Lone Survivor

Last night (this morning? It was 1 am) I finished the book Lone Survivor and I am just in complete awe of those who serve this country. I extend that to all branches of the military and also police, fire fighters and ems/emt. If you haven't seen the movie or know of the book I would like to start off by saying skip this section and go straight to my stories.

Now with that said let us begin. I won't give too much away but I will say that the movie and the book are a bit different but the beauty is they get the same true story across the screen. The movie focuses mainly on the fire fight of the four SEALs on Operation Redwing. In the movie and in real life, the battle did not last long. Three brave and valiant men were killed but in the process they took out over 100 Taliban fighters. They were torn to pieces and shot lethally yet continued to fight with vigor until God took them away.

The book spends a huge portion describing SEAL training, Hell Week and the extreme duties it takes to become a Navy SEAL. One chapter is dedicated to the fight and the rest of the book is Marcus Luttrell's nearly 6 day battle to get out of the Hindu Kush mountains where Taliban were literally hunting him. I add that because I read a review where someone was mad about that and said Luttrell was just trying to talk about himself and that he was being narcissistic.

To that person I would like to say please kindly shut the f*** up. That is how it went. When the men were attacked it happened quick and it happened fast. You cannot spend too much time describing people tragically and heroically dying before it gets depressing. The book also focuses a lot of time discussing how he got out of there because he was stuck in those mountains for NEARLY 6 DAYS! seriously people 6 days pf being broken, battered and shot.

With all of that said the book was an excellent read and the movie compliments it very well. I will warn you that the movie and the book are quite a bit different but the movie has to be. In order to portray the heroics of SEAL Team 10 the movie had to make changes. The way the movie made me feel is exactly the way the book made me feel. When you can take a movie and make people believe they watched real and raw emotion of a battle like that then you did a good job so please don't get caught up on the differences. Especially since the families of the men were involved and approved of it.

Last but not least this book or valor, sacrifice and dedication made me extremely proud to share my home state with state with Petty Officer Danny Dietz. Even after getting mortally shot he continued to fight and provide cover until the life was completely gone from him. It is an absolute honor to have his memorial here and a highway dedicated to him. He makes me have an unwavering patriotism to my country and those that serve it. Thank you to the 19 men who paid with their lives that summer day in 2005. I owe my freedom to you. Also thank you to Robbi Floyd, Andy Montoya, Nena Philips, Verity Rogers, Chip Lowe, David Holter (my awesome grandpa), Al Clark and Adam Krueger for your service to your country. If I missed anyone I am deeply sorry and I want to thank you as well.

Now I would like to welcome you to my stories. Please enjoy. I am holding back tears and can't write about the military and the book anymore.

28 March 2014

Patriot

Honor and duty,

You wear with pride.

Valor and obligation,

It's how you serve us.

Though not a soldier,

I stand by your side,

To thank you with all my heart

For your service to us.

I cheer for your homecomings

And mourn your losses,

You make me love my country,

I am a patriot because of your sacrifices.

To the men and women

Who serve our country,

I am so proud of you

And salute your bravery.

29 March 2014

The Bachelorette and the Bacon

This day 2 years ago was the day my friends were going to help me celebrate the fact that I was about to be married. Now how would one go about celebrating such a thing? Well first of all, we went and had manis and pedis while we sipped champagne. I had a bridesmaid who was under 21 so I wanted to make sure we did some fun, minor friendly activities. We had an absolutely charming time and my 2 best friends were being absolute champs when it came to dealing with me, the super stressed out bride.

After we got our nails done and handed out “Bride” and “Team Bride” t-shirts made by my Maid-of-Honor, we headed downtown for some dinner and dessert at The Cheesecake Factory. I must say that being in a bachelorette party makes you the cool kid. Everyone wants to say hi to you and most people are genuinely kind, but more on that later. After a special congratulatory piece of delicious cheesecake a a couple of cocktails, we headed to the hotel to relax and drink some more champagne before we headed out for the night.

This is where is begins to get hazy. You see I was already pretty warm and toasty come bar time and we were headed to Jackson's. I am a bar girl. I like to sit in a booth with my friends and drink in my own little of a bar. I hate clubs. The beauty of Jackson's is that when you drink too much at their bar they have a dance floor for you to dance on because I mean come on, who doesn't dance when they drink? It is engrained in white people to do that. Anyway, Jackson's is a magical place where they offer a special at the door, $10 all you can drink until 1 am. Sounds like a great idea for a bachelorette party.

The night started out extremely calm. We ordered up a couple of mixed drinks (something fruity for me) and sat down. I had on my white “Bride” shirt and a necklace of mini sharpies. The goal was to get people to sign my shirt and I had to get at least 44 (I think...) signatures, 1 for every month Scott and I had been together. I had all my girls sign it of course. After not making an effort to get a signature from a stranger, Robbi decided that needed to change. She got me a shot then marched me over to a table of men (boys? They were seriously babies and looked barely old enough to drink). She encouraged me to profess my undying need to names on my shirt and the dudes kindly they signed away. They were incredibly nice, congratulated me with high fives and genuine happiness. People can be amazing sometimes.

Suddenly my world became a storm of signatures. The funniest part is that I began getting shots bought for me left and right (they were safe I promise Robbi and I watched them get it and hand it to me plus I had a 3 woman escort) and most of those shots came from other girls! These women were buying me shots and drinks and giving me hugs and congratulating me. It was surreal. I spent most of high school getting tormented by girls and now I felt like spirited comradery was amongst all of us. Men don't quit understand this but women have a hard time being nice to each other. We should all be kinder and lift our fellow woman up but that is a different story.

As the festivities wore on and the nice girls moved to other bars, I found myself being hounded by jerks. All of them asked the same question. Why on earth would I ever get married and was I truly prepared to be with 1 person forever. I even had 1 dude tell me I was making the worst mistake of my life and I would regret it. I told every single last dude that I was blissfully happy. I hate somehow managed to find someone in life who (bring on the cheese) completes me. I had found that magical and wondrous thing called true love that they talk about in all the movies. He is my soul mate and why trash a person for finding that one person who you can trust and honor in this world? Why dog someone for being happy? Probably because they have been hurt before but who hasn't really? Be happy for someone and shut your mouth if you aren't.

The rest of the night is completely gone from me so I will recount it as I was told about it. We left the bar at closing time and headed off to Denny's because I was apparently not done partying. I was banned from the window because I kept yelling out the window about how I was getting married. I was REALLY excited! I did not stop being excited. Poor Robbi had to put up with now infantile me. She was an extreme champ. Like gold medal Olympics champ. She wanted me to drink coffee and stuck a straw in it to help. I proceed to blow into the straw, I am assuming to make bubbles and cause chaos.

The people at Denny's are truly wonderful people and thought I was the funniest thing in the world. My friends ordered me food and the server just thought I was hilarious. If I remember what I was told correctly, she congratulated them on succeeding at getting me wasted. She even gave us a huge discount on our food! I repaid everyone by throwing bacon at them. Yes bacon. I decided I wanted to throw bacon at my friends. This was followed by me needing to go to the bathroom. On the way to the bathroom I handed (did not throw) bacon to other patrons at Denny's. I just wanted them to also enjoy bacon.

After a long night of taking care of rowdy me, we headed to the hotel where I fell asleep. My friends managed to get my contacts out and change me into my pajamas and tuck me into bed. We then spent the entire rehearsal day in the most extreme of extreme hangovers of our lives. It was a great day that my 2 best friends (Nikki and Robbi I truly and deeply love you for being my friends and sisters) put together and helped me celebrate. I had so much fun, from what I remember, and I will always cherish that day of celebrating and female comradery.

Anger and moving on without it.

In my life I have noticed that there have been many times I have let my anger rule how I live my life. I have so much happiness and joy yet I cannot seem to let go of the hurt and pain others have caused me. There are a couple of people who are no longer a part of my life. They have used me, manipulated me and worst of all I allowed them to hurt me more than once. As much as I have pushed them out, they still tend to rear their ugly heads like adolescent acne.

Most people would let those people go. Cut them out. I can't. I let them live in my head rent free. I know I shouldn't but the reality is that I don't really like myself all that much all the time. So to me, when people are cruel to me, I feel like I am validated in how I feel about myself. If I don't like me, then of course they don't like me or treat me properly. I sometimes act out my anger and take it out those closest to me.

This is all unfair and also widely unknown to those around me. There are about 4 people who get to see me rage and somehow they still love me anyway. Going to a therapist has helped me to be honest about who I am. Right now I am an angry and sad person on nearly a daily basis. I am learning how to enjoy life and all that I have been blessed with and it is not easy. I hold onto scars but I am learning to let them go.

Normally I wouldn't talk about my trials and tribulations, especially to strangers. I don't like people knowing I am weak. I put on a strong face but it is really just a mask to a somewhat damaged person. Opening up about it helps me be stronger and it also helps me realize that, even though some may not like me, many do like me. I need to learn to like myself because the people around me deserve it and so do I.

Well enough about me being me. Here is the post for the day.

26 March 2014

The Prince and Princess

There once was a prince who met an orphaned princess. He fell in love with her and took her home. She didn't have much in the way of family, her father had left their kingdom in shambles, but she had a loving mother and two devoted brothers. He married her and gave her more family to love. Such a joyous event and a joyous crowd.

He gave her a nice castle and things she had never dreamed of. They were a match made in heaven, it was such a delight. She was a lovely addition, he was proud of his new wife. She was loved by most but not everyone cared for the new princess. Her blond hair and green eyes were beloved by the prince. Her elegance and graced impressed many, yet envy would try to destroy their love.

Lucky for all, the prince vanquished the evil. He stood by his princess and cut down the envious beasts. Parades were in order and joy was brought back to the kingdom. The prince and his princess were happy again. Forever in love, they lived happily ever after.

27 March 2014

The Beach

The sun beat down on her. Its rays kissed her cheeks and gently pushed her towards the surf. She stood on the edge of the waves and just before she ran in, she dug her toes into the cool sand. She squeezed the sand between each toe and dashed for the waves like she was winning a race. The first couple of waves she jumped over until they were too big to jump. The waved crashed into her and sent chills up her spine. The cold Pacific waters were the perfect chill down for the humid summer air. Another wave was approaching so she dove under it, cutting through the water like the fish she wished she was. The salty water stung her eyes but refreshed her soul. The drying seaweed, dead fish on the beach and salt in the air made her feel alive again. If she could bottle that essence she would be happy for the rest of her life. She took in one more big huff of air and dove back under the water. The beach is where she belongs and the beach is where she will spend the rest of the day flocking with the birds and swimming like the dolphins.

A poem for a friend.

I wrote you a poem. You know who you are. I hope you enjoy it. I will make it a special gift for you on a later date. I love you to pieces pookie!

24 March 2014

The Diary of Buddy: Spring Is Here, Supposedly

My people keep saying spring has come. I don't believe them. For a couple days it was warm. I sun bathed in the yard and marked places that had previously been covered in snow. The grass smells more alive I guess. Yet the temperature is not yet warmer. I get let outside, seeing the beautiful warm sun shining throughout the yard and as I race out the cold air hits me. I of course go around and mark my yard but then I sit at the door and shake until they let me in. Who knows when this terrible chill will ever end. It seems to last many years.

25 March 2014

Nugget

Warm and cozy you sit quietly,

Snug in your mommy's belly.

You do not have a gender,

You do not have a name,

But you are loved,

Well beyond all measures.

You have so much support,

We are already so fond of you,

You bring joy to our hearts

Yet you're only the size of a pea.

We've given you our hearts

We just can't wait to hear yours.

So welcome to the world little nugget,

I certainly can't wait to meet you!

Organization = Forgetfulness

I decided yesterday, since I was still too sick to go to the gym, that I would organize my office library. I got all of my paperwork organized for my massage clients, I organized all of the bills and paperwork for the household, I put all my books on shelves and hung up somethings I bought at Ikea. It took me all day long to do and our front room looks so nice now! It looks like an office library! Thanks to all of that, I actually forgot to write a post for yesterday. Oops. So after a day late here are your stories.

22 March 2014

The Mighty Oak Tree

Once upon a time there lived three little siblings and their cat, who all loved each other very much. There was Javaneh, who was nine, Darren, who was eight and Christian, who was almost 2. Their cat was named Tigger. The children lived on a great farm with loving parents and were often seen wandering the grounds as Tigger trotted nearby. They could play anywhere on the farm so long as they did not go beyond the tree line into the spooky forest.

Javaneh, Darren and Christian were very adventurous children. One day they decided they wanted to see what was in the spooky forest. With Tigger in tow they snuck into the forest, making sure mom didn't see them. All around them were big trees that looked like they touched the sky. Birds were chirping and even some sunlight broke through the branches.

“This isn't a spooky forest!” exclaimed Darren as the siblings raced through the forest, climbing on and under anything they could.

As the sun began to set, the children realized they were lost. They headed back the way they thought they had come and were beginning to grow a little frightened. Owls hooting replaced birds chirping. Wind rustling and cracking branches replaced gleaming sunlight. The children heard howling dogs and other noises. Now they thought the forest was spooky.

“Brother maybe we should take a break, Christian is getting tired,” said Javaneh. Christian had been out all day and hadn't been home to eat or nap. They found a place to rest and just as they did Tigger began hissing and growling. RAWWWRRRAR!!!!! They had disturbed a great big bear when they found their resting place and he was not happy about it.

The children screamed and Tigger hissed. They were all huddled together and didn't know what to do. The bear was about to take a big swing at them when all of a sudden the children and their cat where whisked into the air. Like an elevator, they went higher and higher up the tree until they nearly reached the top and the movement stopped. Very quietly they heard a shhhh sound and they listened. The bear was just as confused about where the children went and eventually moved on after not hear them for a while. The children had stayed quiet for so long they actually fell asleep.

When they woke up they saw birds were bringing them berries to eat. They ate them up as fast as they could and looked around. The bear was gone and they could see the sky. The spooky forest was back to being happy again.

“Where are we? How did we get here?” wondered the children.

“I brought you up here,” boasted a deep but gentle voice, “you children were lucky enough to be in danger at the base of me.”

“The base of you?” snipped Javaneh, “how? That doesn't make sense.”

“Oh why let me introduce myself, I am The Mighty Oak Tree and I help protect the forest along with other forest creatures,” the tree then showed a face in his bark to the children.

The siblings weren't scared but they also weren't sure what to believe. Trees don't talk. Animals don't bring people berries. Trees certainly don't lift people off the ground and away from bears.

“How did we get up here?” inquired Darren.

“I made a bed out of my branches and lifted you up here. I let you sleep and sent the birds to get you food. Sadly though, it is time for you to go home. I have called a moose to carry all of you home but you must promise me one thing,” the children all nodded in agreement, “You cannot tell anyone about your adventures here. People will grow too curious about talking trees and will hurt the forest. Also you must never approach an animal like they are safe. They are helping you today but animals need to be treated like wild animals. You must protect that for them.”

The children understood that they were given a grand opportunity to see things most will never see. They were happy to have met The Mighty Oak Tree. Soon after, the moose arrived. The Mighty Oak Tree placed the children on the back of the moose and placed Tigger on its antlers. The moose carried them to the edge of the forest and ran away.

Javaneh, Darren, Christian and Tigger walked towards their home. They saw their parents who were so worried but happy to see them. They explained that they wandered into the forest and got lost so they slept over night and Tigger helped them find home. The family was relieved to all be together and walked home. As they did Christian looked back and waved. The Mighty Oak Tree stood taller than the rest of the trees and waved back. The children would never forget about their dear friend in the spooky forest. The End.

23 March 2014

The Apple

Max was walking through the fields near his home when he saw a couple of trees. As he got closer to them he saw a big, red, juicy apple hanging from a branch. Max wanted that apple, it looked too luscious to not have. He jumped to try to grab it. He couldn't jump high enough. He threw rocks at it. He couldn't hit hard enough.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.

Sitting below the apple he thought of other ideas. Max shook the tree. Thud. He jumped towards another tree and jumped off it towards the tree that his juicy apple was dangling from. Thud. Still no apple. He tried again. Thud. Again, no apple. Max sat on the grass feeling defeated. He wanted that apple so bad but he just couldn't reach it.

Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud.

As Max sat pouting on the grass, he felt a tap on his shoulder. Standing behind him was Mary Beth holding out an apple to him as she munched on another. He smiled a big smile. All his efforts to grab the apple he initially saw had knocked down a bunch of other big, red, juicy apples. He was so focused on that one apple that he didn't even notice all the others or Mary Beth watching. The two sat under the apple trees eating all the apples their bellies could hold then took the rest home.

Still Sick

20 March 2014

Spring

Spring is here,

Oh joyous spring!

With warmer temperatures

And greener visions,

You lift our spirits

From the chill of winter.

Birds are chirping

And baby animals are born,

The days grow longer,

And the winds friendlier.

Oh great spring

How wonderful you are!

Flowers will blossom,

Children go on break,

Leaves grow back

And all is well again

Sweet springtime!

21 March 2014

The Pigeon

Two boys were walking down the main street, kicking pebbles and being boys. One of them threw a pebble at at a nearby pigeon and it flew off into the smoggy air.

“No don't do that! Pigeons remember faces! That one will remember you were mean to it,” said the boy who didn't throw the rock.

“HAHA! Ya right. That stupid bird won't remember that I threw a rock at it,” laughed the mean boy.

Both boys shrugged their shoulders and walked on, giggling the day away. As they walked the mean boy noticed that pigeons had been slowly gathering in numbers. First he only saw 2 then 5 then there were 12 pigeons all following them. Suddenly, the mean boy was pooped on directly on his shoulder!

“That bird just pooped on me!” the mean boy yelled. He pointed at the bird. Just as he did another bird pooped on his hand.

“I told you they remember faces!” the boys ran and as they did the mean continued to get pooped on my pigeons. He was nearly covered when his friend stopped, realizing he had not a stain on him. He laughed and laughed and laughed as he watched his friend run around getting pooped on by all the pigeons. Never again did the mean boy throw a rock at an animal again.

The most talkative person in the world, can't currently speak.

My throat is on fire and I feel like a dump truck hit me while I was sleeping. I am going to get some rest and play some games so enjoy my written words and some of you may enjoy the fact that I can't speak.

18 March 2014

Siblings

Children are naughty. It is a trait they learn from day one. They will test their parents to the limits and then push those limits further because they can. Some children learn “momma” or “dadda” as first words but you know what word gets used the most? No. Once a toddler learns no, you are ruined. And don't think they don't know the difference between yes and no because they absolutely do. Don't test a toddler, they will make you look like the stupid one. Children don't get less naughty the older they get, they just get smarter about it.

When I was about 10, Darren was 8 or 9 and Christian was an itty bitty 2 year old. We were no more naughty than other children but together, we were extremely mischievous. At that time in our lives our dad wasn't much of a parent and our mom worked very hard to give us a nice apartment near our good schools, to keep our bellies nice and full and to give us anything we could want or need. She worked so hard sometimes she had to work nights. In the summer this meant that we were home during the day when she needed rest from a 16 hour shift.

Being 10, I was responsible. We could watch TV and play with our toys so long as we let mom sleep for just a couple of hours. Once got sleep she would take us to the pool or take us to the park we just needed to give her some rest. Simple correct? It was, at first. One day we realized that mom would always answer “yes” to any question we asked her while she was sleeping. That got the ball rolling slowly at first but we made sure to pick up speed.

“Mom? Can I have a candy?”

“Yes”

“Mom, can we have some ice cream?”

“Yes”

“Mom? Can we play with the bubbles?”

“Yes”

“Mommy, can we take the bubbles outside?”

“Ya”

“Mom, can we take Bubba to the creek?”

“Uh huh”

This is where we maybe took too much advantage of sleeping mom. We liked to catch crawdads at the creek and Christian (Bubba) couldn't go with us unless mom was outside. We took Christian and walked up the little hill by our apartment and played in the creek. We watched the crawdads, we played in the mud, we threw rocks at the prairie dogs and generally had a really great sibling time. Just as we thought the day could not get any better, we got what was coming to us.

“Javaneh! Darren! Christian!”

We didn't need to hear more than my name, we ran down the hill as fast as we could. Mom was up and we weren't home. In the back of our minds we absolutely knew we shouldn't go outside without mom knowing but we thought we had pulled one over on her.

“Where were you? What were you doing? I thought you were gone! You aren't supposed to go outside without me knowing,” and that was the one hat perked us up.

“But mom you said we could,” I honestly don't remember who said that.

“What? I never said that! You had me so worried!”

“We asked if we could go to the creek while you were sleeping and you said yes,” ding ding ding! That was the winning answer that ruined that scheme for the rest of our youth.

We were sent to our rooms. The new rule was that we weren't allowed to ask mom any questions while she slept and she even got a top door lock so we couldn't leave while she was sleeping. I still don't know if we didn't get in serious trouble because my mom knew we were being clever or because no one really had gotten hurt seeing as we were playing happily together for once. Needless to say that was not the end of us being naughty but that was my favorite and most memorable time with my brothers.

19 March 2014

Knee Vole

Nikki has been my friend for many years now. I believe 9 years to be exact. We have many great memories, some we can't remember but luckily those days are behind us. I would say one of my favorite memories would have to be the time we stole Rowdy.

In our younger days, we liked to hang out at my apartment and drink some crazy mixed drink I made. It was half vodka, half orange juice, a pineapple round with juice and a splash of cranberry juice in a pint glass. It tasted like heaven and made us laugh a lot! Earlier in the day we had driven (completely sober at that time) past an apartment that had a VERY realistic German Shepard statue outside its door. It scared the living hell out of me.

Later, after we had a couple drinks, we decided to hang out at the park. We took lots of pictures and had a great BFF time. After a while we walked home. Now by this point we were just having way too much fun and I decided that I was going to steal the dog statue. With as much stealth two drunk girls can have, we opened the apartment building door, (the dog was not associated with any one apartment, it was more guarding the building itself) Nikki kept a look out and I snatched the dog. We ran full speed past 4 buildings, up 3 flights of stairs and inside my apartment without detection!

Once inside, we realized Scott would be home soon. Since the dog scared me so bad we just knew it would scare Scott in a dark apartment. We went to the bedroom, turned the lights off, put the dog at the door and waited. He came to the bedroom and saw the dog. It was beautiful how scared he was! We played this game for a while, we would move the dog around the apartment and scare each other and our guests.

Nikki and I decided to name the dog Rowdy after the stuffed dog on Scrubs. Rowdy was a great companion that ended up guarding our yard at the Fox Street house. A few months before we moved Rowdy died. Literally, his head fell off and he crumbled to pieces. I am now a more functional adult and Nikki is almost 2 years sober with a great boyfriend and a wonderful life in California! Rowdy will always be one of our fondest memories together though. At least until I get to see her again next month!

I AM GOING TO SAN DIEGO!

I am just super excited to jet off to San Diego! I will be working very hard to make this up to my husband for being so awesome and letting me go see two of my best friends! Well it is late and I need to go to bed. Please enjoy my stories. One of the really took a lot out of me.

16 March 2014

Thank You For Your Service

They turned and hurried back down the steps. Diane watched her children run around the house with pure joy just tearing through their bodies. The kids, a boy named Zachery and a girl named Alice, were waiting impatiently for their dad to get home. Diane was getting impatient as well. Her husband, Nathan, was supposed to be home a half hour ago and her children were not easing her worries. She thought about calling him but knew his work as a police officer kept him after hours sometimes. She had sent him a text earlier I love you my dearest. The kids can't wait for you to come home and play with them.

Diane was getting ready to call her sister to keep her mind busy when there was a knock at the door. The kids went blazing through the hall to the door. Sometimes Nathan liked to surprise them with toys at the door so she didn't think to go answer a knock.

“Hi Zach. Hi Alice. Officer Baker is going to take you to play, where is your mommy?” Diane's heart stopped. She calmly put down her phone without dialing and walked into the front room to see Baker and Officer Murphy in her doorway. Her husband's best friends. Murphy took her by the arm and walked her to a chair.

“Please tell me you aren't here for what I think you are here for?” pleaded Diane.

“Diane, I..” Murphy's voice cracked. His best friend was dead and now he had to tell the great man's wife, “I am so sorry Diane. He left his shift and was really happy to get home. We had a rough day with some gang members. He wanted to go get you flowers and get the kids some treats. He was shot and killed walking out of the store. He never saw it coming and he died instantly with a smile on his face.”

Words could not come to her mouth. Her face turned bright red. Her eyes stung as tears brimmed her eyelids. Her knuckles were ghost white from clutching Murphy's hands. She felt like someone had just punched her full force in the gut. She ran to the trash and threw up. This is not real. This is not happening. He was here this morning. This isn't real. She thought so much she could not even process her pain and anger.

“Who did this to Nathan? Who killed my husband?” the words were filled with grief and hate.

“I don't know exactly what his name is but he is related to a gang member we took in this morning. An off duty officer shot the gun from his hand and apprehended him. He is sitting in a cell as we speak,” Murphy's heart was broken. Diane was like a sister to him and now he gave her the worst news of her life.

“Thank you Dave. I need to talk to my kids about this. Can you please call my sister to come over?” Diane was simply in shock. She sat in the chair, not saying a word. She waited until her sister got there and the officers left before she told her children. The pain and heartbreak was unbearable. They all laid in bed and held each other until everyone fell asleep from pure exhaustion over crying.

The next couple days were a blur for Diane, luckily her sister Becky was there to help. She fed everyone, got everyone showered and dressed, she took care of all of the needs for Nathan's funeral. Becky's husband was also an officer and she knew that her sister's pain was something she could have gone through herself.

On the day of the funeral, Dave Murphy took Diane to see her husband before the service started. When she saw him she let out a little chuckle. He was smiling. He looked so peaceful. He looked like his last thoughts were about herself and their beautiful little babies. She kissed his cheek and took Murphy's arm to be walked to the front of the church. There wasn't even standing room in the church. All of his fellow police officers were there, all of his army buddies were there, everyone they loved showed up to give their respect.

The entire service went by without Diane realizing it had happened. She couldn't even cry anymore and she knew Dave's arm had to be getting tired from having to hold her up so much. They made their was to the cemetery to lay her greatest love to rest. She found out later that he died holding his phone. He was looking at the message she had sent him. He died thinking of her and that made her happy. He was happy when he passed and that is all that mattered to her.

They had their white roses to place on his casket. A stranger, someone who loved her husband, probably a kid he helped at some point, walked up to Diane and shook her hand.

“Mrs. Taylor, thank you for your husband's service,” she smiled and hugged this nameless young man. His kindness was much appreciated. She walked with her children to their father and placed their roses.

“Thank you daddy for your service. I will take care of mommy and sissy for you I promise. I love you daddy,” said Zachery, the now stoic 7 year old. Diane knew her heart would never be the same but the words of her young son made her realize that her husband would never be gone from them for good.

17 March 2014

Seamus the Leprechaun

Seamus was the most mischievous leprechaun in the sunny hills of Ireland. He liked to set out false four leaf clovers that would turn into moldy mushrooms when they were touched. He would make people believe they saw the end of a rainbow with a pot of gold. When someone would try to take the gold it would turn into a pile of grass. Seamus got great joy out of tricking unsuspecting Irish folk.

One day, Seamus saw the most perfect little child to prank. She was a little girl from a nearby village with the greenest eyes, most perfect freckles, and brightest red hair. He loved tricking the children the most because they were so gullible. He set out a four leaf clover and waited.

“A four leaf clover! How pretty!” said the little girl as she skipped off.

“Hey! Why didn't you pick that?” asked Seamus.

“A leprechaun! Hello sir, I left it alone because when you pick a plant, you kill it. I don't want to ruin something so lucky and so beautiful,” replied the little girl. Seamus was shocked. He had never seen someone so frank and gentle. Most people tore things from the ground as greedily as they could, that is why he loved tricking them.

Seamus chatted with the little girl for a bit and then they said their goodbyes. She was so pure, so gentle, so kind, so wonderful! She changed him. She made him want to do nice things. From that day froward, Seamus wanted to make people happy. He would plant flowers in the yards of the elderly who couldn't garden anymore. He left gold coins, real gold coins, on the doorsteps of those who needed a little help. He skipped through the green hills of Ireland spreading happiness and joy to all he could see. 

Happy Leprechaun Day!

I completely lost track of days and forgot to make a post from yesterday! I am so very sorry so as an apology here is a funny picture:

If you don't know who he is, well I am sorry for you. Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone! I will have my regular post tomorrow!

14 March 2014

The Life of Pie

The life of pie is a great and happy one, for those who get to eat it. It starts out doughy, filled with sugary and fruity delights. Topped with more pastry dough it gets a surprise! It's tossed in the oven to bake not fry. Golden brown and baked to perfection, the pie is ready for consumption. Sometimes sprinkled with sugar or butter for taste, the pie is set on a table to let eyes feast upon its creation. Once cooled and sliced, it is topped with whipped cream or ice cream and given a fork. One bite, then two until the tasty pie sits in a happy persons tummy. This is the beginning and ending of the life of a pie.

15 March 2014

The Handbag

She sat in the taxi, her nerves made her sweat even though it was snowing outside. Her heart was fluttering and her head was pounding. Sitting next to her was her precious handbag. She always carried that bag with her whenever she did anything important. Today was very important, today she would present her photos to a potential employer and possibly change her life forever.

Her black handbag sat on top of her portfolio, almost as if to protect it. That bag sat atop her life's passion and dreams. It protected all that was dear to her. She closed her eyes and took deep breaths with her hand on her bag. She could feel her stomach in her throat and tried to shift all of her energy into her handbag. The taxi slowed to a stop at the building of her interview. She paid the cabbie's fare and grabbed her black handbag.

“Well here goes everything,” she said as she opened the door.

“Good luck!” smiled the old cabbie and she walked up the steps to her future.

Beowulf

Today I purchased my very own copy of Beowulf. Some might pondered why I would do such a thing? The answer is this: Beowulf is by far one of my favorite tales ever told. It is true story telling at its finest and sits just below Chaucer's Canterbury Tales as my second favorite piece of writing in history. Adding to my collection I also purchased The Jungle, Siddhartha and the complete collection of F. Scott Fitzgerald. In high school I hated all of this (except Canterbury Tales and Beowulf). The problem was that I was 14 trying to read work meant for people over the age of 20. I could not possibly understand the concepts in the stories because they meant nothing to that phase in my life. Now all of these stories bare so much to me that I just could not possibly keep them from my personal library.

My objective is to own every great piece of literary work. I want it all so I can pass down my passion and knowledge to my children. I want to show them what a great world there is to find in a story and hear what theories they come up with after reading them. I also hope to one day have a piece of work that can be added to the list of great literary works. As you can see I am working on that part... every single day!

As I say before and will say again, thank you so much for taking the time to read my writing and enjoy my stories. It means the absolute world that I get to share my craft with others. I hope everyone is having a beautiful Friday and happy Pi day!

12 March 2014

The Swap

Lunch is the best time of any elementary aged child. It is a break in the day and a time to play. It is the best for everyone but Molly. Everyday, Molly's well intending mother gave her beet juice drinks, kale and spinach sandwiches and pine nuts. She hated it. All the other kids ate delicious foods that didn't taste like dirt and Molly hated it. Sh never liked going to lunch.

One day, Alexia saw that Molly seemed extremely disappointed at her lunch options and decided to help her out. Alexia went around to all the kids and gathered yummy pieces of their lunch. There were pb&j sandwiches, bananas, peaches, pretzels, chocolate milk and more! Once she had everything necessary for a tasty lunch she brought it to Molly.

Molly was so grateful at her new friend's generosity. She ate up all her new food and felt so much joy at being able to fit in. Once Molly was done she realized she had a new dilemma. All her mother's well meaning food was going to go to waste. That is when one student suggested they feed it to the class rabbit. The swap worked and the rabbit loved his new food, not to mention the teacher loved not having to buy the rabbit food from her own pocket. Everyone was happy and now Molly looked forward to lunch everyday!

13 March 2014

Jack and the Snow

When the snow sprinkles down from the sky my heart flutters with excitement. My fur makes me very warm sometimes but the snow cools me and tickles my nose. I like to run around the yard and lick up the snow as it falls. Once I have had enough of that, I like to throw myself on the ground and roll around in the freshly fallen white powder. I roll and roll and toss and flip. I throw the snow up in the air with a flick of my nose and race around the yard like a puppy again. Eventually I go inside and, lucky for me, the snow stays with me. Little snow balls form all over my belly when I play outside and take them in with me. I lay on my back to show off my work. My mommy and daddy love what I have done and take pictures of me. I am just happy because the snow melts on me. Soon it'll be spring and I can roll in the grass but for now I will enjoy the cold snow.

I'm bossy and I played with Barbie dolls, neither gave me my complex

I am getting really frustrated with the fact that grown women feel the need to push their agendas onto girls. I played with Barbies and you know what they taught me? Barbie taught me that I could be anything, a doctor, a vet, a teacher, etc. Barbie taught me that I could be a great sister. Barbie taught me that I could be beautiful. Barbie taught me that I could own any type of house and any type of car. Barbie taught me that I could be anything and I could do anything! You know what gave me a complex about my weight and what made me feel incompetent at everything? Adults. Not a toy, adult women. They told me I needed to be thinner, not Barbie. A woman told me at the age of 14 (I was 5'5" and 115 pounds of runner/volleyball/basketball muscle) that I should eat more salad and less Chipotle because I was getting fat. Barbie gave me positive views of myself and the world. The women who are trying to demonize her made me feel like a worthless girl. I would let any daughter I had play with Barbie which makes me feel like the women making her "a bad influence on young girls" are simply jealous.

Now with that said there is a new there is also a new movement that says that we should stop calling our daughters "bossy" because it gives them a complex. You don't call boys bossy so why would you call girls bossy right? Well when I was growing up, I was called bossy a lot. Actually I am still called bossy. All the time. I am bossy and I do not really have a better word for what I am. When I was a kid I thought it was great that I was called bossy. I was the only girl and I was the oldest of my siblings and the cousins I knew/hung out with. I was one bossy little punk. Now I am a little less bossy but still bossy nonetheless. I loved it and still do!

My problem with these things that we are doing to our young girls, our youth, our daughters, is that we are taking our own insecure feelings and pushing them on girls how never had those feelings. How about instead of pacifying a girl and making sure her feelings don't get hurt, we just make her feel confident. How about instead of judging a girl or telling girls what they should and shouldn't be called we teach them to take ownership of who they are and grow gracefully into that. How about instead of getting so butt hurt over every tiny thing that someone does or says we focus on our lives and our problems. This world is so big and adults need to stop making problems for children. Let them play cowboys and Indians. Let them shoot toy guns. Let them play with Barbie dolls for heaven's sake! Better yet, just let them be kids?

Now that my rant is over I have some stories to share :) I hope you dug out a nice chunk of time for this post! Thanks for reading!

10 March 2014

The Mirror Part 2

Katie took a deep, long breath and opened her eyes, just in case the little ghost girl may have just been due to lack of sleep.

“Help me!” nope the girl was still there. Katie then reached her hand and touched the glass.

“Grab my hand,” said Katie. The little girl did and Katie pulled, unsure if it she could actually pull the girl through. Miraculously she did! “Who are you and why are you in my mirror?”

“Oh thank you for saving me! My name is,” just as Katie was about to learn the girl's name, Katie's mother walked in her room to investigate the noise.

“KATIE NO!!!!!!!!” Katie's mother had a look of terror on her face. Suddenly, Katie's mother threw her arms forward and sparks came out. She grabbed the girl who was shifting into an evil looking man and shoved him back into the mirror, destroying the mirror in the process.

“Mom? What? How...” Katie passed out cold from all of the excitement. When she came to, her parents and sisters were standing around her, “Ugh what happened?”

“My dear, we need to talk. You saw a family secret today,” explained her mother. It all flooded back. The lack of sleep, the banging, the girl, the evil man and her mom doing something crazy with her hands.

“What did you do? Who was that? What in the world is going on?” Katie was confused and kinda angry at the same time.

“Well honey, our family comes from the oldest coven in the world. We are tasked with keeping the world safe from harm. What I pushed back into the mirror was an evil warlock named Iago. He is evil, malicious and wants to destroy the world. Your great grandmother sent him into that mirror. We thought it was safe in your room because you haven't shown any powers yet. Luckily it takes him a minute to gain all his powers back and I came in before he could,” Katie just stared at her mother in complete disbelief as she explained what happened.

“Coven? Are we witches? What in the world is going on?This is not real. This cannot be happening! Why didn't anyone tell me I was a,” Katie could barely bring herself to say it, “witch.”

“I know we should have told you. I just wanted you to be normal before you accepted your witch background. I suppose we have a lot to teach you. We are going to start by getting rid of this mirror,” responded Katie's mother.

“Don't we just toss it?” asked Katie.

“No sister, then Iago can get out! We must completely abolish it from this world and all other worlds,” said Katie's older sister.

The family had gathered the glass with help from the vacuum. Very last spec had to be gathered. They held hands around the pile of glass and Katie's mother said a spell. It was simple but Katie didn't understand it. Suddenly the glass flared up into bright pink and blue flames then disappeared without leaving any marks that it had been there. Katie knew her life was completely different from this day forward, she just didn't realize how much.

11 March 2014

The Painting Part 1

Javaneh was completely startled by what was happening. She touched the painting, she knew that wasn't supposed to but she touched it and she was transported into a crucifixion scene! She definitely did not fit in either. She was wearing a dress and heels and everyone else wore toga and other old timey clothes. Luckily everyone was clearly concerned with the people and Jesus on the cross that no one noticed Javaneh standing out in the crowd.

She was about to dodge into what she thought was a restaurant or something similar when she was grabbed by a man on a horse and taken away. Javaneh screamed and kicked but to no avail. She was terrified that someone HAD noticed her and she was going to be killed. After a few minutes of riding the pair stopped at a church. As her kidnapper dismounted she noticed a lock of blond hair.

“How many of you are here?” asked Javaneh's captor. As he took off his hood she realized he was actually a she.

“Just me. I'm pretty sure, who are you? What the heck is going on?” asked Javaneh.

“My name is Mary and I am here to help you get back. At your museum and many others, there are portals in paintings to real life events. Only certain people can go through the portals. Now typically people who come through are dressed more appropriately than you are which makes me think you have no idea you can travel. I need to send you back and if you ever come back please bring a change of clothes and a friend okay?”

“I can travel through time?!” Javaneh was thrilled at this! She loved history and would love to watch it in person.

“Kind of yes. You can travel through time but only as an observer. If you ever interact with an event or change a major event you will be completely dispelled and then I will have to fix the problem. There are several of us but I like your enthusiasm. Plus you do know how to dress well. I can be your guide around the paintings until you get better acquainted at painting travel,” explained Mary.

Javaneh thought of all the beautiful paintings in her museum. All she had to do was touch them and be pulled into another time. She could see all the events in the world that she loved! She needed to travel the world now and see all the museums and travel to her favorite time periods. Her excitement was nearly uncontainable!

“Okay I think the painter is ready. Now if you ever need to get back to your land, you need to find one of our artists. They will always have a gold ring on their right hand's middle finger. Tell them where you came from and they will quickly paint your place back. You will touch it the same way you touched this painting and voila! You will be back home. Okay so lets get you home and take this. This is my bracelet. So long as you have this, I will be wherever you travel to just in case you need me. Are we clear on all this?” Javaneh nodded yes, “Good! Now next time pick a more low key event. Like maybe Monet's Garden. He always has people there, then I can explain this better to you. Good luck Javaneh!”

Javaneh was led to her home painting and touched it. She was thrust right back in the museum like nothing had happened. Life was about to get really exciting and she could not wait to take Scott on one of her trips! Paint travel, who would have thought?!

Going to the Avs game!

My brother Darren is taking me to the Avs game tonight! I am super excited! The season is coming to an end soon and playoffs are just around the corner so this should be a good game!

Stay warm everyone, a storm is coming in and will probably bring nasty, wet snow. Not all is lost though! Spring will be here in less than two weeks! Yay!

8 March 2014

Starry Nights

Starry nights glitter in the moonlight,

Shapeless clouds flow across the night sky.

The air is quiet and peaceful as we sleep,

Our dreams, they float within the breeze,

Taking our fantasies to the heavens.

Sweet starry nights so shrouded in mystery,

Creatures from our slumber play

In the night that is so dark and obscure,

Their only lights are the twinkling stars

Guiding them through their dallying ways.

Like little fireflies prancing way up high,

The stars kiss our sky until it's time for the sun.

They protect our imaginations as we lay in bed,

We break from reality and let our minds

Wander wistfully amongst those twinkling stars.

9 March 2014

The Mouse

The mouse needed to cross the river but did not know how. He thought of jumping on a turtle but what if he went underwater? The mouse may drowned. He could build a boat but how would he make sure he didn't float all the down stream? He kept thinking and thinking when a frog hopped by.

“Mouse what are you doing here by the river's edge?” asked the frog.

“I need to cross the river and I can't come up with a very good way to get there,” replied the mouse.

“Why don't you cross on that branch?” asked the frog.

“Why frog you are a genius! I never even thought to cross on the branch!” The mouse ran across the branch before frog could say another word.

“Mouse wait!” yelled the frog. Unfortunately the mouse was not very observant. He didn't see the owl waiting for him on the other side and was too impatient to let frog tell him about the owl. The mouse was picked up by the owl as soon as he reached the other side. The frog just shook his head and hopped off, all the while thinking about how stupid the mouse had been.

Lunch and shopping with my mommy

Today was a good day. I went shopping with my mom at Charming Charlie (best store ever!!!!!!!) and then went to lunch at Los Dos Portillos! It was a great day and I had so much fun! I hope you all are having a wonderful weekend!

6 March 2014

The Mirror

Katie hadn't slept very well for the past couple of days. She chalked it up to the wind. Every night for the past three days she heard a tapping noise. It sounded like someone outside a window. This terrified her initially but she was a rational person, at least she thought she was. It had to be wind. It had to be the tree tapping the glass in the next room. It certainly wasn't a close noise so it must have been in the next room.

One night she couldn't take it anymore. It was time for a sleeping aide. She slapped her face with cold water, grabbed the ZzzQuil and was ready to take some of the tablets when suddenly BANG BANG BANG! She dropped the tablets and glass in the sink. What the hell was that? WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT? That wasn't wind! She thought to herself.

Taking a deep breath, she ventured out of the bathroom towards the sound. It came from her closet. How could that noise have come from her closet. The tapping began again and she realized that it had always com from her closet. She opened her walk in closet door and looked around when she heard the tapping. It was coming from her full length mirror. Oh jeeze! It is probably just the pipes making noise behind the mirror! Feeling so much more relaxed, Katie turned on the light.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Katie screamed. There was a girl in the mirror!

“Help me!” cried the girl, standing next to Katie's image in the mirror, “Please help me! He is trying to kill me! Help me!”

Katie was stuck. Petrified. What was she going to do? She had an idea but she wasn't sure if she was too afraid to try it. There was only one way to find out...

7 March 2014

Buddy's Diary: Winter Will Never Cease

Today I had hopes of change. The smell of spring was around us and it was lightly raining. All was well and clearly Spring was just around the corner. Then my human Javaneh brought home that puppy, Wes. I don't mind him so much really. He behind smells interesting and he is my size but he seems to keep growing. Plus he insists on barking at me when I ignore him. I ignore and I ignore yet he continues to bark. To make matters worse, it began snowing again. My hopes of Spring were dashed in an instant. So much snow was falling and it was insanely cold. Javaneh kept making me go outside with Wes. She wants us to be friends but I just do not see that happening. I just want to eat his food and smell his butt. Is that too much to ask? Well anyway, since I am no longer allowed on the couch, I am going to sit on my tiny bed and fall asleep. I wish winter would just end so I can spend my days sniffing the yard and marking my territory.

Just some stories

4 March 2014

My Girl

She sits across from me. Donning that green and black dress I love. It has green down the middle and black lines the sides. That dress flaunts the curve of her hips, slims her perfect stomach and perfectly accentuates her breasts. All of this without showing any cleavage or skin above her knees. She looks at me. This beautiful creature whose green eyes are even more stunning in this dress.

Her eyes shimmer prettier than any emerald possessed by man. Bright green and gazing at me with an intensity I cannot comprehend. She gazes at me for just a moment before tossing her head back in a great laugh at something I have just said. Her blond hair is pulled back to show off her perfect face. She used to hide it with make up but now she only paints her lashes and her lips, just the way I like.

My gorgeous wife and all her glory. She walks to the counter with our glasses, showing off her long legs. She wears green heels to match her dress and to display her ideal calves. Her calves, the envy of all the girls and her favorite feature. I can't help but be in love with this impeccable woman. Her grace, her clumsiness, her intellect, her goofiness, all of what she is simply amazes me.

I watch this beauty, in my favorite green dress and enjoy the vision that she is. If only I could speak these words to her. Tell her how I feel, but alas I am at a loss of words. I have never been that great at expressing my feelings but when she looks at me with all the passion and admiration she can muster, I just know she can read my mind. Words may not come to mind but for now I will enjoy how exquisite she is. My sweet wife, my girl, my love.

5 March 2014

The Gilded Menagerie

The birds had a grand menagerie. All its sides were gilded and there were gilded designs all over all the glass. The birds had golden perches and bowls. They were given golden twine for nests and the best spring water. All of this made their world glimmer and shine like a diamond. There were lilies, tulips, orchids and roses lining the floor of the menagerie. Vines and sunlight shot around like it was connecting endless beauty. The menagerie was exquisite and the birds were joyous.

One day, a little canary was on the ground enjoying the greatness of her home, when she saw a mouse. The little gray mouse was dashing around, collecting seeds and other food. This peaked the canary's interest. She knew what the mouse was because she had seen them from her nest but she had never seen one up close.

“Hello little mouse! Welcome to my humble home. Would you like a tour of our menagerie?” asked the canary. The mouse didn't know what to do. There was nothing threatening about the situation so he put his food down.

“Why hello canary. I know this place really well, I love to eat and rest here! I have a home outside of here. My home isn't very big but my family is happy and we have the whole world to explore. This menagerie is lovely but there is a great world outside these gilded walls,” replied the mouse.

“A better world than this? That's unbelievable!” the canary was stunned at this thought, “Please little mouse, Come with me to my home in the tree and tell me about this world you mentioned!”

The little mouse and canary walked through the colorful grounds of the menagerie. The canary pointed out her favorite set of lilies, her favorite color of tulips and her favorite sunning spot. She wanted the mouse to see that there was nowhere better than her home. When they got to her tree she pointed out how it was in the middle of the menagerie and in the prettiest little tree, prettier than the rest!

“Welcome to my nest little mouse. Please have some water and seeds. All are welcome here. Now, tell me about this world of yours. Why do you think this beautiful, golden menagerie isn't as great as the outside world?” the canary was a bit teasing but genuinely curious.

“Well let's see I guess I should tell you about all the bad things first. The weather is never stable. We animals can feel the change coming so we can prepare but days get too cold and then get too hot. We just have to deal. We gather as much food as we can and look out for big animals who want to eat us,” explained the mouse.

“That sounds horrible! No one worries here we have all the food and water and shelter we need!” proclaimed the canary.

“Of course not all of it is bad. This just makes us strong for the sometimes harsh world. There is so many great things about the world though! We have an expansive sky. You can't find the end of it. The blue sky goes on forever. We have trees that are as tall and taller than large buildings! In some places there are wheat fields that go on for miles!

These flowers you have here are wonderful but outside these gilded glass walls are more flowers than you have feathers! In every color and size you can imagine. People even like to collect them and put them in vases on their tables. We have mountains and canyons. There is so much to this world that you just can't get here,” the mouse was so caught up on telling about the world that he nearly forgot he was with the canary.

“This world of yours sounds so splendid. My heart can't decide what I like. I am happy here. I am comfortable but suddenly you make me feel caged in my menagerie. I question whether or not I want to be here or be out there,” the canary was confused now. She looked out at the sun shining in. The warmth of her home. Even when the weather was bad outside, it was always nice inside.

“Well kind canary, let me help you make up your mind. In here you are happy. You are satisfied. You enjoy your world. Out there you might feel the same but you weren't born into it. You wouldn't know how to survive a chill or a an overheating. In my world I have learned that when you are happy, stay happy. When you are unhappy and unsatisfied, change your world and be happy,” the mouse smiled at the canary and the advice helped.

“Little mouse, I have an idea. Bring your family and live here in this safe and happy menagerie!” the canary was very proud of her idea.

“Thank you so much canary but I like my home. My family is happy and we enjoy scampering around the world. We may have to try harder to survive but we find our happy moments. My family would be bored here but I tell you what, how about I bring my family here every once in a while and spend time with you? I can help you build a lunching place to fit us all,” it was a splendid idea that the mouse had.

Every week the little mouse family visited the menagerie. All the birds loved time with them especially the little canary. She realized she loved her home and her life. She couldn't leave her friends and the wonderful people who kept the place so pretty. Plus she felt more of the outside world by having the new mouse family as friends. Life was good and no on wanted to leave their happy placess, no matter how small or gilded they were.