Fidál (Grace), 4 Mashiyyat (Will), 165 B.E. – Tuesday, September 30, 2008 about 6:20 PM Pacific Time
September 2008 has come to an end. October 2008 is on the horizon. I'm weary. I'm stressed. I have a full month ahead to become more weary and more stressed. Alternatively, I have a full month ahead to become less weary and less stressed. The choice is mine. I don't chose the events in my life, but I chose the way I react to them.
My mother and I just got finished having a long talk. Mom and I sit down on the love seat and talked for the first time in a long time. We talk everyday, but this talk was different. Mom told me how she felt. I told Mom how I felt. It was nice. We talked to each other and we listened to each other.
We put aside the things we had planned to do. Mom was going to do some laundry and I was going to do some writing, but instead we talked. We didn't worry about what whe weren't getting done. We sit on the love seat and we talked. It was wonderful. It was a great way to end a month.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Where has the year gone?
Kamál (Perfection), 3 Mashiyyat (Will), 165 B.E. – Monday, September 29, 2008 about 6:04 PM Pacific Time
Where has the year gone?
It flew into cyberspace
Disappeared in time.
Where has the year gone?
It flew into cyberspace
Disappeared in time.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Something to Look forward to
Jamál (Beauty), 2 Mashiyyat (Will), 165 B.E. – Sunday, September 28, 2008 about 3:01 PM Pacific Time
According to the weather report I received in my e-mail box temperatures are dropping by the end of the week. That will be a nice change for Las Vegas because right now we're still in triple digits. I think the temperature today is supposed to hit 100, which doesn't sound like much in the desert. However, looking out my living room window I see clouds so it's a muggy 100 degrees.
I'm looking forward to the cooler weather especially with my car acting up. I have a new radiator, which makes the problem less of a problem. Now I don't have to worry about the radiator itself leaking. However, there are other problems. I have to put water or coolant in the radiator everyday. Driving of a morning isn't bad, but it's the afternoon driving that heats things up.
Anyway, in the afternoon when I go into the business and then I come back out I look under the car. If there is a lot of water there, I just drive straight home and forget any other business I have to conduct. I call the people and explain that my car is overheating and I'll have to reschedule. Normally, I just make one appointment each afternoon day unless Mom and I are going to the same place for different appointment.
The problem is either the water pump or the head gasket. It really doesn't matter which since I can afford to have either one of them replaced. I'll just have to look for another car or see if I'm eligible for paratransit. I know Mom is and I think I can go with her when she takes the buss. It's going somewhere by myself that's the problem. The regular bus stop is just too far for me to walk too and from with my knee in the condition it's in. Oh well, things will work out and cooler weather is something to look forward to.
According to the weather report I received in my e-mail box temperatures are dropping by the end of the week. That will be a nice change for Las Vegas because right now we're still in triple digits. I think the temperature today is supposed to hit 100, which doesn't sound like much in the desert. However, looking out my living room window I see clouds so it's a muggy 100 degrees.
I'm looking forward to the cooler weather especially with my car acting up. I have a new radiator, which makes the problem less of a problem. Now I don't have to worry about the radiator itself leaking. However, there are other problems. I have to put water or coolant in the radiator everyday. Driving of a morning isn't bad, but it's the afternoon driving that heats things up.
Anyway, in the afternoon when I go into the business and then I come back out I look under the car. If there is a lot of water there, I just drive straight home and forget any other business I have to conduct. I call the people and explain that my car is overheating and I'll have to reschedule. Normally, I just make one appointment each afternoon day unless Mom and I are going to the same place for different appointment.
The problem is either the water pump or the head gasket. It really doesn't matter which since I can afford to have either one of them replaced. I'll just have to look for another car or see if I'm eligible for paratransit. I know Mom is and I think I can go with her when she takes the buss. It's going somewhere by myself that's the problem. The regular bus stop is just too far for me to walk too and from with my knee in the condition it's in. Oh well, things will work out and cooler weather is something to look forward to.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Patience, Persistence and a telephone Internet connection
Jalál (Glory), 1 Mashiyyat (Will), 165 B.E. – Saturday, September 26-27, 2008 about 8:16 AM Pacific Time
My internet connection and browser are acting wonky this morning. It disconnects at random points and the browser sometimes can't find the website address. All right, I know part of the problem is my fault.
I have a telephone hook-up and I tab browse using Internet Explorer. This method works most of the time, when I'm patient and don't try to go to two different address at the same time. As long as I let the browser find the address on one tab before looking for another address on another, there isn't much of a problem.
There are a lot of disadvantages with my connect, but there are a few advantages as well. One of the advantages is to teach me patience and persistence without getting frustrated. I'm still working on the "not getting frustrated" part. In this case, it doesn't help to get frustrated.
The interesting thing about my Internet connection issues is assisting the process of the transformation. I didn't realize how much it helped this process until this morning, when, instead of throwing up my hands and wanting to quit, I just clicked on the address again and waited patiently for the connection.
My internet connection and browser are acting wonky this morning. It disconnects at random points and the browser sometimes can't find the website address. All right, I know part of the problem is my fault.
I have a telephone hook-up and I tab browse using Internet Explorer. This method works most of the time, when I'm patient and don't try to go to two different address at the same time. As long as I let the browser find the address on one tab before looking for another address on another, there isn't much of a problem.
There are a lot of disadvantages with my connect, but there are a few advantages as well. One of the advantages is to teach me patience and persistence without getting frustrated. I'm still working on the "not getting frustrated" part. In this case, it doesn't help to get frustrated.
The interesting thing about my Internet connection issues is assisting the process of the transformation. I didn't realize how much it helped this process until this morning, when, instead of throwing up my hands and wanting to quit, I just clicked on the address again and waited patiently for the connection.
Friday, September 26, 2008
My Shampoo smells good enough to eat
Istiqlál (Independence), 19 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Friday, September 26, 2008 about 3:16 PM Pacific Time
My shampoo smells good enough to eat. It smells like tropical fruit, which is just fine with me because I can wash my hair every day and not worry about damaging it. At least, I think I can; not that it could damage my hair any worse then it is now.
When I was growing up, if you want your hair to look good, You washed it with raw egg (I still don't know what that was suppose to do) or beer. I tried both as a teenager and neither one seemed to do all that much for my hair. I remember I had to rewash my hair after the egg to get all the egg-goop out of it. The beer seemed to make my hair shiny, but my hair smelled like beer and I had to rewash it to get the smell out.
At least with my present, store bought, shampoo my hair has a nice aroma to it and I don't have to rewash it to get the smell out. I'm trying think what else I did as a teenager that I would probably think twice about doing today. I've thought of several things, too many things to put in a single blog entry.
My shampoo smells good enough to eat. It smells like tropical fruit, which is just fine with me because I can wash my hair every day and not worry about damaging it. At least, I think I can; not that it could damage my hair any worse then it is now.
When I was growing up, if you want your hair to look good, You washed it with raw egg (I still don't know what that was suppose to do) or beer. I tried both as a teenager and neither one seemed to do all that much for my hair. I remember I had to rewash my hair after the egg to get all the egg-goop out of it. The beer seemed to make my hair shiny, but my hair smelled like beer and I had to rewash it to get the smell out.
At least with my present, store bought, shampoo my hair has a nice aroma to it and I don't have to rewash it to get the smell out. I'm trying think what else I did as a teenager that I would probably think twice about doing today. I've thought of several things, too many things to put in a single blog entry.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Another Beautiful Day in Las Vegas and goal setting
Istijlál (Majesty), 18 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Thursday, September 25, 2008 about 4:26 AM Pacific Time
Well, another beautiful day in Las Vegas has begun. I reviewed my 19-day goals last night and set up the spreadsheet to keep track of my accomplishments. I've changed the way I list my goals in the spreadsheet and my daily to do list. I wasn't placing them in the priority of there iimportance.
I've put the most important first on the list. In the upcoming 19-day period, the most important writing goal is completing my issues of the writing.com fantasy newsletter I help edit. Then comes other goals such as blog entries, submissions, novel, short stories, etc. The list isn't very long, because I've cut the list down to the nine most important writing projects.
It's another beautiful day in Las Vegas and I'm remembering my childhood. The one thing I don't remember learn is how to set goal. I don't think it was specifically taught in school and I don't remember it being discussed at home. It's something I've learn in the years since. After reviewing the difficulties I've had in setting goals, I really think it's something that should be taught to children.
Well, another beautiful day in Las Vegas has begun. I reviewed my 19-day goals last night and set up the spreadsheet to keep track of my accomplishments. I've changed the way I list my goals in the spreadsheet and my daily to do list. I wasn't placing them in the priority of there iimportance.
I've put the most important first on the list. In the upcoming 19-day period, the most important writing goal is completing my issues of the writing.com fantasy newsletter I help edit. Then comes other goals such as blog entries, submissions, novel, short stories, etc. The list isn't very long, because I've cut the list down to the nine most important writing projects.
It's another beautiful day in Las Vegas and I'm remembering my childhood. The one thing I don't remember learn is how to set goal. I don't think it was specifically taught in school and I don't remember it being discussed at home. It's something I've learn in the years since. After reviewing the difficulties I've had in setting goals, I really think it's something that should be taught to children.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
I need to redo my priorities
‘Idál (Justice), 17 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Wednesday, September 24, 2008 about 3:04 PM Pacific Time
Part of the process of transformation is learning about oneself. I've learned a lot about myself in the past year. I've learned a lot about myself in the past month. One thing I've learned about myself lately is a tendency to do "make work" project that don't take me toward my ultimate goal. The things waste time, but they make the inner critic happy because they appear to take action while avoiding the challenging goals.
The 80/20 rule state that on a "to do list" of ten items two of those items return 80% of the value of the list. That is because two of those items lead a person to achieving he or she wants in life. I've found that to be true for me lately. Therefore, I'm going to change the way I make my "to do list" and the way I set my priorities.
Right now I'm reviewing the goals I have and rewrite my to do list. I set nineteen-day goals, so that I have a list that I can work with in a specific period. I'm going to rewrite that list for the next 19-day period because the way I'm doing it now isn't getting me anywhere near what I want.
Part of the process of transformation is learning about oneself. I've learned a lot about myself in the past year. I've learned a lot about myself in the past month. One thing I've learned about myself lately is a tendency to do "make work" project that don't take me toward my ultimate goal. The things waste time, but they make the inner critic happy because they appear to take action while avoiding the challenging goals.
The 80/20 rule state that on a "to do list" of ten items two of those items return 80% of the value of the list. That is because two of those items lead a person to achieving he or she wants in life. I've found that to be true for me lately. Therefore, I'm going to change the way I make my "to do list" and the way I set my priorities.
Right now I'm reviewing the goals I have and rewrite my to do list. I set nineteen-day goals, so that I have a list that I can work with in a specific period. I'm going to rewrite that list for the next 19-day period because the way I'm doing it now isn't getting me anywhere near what I want.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Thoughts on an Autumn Afternoon
Fidál (Grace), 16 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Tuesday, September 23, 2008 5:34 PM Pacific Time
What is it about fall,
which bring to mind the joy
of my grandmother's homemade soup.
I have soup working in the slow cooker. To make it I mixed chicken broth with another soup mix. This isn't how Grandma Newland made soup. This isn't the way she taught me to make soup. Grandma made soup from scratch, without a recipe. I usually followed a recipe when I made soup from scratch.
Now, however, I don't make soup that way. When I make soup I either open a can or I use soup mixes and work from there. I don't think it taste like the soup Grandma made, but this is the way I cook any more. This is just soup, the kind I can put in a mug and drink.
I'm having my teeth extracted and it's difficult to chew. Lately I've noticed that I don't feel well after I eat. I think it's because I'm not chewing my food properly. The last time I went to the dentist, he pulled the teeth I used to chew with. I'm going to go on a liquid diet until I have my dentures. After the dentist puts my dentures in and my gums aren't soar anymore, then I'll eat solid food.
What is it about fall,
which bring to mind the joy
of my grandmother's homemade soup.
I have soup working in the slow cooker. To make it I mixed chicken broth with another soup mix. This isn't how Grandma Newland made soup. This isn't the way she taught me to make soup. Grandma made soup from scratch, without a recipe. I usually followed a recipe when I made soup from scratch.
Now, however, I don't make soup that way. When I make soup I either open a can or I use soup mixes and work from there. I don't think it taste like the soup Grandma made, but this is the way I cook any more. This is just soup, the kind I can put in a mug and drink.
I'm having my teeth extracted and it's difficult to chew. Lately I've noticed that I don't feel well after I eat. I think it's because I'm not chewing my food properly. The last time I went to the dentist, he pulled the teeth I used to chew with. I'm going to go on a liquid diet until I have my dentures. After the dentist puts my dentures in and my gums aren't soar anymore, then I'll eat solid food.
Monday, September 22, 2008
The first day of fall
Kamál (Perfection), 15 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Monday, September 22, 2008 about 6:05 PM Pacific Time
It's the first day of fall and leaves should be transforming from green to beautiful oranges, yellows and reds. They aren't because this is Las Vegas and we haven't had a freeze yet. I love the colors of autumn leaves. They remind me of my childhood and my grandparents' house in Blackwell, Oklahoma.
A cottonwood tree in the front yard of my grandparents' house, in the spring and summer it had beautiful shiny green leaves. In the autumn, right after the first freeze the leaves turned yellow and began to fall. Not all of the leaves fell some of them remained on the tree all winter. Those that remained were either brown or yellow. I remember in winter, when the wind blew those leaves would make noise. They rustled as the wind blew, this happened every year. Finally, in the spring when the new leaves were budding, the old ones would fall off.
Yellow cottonwood
leaves descend to the cold ground
scattered by the wind.
Grandfather raked them
into huge piles for burning
on a windless day.
It's the first day of fall and leaves should be transforming from green to beautiful oranges, yellows and reds. They aren't because this is Las Vegas and we haven't had a freeze yet. I love the colors of autumn leaves. They remind me of my childhood and my grandparents' house in Blackwell, Oklahoma.
A cottonwood tree in the front yard of my grandparents' house, in the spring and summer it had beautiful shiny green leaves. In the autumn, right after the first freeze the leaves turned yellow and began to fall. Not all of the leaves fell some of them remained on the tree all winter. Those that remained were either brown or yellow. I remember in winter, when the wind blew those leaves would make noise. They rustled as the wind blew, this happened every year. Finally, in the spring when the new leaves were budding, the old ones would fall off.
Yellow cottonwood
leaves descend to the cold ground
scattered by the wind.
Grandfather raked them
into huge piles for burning
on a windless day.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
I got out of my rut today
Jamál (Beauty), 14 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Sunday, September 21, 2008 about 3:22 PM Pacific time
I got out of my rut today I bought a Sunday newspaper. I haven't bought a Sunday paper in over a year. Normally, I get my news off the Internet or T.V., but today I decided that I needed a newspaper. The Sunday paper comes with a free weekly T.V. guide, for the past year I've watched T.V. without consulting a T.V. schedule.
All right, I've watched mostly talk shows and news. Not many dramas or anything like that, I do watch the public broadcasting station once in a while, but that's it. Now I can actually consult a schedule and see if there is anything worth watching.
The one thing I did miss about the Sunday newspaper was the comics. I have fond memories of Sunday comics. I remember sitting on my father's lap, while he drink coffee and read the Sunday comics to me. Maybe that's why I like the Sunday comics so much. I don't have a lot of memories about my father, he and my mother divorced when we were young.
I got out of my rut today I bought a Sunday newspaper. I haven't bought a Sunday paper in over a year. Normally, I get my news off the Internet or T.V., but today I decided that I needed a newspaper. The Sunday paper comes with a free weekly T.V. guide, for the past year I've watched T.V. without consulting a T.V. schedule.
All right, I've watched mostly talk shows and news. Not many dramas or anything like that, I do watch the public broadcasting station once in a while, but that's it. Now I can actually consult a schedule and see if there is anything worth watching.
The one thing I did miss about the Sunday newspaper was the comics. I have fond memories of Sunday comics. I remember sitting on my father's lap, while he drink coffee and read the Sunday comics to me. Maybe that's why I like the Sunday comics so much. I don't have a lot of memories about my father, he and my mother divorced when we were young.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Grandma and Grandpa Newland
Jalál (Glory), 13 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Saturday, September 20, 2008 about 10:29 AM Pacific TimeThis is a picture of my Grandma and Grandpa Newland, my mother's parents. It's the only professional photo of either set of grandparents. I'm not sure when the photo was taken or who the photographer was. I have another photo of Grandma and Grandpa with me in it, so it was taken sometime when I was living with them after a graduated from high school.
I posted this picture in my writing.com blog Snow Melt on September 19, 2008, with the beginning of a tribute to them. The entry was in response to a Leading Entry in a journal contest in which I'm participating. I also made the following blog entry Writing about my Grandparents on September 19, 2008.
So how am I coming along with the tribute? All right I think, it's started and I have some work done on it. I have two pictures I can post with it. I want to find other picture which aren't professionally done. I'm going to check in some Tupperware container of photos I have in my closet.
Friday, September 19, 2008
It's Fridag again
Istiqlál (Independence), 12 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Friday, September 19, 2008 about 5:45 PM Pacific Time
This week was stressful because of car problems. Next week I have a dental appointment. Next week I get paid. Next week my check will be three days short becasue of car problems. However, I now have a membership in AAA and a car that I can drive without worrying about it over heating. Of course, summer is almost over and fall begins soon.
Life goes on stress or no stress. I'm not sure what else I have to do next week, other then write a first day of autumn poem. I'm not sure how to approach an autumn poem this year. I live in Las Vegas and the trees haven't begun to change color. There are clouds in the sky and I think this weekend rain is expected or at least the threat of rains is expected. I have several things to catch up on Saturday and Sunday.
I haven't been sleeping well. Of course, part of that may be the fault of going to bed early. If I go to bed around 4:00 or 5:00 PM, then I get up at 10:00 PM the same day. This means I'm up all the rest of the night and I don't get any more sleep until I get home from work. When I get home from work I'm tired and take a nap. After the nap I'm up until midnight or so and the whole thing starts over again.
Thank God It's Friday again.
Another two day weekend,
Thank God It's Friday again.
Another two day weekend
This week was stressful because of car problems. Next week I have a dental appointment. Next week I get paid. Next week my check will be three days short becasue of car problems. However, I now have a membership in AAA and a car that I can drive without worrying about it over heating. Of course, summer is almost over and fall begins soon.
Life goes on stress or no stress. I'm not sure what else I have to do next week, other then write a first day of autumn poem. I'm not sure how to approach an autumn poem this year. I live in Las Vegas and the trees haven't begun to change color. There are clouds in the sky and I think this weekend rain is expected or at least the threat of rains is expected. I have several things to catch up on Saturday and Sunday.
I haven't been sleeping well. Of course, part of that may be the fault of going to bed early. If I go to bed around 4:00 or 5:00 PM, then I get up at 10:00 PM the same day. This means I'm up all the rest of the night and I don't get any more sleep until I get home from work. When I get home from work I'm tired and take a nap. After the nap I'm up until midnight or so and the whole thing starts over again.
Thank God It's Friday again.
Another two day weekend,
To get everything caught up again.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
The temptation not to write
Istijlál (Majesty), 10 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Thursday, September 18, 2008 about 4:26 PM Pacific Time
I'm almost tempted not to make an entry, but if I don't I know I'll regret it. That's part of the process of transformation. Learning what you will regret if you don't do it. The only topic I have for a blog entry is my car. The mechanic put in a new radiator and hoses today. He also washed the car.
I'm weary and on the verge of tears myself, but I think I'm still recovering from yesterday. When I got off work, I walked to Food 4 Less to get some oil and dishwashing liquid. I needed the oil in order to drive the car to the mechanic this morning. I'm going to have to keep the 1991 Toyota running because I can't afford a new car. Let's face it, sometimes I'm lucky to afford the gas for the car.
However, I'm getting too old to walk from work, to the store and home again. It takes too much out of me. So I have to keep the car going, otherwise I'm walking. Even if I took the city bus, I'd still have to walk to the bus stops. One bus stop is ten blocks away and another is five. Both are too far to walk with my right knee the way it is.
I'm almost tempted not to make an entry, but if I don't I know I'll regret it. That's part of the process of transformation. Learning what you will regret if you don't do it. The only topic I have for a blog entry is my car. The mechanic put in a new radiator and hoses today. He also washed the car.
I'm weary and on the verge of tears myself, but I think I'm still recovering from yesterday. When I got off work, I walked to Food 4 Less to get some oil and dishwashing liquid. I needed the oil in order to drive the car to the mechanic this morning. I'm going to have to keep the 1991 Toyota running because I can't afford a new car. Let's face it, sometimes I'm lucky to afford the gas for the car.
However, I'm getting too old to walk from work, to the store and home again. It takes too much out of me. So I have to keep the car going, otherwise I'm walking. Even if I took the city bus, I'd still have to walk to the bus stops. One bus stop is ten blocks away and another is five. Both are too far to walk with my right knee the way it is.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
My car in my driveway
‘Idál (Justice), 10 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Wednesday, September 17, 2008 2:19 AM Pacific Time
My car sets in my driveway waiting for oil and a new thermostat. The car overheated Monday when Mom and I were out. Instead of stopping at the bank, I came home. I parked the car in the driveway and unloaded the food. Then I locked the car and came into the house.
I thought the car just needed water in the radiator and that once I added the water it would be fine. Tuesday morning I went out, popped the hood and began adding water. It wouldn't hold water, so I called into work. I called a couple of friends and got the phone number of a mechanic. I figured I would have the car towed; the problem was I didn't have Triple A. A neighbor took me to the Triple A office and a bought a years membership.
A friend came over and worked on the car. He stopped the leak, found out the problem was the thermostat. I still have to take the car to a mechanic, but I need to put oil in the car before I drive it. My friend checked the oil and it was at least two quarts low. Today after I get off work, I'm going to Food 4 Less and get three or four quarts. I will put the oil in the car and then figure out how to get it to the mechanic.
I think I can drive it with the thermostat acting the way it is, but I have to call the mechanic and set up a time to take it in. In the mean time, I have a Triple A membership scheduled for validation today. My life is getting interesting, to say the least.
My car sets in my driveway waiting for oil and a new thermostat. The car overheated Monday when Mom and I were out. Instead of stopping at the bank, I came home. I parked the car in the driveway and unloaded the food. Then I locked the car and came into the house.
I thought the car just needed water in the radiator and that once I added the water it would be fine. Tuesday morning I went out, popped the hood and began adding water. It wouldn't hold water, so I called into work. I called a couple of friends and got the phone number of a mechanic. I figured I would have the car towed; the problem was I didn't have Triple A. A neighbor took me to the Triple A office and a bought a years membership.
A friend came over and worked on the car. He stopped the leak, found out the problem was the thermostat. I still have to take the car to a mechanic, but I need to put oil in the car before I drive it. My friend checked the oil and it was at least two quarts low. Today after I get off work, I'm going to Food 4 Less and get three or four quarts. I will put the oil in the car and then figure out how to get it to the mechanic.
I think I can drive it with the thermostat acting the way it is, but I have to call the mechanic and set up a time to take it in. In the mean time, I have a Triple A membership scheduled for validation today. My life is getting interesting, to say the least.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Life is a challenge
Fidál (Grace), 9 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Tuesday, September 16, 2008 about 3:48 AM Pacific Time
Life is a challenge
24/7
a joyous experience.
I'm in a journaling contest at writing.com called "Follow the leader". Each day one of the participants writes a leading entry in his or her blog and the rest of the participants respond to the entry in their blogs. This contest started on September 11 and ends on October 1. I'm put my responses in my writing.com blog Snow Melt. My leading entry in this contest was on September 12 with the title "Coffee and Chocolate".
I'm also scheduled to participate in the "7 Day Journal Writing Challenge". I'm not sure when this challenge will start because there isn't enough participants yet. I'm going to use the same blog to write my responses to the challenges. Since the titles of each entry are a different format, there won't be a problem tell them apart.
I'm looking forward to the new contests. It's not that my life isn't challenging enough already, but sometimes I find myself search for blog entries and for subject for poems and stories. These journaling contests get me out of my rut and help me find new subjects and new approaches to old subjects.
Life is a challenge
24/7
a joyous experience.
I'm in a journaling contest at writing.com called "Follow the leader". Each day one of the participants writes a leading entry in his or her blog and the rest of the participants respond to the entry in their blogs. This contest started on September 11 and ends on October 1. I'm put my responses in my writing.com blog Snow Melt. My leading entry in this contest was on September 12 with the title "Coffee and Chocolate".
I'm also scheduled to participate in the "7 Day Journal Writing Challenge". I'm not sure when this challenge will start because there isn't enough participants yet. I'm going to use the same blog to write my responses to the challenges. Since the titles of each entry are a different format, there won't be a problem tell them apart.
I'm looking forward to the new contests. It's not that my life isn't challenging enough already, but sometimes I find myself search for blog entries and for subject for poems and stories. These journaling contests get me out of my rut and help me find new subjects and new approaches to old subjects.
Monday, September 15, 2008
I Love Online Banking
Kamál (Perfection), 8 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Monday, September 15, 2008 about 5:54 AM Pacific Time
I remember a time before online banking, when in order to check my account balance I had to go to the bank. I remember a time when I paid bills by check or cash. I went to the bank and withdrew the money to make a payment on the Power Bill.
I love online banking. I don't have to leave my house to see how much I have in my checking account. I can call the insurance company and use a debit card to pay the bill. Online banking is one of the best things about the Internet. I don't know what I did before online banking or how I kept track of my account.
I remember my grandfather writing check and sending them to the power company, the mortgage company, the Water Company, etc. He either used cash or wrote a check because there was no Internet or online banking when I was growing up. If online banking had been available, grandpa would have used it. He liked to have modern convinces and technology.
I love online banking because I can keep a close eye on my bank account. An added benefit of online banking is saving trees, if you don't have to write paper checks you kill less trees.
I remember a time before online banking, when in order to check my account balance I had to go to the bank. I remember a time when I paid bills by check or cash. I went to the bank and withdrew the money to make a payment on the Power Bill.
I love online banking. I don't have to leave my house to see how much I have in my checking account. I can call the insurance company and use a debit card to pay the bill. Online banking is one of the best things about the Internet. I don't know what I did before online banking or how I kept track of my account.
I remember my grandfather writing check and sending them to the power company, the mortgage company, the Water Company, etc. He either used cash or wrote a check because there was no Internet or online banking when I was growing up. If online banking had been available, grandpa would have used it. He liked to have modern convinces and technology.
I love online banking because I can keep a close eye on my bank account. An added benefit of online banking is saving trees, if you don't have to write paper checks you kill less trees.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Sunday Morning Memories
Jamál (Beauty), 7 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Sunday, September 14, 2008 about 8:04 AM Pacific Time
Sunrise scatters blue light across the firmament, I intone the
Usual prayers, while there is silence and
No one else in the house is awake.
Dawn brings back memories of my grandmother
Always the first one up on Sunday or any other morning.
Yellow yolks of fried eggs waiting for me in her kitchen.
My grandmother never took a day of rested
from fixing breakfast.
She knew each grandchild's favorite food
and fixed it
on Sunday morning
before we all pilled into the Ford
and grandpa drove us to church.
My grandfather was not a particularly religious man;
spiritual,
yes,
but not religious.
Grandpa knew how to say prayers
at meal
or anytime he was asked;
he worshipped God his own way
through his daily labor
and encouraging his grandchildren.
Sunday morning
always brings back memories
of my grandparents
and going to church at the
First Baptist Mission
on the wrong side of the tracks
in Blackwell, Oklahoma.
My Sunday morning memories
are pleasant memories
because they were spent with my mother's parents
and not with classmates
who looked down on my siblings and myself
because one sit of grandparents lived
on the wrong side of the tracks.
1
Sunrise scatters blue light across the firmament, I intone the
Usual prayers, while there is silence and
No one else in the house is awake.
Dawn brings back memories of my grandmother
Always the first one up on Sunday or any other morning.
Yellow yolks of fried eggs waiting for me in her kitchen.
2
My grandmother never took a day of rested
from fixing breakfast.
She knew each grandchild's favorite food
and fixed it
on Sunday morning
before we all pilled into the Ford
and grandpa drove us to church.
My grandfather was not a particularly religious man;
spiritual,
yes,
but not religious.
Grandpa knew how to say prayers
at meal
or anytime he was asked;
he worshipped God his own way
through his daily labor
and encouraging his grandchildren.
3
Sunday morning
always brings back memories
of my grandparents
and going to church at the
First Baptist Mission
on the wrong side of the tracks
in Blackwell, Oklahoma.
My Sunday morning memories
are pleasant memories
because they were spent with my mother's parents
and not with classmates
who looked down on my siblings and myself
because one sit of grandparents lived
on the wrong side of the tracks.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
I miss my teeth
Jalál (Glory), 6 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Saturday, September 13, 2008 about 6:13 PM Pacific Time
I miss my teeth. I never thought I would say that, but I miss the teeth that the dentist pulled on Monday. I didn't have very many teeth left in my mouth before he extracted the four teeth in my right upper jaw. Now that the teeth are gone, I miss them.
I miss those teeth. I miss them because I chewed on that side of my mouth. Most of my lower teeth were gone. In addition, most of the teeth on the other side of my mouth were gone or in such bad condition that I couldn't chew with them. Now that the teeth I used most often to chew with, it is difficult to eat anything except soup.
Not that I limit myself to soup, I still eat anything I want, it's just that it's a little more difficult to chew without those teeth. I have another appointment with the dentist in a week or so. The dentist will pull more teeth then. I didn't ask whether my dentures would be ready or not. I guess I should have, but I didn't think there would be that big a difference in eating.
Another thing I've noticed about the missing teeth. I have more of a tendency to drool in my sleep. All right, that is probably a lot more information then anyone reading this entry wants to know. I will be so glad when I get my dentures that I'm going to celebrate by having prime rib.
Both my grandparents had dentures. I didn't ask them what it was like having their teeth pulled and the dentures put in. When I was growing up, the last thing on my mind was my teeth or the conditions of my gums. This may be why I have to have all my teeth pulled and dentures put in.
I miss my teeth. I never thought I would say that, but I miss the teeth that the dentist pulled on Monday. I didn't have very many teeth left in my mouth before he extracted the four teeth in my right upper jaw. Now that the teeth are gone, I miss them.
I miss those teeth. I miss them because I chewed on that side of my mouth. Most of my lower teeth were gone. In addition, most of the teeth on the other side of my mouth were gone or in such bad condition that I couldn't chew with them. Now that the teeth I used most often to chew with, it is difficult to eat anything except soup.
Not that I limit myself to soup, I still eat anything I want, it's just that it's a little more difficult to chew without those teeth. I have another appointment with the dentist in a week or so. The dentist will pull more teeth then. I didn't ask whether my dentures would be ready or not. I guess I should have, but I didn't think there would be that big a difference in eating.
Another thing I've noticed about the missing teeth. I have more of a tendency to drool in my sleep. All right, that is probably a lot more information then anyone reading this entry wants to know. I will be so glad when I get my dentures that I'm going to celebrate by having prime rib.
Both my grandparents had dentures. I didn't ask them what it was like having their teeth pulled and the dentures put in. When I was growing up, the last thing on my mind was my teeth or the conditions of my gums. This may be why I have to have all my teeth pulled and dentures put in.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Sunset Approaches
Istiqlál (Independence), 5 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Friday, September 12, 2008 about 6:03 PM Pacific Time
Sunset approaches
and I think about past and future;
the present is a snow ball
rolling down a mountains slop
picking up speed
as it nears
a bottomless chasm
at the foot of the mountain.
Sunset approaches
another solar day comes to an end;
today becomes yesterday
and merges with all the past yesterdays
that haunt my memory
yesterdays that I would relive
if I could,
yesterdays that I might or might not change
if I could.
Sunset approaches
and I watch the slow transformation
of day light blue to night time black
I realize
that my present self is the result
of all my yesterdays;
I am who I am today
because of decisions I made yesterday
and - even if I could change them -
do I really want to change those decision
and become someone else
who is not my present self?
Sunset approaches
and I think about past and future;
the present is a snow ball
rolling down a mountains slop
picking up speed
as it nears
a bottomless chasm
at the foot of the mountain.
Sunset approaches
another solar day comes to an end;
today becomes yesterday
and merges with all the past yesterdays
that haunt my memory
yesterdays that I would relive
if I could,
yesterdays that I might or might not change
if I could.
Sunset approaches
and I watch the slow transformation
of day light blue to night time black
I realize
that my present self is the result
of all my yesterdays;
I am who I am today
because of decisions I made yesterday
and - even if I could change them -
do I really want to change those decision
and become someone else
who is not my present self?
Thursday, September 11, 2008
A Day of Remembrance
Istijlál (Majesty), 4 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Thursday, September 11, 2008 about 5:25 AM Pacific Time
Today is a day of remembrance,
when a moment of silence gives us the opportunity
to say prayers for the dead.
It is a chance to say prayers
for those who
ascended suddenly to the next world
when their plane struck twin towers
or struck the Pentagon
or crashed into a field
and those who were not in the buildings
when the planes struck them.
A moment of silence
gives us a chance to say prayers for the dead
or reflect on how the deaths changed our lives
or where we were when we heard the news about
the twin towers.
September 11
is a day of remembrance
of reflection
on past events
and on those who
are no longer with us because
of those events.
Today is a day of remembrance,
and after the moment of silence
and after remembering the dead
and after saying prayers for those who ascended
suddenly into the next world,
we will continue with our day
still remembering
and still crying.
Today is a day of remembrance,
when a moment of silence gives us the opportunity
to say prayers for the dead.
It is a chance to say prayers
for those who
ascended suddenly to the next world
when their plane struck twin towers
or struck the Pentagon
or crashed into a field
and those who were not in the buildings
when the planes struck them.
A moment of silence
gives us a chance to say prayers for the dead
or reflect on how the deaths changed our lives
or where we were when we heard the news about
the twin towers.
September 11
is a day of remembrance
of reflection
on past events
and on those who
are no longer with us because
of those events.
Today is a day of remembrance,
and after the moment of silence
and after remembering the dead
and after saying prayers for those who ascended
suddenly into the next world,
we will continue with our day
still remembering
and still crying.
September 11 a day of remembrance
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Wednesday's Midweek Reflections September 10, 2008
‘Idál (Justice), 3 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Wednesday, September 10, 2008 about 2:24 AM Pacific Time
It's Wednesday, the precise middle of the week. Three days have past and there are three days yet to come. Midweek reflections aren't like the daily accounting I do either mentally or in my off line journal everyday. Midweek reflections look at the events so far this week which have an impact on my life.
So far this week I attended the Feast of 'Izzat (Might) on Sunday evening at 7:30 PM. The Feast was held in the home of a friend and she had candles burning through out the three portions of the Feast of Might. These candles inspired the first poem of the month of 'Izzat.
So far this week I had four teeth extracted on Monday and impressions taken for a full set of dentures. By the time I arrived home after my appointment, the Novocain had worn off and I was in excruciating pain. I was in too much pain to concentrate on anything other then the pain, so I took a prescription pain pill and went to bed. As I lay in bed, I heard thunder roll and rain drops fall. It was a nice experience going to sleep listening to the rain.
So far this week I have paid my internet connection fee and gotten it into my provider's office before its due date for the first time this year. The connection is paid now I don't have to worry about whether I'm going to be able to get online.
It's Wednesday, the precise middle of the week. Three days have past and there are three days yet to come. Midweek reflections aren't like the daily accounting I do either mentally or in my off line journal everyday. Midweek reflections look at the events so far this week which have an impact on my life.
So far this week I attended the Feast of 'Izzat (Might) on Sunday evening at 7:30 PM. The Feast was held in the home of a friend and she had candles burning through out the three portions of the Feast of Might. These candles inspired the first poem of the month of 'Izzat.
So far this week I had four teeth extracted on Monday and impressions taken for a full set of dentures. By the time I arrived home after my appointment, the Novocain had worn off and I was in excruciating pain. I was in too much pain to concentrate on anything other then the pain, so I took a prescription pain pill and went to bed. As I lay in bed, I heard thunder roll and rain drops fall. It was a nice experience going to sleep listening to the rain.
So far this week I have paid my internet connection fee and gotten it into my provider's office before its due date for the first time this year. The connection is paid now I don't have to worry about whether I'm going to be able to get online.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
It Rained yesterday afternoon
Fidál (Grace), 2 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Tuesday, September 9, 2008 about 5:31 AM Pacific Time
It rained yesterday afternoon. Mom and I went to the dentist about 12:45 PM on Monday, September 8. My appointment was at 1:00 PM and Mom's was at 2:00 PM. I had impressions taken for dentures and four teeth pulled, while Mom had fillings. We got home around 3:00 PM.
When we arrived home it was clouding up, so I rolled the windows up in the car. At least I think I rolled the windows up. By the time we got home the Novocain was wearing off and I was in extreme pain, but I think I remember rolling up the windows in my car. I always roll up the windows in my car when I get home, so I doubt that yesterday was any different.
I was in too much pain to concentrate on anything, so I took a prescription pain pill and went to bed. While I was laying there, I heard thunder and rain drops, I didn't get up to look out the window because the pain medication hadn't kicked in when I heard the sound of rain. The pain meds finally kicked in and I went to sleep.
I don't know precisely what time I went to sleep, but I do know what time I woke up. I woke up at 8:55 PM because when I got into the living room and looked at the clock it was 9:00 P.M. That's right, I got up at 9:00 last night and I've been up almost all night. I did take a nap about 11:00 PM and while my virus scan, checked my hard drive. I sit down on the couch and slept for about an hour.
I'm not in pain, so I won't take another pain pill. I don't see any sense in taking a pain pill, especially a prescribed one unless I absolutely need it. I still have ten more teeth to come out and a full set of dentures to go in my mouth. Therefore, I may need more of te meds before all my teeth are pulled and the dentures go in.
It rained yesterday afternoon. Mom and I went to the dentist about 12:45 PM on Monday, September 8. My appointment was at 1:00 PM and Mom's was at 2:00 PM. I had impressions taken for dentures and four teeth pulled, while Mom had fillings. We got home around 3:00 PM.
When we arrived home it was clouding up, so I rolled the windows up in the car. At least I think I rolled the windows up. By the time we got home the Novocain was wearing off and I was in extreme pain, but I think I remember rolling up the windows in my car. I always roll up the windows in my car when I get home, so I doubt that yesterday was any different.
I was in too much pain to concentrate on anything, so I took a prescription pain pill and went to bed. While I was laying there, I heard thunder and rain drops, I didn't get up to look out the window because the pain medication hadn't kicked in when I heard the sound of rain. The pain meds finally kicked in and I went to sleep.
I don't know precisely what time I went to sleep, but I do know what time I woke up. I woke up at 8:55 PM because when I got into the living room and looked at the clock it was 9:00 P.M. That's right, I got up at 9:00 last night and I've been up almost all night. I did take a nap about 11:00 PM and while my virus scan, checked my hard drive. I sit down on the couch and slept for about an hour.
I'm not in pain, so I won't take another pain pill. I don't see any sense in taking a pain pill, especially a prescribed one unless I absolutely need it. I still have ten more teeth to come out and a full set of dentures to go in my mouth. Therefore, I may need more of te meds before all my teeth are pulled and the dentures go in.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Kamál (Perfection), 1 ‘Izzat (Might), 165 B.E. – Monday, September 8, 2008 about 5:08 AM Pacific Time
I don't know about absence making the heart grow fonder, but I do know it makes a person more appreciative what she does have. Take coffee and coffee filters for instance, I ran out of both a couple of months ago (not at the same time) and couldn't make coffee until I could get more. As a result, I was without coffee for eight or nine days.
This morning, while making a gratitude journal entry, I realized that for the past month one of the things I'm thankful for is having enough coffee and filters to make a fresh pot of coffee each day. Learning to be grateful for what one has is part of the process of transformation and practicing an abundance attitude.
I have kept a gratitude journal for several years now. This year, however, I begin making daily entries on a consistent basis. An entry in my gratitude journal is a daily goal along with blog entries and writing short stories or novels.
My daily gratitude journal entries is a list of ten items or occurrences I'm grateful for on that specific day. Finding ten things each day to be thankful for is sometimes difficult. I picked that number because of a journal group I'm a member of. Every Thursday is Thankful Thursday and each member of the group post ten things he or she is thankful for that day.
No matter how difficult life gets, an individual can always find something to be grateful for. Sometimes a person just has to look harder for those ten items.
I don't know about absence making the heart grow fonder, but I do know it makes a person more appreciative what she does have. Take coffee and coffee filters for instance, I ran out of both a couple of months ago (not at the same time) and couldn't make coffee until I could get more. As a result, I was without coffee for eight or nine days.
This morning, while making a gratitude journal entry, I realized that for the past month one of the things I'm thankful for is having enough coffee and filters to make a fresh pot of coffee each day. Learning to be grateful for what one has is part of the process of transformation and practicing an abundance attitude.
I have kept a gratitude journal for several years now. This year, however, I begin making daily entries on a consistent basis. An entry in my gratitude journal is a daily goal along with blog entries and writing short stories or novels.
My daily gratitude journal entries is a list of ten items or occurrences I'm grateful for on that specific day. Finding ten things each day to be thankful for is sometimes difficult. I picked that number because of a journal group I'm a member of. Every Thursday is Thankful Thursday and each member of the group post ten things he or she is thankful for that day.
No matter how difficult life gets, an individual can always find something to be grateful for. Sometimes a person just has to look harder for those ten items.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
A Place I Long For
Jamál (Beauty), 19 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Sunday, September 7, 2008 about 9:50 AM Pacific Time
Daily Writing Practice Prompt for September 7, 2008: Write about a place you long for.
The place I long for is a verdant mountain in Haifa, Israel. There are steps ascending the maintain and terraces on the mountain's side. Nineteen terraced gardens connected by steps leading up the mountain.
The place I long to visit is the Baha'i Shrine and Gardens, Haifa, Israel. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the United States and the place I long for is at least half a world away. I want to climb the steps and smell the flowers. I want to visit Mount Carmel. I want to ascend the steps to each terrace. I want to pray in the shines.
My grandmother always wanted to go to Israel, but she never did get to go. Grandma Newland longed to go the Israel just as I long to go. I don't know if there was any place special she wanted to visit. I wish now that I had asked her where she wanted to go in Israel. I wish now I had asked her why she never went.
I long to visit
the gardens on Mount Carmel
and pray in the shrines.
I long to go outside
the country of my birth
and see another part of the Earth.
I long to visit
the Baha'i Shrines and Gardens
on Mount Carmel.
I long to see
where Baha'u'llah walked
and talked.
Note about the Poem: I don't think the poem is finished, but I'm not sure what I want to add. Perhaps this is a two-part poem and the other part waits for me to visit Mount Carmel to finish it.
Daily Writing Practice Prompt for September 7, 2008: Write about a place you long for.
The place I long for is a verdant mountain in Haifa, Israel. There are steps ascending the maintain and terraces on the mountain's side. Nineteen terraced gardens connected by steps leading up the mountain.
The place I long to visit is the Baha'i Shrine and Gardens, Haifa, Israel. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the United States and the place I long for is at least half a world away. I want to climb the steps and smell the flowers. I want to visit Mount Carmel. I want to ascend the steps to each terrace. I want to pray in the shines.
My grandmother always wanted to go to Israel, but she never did get to go. Grandma Newland longed to go the Israel just as I long to go. I don't know if there was any place special she wanted to visit. I wish now that I had asked her where she wanted to go in Israel. I wish now I had asked her why she never went.
I long to visit
the gardens on Mount Carmel
and pray in the shrines.
I long to go outside
the country of my birth
and see another part of the Earth.
I long to visit
the Baha'i Shrines and Gardens
on Mount Carmel.
I long to see
where Baha'u'llah walked
and talked.
Note about the Poem: I don't think the poem is finished, but I'm not sure what I want to add. Perhaps this is a two-part poem and the other part waits for me to visit Mount Carmel to finish it.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Saturday Morning Trash Issues
Jalál (Glory), 18 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Saturday, September 6, 2008 about 6:55 AM Pacific Time
As anyone who has every read any of my blog entries about trash knows, I have issues concerning getting the trash to the curb before the garbage trucks come to empty the cans. I have difficulty lugging the trashcans out early Wednesday and Saturday mornings. I have less problems in summer then I do in winter.
Dawn arrives earlier in summer then in winter. It is easier getting trashcans to the curb before 7:00 AM when the sun is up. This morning I lugged one can to the curb, I have four beat-up aluminum trashcans and the goal is to get, at least, one to the curb on trash day. Next Saturday is recyclable day, so I will focus on getting the recyclables to the curb then the trashcans. We seem to have more recyclables then regular trash anyway.
Maybe it's a good thing to have more recyclables then regular trash, it means we are more aware of the environment. Having more recyclables means a greater awareness of your carbon footprint on the planet. I still have a long way to go when it comes to recycling, but I'm getting there slowly.
When I was growing up, there were no issues about separating your trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. Everything went into the same trashcan and on trash day, which occurred only one day a week, we took everything to either the alley or the curb.
I have to admit, that I enjoy the process of separating trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. Overcoming the desire to take the easy way by throwing everything into a plastic trash bag strengthens a person's will power. It isn't always easy to carry a recyclable item to the garage and put it in a recyclable bin. It's much easier to just put it in a plastic trash bag and take the bag to the garage a the end of the day.
As anyone who has every read any of my blog entries about trash knows, I have issues concerning getting the trash to the curb before the garbage trucks come to empty the cans. I have difficulty lugging the trashcans out early Wednesday and Saturday mornings. I have less problems in summer then I do in winter.
Dawn arrives earlier in summer then in winter. It is easier getting trashcans to the curb before 7:00 AM when the sun is up. This morning I lugged one can to the curb, I have four beat-up aluminum trashcans and the goal is to get, at least, one to the curb on trash day. Next Saturday is recyclable day, so I will focus on getting the recyclables to the curb then the trashcans. We seem to have more recyclables then regular trash anyway.
Maybe it's a good thing to have more recyclables then regular trash, it means we are more aware of the environment. Having more recyclables means a greater awareness of your carbon footprint on the planet. I still have a long way to go when it comes to recycling, but I'm getting there slowly.
When I was growing up, there were no issues about separating your trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. Everything went into the same trashcan and on trash day, which occurred only one day a week, we took everything to either the alley or the curb.
I have to admit, that I enjoy the process of separating trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. Overcoming the desire to take the easy way by throwing everything into a plastic trash bag strengthens a person's will power. It isn't always easy to carry a recyclable item to the garage and put it in a recyclable bin. It's much easier to just put it in a plastic trash bag and take the bag to the garage a the end of the day.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Between Dusk and Dawn
Istiqlál (Independence), 17 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Friday, September 5, 2008 about 3:13 AM Pacific Time
It is early and the sun hasn't risen yet, but it approaches the horizon. You can sense the approach of morning, the approach of dawn. Even in the dusk of morning, in the dusk of the twilight before dawn, my mind and soul knows that day is coming. The knowledge of the approach of day wakes me in the dusk of morning.
I'm not sure when I first began waking up in the dark part of morning. All I know is that I'm now waking up before dawn and watching the sky become lighter and lighter between the dusk and the dawn. This is a spiritual time of day, when dawn prayers are said and the first pot of coffee is made. Prayers and coffee seem to complement the early morning and start the day off on the right foot.
This morning I noticed that when I get out of bed my right foot touches the floor first. Of course, I'm right handed, so that may have something to do with which foot touches the tile of my bedroom floor first. I don't get out of bed immediately upon waking. I lay a few minutes looking out the window, looking at the darkness before the dawn. Then, with my right foot touch the floor first, I sit up, find my socks and shoes, put them on and get up.
Waking up in the dusk of morning has taught me a lot about myself. I don't like to go barefoot, even in the house. Getting up early has also taught me that dawn is the most beautiful and spiritual time of day. Some may argue with that, but for me I find that it is true. I think that is because most mornings, I'm the only one up and the house is silent and conducive to prayer, meditation, making entries in my gratitude journal or composing a blog entry.
It is early and the sun hasn't risen yet, but it approaches the horizon. You can sense the approach of morning, the approach of dawn. Even in the dusk of morning, in the dusk of the twilight before dawn, my mind and soul knows that day is coming. The knowledge of the approach of day wakes me in the dusk of morning.
I'm not sure when I first began waking up in the dark part of morning. All I know is that I'm now waking up before dawn and watching the sky become lighter and lighter between the dusk and the dawn. This is a spiritual time of day, when dawn prayers are said and the first pot of coffee is made. Prayers and coffee seem to complement the early morning and start the day off on the right foot.
This morning I noticed that when I get out of bed my right foot touches the floor first. Of course, I'm right handed, so that may have something to do with which foot touches the tile of my bedroom floor first. I don't get out of bed immediately upon waking. I lay a few minutes looking out the window, looking at the darkness before the dawn. Then, with my right foot touch the floor first, I sit up, find my socks and shoes, put them on and get up.
Waking up in the dusk of morning has taught me a lot about myself. I don't like to go barefoot, even in the house. Getting up early has also taught me that dawn is the most beautiful and spiritual time of day. Some may argue with that, but for me I find that it is true. I think that is because most mornings, I'm the only one up and the house is silent and conducive to prayer, meditation, making entries in my gratitude journal or composing a blog entry.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Writing.com is 8 years old
‘Idál (Justice), 15 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Wednesday, September 3, 2008 about 5:51 AM Pacific Time
Writing.com is 8 years old in September. I joined this community of writers in 2002; one of the wisest decisions I ever made. Since joining my writing and attitude toward my talent has improved. I am much more willing to share my creative efforts with other people.
Personal transformation is not a solitary process. In order for a person to change, to become her or his true self, that person must interact with the rest of humanity. This interaction can take the form of face-to-face contact or online contact. In this case, my interaction with the other members at writing.com has affected both my talent and the way I think about myself.
My interaction with other writers at writing.com consists of e-mail, blog comments and reviews of written works. Not only do I receive review of my own work, but I give them as well. The reviews help improve my writing skills.
When I joined writing.com, I joined as a free (non-paying member). Since joining I have paid for three different levels of membership. The first level, I paid for was the basic and least expensive level. The next level of membership I paid for was the upgraded level and I kept that for several years. In 2008, I decided to get the premium level because I needed more room in my portfolio.
The other two levels of membership are the professional and enterprise levels. I don't know if I'm going to get either of those levels myself. I encourage any one who writes, whether it is professionally or just for personal enjoyment to join writing.com, at least on a trial basis. Try it out and see if you like the writing.com community.
Writing.com is 8 years old in September. I joined this community of writers in 2002; one of the wisest decisions I ever made. Since joining my writing and attitude toward my talent has improved. I am much more willing to share my creative efforts with other people.
Personal transformation is not a solitary process. In order for a person to change, to become her or his true self, that person must interact with the rest of humanity. This interaction can take the form of face-to-face contact or online contact. In this case, my interaction with the other members at writing.com has affected both my talent and the way I think about myself.
My interaction with other writers at writing.com consists of e-mail, blog comments and reviews of written works. Not only do I receive review of my own work, but I give them as well. The reviews help improve my writing skills.
When I joined writing.com, I joined as a free (non-paying member). Since joining I have paid for three different levels of membership. The first level, I paid for was the basic and least expensive level. The next level of membership I paid for was the upgraded level and I kept that for several years. In 2008, I decided to get the premium level because I needed more room in my portfolio.
The other two levels of membership are the professional and enterprise levels. I don't know if I'm going to get either of those levels myself. I encourage any one who writes, whether it is professionally or just for personal enjoyment to join writing.com, at least on a trial basis. Try it out and see if you like the writing.com community.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Doing the Washing
Fidál (Grace), 14 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Tuesday, September 2, 2008 about 3:42 AM Pacific Time
That's what my Grandmother Newland called washing laundry. She did "The Washing" once a week for six or seven people. I'm still attempting to figure out what her secret was because I do laundry everyday. However, grandma did it only once a week on either Thursday, Friday, or Saturday depending on the weekend plans.
For years Grandma used a wringer washing machine. That was an electric washing machine with a wringer attached to squeeze the water out of the cloths before putting them into the rinse tubs. The first electric washing machines didn't have spin or rinse cycles. The only thing those machines did was wash the cloths. They used an agitator (I think that was what it was called) to wash the cloths. After the cloths were washed, then the cloths were put through a wring to get the excess water out before putting them into the first rinse tub.
After the first rinse, she would put the cloths through the wringer again and then into the second rinse tub. Grandma always used two rinses and in one of those rinses, she put "bluing". The bluing has something to do with making the white cloths whiter or something like that. All right, it was in the last centaury and I was only in grade school at the time. I would still like to know ho she did laundry for six or seven people once a week and we do laundry everyday for only two people.
Eventually grandpa bought her an automatic washer with two rinse cycles. He never bought her an automatic dryer though. If grandma had wanted a cloths dyer, he would have gotten one for her. However, grandma liked hanging her cloths outside on the cloths line. Sometimes I wish I had a cloths line to hang my cloths on while they dry. I remember the scent and the feel of cloths taken right off the line and folded. This memory always brings a smile to my face.
That's what my Grandmother Newland called washing laundry. She did "The Washing" once a week for six or seven people. I'm still attempting to figure out what her secret was because I do laundry everyday. However, grandma did it only once a week on either Thursday, Friday, or Saturday depending on the weekend plans.
For years Grandma used a wringer washing machine. That was an electric washing machine with a wringer attached to squeeze the water out of the cloths before putting them into the rinse tubs. The first electric washing machines didn't have spin or rinse cycles. The only thing those machines did was wash the cloths. They used an agitator (I think that was what it was called) to wash the cloths. After the cloths were washed, then the cloths were put through a wring to get the excess water out before putting them into the first rinse tub.
After the first rinse, she would put the cloths through the wringer again and then into the second rinse tub. Grandma always used two rinses and in one of those rinses, she put "bluing". The bluing has something to do with making the white cloths whiter or something like that. All right, it was in the last centaury and I was only in grade school at the time. I would still like to know ho she did laundry for six or seven people once a week and we do laundry everyday for only two people.
Eventually grandpa bought her an automatic washer with two rinse cycles. He never bought her an automatic dryer though. If grandma had wanted a cloths dyer, he would have gotten one for her. However, grandma liked hanging her cloths outside on the cloths line. Sometimes I wish I had a cloths line to hang my cloths on while they dry. I remember the scent and the feel of cloths taken right off the line and folded. This memory always brings a smile to my face.
Monday, September 01, 2008
Where has the Year gone?
Kamál (Perfection), 13 Asma (Names), 165 B.E. – Monday, September 1, 2008 about 9:15 AM Pacific Time
Where has 2008 gone? It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the beginning of a New Year and here it is September 1. There are now only four months left in 2008 and then we celebrate the beginning of another New Year, which will pass too quickly.
We begin a New Year with so much hope and so many goals, but the year passes quickly. The older a person gets the faster the year appears to pass. That is why setting priorities are important. If one doesn't set priorities, then nothing is accomplished and the year is wasted. At least, it seems so unless the individual learns the lesson about setting priorities.
It is never too late, no matter how old one is, to begin setting priorities. One way to do this is to write a personal mission statement. Mission statements aren't only for businesses or individuals looking to advance their careers. Mission statements are for everyone who has priorities and wants to achieve goals of any time.
Many websites give advice about writing personal mission statements, but all a person needs to write one are priorities. The first step is for the individual to list his or her priorities. The second is to put those priorities into positive statements. Make the statements specific enough to see that progress is being determine and broad enough so that there is a little leeway for improvement.
I'm in the process of rewriting my personal mission statement now. The original statement didn't inspire me, so I decided to do it over. Of course, I wrote the original before my life fell apart last year, so perhaps my priorities changed during 2007. I will finish the statement today and will post it in this blog latter this week. I have found that, for me, a personal mission statement is part of the process of transformation.
Where has 2008 gone? It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the beginning of a New Year and here it is September 1. There are now only four months left in 2008 and then we celebrate the beginning of another New Year, which will pass too quickly.
We begin a New Year with so much hope and so many goals, but the year passes quickly. The older a person gets the faster the year appears to pass. That is why setting priorities are important. If one doesn't set priorities, then nothing is accomplished and the year is wasted. At least, it seems so unless the individual learns the lesson about setting priorities.
It is never too late, no matter how old one is, to begin setting priorities. One way to do this is to write a personal mission statement. Mission statements aren't only for businesses or individuals looking to advance their careers. Mission statements are for everyone who has priorities and wants to achieve goals of any time.
Many websites give advice about writing personal mission statements, but all a person needs to write one are priorities. The first step is for the individual to list his or her priorities. The second is to put those priorities into positive statements. Make the statements specific enough to see that progress is being determine and broad enough so that there is a little leeway for improvement.
I'm in the process of rewriting my personal mission statement now. The original statement didn't inspire me, so I decided to do it over. Of course, I wrote the original before my life fell apart last year, so perhaps my priorities changed during 2007. I will finish the statement today and will post it in this blog latter this week. I have found that, for me, a personal mission statement is part of the process of transformation.
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