HAPPY NEW YEAR

I've had a computer crash. I will be posting some updates as soon as I get it fixed. Meanwhile, I hope everyone starts the new year off right! 2005 and still alive! That's all I could think of.

25 December

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Remember that the real reason we celebrate Christmas is to rejoice in the coming of the Son of God. Our Savior Jesus Christ!

Luke 2:9-14
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 

Family Christmas Card

europe plans

Cheramie and I have made some real progress with planning our trip. Here's a quick shot: London to Venice to Oslo to Stockholm to Dublin to London and back home to Seattle. Whew! All our flights are booked, we've got reservations at hostels in Venice and Oslo, we're visiting Cheramie's Swedish friend near Stockholm, being adventurous in Ireland, and going to see a show in London! All the while making lots of friends and memories. Anyone care to join us?

This is me and Steve in Romania posing by the Fanta poster. Wanta Fanta? 

early Christmas

It was like Christmas this morning. I woke up to the chime of the doorbell and found a rather large rather lite box with my name on it. I knew it had to be my new pack so I quickly pulled it inside the house and began tearing into it like I was five and thought there was a puppy inside! It was so exciting. So, here's a picture of what the bag looks like. And I already know I'm a geek if anyone feels like pointing that out to me. :)

Europe

Well, the trip to Europe is slowly forming. Cherm and I have roughly decided where we'll be going. Our time will be spent between London, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, and Norway. Cherm has a friend in Sweden so accommodations there are covered, but everywhere else is still in question. I haven't bought my ticket yet, but soon. I did order new luggage. When it gets here I'll have my friend Adrian take a look at it for me. She's a hiker and knows all about backpacks. I'll be packing as light as possible, but a month is still a long time to live out of a backpack. Being a military kid I'm a pretty avid packer and traveler. That's about it for now, I'll keep ya posted.

famous friends

I had breakfast this morning with my friend Steve. He's a musician and a magnet designer. He's one of the most creative people I know. He gets an idea and he runs with it. He's very inspiring. You can check out his website by clicking the link. Anyway, it was nice to catch up since he moved to the east coast. He's making good progress with his music, it sounds great! You should buy a copy! Well, that's all for now. I have to go to work, but first I'm going to stop by the gym to sign up. I'm so excited to get back into working out. I always feel better after a workout.

camera

I took the camera to work again and here's a picture of Tim!

Bachelorette Party

Today was my friend's bachelorette party and we had a lot of fun. We played some games, had some food, gave gifts, and laughed a lot. One game included using toilet paper to make a wedding dress....

here's the winning team...

and here's Jami! (be sure to read her name tag carefully)...

next is presents...

and then cake!

All in all, it was a great time and a reminder that girls just wanna have fun!

just for cheramie

Well, my dear friend Cheramie said I hadn't enough picture on my website, so I set out to get more pictures. I decided to take a picture of me with my co-worker, Ryan, but then a couple other friends showed up! So here's some pictures Cherm!

last Thursday of November

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all! I don't know about you, but I'm stuffed! Even more than the turkey. It was a wonderful meal and nice conversation. I'm thankful for all those things. What is it that you are thankful for?

 

one small step

My week filled up fast. At the beginning all I had was work on Th & Fri nights. Then I was invited to a bible study on Monday night, then I made an appointment with a talent agency for tonight, then I was asked to help out with a video on Wed night. Whew! Not really a lot, I know, but for me it's exciting. The agency was great. They want to evaluate a monologue and then have me attend a seminar so I can really get started. I'll keep ya posted!

halo

What is with people wasting their lives away on this new halo game?

spoonful of sugar, anyone?

Well, it's 6:20 in the morning and I've been awake since 5. I got up initially to re-heat my heating pad... shoulder pains... and I got a Popsicle while I was in the kitchen....throat pains. So, I'm up at the butt-crack of dawn feeling dreadfully awful, contemplating if I should go back to bed instead of writing this because we should be going to church in the morning. Well, the later morning. I'm not a morning person at all, so this baffles me that I'm quite awake as I write this. I really don't have a subject to talk about, I just thought I'd write something. I checked my email and was browsing a website and it reminded me that I should update my own website. So here I am. And now I'm going to go. I need to re-heat my heat pad...again... now I need to blow my nose. Perhaps I will skip church in the morning. I did go last night anyhow. I went to visit my old church. That's always nice. Okay, seriously have to go.

new perspective

Have you ever watched Mary Poppins in french? It's quite delightful.

how do you do?

This week has been delightful. My eldest brother and his wife and son have been visiting since last Saturday. We've watched movies, played games, toured Seattle, and discussed biblical theology. Many people think it's strange how much my family talks about the Bible and things of God. I think it's strange that more people don't. There's so much to learn about and from others, but we don't dare risk asking their philosophy about life. That's too personal an issue. We have become so afraid of offending that the only level of communication we reach with people is that of cliches and "how do you do's". How are you supposed to answer that question anyway? But I digress.

Yesterday was my mother's birthday. We played CLUE and she won two out of three games. I don't know how she did it! I thought I had it every time, but I never did! Afterwords we went to Ruby Tuesdays for dinner. The staff did a wonderful job of wishing her a happy birthday. Then we came home for Cherry Cheesecake! Courtesy of yours truly. Then we put on "Cracking up with Jerry Lewis" which my sister in law had never seen. I don't think she was that thrilled. I guess that kind of humor doesn't float her boat.

The family takes off tomorrow at noon and I have to work tonight, so tomorrow morning is all I have left with them. I hate it so much. My nephew is growing up and I don't get to be there for the everyday cuteness. We have so much fun when we're together, but I imagine my aunt's felt the same about me. Sometimes I wonder what he'll think about me when he's 20 and I'm in my 40s. 

eDating

Yes, I admit it. I've tried online matching sites. There are so many benefits, yet so many frustrations. In the world of dating you might walk into a club, or otherwise established singles gathering, and scan the room. Right off the bat you would see probably a half a dozen people you'd be interested in meeting based on appearance and demeanor. The next step would be to approach each of them and find out important information. Things like money management, family ties, political stance, religious beliefs, and their goals in life. This would be difficult enough if you were only trying to find out the answers for just one person. But six?! That's certainly not going to happen in one night. I'm sure you see where I'm going with this. Online dating profiles allow you see the basic foundation on which each match stands. You can dismiss a person without ever saying hello.

On the other hand, let's say you walk into an eClub. You walk around picking up profiles of the people you find attractive. You go over each one throwing away the ones that don't fit you. Then you walk up to a potential date and say your hello. Now, assuming he's read and approved of your profile you begin a conversation. This conversation isn't going to be much like one you'd have at a club. Suddenly you feel like a big time CEO interviewing for a company partner. What's your age? Do you like sushi? How much do you make in a year? Oh yeah, what's your name? This can become droll very quickly. And you start to loose perspective that these profiles have actual people on the other end of them. You forget about flirting and romance. And how do you smile into your computer? :) Doesn't quite do the trick.

I haven't quite figured out the solution, except to have your date's photo in site while you chat or email with him. I have found e-dating to be a positive thing for me because I have high standards and I'm terrible at talking face to face with guys. And so I will continue to look for love through my computer.

If I don't meet the love of my life, at least my writing will have improved! 

The Katie LN Reporter

The Katie LN Reporter
Volume 1, Issue 1
3 October, 2004 Sunday

ONE IS SILVER, THE OTHER GOLD
by - M. Goose
We've all heard the childhood nursery rhyme, "Make new friends, but keep the old ones. One is silver and the other gold", but how many of us actually took that rhyme to heart? After feeling left behind by her closest friends, Katherine R****** of Puyallup, WA, did just that. She decided that though her dear friends were off on their own adventures, she would keep them close to her heart, but at the same time step out and make new friends. On Friday afternoon, October 1st, she took her first step at making a new friend. Around 3:30 she went into work to relieve her co-worker, Ryan P********, of his duties. When P******** inquired as to what the Lord was doing in her life, R****** replied with a smile, "He's forcing me to make some new friends!" Mentioning that she'd like to visit P********'s church, he responded that she was welcome to join his posse of pals. P******** then proceeded to give her his cell number (and his girlfriend, Amy Jo's number) so they could get together. R****** felt a glow of success in her first attempt to at developing a new relationship. So with the infamous words of Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), "This looks like the start of a beautiful friendship."

AND THEN THERE WERE . . . TWO?
by - U. N. Owen
Agatha Christie's AND THEN THERE WERE NONE (aka TEN LITTLE INDIANS) is perhaps the most famous murder mystery ever written. What is even more intriguing is that the author herself decided to write the play as well. We at the K.L.R. decided to investigate and sent reporters Candice C***, and our very own Katie Laine, to the scene of the crime. Although Laine had to constantly remind C*** that they were not in fact, on the set of C.S.I. and would not be allowed to dust the stage for prints. They did, however, much enjoy the re-creation of that disaster of a weekend on Indian Island that sadly took the lives of 8 people. That's right, Christie did it again! A twist at the final moment revealed Phillip Lombard, who was shot only moments earlier, was not dead, indeed. He was able enough to save the life of Miss Claythorn from the crazy Jusice Wargrave and leave us with two survivors instead of the original NONE as described in the novel. "Two little Indians left all alone, they went and got married, and then there were none."
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another page of me

I made another personal page about me. It's really just a place holder for when my photography gallery goes up. Check out www.katherinelaine.com if you're interested and keep checking it if you'd like to see my photography in the future! Thanks. ..... ever feel like you're talking to your imaginary friends......

yee-haw!

Saturday night I went to a barn dance with a girl friend of mine. She called me up because she didn't want to go alone, but she wanted to see the boy she likes. Mostly I went because I like hanging out with her and I wanted to be there for her, BUT I've got to say, I had a grand time! I didn't know how much I like to square dance! Oh Mylanta! It was a riot. We also did some line dancing and swing dancing. Although, I didn't do much of the swing because I don't know much about it. It looked like a blast though. I was sort of hoping this guy who sat next to me would ask, but nope. Even though I only knew my friend and her parents, I had a really good time, which is unusual for me. I really hope I get to do that more often! Later ya'll!

the college choice - part 2

I arrived in Ohio with dreams of a life of excitement. After all, my brother's life sounded exciting from over the phone. His friends were fun and his church dynamic! Much to my disappointment, Ohio wasn't the place I had imagined it to be. A dry job, an over-religious church, and a town who's most exciting place to be was Wal-Mart. I did, however, make a friend that would change my life. My favorite little person, Ethan. My nephew. He was four months old when I first showed up. A miniature replica of his father. To make an already long story short, I learned the value and importance of keeping home and being a mom. I decided that a college degree wouldn't be of much use to me. I still study and educate myself so I can raise up smart kids. Instead of college, I will spend time learning how to manage a household and other such related matters. Cooking, sewing/knitting, home decoration, home business management, and how to teach among others. I'm also learning how to be more feminine. I've found ladiesagainstfeminism.org to be a useful site. So, I guess that's the jest of the story. I'm excited to see how God will use me!

the college choice - part 1

I've never had a real desire to go off to college and earn a degree. When I graduated from high school, I entered the work force. For two years I enjoyed serving coffee to the half-awake folks of Parkland. During this time I took a couple classes to pursue hobbies that interested me. Namely, acting and film-making. I spent much time volunteering as a youth leader at my church as well as teaching preschoolers during MOPS twice a month. I never pursued any activities that could advance me "up the corporate latter", so to speak. I had imagined that I would meet someone and get married and my life would begin. After a year and a half of feeling that I 'wasn't going anywhere' I moved to Ohio to spend time with my brother and his family. They suggested it earlier, but it never occurred to me to take action. Until one day, it did. I had nothing holding me back, and I was longing for adventure. A new life, a chance to start over was the thought rolling around in my head. I was pretty sure I'd be back, but the possibilities were endless! TO BE CONTINUED...

too much birthday

Mood: party time! So last Friday night was a blast! I helped celebrate my friend Zachary's birthday. It's amazing how much fun a 4 year old's birthday party can be. All he wanted was for the Red Robin crew to sing him happy birthday. "Zachary, party of 17, you're table is ready." There were only 2 other kids his age, the rest were his adult friends and family. Today was my younger brother's 20th birthday. We went out to eat at the Olive Garden. My parents no longer have teenagers. They have adult children, and two grandchildren. My momma cried. My little bro ain't so little anymore. I guess everyone has to grow up at some point.

just a quote

Jim Elliot: "Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God."

Christian Voting

But what if Christians do not run in an election? Should we not use our vote to support the "best man"(or woman)? Let me respond by asking, Should we not withhold our vote from covenant-breaking pagans, no matter how "conservative" they are? Why, in a constitutional republic where you have some say in your government, would you use your "say" to say that you desire an unconverted rebel to rule over you? Others may object, But in a three-way race between a liberal Democrat, a conservative Republican, and a Bible-believing Christian, aren't you splitting the vote by voting for the Christian, and thus assuring that the worst of the three, the liberal, will be elected? In some cases, yes, but I am not responsible to God for how other people vote, only for how I vote. I must do what is right no matter what the consequences, which are in the hands of God. 

happy birthdate

Yup, today I'm 22. So young. But life's so short. I feel like I'm behind. I went bowling with my family. I love bowling. I chipped a nail. My brother and his friend dubbed my toss as the "hover ball" because they can't hear it when it hits the floor so it seems to hover across the floor. I'm not great or anything. I hate the idea of dying full. I've got so much in me that I need to get out. I want to die empty. With nothing left to give because I gave it all. Average is my greatest enemy.

R.E.I.

This was a day that calls for an entry. I always have the best time with my friend Cherm. We were going to see a show in Seattle tonight, but before hand we stopped by REI to look at or buy a pack for Cherm's Europe trip. That was the best part of the whole night. I didn't want to leave. The guy who was helping her was so nice and whatta cutie! His name tag read "Drew". He had gorgeous eyes. A soft gentle blue. He was funny and talkative and super helpful. He really knows his stuff. I was disappointed that I wasn't buying a pack. Once I have a job though, I'm getting me one. It's gonna be like my short story. The guy keeps going to the store buying things he doesn't need just so he can talk to the girl. Course this would be the other way around. I wonder where he likes to go hiking? ...

brad and danny

Yesterday, I came across the web sites of two very talented guys. Brad and Danny. You can find them at danny11.com or brad88.com They are very talented with video editing and are stupendously creative! It would be way cool to work with them. Although they have many ideas, I do believe they could use a new camera operator. They are in need of someone who knows the Rule of Thirds when shooting with a camera. Anyway, check out their site anyway for some entertaining music videos. I have been inspired to get out there and have some fun! Thanks fellas!

whoops!

Guess it's been a while. No, I haven't conquered the world yet. I have no job and thus no money, so I spend my days at home doing not much. Great way to meet people, huh? I think I have a health problem. Or maybe it's just in my mind. I'm always tired. Like today I got up before nine, got ready for the day, then starting writing a story around 10 and around 20 minutes later I fell asleep. I woke up 3 HOURS LATER! After having at least 8 hours of sleep the night before, that's a bit insane, don't you think? Even right now, if I laid down I could fall asleep. This fatigue thing makes it difficult to do much more than watch t.v. or click around on my computer. Sometimes I find enough strength to get up to eat. Sometimes. I think things will get better once I'm in school.

the 4th

"Today, we celebrate our Independence Day." Best Independence Day speech ever was from the movie INDEPENDENCE DAY with Bill Pullman playing the role of the President. He gave a speech right before our boys were to go to the front lines. It was so wonderful that I can only hope every speech a hero hears before he goes out to war can be as memorable. If you haven't seen the film, I urge you to. It also stars Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum, if that makes you want to see it any more.

independence

I have discovered that the act of writing isn't so easy. Storytelling, however, is explosive! You come up with a character, you put him or her in a situation, and then you just let the story tell it's self. Then, as the writer, I go back later and trim out any unecessary detours so to keep the reader focused on what's important. There are other ways to create a story, though the same strength of all stories are the characters. The reason being? People read stories. Thus, we relate to character the best. Even if that character is a dog. That dog will inevitatably be given a human likeness. Some part of who he is that we can hold on to as we follow him in his adventure, or lack there of. I've found that putting together the facets of the human condition is as about as difficult as a ten year old's puzzle.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying it's easy. I'm saying that it gets easier as we grow and discover the life around us. There's an age at which we will understand it perfectly, like it was made just for us, then we will move on and forget all about even tinkering with that puzzle because we've already figured it out. What's the point, right? That's where we've gone wrong. It is at this point in our lives that we should re-evaluate that puzzle. Take it apart and put it back together again. For it's not in the completing of the puzzle that we discover the human condition, it is in the process of putting each piece in it's place that we discover who we are.

good ol' oscar

Ya know something' that really gets to me? In order to win any award in Hollywood, you have to be in or part of a movie that is less than everyday truth. Why don't they give away awards to performances that are of everyday people? You have to be playing a character that is disabled, mentally ill, from another world, a foreigner, or dead. I hate that. Some of the best performances have been by actors playing roles of normal people. Normal, real people going through hell, or something like it. I love a movie that can send my emotions through the wash and make me forget that I'm watching a movie. I appreciate good storytelling.

"money optional"

Wouldn't that be a great sign to see as you walk into a store. I recently saw 'the Terminal" and it's just wonderful. Great characters, primo acting, expensive set, and a real plot to boot! "One man, two women, no good. Crowded." -Viktor Navorski

sk8er

This morning was fun. I went to the skate park with Mike and took some pictures and picked up a few bruises. I was hoping I wouldn't look like an idiot on the skateboard, but once I realized I had no way of preventing that I just went for it. But that didn't last long. I switched to my in-lines pretty quick so I could at least enjoy myself a little. I think I should go there more often. I also think I should buy some cheap jeans to ruin instead of wearing my nice pair. I also need to get over myself. Here comes the sun!

blue collar

Well I got an interview at the coffee place for tomorrow morning. Yippee!

workin girl

I have high hopes for a possible job. I went down to a local coffeehouse to drop off a resume. The gal that took it seemed very excited. She asked if I had experience and I have two years. She was happy about that. She said they are hiring right now. My God is good - even when I'm not. When I asked if they were hiring a month ago the lady said they weren't planning on it but I could bring my resume by anyway. I procrastinated long enough and finally went down there. Even though I don't drink coffee, I love the coffeehouse.

i'd rather be anything but ordinary

I've just realized that I can't continute to sit and wait for success to fall into my lap. I've been wait for a day that won't come. I have to earn it. I've just been waiting for my life to begin. And it's so sad. I've lost three years. I'm deciding right now that I'm not going to lose anymore. I dreaming BIG and getting out of my own way. I might fail. But I'd rather fail at something than suceed at nothing. It's time to be the one I was born to be. Katie-OUT!

hardly workin

What kind of jobs are there for people who don't want to do any work? -Besides government jobs. Life's too short.

scarce

It seems I've been a bit scarce this week. I've been trying to figure out life - again. I don't think I'll ever know what I should do. I know that I should do something though! Something's better than nothing - most of the time. I'd like to go to film school or take a screenwriting workshop, but I have no money! Darn green cotton paper! Gets in the way too often. And I let it. A film school was supposed to call me an hour ago. Candice should be here any minute. Maybe I'll ask her what to do, and then I'll just do it. Like Nike. No questions asked. I love me some beef jerky!

weird is interesting

So the movie isn't making much progress. I'm tired of not doing anything! I just sit and eat and sleep. I need some new friends. Keeping the old of course. I dream of fame and fortune, so I should surround myself with people with similar dreams. We can bounce off each other. I need to find a place I fit. I really want to move to California. "The Divine Miss M - Everything you fear your little girls and little boys will grow up to be."

A Plan for the Improvement of English Spelling

A Plan for the Improvement of English Spelling
by Mark Twain

For example, in Year 1 that useless letter "c" would be dropped
to be replased either by "k" or "s", and likewise "x" would no longer
be part of the alphabet. The only kase in which "c" would be retained
would be the "ch" formation, which will be dealt with later. Year 2
might reform "w" spelling, so that "which" and "one" would take the
same konsonant, wile Year 3 might well abolish "y" replasing it with
"i" and Iear 4 might fiks the "g/j" anomali wonse and for all.
Jenerally, then, the improvement would kontinue iear bai iear
with Iear 5 doing awai with useless double konsonants, and Iears 6-12
or so modifaiing vowlz and the rimeining voist and unvoist konsonants.
Bai Iear 15 or sou, it wud fainali bi posibl tu meik ius ov thi
ridandant letez "c", "y" and "x" -- bai now jast a memori in the maindz
ov ould doderez -- tu riplais "ch", "sh", and "th" rispektivli.
Fainali, xen, aafte sam 20 iers ov orxogrefkl riform, wi wud
hev a lojikl, kohirnt speling in ius xrewawt xe Ingliy-spiking werld.

laying low

I've decided to forget about guys for a while. Not that there's been any in my life. But as soon as someone hears you mention that you'd like to be married, off they go to hook you up. Especially mothers. I'm not a fan of anything close to a 'blind' date. Last week she wanted to set me up with her friend's son. Her friend who she's only known for a little while and just found out she's has a son. At least this one's not 18. He sounds like a fine guy and all, but I don't want to set up something where everyone knows that the reason for the meeting is for the two of you to connect. Can't we just be introduced? I'd rather go on dates where the last thing I'm worried about is whether or not I even like the guy. Apparently, some other guy from the church I've been going to, wants to ask me out. My mom hears about it because these woman are trying to find out if that's okay with me. How would I know if it's okay, I don't know the guy! So now he's supposed to call me tonight!?!? Why didn't he just even say hello at church? So I could have some idea of who he is. Anyway, I'm done with guys at this point. I'm just going to focus on pursuing the things I love. Like film-making. And shopping! This whole thing really makes me itch to shop, but I have no money. Shopping helps me loose focus on the big issues in my life. I don't go crazy, I just buy a new shirt or something. Wow, long blog.

call me butter

Well call me butter, cuz I'm on a roll! I've written two scenes for this summer's blockbuster! Well, actually it'll be shown in November. I guess it'll be the feel good Thanksgiving movie. If you have any tips or ideas on low budget filmmaking, drop me a line. I'm always up for help. And if it's super good, I might give you a film credit! Where's the best place to find good actors? I won't have internet access on Saturday, so I'll have to post on Sunday. Just a heads up. Seacrest, OUT!

can't always be great

So I signed up for college classes this morning. Don't know how long that will last though. I think I sat here about 10 minutes trying to come up with something great to write for today. Then I realized, things can't always be great. And that's okay. So, here's my 'not so great' no subject blog. Wish me luck in school!

by george, i think she's got it!

I got it, I got it! My summer movie!! Now all I need is to write it, come up with actors, money, and a good crew! I'm so super excited!! All I'm telling you is the working title.... "A Half-Pipe Romance" Sounds interesting, huh? I know you want to see it! I know, that's just a working title. I'm not sure if it'll be the final title. I'll start posting about the current happenings with the film. Bye!

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day in which we take time to remember, celebrate, and honor those who have died in the name of Freedom. I'd like to say a few words about my great-uncle Oscar. Although I never met him, I can tell from his picture that he was a great man. He died in WWII at the age of 22. Even though he died before my parents were even born, I miss him. "He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live, and grow, and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives--in a way that humbles the undertaking of most men." 

Oscar was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart in November 1946. The following is his story:

Oscar enlisted in the Army Air Corps shortly after World War II began. After receiving his wings and accepting the commission as Second Lieutenant he began training in B-24 bombers. He was next assigned to the 15th Air Force and stationed in Italy. In October 1944, Oscar's plane was shot down over Austria. He was declared M.I.A. One year later, Oscar's father received a letter that no parent wants to read. 

"With deepest regret, I have learned that an official determination has been made of the death of your son who has been missing in action in Europe. Word has come to me that Lt. R****** earnestly undertook cadet training which he successfully completed with an excellent academic record. As a capable officer, he took his responsibilities seriously and faithfully executed assignments. His performance as a skillful pilot, respected by associates, was in keeping with the finest traditions of this command. I hope that the memory of your son's courageous sacrifice for his Country will comfort you. My heartfelt sympathy is offered to you and other members of the family."

Click HERE for Memorial Day History

icky days

I really don't like being sick. There's nuthin' worse than being ill on a Saturday. Specially when you have things to do. Everyone has those days when they feel like if they could only cut their head off, everything would be alright. Head colds! UG! I've been spending my time looking up other novice filmmakers' works. Check out www.visiongatefilm.com if you're interested. Of course, don't forget to check out my own shorts at www.outofilmproductions.com. C-YA!

bitter

I woke up this morning thinking about how lame my H.S. Senior year fast pitch coaches were. I could've done a better job with half a brain. They new the game, sure. But they didn't know people. They didn't understand how to work with girls either. First off you should make sure everyone gets along. A divided team cannot win. If you can't fix that, then realize that you're not going to having a winning team and just make sure everyone is having fun. Then you might get your miracle.

My Junior year I got stuck on JV, but I'm so glad I did. We went undefeated. But the Varsity team didn't say kiss my foot or nothing! They looked down on us. How lame. So of course next year we didn't like each other. They kept saying things like "Yeah, that was JV teams you were playing, this is Varsity." And the coaches of course had favorites which didn't include me and my friends from last year. Yes, I know it's been three years, but I'm still a bit bitter. I think it has to do with me not saying anything to them. They were terrible. All they did was yell and criticize. My batting skills went down the tube because I never had any coaches coaching me in that area. And I only got so much time in the cage to begin with. They wanted to help the players that could already hit just fine. So my little group of senior friends and I almost quit. We talked about it a lot. But I couldn't be a quitter. In the end only one of us left. I wish I was as strong as I am now, I would've told them a thing or two.

the duck

Just to let you know, I meant to miss Tuesday's post. Sunday and Tuesday will be my no post day. The fact that I missed Wednesday.... that was just a fluke. It was a long day. I went up to Seattle to meet some friends passing through. It was a bunch of fun. How come you can wave at people and be silly when you're riding the duck? Why can't you be the same way when you're just riding your own car? I got some pictures of Seattle residents which I will post when I get them back from the developer. I know this is weird, but I've lived here in Washington for 9 years and have yet to go up to the Space Needle. Then again, I have been to the top of the Swiss Alps! Trust me, the view from up there is way better than the Space Needle could ever offer.

right place at the right time

Why is it so difficult to be in the right place at the right time? Where does a gal go to be in a position to be found by prince charming? Maybe it's not me. Maybe Mr. Charming isn't using his eyes the way he's supposed to. Figures. What do you expect from a guy who doesn't move anything around in the fridge before calling out "where's the pickles!?".

question

When will I ever meet Christians who think it's normal to talk about the things of God in daily conversation? Why do people limit God to organized events? That's really all I have today. It boggles my mind so that I have nothing else.

money doesn't grow on trees

I will never understand people who enjoy their 'cubical' jobs. God bless - somebody's got to do it. It just ain't going to be me. I'm a hands on kinda person. I've got to be moving. And I'm very project oriented. I don't like working for an hourly rate, it makes me feel like I have to be busy every second I'm on the clock and I feel like I have to be really fast. I like to tackle jobs on a project by project basis - getting paid the same way. I can go at my own pace and even eat lunch without feeling like I'm spending someone else's time. My time is of great value and so is yours, I don't want to be the one you lose money on. LOOK OUT WORLD, HERE I COME!

pillow fight

Every morning for the last . . . I dunno. . . month, I've had to fight my pillows and covers just to think about getting out of bed. I have to find a reason to get up before I start moving. Today's reason was that I need to write up a resume and drop it off at a few places, and I want to buy a capo so I can learn this song I've been wanting to play for so long. Ew, Dr. Pepper for breakfast isn't the best idea.

shamed

I am ashamed that I missed yesterdays blog. But I'm over it now, so you should be too. Today I'd like to post an email I received this morning.

Allah or Jesus? by Rick Mathes


Last month I attended my annual training session that's required for maintaining my state prison security clearance. During the training session there was a presentation by three speakers representing the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths, who explained each of their belief systems. I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam had to say.

The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of Islam, complete with a video. After the presentations, time was provided for questions and answers.

When it was my turn, I directed my question to the Imam and asked: "Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?" There was no disagreement with my statements and, without hesitation, he replied, "Non-believers!"

I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can go to Heaven. Is that correct?" The expression on his face changed from one of authority and command to that of a little boy who had just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He sheepishly replied, "Yes."

I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all Catholics to kill those of your faith or Dr. Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in order to go to Heaven!" The Imam was speechless. I continued, "I also have problem with being your friend when you and your brother clerics are telling your followers to kill me.

Let me ask you a question. Would you rather have your Allah who tells you to kill me in order to go to Heaven or my Jesus who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven and He wants you to be with me?"

You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his head in shame.

Senders words: Needless to say, the organizers and/or promoters of the 'Diversification' training seminar were not happy with Rick's way of dealing with the Islamic Imam and exposing the truth about the Muslim's beliefs. I think everyone in the US should be required to read this, but with the liberal justice system, liberal media, and the ACLU, there is no way this will be widely publicized.

update

I just love photographs. Each one can tell a story or bring remembrance of a wonderful memory. If I could wallpaper my room with pictures, I think I just might. By the way - MoTown . . . great music!

it's 5 o'clock somewhere

I know it's 7 at night and these entries are supposed to be my morning thoughts, but ...... in the words of Alan Jackson 'it's five o'clock somewhere'. Moving on... Why is it so hard to take chances? I mean, you know you'll feel better even if things turn out bad. Kids never contemplate the consequences, why do we? What is the fear that attacks us at just the moment we've decided to take action. Why think twice? That is my question to you, the reader. Why as adults do we suddenly feel the need to think twice?

tickling the ivories

I'm teaching myself to play guitar, but I really want to learn the piano.

disappointment cuts me like a knife

Spotting someone across a crowded room brings new excitment. Sometimes it's better if you both stay on your side of the room. The irony is that you won't discover that until you meet. But is it better to not take the chance? What if it's a love to last a lifetime? Or just a kind word that lifts your day? Maybe it would be disappointing, but who's to say it was worthless?

the death of common sense

Ever have one of those days when it's just one thing after another? And what ever happened to common sense? People today have made rules and regulations their god. How sad. Not only are they blinded to so many things, they put themselves in a box. Not to mention the usless laws they pay attention to while ignoring the moral law. They'll steal, rape, and murder, but won't dare to park in a handicap parking space. That would be against the rules.

Cheramie

Her belt is squeeky.

under construction

Much like my website, my life is always under construction. One day it will be complete. Until then, I'll keep running the race. It sure would be nice to run the race along side another soul. It's a lot easier to get up from falling that way. It also makes the race more exciting when you can share it with someone.