Not sure what to call it.
It really shouldn’t surprise me by this point, seeing as everything I touch I have to wonder: “When was the last time...”
Up to this point the wondering had been about cleaning in the house, as I’ve had to deep clean almost everything since the previous owner didn’t seem to keep stuff clean. I’m no clean freak by any means, but c’mon... Mold, burnt on food, etc.? I digress, though because this isn’t about cleaning.
I spent 2 hours after work on Friday night trying to make the “flower bed” in my backyard presentable. As Celeste enjoyed her evening in the “great outdoors”, I sat and pulled weeds and grass from around the bricks (building bricks with holes in them) that were laid flat on top of the ground in an attempt to make it look like a flower bed sans flowers. In the center of the bed is red lava rock interspersed mildly with white rock that apparently was left over from some other project. I had to wonder when the last time someone did something with the bed because the grass that was growing in one portion of it had quite an established root system under the rock, between the bricks and in the holes of the bricks. It seems plants were put willy-nilly and seeing as I don’t know what all is there, I am leaving the bed “as-is” for this year. Next year, the bricks and the rock have to go. Who in their right mind would put a rock bed right next to a deciduous tree? A male friend told me: “A man would.” LOL
May 3, 2008
May 2, 2008
SBQ 4/30/08 - Heirlooms
Do you have any pieces that you would liked passed on to future generations as family heirlooms? Hopefully all of the things I've made that are still in my possession when I die will be passed on to other family members, and not donated to the local Goodwill/Salvation Army stores... or worse yet, thrown in the garbage.
Mostly, I'd hope that Japanese Garden will be passed on. It will be an awesome piece when it's finished. There's a pic in the sidebar.
May 1, 2008
Domestic Violence
*Yawn* I am sooo tired today. Last night, I attended the annual charity fundraiser that benefits my county's Domestic Violence program. Domestic violence is a senseless crime. The county's DV organization provides women with individual and group counseling, children's counseling, legal advocacy, transitional housing, and a 24-hour crisis hotline. All services are free and confidential.
The most recent DV death in my county happened just last month: The boyfriend of a woman killed her sister and mother in a domestic dispute. Granted, not all DV disputes end in death. Most disputes aren't even reported. Some are strong enough to walk away and get help, others are not. Whether it's verbal or physical, it is NOT all right to "beat" someone down. Yet, each of us is touched in some way by someone who is the receipient of domestic violence.
This program has always held a special place close to my heart. You see, I am a survivor of DV. Without going into too many details, suffice it to say that I almost choked on my own blood, and I literally saw stars. Even though it was over 20 years ago, my thanks goes out to DV legal advocate, Teri (who died way too young... in her 30's... of a heart attack), because without her a young woman in her 20's wouldn't have been able to navigate the system, get counseling, and the protection she needed. Thankfully, with her help and "talks" I was able to stay strong and do what I had to do. Interesting to me at the time, I had other young women say to me: "I'm glad you're being so strong. I could never do what you're doing."
So what was this fundraiser about? Each year, the community is asked to nominate women who've offered significant contributions to their communities and/or families. Out of those nominees, several are recognized as a "Woman of Excellence". The DV program also gives out a $500 scholarship to a high school senior girl based on her achievements, future goals, and an essay about a woman who made a difference in her life. In addition, we enjoy a delicious catered dinner and fabulous entertainment.
Dinner consisted of Tropical Baby Spring Green Salad (OMG, it was sooo good!), Pineapple Mango Chicken, Fresh Garden Cut Aparagus, Mediterranean Rice Blend, and Key Lime Cheesecake. I was ready for a nap after all that food!
Entertainment this year was provided by an a cappella rock 'n roll group from the Chicago area called Ac•Rock. They were very funny and entertaining!
On that note, I'll leave a few parting thoughts:
• Domestic Violence is not limited to certain income, education, or socio-economic levels. It doesn't care if you're white, black, yellow, or green.
• Battering is more than physical (hitting, kicking, pushing, etc) harm. It also comes in the form of verbal put-downs.
• No one has the right to physically or mentally harm you. Do not let anyone hit, push, or put their hands on you in any way.
• Don't let anyone tell you "You are worthless" or "You won't be able to make it on your own". Because you aren't worthless. You CAN make it on your own.
• Whether you are single... or have children... aged 13 or 80... There are people who will help you. All you need to do is take that step.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline
Get The Facts
Council in Europe - Stop DV Against Women
The most recent DV death in my county happened just last month: The boyfriend of a woman killed her sister and mother in a domestic dispute. Granted, not all DV disputes end in death. Most disputes aren't even reported. Some are strong enough to walk away and get help, others are not. Whether it's verbal or physical, it is NOT all right to "beat" someone down. Yet, each of us is touched in some way by someone who is the receipient of domestic violence.
This program has always held a special place close to my heart. You see, I am a survivor of DV. Without going into too many details, suffice it to say that I almost choked on my own blood, and I literally saw stars. Even though it was over 20 years ago, my thanks goes out to DV legal advocate, Teri (who died way too young... in her 30's... of a heart attack), because without her a young woman in her 20's wouldn't have been able to navigate the system, get counseling, and the protection she needed. Thankfully, with her help and "talks" I was able to stay strong and do what I had to do. Interesting to me at the time, I had other young women say to me: "I'm glad you're being so strong. I could never do what you're doing."
So what was this fundraiser about? Each year, the community is asked to nominate women who've offered significant contributions to their communities and/or families. Out of those nominees, several are recognized as a "Woman of Excellence". The DV program also gives out a $500 scholarship to a high school senior girl based on her achievements, future goals, and an essay about a woman who made a difference in her life. In addition, we enjoy a delicious catered dinner and fabulous entertainment.
Dinner consisted of Tropical Baby Spring Green Salad (OMG, it was sooo good!), Pineapple Mango Chicken, Fresh Garden Cut Aparagus, Mediterranean Rice Blend, and Key Lime Cheesecake. I was ready for a nap after all that food!
Entertainment this year was provided by an a cappella rock 'n roll group from the Chicago area called Ac•Rock. They were very funny and entertaining!
On that note, I'll leave a few parting thoughts:
• Domestic Violence is not limited to certain income, education, or socio-economic levels. It doesn't care if you're white, black, yellow, or green.
• Battering is more than physical (hitting, kicking, pushing, etc) harm. It also comes in the form of verbal put-downs.
• No one has the right to physically or mentally harm you. Do not let anyone hit, push, or put their hands on you in any way.
• Don't let anyone tell you "You are worthless" or "You won't be able to make it on your own". Because you aren't worthless. You CAN make it on your own.
• Whether you are single... or have children... aged 13 or 80... There are people who will help you. All you need to do is take that step.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline
Get The Facts
Council in Europe - Stop DV Against Women
Apr 30, 2008
DMC Rumors
Rumors have been flying about the "demise" of DMC...
DMC is downsizing their workforce 20%, which isn't surprising. I'm sure with the economy the say it is, we'll be seeing a lot more of this with a lot of companies. According to THIS article on Rueters, the company is filing for protection, and a decision has yet to be made whether they'll be allowed to restructure and keep running, or if business will be shut down. It appears it's the European company that's looking for help. Stock trading has been suspended right now.
I also received this press release today:
DMC PRESS RELEASE
APRIL 30, 2008
In recent days, there has been a significant amount of information in the form of press releases, media reports, etc. regarding financial difficulties and operational restructuring plans at the DMC corporate offices in France. Those activities and court filings within the legal system in France are directed towards seeking a formal resolution for two divisions within the DMC Corporation (Sportswear fabric and a small chain of retail stores found only in France) that are not related to the embroidery thread and craft activities, which remain the core business of the corporation.
In addition, the U.S. division of DMC operates as a separate legal and financial entity with its own financing, receivables, payables, etc, and as such, is not included in any legal filing or petitions to the courts that may occur in France.
We are financially secure and fully prepared to conduct business as usual here in the U.S.
DMC has been manufacturing needlework threads for 262 years and we remain committed to providing stitchers with the highest quality embroidery floss, specialty threads, needlework fabrics and other supplies they need to continue to enjoy the wonderful art of needlework. We look forward to continuing to serve all of our customers and loyal users of DMC products into the future.
Joseph D. McCabe
President/CEO
DMC, Inc
So rest easy... we still have our floss! Word travels fast, doesn't it?!
DMC is downsizing their workforce 20%, which isn't surprising. I'm sure with the economy the say it is, we'll be seeing a lot more of this with a lot of companies. According to THIS article on Rueters, the company is filing for protection, and a decision has yet to be made whether they'll be allowed to restructure and keep running, or if business will be shut down. It appears it's the European company that's looking for help. Stock trading has been suspended right now.
I also received this press release today:
DMC PRESS RELEASE
APRIL 30, 2008
In recent days, there has been a significant amount of information in the form of press releases, media reports, etc. regarding financial difficulties and operational restructuring plans at the DMC corporate offices in France. Those activities and court filings within the legal system in France are directed towards seeking a formal resolution for two divisions within the DMC Corporation (Sportswear fabric and a small chain of retail stores found only in France) that are not related to the embroidery thread and craft activities, which remain the core business of the corporation.
In addition, the U.S. division of DMC operates as a separate legal and financial entity with its own financing, receivables, payables, etc, and as such, is not included in any legal filing or petitions to the courts that may occur in France.
We are financially secure and fully prepared to conduct business as usual here in the U.S.
DMC has been manufacturing needlework threads for 262 years and we remain committed to providing stitchers with the highest quality embroidery floss, specialty threads, needlework fabrics and other supplies they need to continue to enjoy the wonderful art of needlework. We look forward to continuing to serve all of our customers and loyal users of DMC products into the future.
Joseph D. McCabe
President/CEO
DMC, Inc
So rest easy... we still have our floss! Word travels fast, doesn't it?!
Apr 29, 2008
Jeff's Way of Handling A Wife
It is important for men to remember that, as women grow older, it becomes harder for them to maintain the same quality of housekeeping as when they were younger. When you notice this, try not to yell at them. Some are oversensitive, and there's nothing worse than an oversensitive woman.
My name is Jeff. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Susie.
Since I retired several years ago, it has become necessary for Susie to get a full-time job along with her part-time job, both for extra income and for the health benefits that we needed.
Shortly after she started working, I noticed she was beginning to show her age. I usually get home from the golf club about the same time she gets home from work.
Although she knows how hungry I am, she almost always says she has to rest for half an hour or so before she starts dinner. I don't yell at her. Instead, I tell her to take her time and just wake me when she gets dinner on the table. I generally have lunch in the Men's Grill at the club so eating out is not reasonable. I'm ready for some home-cooked grub when I hit that door.
She used to do the dishes as soon as we finished eating. But now it's not unusual for them to sit on the table for several hours after dinner. I do what I can by diplomatically reminding her several times each evening that they won't clean themselves. I know she really appreciates this, as it does seem to motivate her to get them done before she goes to bed.
Another symptom of aging is complaining, I think. For example she will say that it is difficult for her to find time to pay the monthly bills during her lunch hour. But, boys, we take 'em for better or worse, so I just smile and offer encouragement. I tell her to stretch it out over two or even three days. That way she won't ha ve to rush so much. I also remind her that missing lunch completely now and then wouldn't hurt her any (if you know what I mean). I like to think tact is one of my strong points.
When doing simple jobs, she seems to think she needs more rest periods. She had to take a break when she was only half finished mowing the yard. I try not to make a scene. I'm a fair man. I tell her to fix herself a nice, big, cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade and just sit for a while. And, as long as she is making one for herself, she may as well make one for me too.
I know that I probably look like a saint in the way I support Susie. I'm not saying that showing this much consideration is easy. Many men will find it difficult. Some will find it impossible! Nobody knows better than I do how frustrating women get as they get older.
However, guys, even if you just use a little more tact and less criticism of your aging wife because of this article, I will consider that writing it w as well worthwhile. After all, we are put on this earth to help each other.
Sincerely, Jeff
EDITOR'S NOTE:
Jeff died suddenly on March 1 of a perforated rectum. The police report says he was found with a Calloway extra long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver II golf club jammed up his rear end, with barely 5 inches of grip showing and a sledge hammer laying nearby.
His wife Susie was arrested and charged with murder. The all-woman jury took only 15 minutes to find her Not Guilty, accepting her defense that Jeff somehow, without looking, accidentally sat down on his golf club.
My name is Jeff. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Susie.
Since I retired several years ago, it has become necessary for Susie to get a full-time job along with her part-time job, both for extra income and for the health benefits that we needed.
Shortly after she started working, I noticed she was beginning to show her age. I usually get home from the golf club about the same time she gets home from work.
Although she knows how hungry I am, she almost always says she has to rest for half an hour or so before she starts dinner. I don't yell at her. Instead, I tell her to take her time and just wake me when she gets dinner on the table. I generally have lunch in the Men's Grill at the club so eating out is not reasonable. I'm ready for some home-cooked grub when I hit that door.
She used to do the dishes as soon as we finished eating. But now it's not unusual for them to sit on the table for several hours after dinner. I do what I can by diplomatically reminding her several times each evening that they won't clean themselves. I know she really appreciates this, as it does seem to motivate her to get them done before she goes to bed.
Another symptom of aging is complaining, I think. For example she will say that it is difficult for her to find time to pay the monthly bills during her lunch hour. But, boys, we take 'em for better or worse, so I just smile and offer encouragement. I tell her to stretch it out over two or even three days. That way she won't ha ve to rush so much. I also remind her that missing lunch completely now and then wouldn't hurt her any (if you know what I mean). I like to think tact is one of my strong points.
When doing simple jobs, she seems to think she needs more rest periods. She had to take a break when she was only half finished mowing the yard. I try not to make a scene. I'm a fair man. I tell her to fix herself a nice, big, cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade and just sit for a while. And, as long as she is making one for herself, she may as well make one for me too.
I know that I probably look like a saint in the way I support Susie. I'm not saying that showing this much consideration is easy. Many men will find it difficult. Some will find it impossible! Nobody knows better than I do how frustrating women get as they get older.
However, guys, even if you just use a little more tact and less criticism of your aging wife because of this article, I will consider that writing it w as well worthwhile. After all, we are put on this earth to help each other.
Sincerely, Jeff
EDITOR'S NOTE:
Jeff died suddenly on March 1 of a perforated rectum. The police report says he was found with a Calloway extra long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver II golf club jammed up his rear end, with barely 5 inches of grip showing and a sledge hammer laying nearby.
His wife Susie was arrested and charged with murder. The all-woman jury took only 15 minutes to find her Not Guilty, accepting her defense that Jeff somehow, without looking, accidentally sat down on his golf club.
