Is This the Light at the End of the Tunnel?

Could it be? Thank Her Divinity Angelina Jolie, I'm almost out from under all this work! I know it's only been a few days, but damn, I miss my blog, all you wonderful people who take time to comment and all those blogs I love to waste time reading (well, it's not really "wasting" since I like to think I learn a helluva lot).

So ok, back to work! I need to be mucho productivo this afternoon in order to enjoy my weekend.

Is This the Light at the End of the Tunnel?

Could it be? Thank Her Divinity Angelina Jolie, I'm almost out from under all this work! I know it's only been a few days, but damn, I miss my blog, all you wonderful people who take time to comment and all those blogs I love to waste time reading (well, it's not really "wasting" since I like to think I learn a helluva lot).

So ok, back to work! I need to be mucho productivo this afternoon in order to enjoy my weekend.

Temporary Blogging Hiatus!

Another deadline cycle, more work than I can reasonably put off for much longer---so I'll be away for just a little while. But thanks for visiting, reading and leaving your witty comments.

I'll be back before you even know it!

Temporary Blogging Hiatus!

Another deadline cycle, more work than I can reasonably put off for much longer---so I'll be away for just a little while. But thanks for visiting, reading and leaving your witty comments.

I'll be back before you even know it!

"Battlestar Galactica": Mutiny! Revolution! And Paternity Tests?

Poor Tyrol (above), he's lost his wife and now he discovers he's not the real father of Callie's child. So he goes and gets crazy religious with Gaius and decides to beat up the child's real father, some emo-lookin' kid, and then sits him down and tell him how to be a dad. Yeah, that sucks.

Biggest surprise this episode? That the fuel ship didn't blow to smithereens! I just knew that had to be the plan to spark Zarek's revolution.

Best scene? The vicious, barbed exchange between Gaeta and Starbuck. Gaeta is certainly embracing his inner bitch. And so now we know he's also helping Zarek plan the mutiny/revolution.

One other thought. If Ellen is the 5th Final Cylon, you know she isn't dead, even though no one's seen her since Tigh slipped something in her drink back on New Caprica. She's obviously going to be reborn somehow. After all, D'Anna saw her along with the other 4 Finals in that temple. It would be ridiculous for the 5th to finally be revealed only for her to be dust. Wonder how this will be resolved?

"Battlestar Galactica": Mutiny! Revolution! And Paternity Tests?

Poor Tyrol (above), he's lost his wife and now he discovers he's not the real father of Callie's child. So he goes and gets crazy religious with Gaius and decides to beat up the child's real father, some emo-lookin' kid, and then sits him down and tell him how to be a dad. Yeah, that sucks.

Biggest surprise this episode? That the fuel ship didn't blow to smithereens! I just knew that had to be the plan to spark Zarek's revolution.

Best scene? The vicious, barbed exchange between Gaeta and Starbuck. Gaeta is certainly embracing his inner bitch. And so now we know he's also helping Zarek plan the mutiny/revolution.

One other thought. If Ellen is the 5th Final Cylon, you know she isn't dead, even though no one's seen her since Tigh slipped something in her drink back on New Caprica. She's obviously going to be reborn somehow. After all, D'Anna saw her along with the other 4 Finals in that temple. It would be ridiculous for the 5th to finally be revealed only for her to be dust. Wonder how this will be resolved?

But What About the Poor Bird??

Maybe Mother Goose here has a solution! So everyone's all happy that the passengers of the US Airways flight that landed in the Hudson River are safe and sound. But what about the poor bird or birds that got sucked into the airplane's engine? I can't stop thinking about it.

~Imagine you're a goose~

There you are, just flying casually through the air, wondering why those poor wingless humans insist on shooting themselves through the air in clunky metal tubes. "God, they're so noisy! Whatever happened to peace and quiet?" Oh, sure, you've heard those urban myths about unsuspecting geese and other fellow fowl suspiciously disappearing when they get too close to those tube-thingys. Supposedly, you get sucked in somehow! "Yeah right--ooooh, that looks like some tasty grass down..."---whoooooosh! whirrrrrrr! grrrrind!

If this were happening to people, there would be marches on Washington! Petitions, campaigns to make the skies safer or to outlaw human flying machines! After all, the geese DO belong in the sky. If geese are religious, they would probably say we're going against what nature and God intended! "Witches fly, right? Well, humans must be using some black magic to get their fat asses so high up!" I can hear the fervent sermons now.

I heard a comedian mention how the US Airways pilot was having his revenge by eating a chicken sandwich. Ok, that's stupid. First, it wasn't a chicken that brought down the plane, but whatever. Second, don't you think "revenge" was having the poor goose sucked into the jet engine? How much more must the poor goose suffer? All the people lived--the goose is, well--cooked! (or scrambled, if you're picky)

But What About the Poor Bird??

Maybe Mother Goose here has a solution! So everyone's all happy that the passengers of the US Airways flight that landed in the Hudson River are safe and sound. But what about the poor bird or birds that got sucked into the airplane's engine? I can't stop thinking about it.

~Imagine you're a goose~

There you are, just flying casually through the air, wondering why those poor wingless humans insist on shooting themselves through the air in clunky metal tubes. "God, they're so noisy! Whatever happened to peace and quiet?" Oh, sure, you've heard those urban myths about unsuspecting geese and other fellow fowl suspiciously disappearing when they get too close to those tube-thingys. Supposedly, you get sucked in somehow! "Yeah right--ooooh, that looks like some tasty grass down..."---whoooooosh! whirrrrrrr! grrrrind!

If this were happening to people, there would be marches on Washington! Petitions, campaigns to make the skies safer or to outlaw human flying machines! After all, the geese DO belong in the sky. If geese are religious, they would probably say we're going against what nature and God intended! "Witches fly, right? Well, humans must be using some black magic to get their fat asses so high up!" I can hear the fervent sermons now.

I heard a comedian mention how the US Airways pilot was having his revenge by eating a chicken sandwich. Ok, that's stupid. First, it wasn't a chicken that brought down the plane, but whatever. Second, don't you think "revenge" was having the poor goose sucked into the jet engine? How much more must the poor goose suffer? All the people lived--the goose is, well--cooked! (or scrambled, if you're picky)

What You May Have Missed About the Obama Inauguration

Amid all the hubbub, here are 2 things I wanted to highlight:

Those Peruvian shamans were once again sending their energy our way on Tuesday! I love these guys. This time, however, they gathered fellow shamans from Mexico, Brazil and Bolivia to participate in an ancient Andean ritual to protect Obama, give him strength and help him usher in peace worldwide. According to the report, the shamans danced, shook rattles, blew smoke and tossed flower petals and coca leaves at a photo of Obama (I'm sure the conservatives just LOVE the coca leaf ingredient). Thanks guys--we appreciate the support!

Did you love Obama's speech? It was great, but I had one problem with it. About halfway through he said:

"...We will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents ..."

I really have a problem with the "We will not apologize for our way of life." Or maybe I'm just confused. On one hand, Obama delivered a rousing rebuke to America's enemies, which rallied the crowd. I admit it even got me a little worked up. But it's such a vague phrase, that everyone can ascribe to it whatever they want. But what did Obama mean, "our way of life?"

Was he talking about a free press, free elections, equality and opportunity? Well, that's certainly worth defending. Or did he mean our tendency to guzzle gas, bully our way with other economies and the planet, and generally pressure everyone to be just like us? Well, that I do feel we should apologize for. Because it's that way of life that frequently has caused us to sacrifice our higher ideals in favor of the almighty dollar. And that's why we're the No. 1 target of terrorists today.

Maybe it isn't anything to worry about. But Obama and his speech writers carefully crafted each and every word of that speech. The cynic in me says he put that in there to appease the conservatives, those who fear Obama will somehow surrender American prestige and power.

I dunno, but to me, a way of life isn't necessarily good or bad. Yet we Americans frequently tell others they must change their way of life and that ours is better. So--how dare we say we'll never apologize? Isn't that just arrogance? How can you negotiate and lead to a better tomorrow when the only way you see is your own?

Maybe I'm just being picky but it gives me pause.

What You May Have Missed About the Obama Inauguration

Amid all the hubbub, here are 2 things I wanted to highlight:

Those Peruvian shamans were once again sending their energy our way on Tuesday! I love these guys. This time, however, they gathered fellow shamans from Mexico, Brazil and Bolivia to participate in an ancient Andean ritual to protect Obama, give him strength and help him usher in peace worldwide. According to the report, the shamans danced, shook rattles, blew smoke and tossed flower petals and coca leaves at a photo of Obama (I'm sure the conservatives just LOVE the coca leaf ingredient). Thanks guys--we appreciate the support!

Did you love Obama's speech? It was great, but I had one problem with it. About halfway through he said:

"...We will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents ..."

I really have a problem with the "We will not apologize for our way of life." Or maybe I'm just confused. On one hand, Obama delivered a rousing rebuke to America's enemies, which rallied the crowd. I admit it even got me a little worked up. But it's such a vague phrase, that everyone can ascribe to it whatever they want. But what did Obama mean, "our way of life?"

Was he talking about a free press, free elections, equality and opportunity? Well, that's certainly worth defending. Or did he mean our tendency to guzzle gas, bully our way with other economies and the planet, and generally pressure everyone to be just like us? Well, that I do feel we should apologize for. Because it's that way of life that frequently has caused us to sacrifice our higher ideals in favor of the almighty dollar. And that's why we're the No. 1 target of terrorists today.

Maybe it isn't anything to worry about. But Obama and his speech writers carefully crafted each and every word of that speech. The cynic in me says he put that in there to appease the conservatives, those who fear Obama will somehow surrender American prestige and power.

I dunno, but to me, a way of life isn't necessarily good or bad. Yet we Americans frequently tell others they must change their way of life and that ours is better. So--how dare we say we'll never apologize? Isn't that just arrogance? How can you negotiate and lead to a better tomorrow when the only way you see is your own?

Maybe I'm just being picky but it gives me pause.

Gray Wolves Still in Danger?

Now that Obama is in office, one of the arguably more minor decisions he'll have to make is whether to reverse the Bush Administration's recent removal of gray wolves from the endangered species list in a handful of Western states. Some groups claim the wolves have not recovered sufficiently in these areas, and that the timing of the removal--roughly just a week before Bush left office--was a gift to conservative advocacy groups who see the wolf as a threat to area ranchers, fearing a sudden rash of wolf killings now that the ban has been lifted.

When asked about the controversy last week, Obama spokesman Nick Shapiro said "the president-elect will review all 11th-hour regulations and will address them once he is president."

I'm torn. I'd like to celebrate the fact that certain wolf populations are no longer on the brink of extinction, if that is in fact true, and yet I'm also aware of the frustration greater numbers of wolves can cause ranchers and farmers. Of course, I don't really trust much the Bush administration did. I do, however, think Obama's team will be more pragmatic about this.

Either way, we need to be more creative in learning to live with our animal cousins.

Gray Wolves Still in Danger?

Now that Obama is in office, one of the arguably more minor decisions he'll have to make is whether to reverse the Bush Administration's recent removal of gray wolves from the endangered species list in a handful of Western states. Some groups claim the wolves have not recovered sufficiently in these areas, and that the timing of the removal--roughly just a week before Bush left office--was a gift to conservative advocacy groups who see the wolf as a threat to area ranchers, fearing a sudden rash of wolf killings now that the ban has been lifted.

When asked about the controversy last week, Obama spokesman Nick Shapiro said "the president-elect will review all 11th-hour regulations and will address them once he is president."

I'm torn. I'd like to celebrate the fact that certain wolf populations are no longer on the brink of extinction, if that is in fact true, and yet I'm also aware of the frustration greater numbers of wolves can cause ranchers and farmers. Of course, I don't really trust much the Bush administration did. I do, however, think Obama's team will be more pragmatic about this.

Either way, we need to be more creative in learning to live with our animal cousins.

Wicca as a Punch Line

Have you seen the previews for the new romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Drew Barrymore? There's one in particular that uses Wicca to get a laugh. Called "He's Just Not That Into You," the movie trails a group of friends trying to find love. I can't find the clip online but it shows Jennifer Aniston on a date with "Dan the Wiccan" (according to film credits). He explains he's a Wiccan, a male witch and Jennifer responds with a sarcastic and disappointing, "Great." In other words, this date's over, you nutcase!

So, doth this offend anyone? Even though I'm not technically Wiccan, it bothered me. If someone substituted "Christian" or "Muslim," the joke wouldn't even be funny. In fact, it might as well be cause for banning the film and burning Aniston in effigy! But Wiccans/witches, well, they're fair game, right? After all, no one takes them seriously!

I'm not one for boycotting films since I think we need free and open discussion through various art forms. And I want to see it anyway--it looks funny overall, and I like the actors (Bradley Cooper!). But it's got me to thinking: While it sucks for your beliefs to be the butt of a joke, you could also see it as evidence that Wicca is gaining more mainstream attention. In the clip, "Dan" is dressed in your basic suit and tie, not exactly the stereotypical image of a modern witch. Assuming there isn't much more to his role, audiences may want to investigate Wicca more. And at least the inclusion of Wicca means one of the writers has actually heard of it.

I'm not advocating the mainstreaming of anything, since that has its own pitfalls. But I think more exposure is important in order to defeat stereotypes and ignorance, which I think all of us "pagans" can agree is sorely needed.

So, will you see it or whip up a hex on the cast?

Wicca as a Punch Line

Have you seen the previews for the new romantic comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Drew Barrymore? There's one in particular that uses Wicca to get a laugh. Called "He's Just Not That Into You," the movie trails a group of friends trying to find love. I can't find the clip online but it shows Jennifer Aniston on a date with "Dan the Wiccan" (according to film credits). He explains he's a Wiccan, a male witch and Jennifer responds with a sarcastic and disappointing, "Great." In other words, this date's over, you nutcase!

So, doth this offend anyone? Even though I'm not technically Wiccan, it bothered me. If someone substituted "Christian" or "Muslim," the joke wouldn't even be funny. In fact, it might as well be cause for banning the film and burning Aniston in effigy! But Wiccans/witches, well, they're fair game, right? After all, no one takes them seriously!

I'm not one for boycotting films since I think we need free and open discussion through various art forms. And I want to see it anyway--it looks funny overall, and I like the actors (Bradley Cooper!). But it's got me to thinking: While it sucks for your beliefs to be the butt of a joke, you could also see it as evidence that Wicca is gaining more mainstream attention. In the clip, "Dan" is dressed in your basic suit and tie, not exactly the stereotypical image of a modern witch. Assuming there isn't much more to his role, audiences may want to investigate Wicca more. And at least the inclusion of Wicca means one of the writers has actually heard of it.

I'm not advocating the mainstreaming of anything, since that has its own pitfalls. But I think more exposure is important in order to defeat stereotypes and ignorance, which I think all of us "pagans" can agree is sorely needed.

So, will you see it or whip up a hex on the cast?

Now THAT'S a Hat!

Aretha Franklin certainly made a statement--as she always does--at today's Obama inauguration. I love that hat! Honestly, her singing seemed a bit garbled and maybe not so memorable, but hey, it's Aretha and we know she's fabulous. Girl has earned it! But the hat, that I'll remember.

Now THAT'S a Hat!

Aretha Franklin certainly made a statement--as she always does--at today's Obama inauguration. I love that hat! Honestly, her singing seemed a bit garbled and maybe not so memorable, but hey, it's Aretha and we know she's fabulous. Girl has earned it! But the hat, that I'll remember.

Goodbye, George!

As we like to say around here, "Don't let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya!"

Goodbye, George!

As we like to say around here, "Don't let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya!"

Capturing a Winter Moment

We've had a cold snap in the Grove of late, and on my walk the other morning, I noticed that the main creek had completely frozen over. For those of you who live in colder parts, that may not sound very exciting--but this is the South, and you must remember that we panic at the very mention of snow and/or ice!

Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera at that moment, and by the time I got back down to the creek (several hours later), much of the ice had melted. Still, I wanted to try and capture a new and beautiful wintry moment. It isn't full of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls frozen into icicles, but hey, it's home.

Hmmm, wonder what all the river sprites and water nymphs do when the creek freezes over?

Capturing a Winter Moment

We've had a cold snap in the Grove of late, and on my walk the other morning, I noticed that the main creek had completely frozen over. For those of you who live in colder parts, that may not sound very exciting--but this is the South, and you must remember that we panic at the very mention of snow and/or ice!

Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera at that moment, and by the time I got back down to the creek (several hours later), much of the ice had melted. Still, I wanted to try and capture a new and beautiful wintry moment. It isn't full of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls frozen into icicles, but hey, it's home.

Hmmm, wonder what all the river sprites and water nymphs do when the creek freezes over?

Gotta Work Today--Bummer

Crap--everyday life is pulling me under! Bills, cleaning, work, errands, blah, blah, blah. Ah well, such is life....

Gotta Work Today--Bummer

Crap--everyday life is pulling me under! Bills, cleaning, work, errands, blah, blah, blah. Ah well, such is life....

"Battlestar Galactica": Ellen Is the 5th Cylon!

OMG--never saw this coming. But I can't figure out half of what's going on with this show. I still love it.

So yeah, Ellen, who's (supposedly) dead is the 5th Cylon everyone's been looking for. Except we haven't seen her yet. Tigh just had some flashback while walking out in the radioactive ocean on Earth. And here's the kicker--it seems everything on the entire show, the whole plot, all the fighting and all, has all been Ellen's plan! "Everything's been put in place," she said, as she lay dying in Tigh's flashback of an Earth destroyed 3,000 years ago by nuclear war.

Got it?

Kinda cool that Ellen is the 5th. I always liked her, cocktail in hand and on the manhunt!

But I still can't make all the connections! So, when Earth was destroyed, did all the humans escape (seeding the 12 colonies) and the Cylons stay behind only to eventually die out?

Are the Final 5 some type of reincarnated beings? Or just some kind of frozen clones?

And what the hell is Starbuck? She found her own corpse and burnt it on a funeral pyre! Now that's freaky! Even Leoben ran away from her.

Somehow, somehow the humans and Cylons are more connected than ever, but I just can't quite figure it out.

And poor, doomed Dualla--I knew she was gonna get it. RIP, girl.

"Battlestar Galactica": Ellen Is the 5th Cylon!

OMG--never saw this coming. But I can't figure out half of what's going on with this show. I still love it.

So yeah, Ellen, who's (supposedly) dead is the 5th Cylon everyone's been looking for. Except we haven't seen her yet. Tigh just had some flashback while walking out in the radioactive ocean on Earth. And here's the kicker--it seems everything on the entire show, the whole plot, all the fighting and all, has all been Ellen's plan! "Everything's been put in place," she said, as she lay dying in Tigh's flashback of an Earth destroyed 3,000 years ago by nuclear war.

Got it?

Kinda cool that Ellen is the 5th. I always liked her, cocktail in hand and on the manhunt!

But I still can't make all the connections! So, when Earth was destroyed, did all the humans escape (seeding the 12 colonies) and the Cylons stay behind only to eventually die out?

Are the Final 5 some type of reincarnated beings? Or just some kind of frozen clones?

And what the hell is Starbuck? She found her own corpse and burnt it on a funeral pyre! Now that's freaky! Even Leoben ran away from her.

Somehow, somehow the humans and Cylons are more connected than ever, but I just can't quite figure it out.

And poor, doomed Dualla--I knew she was gonna get it. RIP, girl.

In Memory of Andrew Wyeth, 1917-2009

View more of Andrew's work here.

In Memory of Andrew Wyeth, 1917-2009

View more of Andrew's work here.

Riverwolf Finds His Happy Place

I need something lasting and pure to meditate on today, so I've posted this. The last few days have been quite emotional and I'm looking for my center. I came across this photo at random but thought it was beautiful. Turns out it was taken in the Kilmer Memorial Forest, which is roughly in my neck of the woods and contains some of the largest and oldest trees east of the Mississippi. Wouldn't mind being there right now.

Riverwolf Finds His Happy Place

I need something lasting and pure to meditate on today, so I've posted this. The last few days have been quite emotional and I'm looking for my center. I came across this photo at random but thought it was beautiful. Turns out it was taken in the Kilmer Memorial Forest, which is roughly in my neck of the woods and contains some of the largest and oldest trees east of the Mississippi. Wouldn't mind being there right now.

Quick Rant for the Day: Israel & Gaza

I'm watching the local news, and a Jewish woman is interviewed who said she had recently lived in Israel and still has family there. She was obviously concerned about Hamas firing rockets into Israel, which triggered the recent invasion of Gaza. She's talking about the rockets and says something like, "They're firing rockets at us, and putting our families in danger."

Out of context, seems reasonable. I'd feel the same way. But she was defending Israel's invasion and, by default, the deaths of around 1,000 Palestinians!

Excuse me? So it's bad when Israeli families are in danger but ok to fire back at Palestinian families and kill them. 1,000 Palestinians dead so far--less than 20 Israelis and most of them soldiers, last I saw. This is just wrong.

And Bolivia has broken off relations with Israel because of the conflict. I know---oooooh, scary----but it's interesting to for me to see more Latin American countries taking stands on issues like this and snubbing their noses at U.S. dominance in the hemisphere.

Quick Rant for the Day: Israel & Gaza

I'm watching the local news, and a Jewish woman is interviewed who said she had recently lived in Israel and still has family there. She was obviously concerned about Hamas firing rockets into Israel, which triggered the recent invasion of Gaza. She's talking about the rockets and says something like, "They're firing rockets at us, and putting our families in danger."

Out of context, seems reasonable. I'd feel the same way. But she was defending Israel's invasion and, by default, the deaths of around 1,000 Palestinians!

Excuse me? So it's bad when Israeli families are in danger but ok to fire back at Palestinian families and kill them. 1,000 Palestinians dead so far--less than 20 Israelis and most of them soldiers, last I saw. This is just wrong.

And Bolivia has broken off relations with Israel because of the conflict. I know---oooooh, scary----but it's interesting to for me to see more Latin American countries taking stands on issues like this and snubbing their noses at U.S. dominance in the hemisphere.

Papua New Guinea: Hell on Earth for Witches

It's hard to believe that this kind of thing still goes on in our world. I just don't get it. Maybe this will offend some, but I honestly don't believe than anyone possesses any witch-like powers, no matter what they call themselves. It's fine to worship your gods and goddesses, make your sacred circles and whatnot; I find it all quite meaningful. But do I believe in it literally? No.

Yet some people take it very seriously. But it's their own ignorance and fear that is the real problem.

witches and scientists: Suspected Witch Burned Alive

Let's all pray, light a candle or meditate for this poor woman and her remaining relatives. Then let's do the same for the misguided, fearful people who killed her.

Papua New Guinea: Hell on Earth for Witches

It's hard to believe that this kind of thing still goes on in our world. I just don't get it. Maybe this will offend some, but I honestly don't believe than anyone possesses any witch-like powers, no matter what they call themselves. It's fine to worship your gods and goddesses, make your sacred circles and whatnot; I find it all quite meaningful. But do I believe in it literally? No.

Yet some people take it very seriously. But it's their own ignorance and fear that is the real problem.

witches and scientists: Suspected Witch Burned Alive

Let's all pray, light a candle or meditate for this poor woman and her remaining relatives. Then let's do the same for the misguided, fearful people who killed her.

My Life Is an Avril Lavigne Song!

As in "Complicated." For those who don't know, my partner had a stroke in 07, and it's just been a roller coaster ride ever since. He's made an amazing recovery, but he'll never be 100%. Basically, it's turned everything upside down. We've done couples counseling and, lately, things were improving. And then it all gets topsy turvy again.

Oh, where to begin? Well, his short-term memory has been affected, but generally, he does ok. Except we had a fight, and not long after it was over, he didn't even remember what had happened, what I had said, what he had said--nothing. I suppose that should've alarmed me, but it only hurt my feeling even more. So I stormed off to bed and went to the spare bedroom and locked myself in. DRAMA!

Then the next morning, still no recollection of why I was upset or our fight. On top of that, he apparently got up at some point in the night and fell! He hit his forehead on something and scraped the hell out of it. But he doesn't remember it, nothing was askew in the house and he woke up in the bed like normal. Didn't even see the scrape until he was in the shower.

Yes, I obviously need to speak to his neurologist. This shouldn't be happening, right? But this has become normal for us--so who the hell knows.

Aside from that, however, how can I stay angry at someone who's stumbling around in the dark? And I feel guilty for not hearing him fall. When I'm in the bed next to him, I've attuned to every little move he makes and always wake up whenever he gets up.

At least we have a sense of humor about it. I told him that one advantage is that I could probably get away with anything since he wouldn't remember it! Or I could make up stuff and he wouldn't be any wiser. Of course, I'm only kidding and he knows it! I'm not that kind of person.

Oh, for those days when we could simply argue and then have great make-up sex!

My Life Is an Avril Lavigne Song!

As in "Complicated." For those who don't know, my partner had a stroke in 07, and it's just been a roller coaster ride ever since. He's made an amazing recovery, but he'll never be 100%. Basically, it's turned everything upside down. We've done couples counseling and, lately, things were improving. And then it all gets topsy turvy again.

Oh, where to begin? Well, his short-term memory has been affected, but generally, he does ok. Except we had a fight, and not long after it was over, he didn't even remember what had happened, what I had said, what he had said--nothing. I suppose that should've alarmed me, but it only hurt my feeling even more. So I stormed off to bed and went to the spare bedroom and locked myself in. DRAMA!

Then the next morning, still no recollection of why I was upset or our fight. On top of that, he apparently got up at some point in the night and fell! He hit his forehead on something and scraped the hell out of it. But he doesn't remember it, nothing was askew in the house and he woke up in the bed like normal. Didn't even see the scrape until he was in the shower.

Yes, I obviously need to speak to his neurologist. This shouldn't be happening, right? But this has become normal for us--so who the hell knows.

Aside from that, however, how can I stay angry at someone who's stumbling around in the dark? And I feel guilty for not hearing him fall. When I'm in the bed next to him, I've attuned to every little move he makes and always wake up whenever he gets up.

At least we have a sense of humor about it. I told him that one advantage is that I could probably get away with anything since he wouldn't remember it! Or I could make up stuff and he wouldn't be any wiser. Of course, I'm only kidding and he knows it! I'm not that kind of person.

Oh, for those days when we could simply argue and then have great make-up sex!

Is Gaeta the Final Cylon?

Today was the last of the 12 "Battlestar Galactica" webisodes--so if you haven't watched yet--warning, spoiler alert!

My review is basically it was a nice diversion and lead-up to the premiere of the final season this Friday. I've always liked the character of Gaeta, so I was glad he was the main character of the webisodes. Plus the poor guy lost a leg and nearly died last season! He needed a break bad.

In the webisodes, we see Gaeta has turned to some type of space drugs to deal with all the drama in his life, which makes sense I guess. He ends up in a Raptor with an Eight Cylon and a few other Galactica crew, but their jump goes wrong and they end up lost. The Eight reveals she is the same one who Gaeta knew on New Caprica, back when he supposedly was working for the resistance against Cylon occupation.

Which I really don't remember since it was, like 2 years ago! So I got a little lost and confused myself. Oh, and Gaeta's gay! Kinda saw that coming. Yep, he and Hoshi, who I vaguely recognize. They even kiss--racy.

Then we learn that way back on New Caprica, Gaeta and the Eight got it on--I guess because they felt they had some connection. Turns out, however, the Eight was just using our lil' gay Gaeta (or does that make him bisexual now?). She reveals she was actually turning the humans in, using the names Gaeta unknowingly provided, and having most of them killed. Bitch!

And she calls Gaeta's bluff, too, on how he knew all this was going on but was in denial big time. So Gaeta stabs her! Naturally, with the Resurrection Hub gone, this Eight is history. But Gaeta's boyfriend Hoshi arrives with only a few minutes of air left to spare and rescues our resident one-legged cutie. And I thought, ok, nice and it's over--but not yet!

Seems Gaeta knows more about the Cylon's that he's been letting on! He knows Tigh is one of the Final Five, tells him to his face and says the humans should call of their alliance with the Cylons! And then he sets up some meeting with Adama to launch some crazy "plan"--but, of course, we aren't told what that is. Gaeta just indicates to Hoshi that he might not survive.

Could Gaeta be the Final Cylon!?!?

Is Gaeta the Final Cylon?

Today was the last of the 12 "Battlestar Galactica" webisodes--so if you haven't watched yet--warning, spoiler alert!

My review is basically it was a nice diversion and lead-up to the premiere of the final season this Friday. I've always liked the character of Gaeta, so I was glad he was the main character of the webisodes. Plus the poor guy lost a leg and nearly died last season! He needed a break bad.

In the webisodes, we see Gaeta has turned to some type of space drugs to deal with all the drama in his life, which makes sense I guess. He ends up in a Raptor with an Eight Cylon and a few other Galactica crew, but their jump goes wrong and they end up lost. The Eight reveals she is the same one who Gaeta knew on New Caprica, back when he supposedly was working for the resistance against Cylon occupation.

Which I really don't remember since it was, like 2 years ago! So I got a little lost and confused myself. Oh, and Gaeta's gay! Kinda saw that coming. Yep, he and Hoshi, who I vaguely recognize. They even kiss--racy.

Then we learn that way back on New Caprica, Gaeta and the Eight got it on--I guess because they felt they had some connection. Turns out, however, the Eight was just using our lil' gay Gaeta (or does that make him bisexual now?). She reveals she was actually turning the humans in, using the names Gaeta unknowingly provided, and having most of them killed. Bitch!

And she calls Gaeta's bluff, too, on how he knew all this was going on but was in denial big time. So Gaeta stabs her! Naturally, with the Resurrection Hub gone, this Eight is history. But Gaeta's boyfriend Hoshi arrives with only a few minutes of air left to spare and rescues our resident one-legged cutie. And I thought, ok, nice and it's over--but not yet!

Seems Gaeta knows more about the Cylon's that he's been letting on! He knows Tigh is one of the Final Five, tells him to his face and says the humans should call of their alliance with the Cylons! And then he sets up some meeting with Adama to launch some crazy "plan"--but, of course, we aren't told what that is. Gaeta just indicates to Hoshi that he might not survive.

Could Gaeta be the Final Cylon!?!?

Satanists in the Grove!

Or maybe vampires? Not sure. But found this artifact on my walk this morning.

It's some sort of devil-type head that someone has made out of clay. It's got horns and fangs--perfect for suckling on unsuspecting necks.

It's obviously someone's discarded craft project--but what kind of "craft" exactly, hmmmm? An odd find, indeed! I'll have to watch my neighbors more carefully....

Satanists in the Grove!

Or maybe vampires? Not sure. But found this artifact on my walk this morning.

It's some sort of devil-type head that someone has made out of clay. It's got horns and fangs--perfect for suckling on unsuspecting necks.

It's obviously someone's discarded craft project--but what kind of "craft" exactly, hmmmm? An odd find, indeed! I'll have to watch my neighbors more carefully....

Santa Brought Me "Donny & Marie!"

Well, actually my mom gave this DVD to me, but I was as excited as if Santa himself had come down the chimney (or wood stove, in our case) and left it for me. It was like being a kid again.

If you're younger than 40, you may not remember the 1970s TV gem "The Donny & Marie Show." It ran for a couple of years and featured the brother and sister team of Donny and Marie Osmond. It was so perfectly cheesy and wonderful. Variety acts by 70s celebrities, ice skating, corny banter between Donny and Marie, and Bob Mackie-designed gowns!

The DVD contains just a few select clips from each year, but I'm surprised to see just how talented these kids were. And Donny was such a heartthrob with those tight pants and that hair! My sister and I watched this religiously, and it inspired us to put own "shows" for my parents and their unsuspecting friends. We had a sliding glass door and a curtain that separated the den from the carport. We would stage our shows in the carport with the curtain closed and then open it for our "audience" in the den. So much fun!

And that sweet, sentimental tune they used to close their show every week still brings tears to my eyes: "May God keep you in his tender care, until he brings us together again. Good night, everybody!"

Santa Brought Me "Donny & Marie!"

Well, actually my mom gave this DVD to me, but I was as excited as if Santa himself had come down the chimney (or wood stove, in our case) and left it for me. It was like being a kid again.

If you're younger than 40, you may not remember the 1970s TV gem "The Donny & Marie Show." It ran for a couple of years and featured the brother and sister team of Donny and Marie Osmond. It was so perfectly cheesy and wonderful. Variety acts by 70s celebrities, ice skating, corny banter between Donny and Marie, and Bob Mackie-designed gowns!

The DVD contains just a few select clips from each year, but I'm surprised to see just how talented these kids were. And Donny was such a heartthrob with those tight pants and that hair! My sister and I watched this religiously, and it inspired us to put own "shows" for my parents and their unsuspecting friends. We had a sliding glass door and a curtain that separated the den from the carport. We would stage our shows in the carport with the curtain closed and then open it for our "audience" in the den. So much fun!

And that sweet, sentimental tune they used to close their show every week still brings tears to my eyes: "May God keep you in his tender care, until he brings us together again. Good night, everybody!"

Josh Turner: "Everything Is Fine"

Being content with the good things you have--so very important. Great song.

And that DEEP voice. When I'm looking and listening to Mr. Josh Turner, everything is indeed fine!

Josh Turner: "Everything Is Fine"

Being content with the good things you have--so very important. Great song.

And that DEEP voice. When I'm looking and listening to Mr. Josh Turner, everything is indeed fine!

Going to Any Gay Rights Rallies on Saturday?

Have you heard about this? No? Well, not surprised. I had almost forgotten about it myself! The same folks (Join the Impact) who organized the incredible nationwide turnout after the passage of Prop 8 in California were attempting to organize another big event to keep momentum going on issues important to the LGBT community. This time they were hoping to gather 1 million signatures by January 10, 2009 (tomorrow!) to deliver to President-Elect Obama on his first day in office.

In support of this drive, organizers were encouraging local community rallies across the country to draw attention to the issues. But it's pretty much fizzled, from what I can tell. Very little buzz on the blogs, and there's maybe 1 Saturday event planned for my entire state. Blame it on the holidays, cold weather and "hit-the-streets" fatigue in general.

The issues (click here to read letter) are important--and yet, it's the same old crap we've been bitchin' about for years. The same old crap that never seems to get anywhere in Congress, that never inspires anyone much to take action. Which is kind of sad. But as I've said before, I think we need to rethink our approach. If the same old dog you've been trying to get to hunt for years still isn't huntin', then dressing him up with some new, fancy collar and a bath isn't going to make a difference.

In other words, petitions and signatures aren't working. I fear the organizers behind Join the Impact may have fallen into the same trap with all other national LGBT groups. Snore. Still, there will be at least 100 Saturday rallies.

While I went to the local Prop 8 rally back in November, I'm sitting this one out. After all, nothing's going on nearby, and I've never had the skills for collecting signatures and organizing things like this myself. (Trust me, I've tried!)

Besides, I'm thinking that Obama is already either committed to supporting gay rights or he isn't. Whatever signatures collected aren't going to sway him one way or another. The issues at hand are familiar, and it's either part of his agenda or not. And with all the economic troubles we're facing, we shouldn't expect anything to happen too quickly.

Going to Any Gay Rights Rallies on Saturday?

Have you heard about this? No? Well, not surprised. I had almost forgotten about it myself! The same folks (Join the Impact) who organized the incredible nationwide turnout after the passage of Prop 8 in California were attempting to organize another big event to keep momentum going on issues important to the LGBT community. This time they were hoping to gather 1 million signatures by January 10, 2009 (tomorrow!) to deliver to President-Elect Obama on his first day in office.

In support of this drive, organizers were encouraging local community rallies across the country to draw attention to the issues. But it's pretty much fizzled, from what I can tell. Very little buzz on the blogs, and there's maybe 1 Saturday event planned for my entire state. Blame it on the holidays, cold weather and "hit-the-streets" fatigue in general.

The issues (click here to read letter) are important--and yet, it's the same old crap we've been bitchin' about for years. The same old crap that never seems to get anywhere in Congress, that never inspires anyone much to take action. Which is kind of sad. But as I've said before, I think we need to rethink our approach. If the same old dog you've been trying to get to hunt for years still isn't huntin', then dressing him up with some new, fancy collar and a bath isn't going to make a difference.

In other words, petitions and signatures aren't working. I fear the organizers behind Join the Impact may have fallen into the same trap with all other national LGBT groups. Snore. Still, there will be at least 100 Saturday rallies.

While I went to the local Prop 8 rally back in November, I'm sitting this one out. After all, nothing's going on nearby, and I've never had the skills for collecting signatures and organizing things like this myself. (Trust me, I've tried!)

Besides, I'm thinking that Obama is already either committed to supporting gay rights or he isn't. Whatever signatures collected aren't going to sway him one way or another. The issues at hand are familiar, and it's either part of his agenda or not. And with all the economic troubles we're facing, we shouldn't expect anything to happen too quickly.

Sunsets & Rainbows = Happy Riverwolf!

BAM! POW! Take that, Melancholy Mary!

As usual, inspiration was right under my nose. I owe it to that Bollywood video, however, for initially lifting me out of my funk. Then as I was driving home today--another incredible sunset! Crimson- and ocre-tinged cloud puffs floating across a sky of deepening blue.

Which reminded me of last night's sunset. Difficult to explain, but the entire sky seemed afire. And when I turned around, I saw the most amazing rainbow I have ever seen. Seriously. You could see both ends; the colors--red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet--were so vivid and crisp. And it was so freakin' BIG!

I saw this on my way to exercise class, some combo of pilates and aerobics that makes me realize I really have no rhythm and need to turn in my queer card. I worried about that instead of meditating on the beauty of the sunset and the rainbow.

Which drives home the point that our world is what we think it is. If we think deep dark despair, we get it. And if we look beyond that to something more hopeful, then we get hope. Sounds Pollyanna, but it's true.

Sunsets & Rainbows = Happy Riverwolf!

BAM! POW! Take that, Melancholy Mary!

As usual, inspiration was right under my nose. I owe it to that Bollywood video, however, for initially lifting me out of my funk. Then as I was driving home today--another incredible sunset! Crimson- and ocre-tinged cloud puffs floating across a sky of deepening blue.

Which reminded me of last night's sunset. Difficult to explain, but the entire sky seemed afire. And when I turned around, I saw the most amazing rainbow I have ever seen. Seriously. You could see both ends; the colors--red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet--were so vivid and crisp. And it was so freakin' BIG!

I saw this on my way to exercise class, some combo of pilates and aerobics that makes me realize I really have no rhythm and need to turn in my queer card. I worried about that instead of meditating on the beauty of the sunset and the rainbow.

Which drives home the point that our world is what we think it is. If we think deep dark despair, we get it. And if we look beyond that to something more hopeful, then we get hope. Sounds Pollyanna, but it's true.

A Little Bollywood to Put a Bounce in Your Step

I haven't seen nearly enough Bollywood films, but I simply love the music. I hear it and can't sit still. Makes me want to wrap myself in a sari and hit the floor! Here's a song titled (I think) "Dola Re Dola."

I was looking for some inspiration, so here you go. This music always puts a smile on my face--maybe it's cause, in every video I can remember, the performers are always smiling. The colors, costumers, the whole spectacle. Everything is joy, an infectious joy. I don't know what the hell they're saying but who cares.

Thank you, India!

A Little Bollywood to Put a Bounce in Your Step

I haven't seen nearly enough Bollywood films, but I simply love the music. I hear it and can't sit still. Makes me want to wrap myself in a sari and hit the floor! Here's a song titled (I think) "Dola Re Dola."

I was looking for some inspiration, so here you go. This music always puts a smile on my face--maybe it's cause, in every video I can remember, the performers are always smiling. The colors, costumers, the whole spectacle. Everything is joy, an infectious joy. I don't know what the hell they're saying but who cares.

Thank you, India!

Senegal: Hell on Earth for Gays

Thank goddess I don't live in Senegal (but then my sex life is hardly "evidence" of anything!). Nine gay men there have been jailed FOR 8 YEARS for "indecent conduct and unnatural acts." (Thanks WickedGayBlog!)

I couldn't find anything that said exactly what these men did. In some places where homosexuality is illegal, even the hint of queer is enough to get you arrested, even if you're not trying out new sexual positions in the neighborhood park. Hell, indecent conduct might be lisping too much!

What's also suspicious is that at the trial, the judge said the accused were "part of a criminal group." Did he mean the association that they belonged to, the one established to fight HIV and AIDS in Senegal? Apparently, it's criminal to try and save lives in Senegal from a communicable disease, the very same disease that is ravaging Africa, particularly its hetero population.

What's "indecent" is to ignore a public health crisis and wallow in ignorance.

Senegal: Hell on Earth for Gays

Thank goddess I don't live in Senegal (but then my sex life is hardly "evidence" of anything!). Nine gay men there have been jailed FOR 8 YEARS for "indecent conduct and unnatural acts." (Thanks WickedGayBlog!)

I couldn't find anything that said exactly what these men did. In some places where homosexuality is illegal, even the hint of queer is enough to get you arrested, even if you're not trying out new sexual positions in the neighborhood park. Hell, indecent conduct might be lisping too much!

What's also suspicious is that at the trial, the judge said the accused were "part of a criminal group." Did he mean the association that they belonged to, the one established to fight HIV and AIDS in Senegal? Apparently, it's criminal to try and save lives in Senegal from a communicable disease, the very same disease that is ravaging Africa, particularly its hetero population.

What's "indecent" is to ignore a public health crisis and wallow in ignorance.

Melancholy Mary

I know just how she feels. Just can't shake this melancholy that's taken hold. A month ago, I posted how my energy was waning. Well, it's only deepened. If I could've stayed in the mountains, I would have. Breaking my routine was a breath of fresh air. But now I'm back in the workaday world and having a helluva time just getting up in the mornings. I have plenty to do but no motivation, so I'm procrastinating big time and I've been a slacker on my morning walks and exercise.

My emotions are right at the surface and volatile, prone to swinging up or down at the drop of a hat. I'm usually so even-tempered. The smallest things overwhelm me, like grocery shopping or what to do for lunch. And damn--the house needs to be cleaned and the Christmas decorations put away. I hate to whine, and I know that my circumstances are so much better than many others in this world--and that's what bothers me most. I want to feel energetic, positive and hopeful, and I have every reason to feel that way--and yet I don't. Pity parties aren't my thing, and yet I don't feel I have much control over these emotions right now, or at the least my usual resources are depleted.

Or something. Example--this morning I turned on the news as I was dressing and preparing breakfast. But it was all doom and gloom, and I lost it! Fighting in Gaza, economic turmoil and job loss--it was more than I could handle, and I broke down in tears. So I shut off the TV. But then I realized there wasn't anything to distract me from all those other emotions. Sometimes you have to get up and get on with business, despite what's going on inside your head, right? And sitting there eating breakfast in silence was not helpful.

I could get into more specifics, but then this post would ramble on forever. Frankly, I have too much to do. Writing this helps a bit, helps me organize and process. Maybe I'll try more counseling, if the checkbook will support it. I've done some shamanic journeying lately, but not much to report. My experiences haven't been all that enlightening. Wolf and vulture seem to have gone mute.

Definitely need a little inspiration, somehow, some way.

Melancholy Mary

I know just how she feels. Just can't shake this melancholy that's taken hold. A month ago, I posted how my energy was waning. Well, it's only deepened. If I could've stayed in the mountains, I would have. Breaking my routine was a breath of fresh air. But now I'm back in the workaday world and having a helluva time just getting up in the mornings. I have plenty to do but no motivation, so I'm procrastinating big time and I've been a slacker on my morning walks and exercise.

My emotions are right at the surface and volatile, prone to swinging up or down at the drop of a hat. I'm usually so even-tempered. The smallest things overwhelm me, like grocery shopping or what to do for lunch. And damn--the house needs to be cleaned and the Christmas decorations put away. I hate to whine, and I know that my circumstances are so much better than many others in this world--and that's what bothers me most. I want to feel energetic, positive and hopeful, and I have every reason to feel that way--and yet I don't. Pity parties aren't my thing, and yet I don't feel I have much control over these emotions right now, or at the least my usual resources are depleted.

Or something. Example--this morning I turned on the news as I was dressing and preparing breakfast. But it was all doom and gloom, and I lost it! Fighting in Gaza, economic turmoil and job loss--it was more than I could handle, and I broke down in tears. So I shut off the TV. But then I realized there wasn't anything to distract me from all those other emotions. Sometimes you have to get up and get on with business, despite what's going on inside your head, right? And sitting there eating breakfast in silence was not helpful.

I could get into more specifics, but then this post would ramble on forever. Frankly, I have too much to do. Writing this helps a bit, helps me organize and process. Maybe I'll try more counseling, if the checkbook will support it. I've done some shamanic journeying lately, but not much to report. My experiences haven't been all that enlightening. Wolf and vulture seem to have gone mute.

Definitely need a little inspiration, somehow, some way.