lynda's lullaby 2

wow... 8 years

2009-09-11T10:13:00.002-04:00

8 years is such a long time... when you are measuring in hungry, or cold, or tired, or even excited. But when you measure that 8 years with love, it is but a blink of an eye. When you are missing your loved ones it is just a moment ago they were here and now they are gone.

Today marks the 8th anniversary of 9/11. I am saddened that I was unable to answer the call this year and participate in honoring those who lost their lives. All 2996 of them. Life has a way sometimes of interjecting its head in when we don't really want it.

If anyone should read this and want to read many of the tributes to these innocent lives that were suddenly lost, please visit Project 2996 and visit some wonderful blogs. http://project2996.wordpress.com/

Slipped Away

2008-09-18T14:43:00.003-04:00

For my precious niece who passed away August 22, 2008 at the very young age of 34 from complications of gastric bypass surgery she had undergone 7 years earlier. Bobbi leaves behind a daughter, mom, sister and many of us who loved her... all trying to figure out how to put one foot in front of the other. Her presence in this world is missed and there is a void now where she once was. This was our youngest niece, born just after Bob and I got married.

Happy Birthday's are in order

2006-12-29T23:02:00.000-05:00

Today is my sweet middle nephew's birthday. He is an old poop of 38 years today. Here is a picture when he was a kid, my little Teton (Stephen as said by his big brother) and his big brother Bruce.

This picture was taken of Steve this fall with his two son's, Garrett and Bryce.

Doll babies aren't they???

Well this Tuesday is my great niece Amanda's birthday also. (She is my nephew Bruce's oldest daughter). She will be sweet sixteen. I put this video/dvd together for her. I will give it to her tomorrow when we have the celebration party for the two of them.

Life is good isn't it. So much to be thankful for, and the new year just beginning.

Sisters :>)

2006-12-21T22:03:00.000-05:00

Avery and Amanda

Two sisters playing around. What a great picture this is. Amanda was told by her mother for years that her father did not love her, his family was no good and they didn't love her. Her mother told her that her sisters were not really her sisters, that her father had moved on by having another family.

But look how good life is... She is with her dad, learning to trust and love. Learning that she is loved. And most of all, learning to share her love with her two sisters.

This picture was taken this week at their mamaws house (my sisters home), where they are enjoying time away from baby sister, and getting spoiled rotten by mamaw and papaw. But even that's ok, that's what being a kid is all about.

Thank you God for answering prayers, for bringing this child back into our lives and filling our hearts to the brim. Thank you God, especially now at Christmas to unfolding this miracle for our family.

Merry Christmas to all!

Blessings, Auntie Lyn

Amanda

2006-11-12T00:15:00.000-05:00

Amanda

Amanda is home now. She has been with her daddy since the end of September. Life is somehow just how it should be now. Oddly enough, it seems as if she was never gone, as if she had been with the family all along. My heart is truly at peace that she is ok now, out of harms way. I pray that her mom somehow gets the help I think she desperately needs to find peace in herself, and I pray that she and Amanda can somehow forge some sort of friendship in the future, and forgive past hurts. Grudges never helped anyone, they only bring you more pain. I don't want that for our Amanda, she deserves more than that.

It amazes me and saddens me at the same time how mature she is for 15. Never really given the chance to be submerged in the innocence of childhood, being told that your father and his family did not love you, but had replaced you. How absolutely cruel of her mother to do this to her child, in the name of "love". But Amanda has come out on the other side whole, resilient, and a loving caring human being.

Avery and Amanda

Carl Asaro ...just one of 2,996... 9/11/01 to 9/11/06

2006-09-11T08:48:00.000-04:00

~He was just one of the 2,996

innocent people who lost their life on September 11, 2001

~He was just one of the 343

innocent New York firefighters who laid down their life in the line of duty to save and protect

~He was just one of the 2,996

innocent people who died that day who was called husband, lover, friend, other half by the love of their life

~He was just one of the 2,996

innocent people who died that day worshipped and called ‘Daddy’ by precious children who thought the sun rose and set in his eyes

~He was just one of the 2,996

innocent people who died that day who had so many varied talents and dreams, which are now unfulfilled and put to rest

His name is

Carl Asaro

On September 11, 2001, at 8:47am Carl was just a 39 year old firefighter connected to the 9^th Battalion, Engine 54 Ladder 4 unit of the FDNY located on 8^th Ave. in mid town Manhattan. On September 11, 2001 at 8:48am everything for Carl and all those who loved him changed forever through no cause of their own.

recent picture of Carl's firehouse
with the dedication mural in place on the door

Carl was an ordinary guy, who did extraordinary things for a living. A firefighter since 1987, he was married to the love of his life, Heloiza. Together they and their 5 children, Philip and Carl Jr. (13 year old twins), Matthew (12), Rebecca (10) and Marc (7), lived a normal ordinary life in Wallkill, NY. Carl’s job and all those who worked beside him, was to run into a disaster instead of running away from it. Carl was just 1 of the 343 New York firefighter’s that day who gave their life just doing their job.

Carl was a Deadhead in the truest sense of the word, hosting a wake/barbeque in his backyard when it was announced that Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead had died in 1995. Inviting over 50 guests and decorating his yard and deck with T-shirts and memorabilia of the Grateful Dead he paid tribute to his hero. It is reported that Carl’s memorial service was held on Saturday, October 27, 2001 and that some of his Grateful Dead T-shirts and band paraphernalia was used to decorate his service. As a tribute to Carl and his love of music and the Grateful Dead, songs like “Touch of Gray” and “Friend of the Devil” were played at his service in his honor.

At the dedication of the Firefighter’s Memorial Park across the street from the midtown firehouse where Carl worked, his Battalion Chief Joe Nardone said, when speaking of Carl; “Not too tall but a giant in stature. A man of many interests.” Chief Nardone spoke of Carl’s love of music from Beethoven to the Dead. Carl played the guitar, piccolo, and piano, and he had an interest in acting. He had already starred in several non speaking roles in movies and on television, including “15 Minutes,” “The Siege,” and “Frequency.” He also played a paramedic on “The Sopranos,” “Law and Order” and “Third Watch.” He was looking forward to finally landing his first “speaking role”.

In volunteering to participate in this project, it drives home the fact that Carl was so much more than just one of 2,996 who died that day. Being a widow myself and painting this loss with my brush, my thoughts and prayers go out to Heloiza, Carl Jr., Philip, Matthew, Rebecca, Marc, and any and all of those who loved Carl. I pray that each of them is given a sense of peace that all is well with Carl, and that their journey in accepting his absence in their everyday life is balanced with the knowledge that he is forever with each and every one of them. Five years is nothing when you measure that loss with love.

Today I honor Carl Asaro, as well as each of the other 2,995 who lost their lives on 9/11.

close up of the mural on the firehouse door

I end this tribute with a copy of the Fireman’s Prayer...

When I am called to duty, God, whenever flames may rage;

Give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age.

Help me embrace a little child before it is too late;

Or save an older person from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert, and hear the weakest shout,

And quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me;

To guard my every neighbor and protect his property.

And if, according to my fate I am to lose my life;

Please bless with Your protecting hand, my children and my wife.

~Author unknown

Photo courtesy of United In Memory 9-11 Victims Memorial Quilt™: A Legacy of Love

Please pay a visit to 2,996 and read your way thru the tributes to these innocent people who lost their life on September 11, 2001.

tags:
never forget
2996
September 11

**because of bandwidth problems, the links to the list of particpants and tributes is directed to a mirror site. You can also make use of the blogroll in my sidebar. **

20 questions...

2006-08-27T17:31:00.000-04:00

Found this little Meme questionnaire over at Patrick's Place (who got it from Paul's "Aurora Walking Vacation) and it got me to thinking. There is more to question 3 for me, but it's going to take some time for me to get my thoughts in order. It looks like a future post for me.

1. A month before it happens you're told you're going to lose your memory. How do you prepare for it and do you attempt to regain what you've lost?

First I would record on video, tapes, CD's all the memories I could come up with, and then hit the picture albums and date and identify each picture. Next, I would make a video tape for myself where I would explain what has happened, and where to go look in the albums and tapes and it would all be explained. I would leave a message/note for my self to play the first video and go from there each day. Sort of like the concept in the movie '50 First Dates'.

2. How do you describe your outlook on life?

All things happen for a reason, although I might not understand it, nor like it, at that particular moment.

3. You fall in love with your soulmate, decide to get married, and then find out that person is going to die soon. Do you marry them anyway?

Oh my God, Yes! I can't imagine not marrying Bob and having the time we had together just because I was afraid he would not live a full life. When we married I was told that his life expectancy was diminished due to his injury, but soon forgot all the predictions. We lived what we had to the fullest and each and every moment was cherished and enjoyed. When he passed we were 3 months shy of our 21st anniversary.

4. What are three of your favorite ice cream toppings?

Not a big fan of ice cream, but I would think 1.hot caramel; 2.peaches or nectarines; or 3.crushed heath bars would make a good topping on vanilla ice cream.

5. Is there one article of clothing you love to wear no matter how out of style it is?

I am way beyond thinking or worrying about style, I have things that I have worn for years. When I find something that fits and I like it, I tend to buy 2 or 3 in different colors, etc.

6. Is there one color you wish would go away in fashion?

Drab olive green. Not too many can pull that color off, I definitely can't.

7. What's the first department you head to when you go shopping in a department store?

Shoes and purses.

8.How far away do you live from your parents?

Six miles.

9. Growing up, who was your favorite cartoon character?

Sylvester and Tweety Bird.

I was also partial to Popeye and Olive Oyl.

10. You plan a romantic evening and everything goes wrong, including the fancy dinner you burned. What do you do?

Chuck it all in the garbage and have dessert twice.

11. What's the last thing you bought at the store?

Some groceries for my mom and dad.

12. Have you ever walked out in the middle of a movie?

No. Seldom go to the movies, tend to wait until they are on DVD and watch them at home.

13. What celebrity do most people say you look like?

It used to be Patti Duke when I was way younger, but lately I have been letting this old gray hair grow out, and I have been told I look like Tyne Daley.

14. Is there any piece of jewelry you always wear?

Yes, a necklace my husband gave me on our 10th anniversary, my 2 sets of earrings, and an antique ring my grandfather gave my mom on her 16th birthday.

15. Have you ever tried to pick someone up?

No, I'm not that strong, but I can prevent them from falling too hard. ;o)

16. What's the one thing you always manage to lose on your way out the door?

I forget my water jug and always have to go back and get it.

17. Out of these creatures which one are you most afraid of:
A.) Snakes B.) Spiders or C.) Rodents

Snakes, too hard for me to decide if they are good to have around or not, so I just want them all gone!

18. What's the last gift you bought for a friend?

Bought a fax machine for my mom.

19. Do you ever buy people things for no reason?

Usually. I don't normally buy for birthdays, or anniversaries. I prefer to pick things up when I see something I know someone would like and give the gift as a surprise.

20.What's your favorite way to spend a lazy summer afternoon?

Hanging around the house, listening to the box or playing on the computer.

Well, that's it for now. I can't believe I've done another post so soon. I have been working on my post for the 2,996 project. If you don't know what I'm talking about, sashay your way over to take a look.

As of the last post today, there are 103 names who have not been taken as of yet. Please, let's not let anyone go unaccounted for in this project. If you can find it in your heart to write a tribute to one of the victims of 9/11, just go to the sign up now button and a name will be assigned to you and the means to look this person up and create a memorial to their life.

Hi Sweetie, you've been missed!

2006-08-23T22:30:00.000-04:00

My oldest grand niece is almost home with us now. Amanda is my oldest nephew's daughter by his first marriage. She has been out of our lives for over 4 years now. Not because that is what we wanted, but because her mother was more interested in punishing my nephew and his family than seeing to her daughter's well being.

Late June, early July there was a falling out between daughter and mother, and daddy was called to :"Please come and help me!": Daddy went, and arranged for Amanda to go to maternal grandmother's home. Finally a visit was arranged for Amanda to visit at Dad's house and be with her 2 half sisters and her step-mom. Bridges were mended, slights were forgiven, and trust was formed. The 'weekend' visit turned into 9 days, and when it was time to leave she was wanting to live with her daddy. Her mom has not attempted to talk to her or to my nephew, or even to her own mother. Amanda does not want to see or talk to her mom yet. My nephew has been calling his X but has not recieved a call back as of yet. He talks to Amanda every day, several times a day. He tells her to be patient, that things must be done legally and safely for her. Soon she will be back home with us, God is so good.

63 years together

2006-07-08T13:00:00.000-04:00

63 years ago today.
They said I do, they did and they meant it.
My parents as they were 7.8.1943.
Mom was just 17, would turn 18 in September, and Daddy was 21.

Pickler at her finest

2006-06-10T11:10:00.000-04:00

I just can't pass this one by. When I stop and think of all the things I miss out on by working and having to go to bed early, this was a moment for sure. Check out this Video of Kellie Pickler on the Jay Leno show. She was a red carpet interviewer for the JLShow. She is definitely in her element here! Much thanks go out to hael who uploaded the video to GoFish. Doesn't take much to entertain me I guess ;o)

Apologies, the video was removed by hael apparently. It was really a hoot tho.

Day Without Immigrants

2006-05-01T20:15:00.004-04:00

"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."

Theodore Roosevelt 1907

I received this in an email today, and I must admit, it makes sense to me. I haven't been too sure of my feelings regarding the "Day Without Immigrants" but this quote from President Theodore Roosevelt kind of firmed up my thoughts this evening. If there were in reality to be such a day, most of us would not have gone into work today, as most of us are here from immigrants. My family on my father's side immigrated here from Germany in the early 1800's, and my mom's side immigrated here from Acadia Canada, arriving there from France. Much pride was given to becoming a United States citizen and the work that it took to accomplish it according to family lore. My own father in law became a naturalized citizen from New Brunswick, Canada, and was proud of his enlistment in the United States Army in 1946.

Do I think that those who are not natural born citizens here deserve less than those that are???? NO! Do I think that because you have come here by cutting red tape and squeaking by that you deserve the same rights as those who are here legally??? NO! I am sorry that the wheels of becoming a citizen of this great country turn so slow, but I do believe in following the rules. Should we make it easier to become a citizen? Maybe yes, but probably no. I agree with President Roosevelt in that once you decide to become a citizen, you owe your allegiance to this country first and foremost. If you cannot do that, then think twice. Maybe the loops and turns are in place to give you that chance to make sure this is what you really want. Did I notice a difference in my town that had a huge march today??? No, all it did was make me think that for those who are living here illegally need to do what they can to turn things in the direction they want to move in. Become a legal US citizen with the rights and privileges that go along with that honor. Receive your educations, vote in our elections, make the changes that are necessary to make this a better country to be part of. Hell if you want, run for office and make the changes yourself. But if you're not interested in doing it legally, then leave until you are ready to make a change.

Hold the Horses! What??? An actual post from me?

2006-04-22T13:26:00.000-04:00

I am feeling the need to get into the swim of things again. I tend to get down easily and let things get to me, and then begin to feel that I have nothing to contribute. So much good has happened since Christmas, and I haven't made note of any of it.

Work has drastically changed, with the resigning of many of our therapists, including our director and assistant director. I can only hope that this change will be for the better eventually. Of course, being who I am I will stick it out until the end. I wonder what made me so terrified of change? I'm busier than I like to be, would really like to only see 4 patients a day, then have the rest of the time to myself, but... I do what I need to. One consolation, the paycheck looks decent! Hopefully I will get a chance to take some time off this year and enjoy something other than work.

We've had several birthdays in the family since December. Brother/law and great niece and great nephew all celebrated on Valentines day. Bruce was 68, sweet Megan turned 4, and my precious pumpkin Bryce turned the BIG 1.

Here is a pic of the three of them.
Oh, how they love their Papaw!

Couldn't let this post go by without a picture of Bryce and his birthday cake!

As you can tell from the picture, he loved it. He had icing up his nose, in his ears and was more than willing to share with anyone who came close enough. This Auntie knew enough to keep her distance.

My sister just had some hernia surgery this past Monday, this was the third time. She came through it without any complications, and the doctor repaired one rather large new hernia above the umbilical area, and re-repaired a small one just below. He put in a large piece of mesh to hopefully keep this from happening again. She and I have been going to Curves 3 days a week. I offered to join with her last fall to give us some time together and support her in her exercise, but now she won't be able to go for at least 5-6 weeks. I thought I would probably skip out on the exercise, but when Monday came, I felt guilty about not going and dragged my butt there after work. I do enjoy the work outs, and feel better doing them. I guess I do it for myself more than I thought I did.

We had Easter at my mom and dad's this year. The whole family was there. The kids all swam their little hearts out, hunted eggs and ate candy till their parents finally came to what was going on. Dinner was great, but the company was even better. Tonight we are going into DiAnna's for cards after dinner. We will meet at Vincent's, a very nice Italian restaurant and then go out to DiAnna and Bruce's. She didn't think she wanted to do much riding around in the car, can't say that I blame her.

Well, will close this now, and post more when I can. Need to get this house picked up and get ready to go out.

Pam Hilger (his1desire)

2006-04-17T05:40:00.000-04:00

I join with all those in J-land who are mourning the passing of our dear friend Pam, of "Just One Girl's Head Noise". Pam was a founding force in AOL's blogging experience, who reached out to everyone in J-land with a helping hand. Pam was diagnosed with extensive lung cancer in June 05 and shared her journey with us, including her stopping smoking and the hopes and dreams that came with her journey.

Yesterday, Easter Sunday, Pam lost her fight with cancer, but she in no way lost the battle. I admired her strength, her courage in sharing, and her determination in living life on her terms. The sky will be a little brighter tonight, the earth will sigh with the loss.

My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who loved her and will miss her presence on this earth.

addendum: 1/5/07 Just wandered over to Pam's journal and noticed that all her pictures had been removed somehow. Just the dreaded little box with the red X. I wanted the world to remember her, and thankfully I had downloaded a picture to my computer. So I added it back to my post here. Rest well Pam, you are remembered as we pass into this new year.

8th grade student had pellet gun, on Advanced Life Support - OrlandoSentinel.com: Seminole County News

2006-01-13T19:06:00.000-05:00

Here's the news from around me today. The last alert states that Chris is on advanced life support in extremely critical condition, and the prognosis to survive is very poor. My heart and prayers go out to Chris, his family and all who love this child.

My thoughts and prayers also go out to Lt. Mike Weippert and all who love him. I can't imagine what he is going thru, knowing now that the gun was a pellet gun, that had been modified to look like a 9mm semi-automatic handgun. What is this world coming to? When did bringing a gun to school, even a play gun, become the fix of all problems.

Not a good start so far

2006-01-02T21:48:00.000-05:00

I have decided that if this is how the new year is going to be, I'm calling in sick.

I received horrible news today about an old patient and her husband. I had treated P for years and years, on and off, and had not heard from her in almost a year. I knew she came out of the hospital last spring and needed therapy, but I was swamped and another therapist took her case. I kept meaning to call her and her husband, but with all the stuff that went on with Sadie, and then the hole I fell into following her death, I just never did. This Christmas, I kept thinking that I would get my annual Christmas letter from J, her husband, but it didn't come. I noticed I didn't see his screen name on my buddy list since around Thanksgiving. Today while out seeing patients, I thought I am not going to let one more day go by without stopping in to see her and J.

Pulled up and rang the doorbell. Noted his cute little sign on the door ... "Ring the bell on the right, and hold your horses. 2 old farts live here and it takes us a while to get moving."

I waited, as I know it's their habit to lie down in the afternoon and rest. I figured he might just be getting P settled in. After 2 more rings of the bell, I peeked in the window way up in the door, and noticed the freezer door ajar in the kitchen, and no lights on as there normally were. Decided to go thru the back gate to the bedroom window, and see if I could get their attention. The blinds were pulled all the way up, and a bedroom light was on, but the beds were totally stripped and in disarray. P slept in a hosp bed, and J bought an adjustable bed and linked them to each other so they would be together. As I looked in the window, I couldn't figure out what was going on. Then I noticed P's walker on the back porch, and one of the wheelchairs. As I was leaving the back yard, I decided to look in the garage. Sure enough there was J's minivan. I got a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach, thinking something had maybe happened to J and P was sent to a nursing home or something.

I went to the next door neighbors to see what was going on. The neighbor came to the door, and she said I saw you over there and wondered if you would come over here. I explained who I was, and she said "I remember you from when you saw P last year when J was so sick." I said, what is going on, P isn't there. Is she alright? She said, "Oh my God, I thought you knew. J and P committed suicide about 3½ weeks ago."

You could have knocked me over with a feather. The shock, the thought of their despair to end their lives like that. I have no idea of what happened other than the neighbor said when she let hazmet into the house, there was a lot of blood in the bedroom. No one has ever said what happened other than J put a hole thru the concrete wall that separated the bedroom from the garage and fed a hose thru the hole and turned the car on. They had 2 children who lived on the other coast who rarely visited. I know that J's medical crisis last year(04) put them in a horrible financial bind. P has been disabled for years (I had seen her on and off for 9 years for therapy), and J was her primary caregiver. I can only imagine that J felt that P could not survive without him, and he might have shot her then went to sleep with the carbon monoxide.

On the 7th of December, the home health assistant showed up late that morning as was planned, and she found a note on the door. The neighbor explained to me, "J had put on the note... N by the time you get here, P and I will be gone." The assistant went to the next door neighbors with the note. The neighbor said she had a bad feeling and called 911 before even going over to the house. They waited for rescue to get there before going into the home. She opened the door for rescue, and they prevented her from coming into the home, as the odor of carbon monoxide permeated the house. One firefighter went in suited up and when he came back out, he confirmed that both P and J were deceased in their beds. They called hazmet and hazmet cleared the home of gas. Neighbor states, when hazmet finished, the bodies were removed, and they requested that the neighbor go over with them to lock up the house until P's family could arrive. That is when she saw all the blood on P's bed.

P and J were in their late 70's, he might have been 80 by now. I hope they are finally at peace. It scares me the desperation that they must have felt, the internal pain. I wish I had been there more for them. I wish I had called when I first felt that urging back at Thanksgiving. Not that it would have necessarily made a difference, but it might have helped to know that I could be there for them. All the if's that will never be answered. I pray that they did not suffer pain, or fear.

A special passage for me from Micah 7:8
Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me.

P and J are surrounded by that light now. Good night dear friends.

Feline Friday -- Serena

2005-12-30T22:59:00.000-05:00

I'm going to show you something that most people, including my family, don't ever get to see...

This is Serena, and she makes herself scarce when anyone is around. Somehow she seems to know when it's a weekend and the family will be in. She hides in my closet on top of some storage boxes behind my clothes. She has been with me almost 4 years now, and you would think she would be used to the kids and family, but she's not. I take pictures of her to prove to everyone that she really does exist. Honest, she's not a figment of my imagination!

These pictures were taken last weekend after everyone had left. The last car no sooner clears the gate, and out she comes. She just tolerates the dog, doesn't let Kelly get too close. I guess she is afraid of doggy cooties :o) I'm going to post a link over at Steven's (sometime)photoblog for his Feline-Friday post.

Brrrrr

2005-12-27T09:43:00.000-05:00

It was quite chilly here this morning which is not good for this Auntie's old bones. It was 34ºF this morning at 7am. What you can't see clearly in this picture is the house behind mine. Their back yard is covered with a coating of frost, and a low lying cloud/fog is draping them in coldness and their roof is almost white (which is not good as it's a brown roof). Brrrrrr!

Well, Christmas is now officially over, and I stand on the edge of a new year. I wonder what changes 2006 will bring. I've never been one to make resolutions, so I won't start this year, but there are some hopes and dreams buried deep inside which hope to see the light of day. This year literally flew by, and I can only imagine that next year will also. Why is it, the older I get the faster time moves. Maybe it's just that I'm moving slower?

And what's up with this? Did you hear about them adding time this year? As quoted from an article in Linux Electrons.
::Washington, DC – On December 31, 2005 a “leap second” will be added to the world’s clocks at 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This corresponds to 6:59:59 pm Eastern Standard Time, when the extra second will be inserted at the U.S. Naval Observatory. This marks the 23rd leap second to be added to UTC, a uniform time-scale kept by atomic clocks around the world. ::

Now, I'm a little confused here. Does adding a second make time longer/slower, or does it make it shorter/faster? Can't we just leave well enough alone? I think I need to go get another sweet roll and cup of coffee and mull all this over some more. I will get back to you in a few seconds... by that time it will be February '06.

Greetings!

2005-12-25T11:34:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest picture of Santa and one of his elf's now that the gift giving is done!

With all the hoopla about the political correctness of the season: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyful Winter Solstice, Happy Newton's Birthday, Fabulous Festivus, or whatever other celebration you cherish...

What ever you do to celebrate this time of year, please accept the very best wishes for the season -- from me,
Auntie Lyn

The Saturday 6 with Patrick

2005-12-24T07:32:00.000-05:00

Here we go. Patrick's Saturday 6

1. Which of the following generally costs you more: a normal trip to your barber/hairstylist, your usual lunch at your favorite restaurant, the most recent amount you paid to fill up your gas tank, or your biggest single contribution to a single charity in 2005?

Boy is that a tough one. The meals remain reasonable, the haircuts are getting to be so high, and the gasoline... let's not even go there trying to fill my gas hog. But, thank God, the charity contribution exceeded them all. :0)

2. What drink -- alcoholic or not -- do you drink entirely too much of?

Water? but then again, they say you can't drink enough water right?

3. Did you receive a Christmas card from anyone you didn't send one to? Did you send them a belated card in return?

This year this hasn't happened, but last year I missed two people entirely that sent a card out to me. I didn't bother to send out a card, but did give them a Christmas call on the phone.

4. Take this quiz (if you haven't already!): What is most important in your life?

Health is most important in your life.

Having a high focus on health indicates that you are very health-conscious and you realize that if you don't have your health, you have nothing. You are devoted to living healthy.

Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com

5. Before taking the quiz, which of its categories (career, love, money, health, family or fun) would you have said would be your answer?

Family

6. Do you believe in soulmates? Do you think that there are at least one out there for every person, that there is a single "true" soulmate for every person, or that there aren't soulmates for everyone?

Yes, I do believe that there are "soul-mates" out there for each of us. In my opinion a soulmate is a person who helps to complete us, who helps us to grow. A soulmate brings out those qualities which lay dormant in us for one reason or another and helps us to become more than we thought we were capable of. I was so blessed to marry my best friend and soulmate. We each completed the other, like two halves that found their niche. Bob fitted into my jagged edges and softened them, and I rounded him out. We fit perfectly together. Do I believe that there is another "soulmate" out there for me, that I don't know. But if there is, I will welcome that person into my life. Oh, do I think that a soulmate is necessarily a lover/spouse type person, no. I believe a soulmate is a friend. It's just an added bonus when that person is the object of your love. Here's a link to our story in case you want to check it out. My other half...

Christmas

2005-12-23T07:25:00.000-05:00

Auntie Lyn's Pathetic Excuse for a Christmas Tree

It's not much, but it's up. Still having difficulties getting myself into the groove of Christmas, but gifts have been bought, at least I think I got everyone on my list. (BTW, the gifts under the tree are not what I bought, but what my aunt brought for the family. I haven't even thought about wrapping anything yet.) Christmas will be at my sisters this year with the nephews and nieces doing the planning and cooking the meal. I have offered my services to help with what ever is needed, but only have been instructed to bring plates, napkins and bowls. From what I hear we are going non traditional this year (Italian and something else). My mom is having a conniption fit about it. I promised her that if she just eats whatever they serve, that next weekend I will cook her a traditional Christmas dinner. I think I have her convinced.

A Christmas Haiku:
Shining from above,
the star, a beacon of hope...
the Christ Child of Love.

and a Christmas rhyme:
I tend to fight and push away,
the trappings of the season;
but down inside, within my heart
I know that Christ is the reason.

Ten Things...

2005-12-10T09:06:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged by Patrick from Patrick's Place to add my input in this meme that is making it's way around blogland. Here are the instructions as I read them, "List ten things that make you happy (in no particular order) and tag five others to do the same."

Well here goes:

When the little ones crawl up into my lap on Saturday night's while we adults are playing cards, and they plead with "Aunie In" to please come play with them.
A toasted Italian BMT on fresh Italian Parmesan bread, even tho it's not on my diet.
The peace of mind that comes from having paid my mortgage off early and not worrying about having to write that check the first of the month. (Which brings me to the next one.)
Cutting back on my work schedule and not worrying that I wont have enough to make ends meet that month. Being able to say no to work when I want time to myself.
When the air turns cool and dry and I can open the windows and turn off the air conditioning.
Waking up early in the morning and realizing that I don't have to go anywhere that day, and I can roll over and go back to sleep.
Playing with family photos on the computer and sharing them.
Kelly (my golden) greeting me every time I come thru the door as if she hadn't seen me for 100 years or more even tho it's only been 15 minutes.
A fresh hot Krispy Kreme donut.
Dreaming about Bob and waking up feeling like he is still right beside me.

Now for those I tag:

Alex (College Life)
Jackie (Not Wierd, I'm Eccentric)
Margo (MagogoSMusing)
Virginia (Animal Spirits)
Gabreael (Gabreael's Body, Mind & Spirit)

Lineage...

2005-12-09T22:00:00.000-05:00

lineage

2 entries found for lineage.
To select an entry, click on it. Main Entry: ¹lin·e·age
Pronunciation: 'li-nE-ij also 'li-nij
Function: noun
1 a : descent in a line from a common progenitor b : DERIVATION
2 : a group of individuals tracing descent from a common ancestor; especially : such a group of persons whose common ancestor is regarded as its founder

Lineage, that is what makes us what we are. Whatever our ancestors were, we are the sum of them. So, I'm convinced something really odd must have taken place several generations ago in my family. I think some ole hunter must have gotten lonely and decided to take up with some bear in the woods, and somehow we got BEAR in our bloodline. How else can I explain that I totally relate to the above picture. It all makes perfect sense now, and kinda ticks me off that I can't find some big old stinky cave to crawl into and wait for winter to pass me by.

Eeek!! I only have 16 more shopping days!

2005-12-08T19:49:00.000-05:00

My little stepping stones.
My great nieces and nephews 11/24/05.

This picture was taken this past Thanksgiving. There is Avery (8), Garrett (6), CJ (6), Brooke (3.5), Megan (3.75) and Bryce (9mos). [I added Bryce's picture with my photoshop.] My oldest great niece Amanda is missing, she will be 15 this January. Amanda lives with her mom, and we haven't seen her now in 4.5 years. Her mom punishes her ex (my nephew) by putting him and his family down to Amanda, returning our letters, gifts and cards, and telling her that we don't love her. I just wait for the day she trys to contact one of us. Her gifts are all here, all the cards and the letters that were returned. Proof that she was never forgotten by any of us, that no matter what her mom has said to her, she has always mattered to each of us.

I haven't done any of my holiday shopping for these kids, and I really need to get busy. (You know, it's a pain in the neck when working interferes with those things you want to do.) This weekend, Avery and Brooke's mom will meet my mom, sister and myself and help us as far as sizes and what the girls like. Next Friday, we will meet with Garrett and Bryce's mom for suggestions for them, then that next Saturday, CJ and Megan's mom will meet with us. Too bad we make all this so complicated.

I can't believe that Christmas is just around the corner, and I am so far behind, I don't really feel like doing much of anything. I haven't got my cards made, let alone sent out. No tree or decorations up yet. Only 2 presents for Bob's aunt bought so far. Seems like this might be a good year to crawl into a hole and wait it out, but that is just not an option. Well, I need to pull myself out of this funk and get busy. This weekend will be a good start I think ... or at least I hope.

what ornament are you?

2005-12-05T12:14:00.000-05:00

What Christmas ornament are you?
Take this quiz and find out for yourself.

Here'e my reusults:

You are the Christmas Angel.

What Christmas Ornament are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Relocated J-Land Bloggers

2005-12-04T22:44:00.000-05:00

J-BLOGGERS first edition: December 4, 2005

Alex

AlbGlinka

Amy (Diva)

Amy (Central)

Andrea

Angel (Pixie Dust)

Angel (Pleasures)

Angelia (Secrets)

Angelia (Dark Moons)

Anna

Antonette

Armandt

Astaryth

Barbara

Becky

Bedazzzled

Beth

Boiseladie

Bon and Mal

Bookncoffee

Bosox

Bram

Brandy

Brenden

Candace (Searching)

Candace (Kicking)

Carly

Chance

Charles

Cheryl

Chris

Christina

Chuck

Colleen

Courtenay

Chris

Cole

Cynthia

Dalene

Darla

Dawn Allynn

Debbie

Deslily

Diva

Donna

Emily

Felicia

Flava

Floralilia Freely

Floralilia Wisdom

Gabreael

Gail

Gannet Girl

Gator

Gigi

Heather

Holly

Jacki

Jaime

Jamilyn

Jeff

Jean Marie

Jenn

Jennifer

Jessie
Jim

Jimmy

Jlandvoices

Jody

Judi

Judith

Karen

Kari

Katherine

Kathleen

Kell

Kelly

Kris

Kristal

Laura

Levi

Lily

Lisa (Heart)

Lisa (Truth)

Lori

Loretta

Louie

Lynda

Mara

Marissa

Margo

Mary (Contrary)

Mary (Hunybea)

Mary (Midnight)

Mary (Woods)

Maryanne

Michael (All Things)

Michael (Dream)

Mortimer

Mrs. L.

Nelle

Nikki

Patrick

Paul

Peachy

Penny

Promise

Rebecca Anne

Remo

Robbie

Robin

Sarah

Shaz

Shelli

Shelly

Silk

Smukke

Swt Dlphn

Sylvia

Stacy-Lynn

Steven

Suellen

Suzy

Tawnya

Thebludragoness

Theresa

Tianka

Trish

Vicki

Vince

Virginia

Vivian

JBloggersPleaseCopyFreely

Mentos Cannon

2005-12-04T19:59:00.000-05:00

John Scalzi, from By the Way over at AOL Journals, was stating he is going to try out the Mentos Fountain tomorrow when Athena is not home. Well John, last Saturday the 26th, my nephew Steve and his wife brought the experiment to a birthday party we were having for 2 of my great nephews. They came equipped with six 2 liter bottles of diet Coke and 6 packages of Mentos.
Here is a picture of Steve loading up the cannon.

And then here is a picture of the end results. Needless to say, with an 8 year old, two 6 year olds, two 3½ year olds, a 9 month old and an Auntie that still likes to get into the thick of things, a sticky, icky time was had by all.

2005-12-04T13:38:00.000-05:00

Better late than never... Patrick's Saturday 6 Answers:

1. Is it a "Christmas Tree" or a "Holiday Tree?"
It's definitely a Christmas Tree for me. I don't care if I'm politically correct or not, it is what it is. When I was a child, up until I was led astray by my wise old sister (6 years older than me), Santa Claus brought our Christmas Tree to the house. I would go to bed leaving a glass of milk with home made cookies that mom had made the day before, and when I got up in the morning, the tree would be there filled with my presents from Santa. Of course the empty milk glass and plate with a half eaten cookie would be on the coffee table where I had left it. Then when I was around 6 or 7 my sister told me that Santa didn't bring our tree, mom and daddy did. So, from then on, we would go out about the week before Christmas and find the perfect tree, hitting all the lots around town and usually winding back up at the first lot we went to. When we got home, daddy would cut the bottom off the stump and put it in a tub of water. Then on Christmas eve, daddy would bring in the tree, set it up and he and mom would put on the star, the lights, and the garland, then it was up to my sister and me to put on the decorations. We both had a special decoration we had gotten as babies, and that would be the first one we placed on the tree. My decoration was a blue pine cone that my mom's best friend gave me for my first Christmas. *see above* I still have that decoration, it's broke up where the filial goes into it, and I have to be very careful with it, but it is always the first one I hang, and there were a few years it was the only one I hung up.

2. When you purchase a DVD, what of the following are you most interested in watching first: the movie itself, the director's commentary, the deleted scenes, the bloopers or the behind-the-scenes documentary, and why?
I watch the movie first, then I watch the out takes and bloopers, then the deleted scenes. There have only been a few movies I watched where I was even interested in watching the commentaries. The last one I can remember watching was "Miss Congeniality" and the commentary was with Sandra Bullock and co-screen writer Marc Lawrence. I stumbled upon that one by mistake, and it was funnier than the movie in places.

3. What would you most like to accomplish before the year is over?
Can't really think of anything I would like to accomplish, maybe getting this blog more in line with how I would like it to look. I would like to get a new computer and get it all set up before the first of the year. I have a printer I bought 5 months ago, but I wont take it out of the box and install it on this antique. I want to run it on a new computer. By the time I get it done the warranty will be run out and the software obsolete.

4. Take this quiz: After you enter your birthday, you'll be given a lot of facts about your age and astrology: How old are you in dog years?
Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 7.93111545988258 years old. (You old hound dog, you!)

5. From the same quiz, what does it say your "Life Path Number" is, and do you agree with its description?
Your life path number is 6. Yes, it pretty much describes me to a T, even down to the negative traits.

6. Do you have a piece of jewelry with your birthstone in it? If so, how often do you wear it?
My birthstone is listed as an Alexandrite. No I don't own any piece of jewlery with that stone in it, but the alternative birthstones are pearl, moonstone and opal. I do have a pair of pearl earrings that I wear. I tend to wear the same jewlery every day for years. The most that I change are the pearl earrings for gold balls maybe once every 6-8 months or so.

talking heads

2005-12-03T00:09:00.000-05:00

Well, today I asked journalseditor Joe for my Christmas present and he gave it to me. All I wanted was one of the executive heads to speak with the journalers, just give us an email address or phone number. We would make sure that they would hear what we had to say.

My wish was granted... This is directly copied out of Joe's journal "Magic Smoke"

Folks,

Joe has told you that the senior executives here at AOL have been listening to your opinions and comments about the addition of ads on AOL Journals. I'm stopping by Magic Smoke to let you know he's been straight with you on that point.

I'm not here to report that we're changing our strategy on the ads. The ads are staying for the foreseeable future. Advertising is an important part of how we make money, and we're not ashamed of that.

I'll admit we'd all love a “do-over” when it comes to how this was communicated. On that score, the best we can do now is to work harder at making sure big changes don't occur again without proper communication.

We've learned a lot in the last two weeks... so thank you for your comments here and in email. We've heard loud and clear that you are passionate about what you write about in your blogs. Some of you are convinced that the addition of ads destroys that experience. I am less certain of that. I can't reconcile it with the fact that we have wonderful, passionate communities thriving in ad-supported pages in message boards, Groups, Chat, Hometown, Email, AIM... really across the entire network both inside the paid service and out.

Just like you, we don't all see eye-to-eye on this internally. That's understandable. Since AOL Journals had no ads for so long, I can understand why some believed that they never would. Some of you have moved on because of this and that's understandable too. We're sorry this change has affected the way you feel about us. We thank you for the contribution you made while you were here. We will miss your words. We will miss your passion. If you've moved on to another blog provider, we hope you'll maintain the relationships you've made here. You'll always be welcome in J-Land no matter where you choose to blog.

We've also learned how important the J-Land community is to the majority of you who have elected to stay. You are important to this community and to us, and we appreciate the understanding and support that you've shown. A special thanks to all the folks who have thrown a virtual hug around Joe here at Magic Smoke and in email. Thank you for putting this bump in the road in your rearview mirror. We're excited about moving on as well.

I've asked the team to double down and speed up the delivery of some new features you've requested. They are eager to get to it. Some of my favorites that are coming before the end of the year:

Buddy List Rostering: instantly set your Buddy List as the "roster" for your private Journal - changes to your Buddy List will update the roster automatically.
Blog This: a new feature that allows easy creation of new journals and blog entries that link back to other posts.
Partner Ping: makes it easier for 3rd party indexers such as Feedster, Technorati, BlogPulse, PubSub, Google and others to receive updates to your Journals. This will make your blog easier to find.

Early in 2006, we're working on mobile blogging, online presence, skinning, shared journals and other features that you've mentioned in the past. We would love to hear from you about which of these features you think you'd use the most and why.

Thanks,

Bill Schreiner, VP AOL Community Programming.
Email me at: CommProgramming@aol.com, or leave your comments here.

Boy am I glad I was a good girl this year and got my wish of a talking Head.

Good ole Bill talks about how AOL wishes they could have a "do-over" but only about how the addition of the ads took place. Come on Bill, I'm an adult, there are no do-overs in this world. I am the only one responsible for my actions, no one else. This played out the way AOL wanted it to play out. Now, be an adult and accept responsibility for your actions. The manner in which the ad's showed up is only one part of the problem... If AOL had addressed the issue 2 weeks ago with the paying members of J-land, things could have been made better, easier to swallow, but to wait 2½ weeks and then continue with the same rhetoric, doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me.

Face it, AOL sucks bog water! AOL doesn't care about their subscribers. They don't care about their own integrity. They don't care about public opinion. The almighty dollar rules their heart and minds. Bill said it himself, ::Advertising is an important part of how we make money, and we're not ashamed of that.:: So we have advertisements in our blogs, in our email, on our home pages, in our IM's, in the chat rooms, and message boards, everywhere where there is 1 bit of space, AOL has slipped in an advertisement spamming its paid members, all the while touting to the public that AOL is hard on spammers. What a joke! Tomorrow is officially the end of my connection with AOL. They can slide down that slippery slope all they want to now, but at least I wont be in the sled with them.
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AOL

Patrick's Saturday 6

2005-11-26T23:21:00.000-05:00

Sweet Dreams

1. Have you ever had a dream that you felt was a message from some "higher power?" Do you think it's possible to receive such messages through dreams?

I have had some pretty wild and vivid dreams since Bob died. Do I think that they were from some higher power? I'm not sure. I think they were what I call, "wishful dreaming". I can remember one in particular that happened near the 5th anniversary of Bob's death, in which I was chasing him all over a small town, with hills and valleys and there were huge traffic jams. He was in a small yellow convertible and when I would just get up to him, he would vanish around a corner. I remember how frustrated I was getting as I had chased him all day. I finally caught up with him on a ferry, and after I got in the car, he reached over and held my hand without looking at me. Then he said, "as much as I love you, I have to go". Prior to that dream, I was beating myself up that I wasn't further along in my grief journey than I was. I kept telling myself that I was holding on to him too much, and couldn't let him go. So, was this dream from a "higher power" or guilt? Who's to say.

2. How much does a person's musical preference tell you about them?

I don't think musical preference tells you anything about a person. Most people would be shocked by the music I listen to, never thinking that I would be a fan. I do think that if a person likes music or not tells you something about them. To me a person that listens and enjoys music is someone who can think for themselves, with imagination.

3. What time did you get up Friday morning? Were you part of the shopping madness?

Friday morning I was up at 5:30am. No shopping for me, it was work as usual.

4. Take this quiz: What religion do you fit in with?

Your ideals mostly resemble those of the Taoist faith. Spirituality is the most important thing in your life. You strive to live by all of your ideals, and live a very intellectually focused life.

80% spiritual.
20% reason-oriented.

5. Is the answer you received the religion you feel you really do fit in with?

Yes. Although I am not sure about the Taoist faith, I may just have to look into that more.

6. READER'S CHOICE QUESTION #77 from Globetrotter2: Do you have any special nicknames for your significant other when you're annoyed or irritated with them? If so, give us a few of them (NO PROFANITY, please).

Although I have no significant other at this time, I had a few choice names for Bob when he was alive. DipSh-t, Sh-t for brains are a few of the nicer ones.

Cutting Ties

2005-11-26T14:32:00.000-05:00

Cutting Ties...

it's a hard concept for me to accept...
a hard task for me to accomplish.

I called the 800-827-3338 phone number for AOL help, and when you say the words "cancel my membership" you are directed rather quickly to a human voice. I spoke with Jimmy, who was very polite, and wanted to know if there was any way he could help me reconsider? And no, he was not aware that the journal part of AOL had included flashing ad's on our private paid for monthly journals. Could I please describe how I felt that could be enough to cancel my subscription to AOL. When I ran through my rant on AOL and it's lack of customer *SERVICE* Jimmy said that he was sorry I felt that way, but he could take care of the cancellation immediately. My AOL is officially ending on 12/3. I then called my cable company and was immediately connected to road runner for the same amount of money. I had been using Outlook Express for mail with my AOL for the past month or so, and prior to that used AOL Communicator for 2 years. I normally use Firefox for my browser as I like it better anyway. I can create an AIM account for myself, and stay in contact with my AOL buddies that way. I joined PLAXO last week in anticipation of notifying my buddies of address changes, so I think I have my bases covered for now.

Now to the sad part... I have been a member since August 1997 (I found out today the exact time). I have put up with their incompetence with support, their promises of changes, and their assurances of good things happening, and stayed because it was easier to stay than leave, or so I thought. They have neglected to address issues that I have raised with them, and always point the finger away from themselves. It's never them, never their problems, never their issues. I am no longer their problem or concern.
Just one more that left AOL,
Auntie Lyn

AntiJournalsAds

Blessings for Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T12:43:00.000-05:00

Wow, where did the year go? It is amazing that it is already Thanksgiving, which as we all know, means Christmas is just around the corner. And all those shopping days that I think are available, aren't!

Kelly knows that something good is going on today. The house just smells toooo gooood. I am heading out to my sisters with the turkey and dressing about 1:30, and mom and daddy are bringing pie, Bob's Aunt Anna and Norm are bringing vegetables, DiAnna is making ham and potatoes, and Molly and Bruce (my oldest nephew and wife) are bringing appetizer and some vegs. My nephew Steve and his family will be there for dinner after all, their plans with her family got changed, and my niece Dee and her family will join us for dessert later in the evening after going to her in-laws to eat. I will get some pictures of before and after and post them on here later. For now... gota get busy and out of here.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2005-11-20T22:33:00.000-05:00

Over at Saving Sanity's new home, Cat has published a list of those of us who have migrated from AOL to seek higher ground. There are 62 new addresses on that list so far. If you don't see your new home, or someone elses that you are aware of, please let her know. This could become something pretty impressive to pass along to the AOL god's. Plus, it is a pretty good way of keeping track of the migration.

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Because of You

2005-11-20T18:17:00.003-05:00

What child growing up in the '50's and '60's did not at times awaken from sleep to the sounds of their parents fighting and yelling? In my case my daddy was threatening to leave and mommy would be telling him to go ahead, that we'd all be better off without him. Or sometimes I would come in from playing that evening and the arguing would still going on from that morning. When the arguing was over, mommy would tell me that it was just a threat, that daddy's and mom's say things that they don't really mean. I swore to myself that it would not happen in my family when I had one. I knew that I never wanted to feel that fear again... of going to school and not knowing if daddy would come home from work that night.

When Bob and I got married, his parents were more or less like mine as far as the arguing, but in his case, they would quit speaking to each other for weeks at a time. The first thing he told me as we got to know each other was that he never wanted to get so mad that we couldn't talk. I made him a promise that night that I would never do that to him. A few months into our marriage, things were tight money wise, and Bob had just been laid off his job. Tension was high, and an argument began. His words as he stormed out of the kitchen were ::"I'm getting the hell out of here!":: Everything stopped for that moment, and I told him of my fears when I was a child, of never knowing if my daddy would leave or not, of all the threats. He promised me that day, that he would never threaten anything he was not ready to finish. And he never did again.

I love my parents dearly, and even though I wouldn't have bet on it, they are still together after 62 years of marriage. The arguments have more or less stopped, instead they pick on each other. But every once in a while, my daddy has said, "I going to get the hell out of there and leave your mother." The last time he said it was a few years ago, and I finally told him how I felt as a child and how frightened I was. Then I told him, I don't ever want to hear it again! And I haven't. Now when they pick on each other, he just looks at me and winks.
All this was brought about by this song by Kelly Clarkson -- Because of You.

Because Of You
By Kelly Clarkson
CodesAndLyrics.com

Continuing the Saturday 6 tradition

2005-11-20T10:43:00.000-05:00

Over at Patrick's Weekender , our friend Patrick (formerly of AOL J-land community) is continuing the Saturday Six tradition! It has been ages since I played any journal games, but I am eager to get back into things. Thanks Patrick for keeping J-land connected with each other. Here's my answers:

1. What was the last movie you watched at a theater completely alone? Would you have enjoyed it more or less if you had gone with someone to see it?
Never. I don't recall ever going to a movie theater alone. Matter of fact, it's been so long since I went to a theater, I'm not sure I would even know how to act.

2. What was the last non-sexual thing you did around the house completely naked?
Cleaned the bathroom.

3. How well do you know your neighbors? Would you like to know them better or not know them?
Living in a country setting, the neighbors aren't too awfully close, but I know that they're there. The neighbors to my left, just recently moved in, and I believe they are turning the place into a commune of some sort. Not just family, but many friends staying, lots of partying, and very secretive. They have cut down just about every tree since they moved there. My neighbor to the right, I know pretty well. That is until she lost her husband about 9 months ago. Her children did not think she should be there alone, and her son moved her grandson (age 23) and his girlfriend and their dogs into the home with her. Now it appears that it has turned to Redneck haven. Several super large 4 wheel drive trucks in various levels of disrepair dotting the yard, loud music until all hours of the night, squealing tires as they leave the driveway, and a beware of the dog slash owner (with a picture of a large gun pointed at you) sign on the chained gate. Poor Opal, I don't know how she is making it.

And for my second part of my answer... NO! I do not want to get to know them any better!

4. Take this quiz: How much of a conspiracy nut are you?
38% You are a little bit of a conspiracy nut. You know about the big conspiracies - but it doesn't take up too much of your time. You have accepted that people lie, and get away with everything - so you don't dwell on the loch ness monster too often.

5. Of the following "conspiracies" mentioned in that quiz, which single one would you most like the "truth" about and why?
I don't trust big pharmaceutical companies. Working in the medical profession for so many years has made me very suspicious of drugs, drug companies, and our physician's total reliance on them and what the drug companies are telling them.

6. If you had to create a slogan that defined your life, what would it be?
::LIFE:: It's what lies in the middle that counts! ::DEATH::

One more thought...

2005-11-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

I am so very sorry that AOL just doesn't seem to get it.

It's not only the advertisements. It's not even the dysfunction. For me it's that after all these years (1996) I just don't matter any longer. My loyalty to a company who has had their share of problems, who have placated me with assurances of improved and better, have fallen so short of their promises. Like many other large corporations in this world, their answer seems to be, "like it or leave it, no skin off our nose". They are telling me that I am only a small pebble that makes up their mountain, but what they don't seem to understand is that it takes many of us pebbles to make that mountain.

They are proving to me that I don't matter. They are telling me that all of us who pay AOL for service, don't really matter. They own the space, and they apparently feel that it is their right to decorate it how ever they want to, and as a renter, I have to put up with it or leave.

For many years, I leased a vehicle. Thank God that Ford Motor Corporation did not adopt AOL's point of view, or I would have been driving a banner that flashed, "Ford -- Built for the Road Ahead" or some other crap. As it is, I do not leave the dealer advertisement on my vehicle when I purchase one. I request that the dealers name/plate be removed, and if it leaves any hole where it has been riveted on, I will not accept the car and will go to another dealer.

By not responding to my emails, or my comments, or my calls, AOL is saying to me... "Go ahead and complain Auntie Lyn, you don't matter! Leave if you don't like it! You will not be missed! There are 10 more Auntie Lyn's out there to take your place." I know where I'm not wanted or needed, so... So long guys!

Hope you choke on your precious ads, and the disrespect you have treated the whole J-land community with sits like a knot in your gut.
This Auntie is out of here!

AntiJournalsAds

11/19/05 One more thought

2005-11-19T10:33:00.000-05:00

Saturday, November 19, 2005

One more thought

This entry has 4 comments: (Add your own)

Lyn, wonderfully written!
Hugs,
V
Comment from deabvt - 11/20/05 11:49 AM

AOL may own the space (or more specifically, the software and the servers that make the space available to you at a premium price) but they do not own your thoughts, your ideas, your words--and that is what makes the space valuable and saleable to advertisers. I question whether it is even legal for AOL to sell those things (because that's what they are doing) without your agreement. Since they are not paying you for them, I don't see how they can be their property to sell.
Comment from elleme2 - 11/19/05 4:13 PM

It couldn't have been said better, Auntie Lyn.

For many of us, it's not the ads alone that is the problem; it's the long string of straws they've hurled at us, and it just so happens that the ads happen to be -- literally -- the last one.

Patrick
http://patricks-place.blogspot.com/
Comment from pattboy92 - 11/19/05 4:10 PM

Well said.

Peace, Virginia
Comment from ecori - 11/19/05 11:10 AM

Work Rant

2005-11-18T23:16:00.000-05:00

WORK::
Work has been trying at best. I can remember when I thought that getting home care onto computers would be the answer to all our problems ... but now I'm having other thoughts since it finally happened. Why is it that just because we are on the computers and they discovered that they can get more detailed information, that now all of a sudden it's necessary to have every little nit picking bit?!? And God forbid if you don't have every piece in place with every i dotted and every t crossed almost as soon as the visit is completed!

When you are seeing a patient at home, and there is a nurse, a home health aid, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, and a speech therapist, and you all make a visit on the same day, why please tell me why, do each of us have to take vitals???? And now that we are all paperless, lets get a few extra forms in just in case we may need them later. How many places do you need to write down that the patient performed this and that exercise for this many times and this many reps with this tolerance to activity. The main note is not enough, no... add an outcome note, and an intervention note to include the same information. Lets get it in there at least 3 different places! You never know when someone is going to ask for something else. They can't even make up their minds what they want from 1 week to the next. It's enough to make this Auntie cry!

Enough of work! It's Friday night, and I am battling a cold. First time I have tried Cold-Eeze, and AirBorne and I believe I feel better tonight than I did earlier today. Hopefully it will cut down on the number of days of feeling yucky.

Just heard on the news that tropical storm Gamma is headed for south Florida! Lets hope it stays a TS and doesn't turn into another hurricane, and that it hits some cooler air and falls apart. I think there have been more than enough hurricanes the past 2 years!

Well, enough for tonight, time to call it a day. Wish that AOL would finally get their act together and give us what we pay for. Oh well, guess I better get used to all this.

Nite all, Auntie Lyn

11/16/05 Coporate Greed

2005-11-16T00:11:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Corporate Greed

Wouldn't you know, I get the urge and AOL shows their ass!
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lab2401 at 12:11:00 AM EST Link to this entry

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AMEN!
Comment from sherm197 - 11/16/05 11:23 AM

11/16/05 Coporate Greed

2005-11-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Corporate Greed

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lab2401 at 12:00:00 AM EST Link to this entry

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Moving Day

2005-11-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

Today is moving day from AO-Hel-L. I would imagine there is all sorts of rumblings in the woodwork today. I finally make a effort to update my journal over there and they throw a monkey wrench into the picture. What the hell is up with the advertisements on the top of the journals?? As if we don't already pay enough for our service with them, then they are lusting for more from the advertisers! Looking better and better to leave AOL for good come the end of the year. Just too many hassles with too few benefits to stay. Well, I will organize my thoughts and attempt to journal competently later. Thanks AOL! just give me time to get my stuff together and I will be gone.

11/15/05 How to go about it

2005-11-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

How to go about it

Feeling the need to begin this journal again. I continue to read some of my favorites, but have not had the inclination to write in so many, many months. For some reason, I feel a push today.

Life has been quiet since my last post. I have slowly adjusted to not running to be at the nursing home 3 or 4 days a week now. I miss Sadie, but would not wish her back for all the tea in China. I am slowly getting her stuff sorted, and will send her personal stuff to her niece. It has taken me a while to get the task done.

"All the tea in China"... I wonder how that little saying got started? It reminds me of the many sayings and rhymes I have picked up from my grandmother and my mother. Things like these - "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride."; and "Everyone to their own taste, said the old lady as she kissed the cow."; and "Everyone is crazy except Thee and Me, and sometimes I have my doubts about Thee!". I have some really wild rhymes and ditty's from my mother-in-law, but most of those are pretty rank. She was never known to hold back, when a thought hit her brain, her mouth opened and out it popped. Things like the poem below would just roll out of her.
"O my gosh almighty!
A mouse crawled up my nighty!
He bit my tit, and made me shit,
No wonder I'm so flighty!"

I think I am going to make a point of writing them all down when I think of them. There is one that rhymes with pink pink, and every time I hear the word pink it pops into my head. Bob was good at song parody. There are a few songs that when the music starts, his words come into my head and not the real words of the song. "Out in the west Texas town of El Paso, ..." Better not go there.

Well, enough garbage for now.

Cute little porcupine babies only a mother could love...

lab2401 at 8:56:00 AM EST Link to this entry

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4/9/05 Unburdening

2005-04-09T15:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday, April 9, 2005

Unburdening

Sad

Sadie E. Bates
4/30/1919 - 4/7/2005

Feeling a need to unburden, and this is the place.

About 8½ years ago, I treated a 78 year old patient in an assisted living facility, who was afraid, alone, and confined to a wheelchair. She was partially blind, and suffered from serious depression. My heart went out to her. Sadie had been married twice, divorced once and widowed once. She had buried her only child in 1986, and had no family here to help her. Her only living sibling was in Oregon and she suffered from dementia and could not help, and she had nieces and nephews stretched up and down the California/Oregon coast who did not know their Aunt Sadie. When I met her I was still in a very painful spot in my loss, and her situation just screamed out at me ... that there but for the grace of God, it could very well be me there in the future, having no children to look after me when I get old.

After her therapy was complete, I would run by the place and visit with her a few times a week, offer to run errands, take her to get her hair done, bring her in a few treats, etc. We became close friends. A few years after that, Sadie suffered a central stroke which took most of the rest of her vision, and she could no longer see to read or write. So I began writing out her checks and getting them out for her. Then a few years later she suffered a mental breakdown of sorts. A strange woman, who Sadie did not know, and who claimed she was acting on Sadie's behalf, began proceedings to have her declared incompetent. I, along with a few others who knew Sadie (including the physicain that Sadie used to work for as his office manager), convinced the judge that it was not true, that she was fully competent to make decisions, and the case was dropped. Sadie and I discussed my becoming her power of attorney/health care surrogate at that time, but kept putting off getting the paperwork done. Then later in one of Sadie's "terror" states, she fell and fractured her hip, and we decided it was time to make it official. A lawyer drew up the paperwork, and I became her responsible person, to speak for her when she couldn't.

Sadie's health deteriorated through the years, and in Nov '03 a fire took place at the assisted living facility where she was living and it was destroyed along with all her stuff. She was not in a position to care for herself enough to go to another ALF, so following a lengthy hospitalization Nov/Dec 2003, she went to live in a local nursing home close to my home, and I would visit and take care of her and her needs. Needless to say, her money only lasted only about 11 months at the nursing home rate of $5500-6500+/month expenses. Last Nov, we applied and got state Medicaid, which became effective in Dec.

Sadie hated the nursing home, but I could not bring her to my home as she needed the medical attention that I could not provide, and she no longer qualified for ALF care. She would tell me how she wished she would die, and not be a burden to me, but she was so afraid of dying.

3 weeks ago the congestive heart failure took it's toll. Her right lung filled with fluid requiring drainage with a needle twice in 72 hours, her heart rate was 140-160 beats per minute for days on end, and she suffered a slight stroke affecting her right side. She was alert and aware the first 5 days in the hospital, then she decided it was enough, and began the dying process. Following her wishes in her living will, and acting on her behalf, I refused the catheter in the lung to keep the fluids drained off, and I refused the feeding tube, and then I requested they send her back to the nursing home with comfort care, and let nature take it's course. This dying took almost 2 weeks. I, along with hospice and the nursing home staff made sure that she was comfortable and out of fear. Hospice provided volunteers to sit with her so she wouldn't be alone when the time came close, and I was with her every day when I would get done with my patients.

Finally, this past Thursday at 4:40pm, Sadie left this world to know no more pain or fear of being alone. I am both relieved and saddened all at the same time. I question the decisions that I made, but I know deep down I did what she wanted. My old friend is finally at peace. Today her death notice is in the paper, and although there are very few that will notice she is gone, I will know and I will miss her.

May God bless and keep her safe.
Until we meet again Sadie, I love you, Lynda

lab2401 at 3:00:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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Lynda,
I don't know if you get comment alerts from your journal. I was looking at some graphics from last year's anniversary celebration and ran across the wonderful ones you made for us. So I wanted to come by here and say thanks and check up on you. I've also been wondering if you'll be affected by hurricaine Eric. This entry/dedication to Sadie is so beautiful. What a wonderful friend you are!!

Vivian
Comment from viviansullinwank - 7/10/05 3:30 PM

I've been around nursing homes since I was a child. My mom has worked in them in some form or another most of my life. There are more Sadies out there than some might realize. Bless your heart for sharing your life with Sadie. May she rest in peace and may you find comfort in your loss. :-) ---Robbie
Comment from krobbie67 - 5/2/05 8:52 AM

Lynda, that`s a wonderful tribute to both of you.
Prayers.
V
Comment from deabvt - 4/11/05 3:41 PM

11/4/04 here's my button

2004-11-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Thursday, November 4, 2004

here's my button

Frustrated

Here's my button for the next 4 years...

I am truly amazed at the election results.

I find it so hard to believe that 'the people' have voted in favor of:
-- higher drug prices,
-- higher gas prices,
-- higher heating prices,
-- higher deficits,
-- continued unemployment and lower wages,
-- big insurance growth with poor medical care,
-- a continued 2 class society of the have's and have not's,
-- an endless war with endless casualities in Iraq,
-- a type of "dictatorship" mentality with the one party control of the House, Senate, White House, and most likely the Supreme Court.

And the explanation from most who are smugly patting their own backs is...
"I voted for Bush because President Bush reflects my high moral standards."

So my response to this ignorance this next 4 years is simple...
If you voted for the re-election of President Bush, or God forbid, if you didn't vote at all --------------------

Don't bother complaining to me...
At least I voted for a change in 2004!

lab2401 at 9:00:00 AM EST Link to this entry

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING...YOU HAVEN'T POSTED FOR AWHILE. I HOPE EVERYTHING IS ALRIGHT?

BLESS YOU...

SHARON :)

http://journals.aol.com/spurgins311/SLS
Comment from spurgins311 - 11/25/04 2:02 PM

great button........... as i said in my post, this is the first year i voted because i firmly believed we needed a change....so i was very sad with the outcome...well, actually i was outraged by the outcome, so i hope everyone that did re-elect bush is happy while the next four years fall apart.
Comment from viarbooba - 11/6/04 3:03 AM

I need this button too. My sentiments exactly.

Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 11/5/04 8:19 PM

Good button. Reserve one for me. Seems to me only almost half the country has the right to complain. Margo
Comment from magogos - 11/4/04 8:35 PM

I think I should wear the same button. I think this country has gone mad. I don't think it. I know it.

Angela

Comment from readmereadyou - 11/4/04 3:02 PM

10/27/04 blood moon tonight

2004-10-27T09:12:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, October 27, 2004

blood moon tonight

Tonight we will experience what is called a "Blood Moon or Hunter's Moon". There is an exceptional write up located here explaining this erie phenomea. I have taken the liberty to copy their schedule and paste it here for viewing times.

What better time to have this occur than Halloween week. Too bad we couldn't have dragged this out until Sunday night. Hope you get to see this in your area, I know I will be out watching the moon turn into a giant pumpkin and then turn blood red. This wont happen again for another 7 years so get out there and observe what you can.

lab2401 at 9:12:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Funny moon!
V
Comment from deabvt - 10/29/04 11:34 AM

Lynda,
I checked out my moon and it looks white, it is a full moon. I am in the Central time zone. hmmmm wonder why it's white. I will have to check out the link you gave to see what a "blood moon" is. I've never heard of it.

How are you after all those storms? Hopefully you are fine?

{{{BYE}}}
SHARON
Comment from spurgins311 - 10/28/04 11:28 PM

I never heard of this. Now, I have to check that link. Thanks! Always nice to learn.

Angela

Comment from readmereadyou - 10/27/04 6:20 PM

Bummer it is rainy and cloudy here, Maybe it will clear up by tonight.
Comment from mom23nca - 10/27/04 9:56 AM

10/16/04 power surges

2004-10-16T10:17:00.000-04:00

Saturday, October 16, 2004

power surges

Silly

Power Surges

"Power Surges", or hot flashes as they are commonly called...

--They are a fact of life, an obvious sign of maturing.
--They are a perfectly normal process of aging, so say the experts.

The fact is, many of these experts have not traveled this 'road of maturity'. They base their facts on what others have told them -- that the experience is difficult, but not impossible. Most of the experts are men in our medical profession who have read all the latest literature (written, btw, by other men), and then proceed to tell the female population what to expect and how it will feel. Personally, I have been traveling this road since my 40th birthday, and the "power surges" are very infrequent now, and not nearly as volatile as they were in the beginning. But I was sent this cute cartoon from a friend who is just beginning this journey, and it sums up the feeling perfectly! By sharing I hope to further the education of those who don't understand because of gender or perhaps those women who have not reached this level of maturity so far...

Here is what a Power Surge feels like!

Maybe we could get a few of the experts to try this experience first hand and then they would better equipped to inform the mature female population of what to 'really' expect!

lab2401 at 10:17:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Lynda,
That little cartoon is just too funny. I haven't been here in awhile, so thought I would stop by and check on you. All those hurricanes....
I have been having "hot flashes" since I was 25 and I am 54 now. Had a complete hysterectomy and the lovely doctors did not tell me that it would throw me into CHANGE OF LIFE at that young of an age. Geesh...the first one I had I will never forget, felt like someone tourched my butt and it went through my entire being. Within mili-seconds I was wet with sweat! My clothes were wet. I still have them if I don't take medication (hormone replacement). One good thing about the surgery though...no more periods. :)
SHARON

Comment from spurgins311 - 10/25/04 12:27 AM

LOL! I posted the same 'Personal Summer' (my name for mine) in my journal this week.
http://journals.aol.com/kokoapuffy1/PemberTime
Comment from kokoapuffy1 - 10/23/04 9:49 PM

Very funny. I was lucky not to have them often but I get them a few times a year. They are annoying especially when you're trying to sleep......covers off, covers on.......all night long. : )
Angela

Comment from readmereadyou - 10/16/04 3:40 PM

LMAO Funny!
V
Comment from deabvt - 10/16/04 3:24 PM

10/2/04 florida is moving

2004-10-02T09:49:00.000-04:00

Saturday, October 2, 2004

florida is moving

Ecstatic

Announcement: Florida is Moving!

I received this cartoon from Newsday.com by
Walt Handelsman and what can I say?

It just sums up the thoughts of those of us here in Florida!

We love our state, but just can't stand hanging down there in the way of every little breeze. So we are moving! Way to go Walt, for finding a way of fitting us in.

lab2401 at 9:49:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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This is so cute. Maybe it would be a good idea. hehehehe
Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 10/7/04 1:20 AM

This was just an hysterical cartoon. I'm still laughing. Thanks.
Angela

Comment from readmereadyou - 10/2/04 4:45 PM

Very clever, got my laugh for today. Thanks. Margo PS Can't help but wonder if you'd really trade a few nasty hurricanes causing mass devistation for winter next to ND? It might be a toss up.
Comment from magogos - 10/2/04 10:36 AM

That's so funny!!

http://journals.aol.com/derasta/ADayInTheLife
Comment from derasta - 10/2/04 10:29 AM

9/30/04 sweet tobie lyn

2004-09-30T08:44:00.000-04:00

Thursday, September 30, 2004

sweet tobie lyn

Happy

I still don't have cable modem, so am on a dial up connection. I never realized how much I miss the cable!
I have been waiting to post a picture of Tobie, but decided to try to get one posted anyway. Isn't she precious? This was taken on the day we picked her up. She might weigh in at about 3 pounds, and is maybe 4 inches tall at her head. You can't see it, but she has little white tips on her back feet, and the white under her neck, other than that, she is pure black.

My dad gets up at around 4am to take her out to go potty, and then wipes her feet and belly off before putting her back to bed. You would think they gave birth to her.
My mom called me yesterday with the story of "we have to go out to Costco's, and you'll never guess what I did with Tobie. I put her in her crate, and she started to whimper, so I put her back in her bed and put her toys around her and told her it was time to take a nap. Then I pulled the sheet over the crate, and waited for a minute or so, and guess what?, when I peeked in and looked she was sound asleep under her little lambs wool companion."

Needless to say, Tobie is doing her job! She has those two wrapped around her little paw, and all she has to do is whimper once, cast her head over to the side and look up at them, and they melt. I can't really blame them tho, she is precious.

addendum: I have been using "photobucket.com" for my pictures lately due to the ease of putting them in my journal, uploading, etc, but they had some sort of melt down yesterday and the pictures in my journal vanished. Hopefully they will get my album restored later today, if not, I will re-do all the pictures here.
Auntie Lyn
10am It appears my album has been fixed and the photos are back up. (and after I uploaded these to my aol ftp space) Oh well, I will leave things as they are for now. For any that are interested, check out www.photobucket.com for picture storage and use.

lab2401 at 8:44:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Yea! Got the Pics. What a handsome and happy family!
V
Comment from deabvt - 10/1/04 2:26 PM

Rats, on dial-up, I get the red dots!
V
Comment from deabvt - 10/1/04 8:33 AM

What a sweet dog and story. My most favorite dog I ever had did have the same name. It's been 24 years since that dog passed away and I still miss him. :(

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/30/04 3:47 PM

She is adorable. What a great addition for your parents.
Comment from mom23nca - 9/30/04 10:23 AM

What a cute puppy...i'm so glad he put such happiness into their lives....dogs have a way of doing just that!
Comment from derasta - 9/30/04 9:41 AM

9/26/04 jeanne

2004-09-26T23:44:00.000-04:00

Sunday, September 26, 2004

jeanne

I am so very grateful to report I have come thru hurricane Jeanne, whole and well. I lost power this morning about 7:15, and went thru the worst of the winds and rain listening to my transistor radio. Then I lost my phone about 6:30 tonight. But thankfully the cell phone worked, so I was able to stay in touch with family and friends. Finally my power was restored tonight around 9:30, with the phone very soon after that. I don't have my cable access, but at least I have my phone. Our winds are still gusting but very misty rain now at the most. So far I have recorded about 5½ inches of rain since this started about midnight last night.

Yesterday morning, I took my mom and dad to get a new puppy for them, a shitzu/poodle mix. Little black female. Poor mom and daddy have been frantic today worrying about her pooping and peeing, not being able to get her out, etc. They also lost their power from the storm, but got theirs back tonight also. I have some pictures and when I get my cable back up and running I will post some pictures. She is a little doll, they named her Tobie.

Well, I am out of here, it is time to go to bed and fall asleep counting my many blessings. Thanking God again to have made it thru another hurricane. Love to you all, Auntie Lyn and Uncle Owl.

lab2401 at 11:44:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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And no more hurricanes!!
V
Comment from deabvt - 10/1/04 2:39 PM

I can't wait to see pictures of the new puppy...I have a Shih Tzu, Layla...she's a great dog...

http://journals.aol.com/derasta/ADayInTheLife
Comment from derasta - 9/28/04 5:18 PM

I am glad that you have once again come through in good health and good spirits. May this be the last hurricane you EVER have to experience! Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/27/04 10:11 AM

No more storms, Florida! : )
I'm so happy all is well and even the puppy can go out now.
Angela
http://journals.aol.com/readmereadyou/MyThoughts/
Comment from readmereadyou - 9/27/04 1:31 AM

9/24/04 reflections of mom

2004-09-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

Friday, September 24, 2004

reflections of mom

Happy

Sorry I haven't been on the computer much this past week.
My sister and I picked my mom and dad up from the train station on Friday the 17th, and then on Saturday the 18th we celebrated my mom's 79th birthday. We had a wonderful dinner and party with all the kids, and family. The only great grandchild missing was my nephew's oldest daughter Amanda. It has been 2 years now since we have seen Amanda due to divorce issues, not a nice story all in all. Someday I will get into that story and try to sort it out in my mind. This picture is of my mom, and her brother, Arthur. She was about 14 months old here, and Art was 2 years old. This was taken just before my mom contracted polio at 18 months. I love this picture of the two of them. We don't have many pictures of mom when she was young as much of her early years were spent in and out of hospitals, and her parents divorced when she got sick. My mom was born in Connecticut, and when she was around 3 or 4 her dad decided he wanted his kids, and took the two of them to live with him at his sisters in Massachusetts. (Back in those years, a man was considered best to raise his family if that is what he wanted. After all, we are talking about 1928/1929.) His sister convinced him that he couldn't take care of them on his own, and they would be ideal children for an adoption. (My grandma tells the story that the old witch had a couple in mind to adopt my mom, and that Art would be raised to be a priest.) They were placed in a Catholic orphanage, and put up for adoption. This is the picture that was taken at that orphanage. A friend of my Grandma's that lived near my Grandfather let her know what was going on, and with the help of family and friends, she gathered all her resourses, hired acar and went to the orphanage to get her kids. They allowed her to visit them, as they thought she was all for them being adopted out, and on the pretext of taking them shopping, she abducted them, and took them back to Connecticut. My Grandfather sent word that if she wanted them bad enough to face kidnapping charges, she could have them. She raised them both without help from him, and he drifted in and out of their lives once in a while. This last picture was taken of my mom and some of her friends from Newington Childrens Hospital. This was home for mom much of her early life, hospital for surgery and therapy for 8 or 9 months, then to her mom's or her grandmom's house, then back to the hospital for more surgeries. My mom is the first on the left with the big white bow in her blond hair. Mom is writing her story down for the grand and great grand kids, and I, for one, can't wait to read it.

Happy 79th birthday Mom, I love you!

lab2401 at 8:44:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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You GOTTA be kidding me-- Newington, Connecticut? I lived there from the age of 3 until I was 12. Small world, eh? Great photos! Quite the story, too!
Comment from haikulike - 9/25/04 10:57 AM

Happy Birthday, Mom.....lab, what wonderful memories & Pictures.
V
Comment from deabvt - 9/24/04 6:23 PM

Tell your mom we all want to wish her Happy Birthday. Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/24/04 5:41 PM

Happy Birthday Mom is right! Bless her heart. What a story. Maybe it can even be published one day.

Angela
Comment from readmereadyou - 9/24/04 3:53 PM

9/15/04 breathing a sigh of relief

2004-09-15T00:17:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, September 15, 2004

breathing a sigh of relief

Chillin'

My heart and prayers go out for those who have been touched by Ivan's fury, and for all those who stand in his path. At the same time, I count my blessings, that we here in Central Florida were spared his wrath. Clean up is moving along here, now there are still about 170,000 people without power here in Central FL from hurricane Frances, but at least we have some time to get things together before the next one hits. There is another tropical storm, Jeanne, heading in our general direction, but I am praying that it heads itself north back out to sea before it becomes a threat.

It appears that Ivan will hit somewhere between the panhandle of Florida and Louisiana. Even if it doesn't hit New Orleans head on, the wind and tide surge will put that city underwater. I pray that it loses some of it's punch before it makes landfall, but they are predicting that it could actually gain strength, and bump back up to a category 5.

For those who have wondered, S is doing well thru all these storms. Most the time, she is sleeping thru them. Frances took out the nursing home's power out for 4 days, but they had generators to run half power for lights and fans, and keep the refrigerators and freezers up and running. When I got to her on Tuesday after Frances left us, she was in bed with a small fan on her in the window. The power came back on that night. I can't get over how well S is doing now. They have finally gotten her meds regulated, and she is sleeping well, with no nightmares, and she is not hearing music very ofter any longer. I give the psychiatrist lots of credit for his patience with working with her.

I have been fighting a cold since Friday night, and finally feel better tonight. Mom and Daddy will be headed back home Thursday, and I will pick them up at the train station on Friday afternoon. Then on Saturday we will be celebrating mom's 79th birthday. Plans are for the family to meet at my sisters house for roast pork, baked potato, green beans, rutabaga, apple sauce, rolls and butter, iced tea or coffee, and birthday cake and ice cream for dessert. I can't wait to see them both, I have missed them.

lab2401 at 12:17:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Lost your journal somehow. Glad I was able to locate it again. Ivan was horrible and my prayers, like yours went out to all who suffered because of it. Stop by and visit sometime. **Barb**
http://journals.aol.com/barbpinion/HEYLETSTALK
Comment from barbpinion - 9/22/04 8:01 PM

I am glad all is well with you- and that S is doing okay, too. I am also sooo glad you were spared Ivan. Take care of your self. Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/19/04 12:12 PM

9/10/04 bracing again

2004-09-10T09:02:00.000-04:00

Friday, September 10, 2004

bracing again

Frustrated

AOL got it exactly the way most of us here in Florida are feeling...

It must be a new weekend because there's a new hurricane coming...
right? right!

I'm sure that as tired as others are from heaing about Florida's run of bad weather luck, we are tired of going thru it. It is surreal to go to the grocery, and have all the bread gone, to have bottled water and flashlights to be in the center isles as the impulse items to purchase. To wait 15 or 20 minutes in line waiting to top your gas off for fear you wont find any if you don't. To see grown men and women scrambling to grab the last 5 pieces of plywood because you are only allowed 5 at a time, and you might need them. Besides, if you don't get them when you can, you may miss out on the opportunity.

The waiting is intolerable. When you turn on local TV or radio all you see and hear are coordinates of latitudes and longitudes. We are learning more geography and meteorology than any normal person should ever be required to know. I can tell you what a cold front can do to a tropical depression, and how a high pressure area can drive a weather system. How millibars (mb) of minimal central depression mean a storm is gaining or losing strength, and how wind shears can weaken the formation and the eye. This is all stuff that I don't want to know, but the fact that we have had two major storms in 3 weeks, and by week 4 another hurricane will be at our back door, makes all this knowledge possible. I am beginning to know the Windward Islands by name and coordinates. I can even tell you which land mass will depreciate the storms magnitude, and which will have no effect.

I am sick and tired of my week being disrupted by weather! I am ready for a break from the drama and fears!

We started this all out with hurricane Charley on Friday, August the 13th, and now they are predicting that our third hurricane will begin to impact us around Monday, September the 13th. Here's the latest projection from the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

lab2401 at 9:02:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Prayers for everyone in the Path.
V
Comment from deabvt - 9/12/04 9:11 AM

I hope Florida will be okay. It really is getting to be such a stressful thing for all of you. You guys haven't had a chance to just exhale.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/10/04 3:17 PM

OMG, Lyn, it is monsterously unfair! Where are you? I mean, what general area? I've forgotten. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers-again-and am so sorry you have to be under this kind of stress for so ling. Please take care of yourself and Walter(did I get the dog's name right?) Blessings, Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/10/04 2:01 PM

lab, prayers...and that was very enlightening...we tend to forget how it is in the eye of the storm.
V
Comment from deabvt - 9/10/04 9:24 AM

9/8/04 the aftermath

2004-09-08T22:03:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, September 8, 2004

the aftermath

Thought it might be a good idea to check in again. There are still over 1.5 million people without power here in the state of Florida, and the heat and humidity is climbing. There have now been 14 deaths directly caused by this hurricane disaster. Another 4 were killed when their motorcycles struck a downed tree. They were not found until yesterday morning when a newspaper delivery truck could not get past this tree in the road, and he found their bikes and bodies tangled in the branches.

There is good news from this hurricane disaster 3 week period. There is a network of volunteers helping each other that is stretching thru the counties. There are people calling a number saying they have this and that, or can do this or that service, and then there are those that are calling and saying they need this and that, and they are all being hooked up together. A young teenager who is out of school until next Monday called and offered her services for free pet sitting or baby sitting for those parents/owners who needed the assistance. A woman called and offered the use of a generator and a gas stove that she used when Charley came thru and she lost her power. Several have called needing to get trees cleared off houses, and they have been hooked up with people with chainsaws offering their services. We have even had several of the local physicians and nurses get involved, with a free walk in clinic for minor injuries and difficulties located in a parking lot. They have been diagnosing, treating, caring and writing prescriptions for the elderly, young and in between for no charge. Our hospitals are out straight, and the emergency rooms are at full capacity and this has really helped out. These are only a few examples of the ways people are reaching out to each other.

So even with all the chaos, good has come from this. Proof positive that Goodness does exist!

lab2401 at 10:03:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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lab, isn`t that wonderful to hear!
V
Comment from deabvt - 9/9/04 3:21 AM

Great entry! I truly believe, like you, all that's good in people comes out when things like this happen. Everyone becomes a loving human being......I wish we could all be that way even when things are good. God bless and stay safe from Ivan. I haven't watched the news, so I don't know where it is now.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/8/04 10:29 PM

9/6/04 another day

2004-09-06T08:32:00.000-04:00

Monday, September 6, 2004

another day

Hopeful

Well, I'm still here with my power and phone this morning. The day is bleak, dark and dreary. Still having rain, and gust wind on and off. The tree is still standing out there, and that is good. Sure enough a transformer went last night, the back door neighbors are without power, the housing development across the street, and my next door neighbor with the split tree. There is one section of us in this group with our power on. (About 5 homes) I consider myself blessed.

The official word is that 2 people lost their lives as a direct result of hurricane Frances, both in North Florida, in the Gainesville area (University of Florida). One was a woman who died when a huge oak tree fell on her trailer and struck her, and the other was a gentleman who was out looking at the damage, and ran into a tree on the road. Considering the magnitude of this storm, I am glad there have only been 2 deaths. The idiot out driving around should have known better. All of us here in the central FL area are under a 6pm to 6am curfew, and they are requesting today, that if you don't have emergency business to take care of, please stay off the roads today to allow the work crews to assess and take care of the damage.

Hurricane Frances, in her typical fashion, is off the coast of Tampa, and just sitting there. She is churning away, causing all kinds of problems for those of us here in FL, as well as far north as S. Carolina, all of Georgia, and Alabama. Not a nice girl if you get my meaning! Here is map of Ivan's approach, let's pray he gets tired of all the hoopla and fizzles out!

lab2401 at 8:32:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Glad to hear you're okay. I was reading today that a bunch of Baptists in Oklahoma got together and are driving a food wagon down there to help feed the people whose homes have been destroyed and those without power, etc. Then one of my best friends, whose dad is a trucker, told me that his dad has been hauling loads for FEMA. It seems he doesn't even have to comply with our hours of service rules or weight restrictions while he's doing this. They're just putting as much drinking water (or food or whatever else he's been hauling) on his truck as will fit, regardless of if it's over weight and he's been driving them down there as fast and hard as he wants.

I hate that so many are hurt and out of a home, but I love to hear how everyone pulls together to help. Hang in there Auntie Lyn. :)

Sammie
http://journals.aol.com/ladydriversammie/MovinOn

P.S. Oh, and I also read a news story that said there are folks putting various things on sale on Ebay, like vials of rainwater from Frances. The things people think of! I suppose if someone would buy them though, that might be a way to raise money for the people who have lost so much...
Comment from ladydriversammie - 9/7/04 10:02 PM

Let's hope he's Ivan the Not-So-Terrible! (knock on wood!)

Glad you're ok!
~tara :)
Comment from pollysci - 9/7/04 8:27 PM

Thank goodness. I am glad to see you up and typing, so to speak. Ivan had better blow himself out somewhere other than FL, I pray!
Comment from magogos - 9/6/04 5:45 PM

Let's hope God transfers that hurricane Ivan out to sea!

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/6/04 3:51 PM

9/5/04 checking in again

2004-09-05T20:48:00.000-04:00

Sunday, September 5, 2004

checking in again

Hopeful

I'm hanging in there still, power and phone still on. Just heard a transformer blow close by, my next door neighbor is in the black now, as well as the housing development across the street. We are still getting some periods of high winds and heavy rains at 8:00pm. So far, I have recorded 6 inches of rain since yesterday when this started in earnest. My neighbors tree on the fence line got hit with a twisting wind and split in two. Thank God, the half that would be headed for my place is hung up in the trees, and hasn't fallen as of yet. I figure if it hasn't come down in the winds we have had so far, it probably will hold until this is over and it can be taken down. I got this picture about 5:00 tonight when the winds had died down, and was under my umbrella. You can see the edge of it across the top of the photo. This neighbor has the whole fence line lined with oak trees. The wind and rains are still coming down pretty hard at times, we are having a deluge as I type this.

Now I am waiting word on hurricane Ivan, who is making his way from Africa very quickly. He is following the path that Frances took, and he is gaining speed and strength already. They are telling us, that it looks good that Florida will be impacted by him also. They are saying by this Thursday, he will be near the Dominican Republic, and we will know by Friday if we will get hit by him over this next weekend. I am thinking that maybe we all ought to abandon ship, and the last person out leave a FOR SALE sign at the Georgia border! I will write more as I can. Thank all of you for your prayers for me and my fellow Floridians. I believe that this is what has saved this from being a total disaster that was predicted on Thursday night.

lab2401 at 8:48:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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Wishing you well with prayer. Paula
Comment from plieck30 - 9/6/04 1:57 AM

So glad you are safe...thanks for letting us know that. I can't believe that another hurricane is on it's way!!! Forest fires in California...all this in Florida. Unreal.

God Bless....TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
SHARON
Comment from spurgins311 - 9/6/04 12:49 AM

Glad for the update. Mother Nature sure can show her furious dark side, can't she. Sorry that you are in Her path. Take care. Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/5/04 10:24 PM

I think the prayers have worked. From what I've heard so far on TV, no loss of life and that's what I really prayed for and I'm hoping that news continues.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/5/04 9:38 PM

keeping you in prayers. Thanks for keepin in touch. *Barb*
Comment from barbpinion - 9/5/04 9:24 PM

9/5/04 still here

2004-09-05T07:14:00.000-04:00

Sunday, September 5, 2004

still here

Hopeful

I have lost my cable access, but I do have phone and power, so I am here on a new account. It appears that Frances has come ashore south of the Ft. Pierce area, but she is still more or less just sitting there, very slowly moving thru our state. Newest reports are that she will track more southerly that originally plotted, and will finally exit the state somewhere around Tampa area. I have been awake since 5am, just felt the 'need' to get out of that bed. It was pretty quiet when I first got up, but we are getting some pretty heavy gusts now as I type this. I am watching the street lights go on and off across the street, and I keep losing my satellite connection for TV. But all in all, I am safe and calm. Should be interesting when the sun comes up. Will keep you updated as I am able to.

A few thoughts about this storm that have been running thru my head. Mysteriously this hurricane stalled out just far enough off the coast for so such a long duration, giving all those that needed to flee for their safety more than ample time to do so. Although there were millions that fled, the traffic moved smoothly, with everyone getting to their destination before any of the storm moved forward, and even tho we had been experiencing gas shortages from hurricane Charley, there was gas enough to get everyone out of harms way. The track that the storm is NOW following covers some of the most un-populated areas of our state that we have, which will impact fewer homes, hopefully incurring less harm to human life. All the dire predictions that the media have used and are using to scare our citizens are not reaching fruition. I am learning there is one Source, and He is in power.

I know that God is where I am...
beneath, around, above;
providing, guarding, guiding;
encircling me in Love.

lab2401 at 7:14:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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I've been watching on CNN and it looks so bad. I feel so sorry for everyone.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/5/04 7:07 PM

Oh wow, Lyn...you be SAFE as you can down there! I know God is watching over you, but it's very scary to see those hurricane radar things now that I sort of know some people down there. I've been hearing these entries on AOL by phone, but the pictures really add to it. They look horrifying. Of course I know that the worst part of the storms aren't the whole big colored area, but still. I guess I'm just not used to them. Now give me a tornado and I can handle those. Still scary but I'm used to them, having called Oklahoma home for the past 13 years.

Sammie
http://journals.aol.com/ladydriversammie/MovinOn
Comment from ladydriversammie - 9/5/04 6:25 PM

I'm glad you are hanging in there. You continue to be in my prayers. Take care of yourself. Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/5/04 11:22 AM

My prayers are with you. I know you'll be alright. God protects his own. Please stop by and visit my special and new journal. "A LITTLE BIT OF HEAVEN." I think you'll like what you find. *Barb*
http://journals.aol.com/barbpinion/ALittleBitOfHeaven/
Comment from barbpinion - 9/5/04 11:18 AM

Prayers.
V
Comment from deabvt - 9/5/04 9:06 AM

9/4/04 frances approaches

2004-09-04T12:35:00.000-04:00

Saturday, September 4, 2004

frances approaches

Anxious

photo courtesy of NOAA

This is Hurricane Frances as of 8:00am this morning.
They are still unsure of what and how it is going to behave. The projections still have the eye going just south of Orlando, and across the state, exiting off the west coast northwest of central Florida. They are telling us that the eye will not come onto land until later tonight and then it is traveling so slow it will not reach Orlando area until Sunday late morning or early afternoon. We just had our first "rain band" come thru my area which lasted about 10 minutes, dumped just over ¼ inch of rain in my guage. The rain bands amount to high winds, heavy rain, and very dark skies and a pressure feeling. It get's nerve wracking trying to wait this thing out.

Here is the latest picture from NOAA, you can make out the rain band that just crossed us here in NW Orlando.

lab2401 at 12:35:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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Hopefully, it fizzles and next week will hardly be a memory.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/4/04 3:41 PM

I can't believe that this is happening so soon after Charley. Aunti Lyn, please take care, this one seems to be worse than Charley I've heard? Please keep us all updated as to how you are doing.

SHARON
Comment from spurgins311 - 9/4/04 12:44 PM

9/3/04 here we go again?

2004-09-03T12:18:00.000-04:00

Friday, September 3, 2004

here we go again?

Anxious

before after

here it is, the official before and after.
needless to say, the after is hard to get used to.

I got the tree that was split and headed for the house down this past Wednesday, and the debris is out at the street. Nothing more I can do about that. Everything is put away here at my house and at my parents, and my sis and her families are all prepared. My parents are in Connecticut, as my dad lost his sister on Wednesday night. They got word on Monday she was in the hospital and not expected to make it home, and as my mom can't fly, I got them on a train Tuesday morning. They got in on Wednesday afternoon made it to the hospital in time, got to see and speak with Lil, and then she passed that evening at about 10:30. I feel so sad for my daddy, but am glad that at least they are out of harms way from this newest storm to threaten us.

Well, Hurricane Frances is making her presence known here in our state, just 3 weeks after Charley paid us a visit. And now the newest report of tropical storm Ivan off the coast of Africa and headed due west. For any that are considering making a move to the "Sunshine" state, I would seriously think about that!

Here is my plan thus far: I will stay here with my cat and dog, hiding in the hallway when it gets to be rough. They have down graded the storm to a category 3 which is 115-120 mph winds now, but it still has to cross the warm waters of the gulf stream, so there is a huge possibility it will pick up strength again. They are now saying it will pass directly over us here in Orlando area, or even possibly go a little more north. Tornado's are a huge possibility, and with no basements to hide in, and being secured in only sand makes that a scary thought. Plus, there's not even a rock to tie yourself to down here.

They just reporting that the storm is not supposed to get here now until Sunday morning, earlier it was looking like Sat afternoon, and it will take about 36 hours to clear us. It has slowed down dramatically, and that is a huge problem. They are predicting at least 15-24 inches of rain here in Orlando, as it will sit and just dump water on us. I'm glad I sit fairly high, and not subject to flooding, but I do pity the people in the newer subdivisions which have been built on dried lake beds and filled marsh areas. Most of them will find water in their front doors. The saddest part is, most of the people are not aware that as little as 10 years ago, their home used to be part of a lake or marshland area.

Keep those of us that are dealing with this newest threat in your thoughts and prayers, and I will try to update my journal as I am able.

lab2401 at 12:18:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

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Sorry about your dad's loss.
Yes, we are all praying for Florida. Hope you're doing the right thing staying and not leaving the area.

Comment from readmereadyou - 9/3/04 4:00 PM

Oh, Lyn, I am so sorry this is happening again! Please take care of yourself and the animals, and I will be sending you good thoughts and energy. I will be looking forward to any postings before, but especially AFTER the storm. Blessings, Margo
Comment from magogos - 9/3/04 2:17 PM

Lyn~
You and your family will definitely be in my thoughts! Take care of yourself and leave if it looks like it's getting too bad. {{{}}}
Comment from mom23nca - 9/3/04 2:16 PM

8/27/04 untitled

2004-08-27T11:01:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 27, 2004

I haven't had any luck with getting my tree taken care of yet, but I am so thankful that it hasn't moved or come down yet.

I've just about had it, calling tree companies, leaving messages and not getting return calls. I know that they are all out straight, but you would think they would have someone return calls. I have contacted about 19 companies and left messages to talk to someone about getting on a list for them to come out and check my tree, have had 2 come out, and heard back from one that will call me when he gets time.

Mom and daddy got their tree down finally, although it is a mess over there. The trunk is about 3 feet up now, and the grounds around it are littered with wood, bark and chips. Part of the trunk they hauled out to the curb is over 3½ feet across. I didn't realize that tree was that large until you see it down. Thank God there was not more damage done when that third came down on the neighbors homes. When I drive around seeing my clients, the area around here looks like a war zone; there is brush everywhere, downed trees and shrubs, collapsed fences, houses with tarps on the roofs. We have been told to haul the brush and trees to the curb, and the county will pick them up. We are not to burn any yard trash. Not sure what is up with that, except the county could make some money by chipping the debris and selling it for mulch. That would recoup some of their losses I guess. I don't really care, as I am not that big on burning anymore since Bob died. Bob always liked to burn yard trash, he would pile it all in a huge burn pile, then at least twice a year we would have a big bonfire. It always made me nervous, but I did enjoy it.

I've been sort of down in the dumps, feeling a little lost for the past week or so. I know that it's probably normal after going thru something like this, but I don't like it. I don't like the feeling of not having control of things here at my home, and not knowing if or when the tree will be taken care of. I worry about the new hurricane sitting out in the Atlantic, I don't know how much wind my tree will take before coming down. I haven't felt much like writing since finally getting back online, but maybe that is what I need to do. I haven't even been on the computer that much. You know the old saying about pulling myself up by my bootstraps and all that. I need to give myself a pep talk to keep on keeping on.

A quote I have over my computer that I need to look at more closely:
The darker things become, the more God shines!

Just heard from Mom, she said they took down the rest of the tree to the ground yesterday afternoon, and then this morning the stump grinder is there. It's going to cost them $175. to grind the stump, although he says he will take care of the major roots coming off the stump also. He said he normally charges $100. but her stump is so big, and it is very difficult to get his equipment into position. Plus he is trying to make a little to cover his rooming and eating expenses, as he is down here from upper NY area picking up work. My mom doesn't really care any longer, she just wants it done and over, and try to get their lives back to normal. I don't blame her.

Well, time to think about getting out there to work. I think I do feel a little better having written this down finally. Uncle owl is in the garage every day, which is a comfort. My dog and cat are both well, and all of my family is well. There is so much to be thankful for, I feel bad about being so down in the dumps about it all.

lab2401 at 11:01:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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I really hope you feel a bit more upbeat soon. It's probably all the trouble with the tree stiring up feelings of too much to worry about. I know about those feelings. So, I'll say......most of the stuff that depressed or worried me wasn't worth a moment of taking away my joy. Do something special for you today. Pick anything. Doesn't have to be a big deal.....maybe rent a movie but I do hope you feel better.
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/27/04 3:38 PM

{{{{Lynda}}}} I remember after living through a hurricane, the weeks after were definitely worse than the actual event. Everything is such a mess and everywhere you turn there are reminders. I am sorry you are feeling down, I hope things start looking better again soon.
Comment from mom23nca - 8/27/04 3:32 PM

I think you are entitled to feeling down when your world gets blown into large chunks of trees down everywhere. It will get better, though it does take time-I know you know this, but sometimes it helps to hear from others, too. Margo
Comment from magogos - 8/27/04 12:24 PM

8/22/04 finally back online!

2004-08-22T23:56:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 22, 2004

finally back online!

I am finally back into AOL and J-Land. I survived Charley, but lost my internet access in cable and phone. I never did lose the power, but my next door neighbors had a transformer get hit by a limb and were without power for 7 days. Also the neighborhood across the street from me, was without power for 6 days. My mom and dad lost their power for 24 hours, and lost 1/3 of a huge oak tree that fell onto the backyard neighbors houses. Thank God no one was hurt. Their tree was a baby when my parents brought me home from the hospital. (Yes, my parents still live in the home I was born and raised in.)

The wind and rain after my last post was horrendous! Not sure how high exactly, but you could feel the air suck out of the house when it blew. I lost the power on and off and the cable at that point and decided it was time to sit in the hall. When it finally slowed down at 11:30 or so, I went to bed. The power had come back on but no phone or cable. At my house, I lost a tree up front when a pine snapped in half and fell in the driveway and had to be cut up and removed by my nephews and brother/law. My biggest problem is the oak tree in the back yard. It split and 1/2 is headed for the house and the other for the back yard. Here are some pictures of the damage. You can see the line of sky poking thru the tree (it used to be solid green leaves) and now you can barely see the house and deck in front of it. The limbs were never that low before this. If it should fall, it will fall onto the house and cover it.

My brother/law, nephew's and niece all came over on Saturday and Sunday after the huricane, and cut down the pine in front, picked up the many limbs and trash that had come down, and then on Sunday, chained the oak tree together. They first pulled the chain tight with a winch, then cut off 3 or 4 of the heaviest branches on the house side, which allowed the tree to actually pick itself back up, then they had to re-tighten the chain again.

I haven't gotten anyone out to take the tree down yet. I have had 2 estimates so far, one of $2,000.00 and the other of $2,700.00. Needless to say these are quite high, and with the insurance not covering the removal unless it hits the house, I am hoping to get someone who is fair. Prior to the hurricane, I was told the cost of removal was around $800.00. Needless to say there is a lot of price gouging going on here now.

I haven't been able to get online because of loss of cable and phone connection. When I finally got that repaired, my computer decided to take a dump. Friday I finally ended up re-formating the hard drive and reinstalling everything. I have lost all my bookmarks for my journals, and most of everything else. I repeatedly tried to reinstall Norton Anti-Virus with my system crashing and freezing each and every time. I finally got all of Norton removed today, and downloaded Zone Alarm with Anti-Virus on it. It went on smoothly, and everything seems to be working ok tonight. I am sorry that I missed the ball and the closing ceremonies for the Anniversary Celebration! But I was with you ALL in spirit. And to think, I looked so good in my red silk dress! You all should have seen me. Uncle Owl was disappointed he did not get to attend his first ball! Maybe next year. :o)

It will take me a while to get back up to speed, but I look forward to getting around to the journals and checking out what has been happening. I thank each and everyone of you who have commented or sent email to check on me, and kept me and mine in their thoughts and prayers. S is fine, with no damage to the nursing facility she is at. She said she slept thru everything, and couldn't believe all the damage that was being reported.

G'nite J-Land, you have been missed!

lab2401 at 11:56:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 5 comments: (Add your own)

I was getting worried about you Aunti Lyn...because of Charley. I am so glad you are alright. I imagine you were LOST without the computer? Just glad you are safe and back with us. :)
SHARON
http://journals.aol.com/spurgins311/SLS/
http://journals.aol.com/spurgins311/LovingIt
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/25/04 12:26 AM

Glad you're safe and back online. HUGS...*Barb*
Comment from barbpinion - 8/23/04 10:34 PM

glad you are back again-we missed you. also glad the damage was not worse. Margo
Comment from magogos - 8/23/04 8:51 AM

So glad you're back! I was getting very worried about you. Do you think the tree will last until the prices go down again?
http://journals.aol.com/mom23nca/MattersoftheMind/
Comment from mom23nca - 8/23/04 1:01 AM

We missed you too. Glad you're okay!

Comment from readmereadyou - 8/23/04 12:18 AM

8/13/04 update

2004-08-13T21:06:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 13, 2004

update

Chillin'

Quick update... Charley has made his way to the southern portion of Orlando/Central Florida area. Where I am is having some very heavy winds and rainfall, I am watching the lights go off and on across the road from me. So far I have not lost power, and am holding my own. Wind is gusting 45+ mph now, they are figuring it will pass here in the next 45 mins or so.
latest picture by www.local6.com

lab2401 at 9:06:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 6 comments: (Add your own)

HOpe you are okay. Worried about you because you haven't updated in a while.
Comment from mom23nca - 8/18/04 4:22 PM

Hope you are well-I am sending you thoughts and energy. Blessings, Margo
Comment from magogos - 8/17/04 10:34 AM

hello i'm stephanie and this is my first time veiwing your journal...Just wanted to say stay safe and i hope everything will be fine!! ~stephanie
http://journals.aol.com/alwayzyourz/Stephanie/
Comment from alwayzyourz - 8/16/04 5:42 PM

Please check in!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/16/04 5:34 PM

Aunti Lyn,
Just checking in on you! That map makes "Charlie" look horrible, and he is.
Stay safe...be careful.
Sharon
http://journals.aol.com/spurgins/LovingIt
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/14/04 10:12 PM

Stay safe......Thinking of you.
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/13/04 10:37 PM

8/13/04 charley:o(

2004-08-13T17:06:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 13, 2004

charley:o(

Well, nothing like having so much going on that you can't take the time to update your journal, and then when you can finally get the time, you have Hurricane Charley to deal with. Here in north west Central Florida, we are waiting for Charley to make his presence known. So far this afternoon, we have been hit with one outer band around 3pm, and so far it dumped 1" of water in just a little less than 1 hour. They are calling for at least 8-10" here where I live. Charley has come ashore at Port Charlotte/Sanibel Island, and now will be headed up thru the center of the state. Port Charlotte is about 140 miles s/sw of me. The latest news is that we will begin to be in the thick of the bands around 6pm tonight, and it will be on us tonight around 11:00pm. So those that pray or believe in positive thoughts, keep us here in Florida in your prayers and thoughts.

I will try to keep my journal updated as to Charley's progress as long as I have power.
Blessings, Auntie Lyn

Picture from www.orlandoweather.com

lab2401 at 5:06:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 2 comments: (Add your own)

Where are you? Are you alright? Haven't heard from you in so long. Please write and let us know.
Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/22/04 11:04 AM

Please tell me you're okay!!!
~~mumsy
Comment from haikulike - 8/18/04 11:34 AM

8/4/04 repentant and reformed...

2004-08-04T11:23:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, August 4, 2004

repentant and reformed...

Flirtatious

My Dear Dearest Friend Walter, His Mom,
and his Highly Esteemed Counsel, Ms. Tara =)
(who is not only the best legal counsel here in J-Land, but is also the smartest and prettiest attorney in the world)
(how's that for furry butt kissin?)

Hoot! I sit before you, repentant and reformed. What can I say to explain my actions? Hoot! It could have been that a little mouse bone lodged in my craw that made me say these hurtful and hateful things to you, Walter. Hoot! You are a fine specimen of a Wonderpup, a true Hav...
(whatever the hell that is)
You don't stink, and you have good solid reasons for sniffing butt and eating poop I guess. HOOOOT! 'Scuse me, seems I have a catch in my throat...

Walter, Hoot! we here in the animal kingdom need to get along in this human world or they will do away with all of us. I found my way to Auntie Lyn's garage by accident, but so far she has plenty of good food and a dry place to hang my hood, so I've stayed. Hoot! But I don't dare let her know that I like it or she will do something stupid to ruin it for me. (Hoot! You know, like leaving a light on so I can't catch any food, or decorating the windows so I get caught in the curtains, or some other dumb thing like that.)

Hoot! My only excuse for my misguided behavior is that I got caught up in the AOL Anniversary Celebrations and I just couldn't help myself. Hoot!

I think it started with that lady, Miss Vivy, who thinks she is the cat's pajamas - Hoot! - you know the one I mean. Miss Vivy's the one that has been winning everything
all over the place
here in J-Land.

Her head is getting so big now, that it takes a special shirt to hold it on for her. Hoot! You can't even see her arms and legs any more, cause her head's just wayyyyy too big!

Hoot! Well anyway, she claimed you for her *nephew* and went on and on about how smart you were to send a card... and you were so cute and cuddly and all that other crap, leaving all of us other non-Homo sapiens out in the cold looking in from the other side of the door! Hoot! It just plain hurt my feelings, and the feelings of all the other owls in my neighborhood.

I'm sure there are others of the animal persuasion out there in J-Land that got their feelings hurt as well. Hoot! I felt I needed to send a card to honor the celebrations also, but somehow I just got carried away. Hoot! I shouldn't have taken my frustrations out on you Walter. Hell, what I should have done is I should have climbed Miss Vivy's frame. She is not of our kingdom Walter, she is human!!!!! Hoot!

Hoot! You know Walter, I might just get some of my buddies and buzz over to her place and pay her a visit...
Care to join us?

With Love, Uncle Owl...the other white meat!

lab2401 at 11:23:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 10 comments: (Add your own)

Hi Auntie Lyn! Pleased to make your acquaintance! Great journal--and thanks for visiting mine! Love Uncle Owl and WonderPup!
Comment from laurak411 - 8/7/04 7:00 PM

Well, I see you've gone completely off the deep end while I was gone.
So good to know.

I'm guessing i will never catch up.
~~mumsy
Comment from haikulike - 8/7/04 2:23 AM

OMG I just realized I hadn't left a comment for you, Owl! Here I put a response in my journal and forgot to come back to tell you how proud I am of you! :)

As for all those compliments, would you rather I send payment via PayPal as opposed to putting a check in the mail? ;)

~tara :)
Comment from pollysci - 8/6/04 11:34 AM

See I told you that I wasnt' as wise as you are, I just left you a comment, but it's in the previous entry and not in this one where it should be!
Comment from viviansullinwank - 8/5/04 10:53 AM

Thanks for the laugh.
*** Coy ***

Comment from coy1234787 - 8/5/04 10:20 AM

Wise One, this has NOT turned out as I expected it to. How could I be so misunderstood?And to think I was admiring you so for your beauty (I've never seen such wonderful pictures of a wise winged one) I was so proud of you for making amends with Walter...but everything you'd been doing to him you've now directed my way. Oh well, I must do the right thing.....turn ther cheek and pray for the best.
Comment from viviansullinwank - 8/5/04 7:41 AM

so cute.. I enjoyed the fun.
Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/5/04 1:21 AM

Boy, I really enjoyed that! The last Pic! LMAO!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/4/04 4:16 PM

Uncle Owl, you and I have been the victims of a ratings stunt, I fear. See ya in Texas!

http://journals.aol.com/xzasporated1/RandomRamblings/entries/1157

~~ walter, who's packing to go to auntie viv's house
Comment from xzasporated1 - 8/4/04 12:43 PM

I have been trying to explain J-Land to a friend not in the loop, but I am at a loss for words about the creature features because I am still laughing too hard! Thanks and blessings, Margo
Comment from magogos - 8/4/04 12:00 PM

8/3/04 poor delusional walter

2004-08-03T21:32:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, August 3, 2004

poor delusional walter

Ecstatic

Walter, Walter, Walter, you poor delusional creature. Hoot! You don't even know what you are, do you? And to think, you are writing in a journal giving all sorts of advice and stuff? Such a pity.
Hoot! Hoot!

To think that you try to match wits with me, a wise old screech owl. Hoot! I think you've had your head in that great big white water dish too long! Hoot! I did notice that your mom combed your hair back to show you had eyes finally. (I must admit you have a cute little nose tho.) Leave it to an old dog to go out and try to get council rather than chewing the fat. Or did your mommy do that for you?

Hoot! Now as far as my pooping on the birthday cake... that would probably suit you just fine. It's your type (the DOG type) that goes around sniffing butts and eating poop. Hoot! I saw one of your doggy kind get in the litter box of Auntie Lyn's kitty, and eat up all she could before Auntie Lyn got there. That's just like an old dog, ya know. Hoot!

And about these points you made in your reply to me....

Here are my answers to you.

1.) Sniffing butt.
Hey Mr. Owl, do you even have a butt? And we know what you eat. You're just jealous cause nobody would want to sniff your butt even if you had one. So there. And I do too have eyes.

Hoot! Of course I have a butt, but I have enough sense of decourm to keep it tucked out of sight under my tail feathers. Only my Mrs. gets to see or smell my butt. We in the aviary community are not like some mangy ole mutts holding our tail straight up for all to come by and see and smell their butt. Also, we are monogamous, we mate for life, not like the old dog who sleeps with any ole thang that comes into heat!

2.) Fleas
When was the last time you saw a bunch of owls at camp writing home to thank ma and pa for the flea stuff? Huh? That's right. Nobody sells fancy stuff for OWLS! Rats have fleas. You eat rats. You poop fleas.

Hoot! That's right, no one has to buy expensive products to put on me. Why would you want to get rid of something that tastes so good? Hoot! Fleas are sort of an 'Aviary Caviar'. Hoot! It's a delicacy, an aquired taste if you must. Hoot! And as far as the rats, what a service we do for the homeowners, keeping their cost down on pest control...

3.) Journals
If owls are so danged wise, why can't they type? Answer that one wiseguy. And us Havs KNOW it takes more than three licks to get to the center of the sucker. So there.

Sucker, smucker! Hoot! Whoo cares about that sweet stuff. It just melts down those few brain cells that you have up there in that hollow thing you call a head. And as far as typing in a journal, we don't have to do that, we just use AOL by phone! So there Walter! Hoot! Hoot!

4.) I am a Hav
I AM NOT EITHER A DOG. Quit calling me that! I want a dog though, but my mom won't get me one. QUIT CALLING ME A DOG. Mom, he's callin' me a dog.

What in God's green earth is a Hav anyway? the other half of a have not??? You know, it doesn't matter how you spell it Walter, if it looks like a dog, smells like a dog, and sniffs butt like a dog, a DOG it surely is.

So Walter the Wonderdog! Hoot! Stand up on those four legs and admit who you are! Quit living in the land of De-Nile. Who do you think you are, Cleopatra????

See ya round the block, Walter the wonderdog!
Be sure and watch out for swooping birds!

Your Wise Uncle Owl

(see this face and be afraid!)

PS: Oh, and one other thing...
Tell that uppity lawyer of yoursto talk to the hand!
Ain't no court in the animal kingdom and you know that! Before it's over she will be laughed into the pro-boneo poor house! Hoot, I will make sure that no owl goes near her place and she will be overrun with rats, snakes, gophers and other nuisance critters! After all, we all know some pretty good lawyer jokes now don't we?...
Did you ever hear the one about the good lawyer? I didn't think so... Hoot..Hoot..Hoot!

Whoops, I hear Auntie Lyn coming into the garage. I must get off this phone before I'm caught! She thinks I need to apologize to you, and join a 12 step program to be nice to the dimmer-witted, but I just can't see that happening any time soon. Back at cha Walter!

lab2401 at 9:32:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 10 comments: (Add your own)

Dear Wise One, I just read from Walter (via his Mom's journal) that you two are now forever friends. Walter and I have made our peace with each other....let's make that peace spread all around and all of us enjoy this anniversary and all of us participate in it. This anniversary isn't just for the homo sapien bloggers. Because it's very evident how many wonderful non homo sapiens are in the JLand community members households.

Dear Wise One, I'd love it if you'd share some of your wisdom with the community by writing something for the festivities that will be featured in the Special Edition Anniversary Blog? Do you think that could be a project you and Auntie Lynn could work on together?

Please let me know.
Vivian (old but not as wise as you)

Vivian
Comment from viviansullinwank - 8/5/04 10:53 AM

OMG, SHARON, HILARIOUS..........AND SOUNDS SO SO LIKE THE JOURNAL BOARD, LOL. WHERE ON EARTH DID THIS COME FROM, LOL?? TTYS. REGINA

http://journals.aol.com/wumzels2/SEDUCTIONOFLIFE
Comment from wumzels2 - 8/5/04 1:26 AM

These are Great! LMAO!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/4/04 4:30 PM

"not like the old dog who sleeps with any ole thang that comes into heat!"

I beg your pardon, Sir, but I WILL NOT allow you to cast aspersions upon my character nor upon my wife. Be advised I have retained the services of Dewey, Cheatum & Howe, Attorneys at Law of the great City of Boston, Massachusetts, to sue every feather you have off your tired old carcass until there won't be a single lick of white meat on your bones, bird!

That'll learn you to mess with mongrels!

Comment from olddog299 - 8/4/04 12:33 PM

Can you, Walter, say Judge Judy and Uncle Owl, I am sure you can say Judge Judy...oh what a case this would be. It would go down in J-Land history. Televised for the world to see.

I hope someone can shed, uhmm, some light (I did not say fur) on this situation. Let the feathers, I mean, fleas, I mean....let something fall wherever it may!

I am pulling for both of you. May the best, uhmmm, creature win.

This is a HOOT, :)
Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/4/04 1:46 AM

Hehe that was cute! *misty*
http://journals.aol.com/faygodaze07/FallingDown/
Comment from faygodaze07 - 8/4/04 12:18 AM

Hey!! No jury tampering!!!

http://journals.aol.com/xzasporated1/RandomRamblings/entries/1155

~~ walter's mom, jennifer
walter is just too distressed to write for himself. HOOOO is to blame???
Comment from xzasporated1 - 8/4/04 12:03 AM

Dear Uncle Owl,

http://journals.aol.com/pollysci/randomness/entries/647

Send my regards to your sweet Aunt Lyn--you should listen to her more often. =D

~tara :)
Comment from pollysci - 8/3/04 11:48 PM

A delightful entry.
Comment from barbpinion - 8/3/04 10:56 PM

Very, very cute!
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/3/04 9:45 PM

8/3/04 9 years

2004-08-03T09:57:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, August 3, 2004

9 years

Quiet

9 years ... Nine Years ... one year less than 10 ... 8 years more than 1

Early this morning I began a journey down one more year. It passed without fanfare, just sort of slip-sliding into my mind. The concept is still so very difficult for me to grasp at times. If I close my eyes, it's 9 years and 1 day ago, and Bob was teasing me about trying to drive to patients home in the after affects of the hurricane Erin, convincing me to stay home and play with him. And I did just that, and we had a wonderful day together. For that I am eternally grateful.

I miss my best friend, I miss my lover and playmate,
I miss the one person that completed me.
I miss my other half...

Robert Louis Buck
5/8/48 ~ 8/3/95

my homepage with our story

a memorial page for find a grave

lab2401 at 9:57:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 7 comments: (Add your own)

{{{{Lyn}}}}
Comment from mom23nca - 8/3/04 9:36 PM

The markers, the anniversaries, can be so difficult, but they can also be that reminder, that day of happy memories.

I hope your memories were happy today.

~~ jennifer
Comment from xzasporated1 - 8/3/04 8:01 PM

Lyn, a beautiful tribute and I know that there was so much love there. Thanks for allowing us to share this. john
Comment from dymphna103 - 8/3/04 5:10 PM

What a wonderful tribute. My love goes out to you. I'm a widow myself but we were separated for a long time before he died. Your loss is much more profound and I feel for you. He was too young to leave. I'm so sorry.
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/3/04 4:31 PM

Lyn, I'm so very sorry for your loss, and I was touched by the love story you two shared. I only hope that I can find someone so wonderful as your beloved Bob.

~tara
Comment from pollysci - 8/3/04 3:00 PM

Lyn, I`m so sorry. My prayers are with you & Bob. A beautiful tribute!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/3/04 11:30 AM

Lyn, I will be thinking about you and sending you energy. You and Bob deserved more time together, and I hope someday, in some way you con be reunited. With love and blessings, Margo
Comment from magogos - 8/3/04 10:55 AM

8/2/04 uncle owl speaks!

2004-08-02T23:36:00.000-04:00

Monday, August 2, 2004

uncle owl speaks!

Chillin' | Walter the wonder dog is hooterless!

Not to be outdone by Walter the wonder dog, I convinced Auntie Lyn to let me speak to all you journalers out there.

Walter is not the only intelligent creature in J-Land. (Walter's message to J-Land here) I may only have 2 legs, but I do have 2 wings which Walter doesn't have! And besides that, I am the WISE one you know.

Hear my message...
My name is Uncle Owl, hear me speak!

Take that you flea bitten piece of fluff, all hair and no eyes.

Hoot! any animal that goes around sniffing someone's butt, smelling his own and then eating his dinner is not much of a creature you know.

Hoot! you call yourself a beast? You're just a baby.

Hoot! you think you're tough Walter? Come over here to my garage and I'll show you who's boss.

Hoot! think you're so durn smart and all that by keeping a journal? Journal's are for doggie sissies.

Hoot! Hoot! Hoot!

Hooty 1st Birthday AOL J-Land!

lab2401 at 11:36:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 5 comments: (Add your own)

Oh my....
Hope you don't have to go before Judge Judy with this. She is pretty snappy (no pun intended Walter) you know. And she is so very wise and tends to get her feathers (no pun intended Uncle Owl) ruffled often.

Hopefully she will have mercy upon you both, and throw it out of court or make you both do house arrest or tree arrest in your case Uncle Owl.

Seeing that you are both creatures that now CAN speak, tends to shed (no pun intended here again Walter) a new light upon the matter.

But everyone here at J-Land lLOVE you both and are so happy that you sent us HAPPY wishes on our first anniversary.

We didn't want it to turn into a brawl and see it come to a knock down, drag out fight between you~

but let the fight begin and the best man win...uhmmm...I mean, animal, WIN!

Sharon ;)

Comment from spurgins311 - 8/4/04 1:09 AM

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Tara, Walter's attorney. :)

While I am glad that Jennifer introduced me to a wonderful journal I'd not yet discovered, I am disheartened by the particular event that led me here. ;)

As such, I have prepared a response at my client's behest.

http://journals.aol.com/pollysci/randomness/entries/644

~Tara, Esq. :)
Comment from pollysci - 8/3/04 2:55 PM

Oh my Uncle Owl you know Walter won't take this lying down. Are you ready to rumble?! :)

Walter's Auntie Viv
Comment from viviansullinwank - 8/3/04 1:05 PM

We had hoped it wouldn't come to this. Owls just need to know their place.

http://journals.aol.com/xzasporated1/RandomRamblings/entries/1152

~~ walter, now represented by counsel
Comment from xzasporated1 - 8/3/04 10:25 AM

That was great! Walter, take care of that owl!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/3/04 6:35 AM

8/2/04 hail to vivian!

2004-08-02T10:15:00.000-04:00

Monday, August 2, 2004

hail to vivian!

Ecstatic

Congratulations Vivian!

This couldn't have happened to a nicer person!

I did not know Vivian that well before these j-land anniversary projects. I had visited her journal and was awed at all she did, and all those who commented and called her friend. I responded to a call from Mumsy asking for some haiku for the j-land anniversary celebration along with any graphics we may want to add. (In case you don't know it already, whatever Mumsy wants, Mumsy gets!)

But I digress...

I created a graphic I was proud of and sent it off to Mumsy, and apparently she shared it with Vivian and the Anniversary Committee. Vivian, from the famous NwanyiomasJournal shot me off an email thanking me for my contribution, and swelling my head by telling me how nice the graphic was, and would I like to join her and others to work on the preparations for the celebrations? I was so excited to be asked to be part of it all by Vivian, and was thrilled when she would visit my journal and leave those loving comments. It was never a bother to do things for her, even when she requested I do a t-shirt for her in red. She goes out of her way to make a person feel so good about themselves, and that is something that goes a long way in this world.

Gregg has seen fit to do something for Vivian that the rest of us have thought about but didn't know enough to do on our own. He has created the "Torch Bearer Award" in honor of Vivian, for all she does to make this j-land community a family, and taking time to let each of us know that we are special in some way. Thank you Gregg for this, and all you do here in j-land. But most of...

Thank You Vivian for being you!!!!

lab2401 at 10:15:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 5 comments: (Add your own)

AMEN, AUNTIE LYN!!! AMEN!!!!!!

You hit the nail on the head too. I only took small steps to make a reality of the thoughts of so many people who love her to pieces! :-) And I couldn't have done it without the help of many others who gave me their opinions on design and things like that.

Vivian has that special, rare gift -- she makes ANYONE feel better about themselves and what they're doing all the time. It's something that's so hard to pinpoint, so hard to explain in words. But you and the others have done a wonderful job of doing just that! Thanks so much for taking the time to pay tribute to this increddible woman!
Comment from goldenchildnc - 8/2/04 11:08 PM

Vivian, see how much we all love you and you do so much good and spread so much sunshine. ((((((((((Vivian))))))))))))

God bless you,
Angela
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/2/04 3:14 PM

Great entry! and it's so true, it couldn't have happened to a nicer person. :)
great job!
Comment from babyshark28 - 8/2/04 12:27 PM

Aww! Beautifully Written.
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/2/04 12:00 PM

what a beautiful entry !! i can't believe how many lives Vivian has touched in such a positive, inspiring way :)
you seem to have captured Vivians personality .. the wonderful traits that make her such a valuable treasure to all the members of the journaling community
thank you so much for sharing your thoughts :)
pamela
Comment from his1desire - 8/2/04 11:57 AM

8/1/04 kelly speaks

2004-08-01T10:52:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 1, 2004

kelly speaks...

John, our resident guru, has asked in his most recent homework assignment, #17:

Weekend Assignment #17: Through some unexplained miracle, your pet or pets gain the mental capacity for speech for exactly the length of a single sentence. What do you think that sentence would be and why?

Here is a picture of sweet Kelly, taken last night at my mom and dads house. She is not supposed to be in the living room, and that is where CJ and Megan were playing excitedly, and she was inching her way out to them. Here she is, lying in the hall, just outside the living room area. What is she saying???

"If I lie here quitely, and don't wag my tail, I blend in with the wood floor and mom will never know I am here!"

Now John also asks in his homework assignment, for that x-tra credit:
Extra Credit: You get one question to ask your pet that (presumably) it would answer. What's the question?

Kelly, what is it with you and the late nite raids on the kitchen? (for those questioning minds, Kelly has a habit of sneaking out to the kitchen in the early morning hours, and stealing the loaf of bread, or bag of peanuts, or can of anything that is on the counter and carrying into her bed and sleeping with it. She doesn't eat it, does not destroy it in anyway, actually is very gentle with the item, but she does this every time when I leave something out on the countertop. Then in the morning, she stands beside her crate/bed until I look inside and retieve the item.)

lab2401 at 10:52:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

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Everyone else has said this, but I HAVE to say it too: what a gorgeous dog. amazing how she is exactly the color of the wood! I don't know why Kelly needs to sleep with food - maybe try a teddy bear? thanks for your comment about my darling Molly. animals, what would life be without them?
Comment from marigolds2 - 8/2/04 5:34 PM

awwwww .. i'm in love !!! a doggy in camouflage !! it sounds to me like she found the perfect way of insuring she gets attention by stealing stuff lol which i must confess is so much better than what one of our cats does who urinates on my daughters clothes if she doesn't pay enough attention to him
adorable picture and story !!
pamela
Comment from his1desire - 8/2/04 4:51 PM

Way too funny, inching her way into the living room! And raiding the counter, but not eating any of the items but just saving them for you, lol! What a beautiful and funny dog! -Krissy
http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink
Comment from fisherkristina - 8/2/04 12:18 PM

LOL! Adorable.....probably exactly what she was thinking. Beautiful dog! : )
Comment from readmereadyou - 8/1/04 6:47 PM

She is beautiful! That is so funny about her stealing the food items and sleeping with them. What a hoot!
Comment from mom23nca - 8/1/04 3:39 PM

Beautiful Doggie!
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/1/04 12:19 PM

7/31/04 state flower

2004-07-31T16:45:00.000-04:00

Saturday, July 31, 2004

state flower

Thank you Jessi for this beautiful graphic of the state flower of Florida. I am proud to place it here. You have done so much to make this anniversary celebration special, and I am grateful for you.

So far the celebration has been the best thing I could ever imagine. I have found so many journals I want to read, I don't know where to store all the addresses. Vivian and her crew of loving helpers have all gone out of their way to make this special, and I for one appreciate all they have done. If you haven't gone to the special edition anniversary blog please go there and check it out. I have requested that Jessi send me the flower for Maine also, as I flew the Maine flag in memory of Bob, and would like to include his state flower. So when that gets here, I will be adding to it. Until then, keep reading those journals, don't forget the Hall of Fame journal put together by Ayn et al.

Until I add that Maine flower, I'm off to dinner with the family at mom and daddy's tonight. Have a great evening, I will be checking back in later tonight.
Blessings, Auntie Lyn

lab2401 at 4:45:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 5 comments: (Add your own)

Wow, I don't when she found time to do all of these flowers but I love them...very pretty.

Sammie :)

http://journals.aol.com/ladydriversammie/MovinOn
Comment from ladydriversammie - 8/2/04 10:21 PM

Auntie Lyn, Your states are beautiful!
Jessie has done great Work.
V
Comment from deabvt - 8/1/04 7:37 AM

Just dropped in to check on you Auntie Lyn :)

Your State Flower's are beautiful. Jessie made one for me also and I love it. She HAS done so, so much. She is a very talented person as well as a very thoughtful and giving person. I have seen several of the state's flowers that she has made for different ones. How sweet of her...

Hope you enjoyed your dinner. Blessings back to you~
Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 8/1/04 3:56 AM

Love the flower. *misty*
http://journals.aol.com/faygodaze07/FallingDown/
Comment from faygodaze07 - 7/31/04 10:48 PM

Beautuful Flower! Lots of talented people in journaland. : )
Comment from readmereadyou - 7/31/04 8:34 PM

7/29/04 raising the flag

2004-07-29T07:49:00.000-04:00

Thursday, July 29, 2004

raising the flag

Ecstatic

Proudly flying the flag of the great state of FLORIDA!

And in memory of Bob... the great state of MAINE!

lab2401 at 7:49:00 AM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 15 comments: (Add your own)

Hi!
I saw this journal and had to add to it.
There is a definate flag etiquette that people, for the most part have completely
forgotten.
When the sun goes down, so should our countries flag, unless it is lit.
If a rag gets ragged-there is no honor in flying a flag that is in tatters.
Thanks for letting me vent!
mairead53@aol.com
Comment from mairead53 - 10/3/04 5:44 PM

Good Morning Aunti Lyn,

Thank you so much for stopping by and visting my journal. And, especially THANK YOU for the comment...we all LOVE to see those in our journals. I do! I

love it when I see that someone has taken time out of their life, their day and spent it with ME! That is special to me and means a great deal.

Your journal is great...I have it in my favs and have for awhile. I visit you often and hope you will visit me as well. :)

Have a GRAND DAY!

Sharon
Comment from spurgins311 - 7/30/04 11:42 AM

Hi Auntie Lyn,
Thanks for stopping by to visit me and my flags here in No. Nevada! Have a great weekend! Terri (YaYaDuchess and MyPhotojournal)
Comment from hsent - 7/30/04 11:17 AM

Yay for Florida and Maine! Happy Anniversary J-Land!
Comment from jfourb - 7/29/04 11:49 PM

Hi Auntie Lyn!
What a great journal you have. I will be back to visit often. Thanks for stopping by my 2 journals.
Comment from mom23nca - 7/29/04 10:08 PM

Thanks for visiting me in Kentucky!!!!! Great Flags :) I will bookmark you so I can come back soon. ~~Angela~~
http://journals.aol.com/momdadat447/Adayinthelifeofamommyof4
Comment from momdadat447 - 7/29/04 7:50 PM

Thank you for visiting my journal and seeing my great state's flag! Ohhhhh~Klahoma!

I got my torch up today also.

http://journals.aol.com/dvlwitgrneyes/Fortysomething/

Cheryl
Comment from dvlwitgrneyes - 7/29/04 6:44 PM

Hi There, Just found you today, and thanks for stopping by my Journal, Wisconsin flags a flyin....WOOO HOOO for Florida and MAINE.....nice to meet ya!
Lori http://journals.aol.com/bernmilo/WAYNEATOPICTURES
Comment from bernmilo - 7/29/04 5:49 PM

hello!

Thanks for stopping by my journal. I hope you will come back again!!

Jan
http://journals.aol.com/janothy/ThisisMyWorld/
Comment from janothy - 7/29/04 5:08 PM

Hello and Happy Anniversary from Oregon. Love your journal. I read so many I don't always leave comments. Will try too once in awhile so you'll know I stopped by. Your journal is terrific. *Barb* from---
http://journals.aol.com/barbpinion/HEYLETSTALK/
Comment from barbpinion - 7/29/04 3:45 PM

Beutiful flags! Happy Anniversary from NY.
Comment from readmereadyou - 7/29/04 2:48 PM

Florida & Maine Yeaaaaaa!!
V
Comment from deabvt - 7/29/04 1:20 PM

I just wanted to let you know you have a beautiful journal, and not just graphic-wise. I walked away appreciating my husband and family a little bit more after reading your journal. At the end of the day, that's all that matters.
Reyna
http://journal.aol.com/heyyou91/reynasweightloss
Comment from heyyou91 - 7/29/04 10:17 AM

Florida and Maine.........by far my two favorite states..........have been to
both in recent years...........thank you for stopping by my journal........yes, I
will bring fresh scallops wrapped in bacon and wine to the festivities.......Happy
1st!

nettie jerseygirl
http://journals.aol.com/cneinhorn/WonderGirl
Comment from cneinhorn - 7/29/04 8:54 AM

Beautiful and touching dedication! It's going to be a colorful day in J-Land!

~~ jennifer
Comment from xzasporated1 - 7/29/04 8:18 AM

7/25/04 drumroll please...

2004-07-25T12:12:00.000-04:00

Sunday, July 25, 2004

drumroll please...

...and the winners of the AOL J-Land Peoples Choice awards are:

THE KING/QUEEN OF J-LAND
Golden Child NC - "Golden Child, Superstar!"

LORD OF THE BLOG (Best Male Journal)
Screamin Remo 303 - "Screamin' Remo"

LADY OF THE BLOG (Best Female Journal)
Slow Motion Life - "A Life in Slow Motion"

MOST LOL MOMENTS IN ONE JOURNAL
Jeff Comedy - "What the Hell?"

BIGGEST GRAPHICS HO! (non-animated)
Golden Child NC - "Golden Child, Superstar!"

BEST USE OF ANIMATION
Vivian SUlliNwank - "Viv's E-Thoughts"

THE SHUTTERBUG AWARD
Son en Smilin Mon - "Backroads of Life"

MOST THOUGHT-PROVOKING JOURNAL
Read Me Read You - "Life As I See It"

THE ROOTIE TOOTIE FRESH 'N FRUTIE AWARD (Best New Journal)
Danielle D1 - "Everybody Knows"

BEST THEME-BASED JOURNAL
Sekirley - "Stories from My Amblance"

BEST USE OF MASKED VULGARITIES
Muse N LA - "Amused"

BEST USE OF GRANDIOSE BEHAVIOR
Floralillia - "The Queen of Pointless Posting"
LA Move 04 - "Albert's Artsy Wolrd of Fun"

BEST J-BRAT ON THE BLOCK
JB Coupe - "My Frog Journal"

THE J-TEEN SUPREME
SvenskGirl - "Emily's Life"

THE MAD HATTER AWARD
Karen Sull 12 - "Jukebox WOman"

I'S GOT GOOD GRAMMAR AWARD
Read me Read You - "Life As I see It"

MOST ORIGINAL/CREATIVE JOURNAL
Haiku Like - "Illustrated Haikus"

THE GREATEST STORY/STORIES EVER TOLD
Bare Bytes - "Community Story Book"

MOST HEART-WARMING JOURNAL ENTRY OR ENTIRES
MKG Ninja - "Melissa's Misunderstandings of Life" entry no. 1073: "Happy Anniversary Baby"

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN AWARD
Dave the Sod - "World of the Sod"

SIR BLOGS-A-LOT (Best UK Male)
Dave the Sod - "World of the Sod"

The J-Queen of England
Agathas Place - "Damn, Blast, Bullox!"

Congratulations to all the winners and the runner's up, and most importantly,
congratulations to all of J-land for our successes and triumphs in this
first year of Journaldom!

Looking forward to all the happenings starting this Thursday on the 29th.

lab2401 at 12:12:00 PM EDT Link to this entry

This entry has 7 comments: (Add your own)

Oh I so agree with this......Where friends are found, justw aiting to touch hearts....so very neat thanks!
Comment from bernmilo - 7/29/04 5:50 PM

It is finally up there, swee' pea. It was tied for 1st until Vince let a past deadline vote in.
http://jounals.aol.com/haikulike/IllustratedHaikus
Comment from haikulike - 7/28/04 12:46 AM

Thanks for the list... I was searching through the journals to try and find the winners. *misty* http://journals.aol.com/faygodaze07/FallingDown
Comment from faygodaze07 - 7/27/04 7:02 PM

I thinki the journals have been an awesome way to meet some of the best people around. :-) It's encouraging to see the journals going strong and growing!

Monica
Comment from sonensmilinmon - 7/25/04 7:07 PM

Many congratulations on your award Lynda. It's such a good feeling isn't it :-)
Comment from agathasplace - 7/25/04 5:36 PM

Thank you for the congratulations for mine. I feel as if everyone here in journaland is worthy of an award. : )
Comment from readmereadyou - 7/25/04 3:53 PM

Nice Job!!!
V
Comment from deabvt - 7/25/04 2:56 PM