are few takers for the incentives. I guess we care more about protecting teachers than in protecting the rights of children to learn and to encourage teachers who motivate. Oregon rejected it.
Lynne Jonell's latest book is HAMSTER MAGIC. After reading this article, I can see that her books need to be on the top of the list of all book buyers for children. President Obama bought her book, THE SECRET OF ZOOM for his daughters.
Publishers Weekly is a must read for writers to keep current with what is happening in book publishing. Anyone who loves books can use it as a list of what to read. What I love most are the interviews and articles about and by writers.
"Tour of Duty: Why one children's author keeps visiting schools" by Lynne Jonell is worth the price of this issue. I read it to my husband. The first paragraph is what every first paragraph should be and after I read that to him, he agreed to listen to the rest. I didn't get very far before I started choking on tears since I feel passionate about gifted children. I had to stop more than once. It is a powerful essay. Gifted children should be taught in schools on three levels--at their academic level in all subjects and above their level to challenge and for enrichment. Review should not predominate but be kept to a minimum. Now in most public schools throughout the country, gifted children only review. Sad and tragic! President Obama is working hard to encourage excellence in schools but there are few takers for the incentives. I guess we care more about protecting teachers than in protecting the rights of children to learn and to encourage teachers who motivate. Oregon rejected it.
Lynne Jonell's latest book is HAMSTER MAGIC. After reading this article, I can see that her books need to be on the top of the list of all book buyers for children. President Obama bought her book, THE SECRET OF ZOOM for his daughters.
Publishers Weekly is a must read for writers to keep current with what is happening in book publishing. Anyone who loves books can use it as a list of what to read. What I love most are the interviews and articles about and by writers.
Tiziano Ferro
I have a new favorite singer--Tiziano Ferro from Italy. I watched the 2010 World Music Awards. Tiziano Ferro won as best Italian artist. He was the best part of the entire show. He sang "Breathe Gentle." He's young. His music transcends all age groups. Passion exudes from every pore as he sings. He's a world performer.
Friday, July 16, 2010
CBS Watch Magazine
I subscribe to CBS Watch Magazine because CBS is my favorite of the three major network channels. I consistently watch CBS more than any other channel.
The last CBS Watch Magazine had a feature on the Mentalist, one of my favorite shows. Simon Baker is a surfer from Australia who is magic on the screen. I wonder if he knows Aussie pro surfers Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson?
I haven't received the last issue in the mail. I saw it mentioned on television. It's a feature on NCIS, another great CBS choice. So........just where is my issue?
The last CBS Watch Magazine had a feature on the Mentalist, one of my favorite shows. Simon Baker is a surfer from Australia who is magic on the screen. I wonder if he knows Aussie pro surfers Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson?
I haven't received the last issue in the mail. I saw it mentioned on television. It's a feature on NCIS, another great CBS choice. So........just where is my issue?
2010 Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Marathon
My son, Benjamin ran in the 2010 Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Marathon. He came in 13th place overall and first in his age group. He had a finish time of 2:47:39. He's sponsored by Seattle Running Company. I'm so proud of him.
Anna, my granddaughter, wanted to run with him when she saw him at the 18 mile marker. She's only 1 1/2. She's amazing, just like her Dad.
Anna, my granddaughter, wanted to run with him when she saw him at the 18 mile marker. She's only 1 1/2. She's amazing, just like her Dad.
Favorite TV shows
My top three favorite television shows are Huge on ABC Family, and Eureka and Haven on the SyFy Channel.
Jersey Couture
Jersey Couture is one of my favorite shows on the Oxygen Channel. It's all about Diane & Co. in Freehold, New Jersey which is an amazing dress boutique with a large inventory of dresses for prom and any formal occasion that can cost from $500 to $10,000. Diane and her daughters, Chrissy and Kim are smart business women who are not satisfied until they find the perfect dress for their customers. This reality show is fun to watch and they are entertainers and funny on the show.
It would be fun to work at the shop so I could have the opportunity to be part of it. I think they should have an additional service for their hard-to-please customers. A computer program or a large notebook with different fabric choices and designs could make a custom choice possible. The woman could choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and designs. For example, a woman could pick a kelly green silk, with three quarter length sleeves, long length, and a slimming fit. Prompts on the computer program could help make choices easier with tips for what looks best on what figure. All measurements are added into the program. If the woman has original design drawings to incorporate into the dress, this could be given to someone in the store. If there is enough time before the event, this unique design made for the woman who walked through the door could be made for her by seamstresses or a dress designer that contracts with Diane & Co. This way a woman would receive the dress of her dreams and feel certain that her dress is an original that is made just for her.
They have a "fluff me" service for weddings to help the bride get ready for her important day. I wonder if they rent gowns for weddings for all members in the wedding party with a complete fluff me service for all the bridesmaids, bride, and mothers?
It would be fun to work at the shop so I could have the opportunity to be part of it. I think they should have an additional service for their hard-to-please customers. A computer program or a large notebook with different fabric choices and designs could make a custom choice possible. The woman could choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and designs. For example, a woman could pick a kelly green silk, with three quarter length sleeves, long length, and a slimming fit. Prompts on the computer program could help make choices easier with tips for what looks best on what figure. All measurements are added into the program. If the woman has original design drawings to incorporate into the dress, this could be given to someone in the store. If there is enough time before the event, this unique design made for the woman who walked through the door could be made for her by seamstresses or a dress designer that contracts with Diane & Co. This way a woman would receive the dress of her dreams and feel certain that her dress is an original that is made just for her.
They have a "fluff me" service for weddings to help the bride get ready for her important day. I wonder if they rent gowns for weddings for all members in the wedding party with a complete fluff me service for all the bridesmaids, bride, and mothers?
Friday, June 25, 2010
Barefoot Contessa
I watch Barefoot Contessa on the Food Network Channel because I really love the show and I like her. She's fabulous and a wonderful cook. I wish I could be friends with her. She's nice and kind. Her husband is really handsome. It's cute how she dotes on him with all his favorite dishes and he loves everything she does.
She made the most fabulous chocolate cake that I want to make. It must be full of calories with the 3 sticks of butter, cream cheese, buttermilk. It looks yummy.
Cooking is a gift to share with others. To sit around a table and share a great meal is a celebration. Dr. Andrew Weil said in one of his books that if you eat an unhealthy meal at a table full of friends and family, the food doesn't have all the harmful consequences as if you are alone, stressed, and lonely. I bet there is something to that.
She made the most fabulous chocolate cake that I want to make. It must be full of calories with the 3 sticks of butter, cream cheese, buttermilk. It looks yummy.
Cooking is a gift to share with others. To sit around a table and share a great meal is a celebration. Dr. Andrew Weil said in one of his books that if you eat an unhealthy meal at a table full of friends and family, the food doesn't have all the harmful consequences as if you are alone, stressed, and lonely. I bet there is something to that.
All My Children
I'm a new fan of All My Children, a day time soap opera. I love Erika played by Susan Lucci. She's a true fighter and inspirational heroine. On Monday she had quite a speech in her hospital bed after surviving a plane crash and time in the wilderness.
She said, "Surviving those mountains, it's made me stronger than I ever was. I have never been so sure of who I am and what I want than I am right now. If I get hurt so be it. If I have to fight the Greenleys of the world, bring them on. One thing I know is that I will not hide and I will definately not surrender. I have survived too much, way too much, to run off and hide because I'm afraid I am going to get hurt again. I will live the life I want with a man who wants the same things I want. I will take the pleasure with the pain and the good with the bad and I will never give up. That's for sure. I will never ever quit. I will have the life I want because I am committed to living every moment to the fullest."
Great writing! It would be fun to split off into clones and go out to be everything I can be. One of me would look for a boss to work for like Erika. I would want to work a 80 hour week and make piles of money, live in a big house, and wear nice clothes.
Soap operas are a life saver for people who are alone. They give you a dose of friends without all the complications. You can see all the problems play out in the television show without having to get into the muck. Easier..........
She said, "Surviving those mountains, it's made me stronger than I ever was. I have never been so sure of who I am and what I want than I am right now. If I get hurt so be it. If I have to fight the Greenleys of the world, bring them on. One thing I know is that I will not hide and I will definately not surrender. I have survived too much, way too much, to run off and hide because I'm afraid I am going to get hurt again. I will live the life I want with a man who wants the same things I want. I will take the pleasure with the pain and the good with the bad and I will never give up. That's for sure. I will never ever quit. I will have the life I want because I am committed to living every moment to the fullest."
Great writing! It would be fun to split off into clones and go out to be everything I can be. One of me would look for a boss to work for like Erika. I would want to work a 80 hour week and make piles of money, live in a big house, and wear nice clothes.
Soap operas are a life saver for people who are alone. They give you a dose of friends without all the complications. You can see all the problems play out in the television show without having to get into the muck. Easier..........
Wild Birds
We feed wild birds at our house and I also try and grow plants that will be food for them. We hang up two hummingbird feeders. We put up two black thistle feeders for the American Goldfinch. We have four sunflower seed feeders for a mix of other birds. We put out a couple of suet cakes a day. We also put out dried corn cobs in a feeder. So we get a lot of birds. We have most of the feeders under the eaves of our house to bring them up close to the window so we can see them. It's so much fun to watch them. I love it and so does my husband.
Right now there are six American Goldfinch on the black thistle feeder next to the window as I am typing. My favorite bird that comes is the Evening Grosbeak. They are so beautiful. My husband thought they were parrots that escaped when he first saw them come to our feeders.
I've heard how the black birds are predators and drive away the other birds. Phooey! If you put out enough food for everyone, there isn't any fighting. I have ravens who come and patrol the yard like sentinels. Ravens are very intelligent and have been known to talk and warn people of danger. I have to admit that I'm not that warm and fuzzy about the starlings.
I love the Stellers Jays. We have a large group of ring-tailed pigeons that come. Yesterday I counted 15 on one feeder. They even stood on the backs of each other to get the sunflower seeds. We had to put a large board under neath one of the feeders so it could be a platform for the bigger birds since they had a hard time getting at the seed. Before the large birds would have to flap their wings while trying to get a sunflower seed. All the wild birds are welcome in my yard. I love them all.
Right now there are six American Goldfinch on the black thistle feeder next to the window as I am typing. My favorite bird that comes is the Evening Grosbeak. They are so beautiful. My husband thought they were parrots that escaped when he first saw them come to our feeders.
I've heard how the black birds are predators and drive away the other birds. Phooey! If you put out enough food for everyone, there isn't any fighting. I have ravens who come and patrol the yard like sentinels. Ravens are very intelligent and have been known to talk and warn people of danger. I have to admit that I'm not that warm and fuzzy about the starlings.
I love the Stellers Jays. We have a large group of ring-tailed pigeons that come. Yesterday I counted 15 on one feeder. They even stood on the backs of each other to get the sunflower seeds. We had to put a large board under neath one of the feeders so it could be a platform for the bigger birds since they had a hard time getting at the seed. Before the large birds would have to flap their wings while trying to get a sunflower seed. All the wild birds are welcome in my yard. I love them all.
Cats
I have two indoor cats. They are exclusively indoor cats and I've had them for a long time. We got them at the Humane Society in Salem approximately 14 years ago.
First came Angel who was needed since I found a mouse. She had been returned to the Humane Society twice before and we were told that if we took her back, it would be the end of her. She wouldn't let me hold her any time I wanted and I wanted a cat that I could hold any time I wanted. I had a dream and dreamed of an orange and white cat. I sent my husband out to look for an orange and white cat and he came home with Thomas. Thomas is perfect. He would let me hold him all day, everyday, if I wanted. He follows me around the house. He loves crunchy cat treats. He mopes around the house if I am gone and gets angry if I am gone for a couple of days. He turns his back on me, refuses to purr, and doesn't lighten up until I've been home for several hours. I found a cure for this pouty behavior. The last two or three times I have left him alone, I have left phone messages that he can hear in the house telling him that I will be home and that I know he has all the food and water he needs and that I love him. It works. He feels connected and is excited to see me when I come home. It helps him not feel so insecure. When he was a kitten, he was left to starve in an abandoned building so I think this is why.
My cats are indoor cats and never go outside. This way they don't eat the wild birds, catch fleas, or get run over. When we went to the Humane Society, they had us sign a paper that said that we would keep them indoors and we agreed. They said that the life of an indoor cat was 12 years or more and the life of an outdoor cat was 3 years. Well, it's true. My cats are 14 years old and counting. They run around the house, love cat treats, are healthy and are fun.
Cats are more independent and maintenance free than dogs. I've been wanting another Basset Hound, a senior Basset Hound but then I remember what it is like to be up in the middle of the night because they have to go outside. Cats are easier. Although I admit that I would be mighty tempted if I saw the saggy, moanful look of a Basset Hound who needed a home. Basset Hounds aren't yappy or drag you along when you go for a walk. They are mellow and easy going. I've always loved Bassets. Maybe someday.........
First came Angel who was needed since I found a mouse. She had been returned to the Humane Society twice before and we were told that if we took her back, it would be the end of her. She wouldn't let me hold her any time I wanted and I wanted a cat that I could hold any time I wanted. I had a dream and dreamed of an orange and white cat. I sent my husband out to look for an orange and white cat and he came home with Thomas. Thomas is perfect. He would let me hold him all day, everyday, if I wanted. He follows me around the house. He loves crunchy cat treats. He mopes around the house if I am gone and gets angry if I am gone for a couple of days. He turns his back on me, refuses to purr, and doesn't lighten up until I've been home for several hours. I found a cure for this pouty behavior. The last two or three times I have left him alone, I have left phone messages that he can hear in the house telling him that I will be home and that I know he has all the food and water he needs and that I love him. It works. He feels connected and is excited to see me when I come home. It helps him not feel so insecure. When he was a kitten, he was left to starve in an abandoned building so I think this is why.
My cats are indoor cats and never go outside. This way they don't eat the wild birds, catch fleas, or get run over. When we went to the Humane Society, they had us sign a paper that said that we would keep them indoors and we agreed. They said that the life of an indoor cat was 12 years or more and the life of an outdoor cat was 3 years. Well, it's true. My cats are 14 years old and counting. They run around the house, love cat treats, are healthy and are fun.
Cats are more independent and maintenance free than dogs. I've been wanting another Basset Hound, a senior Basset Hound but then I remember what it is like to be up in the middle of the night because they have to go outside. Cats are easier. Although I admit that I would be mighty tempted if I saw the saggy, moanful look of a Basset Hound who needed a home. Basset Hounds aren't yappy or drag you along when you go for a walk. They are mellow and easy going. I've always loved Bassets. Maybe someday.........
Friends
My husband asked a doctor recently, who is an expert in this area, a question for me during a visit. I wanted to know what is the secret to having a friend and getting along. This doctor said, "You have to agree with everyone and what everyone says, if you want to have friends and belong in a group."
I guess this is my problem. I don't want to give up my own opinions or identity. I can't be invisible. I can't give up who I am for the sake of blending in and belonging to a group. It is much more important to me to find the truth and to learn than to belong. I have too many questions. I am much more concerned with knowing I am right at the moment and am honest than in always agreeing. I need to be able to express concern, if I have it. People don't need to agree with me. That's not what I want because then it would be boring. How can you learn from people, if everyone agrees?
So I have no idea where I belong. I guess I belong right where I am--staying at home reading stacks of books.
I have wanted to find supportive people of my goals and dreams, and from whom I can learn. I can't afford to travel far. I can't afford memberships. I'm not sure where I belong. And if it is the truth that you truly have to agree with everyone, then I don't see how it can work.
I work hard to be nice and be supportive of others. I enjoy encouraging people but I'm not willing to say yes when I feel no or say that the sky is green when I can see that it is purple. I don't believe that a true friend would ask this of me. I guess I am dreaming and what I have wanted is nonexistent.
I don't understand why everyone needs to agree in order to work together. The joy of being around others is the learning about the differences and other points of view. Why does everyone have to agree? I guess I just don't get it.
A book is a much better solution to learn from and find support or entertainment.
A few years ago I thought I had found a friend with similiar interests who had a husband who I thought would get along with mine. It seemed to work until she had my whole life planned out into the future. I don't have time to sit on the phone for three hours and then do it again the next day.
I guess I don't want to get into the mess of relationships either because having a friend means that you take on their mess too. I have enough to deal with.
I guess this is my problem. I don't want to give up my own opinions or identity. I can't be invisible. I can't give up who I am for the sake of blending in and belonging to a group. It is much more important to me to find the truth and to learn than to belong. I have too many questions. I am much more concerned with knowing I am right at the moment and am honest than in always agreeing. I need to be able to express concern, if I have it. People don't need to agree with me. That's not what I want because then it would be boring. How can you learn from people, if everyone agrees?
So I have no idea where I belong. I guess I belong right where I am--staying at home reading stacks of books.
I have wanted to find supportive people of my goals and dreams, and from whom I can learn. I can't afford to travel far. I can't afford memberships. I'm not sure where I belong. And if it is the truth that you truly have to agree with everyone, then I don't see how it can work.
I work hard to be nice and be supportive of others. I enjoy encouraging people but I'm not willing to say yes when I feel no or say that the sky is green when I can see that it is purple. I don't believe that a true friend would ask this of me. I guess I am dreaming and what I have wanted is nonexistent.
I don't understand why everyone needs to agree in order to work together. The joy of being around others is the learning about the differences and other points of view. Why does everyone have to agree? I guess I just don't get it.
A book is a much better solution to learn from and find support or entertainment.
A few years ago I thought I had found a friend with similiar interests who had a husband who I thought would get along with mine. It seemed to work until she had my whole life planned out into the future. I don't have time to sit on the phone for three hours and then do it again the next day.
I guess I don't want to get into the mess of relationships either because having a friend means that you take on their mess too. I have enough to deal with.
Publishers Weekly
I was shocked that the United States doesn’t corner the book publishing market in the world!
The June 21, 2010 issue of Publishers Weekly lists the top publishers of the world. How many times is the United States listed in the top 50? Not 50! Not 45! Not 40! Not 35! Not even a whopping 25! Only 10……….
#2 Reed Elsevier--UK/NL/US
#8 McGraw-Hill Education
#11 Cengage Learning --Canada/US
#12 Scholastic Corp.
#13 Wiley
#14 Houghton Miffllin Harcourt-- US/Cayman Islands
#19 Harper Collins
#27 Simon & Schuster
#28 Readers Digest
#46 Perseus
Who is in the Number One spot? Pearson in the UK.
Germany is also on the list 10 times!
Interesting……………..
The June 21, 2010 issue of Publishers Weekly lists the top publishers of the world. How many times is the United States listed in the top 50? Not 50! Not 45! Not 40! Not 35! Not even a whopping 25! Only 10……….
#2 Reed Elsevier--UK/NL/US
#8 McGraw-Hill Education
#11 Cengage Learning --Canada/US
#12 Scholastic Corp.
#13 Wiley
#14 Houghton Miffllin Harcourt-- US/Cayman Islands
#19 Harper Collins
#27 Simon & Schuster
#28 Readers Digest
#46 Perseus
Who is in the Number One spot? Pearson in the UK.
Germany is also on the list 10 times!
Interesting……………..
Red Bull
I received a sample of Red Bull in the mail.
I have a story about Red Bull. When I was waiting in line to audition for Biggest Loser in Portland, a truck drove up with Red Bull advertising on it and handed out free samples of Red Bull. I went over to take one. I was grateful. I stuck it in my purse to save it. I’ve never had one before. I waited in line for 11 hours with all the others who all shared hope in their hearts to be on Biggest Loser. It was getting so hot and stuffy when we finally got inside. The line was wrapped around inside the building as it was on the outside. I was out of money. I couldn’t buy water. I couldn’t afford the pizza, they were selling. At the 10 ½ hour point, I was almost done for. I had run out of steam. I thought I was going to faint or pass out. Then I remembered the Red Bull in my purse. I took it out. I couldn’t even open it myself. I had to ask for help. I drank it and it was really good. I had no idea what it would taste like. Then I waited and the magic happened. I started to feel better. I got my second wind and a few more hours of energy. At the 11 hour mark in line when I was about to audition for Biggest Loser, I was ready and rejuvenated.
I have a story about Red Bull. When I was waiting in line to audition for Biggest Loser in Portland, a truck drove up with Red Bull advertising on it and handed out free samples of Red Bull. I went over to take one. I was grateful. I stuck it in my purse to save it. I’ve never had one before. I waited in line for 11 hours with all the others who all shared hope in their hearts to be on Biggest Loser. It was getting so hot and stuffy when we finally got inside. The line was wrapped around inside the building as it was on the outside. I was out of money. I couldn’t buy water. I couldn’t afford the pizza, they were selling. At the 10 ½ hour point, I was almost done for. I had run out of steam. I thought I was going to faint or pass out. Then I remembered the Red Bull in my purse. I took it out. I couldn’t even open it myself. I had to ask for help. I drank it and it was really good. I had no idea what it would taste like. Then I waited and the magic happened. I started to feel better. I got my second wind and a few more hours of energy. At the 11 hour mark in line when I was about to audition for Biggest Loser, I was ready and rejuvenated.
James Patterson
I love James Patterson. He’s my favorite. Someday, if my ship ever comes in, I’m going to have a huge library with floor to ceiling book cases. In one of the book cases will be signed first editions of all of James Patterson’s books.
Buy all his books at your nearest bookstore. If you haven't discovered him yet, you'll want to read everything he's ever written.
Right now I’m reading JUDGE AND JURY. Again he came to rescue.
On page 98 is the paragraph. It’s about a judge who is being harassed by the mob.
“This was in my bed last night. In my bed, Mr. Cavello! Under my covers. The evening edition broke around seven. My house was completely locked up and alarmed. No one has been inside since four that afternoon. You have an educated guess as to how this got there, Mr. Cavello?”
This is what has been happening to me. It started in Gates where we lost everything and continued for the last ten years in Alsea. A crook or someone official abusing their power position?
When I got to page 98, I didn't feel alone. I felt connected. I know what it feels like to have someone go through your things and not be able to protect yourself. I know what it feels like to feel so powerless. My solution until I know this is over is to stay home.
Buy all his books at your nearest bookstore. If you haven't discovered him yet, you'll want to read everything he's ever written.
Right now I’m reading JUDGE AND JURY. Again he came to rescue.
On page 98 is the paragraph. It’s about a judge who is being harassed by the mob.
“This was in my bed last night. In my bed, Mr. Cavello! Under my covers. The evening edition broke around seven. My house was completely locked up and alarmed. No one has been inside since four that afternoon. You have an educated guess as to how this got there, Mr. Cavello?”
This is what has been happening to me. It started in Gates where we lost everything and continued for the last ten years in Alsea. A crook or someone official abusing their power position?
When I got to page 98, I didn't feel alone. I felt connected. I know what it feels like to have someone go through your things and not be able to protect yourself. I know what it feels like to feel so powerless. My solution until I know this is over is to stay home.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Oil Spill and BP
When corporations cause harm, they need to pay. Consequences must follow.
BP has destroyed the ecosystem of the Gulf. There's no end in sight. Businesses and careers have been damaged and destroyed. Families have lost their income. Fish, birds, and wildlife have died and are being harmed. Tourism in the area is damaged at millions of dollars a day. The clean up is hazardous to those who do the work.
When businesses cause harm in the course of doing business, they must be responsible. They must be held accountable. There has to be consequences.
Large corporations are acting like bullies and spoiled little kids who want their own way and do not want consequences. Yes, they must pay for the damage. Yes, we need to make sure that businesses can not do this again. A fine for misbehavior isn't good enough. Assets should be frozen until the damage is paid.
I applaud President Obama for expecting and callling for consequences. This can't keep happening in this country.
We are a global community. When one section of the world is damaged, it directly effects other areas of the world. We need to work together to make sure that someone who is out for greed and money isn't allowed to destroy without consequences.
If there were consequences in place, the oil industry would have invested in money to prevent accidents like this. Their major investment is in PR. PR isn't going to get you out of this one, BIG OIL.
BP has destroyed the ecosystem of the Gulf. There's no end in sight. Businesses and careers have been damaged and destroyed. Families have lost their income. Fish, birds, and wildlife have died and are being harmed. Tourism in the area is damaged at millions of dollars a day. The clean up is hazardous to those who do the work.
When businesses cause harm in the course of doing business, they must be responsible. They must be held accountable. There has to be consequences.
Large corporations are acting like bullies and spoiled little kids who want their own way and do not want consequences. Yes, they must pay for the damage. Yes, we need to make sure that businesses can not do this again. A fine for misbehavior isn't good enough. Assets should be frozen until the damage is paid.
I applaud President Obama for expecting and callling for consequences. This can't keep happening in this country.
We are a global community. When one section of the world is damaged, it directly effects other areas of the world. We need to work together to make sure that someone who is out for greed and money isn't allowed to destroy without consequences.
If there were consequences in place, the oil industry would have invested in money to prevent accidents like this. Their major investment is in PR. PR isn't going to get you out of this one, BIG OIL.
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