Who are you calling superstitious???????

Not me!!!!! Heavens to Betsy, not me!!!

Ok, here's what I did. Since my mind is only released when I sleep, I cleaned my bedroom, good! I washed the sheets and blankets, in regular detergent, but with a cup of salt added to clean off all the bad aura's I emote in my sleep.

Then I cleaned and dusted the whole house.

Then I had a wonderful dinner of Pork Chops (Russian's say you have to eat pork on New Years eve, for luck)

Then I filled the bathtub with hot, hot, hot water, and a ton and a half of salt, and I washed my aura clean..... Making sure I submerged in the water to get all of me clean.

Then I put on my RED underwear (red underwear on New Years Eve, brings luck in love all year round)

GIGGLE Now, I'm done, clean, both physically and my aura.... And I'm ready for the new year to happen.

Me superstitious????? Nah, NEVER. GIGGLE

WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR

May you never be the person people expect you to be
May you never follow the rules on exclusion of all else
May you walk your own path, and laugh at those who gawk
May you still believe in Fairy Tails
May you wiggle when you walk
May you never act your age
May you never act as old as you feel
May your dreams still entertain
May life still hold mysteries for you
May you dress inappropriate for your age
May your jewelry jingle as you walk
May pretties still hold a surprise for you
May you never stop looking at a man's cute butt
May you break free of your routine
May you explore the world around you
May you stop letting other people control you
May you still enjoy the sound of rain
May you enjoy a year of boundless good luck
and May bad luck be but a distant memory!

GIGGLE'S

I always put such nice pictures of myself on the web. Well, to start off your New Years, here's the real me!!!!

4:30 in the morning!!! Coffee not fucking ready yet!!!! An an idiot son with a DEATH WISH, and a camera!!!!!

Oh Yuck!!!

I just looked at the calendar this morning, and realized that it's almost the end of the year!

Time for New Years Resolutions. Well, not resolutions, how about suggestions? GIGGLE

My Mom used to be really good at these, she would swear up and down that she was going to do it, and then from 3 days to 2 weeks later, they were gone. LOL

So, what should I resolve to give up or do in the new year??

1. I resolve to give up sex with tall, handsome, black men! (female, white men, and hand held not included)

2. I resolve to get the the Beach at least ONCE A WEEK this summer. (wednsday and Thursdays are free days, so I should hit it at least once a week!)

Hummmmmm, OK what else? I have no frigging idea!!!! Not smoking, never gonna give that up, not drinking.... I don't drink..... Drugs? Don't do that either! WOW I'M SO FRIGGING BORING!!!!

3. Oh good one! I resolve to do at least 15 minutes of exercise a day!!!!!! (whoooohooooo that one I can try to stick to!)

4. I resolve to stop thinking about the past (that's a good one, and healthy too!)

5. (gotta have 5, it's an even number!) (Long pause here....Thinking, thinking, thinking.....) I promise not to move my furniture around more then once this year!!!!

And for those of you who know me, the last one is going to be the hardest!

I'm sorry folks, I just can't think of any good ones! I DON'T DO ANYTHING!!!! So, what is there to give up?????

Bedtime Spell

Queen of light
to you we spell
bringing heaven's light to hell

protect your children
this very night
bring us all, what's good and light

Spell to dispell the darkness

This is both a rhyme and a spell, learn it and say it well. In the darkness when fears shine, say this spell and light will shine!



queen of dark, loss of light.
queen of all that bumps in the night.
deep within your swamp you dwell,
Making life a holy hell.

Go to sleep and leave us alone.
for your sins you must atone.
sleep so deep your spells shall die,
leave us now, do not return, nigh.

Evil is a scary myth.
something that in our life wont fit.
only good and light shall shine,
forever now, and through all time

Christmas and Chiller

Well, all in all it turned out to be a pretty good Christmas. I never did get my HO HO HO on, but I managed to turn down the Bah Humbug a bit.

Yesterday I went to Eileen's for a while, Aunt Harriet, the one remaining aunt, was visiting, so I took off. Food, Fab as usual! I tried my best to keep Aunt Harriet away from Eileen.... She was stressed that Harriet would start something with her...So I kept her away, but she had fun talking to Harriet's friend.... So I think her stress level went down quite a bit. LOL

I'm going to a Convention at the end of January with her.... Called CHILLER, it's a Horror con......! I know, I haven't been to one before, old habits are hard to break, but I decided to try this one and see how I like it.

The good thing is the time it's held!!! January is the absolute PITS for me!!!! Too cold to do anything, can't garden, dark nights, yuck, yuck, yucky!!!! Usually I send January being board, and pissed, and depressed..... So you can see this convention is a good thing!!!

Dec.- Is the holidays, Feb. - All the gardening catalogs start arriving, March - spring cleaning, and some gardening..... But in January I just sit and bitch. GIGGLE

I actually have something to plan on, and do, during the coldest darkest month of the year!!!!!! So now I'm actually doing Shore Leave stuff! Checking my suitcase out (oh yitch...Found food in it from shore leave in July!!! But only crackers and stuff, so at least no rotten stuff. GIGGLE) And deciding what to wear and bring with me! So I have all January to play with packing and stuff, and that should keep me well occupied!!!!!! NO JANUARY BLAHS!!! Hopefully

I hope I like it!

Trixie, the Witch Mermaid

I just had to show you this! My sister gave it to me for Christmas. Just perfect! It's a mermaid .... I live by the sea..... And a Witch! GIGGLE Perfect match!!!

Ohhh, this too, this too!!!

And a picture of my pretty Amy Brown Fairy, called autumn, next to the giant amethyst crystal my daughter gave me!!! Ohhhhhhhhhh PRETTY!!!!

I forgot to put one of My grandson Sabastion up on here. He's the one crouched on the floor playing his gameboy. GIGGLE

Excess!!!

Why do people do it? Why do some people take something and run it to the ground, make it the only thing they think about, live for, and covet? I was wondering about that this morning......yewwwwwwww deep thoughts first thing in the morning.....gotta switch my coffee....it's waaaaaay to strong!!!

But really....why? Now I'm not completely free of this sin. I was an avid reader. OK, avid isn't the word for it, more like voracious!!! I lived to read!!! Everything and anything. I even remember grabbing a cereal box to read when I ran out of books!!! I couldn't think of anything better then to sit, nice and quite, and read a good book.

Yes, I learned a lot, experienced things that I could never physically experience...but I looked around one day.... After, once again, telling my friends to go on without me, that I was MISSING SO MUCH LIFE! So, while I still read, I watch myself, and don't do it to the exclusion of anything else

But that not the only excess. For example..... and please, I KNOW, I KNOW.....I wouldn't have so many examples, if I would pick some NORMAL friends! Sigh

OK, James, he's all about golf! Watches it, reads about it, plays it, want's all his friends to play it, tries to get any girl he's interested in to play it.... Yuck, to much!!!

Then like Chris, she lives for Drama!!!! 30 years now she's been following her hubby around, spying on him, staking out his work to spy on what he does during the day.... And when she's not doing that, she's talking about it.....CONSTANTLY! Doesn't she ever wonder what else she's missing in life, because she's so wrapped up with one thing??

And Darrence. He got into this Master/slave thing. It's all he can think about. Finding the perfect slave to take care of him! He'll never have a normal relationship...because he's so into the sex thing, he can't even imagine a normal relationship.

Ohhhhh, maybe I shouldn't mention names.......Well, the few above, are people you guys don't know...so I'm safe. GIGGLE

Another "Woman" was into sex games, and let it take over her whole life! It's all she thinks about, does, and plays. Playing is all she has in her world. And the world is passing her by while she's locked in her room typing on the computer, and playing!

Then there's the religious fanatic!!! Oh goddess, it's all she thinks about. She goes from one church to another, trying to find that perfect one!!! But it's not gonna happen, because she's not perfect. But other then that, she has no real life!


Excess of anything is TOO MUCH!!!! Your not all one thing! You can't spend your life living for one thing at the exclusion of everything else. OK, I know some people have an excess, and they still manage to do other things....but are they actually NOT thinking of the excess, while they are doing different things! NOT!!!!

Like work, if your letting you whole live revolve around your work....THAT'S AN EXCESS!!! You can have fun, but even while your doing that....all your worrying and thinking about is work? NOT A GOOD THING!

And this one friend, kids, is all she thinks about and all she works with. Yeah, you love your kids....but you can't let them run your whole life!!! They have so many after school things they do, that she spends all her time driving them around, watching they perform, and driving them back. She doesn't have a minute to herself. Wanna go to a move?? Oh no, buffy has dance, Do do has soccer, and Duh duh has baseball camp, soccer camp, and karate! Who are you???? YOUR NOT YOUR CHILDREN... YOU CAN'T MAKE UP FOR YOUR LACK OF INTEREST IN STUFF BY LIVING THRU YOUR KIDS!!!!

Take this test and see if your an excess freak:

I think about my excess at least ___ times a week.
I go out and have fun, but I'm always worrying about my excess
I dream at night, nigtmares, about my excess
I cancel plans to do my excess
I see my friends about once a month, because I'm busy with my excess (and talking on the computer doesn't count!!!)
I plan my whole day around my excess
I have ___ this many different hobbies
I plan my whole year around my excess

If you answered any of them .... you know you have an excess, and should STOP IT NOW!!!! Go out with your friends!!!! DON'T TALK ABOUT IT, DON'T PLAY WITH IT, DON'T THINK ABOUT IT!!! Practice make's perfect, if you try hard, the excess will just become part of your life, something you do sometimes...but not all the time. You don't have to give it up.....but you have to have a life without it!!!!!!

Great Christmas!

Christmas at Jamie's turned out pretty good. Traveling on Christmas day was a breeze, no traffic at all!!!! But it made up for it on the way back, an 1 1/2 trip turned into 3 HOURS!!!! Traffic SUCKED

But, the kids all loved their stuff, and so did Jamie, and Mark. Jamie made Lasagna (don't tell her, but I think it turned out better then mine!) And salad, and shrimp and guacamole. Yummmy

I got the new gameboy, and a soft scarf, and a really nice Amy Brown collectable! Plus I got a HUGE amathyst chunk that I just love!!!!

I just had to post one last "BAH HUMBUG" this Christmas. GIGGLE

Winter long and winter deep,
see the beauty that you seek.
Deep within the snowy mounds,
soft with silence, life abounds.

Know you now, when winter comes,
in numbers to big for most sums,
not all life beneath white slumbers,
life abounds in many numbers.

And when spring finally appears,
all that was white disappears
life again will be reborn,
flower, fairy, rose, and thorn

Judith Oliveri

I forgot to add.....

I forgot to mention that Tony Todd is going to be at chiller. I met Tony like 12 years ago while at a convention. It winds up his girfriend, at the time, knew my older daughter Megon. They were horse fanatics. And we talked and became friends. After that I saw him at quite a few conventions, sat and talked, and played just a tiny bit of kissy face. GIGGLE

The last time I saw Tony, he had broken off with his girlfriend, and asked me out on a date that evening at the con...... Then all hell broke loose. I had my son Matt with me at the con, and he was underage....So I guess he was like 16.....That makes it 10 YEARS AGO!!! WOW!!!

Well, anyway, stupid, Matt, decided to have fun at the convention, and get totally DRUNK!!! I mean falling down, escorted to his room by hotel security DRUNK!!! They came and got me, and I had to rush out to go to him...... And the date never happened!!!!

But, I've learned over the years that FATE is the master, and sometimes you have to believe that there was some reason for what happened, and I'm cool with it.

Wonder if he will even remember me??? It's been 10 years, and I haven't kept in touch....So it's totally doubtful, but it would be fun if he did.... Don't you agree? Though he's most likely married now.... And I'm NOT looking for anyone, so who knows. Giggle

HO HO HOW?

Well, I know I'm not in the holiday mood. And I don't have a frigging clue why?? My house is all pretty, decorated really nice, I'm going to Jamie's for Christmas, so I'll see the kids.... And then Eileens for dinner with Aunt Harriet....But it still doesn't feel like Christmas.

I think maybe it's the weather. I guess people who move to Fla. Have the same thing going on. It's just too warm to be Christmas!!!!!! But you know, it's one Christmas out of a zillion....So I will cope. GIGGLE And at least I won't have to worry about snow for the long ride to Jamie's!

Besides, I've finally agreed to go to a convention with my sister. It's Chiller, and it's at the end of January. Now you gatta know, January is the total pits for me!!!! It's the worst of the winter months, at least for me. Febuary and March I start planning my garden, and buying stuff for it....But what the fuck can I do in January????? Nothing but suffer thru it. LOL

By Feb. I'll have picked out my new outdoor swing, picked out the plants I'm putting in....And in March I'll order the stuff I need from a catalog, PLUS, all the garden shops start opening. The last day for frost in NJ is April 11, so I can plant, peas, spinach, lettuce.... All in March. See!!!!!! I'll totally be busy! GIGGLE

So going to the con will give me SOME thing to do that month!!! I can plan what to take, and what to wear. That always amuses me. LOL Plus, it's just a short hour drive away!!!!! That's super fantastic!!! I'm used to conventions that take me thru 3 states, and take at least 3 hours to drive too, if not more! So I can hack the drive, and the NEW convention

I've never been to a Chiller con. It's for horror fans. THAT MEANS NOT ME!!! LOL I can't stand the gore, so I watch very few horror movies, but what the hell, maybe new people, new faces, a new hotel......Could be the start of a new thingie for me.....So I'm crossing my fingers, waxing my axe, and getting ready to new, and scary experiences. LOL

Lights out!

I'm so pissed!!!!!! I didn't get to see the new episode of Monk, or the season finally of Dr. Who. Last night, around 9pm the lights went out!

First I lit some candles, and then Matt, and his friend John who was over, walked down to the highway. The whole park was dark, and when they got to the highway, it was dark as far down as they could see!!!! And that's quite a distance. Cops were out manning all the stop lights, so what ever it was, it was a biggie.

I'm thinking major accident that took out a power grid, but who knows.

Now you got to consider that we've gone thru Nor'Easters, giant wind storms, and never lost power.... Yesterdays..... Nothing bad in the weather front.... And BOOM, no power. I guess I'll have to wait till later to see what the newspapers say.

But nevertheless, the power went out, around 11pm I finally decided just to go to sleep. Now comes the complications....Giggle.... I have a select comfort bed...It's an air mattress, most of the time super, super comfortable.

I sleep at a setting of 35-40, and every morning I wake up, crank the bed up to 100 so that it can be made, you know the sheets and stuff. I don't put it back to the 35-40 till I go to bed. So when I went to crawl into bed in the dark....The bed was set at 100.......... And without power, you cant work the bed!!!! Ouch, ouch ouch, hard as a rock!!!! But I managed to swarm around and find a comfortable, hard, but comfortable space

Somewhere around 12, the power came on, and I went out of the room to check that everything was off, lights and stuff, and then I set the bed and went to sleep. Then again around......... Well since the clock was off, I have no idea, but the power did go off again.

But at least It's back on this morning

When I find out what happened, I'll let you all know.

Traditions 2

The TREE!

On Christmas Eve, after all the food at grandma's, and before midnight mass, my dad would drag us out to cut down a tree. It was cold, and wet, but we loved it. He only took us a few times, most of the time the tree was cut down a few days before, and stored out side.

He would put up the tree after dinner, and then spend like hours fighting with it. He would add branches. Yes, like drill a hole in the trunk and add a branch or two, ect. It was hard work for a man already full of food and booze, but he did it. LOL

then after Midnight mass, and after we went to bed, the tree was decorated. We never saw it happen. My sister would wake me up like 3 in the morning (I'm sure Mom and dad just managed to go to bed by then) and we would sneak downstairs, and WOW WOW WOW A fully decorated tree stood there, all lighted up, with tons of gifts!!!! We of course didn't go near it, just sneaked back up stairs, eyes all glowing, and back to bed. We woke up again like at 7 or 8 in the morning, and dragged Mom and dad out of bed. I always wondered why they looked like Zombies as we opened gifts...... LOL they were sleep deprived, exhausted, and refused to let us open anything till they had coffee in hand.

It amazes me to this day, how they had the time, and energy to do all that!!!!!! I could never do it!!!!! NEVER!!!!!

This is probably why I believe in putting up the tree right after thanksgiving. We never had the chance to sit for days and love the tree. it went up that evening, and down a few days later. So I set mine up early to give it the proper love it deserves. And I refuse to use a real tree! I remember even as a baby being soooooo sad that a pretty tree had to die for Christmas!!!! I just can't see killing a living tree for my amusement! Though I miss the sweet smell, I think it's worth it.

But the decorations!!!! They used electric lights for the tree, back then that were huge!!! Big bulbs, and you had a round circle of colored, pleated, tin around the base of the lights, so they reflected off it, and were bright, bright, bright!!!!!

I hate these tiny lights we use now!!!!! I WANT THE BIG ONES BACK!!!!

And all the glass ornaments. Most of the time 1 or 2 bit the dust while doing the tree, and usually the cat broke at least 1 of them, but they were very pretty. Tea pots, and birds, butterflies, huge tear drops with pictures in the center, and all kinds of things, unlike the plain round balls we have now, the ones back then were all different shapes and sizes. Pretty, but very delicate!!!

I miss the pretty ones, maybe that's why I'm never satisfied with the ones I buy each year, they are round, plain, and just yucky! I would love to see the old ones, shaped like pretty tea pots and birds back again!!!

Traditions!!!

I was reading a blog about food we love to hate! Stuff served on the holidays that people think are gross and disgusting.

And all I could think was that they never had a Russian Christmas!!!!! For a few weeks before, family would put salt, pepper, butter, and other things out on a table, and the parish priest would come around, and bless the stuff.

My mom's thing was Blessed Salt and pepper.

So she would hardboiled eggs, slice them nice and pretty, and sprinkle them with the blessed salt and pepper. First thing you ate at Christmas was the salted hard boiled eggs. This was back when I wasn't allergic to eggs, and I just loved them...But you could have only one piece. (guess you couldn't have too much blessings)

then, as every one sat around the table, this wafer thingie was passed around! It was a blessed communion wafer, but big and square. You would break off a piece, hold it out, and people around the table would break off pieces of everyone's, and say "good luck, or god bless" and then eat the pieces they broke off. Not Yummmy at all, had no flavor, and heaven forbid you should miss someone, they would chase you down for their piece of wafer. Never understood that!!! Or why!!!! But you did as tradition said you did!

Then after like 3 weeks of cooking, dinner was served.

But first, a piece of waxed paper was set on your plate, and a small pile of Pickled herring with onions was put down. (I still LOVE them, I buy jars of them whenever I can, but I do prefer the ones in cream sauce!) You ate the herring, and the rest was ready. (Mom told me the waxed paper was to keep the plates from smelling like fish)

Pot roast, chicken, stuffed cabbage, fresh kelbosi, and smoked kelbosi, maybe some turkey, or duck. (YES, all of that in ONE MEAL! I have no idea why so much meat, but that's how it used to be)

Sour Kraut, fried with onions and butter

there were mashed potatoes, mushrooms, cold green bean salad (cold cooked green beans mixed with sour cream and chopped onions) Carrot salad (fresh carrots grated up, with sour cream. and raisins and a little sugar added)

Rye and pumpernickel bread, butter, hot rolls, and damn if I can think of any other things, but I knew there was more!!!

My Mom must have KILLED herself cooking!!!!! I know for a fact that she cooked for weeks before the dinner. So much work for like 10 minutes of eating!!!!!

Now the family stuff: We went to my Mom's Mom for Christmas Eve. Grandmom had an early dinner in the store front attached to her home. It hadn't been a store in years, but she didn't have a dinning room, so we ate on a huge table set up there. There was no heat, but I guess she left the door to the house open the whole day, so while chilly, it was semi comfortable.

Same food, with some extra's, and lots and lots of drinking! Everyone got a little silly..... and yes, the kids drank also, but just a little, but a little is enough for a small child. Vodka being the drink we got. Just a shot or two, but it warmed us up, and kept us happy. GIGGLE

Then home for a nap. We napped while the grown ups got ready for Midnight mass, I remember laying, dressed up in a frilly dress, on my mom's be, dozing on and off while she got ready. The wonderful smell of Topaz perfume in the air!!

Then off the midnight mass. and back home for bed.

Next morning, opening gifts, and then the big dinner.

I guess in a way my Mom had it good, because her parents were Russian and polish, but they observed polish Christmas, the December 25th one.

Then 2 weeks later we did it all over again for the Russian Christmas with my fathers parents. So she had time in between to prepare. And the Russian Christmas was at my dad's mom's house, so Mom got a break from cooking!!!!

I'm BACK!!!

Ohhhhh, and I'm soooooooo relaxed!!! It was just wonderful. Nice and warm. I walked the beach, and picked up sea shell's and some really cool driftwood, and breathed in really deeeeeeeeeeep!!! I feel 100% better!!!!
I checed out some of the Arcades, and spent a few quaters trying to win a prize, and looked in a few of the stores that were open, not really buying anything....but this is a good time to get all the summer shit..REAL CHEAP!! But I didn't see anything that grabbed me. It was just so nice to get to the shore!!

And that got me thinking...... I really haven't had a party,party here since I moved here. I had a girls night, and a house warming, but not much else! Just too much to do, and not enough money.

So walking the beach, I was thinking. Here I live right by the ocean, and the biggest boardwalk in NJ, and I'm not thinking party??? Summer, beach, boardwalk, fishing.....geeeeeeeze I'm a total dope!!!!

So I made up a sample flyer for a party this summer.... No date yet, just an idea:: so far. GIGGLE


BEACH PARTY
Want to go to a REAL Shore Leave??? One that’s actually at the shore?

Come one come all to Judi’s 1st annual summer
BEACH PARTY

What’s to do: Spend the day at the beach. Wonderful Sea Side Heights, NJ.
(only a 18 minute drive from my house!!)
Lay out in the sun all day, swim in the blue ocean!!!
Walk the 4 MILE boardwalk, full of Arcades, Games,
(spin the wheel and win a stuffed doggie, use the claw machine to snatch a toy!!!)
Tons of store’s, and of course Food, Food, and More Food
(sea food, sausage sandwich’s Pizza, Ice Cream, Beer!!! And much more!!!)

Tons of RIDES, RIDES, RIDES!! From the huge to the small, rides to suit everyone!! Stay home, and barbeque on the patio
Spend the day Crabbing off the dock, or deep sea fishing!!!
(I have some crab nets, but bring your own fishing gear)
Watch the sun rise over the ocean!!!!
Go to the boardwalk at night!!!!!
Get sunburned, and wind blown!!!!
NIGHT LIFE? WE GOT IT!!!!
Clubs, and bars galore. Including the world famous “Yakitie Yack” There’s always a recording star or two hanging out there!!!!
Put Sea Side Heights, NJ. Into your search engine, and check it all out!!

Disclaimer: Beach cost is $5.00 a day for an all day pass.
There are large bathrooms, and rentals of umbrellas, boogie boards, and more.
Parking in large lot cost from $10 - $20 per day, but it is for all day parking
(I do have an 8 passenger van, so some of you can ride along for free)
There are also tons of Metered parking spaces, for those of you who just want to spend a few hours at the beach, or walk the boardwalk at night!
Bring money to spend on the games, and rides and store’s at the boardwalk!!!
BRING FOOD!! My house is free, and I’ll have food, but you should bring booze, snacks, soda’s…. and for those of you who love to cook, make a dish or two and share with all of us. Hamburgers and hotdogs always welcome!!!!
Sleeping spaces are first come first served, bring your pillow, sleeping bag, or blow up bed

Hopefully I'll get some responce. I dont' care how many people come, I've had over 100 sleeping on my floors in past party's. So I sent out the sample to some friends to get an idea if anyone is interested, and we shall see. After all I have the whole FRIGGING WINTER to plan it. GIGGLE

BEACH TIME!!!!!!

I'm going to the beach today!!!!

I've been battling a sinus infection, and the best way I know to get rid of the lingering effects....... Is to breath salt air!

So, I'm going down to the boardwalk (parking is free in the winter) I'm going to walk on the beach, collect shells, and take some pictures.

Then I'm going to walk the boardwalk........ Yep, seaside Heights boardwalk is open all winter. The arcades, and food stands, games, most of the stores, they are all open even in the dead of winter!!!!!!

Dead of winter???? It's December 16th and it's going to be 60 degree's today!!!!!! So I can't actually say dead of winter..... More like....Fake spring!!! GIGGLE

But I need the sea air, and I know it's going to be nice out there today, so I'm all for walking the beach!! I enjoy that, I know it's lame, but the sand and sea, and the sea shells, plus the smell of salt, dead fish, and frying sausage sandwitches.... It's all Music to me!!!!

And the salt air will drive the last of my sinus infection out!!! And that's what counts, isn't it. Maybe I'll find some pretty shells, and I'll take some nice pictures of the ocean. Might even see a bunch of dolphins. Last summer while swimming there was a whole pod of dolphins playing in the water. Totally awesome!!!!

I didn't go to the beach a lot this summer, mainly because I didn't have the money for gas, but now I do, so this summer should be fantastic. The beach is free, during the summer, on Wednsdays and Thursdays, so I'm planning to roast my skin all summer long. But winter is good also. It's nice to walk the boardwalk and play the game and there are NO BENNIES!!!

For those of you who don't know, a "BENNIE" is anyone who doesn't live here all year round. Tourists! Those idiots from NY and other parts of the country who invade durning the summer, and while spending lots of money, they are obnoxious and most of the time RUDE!!!!! They feel they own the place, and that's just not going to happen.

Now during winter the roads are clear, no traffic jams!!! I can get to the beach in less then 10 minutes, smooth sailing all the way down!

You know what else.....

....is cool about living down the shore.....The mortar attacks! Yep, we live right next to 4 (not 1, but 4!!!) military bases, one of them Earl weapons Testing Range. (also Lakehurst naval air station, fort dix, and an air force base)

So on a nice day, you sit around hearing the bombs dropping, and your house shaking. It's totally cool. Not as cool, of course as when they have night firing and you can see the mortar rounds going off in the sky, and then there is also all the jets and military helicopters!!!! Watch the house shake!!!!!

Actually I'm being truthful, I enjoy it!!!!

I'm writing a play!

I've decided to write a play. It's going to be called.... "Mary's attention seeking phyco drama"! Cool name isn't it?

In it I'm going to be a women who craves attention, any kind of attention. She's in her 30's, but has been doing this for years and years.

First she faked having ashma for years and years, needing her meds, going to the emergency room during conventions, making people fuss over her constantly. Makes her boyfriend lose his high paying job at the post office, by insisting she's too sick to move, and he must stay home and care for her. Ruins his life, but what the hay, she's the important one, isn't she?

Then it was "I'm blind" Bad eyesight too the point that she used a white cane, and soaked the school for the blind of lots and lots of money for retraining her. But at the same time, can pick out a tiny speck of dust at 100 yards, and tell you how it's shaped, and it's color.....But she's blind. Sigh, must be one of those weird blindness that comes and goes. Yet when she wants attention, out comes the sunglasses, and white cane. (sob sob, my family is afraid of me, they don't understand!!)

Oh dear, and lets not forget about the MIGRAINS! The horrible headache's that she gets when she doesn't want to do anything. Of course, all the symptoms of these Migrains, don't match any symptoms that other people have of the same thing. They actually match sinus headaches, but what the hay, more medication for Mary!!!! Oh and it's amazing how she answers the phone, plainly dying of the horrible migrain headache, and 2 seconds later is talking normally, laughing and giggling.... Another wondrous miracle!!!! Of course, these come and go too!


Oh and add in a sprinkling of "I'VE BEEN ROBBED!" Actually more then a sprinkling. Lets see...... She told me 2 times that her boyfriend (David) stole all her jewelry and sold it!!

but she kept going back to him, even though he did that to her.... And when questioned why she kept going back to someone that robbed her...She spit out that she had an "inoperable brain tumor" and no one else would have her.

(by the way, while having tests for her "seizures" she forgot about the "brain tumor" and told everyone that she was fine, no negative test results...Wonder what happened to that nasty tumor??????

She was robbed at least 3 times in her old apartment, at least 2 times at shore leave (the hotel gave her free food, and all the money that she was robbed of back to her), and about 2 times at her house. Hummmmm

Oh dear, I forgot to mention that she has this "thing" about police men. She loves police men, collects all kinds of patches from every police station she see's and even sleeps with a coat that a friend of her who's a cop, gave her! Hummmm, interesting isn't it?

Then she decided that she was having seizures, the operative word was SHE decided, not that the doctor told her, because she had all kinds of tests and the doctors told her....YOUR NOT having seizures... So she had to give that up, but not till she soaked it for all it's worth, called all her friend and family and talked it up for weeks. But I guess when she finally spent a fortune on medical tests, and they found NOTHING, she had to give it up.

Then she was lonely again, no one was paying attention to her. Her lack of bookkeeping skills, and a major spending habit that she couldn't control, caused her to lose her house. WOW!!!

Now she needed an excuse for that, since every one who knows her knew that she was the one who caused it, buy spending money she didn't have, refinancing her house with company's that took advantage of her and gave her extra money that she spent in just a few days on her "pretties"

She even got a HUGE check from social security, over 17,000 dollars..... More then enough to get caught up on her mortgage, and with even a lot left over to do some repairs around the house, but instead of paying her mortgage, she went thru the money in less then a week!!!!

To her friends, she told them it was for medical bills......But Mary forgot that she was on Medicaid....... And what bills NOT paid by Medicaid, don't need to be paid!!!! What? Did she forget about that???? Guess so, at least she hoped every friend, except one, didn't know that fact and she could blame medical bills on everything!!!

She had NO MEDICAL BILLS, that Medicaid didn't pay for!!!! But told everyone she did. And her lament "I KNOW IT'S NOT MY FAULT WE LOST THE HOUSE!!!!! But unfortunately it was.......sooooooooo, now she need something new.

And without years of physiotherapy, and doctors, and hypnotherapy.....With out even seeing a doctor at all..... Mary has decided she has MPD. For those who don't know it's Multiple personality disorder.

Yepper, all those years of NOT seeing a therapist has really paid off....She was able to self diagnose herself, and even was able to name, and tell you everything about each of her personalities. HOW WONDERFUL! Knowing that MOST people never even know they have different personality's, or they go to therapist and doctors for years and years before finding out. Miss Mary was able to do it all on her own!!!!!! IN JUST A FEW SHORT WEEKS!!!! What a special women, don't you agree????

Now I can't tell you how this little DRAMA will end yet, but I'll tell you that it will involve people becoming wise to her, and dropping her like a hot iron, her husband leaving her when he finally has enough of her shit, and her becoming homeless, and having to actually work to support herself!

I may even add her being arrested for fraud, when some of the people she has bilked over the years for money, realize they have been duped. Yes that may add a nice ending to her little story. Maybe even social security, witch pays her a fortune each month, will investigate her because of a "anonymous report" and she'll have to pay back years of money....Well I'll think about it all, and let you know how this play is going to end...... I can think of a few wonderful endings

Well, what do you think? Will I make major money with this play? Or when all the facts are out, will it be too unbelievable to everyone, and flop??????

Disclaimer: "this story of course does not reflect or involve any real people. "Mary" and "David" are factious personality's and are not shaped from the experience of any REAL people, and no cops will be hurt in the production of this play. All jewelry used in this play with be robbed, and then sold back to a jewery store for the money. And of course any doctors mentioned in this play are purely the imagination of the writter, and cast, and are not real in any way!?

You know you live at the shore when.......

You know you live at the shore when the birdies coming for your bread crumbs are seagulls!!!!!

I'm a GRUMP!

BOY, am I grumpy today!!!!! You know it's no ones fault. They kept inviting, and I kept saying no, so I have to stop being grumpy about not having a party too. So ignore my grumpyness. LOL

That doesn't mean any I said wasn't true....it sure is, but I'm going to try to ignore it. LOL

See.....

See, all my gifts are finally wrapped and under the tree..... It's a shame though, I did all that work, and no one is going to see it!!! I haven't had one person say they are coming for a visit, so my tree will remain invisible, except for on this blog. Depressing isn't it? I mean it really is!! Maybe next year I'm not going to even bother with it.

And then I have to drag all this stuff out to the car, drive for hours on christmas to my daughters in PA, then drive home. I'm getting to old for this shit! Christmas should be for the younger, full of energy people!!!!

And on top of that, I haven't received one party invite!!!! Usually I have like 10 in my mail box, and I know I haven't gone to many over the last few years...Do to lack of gas money and such, but now I have money, and no invites.

Let me tell you, I'm totaly in the Bah Humbug mood!!!!!

so far folks this Christmas sucks big time!

The worm has turned......

The worm has turned, and the cold descended. LOL But it's not terrible, but it is cold, cold, cold.

But for those of you who hate cold, remember things like apple, peach and other fruit tree's can't produce fruit next year if the weather temps don't get below a certain point. Yeh, that's right. The process of setting fruits, demands that the weather be below freezing for a certain amount days!!! so some cold is good!

And also Pollen, and mold spores ect. Will die below freezing...So if you want an allergy free winter, gotta have the cold. Without the die off, summer would be horrible, twice as bad as you've ever seen before! Killing off pollen and mold is good!

And not to mention insects!!!!! With out the cold to kill off the populations, we've had summers that bugs ruled big time!!!! You have to have that freeze kill off, or they continue breeding all winter, and in the summer....WHAM!

We do need some snow, or at least lots of rain this winter, or by spring we'll be in that stupid "drought warning!)" again, and have all those restrictions about watering the garden and such. So think lots of rain, at least, if not some heavy snow....At least a few times this winter!

Also disease microbs die in freezing weather. You may say, hay, I get tons of colds in the winter!, but that's from contact with others in a closed environment. Major disease microbs that grow in the ground and ponds, and breed in the soil, die when the weather is cold. So there is actually less chance of a plague, that doesn't involve the cold virus, from spreading

It was also reported, that people seeking flu shots had decreased, since the flu season started, like, months ago.... And so far no reported out breaks have even shown up.

I don't get flu shots. Due to a vision, or foretelling, or what ever it's called....Where I saw that major deaths, like a plague of death, was caused by the flu shots!!!!! I refuse to get the shots, no matter what....Besides, I'm allergic to eggs, so I can't get the shots even if I wanted to. But due to my vision, not gonna happen, even if I could. That's the reason I also don't drink bottled water!!!! That vision was horrible!!!!! And you may not believe in them, I'm not sure I do either, but I'm not taking any chances.

Now, as you know I'm watching the weather, since they reported this will be a very mild winter. We shall see.

But I do remember one Christmas, not so long ago, maybe 7 years, that my rose's were blooming on the vine on Christmas morning....So mild winters is not as rare as you may think..... It's just that when the "National Weather Dudes (or should we say Duds)" say it's going to be mild, it probably means major cold and snow. We shall see.

Someone asked me.....

Some one asked me about all the moves I made, so Lets see:

moved from my mom's into an apartment with my sister
moved from my sisters to an apartment with my boyfriend
moved from one apartment with the boyfriend to another apt. he's now my hubby
moved from the apartment with hubby to a house in North Carolina
moved from the house to a nice trailer in north Carolina
moved from north Carolina to an apartment in NJ
moved from the apartment to a house in NJ
moved from the house in NJ to a camping trailer in PA for a year while building the house
moved from the camping trailer in Pa to a house in PA
moved from the house in Pa to a house in NJ
moved from the house in NJ to another house in PA
moved from the house in Pa to my current house in NJ

And that makes 12 moves, if you don't count the job that had me moving around the world about 17 times...that doesn't count because I didn't actually move out of the house, just moved from job to job. (some of them did last over a year)

See, now you see why I CAN'T move again, that would make it 13 moves, and as you all know 13 is not a good number. But I have packed my last box! Thank you! GIGGLE

reasons

Now the reasons behind the stuff

garbage bags- makes great raingear, slip it over your head and cut out the face, use it to line a hole in the ground to gather rain water for drinking, use as a middle layer between leaves when building a shelter, floor insulation so that you don’t get wet sleeping, good for catching fish. You can even put them over your feet to prevent moisture, or under your clothing to do the same

Twine- so much you can do with this, use to tie branches together when building a shelter, make traps, hanging things out of reach of animals, catching fish

Lighters- ok so we are not all boy scouts, and trying to light a fire the old way is time consuming, annoying, and sometimes just damn impossible. matches will eventualy get wet, a lighter shouldn't

Knife – skinning, cutting, gutting, tying to a stick with the twine to use as a spear, tons of stuff, but a folding knife may get rusty, so try not to use them

chlorine pills- this stuff is god send, if you can’t take the time to boil your water, or if you can’t light a fire to do so, just drop a tablet in your canteen and fill with water, it will kill most of the bad stuff

Salt- this stuff is gold. Use it for food, something’s you may have to cook you may not like, but salt will make it better, salt is also used when added to water to clean wounds, gaggle with when your have a sore thought, mix and sniff with water when you have a sinus infection….but most importantly to clean and heal wounds, cuts, scrapes. The deeper the cut, the more salt you use. Also used to preserve foods so that you don’t have to hunt every day.

Fish hooks – well, you can guess what this is used for, but remember to get the NON BARB ones…. Trust me, you don’t want to try and remove a fish hook that is caught on you, or in your hand or neck if it has barbs on. Plus removing the fish is much, much easier and you can use the fishing line for other tying things, and you need the weight to bring the hook down to where the fish are.

canteen- if you can’t figure this one out, just put your head between your knee’s and kiss your ass good by

Asprin and non-asprin- You need both of these, unless your allergic to one or the other. Aspirin not only kills pain, but brings all kinds of swelling down, from a bad back to a sprained ankle….while non-aspirin will bring down a fever it doesn’t work at all for swelling

Hand held can opener- I know I didn’t include any real food in this pack you have to catch your own, but a can opener comes in handy when it’s safe enough to forage in towns. Canned food lasts forever

fork, knife, spoon – we have to have some creature comforts, make sure they are stainless steel, and the plate is lightweight, flat and easy to pack….some civilization is always needed

Socks- dry feet are of major importance, keeping your feet dry and warm will keep you alive, so you have to make sure they are dry, and warm no matter what. HINT: is once a month use one of the chlorine pills in a little water, and wash your feet good, between the toes and everything, will clear up all kinds of fungus

Boots- ok these have to be WELL WORN boots, not new ones, and if you can’t afford boots, get some high top sneakers and spray them with the water proofing. (don’t put them in the bag, tie them to the outside of the bag)

Toilet paper- if I’m going to shit in the woods, I REFUSE to use leaves, plus when you do foraging in the towns later you can get more. Hint: wrap them in the plastic bags to keep them dry

Levi’s- best things for the woods, hard to damage or cut accidentally, almost indestructible. (don’t go for form fitting, nice and lose is the way to go)

long johns- there is so many really good thermal underwear out there, keeps out the cold and might just save your life

gloves-keeps out the cold, protects your hands.

note book, keep track of where you found good food, and what bad food looked like

flannel shirts- wash them well a couple of time to make them all soft, still the best thing for keeping warm (Buy large size’s, you may have to layer them in really cold weather. Get them at least 2 size‘s too big for you)

sewing kit- not only to keep your clothing in repair, but good for stitching up cuts and such when nothing else is available, try to get it with nylon thread and cotton

Cooking pot. (You can put stuff inside and then pack it). You have to cook in something. Metal without the Teflon is the best; campfires can be rough on pots.

The energy bars, good long lasting food, good for quick energy or if the weather is too shitty to hunt. The m &ms are for energy, snacks, and to keep your blood sugar up, plus you can use those plastic containers for all kinds of neat shit.

Rice. Rice is nice. A little fits in a good space, and when you cook it, it expands and is very filling



This will make a nice neat, if not heavy bag to carry. Be space conscience, stuff things into the pot, and such to make more room. If you still have some room, try putting some rice in there, in a zip lock bag of course. Rice is heavy, but a little will go a long way when you’re trying to fill yourself up.

Keep the bag, boots, and any outerwear (I don’t care if it’s 90 degrees out, grab the coat and take it with you… it won’t always be summer, and you can always use it as a blanket for cooler night!) by the back door, where you can find it in an emergency. Don’t keep the boots in your closet and the back pack by the door. In an emergency you have to hop and run!! No time to empty your closet out looking for boots or gloves. When you get to a safe dry place you can take the time to change in to the clothing in your pack, which is why it’s great to “overstuff” you bag, once you get changed there will be much more room in there for things you find along the way.

Want to see pictures?

Want to see pictures of the snow we got????

The one inch or more that they predicted for last night????

Well, it's not gonna happen. Not a drop, not a flake, nada, nothing. That, so far, means

Weather man- 0 Mother Nature- 3.

I'm going to keep tabs all winter. Just on snow or storms and see who's gonna win. So far Mother Nature is ahead!

IT'S NOT NICE TO FOOL WITH MOTHER NATURE!!!!!

Survival for Dummies

I've been putting this together for years. From my experiences in the CAP (civil air patrol) and the military. This is what you need to survive in case something bad happens. I recommend the first part, the back pack, be put together for each family member.

I'm going to post bits and pieces of the book that I'm writing. So you may have to keep reading to get the rest of it. I'll post what I have, in segments, so not to over kill the blogger spot.

SURVIVAL FOR DUMMY'S


Ok, this isn't really hard, this is all you need:

Go get a backpack. I know, I know those sporting goods stores have some really nice ones, all aluminum frame work and waterproof. But they cost a fortune. If you really want one of those, go for it, but it your a poor mug like me, try going to K-mart or Wal-Mart and getting a nice big back pack. like a high school student would use. Go for something in nylon or denim, don't go for those fake leather ones. It's not worth it.

While your at it, pick up a couple of cans of some waterproofing spray, most stores carry it, usually by the shoe department.

When you get home, spray the bag inside and out side, follow directions, and put on two coats even though it doesn't tell you to do it. When it's all dried out, get ready to pack. This is what you're going to need. I'll explain each item as I go along, and how to pack it.
Now, some companies actually make up a survival back pack for you, it does run a bit of money. Around $189 for the back pack and then extra for what you want added to it, but it can be a easy way to do it. Though personally I prefer to do things my self, to make sure all I want is in it.

1. Garbage bags. Go for the heavy duty ones, the yard bags. Yes, take them out of the box, it packs better that way. You can fit 20 or 30 of them if they are rolled up

2. Twine. You can find this at most department stores,
any kind of strong twine, make sure it's thick, and strong. Or kite string, which is strong. If it comes on a roll, take it out side and step on it to flatten it out..shouldn't hurt the twine, and makes more room in your back pack.

3. Lighters, a package of bic's or some such, matches get too wet too fast, and become useless

4. Knife, go to a sporting good store and get a good, medium size knife with a sheath, tell them a black handle one, do not go fancy, and don't get a folding one. You'll regret it. Also pick up a small sharpening stone with it.

5. This is the hard one, and you may have to search sporting good stores, or even go on line for army surplus, but get chlorine pills, they are used for making drinking water safe, tiny pill, huge benefits.
HINT: When drinking water, don't put the bottle in your mouth and gulp. Close your mouth almost all the way and sip the water, allowing it to slip over the lips and down. If you gulp your mouth and brain doesn't realize that it's getting enough water and will ask for more. By allowing it to go over the lips and tongue you let the brain know that the water is in the body, thereby reducing your thirst.

6. Salt. Now this is going to be the heaviest thing you carry, but believe me you'll be glad you did. Take as much as you can, in a heavy duty zip lock bag or plastic container. (don't keep it in the paper containers it comes in, that will get wet and soggy, use plastic!) Make sure you use only IODIZED salt. Iodized salt can help combat the reaction to radioactivity, plus will help you keep your energy and immune system up and running

7. fish hooks..DO NOT GET ONES WITH BARBS. Get the barb less ones, and while your at it, a spool of fishing line, and one or two small lead weights.


8. A bottle of aspirin, and one of non- aspirin, you need both so don't get smart and get only one.

9. a hand held can opener You know, the type you have to twist, and while your at it get a regular bottle opener/can opener also)

10. one fork, one spoon, one steak knife, metal, and one heavy unbreakable plastic plate

11. socks!!. Try to stuff in 3 or 4 pair (I don't care if you never before have warn socks, bring them!!!!!) And get COTTON mens socks, not fancy fufu socks!

12. Boots. Go to the men's department (even if you're a woman) and get a pair of steel toed work boots. (Again no matter how water proof they say they are, spray the shit out of them with water proofing.) if you can't afford boots, get a pair of hi-top, sneakers and again spray the shit out of them with water proofing spray (these just keep by the backpack, they don't need to go in it) Try tying the laces to the back pack so you don't lose them if you have to run

13. Toilet paper. Try Scots, it really does last a long time, go outside and step on it and flatten out the roll, the paper still works but you should be able to fit in a couple of rolls that way.

14. Levi's a good solid well worn pair or two, wash them over and over and make sure they fit good and loose, use a good leather belt.

15. A pair of long johns, or thinsulate long underwear and top. Two if you can fit them in. (pack them in plastic or zip lock bags)

16. a good pair of gloves, leather is good, thinsulate is good too, both leather and thinsulate is even better

17. a small note book

18. Some flannel shirts, long sleeve, ( yes women also. Men's clothing is more durable and longer lasting then women's, when your on the run, fashion is not an issue, warmth is!)

19. one or two cotton undershirts. Wearing layers in the winter is always a good thing. Also add some good cotton underwear, and lady's don't forget one or two bra's.

20. small sewing kit (make sure it has "cotton" thread, and an assortment of needles)

21. one medium size pot, aluminum or some other light material, make sure the handle is detachable and heat resistant. Camping good's stores a good source of them
(You can fill the space of the pot with energy bars in the foil wrapping and m+m's in the plastic containers)

22. medications that you take, antibiotics that you'll uses (hint: if you have prescriptions that you have to take, go fill them, then pretend that you left the prescription at a hotel while on vacation, or while visiting someone, and get another supply that you can squirrel away. Calling your doctor and saying damn, I forgot my pills in the hotel always works. Faking is imperative. Pretend to be coughing and sneezing and all stuffed up, get a prescription for antibiotics. The easy ones like Penicillin. Fake an ear infections (more of this later)

23. Antibiotic creams, creams for itching,
Benadrylle. Something for allergy reaction THIS IS IMPORTANT! Your going to be going into the woods, anything from bugs to poison Ivy. Not scratching yourself to death is good (and yes, scratching itches can cause you to die! They can become infected!)


24. A heavy overcoat, quilted down is good, make sure it winter style and really warm (of course don't put this in the backpack, just make sure it's hanging right next to it!!!! don't pack it away in the summer, even if it's 100 degree's out...BRING IT WITH YOU!)

25. canteen, yes good ole boy scout canteen (tie this to the straps of your backpack)

26. Rice, lots and lots of uncooked rice! Fill the gaps in the pack with baggies of it! When food is rare, and hard to find, rice will fill and give you vitamins!

See, not a whole lot of stuff, you should be able to stuff it all in a nice size backpack. In a futer posting, I'll give you the reason's and use's for everything you packed.

GET READY!!!

Seems that the National Weather Service has predicted that we are going to have a very mild winter!!!! And considering their record on predicting the weather......BUY A SNOW PLOW, STOCK UP ON SALT BAGS, AND GET THE SNOW SHOVEL OUT OF THE SHED NOW!!!!!!

These are the people who said that this year would be one of the WORST hurricane seasons ever!!!! They even added like 4 names of hurricanes to be prepared. AND WE DIDN'T GET EVEN ONE HURRICANE!!!!! Not one!!!! Everytime they predict something, it goes the opposite way!

Mother Nature doesn't like people second guessing her!!!!! Don't they know that yet???? Well, my friends, believe the weather service if you will..... But I'm buying salt for ice this week, and I already pulled my snow shovel from the shed and put it in the closet in the house.

I'm not saying I don't wish they were being truthful, but with their record ... I'm still going to be prepared! GIGGLE

Ok better pic of the little trees

HAPPY YULE

Merlin wants to wish all of you a happy Yule, Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays!!!! Of course, since I took the picture, all he wants to do is bite my face off!!!

But Hay, what are pets for if you can't torture them???? GIGGLE

Heeheehheeeee

I'm very happy to report that I was the FIRST in the neighborhood to put up their outside lights. LOL

I had them up for about 4 days before I lighted them..... And I watched, no one even had any lights up!

So last night I lit the lights, and kept them on for the whole night..... And this afternoon, I saw all the neighbors surrying to put their stuff up. GIGGLE I LIKE BEING FIRST. LOL

It's almost as if they were all waiting for someone to do it first, before they did it. And I was the one, now I'm sure the whole place will be lighted up in a few days!!!!

Taking night pictures suck!

I wanted to give you a good picture of my outside lights, but it's hard to do that at night, and during the day you can't see much.

But, this is what I did this year.

I kept the outside very understated. Just lights on the two tree's along with some red Christmas balls, and the lighted bluish snow flakes on the arbor. I could have done more, but sometimes a little is good enough. I may add some white lights to the door way, but I'm pretty sure I like it how it is now.

I didn't want to go overboard. Oh, and I have candles (not real ones) in every window of the house, just a tiny extra touch.

I'm pretty happy with it, and seems that others are too..... Since I've had cars riding past and stopping to look all evening. GIGGLE. Thank you, I think it's pretty too!

Getting closer!!!

Getting closer, but not quite there. Everything I could wrap by stuffing in a box..... is done. The rest can wait a few days till I recover from the first mess!!!! LOL

WHINE

Now all I have to do is wrap all thoes frigging gifts and put them under the tree I really hate wrapping!!!!!!!! Maybe if I do just a few each day, it woun't hurt as much?? You think!!!!

TADAHHHHH!!!!!!

Ugh, I'm ready

Ok, I'm ready to do the Christmas thingie. I had my son go out and bring the tree in last night. I only use artificial ones, since I can bring myself to kill a living tree for my entertainment.... That's just wrong!

I bought all new decorations this year. Lovely balls in jewel tones. Pinks, blues, purples.... Very pretty. Plus some of my old favorites, like my mermaids and such.

So He brought the box in last night, but It's still in the box....Even though I really had to fight myself to prevent myself from putting it up! GIGGLE But I didn't, and I feel very proud of that. LOL

I also brought the big tote full of Christmas decorations in. It's sitting on the kitchen table. I did wash the tree skirt, it was all wrinkled, and smelled of being in the shed, but after it was dry I put it right back in the box.

As you can tell, I'm trying to control myself!!!! BUT IT'S HARD!!!!

I'm going to Eileens for Thanksgiving dinner, and when I get home...THE TREE WILL GO UP! GIGGLE I'm going to have to hold off doing the outside, it's raining like a bitch here, and I'm not up to standing in the rain and putting lights up.

But I did connect all the outside extendsion cords like a week ago, so all I really have to do is hang, and plug in. (I had to chop down my zebra grass for the winter, so I figure, why not! And put the cords out while I was at it.)

my enthusiasm?? Well, it's still lacking, I'm forcing myself to do the tree and such....Because I know that once it's up.... I'll feel the holiday. It always happens that way. I need to see it all up, and decorated, and all of a sudden I'm humming giggle bells!!!!!

Frost

searching for what is lost,
in the forest of my thoughts.
truth or lies what I sought,
at least that's what I thought.

Down the path dark and shaded.
smell of earth and leaves.
past the dead, always hated,
where the roots. the earth has heaved

deep into the darkened woods,
searching for what is lost.
this is where I've always stood
leaves cloaked in life's frost.

CHRISTMAS CLOSET HAVOC!!!!!

Ohhhhh GROAN!!!! I looked into my closet today, and I think I had a stroke!!! This picture is just a small part of a walk in closet stuffed to the gills with Christmas presents!!!!!

I HATE WRAPPING GIFTS!!!! HATE, HATE, HATE, HATE!!!!! It makes my butt fall asleep, and my legs go numb, and my back ache!!!!!

But you gotta do what you gotta do. Right after Thanksgiving I'll put up the tree, and then I have to wrap, decorate, and label all those fucking gifts, and GET THEM OUT OF MY CLOSET!!!! THIS IS GOING TO TAKE DAYS!!!!!!

I love shopping for the gifts, but boy do I miss the old fashioned stores where you bought the stuff, and took it down stairs and they wrapped it all for you!!! Any one but me remember that??? It was so easy, and they looked a hell of a lot better then if I did them. So what if it cost you, it was never much, just a dollar or two, but IT WAS WORTH IT!!!!

I tried to bribe my girlfriend Barb into doing it, but she would only do it if I brought everything over to her house, and packing it all up, and riding up there wasn't worth the trouble.

Doesn't anyone want to wrap my gifts for me!!!!! I give you cookie!!!!!!!

Colors, and what they do

Red – This is the ideal color to draw attention to yourself. Wear red if you’re going on an audition, showing off your creative work, or want to set yourself apart from the crowd. Avoid this color if you’re suffering from nervousness.

Orange – A fusion of passionate red and optimistic yellow, orange represents unity. Wear this color when you are trying to promote harmony among warring colleagues or relatives. Stay away from this color when you want to distinguish yourself from others.

Yellow – The brighter the shade of yellow, the cheerier it seems. Mellow, earthy tones convey stability and steadiness. Wear this color when you want to promote clarity; it’s ideal for making decisions. Avoid yellow when you’re tired, as it is draining.

Green – Green is the color of growth and development. Therefore, it’s an ideal shade to wear when taking classes and acquiring skills. It’s also good to motivate people to get out of a rut. Because it is stimulating, you should avoid it when you’re feeling restless.

Blue – Blue is associated with introspection and tranquility. This color helps people loosen up and speak their minds, so it’s ideal for promoting communication. Stay away from blue, though, when you are depressed, because it can compound your depression.

Purple – This regal color is associated with regality and spirituality. It’s an ideal shade to wear when you’re seeking your life’s purpose. Avoid purple when you are having trouble putting your plans into action, because it inhibits practicality.

Pink – Soothing and nurturing, pink is a great color for putting people at ease. This color also dissipates anger, so it’s a great choice when you want to kiss and make up. Avoid pink if you want to be seen as decisive and bold, however, as it conveys softness.

Gray – Gray invokes balance and safety, and should be worn when things are spiraling out of control. You should also sport this color when you want to avoid the chopping block. Stay away from gray when you are seeking a promotion or want to be noticed.



Brown – Whenever you feel scared or insecure, wear brown. This grounding color has an effect that is most comforting. Wear it when you want others to put their faith in you. Avoid brown, however, when you are in a rut or dealing with stubborn people.

Black – Black conveys a sense of depth and strength that is most formidable. Wear this color when you want to command authority or exude mystery. Stay away from black, however, if people question your motives or if you want to be treated as an equal.

White – Nothing inspires trust like the color white. Wear this color when you want to appear detailed, efficient and faultless. Keep away from white when you want to convey a relaxed, easygoing image. White can also promote anxiety, so use it carefully.

Metallics – Shiny colors like gold, bronze, copper and silver inspire creativity. There are no better colors to wear when you are engaged in an artistic project of some kind. Metallics make people critical and discerning, so avoid them if you’re feeling sensitive.

Arrrrrhhhhhhh turkey day is coming!!!!!

The holidays always catch me unprepared. I'm just getting over Halloween, and taking the decorations down, and WHAM, Thanksgiving hits me broadside. Didn't even see it coming....Well, at least I thought I had weeks and weeks before it came.

Lumping all the holidays in 3 short months, sucks! I had to go over my schedule to plan all this crap. But finally I made up my mind.

Thanksgiving: My sister Eileen
Christmas: My daughter Jamie
Easter: My house....At least for the kids.

I have to admit looking forward to Christmas, or Yule as we call it. That's always fun. All the pretty lights and tree, and of course gifts.

I found something for my Aunt Harriet, at last. I have a crystal Kitty cat that I'm sending her. I thought of it because we had been talking about her old cat...Forget the name, but she actually used to dress him up all the time. And the cat actually had his own dolly!!! So cute. So, I thought the crystal cat would be good for her.

All my shopping is done now. Though I'm sure when I go to wrap everything I'm going to find that I either bought too much, or too little. If I ever get the energy up to wrap it all, I'm sure I'll find out. Giggle

Weather men are dumb?

Well, here's another "Duhhhhh" by the weatherman. Supposed to be HUGE storm tonight. Said 80 mph winds, ect. But it's just raining. Just rain, some wind, but not hard winds, and rain.

I don't know why I bother watching the weather alerts, because so far this year, they have been 0=0. They even added like 4 names for hurricanes because this was supposed to be a horrible year for them, and..... NOTHING! Hay, not complaining about the weather, just the people who report it!!!

It's like Mother Nature is having a blast fucking with them, and their ability to predict what's coming. Something that I think is great fun! LOL

But just in case they had been right, I did my storm thingie.

I filled the bath tub to the brim with water...... If the elec goes out it's drinking water, and flushing water, and cooking water.

Thank the goddess I have a gas stove, so no electricity needed for cooking or even for heat. Lighting the oven (even when the electronic ignition isn't working because the elec is out, you can still light it with a match!) and opening the door, is pretty heat efficient when it's cold or raining. I HATE cooking with gas, but love the fact that I can cook and heat if it's ever nessary. Which, so far, except for once when my heater failed, was never needed.

I also have a fireplace in my bedroom, that burns these gel things. No venting needed, and gives off pretty good heat. So I'm covered.

I have a whole drawer of candles, and more around the rooms (smell pretty) so lighting isn't a problem. I'm ready for whatever comes. Giggle Oh and since I smoke, lots of lighters.

I have a friend who got candles for emergency's, but forgot something to light them with. LOL Candles aren't any good without a lighter or matches, they found this out fast. LOL Now they keep a pack of lighters in the house, just in case.

Plus thinking of little things, like a hand worked can opener instead of an electric one, is thinking ahead. Trying to open a can to eat with a knife doesn't work too good. GIGGLE And I always keep my dry good pantry well stocked with soups, can's of tuna and chicken, and lots of pasta. Lasts forever and great to eat!

Thinking of X-mas!!! GAGK!!!!!

See, I picked up these little artificial tree's a few years ago at Big Lots.

Those planters in front of my house, in spring I plant flowers, in the fall Mum's, and when the Mum's die, I put the little fake tree's in the planter! For now, till after Thanksgiving...They are just tree's, but when I start decorating for Christmas, they become little Christmas tree's!

So today I went out and bought little red and gold Christmas balls (from the dollar store or course! Best place for cheap decorated!!!!) And some gold garland. I already have the Christmas lights I use every year, so that's not a problem.

And after thanksgiving I will decorate the tree's so they look pretty!!! Then I have the lights on a timer, and so the tree's will light up from dusk to dawn.

Pretty, pretty, pretty. GIGGLE

ROCKS

I spent a couple of hours at Matt's school today, waiting for him to get out of class..... And I took pictures of rocks. Yeh, I know, weird right? But I LOVE ROCKS!!! I have a connection to them, ever since I was little. They call to me. Most of the time asking for me to take them home.

OK, you know I'm weird, why are you surprised?

They do call to me! I swear it. And I have to pick them up, and take them home. I just do. I have rocks all over the house, different sizes etc.

(Now I happend to mention the rocks to my girlfriend Barb, the only one of my friends who's NOT a witch.... and the first thing she said was "how many did you take home?" WOW does she know me!!!!)

But this time, I just wanted to take some pictures of a field of rocks at the school. I'm going to use the pictures for my desktop. Nice. I like it.

And of course I brought one home. It's a biggie, and pretty, and I like it....So there!

While we're on the subject......

The Jersey Devil, the supposed mythical creature of the New Jersey Pinelands, has haunted New Jersey and the surrounding areas for the past 260 years. This entity has been seen by over 2,000 witnesses over this period. It has terrorized towns and caused factories and schools to close down, yet many people believe that the Jersey Devil is a legend, a mythical beast, that originated from the folklore of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Others disagree with this point of view. The following text will show there is evidence to support the existence of an animal or supernatural bring known as the Jersey Devil. The evidence consists of the stories of the Jersey Devil's origin, the sightings of it, and finally, the theories on it.

There are many different versions of the birth of the Jersey Devil. One of the most popular legends says a Mrs. Shrouds of Leeds Point, NJ made a wish that if she ever had another child, she want it to be a devil. Her next child was born misshapen and deformed. She sheltered it in the house, so the curious couldn't see him. On stormy night, the child flapped it's arms, which turned into wings, and escaped out the chimney and was never seen by the family again. A Mrs. Bowen of Leeds point said, "The Jersey Devil was born in the Shrouds house at Leeds Point." 1 Another story that also placed the birth at Leeds Point said that a young girl fell in love with a British soldier during the Revolutionary War. The people of Leeds Point cursed her. When she gave birth, she had a devil. Some people believe the birth of the devil was punishment for the mistreatment of a minister by the Leeds folk.


Another story placed the birth in Estelville, NJ. Mrs. Leeds, of Estelville, finding out she was pregnant with her 13th child, shouted,"I hope it's a devil". She got her wish. The child wad born with horns, a tail, wings, and a horse-like head. The creature revisited Mrs. Leeds everyday. She stood at her door and told it to leave. After awhile, the creature got the hint and never returned.

Burlington, NJ, also claims to be the birthplace of the Jersey Devil. In 1735, Mother Leeds was in labor on a stormy night. Gathered around her were her friends. Mother Leeds was supposedly a witch and the child's father was the devil himself. The child was born normal, but then changed form. It changed from a normal baby to a creature with hooves, a horses head, bat wings and a forked tail. It beat everyone present and flew up the chimney. It circled the villages and headed toward the pines. In 1740 a clergy exercised the devil for 100 years and it wasn't seen again until 1890.

There are many other versions of the legend. The legends say it was the 6th, 8th, 10th, 12th, or 13th child, It was born normal or deformed, and the mother confined it to the cellar or the attic. Although there are many discrepancies in all of these stories, there are 3 pieces of evidence that tie all of the legends of the Jersey Devil's origin together.

The first thing that ties the legends together is the name "Leeds". Whether the mothers name was Leeds or the birth place was Leeds Point, all of the stories include the name Leeds. Alfred Heston, the Atlantic County Historian, believes that the devil could be a Leeds or a Shrouds baby. He discovered that a Daniel Leeds opened land in Great Egg Harbor, NJ, in 1699. His family lived in Leeds Point. He also discovered a Samuel Shrouds, Sr. came to Little Egg Harbor, NJ, in 1735 and lived right across the river from the house of Mother Leeds. The 3rd fact ties in the Burlington story with the others stories. Professor Fred MacFadden of Coppin State College, Baltimore, found that a "devil" was mentioned in writings from Burlington as early as 1735. He also indicated that the word Burlington was used to was the word used to names the area from the city of Burlington to the Atlantic Ocean. This means that the name that is now used for the birthplace such as Leeds point or Estelville, could be the same place referred to in the Burlington Legend.

The origins provide some validity to the existence of the Jersey Devil, but the sightings are the most substantial pieces of evidence. The sightings have been divided up into 3 time periods, pre 1909, January 16-23, 1909, and post 1909.

From the pre 1909 era, few documented records of sightings still exist. The ones that do confirm the existence of the devil.

In the early 19th century, Commodore Stephen Decatur, a naval hero, was testing cannon balls on the firing range when he saw a strange creature flying across the sky. He fired and hit the creature but it kept right on flying across the field. Joseph Bonaparte, former king of Spain and brother of Napoleon, saw the Jersey Devil in Bordentown, NJ, between 1816 and 1839 while he was hunting. In 1840-41 many sheep and chickens were killed by a creature with a piercing scream and strange tracks. In 1859-94, the Jersey Devil was seen and numerous times and reportedly carried off anything that moved in Haddonfield, Bridgeton, Smithville, Long Branch, Brigantine, and Leeds Point. W.F. Mayer of New York noticed while visiting the Pine Barrens, most of the locals would not venture out after dark. The devil was sighted by George Saarosy, A prominent business man, at the NJ/NY border. This was the last reported sighting before the turn of the century.

In 1903, Charles Skinner, author of American Myths and Legends, claimed that the legend of the devil had run it's course and that in the new century, NJ would hear no more of the devil. New Jersey rested easy with that thought for 6 years, until the week of January 16-23. 1909. During this week, the devil would leave his tracks all over South Jersey and Philadelphia. He was seen by over 1,000 people. This was his largest appearance ever.

It all started early Sunday morning, January 16, 1909. Thack Cozzens of Woodbury, NJ, saw a flying creature with glowing eyes flying down the street. In Bristol, PA, John Mcowen heard and saw the strange creature on the banks of the canal. Patrol James Sackville fired at the creature as it flew away screaming. E.W. Minister, Postmaster of Bristol, PA, also saw a bird-like creature with a horses head that had a piercing scream. When daylight came, the residents of Bristol found hoof prints in the snow. Two local trappers said they had never seen tracks like those before.

On Monday, the Lowdens of Burlington, NJ, found hoof prints in their yard and around their trash, which was half eaten. Almost every yard in Burlington had these strange hoof prints in them. The prints went up trees, went from roof to roof, disappeared in the middle of the road, and stopped in the middle of open fields. The same tracks were also found in Columbus, Hedding, Kinhora and Rancocas. A hunt was organized to follow the tracks but the dogs wouldn't follow the trail.

On the 19th the Jersey Devil made his longest appearance of the week. At 2:30 am, Mr & Mrs. Nelson Evans of Gloucester were awakened by a strange noise. They watched the devil from their window for 10 minutes. Mr. Evans described the creature they saw:


It was about three feet and half high, with a head like a collie dog and
a face like a horse. It had a long neck, wings about two feet long, and
its back legs were like those of a crane, and it had horse's hooves.
It walked on its back legs and held up two short front legs with paws
on them. It didn't use the front legs at all while we were watching.
My wife and I were scared, I tell you, but I managed to open the
window and say, 'Shoo', and it turned around barked at me, and flew away.2
Tuesday afternoon 2 professional hunters tracked the devil for 20 miles in Gloucester. The trail jumped 5 foot fences and went under 8 inch spaces. The hoof prints were found in more parts of South Jersey. A group of observers in Camden, NJ, saw the devil. It barked at them and then took off into the air.

The next day, a Burlington police officer and the Reverend John Pursell of Pemberton saw the Jersey Devil. Rev. Pursell said, "Never saw anything like it before".3 Posses in Haddonfield found tracks that ended abruptly. In Collingswood, NJ, a posse watched the devil fly off toward Moorestown. Near Moorestown, John Smith of Maple Shade saw the devil at the Mount Carmel Cemetery. George Snyder saw the devil right after Mr. Smith and their descriptions were identical. In Riverside, NJ, hoof prints were found on roof tops and also around a dead puppy.

On Thursday, the Jersey Devil was seen by the Black Hawk Social Club. He was also seen by a trolley full of people in Clementon as it circled above them. The witnesses descriptions matched others from the days before. In Trenton, Councilman E.P. Weeden heard the flapping of wings and then found hoof prints outside his door. The prints were also found at the arsenal in Trenton. As the day wore on the Trolleys in Trenton and New Brunswick had armed drivers to ward off attacks. The people in Pitman filled churches. Chickens had been missing all week throughout the Delaware Valley, but when the farmers checked their yards that day, they found their chickens dead, with no marks on them. The West Collingswood Fire Department fired their hose at the devil. The devil retreated at first, but then charged and flew away at the last second.

Later that night, Mrs. Sorbinski of Camden heard a commotion in her yard. She opened the door to see the Jersey Devil standing there with her dog in it's grip. She hit the devil with a broom until it let go of her dog and flew away. She started screaming until her neighbors came over. Two police officers arrived at her house where over 100 people had gathered. The crowd heard a scream coming from Kaigan Hill. The mob ran toward the creature on the hill. The Policed shot at it and the devil flew off into the night. The streets of Camden were empty after this.

On Friday, Camden police officer Louis Strehr saw the Jersey Devil saw the devil drinking from a horses trough. The school in Mt Ephraim was closed because no students came in. Mills and factories in Gloucester and Hainesport had to close because none of the employees came to work. Many New Jersey residents wouldn't leave their houses, even in daylight. Officer Merchant of Blackwood drew a sketch of the creature he saw. His sketch coincided with the descriptions from earlier in the week. Jacob Henderson saw the devil in Salem and described it as having "wings and a tail"4. The devil was only seen once more in 1909 in February.

Since 1909, the Jersey Devil has continued to be sighted by people all over New Jersey. The number of sightings that have been reported to the authorities has dwindled over the years. This could be attributed to the fact that people don't want to be branded as crazy. Even though the number of reported sightings has dropped, there's still a considerable amount of sightings in the post 1909 era.

IN 1927, a cab driver on his way to Salem got a flat tire. He stopped to fix the tire. As he was doing this, creature that stood upright and was covered with hair, landed on the roof of his cab. The creature shook his car violently. He fled the scene, leaving the tire and jack behind. Phillip Smith, who was known as a sober and honest man, saw the devil walking down the street in 1953. The characteristic screams of the Jersey Devil were heard in the woods near Woodstown, NJ, in 1936.

Around 1961, 2 couples were parked in a car in the Pine Barrens. They heard a loud screeching noise outside. Suddenly the roof of the car was smashed in. They fled the scene, but returned later. Again they heard the loud screech. They saw a creature flying along the trees, taking out huge chinks of bark as it went along.

There have been other sightings since 1909, such as the Invasion of Gibbsboro in 1951. The people there saw the devil over a 2 day period. In 1966, a farm was raided and 31 ducks, 3 geese, 4 cats, and 2 dogs were killed. One of the dogs was a large german Shepard which had it's throat ripped out. In 1981, a young couple spotted the devil at Atsion Lake in Atlantic County.

In 1987, in Vineland an aggressive german Shepard was found torn apart and the body gnawed upon. the body was located 25 feet from the chain which had been hooked to him. Around the body were strange tracks that no one could identify.

The sightings and prints are the most substantial evidence that exists. Many of the theories on the Jersey Devil are based upon that evidence. Some theories can be proven invalid, while others seem to provide support for the Jersey Devil's existence.

One theory is that the Jersey Devil is a bird. Mrs. Cassidy of Clayton thought it was an invasion of scrowfoot ducks. The scrowfoot duck is much too small to be mistaken for the devil. Others believe the devil is really a sand hill crane. The crane used to live in South Jersey until it was pushed out by man. The sand hill crane weighs about 12 lbs., is 4 foot high, and a wingspan of 80 inches. It avoids man but if confronted it will fight. It has a loud scream whooping voice that can be heard at a distance. This could account for the screams heard by witnesses. The crane also eats potatoes and corn. This could account for the raids on crops. This theory doesn't explain , however, the killing of live stock. It also doesn't explain why people described the devil as having a horses head, bat wings and tail, all of which the crane doesn't have.

Professor Bralhopf said that" the tracks were made by some prehistoric animal form the Jurassic period"5. He believes the creature survived underground in a cavern. An expert from the Smithsonian Institute had a theory about ancient creatures surviving underground. He said the Jersey Devil was a Pterodactyl. The Academy of Natural Sciences could find no record of any creature, living or extinct, that resembles the Jersey Devil.

Jack E. Boucher, author of Absagami Yesteryear, has a theory in which he believes the devil was a deformed child. He thinks Mrs. Leeds had a disfigured child and kept it locked away in the house. She grew sick and couldn't feed the child anymore. It escaped out of hunger and raided local farms for food. This doesn't take into account the incredible life span of the devil. The child would have been 174 years old in 1909. It also doesn't account for the sightings of the devil flying.

Only a small amount of the sightings and footprints could be hoaxes. The Jersey Devil has been seen by reliable people such as police, government officials, postmasters, businessman, and other people whose "integrity is beyond question."6 As for the hoof prints, even if some were hoaxes, There is still no way to explain most of the tracks, especially the ones on roof tops and tracks that ended abruptly as if the creature took wing.

The last theory is the most controversial one. Many people believe that the Jersey Devil could be the very essence of evil, embodied. It is said that the devil is an "uncanny harbinger of war"7. and appears before any great conflict. The jersey devil was sighted before the start of the Civil War. It was also seen right before the Spanish American War and WW I. In 1939, before the start of WW II, Mount Holly citizens were awakened by the noise of hooves on their roof tops. The Devil was seen on December 7, 1941, right before Pearl Harbor was bombed. He was also seen right before the vietnam War.

The Jersey Devil's habit of being a forerunner to wars could be because of his possible demonic origins. In 1730, Ben Franklin reported a story about a witchcraft trial near Mt Holly, NJ. One of the origin legends say that Mother Leeds was a witch. The devil's birth could have been a result of a witches curse.

Other facts support the supernatural theory are the reports of the death of the devil. When Commodore Decatur fired a cannon ball at the devil, it went through him and he was unaffected.

In 1909, a track walker on the electric railroad saw the devil fly into the wires above the tracks. There was a violent explosion which melted the track 20 feet in both directions. No body was found and the devil was seen later in perfect health. In 1957, the Department of Conservation found a strange corpse in a burned out area of the pines. It was a partial skeleton, feathers, and hind legs of an unidentifiable creature. The devil was thought to be dead, but reappeared when the people of New Jersey thought that this time his death was real. Each time he is reported dead, he returns. Sometimes this year. The Jersey Devil will be 260 years old. It seems the devil is immortal, which a supernatural being would be. Another thing that supports this theory is the incredible distances the devil could fly in a short period of time. No animal could travel as fast as the devil did in 1909 when he was sighted in South Jersey, Philadelphia, and New York through out the week.

None of these theories can give a definitive answer to what the Jersey Devil was or is, but the sightings prove there is something out there. Whether the Jersey devil is a bird or a demon, is still left ot speculation. The people of New Jersey have definitely seen something out there lurking in the Pine Barrens.