text:
Congratulations to all Year 3 students on their leadership of this week's Sustainability Pop-Up. The passion demonstrated in their 'Ted style' talks, along with the research that had gone into these, was most impressive. This whole event was another wonderful example of students leading the way in prodding us all to heighten our awareness and consider our actions with respect to a wide range of environmental sustainability issues.
Congratulations also this week to the Year 5 choir who represented the College proudly with a wonderful singing performance at Singfest 2019. The choir sang 'Hold Back the River' in their single school item, and then were part of the massed choir of 650 Primary students from eight local schools for a further 6 items. A packed Albert Hall enjoyed a fantastic night of choral singing.
All Year 4 students shared three short drama pieces with a Junior School audience to conclude their Term 3 Ignite@Elphin project on 'What makes a production?' The energy, passion and teamwork complemented some quality public speaking and acting skills. Watch the short video below –
The enthusiasm for learning demonstrated through these activities is indicative of so many other experiences for students right across the Campus in Term 3.
Best wishes to all students and families for a well-earned holiday break as we all take the opportunity to reflect on progress and to re-set learning goals for the new term ahead.
Lachie Wright
Head of Junior School


text:
With the following products our customer has solved this measurement task optimally:
Level measurement in cement
The Challenge
The measuring task was to install a reliable level measurement in a concrete silo with cement, which works in a very dusty atmosphere and guarantees a service life of more than 5 years. Level measurement is automated without an operator having to climb up the silo to check the level. Thus a classic original equipment of a level measurement in cement.
- The first need was that the level could measure a range of min. 30m.
- Immunity from turbulence arising in cement silos.
- Immunity to noise in cement silos.
- Good price-quality ratio.
- Free maintenance.
- Long life cycle of the product.
- Immunity against dust and disturbances.
Our Solution
The NB 4200, which is installed in the cement factory, is measuring cement in silos with a height of 30 meters and with a process temperature of 80°C. The integrated tape cleaner protects the housing against pollution. It is the perfect solution in a cement application.
NB 4200 Tape Version
Continuous Level Measurement
•Suitable for most bulk solids.
•Integrated tape cleaner to remove aherent materials.
•Mounting with threaded or flange connection.
•Measuring range up to 30m.
•Convenient level monitoring via 4-20mA signal together with Nivotec 3500.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Signs of Food Allergy You Need to Know
Many people assume they know the signs of food allergy…but you might be surprised. An allergic...Read More
Select Page
by carina | Allergies, Blog, Diet, Food Allergies, Weight Loss | 0 |
Many people assume they know the signs of food allergy…but you might be surprised. An allergic...Read More
by ProfKeith | Allergies, Blog, Electrical Sensitivity | 0 |
First, let me tell you about an exciting event. You need to go check it out: My friend Lloyd has a...Read More
For 40 years I've been pointing out that food allergies are almost universal. Everyone has at...Read More
by ProfKeith | Allergies, Blog, Mind Health | 0 |
Years ago (1980 – 1995) I was considered the king of "brain allergies" (if so,...Read More
by Keith Scott-Mumby | Allergies, Blog, Food Allergies, Weight Loss | 0 |
What A Science Muddle I've said before that most so-called "scientists" today do not investigate...Read More
What Makes You Drunk But Isn't Alcohol? Alcohol and drug abuse can lead to depression and...Read More
Another "I Told 'Em!" My regular subscribers know I like to joke about this from time to time…...Read More
by ProfKeith | Allergies, Blog, Body Wellness, Total Health | 0 |
An allergic reaction is what your immune system causes when confronted with something to which it...Read More
At last, the dinosaurs prove my story and, unwittingly perhaps, validate the hidden allergy...Read More
The alternative-doctor news service brings you frequent updates in holistic health breakthroughs, new products, great ideas, life enhancing tips and freebies to download.


text:
Angus Barter – guitar, vocals
Dave Bean – drums, vocals
Mike Breen – guitar
Valentina Cardinalli - vocals
Samantha Letourneau - flute, vocals
Dave Read – bass guitar, synths
Moths & Locusts are diehard space-rock explorers hailing from the pulsating heart of Vancouver Island. They create dynamic,
heavy, melodic, fuzz-drenched explorations of the inner and outer cosmos inspired by their love of psychedelia, Krautrock, science
fiction, vinyl records, and delay pedals. Trance inducing dream-scapes intertwine with visceral blazing garage rock bangers and all
elements of the intervening spectrum are sampled. Always over the groove, always.
The early years of Moths & Locusts brought a steady stream of west coast shows and two self-produced 7"s, one split with
Victoria's New Colors. The band's passion for unique physical products saw a buzzing lock-groove on the first single and a rare
concentric grooves approach to the split where two versions of
Nero's Tale
lie side-by-side and the luck of the needle drop
determines which one is played.
In 2011 the band set up camp at the Noise Floor Studio and with engineer Jordan Koop at the controls recorded a flood of material
with an album's worth of arranged songs and hours of improvised jams and experiments. The following months found the boys in their
home studios and their beloved jam space "The Republic of Doom" layering, arranging and whittling down the hours of audio to the
essential moments. The first release of this material was a 12" 45rpm EP of a sprawling jam
Escape from Sector C
where the B-side
is a vinyl-only version of the same song played in reverse. It is affecting both ways, but differently so.
The epic first full-length album was released on NoiseAgonyMayhem Records in 2013 and given a suitably epic title -
Mission Collapse
in the Twin Sun Megaverse
. The gatefold cover and coloured vinyl are works of art unto themselves. The album was very well-
received and spent time on Earshot's national charts. 2013 also saw the band sharing the stage with some high profile veterans,
starting with psych-prog heavyweights Rangda, and rocking the main stage at the
The summer of 2013 brought an unbelievable opportunity - Moths & Locusts was the backbone of a psych-rock orchestra, including
members of Colliding Canyons and Wolf Parade, backing legendary Can vocalist
Damo Suzuki
. A multi-track recording of the improvised
set to a sold-out crowd beautifully captured the creative alchemy of the night and later that year the 2XLP
Seven Potatoes - Damo
Suzuki Live in Nanaimo
was distributed to krautrock devotees around the world. Nanaimo sounds like "seven potatoes" in Japanese.
Two studio sessions followed - one at Lap of Luxury in Victoria in the fall of 2014 and to the re-located Noise Floor on Gabriola Island in
the spring of 2015. Another mountain of music was distilled over months in the laboratory to extract the mind altering substances
contained within and enhance it with synths through distinct effects chains and input from friendly collaborators. More highlights of this
period included headlining the National Campus and Community Radio Conference showcase with The Backhomes, opening for godfathers
of grunge Mudhoney, and a packed Vancouver show with Dan Boeckner's band Operators. After the Operator's show, Jeremy Schmidt (Black
Mountain, Sinoia Caves) pegged Moths & Locusts sound as being like "biker disco" - a favourite original genre tag.
A 2014 Vancouver Island show with Canadian journeyman Ian Blurton's new band Public Animal was a meeting of kindred spirits and
plans for a split 7" were realized in 2015 timed with a shared western Canadian summer tour. The outro of each band's song is the intro
to the other's making a seamless circle of sound. The tour was a total success and included live to air sessions on CFUV in Victoria and CITR
in Vancouver. After the tour Moths & Locusts set to work on finishing LP #2, Helios Rising, released in May 2016 on NoiseAgonyMayhem
Records and Sunmask Records.
The band was asked by upstart UK-based psych label Eggs in Aspic to contribute a volume to their global psych cassette series. A free-form
studio session with producer Rob the Viking (of Canadian hip hop crew Swolen Members) yielded a mountain of sounds that was sliced,
diced and re-configured into the twisting trip of an LP - Intro / Outro in late 2017. The band brought their live show to to eastern Canada for
the first time playing Ottawa, Montreal, London, Toronto, Kingston and Kitchener to stunned crowds.
Studio contributions by vocalist Valentina and flautist Samantha grew to the full-time inclusion of these two amazingly talented women in the
band's live shows in 2018 bringing new tones and textures to their mind-melting performances, which included a second attendance at Calgary's
Sled Island, headlining one night of Victoria's Psych and Soul Showcase and Nanaimo's Backyard Fest, and joined the line-up at Nelson BC's
Massif Music Fest.
Material from the 2017 recording session at Sinewave Studio in Saskatchewan was mined for a limited release 7" in 2018.
Cocaine Kangaroo
is a rolicking live show favourite while
Peyote Coyote
is a trip into a bizarre dimionsion. The deluxe edition includes a 4-song CD with all the
tracks released from the session.
The spring of 2018 brought together an incredible meeting of like minds a generation apart. Psychedelic journeyman Twink (Tomorrow, Pink
Fairies, solo, etc. etc.) joined Moths & Locusts for for some live shows playing songs from his classic recordings, like the recently re-released
Think Pink, and a studio session to record a collaborative album. The recording session was also attended by Canadian rock veteran Ian Blurton
as well as cameos by members of Sloan and Wolf Parade.


text:
The Phryg // Trey Alexander
Add to Calendar
The Phryg
Recently The Phryg has shared the stage with phenomenal performers such as Bob Lanzetti of Snarky Puppy, The Fritz, Electric Love Machine, Tweed and many more. They can also be seen performing at esteemed music venues including Brooklyn Bowl (NY), The 8x10 (MD), Tellus 360 (PA) and Dante's (MD).
Having drawn attention from publications such as Performer Magazine, The Jamwich, The Journal News and Pittsburgh Music Magazine, The Phryg released their self-titled full length album in July 2016 as a follow up to their debut EP "Midnight Snack".
"These bad boys from Brooklyn were hard to peg, with elements of rock, prog and jam, spread thick on a toast of funk. It was delicious to my ears." - Sound and Silence Magazine
Trey Alexander is a full time performer and teacher. He teaches at the Guitar Spot, and also plays with Thistle Rue and the Trey Alexander Band.
Trey is a Lancaster local and favorite and oh ya he rocks the shit out of it!!!
You can follow both bands below via their Facebook Links:
Tellus360 - Tigh Mhary
24 East King St
Lancaster, PA, 17602


text:
Connie Fix
Contact Information
Connie Fix
Author name not available.
About Connie Fix
Hello, Everyone! My name is Connie Fix. I am the owner of Faux & More Wall Décor in West Chester, Ohio (suburb of Cincinnati). I specialize in cabinet refinishing and faux painting. I will soon be expanding to interior designing as well! Aside from Cincinnati, I also cover Dayton and my native town of Columbus. I am married and have 4 cats. I love to cook and bake. We travel every chance we get. I'm a huge fan of soccer, football and Tae Kwon Do.


text:
SAVINGS from lighting upgrades in Wanneroo have been transferred to a Girrawheen project to accommodate unforeseen work.
The City of Wanneroo's 2016-17 capital works program included $133,605 to supply and install four floodlighting towers at Hudson Park.
During construction, the contractor found poor foundation soil conditions at two of the towers and a subsequent geotechnical assessment recommended upgrading the towers' footings, costing an additional $54,416.
A report presented by the City at the May 9 council meeting said construction projects had an "inherent risk of unforeseen circumstances" and the mitigation measures taken were essential for safety.
It proposed sourcing the additional funding from the Badgerup and Hawkins roads street lighting upgrade project in Wanneroo, which was $72,000 under budget.
"The surplus funds resulted from a change of project scope after a night time audit of the street lighting effectiveness determined that altering existing street lighting layout was not feasible without new street light poles, however the replacement of the existing type of globes and the installation of additional guide posts with chevron signs at the bends would improve road safety at this location," the report said.
Councillor Dianne Guise asked for consideration to be given to the Wanneroo lighting project in the City's next budget and the transfer of funds was support unanimously by councillors.
MORE: Police hunt man after dog is stabbed and killed
MORE: Woman injured after police chase


text:
Simma Down Now
November was a hectic month on its own, so when you throw in some birthdays, and a couple deaths things escalate. Toss in the sale of two cars, the purchase of a new one, a wedding and running the 5k you signed up for because you're too cheap to cancel while preparing to host Thanksgiving and your teetering on crazy. Simma down now, simma down.
Then, just as your about to welcome December with open arms, you receive notice from the City of Philadelphia that a neighbor filed a complaint against you for parking a commercial mower in YOUR OWN yard. I think it's safe to say that the big fat December full moon was not helping matters.
Meanwhile, all of this has caused my heart to ride an emotional rollercoaster. Sadness from the losses, joy from the celebrations, racing from exercise and crushed by the actions of this neighbor. She needs a break!
The loss of two extraordinary people was significant. David, a gentleman in every sense of the word, passed early in the month. After attending his service, I felt better than when I walked in the door. This is a testament to the level of goodness in his soul, which I had the pleasure to witness before and after his passing.
Next, my husband's Aunt Sophie who was my favorite in-law. Earlier in the year, she joined us for a fantastic night out on the town that I actually shared in my post Magical. I'm still trying to wrap my head around the fact that the same woman, who was a lively 78-year old playing air guitar on the dance floor in February, was diagnosed with cancer and died 4 weeks later. Just another reminder to live your life folks.
The new car has challenged my intelligence, not to mention my driving skills. I'm not positive, but I would bet money I am experiencing the same emotions that Buzz Aldrin felt when he hopped in Apollo 11 and headed to the moon. Wow! Just Wow!
When the bells and whistles have their own set of bells and whistles, it can make a girl feel inadequate. Apparently, I continuously drive over the lines on the road. How do I know? Because I'm reminded every 5 seconds. I'm questioning why I haven't been pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence … EVERY day.
My daughter wanted to run a big race here in Philly, the Rocky Run. So, like a good mother, I signed us up. FYI: My daughter has never run a day in her life.
I'm still not sure how she pulled off being out with her girlfriends, rolling in just a few hours before she had to get up and managed to beat me by one second. Isn't youth grand?
Thanksgiving was terrific from start to finish. Food, family, and laughter through the roof put it in the books as one of the best. Who am I kidding, they're all in the books.
Ugh, and finally this notice from the Department of Licenses has turned my current living situation into the modern day version of the Hatfield & McCoy feud. Can we settle this on Family Feud, please?
That story is to be continued. However, I will say that when people make decisions based on their emotions at that given moment, there are no winners. Those actions have far-reaching effects and do much more harm than good. Live and learn is the motto around these parts folks.
Enjoy the Ride and Keep the PEACE!
Daily Prompt: Neighbors
via Daily Prompt: Neighbors
Hmm … where do I even begin? I grew up in a city neighborhood where the typical household held anywhere from 4 to 12 children. How we were all conceived and raised in a three bedroom, one bathroom rowhome is still a mystery.
The best part of this upbringing was you were never without entertainment. There was always an active pulse ready to play.
We were never indoors. Never wore protective gear while riding our bikes. Never played organized sports, unless you count the games we organized via our imaginations, and we never had to worry about our parents hovering over us every second of the day. Ever!
We had an understanding with our parental units. Kids play outside until the street light comes on and then you scatter like roaches into your homes. Simplicity works.
Neighbors from my youth rocked! It didn't matter if it was a sickness, new baby or death the neighbors organized meals, money, and services better than the Red Cross. No questions asked.
If you had a problem with a neighbor, you knocked on the door and dare I say expressed your concerns. Hey Bill are you hurt or just not keeping up with your lawn?
Life was simple.
Today I live in the same type of close-knit city dwelling and my oh my how things have changed. Now there's a neighborhood FaceBook page.
The kids on my block if they come outdoors on their downtime from being carted from one organized activity to the next, are usually huddled around a tablet playing a video game, watching YouTube videos, taking selfies or snap chatting. Missing out on their surroundings.
I do on occasion see kids riding their bikes, running, playing on swings and giggling with joy, but the parents ruin it with their "rules," and the parents who don't participate in the rules are crucified. Stop running, slow down, stop screaming, not so high, get off the grass, get out of the street … nag, nag, nag.
Now, as for the adults, I'm speechless at times. A lot of the time actually.
Instead of knocking on doors to settle concerns we now call the authorities. Oh, yes. The neighbors find it easier to call 911 on their fellow neighbor than to walk across the street, knock on the door and say "hey, could you move your car so I can't get out." Having your neighbor ticketed is better how?
Oh, please for the love of God do not have a sickness or injury that prevents you from cutting your lawn, because there's a number to call for that too. The city will send a service over to destroy your lawn and give you a fine. The days of asking "do you need help with your lawn? I'll send Bobby over to provide you with a hand are over.
Worse than these two examples would be the dreaded neighborhood FaceBook page. Don't get me wrong the page is great for recommendations on home improvement repairs, lost or found pets and keeping us in the loop on activities in the area, but unfortunately, it has also become a place where free reign bitching is allowed.
Recently there was a post regarding an older neighbor installing a bright lightbulb on their porch. The post read "what should I do? My neighbor installed a high wattage bulb, and I'm blinded when I come out of my door." This is what I'm dealing with people.
There were plenty of suggestions; however, none of them included knocking on the door to inquire about the bright light. This "man" was considering replacing the bulb himself. I just don't get it.
As for me, well, I will continue to live by example, share responsibility and Enjoy the Ride!
Shells Bells
Shells, shells, and more shells. I was just a tad obsessed with collecting these beauties on my morning walks. Maybe a little more than a "tad."
Look at them, all beautiful in their own way. All different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some with fractures, some dull, others shiny and bright, but all with their own individual characters that make them beautifully unique. Hmm, sounds a lot like people now doesn't it.
There isn't a hateful one in the bucket.
As always, my children thought I was losing my mind as I ventured out every morning to see what treasures the ocean left behind. When will they realize they are the cause of any loss of my mind?
Anyway, shell searching is in my genes. As children, my mother taught us how to comb the beach for shells, and I followed the tradition by doing the same with my daughter. Why is this not on my resume?
I remember sitting in a hotel room with my sister going over our inventory from the day. We would break down our loot by size and style. Yes, serious records were kept with shells & Halloween candy.
Back in the day, we had an abundance of large clam shells waiting for us. That is not the case today. I'm not sure if it's the ever-changing climate, Mother Nature's hoarding or the loss of sexual urges amongst the clam community, whatever the reason, there were slim pickings. Feel free to now Google "how do clams reproduce?" I did.
As kids, we returned from vacation with a bucket of blank canvases. On rainy summer days, we would break out our watercolor sets to let our inner Monet surface. Our talents were displayed in our garden for all to view. It was like an ongoing Gallery opening without the wine & cheese.
It's funny how some memories, no matter what, have the ability to leave a smile on your face. I'm glad that one let itself out of the vault.
The million dollar question around here now is: "What are you going to do with all those shells?" The response: "Something fabulous!"
Now that I've set the bar high, I've been unleashing my creative juices for this project. Hmm, how hard can it be to rustle up something wonderful, yet not too overwhelming, while meeting all the criteria necessary to be F A B U L O U S? What the hell was I thinking?
After some pondering while scanning the internet for inspiration, there is something on the horizon waiting to come to life. Will it be fabulous? OF COURSE! I'll be working my magic shortly.
Embrace the differences to create something fabulous in the world. Enjoy the Ride!
Let's Put The "We" Back In The People
If this gem doesn't just scream my name, I don't know what does. That's right folks, I'm officially hanging with the pigeon squad.
I am EXHAUSTED!
Not by the hamster wheel of life, but by the behavior of my co-humans.
By the increased hatred and decrease in common decency.
By the lack of truth and overindulgence of misinformation and lies.
I am EXHAUSTED!
By the loss of common ground and the divided beliefs.
By the daily negativity of, he said she said while essential issues sit silently.
By the rise in civil obedience and the lack of active participation in the process.
I am EXHAUSTED!
By being told who to hate by our televisions, while books collect dust.
By judgments, labels & stereotypes in one hand and Bibles, flags & hypocrisy in the other.
By the absence of faith, hope & charity and the escalation of greed.
I am EXHAUSTED!
By the Social Media scholars and their ignorant followers.
By the callous treatment of the less fortunate and the misguided definition of fame.
By fear dictating our decisions, while common sense faces extinction.
I am EXHAUSTED!
By the abuse of our first amendment and the overextended defense of our second.
By selfishness leading the way, while collaboration sits on the sidelines.
By the misconception that strength is loud, and quietness is weak.
I am EXHAUSTED!
By the thought of war being the answer and not giving peace a chance.
By the short memories and selective truths.
By the thought that I'm too optimistic, while others have surrendered hope.
Let's TRY to celebrate our Independence and our Interdependence today by being free from our hatred, fears, and differences. These are the freedoms that lay out a strong foundation for our future. These are the freedoms that unite. These are the freedoms that will thrive.
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the Common Defense, promote the General Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Now, I'm not going to lie, I will have to remember all of this when my beer induced, wanna be pyrotechnic neighbor starts setting off fireworks from his weather-beaten, one spark short of an inferno deck this evening. I NEVER SAID IT WAS GOING TO BE EASY…anything worthwhile rarely is easy.
We're all in this together, so hop in and Enjoy the Ride!
Emotional Fart
Just when I thought everything was going smooth the universe made the executive decision to throw a wrench into my peace. Does everyone agree that Lisa appears to be content? Good, bring in the wrench, please. On second thought, make it a double.
It's been 6 months since I was blindsided, and the universe has been somewhat kind, but recently it has decided to shake things up a bit. As if watching the News wasn't enough.
My son decided to move out of his apartment and back HOME. The problem with this big fat wrench is he didn't come alone. He brought his endless appetite, wash, sneakers the size of Pennsylvania and a school project that entails constructing something that has now taken over my entire house. Remember the movie The Blob? It's like that over here.
My nature is very easy peasy. Little things like gigantic sneakers and piles of wash have never bothered me before, well, maybe not never. But, certainly not at the level of wanting to set the house on fire to make them go away. This is the result of holding in an emotional fart.
Clearly, there are some underlining things going on with me to stir up this level of emotion, and now you lucky readers who were drawn in my clever title get to read about it. Sorry, not sorry.
Although my life keeps moving forward one snail slide at a time, and the memories start to fade, they don't leave, they linger. Like the crowd you see at Starbucks sucking up the free wi-fi ALL DAY.
The problems I'm facing now are the reminders. Not the "don't forget we need milk" kind, the "my therapist would like you to come in next week" kind. It is the equivalent of being shot out of a cannon right back to October 12th. Why can't I take a cannonball ride back to 1974 when I was free of concerns, other than the daunting decision to ride my bike or play jump rope?
In some ways, it's good to go so I can get a feel as to what's going on inside my man's head. In other ways, it drains me for days. Literally paralyzing me from doing what I enjoy. I don't read, write or go to the gym. I find myself stuck in a cloud of never ending thoughts. In my head, it's like trying to figure out a math equation that has multiple answers. I HATE MATH!
Of course, I know it's all part of the process, and that the process is the best thing for everyone and that it's working, but for god sakes, it's a lot to deal with when you're just trying to deal period. Hence the thought that FIRE would be the way to go with ridding my house of clutter.
At this point in my life, I think it's safe to say that the universe shops at Sears and there is just an obvious endless sale on Craftsman wrench sets, so I need to take responsibility, tighten my helmet, fasten my seatbelt and just … Enjoy the Ride! One long speed bump at a time.
Every Day Is Opposite Day
Well, well, well look who is celebrating their 5th anniversary with WordPress. Ah, it feels like yesterday.
Last year, in celebration of this glorious milestone, I posted an essay that is sadly more relevant today Weapons of Mass Destruction Have a Face. A big orange face to be exact.
So, here we are, one year later, with the shit literally hitting the fan. Oh, happy day … not.
In just 365 days we went from watching this country's biggest hit reality show to actually being contestants. I'm just sitting here desperately waiting for this show to be cancelled.
The show, as I like to call it, is "The Opposite." That's right folks, we are all participating in a new reality where our host is the opposite of being honest, treating women or anyone else who isn't white like people, speaking openly, confronting situations directly, having patience, and basically just being a good solid citizen. The Opposite is now leading our path. Where we're heading has yet to be determined.
In just a little over 30 days our host has brought several teams to the surface.
First, we have Team Merica. The bible thumping flag waving team who wouldn't know the constitution if it were narrowed down to a bumper sticker, who take pride in naming at least two of the seven dwarfs, yet cannot muster up the name of a single Supreme Court Judge. They believe every alternative fact presented, including, but not limited to, our former president being a member of Isis.
The White Team is a sub group to Team Merica that includes well-intentioned educated folks who for whatever reason cast their vote. Some say it's because he's a businessman, others believed that he would "clean the swamp", but most, in my opinion, did it because they were tired of a Democrat "giving away" everything they earned.
Next, we have Team Resistance. Not hired actors or paid by a 3rd party to participate. They are a feisty group made up of men, women, children, babies & dogs. They are taking to the streets to have their voices heard bearing signs, pussy hats, and passion for all that is good for the greater good. Their voices are speaking out for common human rights for all people. They are demanding answers from their elected officials regarding our planet, our healthcare, our animals, our freedoms, our sanity and OUR COUNTRY.
Then we have Team Oh Fuck. This group really, really, really thought they were doing the right thing when they went to the voting booth to cast a vote for "something different" and now they sit quietly pondering the definition of "different."
Next up, Hollywood. This crew brings money, glitter, glitz, glamor, a microphone and a stage to spread a message they feel should be heard. This group has members on all of the above teams.
Last but not least we have Wall Street. They bring money, mo' money and of course, mo' money, which can easily allow them to rule the world … literally. Just remember folks the lack of a moral compass, a soul, and their cloven hooves will eventually lead to their demise. Hopefully.
So, in just over 30 days since the season premiere of "The Opposite" we've certainly been kept on our toes with the daily cliffhangers. What's next? never sounded more terrifying.
Our new host likes to keep the teams confused. As they wander around questioning whether facts are truth or if lies are now alternative facts, which in our old world were just lies, he is vigorously flushing their tax dollars down the drain on his weekend getaways, our satellite First Lady, and my favorite, the 2017 Feed My Ego Tour a/k/a 2020 campaign rally. What just happened?
While the teams scramble to fact check like Ninjas, desperately trying to determine which news is real, fake or somewhere in between, Executive Orders are being signed sealed and delivered faster than a middle of the night Tweet. Diversion at its finest.
Thing have been tense between the teams. While each team frantically attacks each other via social media outlets, the wool is pulled further over their once bright hopeful eyes. Next stop, slaughterhouse.
Let's just hope that this show will be cancelled long before the Season Finale scheduled to air November, 2020. Until then, crank up the music and Enjoy the Ride!
The Blessed Project
The Blessed Project hosted by none other than the QUEEN of Wild Rides Susie Lindau, could not have come at a better time this season.
It's not that I don't recognize my blessings, I do, I really do. It's just that sometimes life sweeps in to rattle me in another direction. No doubt I am part squirrel.
This is why we need to take advantage of the opportunities when they are presented. So a big round of applause to Susie for providing us with the chance to be still. Even if it's just for a moment feel the peace.
Recently I was Blessed to witness my mother's joy, as she watched her whole family sing in unison the old classic "Happy Birthday" before she cast her 90th wish.
If joy had a face … this my friends would be what it looks like.
In September I was Blessed to celebrate the wedding of my nephew, and to gain this beautiful woman as my niece. Their wedding was spectacular!
The love for this couple was explosive throughout the entire celebration.
It's been unanimous within the family that we all want to go back for a few more hours on Cloud Cullen.
Every damn day I am Blessed to come home to these two snowflakes.
No matter what went on in the day, these little lumps of love are there to remind me that I am indeed the best thing that ever happened to their world.
On Thanksgiving, I was especially Blessed to have everyone I love under one roof. My sisters who are always generous with their time and efforts. My brother-in-laws for being loving and caring men. My nieces with their intelligence, baking talents and beauty. My nephews who are passionate about everything from world affairs to Harambe the gorilla. The significant others that slip right into place with the craziness. My children for being such loving beings and my husband for always helping to make my day a little easier.
Blessings included were enjoying each others company, eating delicious food and laughing together. Playing Cards Against Humanity until our ab muscles hurt. Finding humor in every conversation on the table and most of all NOT TALKING POLITICS FOR A SECOND. (There were rumors of some quiet texting on this subject, but nothing was proven)
I'm Blessed to have good friends who recognized that a night of Running Through The Lights is exactly what I needed.
I'm Blessed that they are persistent in their efforts to get me to workout, sweat, laugh, pee and cry.
I'm Blessed to have virtual friends that are loving caring beings in and outside of the blogosphere.
I'm Blessed that they continue to show me love. Send virtual hugs. Make me laugh. Pray for me. Provide free therapy and genuinely care.
I am truly BLESSED for this photo that speaks for itself.
Enjoy the Ride!
Don't forget to pack your blessings!
Stranger Things Have Happened
past tense: faded; past participle: faded 1. gradually grow faint and disappear.
I know we all meet sorrow in our own way. For me, it's looking for the silver lining. Much easier said than done, but hope is always doable.
At first, I thought I might have some sort of super powers. Somehow going about my daily routine like a badass. I went to work without missing a beat. I even went out socializing without a care in the world trying my best to squash the memories. Guess what? Even the baddest of asses have their moments.
For over a month now I've been trying very hard to kick my sorrow to the curb. I hosted Thanksgiving like a pilgrim! I channeled my inner Martha Stewart to deck the damn halls! I got all gussied up to attend an amazing Christmas party, and I've been working out as if I'm being considered for the Olympics! But guess what people? IT DOESN'T WORK!
When the family leaves, the work is done, the sweat is showered off, and I come home, do you know who is waiting? Yep, just like that annoying guest at the party who never seems to realize it's time to hit the road …. sorrow is there to greet me with open arms. It's really beginning to be a huge pain in the ass!
I've recently come to the conclusion that if sorrow is going to hang around for awhile, I need to do something about it. I think t's time we become friends or form some sort of relationship. I know it sounds crazy, but I'm tired of fighting this weightlifter of an emotion.
Wait a minute, "friends" might be a little strong, maybe I'll start with a roomie and work my way up to besties. I'm only human.
So, for now, it looks like I'll be chillin with sorrow. I've set up some free space in my head so he can get cozy. Yes, sorrow is a man …. because I said so.
I must say since he's been hanging around, I've been learning a lesson here and there about myself, so at least he's earning his keep. If only he cleaned bathrooms.
Who knows next maybe he'll show me how to be strong as him. Stranger things have happened…look who is our new prez.
Maybe he'll even wine and dine me as he leads me to that silver lining. Where I can only imagine unicorns are running free.
Better yet … maybe one day I'll be able to sit by a nice sunny window, sipping a hot cup of coffee, listening to Marvin Gaye while I watch all of this just fade away. Goals!
Enjoy the Ride!
Just Look For It
It's funny how during all of the darkness over the past month, we have been able to see some light. A glimmer here a glimmer there help the heart heal.
We are both very big believers in noticing the signs that are sent our way, and we were not blind to them even during the darkest of times. Hope comes in all shapes and sizes, the key is recognizing it.
Sign #1:
The day after the nightmare began, I went with my daughter to see my husband at the hospital. While walking through the lobby we were greeted by a very friendly face. Sister Kate. The world is so small.
I know Sister Kate from my job, and I haven't seen her in a couple of years. Our relationship is she is a patient and I'm in shock that this nice, warm, funny person is a Catholic nun. Where the hell were YOU when I was in school is ALWAYS my thought when I see her.
Sister Kate immediately knew from my haggard look that something was wrong. This was the first time I uttered the words "My husband tried to take his life" and the flood-gates opened. Her warm kind hug is just what I needed before heading to face my reality. Never underestimate the power of fate.
Sign #2:
We walked into the room to find my husband under 24hr guard by none other than an Italian grandmother from South Philly. There isn't a pill on the planet that can compare to the healing powers of this woman.
The room was stark, nothing but a bed. My husband was stripped of anything that could possibly hurt him, and yet this woman made that room feel like home. I was waiting for her to pull a portable oven out of her purse.
Lena was just what this doctor ordered…. a mothers' love. Never underestimate the power of an Italian woman who gets joy from taking care of a man.
During this visit is when we learned that my husband had ZERO memory of the past 12 hours. If only the rest of us had that pleasure.
Sign #3:
The following day my son came with me. This time the guard on duty was Lorraine, a very feisty black woman. She was definitely sent for me.
This day was very heavy as we sat patiently waiting for information on the next hospital setting. The silence was deafening. Except for Lorraine's gum cracking which was no doubt echoing throughout the halls.
My son was saved by a friend who called insisting on taking him out to lunch. Perfect timing!
As we sat in awkward silence listening to that poor piece of gum being assaulted in Lorraine's mouth, we heard the words "who are you all voting for?" Of all the questions on the planet to ask, this was the one she chose to ask the man on suicide watch.
This is when the unexpected public service announcement was made. Lorraine would be voting for Trump. Why do you ask? Well, because she was tired of her neighbors collecting free money for their 5 children that she named Uno, Dos, Tres, Cuatro & Cinco. Fast forward to 11/9 … yep, this is one reason why.
Sign #4:
On that Sunday I went to see my husband at the next facility. No one could have prepared me for this step of the journey. I'm not sure who decided that people with depression should be dehumanized to feel better, but they need to be fired.
I left this visit defeated, broken and wondering where is that place Dr. Drew sends his patients and do they take Blue Cross? The lack of life in this place could make even the happiest of people second guessing the existence of rainbows. WTF!
When I returned home I was flat. There was just nothing left to feel. I was done. With a weak smile for the sake of the kids of course.
As my son was about to head back to school, he decided to raid my change jar to feed the parking meter in town. He took out a huge pile of coins searching for quarters.
Next thing I hear is "mom, didn't you loose a ring?" I had lost my wedding band on Thanksgiving 2015.
I have torn this house apart more than once searching for it. Trust me when I tell you I put the FBI to shame with my search efforts.
Sure enough, there was my ring, on the floor, with a dime stuck in the center. My eyes could just about register what they were seeing. The dam broke, and 4 days of emotion exploded into the room.
If ever there was going to be a sign that everything was going to be ok, this friends, was it.
Still dodging potholes while Enjoying the Ride!
In The Blink Of An Eye
We all know the saying. We've all used it to describe various things in our lives. Those of us with children know it well. Somehow watching our children go from bottles to red Solo cups overnight.
The seasons always leave us with this phrase, especially summer, which seems to be running out of Dodge faster each year. One minute we're watching fireworks, the next we're trying to escape a pumpkin invasion.
The holidays use to leave us with this feeling, however, now that Christmas hits the stores before Halloween it's no longer the case. The Christmas season officially lasts longer than most relationships.
These are examples of what I consider a natural course in change. They are as comfortable as that old sweatshirt in our closets.
But what about those other moments? You know, the ones that leave us numb in disbelief. The moments that leave us repeatedly asking "what just happened?" A vast majority have been doing this since Tuesday.
All I know is that NOTHING could have prepared me for life changing, blink of an eye, roller coaster ride I've been living for the past few weeks. By the way, I hate roller coasters in and outside of the amusement park.
October 12th was nothing short of a typical day in the life of me. Morning chores, work, and home. Boring at best.
I called my husband to let him know I was on my way. Everything was normal at 6:11 p.m. When I arrived home at 6:27 I was met by my daughter outside of the house. She said that my husband was screaming, cursing and acting crazy. Out of character was an understatement.
When I walked in to try to find out what was going on it escalated. So, I got the fur babies ready for a walk, and off we went while that fire simmered down. If they could talk, maybe I could have gotten a heads up.
While out on the walk I received a text stating "I'm moving on." WHAT?!
I called home only to hear a voice I never heard before informing me that he is "done" "moving on." I ran with the fur babies in tow, possibly airborne, with my heart in my stomach back to the house.
How did I go from saying "I'm on my way home "to screaming "What is happening?"
How did I go from hearing "I'm feeding the dogs" to "I'm moving on."?
How did I go from walking my dogs to pulling pills out of the mouth of the man I love?
How did I go from a hum drum day to rushing into an ER?
How did I go from worrying about bullshit to making life-changing decisions?
How did I go from thinking everything was fine to feeling like I was hit with a bat?
How did I go from seeing the strength in my husband's eyes to staring at his weakness?
How did I go from a happy go lucky girl to a sleepless shell?
I don't have the answers to all of these questions just yet, but I have hope.
I don't know what the future holds, but I have faith.
I don't know how to live my new normal, but I have an open mind.
I don't know if we'll be ok, but we have our love.
I don't know how I was blind, but now I can see.
I don't know if any of this makes sense, but I'm trying.
I DO know that I have 99 problems, but my new perspective won't allow Donald Trump to be one of them, and for that, I am grateful.
Enjoy the Ride … one speed bump at a time!