Bottoms Up!

Bottoms Up!
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Casual morn on this last day of the year. My neighbors gave me some grapefruit from their tree and I made some fresh squeezed juice to make my own concoction of grapefruit, orange, some bottled apple juice and cranberry juice as well as adding some blueberries. As you can see I didn't bother to take the seeds out...to much trouble. Quite tasty and no, no alcohol--not yet at least. Maybe just a glass of bubbly tonight. My friend is house sitting and we're having a low key dinner, playing a game of scrabble, watching Dick Clark's New Years' eve party from NYC and calling it a night. We're both broke but such is life! Happy New Year to you and yours. Be safe out there. Here's to 2009!

Mi Arbolito

Mi Arbolito
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Funny in that my mom didn't put up a tree this year but she has all the gifts-wrapped already. I have the tree and I have no gifts under the tree. I usually don't start wrapping till Christmas Eve anyway. The tree needs more lights, IMHO and is barren at the top. There was another tree that I had my eye on but it was already spoken for. BTW, I was at a Kroger supermarket yesterday and they were giving away trees-FREE! I almost brought one home to put in the backyard. I remember one Christmas, years ago I was heading to the Medical Center to pick up my roomate then and cars were dodging something in the road and when it came my turn to veer to the left, there was this Christmas tree that fell off the back of somebody's car. I pulled over to move the tree out of the road and then I realized, heck why not bring it home. It was a beautiful high end tree valued around $70. Imagine paying that kind of money, getting home and realizing the tree is not there!? My roomie and I were moving into a condo that late December and there wasn't much in the condo at the time but that beautiful tree. Before she headed home for the holidays we put a fire in the fireplace, popped some popcorn and decorated the tree. It was pretty barren but it was a beautiful tree. We had fun laughing, singing Christmas carols and decorating that tree.

Smasty!

Word of the day...

Last night while driving home in the fog and mist, I text message (while waiting at the red light) my niece to "be careful driving because it was masty". I actually meant to type nasty but was in a hurry because I was sitting at the light. She said her and co-workers just laughed at that. As my niece was driving home, she had her windows down and for some reason there was just a bad smell all around Houston and so she texted me to tell me it was "smasty"....S for smelly, M for misty and 'asty" for nasty and thus she came up with a new word-SMASTY! We went and did some quick Christmas shopping after she got home and while driving around we were just cracking up at the word. A goofy evening we had!

Crappy Wrapped

Phrase of the day...

We just got done having our office holiday luncheon complete with a white elephant Christmas gift exchange and someone made the comment that, "crappy wrapped gifts are the best gifts". Note to self...always go for the crappy wrapped gifts! ;-)

No Home for the Holidays

from the Houston Chronicle today and it reads...

Toughen up before you look at this ...

Dogs orphaned by Hurricane Ike. Some deaf or going blind.

Young and playful or aging and fond of laps,

these animals have no home for the holidays.

See if you can resist them.

I wish I could take them all and give them a home for the holidays. Just breaks my heart and melts it as the same time. So much was lost and taken from Hurricane Ike. My prayers go out to those who lost so much. I have a lot to be thankful for. Ok, I'm getting my Christmas spirit back.

Bah Humbug

Bah Humbug
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Another sleepless night here in Htown, which kind of goes with the foul mood I was in earlier yesterday afternoon. For months I had been planning a long awaited vacation to New Mexico...specifically Albuquerque and Santa Fe. I was going to attend the Ottmar Liebert Concert in Rio Rancho and meet up with two fellow fanmencas... Desert Diva/Cheryl and Linda but the show was cancelled! Even as early as Saturday morn we were eagerly making plans to meet up on Thursday and take in the spirit of the season by spending time in Santa Fe. Then the ball dropped and talk about major dissappointment and now major "bah humbug" and I think I speak for Cheryl and Linda as well. All weekend I was in denial about the cancellation but the final blow came when I cancelled my flight Monday afternoon. Thankfully, Southwest Airlines gave me a refund credit for future travel so yeah for Southwest but boo for Rio Rancho and the venue that cancelled the concert. Needless to say my Christmas Spirit has all but dissappeared, gone! Not to mention that I am now going to work Thursday and Friday of this week as well. I was all set for an early holiday vacation!

Just for laughs

WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
My great grandmother

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?

Yesterday, watching the funeral of a cop who was killed last week here in Houston.

DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
No!

DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
only if I can count my niece and nephews!

IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
no comment! ;-)

DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT?
What's that?

DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS
Yes

WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
Absolutely not! I'm the biggest chicken!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Lucky Charms of course!

DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?

Hardly ever

DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?

Yes

FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Dulce de Leche

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Attitude

RED OR PINK?
Red

WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?

how blind I am-

I hate wearing glasses and can't wear my contacts like I used to.


WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST
Calvin, my old parakeet--I swear he was human!

WHAT COLOR SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?

White-sneakers

WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?

Apple fritter

WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Music by Ottmar Liebert of course!

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Purple

FAVORITE SMELLS?
Anything on a grill

WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?

Jane

FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?

Football

Hair Color
highlighted black ;-)

EYE COLOR?
boring brown

DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
not like I used to :-(

FAVORITE FOOD?
Chinese

SCARY MOVIES OR SAPPY ENDINGS?
Sappy endings

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Alvin & the Chipmunks-love that movie!

WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
Pink

SUMMER OR WINTER?
Winter-

I detest summer

HUGS OR KISSES?
Depends on who I'm with!

FAVORITE DESSERT?
Cannoli

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?

Daily Om

WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD

Buddha

WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Nada

FAVORITE SOUND?
the sound of water-

I still wash my dishes by hand!

ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
None

WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME???
Europe

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
Nope

WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Corpus Christi, Texas

Christmas Traditions

1205081359p.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends. From an email I got...

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? There's a difference!?



2. Real tree or Artificial? This year-Real!



3. When do you put up the tree? Definitely, not on Thanksgiving or the day after!



4. When do you take the tree down? Sometime after Jan 1st. and before holiday break is over.



5. Do you like eggnog? Too much!


6. Favorite gift received as a child? Hmmm, can't remember and must not have been that good if I don't remember!


7. Hardest person to buy for? Mom!


8. Easiest person to buy for? Dad!



9. Do you have a nativity scene? Sadly, I broke the last one I had. Definitely need to get another one.



10. Mail or email Christmas cards? No e-cards 4 me!



11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A bad cold!

12. Favorite Christmas Movie/Music? Winter Rose by Ottmar Liebert.



13. When do you start shopping? Sometime after the 15th!



14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Dare I tell?

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Tamales, of course!



16. Lights on the tree? Never enough!



17. Favorite Christmas song? Rocking around the Christmas Tree!


18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Mostly travel before Christmas.



19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Si, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen,Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen. Rudolph ...Chulo!? ;-)


21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Depends who I am celebrating with.



22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? If it feels like summer when it should be winter!


23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Penguins!

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Back home with family in Corpus.



25. What do you want for Christmas this year? The same thing I always want year after year...A white Christmas!

Why Can't We...

Cute video,

a little on the long side but worth watching if you have time

message...

Why can't we be friends...

sometimes you just have to put down the gloves

and hug it out instead.

Something we could all learn from!

Cozumel

Cozumel
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Way Back When! From a Spring Break trip to Cozumel in 1981 or maybe 1982. I need to go back there someday! Sadly, I forgot the girls names that I went with as we lost touch with one another. We has so much fun nonetheless. Looking forward to my next "girls adventure" later this month, although I don't think either one of us will be posing in swimsuits! Parkas maybe! ;-)

Vespers

Vespers
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Glorious, cool and crisp morning here. The cool front finally came in last night and brought some much needed rain along with it. Time for some music to complement the morning.

Last night I finished washing the dishes and was putting plates away when I saw this reflection. Listening to chant music by the Cistercian Monks, hence the title. For a truly uplifting experience give this music a listening too.

The Girls...

The girls
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

in the Rivera fam...minus my mom who was on the phone. This may well be the last Thanksgiving at my parent's home as they are looking to sell their home and move to Katy. We've been doing Thanksgiving at my mom's for many, many years--except for those years when we headed to Corpus Christi. My parents' have lived in their home for well over 45 years. We'll see what the next year brings. I will miss having them "around the corner" (more or less) from me but the house is getting to be too much for dad to take care of with his illness-Parkinsons. He's been very reluctant to sell the house because of so many memories but the house needs lots of work and sadly it might be a tear down. Lots of changes coming around in the near future. Some good and some not so good. See the boys here.

On my christmas list

on my christmas list
Originally uploaded by ♥Rebecca♥

Well not my photo or title but I just cracked up when I saw this on Rebecca's flickr photo stream! She writes, "I saw a kid in a conveniece store last night wearing this shirt" and she closes with this....I need one! I think we all could agree with the shirt at times.

Pushing Daisies

1123080852a.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

First vacation day starts off with meditation something that I hadn't been doing in quite a while. Got to enjoy a nice bowl of "Honey Bunches of Oats" and now listening to Up Close-the Binaural Sessions. It's so nice to not have to rush off to work and take in the morning light in the house, which is one of the reasons I fell in love with my house.

The photo is from my front porch planter. The flowers are left over from a few weeks back and were getting wilted but instead of throwing them into the trash, I de-stemmed them and tossed them in the planter where they have brought color into my world over and over again. So here's to pushing daisies!

#77

#77
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Birthday Boy!
Happy Birthday Dad!

#22

#22
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Happy Birthday Greg.

He's single ladies!

Human Wheels

the blink of an I
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Human wheels spin round and round
While the clock keeps the pace
Human wheels spin round and round
Help the light to my face...

This land, today, my tears shall taste
And take into its dark embrace
This love, who in my beating heart endures
Assured, by every sun that burns
The dust to which this flesh shall return
It is the ancient, dreaming dust of God.

...rocking the house tonight, listening to iTunes, Last FM and dancing in my chair, ahh but I find myself wanting to go dancing at the club, "Cherry Bomb". Love the oldies, remember when John Mellencamp was Johnny Cougar? I thought he was the bomb! Well, time to go to sleep but , "A'int Even Done with the Night"! Good night, sweet dreams and always remember, "I Saw You First"!

Manic TueMonday

....idea/thoughts borrowed from here and since today is Tuesday and not Monday hence the title!

What was the first thing you thought when you looked at yourself in the mirror today?

Do I have to put on makeup?

Do you have a recurring nightmare? If so, explain.

Unfortunately, yes I do and it has to do with my parakeets who are now outside in the back porch. They are inside their cage, which is encased in another 4 foot iron cage to protect them from outside predators...i.e., cats! Still, the cats tend to prowl the late night and stir up the birds. This in turn has awaken me in a panic from my sleep, and I rush to the window to peek out and make sure they're ok.

List three foods you can’t stand:

Hmm, I wish there were more than I can't stand because then I might be a little thinner

but oysters, liver, and vienna sausages are definitely a turn off!

Lethargy

Word of the Day:

Lethargy

Not sure what's got me dragging this week!

The weather (84 today), bike run from Saturday, or change in time

but I am feeling the sluggishness for sure!

Additionally, new office at work is HOT.

We are melting away!

Last night, I couldn't stay awake and was in bed by 10:30

and still woke up feeling like I hadn't slept at all!

I'm even taking vitamins and still no relief!

UGH!

I need a vacation, been working too many hours

but it'll have to wait till Thanksgiving week. :-(

Official Bike Ride!

Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

My first ""official" bike ride. My nephew/Greg and I joined others with Bike Barn of Houston on their "Day of the Dead" tour. It was only supposed to be two hours but ended up being more like 4 because of so many riders. We had a police escort along the entire tour, which was nice.

One thing I forgot to bring during the bike ride last night was a camera. We toured some interesting sights and I managed to capture this one on my cameraphone. There were so many bikers there that it was impossible to walk the cemetery and it was dark-very dark--even with our bike lights. I never knew this cemetery exisisted and would love to return--but in daylight!

I really enjoyed the bike ride and thanks to my nephew for pushing me to go. I just bought the bike last week and still getting used to riding on it and wasn't sure if I was ready for such a run that was supposed to last two hours. Last Sunday I rode out to the bayou from my house which was a little over 1/2 an hour and I was tired--especially in the last 10 minutes.

Kudos again to my nephew as he is training for the MS150 next year and was such a cutie in his new biker shorts. I meant to get a picture of him as well. Because of our new interest in biking he and I have developed a closer bond with one another and I look forward to other bike rides together.

Count Chulo

Count Chulo
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

from two years ago!

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

another year, another carved pumpkin...but this time in front of my house! I did it again! I botched the mouth. Oh well, the tradition continues.

Moving

1017082132a.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Music: Moving, Secret Garden

I am hooked on this song! I first heard it when I was getting a massage last month and it's been in repeat mode at work, home, and car. During the massage I was up in the clouds moving to this song and for the first time I finally saw the full spectrum of the chakra colors but the violet hues were all around me carrying and moving me in ways I had never experienced before. I didn't want to come back down from that --whatever that was!

Life lately, has been moving at the speed of sound. At work we are moving to our new building and since hurricane Ike, Houstonians have been on the move getting this and that done and cleaned up. I just bought a new bike and I love the way it moves me from here to there. During my meditations, I can't stop moving or at least my body is moving/vibrating to the chanting. A new season is upon us and yesterday afternoon after work, I was sitting in the backyard and watching all the moving. Leaves falling, squirrels moving their fall harvest from different spots, birds hurriedly flying south for the winter and butterflies moving from garden to garden for that last taste of sweet succulence. Here's to Mother Nature and her message to us that even though circumstances may be dire (economy) life is moving! So look up to the clouds and move to the dance of life.

Duckie Sunday

Duckie Sunday
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Another weekend came and went with most of it spent working. Working the extra job to try and get ahead but with the economy tanking I wonder how much am I really getting ahead and if all this time working is worth it. There's so much that I miss doing. I have cut back a bit more than usual though as I'm now rotating my Saturday's off just to give me a break! I did treat myself to a massage yesterday and it was much needed as my therapist was having to work extra to get all the kinks out of my body. I was so excited to finally have a free evening of doing nothing and was looking forward to watching the baseball playoff game between Boston and Tampa Bay BUT was so dissappointed to learn that the game was on CABLE! I hate CABLE! NO FAIR!

1+48=another birthday

1+48=another birthday
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

a smile from me then (1 year) and a chuckle on this 49th year of my life along with a lil tear of nostalagia rolling down my cheek. I just got a wake up call from my mom @6:10 a.m., which is the time of birth noted on my certificate and every year she calls to wish me a Happy Birthday. O.k., off to crawl back into bed for a bit as today is my late day at work.

Bad Economy

with all the bad news about the economy,

I thought I would share

this

which just warms my heart!

These birds were stranded and thanks to

IFAW they were released back into their

habitat but not after getting a clean bill of health

by animal vets. The date on the video reads 2007 instead of 2008.

You can read more of the story here.

Yeah Brazil!

Enjoy!

Hallelujah!

0927081907a.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

FINALLY! The lights came on after being in the dark for over 14 days! I'd be lying if I didn't say that my patience was wearing thin. Desperation and depression were starting to set in, yet I tried not to complain because I know others had lost so much more than mere power in the aftermath of Ike. Houston was long overdue for the "Big One" and we finally got hit and hit hard. Though others more than some.
Power was restored on Saturday morning just after 8:00. I wasn't home but my niece was and called to tell me the good news. I got home from work just after 3:00 and never realized how bright light can be especially when it's coming from your house! We take so much for granted! I celebrated the evening with Bacardi Limon on the rocks.
Last night was my first real night of sleep in about two weeks. The dark of night with its heat and humidity can make for many stressful, sleepless nights. It was heaven to wake up at 9:00 a.m and see my ceiling fan blowing, hear the AC cranking and the coffee brewing. Hallelujah indeed!

Hurricane Ike-Lessons Learned Pt. 1

1. Coffee and frozen pizzas can be made on a BBQ grill. Hmmm, I hadn't tried this one!
2. No matter how many times you flick the switch, lights don't work without electricity. I finally stopped flipping light switches three days after the storm.
3. My car gets 23.21675 miles per gallon, EXACTLY (you can ask the people in line who helped me push it). Thank goodness, I had a full tank of gas and didn't have to resort to this.
4. Kids can survive 4 days or longer without a video game controller in their hand. Don't have any kids so not sure on this one but sure do miss the mouse on my computer!
5. Cats are even more irritating without power. No cats here, just my Chi and thankful for his company on these powerless nights.
6. He who has the biggest generator wins. Yep, this one is right on the money!
7. Be nice to your neighbors, you may need to borrow their utilities some day. Absolutely!
8. A new method of non-lethal torture- showers without hot water. Again, this one didn't apply to me.
9. There are a lot more stars in the sky than most people thought. Yes, there are! I just wish the mosquitos would go away so we could enjoy the views.
10. TV is an addiction and the withdrawal symptoms are painful. I can do without TV, but having to live without internet has been painful.
11. A 7 lb bag of ice will chill 6-12 oz Drinks to a drinkable temperature in 11 minutes, and still keep a 14 lb. turkey frozen for 8 more hours. No turkeys in my ice chest!
12. There are a lot of dang trees around here! Lots of trees sure got a wacking thanks to Mother Nature and the winds of Hurricane Ike.
13. Flood plain drawings on some mortgage documents were seriously wrong. Thankfully, this did not apply to me--this time BUT I am going to buy flood insurance very soon!
14. Aluminum siding, while aesthetically pleasing, is definitely not required. I'll hang onto my wood shingles for sure!
15. Crickets can increase their volume to overcome the sound of 14 generators. I wish I could hear the crickets....all I've heard is dogs barking incessantly!
16. People will get into a line that has already formed without having any idea what the line is for. Especially at Home Depot and Lowes!
17. When required, a Lincoln Continental will float, doesn't steer well but floats just the same.
18. Tele-marketers function no matter what the weather is doing. My phone didn't work for the longest time and so I missed on these guys!
19. Cell phones work when land lines are down, but only as long as the battery remains charged. Keeping mine charged was a challenge!
20. 27 of your neighbors are fed from a different transformer than you, and they are quick to point that out! Still waiting for any neighbor in my area to have power!
21. If my store sold only ice, chainsaws, gas and generators... I'd be rich. Need to add batteries to the list!
22. Price of a can of soup rises 200% in a storm. No soup here! Too darn hot!
23. Tree service companies are under appreciated. I wisely invested $$ months ago for tree service in my backyard!
24. I learned what happens when you make fun of another states' blackout.
25. MATH 101: 30 days in a month, minus 6 days without power equals 30% higher electric bill ? ???? Sad but true, this morning's paper stated that the power company will most likely raise prices to makeup for what they've lost!
26 Drywall is a compound word, take away the "dry" part and it's worthless.
27. I can walk a lot farther than I thought.
28. Vienna Sausage is only part of the major food groups during a Hurricane. NO VS for me!
29. According to the scale, calories consumed during a Hurricane do indeed count. For reals!



The above was sent to me via email! Yes, finally getting around to answering emails, flickring, and catching up on the happenings of the past week and a half. Day 11 and still no power. Thus, Lessons Learned from Hurricane Ike to be continued on Part 2.

For reals?!!

Question: Do you have any recommendations for pets? Our dog is an outside dog, and I don't want him to leave a brownie on my carpet. Can I tie him to a tree? We are in the Woodlands if this helps...

Reply: I'd try to at least bring him in the garage if you can. Would you want to be tied to a tree during a hurricane?

As we prepare for hurricane Ike, all of us along the Gulf Coast wait in high anticipation--of the unknown. I'd by lying if I'd said I wasn't worried but trying to remain calm. Earlier today, I came across this and couldn't stop laughing!!! I can't believe someone actually would think of tieing up a dog up to a tree during a hurricane.

Chulo's crate is ready to go! In fact, I have two crates packed! I guess the above dog owner has never heard of a crate!

Kaleidoscope of Life

Phrase of the day

and inspiration by

Daily OM

"Living together differently"

...oh so true! We may always not agree with one another

but we must still respect one another.

Easier said than done, I know!

During the past month with registration ongoing,

I surely came across the Kaleidoscope of many peoples and cultures.

Vinum Rastafario

Vinum Rastafario
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Music: Rastarfario, Carlos Santana & Paolo Rustichelli
Mood: frustation (earlier in the day)


I needed a whole bottle tonight to take away my frustrations of the day...mainly from the idiot who hit my car today! It was nothing major-so far and thank goodness it was not my fault. Even more disheartening was that I had just left my massage therapists' office. So much for the wonderful day I was having. It's been one of those weeks! Very much looking forward to the holiday weekend but now another worry...another hurricane possibly heading our way! I think that calls for another trip to liquor store to stock up on more wine!

Vinum restlessness

0817082123b.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Wine glass empty again! Need to go out and get another bottle or two but so tired AND restless. Made it through another week of registration at work but 2nd week is taking its toll AND I found out that I"m working tomorrow/Sunday. Still trying to unwind from working today. On the other hand, the paychecks will be nice and the money will definitely come in handy as I've still got some unfinished projects on the house. Listening to music by Ottmar has been a welcomed reprieve.

Knighthood!

My kind of Knight in shining armour! ;-)

Happy Feather Friday!

0810081816a.jpg
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Been working long days and nights the past few days! I'm so excited that I don't have to work tonight/Friday evening but do have to work tomorrow/Saturday morning. Next week looks to be an even longer week as we near the start of another semester in academia. Driving home last night the near full moon was glorious. Hopefully tonight and tomorrow, I can catch it rising.

The Reach

Music: The Reach, Dan Fogelberg

In Memory of Dan Fogelberg

as today would've been his 57th birthday

and he was taken far too young.

Thankfully, his music lives on.

The following quote is taken from his website.

Every human being on this earth is born with a tragedy, and it isn't original sin. He's born with the tragedy that he has to grow up. That he has to leave the nest, the security, and go out to do battle. He has to lose everything that is lovely and fight for a new loveliness of his own making, and it's a tragedy. A lot of people don't have the courage to do it.

Helen Hayes (1900 - 1993)

8.8.08

Libra
9/23 – 10/22

You'll finally be able to get comfortable with the changes that have been going on

...hmm doesn't explain why I woke up @4:30 this morn and why I coudn't go back to sleep.

Ok-so maybe after today's numeric event, I'll get comfortable with the changes in my life.

Flamenco Sketches

Music: Kora/River of Stars, Ottmar Liebert

Mood: Happy (home on the Tuesday afternoon thanks to Edouard).

Drinking: Tomato juice (my new fav bev...thought about adding vodka but didn't)





Here it is Tuesday afternoon and so far so good from the storm. I couldn't sleep last night in anticipation of what today might bring but thankfully just much needed rain and a chance to try and get caught up on some unpacking...just as soon as I get off this computer! Been blasting iTunes today and the beautiful Flamenco Sketches by Miles Davis was playing previously. The man was a master!



The dog days of summer are upon us with August here. The heat and humidity have been oppressive but we're getting a nice reprieve today thanks to the storm.



Ok, time to light some more candles, turn off the 'puter off, pump up the volume, brew some afternoon tea and get on a tear of cleaning out some of this clutter in my computer room. Hopefully the rain will let up a bit this eve as I'd like to take a quick walk around the neighborhood.

Never too old!

This

was sent to me by my teacher/friend Jane

and shows you're never too old!

Here's a thank you to all teachers with caring hearts

such as the one on the video.

The Moon and St. Christopher

When I was young I spoke like a child,

and I saw with a child's eyes

And an open door was to a girl

like the stars are to the sky

It's funny how the world lives up to all your expectations

With adventures for the stout of heart, and the lure of the open spaces

There's two lanes running down this road, and whichever side you're on

Accounts for where you want to go, or what you're running from

Back when darkness overtook me on a blind man's curve

I relied upon the moon, I relied upon the moon

I relied upon the moon and Saint Christopher

Now I've paid my dues cause I have owed them,

but I've paid a price sometimes

For being such a stubborn woman in such stubborn times

Now I have run from the arms of lovers,

I have run from the hands of kindness,

I've run just because I can

But now I'm grown and I speak like a woman

and I see with a woman's eyes

And an open door is to me now like the saddest of goodbyes

but it's too late for turning back, so I pray for the heart and the nerve

And I rely upon the moon, I rely upon the moon

I rely upon the moon and Saint Christopher.

End of my Pirate Days?

Libra Horoscope

In life, you have to run through any door that is opened to you.

Worry about what you'll do on the other side of it later....

hmmm, I was hoping that the end of my pirate days were near.

Noise

So much noise these days and then sometimes not enough.



Noise I can live without,

...the humming of an air conditioner.

...wheels screetching as the car cuts in front of you

...cicaddas--their just too dang loud!

...someone smacking and popping gum! Happens much too often in my office.

...blaring cell phones and people's conversations on them.

...flip flops! Pick up your feet people!

...automated phone service and their stupid messages.

...alarm clocks!



Noise that I can never get enough of

...wind blowing but ever so gently--especially a north wind bringing cooler air.

...Rain! Nothing like a little rain shower and something we've not seen enough these days.

...the clicking of a camera.

...music-I have to have my daily dose of music by Ottmar Liebert!

...voices of friends and loved ones--both near and distant.

...my bike as I'm peddling. I'd like to hear the sound of a newer bike-someday!

...Chulo as he's chasing a squirrel and barking. I know-poor squirrels but it is funny to hear and see.

...a crackling fire.

...the sound of pecans breaking open.

...fireworks. They still make me teary eyed!

So what noise(s) can you live with or without?

Female Inmates

Doing time fighting the

Calfornia fires.

I had heard about this before and

I think it's great.

Life Insurance Killings

Jesus, what is this world coming to?

I just can't fathom this!

Simply disgusting!

World Youth Day

I remember when I attended the first World Youth Day in Rome some 24 years ago and then again in Denver some 15 years back....


It all began with John Paul II’s love for young people. On Palm Sunday of 1984, the Pope convoked the youth of Rome to celebrate with him the Holy Year of Redemption: their answer was enthusiastic and surpassed all expectations. There were over 250,000 youth from around the world attending this event.

I was a Youth Counselor then and one of the group leaders on the trip to Rome and Denver. Each event included 7 days of activities for the attendees. It was something to experience and behold.

Stye

Word of the day...

STYE

I had this stye for the past few days and it hurts like heck!

Might have to try some of these remedies mentioned in Wiki.

Phase I

Phase I
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Been on vacation the past week and many projects were on my "to do" list. Much was completed and while some didn't get done the one most important was Phase I of the interior of my house, which included painting my living/dining room. The transformation has started and all I can say is WOW! More photos to come as we just finished about an hour ago and looking forward to taking photos in the morning light before posting on Flickr. BTW, the above photo was taken as my shirt reflected on the switch plate.

Burger Night

Burger Night!
Originally uploaded by :Eureka:

Too cute Made me laugh on this Tuesday morn while I wait for the pest control guy.

Take it Easy

Tomorrow, Friday is the Summer Solstice and some of you may be embarking on a road trip in the coming weeks and if so be sure to take it easy. One of my fellow bloggers is hitting the road and I wish I were doing the same but no time and money--for freaking gas! I told my friend to be sure and throw some good tunes in the car for the road as that's what I do whenever I hit the road. So what tunes would you/do you throw into the car on a road trip? Mine would include a few of these:

1. Anything by Ottmar Liebert but probably Opium and The Scent of Light
2. Eagles - Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975
3. Stephen Duros-Thira
4. Mana-Suenos Liquidos
5. Santana's Greatest Hits
6. Mary Chapin-Carpenter, Time*Sex*Love
7. George Strait- Somewhere Down in Texas
8. Tish Hinojosa- Frontejas
9. Bruce Springsteen- Born to Run
10. U2- 18 Singles

There would be others but I these would be my top 10. So go on and take it to the limit. Happy Summer Solstice!

Phrase of the Day

Wag more,

Bark less!

from a bumper sticker I saw coming into work today!

Rememberance

Rememberance
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

I was saddened today by the death of Tim Russert. I was a big fan of his and politics will never be the same without his commentaries. Such a loss for his family and especially his son and father who will have to cope with his death especially on this Father's day weekend. I know when I see my dad, I will give him an extra big hug.

Friday Funnies...

WOMAN'S PERFECT BREAKFAST
She's sitting at the table with her gourmet coffee.
Her son is on the cover of the Wheaties box.
Her daughter is on the cover of Business Week.
Her boyfriend is on the cover of Playgirl.
And her husband is on the back of the milk carton.

Keep reading-they get better!!!

WOMEN'S REVENGE
'Cash, check or charge?' I asked, after folding items the woman wished to purchase.
As she fumbled for her wallet, I noticed a remote control for a television set in her purse.
'So, do you always carry your TV remote?' I asked.
'No,' she replied, 'but my husband refused to come shopping with me,
and I figured this was the most evil thing I could do to him legally.'

WIFE VS. HUSBAND
A couple drove down a country road for several miles, not saying a word.
An earlier discussion had led to an argument and
neither of them wanted to concede their position.
As they passed a barnyard of mules, goats, and pigs,
the husband asked sarcastically, 'Relatives of yours?'
'Yep,' the wife replied, 'in-laws.'

CREATION
A man said to his wife one day, 'I don't know how you can be
so stupid and so beautiful all at the same time.
'The wife responded, 'Allow me to explain.
God made me beautiful so you would be attracted to me;
God made me stupid so I would be attracted to you!


Masterpiece!
God may have created man before woman, but there is always a rough draft before the masterpiece

Soulful Splendor

Music: The Scent of Light, Ottmar Liebert
Mood: sluggish
Phrase of the day:

"Soulful Splendor"

taken from Daily Om-

Libra Horoscope for the day.

I like that!

Complements the music I am listening to

by Ottmar Liebert, The Scent of Light.

Not on my book!

The following article asks if hockey is dead!

I for one am looking forward to tonights game

and here's hoping there's a 7th game!

Go Pens!

For Better of Worse!

You have two choices in life:

You can stay single and be miserable,

or get married and wish you were dead.

~~~~~~~~~

At a cocktail party, one woman said to another,

'Aren't you wearing your wedding ring on the wrong finger?

''Yes, I am. I married the wrong man.'

~~~~~

A lady inserted an ad in the classifieds: 'Husband Wanted'.

Next day she received a hundred letters.

They all said the same thing: 'You can have mine.'

~~~~~~~

When a woman steals your husband,

there is no better revenge than to let her keep him.

~~~~~~~~

A woman is incomplete until she is married.

Then she is finished .

~~~~~~~

A little boy asked his father,

'Daddy, how much does it cost to get married?

'Father replied, 'I don't know son, I'm still paying.'

~~~~~~~~~~~

Then there was a woman who said,

'I never knew what real happiness was until I got married,

by then, it was too late.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marriage is the triumph of imagination over intelligence.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you want your spouse to listen

and pay strict attention to every word you say --

talk in your sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Just think, if it weren't for marriage,

men would go through life thinking they had no faults at all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

First guy says, 'My wife's an angel!'

Second guy remarks, 'You're lucky, mine's still alive.'

~~~~~~~~~~~

'A Woman's Prayer:

Dear Lord, I pray for: Wisdom to understand a man,

to Love and to forgive him, and for Patience for his moods.

Lord, if I pray for Strength I'll just beat him to death'

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AND NOW FOR THE FAVORITE!!!

Husband and wife are waiting at the bus stop with their nine children. A blind man joins them after a few minutes. When the bus arrives, they find it overloaded and only the wife and the nine kids are able to fit onto the bus. So the husband and the blind man decide to walk. After a while, the husband gets irritated by the ticking of the stick of the blind man as he taps it on the sidewalk, and says to him, 'Why don't you put a piece of rubber at the end of your stick? That ticking sound is driving me crazy.' The blind man replies, 'If you had put a rubber at the end of YOUR stick, we'd be riding the bus, so shut the hell up.'

Eau de Nil

Glassed
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Water of the Nile was the inspiration for the this beautiful table created by Dan Axton. The flooring was salvaged and the shower door was recycled. This was the first creation by Dan and he plans to design additional tables to be sold, and yes he is taking requests. As you can see this is a one of a kind, unique design. The wood was salvaged by hand, piece by piece from an old farm house in an East Houston neighborhood now known as Pecan Park. This wood is old "Heart Pine", which can no longer be found naturally unless salvaged or bought (expensive). The Golden Mean/Ratio of 61.8% was measured precisely in the height and width with exact measurements of 1.68%. Additional photos can be found here. Btw, Happy Birthday to my mom!

Happy 56!

Archived George
Originally uploaded by mRio

Happy 56th Birthday George! George Strait is one of my favorite famous George's from Texas. Don't get me started on the other famous two! Strait is the King of Swing in Country Music and is cowboy cool! He just topped the charts with his 56th number one hit, "I Saw God Today". Years ago I used to work a part-time job at the old Astrodome and that's how I got hooked on Strait's music. I've been a fan ever since. 56 never looked so good! ;-) Thanks to Mario for wonderful photo and memory of George when we went to rodeo last year.

Alice in Wonderland

Originally uploaded by :Eureka:

Bravo Erika for such a nice photo and the fantasy! Sometimes, I do feel like Alice in Wonderland when I pull up to the house. It's the little things that make it special, like fresh cut grass, cutting a magnolia flower from my tree and taking it to the office. The morning sunlight in my room--especially on a Saturday when I don't have to rush off somewhere. The lovely walks around the neighborhood and the enchanting bike rides making new discoveries on every turn of another street. Though, I"ve only been here just under two months in some ways it feels longer. Sometimes, I pinch myself just to make sure I'm not dreaming! Although at times the nightmares can be scary like last week with the work in the attic which is still a work in progress and I have to remember to be patient, sit back and enjoy! Even the unwanted little bumps and bruises. Yes, I have been given much and I am so grateful! Alice does live here!

RETARDED GRANDPARENTS

...from an email I received... and this was actually reported by a teacher

After Christmas, a teacher asked her young pupils how they spent their holiday away from school. One child wrote the following: We always used to spend the holidays with Grandma and Grandpa. They usedto live in a big brick house but Grandpa got retarded and they moved to Florida .

Now they live in a tin box and have rocks painted green to look like grass. They
ride around on their bicycles and wear name tags because they don't know who
they are anymore. They go to a building called a wreck center, but they must have got it fixed
because it is all okay now, they do exercises there, but they don't do them
very well. There is a swimming pool too, but they all jump up and down in it with hats on. At their gate, there is a doll house with a little old man sitting in it. He watches
all day so nobody can escape. Sometimes they sneak out, and go cruising in
their golf carts. Nobody there cooks, they just eat out. And, they eat the same
thing every night --- early birds. Some of the people can't get out past the man
in the doll house. The ones who do get out, bring food back to the wrecked
center for pot luck. My Grandma says that Grandpa worked all his life to earn his retardment and says I should work hard so I can be retarded someday too. When I earn my
retardment, I want to be the man in the doll house. Then I will let people out,
so they can visit their grandchildren. .....

PRICELESS!

Tequila & Salt

...from an email I got today.

This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read it everyday. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.
1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
And always remember....when life hands you Lemons, ask for tequila and salt, and call me over! ;-)

....actually with lemons I prefer Vodka for lemon drop shots!

Princess of Light

I went in for a much needed Reiki massage and afterwards walked out a Princess of Light. About 30 minutes into the session this immense white light appeared above me. It was angelic and so divine that I was overtaken with emotion for the rest of the session. I had not seen such a bright light in awhile. I soo wanted to follow that light but knew that it was only gracing me with its powerful presence for just that moment in time.

4/24/08 Update: The word balance has creeped into the word of the day again as I read an excerpt from Daily Om... As we build a relationship with our power, and follow it, we begin to see that we don’t always have to do what we’re being asked to do by others, and we don’t have to jump on every trend. All we have to do is have the confidence to listen to our own voice and let it guide us as we make our own decisions in life and remember the necessity for balance.
I believe that light I saw on Tuesday was my inner power intertwined with a higher power lifting me out of my body for but a moment. It served as a guide to nurture my soul towards my renewed path of balance that is lacking and surely needed in the coming days and months ahead.

Balance

Word of the day: Balance

Music: Antonio Carlos Jobim: Chega de Saudade

~~~~~~~

Balance is extremely important right now,

and it is one of the few final elements to incorporate into your life.

~~~~~~~

I can so relate to this!

Kick His Ask!

This is one of the funniest, cutest videos

I've seen on YouTube.

I can't stop laughing!

She is just too adorable!

Enjoy!

March Madness

Basking
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Was there a month of March?! The month was such a blur, which began with Spring Break and much anticipation. Anticipation of packing, moving and settling into a house. A house that I had been trying to purchase since last summer! Yes, last summer! After much negotiating the winds of change finally blew my way and everything fell into place with the signing of the papers on March 14th. Keys were given to me but still it didn't feel like my house. We moved the following day and the day after that and the day after that! Additionally, I had my apartment to clean up and totally vacate and this took longer than I expected. I just dropped the keys into the night deposit box. I debated on whether to photograph the empty apartment before closing the door for the last time but in the end I fully wanted to close that chapter of my life and didn't need a photograph from my past.
After having been in the house for more than two weeks, I realize that it's going to take me longer than I anticipated to get settlled in. My kitchen is about 85% done. Just need to get a few things taken care of such as a breakfast bar in which to have something to eat off of till I get a dining table.
Occasionally, I still confused and will walk into the bathroom thinking that I'm walking into the kitchen. Just last night Chulo did the same thing! Yes, he's still confused as are the parakeets. I've yet to set up any of the TV's which is relatively un-important since I didn't transfer the cable over to the new place. However, my niece and I decided that one night a week would be a "movie night". Instead of purchasing DVD's we'll be heading to the local library. Tonight, I hope to get the bike out and take a ride around my new neighborhood and wave to the neighbors! :-)

Swanky vs. Skanky!

swanky
Originally uploaded by KnowWonNose

Question of the day!

How come a super sexy woman is skanky but a super sexy car is swanky?
Photo uploaded by KnowWonNose , Question of the day by Josh

He did it!

Grad Man
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

She did it! In my line of work, I enjoy the spring semester as students prepare for graduation in May. Also, I get visits from former students who have finished their Bachelor's such as a visit from Mr. G. Mr. G has come a long way since he first came through my doors. As an educator you plant seeds and you may not always see them grow but this one sure did! Even more special that he wanted to make it a point to come back and thank me for the support as he felt he wouldn't have made it this far without someone believing in him. More importantly, he wants to put his wife through college for her degree and thus more seeds that grow and multiply.

Tulips

Tulips
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

in honor of Spring Equinox

My Piggy Bank...

My Piggy Bank...
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

..... after I bought gas this morning. From an email I got! Too funny and sadly too true these days! Thanks to the Bush rebate plan, I'm going to buy a bike!

FINALLY!

FINALLY!
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

It happened! I signed on Friday and will be moving today! It's very early in the morning and I am tired and sleep will be a luxury as the movers (my brother & family) will be here around 9:00 a.m. Thus, I'll be out of commission for a few days. My thanks to my parents who helped make my dream a reality. We both shed some tears yesterday when I came home with the keys. BTW, poor Chulo is freaking out from all this packing as he's thinking I am leaving him. I finally pulled out his lil red bag and he was so happy. He's figured out that he's coming as well! ;-)

Dan's Joke

Dan's Little Joke...


Did you know that Dan played all the instruments on the 2003 CD "Full Circle"?"Wait," you say, "I have that CD and there's a list of musicians".The musicians:Roland Laboite - drums, percussionDonny Trout - bassSven Birkebeiner - keyboards,Lee Mealone - congas, percussion

Take a moment, can you figure any of them out on your own?

Answers, below....







Roland Laboite - drums, percussion*The drum machine (also known as a "drum box", or "beat box") Dan programmed for the CD was made by Roland Corporation.
Laboite is French for "box".
Donny Trout - bass*Trout.
Bass.Sven Birkebeiner - keyboards*Skiers call their skis "boards". The Birkebeiner is a Nordic cross country ski race honoring a historic Norwegian event. In 1206, two warrior soldiers, called "Birkebeiners" because of the birch-bark leggings they wore, skied infant Prince Haakon to safety during the Norwegian civil war. Prince Haakon subsequently became King of Norway, and the Birkebeiner soldiers became a Norwegian symbol of courage, perseverance and character in the face of adversity.
Lee Mealone - congas, percussion* Le' me alone, ay....

I just love this man's music. Still feeling his loss but his music will live on. I don't own this CD but I plan on getting it soon from Amazon as all proceeds will go to the foundation that was created in Dan's name. Thanks to his wife Jean for sharing Dan's joke.

Girls Like Me

Shootout!
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Girls like me aren’t hard to find
We grow like roses on the vine
We wear our hearts on our sleeves
You probably know a girl like me.
We live alone and in our heads
We eat standing up or in our beds
Guilt and fear merge easily
In the quiet souls of girls like me
And loneliness is like a cold,
Common and no cure we’re told
We take to bed per chance to dream
In the blue light of the TV screen.
Girls like me like summer light
And cold beer on a summer night
And boys who aren’t afraid of what they see
Inside the eyes of girls like me
And hopefulness is like a drug
It makes a girl believe in love
And if somehow you love us back
We think there’s something wrong with that
Girls like me aren’t hard to trust
Your deepest secret’s safe with us
And when it’s time to set you free
You can always count on girls like me
It’s good to know a girl like me
You used to love a girl like me
***************
Words by Mary Chapin-Carpenter

The Gang

The Gang
Originally uploaded by JayJay7270

Friday Funnies

LITTLE BOYS

GOTTA LOVE 'EM

Two young boys walked into a pharmacy one day, picked out a box of tampons and proceeded to the checkout counter. The man at the counter asked the older boy, "Son, how old are you?" "Eight," the boy replied. The man continued, "Do you know what these are used for?" The boy replied, "Not exactly, but they aren't for me. They're for him. He's my brother. He's four. We saw on TV that if you use these you would be able to swim and ride a bike. Right now, he can't do either one."

For the love of Leap Day

Nice article/read about today's special day!

"A wild card in the synced order of the rest of our lives"...

I like that!

Dreaming on the Starlight Train

Sunset glow
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Listening to the newly revamped "In the Arms of Love" by Ottmar Liebert. Ahhhh, seeing this photo and listening to his music carries me away. In fact it'd be nice if the train carried me a little further to the south(left)...more specifically on the other side of Willowbend, then again I wouldn't mind if it carried me to the north (right) and stop in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Friday Funnies!

A store that sells new husbands has opened in New York City , where a woman may go to choose a husband. Among the instructions at the entrance is a description of how the store operates:

You may visit this store ONLY ONCE! There are six floors and the value of the products increase as the shopper ascends the flights. The shopper may choose any item from a particular floor, or may choose to go up to the next floor, but you cannot go back down except to exit the building!

So, a woman goes to the Husband Store to find a husband. On the first floor the sign on the door reads:

Floor 1 - These men Have Jobs.

She is intrigued, but continues to the second floor, where the sign reads:

Floor 2 - These men Have Jobs and Love Kids.

"That's nice," she thinks, "but I want more."

So she continues upward. The third floor sign reads:

Floor 3 - These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, and are Extremely Good Looking.

"Wow," she thinks, but feels compelled to keep going.

She goes to the fourth floor and the sign reads:

Floor 4 - These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, are Drop-dead Good Looking and Help With Housework.

"Oh, mercy me!" she exclaims, "I can hardly stand it!"

Still, she goes to the fifth floor and the sign reads:

Floor 5 - These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, are Drop-dead Gorgeous, Help with Housework, and Have a Strong Romantic Streak.

She is so tempted to stay, but she goes to the sixth floor, where the sign reads:

Floor 6 - You are visitor 31,456,012 to this floor. There are no men on this floor. This floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please. Thank you for shopping at the Husband Store!

PLEASE NOTE:

To avoid gender bias charges, the store's owner opened a New Wives store just across the street.

The first floor has wives that love sex.

The second floor has wives that love sex and have money and like beer.

The third, fourth, fifth and sixth floors have never been visited!!!

Lost in the Sunshine

7dayforecast
Originally uploaded by Nieve44/La Luz

Today would be gorgeous! No getting lost in the sunshine as I'm inside most of the day! :-(