I don't know if you know, but in my side bar, I have a link to "what entertains me" - I basically put in there all movies I've seen (since starting this blog), play, show, etc. I doing this I came to realise that I/we do watch a LOT of movies. Anyway...
Last night we watched one, it was a TV movie now on DVD with Mr. Sutherland (the father!) and Mira Sorvino and a bunch of Quebecois actors - it's called "Human Trafficking". If you have a chance, rent it, it's a little disturbing... to think of what men do to others... but I think it's a subject that we all should know about...
...my two cents!
"There is great need for a sarcasm font."
Friday, June 30, 2006
She's a 14 years old pooch…
…and yet Aunt Flo still visits her? I can NOT believe this!A few days ago I had noticed that her “privates” weren’t... let's just say, so private looking, all puffed up, and all, but didn't make too much of it. A thought ever so lightly crossed my mind, but I dismissed it just as fast – she’s a 14 years old Chihuahua!
Wednesday, I noticed a little red spot on the kitchen’s ceramic floor… hum?! Could it be?
Naahh! Not any more, c’mon!
Yesterday at some point I had to wiped the floor of a few more spots… so I called my mom and asked her if Aunt Flo was still visiting the pooch. After laughing it off she said that she hadn’t seen Flo in quite some time…
We’ve been noticing that the pooch is “coming back” to life, and her morale is better, but to start her visit with Aunt Flo again?! That is just plain weird! In "Human age" she’s what? 98 or something!
Here she is ... isn't she cute for an old pooch?!
Your Friday Smile!
A man wanted to get married. He was having trouble choosing among three likely candidates. He gives each one an a present of $5,000 and watches to see what they do with the money.
The first does a total make over. She goes to a fancy beauty salon gets her hair done, new make up and buys several new outfits and dresses up very nicely for the man. She tells him that she has done this to be more attractive for him because she loves him so much. The man was impressed.
The second goes shopping to buy the man gifts. She gets him a new set of golf clubs, some new gizmos for his computer, and some expensive clothes. As she presents these gifts, she tells him that she has spent all the money on him because she loves him so much. Again, the man is impressed.
The third invests the money in the stock market. She earns several times the $5,000. She gives him back h is $5000 and reinvests the remainder in a joint account. She tells him that she wants to save for their future because she loves him so much. Obviously, the man was impressed.
The man thought for a long time about what each woman had done with the money he'd given her.
Then, he married the one with the biggest boobs.
Men are like that, you know.
The first does a total make over. She goes to a fancy beauty salon gets her hair done, new make up and buys several new outfits and dresses up very nicely for the man. She tells him that she has done this to be more attractive for him because she loves him so much. The man was impressed.
The second goes shopping to buy the man gifts. She gets him a new set of golf clubs, some new gizmos for his computer, and some expensive clothes. As she presents these gifts, she tells him that she has spent all the money on him because she loves him so much. Again, the man is impressed.
The third invests the money in the stock market. She earns several times the $5,000. She gives him back h is $5000 and reinvests the remainder in a joint account. She tells him that she wants to save for their future because she loves him so much. Obviously, the man was impressed.
The man thought for a long time about what each woman had done with the money he'd given her.
Then, he married the one with the biggest boobs.
Men are like that, you know.
Have a great long weekend & Happy Canada Day!
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
What Animal Was I In a Past Life?
You Were a Parrot |
 You are a master of language, and you use your wit to mock and tease others. But you are also wise, and you often think carefully before you speak. |
The plague of noise...
Is it just me or have you ever noticed how most of us are FULL of little ticks, or habits, or call it what you want… those little things we do, often without even thinking about it, that will drive someone mad? I don’t know what it is but I seem to have this thing about little noises. They drive me crazy!
Noises, no matter how small, they exasperate the crap out of me!
I was like that as far back as I could remember ('Talk about one habit I haven’t broken out of, yet… ...wonder if it will keep me for loosing more weight?!). Once my ears catch that little sound, that’s it! I can’t hear anything else but that little bugger...
I remember in school switching a friend’s pen, from a clicker to a good old Bic. He would click it during the whole friggin’ class, so one day I simply packed my pencil case full of Bic and whenever he was sitting next to me, I would switch his pen!
There’s a client where I go on a somewhat regular base that knows that I have a “thing” about little noises. Whenever he sees me he will “intentionally” drum his fingers on a filling cabinet and/or tap his pen on a file and awaits my reaction. It’s never far behind! I’ve tried to ignore him, but he will keep on doing it until I give him a REALLY nasty look or until I get up and walk in his direction. He will then laugh and run off. I did hit him once, and since he’s a bit wary of me…and does “really” ran away.
The “older” boyfriend of a girlfriend has this habit, while standing, to play with the loose change in his pant pocket – that drives me up the wall! I’ve mentioned it to my girlfriend and her answer was: “Yeah I know, that’s really an annoying habit he has, isn’t it?”
Two weeks ago, during my meditation class a woman sitting behind me “played” with her keys the whole time. She’s a really sweet lady. A few times I looked at her, but to no avail. She just kept on flicking her keys over on her finger. After class, I told Lady Key that she played with her keys a lot and that the noise was disturbing. She apologized for not having realised that she was making noise. The following class, Lady Key has turned into Lady Bracelet. She has a magnetic type bracelet that she kept pulling apart and clicking it back. At one point I simply put my hand on her ankle. She got the point.
Yesterday, this guy who has the same type of bracelet started playing with his as well. I put my hand on his lap – he was so surprised that he stopped all together. I might of broke his concentration/“mantra” for a moment, but the noise had to stop!
Let’s not forget about the folks who enjoy a hard candy wrapped in those little crinkly wrappers. They must play with it – can’t just pop the candy in their mouth and enjoy the sweetness, noooo! They just have to play with the fuggin’ wrapper!
Should I go on?
This really makes me look like an old bat, doesn’t it?
I don’t care!* I keep telling Hubby that by the time I hit the crispy old age of being allowed to be my "Maxine" self, I will be the nastiest, riled, crabbiest, inflexible, morose woman around… but at that age it will be socially accepted for me to be the Queen of Attitude!
... I really do like that Maxine... and unfortunately we don't have neighbors who play their music too loud. So no chance for me to dance around naked - maybe because they saw that I walk around naked and they don't want to see me dance?!
Oh well...
* Actually I might care a little since I’m working on changing myself for “the better”, but then again…
Noises, no matter how small, they exasperate the crap out of me!
I was like that as far back as I could remember ('Talk about one habit I haven’t broken out of, yet… ...wonder if it will keep me for loosing more weight?!). Once my ears catch that little sound, that’s it! I can’t hear anything else but that little bugger...
I remember in school switching a friend’s pen, from a clicker to a good old Bic. He would click it during the whole friggin’ class, so one day I simply packed my pencil case full of Bic and whenever he was sitting next to me, I would switch his pen!
There’s a client where I go on a somewhat regular base that knows that I have a “thing” about little noises. Whenever he sees me he will “intentionally” drum his fingers on a filling cabinet and/or tap his pen on a file and awaits my reaction. It’s never far behind! I’ve tried to ignore him, but he will keep on doing it until I give him a REALLY nasty look or until I get up and walk in his direction. He will then laugh and run off. I did hit him once, and since he’s a bit wary of me…and does “really” ran away.
The “older” boyfriend of a girlfriend has this habit, while standing, to play with the loose change in his pant pocket – that drives me up the wall! I’ve mentioned it to my girlfriend and her answer was: “Yeah I know, that’s really an annoying habit he has, isn’t it?”
Two weeks ago, during my meditation class a woman sitting behind me “played” with her keys the whole time. She’s a really sweet lady. A few times I looked at her, but to no avail. She just kept on flicking her keys over on her finger. After class, I told Lady Key that she played with her keys a lot and that the noise was disturbing. She apologized for not having realised that she was making noise. The following class, Lady Key has turned into Lady Bracelet. She has a magnetic type bracelet that she kept pulling apart and clicking it back. At one point I simply put my hand on her ankle. She got the point.
Yesterday, this guy who has the same type of bracelet started playing with his as well. I put my hand on his lap – he was so surprised that he stopped all together. I might of broke his concentration/“mantra” for a moment, but the noise had to stop!
Let’s not forget about the folks who enjoy a hard candy wrapped in those little crinkly wrappers. They must play with it – can’t just pop the candy in their mouth and enjoy the sweetness, noooo! They just have to play with the fuggin’ wrapper!
Should I go on?This really makes me look like an old bat, doesn’t it?
I don’t care!* I keep telling Hubby that by the time I hit the crispy old age of being allowed to be my "Maxine" self, I will be the nastiest, riled, crabbiest, inflexible, morose woman around… but at that age it will be socially accepted for me to be the Queen of Attitude!
... I really do like that Maxine... and unfortunately we don't have neighbors who play their music too loud. So no chance for me to dance around naked - maybe because they saw that I walk around naked and they don't want to see me dance?!
Oh well...
* Actually I might care a little since I’m working on changing myself for “the better”, but then again…
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Phase Four - Step 28
My last step!!! My thought-dimension today is Social intelligence. It’s all about helping others and society in general. This should be a way for me to express my values in a positive and practical way.
In reading their examples I came to realise that this is one good habit that I do have. (I should be a little thinner than I am then!) I do help others. I help friends and family whenever I can, preparing dinner, cleaning up after a meal, and planning some events, etc.
We may not be the most ethical shoppers around; I do have the “occasional” stop at Wal-Mart (yeah! I know… but I’m cheap!) I don’t buy Fair Trade coffee (I don’t drink any!), but at Easter I chose some Fair Trade chocolate! I sponsored a few friends in their fund-raising events. I recycle old shoes, clothes, etc., and give them to a local charity.
In the last few years we’ve become more aware of the environmental issues. Just this past weekend when we were hiking, we stopped for a little break on top of the mountain and some people before us had left an empty bottle on a picnic table. Hubby took it and put it in his backpack to bring out of the woods. On our way there was some litter and we picked that up as well. He used to do that as a mountain biker as well, and he often say "Always leave the woods cleaner than whne you came in", or something like that. Neither one of us were scouts as kids, but I guess we have that "respect thing"...
We have been recycling for years, started out with papers and now we’ve expended our realm of the things we just don’t throw out like old batteries, printer cartridges, etc.
Just today I mailed to a cousin of mine a package for his kids with notebooks, pencils, an old calculator, a comic book and other things. I figured they could use it. I try to do that at least once a year with them. I’m giving something without any thought of immediate gain, simply hoping the kids will enjoy it.
In reading their examples I came to realise that this is one good habit that I do have. (I should be a little thinner than I am then!) I do help others. I help friends and family whenever I can, preparing dinner, cleaning up after a meal, and planning some events, etc.
We may not be the most ethical shoppers around; I do have the “occasional” stop at Wal-Mart (yeah! I know… but I’m cheap!) I don’t buy Fair Trade coffee (I don’t drink any!), but at Easter I chose some Fair Trade chocolate! I sponsored a few friends in their fund-raising events. I recycle old shoes, clothes, etc., and give them to a local charity.
In the last few years we’ve become more aware of the environmental issues. Just this past weekend when we were hiking, we stopped for a little break on top of the mountain and some people before us had left an empty bottle on a picnic table. Hubby took it and put it in his backpack to bring out of the woods. On our way there was some litter and we picked that up as well. He used to do that as a mountain biker as well, and he often say "Always leave the woods cleaner than whne you came in", or something like that. Neither one of us were scouts as kids, but I guess we have that "respect thing"...
We have been recycling for years, started out with papers and now we’ve expended our realm of the things we just don’t throw out like old batteries, printer cartridges, etc.
Just today I mailed to a cousin of mine a package for his kids with notebooks, pencils, an old calculator, a comic book and other things. I figured they could use it. I try to do that at least once a year with them. I’m giving something without any thought of immediate gain, simply hoping the kids will enjoy it.
I've done it!!!
Phase Four - Step 27
I’m almost done with “The No Diet Diet: Do Something Different”. Today’s step was Emotional intelligence. The idea was to re-tuned my mind so that I can spot emotions before they overwhelmed me. Just making sure that my emotions don’t run away with me.
It will hard to do today, but it is something that I will be trying to do daily from now on:
I will label emotions. I will try to define the emotions that others feel around me and react accordingly. I will have to look beyond their words for deeper meanings, not take literally what people say, but to really consider what they might feel.
I will try to take the emotions out of context. When I’ll feel an emotion building up inside, I’ll try to not react (that might be hard!) or to do it differently, with a different emotion. I will choose an alternative way of feeling either with someone or in a situation.
I will not explode and not only express my negative emotions. This is making me realise that I may not express my positive emotions as much as I should. I was brought up that way: when there’s something wrong you let people know about it, and if nothing is said then everything must be ok. Not much positive reinforcement, is there? I can change that. I’m trying. That’s the important thing.
It will hard to do today, but it is something that I will be trying to do daily from now on:
I will label emotions. I will try to define the emotions that others feel around me and react accordingly. I will have to look beyond their words for deeper meanings, not take literally what people say, but to really consider what they might feel.
I will try to take the emotions out of context. When I’ll feel an emotion building up inside, I’ll try to not react (that might be hard!) or to do it differently, with a different emotion. I will choose an alternative way of feeling either with someone or in a situation.
I will not explode and not only express my negative emotions. This is making me realise that I may not express my positive emotions as much as I should. I was brought up that way: when there’s something wrong you let people know about it, and if nothing is said then everything must be ok. Not much positive reinforcement, is there? I can change that. I’m trying. That’s the important thing.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Need to vent just now!
Today’s post will be about something I’ve been feeling and I guess need to put in writing. I’m hoping it won’t be too long, since I know some of you don’t like to read long post.
I’m one for whom self-respect, honesty and responsibility are VERY important. Too many people go through their life “unaware” or “unconscious” and I have a really hard time with that. We have become this irresponsible society and we slither our way through life without taking on any responsibility for our actions. We blame others, our times, etc., but never ourselves, and that is sickening to me!
If someone in a marriage is having trouble, why is it that this person doesn’t face the issues at hands before turning to a lover or walking out? Let’s take the easy way out. Let’s not talk, and try to fix anything. To appease our conscience we try a little, and then when it doesn’t happen fast enough we give up. People don’t know the meaning of commitment anymore.
We play with fire and then get upset when we get burn – let’s get real here! If you’re stupid enough to play with fire, then don’t come crying when your house burns down – you lit that fire yourself!
I have a real issue with people who talk the talk, but don't walk the walk. If you say that you want to work at it, lets say your relationship, then why are you keeping your "options" open? It doesn't make sense to me. You need to focus on one thing and that thing alone if you want to fix it. You can't say you want to save your marriage and then make a date with a lover... that will never work. And we have to stop "easing" our conscience by justifying your actions. It’s not because you told your husband what you want and are not getting it, immediately, that it gives you the right to turn around and find it with someone else.
And what’s up with the threats? I have a friend who casually during conversation will (often) say to her husband that she can leave if that’s what he wants. I hate that. I actually told her that it was disrespectful and she flipped me the finger… ok then!
People don’t mean what they say anymore either. When I said my vows to my husband I meant them. I knew what I was getting myself into and was willing to work at it, and respect the promises I’ve made. I’m not saying it’s always easy, but at least I give it an honest try.
We are such hypocrites – we lie all the time, first and foremost to ourselves and we’re too stupid to realise it and then to others. The worst part of it all is that we believe our lies!
At times, I wish I could grab some people by the shoulders and shake them. Hard. Knock some sense into them, wake them up or something… but I can’t. That’s just not the society we live in.
I’ll stop here for now. Even though have a lot more to write.
I’m one for whom self-respect, honesty and responsibility are VERY important. Too many people go through their life “unaware” or “unconscious” and I have a really hard time with that. We have become this irresponsible society and we slither our way through life without taking on any responsibility for our actions. We blame others, our times, etc., but never ourselves, and that is sickening to me!
If someone in a marriage is having trouble, why is it that this person doesn’t face the issues at hands before turning to a lover or walking out? Let’s take the easy way out. Let’s not talk, and try to fix anything. To appease our conscience we try a little, and then when it doesn’t happen fast enough we give up. People don’t know the meaning of commitment anymore.
We play with fire and then get upset when we get burn – let’s get real here! If you’re stupid enough to play with fire, then don’t come crying when your house burns down – you lit that fire yourself!
I have a real issue with people who talk the talk, but don't walk the walk. If you say that you want to work at it, lets say your relationship, then why are you keeping your "options" open? It doesn't make sense to me. You need to focus on one thing and that thing alone if you want to fix it. You can't say you want to save your marriage and then make a date with a lover... that will never work. And we have to stop "easing" our conscience by justifying your actions. It’s not because you told your husband what you want and are not getting it, immediately, that it gives you the right to turn around and find it with someone else.
And what’s up with the threats? I have a friend who casually during conversation will (often) say to her husband that she can leave if that’s what he wants. I hate that. I actually told her that it was disrespectful and she flipped me the finger… ok then!
People don’t mean what they say anymore either. When I said my vows to my husband I meant them. I knew what I was getting myself into and was willing to work at it, and respect the promises I’ve made. I’m not saying it’s always easy, but at least I give it an honest try.
We are such hypocrites – we lie all the time, first and foremost to ourselves and we’re too stupid to realise it and then to others. The worst part of it all is that we believe our lies!
At times, I wish I could grab some people by the shoulders and shake them. Hard. Knock some sense into them, wake them up or something… but I can’t. That’s just not the society we live in.
I’ll stop here for now. Even though have a lot more to write.
...I feel a little better now... ;-D
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Phase Four - Step 24, 25 &26
Phase Four – Step 24
That day’s thought dimension was: Balance.
Balance in making sure that every aspect of my life gets its appropriate share of care & attention in order to get the maximum out of life’s rewards. The exercises were to make me realise how much (or little) I care for a person in my life. I needed to behave in ways that would enhance balance.
I had chosen Hubby as my person for the day. In trying to put it into practice I realised that my relation with hubby is pretty well balanced, at least I think so. I’ve been evaluating the importance he has and I’m satisfied from what I gain from this relationship. We spend time together, and we make a point every day to laugh together. Overall we have a good, balanced, relationship.
I thought of re-establishing a lost friendship that once meant a lot to me, but I also realised that at this point in time, I would not be willing to give it the attention and nurturing it would need to be re-established.
My chosen situation was to set a limit of time on how long I watch TV and to do something physical with hubby instead with that extra time.
Reflecting on what I did and its effect I noticed that despite what I may think (at times) I have a well-balanced life. I feel good about it. I need more patience than I do balance…
Phase Four – Step 25
Today’s thought dimension was: Fearlessness
When I first read that I wondered what I would have to do. They only meant that I would have to act without nervousness. To show a willingness to go outside my comfort zone, by doing something I would normally avoid because it would make me feel uncomfortable. I needed to put myself in a situation that causes me anxiety and to interact with a person who causes me fear.
I tried tackling a phobia of mine: spiders. While I was emptying Tobi’s litter box there was this big “Mother Tucker” spider in a corner. I took a few breaths and tried to spoon it out of there. It was big, with a thick body and quite fast. I didn’t know what to do with it – my natural instinct was telling me to squish it. I was turning the scooper over and over, with goose bumps all over, when Hubby came in the room. He laughed and said : “Trying to face your fear”. That’s when I dropped it… and Hubby killed it. …So much for that task…
Throughout the day I’ve been thinking about my task for the day and how to apply it to other situation. It wasn’t an easy task. I will keep it in mind. I want to extend the boundaries of my comfort zone. In the past I have lacked fearlessness in dealing with my mother in-law and it has affected my life in not so positive ways. I didn’t take action over the situation because I didn’t want to make it worst then it was and also out of respect for my husband. I tend to be more of a “confrontational” type; when something doesn’t work I do something about it. I did try to “fix” it (on more than one occasion) with her, but to no avail.
I can only be responsible for my actions or lack of. I will aim to push my boundaries, to operate outside my comfort zone and to face up what I’ve been avoiding.
Step 26
The thought-dimension for that day was: Conscience
I didn't follow the book's intructions as well as for the other steps. I know the difference between right and wrong and how to act on it. And, I do listen to my conscience, regardless of it being convenient or not.
I tend not to compromise myself too much for short-term gain. I try, as much as possible, not to tell lies (starting with myself!). I treat others with respect simply because I was brought up that way AND because I want to be treated the same way.
As for applying it to a chosen situation, I was "aware" of it when we stop at a little road stand to buy our first fresh, filled with sun and sweetnest, strawberries of the season. After being in the woods, hiking, for a few hours we were making our way home when we decided to go see what they had. We tasted one, and decided to buy some... probably too many, but they are sooo good!
That day’s thought dimension was: Balance.
Balance in making sure that every aspect of my life gets its appropriate share of care & attention in order to get the maximum out of life’s rewards. The exercises were to make me realise how much (or little) I care for a person in my life. I needed to behave in ways that would enhance balance.
I had chosen Hubby as my person for the day. In trying to put it into practice I realised that my relation with hubby is pretty well balanced, at least I think so. I’ve been evaluating the importance he has and I’m satisfied from what I gain from this relationship. We spend time together, and we make a point every day to laugh together. Overall we have a good, balanced, relationship.
I thought of re-establishing a lost friendship that once meant a lot to me, but I also realised that at this point in time, I would not be willing to give it the attention and nurturing it would need to be re-established.
My chosen situation was to set a limit of time on how long I watch TV and to do something physical with hubby instead with that extra time.
Reflecting on what I did and its effect I noticed that despite what I may think (at times) I have a well-balanced life. I feel good about it. I need more patience than I do balance…
Phase Four – Step 25
Today’s thought dimension was: Fearlessness
When I first read that I wondered what I would have to do. They only meant that I would have to act without nervousness. To show a willingness to go outside my comfort zone, by doing something I would normally avoid because it would make me feel uncomfortable. I needed to put myself in a situation that causes me anxiety and to interact with a person who causes me fear.
I tried tackling a phobia of mine: spiders. While I was emptying Tobi’s litter box there was this big “Mother Tucker” spider in a corner. I took a few breaths and tried to spoon it out of there. It was big, with a thick body and quite fast. I didn’t know what to do with it – my natural instinct was telling me to squish it. I was turning the scooper over and over, with goose bumps all over, when Hubby came in the room. He laughed and said : “Trying to face your fear”. That’s when I dropped it… and Hubby killed it. …So much for that task…
Throughout the day I’ve been thinking about my task for the day and how to apply it to other situation. It wasn’t an easy task. I will keep it in mind. I want to extend the boundaries of my comfort zone. In the past I have lacked fearlessness in dealing with my mother in-law and it has affected my life in not so positive ways. I didn’t take action over the situation because I didn’t want to make it worst then it was and also out of respect for my husband. I tend to be more of a “confrontational” type; when something doesn’t work I do something about it. I did try to “fix” it (on more than one occasion) with her, but to no avail.
I can only be responsible for my actions or lack of. I will aim to push my boundaries, to operate outside my comfort zone and to face up what I’ve been avoiding.
Step 26
The thought-dimension for that day was: Conscience
I didn't follow the book's intructions as well as for the other steps. I know the difference between right and wrong and how to act on it. And, I do listen to my conscience, regardless of it being convenient or not.
I tend not to compromise myself too much for short-term gain. I try, as much as possible, not to tell lies (starting with myself!). I treat others with respect simply because I was brought up that way AND because I want to be treated the same way.
As for applying it to a chosen situation, I was "aware" of it when we stop at a little road stand to buy our first fresh, filled with sun and sweetnest, strawberries of the season. After being in the woods, hiking, for a few hours we were making our way home when we decided to go see what they had. We tasted one, and decided to buy some... probably too many, but they are sooo good!
Friday, June 23, 2006
Meme?
I've been seeing a lot of those "meme" lists, and didn't really feel inclined to do one, expect that earlier I came across one where you have to answer the questions with song titles from a band/singer previously chosen.
I thought the idea was original, so I did it.
Want to see it? Have a look at this. It's interesting, anyway, I thought so!
I thought the idea was original, so I did it.
Want to see it? Have a look at this. It's interesting, anyway, I thought so!
Votre Friday Smile!
The Madam takes one look at the two old geezers and whispers to her manager, "Go up to the first two bedrooms and put an inflated doll in each bed. These two are so old and drunk; I'm not wasting two of my girls on them. They won't know the difference."
The manager does as he is told and the two old men go upstairs and take care of their business. As they are walking home the first man says, "You know, I think my girl was dead!" "Dead?" says his friend, "why would you say that?" "Well, she never moved or made a sound all the time I was loving her."
His friend says, "I think mine was a witch." "A witch, why the hell would you say that?" "Well, I was making love to her, kissing her on the neck, and I gave her a little bite, then she farted and flew out the window."
Comment est-on sûr que Dieu n'était pas une femme? Parce que si Dieu était une femme, alors le sperme aurait le goût du chocolat... et le clitoris sentirait la bière!
The manager does as he is told and the two old men go upstairs and take care of their business. As they are walking home the first man says, "You know, I think my girl was dead!" "Dead?" says his friend, "why would you say that?" "Well, she never moved or made a sound all the time I was loving her."
His friend says, "I think mine was a witch." "A witch, why the hell would you say that?" "Well, I was making love to her, kissing her on the neck, and I gave her a little bite, then she farted and flew out the window."
*******
Comment est-on sûr que Dieu n'était pas une femme? Parce que si Dieu était une femme, alors le sperme aurait le goût du chocolat... et le clitoris sentirait la bière!
Have a great weekend & une très bonne longue fin de semaine - Bonne St-Jean!!!
...and a very happy birthday Preppygirl!!
...and a very happy birthday Preppygirl!!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Phase Four: Step 23
Today's thought dimension was Awareness.
My chosen person was: Cathy, the pooch. (Yeah ok! She's not a person, but I thought it'd be good for me (in some strange way!)
I had to list 10 new things of which I became aware about the pooch:
My chosen environment was: our front lawn, since I spend so much time there, waiting for the pooch to do her business.
I also had to list 10 new things of which I became aware of:
In doing the second part of the task I can see that in acting this way (i.e. being more aware) I'll get to enjoy the moment more as well as the little things.
My chosen person was: Cathy, the pooch. (Yeah ok! She's not a person, but I thought it'd be good for me (in some strange way!)
I had to list 10 new things of which I became aware about the pooch:
- her hearing is gone,
- as well as her sense of smells
- and her eye-sight.
- She wags her tail a lot more since we got her a week ago.
- Her spirits seemed to have lift up a little.
- She's expended her walking circle in the lawn to a wider one, and she manages to stay within the limits, even if she's pushing it a bit, at times.
- She still has her "character" (she gives you a look when told no - really funny to see!).
- When she walks around outside, she doesn't make those noises as when she's inside.
- Has a little more "spring" in her steps, and
- she loves to face the wind and smell the air (even if it's Pierrefonds' stink at times!)
My chosen environment was: our front lawn, since I spend so much time there, waiting for the pooch to do her business.
I also had to list 10 new things of which I became aware of:
- there's not much noises out there at 6:45 am,
- whatever pieces of earth they pulled out (the lawn guys) for the aeration look a lot like Cathy's little poops
- I love to hear the wind rustling through the leaves of a neighbour's tree
- Cathy holds herself up on her front paws when doing her business...
- people smile at me when they see the pooch
- there's lots of birds chirping around here
- we can really hear the noises from the boulevard from our place
- there's new kinds of weeds in our grass, since the city doesn't allow chemicals anymore...
- a neighbour is re-doing part of his driveway
- we should probably water our lawn, some time soon...
In doing the second part of the task I can see that in acting this way (i.e. being more aware) I'll get to enjoy the moment more as well as the little things.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
It Has Begun!!!
It's official Summer is here! Today is the longest day of the year! Today was a nice day, just warm enough, not really humid - my kind of weather!
Summer in Montreal can be busy if one chooses it to be. We have LOTS of festivals:
ALSO (and it's a BIG also, I'm told, for some of you...) THE Madonna is in town! She is doing a show tonight and tomorrow night as well - both sold out - at the Bell Center without any air conditioning, as per her request... She arrived yesterday, late afternoon, and while I was stuck in traffic I heard on the radio it was Madonna's cortège that was creating the traffic jam! Unreal!!!
So, this weekend, Montreal will be the place to be! If you like crowds, that is!
Summer in Montreal can be busy if one chooses it to be. We have LOTS of festivals:
- last week we had "Les FrancoFolies de Montréal",
- Le Mondial SAQ - fireworks competition - this weekend Italy is up!
- Le Grand-Prix (Formula One Race) - this weekend as well!
- Fête Nationale (St-Jean Baptiste) - Québec's national day, with a parade and lots of activities throughout the province - this weekend (June 24th)
- Montreal International Jazz Festival (June 29th - July 9th)
- Canada Day - with a parade, etc. (July 1st)
- Just for Laughs/Festival Juste pour rire, both in French and English - this year we have tickets for Bill Cosby! (July 1st - 31st)
- Nuit d'Afrique - African music festival (July 13th-23rd)
- First World Outgames - gay sports events (July 26th - August 5th)
- Divers/Cité - Gay & Lesbian Pride days (July 30th - August 6th)
- Hot Air Balloon Festival (August 12th - 20th)
- Montreal World Film Festival (August 24th - Sept. 4th)
ALSO (and it's a BIG also, I'm told, for some of you...) THE Madonna is in town! She is doing a show tonight and tomorrow night as well - both sold out - at the Bell Center without any air conditioning, as per her request... She arrived yesterday, late afternoon, and while I was stuck in traffic I heard on the radio it was Madonna's cortège that was creating the traffic jam! Unreal!!!
So, this weekend, Montreal will be the place to be! If you like crowds, that is!
Phase Four – Step 22
I read the preparation part of Phase Four, which is all about Targeting Transformation.
According to the authors I should have lost some weight by now, I think I might. I feel “softer” and some clothes are a bit looser.
Phase Four is the stage where I should finally get to kill off my worst habits & become more flexible. It seems that certain habits have been keeping me fat, and by doing all these steps I’m slowly breaking my “habitweb”. I am now at this point where I can begin to unravel the habits that control how I think. That sounds a little scary. I know that I’m capable of change and that I can break some habits, I’ve already proven that to myself with the previous 21 steps.
For the next week, each day, I will be asked to:
There are seven key thought-dimensions that I have to use over the next week:
The book will tell me which thought-dimension to apply for the day and I get to choose the person and to put it in practice. Then I'll have to choose a situation and put it into practice as well. Should be interesting... for lack of a better word!
Today’s thought-dimension is Self-responsibility.
My chosen person was: My mother in-law.
I put it into practice by sending her a birthday card. I'll keep my fingers crossed on how she will react. I only sign the card, not Hubby (he didn't want to). I wanted to do it and in a way stop blaming her for things not working out between us, trying to do something to change this crazy situation we're in. It might help.
My chosen situation was: Asking for help.
Instead of getting frustrated about trying to find a book (at Chapter's), by myself, I decided to ask a sales person. I've been known to be pretty "sharped tongue" with them at times, especially the ones that look at me like a deer looking at at car in the middle on the highway, I have a REALLY hard time with the "blank looks". So, I did look for the book myself (I was looking for David Suzuki's Autobiography, in English), but could only find it in French, so... I bit the bullet and asked a young girl. She looked into their database and they were supposed to have 6 in store. Another girl came by and told her that last night she "couldn't find any. They must be in order or something". The first girl asked me to follow her and brought me back to the section I had already gone through. Normally, but this time, I would start to be a little impatient. She kept on looking and Eureka! she found one! And I remained patient and didn't blame the kids for their lack of interest or anything, I asked for help and it paid off!
I feel nervous about mailing my mother in-law a birthday card, since I really don't know how she will react. The only benefice I see about doing that is that it "may" help our relationship (!? - One can still hope, no? Even after 13 years...). I felt good about remaining calm and polite, at the book store. The other benefits I see in acting this way is that I will do someting to change (a situation or how I behave) instead of blaming others. I know that the way I react to things is largely because of the way I was brought up, my past. I accept that, I will learn for it and it's time to move on!
According to the authors I should have lost some weight by now, I think I might. I feel “softer” and some clothes are a bit looser.
Phase Four is the stage where I should finally get to kill off my worst habits & become more flexible. It seems that certain habits have been keeping me fat, and by doing all these steps I’m slowly breaking my “habitweb”. I am now at this point where I can begin to unravel the habits that control how I think. That sounds a little scary. I know that I’m capable of change and that I can break some habits, I’ve already proven that to myself with the previous 21 steps.
For the next week, each day, I will be asked to:
- Behave differently towards a person
- React differently to a situation.
There are seven key thought-dimensions that I have to use over the next week:
- Self-responsibility (or accountability),
- Awareness,
- Fearlessness,
- Balance,
- Conscience,
- Emotional intelligence and
- Social intelligence.
The book will tell me which thought-dimension to apply for the day and I get to choose the person and to put it in practice. Then I'll have to choose a situation and put it into practice as well. Should be interesting... for lack of a better word!
Today’s thought-dimension is Self-responsibility.
My chosen person was: My mother in-law.
I put it into practice by sending her a birthday card. I'll keep my fingers crossed on how she will react. I only sign the card, not Hubby (he didn't want to). I wanted to do it and in a way stop blaming her for things not working out between us, trying to do something to change this crazy situation we're in. It might help.
My chosen situation was: Asking for help.
Instead of getting frustrated about trying to find a book (at Chapter's), by myself, I decided to ask a sales person. I've been known to be pretty "sharped tongue" with them at times, especially the ones that look at me like a deer looking at at car in the middle on the highway, I have a REALLY hard time with the "blank looks". So, I did look for the book myself (I was looking for David Suzuki's Autobiography, in English), but could only find it in French, so... I bit the bullet and asked a young girl. She looked into their database and they were supposed to have 6 in store. Another girl came by and told her that last night she "couldn't find any. They must be in order or something". The first girl asked me to follow her and brought me back to the section I had already gone through. Normally, but this time, I would start to be a little impatient. She kept on looking and Eureka! she found one! And I remained patient and didn't blame the kids for their lack of interest or anything, I asked for help and it paid off!
I feel nervous about mailing my mother in-law a birthday card, since I really don't know how she will react. The only benefice I see about doing that is that it "may" help our relationship (!? - One can still hope, no? Even after 13 years...). I felt good about remaining calm and polite, at the book store. The other benefits I see in acting this way is that I will do someting to change (a situation or how I behave) instead of blaming others. I know that the way I react to things is largely because of the way I was brought up, my past. I accept that, I will learn for it and it's time to move on!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Just so you know...
...I will be posting about a frustration I've encountered since I've been blogging, but especially today. It's not about Blogger as such, it's about the people of the Blog...
...and I got caught by a BIG storm early afternoon, felt like this stick figure by the time I got home!
*Thanks Jason for the stick humour!
Phase Three – Step 20 & 21
Being at a client all day (a long day), I thought it would be a great occasion to do my “people” task of listening. I would be around people so would have more of an occasion to break some habits…
Well it didn’t really go quite as I had planned. That office is full of guys, or I should say "shy guys". They barely say hi to me, but their faces do light up when they see me come in with a bunch of frozen meals for them (at least there’s that!). Nobody really spoke to me, besides the owner. I tried to do my task, by listening to what he would say. At one point I wasn’t concentrating 100% on what he was explaining, because after 10 hours of being there, I had basically reached my threshold, but at least I was aware of it. I did listen, and at some point where I would have normally “lose it”, I kept fairly calm.
Is it just I, or is it frustrating to have a computer that takes longer to refresh than if I was to write things by hand? I hate things that don’t work properly, no matter how much I might try to change the way I think, it sucks!
On a happier note, when I got home, the pooch was so happy to see me! It was cute to see how excited she got! She was jumping around and wagging like there’s no tomorrow. Hubby had been home for a few hours and was happy to let me know that no “accident” occurred while we were off earning a living, and that he didn’t get "such" a welcome when he came home. That felt good, and made me forget my frustrations of the day!
Today was my last day of Phase Three. The last “people” task I chose (anyway, didn’t really have a choice at this point, had to do 5 out of the 6) to do was find out . I was to take the trouble of finding out something new about a person, or to discover why my friends like you, or uncover a way of improving myself.
I “sort of” did it… This morning I had an appointment with an ear, nose & throat doctor (I might have sleep apnoea, need to do some tests). The wall behind his desk was full of diplomas, so I started asking him questions about all the letters after the traditional “m.d.” He explained it and I could see that he was amused by my questions, but he did answer me very nicely.
I also had one more extra task, which I also did. Actually I’ve done more than one.
The first one I’ve done today was to get up at a different time. Since last Wednesday night – when we brought the pooch over – I’ve been getting up with the pooch. And let’s just say that she’s an early bird!
In their (the authors) list of new things to try I realised that I also did: Throw something away that I don’t need – didn’t really throw it away, I'm giving it to charity, which I think is a much better option, don’t you think?
Well it didn’t really go quite as I had planned. That office is full of guys, or I should say "shy guys". They barely say hi to me, but their faces do light up when they see me come in with a bunch of frozen meals for them (at least there’s that!). Nobody really spoke to me, besides the owner. I tried to do my task, by listening to what he would say. At one point I wasn’t concentrating 100% on what he was explaining, because after 10 hours of being there, I had basically reached my threshold, but at least I was aware of it. I did listen, and at some point where I would have normally “lose it”, I kept fairly calm.
Is it just I, or is it frustrating to have a computer that takes longer to refresh than if I was to write things by hand? I hate things that don’t work properly, no matter how much I might try to change the way I think, it sucks!
On a happier note, when I got home, the pooch was so happy to see me! It was cute to see how excited she got! She was jumping around and wagging like there’s no tomorrow. Hubby had been home for a few hours and was happy to let me know that no “accident” occurred while we were off earning a living, and that he didn’t get "such" a welcome when he came home. That felt good, and made me forget my frustrations of the day!
Today was my last day of Phase Three. The last “people” task I chose (anyway, didn’t really have a choice at this point, had to do 5 out of the 6) to do was find out . I was to take the trouble of finding out something new about a person, or to discover why my friends like you, or uncover a way of improving myself.
I “sort of” did it… This morning I had an appointment with an ear, nose & throat doctor (I might have sleep apnoea, need to do some tests). The wall behind his desk was full of diplomas, so I started asking him questions about all the letters after the traditional “m.d.” He explained it and I could see that he was amused by my questions, but he did answer me very nicely.
I also had one more extra task, which I also did. Actually I’ve done more than one.
The first one I’ve done today was to get up at a different time. Since last Wednesday night – when we brought the pooch over – I’ve been getting up with the pooch. And let’s just say that she’s an early bird!
In their (the authors) list of new things to try I realised that I also did: Throw something away that I don’t need – didn’t really throw it away, I'm giving it to charity, which I think is a much better option, don’t you think?
Tomorrow I will attack Phase Four!
Try this!
fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too !
Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55% of plepoe can
i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg.
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae.
The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!
if you can raed tihs forwrad it .
Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55% of plepoe can
i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg.
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae.
The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!
if you can raed tihs forwrad it .
*Thanks Steven, this is fun! ... and I do have a strange mind, but you already knew that I'm sure!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Phase Three: Step 18 & 19
Yesterday’s task was fairly easy to do. I had decided early on that Saturday was going to be my people task of give.
We were having a garage sale, and we didn’t have lots of furniture to sell (besides my grand mother’s old Singer’s sewing machine), the rest was just “overflow”, as we call it. Things we simply had too many of. Since the weather wasn’t that great to start with, we wanted to get rid of our things. We had decided before hand, that whatever didn’t sell we would give to charity. Having to deal with people all day went much better than anticipated, for me anyway. I’m sure I’ve met some of my "people’s tasks" throughout the day. I listen to some telling me their life stories, I help some carry things to their cars and I gave.
This old Asian couple came by early on. They spoke neither French nor English. The first thing the old man spotted was a pair of ski mitts. Hubby said .25¢. That is when I realised that they didn’t understand our money currencies, either. They didn’t know what .25¢ was. So I took one out and showed them. Then they both got all excited. They bought a big suitcase (that I had bought for the sole purpose to put my wedding dress for our wedding in Hawaii) and basically filled it in. The old lady was funny and excited, picking up little things. I gave them a few things. They left with their new luggage full, and the old man with a winter coat on, despite the heat & humidity! They were a cute couple.
This grand pa and his grand daughter came and walked around for a while – lots of knick-knacks to look at. We had our patio table full of towels, all sizes but mostly beach ones. The old man started telling me how his earring wasn’t was it used to be, and how his wife loved to sew. His wife would cut them into smaller pieces and make rags out of them (I listened!). He wanted to buy the whole lot of towels (over 12) and wanted a good price. I don’t negotiate much (normally) but yesterday I did (for some strange reason!). We agreed on a price and I packed the bunch of them in a big garbage bag and off they were.
Overall it wasn’t a great garage sale (we made about $200.00), but we managed to sell some of the things we really wanted to get rid of like our ping-pong table, an old a/c, a bunch of bed sheets, and lots of other things.
As far as I'm converned it was a good day, where I was aware of my daily task and then some!
Phase Three – Step 19
Today I chose my task to be a “doing” one: Activity.
Since I had to get up early to bring to pooch out, and while I waited for her to do her business, I couldn’t help to think that it was going to be a “glorious” day (yeah, yeah! That’s what I thought!), so I told hubby that we should go for a hike in Oka. We had a quick breakfast, packed a few things and off we went.
What I thought would be one hour or so walk, turned out a bit longer. We were gone for 4 hours! It was such a really nice day. By the time we left the park, there was a line-up, to get in the park, of more than 2 km and it was only 12:30.
We got home, took pooch out for a pee break, then we were off again to run some errands (groceries, good food for the pooch*, rent some movies) then headed home.
Today I really did something different. I normally walk this much on vacation, like in Greece when we walked everywhere. When we got back home I felt exhausted afterwards, and that felt good! That was an interesting way of enjoying spending time out, doing an activity in nature, with no other purpose but to be outside.
* I’ve realised that I’ve became a pet food snob. I want the good stuff for those furry things. Now I’m just hoping that she’ll like her new food!?!
We were having a garage sale, and we didn’t have lots of furniture to sell (besides my grand mother’s old Singer’s sewing machine), the rest was just “overflow”, as we call it. Things we simply had too many of. Since the weather wasn’t that great to start with, we wanted to get rid of our things. We had decided before hand, that whatever didn’t sell we would give to charity. Having to deal with people all day went much better than anticipated, for me anyway. I’m sure I’ve met some of my "people’s tasks" throughout the day. I listen to some telling me their life stories, I help some carry things to their cars and I gave.
This old Asian couple came by early on. They spoke neither French nor English. The first thing the old man spotted was a pair of ski mitts. Hubby said .25¢. That is when I realised that they didn’t understand our money currencies, either. They didn’t know what .25¢ was. So I took one out and showed them. Then they both got all excited. They bought a big suitcase (that I had bought for the sole purpose to put my wedding dress for our wedding in Hawaii) and basically filled it in. The old lady was funny and excited, picking up little things. I gave them a few things. They left with their new luggage full, and the old man with a winter coat on, despite the heat & humidity! They were a cute couple.
This grand pa and his grand daughter came and walked around for a while – lots of knick-knacks to look at. We had our patio table full of towels, all sizes but mostly beach ones. The old man started telling me how his earring wasn’t was it used to be, and how his wife loved to sew. His wife would cut them into smaller pieces and make rags out of them (I listened!). He wanted to buy the whole lot of towels (over 12) and wanted a good price. I don’t negotiate much (normally) but yesterday I did (for some strange reason!). We agreed on a price and I packed the bunch of them in a big garbage bag and off they were.
Overall it wasn’t a great garage sale (we made about $200.00), but we managed to sell some of the things we really wanted to get rid of like our ping-pong table, an old a/c, a bunch of bed sheets, and lots of other things.
As far as I'm converned it was a good day, where I was aware of my daily task and then some!
Phase Three – Step 19
Today I chose my task to be a “doing” one: Activity.
Since I had to get up early to bring to pooch out, and while I waited for her to do her business, I couldn’t help to think that it was going to be a “glorious” day (yeah, yeah! That’s what I thought!), so I told hubby that we should go for a hike in Oka. We had a quick breakfast, packed a few things and off we went.
What I thought would be one hour or so walk, turned out a bit longer. We were gone for 4 hours! It was such a really nice day. By the time we left the park, there was a line-up, to get in the park, of more than 2 km and it was only 12:30.
We got home, took pooch out for a pee break, then we were off again to run some errands (groceries, good food for the pooch*, rent some movies) then headed home.
Today I really did something different. I normally walk this much on vacation, like in Greece when we walked everywhere. When we got back home I felt exhausted afterwards, and that felt good! That was an interesting way of enjoying spending time out, doing an activity in nature, with no other purpose but to be outside.
* I’ve realised that I’ve became a pet food snob. I want the good stuff for those furry things. Now I’m just hoping that she’ll like her new food!?!
Friday, June 16, 2006
Phase Three: Step 17
Today I decided that I would do one of my "doing" task.
Since I had to prepare some food for a client, I prepared everything standing. To stand was one of the "doing" tasks. Often when I cook, a big batch, I will sit at the table while chopping the ingredients. Today I stood. I don't really think it changed my viewpoint or anything, but keeping busy while I stood surely made it easier than just standing there looking at the time go by! The "stand" task wasn't even one I was considering to do, and yet I'm done with my daily task!
Since I have to wait for the food to be ready, I will also take care of one of my extra task. I will be making a list about the good points of my partner. I "think" it should be fairly easy.... I love the man!
Since I had to prepare some food for a client, I prepared everything standing. To stand was one of the "doing" tasks. Often when I cook, a big batch, I will sit at the table while chopping the ingredients. Today I stood. I don't really think it changed my viewpoint or anything, but keeping busy while I stood surely made it easier than just standing there looking at the time go by! The "stand" task wasn't even one I was considering to do, and yet I'm done with my daily task!
Since I have to wait for the food to be ready, I will also take care of one of my extra task. I will be making a list about the good points of my partner. I "think" it should be fairly easy.... I love the man!
Votre Friday Smile!
The mood ring:
My husband bought me a mood ring the other day. When I'm in a good mood it turns green. When I'm in a bad mood, it leaves a red mark on his forehead.
Un samedi soir, sa femme décide pour lui qu'il devrait sortir car il est trop occupé à pratiquer ses sports durant la semaine. Elle l'amène donc voir les danseuses nues.
En entrant dans le bar, le portier lui dit: "Salut Roger!"
Sa femme, intriguée, lui demande s'il vient souvent ici. Roger lui dit non c'est un gars avec qui, il joue aux quilles.
Rendus dans le bar, la serveuse vient le voir et lui demande: "Une grosse bleue comme d'habitude, mon Roger?"
Sa femme commence à s’énerver et elle lui dit qu'elle le soupçonne de venir souvent à cet endroit. Roger lui répond que non, et c'est juste une fille qui jouait au volley-ball avec lui.
Deux minutes plus tard, une danseuse lui demande: "Une p'tite danse à dix, comme d'habitude, mon Roger?"
Sa femme, bleu-marin, le sort du bar par le collet, elle l'embarque dans un taxi et elle commence à l'engueuler comme du poisson pourri.
Le chauffeur du taxi se retourne alors et dit: "Ouain... T'as pogné une hostie d'folle à soir mon Roger!"
My husband bought me a mood ring the other day. When I'm in a good mood it turns green. When I'm in a bad mood, it leaves a red mark on his forehead.
* * * * * * *
Un gars s'appelle Roger et joue aux quilles et au volley-ball.Un samedi soir, sa femme décide pour lui qu'il devrait sortir car il est trop occupé à pratiquer ses sports durant la semaine. Elle l'amène donc voir les danseuses nues.
En entrant dans le bar, le portier lui dit: "Salut Roger!"
Sa femme, intriguée, lui demande s'il vient souvent ici. Roger lui dit non c'est un gars avec qui, il joue aux quilles.
Rendus dans le bar, la serveuse vient le voir et lui demande: "Une grosse bleue comme d'habitude, mon Roger?"
Sa femme commence à s’énerver et elle lui dit qu'elle le soupçonne de venir souvent à cet endroit. Roger lui répond que non, et c'est juste une fille qui jouait au volley-ball avec lui.
Deux minutes plus tard, une danseuse lui demande: "Une p'tite danse à dix, comme d'habitude, mon Roger?"
Sa femme, bleu-marin, le sort du bar par le collet, elle l'embarque dans un taxi et elle commence à l'engueuler comme du poisson pourri.
Le chauffeur du taxi se retourne alors et dit: "Ouain... T'as pogné une hostie d'folle à soir mon Roger!"
Have a great Father's Day Weekend!
Happy Father's Day to all the dads!
Happy Father's Day to all the dads!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Phase Three: Step 16
For today the task I chose to do was a “people” task and it was to help. I was to do something, to offer my assistance or to be useful to someone or a living creature.
I took Cathy to the vet to have her nails clipped. While sitting in the waiting area, a lady came in asking if she could bring her cat right in the examination room. When they called her in, she went outside and her son came back with the cat wrapped in a blanket that was literally howling. Its cries sounded so sad and painful. They rushed by me and went in directly. I had to look away and take a few deep breaths as I sadly realised that my next visit to the vet will most likely be to have Cathy put down. A wave of emotions came over me, as I sat there looking at people with their pets, I almost broke down in tears. That thought was too much for me at that moment.
When the technician came back with Cathy she was trembling so much that I felt really bad about having brought her there. I took pity on her for prolonging her life that way. I know that her life with me will be a short one. At least I’m hoping it will be. I really don’t want her to suffer. I want her to finish her life the way that she lived it: happy, loved and well taken care of.
Today was her first full day with us. She is lost; it shows in the way the wanders around, non-stop when she's not sleeping. She had 2 “accidents” in the house, even if I brought her out every time she woke up. The second one was right after we came back in. I didn’t reprimand her since I know her state of “awareness” isn’t what it used to be and she’s totally disoriented.
I will help her to go in a peaceful way, or at least I'm hoping that I will help.
I took Cathy to the vet to have her nails clipped. While sitting in the waiting area, a lady came in asking if she could bring her cat right in the examination room. When they called her in, she went outside and her son came back with the cat wrapped in a blanket that was literally howling. Its cries sounded so sad and painful. They rushed by me and went in directly. I had to look away and take a few deep breaths as I sadly realised that my next visit to the vet will most likely be to have Cathy put down. A wave of emotions came over me, as I sat there looking at people with their pets, I almost broke down in tears. That thought was too much for me at that moment.
When the technician came back with Cathy she was trembling so much that I felt really bad about having brought her there. I took pity on her for prolonging her life that way. I know that her life with me will be a short one. At least I’m hoping it will be. I really don’t want her to suffer. I want her to finish her life the way that she lived it: happy, loved and well taken care of.
Today was her first full day with us. She is lost; it shows in the way the wanders around, non-stop when she's not sleeping. She had 2 “accidents” in the house, even if I brought her out every time she woke up. The second one was right after we came back in. I didn’t reprimand her since I know her state of “awareness” isn’t what it used to be and she’s totally disoriented.
I will help her to go in a peaceful way, or at least I'm hoping that I will help.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Phase Three: Step 15
This phase will be challenging, I think. Unlike the previous phase there was a whole chapter to prepare for Phase Three. This [hase is all about changing my habits and doing things differently.
I had to do some little tests in order to see what my "people habits" were as well as my "doing habits". In the People habits I scored in the medium, like most people I have a range of habits relating to how I view others and how I behave towards them. In the Doing habits I had a low score, which appears to mean that I don't have too many bad thinking habits in relation to doing things.
So, for the next week I will have to do: 2 "Doing" days and 5 "People" days PLUS 2 other tasks.
On People Days I have to either: listen, ask, give, new, find out or help.
On Doing Days I have to choose between the following tasks: walk, create, activity, learn, stand or change.
I chose to do one of my "People" task today: Ask
Earlier I called my mom and told her not to have her pooch put down. We would drive up to her place and pick Cathy (the pooch) up and bring her home with us. I couldn't bare the thought of having her put down because of the move. She did not deserve to die that way.
I've been thinking about this all day, and not to mention the fact that this idea has been going around in my head for a while now. I really don't want to freak out my cat, which always lived alone, in this house. In the last 11 years Tobi slept away from home only once, when he was hospitalised.
Whenever I would ask hubby if I/we were doing the right thing he would always tell me that it was up to me to decide. If I wanted to take the dog in, we would. But the final decision was mine to make.
So, earlier I called a friend and asked her what she taught of the situation. I already knew she's an animal lover, but I also think that she's a responsible person. We talked for a while and she made some suggestions about the two (cat & dog) pets interaction. She gave me the little bit of reassuring I needed (Thanks Mu!), so when hubby gets back from work, we will drive up to my mother's and bring the pooch home. Our home will become her nursing home and I can only hope that the time she will spend with us will be happy and peaceful. That's all I want to give her.
So, that was my first task completed in Phase Three, and it actually felt very good to ask!
I had to do some little tests in order to see what my "people habits" were as well as my "doing habits". In the People habits I scored in the medium, like most people I have a range of habits relating to how I view others and how I behave towards them. In the Doing habits I had a low score, which appears to mean that I don't have too many bad thinking habits in relation to doing things.
So, for the next week I will have to do: 2 "Doing" days and 5 "People" days PLUS 2 other tasks.
On People Days I have to either: listen, ask, give, new, find out or help.
On Doing Days I have to choose between the following tasks: walk, create, activity, learn, stand or change.
I chose to do one of my "People" task today: Ask
Earlier I called my mom and told her not to have her pooch put down. We would drive up to her place and pick Cathy (the pooch) up and bring her home with us. I couldn't bare the thought of having her put down because of the move. She did not deserve to die that way.
I've been thinking about this all day, and not to mention the fact that this idea has been going around in my head for a while now. I really don't want to freak out my cat, which always lived alone, in this house. In the last 11 years Tobi slept away from home only once, when he was hospitalised.
Whenever I would ask hubby if I/we were doing the right thing he would always tell me that it was up to me to decide. If I wanted to take the dog in, we would. But the final decision was mine to make.
So, earlier I called a friend and asked her what she taught of the situation. I already knew she's an animal lover, but I also think that she's a responsible person. We talked for a while and she made some suggestions about the two (cat & dog) pets interaction. She gave me the little bit of reassuring I needed (Thanks Mu!), so when hubby gets back from work, we will drive up to my mother's and bring the pooch home. Our home will become her nursing home and I can only hope that the time she will spend with us will be happy and peaceful. That's all I want to give her.
So, that was my first task completed in Phase Three, and it actually felt very good to ask!
Phase Two: Step 14
Yesterday's task was trying to be more (or less) conventional.*
Where do I stand on this one? I feel like I’ve been saying the same thing over and over since I started Phase Two. The way I dress could be considered “conventional”, but then my hair not so much. At the moment I have this 2-tone hair color. The top is red and the bottom is black. Not really traditional, and I like to change my hair often. Like I keep telling people who comment on how often I change my hair (cut and/or color) “I can’t change my face this easy, so I change what I can!”
My behavior isn't also always conventional - I've been known to shock (or at lest surprised)at times. I know I do stand out from the crowd and at other I simply fit in.
The options they suggested in the book aren't really helping, it just brings one more questions/confusion. Because my hair is so short it would be difficult to do my hair in a more “normal” way than its usual spiky look. In order to try to be more conventional, should I remove my toe ring? As for trying on different looks when it comes to clothes, every time I go shopping lately I feel confused. Not young enough to wear certain things and yet not old enough to wear others. I don’t want to look like the Sylvia Fine, the Nanny’s mother (Fran Drescher), that dressed just way too…too… just too! Or like my mother who I always thought dressed too old for her age.
I'm stuck again!
It has been two weeks since I started the No Diet Diet and according to its authors I should have lost a few pounds by now. Dunno! Don’t have a scale!
I must say that I have noticed some little changes. I feel better, in my head, and I feel like I’m a “little” more tolerant (LITTLE being the key word here!)...
Most importantly I’ve noticed that my diet/eating has been improving on its own, without me starving or craving certain things. I haven’t change or deprived myself of anything I felt like and I am not even really watching what I eat.
It’s almost as if before I do/eat something I stop and think of how I could change that. Am I doing this out of habit or because I want/need to? It’s seems to be working. I’m simply more aware or at least it feels that way. I’m just not hungry, it’s weird.
I guess overall I feel happier, less anxious and more content with life. Just for that, the past 2 weeks have been worth it!
Where do I stand on this one? I feel like I’ve been saying the same thing over and over since I started Phase Two. The way I dress could be considered “conventional”, but then my hair not so much. At the moment I have this 2-tone hair color. The top is red and the bottom is black. Not really traditional, and I like to change my hair often. Like I keep telling people who comment on how often I change my hair (cut and/or color) “I can’t change my face this easy, so I change what I can!”
My behavior isn't also always conventional - I've been known to shock (or at lest surprised)at times. I know I do stand out from the crowd and at other I simply fit in.
The options they suggested in the book aren't really helping, it just brings one more questions/confusion. Because my hair is so short it would be difficult to do my hair in a more “normal” way than its usual spiky look. In order to try to be more conventional, should I remove my toe ring? As for trying on different looks when it comes to clothes, every time I go shopping lately I feel confused. Not young enough to wear certain things and yet not old enough to wear others. I don’t want to look like the Sylvia Fine, the Nanny’s mother (Fran Drescher), that dressed just way too…too… just too! Or like my mother who I always thought dressed too old for her age.
I'm stuck again!
It has been two weeks since I started the No Diet Diet and according to its authors I should have lost a few pounds by now. Dunno! Don’t have a scale!
I must say that I have noticed some little changes. I feel better, in my head, and I feel like I’m a “little” more tolerant (LITTLE being the key word here!)...
Most importantly I’ve noticed that my diet/eating has been improving on its own, without me starving or craving certain things. I haven’t change or deprived myself of anything I felt like and I am not even really watching what I eat.
It’s almost as if before I do/eat something I stop and think of how I could change that. Am I doing this out of habit or because I want/need to? It’s seems to be working. I’m simply more aware or at least it feels that way. I’m just not hungry, it’s weird.
I guess overall I feel happier, less anxious and more content with life. Just for that, the past 2 weeks have been worth it!
Let's move on to Phase Three!
* Just thought of something about not being too conventional, not wanting kids is surely pretty high on that list, no? hi! hi! hi!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Parenthood - our choice
I know that (if read) this post might disturbed some people, because I'm touching a very touchy subject. I have to express how I feel. I'm sorry in advance if my thoughts are not in order, please bear with me.
Over a week ago, a cousin of my husband questioned our decision to not want children. Since then I’ve been thinking about this in every possible angle, debated it and for why? Whose decision is it anyway? Her argument was that it was every woman’s wish/want and not wanting one was selfish on our part.
As far back as I can remember I don’t recall ever wanting a child. I remember some of my friends talking about wanting kids, the big wedding and all. I never really thought about that. I wanted to be with someone, yes. I didn’t really have to be married and never really thought about having children.
In my twenties I loved someone, ended up living with him for a few years. One of his brothers had a boy who was about 2 years old. I simply feel in love with this boy. He was so cute and loving. One night, boyfriend and I were talking about where our relationship was going, since it was rocky (to say the least) and the topic of children came on. That is when I realised that maybe, deep down, I didn’t want any! Anyway, not with him! At that feeling was mutual (even better!). That took care of that!
Then I was single for a few years and did my darndest NOT to get pregnant. I never felt like something was missing either – beside a good warm body in my bed! – I had a life and was enjoying it.
Then I met current husband. He said kids weren’t in his future. We have been together for over 13 years (married for 6, this year), we are both only children and neither one of us want kids! Go figure! If you're wondering why we are married, it was for a more "practical" aspect of our lives. In 1999, when we both got laid off from Nortel we had seriously considered moving to the States. A co-worker of hubby who had been living with his girlfriend for many years and had kids with, had to do a "rush" wedding at city-hall to facilitate her entry (and the kids') into the States. I didn't want that. If I was to marry I wanted the wedding. So we did!
Often when people ask me if I missed having siblings, I always answer “How can you miss something you never had?”. Plus, I have a big family. On my father’s side alone, 35 first cousins, so no time to miss a brother or sister! I’ve always thought that I would have liked to have an older brother, so that I could have dated his friends, but besides that...
Being a only child makes me selfish, spoiled rotten and very self-centred. Or at least that is what I’ve been told often and what a lot of people think. I don’t think it is all true. Yes I was spoiled, no debate there, but my parents were also VERY strict. As for the rest, well, the jury is still out…
I can't (and won't) speak for hubby, but here are some of MY reasons, why I chose not to have a child (BTW, IF I ever had a child I would have had more than one):
Knowing myself the way I do, and looking at how I behave with my cat I know that I would be a great mom. BUT it is not because I have the abilities that I want the job!
AND it is not because I don’t want a child that makes me someone who hates kids! Not wanting children doesn’t mean I hate them. I don’t want them, that’s all.
I never “goo, goo, ga, ga” over babies, I much prefer toddlers, when you can interact with them and their personality is emerging, so mommies out there, stop getting offended when I don’t ask to hold your baby or spend time over the stroller making faces and speaking in the highest pitch voice I can manage. I just don’t do that.
And why is it that because we chose not to have children that it's ok for poeple to tell us how selfish and wrong we are about this? Did we ask for your opinions? Until we do, please try to respect our choice!
Here are some of the things that people say that really piss me off:
“It’s every women’s dream/want/need” -- Not this woman!
“It’s very selfish of you not to want a child, when you have a good stable life, a good man and money.” -- Yes I have all that and yet I don’t want a kid – go figure!
“It’s not the same when it’s your child” -- Really? I would have never guessed that?
“It won’t change your life that much” -- Then why the heck did you have one if it doesn’t change anything?
“You don’t know what it is, you don’t have a child” -- What? Giving birth gave you all answers? And because my vagina didn’t get stretched to its maximum capacity I can not think or feel?
“Until you give life to your own…” -- I know, I don’t have a kid thus I know nothing! BTW, does that mean that all adoptive mothers "don’t know" either? Think about this before saying something that stupid, next time!
A few years back a friend who had been married for a little over a year announced they were pregnant. And NATURALLY then proceed to ask when WE going to get pregnant.
I then asked him “Why did you decide to have a child?” He couldn’t give me an answer to the “real” reason why, beside him saying: “well it’s the next step…” To what? The Marriage, Mortgage, Kid equation? Really? That’s a darn good reason to bring someone into this life isn’t it?
Or the “Well, the wife wants kids” – Again great reason! Wouldn’t want to disappoints the wife or the grandparents for that matter, now would we? That night I know that I stir some questions in his little man brain.
Too many people go with the flow; they follow a recipe but never question anything along the way. I’m not that way. I don’t do things “because”. That’s not good enough for me. According to my parents my “why” period was bad, never satisfied with a “because” answer. I guess I never really outgrew that period.
Did you ever think that wanting children IS selfish? We have kids for OURSELVES. Why do people decide to have kids? Nobody has EVER asked his or her kid if he/she wanted to come into this world? Ever think of that? How many people simply want children not to be alone in their old days. You will end up alone, and guess what you will die alone as well, no matter how many people are at your bedside. ...but we choose to ignore that.
Not wanting children should be a respected choice just as much as wanting some. Oh wait! Often people don’t want, it just happens. yeah ok. All this to say that some people should learn to keep their opinions to themselves, unless asked for, and most of all they should learn to respect opinions that differ from theirs. I don’t want a child, and yes there are times when I wonder if I’ve made the right decision and then I go to the mall and I KNOW I did...
Over a week ago, a cousin of my husband questioned our decision to not want children. Since then I’ve been thinking about this in every possible angle, debated it and for why? Whose decision is it anyway? Her argument was that it was every woman’s wish/want and not wanting one was selfish on our part.
As far back as I can remember I don’t recall ever wanting a child. I remember some of my friends talking about wanting kids, the big wedding and all. I never really thought about that. I wanted to be with someone, yes. I didn’t really have to be married and never really thought about having children.
In my twenties I loved someone, ended up living with him for a few years. One of his brothers had a boy who was about 2 years old. I simply feel in love with this boy. He was so cute and loving. One night, boyfriend and I were talking about where our relationship was going, since it was rocky (to say the least) and the topic of children came on. That is when I realised that maybe, deep down, I didn’t want any! Anyway, not with him! At that feeling was mutual (even better!). That took care of that!
Then I was single for a few years and did my darndest NOT to get pregnant. I never felt like something was missing either – beside a good warm body in my bed! – I had a life and was enjoying it.
Then I met current husband. He said kids weren’t in his future. We have been together for over 13 years (married for 6, this year), we are both only children and neither one of us want kids! Go figure! If you're wondering why we are married, it was for a more "practical" aspect of our lives. In 1999, when we both got laid off from Nortel we had seriously considered moving to the States. A co-worker of hubby who had been living with his girlfriend for many years and had kids with, had to do a "rush" wedding at city-hall to facilitate her entry (and the kids') into the States. I didn't want that. If I was to marry I wanted the wedding. So we did!
Often when people ask me if I missed having siblings, I always answer “How can you miss something you never had?”. Plus, I have a big family. On my father’s side alone, 35 first cousins, so no time to miss a brother or sister! I’ve always thought that I would have liked to have an older brother, so that I could have dated his friends, but besides that...
Being a only child makes me selfish, spoiled rotten and very self-centred. Or at least that is what I’ve been told often and what a lot of people think. I don’t think it is all true. Yes I was spoiled, no debate there, but my parents were also VERY strict. As for the rest, well, the jury is still out…
I can't (and won't) speak for hubby, but here are some of MY reasons, why I chose not to have a child (BTW, IF I ever had a child I would have had more than one):
- It is a commitment for life, and I’m not certain I want to take on that responsibility. It will change my life forever. How can you add a third person to your life and think that things will remain the same? Yes I can adapt, but what if I don’t want to!
- A child is time consuming. It deserves full time attention. I’m not ready nor willing to do that. Yes that is selfish of me, but I’m being honest about it.
- Don’t want to love someone that much. Yes that frightens me. I just see myself with hubby or even our cat, and I can't imagine how it would be for a child.
- If something doesn’t work out with the father of the child and we separate, I will still have “ex” in my life because of the child. I don’t want that. If a relationship is over then, let’s move on. With a child it never really occurs.
- Younger I always thought that I didn't want to inflict to a child what I went through (reproduce what you know), but now that I'm older I know that I wouldn't necesarily do it and even if I "know" better, deep down in some dark area, I know that this fear might still be there.
- Life in today’s society… Yes one has to be hopeful, but one is also realistic.
Knowing myself the way I do, and looking at how I behave with my cat I know that I would be a great mom. BUT it is not because I have the abilities that I want the job!
AND it is not because I don’t want a child that makes me someone who hates kids! Not wanting children doesn’t mean I hate them. I don’t want them, that’s all.
I never “goo, goo, ga, ga” over babies, I much prefer toddlers, when you can interact with them and their personality is emerging, so mommies out there, stop getting offended when I don’t ask to hold your baby or spend time over the stroller making faces and speaking in the highest pitch voice I can manage. I just don’t do that.
And why is it that because we chose not to have children that it's ok for poeple to tell us how selfish and wrong we are about this? Did we ask for your opinions? Until we do, please try to respect our choice!
Here are some of the things that people say that really piss me off:
“It’s every women’s dream/want/need” -- Not this woman!
“It’s very selfish of you not to want a child, when you have a good stable life, a good man and money.” -- Yes I have all that and yet I don’t want a kid – go figure!
“It’s not the same when it’s your child” -- Really? I would have never guessed that?
“It won’t change your life that much” -- Then why the heck did you have one if it doesn’t change anything?
“You don’t know what it is, you don’t have a child” -- What? Giving birth gave you all answers? And because my vagina didn’t get stretched to its maximum capacity I can not think or feel?
“Until you give life to your own…” -- I know, I don’t have a kid thus I know nothing! BTW, does that mean that all adoptive mothers "don’t know" either? Think about this before saying something that stupid, next time!
A few years back a friend who had been married for a little over a year announced they were pregnant. And NATURALLY then proceed to ask when WE going to get pregnant.
I then asked him “Why did you decide to have a child?” He couldn’t give me an answer to the “real” reason why, beside him saying: “well it’s the next step…” To what? The Marriage, Mortgage, Kid equation? Really? That’s a darn good reason to bring someone into this life isn’t it?
Or the “Well, the wife wants kids” – Again great reason! Wouldn’t want to disappoints the wife or the grandparents for that matter, now would we? That night I know that I stir some questions in his little man brain.
Too many people go with the flow; they follow a recipe but never question anything along the way. I’m not that way. I don’t do things “because”. That’s not good enough for me. According to my parents my “why” period was bad, never satisfied with a “because” answer. I guess I never really outgrew that period.
Did you ever think that wanting children IS selfish? We have kids for OURSELVES. Why do people decide to have kids? Nobody has EVER asked his or her kid if he/she wanted to come into this world? Ever think of that? How many people simply want children not to be alone in their old days. You will end up alone, and guess what you will die alone as well, no matter how many people are at your bedside. ...but we choose to ignore that.
Not wanting children should be a respected choice just as much as wanting some. Oh wait! Often people don’t want, it just happens. yeah ok. All this to say that some people should learn to keep their opinions to themselves, unless asked for, and most of all they should learn to respect opinions that differ from theirs. I don’t want a child, and yes there are times when I wonder if I’ve made the right decision and then I go to the mall and I KNOW I did...
Monday, June 12, 2006
Phase Two: Step 13
Oh no! I just read that the more habits I break, the faster I'll lose weight! I have a "target-rich" environment - yeah ok! Great!
Today I have to fine-tune my temperament. AGAIN I oscillate between being introverted and extroverted - where are those people who keep on telling me that life isn't all black or white, seems to me that I'm that freakin' grey zone A LOT!
I think that I tend to "act" more in an extroverted manner, and I'm sure a lot of people will agree with that. All this simply because I speak my mind! Every time I tell someone that I happen to be shy, they look at me funny or they simply laugh at me. Really I am shy.
I hate going to a party when there's lots of people already there, or if I don't know many people (like when I accompany hubby to a client's things), I'll be in my corner. Yes, I do "warm up" fast, and will join in, BUT only if I feel like I like these people and might have something in common with them.
I'm not shy to the point of being unable to call somewhere (I did phone surveys for a while, so I had to get over that "pretty" fast), but I don't like calling certain places. But there are moments that I don't feel at ease, and if someone really knows me, they will notice that I've stepped back into my shell.
But on the other hand, I can also be quite an extrovert. Reading their description of it, one thing for sure, I'm not a TRUE extrovert.
I don't dominate conversation (or at least try not to!), I do keep quiet for a while (and then people think there's something wrong) and I don't have a high volume. I hate that.
I love to spend time alone, heck; I'm alone at home most every day! I don't interrupt other people (ok! on this one hubby will comment, but besides him I tend to be a good listener!) or worst, finish their sentences.
What counts is how I feel about myself. I feel like I am a mixture of both.
Today I have to fine-tune my temperament. AGAIN I oscillate between being introverted and extroverted - where are those people who keep on telling me that life isn't all black or white, seems to me that I'm that freakin' grey zone A LOT!
I think that I tend to "act" more in an extroverted manner, and I'm sure a lot of people will agree with that. All this simply because I speak my mind! Every time I tell someone that I happen to be shy, they look at me funny or they simply laugh at me. Really I am shy.
I hate going to a party when there's lots of people already there, or if I don't know many people (like when I accompany hubby to a client's things), I'll be in my corner. Yes, I do "warm up" fast, and will join in, BUT only if I feel like I like these people and might have something in common with them.
I'm not shy to the point of being unable to call somewhere (I did phone surveys for a while, so I had to get over that "pretty" fast), but I don't like calling certain places. But there are moments that I don't feel at ease, and if someone really knows me, they will notice that I've stepped back into my shell.
But on the other hand, I can also be quite an extrovert. Reading their description of it, one thing for sure, I'm not a TRUE extrovert.
I don't dominate conversation (or at least try not to!), I do keep quiet for a while (and then people think there's something wrong) and I don't have a high volume. I hate that.
I love to spend time alone, heck; I'm alone at home most every day! I don't interrupt other people (ok! on this one hubby will comment, but besides him I tend to be a good listener!) or worst, finish their sentences.
What counts is how I feel about myself. I feel like I am a mixture of both.
Phase Two: Step 12
Yet another task where I thought I was "centered", which kind of makes it harder to do what they want me to do. Today I had to optimise my spontaneity. I know that I tend to be spontaneous for certains things and at other times I'm systematic. It all depends of the task at hand. I don't think I constantly behave one way. Granted I'm not as systematic as my husband. He has to plan things - must be his programming mind that affects every aspects of his life or something.
If I'm normally spontaneous they suggested that I make plans for something that's going to happen in the future. So, I made up a list of things to do for my garage sale next Saturday. I've prepared my signs, grouped my things per categories (dishes, books, purses together, etc.), priced most of everything. Tonight during our walk I thought about where I wanted to put up my signs and in which paper I would advertise. Now if next Saturday can only be sunny!
If I'm normally systematic, they suggested to do something more spontaneous. So, I made muffins (like I do every week, for hubby) and improvised with the recipe a little. I grilled some coconut and added some chunks of pineapple to the recipe. They came out quite nice, and they sure did smell good! Will have a taste tomorrow morning.
I just look at tomorrow's task and again I'm behaving both ways, depending on my mood or environment. This phase is not the same at all as Phase One... Since I think that I'm not just one way it makes it weird (I think) a little. But at least I'm still doing it... and it's making me realise how I do behave. Just for that I'd say, it's a good thing.
If I'm normally spontaneous they suggested that I make plans for something that's going to happen in the future. So, I made up a list of things to do for my garage sale next Saturday. I've prepared my signs, grouped my things per categories (dishes, books, purses together, etc.), priced most of everything. Tonight during our walk I thought about where I wanted to put up my signs and in which paper I would advertise. Now if next Saturday can only be sunny!
If I'm normally systematic, they suggested to do something more spontaneous. So, I made muffins (like I do every week, for hubby) and improvised with the recipe a little. I grilled some coconut and added some chunks of pineapple to the recipe. They came out quite nice, and they sure did smell good! Will have a taste tomorrow morning.
I just look at tomorrow's task and again I'm behaving both ways, depending on my mood or environment. This phase is not the same at all as Phase One... Since I think that I'm not just one way it makes it weird (I think) a little. But at least I'm still doing it... and it's making me realise how I do behave. Just for that I'd say, it's a good thing.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
My last visit there...
Tonight was my last visit to my parents' house... On the drive there I was looking at the scenery zooming by and kept on thinking of all the times I drove that way and couldn't help to feel a little twinge. Even if I never lived nor liked it there, it was my parents' place.
When we went in, the house was a mess, boxes piled up in the living room, in the bathroom. My parents' bedroom set was sold a few weeks back so beside the matresses there wasn't much left in their room, the curtains have been taken down, the house looked very untidy, a big disorderly heap... quite a sad sight. My mother is very unnerved about this move of hers. She's scared and it shows every so often.
We had a very good dinner - fondue bourguignone with moose meat, so tender it's unreal - despite the fact that most of her dishes and glasses were already packed. G's son was there as well. He will be helping them on moving day, as well as 2 of his grand sons. I told my mom I would help her unpack at their new place.
I'll have to get use to that, saying their place, instead of mom's. For the last seven years, it has been mom's, and the nine years before it was my parents'. Now I'll be going to mom & G.'s place... weird!
In 3 weeks they will be moving. My mother told me tonight that she wants to see this move as a new begining and that she would do her best to leave behind all her bad memories and sorrow. I think that the fact that they will have all new furniture (except for the dining room set) will greatly help her to move on.
On a sadder note, tonight I was faced with a tough choice. As I wrote in this previous post, mom can not take her little pooch at their new place. I really wanted to take Cathy in. Last time we were at my mom's (in mid-April) you could see that Cathy was old, but she had some good times in her still.
This afternoon when we arrived at the house I was shocked to see how much the poor little dog had aged. Her eyes were covered with this film or something and her hearing is gone. My mom was saying that the last week or so she had been acting very strange. She started to vomit her food, you can't pick her up without her complaining about it, she walks around endlessly with her tail between her legs and she NEVER did that before. The dog surely feels that something big is happening, half the furniture has been sold and there's boxes everywhere.
...and maybe my dad heard me and will take her away before this move. I'm hoping that is what will happen.
When came time to leave I felt like taking her home with us. My mom said that she would most likely bring her in to be put down this coming week. She really doesn't want to see her suffer, and she feels that she's in pain, since she walks funny (her hind legs are not right) and that she can't be picked up without her gulping in pain. It is not the same dog, that's for sure. Plus mom is anticipating the loss and she kept on repeating that she didn't want to loose everything at once: her dog and her house one after the other. That is why she wants to deal with the dog before the move, to spread the pain a little...
On our way home, dog less, I choked up when hubby said that he had said his farewell to Cathy. While I was upstairs with my mother, he picked up her up, sat her on his lap and petted her. The whole time she trembled, but didn't complain. When he told me this I felt like such an ass... I didn't even think to say goodbye to her! I wanted to turn back and bring her home with us.
I'm sitting here tonight, crying and thinking that just like my father I'm letting her go without having said the proper goodbye and that breaks my heart. I know she is just a little dog, who had a good life, but she was also a dog that loved and was loved by both my parents. She had her caracter and was quite fiesty despite her size. And what an attitude. She was the last real thread beween what was my parents and now, and it is hard to let her go. I wanted to hold on a little longer to one last thing of my dad...
* This picture of Cathy was taken last Christmas.
When we went in, the house was a mess, boxes piled up in the living room, in the bathroom. My parents' bedroom set was sold a few weeks back so beside the matresses there wasn't much left in their room, the curtains have been taken down, the house looked very untidy, a big disorderly heap... quite a sad sight. My mother is very unnerved about this move of hers. She's scared and it shows every so often.
We had a very good dinner - fondue bourguignone with moose meat, so tender it's unreal - despite the fact that most of her dishes and glasses were already packed. G's son was there as well. He will be helping them on moving day, as well as 2 of his grand sons. I told my mom I would help her unpack at their new place.
I'll have to get use to that, saying their place, instead of mom's. For the last seven years, it has been mom's, and the nine years before it was my parents'. Now I'll be going to mom & G.'s place... weird!
In 3 weeks they will be moving. My mother told me tonight that she wants to see this move as a new begining and that she would do her best to leave behind all her bad memories and sorrow. I think that the fact that they will have all new furniture (except for the dining room set) will greatly help her to move on.
On a sadder note, tonight I was faced with a tough choice. As I wrote in this previous post, mom can not take her little pooch at their new place. I really wanted to take Cathy in. Last time we were at my mom's (in mid-April) you could see that Cathy was old, but she had some good times in her still.
This afternoon when we arrived at the house I was shocked to see how much the poor little dog had aged. Her eyes were covered with this film or something and her hearing is gone. My mom was saying that the last week or so she had been acting very strange. She started to vomit her food, you can't pick her up without her complaining about it, she walks around endlessly with her tail between her legs and she NEVER did that before. The dog surely feels that something big is happening, half the furniture has been sold and there's boxes everywhere....and maybe my dad heard me and will take her away before this move. I'm hoping that is what will happen.
When came time to leave I felt like taking her home with us. My mom said that she would most likely bring her in to be put down this coming week. She really doesn't want to see her suffer, and she feels that she's in pain, since she walks funny (her hind legs are not right) and that she can't be picked up without her gulping in pain. It is not the same dog, that's for sure. Plus mom is anticipating the loss and she kept on repeating that she didn't want to loose everything at once: her dog and her house one after the other. That is why she wants to deal with the dog before the move, to spread the pain a little...
On our way home, dog less, I choked up when hubby said that he had said his farewell to Cathy. While I was upstairs with my mother, he picked up her up, sat her on his lap and petted her. The whole time she trembled, but didn't complain. When he told me this I felt like such an ass... I didn't even think to say goodbye to her! I wanted to turn back and bring her home with us.
I'm sitting here tonight, crying and thinking that just like my father I'm letting her go without having said the proper goodbye and that breaks my heart. I know she is just a little dog, who had a good life, but she was also a dog that loved and was loved by both my parents. She had her caracter and was quite fiesty despite her size. And what an attitude. She was the last real thread beween what was my parents and now, and it is hard to let her go. I wanted to hold on a little longer to one last thing of my dad...
* This picture of Cathy was taken last Christmas.
Phase Two: Step 10
I'm getting a little behind on my post entry of my daily task. Phase 2 is different and the fact that so far my tasks (in that Phase) are group based I feel a little disapointed.
Yesterday I had to change my energy level. I tend to be between "calm/relaxed" and " Energetic/Driven" depending on the situation. I tried to keep in mind to take a different perspective. I did something that I had been putting off for a while (not a long while, but a while) in oder to go from "normally relaxed" to a little more driven. And then I took my time to do another task instead of rushing through it to address my normally energetic side to adopt a more relaxed approach to life.
The task wasn't hard as such, but I think it helped me realise that this wasn't a place in my life where things weren't black or white. I really felt that at times I was in the grey zone.
Today was Phase Two: Step 11
My task for today was to optimise my flexibilty. I feel that I'm pretty much in the middle on that. I can be very definite about certain things meaning that I'm certain and decisive and at times I can be also flexible meaning that I'm open to change (for the better) and willing to adapt. Today I had to be different. Not easy when you're in between 2 things.
Thinking back about my day, I wasn't so accomodating of someone's opinion about moving my mother's safe (that is huge and weights a lot). At one point I spoke out and told him what I thought of his appraisal of the situation. On the other side of the scale I let my mother be "right" and I didn't criticise her or what she did.
I will definetely try to apply this flexibilty more either in my work or my social life. It can only be good for me and the people around me. I'm sure this will help me to be more tolerant ... and I do know that I need to work on that. It can only make me a better person, and hopefully a slimmer one as well! ;-D
Yesterday I had to change my energy level. I tend to be between "calm/relaxed" and " Energetic/Driven" depending on the situation. I tried to keep in mind to take a different perspective. I did something that I had been putting off for a while (not a long while, but a while) in oder to go from "normally relaxed" to a little more driven. And then I took my time to do another task instead of rushing through it to address my normally energetic side to adopt a more relaxed approach to life.
The task wasn't hard as such, but I think it helped me realise that this wasn't a place in my life where things weren't black or white. I really felt that at times I was in the grey zone.
Today was Phase Two: Step 11
My task for today was to optimise my flexibilty. I feel that I'm pretty much in the middle on that. I can be very definite about certain things meaning that I'm certain and decisive and at times I can be also flexible meaning that I'm open to change (for the better) and willing to adapt. Today I had to be different. Not easy when you're in between 2 things.
Thinking back about my day, I wasn't so accomodating of someone's opinion about moving my mother's safe (that is huge and weights a lot). At one point I spoke out and told him what I thought of his appraisal of the situation. On the other side of the scale I let my mother be "right" and I didn't criticise her or what she did.
I will definetely try to apply this flexibilty more either in my work or my social life. It can only be good for me and the people around me. I'm sure this will help me to be more tolerant ... and I do know that I need to work on that. It can only make me a better person, and hopefully a slimmer one as well! ;-D
Friday, June 09, 2006
At times I hate Blogger!!!
Last night was one of those times!Couldn't leave a comment anywhere that was Blogger, couldn't even post at some point and the worst was when, after working on a post for a good while, I clicked "Publish Post" and got an error message that maintenance was being done! AAARRRGGGHHHH!
Then I started wondering if I had hit that key... maybe I did and didn't realise it until it was too late?
I also hate Blogger because I'm weak. yes, I AM WEAK! I hate to admit it, but my geek husband created a monster when he introduced me to the blogosphere... It is all HIS fault! (Like everything else that is going on wrong! And he knows it! I've told him many times! And I'm most likely to proclaim it again in a very near future!).
The only one that is COMPLETELY "blasé" by all of this is Tobi, our cat. Unlike husband he doesn't pretend not to care, he simply doesn't. He doesn't care if I waste time here, AS LONG as he's fed (which hubby does every morning!), I can do whatever the freak I want!
As suggested by a friend, I should create a new file on my pc, and call it "Work!". But the thing is I would send it to the Recycle Bin, then empty the recycle bin and when my pc would ask "Are you sure you want to delete "Work!" permanently I would gladly click yes! and work wouldn't be an issue any longer and then I'd back here again!!!
Oh well. Could be worst, right?
Phase Two: Step 9
This phase is a little harder, not that I think it's hard (it hasn't really been... so far, anyway), but Phase 2 seems to be oriented towards how I act/react in a group. There's a little problem there, I'm home alone with my cat, not much interaction is there?
Yesterday's task was to change how I behave in a group. I've thought about it and hopefully I'll be able to "apply" it. Maybe tonight at meditation? I'll have the group part, but we're kind of quiet...
It's true that how we behave in a group can be very different from how we are alone. According to the authors, we all have a "group" persona that is habit-bound.
I tend to be more "individual-centred" meaning doing my own thing and putting myself or my own needs before those of the group. At times I can be "group-centred" meaning going along with the group - but I sort of have this "aversion" to being in "sheep mode" (i.e. to be part of a herd).
Next time I'm in a group, I'll try to adapt my behaviour to the circumstance and try to interact differently to break my habitweb.
Yesterday's task was to change how I behave in a group. I've thought about it and hopefully I'll be able to "apply" it. Maybe tonight at meditation? I'll have the group part, but we're kind of quiet...
It's true that how we behave in a group can be very different from how we are alone. According to the authors, we all have a "group" persona that is habit-bound.
I tend to be more "individual-centred" meaning doing my own thing and putting myself or my own needs before those of the group. At times I can be "group-centred" meaning going along with the group - but I sort of have this "aversion" to being in "sheep mode" (i.e. to be part of a herd).
Next time I'm in a group, I'll try to adapt my behaviour to the circumstance and try to interact differently to break my habitweb.
Your Friday Smile!
A Polish man moved to the USA and married an American girl. Although his English was far from perfect, they got along very well until one day he rushed into a lawyer's office and asked him if he could arrange a divorce for him.
The lawyer said that getting a divorce would depend on the circumstances and asked him the
following questions:
Have you any grounds?
Yes, acre and half and nice little home.
No, I mean what is the foundation of this case?
It made of concrete.
I don't think you understand. Does either of you have a real grudge?
No, we have carport and not need one.
I mean. What are your relations like?
All my relations still in Poland.
Is there any infidelity in your marriage?
We have hi-fidelity stereo and good DVD player.
Does your wife beat you up?
No, I always up before her.
Is your wife a nagger?
No, she white.
Why do you want this divorce?
She going kill me.
What makes you think that?
I got proof.
What kind of proof?
She going to poison me. She buy bottle at drugstore and put on shelf in bathroom.
I can read and it say: "Polish Remover."
The lawyer said that getting a divorce would depend on the circumstances and asked him the
following questions:
Have you any grounds?
Yes, acre and half and nice little home.
No, I mean what is the foundation of this case?
It made of concrete.
I don't think you understand. Does either of you have a real grudge?
No, we have carport and not need one.
I mean. What are your relations like?
All my relations still in Poland.
Is there any infidelity in your marriage?
We have hi-fidelity stereo and good DVD player.
Does your wife beat you up?
No, I always up before her.
Is your wife a nagger?
No, she white.
Why do you want this divorce?
She going kill me.
What makes you think that?
I got proof.
What kind of proof?
She going to poison me. She buy bottle at drugstore and put on shelf in bathroom.
I can read and it say: "Polish Remover."
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Profile Questionnaire
I was thinking of doing my very first Thursday Thirteen, but instead I would much rather do the *Bernard Pivot Questionnaire*!
I don't know if you watch "Inside the Actor's Studio" hosted by James Lipton on Bravo, but I do and just love this show.
These 10 questions originally came from a French series, "Bouillon de Culture" hosted by Bernard Pivot. James Lipton asks his guests at the end of each show, and I think this is my favorite part of the whole thing.
I think this will be a quick way to get a "pretty good picture" of who I am, so here goes:
1: What is your favorite word? "wifecat" (en français c'est: "vacances")
2: What is your least favorite word? "I can't" (en français c'est: "pas capable")
3: What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally? "a good laught" (en français c'est: "rire")
4: What turns you off? "stupidity" (en français c'est: "la stupidité")
5: What sound or noise do you love? "sound of rain on a roof or/and my cat's purr" (en français c'est: "le ronronnement de mon chat et/ou la pluie qui tombe sur un toit")
6: What sound or noise do you hate? "nails on a chalkboard" (en français c'est: "des ongles sur un tableau")
7: What is your favorite curse word? "Fuck" (en français c'est: "Tabarnak!")
8: What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? "Chef" (en français c'est: "Chef")
9: What profession would you not like to do? "Politician" (en français c'est: "Politicien")
10: If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? "You took the long way, didn't you?" (en français c'est: " T'as pris le parcours le plus difficile n'est-ce pas?")
I don't know if you watch "Inside the Actor's Studio" hosted by James Lipton on Bravo, but I do and just love this show.
These 10 questions originally came from a French series, "Bouillon de Culture" hosted by Bernard Pivot. James Lipton asks his guests at the end of each show, and I think this is my favorite part of the whole thing.
I think this will be a quick way to get a "pretty good picture" of who I am, so here goes:
1: What is your favorite word? "wifecat" (en français c'est: "vacances")
2: What is your least favorite word? "I can't" (en français c'est: "pas capable")
3: What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally? "a good laught" (en français c'est: "rire")
4: What turns you off? "stupidity" (en français c'est: "la stupidité")
5: What sound or noise do you love? "sound of rain on a roof or/and my cat's purr" (en français c'est: "le ronronnement de mon chat et/ou la pluie qui tombe sur un toit")
6: What sound or noise do you hate? "nails on a chalkboard" (en français c'est: "des ongles sur un tableau")
7: What is your favorite curse word? "Fuck" (en français c'est: "Tabarnak!")
8: What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? "Chef" (en français c'est: "Chef")
9: What profession would you not like to do? "Politician" (en français c'est: "Politicien")
10: If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? "You took the long way, didn't you?" (en français c'est: " T'as pris le parcours le plus difficile n'est-ce pas?")
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Phase Two: Step 8
They claimed that on average people lose around 1 lb during Phase One. I have no clue if I did, since I got rid of our scale many years ago. I’ll find out if I’ve lost weight by how I feel in my clothes and when I go back to see our GP in August.
Phase One was about laying the foundation for healthy sustained weight loss and creating the conditions for change. Phase Two should put it into practice. The only way to get something different is to Do Something Different!
In Phase One I realized that habits do govern a large part of my life. They even influence how I do things. They (the doctors who wrote the book) say that habits even control how we behave and interact with other people. In Phase Two I’ll be asked to behave differently than I normally do, to explore different parts of my personality that I don’t use that often. It sounds interesting to me to “play” or “act”. By me acting a little different might get others to act differently towards me …and that could be very interesting and beneficial to my well being overall.
My task for today is: Be less assertive.
Since I’m at home most of the time, I don’t have that much interaction with people/co-workers. I had lunch with a friend today and I tried to apply that task. I let her decide where we would be having lunch (her place, she fixed a good salad and quiche). Then when we talked business I gave her my opinion (I was there for that, to help her start her own business, so I couldn’t be completely unassertive!), I didn’t commit to anything, I gave her ideas and let her run with it.
I’ll try to do it more often. I’ve been known to be either “black or white”, no shades of gray with me. In doing this task (and the following ones, I think) I’ll learn to see the benefice (I’m hopping here!) of being more in the gray zone – hubby’s favorite spot in the sun! Can’t hurt, right?
Phase One was about laying the foundation for healthy sustained weight loss and creating the conditions for change. Phase Two should put it into practice. The only way to get something different is to Do Something Different!
In Phase One I realized that habits do govern a large part of my life. They even influence how I do things. They (the doctors who wrote the book) say that habits even control how we behave and interact with other people. In Phase Two I’ll be asked to behave differently than I normally do, to explore different parts of my personality that I don’t use that often. It sounds interesting to me to “play” or “act”. By me acting a little different might get others to act differently towards me …and that could be very interesting and beneficial to my well being overall.
My task for today is: Be less assertive.
Since I’m at home most of the time, I don’t have that much interaction with people/co-workers. I had lunch with a friend today and I tried to apply that task. I let her decide where we would be having lunch (her place, she fixed a good salad and quiche). Then when we talked business I gave her my opinion (I was there for that, to help her start her own business, so I couldn’t be completely unassertive!), I didn’t commit to anything, I gave her ideas and let her run with it.
I’ll try to do it more often. I’ve been known to be either “black or white”, no shades of gray with me. In doing this task (and the following ones, I think) I’ll learn to see the benefice (I’m hopping here!) of being more in the gray zone – hubby’s favorite spot in the sun! Can’t hurt, right?
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Phase One: Step 7
Today's task: Do a good-natured deed for someone else.
How interesting that my task today is about a random act of kindness ... just when I'm thinking about sprirituality...
To give for the sake of giving, without expecting to receive anything in return.
Well that was interesting! All day I've been thinking of what I could do - not as obvious as it may seem. Had to go to City Hall to get a permit for our garage sale, so while I'm waiting for the lady clerk to complete her call, I'm thinking what can I do? What good deed could I do for this lady? She looked so "overbored" that I kind of felt bad for her, but then again she's a city worker, so... there went my empathy.
On my way home I made a stop at the bank, for a money order, so I needed to see a "live" person. This is not usual since all of our banking is usually made via ATM or internet. As I came in I held the door for an older lady. When she saw the line-up (about 6 people ahead of her) she started complaining about the lack of staff, about the poor services that branch was offering and about how ridiculous it was to have only 1 cashier when there were so many people waiting. She was quite loud and wasn't being lenient to the bank's management at all. At some point the manager came out of her office and offered her a seat, that her place would be kept and to rest for a moment. The lady kept on complaining and did take a seat. Meanwhile in the line-up some people were commenting on how right the lady was, and how she expressed what most of us were feeling.
Then it was her turn to see a teller. She told him what she wanted, which bill to pay with what, and actually she got quite obnoxious with the teller to the point that I got a little embarrassed (and anybody who knows me, knows it takes a LOT!)... She got quite loud and was repeating over and over that she was over 65, and she shouldn't pay any fees, etc. My transaction took less time then hers so I was out of there fast. While I sat in my car I thought that I could offer her a lift home, but then decided against it. She didn't know me and was most likely to think I was out to screw her in some kind of way, so I went home.
My problem wasn't solve, I still haven't done my deed... and I was home alone!
Just before I went to my meditation class I thought of something I could do for the group. I'll treat them to my/our Hawaiian chocolates! I love chocolate, it's almost an addiction. As I looked at the box of chocolates (chocolate covered macademia nuts) I almost hurt... I was giving away something that I really wanted - that both hubby and I truly enjoyed - but it felt good at the same time to think that I would bring a little something sweet (literally!) to their day. 28 of us enjoyed those chocolates (yes, I had one!), they were good!
There! I did my task and managed to complete my first week of this "No Diet Diet"!
How interesting that my task today is about a random act of kindness ... just when I'm thinking about sprirituality...
To give for the sake of giving, without expecting to receive anything in return.
Well that was interesting! All day I've been thinking of what I could do - not as obvious as it may seem. Had to go to City Hall to get a permit for our garage sale, so while I'm waiting for the lady clerk to complete her call, I'm thinking what can I do? What good deed could I do for this lady? She looked so "overbored" that I kind of felt bad for her, but then again she's a city worker, so... there went my empathy.
On my way home I made a stop at the bank, for a money order, so I needed to see a "live" person. This is not usual since all of our banking is usually made via ATM or internet. As I came in I held the door for an older lady. When she saw the line-up (about 6 people ahead of her) she started complaining about the lack of staff, about the poor services that branch was offering and about how ridiculous it was to have only 1 cashier when there were so many people waiting. She was quite loud and wasn't being lenient to the bank's management at all. At some point the manager came out of her office and offered her a seat, that her place would be kept and to rest for a moment. The lady kept on complaining and did take a seat. Meanwhile in the line-up some people were commenting on how right the lady was, and how she expressed what most of us were feeling.
Then it was her turn to see a teller. She told him what she wanted, which bill to pay with what, and actually she got quite obnoxious with the teller to the point that I got a little embarrassed (and anybody who knows me, knows it takes a LOT!)... She got quite loud and was repeating over and over that she was over 65, and she shouldn't pay any fees, etc. My transaction took less time then hers so I was out of there fast. While I sat in my car I thought that I could offer her a lift home, but then decided against it. She didn't know me and was most likely to think I was out to screw her in some kind of way, so I went home.
My problem wasn't solve, I still haven't done my deed... and I was home alone!
Just before I went to my meditation class I thought of something I could do for the group. I'll treat them to my/our Hawaiian chocolates! I love chocolate, it's almost an addiction. As I looked at the box of chocolates (chocolate covered macademia nuts) I almost hurt... I was giving away something that I really wanted - that both hubby and I truly enjoyed - but it felt good at the same time to think that I would bring a little something sweet (literally!) to their day. 28 of us enjoyed those chocolates (yes, I had one!), they were good!
There! I did my task and managed to complete my first week of this "No Diet Diet"!
Phase One Completed!
Spiritual path
Last night, hubby and I took a walk and we talked. I've been doing meditation for over two years now and was wondering if he saw any change in me, since the reason I started this was because my osteo strongly suggested that I started meditation, because my body was simply not letting go. I was fighting his treatments, so he thought meditating would help be release some tensions.
I joined the group where a friend have been going for over 18 years. At first I was unsure. I was biased a little against it. What was it exactly, what did we do there, etc. When I first joined the group (who's made of all types, "normal" people) I thought it was weird (I still think that anyway!), but I liked the teachings the teacher was giving. He's an interesting man, with quite interesting views. In sitting there in silence, repeating my mantra I realised that I was on a spiritual path that I wasn't really aware I was on.
Yesterday, hubby said it in such a way that I was surprised by his "arm chair psychologist" way:
I was at a crossroads in my spiritual quest. I didn't know what I believed or who I believed. Attending group helped me see that there are certains things that I do not want, so I've been eliminating some things. I might be (I am!) confused still, but at least I'm taking off layers I don't need, and that is a good thing. Some progress have been made.
I don't know if meditating helps, but that time is spent in quiet and it is calming so... can't be bad!
Today I read Scott Adams' Blog, and it was a very interesting post, to me at least (and to hubby I'm sure when he'll read it). If you have a chance read it (click on the link above, it will bring you right to it). It's about relativity... and God.
I wonder if one day, I'll ever have comments like he does (over 200 on each posts)?
Don't think I'd want that, because unlike Mr. Adams I would answer them!
...but I do love reading your comments!
I joined the group where a friend have been going for over 18 years. At first I was unsure. I was biased a little against it. What was it exactly, what did we do there, etc. When I first joined the group (who's made of all types, "normal" people) I thought it was weird (I still think that anyway!), but I liked the teachings the teacher was giving. He's an interesting man, with quite interesting views. In sitting there in silence, repeating my mantra I realised that I was on a spiritual path that I wasn't really aware I was on.
Yesterday, hubby said it in such a way that I was surprised by his "arm chair psychologist" way:
I was at a crossroads in my spiritual quest. I didn't know what I believed or who I believed. Attending group helped me see that there are certains things that I do not want, so I've been eliminating some things. I might be (I am!) confused still, but at least I'm taking off layers I don't need, and that is a good thing. Some progress have been made.
I don't know if meditating helps, but that time is spent in quiet and it is calming so... can't be bad!
Today I read Scott Adams' Blog, and it was a very interesting post, to me at least (and to hubby I'm sure when he'll read it). If you have a chance read it (click on the link above, it will bring you right to it). It's about relativity... and God.
I wonder if one day, I'll ever have comments like he does (over 200 on each posts)?
Don't think I'd want that, because unlike Mr. Adams I would answer them!
...but I do love reading your comments!
Monday, June 05, 2006
Phase One: Step 6
My task for today is: Make a list of what I want to acheive by this time next year.
This one will require some thinking... ok then!
Did it! Actually thought about it all day and finally made a list. Feels good to see, on paper, where I'm at. I'll also make a list of the concrete steps I can take to make those goals/dreams happen.
Doing this simple task made me realise that if I stop making excuses I'll most likely achieve them.
Even if I don't lose any weight with this, at least it brought me to realise certain things, and that alone is worth the price of the book!
This one will require some thinking... ok then!
Did it! Actually thought about it all day and finally made a list. Feels good to see, on paper, where I'm at. I'll also make a list of the concrete steps I can take to make those goals/dreams happen.
Doing this simple task made me realise that if I stop making excuses I'll most likely achieve them.
Even if I don't lose any weight with this, at least it brought me to realise certain things, and that alone is worth the price of the book!
The "joy" of gardening... Yeah right!
Just came in from one hour or so of freakin' gardening! Man do I hate that! A few years back my therapist (Yes! that's YOU Richard!!!) suggested that I give gardening a try. It wasn't really appealing to me, but he was really pushy, he even brought me some cuttings and baby perennials to make sure that I would start gardening. ...and I did!
The first year I planted a bunch of things and was all excited to see the blooms. I still do enjoy the view, it is the work I dislike and the fact that it's full of mutiple species of "bebittes" (read bugs) - I hate anything that can crawl up a leg, arm or anywhere else for that matter!
My first fall gardening I knew I had to "clean up", so I basically cut off everything... and according to Richard way too early. I remember him telling me that there wasn't any contest for me to win by being the first one who cut down overthing. Oh well.
Then spring came around and things started to grow... I was completely freaking out. I didn't know what was what? Is this a weed or something that is suppose to grow back? Humm... dunno?! So I started to weed, I was pulling out weeds like there was no tomorrow. Turns out I was weeding the good stuff! Yet another expensive lesson of gardening!
It's been a few years now, and to be honest I don't give a rat's ass about it all. I do enjoy seeing my purple clematis covering the retention wall, and my big rudbeckias, but not to the point of going out there and allow myself to be eaten alive (they were quite voracious today!), and I'm not saying anything about nature as such! I pull weeds twice a year, like now when everything is grown enough that I know that it isn't something "good", so I get my frustrations out and pull the crap out of any weed standing! Today I tried to fix my clematis. They are growing like crazy (imagine if I'd tend them!) so I was trying to fix them so that they would cover a bigger section of the wall... Let's hope it works. I've pulled out so many Lily-of-the-valley, those as well grow like weeds...
Now let's talk about nature... It's pretty gross when you think of it from an urban point of view. Today there were bunches of webs FULL of micro spiders. *EWH!!* I wonder what our new neighbours thought of my dancing in the garden? I "just" couldn't leave them there, so I grabbed a root that I had pulled out and proceed to knock them off the branches and spread the baby spiders all over the garden, at which point I started dancing around and shrugging and brushing off anything that could be on me! *Yuk!* Just the thought of it and I feel like something is crawling up my leg! *Blechh!*
I picked up a rock and there was so much movement under there, that I yipped and jumped back *WAAUGHH!*, and sharply replaced that stone! Nevermind the look, carry on, don't mind me!!! I really don't like bugs...especially not when there's a bunch of them... *Blrghgh!* Anyway I'm done for a while now.
When I see things like that I realise that I'm a city chick, not really a rural one. I love nature, a little weekend in the woods, etc. But man! Am I happy to come home after! I guess it's just not me! ...and that's ok.
The first year I planted a bunch of things and was all excited to see the blooms. I still do enjoy the view, it is the work I dislike and the fact that it's full of mutiple species of "bebittes" (read bugs) - I hate anything that can crawl up a leg, arm or anywhere else for that matter!
My first fall gardening I knew I had to "clean up", so I basically cut off everything... and according to Richard way too early. I remember him telling me that there wasn't any contest for me to win by being the first one who cut down overthing. Oh well.
Then spring came around and things started to grow... I was completely freaking out. I didn't know what was what? Is this a weed or something that is suppose to grow back? Humm... dunno?! So I started to weed, I was pulling out weeds like there was no tomorrow. Turns out I was weeding the good stuff! Yet another expensive lesson of gardening!
It's been a few years now, and to be honest I don't give a rat's ass about it all. I do enjoy seeing my purple clematis covering the retention wall, and my big rudbeckias, but not to the point of going out there and allow myself to be eaten alive (they were quite voracious today!), and I'm not saying anything about nature as such! I pull weeds twice a year, like now when everything is grown enough that I know that it isn't something "good", so I get my frustrations out and pull the crap out of any weed standing! Today I tried to fix my clematis. They are growing like crazy (imagine if I'd tend them!) so I was trying to fix them so that they would cover a bigger section of the wall... Let's hope it works. I've pulled out so many Lily-of-the-valley, those as well grow like weeds...
Now let's talk about nature... It's pretty gross when you think of it from an urban point of view. Today there were bunches of webs FULL of micro spiders. *EWH!!* I wonder what our new neighbours thought of my dancing in the garden? I "just" couldn't leave them there, so I grabbed a root that I had pulled out and proceed to knock them off the branches and spread the baby spiders all over the garden, at which point I started dancing around and shrugging and brushing off anything that could be on me! *Yuk!* Just the thought of it and I feel like something is crawling up my leg! *Blechh!*
I picked up a rock and there was so much movement under there, that I yipped and jumped back *WAAUGHH!*, and sharply replaced that stone! Nevermind the look, carry on, don't mind me!!! I really don't like bugs...especially not when there's a bunch of them... *Blrghgh!* Anyway I'm done for a while now.
When I see things like that I realise that I'm a city chick, not really a rural one. I love nature, a little weekend in the woods, etc. But man! Am I happy to come home after! I guess it's just not me! ...and that's ok.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
My first list of "Why is it?"
I've noticed that a lot of people who blog post different lists, like "100 Things About Me", "Thursday Thirteen", etc. I'm a list kind of person myself. I find it makes everything easier, in a certain way.
While looking at my "task" for tomorrow where I've noticed that I'll have to make a list (don't really remember about what), so I thought that I'd start my own kind of list. Should it be a "what", a "why"? Hummm....
Why is it that when I feel like being quiet, or that I don't talk much, people wonder what's wrong with me? It's not like I'm talking all the time. I enjoy peace and quiet and at times I like to listen and not talk. Is that wrong?
Why is it that people think I'm bored because I'm working from home? It's not like I'm waiting for them to come home to go do something. I'm a big girl I can keep myself busy! Or is it envy?
Why is it that we are told it is selfish of us to not want children? I think that too often parents have kids for the wrong reasons, for selfish reasons like not wanting to be alone in their old days or wanting someone to love that is theirs. Isn't that selfish?
Why is it that when I'm intolerent, I'm told that I'm PMS'ing? No! I'm just bitchy! Nothing to do with PMS, all to do with attitude!
Why is it that slow people are ALWAYS infront of us when waiting in line? Or the not organised ones, looking for their membership card at the cash, even if they have been waiting in line for the last 5 minutes, they couldn't find their card during that time, noooo! They have to look for it at the counter, while we wait behind them!
Why is it that we always get the cashier that needs to change her paper roll in the cash register? Or the new wrapper who doesn't know that if you put the bread at the bottom of the bag, the cans of soup WILL crush it?
That is my first "Why is it" posting. Most likely not my last. If you have answers for me, please don't be shy. I want to know why it is that way...
While looking at my "task" for tomorrow where I've noticed that I'll have to make a list (don't really remember about what), so I thought that I'd start my own kind of list. Should it be a "what", a "why"? Hummm....
Why is it that when I feel like being quiet, or that I don't talk much, people wonder what's wrong with me? It's not like I'm talking all the time. I enjoy peace and quiet and at times I like to listen and not talk. Is that wrong?
Why is it that people think I'm bored because I'm working from home? It's not like I'm waiting for them to come home to go do something. I'm a big girl I can keep myself busy! Or is it envy?
Why is it that we are told it is selfish of us to not want children? I think that too often parents have kids for the wrong reasons, for selfish reasons like not wanting to be alone in their old days or wanting someone to love that is theirs. Isn't that selfish?
Why is it that when I'm intolerent, I'm told that I'm PMS'ing? No! I'm just bitchy! Nothing to do with PMS, all to do with attitude!
Why is it that slow people are ALWAYS infront of us when waiting in line? Or the not organised ones, looking for their membership card at the cash, even if they have been waiting in line for the last 5 minutes, they couldn't find their card during that time, noooo! They have to look for it at the counter, while we wait behind them!
Why is it that we always get the cashier that needs to change her paper roll in the cash register? Or the new wrapper who doesn't know that if you put the bread at the bottom of the bag, the cans of soup WILL crush it?
That is my first "Why is it" posting. Most likely not my last. If you have answers for me, please don't be shy. I want to know why it is that way...
Phase One: Step 5
My task for today was: Get up one hour earlier.
I went to bed last night with this in mind... and I slept like crap! Woke up at 4am thinking it was a little too early and way more than one hour before my regular wake-up call. Went back to sleep, woke up again every hour or so.
So, I'd say I'd completed this darn task, because I woke up way earlier than normal! I think this afternoon I'll go for a little cat nap! There!
Bad idea to wake up early - I hate mornings! I'm a night owl and I'm married to a descendant of Dracula (from Transylvania), a night creature.
Night is our time, morning are just bad for us!
I went to bed last night with this in mind... and I slept like crap! Woke up at 4am thinking it was a little too early and way more than one hour before my regular wake-up call. Went back to sleep, woke up again every hour or so.
So, I'd say I'd completed this darn task, because I woke up way earlier than normal! I think this afternoon I'll go for a little cat nap! There!
Bad idea to wake up early - I hate mornings! I'm a night owl and I'm married to a descendant of Dracula (from Transylvania), a night creature.
Night is our time, morning are just bad for us!
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Phase One: Step 4
My task for today is: Go for a 15 min. walk. Think about my life & what I want from it.
Huh... It's raining out! Darn! Guess I'll have to go to the mall!
Didn't go to the mall, but I did manage to get my 15 min. walk in.
Basically rained all day, but when we got back home tonight, after a nice dinner at a cousin's, the rain stopped long enough to make it for a quick walk.
Huh... It's raining out! Darn! Guess I'll have to go to the mall!
Didn't go to the mall, but I did manage to get my 15 min. walk in.
Basically rained all day, but when we got back home tonight, after a nice dinner at a cousin's, the rain stopped long enough to make it for a quick walk.
Féminin or Masculin?
This post is brought on by questions from PreppyGirl, and by the fact that I find it very interesting the differences between languages.
In French everything has a sex (you know in writing this just now, made me realise that could be why the French are so sex driven... wonder if there's any corolation...): a table is feminine, a chair is feminine, a pan is feminine (hum! also all things that women used (back in the old days), more than men!) Whereas a hammer is masculine, a book is masculine, a pen is masculine. Each and every little thing is either of female or male gender. That is why English speaking people are so confused when they start to learn French. How often did I hear someone say "un table" when it should be "une table", etc. Personally I think it's really cute!
In English everything is neutral. That was confusing for me at the beginning. "a table"? Don't need to know if it's feminine or masculine, it's a thing = "a"!
What I thought was hard was certain words pronounciation. English people learning French will face the same challenges.
I must admit, even if French is my first language, I do think it is a very hard language.
So many ways to write the same sound, like è, you can write that sound è, ê, ais, ait, aient, est for one sound!
An American friend now living in Montreal, and who was married to a French-Canadian woman, was complaining about that once. How certain words are hard to figure out, how to pronounce them, etc. To which I promptly responded that it's the same in English.
Why is it that "now" isn't pronounced the same way as "row"? Or "bow" (to bend) and "bow" (violin piece)?
Once you know which is which, you know and it's fine (and don't really think about it, until you have to explain it to someone learning the language). Same for us with the sex of things, we all know that a desk is masculine.
Weird huh? I think so! And then you do like I did and take Japanese classes! Now that's confusing. When you learn numbers the term/word you use is different between an animate or inanimate object. That too, you simply (yeah right!) have to learn that you count people this way, you count pencils that way, etc.
Spanish (for having taken classes for over 5 years) is actually very semilar to French. They are Latin based (which I did a few years of in high-school) and that makes it easy for a French speaking to pick up Spanish or Italian for that matter.
Two years ago we went to Greece for a few weeks and that was quite a shock. The fact that they have a different alphabet makes it even more challenging, but hubby & I both felt that by the time we came home that if we were to be immersed in it a little longer we could pick it up. We both enjoy learning new languages.
One language that I have NOT picked up yet is Hungarian. The "num num tuck, tuck" language! Or at least that's what it sounds like to me! I've managed to learn the days of the week, count from 1 to 10, and "naturally" some phrases that I probably shouldn't know! Hubby doesn't get to speak it often, but every time he does (with his parents) I'm fascinated about how different it sounds and how it doesn't resemble ANYTHING! Maybe one day I'll bite the dust and try to learn it but.... I have my doubts...
At the age of five he spoke 3 languages: Hungarian, English and French. And now when he speaks English you can't tell that he speaks French and vice-versa. ... unlike me! I kept my French accent, and at times it comes out more than others! But I know that my English is also better than a lot of English born people. I'm proud of that. I may put a "h" infront of certain words when I pronounce it, but I know how to write it and what it means.
At home we constantly switch from English to French, but I think we use more English. But when it comes time to let out a big swear, French it is!!!
Ahhh languages, such an interesting topic. Hubby's grand mother used to tell him: "You are as many people as the number of languages you speak"... what a smart lady she was.
In French everything has a sex (you know in writing this just now, made me realise that could be why the French are so sex driven... wonder if there's any corolation...): a table is feminine, a chair is feminine, a pan is feminine (hum! also all things that women used (back in the old days), more than men!) Whereas a hammer is masculine, a book is masculine, a pen is masculine. Each and every little thing is either of female or male gender. That is why English speaking people are so confused when they start to learn French. How often did I hear someone say "un table" when it should be "une table", etc. Personally I think it's really cute!
In English everything is neutral. That was confusing for me at the beginning. "a table"? Don't need to know if it's feminine or masculine, it's a thing = "a"!
What I thought was hard was certain words pronounciation. English people learning French will face the same challenges.
I must admit, even if French is my first language, I do think it is a very hard language.
So many ways to write the same sound, like è, you can write that sound è, ê, ais, ait, aient, est for one sound!
An American friend now living in Montreal, and who was married to a French-Canadian woman, was complaining about that once. How certain words are hard to figure out, how to pronounce them, etc. To which I promptly responded that it's the same in English.
Why is it that "now" isn't pronounced the same way as "row"? Or "bow" (to bend) and "bow" (violin piece)?
Once you know which is which, you know and it's fine (and don't really think about it, until you have to explain it to someone learning the language). Same for us with the sex of things, we all know that a desk is masculine.
Weird huh? I think so! And then you do like I did and take Japanese classes! Now that's confusing. When you learn numbers the term/word you use is different between an animate or inanimate object. That too, you simply (yeah right!) have to learn that you count people this way, you count pencils that way, etc.
Spanish (for having taken classes for over 5 years) is actually very semilar to French. They are Latin based (which I did a few years of in high-school) and that makes it easy for a French speaking to pick up Spanish or Italian for that matter.
Two years ago we went to Greece for a few weeks and that was quite a shock. The fact that they have a different alphabet makes it even more challenging, but hubby & I both felt that by the time we came home that if we were to be immersed in it a little longer we could pick it up. We both enjoy learning new languages.
One language that I have NOT picked up yet is Hungarian. The "num num tuck, tuck" language! Or at least that's what it sounds like to me! I've managed to learn the days of the week, count from 1 to 10, and "naturally" some phrases that I probably shouldn't know! Hubby doesn't get to speak it often, but every time he does (with his parents) I'm fascinated about how different it sounds and how it doesn't resemble ANYTHING! Maybe one day I'll bite the dust and try to learn it but.... I have my doubts...
At the age of five he spoke 3 languages: Hungarian, English and French. And now when he speaks English you can't tell that he speaks French and vice-versa. ... unlike me! I kept my French accent, and at times it comes out more than others! But I know that my English is also better than a lot of English born people. I'm proud of that. I may put a "h" infront of certain words when I pronounce it, but I know how to write it and what it means.
At home we constantly switch from English to French, but I think we use more English. But when it comes time to let out a big swear, French it is!!!
Ahhh languages, such an interesting topic. Hubby's grand mother used to tell him: "You are as many people as the number of languages you speak"... what a smart lady she was.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Phase One: Step 3
My task for today is: Don't have my favorite drink
Now, this is interesting! Last night when I told hubby what today's task was going to be, he looked at me and simply said: "You won't drink any water all day?" I don't think so!!!
I'm not going to drink soft drinks all day to replace my water! That would be pretty stupid and really not "diet friendly". I like my glass of Diet Coke with my meal and at night I enjoy my cup of tea. So, I won't let a drop of neither pass my lips today.
And I have two other tasks to do this week, I have to do those as well.
I just completed one of my extra tasks by reading one of our local newspaper The Chronicle from cover to cover - ok, I skipped the sport section. To my surprise I found some interesting articles in there. In doing so, I did something that I don't normally do. I'm breaking habits...
I must say the "not drinking cola" today is a bit harder than I thought! I wanted something bubbly so bad, that I opened up a bottle of San Pellegrino... hhhaaa! Much better!
At meditation class tonight, I completed an other extra tasks for the week, I sat in a different place than my usual one. It was almost funny to see people's looks and someone even asked how come I wasn't sitting in my habitual spot. Just told her that I wanted to break the habit.
Tonight after dinner, I missed that cup of warm tea... oh well. Wasn't so bad, after all!
Now, this is interesting! Last night when I told hubby what today's task was going to be, he looked at me and simply said: "You won't drink any water all day?" I don't think so!!!
I'm not going to drink soft drinks all day to replace my water! That would be pretty stupid and really not "diet friendly". I like my glass of Diet Coke with my meal and at night I enjoy my cup of tea. So, I won't let a drop of neither pass my lips today.
And I have two other tasks to do this week, I have to do those as well.
I just completed one of my extra tasks by reading one of our local newspaper The Chronicle from cover to cover - ok, I skipped the sport section. To my surprise I found some interesting articles in there. In doing so, I did something that I don't normally do. I'm breaking habits...
I must say the "not drinking cola" today is a bit harder than I thought! I wanted something bubbly so bad, that I opened up a bottle of San Pellegrino... hhhaaa! Much better!
At meditation class tonight, I completed an other extra tasks for the week, I sat in a different place than my usual one. It was almost funny to see people's looks and someone even asked how come I wasn't sitting in my habitual spot. Just told her that I wanted to break the habit.
Tonight after dinner, I missed that cup of warm tea... oh well. Wasn't so bad, after all!
Votre Friday Smile!
C'est l'histoire de l'ex qui va au mariage de son ancienne femme.
Durant la soirée, l'ex va voir le nouveau marié et lui demande d'un air fendant: "Pis, comment tu trouves ça rentrer dans du stock usagé?"
Le nouveau marié regarde l'ex droit dans les yeux et de son air le plus imperturbable lui répond : "C'est pas si pire que ça sais-tu! Passé les deux premiers pouces, c'est flambant neuf !!!"
***************
A teacher noticed that a little boy at the back of the class was squirming around, scratching his crotch, and not paying attention. She went back to find out what was going on. He was quite embarrassed and whispered that he had just recently been circumcised and he was quite itchy. The teacher told him to go down to the principal's office. He was to call his mother and ask her what he should do about it. He did it and returned to his class.
Suddenly, there was a commotion at the back of the room. She went back to investigate only to find him sitting at his desk with his penis hanging out.
"I thought I told you to call your mom!" she said.
"I did," he said, "And she told me that if I could stick it out till noon, she'd come and pick me up from school."
Have a great weekend!
Durant la soirée, l'ex va voir le nouveau marié et lui demande d'un air fendant: "Pis, comment tu trouves ça rentrer dans du stock usagé?"
Le nouveau marié regarde l'ex droit dans les yeux et de son air le plus imperturbable lui répond : "C'est pas si pire que ça sais-tu! Passé les deux premiers pouces, c'est flambant neuf !!!"
***************
A teacher noticed that a little boy at the back of the class was squirming around, scratching his crotch, and not paying attention. She went back to find out what was going on. He was quite embarrassed and whispered that he had just recently been circumcised and he was quite itchy. The teacher told him to go down to the principal's office. He was to call his mother and ask her what he should do about it. He did it and returned to his class.
Suddenly, there was a commotion at the back of the room. She went back to investigate only to find him sitting at his desk with his penis hanging out.
"I thought I told you to call your mom!" she said.
"I did," he said, "And she told me that if I could stick it out till noon, she'd come and pick me up from school."
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Phase One: Step 2
My task for today is: Write something for 15 min.
This should be fairly easy, but I won't make blogging my writing thing... I'll use a pen a paper, the old fashioned way. Maybe I'll write a friend? Let's see how it goes.
Well that was easy! I actually wrote in my journal, which I haven't done in months. Actually I've been writing here instead. It's maybe not as "personal" as what I normaly write in my journal, but still. I love to write. Always have. I think that in one of my previous life I must have been living in the old South or something, in the days when people would write Thank You notes and stuff. Some poeple are always surprised when they receive a thank you note. I love to do that. It's a little gesture that shows my appreciation. I just think it's nice.
Anyway, my task is done for today!
This should be fairly easy, but I won't make blogging my writing thing... I'll use a pen a paper, the old fashioned way. Maybe I'll write a friend? Let's see how it goes.
Well that was easy! I actually wrote in my journal, which I haven't done in months. Actually I've been writing here instead. It's maybe not as "personal" as what I normaly write in my journal, but still. I love to write. Always have. I think that in one of my previous life I must have been living in the old South or something, in the days when people would write Thank You notes and stuff. Some poeple are always surprised when they receive a thank you note. I love to do that. It's a little gesture that shows my appreciation. I just think it's nice.
Anyway, my task is done for today!
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