Bankers still live excessively. I question the intelligence of the decision of Congress to bail out people who still live excessively on my dime. When do I get bailed out???
In fact, I really don't want a bail out. I believe in fending for myself. I believe in paying my bills. I do believe in helping the less fortunate. I do not believe in helping those who are like this in this article. I do not believe in helping people who made the bad financial decisions they made. Even if Congress was at the crux of it all with deregulating home mortgages during the Clinton administration.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Proverbs...31-8:9.
8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Proverbs has also been a part of my daily reading and I liked this one from yesterday. I try to live my life this way. I find it is not always appreciated, although it is usually respected. I do try to speak up in a way that is tactful. I will admit tact is something that I lack and my intent to be kind is not always seen when speaking up.
I obtained my translation from Bible Gateway.com
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Proverbs has also been a part of my daily reading and I liked this one from yesterday. I try to live my life this way. I find it is not always appreciated, although it is usually respected. I do try to speak up in a way that is tactful. I will admit tact is something that I lack and my intent to be kind is not always seen when speaking up.
I obtained my translation from Bible Gateway.com
Revelations... causes nitghtmares.
and I have an overactive imagination. I am keeping up with reading the Bible in one year and December began a daily reading in the book of Revelation. This part of the bible is terrifying to me. It shouldn't be---it just is.
And with my over active imagination I went to bed and dreamed a terrifying dream:
I see a dark ancient shadow and all around me is dark but not dark. There is no dark and no light. It is more brown and gray. The air is swirling around and its windy and yet my person is undisturbed. I am terrified of the dark shadow. I feel as though I am in combat with it yet I am unable to strike it and have a general feeling of unease if this were to happen. Words are the only thing to combat it with. I am unable to speak. My throat is constricted as though someone is strangling me and yet I have no problem breathing, just speaking. There are light beings flying around in the air as I struggle to speak. I have no fear of them. I have a general feeling that they are concerned and upset. I feel as though I am understanding everything backwards and am careful to not say what I need to say backwards because I have a sense that the outcome would be very damaging to myself.
Finally, as I struggle to speak, I am able to draw out the name 'Satan' and a light being quickly stands beside me and holds my hand tightly. I am finally able to say,"Satan, I rebuke you in the name of Christ Jesus." I repeat this over and over all the while holding very tightly the hand of the light being. And all the while thinking that my understanding and what I am saying is somehow backwards.
I have the impression that the dark shadow is ancient and the light beings are young. The shadow is terrifying and the light beings are not. My understanding and what I have said seems backwards to me and I struggle to comprehend correctly.
I wake up with my throat constricted and repeating the mantra. I am neither terrified nor do I feel safe. It is 2:35am. I feel worn out as though I have struggled to climb a tall mountain and not able to breath deeply. I am not confused nor disorientated. I am aware of everything around me which does not cause any emotion such as distress or relief. Life just is. This moment in time just is.
And with my over active imagination I went to bed and dreamed a terrifying dream:
I see a dark ancient shadow and all around me is dark but not dark. There is no dark and no light. It is more brown and gray. The air is swirling around and its windy and yet my person is undisturbed. I am terrified of the dark shadow. I feel as though I am in combat with it yet I am unable to strike it and have a general feeling of unease if this were to happen. Words are the only thing to combat it with. I am unable to speak. My throat is constricted as though someone is strangling me and yet I have no problem breathing, just speaking. There are light beings flying around in the air as I struggle to speak. I have no fear of them. I have a general feeling that they are concerned and upset. I feel as though I am understanding everything backwards and am careful to not say what I need to say backwards because I have a sense that the outcome would be very damaging to myself.
Finally, as I struggle to speak, I am able to draw out the name 'Satan' and a light being quickly stands beside me and holds my hand tightly. I am finally able to say,"Satan, I rebuke you in the name of Christ Jesus." I repeat this over and over all the while holding very tightly the hand of the light being. And all the while thinking that my understanding and what I am saying is somehow backwards.
I have the impression that the dark shadow is ancient and the light beings are young. The shadow is terrifying and the light beings are not. My understanding and what I have said seems backwards to me and I struggle to comprehend correctly.
I wake up with my throat constricted and repeating the mantra. I am neither terrified nor do I feel safe. It is 2:35am. I feel worn out as though I have struggled to climb a tall mountain and not able to breath deeply. I am not confused nor disorientated. I am aware of everything around me which does not cause any emotion such as distress or relief. Life just is. This moment in time just is.
Current read. - Play Dead by Harlan Coben.
I just love the author, Harlan Coben. I have read all of his books. This is his first book he ever wrote and I have been unable to find it since he wrote it in his 20s and it has been out of print. It has recently been re-published and its fantastic. He didn't even do a re-write to it as a lot of authors tend to do, and certainly isn't needed in this case. This is a book you will not be able to put down. I love how Harlan has interwoven all the characters and keeps you guessing and interested. If you need another author to read this would be one to definitely check out. He's fantastic.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Celtic Runes a fake (sorry)... but still fun.
Read here Fake Runes. Must be the same thing about the knots. A con-artist in approximately the 14th century (??-maybe later) tried to sell the Celtic Knots and was going broke until he made up meanings for them and made a ton of money once he placed a meaning with them. Being a sucker for a con-man doesn't end no matter what century you've lived in or are currently living. The only meanings before this time was the different knots stood for the different fisherman's families. So when an accident at sea happened you were able to identify the bodies. Sorry, its truly what the knots were used for. Wow, I'm just full of fun "positive" information today!! I think I am on the rebound for morbid stuff after the lovely full-moon last week. It really was lovely. Something my family would call a 'Harvest Moon,' even though harvest is done now.
Onward...
Still The Runes are a fun parlor game (even if fake) to play and we did on Christmas day. I am: Wunjo- JOY & LIGHT. Does this mean that's fake too???!
Remember, JOY is everlasting whereas happiness is fleeting.
I do feel joyful in my life and have for quite some time even with the not so delightful distractions that I have to deal with occasionally.
I wish you all JOY in your life, today and always!!
Celtic Runes and their meanings.
Onward...
Still The Runes are a fun parlor game (even if fake) to play and we did on Christmas day. I am: Wunjo- JOY & LIGHT. Does this mean that's fake too???!
Remember, JOY is everlasting whereas happiness is fleeting.
I do feel joyful in my life and have for quite some time even with the not so delightful distractions that I have to deal with occasionally.
I wish you all JOY in your life, today and always!!
Celtic Runes and their meanings.
Hats for Sailors...
Adventurs in Paradise-Hats. When the call came out for this from a fellow knitter, I was happy to participate in this adventure. I am incredibly appreciative of all of our military and I happened to have a large Trilobite hat on hand and sent it right away. I love reading Shanti's posts about being the CO of the Decatur. What an interesting life. The pictures of all the hats are great too!
Thank you again to every Sailor and all who serve.
Thank you again to every Sailor and all who serve.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Chrismtas miracle 2010.
I am sad today so see this blog instead. Bloggess
Its worth reading. Remember: Pay it forward.
Its worth reading. Remember: Pay it forward.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Girls Night Out...The Peppertree.
There were four of us last night for GNO, and we spent a wonderful evening at a great restaurant, The Peppertree. I surprisingly have never been there and it was well worth going. The wait staff was attentive and pleasant. The food was delicious. I ordered the signature meal the pepper steak with fresh asparagus and a dinner salad in a light vinaigrette dressing. The meal was prepared table-side. Always a plus and creates great ambiance to have your meal cooked where you are sitting. The restaurant itself looked fabulous.
We started with a Red Rock Merlot from Napa Valley for our pre-dinner discussion wine and moved to a tasty Heritage Zinfandel from Sonoma Valley to enjoy with the steak. A person can never go wrong with Napa or Sonoma Valley. The Zin complemented the pepper steak perfectly and the steak is what we all had. From rare to medium-well, and yes, I was the medium-well. No mad cow disease for me. ha And for once the medium-well was really medium-well. I have gone to many a restaurant and usually when asking for medium-well I either get medium or medium-rare. Its a crap shoot when ordering a steak, I tell ya. The steak was topped with a warm chutney and pared well with the steak. I enjoy all the different tastes that well-prepared food provides.
For dessert we had the cherries jubilee, also made table-side, with warmed Grand Mariner to compliment the taste. Mmmm, lovely tastes exploding in your mouth like fireworks. The warm sweet & sour taste of the cherries and sauce with the cold of the sweet vanilla ice cream and a tiny sip of the warm orange of the liquor to run slowly through your mouth as a tantalizing taste afterward. MMMmm, super delish.
The conversation was interesting and intelligent. It centered mostly on what women appreciate most in my opinion--relationships: family, friends, & lovers. There also was a little bit about electronics too and how frustrating they can be. It was fun to catch up on how well everyone was doing. We opened gifts while dessert was being prepared. I had recently found a local artist who made puzzle people & star ornaments and thought they were perfect for that quick gift for people who have everything and at my age most everyone I know has everything. Celeste Welch is the artist and she is a wonderful person, artist. The ornaments were a hit.
From K, I received a plaid shirt and it made me laugh and laugh. The inside joke is that last month I drug K with me to a very dreary concert where we noticed that everyone, and I mean everyone was wearing plaid. Plaid is so IN right now and we of course had fun making fun of that fact. It is so 70s. I am now IN with the IN crowd. ha She also gave me the new Lady Antebellum-Need You Now CD as my real gift but I must confess I can't wait to wear the plaid.
We ended our 3 hour evening feeling pleasantly mentored, relaxed and pleased with the witty, humorous, intelligent conversation stating we needed to do it more often. I do so enjoy getting together with the girls. I always feel so positive afterward. I really recommend a Girls Night Out for everyone. Even you guys out there could benefit from it.
We started with a Red Rock Merlot from Napa Valley for our pre-dinner discussion wine and moved to a tasty Heritage Zinfandel from Sonoma Valley to enjoy with the steak. A person can never go wrong with Napa or Sonoma Valley. The Zin complemented the pepper steak perfectly and the steak is what we all had. From rare to medium-well, and yes, I was the medium-well. No mad cow disease for me. ha And for once the medium-well was really medium-well. I have gone to many a restaurant and usually when asking for medium-well I either get medium or medium-rare. Its a crap shoot when ordering a steak, I tell ya. The steak was topped with a warm chutney and pared well with the steak. I enjoy all the different tastes that well-prepared food provides.
For dessert we had the cherries jubilee, also made table-side, with warmed Grand Mariner to compliment the taste. Mmmm, lovely tastes exploding in your mouth like fireworks. The warm sweet & sour taste of the cherries and sauce with the cold of the sweet vanilla ice cream and a tiny sip of the warm orange of the liquor to run slowly through your mouth as a tantalizing taste afterward. MMMmm, super delish.
The conversation was interesting and intelligent. It centered mostly on what women appreciate most in my opinion--relationships: family, friends, & lovers. There also was a little bit about electronics too and how frustrating they can be. It was fun to catch up on how well everyone was doing. We opened gifts while dessert was being prepared. I had recently found a local artist who made puzzle people & star ornaments and thought they were perfect for that quick gift for people who have everything and at my age most everyone I know has everything. Celeste Welch is the artist and she is a wonderful person, artist. The ornaments were a hit.
From K, I received a plaid shirt and it made me laugh and laugh. The inside joke is that last month I drug K with me to a very dreary concert where we noticed that everyone, and I mean everyone was wearing plaid. Plaid is so IN right now and we of course had fun making fun of that fact. It is so 70s. I am now IN with the IN crowd. ha She also gave me the new Lady Antebellum-Need You Now CD as my real gift but I must confess I can't wait to wear the plaid.
We ended our 3 hour evening feeling pleasantly mentored, relaxed and pleased with the witty, humorous, intelligent conversation stating we needed to do it more often. I do so enjoy getting together with the girls. I always feel so positive afterward. I really recommend a Girls Night Out for everyone. Even you guys out there could benefit from it.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
The Christmas Fire story...
The Christmas Fire
Thank you Goodnight Gram for providing all of us with thoughts of compassion when we may forget to have some.
Thank you Goodnight Gram for providing all of us with thoughts of compassion when we may forget to have some.
Friday, December 17, 2010
The day after...I am still alive... I am still me.
All the world's a stage...
It truly is amazing the antics allowed in court. No surprise---I lost. On wording and presentation of words. It was in a word...embarrassing. My case was dismissed without prejudice which means I get to start all over (I am actually tempted to begin again just to lose again). It was dismissed because my process server could not remember that day at all. Keep in mind it was over 4 months ago. Do you remember what you were doing on August 12, 2010, at 9:23 pm? I bet you don't. Can you remember what you had for breakfast 4 months ago? how about yesterday even?? Lunch? Dinner? I certainly can't. Or how about a document you created? Do you remember what it was? Most people cannot and do not recall their exact actions. That is what the Return of Service is for.
The magistrate informed me that since he couldn't remember it wasn't good service. It really gets me that the Return of Service, which is used because people cannot remember such things was not good enough. It truly is tempting to go back again and again to her court room and just let her be pissy with me.
I'll have to see how much energy I have because I'm exhausted. I feel as though I've rolled 4 rolls of insulation without the added physical benefit.
Time for rest, recovery and knitting and the Child Support Enforcement Agency to take over from here. End of scene stage right.
It truly is amazing the antics allowed in court. No surprise---I lost. On wording and presentation of words. It was in a word...embarrassing. My case was dismissed without prejudice which means I get to start all over (I am actually tempted to begin again just to lose again). It was dismissed because my process server could not remember that day at all. Keep in mind it was over 4 months ago. Do you remember what you were doing on August 12, 2010, at 9:23 pm? I bet you don't. Can you remember what you had for breakfast 4 months ago? how about yesterday even?? Lunch? Dinner? I certainly can't. Or how about a document you created? Do you remember what it was? Most people cannot and do not recall their exact actions. That is what the Return of Service is for.
The magistrate informed me that since he couldn't remember it wasn't good service. It really gets me that the Return of Service, which is used because people cannot remember such things was not good enough. It truly is tempting to go back again and again to her court room and just let her be pissy with me.
I'll have to see how much energy I have because I'm exhausted. I feel as though I've rolled 4 rolls of insulation without the added physical benefit.
Time for rest, recovery and knitting and the Child Support Enforcement Agency to take over from here. End of scene stage right.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Goodnight Gram post...endearing.
If it doesn't bring tears and a smile to your face it will be a surprise.
Magic Eight Ball
Magic Eight Ball
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
A funny thing happened on the way to court...
Dearest mom has been subpoena-ed by Mr. X's lawyer. The Subpoena is no good because the service of a subpoena has to be 48 hours before court and that would mean service needs to be complete by 3pm Tuesday and it wasn't.
While I was speaking to my mom it hit me that the only reason why the lawyer did this was to get a paycheck. You see, Mr. X isn't paying his attorney, you and I are. The more work she does the more pay she receives. Mr. X didn't even have to prove he needed an attorney he just said he couldn't pay one and in turn, you and I get to pay for one for him.
Your tax dollars at work paying people to do unnecessary work. My mom was going to be at the hearing anyway. Let's recap how your money is being used: a delay in a hearing; an additional unnecessary hearing; unnecessary additional paperwork; cost of service of paperwork and service is no good--but you still get to pay for it. We've probably paid $1000.00 too much so far and we haven't even gotten to the hearing yet. Keep in mind the magistrate is allowing this abuse and additional unnecessary delays in her courtroom and we pay her too.
All of this could have been resolved in one day and now we are up to two and if things go well for me on Thursday it will add up to 3 days of payment by you and I for an attorney who could have, should have resolved this in one.
Coulda, shoulda, woulda---As her current employer, I don't know about you, but I want a refund.
While I was speaking to my mom it hit me that the only reason why the lawyer did this was to get a paycheck. You see, Mr. X isn't paying his attorney, you and I are. The more work she does the more pay she receives. Mr. X didn't even have to prove he needed an attorney he just said he couldn't pay one and in turn, you and I get to pay for one for him.
Your tax dollars at work paying people to do unnecessary work. My mom was going to be at the hearing anyway. Let's recap how your money is being used: a delay in a hearing; an additional unnecessary hearing; unnecessary additional paperwork; cost of service of paperwork and service is no good--but you still get to pay for it. We've probably paid $1000.00 too much so far and we haven't even gotten to the hearing yet. Keep in mind the magistrate is allowing this abuse and additional unnecessary delays in her courtroom and we pay her too.
All of this could have been resolved in one day and now we are up to two and if things go well for me on Thursday it will add up to 3 days of payment by you and I for an attorney who could have, should have resolved this in one.
Coulda, shoulda, woulda---As her current employer, I don't know about you, but I want a refund.
Court...Dec 16...3pm
Court will be what court will be...
I keep running through my head and out-loud in the mirror regarding what I will say in court. I didn't sleep Monday night. I need to let go what I cannot control. I can only control myself and this hearing is only about proper service. I try not to think about the feeling of being ambushed the last time I was in court by both the magistrate and the lawyer and hope to proceed professionally and respectfully even while wading through the unexpected.
I set four goals for myself regarding this hearing and have completed them all. The main one being attending multiple Toastmaster meetings. I have my questions prepared regarding service; subpoena and waiver issued and signed. I have 3 more additional goals regarding this case and am presently working on those. I remind myself to stay diligent and to keep working. I feel like a turtle and that's ok. Slow and steady as she goes. It does not have to be quick. Even though immediate satisfaction can be gratifying so too can taking your time. The diligence part is trying, exhausting and sometimes discouraging. I try not to second guess myself on issues or wondering if any of this is worth it.
I keep thinking that rotten people seem to get ahead and I am here to remind them (at least one in particular--Mr. X) that you should treat people better.
Slow and steady.
I keep running through my head and out-loud in the mirror regarding what I will say in court. I didn't sleep Monday night. I need to let go what I cannot control. I can only control myself and this hearing is only about proper service. I try not to think about the feeling of being ambushed the last time I was in court by both the magistrate and the lawyer and hope to proceed professionally and respectfully even while wading through the unexpected.
I set four goals for myself regarding this hearing and have completed them all. The main one being attending multiple Toastmaster meetings. I have my questions prepared regarding service; subpoena and waiver issued and signed. I have 3 more additional goals regarding this case and am presently working on those. I remind myself to stay diligent and to keep working. I feel like a turtle and that's ok. Slow and steady as she goes. It does not have to be quick. Even though immediate satisfaction can be gratifying so too can taking your time. The diligence part is trying, exhausting and sometimes discouraging. I try not to second guess myself on issues or wondering if any of this is worth it.
I keep thinking that rotten people seem to get ahead and I am here to remind them (at least one in particular--Mr. X) that you should treat people better.
Slow and steady.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Toastmasters overal evaluation.
Toastmaster's International overall evaluation of the groups.
I have been immediately welcomed in each and every group. Each group has been friendly, kind and compassionate towards everyone. Always very welcoming, professional and excited to have new comers attend their group. Imparting a safe environment and a learning experience has been an overall underlying implied goal that I received. There has been a topic of the day, a word of the day; speeches, evaluations, um counter, grammarian, table topics (impromptu speeches), awards, and closing.
#1 venue
Atmosphere: members have a wealth of knowledge; very eclectic; friendly, compassionate; welcoming; excited to have guests; family-like atmosphere; surprisingly intimidating due to their extensive knowledge. This group had the largest variance in experience, ie, from retired to current young professionals.
meeting: distracting activities during the meeting such as eating and talking; meeting agenda distracting and ran over. no meeting agenda copy provided. location: in reference to myself very close to home.
Comments: I disliked all the distractions in this meeting and running over time. I like how close to home it is for me.
#2 venue
Atmosphere: professional, friendly; compassionate; welcoming; excited to have guests.
Meeting: meeting agenda fairly organized and timely. meeting agenda provided but ran out.
location: too far north but well worth the travel.
Comments: I liked the atmosphere best in this group; professional and friendly.
#3 venue
Atmosphere: professional, friendly; welcoming;excited to have guest.
Meeting: Well ran meeting transitioned into each area very smoothly and timely. The Toastmaster who ran this meeting was awesome!!! provided an agenda handout.
location: way too far north to travel.
Comments: I enjoyed how well ran the meeting was in this group. I dislike how far away it is for me.
I have missed some meetings due to my inability to read that some groups only meet every other week and also during Holiday festivities some groups choose not to meet at this time. This has been an overall great experience and I hope to join a group some time in January.
I have been immediately welcomed in each and every group. Each group has been friendly, kind and compassionate towards everyone. Always very welcoming, professional and excited to have new comers attend their group. Imparting a safe environment and a learning experience has been an overall underlying implied goal that I received. There has been a topic of the day, a word of the day; speeches, evaluations, um counter, grammarian, table topics (impromptu speeches), awards, and closing.
#1 venue
Atmosphere: members have a wealth of knowledge; very eclectic; friendly, compassionate; welcoming; excited to have guests; family-like atmosphere; surprisingly intimidating due to their extensive knowledge. This group had the largest variance in experience, ie, from retired to current young professionals.
meeting: distracting activities during the meeting such as eating and talking; meeting agenda distracting and ran over. no meeting agenda copy provided. location: in reference to myself very close to home.
Comments: I disliked all the distractions in this meeting and running over time. I like how close to home it is for me.
#2 venue
Atmosphere: professional, friendly; compassionate; welcoming; excited to have guests.
Meeting: meeting agenda fairly organized and timely. meeting agenda provided but ran out.
location: too far north but well worth the travel.
Comments: I liked the atmosphere best in this group; professional and friendly.
#3 venue
Atmosphere: professional, friendly; welcoming;excited to have guest.
Meeting: Well ran meeting transitioned into each area very smoothly and timely. The Toastmaster who ran this meeting was awesome!!! provided an agenda handout.
location: way too far north to travel.
Comments: I enjoyed how well ran the meeting was in this group. I dislike how far away it is for me.
I have missed some meetings due to my inability to read that some groups only meet every other week and also during Holiday festivities some groups choose not to meet at this time. This has been an overall great experience and I hope to join a group some time in January.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Holiday Chocolate Festival at The Broadmoor.
Holiday Chocolate Festival at The Broadmoor. The Broadmoor as always hosted a lovely Holiday Chocolate Festival. There were many booths to go and have a sample. There was live music and while I was there a harpist was playing. A jazz band was scheduled for later. There were multiple truffle booths. A truffle contest. Robin's Chocolates won the truffle contest and rightfully so. Her presentation and most importantly taste was tops. I sampled her Mayan Spice Truffle, yum.
The Broadmoor had the best booth. They offered a flour-less chocolate cake, a sculpted chocolate rose, and the ever most popular chocolate strawberries. They certainly should have had more people making the chocolate roses. One person just was not enough and even three people may not have been enough to keep up. They were beautiful. The chocolate strawberries were the most popular item of the day and had additional choices of sprinkles such as shaved white & dark chocolate, mini M&Ms, or toffee bits. MMMm, delicious.
Patsy's Candies was there and always a popular choice for taffy and English toffee. The Chocolate Bordello booth had the best themed booth and you can guess they were dressed in turn of the prior,prior century clothing. And even had a buxom woman of the night shelf with you guessed it, "the girls" holding the glass shelf.
The wine sampling were desert wines, which means sweet. An apricot muscat, a dark red muscat and a port. All very delicious and tasty sweet. I usually do not care for the sweet desert wines, today was an exception since everything was sweet except for the cheese samples. The fruity wine slush was different and tasty. I liked it too.
There were fudges to sample, dark dark chocolates, truffles of all sorts, toffees and lovely candy treasures. The Dove chocolate booth offered in-home parties which sounded lovely and fun.
Such fun and all samples given were generous--always a plus. I enjoyed all the vendors and the holiday decorations were bountiful and beautiful to encourage the ambiance.
Kudos to The Broadmoor for hosting a wonderful festival.
The Broadmoor had the best booth. They offered a flour-less chocolate cake, a sculpted chocolate rose, and the ever most popular chocolate strawberries. They certainly should have had more people making the chocolate roses. One person just was not enough and even three people may not have been enough to keep up. They were beautiful. The chocolate strawberries were the most popular item of the day and had additional choices of sprinkles such as shaved white & dark chocolate, mini M&Ms, or toffee bits. MMMm, delicious.
Patsy's Candies was there and always a popular choice for taffy and English toffee. The Chocolate Bordello booth had the best themed booth and you can guess they were dressed in turn of the prior,prior century clothing. And even had a buxom woman of the night shelf with you guessed it, "the girls" holding the glass shelf.
The wine sampling were desert wines, which means sweet. An apricot muscat, a dark red muscat and a port. All very delicious and tasty sweet. I usually do not care for the sweet desert wines, today was an exception since everything was sweet except for the cheese samples. The fruity wine slush was different and tasty. I liked it too.
There were fudges to sample, dark dark chocolates, truffles of all sorts, toffees and lovely candy treasures. The Dove chocolate booth offered in-home parties which sounded lovely and fun.
Such fun and all samples given were generous--always a plus. I enjoyed all the vendors and the holiday decorations were bountiful and beautiful to encourage the ambiance.
Kudos to The Broadmoor for hosting a wonderful festival.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Toastmasters...#3.
I was welcomed immediately by the Toastmaster who had the responsibility running the meeting and welcomed personally by others. I ran into a member from last night's group who is also a member of this group. I think she's suspicious of me now. Like a Toastmaster auditor or something. ha
The meeting began on time; very well ran and flowed smoothly through each transition with little or no distractions. The Toastmaster running this meeting was awesome!! The word for today was innumerable meaning countless; and the theme was Christmas-time Disruptions.
The first speaker imparted his message very well. His story telling and descriptive wording placed you in his story. He was nervous and the way I could tell was by his breathlessness. He also stumbled occasionally in his speech as he lost his train of thought because he was nervous. At least that was how it came across. The second speaker was giving a persuasive speech and spoke very well. She even added roll playing in her speech which is very difficult to do. Kudos to her for adding other people to participate in her speech. I really liked the second speaker best but the first speaker was given the best speech award.
The evaluator for the first speech was generous and had little or no criticisms. The second evaluator for the 2nd speech was really good about zeroing in on a substantial improvement that the speaker could make and the main suggestion was to have more enthusiasm at certain points. At first I didn't agree but the more she explained her reasoning she was definitely correct. The speaker is supposed to learn improvements to make.
The Table Topics was centered on the theme for the day, which was Christmas-time Disruptions and very well thought out by the person running this portion of the meeting. The Table Topic Toastmaster took the time to progress the time-period from childhood through teenager, marriage, having young children and then having older children. My topic was "what were the disruptions for myself that my parents had while being a teenager in their home." This was tricky and I was very nervous giving this speech. My speech was 1:16 and I had three 'ums.' Maybe its not like riding a bicycle after all. huh.
The 'um' counter was on top of all the 'um's and the grammar person was generous and spoke only positively. Awards were handed out to the best speech, evaluator and table topic winners.
Good practice for help with my being nervous and thinking on my feet. I enjoyed the meeting and the people and it ended in a timely manner.
The meeting began on time; very well ran and flowed smoothly through each transition with little or no distractions. The Toastmaster running this meeting was awesome!! The word for today was innumerable meaning countless; and the theme was Christmas-time Disruptions.
The first speaker imparted his message very well. His story telling and descriptive wording placed you in his story. He was nervous and the way I could tell was by his breathlessness. He also stumbled occasionally in his speech as he lost his train of thought because he was nervous. At least that was how it came across. The second speaker was giving a persuasive speech and spoke very well. She even added roll playing in her speech which is very difficult to do. Kudos to her for adding other people to participate in her speech. I really liked the second speaker best but the first speaker was given the best speech award.
The evaluator for the first speech was generous and had little or no criticisms. The second evaluator for the 2nd speech was really good about zeroing in on a substantial improvement that the speaker could make and the main suggestion was to have more enthusiasm at certain points. At first I didn't agree but the more she explained her reasoning she was definitely correct. The speaker is supposed to learn improvements to make.
The Table Topics was centered on the theme for the day, which was Christmas-time Disruptions and very well thought out by the person running this portion of the meeting. The Table Topic Toastmaster took the time to progress the time-period from childhood through teenager, marriage, having young children and then having older children. My topic was "what were the disruptions for myself that my parents had while being a teenager in their home." This was tricky and I was very nervous giving this speech. My speech was 1:16 and I had three 'ums.' Maybe its not like riding a bicycle after all. huh.
The 'um' counter was on top of all the 'um's and the grammar person was generous and spoke only positively. Awards were handed out to the best speech, evaluator and table topic winners.
Good practice for help with my being nervous and thinking on my feet. I enjoyed the meeting and the people and it ended in a timely manner.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Toastmasters...#2.
This was a fun group too. Last night's group was a more business orientated group and had an agenda printed up to hand out, which was nice (although they did run out). Very friendly, very professional, a bit smaller group. The other group was larger and most everyone could speak multiple languages. This group was fun and open and wishing to include everyone in a kind compassionate, businesslike manner as well as learning to speak in public. The main objective of all the groups.
There was less talk in the audience while someone was speaking. They were more organized and presented the objective of Toastmaster's in a quicker more concise manner. They did go over the allotted meeting time but not by much. The other group went over by half an hour. The Toastmaster running last night's meeting was a little discombobulated but handled things well by stating maybe he needed remedial training on how to run a meeting.
There were only two people giving speeches and two evaluators. The speeches were interesting and informative and both speakers knew how to capture their audience and weave the speech to an interesting conclusion. Each evaluator had interesting choices of points to criticize with each presenter.
The word of the day was 'denigrate.' Criticize unfairly; disparage: "there is a tendency to denigrate the poor." The other group's word was vicissitudes. You'll have to look that one up. You get kudos for using the word of the day during the meeting. There is also a topic of the day too.
The Table Top speeches (impromptu speeches given by anyone who wanted to participate) were fun and were centered around the topic of the day which was the telephone. My topic was a poem about the telephone, which I read out loud to the group and then I paraphrased it. Reading it out loud helped with time. (remember you are timed--can't go over and shouldn't be under either). You are allowed 2 minutes mine was 1:53. I was dinged on using a "you know" in my speech although I could have argued it was part of the flow of the presentation instead of a "crutch phrase," especially since I only used it once. Crutch phrases are a no,no and counted against you.
In this group all grammar and crutch phrases/words are counted and the counter writes the name of the person and informs each one of us who did what no,no. The other group did not state who did what. I think the counter missed a lot of crutch phrases and was kind to all of us. It may be embarrassing but it is supposed to be a learning process and was helpful (you know)--ha, ha.
I did not crash and burn this time during my Table Top speech, which pleased me immensely. I was even complimented by the members that they liked my speech. It was nice. Maybe it is like riding a bicycle -- a bit wibbly-wobbly at first but eventually evens out to a smooth, acceptable ride. I do so enjoy speaking in public.
I am bound and determined to be much better in court no matter what.
Here's a link to Toastmasters International. It is a great group and a positive learning experience for anyone who wishes to improve upon your speaking skills whether it is in public or one-on-one.
There was less talk in the audience while someone was speaking. They were more organized and presented the objective of Toastmaster's in a quicker more concise manner. They did go over the allotted meeting time but not by much. The other group went over by half an hour. The Toastmaster running last night's meeting was a little discombobulated but handled things well by stating maybe he needed remedial training on how to run a meeting.
There were only two people giving speeches and two evaluators. The speeches were interesting and informative and both speakers knew how to capture their audience and weave the speech to an interesting conclusion. Each evaluator had interesting choices of points to criticize with each presenter.
The word of the day was 'denigrate.' Criticize unfairly; disparage: "there is a tendency to denigrate the poor." The other group's word was vicissitudes. You'll have to look that one up. You get kudos for using the word of the day during the meeting. There is also a topic of the day too.
The Table Top speeches (impromptu speeches given by anyone who wanted to participate) were fun and were centered around the topic of the day which was the telephone. My topic was a poem about the telephone, which I read out loud to the group and then I paraphrased it. Reading it out loud helped with time. (remember you are timed--can't go over and shouldn't be under either). You are allowed 2 minutes mine was 1:53. I was dinged on using a "you know" in my speech although I could have argued it was part of the flow of the presentation instead of a "crutch phrase," especially since I only used it once. Crutch phrases are a no,no and counted against you.
In this group all grammar and crutch phrases/words are counted and the counter writes the name of the person and informs each one of us who did what no,no. The other group did not state who did what. I think the counter missed a lot of crutch phrases and was kind to all of us. It may be embarrassing but it is supposed to be a learning process and was helpful (you know)--ha, ha.
I did not crash and burn this time during my Table Top speech, which pleased me immensely. I was even complimented by the members that they liked my speech. It was nice. Maybe it is like riding a bicycle -- a bit wibbly-wobbly at first but eventually evens out to a smooth, acceptable ride. I do so enjoy speaking in public.
I am bound and determined to be much better in court no matter what.
Here's a link to Toastmasters International. It is a great group and a positive learning experience for anyone who wishes to improve upon your speaking skills whether it is in public or one-on-one.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Toastmasters...#1.
Went to my first meeting last night and it was fun. For those of you who do not know Toastmasters it is an international group of people who wish to learn to improve their public speaking skills in a safe considerate environment.
The people were friendly and enjoyable to be around. Oh, my I could do a whole other post on the characters at the meeting---really too funny.
On to the actual speeches and the reason I am here.
There were 3 speakers that night and 3 evaluations. All six people are evaluated by everyone. The first speaker was phenomenal! It was only her 3rd speech given in the group as she is a recent member. I certainly felt sorry for the other two that came after her as she was terrific. The next guy was ok--still needed work. The final lady was very nervous. Although I will state she was able to let us know about her nervousness in a tactful way that eased the audiences tension that we felt for her. All topics chosen were interesting and all evaluations were a great learning experience. The "um"s are counted and appropriate grammar is also evaluated. I think the gentleman counting "um"s missed a lot on the second speaker. That's the thing with "um"s they are very sneaky.
I participated in the round table 2 minute topic. So I got to embarrass myself in front of about 25 people but it helped with application of thinking on my feet and speaking off the top of my head, which is what I desperately need for court. Two minutes feels like FOREVER when its your turn. Trust me it is harder than it sounds and the experience is very humbling.
My topic was "if you had to create a soap opera for television where would the setting be?" You know General Hospital is set around a hospital, etc. As I was speaking to fill a little time I had to finally come to "where" and I chose parachuting. What??? who is this person speaking?? Oh, yeah its me! I know nothing, absolutely nothing about parachuting. All I had stuck in my head was a recent picture received from a vendor regarding a recent parachuting outing he had taken. Don't ask me why I had this vision in my head, I just did. I really tried to let it go, I really did. Please note for future reference: stick with what you do know. I mean why didn't I say knitting or farming? Something I KNOW! ARRGH!! I decided to go all out crazy and go overboard into the ridiculous. After finishing, there was a decided hush in the group (deer in the headlight look) and then a "well, ok--moving right along". You get the picture--really funny!!
I am hoping the more a fool I can make of myself at these meetings the better off I'll be in my actual forum of the courtroom and less foolish.
One meeting down---7 more to go and 7 more to write about. Wish me luck.
The people were friendly and enjoyable to be around. Oh, my I could do a whole other post on the characters at the meeting---really too funny.
On to the actual speeches and the reason I am here.
There were 3 speakers that night and 3 evaluations. All six people are evaluated by everyone. The first speaker was phenomenal! It was only her 3rd speech given in the group as she is a recent member. I certainly felt sorry for the other two that came after her as she was terrific. The next guy was ok--still needed work. The final lady was very nervous. Although I will state she was able to let us know about her nervousness in a tactful way that eased the audiences tension that we felt for her. All topics chosen were interesting and all evaluations were a great learning experience. The "um"s are counted and appropriate grammar is also evaluated. I think the gentleman counting "um"s missed a lot on the second speaker. That's the thing with "um"s they are very sneaky.
I participated in the round table 2 minute topic. So I got to embarrass myself in front of about 25 people but it helped with application of thinking on my feet and speaking off the top of my head, which is what I desperately need for court. Two minutes feels like FOREVER when its your turn. Trust me it is harder than it sounds and the experience is very humbling.
My topic was "if you had to create a soap opera for television where would the setting be?" You know General Hospital is set around a hospital, etc. As I was speaking to fill a little time I had to finally come to "where" and I chose parachuting. What??? who is this person speaking?? Oh, yeah its me! I know nothing, absolutely nothing about parachuting. All I had stuck in my head was a recent picture received from a vendor regarding a recent parachuting outing he had taken. Don't ask me why I had this vision in my head, I just did. I really tried to let it go, I really did. Please note for future reference: stick with what you do know. I mean why didn't I say knitting or farming? Something I KNOW! ARRGH!! I decided to go all out crazy and go overboard into the ridiculous. After finishing, there was a decided hush in the group (deer in the headlight look) and then a "well, ok--moving right along". You get the picture--really funny!!
I am hoping the more a fool I can make of myself at these meetings the better off I'll be in my actual forum of the courtroom and less foolish.
One meeting down---7 more to go and 7 more to write about. Wish me luck.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Current read.
Law of the Garbage Truck
This is one of the books I am currently reading. I enjoy how well written it is and its very easy to apply. Well, that is, if you WANT to make certain changes.
Preparing for Court...
I have 10 days (EEEK!!!) to prepare for court. This will actually be a simple hearing as its only about service. Still yikes. If I loose on service then I don't get to pass go or collect my money. It will end here. (kind of--at least the contempt part). Actually the coolio best part of sending Mr. X to jail ends here. AACK, slap me, is that mean or what??? Forgive me, I am only human.
Things I am doing:
1. contacted process server.
2. Issued subpoena.
3. go to a Toastmaster's meeting (as many as possible) to be able to speak in public better. I really believe this will help with thinking on my feet. I won't have to deal with my nervousness as much and will be able to handle (hopefully) issues that may be brought up. Like I certainly should have with the service issue. If only I hadn't been so nervous I could have brought up the arraignment hearing--as that is where the issue of service should have been brought up. du-uh.
4. remember serving Mr. X a second time if the first should fail me. And remember to bring it up at this hearing.
Things I am doing:
1. contacted process server.
2. Issued subpoena.
3. go to a Toastmaster's meeting (as many as possible) to be able to speak in public better. I really believe this will help with thinking on my feet. I won't have to deal with my nervousness as much and will be able to handle (hopefully) issues that may be brought up. Like I certainly should have with the service issue. If only I hadn't been so nervous I could have brought up the arraignment hearing--as that is where the issue of service should have been brought up. du-uh.
4. remember serving Mr. X a second time if the first should fail me. And remember to bring it up at this hearing.
Friday, December 3, 2010
holiday projects.
There are some really cute holiday projects out there.
Advent calendar scarf 2010 is very pretty.
smitten from Knit Picks. You can use these as ornaments or as shown on Knit Picks as an advent calendar. Very cute.
I also saw someone used mini knitted envelopes for an advent calendar. All great ideas.
This year is one of the first years that I am actually looking forward to Christmas. I don't really know why. I have even thought to actually put up a tree and get out my wonderful ornament collection, which I started in 1980 and haven't seen for a few years now.
My plan for this Holiday Season is to pay my good fortune forward this year as I have recently been the recipient of kindness from different avenues and I appreciate it. Actually this is something I do throughout the year, it really doesn't have to be a holiday. I have a loving mother, a great DD, a job, a home, a car, a cat, and plenty of healthy food.
At work I had my department volunteer and adopt a senior at a nursing home. It was fun going around and obtaining the requested items. The gentleman wished for a lap throw and a book on Greek history. Barnes & Nobel had a good selection on Greek history and I came away with a self improvement book for myself too. I took a card around with the gifts so everyone would sign the card and see what we provided. The department stepped up to the plate and helped out with the cost of it all too, which is nice to not have to foot the bill for the whole thing as I expected I might (and didn't mind doing).
I look forward to helping out where and when I see a need.
Enjoy your day and think about "paying kindness forward"!
Advent calendar scarf 2010 is very pretty.
smitten from Knit Picks. You can use these as ornaments or as shown on Knit Picks as an advent calendar. Very cute.
I also saw someone used mini knitted envelopes for an advent calendar. All great ideas.
This year is one of the first years that I am actually looking forward to Christmas. I don't really know why. I have even thought to actually put up a tree and get out my wonderful ornament collection, which I started in 1980 and haven't seen for a few years now.
My plan for this Holiday Season is to pay my good fortune forward this year as I have recently been the recipient of kindness from different avenues and I appreciate it. Actually this is something I do throughout the year, it really doesn't have to be a holiday. I have a loving mother, a great DD, a job, a home, a car, a cat, and plenty of healthy food.
At work I had my department volunteer and adopt a senior at a nursing home. It was fun going around and obtaining the requested items. The gentleman wished for a lap throw and a book on Greek history. Barnes & Nobel had a good selection on Greek history and I came away with a self improvement book for myself too. I took a card around with the gifts so everyone would sign the card and see what we provided. The department stepped up to the plate and helped out with the cost of it all too, which is nice to not have to foot the bill for the whole thing as I expected I might (and didn't mind doing).
I look forward to helping out where and when I see a need.
Enjoy your day and think about "paying kindness forward"!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Proverbs...
comes to my mind today. Specifically two: the one regarding the dog that keeps returning to its own vomit and the other about the sow that is washed clean and then returns to the mud to wallow in it again and again.
That's me --- the sow or dog, take your pick. I just keep repeating the same hurtful behavior and cannot seem to STOP. I am tired of being the sow. I am tired of the mud. I am tired of the filth. I really don't care for the taste of vomit.
I am tired of the same bad habit. It is time to stop and stop now.
That's me --- the sow or dog, take your pick. I just keep repeating the same hurtful behavior and cannot seem to STOP. I am tired of being the sow. I am tired of the mud. I am tired of the filth. I really don't care for the taste of vomit.
I am tired of the same bad habit. It is time to stop and stop now.
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