Paul's Corner

To all of you who welcomed me to this site thank you very much. I too enjoyed some of the receipies that were also on this site as well. I hope that in the last post i made that i did not offend anyone in any manner and if i did so then i am truly sorry. I would like to tell all who visit to think happy thoughts and to have a wonderful day.

Melinda

Paul, You're like a good shepherd, always tending to the flock.

Knowledge and understanding; yes the two are inseparable.
Personally, I'm also a big fan of truth.
You always speak the truth, and that's why You have My respect.

Have a good weekend.

Peter

Hi,

I haven't been here in a long time.

Gosh, I leave ya'll alone for a little bit and the fussing/fighting begins.

Let's all be nice, I've missed everyone.

Take care,
Vickie

Happy to "see" you again, Paul; regret the circumstances. I guess sometimes we all forget how to play well with others. Wishing everyone in all the various time zones a peaceful day and at least one good, honest belly laugh.

The "other" Vicki

Dear Paul,

Your return is like a ray of sunshine, and I am sure that everyone is elated that you are back!

I know you had many pressing matters to attend to, and I also knew that you would eventually return, which you have, thank goodness!

I am sorry if my poor choice of words seemed to insinuate that you dropped out of PC for good, for that was not my intention....I know better!

Peter, so good to hear from you! Hope all is well, we missed you too!

Vickie and Vicki, welcome, and I would suggest that we make some sort of distinction between you
like we did with Michelle, who always signs, "Michelle from Chicago". (In those days, we had 2 Michelles!)

Peace and Love,

Mil

Mmmmmm I am somewhat confused (which is pretty normal) by the two Evelyn's floating around??? And now two Viki/e's!! There is Evelyn - she of the long post and who leaves unfinished beers around and then there is Evelyn - aka Helen darling whom is new and I have probably not welcomed?! A belated welcome to you!

Jo, thank you for your honesty and bravery intelling us your story. There is not much to say right now other than I am so glad you are here with us and I am honoured that you take the time to be a part of this group. I would like to talk with you more about what you told us but for now I have had a couple of beers and need to put the kids to bed. So later if that is alright with you.

Grand ma Mil and all youse others that read this, you may like to know my beautiful wife is back on the stage guesting with the Australian Ballet. Some of you may remember that two years ago she was asked back to play the queen in their production of Swan Lake. Well they are doing another season and she is up there in all her glory, prancing around the stage and loving it. I am being a house husband and loving it - even better she is bringing in some bucks!!

A belated welcome to Melinda also! Thank yo of extending the hand of friendship.

Got to put the kids to bed. I have put the duck (peking style marinade) in the oven and the roast potatoes with garlic and rosemary too. May open a bottle of wine then do the bok choy (garlic, chiilie and ginger) and have it ready for my sweetheart for when she comes home! Ah the simple things in life, hey?

Hello Paul,
Good to see you posting again. We always miss you when you're away.

Gosh, here you are making dinner and here I am wondering what to have for breakfast! Funny how the time zones are. When you are sleeping, I am working, and vice versa!

I think it was a good idea to start a new, fresh thread. You always have a way of explaining things that make sense. I certainly wish I had half your insight. But, then, that's why I come here. If a question gets thrown out to all here, you get a lot of different opinions.

So, will start anew, too, by saying hello to all the newbies and hey to all the oldies. Looking forward to your posts.

Smiles to all,
Sally C.

Hello all PCers,
A new day. Hope it goes well for you all.

Hello Paul,
Good that you're posting again.
A new thread.
A new direction.
Respect going both ways.

To requote Vicki's quote of Shakespeare from the last thread:

"What's past is prologue."

A new act begins.
Let the journey continue.

--Richard

PS to Paul,
Greetings to the Swan.
Be sure to rub her feet!
--Richard

Sally you could always try my beer and egg recipe in the recipe section!!! It is pretty good - although I would say that!

Richard life is exactly that isnt it. Every day a new day, a new challenge, a new beginning. Thank god for new days and change and yet by golly it is hard to deal with it all as well. Strangely I struggle and embrace all at once - but perhaps that is the way life is meant to be. And so I embrace and struggle "to be".

And back to Jo from whom I would like to hear your thoughts on that. Life is a struggle so what has got you through this past year?

Dear Paul,

What a lovely surprise to learn that your beautiful Andrea will be dancing in "Swan Lake"!

How well my (senior) peers know this ballet, for I have shown it numerous times in my video concerts on that large 9 ft. screen.

The ballerinas are always gorgeous, tall, and so graceful, no wonder Andrea is dancing again!

Not bad either, being a house husband, and a master chef to boot! Best wishes to you both and the girls!

Status of "Follies": Rumors are flying that it will be the best yet! Rehearsals are a hoot, with the cast members still applauding, smiling, (and laughing) even though they have seen each act over and over.

Tim, where are you, we miss you!

Peace and Love,

Mil

I made her dinner! Do I have to rub her feet too!! I thought perhaps some other area would be better....................like her neck - dont know what you were thinking!

Keep talking about the follies and the more I wish........

Echo..."Tim where are you, are you, you..."

Paul,
Ah yes, change. Some people embrace it gladly. Some people go kicking and screaming, swept away on the waves of the inevitable. Usually it's better to go with the flow. More often than not the current takes you where you want to go anyway. If not, then maybe you end up in a better place than you ever imagined?

>>I made her dinner! Do I have to rub her feet too!!
--Well, if you're a truly full-service establishment...let the customer decide!
--Richard

PS: Paul,
Hope the 50,000 monkeys aren't making too much racket!
--Richard

Paul,
"What has gotten me through this last year?"
Answer - one foot in front of the other.

Paul,
I have spent the last hour thinking about the question. What really has gotten me through everything is my husband and only my husband. Several of my cousins and my brother have bi-polar manic depression. They have gone through multiple marriages, alcohol, drugs and are still where they started. My wonderful husband has passed up job promotions (and almost gotten fired once) which would have meant he had to travel just so he wouldn't have to leave me alone. My husband and I will be married 39 years in July and he says he wouldn't have missed a minute of it - the good and the bad. When I thought I had lost him in April and if I had my life would surely have been over. He is my anchor in the storm, he holds me up when I can't stand and that is what has gotten me through this last year.

Good Morning Everyone:

It's beautiful here and hope it is where you are too.

Paul: Thank you for your post. It explains and enlightens. I feel clearer now. As Michelle would say, the brain fog has lifted on this new day - starting anew with my best other foot forward.

How great that Andrea is performing and to come home to a fantastic dinner and the rub of . . . what was it? . . . oh yes! the neck. Yes that's it.

How about giving over with some of those recipes too? Please don't leave us with our mouths watering! Also the Spanich Chicken you spoke about. Made your roasted veggies. Fantastic!

Well, I've got to run. Have a fantastic day.

Anon - anew - renewed,
Michael

Jo:

I've been where you are - several times, in fact. I know what it feels like to be alone, depressed and hopeless. I've suffered from chronic depression - treated and untreated - all my adult life. But when my husband chose to end his life nearly nine years ago, my whole perspective changed. That's not to say things were wonderful after that and, in fact, me and my children and stepchildren went through hell for a very long time (some residual stills exists today). And I still do get depressed. I just know that some options are viable and some are totally unthinkable. Life is gift, dear Jo. Sometimes a gag gift, and sometimes one you'd like to return, but always a gift. I don't know if I'm making any sense here, and these things are difficult to talk about with any ability to make others understand, but if you'd like a friend to lean on or listen to you, please email me. Chin up, girl! I hope you know how very lucky you are to have someone love you for 39 years - and would do it all over again. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and he for another happy 39!

Vicki (in California)

Vicki,
I am so sorry to hear about your husband. You have to have depression or live with someone with depression to truly understand it I think. Over the past 39 years I have told my husband a number of times that I sure couldn't love me so I don't know why he does. I have not been an easy person to love. I do know what you mean about life being a gag gift. I have thought before that I hope the gods are getting a big kick out of all this because I'm sure not. Yes, I know I am lucky to have the husband I have and I thank God everyday for sending him to me. We were teenagers when we met and I never dated anyone else so I think he was sent to me.

Good Morning, Afternoon, or Evening where ever you all may be. Paul sounds like you had a lovely dinner with your sweetie. As for the rubbin I would have to agree to let her choose but the feet if you do rub them does have the most nerve endings in the body so if you rub her feet you could relax her entire body. Either way have a lovely time. I have to get my kids off to school. Happy thoughts to everyone and enjoy your day.

Melinda

Hello to everyone on the site. I guess I am a newbie. Paul, saw Strictly Ballroom and thought that you were great! Then I looked in the internet and found this site. I have been reading everyone's postings and am very impressed at how close you "oldbies" are. I don't know what happened before, but I am sorry that it happened to this site, which is a beam of sunlight to me when I visit it. And Paul, your postings touched my soul. It was like you knew exactly how I feel about things. I am sooo glad that you found your soulmate, you deserved to find her! Wish I could be so lucky!!

Anyway, I just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading the postings.

Love to all the family!

Beth Ellen

I stop visiting this site for awhile and this is what happens...
Vicki, soz about your hubby...
Seems everyone's been having it a bit tough...I, too, have had plenty of questions that need answering. Some have been answered, but it just opens up more questions...
Pray everything can only get better for all of you!

Jen

I forgot to tell all that my husband passed his stress test, echocardiogram, and all the other test with flying colors. The doctor told him he could resume his old activities (he just doesn't know what all his old activities were) so tomorrow he thinks he is going to cut down a tree. The heat index here has been 110 degrees almost every day, so I think he won't be cutting down that tree like he thinks (at least not if I can help it).

Hello,

First-I want to say that I'm not the least bit offended by suggestions of names for my baby-I welcome them. I'm more geared to Anna Bethany but my husband doesn't like the Bethany. Well, we have a few months....

Vicki(in California)-I'm sorry to hear about your husband. You're a courageous woman to post about it.

I'd like to offer a bit of "insight" if you please. I am bipolar and I do know what it's like to be depressed enough to be suicidal. I want to say that thanks to people like my husband and two excellent health professionals-my life today is greatly improved. Although I cannot currently take my medication (pregnancy issue going on here, ha, ha), I have the support of these individuals. Also, I've done alot of learning about bipolar and now have new "life tools" to use.

Since I'm feeling a bit punchy today-I look at my bipolar like this....I have something that's treatable and managable although not curable. I will not let it beat me because I've already been to hell and I have no plans of returning. I'm no longer afraid of episodes because my bipolar doesn't define who I am.

So, while I do not intend to ponder on such a "heavy" topic-I just wanted to give a little insight and would welcome any help that I could give.

HUGS!
Abeth

Paul,

It doesn't matter what you rub on your wife-just don't rub too long in one spot-variety is the key!! Sorry-I couldn't resist a bit of humor!!

HUGS!
Abeth

Jo:

Congrats to your husband (and YOU) for passing his stress test. But, honestly! Cut down a tree? What's with that? Better hide the axe, saw and chainsaw!

Abeth, I like your attitude about your "condition" and am very glad that you have a good support system, especially while being pregnant (which is a roller-coaster ride all by itself) and off your meds.

I like "Anna" and "Bethany", but I also like "Emily" and "Rebecca". As for boys' names, my grandson is named "Phoenix" and so I'm really partial to that! :)

Paul-the-house-husband - Congrats on your lovely wife's dancing. It sure would be nice to see photos of her performance. (hint, hint!)

Hello and Happy Friday to everyone (unless it's already Saturday where you are!)

Vicki

And, forgive me for this third post but I wanted to thank those that have given wonderful "morning sickness" suggestions!! I'm suffering from "Baby Brain". That's where I absorb nothing in my brain because it's mush!

Just a bit of humor...we're joking about naming the baby (if a girl) Anna with a middle of Another. Her name would be Anna Another Hester (my last name)! We certainly could try Polly-get it-Polly Hester! Oh, I'm killing me today!!

HUGS, again!
Abeth

Hello to all my friends in PC old and new!

After reading through the new thread so far, I know one thing for sure. There is one lucky woman living and breathing today. Swan Lake, followed by dinner & foot/neck rubbing (she can take her pick) a la Paul Mercurio.... Is that reality I just described or a fantasy?? Andrea, life sounds pretty good for you at the moment. I hope it continues to be.

Millie, you know how much you mean to me. Can't wait to see the Follies!

Jo, I've no doubt your husband was sent to you. And you to him. You were both lucky to find each other so soon. My mother used always speak of my father as you just did of your husband and his reply was always - I am the lucky one. I'm sure your husband feels the same way. I'm so glad his test results came out so good! It must be a great relief for you both. Best wishes to you.

Abeth, have you tried soda water? It was the only thing that worked for me. My older boy is called Martin, so I'm biased towards that name! Hope you & baby are well.

Jen, good to hear from you again.

Beth Ellen, you're very welcome!

Vicki, you've come through so much. I wish you joy in the future.

Love to Paul & to everyone here,
Mary

Well I'm glad that is settled.
Hello all. Nice to see you again Paul. I hope Andrea is really enjoying her current path. Just for the record I love a good foot rub but if my hubby makes me dinner I don't push for the massage, I save that for when I make dinner.
Abeth I'm glad to hear your are doing well. Welcome Beth Ellen and nice to see you again piratesavvy.
Hello Peter! Hello Grandma Mil. Come in Tim, come in, can you read us? Hmmm, no response.
Peace, Inn

Hello Everyone:

Vicki - Exit to Eden Vicki? Big belly laugh to you too.

Rockin Jo: So glad to hear you husband passed all of his tests. But the tree? You know what to do. I'm sorry for all of your troubles. I'm thinking of you.

Abeth: Thanks for sharing. And now a bit of humor for you. The middle name for a daughter could be Ineda. Anna (I NEED A) Hester. Be well.

Hello Mary, Michelle, Inn, Evelyn aka Helen, Helen aka Evelyn, Marge, Richard, Kim and everyone else.

Soon
Michael

Kim,
If you read this could you send the email again. I received it but there is no information in the "From" field so I can't open it. Thanks
--Richard

Welcome Beth Ellen and welcome back piratesavvy! It is always good to see a new face (so to speak) and always warming when an old friend comes back!!Jo, I am glad your Hubbie passed his tests with flying colours but it is so like a bloke to want to celebrate by doing something super blokey!! Maybe you could talk him into firing up the barbie and with cold beer in hand and a few ribs sizzling away he would feel suitably blokey! And you would get a nice feed too!

Abeth - good luck with the naming!! What sdo you think of Gwenth calling her daughter Apple? My wife always liked the name Marnie. I wasnt so keen on that name then but now I quite like it. My daughters are all E's - Elise, Emily and Erin and I cant really imagine them any other way. What a fabulous journey you are on.

I would love to stay and chat but I am teaching a drama workshop in 3 hours and I have not got my act together for so to work I go.

Richard sorry about that. I have sent you another one so I hope you can open it. How are you doing?
You haven't been around very much.
Chat to you soon, the kettle is now on!

Michael sweetie how are you today? Thanks for your messages it is getting late or should I say early now so I will be in touch tomorrow. It was nice hearing from you.

Hi to everyone else in PC land. Let's hope we can all start again and get to know eachother properly.

Take care
Kim

Hey Paul.

Sorry it's been so long. And Auntie Mil, and Whit, and Evelyn and Inn and everyone. We went to Florida on vacation and then when we got back our phones were down (lines torn down again..we've got GOT to move), television didn't work and I was working on the school work...getting prepped. And then I signed on last night and there were over 400 posts..I couldn't even beging to start.

I've missed you guys. Hard to believe my second home got corrupted. This is such a wonderful "cyber" family. Love and caring words and inspiration and smiles all generate from this spacial special place rightly called Pauls corner.

I've made it through some seriously depressing times here. I suffer from bi-polar and went through a suicide attempt and people here were and are so supportive. To whomever this may affect please know that we who have been posting for a while now..have great respect for each other and their various personalities. It's wonderful.

As always when people say they miss you like my lovely Auntie Mil and then a special "echo" from my mate Paul...well what else can be said???

Paul I'm so happy for Andrea. That is thrilling and exciting and wonderful when you get to do what you love as you well know. Tell her to "break a leg" You know what I mean. It would be awesome if you taped it and sent it to Cat so we could buy a copy...I'd love to see her in a ballet..think about it.

My life is moving along. I start school on July 5th. Birthday is on the 6th (44). My kids are psyched that it is summer. We're opening the pool this weekend..hopefully. They are driving me crazy about it.

I do hope everyone is doing well and making the best of life. It's so true today it just today. We have tomorrow to look FORWARD to. I read Dr. Phil's ultimate weight loss plan. It's the bomb. It has helped me on so many levels: I'm excercising (sp) looks funny anyway and changing my way of dealing with food. Not as a comfort thing or anticdote but for what it truly is. I'm already losing pounds. And feeling wonderful about it. I'm going to make it this time. I've changed my mindset. It's liberating.

Oh I forgot..One of my clients today Paige P. was showing me pictures of her grandkids. Interesting note her grandson played Fedx in Cheaper by the dozen and just finished wrapping a pilot for a sitcom with Kirstie Alley and Ricki Lake. They don't think it will be picked up for fall but probably mid season. The pic's were cool. Her grandson was with Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt. Then he got a special squeeze from Hillary Duff. At the premiere he took a picture with Ashton, Tallulah and Demi Moore. Demi could hug me anyday...anytime.

Anyway....it's now time for a Huge
GROUP HUG...sounds like everyone needs it.

peace and love

The Timmer

He's BACk......

Paul
Welcome back.

Hello to everyone else, especially those we haven't heard from in awhile.

May life's greatest gifts always be yours--happiness, memories and dreams.

Take care,
Marge

Hey All,

I agree with Paul and Grandma Millie. And I have to admit I did feel pushed aside b/c of too many posts and people comunicating throught this blog rather than just exchanging e-mail addresses.
And we definitley need to maintain the integrity of what Paul is trying to achieve here with this blog ( I don't mean speak for you Paul and I don't want to assume but I guess I'm assuming oh well).
In other news, came home from school today and gardened until sunset. I watched each neighbor get into their cars all excited going out for the evening and what am I doing, pushing dirt. I've got to stop being a slave to my house, calm down on the chores a bit and enjoy a little relaxation, clothes shopping, or hang out with a few friends (and call Grandma Millie and Stud Muffin and join them for cake and coffee). The past few, weeks except for las Satursday when one of my neighbors invited me for pizza and white wine, the eveings have turned into hybernating in the house and projects dealing with...the house. Tommorrow I will make more of an effort to live it up or out rather. I'll finally go to the beach (and watch body builders wearing speedos strutt down the beach after a back wax, that was mean of me oh boy)and sandle shopping after I Vacumme the car, take the dog for a walk, study for a test next week , eeeeeehhhhhaaaaah!

I"ve learned something, I'd rather have a life than a perfect house.

Tommorrow I will seek a new adventure and hopefully have something intersting to share next post.

wish me luck,

It is not possible for me not to find something adventures in Fort Lauderdale, possibly a

possibly a... encounter with...a...I forget it I'm too tired to imagine anything right now.

:)

Thank you Paul.
You always have a way of setting the corner back on it's track so to speak.

Tickled pink that Andrea is back on stage, Swan Lake no less.! ! !
Now if we could see you back in your element, I think tickled purple would suit several of us.

To all who suffer manic depression and are bi-polar, at least you have been diagnosed and are receiving treatment. I get laughed at and told that it's all in my head, YEAH, RIGHT! Duh???? Then I reach for another pint of Homemade Vanilla and Strawberry ice Cream. Then the whole world takes on a different look. Maybe I should read Dr Phil's book?

Anyway, lots to do tomorrow, must get kitchen cleaned up tonight. Gathered fresh plums this evening, another big storm moving in from the north. Hopefully we will have no Hail. I have a momma cat that just insists on moving her kittens(2). She just will not leave them in what I consider a protected area for bad weather.

Hugs to all here at the PC
Hugs to Paul and Andrea and the 3-E's
Welcome to all new and old.
Sherrlyn

Julie, being an obsessive compulsive I can totally relate to the whole clean house issue but I've found a great way to deal with it, I stay out of it! It works like a charm, but I have to figure out a way to sit and watch a movie without having to clean the place.
Saw the newest Harry Potter tonight and it was excellent. I will go see it again for sure.
Hello to all, nice to see you Tim, sorry for your techinical difficulties.
Peace, Inn

My Dear Timmer,

I was concerned about you, and here you are, after a nice Floridian vacation (probably on the west coast, right?) sounding optimistic about going to school, and getting on the weight-loss program...good for you! Now, what about those tap routines for "Follies"????

Rehearsals have been going great here, but not always with a full cast because people come and go (it's vacation time, and yes, even retirees like to go on "vacation" (trips, etc.) To me, retirement is an ongoing vacation every day.

Julie, we'll look forward to your visit soon. By the way, being you will be the designated tour director during the FIF around Ft. Lauderdale's beaches and shops, make a list of sights to see for our lovely PCers.

Those body builders in speedos sound promising and maybe I'll join the tour too, but only if I know what a speedo is. I think I used to know...

Sherrlyn, good to have you back!

Abeth, take care, feel good. By the way, we have
9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren in Israel who all have Hebrew names.

Ellie has a written record of their names and birthdays, so we won't forget. The eldest, our first granddaughter, now a mother herself, is named "Noga" which means "evening star", (like Venus) then boys named Elchanan, Dotan, Yakov, Matanya, and Avi, and girls named Batya, Bina, and Chava. "Dotan" was village mentioned in the Bible where Joseph was taken by his brothers.

The other names are Hebrew names, common in Israel. Does that help??

Peace and Love,

Mil

Ahh the good old speedo! Also known as "dick togs" here in Oz. I will let Peter explain as he is the expert on Ozzie culture and a damn good bloke to boot! That is if he is not too flat out like a lizard drinking.
Speedos love em or hate em>

Me I hate em, give me boardies any day!

ps I reckon Peter has perle dick togs to compliment his perls suite!? Of course worn over the all over! Isnt that right Peter??

Perhaps that is unfair of me but you are welcome to take your revenge! :_)

Abeth,
Try candied ginger or ginger tea for your nausea. It is an old Chinese remedy, but it is supposed to work for most people. Make the tea with regular ginger and sip it.

Hello Paul,
I gave my husband your advice, but he looked at me like I was crazy. He says it is just a small tree and he had planned to cut it down before his heart attack so why not do it now. Of course, we will have the BBQ later if we're not back at the hospital.

Good morning/evening to all, depending on where you live.

Paul,
I tried your eggs and beer recipe this morning and it was a BIG hit! You're going to laugh at me, but I didn't have any chicken or meat leftovers, just hot dogs, and decided what the hey, and threw them in. I'm off to the grocery store later for ingredients for tomorrow's dinner. Your chicken recipe sounds delish! Thanks for the suggestion!

Tim,
Good to see you back and in such good spirits.

Peter,
Good to see you again, too. Oh noooo, not purle speedos!

Julie and Mil,
I have no problem sitting under my umbrella on the beach, sipping a cool one and watching all the bodybuilders in THEIR speedos! I do draw the line at thongs for men, tho. Can't remember what they call those things - pouches???

Cat,
Thanks for posting that great article on Andrea! I was hoping to find a write-up about her and here you are, come to the rescue!

Paul,
You must be SO proud and Andrea sounds so excited about performing again. This is a feel good thing all around. Congratulations!!

Gotta get this show on the road, as they say, so will wish everyone here a good weekend. It's raining here but I don't care. If it's nice out, all I want to do is get outdoors. When it's like this, I get a burst of energy and start one of my projects that I've put off for a rainy day...

Smiles to all,
Sally

Hello to everyone and I hope you are all enjoying the weekend.
Jo what are you having on your BBQ? I haven't had one of those for such a long time. We don't have the good weather like you do so most of our cooking is done inside, put an extra sausage on for me.

Paul it is good to see you are posting again, what's it like being a house husband? For some strange reason I can't imagine you with a feather duster and furniture polish in your hands and yet I can see you cooking in the kitchen with your beer! I really hope you find work soon.

I hope you all have a great day.
Kim

Sally
I must have missed the article on Andrea and her performance in Swan Lake. Where can I find it?

What is a speedo? Something OZ?

On a sad note I am attending a memorial service for a horse friend. Her husband died suddenly of a heart attack with no warning. They sold their farm to their daughter retired two years ago, bought a diesel pusher and have been touring the south. They were on their way home for the summer. He was a young 58.

Hay gang!
New ballroom dance movie coming out in October. "Shall We Dance?", with Richard Gere, Susan Surranden, and Jennifer Lopez. Not to take anything away from you Paul, and SB. Still my favorite dance movie.

Today is the third jewel of the triple crown in thoroughbred racing. Can't wait so see if Smarty Jones can do it. If he wins he will probably be retired to stud because of the enormous amount of insurance they would have to carry on him, to keep him racing. Something like 40 Million or more.

Glad to see you posting again Timmer.

Enough babbling
Take Care
Marge

Marge: Speedo's - Mens swimwear originally designed for competition swimming and diving. Now all the guys who think they have a bod think they can wear them. NOT!!!

If I remember correctly, Paul wore a gold one in Exit to Eden? ? ?

This must be the weekend for BBQ's. We are planning to fire up the grill and cook a few ribs, hamburgers, and maybe even some chicken.
We have a charcoal Weber and I'm trying to talk DH into a Stainless Steel, Brass Burner gas grill so I can use it too. I can never get the charcoal to light, stay lit or get hot enough to cook. For years I cooked on a small Habiatche(sp) grill and really didn't have too much trouble but this big one irritates me.

Well I have plums cooking and need to go check on them. Can't decide if I want to make Jelly or Jam. But have to do something with them. Picked Apricots this morning, will stew them to go with the BBQ and Beans.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone enjoy the weather, we are supposed to have more storms this afternoon. Be careful with the fire starting your BBQ.

Hugs to all,
Sherrlyn

lol@the post

anyway just wanted to drop by and say hi to paul i just saw joseph the other day on tv and it made me think about how damn sexy you were once again. hott with the egyptian eyeliner and costume ;)
anyway see you soon!
Love
Erika Crystal

Marge,
So sorry to hear about your horse friend. It's always a shock when someone young dies suddenly. My husband was 54 when he died of a heart attack. My condolences.

We're all rooting for Smarty Jones today! He's a local horse out of Philadelphia Park, just 15 minutes away from us. We're having "Smarty parties" everywhere and if he wins, there will be a great parade for him. Believe it or not, he got a police escort to Belmont with police from Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey! He's quite the celebrity around here.

I watched an hour long special on tv about the films coming out this summer and I, ROBOT was featured with Will Smith giving an interview. Looks good, as I love sci-fi. There are quite a lot of good looking films coming out and I hope I can see them all. Haven't heard of SHALL WE DANCE. Did see HAVANA NIGHTS, tho. Did you?

Andrea's interview is posted here on the homepage. Thanks again, Cat!

Sherrlyn,
We use our gas BBQ a lot. We're on the Atkin's diet, so it gets a lot of use. We finally bought a good one, as you described, with the stainless steel burners and all the bells and whistles. I'm sure you would enjoy the gas over charcoal, unless you would miss the charcoal flavor.

Smiles to all,
Sally

Hello Everyone,
Congratulations Abeth on the upcomming arrival. I had a hard time naming my children and I have 5 of them. I have 4 boys, Kristopher, Anthony, Chance, and Ty and I have one daughter Patricia. I honestly didnt name them all. When I was still with there father I had let him decide on a few of them. I had wanted to name my daughter Makayla Renee but she is not named that. If you are getting morning sickness I have somethings simple that might help you. I never got sick in any of my pregnancies and when ever my tummy was upset I would eat a peppermint candy or drink some peppermint tea. It is a natural soother for your tummy when you are not feeling well. Let me know if it helps any and again congrats on the baby.
Paul,
As for the speedo issue I do agree. I dont think that they are appealing to wear in just any situation. For the sports that they are needed that is great but then again i have seen them were I am at where they look like a speedo in the front and they are a thong in the back. But my final oppinion on the speedo issue is that if the person has enough wants to wear it. Go for it. It is not for them to please everyone else but to please themselves first. You have to make yourself happy before anyone else around you can be happy. Speedo's or not.

Everyone Else,
I am still learning names and I just wanted to tell all of you to have a wonderful day and to think happy thoughts.

Melinda

Re: Speedos

The best thing about speedos is taking them off!
(Sorry, I just couldn't help myself.)

Vicki

Hello Everyone:

Just came in from outside. Have been in the yard on and off all day. Cutting the grass, weeding the flower beds, fertilizing. I love working in the yard. Very peaceful and meditative.

After all of the rain we have had everything is realy taking off. Everything looks really good.

So there seems to be a lot of back and forth about speedos today. What is it about speedos that sets the tongues to wagging? Humm? Talk of bodybuilder watching with back waxes. Sorry never understood waxing. Pouring hot wax on yourself and then ripping your body hair out by the roots. And a bikini wax. Oh my god!

I wore them myself in my younger days. Had the bum and the body to back it up - all puns intended. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case. Now I go for what Paul calls the boardies. Also unfortunately, many of the men who wear speedos should be wearing boardies.

I guess I have a question out of all of the speedo talk. I know what a speedo is and I know what a suit is. What is a perl?

Vicki - taking speedos off? Now that was a belly laugh.

Melinda: Loved your comment: "if the person has enough wants to wear it. Go for it. It is not for them to please everyone else but to please themselves first. You have to make yourself happy before anyone else around you can be happy." Now that applies to life! Thanks.

Marge: Sorry about your friend. My condolences. Don't follow the horses, but if you are rooting for Smarty Jones then I'll keep my fingers crossed!

Jo: So what happened today with the tree?

Paul: How did the acting workshop go? Was is a one shot deal or is it on going? Were you working on technique, scene study, muscial theatre?

Tim: Glad you got a vacation before school, because once it starts it is relentless. Good luck to you.

Inn: You have been making me think so much about art that I decided to go to the art museum in Chicago tomorrow. I want to see the painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat. Steven Sondheim wrote a musical inspired by the painting called Sunday In The Park With George. I'm going to take my headphones, listen to the music, look at the painting as see what happens. Thanks for reminding me.

Sherrlyn: Like Sally I hope that you get the gas grill that you want, but until that happens I have a suggestion for you.

I was like you frustrated that I could not get the coals to light, not even etc. and the taste of the charcoal starter in the food. My sister gave me a Chimney Starter. It is a metal cylinder about a foot high and 8 inches in diameter. About 3 inches from the bottom, there is a metal screen. You take some crumpled newspaper and put it under the screen on the bottom, then put charcoal on top of the screen, light the paper with match or light and set inside the Weber. It usually starts the first time and in about 20-30 minutes you have evenly lit coals ready to go. Grab it by the handle and dump out the coals. You can get it at any home remodeling place like Home Depot or Lowes. You can also get it on the Internet at Weber website or Amazon.com. They cost from $10-15 and they are worth it.

Speaking of BBQ - Kim Sweetie - so sorry to hear that you can't grill in the UK. I have a few recipes that you can make inside that might help you out. Nothing is as good as outside grill, but these may get you through.

Well everyone take care.
Soon.
Michael

I have just been looking on the cover of my Strictly Ballroom DVD and I noticed a picture of Scott in Fran's arms (dancing)I can't find this scene in the actual film, does anyone know if it is and I've just missed it or was it a promotional thing for the cover?

Michael BBQ's we do have them here but not that often as our weather is so unpredictable. Food always seems to taste better when it has been cooked outside.

Kim

Hello all PCrs
To any new folks and returning posters hope you're having a good weekend.

Michelle
How ya sleeping lately? Do I need to call up my friend Eric again? Or ya wanna just go Stringing along?

Mary
How's the computer, jellybean? Fada go Brách!

Kim
Kettle's on.
Sunday. Roast. Bisto tatties. Mushy peas. Yorkshr' Pud. Banoffee pie. Your place or mine?

Michael
Chicago. Art gallery. Shopping on Michigan Ave. Lunch on Lake Shore Dr. Or maybe hotdogs and Blues in Grant Park. Be there.
Thought For The Day:
All good things come to those who wait.
Just bidin' my time.

Paul
Class go well? How's things in the full-service dept.?

Later
--Richard

PS: Inn
The Chicago outing--you coming, too?
--Richard

Hi, I just wanted to post because all of you seem pretty cool and interesting. I hope I'm not intruding.
Paul, you seem like an awesome person!
All of you are making me want to BBQ! But I'm scared to approach my parents gas grill. The other day my mom and I were using it and found that the little fire starter button doesn't seem to work anymore. So she turned on the gas, and the gas was on for, uuhh, a little while while she was getting the matches so we kinda had a little bit of fire when she was putting the lit match near the grill. We didn't get hurt but my mom doesn't have any more hair on the arm she extended to the grill.

Hey all, It's Kelly, member me???

I know, I know, I fell off the face of the earth, but it took me 3 days to read all the posts!!!! but all is coming together, now. Let me explain.

My mother broke her foot and sprained her ankle, and was hyped on MANY painkillers along with her other meds for all of her 6 diseases (5 auto-immune & schloradurma & fybromyalsia), My dad has never been the same since his massive stroke last year, so he can't take care of himself right now and Mom can;t take care of herself, so I have been caring for them both and it gets very tiring with my auto-immune (Sarcoidosos) in full speed and making me very fatigued. I cook their meals for the week and clean their "under construction" house in one day while calling them 6 times per day when I am not there to make sure they eat and take meds. (they are like 2 kids right now), Tom & the I and the kids decided we would take a vacation, just a couple days away, our first time ever. While we were gone, my dad had a spell and fell because my mom has been so doped up she didn't know what was going on. We think my dad went 2 days without eating, we don't know, but think he had another stroke during this time. (talk about a GUILT TRIP for leaving!! ) I work full time, run a travel baseball team with my husband (that my son is currently hurt and can't play) and am caring for my folks, and I am falling apart, (or I WAS). I asked my 2 brothers and 1 sister for help, and I was shot down by 2 of the 3. My sister lives down the road about 2 miles and she said she just didn't have time and got mad that I asked for help and hung up on me. My one brother that lives nearby, also go t mad and said he didnt have time. the one brother that agreed to help lives 2 1/2 hours away and he is not coming down for 3 weeks, but will help when he comes down. All I asked was that we all take turns stopping in on them to make sure all is well. And not just ME !!! I love my folks and feel it is now our turn to take care of them. But for the last several years, it seams it's just me doing this. So I have run myself ragged, (Mil, this explains my response to your email as to why I am never here anymore) Just when I thought all was lost,my sister went over to my parents and was shocked at how bad it had gotten, she has agreed to go over 1 time per week to refill the pill organizers my parents have to take each week. Yeah.. one less thing I have to think about, the medicine. But thats 1 time a week and she lives so close, I don't get it. I live 25 minutes away and I am there every day just about. My one brother that lives here is also proclaiming to be available to help, we will see, he is very busy eith a son graduating high school. I don't expect anyone to care for them the way I do, just to help me out would be nice.
Anyway,,,,,,, My mom is off alot of the hard loopy drugs and can care for herself pretty much and so I don't have to worry about dad as much, as mom knows whats going on and I don't have to worry if dads giving her the wrong meds. (yes, it happened and she could have died, but I was there to stop him from giving it to her) At any rate, aside from work that is were I am most of the time then there is baseball. I just didn't have time, still don't but didn't want anyone to worry about me anymore. Thanks for the concern.

As for my health, I still have to go to the Rhumatologist ( i know I spelled that wrong), as they found a bunch of other junk they think is wrong but I am not listening amymore as I don't get the terminology, so I will wait for the big doctors to spell it out for me, then I will think about it, and figure things out. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, I appreciate them.

Jo, you are very brave. Thanks for sharing your story, it's always ok to share , here, however long and painful it may be..... That's what we are all here for. I know, I have benifited greatly form all the positive energy at this site many times, and needed every bit of it. You are in my thoughts. Keep staying strong.

Mil, as always, thanks for caring and being concerned, I will get that email to you with all the info you suggested, and I will be calling you soon. I love you much much much, I am forever your "little chickie"

Evelyn, Monika, Mary, Robyn, Katalina, Marge, Michelle, Leslie (my auto-immune sister, with Jo) ,,,,,,,,,,,,, thanks for thinking of me and my family... kiss kiss kiss kiss

Abeth, I am so happy the spotting stopped, I told you you had nothing to worry about.

Evelyn, thanks for all the healing thought for Clay, they worked, he is healing, slow but sure.

Marge, what place did you come in in your horse show on 5-23?

Diane, thinking of you often,,, how are you doing????? Hope all is well. Hope you are so well you are off doing wonderful things and just don't have the time to post.

Well, after a few hours decent sleep, I was able to read all the posts,,,, alot has happened.

Just to let you all know, EVERY new person is welcome here, we all have to live with each other and love each other, well i guess we don't have to love each other, but it sure feels better than anger. We are all here because of our love and devotion to each other and to Paul, Andrea and the girls. It's ok to come here to cry, I just did, and it's ok. I just posted my longest blog, and its ok. I don't feel bad about it. If someone isnt interested in what I am saying, skip over it, my feelings arent hurt and it really doesnt matter. Move on to something that moves you or inspires you. It's that simple, we are hear to feel good and get inspired, anyway we can.

if anyone has left recently, come back!!!
I miss everyone and am anxious to catch up.

Well I am done, (finally) and I am happy to be feeling good enough to be back.

Love to all on the corner.........xoxoxoxxo
Have you all missed my kisses????

Kelly

Paul,

Forgot to say hi to you!!
Congrats on being in demand right now, Better to be in demand and miss work than not to be in demand. I think it's awesome that Andrea is on stage!!! Your girls must be proud, as are you, I am sure. Looking forward to I, robot. I know, I know, the credits only... but I always stay to watch the credits and now I will actually know someone in them! How's the restaurant/pub/brewery project coming??
Love to you and your family.

kelly

Kelly

Wow, Kelly! It's wonder you're not dead instead of just exhausted, with all you do. I sure hope your brothers and sister come through for you, and for your mom and dad. Hey, they're THEIR parents as well. You're a special lady. Hang in.

Vicki

Paul, ...ahhhh!...revenge is sweet!
Seems pretty queer that a wog like me would be left to explain the Aussie culture, but, since I've been living here such a bloody long time, I 'spose I'm suitably qualified.

Speedos are also known as "dick stickers". No explanation reqired.

I don't have a purle pair, but I do have a black pair that I wear in the pool when I do "water running". This particular activity demands the freedom of the spandex material.
Speedos can also be worn on your head (cranium) as a special fashion statement.

I reckon Paul's just about having a go at me. I'll wait till he least expects it to extract my revenge. Tee hee.

That's really cool about Andrea scoring the dancing role. She has a very elegant poise about her. I imagine that she would bring a beautifully dignified interpretation to the part.
Congratulations Andrea.

I caught a little of a programme last night about comic book superheroes. Fans were invited to vote for their all-time top ten.
Batman came in first. I was impressed. I really like the moody, emotionally scared, dark aspect of his character. Sound like he'd be pretty cool to have around. Hmmm....I might have to swap the purle suit for a purle & black one, with pointy ears to boot.

I'll just go back to work now (I'm a fair way from home today, just checked into PC to give my own CPU a break, so it doesn't overheat).

Hi to everyone from the purle wearin' Pete downunder.

here here with kudos to Andrea back in her dancing slippers again. congrats!! That sure WOULD be lovely to some pics...
(i second those hints... *smile*)

having a househusbanddaddychefmasseur sounds very nice...i wouldn't mind a neck *ahem* aaaa...footrub or two or a home-cooked meal by my partner... lucky woman that Andrea!!! tee hee...

big hey to all these lovely ppl at PC
(boisterous grinn and a wave to Tim!! Good to see you back online)

Hi to Kelly, Mary, Inn, Grandma Mil, Paul, Marge, Michelle and all else...

it's late...i cannot believe I'm up this late....
can't sleep i guess..

Peter: i liked Michael Keaton's version of Batman with that haunted moodiness and his issues with his past carrying over...but as for the suit...i have to go with the anatomically enhanced rubber Batsuit that ..was it Val Kilmer or George Klooney wore? i forget..but it had interesting pectoral regions defined and otherwise...i didn't even get to the *ahem* pointy ears...lololol

latte hugs to all
big shout out to Inn babaaaay (sorry i missed you on AIM..I'll fill ya in..glad you enjoyed HP..i have yet to see it..:-) )
Katalina

Hello, Paul and all the PCers,
Great to hear from you again, Paul, and thanks for posting the article about Andrea, Cat; it was such a nice write-up.
Sherrlyn, love the 3 E's comment,lol.
Kelly, I hope your siblings share your parents' care more, that is so much to deal with, especially with your own health concerns. I'm not sure I remember where you live, but sometimes you can find public health programs, etc that can check on people who need care at home. It would be good to have something like that even if it was only for the times when you just can't be there yourself. Take care.
Good to see you post, Tim.
Love the speedo nicknames; my co-workers and I still talk about perving,lol.
Heather,those started buttons don't last long, sorry to say. At least not in any gas grill I've had. Now I stick with the George Foreman grill. ;)
Abeth, don't get me started on baby names . . .
ok, too late. A couple I have always liked are Stephanie and Chantal. I love to hear all the names of the kids in a family, most of the time there are patterns, sometimes obvious,like the 3 E's, sometimes you have to look a minute. A friend insisted her daughter's names were totally different. Jill and Lisa. Both 4 letters, both L and I. She'd never noticed. But I think we have sounds we like and that's what we go by.
I watched the race yesterday, Smarty Jones gave it a heck of a shot, but Birdsong took it. The owner felt so bad, but it was quite a race.
hugs and smiles to all,
deltalady aka Sally

Hi everyone! Busy correcting papers but the end is in sight. Hope everyone is having a great weekend Down Under, Across the Way, Over Here, Over There, wherever.

Hi Tim! Great to see you and to hear that things are good for you. Hope the positive energy continues to surround you and yours. Take care.

Hi and love to Millie. Can't wait to see what you and Julie will come up with for us. Hi Julie!

Marge, sorry to hear about your friend's husband. Have you got used to having the house back to just yourself yet?

Michael, enjoy the garden! Hope the bad weather is long gone.

Richard, computer's behaving itself nicely thank you!

Welcome Heather!

OMG Kelly!! How do you do it? Reading your post made me feel like I needed a rest! I hope the caring is shared out a bit more for you soon and that everyone starts to pick up. Your loving energy was missed but you've just delivered a double dose to us, so we're okay now. Love to you.

Hi Peter. No comment about the Aussie speedos. I'm blushing and I've no purle suit to disguise the fact! I have loved Batman ever since I watched the original every week when I was young. You know .. the POW! BIFF! AAARGH! version. I agree with Kat. Michael Keating smoulders in the part. Dark, mysterious and tortured. Irresistible.
Hope you get to come home soon.

Love & best wishes to Diane.

Hi back to Kat! Any decision about the massage course yet?

Hi also to Sherrlyn, Kim, Vicki, Melinda, Abeth, Sally C & Sally D, Michelle, Evelyn and to everyone dropping by today.

Love to Paul and to you all,
Mary

Quote For The Day:

My House said to me:
"Do not leave me, because here lives your past."

The Road said to me:
"Come and follow me, because I am your future."

To my House and to the Road I replied:
"I have no past, neither have I a future.
When I remain here, there is in my staying a going.
And, if I go, there is in my departure a remaining."

Only love and death change all things.

From: The Garden of the Prophet--Kahlil Gibran

Be well everyone.
--Richard

After reading Kelly's post made me realise how much I miss my sister. I haven't seen her for nearly two years. We have never been close as sisters but we did talk to eachother. She married a few years ago to someone who isn't much good but she does have four beautiful girls two by him and two by another partner. Ever since she has been with him she has changed so much and not for the better, she lies constantly and even steals from her own family. Last year she wrote and said she had breast cancer, at the time all I could think of was thank god it isn't me, I know that must make me sound like such a bad person but then I started to think of her girls and then I quickly started to think it should be me. I don't have a family of my own so I had nothing to lose but the girls could lose there mum. Thankfully as far as I know her treatment is working I just wish she would make contact. It is nice to have friends I can speak to but it isn't the same as having my big sister there.
I apologise to you all if I have gone on a bit but thanks for listening to me.

Richard yes I did have my roast and it was very nice especially the yorkshire puds.

Hello to everyone I hope you are all having a great Sunday and the weather is nice for you all.

Kim

Kim, by coincidence, I had just spoken to my own older sister who lives overseas, in Israel.

She and I were comparing notes about our dear, departed parents, and our "baby sister" who perished 30 years ago with her 3 little children and her husband in a private plane crash.

She was only 36 years old, and the children 12, 10, and 6, and to this day, we still are saddened by the memories, but life has gone on, and that's the way it is.

Of course, you worry about your sister and her illness. Sisters (or brothers) share so much.

Perhaps you could send her a note expressing your concern, opening the door to more contact. It's worth a try.

Good luck!

Peace and Love,

Grandma Mil

Hello everyone, it seems I must unconfused the men a bit, [what is it with you men and the comment “I usually am confused anyway”???? :-)]--in particular Paul, Michael and Richard. I so enjoyed developing the mysterious side of me and here you guys demand that I explain … Men! … Hmm, kind of like you guys, so I’ll spill:

There really only is one of me. Paul, the Evelyn of the –now how did you put it?—ahh “There is Evelyn - she of the long post and who leaves unfinished beers around and then there is Evelyn - aka Helen darling whom is new and I have probably not welcomed?! A belated welcome to you!” We are one and the same, I think anyway, although the “Evelyn-aka Helen darling” is what Michael calls me and that one happened when he mistook me to be Helen and from then on out, my name got a few additions. But the Evelyn aka Helen Darling part of me thanks you for your welcome and perhaps she will develop some sort of a personality of her own, distinct of the Evelyn of the long post etc. As to the leaving unfinished bears around, I’ll just leave you to your beliefs and will enjoy a bear instead, all of it, and I mean that! :) Paul, a little less confused? Hello to you, glad to hear from you, hugs, good wishes and all the other good stuff to you and congrats to you Andrea for performing with the Australian Ballet. Have fun! And enjoy being in the spotlight for now.

Richard, you wanted me to explain myself and my (unintentionally!) cryptic comments and references to different countries, places I call home, languages etc. When I read your story, I laughed so hard, as it is very close to mine. Okay, I am from Germany, near Karlsruhe (SW Germany), went to England pretty much every summer from age 5 on (unless you want to count a previous in uterus trip), hence I call it home and thus claim to be homesick for a visit to the UK, haven’t been there since 1998 (???), came to the US for one year and that was 13 years ago. Lived in Louisiana for the first three years, sampled a bit of a taste of living in the 19th century, nope didn’t live in the Big Easy, went there frequently to keep me culturally and otherwise sane, lived in Baton Rouge, a place name locals really don’t know how to pronounce, he he, visited NW Florida a few times from there, then came to the Twin Cities, of course I live in Minneapolis, hipper, cooler, more liberal than St. Paul, esp. the Uptown part. And on to the topic of Dutch: well, it’s reasonably close to German, hence I understand a reasonable amount of it, but never studied it, hence don’t know how to spell or write it. Okay, does that suffice? Unconfused?

Okay, what was I supposed to unconfused Michael about? Can’t remember … :) Hi to you.

Abeth, re. name suggestions, I’ve always loved Ana-Lena or Ana-Lisa (but definitely would spell Ana with one n only) good luck to you.

Kelly, glad to hear from you and boy you are tough!!! I just wish you’d get more support from your siblings to take care of yourself and your parents. Glad Clay is healing nicely and you are holding on somehow. More healing wishes to you, Clay, your parents. Hang in there and keep asking your siblings for help.

Melinda and Vicki(e), welcome!!! Looking forward to hearing more from you and getting to know you.

Mary, I’d love to talk to you about your thesis topic, perhaps over email, as I don’t think everyone might be interested in that, I think Michael was as well, so please join. I’ve thought about a holistic approach to teaching as well and am trying it out, not always easy though. Yep, lets treat ourselves to a bit of professional development, the fun way! Good luck grading the papers and enjoy your break that’s coming soon.

Speedos, Well, it could always be the g-string the kind that male dancers wear in gay clubs… Done with that topic.

Peter, looking forward to observing your taking revenge on Paul when you choose to take it. :) Hope you get to go home soon and relax! Be well!

Marge, sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. Be well and allow yourself to grieve!

Tim, good to hear from you and again, best of luck beginning school. If and when you hit the grad school blues, you too Julie, talk to me, I might be able to pass some strategies along to help you get through, that is if you want to. And as one of the people who was there when you hit rock bottom, it’s amazing how far you’ve gotten in such a short time. I’m very proud of you and wish you the very best.

Kim, go talk to your sister!!! My sister is again being screene for breast cancer, they ruled it out several months ago, but now symptoms have recurred and she has to go in for new tests on Wednesday. Give her whatever support you can give her, that she will accept. Mine only talks to me about it and refuses to talk to Mum and my other sister. Not sure why and somehow can't get her to see how much more support she'd get if only she'd let them. She thinks Mum can't handle it because my Dad died from cancer, but I know Mum can totally handle it and she'll only be hurt by not having been told. Do I betray my sister's fragile trust and tell Mum or do I respect her wishes? Well, I'm thinking about you and your sister as well and sending healing energy to her and to you and her for an improved relationship.

Okay, Evelyn of the long post signs off, wishing everyone well, lots of love and positivity to you all, Michelle, Kim, Katalina, Inn, Grandma Mil, Monika, Vicki/e, deltalady, bluedog, Marge, Mary, Kelly, Erika, Abeth, the two Sallys, Tim, Peter, Michael, Richard, Paul, Andrea and the 3 E’s and everyone else here.

Oh, just noticed, I didn't welcome you Heather. Sorry about that. Welcome to you and no, we don't mind you coming aboard. It's great that you did!

Kim,

Your initial, split-second reaction that you were glad that it wasn't you doesn't make you a bad person. It is a normal self-preservation reaction. I understand your concern for your sister's situation. But, you must never feel that what your sister is going through should be happening to you instead. We each have our own paths to travel and can never exchange one for the other. The best we can do is to try and lighten each other's burdens along the way. Remember the 5-foot-long chopsticks?
Just because you don't currently have a husband/partner or children does not mean that you don't have a "family" of your own. And, it certainly doesn't mean that you are any less valuable and deserving in your own right.
Besides, you'd be surprised just how many positive effects you have on people around you without even knowing it. Effects on family, friends, co-workers or even casual acquaintances.

As for the distance between you and your sister, it's not written anywhere that siblings must be best friends. But, you love each other none-the-less don't you?
You say that she's in a relationship with someone that isn't much good. Perhaps her change in behavior is due to his undue influence over her. Perhaps it's a call for help. Either way, maybe you could make an extra effort to reach out to her. Sometimes it's hard for people in need to reach out, be it fear, guilt, shame, etc.
Maybe you can help out with the girls while she is under treatment and in recovery. And I say recovery because breast cancer is not an immediate death sentence. Caught early and properly treated it is definitely survivable.
Maybe your sister merely needs a bit of emotional support. Maybe just a hug from a loving sister is enough. I have no way to know just what your situation is and I obviously don't know the whole story. Maybe there is something in the past keeping you and your sister at a distance. But there always has to be someone to make the first move. Sometimes we just have to swallow our pride and be the one to make it. Years from now you don't want to be looking back with a heart full of could-have-beens, should-have-beens, I-wish-I-hads.
Only you know what may be needed. Only you know how much you are able to take on.

Take care and be strong.

--Richard

Kim,
Call your sister right now. It is only 9:30 p.m. where you are and she would love to hear from you I know.

The tree did not get cut down yesterday. Thank heavens. My niece and her son arrived for a month long visit. He is 15 and unfortunately arrived looking like Morticia from the Adams Family. Turns out it was a compromise because he really wanted a tattoo.

A big hello to everyone. I read the article about Andrea and you must be really proud of her Paul. Bravo to Andrea!!!

Evelyn,
Good to hear back from you. I was never really confused by you. You commented that I seemed to know way too much about the UK, US and the Netherlands and asked for specifics. I commented that you also seemed to have quite a world-citizen background and was curious about your story. Tit-for-Tat, so to speak.

>>of course I live in Minneapolis, hipper, cooler, more liberal than St. Paul...
--So, are you a Paisley Park, Red Corvette, Purple Rain kinda'chick (oops, sorry...Lady)?
Take Care
Richard

I am sitting here in floods of tears after reading everyone's kind words. I truly wasn't expecting any, thank you to you all. I'm sending you all lots of big hugs.

Grandma Millie I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your younger sister and family. Even though it was along time ago the memories will always stay with you. Yes you are right, life does exactly that and goes on but the hurt always stays with you. Stay in touch with your sister in Israel and treasure eachother.

Evelyn I will be thinking of your sister on Wednesday, let's hope it is a false alarm and nothing too serious to worry about. Easier said then done! It is so hard to offer support when that person refuses to take it, maybe they are frightened or just stubborn. Let your sister tell your mum when she is ready maybe she doesn't want to worry her unnecessarily (not sure if I've spelt that right).

Richard me and my sister have never been the best of friends we are barely sisters these days but yes I do love her. Her behaviour isn't a call for help because of her husband she would never leave him although I think she would be a better person for doing it and I know the girls would have a brighter future with him not being part of there lives but that is her decision and I have to accept that. My sister and her husband have caused a lot of hurt and upset with me and my parents over many years, we were even banned from going to her wedding. I send my sister and the girls birthday cards they always get returned to me, once they decided to visit for christmas when they left they also left behind all the presents I had bought for them, excuse being no room in the car. It is just really small things that hurt the most.
Thank you for your kind words.

Jo I constantly try to phone my sister but when she keeps changing her number I can never get through to her. I am always trying to make the first move, I have tried phoning, writing and even sending text messages but I never get any replies. I just have to face up to the fact she doesn't want me in her or her childrens life at the moment.

Sorry this is so long but I did want to thank everyone, your kind words mean the world to me. Maybe one day my sister will realise that she does have a sister that cares for her.

Love to you all
Kim x

Kim,
All you can do is open your arms to someone. It doesn't mean they will rush into them. I have only one brother and we have not spoken to each other since my mother's funeral in 1997. Entirely his choice. What is the saying about What Goes Around Comes Around. Just keep trying. A brother or sister is a precious thing.

Kim
I understand better now. As I said before, I didn't know the whole story so was just tossing out a couple of best-guess ideas.
Family can be one of our greatest joys and one of our heaviest burdens. Sometimes it's really too bad that we can't choose our families like we do our friends. I have plenty of family heartache stories to tell, too. If you want I'll email you and we can "chat".
But, I can hardly say it any better than Jo did. All you can do is open your arms. You can't make anyone rush into them. Hopefully your sister will come to her senses before it's too late and realize what she's missing.
I don't know how old her children are now, but you know what? One day when they're older their going to remember about Auntie Kim and the Christmas presents from you that mom and dad left behind. Then they'll come seeking you out and will see just what a marvelous person they've been missing out on all along.
So, dry your tears, dear Kim. You're doing all that you can. Nobody can ask or expect more. Accept the kind words. You deserve them.
--Richard

It is true that there is no rule written that we must like and or get on with our family members. It is one of my fears that for what ever reason my girls may not like me as we get older - I dont think it will happen, but it is a fear non the less and there is a lot of water to flow under the bridge yet - so it keeps me on my toes.

Kim it sounds like you have done all that you can do, the hand is extended, open and offered. From what you have said it would seem it is not wanted. I am sorry for that and the pain that must bring. Sometimes with friends there comes a time when you realise the friendship is no longer a healthy one and you have to cut it lose. As I said above (and Richard said also) there is no rule saying that wont be so with family. I am sure your offer will stand with your sister but cutting lose from the pain of the situation and the unfulfilment of your hopes to come together is probably something you should consider now. You never know what may happen down the road.

Kelly great to hear from you and MY GOD GIRL got enough on your plate? Bloody siblings hey! Kids are all so different in how they relate and respond to their parents. I will go out of my way to help and support my Mum no questions asked. My brother will go out of his way if it is convenient for him and if mum can fit in to his going out of his way. Some would say it is one and the same thing and maybe it is - I dont see it that way but my brother probably does. I could go about this at length but suffice to say yo being there for them is what is important - help would be great, appreciated and even needed but it is about you and your parents hopefully not you and your siblings. As far as you can look after yourself. Glad to hear you are well if not too busy.

Another name for the good old Aussie speedo is "dick togs"

And then my wife surprised me by telling me she knew them as "budgie smugglers"

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Speedo = banana hammock

Paul,

thanks for the thoughts ,,, I actually took the evening off from being mom, cook, wife, daughter and coach mom to the baseball team, and layed in bed for 3 HOURS!!!
That felt great and I needed it. I feel like I could go for another week. My siblings are just "on the side" right now,my folks are whats important. I don't like how they feel but they are entitled to thier opinions and they have to live with thier decsions. I just do what I feel is right and thats all I can do. As for taking care of myself, my husband is putting his foot down and roping me in a bit... My mom is off her "loopy" painkillers now and is coherant so she can at least tell my dad what to do. She got a wheelchair so she can get around a bit now, so I wont have to worry so much or feel I have to be there every minute, that was a great surprise when I wen tover this morning. Yeah!!

Kim, All you can do extend the invitation to your sister to talk, if she accepts, great! If she doesn't, you have offered, you can't make her accept your kindness. At least you put forth the effort. My sister has always been this way. Her husband does drugs, her husband has done drugs with thier children (now grown adults) and they all have thier problems, mostly because my sister could never be a proper mother to her kids, and their dad was not a role model either. Because my sister can't mother her own kids, I should not expect her to mother our mom & dad. It just isn't part of her.If she comes through and helps I will be amased, and as for her hanging up on me. It was not the first time she has done this and surely wont be the last. I just let it go.

Monika, thanks for the email, it was great, you are a classy lady!!

Love to all on the corner...xoxoxoxxo

Kelly

Hello everyone!!

It has been a while, and I missed you all very much!! Ofcourse I tried to read all the messages, but unfortunatly I didn't have much time to post myself, haven't much time now either (have to get to work in a hour)but I really wanted to say 'hi' to everyone...

Paul,
It was so great to hear that Andrea is back on stage.
I wish I could see her appearance (is that the right word??).

Abeth,
How are you?
I always liked the name Yasmine.
Good luck with finding a name!!

Kelly,
It was so great to hear from you again.
Take care of yourself and listen to your own body! Thanks for answering my email.
And yes, I'm from Holland (the country, the Netherlands, in Europe ...) is there a Holland in Michigan too?

Kim,
You already told me ones that you don't see your sister and that you are really missing her.
I don't see my brother that often, because he doesn't live in the neigbourhood, but when I miss him, I can call him on the phone.
It must be unbearable not being able to do that with your sister!!

Tim and Peter,
It was so great to hear from you two again!!
Can't hardly wait to hear more...

Jo,
Did you ever received my email?
If you didn't, I read in it that I personally wanted to tell you that I admire you for your courage to tell on PC what is going on in you mind. I know myself that it is extremely difficult to talk and to open up but I know too that it is such a relief to talk about it...
I also wished your husband good luck on that stress test...
Have you and your husband already been riding the motorcycle?

My boyfriend and his best friend were on the motorcycles yesterday and suddenly something went very wrong...
His friend lost controll over his motorcycle. He probably underrated the power of his motor and he toppled over (?) against a tree. My boyfriend called a ambulance and the police immediately and they first were afraid that he had broken his back, but fortunatly it is (only) badly bruised...
It was a real shock to hear that he had that accident and really made me realise even more that a motorcycle is not just a toy...

I actually want to talk to everyone, but I really have to get to work now, maybe tonight??

Love to all of you!!

Monika

Where to begin..budgie smugglers LOL I got a real good laugh at that one, Banana hammock, love it, here in NEPA we call them weenie wrappers. Usually it's men who are too old or boys who are too young who wear them. All the guys you want to see in 'em are wearing boardies, bummer.
An outing in Chi town? I'd love it. I've always wanted to visit but I'm saving for FIF at the moment so the windy city will have to wait.
Kelly, I'm..gee I don't know, I wish I could help you. I pray for strength for you. You are brave too.
hello Grandma Mil! So hoping to see you in Feb.
Richard you have reminded me how much I like Gibran it's been probably 20 years since I've read him. I think it's time to revisit.
Hello Katalina dear it was so kewl to yahoo with you tonight! I will talk to you soon. Give Sinbad a pat for me.
Peter what I wouldn't give to see you with a weenie wrapper on your head. What joy that would bring!
Jo, my brother waves at me as we pass in traffic. I see him Christmas and Thanksgiving every year. It's not that we are angry at each other it's just we don't put much effort into our relationship. Sad really.
Well its far later than I should have stayed awake so I must depart from the corner.
Peace, Inn

No more Speedo stuff pulleeze!
It was just a simple, question.
I'm almost sorry I asked.

Sally C.
I saw a promotional blurb on "Shall We Dance" last week. It's slated to be released in October. I did not see Havana Nights. I saw Diego Lumas (he's not as gorgeous as our Paul with or without clothes)in an "R" rated flick and was not impressed. I intended to go see it, but it did not stay around long. It only ran for a few weeks.

Kelly
I don't show horses anymore. I run the office for our Saddle Club's Western Games shows. I created all the forms, take the money and calculate the jackpot payback money percentages. A lot of paperwork. We run 15 timed events, 8 individual events, and 7 team events. Of course if it rains we don't run, as it is too dangerous for the horses & riders. Some of the events are barrel racing, pole bending, team poles, keyhole, figure 8, and so on. If anyone wants a more detailed explanation let me know. We have two more shows, one in June and one in July. Some of you might be familiar with barrel racing, as it is usually one of the events in the rodeos.

Mary
Yes, I have my house back with a brand new master bathroom. It's so gorgeous that I hesitate to use it. Oak cabinets, oyster color sink and walls, brass fixtures, tile floor, new light. Like when I remodeled my kitchen, I just go in and turn on the light and admire it. Now all it needs is a skylight. I have some more projects, new carpet in the basement, a new deck and new slate on the entryway. Those are on hold as I am just catching my breath from the last remodel.

Oh, wise and noble Paul! Gently but firmly getting the PC back on track. Kudos to you, my dear!

Linda

Good Morning Everyone:

Even the best plans, change and turn out much better than the one you started with. Was all set to go the art museum yesterday when my Mom called and asked me to help her in the garden. Very easy to say yes to Mom and I get to work outside. We made dinner on the BBQ and ended by watching the Tony Award show on television. Yes quite a good day.

I feel a trip coming to NYC Inn, so maybe we can meet there? Richard, are you coming too?

Mary: Yes the garden is really beautiful. Are you getting the images I'm sended? I too would like to speak with you about your thesis with Evelyn. Email? Instant Messenger?

Evelyn: You explained the mix-up quite well I thought. Although I will miss addressing your mysterious other half. Always a pleasure to read your posts.

Michelle: I'm so sorry for what you are going through, but I must say that I admire your determination and strenght of will. My hat is off to you. If you could only get some help.

In some communities, there are volunteer organizations that cook meals, check on people who are ill or need assistance. Marge has spoken of her work in this area. A volunteer comes once a day to make sure that everything is alright. Maybe there is an organziation like that in your area. It would help to give you peace of mind if you want a day off with your family. Good luck to you. I'll send you my best thoughts.

Kim: Everyone here has offered counsel and suggestions. I really have nothing to add. Everyone's contribution was wise and heartfelt. However you choose to proceed, I would like to reiterate that I hope you take care of yourself. I also hope that you do not take on the burden of blaming yourself for a choice your sister continues to make. It is a choice that hurts you, but it is not your fault. I'm thinking of you and sending love your way.

To everyone else - hello and welcome to all of the new people.

Soon.
Michael

P.S.

I'm sorry. My post to Michelle was meant for Kelly.

Evelyn and Hellen are you amused?

Michael

Hello to you too Michelle. Was it dogs and suds yesterday?

Kelly,
I meant to tell you earlier to take care of yourself. It sounds like you are the "rock" in the family.

Monika,
I didn't get your e-mail, but thank you for your kind words. On this site I have found a lot of strength to get through things. Yes, we have been out on the motorcycle. We took it out yesterday and it was lots of fun. I hadn't been on it in months and months. Tell your boyfriend to be careful on his bike. I know they can be dangerous, but here a car can be just as dangerous.

Inn,
I wish that my brother did wave at me. His wife died in 1999 and he lived only about 1/2 mile away at the time. He didn't even tell me about it. His daughter contacted some of my friends in England who called me to tell me about it two weeks later. When I called him he hung up on me. Since then he has remarried, has two children and lives only about 5 miles away. I have never met his new wife.

Hello to Marge, Abeth, Grandma Mil, Vicki, Richard, Sally, Evelyn, Mary, Katalina, Deltalady, anyone I might have missed and especially Paul, Andrea, and the three E's.

Hi Michael,
Can't stay on because I have guest all this month, but wanted to say hi.

Marge, you keep turning that light on and off, enjoying the fruits of the remodeling...I know the feeling. Like Janice (where are you, Janice) would say, "Eye Candy"!

Inn, please send me your email address. Yours is the only one of "my chickies" that hope to come to FIF that I do not have.

I could not find the article about Andrea...where do I look?

I loved that Hugh Jackman won the Tony for "The Boy From Oz." The pickings this year were mighty thin in the musical theatre area. The most exciting awards, in my opinion, were for "A Raisin In The Sun". The commercial for
"Delovey" the story of Cole Porter and his music which opens in early July, was my highlight too!

Someone mentioned the remake of "Shall We Dance." The original was from Japan, with English
subtitles, about a rather dour and bored Japanese accountant who secretly decides to take dancing lessons to put some spice in his life.

It was highly touted, and now, the remake will star Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez...that will take a stretch of the imagination.

I would never call Richard Gere dour, and with JLo in the mix, how could he be bored? (Her best performance, in my opinion, was in "Selena", her first big break.)

Peace and Love,

Mil

Grandma Mil,
I saw that Japanese movie and loved it. I didn't know that they were remaking it. I hope that it turns out better than the remake of Eat, Drink, Man, Woman. I loved Eat, Drink, Man, Woman, but hated Tortilla Soup.

Oh Marge you know how we here at the boad just love to drag a joke on. We can get quite a few laughs out of it.
Michael, I could be talked into a NYC outing. And even though your post was addressed wrong it was good advice about the voulenteer organization. It's "meals on wheels" in our area. They bring a nice little lunch with some fruit and stay for just a few minutes. My aunt always enjoyed her visits though she was never one of those folks who didn't have anyone to talk to.
Grandma Mil my address is on it's way.
Peace all
Inn

Hi all! Weather here today warm and sunny and it's a public holiday so the vibes are good everywhere!

Richard, thanks for the quote from Gibran. Similar experience to Inn. I've rooted out my copy of The Prophet and hope to spend some time reminding myself why it affected me so much when I found it first. Hope you are well.

Marge, it sounds like you're creating some beautiful surroundings for yourself. Enjoy!

Jo, I hope the visit is wonderful for you all. Continued good health to your beloved and best wishes to you.

Hi Monika! I love to see you calling in. Sorry to hear about the shock you got with your boyfriend and his friend. Hope you've all recovered. Love to you.

Evelyn & Michael, I'd love to talk. I'm including my email with this post. The time difference might make the IM awkward. Not to mention the fact that it is a mystery to me. (Richard, you know the story!) Evelyn, hope you are cultivating the mysterious aura and that you are enjoying your break. I hope it all works out for your sister. That's hard on her after only coming through the last scare. Healing thoughts to her. Michael, thanks for the images. Keep them coming! If I was able, I reckon I could draw your garden at this stage.

Hi Kelly! Hope things keep improving for you and your parents. PLEASE tell me where you get your energy from?? Love to you.

Kim, I'm so sorry about your sister. The words and thoughts you've heard here are wise and from the heart. All I can add is this quote which came to mind when I was reading through the posts.

'The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life.'

'Illusions' - Richard Bach.

I hope that you gather up lots of family as you continue on your journey, maybe even your sister. As Paul said, you never know what may happen down the road. Love to you.

Hi to Paul, Inn, Michelle, Millie, Tim, Kat and everyone!

Love to you all,
Mary

Hello all PCers,
Hope your weekend was good and you managed to get a little rest, relaxation and fun.
There's so much hardship, disappointment and tears in life, isn't there?
Luckily, there are also times of ease, fulfillment and joy.
Here's wishing everyone the strength to once again climb out of the valley and on up to the next mountain top.

Thought For Today:

Invictus
--William Ernest Henley

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyound this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

Be well.
--Richard

So many comments I have to speed read to try and catch it all.
Auntie Mil...the tragedy of yesterday...man those are hard but time does go on doesn't it? My sweet mom will have been dead 7 years this year. it seems unreal sometimes around 2 oclock everyday that I don't pick up the phone and call her during her lunch.
The piece about Andrea is super. She must be elated!! And kudos to you as usual Paul for your support. Although I wouldn't expect anything less.
Grad school...Hmmmmm...it's making me nervous but I've just marked my calendar for December 2005. Then it's done. From now til then should be quite a time. An expression of an old boss of my eyes rolled back hair on fire.

Glad to see the board appears normal.

Everyone here's to a good week. When I have more time to really "read" the posts I'll respond individually...each of you are special...

peace and love

Tim

Richard,
Invictus is very thought provoking, but all I can think about when I see it is my Junior English class. We all had to memorize this and recite it in front of the class. One girl, after standing there for a couple of minutes, announced she was going to erupt and erupt she did - all over the front row. Fortunately I was three seats back.

Jo,
All I can say is, I'm LOL right now. :-D
So, for you it's more Eruptus than Invictus, is it? It's wonderful to see how the tinted glasses of experience color everything.
And, being in the 3rd seat back--see, one more thing for which to thank whatever gods may be!!!
Thanks for sharing that story.
--Richard

My last 6 days have been crazy, for a change in the good way. Wed. got a job offer for a 1 year position right here, used that to bargain with the one permanent position that I'm still a finalist for, put the pressure on them, since they were evasive, Friday I was told that I might get an interview, but they wouldn't know until Monday. Was antsy all day waiting for the damn phone to ring and 10 minutes ago got the phone call and I did get the interview for a tenure track faculty position at Minnesota State University in Mankato (2 hours south west of here). It will be tomorrow from 8:30 am straight through until 8:30/ 9 pm and on either end attach the 2 hour drive.
It’s a full schedule: 9 am teach a class (no students, only faculty in the dep. who sort of know German at different levels) then individual meeting, then research talk at 11 am (good thing I have that ready from the last on-campus interview), lunch, meeting with the dean of the College of liberal arts (1- 2:30), formal interview with the faculty (1 – 1/2 hours), campus and city tour, dinner with faculty.

Wish me luck!!! Got to prep a class and review my research presentation and teach my other teaching job this evening and then get some sleep. If it’s meant to be I’ll get it, otherwise I have the other job here at the U of MN.. The only concern they have is the employment authorization at this point and they will look into it if they are willing to do this or not and how to do it. Keeping fingers crossed there as well!

Okay, off to preping and trying to keep my nerves calm and focused! Till whenever I have a quite moment again.

Love to all and wishing you all well!

Gran Mil and other PC'ers
To see the article about Andrea, go to Paul Mercurio On Line and click on his picture in the upper right hand corner. That will bring up the article. It took me a few minutes to remember how to get to it.

It is followed by another article about the TV mini series, Through My Eyes. It's aboutthe story about a couple's baby being taken by a dingo. I guess this is the work that Paul has been doing. It did not say what role he plays, he is just mentioned.

Paul
Is this what you've been working on?

Okay here goes another question I may regret. What are boardies? Is that something Auzzie?

Kelly
My prayers are with you about your mother. Life seems to keep testing us by putting more and more on our plate, when we think we are full.

My neighbor Lori has just been served up another portion. Her grandmother is dying of emphazima and then she just found out that her Mother has lung and liver cancer. I help them when I can, although she has a lot of family support.

You are a strong person and will get through all this. I wish I lived nearer to you so that I could come and help; dust, make dinner, do laundry, wash your car, vacuum, and lots of hugs.

Patience is...the ability to bear things in such a triumphant way that it transfigures them. It enables a man to pass the breaking point and not to break, and always to greet the unseen with a cheer. (William Barclay)

Love to all
Marge

Evelyn, you go girl, with our love and best wishes, and have a successful (and safe) trip!

Peace and Love,

Grandma Mil and Grandpa Ellie

Paul thank you for kind words they do mean a lot. My sister does know that I am and will always be there for her but it would be nice to know that she was also there for me. As you said, I can't do no more than what I have already done and that is all I can do, I even tried to contact her last night but it was thrown straight back into my face again. I just don't think she realises how important families are and you only get one of them so you have to make the most of them while you can. Maybe one day she will wake up and realise just what she is throwing away. Thank you once again.

Richard, I don't think she does realise what she is missing. It is just a shame that it is the children that have to suffer and miss out. Hopefully one day the girls will know that there Auntie Kim does love them and misses them a lot.
I will be in touch as soon as I get my computer back from being repaired.

Kelly our sisters and there husbands would really get on well together. My brother in law doesn't do drugs but his second home is prison. That is why I would like my sister and the girls to get away from him. Just remember to think of yourself and take care.

Monika I haven't forgotten about you. I will be in touch very soon I promise. Love to you.

Michael thank you for your kind words, you are right it isn't my fault but she has a way of making it feel as if it is at times. Yes it does hurt.

Marge I am so glad you have asked "what are boardies", I don't know either!

Mary the response I've had has been quite overwhelming and I just wasn't expecting it. You have all been so kind, genuine and sincere.

Thank you to you all for your kindness it means a lot to me.
Love to you all
Kim x

Evelyn,
Wishing you the very best of luck.

Peter

Evelyn,
Will be thinking about you tomorrow. The best of luck.

Good luck Evelyn!!
I'll be thinking of you.

Mary

Marge & Mil

I got your cards today!!!!! Thank you. They are both fantastic!!!! I love you too!!! It's nice to know I have so many great friends here. Thats the nice thing about this corner. You truely are NEVER alone. Love to all,

Kelly

Good luck Evelyn. We'll all be thinking of you.
Kim

Shine, Evelyn, shine!

Vicki

Chookas Evelyn!!!

Kim, maybe your sister is happy with her husband and has the life she wants. You have said a couple of times in your posts that you wish she and the children would get away from him. I do know how it feels to have my spouses family not like me - it creates some tension in the marriage and with the greater family. Perhaps you need to think on this and extend the hand to the whole family. I am sure this will bring up some thoughts for you and I hope you think well on them.

Pual,

You are exactly right, My sister has been with her husband for 25 years. As much as we would love for him to go away, I think it would devestate my ssister more than us having to deal with him. And really, at this point, we are so used to the way things are, we don't know any other way, so we cope and deal and make the best out of it. That's all you can do to keep peace in the family. It's thier choice who they spend their life with, not ours. It's hard haveing relationships with the kids as they do things you don't approve of, but the few times I see them I make sure they know how much I love them even though I don't approve of thier lifestyles, I still love my sister. (well, I stay away from my brother in law). Just love your sister and be there if she needs you. The only relationaship you truley need to cherish is between the two of you. Just let her know you love her. If she hangs up on you like my sister did, she will get over it. They always do.

Evelyn,

Way to go! Make sure to let us know how it went.

Love to all in the corner

Kelly

Kim,
When my husband and I first met his family was very much against him dating me. They had a little higher aspirations for him than me. Then when we got engaged they just hoped I would go away. Then when we got married his family refused to come to the wedding even though it was a nice little church wedding. For years I think they secretly harbored the hope we would divorce. I was as nice to them as possible in spite of it. Today they are my family too. Time heals all wounds - even the big ones.

Hello Everyone:

So much movement in everyones' lives that post here. Evelyn is driving to her interview as I write this. People continuing their educations, pushing through obstacles in their lives with great courage and grace at what seems at times to be insurmountable odds, trying to get through the day the best way they know how. Isn't it amazing how resilient human beings are?

Soon,
Michael

Jo what motorbikle do you guys have? I know you have told me but I cant face going back over the posts to find out. I love riding - almost 25 years now - shit that sounds like a long time, I am not that old am I???? anyway I love it and love taking my girls for a ride. They love it too. I am extremely careful although I do tend to drag cars off from the traffic lights with the girls on the back and they scream and holler and ask me to go faster - but I dont well not always. Often after I take them for a ride a lie awake at night fearing the what if's.... but I know I take the best care and do the fang thing in complete safety, still life with kids is a very ginger balance between letting go, giving out the freedom, releasing ones fears and embracing the risk and wholeness of living. I am scared for myself too but often more so for my girls. Sometimes the motorcycle is the laughing in the winds of fate, as is the movie choices and the other risks I take - living is not for the faint hearted??

Must have a song for that one Millie?

Richard have you read any of Krishnamurti? I love the Prophet and you have inspired me to revisit him. I also love Richard Bach and his writings. Krishnamurti is also a favoutite.

Kelly good to see your spelling is as good as mine.... ooops I was not supposed to mention spelling was I....now I have done it!!

Good Morning,

Monika-Welcome back-it was great to read your posts!!

Tim-Wow-we have something in common-bipolar. I'm on no meds with the pregnancy and doing okay. My life used to be hell on earth before the diagnosis and before good meds. How are you doing?

Jo-I actually have a piece of ginger root taped to each wrist. I just may try the ginger tea....I do drink Ginger Ale and am eating Uneeda Biscuits in the morning. Hope all is going well with you and your husband.

Paul-I do not like the name "Apple" for a girl. My goodness-what kind of merciless teasing will she get for a life time!!!

Peter-So good to hear from you.

Mary-I think of soda water as club soda. And, yes, have tried it-couldn't get enough of it in the first two pregnancies. Just drank some with Limeade-it's my special concotion. Do you call your son Martin or Marty?

Kelly-My goodness-I'm ready to come there and do something about that situation!! Do not forget to take care of yourself.

Hello and hugs to everyone here and welcome to newbies!! Sorry if I missed anyone!

I can beyond relate to family strife and problems. I have a brother that I haven't spoken with for about 2 years. Not many people know or even understand my reasons-he did things to a sister that a brother shouldn't do to a little sister when he was 14, 15 & 16 and I was 7. I don't think this requires any details.

I'd like to end this post on a happy tune though-I have yet to "erupt" with this pregnancy-I'm determined to keep everything down!!

HUGS and more HUGS to those in need of them,
Abeth

Go Evelyn!
Abeth, I agree with that Apple is a bad name for any child but it really doesn't matter about the teasing a school kid is going to get teased there is just no way around it. Taking crap for my name I decided to make everyone call me by my middle name (most people still do) which is Leslye and it didn't take long for the teasers to get into "LEZ be friends" and are you a "LEZbian?" so I don't think what it matters what your name is some people will be cruel because it has to do with the people they are not the people they encounter. I'm sure whatever you name your baby it will be a beautiful person, because it's mother is.
Peace, Inn

Paul,

You have done it now! Beside the fact I am a terrible speller, my vision is blurred alot of the time so I make no apologies!!! ACtually if I cared enough, I would go back and re-read what I post. Wait... I do do that and still miss the errors !!! I am hopeless, i guess. As for takng the girls on your bike..... don't get you undies in a bundle when a boy comes to pick one of them up for a date on one!!! Somehow I think you'lle look at that differently????? hummmmmmmmmmmmmm
: )

Abeth, I really don't have anything too daunting in my life right now, nothing I can't handle. My sister situation is a no brainer, it's just thier life. no stress on me. My folks are feeling better and my mom is walking a bit without her crutches. I stayed home last night. THAT WAS AWESOME !!! God doesn't give more than we handle, so I am cool with everything. (can you tell I am rested?) : )

Love to all in the corner, escpecially to my speling challenged brother, Paul. (yes , I mispelled it on purpose!) hehehe

Family dynamics! There's a subject that you can go on and on about. Each family's structure is unique and has its own successes and failings.

Kim - I was on your sister's side of things with my second husband; my family and friends couldn't stand him (with good reason), and it did create some tense times. Once, I was foolish enough to forbid my parents from seeing their grandchildren for a few months. (I have apologized and, of course, they have forgiven me.) Where I was lucky was that my family never abandoned me because of him, and always did their very best be supportive of me, even when they knew I was being stupid and pig-headed. The point is that, even though I closed the door to them (as your sister has done to you), they never closed theirs to me (as you are not closing yours to your sister). I can't guarantee that she will come back "into the fold", all I can do is applaud your decision (as others have here) to leave your door open to reconciliation. I always knew I had my family's love, all I had to do was accept it. I hope your sister will accept yours someday.

This has gotten long, and I'm supposed to be working (thank goodness the Internet filters installed here at the office haven't made this site unreachable!), so I wish you all a wonderful day!

Vicki

Hello all,
Hope everyone is well and that all of your travels/interviews went well and that any health, wealth or family problems are under control. Also hope that everyone had some time for themselves and managed at least one smile today.

Paul,
Glad you were inspired. I haven't visited the Prophet for ages, either. The quote was from another of the books which I recently received from a friend--and it's in Dutch, no less! Gibran requires thought and patience for full appreciation. Being in a language not natively your own makes the journey even more interesting.

I've heard the name but I'm not familiar with the teachings of Krishnamurti. Checked him out a bit on the internet and will investigate further.

I met the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi one time. He was visiting my high school to talk about
Transcendental Meditation. He wanted us to "send" quite a bit of money his way before he would enlighten us further. I managed to "trans"port myself out of there in a hurry before my pockets got "lightened". (I know, weak puns).

We've got a "guru" on one of the public tv channels here which I've watched a few times. He always sits on this big "throne" of sorts attired in robes that could easily have come from the wardrobe room of a Flash Gordon movie set. Occasionally you get camera angles showing his audience who are all sitting bare-foot and cross-legged on the floor with their mouths open and looks of rapture on their faces. All listening attentively while Guru recites supposed wisdom which sound more like random words from the dictionary all strung together.

There's also an occult faith healer here named Jomanda. She claims to be able to "beam" healing energy into ordinary tap water anywhere in the world. She also "channels" some 10,000 year old warrior who struts around the stage smoking a cigar and spitting. He speaks through Jomanda, answers questions and bestows pearls of ancient wisdom.
Awhile back Jomanda went on a 6-month-long vow of silence at the end of which she was to reveal information of an earth-shattering nature. Don't know what she had to say at the end of it all.

Anyway, my point here is that there are many sources of "wisdom" and inspiration but each of them must met with a healthy dose of scepticism and self-thought. Don't accept anything blindly.

Be well. Be wise. Be careful!

--Richard

PS Paul,
Jomanda used to be a professional ballet dancer. I've heard of words of wisdom from on high, but from on point?
-Richard

Paul, I have two songs for you and that motorcycle...

"A Lot of Livin' to Do" and "Stouthearted Men"

If you noticed my negative tone where motorcycles are concerned, you are right! The same for small, private airplanes.

Unfortunately, I've had bad experiences with both. Once, while driving coming home from work, I was in our neighborhood, and after stopping at a stop sign that I knew very well, I proceeded slowly again, and to my horror, a motorcyclist had come up the hill at a tremendous rate of speed, saw me, tried to avoid a collision, and slid off the motorbike, and sat in the middle of the road. The motorbike slid to the side of the road. He was unhurt, the police