tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85600286682126362432024-03-13T12:35:29.049-04:00Bear Nekkid: Conversations with the Bear"Wisdom with a splash of snark"Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-70870813462229353192020-05-17T16:35:00.001-04:002020-05-17T16:35:39.193-04:00Old Bear, New Bear<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIqCNeOpVTM/XsGY3fUEQ6I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/Fua1jjdEsrksDriOFylEGYMC8JVFxwPOACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Old%2BBear%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1297" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIqCNeOpVTM/XsGY3fUEQ6I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/Fua1jjdEsrksDriOFylEGYMC8JVFxwPOACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Old%2BBear%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="259" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Original Next Door Bear</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For those of you wondering, the Bear emerged from the fire
unscathed. The neighbor’s garage went up in flames, but the Bear survived
without a mark. A true ursine miracle. So, he is still there, in the wilds of
suburban Connecticut, in all his glory. He continues to mark every
season, holiday, and world event with his own brand of style. And I will continue to visit periodically if only to keep up with the season's fashion.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Obviously, since I moved, I no longer live next door to the
Bear. I was feeling a little lost until I came upon this guy for sale. When I
saw this face, I knew I had to rescue him. He looked like a good listener. And
he is. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6-0E-X8wS8/XsGdp_wvDPI/AAAAAAAAAqk/sTvp9HilQAILTc8iifVB0h6cnOKso01QwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/w%2Bx%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="587" height="224" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J6-0E-X8wS8/XsGdp_wvDPI/AAAAAAAAAqk/sTvp9HilQAILTc8iifVB0h6cnOKso01QwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/w%2Bx%2B2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dubya times two</span></td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">When I got him home and looked at him closely, I saw a
distinct resemblance to George W. Bush. He’s got that same goofy, confused
wince to his expression. </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce… Dubya. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love having him here and talk to him daily. He’s a constant reminder that even though I have strong opinions and sometimes see
things in black and white, given the right context, I am fully capable of
changing my mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />For example – I did not vote for Bush#2 and when he was POTUS I
generally regarded him as the WORST PRESIDENT EVER. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /><b>And now… looking back…
<i>Damn, I miss him.</i> </b></span></div>
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<![endif]-->Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-29135560334334413652020-05-03T17:02:00.000-04:002020-05-04T12:47:41.038-04:00Beep, Beep, Motherfucker.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rh-SlaGbl8w/Xq8w-9VMjAI/AAAAAAAAApg/rqAVSPrYJ8crXFUT5WVtge23zGc1EybcgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Buddha-Statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rh-SlaGbl8w/Xq8w-9VMjAI/AAAAAAAAApg/rqAVSPrYJ8crXFUT5WVtge23zGc1EybcgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Buddha-Statue.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beep, Beep!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Since my diagnosis, I’ve heard “you’re so brave, you’re so
strong!” from more than a few people. I’m not braver or stronger than anyone
else. I just did what I had to do to survive. I didn’t think about the past
because it was over and frankly, I was glad. My future wasn’t guaranteed, so I didn’t
make plans. All I had was the present day and I just focused on doing what was
required to get through the day. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I’d like to say that Cancer helped me learn patience and
grace and a whole laundry list of other pious and Christian virtues. Yeah, not
so much.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">If you’ve never been to a Cancer treatment center, it’s a
big room with about 25-30 big, cushy recliners because infusion takes a few
hours and they want you to be as comfortable as possible. They serve snacks and
beverages (I kept asking for tequila, but nada). There’s usually a TV in front
of each chair, but to be honest, I didn’t see many people watching them. Most read
or sleep or if they’re lucky, a family member or friend comes with them and
they chat quietly. Aside from the Cancer, it’s a
rather Zen atmosphere. </span><span style="font-size: large;">It’s a quiet place, we all realize we’re there for the same reason,
so people are mostly respectful and supportive.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Mostly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-size: large;">One day, a woman near me was having a full-fledged very
loud pity party. “Why me? Why did this happen to me? I’m a good person, I go to
church every week, I don’t break the law, I’m nice to people, why did this
happen to me?” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
She was really disrupting the chill environment that the medical staff - works
so hard to create. I could see that her whining was starting to make people
uncomfortable. So, being me, I leaned over and said, “Why NOT you?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">That shut her up for a moment, but I could see she was far
from done. So, I pushed. “Really. Why NOT you? Do you think that people DESERVE
to get Cancer? Look around this room – can you honestly say that anyone here
deserved to get sick? That they deserve it and you don’t?” And of course, being
me, I had to take it that one more step. “Cancer isn’t a punishment, it’s
an illness. It’s life. And it was just your fucking turn.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">At which point, she burst into tears and ran for the ladies’
room. I shamed a cancer patient and drove her into a melt-down. Go me. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">As I said, I’d like to say that having Cancer taught me
patience, but it hasn’t. I think it just rearranged my priorities. And it released
my inner bitch. Not that she was ever hiding. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> I still have a low
tolerance for bullshit, I just don’t sweat the small stuff or stress out over
things I can’t control.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> For example – I pull
up to the drive-through pharmacy and there’s a car in front of me. The person
is asking the pharmacist questions about their medication. The driver is having
a hard time hearing and communicating through face masks. I get that. These are crazy times and people are
scared. I’m not going to push. My turn will come.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">However, should the idiot behind me beep his horn (because
his time is SO much more important than anyone else’s), well, I may just slow
down and when it’s my turn, I’ll have a LOT of questions for the pharmacist. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Beep,
Beep, Motherfucker.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;">lo</span></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-18449055111936315682020-04-26T14:08:00.001-04:002020-05-10T11:34:12.048-04:00Cancer Comes to Visit<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28m3MmSvddg/XqXJBqT6C1I/AAAAAAAAApI/b3XqIlnxVEE0YmOYImL4qcAF8_jSJYh6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/EC%2Bmessed.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28m3MmSvddg/XqXJBqT6C1I/AAAAAAAAApI/b3XqIlnxVEE0YmOYImL4qcAF8_jSJYh6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/EC%2Bmessed.png" width="280" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>10-4-2018</b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being a rather private person, I only shared this
information with those who needed to know. I saw no need to give day-by-day
updates on treatments, surgeries and doctor visits. Now that I’m on the other
side of this, it’s a little easier to talk about. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In August of 2018, I found I was occasionally having trouble
swallowing solid food. I chalked it up to eating too quickly but it continued, and
when I dropped 25 lbs in the month of September, I knew something wasn’t right.
My doctor sent me for a Barium Swallow test which confirmed that there was a
blockage. I was diagnosed with Dysphagia and referred to a <span class="e24kjd">gastroenterologist.
At my consult, they assured me this is not uncommon and that endoscopy and
dilation should have me back to normal in no time. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span class="e24kjd">So, on October 4<sup>th</sup>, I went to
the hospital for an endoscopy. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span class="e24kjd"><b><i>*Accelerate to warp speed*</i></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e24kjd"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From the gastroenterology unit, I was
sent to the ER for a CAT scan and they promptly admitted me. On October 5<sup>th</sup>,
I met my oncologist. On the 7<sup>th</sup> I underwent surgery to insert a
feeding tube in my stomach and a port just under my right collarbone. On the 8<sup>th</sup>,
I had my first PET scan. On the 13<sup>th</sup> I had my first chemo
treatment.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span class="e24kjd"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Adenocarcinoma
of the esophagus. I had a malignant mass where the esophagus meets the stomach.
After two weeks in the hospital, I was sent home and underwent chemo every two
weeks through October, November and December</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> of 2018</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. The month of January</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> 2019</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> was double the fun with bi-weekly
chemo and </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">28 rounds of </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">daily radiation therapy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On
March 29<sup>th</sup>, I underwent a robotic “minimally invasive esophagectomy”
or as it’s commonly referred to, the Ivor Lewis procedure. “Minimally invasive”
translates to “instead of one giant wound, we’ll give you about 25 smaller ones
all around your torso.” This procedure took 12 hours – halfway through, they
flipped me over and deflated a lung to complete the rebuilding of my
gastrointestinal plumbing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What
tiny bit of stomach I now have is resting comfortably just under my sternum. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was feeling insulted by the phrase
“minimally invasive” until I saw photos of people who had the traditional
procedure. The scar is commonly called the “shark bite scar” for good reason –
it actually looks like the person has been bitten in half. Having seen that, I will never again
complain about the </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">dozens of</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> scars and dimples that now decorate my torso. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But I
digress</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Son
O’Mine tells me that when I came out of surgery, I had so many tubes and lines
coming out of me, I looked like a cyborg. They gave me great drugs, so I’ll
just have to take his word for it. After 12 hours in surgery, 2 days in ICU and
a week in the hospital I was home again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To make a long story short, on June 3<sup>rd</sup>,
I returned to work part-time for two weeks and then resumed full-time work. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am
still here because of the brilliant medical team at Midstate Medical Center
here in CT led by my oncologist, Dr. Gerard Fumo. This man is a WARRIOR. When
we first met, he told me “Joni, this is not a “treatable” cancer, this is
“<b>CURABLE</b>.” I responded so well to his aggressive treatments that they turned
what was originally a Stage 3 diagnosis to a Stage 1 (only microscopic cells
left) at the time of my surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and
his team were completely invested in my recovery and they held my hand every
step of the way. If anyone ever tells you there are no angels on earth, they’re
wrong. I’ve met them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">My recovery has been long, but every day is a gift that I appreciate.
The “new normal” takes some getting used to. For example, with the new, tiny,
relocated stomach, I must eat 6 small meals a day – small portions, tiny bites.
So, while I dream of chomping down on a cheeseburger, my reality is that I nibble
like a mouse. No more big bites. Also, it took a while for me to figure out why
overeating made my back hurt – until another survivor explained to me that now
my stomach is higher so if it expands, it competes with my lungs for space
inside my ribcage. Hence, overeating = back pain. And the difference between eating
enough and eating too much is ONE BITE. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;">*</span>I am taking part in <a href="https://escproject.org/home">The
Esophageal and Stomach Cancer Project</a> (ESCP) by The Broad Institute of MIT
and Harvard along with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. This is an exciting
initiative that lets doctors, researchers, scientists and patients collaborate
to find effective treatments and diagnostic procedures. I have had (knock wood)
an exceptional response to treatment and if studying that can help someone
else,<b>#CountMeIn</b>.<br /><u></u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">*</span>Note: the ESCP project is currently on hold while our labs process
COVID-19 tests. <br /> </span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So
that’s the scoop, folks. I’m back. 50 lbs. lighter, a little worse for wear, a lot more grateful, and enjoying life. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because
I’m still here. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-58285531151415494842020-04-17T15:40:00.000-04:002020-04-18T08:08:31.351-04:00Let’s Catch Up<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jS-VhEz33FY/XpoBysJRC7I/AAAAAAAAAos/Uz0OorQlO5Y7jPMpb3EJgookDeCZ3CYvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Cuppa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jS-VhEz33FY/XpoBysJRC7I/AAAAAAAAAos/Uz0OorQlO5Y7jPMpb3EJgookDeCZ3CYvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Cuppa.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grab a 'cuppa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h4 class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Wow
it’s been a while. Sorry for the lapse. A lot has happened since we last spoke.
So grab a cup of whatever and I’ll give you the nutshell version.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">
<b>Divorce:</b> Well, after a few years of separation, Sparky and I finally
divorced. Out of respect for Son O’Mine, I will spare you the dirty details.<b><br /><br />Move: </b>Six weeks after the divorce was final, I sold
the house and purchased a condo. Two closings and one move in one day. A real
estate marathon. My attorney was so impressed with my negotiating skills he
told me if I ever decided to start a new career as a real estate paralegal,
he’d hire me. </span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">I’m still considering that.</span></i><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3xRpKGRPy0/XprrOBrbcvI/AAAAAAAAAo4/VOTTYOHGe98zjc_HICZ71HEQ_8iQnOIUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Fire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3xRpKGRPy0/XprrOBrbcvI/AAAAAAAAAo4/VOTTYOHGe98zjc_HICZ71HEQ_8iQnOIUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Fire.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing to Exhale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><br />Fire: </b>One month after I moved out, while it was
undergoing renovations, our old house burned to the ground. Nothing left but
the foundation, one chimney and the curbside mailbox. Thank goodness no one was
injured.<br /><br />When the new owners rebuilt, they used the same footprint
but a completely new floor plan. Since the house was on a corner, they were able
to turn it so that it now faces to the side with a completely new address. It’s
as if 30+ years of history has been completely erased. I felt kind of strange
about it at first, but now I find it rather freeing. The only good thing that
came out of that time is Son O’Mine and that’s fine with me. I left all the
lies, betrayals, the emotional abuse and pain behind when I walked out of that
house for the last time.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">After all those
years of walking on eggshells and holding my breath, the fire allowed me to
finally exhale.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /><br />So, moving on was the most
difficult and best thing that I ever did. I was able to purge and only take the
things that mattered to me. Everything else, I left behind – in more ways than
one.<br /><br />When I started this new
chapter, I promised myself I wouldn’t settle. I had spent my entire life
settling for what other people told me I should have, should like, should do.
No more. I refused to settle and found the house of my dreams. Life was going
great.<br /><br />Then, in October of 2018,
everything changed.</span></span></span></span></h4>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: windowtext;"></span></span><b><span style="color: windowtext;"><br /></span></b></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-17169943477752176232015-08-16T17:52:00.000-04:002015-08-16T17:52:00.459-04:00Margaritas and Memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kvgUKxvliRs/VdEE5IAIijI/AAAAAAAAAdo/jsS6kjDj7SM/s1600/margarita1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kvgUKxvliRs/VdEE5IAIijI/AAAAAAAAAdo/jsS6kjDj7SM/s1600/margarita1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So this week, I had dinner (and margaritas) with my friend Sue. We hadn't seen each other in about 5 years and it's probably 30 years since we had an opportunity to have a real conversation. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We have always been as different as night and day - Sue is outgoing and competitive and athletic - I am none of those things. She has two brothers, I'm an "only." She grew up in a large, loving, crazy Italian family. I loved going to her home because there was always noise and laughter there - the sounds of family, the sounds of love. My family was much smaller, quiet and not very expressive - there weren't many smiles there.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But, our personalities seemed to complement each other. We shared a sense of wonder and imagination (we once saw a UFO - honest!) - and we planned to one day open a Girl Detective Agency. Our time together was punctuated by laughter.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">By the time we entered high school, we'd already started to head in separate directions. I went off to a magnet Art School and Sue's natural athletic talent took her into the sports arena.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After college, we headed off in different directions - and then, two weddings, one birth, one and a half divorces and all the other things that life throws at you.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I wasn't sure what to expect - would we have anything in common after all these years apart?<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The fun-loving girl with the irrepressible laugh who wore my pink high-tops under her wedding gown is still there - but she's grown into a strong, passionate, socially conscious woman who is determined to make this world a better place.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love Sue - she's the closest I've ever had to a sister. And now that I see the amazing woman she's grown into, I have developed a whole new respect for the person that she is. <br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">She makes me want to get my shit together and finish that second book I've been poking at (and avoiding) for years - and finish every other unfinished project I've started over the last decade.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">She makes me want to be a better person.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I think that's the best thing one friend can do for another. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ed2MsJGOqJM/VdECV4gfPII/AAAAAAAAAdQ/_pWAi0Ivgjk/s1600/pink%2Bkeds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ed2MsJGOqJM/VdECV4gfPII/AAAAAAAAAdQ/_pWAi0Ivgjk/s1600/pink%2Bkeds.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here comes the Bride...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-1998508108215185992015-07-19T16:15:00.000-04:002020-05-10T11:37:25.413-04:00A Suburban Murder Mystery<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #999999;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCJKRvGPwCg/VawDmeE21HI/AAAAAAAAAcc/0l7cOw1HcBE/s1600/Bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCJKRvGPwCg/VawDmeE21HI/AAAAAAAAAcc/0l7cOw1HcBE/s320/Bunny.jpg" width="180" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #999999;">The Front Yard Bunny</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="color: #141823; line-height: 12.8800001144409px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px;">
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.88px;">So last week I caught a rabbit red-handed eating my beans. So I went out and bought a gate for the garden and sprayed everything with my homemade garlic-hot-pepper-Ivory-Soap spray. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">A few days later, I found a dead rabbit in the back yard. I don't know if someone poisoned it - some of the neighbors use chemicals in their gardens - or maybe a predator hurt it - maybe it got hit by a car and dragged itself into the yard to die. I'm not even sure it's the same rabbit I've seen in the yard every day. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">All I know is that it was dead. Dead as a doornail. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.88px;"><br />I disposed of the corpse but I was concerned that now I'd have baby bunnies starving to death in the yard. I considered leaving food around the deck but feared I'd attract every deer, fox and coyote for miles. Who would probably eat the baby bunnies. Bad idea. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">The next morning as I was leaving for work, I saw an adult bunny hopping across the front yard. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">Now we have a mystery. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">Who was the victim? Was it the Dad Bunny? I didn't get close enough to check, but it looked bigger than the one I normally see in the front yard. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">Do I have more than one Bunny Family?</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">Perhaps this was not a sad happenstance of natural selection. Perhaps the late Bunny was a casualty of an on-going vicious turf war between the front yard Bunnies and the back yard Bunnies. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;">Some scary shit goin' down here in Suburbia. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 12.88px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="line-height: 12.8800001144409px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-3248181269582812752015-02-14T15:22:00.000-05:002015-02-14T15:22:00.506-05:00Surviving a New England Winter<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M96GST3MK8A/VN-lxyGI5YI/AAAAAAAAAa8/ADKAq6ykH3s/s1600/Bear1snow.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M96GST3MK8A/VN-lxyGI5YI/AAAAAAAAAa8/ADKAq6ykH3s/s1600/Bear1snow.jpeg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Up to his nuts in snow</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So this has been an interesting winter in New England. We already have about three feet of snow on the ground and they're predicting another blizzard this week - dumping another foot of snow.<br />
<br />
My front walk looks like a luge.<br />
<br />
Early in the season, I bought a cover for my shiny stainless grill. It lasted exactly 1 day before it split and dissolved into a puddle around my grill.<br />
<br />
Before the next storm, I went to Home Depot and bought a heavy duty tarp. I thought I was pretty clever (the tarp cost $8). I tied it around my shiny stainless grill and smiled, incredibly pleased at the pretty blue shroud.<br />
<br />
When the storm was over, as I was shoveling, I was almost blinded by the sun reflecting off my shiny stainless grill.<br />
<br />
*sigh...<br />
<br />
I figured it probably flipped off and was under the snow close to the grill. So, in a fit of pissed off redheaded pique, I shoveled a space about 4 feet wide around the shiny stainless grill - no pretty blue tarp. It is apparently somewhere in the half acre of back yard, under three feet of snow.<br />
<br />
*big sigh...<br />
<br />
And now, they're predicting another foot of snow. So, today I decided I am not spending another dime on grill covers - and I improvised.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xMMgaPLUkuU/VN-sORF4SbI/AAAAAAAAAbM/n5fL5Z4IKQs/s1600/grill%2B2015.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xMMgaPLUkuU/VN-sORF4SbI/AAAAAAAAAbM/n5fL5Z4IKQs/s1600/grill%2B2015.jpeg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Trash bags 'n duct tape</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Universal truth - Duct tape is like the force - light on one side, dark on the other and it holds the universe together.<br />
<br />
<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-77777747032769432782015-01-03T07:28:00.000-05:002015-01-03T07:28:00.704-05:00Make a Promise<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_qC79rvPqLI/VKfbgj2NkdI/AAAAAAAAAaE/VG5xks81POY/s1600/pink_ribbon_with_christmas_lights_breast_cancer_ornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_qC79rvPqLI/VKfbgj2NkdI/AAAAAAAAAaE/VG5xks81POY/s1600/pink_ribbon_with_christmas_lights_breast_cancer_ornament.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Merry Christmas!</span></td></tr>
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On December 16th, during a routine visit, my doctor informed me that he found a lump in my left breast. I didn't want to ruin the holidays for the family so I kept it to myself and was scheduled for a mammogram and diagnostic ultrasound - after the New Year - how stoic of me. No time for tears, the holidays are busy times.<br />
<br />
They say you should have your first mammogram at age 40 - I was busy.<br /><br />
All through my 40's I found excuse after excuse to avoid it - I was just too busy.<br /><br />
Every once in a while, I'd do a self-exam. - pressing in concentric circles - and anytime I felt something unusual, I'd quickly switch to check the other boob - my rule of thumb was as long as I have a matching set, I'm good. <br /><br />
Very scientific. Who needs a medical degree - I'd know if something was wrong - right?<br /><br />
So, yesterday I went to the hospital and had my very first ever mammogram. It wasn't comfortable, but it's not painful. These boobs were ironed horizontally and vertically. Then they were drenched in a gallon of goo and ultrasounded thoroughly. I watched the screen as if I knew what to look for.<br /><br />
When it was over, I asked the Radiologist, "Well, did you see anything?"<br /><br />
"The doctor's going to look at these now and then she'll talk to you about what your next steps will be." .<br /><br />
I realize that's a stock answer but those are some terrifying words. And then she left me alone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpxYdRfpv6s/VKfbyDjx4iI/AAAAAAAAAaM/m_b4CpRaILk/s1600/1%2Bin%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpxYdRfpv6s/VKfbyDjx4iI/AAAAAAAAAaM/m_b4CpRaILk/s1600/1%2Bin%2B8.jpg" height="320" width="279" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Did you know...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the next 20 minutes, I tried to recall all of the women I knew who'd been touched by breast cancer - the aunt in Florida who had a mastectomy about 10 years ago, a friend who had a lumpectomy. Both still here, both survivors.<br />
<br />
Then, I remembered Judy. We met as co-workers when I was in my early 30's. Judy was about 15 years older - a vibrant, funny woman with an infectious laugh. You couldn't find two more different women. Judy was a southern black woman raised in South Carolina - now a single Mom raising her teenage children in a small apartment in downtown New Haven. I was a young white suburban wife living the dream as a new homeowner and the mother of a toddler. We shared the same last name and quirky sense of humor - we bonded instantly.<br /><br />
Judy was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer while still in her 40's. By the time they found it, it had spread to her lungs. The last time I saw Judy, she told me she knew the lump was there for a few years. She didn't feel sick, so she ignored it.<br /><br />
She was too busy.<br /><br />
By the time she began to feel sick, it was too late - 6 months later, she was gone.<br /><br />
And now, I was trying not to panic as I waited - wondering how long this thing had been inside me while I'd been too busy.<br /><br />
When the Radiologist came back, she was smiling. "You're all set - we reviewed the mammogram and the ultrasound and we didn't find anything." <br /><br />
That's when the tears came. And being the perennial optimist, I asked, "Are you sure?"<br /><br />
She laughed and said "Yes, we're sure - we're very sure. You're all clear."<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lS2kserTBWw/VKfc7oeFQkI/AAAAAAAAAag/9-taLn_Uvgs/s1600/mammogram-reminder-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lS2kserTBWw/VKfc7oeFQkI/AAAAAAAAAag/9-taLn_Uvgs/s1600/mammogram-reminder-front.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
Ladies -<br /><br />
We put so much effort into taking care of everyone else, that we often set aside our own needs for the sake of family, husbands and children. But the very best thing we can do for them is to take care of ourselves.<br /><br />
I have a son whom I adore. And I plan to be around to embarrass him for many years to come. I make this promise to him and I advise all of you Ladies to do the same for the ones you love.<br /><br />
<b><i>I love you, Son O'Mine - and because I love you - I promise to take care of me. </i></b><br />
<br />
Make that promise - and keep it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1yBOlmUd8U/VKfcaDmw9II/AAAAAAAAAaY/JZW8IXq1y_c/s1600/happy-new-year-2015-wallpapers%2B(17).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1yBOlmUd8U/VKfcaDmw9II/AAAAAAAAAaY/JZW8IXq1y_c/s1600/happy-new-year-2015-wallpapers%2B(17).jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Happy New Year!</b></span></td></tr>
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<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-41450820026334188052014-09-28T15:56:00.001-04:002014-09-28T16:04:27.735-04:00The Universe was testing my patience.I have never been a patient person.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JQHLc7Hlc0/VChpt0el8hI/AAAAAAAAAZU/eHc8bholIRA/s1600/bear%2Bphone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JQHLc7Hlc0/VChpt0el8hI/AAAAAAAAAZU/eHc8bholIRA/s1600/bear%2Bphone.jpg" height="320" width="193" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
However, I have found that even at this age (I prefer the term "seasoned" rather than "mature"), I am capable of learning.<br />
<br />
This week, the family plan on our phone contract was due to expire. So, Son O'Mine and I discussed this and decided to form a smaller "family plan" with just the two of us. Since our phones were both due for upgrades, we took a spin to Best Buy last Saturday to test drive some smart phones (our previous phones were semi-smart).<br />
<br />
Like Johns at the Bunny Ranch, we looked them all over, and he decided on the Iphone, while my heart was taken with the Samsung Galaxy. OK, decision made.<br />
<br />
Next we headed over to the Verizon store where we originally set up the family plan two years ago. The day after a new Iphone release, it was understandably busy - so we waited - patiently.<br />
<br />
When it was our turn, we were told they cannot change the plan there. We have to call a special secret phone number - actually my ex had to call since he was the only authorized user on the account. And - he had to call with me in the room - he would release our two numbers at which point I had to grab the phone from him, claim those two numbers and set up my new account. If not, we would most likely lose our numbers.<br />
<br />
Could they make this more difficult?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2kCZpHiWVhc/VCheeFCIOEI/AAAAAAAAAYo/XluAORBsc4w/s1600/work%2Bfor%2Bit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2kCZpHiWVhc/VCheeFCIOEI/AAAAAAAAAYo/XluAORBsc4w/s1600/work%2Bfor%2Bit1.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">You want what?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well, the ex was at a football game. Over FroYo, Son O'Mine and I decided that we'd just go back to Best Buy and upgrade our phones - we still had a week to straighten out the service plan.<br />
<br />
Back to Best Buy we went - chose our phones, and the girl began to enter all the data into her computer. Over, and Over, and Over again. Apparently, the Verizon database was trying to upgrade three phones instead of only two and it kept giving her errors. So she called over a manager (Megan - my new BFF) and she began the process again. She called Verizon on her cell phone for assistance. She shut down the computer and restarted. Called Verizon again. We all moved across the store to the Customer Service computer and began again. Called again. At this point, she was speaking to a Supervisor at Verizon who couldn't help. The Sup eventually disconnected the call and would accept no further calls. (Have I mentioned that Verizon has hands-down the absolute WORST customer service in the world?)<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv2KnnR-fMA/VChggB54LOI/AAAAAAAAAY4/5HX1EUzsfwk/s1600/work%2Bfor%2Bit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv2KnnR-fMA/VChggB54LOI/AAAAAAAAAY4/5HX1EUzsfwk/s1600/work%2Bfor%2Bit2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">How badly do you want that phone?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So... after 3 1/2 hours, and a valiant effort by Megan, we left Best Buy - <b>with our old phones</b>. Three and a half hours in which I did not swear, I did not raise my voice, I did not lose my shit.<br />
<br />
<i><b>You're welcome, Best Buy. </b></i><br />
<br />
Sunday morning, Son O'Mine took his father hostage and we called Verizon's special secret phone number to release - claim - the rogue phone numbers. Done.<br />
<br />
Back to Best Buy we went, Megan actually met us at the door and we began the process all over again. As she was ringing it up, I saw her eyes widen - <i>Sweet Mother of God, what now???</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
She leaned over the counter and whispered to me - "Your phone just went on sale this minute - for half price!!"<br />
<br />
I can only believe that this was the Universe's way of rewarding me for not having a melt-down the day before. Or perhaps it was because Thursday was International Talk Like a Pirate Day and it was a test of my "Argggggggggh" reflex.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.talklikeapirate.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HABajtT2HI0/VChkwhZocQI/AAAAAAAAAZE/r5jpFd-FgvA/s1600/pirate2.jpg" height="320" width="286" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was unBearably patient - and it paid off.<br />
<br />
Go figure.<br />
<br />
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<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-7377715962318191662014-03-16T13:55:00.000-04:002014-03-16T14:01:32.385-04:00A sighting in Connecticut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HLlmxXFB3rg/UyXm672N1MI/AAAAAAAAAXU/VXwSLPKvego/s1600/Safari_Girl_w_Binoculars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HLlmxXFB3rg/UyXm672N1MI/AAAAAAAAAXU/VXwSLPKvego/s1600/Safari_Girl_w_Binoculars.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"<i>It might seem crazy what I'm about to say."</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So the other day, a strange, nondescript gray minivan pulled into my driveway. Since I wasn't expecting anyone and our neighborhood is infested with Jehovah's Witnesses, I did what any normal, mature adult would do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I slipped into Ninja mode, dropped to the floor and crawled under the windowsill to scope it out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The van had no signage on it, so that narrowed it down - either someone looking for directions or Jesus was off the leash again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From my vantage point under the window, I saw a skinny dude with a tall hat and a neon green vest get out of the van and jog up my front walk.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As I stumbled to the front door, I heard a *thump* on the porch. I opened the door just as he jumped back into the van and drove away.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I opened the door and looked down and that's when the magnitude of what I'd just witnessed hit me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MWitl645r8/UyXdVxqw_9I/AAAAAAAAAWw/RffSNA1t8bc/s1600/drone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MWitl645r8/UyXdVxqw_9I/AAAAAAAAAWw/RffSNA1t8bc/s1600/drone.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b>Drone Droppings</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That's right. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I had just seen with my own two eyes, the mysterious and elusive <b>Amazon Drone!</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is epic. This is the technological equivalent of Bigfoot, Yeti and the Chupacabra. This is like the Terminator only better. <br /><br />They took something that originally looks like this:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fy9B5ch8x-k/UyXdZx3pkPI/AAAAAAAAAW8/FeLilwHCyWw/s1600/drone1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fy9B5ch8x-k/UyXdZx3pkPI/AAAAAAAAAW8/FeLilwHCyWw/s1600/drone1.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Prototype</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />And they camouflaged it to look like this:</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CTlGNd9mG8/UyXebp7X6-I/AAAAAAAAAXI/6FqO4xR_Ik8/s1600/pharrell.jpg" /></span></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><b>Happy Drone</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />So keep your eyes peeled and listen for the clapping. You just might spot him too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/y6Sxv-sUYtM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This has all the makings of a blockbuster reality show. I need to organize a drone-tracking team.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"I hear claaaaaaaaaapping..."</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
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Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-28217393065983866042014-02-01T18:21:00.000-05:002014-02-01T18:21:57.589-05:00Faking Football No More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HidkI_oWpaw/Uu13g2Bd5SI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/TqS0ArSgPCM/s1600/deflated_football.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HidkI_oWpaw/Uu13g2Bd5SI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/TqS0ArSgPCM/s1600/deflated_football.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
For the past 30 years I faked football.<br />
<br />
You see, I married into a family that enjoys sports. Correction: they do not enjoy sports, they obsess over sports. In all those years, I can't recall more than a handful of conversations that didn't revolve around football, softball, baseball, basketball or someotherkindofball. And those conversations that <i>were </i>about other topics quickly turned into a sports analogy followed by "did you see that game...?"<br />
<br />
And we're back to sports.<br />
<br />
So I learned to fake it.<br />
<br />
When my 9 year old son played football it was relatively easy to fake it. There are very specific rules that Moms of football players must follow. <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Once he has the uniform on absolutely no touching. Don't fix his hair, don't tuck his jersey in and under no circumstances do you tie his shoelaces. </li>
<li>Absolutely no public displays of affection.</li>
<li>Refrain from vaulting over the other spectators to jack up the kid who tackled your baby. </li>
</ul>
<div>
At this stage, you don't need to know the rules of the game, you only need to learn the Mom dance:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Keep your eyes on your own kid at all times </li>
<li>When he falls down - you stand up.</li>
<li>When he gets up - you sit down. </li>
</ul>
<div>
And that's all you need to know to be a successful football Mom. </div>
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Luckily for me, when he hit high school, Son O'Mine's focus turned to Art School and I no longer had to do the Mom dance every Sunday afternoon. </div>
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Unfortunately, his father did <i>not </i>lose interest. Coaching became his obsession. And I do mean obsession. All football, all day, all week, all year round. And the Coach's wife isn't just watching one kid - no, she's expected to remember every kid, his number, what position he plays, his life history, his shoe size and what he had for breakfast. Sweet Mother of God, now I had to actually pay attention to the game. And as soon as the game was over, he would recap every friggin' minute of the game in excruciating detail. In our home, there was no such thing as football season. As soon as the last game was over, he would be working 24/7 planning plays and recruiting players for the next year. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I think it's some bizarre genetic brain mutation - This man could recall with perfect clarity, every play of every game he'd ever seen or played in the past 50 years, yet he could never remember where the hell he left his glasses. Go figure.</div>
<br />
This year, I did not watch one football game all year. Not from the bleachers or the couch, live or televised. Not interested, don't care. Really, Really don't care.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5SH6Ql7Tb0/Uu19fG4yfnI/AAAAAAAAAWg/ZJh9bKnunvs/s1600/dont+care+football.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5SH6Ql7Tb0/Uu19fG4yfnI/AAAAAAAAAWg/ZJh9bKnunvs/s1600/dont+care+football.jpg" height="267" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But tomorrow, I <i>will</i> be watching a bowl game - <a href="http://www.ibtimes.com/puppy-bowl-2014-online-livestream-where-what-time-watch-tv-during-super-bowl-xlviii-1551793" target="_blank">The Puppy Bowl</a>. Penguin cheerleaders, puppy tailgaters, kitty half-time. It doesn't get any better than that. </div>
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<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-6936828486198564192013-10-30T19:24:00.000-04:002013-10-30T19:24:30.346-04:00You'll never believe what I saw this weekend...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYxFJoDf8-k/UnGHoJLWpKI/AAAAAAAAAVY/Gm-kxWEGYnE/s1600/boo+bear+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYxFJoDf8-k/UnGHoJLWpKI/AAAAAAAAAVY/Gm-kxWEGYnE/s320/boo+bear+2012.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Trick or Treat!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So this past Saturday, Son O'Mine and I went on a bus trip to Salem, MA. It's something we've talked about for a while now, and the scheduling finally worked so we could make it happen. So for those of you who've considered going, here are some tips:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>If you're going for the first time, the Saturday before Halloween is probably not the best idea unless you enjoy waiting in line for everything. </li>
<li>For first timers, a bus trip is the way to go. There is a shit-ton of traffic in and around Salem so hop on the bus, bring your NOOK or tablet and chill. It took us about 45 minutes to travel a few miles from the town line to where the action was. </li>
<li>Wear comfortable shoes. You will do a lot of walking. And some of the sidewalks are wonky, wavy brick so leave the heels at home. </li>
<li>Buy the discount exhibit ticket combo (Pirate Museum, Witch Village, Wax Museum, etc). Once you go through one of them, you're bound to want more. Save a buck or two. (FYI - I am a self-professed weenie when it comes to gory scary things, so if I can emerge without trauma, so can your 7 year old)</li>
<li> Each exhibit has its own gift shop - almost all carry the same touristy junk. The most interesting booty was found in the artisan tents set up in front of the Peabody. If you appreciate hand-made jewelry (I do) you'll find some beautiful pieces (I did) and you can chat with the artists. </li>
<li>Don't be afraid to wander. It's pretty easy to find your way around the town and sometimes you have the most interesting adventures when you stray from the path. </li>
</ol>
<div>
Son O'Mine and I had a great lunch at a bar called "In a Pig's Eye" on Derby Street. It's a bit of a walk, but worth the trip. And on the way back, we passed this place:</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0TlqBiKEQNc/UnGO0HOJ01I/AAAAAAAAAVo/hf-i3DQ1gVI/s1600/bunghole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0TlqBiKEQNc/UnGO0HOJ01I/AAAAAAAAAVo/hf-i3DQ1gVI/s320/bunghole.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Nuff said</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tell me you could pass this place and *not* take a picture. I dare you. It's not every day you see one of these in neon. And we passed another one on the way out of town.<br />
<br />
Apparently it's a <a href="http://www.bungholeliquors.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6&Itemid=26" target="_blank">chain</a>.<br />
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Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-17970306046340412252013-07-07T10:39:00.000-04:002013-07-07T10:44:22.918-04:00"Let go or be dragged"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DPpGG1q-Yq8/Udl05iL8LlI/AAAAAAAAAU4/S9tBsjmnfOA/s1600/let-go-or-be-dragged.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DPpGG1q-Yq8/Udl05iL8LlI/AAAAAAAAAU4/S9tBsjmnfOA/s320/let-go-or-be-dragged.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I was a child, I lost all of the people closest to me within the space of one year. Consequently, I've always had a difficult time letting go of people. Even those who were toxic and hurtful and damaging. I clung to them fiercely because my biggest fear was being left alone. <br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Over the past several weeks I have reconnected with some old friends that I'd lost touch with. They reminded me that my personhood isn't lost, she's simply been buried for a long time. </span></div>
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeptKscchNM/Udl4eKEScRI/AAAAAAAAAVI/U2eqrZpxfpY/s1600/JONI%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeptKscchNM/Udl4eKEScRI/AAAAAAAAAVI/U2eqrZpxfpY/s320/JONI%5B2%5D.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Me I once was</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />Yes, that was me at age 26. She was an individual - a person. She was bright and loving and strong and wild and brave. Most of all, she was fearless. And I miss her.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I see now that what I once believed was a safety net, was actually an anchor dragging me down. Because I was too afraid to let go.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So this is me... letting go. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It may take me a while to dig my way out, but I intend to fly.</span></div>
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<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-91521283839276821852013-06-30T13:24:00.001-04:002013-06-30T13:24:12.621-04:00She can shove a plant through concreteWith all the changes going on in my life lately, I haven't been doing as much (well, none at all) gardening as I did last summer. I planted a few things, but nothing close to the gardening frenzy I slipped into last year. Each day as I leave for work, I glance to the right of the porch, hoping for a sign that the <a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/04/50-shades-of-green.html" target="_blank">concrete-busting columbine</a> is reappearing.<br />
<br />
But, so far, nothing.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, the masochist in me decided it would be a good idea to spend a couple hours in the scorching heat, weeding the shade beds I planted last year. Today, when I went out to weed the front walk, I found this little beauty smiling up at me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KZ5-6db7wdE/UdBjyTsQaJI/AAAAAAAAAUo/5jTibWjh7ck/s1024/pansy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KZ5-6db7wdE/UdBjyTsQaJI/AAAAAAAAAUo/5jTibWjh7ck/s320/pansy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hellooooooo!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I like to think it's MMN (<a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/04/50-shades-of-green.html" target="_blank">Mistress Mother Nature</a>)'s way of showing her appreciation. But then again, it could just be her way of saying "Take care of my babies, or I'll shove a plant up your crack."<br />
<br />
Either way, message received loud and clear.<br />
<br />
Yes, Ma'am.<br />
<br />
<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-87043565686358527142013-05-26T09:39:00.000-04:002013-05-26T09:39:25.941-04:00A sign of Spring<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Of all the plantings in my garden, this one blossomed before any other. The sight of it made me smile and hit me like a warm hug. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HRk3qKKhUXs/UaIOQEl2lII/AAAAAAAAAUM/55nF9nmThQA/s1600/col2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HRk3qKKhUXs/UaIOQEl2lII/AAAAAAAAAUM/55nF9nmThQA/s320/col2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">She loves me</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/04/50-shades-of-green.html" target="_blank">She</a> is still there... no matter what. And that brings me a sense of security and hope for the future. No matter what, life goes on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So even though I probably won't be living here next year, I will still tend to the garden as long as I am here. Hopefully, whoever lives here next will do the same. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If not, they will just have to be whipped into shape by <a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/04/50-shades-of-green.html" target="_blank">Mistress Mother Nature</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-10086012736165746282013-05-04T11:01:00.000-04:002013-05-04T11:07:38.890-04:00Straight up - hold the Snark<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MCmx_d-FQN8/UYUeH7uoHVI/AAAAAAAAAT4/XnpgXQ_vtaQ/s1600/drink1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="203" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MCmx_d-FQN8/UYUeH7uoHVI/AAAAAAAAAT4/XnpgXQ_vtaQ/s320/drink1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Top Shelf - Straight up </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is perhaps the most difficult post I've ever had to write. I'm so much better at the funny, snarky bites. But I need to say this without sarcasm or jokes.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here it is, the unvarnished truth.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sparky and I are splitting up. Things came to a head back in January and after almost 30 years together, we've decided to divorce. Those of you who know me well know that I am a fiercely private person. I do not wish to air (or have aired by others) my dirty laundry in public. Quite frankly, only the two of us truly know the truth and those of you who've heard stories have only heard one side. There are two sides to every story and the truth generally lies somewhere in the middle.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Out of respect for my son, I'm not going to publish details of our marriage or it's demise here. It's really no one's business but ours. Let's just say that this is the best thing for all of us.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As for me, after the dust settled, I was forced to take a good honest look at my life and admit that I haven't been happy for a very, very long time. The initial feelings of panic and devastation passed quickly and were replaced by a huge sense of relief. Pretending things are perfect takes an enormous amount of energy. <br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To my friends and family, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I lied to you for so many years. I'm sorry I didn't allow myself to trust enough to ask for help. I hope you know that I kept everyone at arm's length not because I didn't trust you - I didn't trust that I was deserving of your love or friendship. I am learning to reach out (baby steps) and have found the support and love of my friends is there - was always there. I was just too afraid to ask. I owe you all (especially you, Laura) my eternal gratitude and love.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To my son, I'm sorry that I couldn't give you the perfect life I so wanted for you. However, every day when I look at you and see the strong, loving, creative and brilliant man you've grown into, I know that despite the fact that your father and I failed each other, we can take pride in the knowledge that we were successful as parents. Despite our faults, we have managed to raise an amazing son.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And that, my friends, is what's going on. We're still in the process of working out all the details (amazing how much stuff and business you accumulate in 28 years) but things are moving along in a relatively civilized manner.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One thing is not negotiable.<br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I get custody of the Bear.<br /><br />/snark on</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-56743050993070691222013-02-16T15:30:00.001-05:002013-02-16T15:30:55.112-05:00Sorry for the lapse... I was on a secret missionMy apologies for the long silence -<br />
<br />
BUT....<br />
<br />
I have some news...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><strong>I HAVE A JOB!!!!!</strong></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQvW3xwU9pk/UR_luhG5ycI/AAAAAAAAATY/es_kFMaavSE/s1600/hallelujiah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQvW3xwU9pk/UR_luhG5ycI/AAAAAAAAATY/es_kFMaavSE/s320/hallelujiah.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Hallelujah!!!</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Funny how life works out. I spied the job posting on <a href="http://indeed.com/">Indeed.com</a> (Great site!). It was a position with a local non-profit organization that I'd actually done business with at one of my previous jobs. The idea of working for them had never crossed my mind but it just seemed to jump out at me from the list. <br />
<br />
Ah, what the hell. <br />
<br />
So, I shot them my resume and a cover letter, got a call the very next day and interviewed the day after that. The next day I had an offer. <br />
<br />
I started my new position two days after I filed for my last available week of unemployment benefits. <br />
<br />
And right after the transgender blizzard (Nemo aka Charlotte) dropped a few feet of snow on us. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z64dXU5v658/UR_o1Q-W3DI/AAAAAAAAATg/LovT75Qn6lg/s1600/Two-Feet-of-Snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z64dXU5v658/UR_o1Q-W3DI/AAAAAAAAATg/LovT75Qn6lg/s320/Two-Feet-of-Snow.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Trans-storm Tootsies</strong></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This storm was relatively gentle on us - we didn't lose power and were able to dig out without much drama although it did take 7 hours to clear our driveway and walk with the snowblower. But I think I would've walked the 8 miles to work in that snow if I had to. <br />
<br />
I always believed that everything happens for a reason and this job with this particular organization coming at this particular time... was destiny. <br />
<br />
It's a small office populated with people who are positive and supportive and respectful of each other and the customers.<br />
<br />
I have an office to go to, a job to do that is challenging and fulfilling and I am surrounded by genuinely <em>nice</em> folks. <br />
<br />
I am beary, beary happy. <br />
<br />
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-76556241434635833822012-11-04T15:35:00.000-05:002012-11-04T15:35:18.012-05:00Forget Politics - Help your neighbors<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S0JHlyikPsA/UJbAC7GC2YI/AAAAAAAAATA/5V9B1kCtubk/s1600/witch+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S0JHlyikPsA/UJbAC7GC2YI/AAAAAAAAATA/5V9B1kCtubk/s320/witch+2012.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">I like to think this is Sandy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We lucked out in this part of CT. While Sandy raged all around us, those of us who live in the central part of the state made it through relatively unscathed. Our family lost power for less than a minute and we sustained no damage. <br />
<br />
The same can't be said of those in coastal CT, NY and NJ where the storm surge caused devastation. And now, we're looking at a Nor'easter heading in our direction this week. <br />
<br />
We are a community. Whether a town, a city, a neighborhood, a country... or a planet. We are all linked together by our humanity. <br />
<br />
Here are just a few ways to help via the Red Cross:<br />
<br />
Donate to the <strong><span style="color: black;">Red Cross</span></strong> online, <a href="http://www.redcross.org/charitable-donations" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></strong></a><br />
<br />
Donate $10 via text - it couldn't be easier. Just text REDCROSS to 90999 and the $10 donation will be added to your next phone bill. <br />
<br />
Donate by phone:<br />
<br />
Call <b>1-800-RED CROSS</b> (1-800-733-2767) <br />
<br />
<strong>1-800-257-7575 (Español)</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue;">If you can't give money or items, go to your local Red Cross location and inquire about giving blood. That doesn't cost you a thing.</span></em> </strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://rockawayhelp.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Here's</span></strong></a> a site for residents of Rockaway, Breezy Point and Broad Channel to get information and assistance. If you live nearby and have power, go <strong><a href="http://rockawayhelp.com/how-can-i-help/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE</span></a></strong> and see what you can do to help.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Show your humanity - find a way to help.</span></em></strong> <br />
<br />
<br />
With the elections coming up, I for one am tired of all of the negative political posturing. We're up to our asses in Radio, TV and print ads, lawn signs, mailings and phone calls, rhetoric, lies and Bullshit. So I propose that we all take a day off from politics. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow, for just one day, let's forget politics and focus on our fellow citizens. <br />
<br />
Do something. Do one something to help another person. <br />
<br />
Mitt and Barak can take care of themselves for one day. <br />
<br />
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-51004074776342035332012-10-28T09:27:00.000-04:002012-10-28T09:27:53.244-04:00Frankenstorm is coming!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GaeUg5MFE/UI0t_EQo1nI/AAAAAAAAASU/9jQx0vkoVlk/s1600/boo+bear+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GaeUg5MFE/UI0t_EQo1nI/AAAAAAAAASU/9jQx0vkoVlk/s320/boo+bear+2012.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Trick or Treat!!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Last year, Halloween came and went while those of us who live in New England were without power for a week under two feet of <a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2011/10/snow-fair.html" target="_blank">snow</a>. <br />
<br />
This year, we put up our spooky decorations early only to hear that now, Hurricane Sandy is heading our way... for Halloween. <br />
<br />
Crap. <br />
<br />
So, as we're all taking down anything that can fly away, the Bear put on his costume. I thought this was a wildly optimistic move on his part until I saw this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4uu6IhDJdqU/UI0w_EWuydI/AAAAAAAAASs/w_snWxgSzN0/s1600/Bear+Butt+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4uu6IhDJdqU/UI0w_EWuydI/AAAAAAAAASs/w_snWxgSzN0/s320/Bear+Butt+2012.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Smart Ass Bear</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Now I see that this is an editorial statement. <br />
<br />
Take that, Sandy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-50801476462540832782012-10-27T15:42:00.001-04:002012-10-27T15:42:27.595-04:00No Power Exchange here - it's all about HEREvery time I get a little full of myself and forget who holds the power, <a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/04/50-shades-of-green.html" target="_blank">Mother Nature</a> reminds me she calls the shots around here. <br /><br />
I love hydrangeas so a few years ago, I planted a couple at the front corners of my house. Each year they get more lush and full, and I see a few more blooms. This year, they were looking great - one flowered towards the end of the summer and the other was not far behind. I was thrilled. <br />
<br />
And then I made the mistake of bragging that my hydrangeas looked better than the neighbor's. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wrh4vV5lrZQ/UIw0iYjrSoI/AAAAAAAAAR4/zvxg5YEj9fI/s1600/dead+hydrangea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wrh4vV5lrZQ/UIw0iYjrSoI/AAAAAAAAAR4/zvxg5YEj9fI/s320/dead+hydrangea.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">RIP Hydrangea</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That night we had an early frost. <br />
<br />
And yet... that Pink Columbine that magically appeared in my garden this summer is freakishly healthy. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkOmBf2qIfA/UIw1pElmxoI/AAAAAAAAASA/BkdVYA_yLNA/s1600/Columbine+Green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkOmBf2qIfA/UIw1pElmxoI/AAAAAAAAASA/BkdVYA_yLNA/s320/Columbine+Green.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Look at me I'm GREEN!!!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />It's like she's rubbing my nose in it.Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-27574600738307115962012-09-05T12:12:00.000-04:002012-09-05T12:12:15.421-04:00Dear Stop & Shop...
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">I think we should see other people.</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">I tried to be sympathetic because I was sure you were just going
through a midlife crisis. I was patient while you underwent a complete makeover
with new colors, shorter aisles and flashy displays. </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">I understand - it’s not easy getting older. We all get to that point
where it feels like life is passing us by. </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">So I was willing to go along with the sexy new look if
it made you feel better about yourself. Then came the
gradual withdrawal. At first it was a couple of self-checkout lines. Then
SCAN-IT popped up at every entrance. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yh9Pqnt0PRw/UEd1K_yuXRI/AAAAAAAAARU/OvQtKNI-Zzs/s1600/scanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yh9Pqnt0PRw/UEd1K_yuXRI/AAAAAAAAARU/OvQtKNI-Zzs/s320/scanner.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;">“Do it your damn self.”</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
B<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">ut now it’s just getting downright weird. This week when I was
shopping, I found this sad little display in the middle of the Pet Food aisle. </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CgDusv3lzQI/UEd2AIJNMSI/AAAAAAAAARc/M06O4b3ss2s/s1600/canpunkin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CgDusv3lzQI/UEd2AIJNMSI/AAAAAAAAARc/M06O4b3ss2s/s320/canpunkin1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Is this some secret grocery code?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">That’s right – canned pumpkin. </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VHHmhlXzEOg/UEd4cLck_pI/AAAAAAAAARk/LmGPiwO8gvM/s1600/canpunk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VHHmhlXzEOg/UEd4cLck_pI/AAAAAAAAARk/LmGPiwO8gvM/s320/canpunk2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">I could not make this up</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">I figure either Dementia has set in… or you’re fucking with
me. </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Either way, this relationship is over. I’m tired of being taken for
granted. You don’t seem to care whether I’m around or not. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">I need to move on and find someone who values me. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">Oh, who am I kidding? You're close and convenient and we have a history. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"><em><strong>God help me - I just can't quit you!</strong></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"></span> </div>
Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-872362674625443132012-08-05T14:23:00.000-04:002012-08-05T14:23:25.609-04:00Stevie Wonder needs backup<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I think the birds are having parties in my garden at night.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> I gave them birdhouses and nest-building-yarn and I've been careful not to use toxic chemicals around the yard. The only thing I asked was that they stay out of the vegetable garden. As a gentle reminder, I hired Stevie Wonder as a bouncer.</span><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHseorXAx0k/UB6wuZqcJPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/1VJoqZlKy4I/s1600/stevie+wonder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHseorXAx0k/UB6wuZqcJPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/1VJoqZlKy4I/s320/stevie+wonder.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Stevie Wonder on the job</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Now I'm thinking Stevie may need some backup. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Lately, I've noticed suspicious litter all around the outside edge of the garden. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I don't actually see the birds do it, but the evidence is there every morning - bird droppings all around the outside of the fence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">So far they haven't been eating the vegetables (although Sparky thinks they snatched his blueberries despite the wickedly brilliant bird cage he built) but they're getting closer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The next thing we know, they'll be smoking and drinking and making s'mores in our firepit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Punks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So I think we need to get some additional security.</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-srdyr6o9O0M/UB6x6XVJ6jI/AAAAAAAAARA/hfLnnt830jI/s1600/Chuck-Norris-Talking-Bobble-Head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-srdyr6o9O0M/UB6x6XVJ6jI/AAAAAAAAARA/hfLnnt830jI/s320/Chuck-Norris-Talking-Bobble-Head.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Back off, you feathered freaks!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Oh yeah.</span><br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-8693028121869212912012-07-27T20:23:00.000-04:002012-07-29T15:40:26.246-04:00There she is...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6otmkWihJPA/UBMv7mdfBSI/AAAAAAAAAQk/XtTBAaFAt7U/s1600/pig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6otmkWihJPA/UBMv7mdfBSI/AAAAAAAAAQk/XtTBAaFAt7U/s320/pig.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Linda Hamilton</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Injected, rubbed and restrained... and spent.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The slut.</span>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-54814270058711049322012-07-27T19:17:00.000-04:002012-07-29T15:42:32.243-04:00There is a body in my trunk...<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Well, I drive a Jeep Cherokee so I don't actually have a trunk. But there is a space behind the back seat - and there is currently a body in it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A dead body. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Dead, dismembered and drained.</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTTux1aVLGA/UBMUcwi0qZI/AAAAAAAAAPs/hXurrP3Hc_0/s1600/pig1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTTux1aVLGA/UBMUcwi0qZI/AAAAAAAAAPs/hXurrP3Hc_0/s320/pig1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Her feet are in a separate bag...</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />I didn't know her before her untimely demise, but I suspect she is a Hamilton.</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I2kkuHBS3hs/UBMe6_fQCQI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/47yHguMxZ80/s1600/3hams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I2kkuHBS3hs/UBMe6_fQCQI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/47yHguMxZ80/s320/3hams.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;"> Note the strong family resemblance</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />Sparky and his BFF (My Sister-Wife, Geno) used to roast pigs in a huge oil drum in Geno's backyard. Everyone else loved to watch the pig spin while drinking copious amounts of beer and tequila but since I don't drink all that much, the sight of a corpse rotisserie-ing all day in a rusty oil drum was less than appetizing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Then, I discovered </span><a href="http://www.lacajachina.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">La Caja China</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I saw Roberto kick Bobby Flay's butt in a Pork Shoulder Throwdown and I was sold. I had found THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT for my husband. (We've been married 27 years - I ran out of great gift ideas around 15 years ago, so this was a true Christmas miracle.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I knew it was a hit when Sparky assembled the box in the middle of my living room on Christmas Eve. Since then, there's been no stopping him. Several times a year, Sparky whips out his Caja China and cooks up a pig.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's a big production, mind you. He restrains the pig spread-eagled on a rack, injects the pig with secret juice, then he rubs the pig all over with coarse salt and spices...</span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">'Scuse me... had a little "50 Shades of Pork" moment there...'</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Anyhow, a friend of Son O'Mine is having a party tomorrow and he asked Sparky to roast a pig. So, at this very moment, he's out there restraining and injecting and rubbbbbbing...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I'm going to watch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Hey, I'm old... I take my thrills wherever I can. </span><br />
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<br />Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8560028668212636243.post-33150765795494466262012-07-13T08:17:00.002-04:002012-07-13T08:20:26.914-04:00Bear Nekkid Bird Sanctuary<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">SF Homes in Wooded Setting</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">When I was a new bride, I was a collector. For some reason, I felt compelled to accumulate groups of things - handcrafted things like birdhouses and hand-thrown pottery. Pretty things but not particularly useful and a pain in the ass to keep free of dust. Luckily, I have the attention span of gnat so these collections never grew to the hundreds or thousands, just enough (I thought) to make a statement. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Until recently, the birdhouses were displayed above my kitchen cabinets. Since Sparky retired, we've been doing a lot of work on the house and the yard and I've been in this "Re-use, Recycle or Dump" mode. In my zeal to de-clutter the house as we renovate, some items have migrated outdoors. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The shade gardens in front of the house needed... something.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">As you know, we New Englanders love us some yard ornaments. Yes indeedy, we do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">So rather than go the way of flamingos and Mary-on-the-halfshell, I decided to relocate the birdhouses outdoors. We mounted the houses on some beautiful old weathered fence posts and I have to admit, I'm pretty pleased with the way they turned out. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jshJuqDsock/UAAGYSTTtII/AAAAAAAAAO4/9X0bI8ofVpo/s1600/condo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jshJuqDsock/UAAGYSTTtII/AAAAAAAAAO4/9X0bI8ofVpo/s320/condo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Bird Condos - Great Amenities, Low HOA Fees</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Now, I didn't actually expect birds to use these since they're placed so close to the house. My thought was that they would be purely decorative. The birds, however, had other ideas. Someone is currently renovating this Bait Shack directly in front of my Living Room window. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZD87-u2iRA/T__-nJCFMYI/AAAAAAAAAOs/P_YKRGbd0GU/s1600/condo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZD87-u2iRA/T__-nJCFMYI/AAAAAAAAAOs/P_YKRGbd0GU/s320/condo1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Cozy Single Family - Under Renovation</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I came home one day last week and found a Chickadee about to enter the birdhouse with a bright blue string clutched in her beak. Since I love to decorate, I decided to help her with the reno project. I pulled out my knitting bag and tied scraps of bright purple and blue yarn to various trees in the yard. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Apparently, <a href="http://bearnekkid.blogspot.com/2012/06/mother-nature-is-pleased.html" target="_blank">Mistress Mother Nature</a> is pleased because the next day, I was gifted with this:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i23w60c862c/UAAOCAAlQXI/AAAAAAAAAPY/bP6s-3-LIOk/s1600/blue+7.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i23w60c862c/UAAOCAAlQXI/AAAAAAAAAPY/bP6s-3-LIOk/s320/blue+7.11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: small;">Another single perfect bloom</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Although, someone else is NOT so happy because I found the corpse of a baby bird on the top rail of my garden fence. I felt like the guy in The Godfather who found the horse's head in his bed. I suspect it's the Subterranean Pythons...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">This is war.</span></div>
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</div>Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07235075696292696111noreply@blogger.com0