Eternal Sunshine Flowing Through A Swiss Cheese Mind

Same As It Ever Was

2012-01-26T23:59:00.001-06:00

So yesterday (Wed, 25th) marked another anniversary of existing in Duluth, Minnesota.
I say 'existing' as I really feel that's about all it is.
I bide my time, waiting to finish school, to get a job reply, and for the weather to change.
Don't get me wrong, I make my own fun, and do 'live', but not to the full potential.
Luckily there are plenty of online friends to hang or chat with (as most of the real-life-in-person friends rarely have the time (but then neither do I) to get together, many not even making a basic effort to call.
I make an effort, but it gets old.
Time for new ones, new beginnings, and more new focus.
And a randy boy now and again ;-) to make things more interesting.

Today was killer.
Slept 3a-730a
Dentist 9-10 (cleaning/exam: a cracked tooth and a filling to replace - call for the lottery. *rolls eyes*)
Class 10-12 (went fast - was ok, except for the rude kid who wouldn't reply when I asked what I missed - thankfully the nice girl did)
Drive to Two Harbors (ate 2 clementines in the car on the way)
Work 1230-5p (my boss went out for lunch and brought me back the rest of his - nice - I was hungry)
Drive back to Duluth (still light out, but grey and gloomy, see hope in pics below)
Change, organise myself
Back to school to work with Sarah and Kristina on Java 6:45-11p
Home to read discussion boards, reply to a few. (black bean, cheese, hot peppers on a wheat tortilla)
Sleep 2a - ?
Gnite

On the drive home from Two Harbors I could see the sunset off in the distance - the grey was breaking up. Somewhere, others were treated to a better view than I, but just that taste was nice.

Dinner Time!

2012-01-25T03:10:00.000-06:00

Mmm Ham

Wutchu lookin at?

Bub-eye!

Got Seeds?

Hey you two! Welcome Back!

Love the Red

Busted!

No one can eat just one!

What, I only took one!

Stealth Mode - I'z in ur branchez, nommin ur seedz

2012!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!

Last Sunset 2011

2011-12-31T21:58:00.006-06:00

Sunset 4:29pm (CST)
'Clearly' it wasn't visible.

Last Sunrise 2011

2011-12-31T07:58:00.008-06:00

Sunrise Duluth, MN 7:53am (CST)

St. Clair Arrives at Sunrise

Goodbye 2011

2011-12-31T00:32:00.005-06:00

Bring on 2012.

One Week

2011-12-28T00:04:00.002-06:00

Goin to California

Set Sail At Sunrise

2011-12-26T00:00:00.009-06:00

43f on Dec 26th!

This morning's sunrise

Paul R Tregurtha Departs at Sunrise

24th

2011-12-25T00:29:00.003-06:00

Oops, missed it by that much.
I thought I'd made a placeholder post, but didn't.
Ah well, here was the sunset I meant to post.
The photo doesn't do it justice for how orange it was
and how it just lit the sky for the few minutes it appeared in the crack of those clouds.
Breathtaking we thought.

Dog Sitting: Gus

2011-12-23T19:48:00.005-06:00

Hangin with my pal Gus for a day.

Had a nice walk in the new snow.

Lots of snackin, chillin and nappin.

Ah, a dog's life!

Now These Are Real Christmas Trees!

¡Feliz Cumpleaños Renán!

2011-12-23T19:45:00.003-06:00

Happy 49th Old Man!

Enjoy the last of your 40's!

¡Abrazos!

Home Work Hard Work

2011-12-16T00:01:00.004-06:00

Opened a fortune cookie as a treat just after midnight after doing hours of homework:

"Your hard work is about to pay off.
Congratulations!"

I can live with that.

Lucky Numbers:
2 14 16 19 30 31

Some of those are very lucky numbers indeed.

An Important Message to All Women (And Men Too)

2011-12-14T04:07:00.007-06:00

Today for class I had to watch this video and was so very impressed that I wanted to share it with all of you.

Whether you're a woman in IT, or working outside the home, or not, or whether you're a man who has a partner in the working world, or in IT or not, there are several messages in this video for all to learn.

Watch it - it's well worth it all the way to the end, even for the questions afterward.

Tonight's Fortune

2011-12-13T07:45:00.003-06:00

"A romantic mystery will soon add interest to your life."

Lucky Numbers: 5 6 19 23 25 28

Good Day Sunshine!

2011-12-11T18:22:00.005-06:00

What a glorious December Sunday, with the high in the low 40's and a perfect day for a walk with George and Gus.

Gus found a petrified (frozen) squirrel - which was hilarious!

Later you could clearly see two ships anchored in the lake with the sun beaming down.

It was SO nice out and I was glad to get away from the homework/studying!

I put out fresh water for the birds and filled the feeders as well.
They showed up promptly after as if waiting for me to do just that, as usually they do.

Who The HELL Said It Could Be December Already?

2011-12-01T00:26:00.007-06:00

I mean really!
December?
Wasn't it JUST August?

Then again, if it's December, that means that school is done in like three weeks!
YAY THE FUCK YAY!
And that much closer to the LA Trip!

School's killin me.
I swear.
(read yesterday's post...)

In the meantime, enjoy this morning's photo from my bedroom window.

You can really see the Lake when it's clear and the sun is shining.
I certainly prefer today's view over yesterday's snowy one.

The Good Times Are Killin Me - G'bye November!

2011-11-30T05:11:00.009-06:00

The 30th - Already.

I shoulda known better than going back to school when I'm nearing the age of dementia.
It hurts mah head to think so hard. EVERY.FUCKING.DAY.

Today's schedule for example:

Bed last night 11 - fell asleep before 11:30p
woke at 2:30a
Never.fell.back.to.sleep.

Alarm at 830 - but I WAS AWAKE!
Class at 915a - 2:05p
Home by 230p
Bed for a NAP 2:45-4:45 (I couldn't keep mah eyez open)
Made dinner 4:45-5p
Back at the table doing JavaScript from 5p-10p (still couldn't get the fucker to work - emailed my instructor)
A skype call from a very sexy man but I had to only say a quick hello/gbye PLUS emails/texts in that time from my Census mates re:lunch tomorrow - I CAN'T WAIT!
MIS Discussion post article review from 10:30p-11:30p
Checked the email - teacher replied - tried her fixes from 1130p-12:10 - no go,
gave up for the night after emailing her back with the results.

Upstairs to pee and realised it's GARBAGE NIGHT! UGH!
Help!!!
I need a house-boy!
Got the garbage/recycling collected, out, and made a tea with a bit of vodka to settle in, and now my mate's offline. :(

Ah well.
How was your day?
Month?

Oh, and it was SNOWING when I woke up from my nap and the weather dude went on and on about how bad it was out for driving.

GOOD THING I HAVE TOO MUCH HOMEWORK TO GO OUT HEY!

It had stopped by the time I took out the garbage. Oh yay.

**EDIT**
106a
Just watered my poor near-crunchy-dry plants
and put away the dishes.

AND Just realised that I still have to write up my application for the Spring Break Guatemala Trip.

oi vey.

Guess I'll do that in bed.
It's that or have a wank...
hmm..

Monday Monday

2011-11-28T01:03:00.006-06:00

Back to school.
A walk in unseasonably warm 40f weather.
Groceries
A colourful sunset.

Dinner
A long overdue visit with a very sexy man.
Homework.

Pretty Good for a mid-November Sunday

2011-11-13T00:25:00.010-06:00

Started my morning, as I do many, with CBS Sunday Morning. Today's episode was even better than usual due to this report on one of my fave bands of all time:

Red Hot Chili Peppers

For some reason, the feature is not available on the CBS Sunday Morning site - bummer. Luckily a fan recorded the story to share. (explains the quality/hissing).

I lollygagged around in bed til about noon, then made some eggs and bacon, along with some toast (as they were dipping eggs), and a banana.

...time to study for my MIS Quiz...

Later I noticed that all of the leaves are down that block my view of the lake, so now I can see it again, and the lights in the evening as well. It looks a bit foggy or something down there now, but as the sun was out earlier, you could even see a ship. I hate this time of year for the cold and sun that is no longer warming, but I do get my lake view back, and that helps some.

It was another unseasonably warm weekend as well with temps Friday in the upper 50's, Saturday in the low 50's and today in the upper 40's.

What would Sunday be without Sunday dinner.
The Fabian people made one last trip up on Friday and brought RED SNAPPER!!! YAY!I picked up a half a pound of Jumbo Prawns as well - last until next April - so why not.

So on the grill now are: Red Snapper, Prawns with butter and garlic and a splash of white wine), Baby Red & Fingerling Potatoes, a Yam, and Asparagus (also with a bit of butter and white wine.

One heck of a lovely meal I reckon, capped off with the added deliciousness of a Bell's Two Hearted Ale.

Won't you join me?

Cheers!

11-11-11 Nigel Tufnel Day!

2011-11-11T00:00:00.003-06:00

The volume goes to 11.

It's one louder, isn't it.

ACT NOW! To Oppose Diverting Legacy Arts Funding to Vikings Stadium

2011-10-22T09:28:00.008-05:00

From: Sheila Smith [mailto:sheila@mncitizensforthearts.org]
Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 12:05 PM
Subject: arts alerts: Take Action Now to Oppose Diverting Arts Legacy Funds to Vikings Stadium
arts alert / arts alert / arts alert /arts alert / arts alert
MCA
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts
2233 University Ave. W. #355
St. Paul, MN 55155
651-251-0868 fax 651-917-3561
staff at mncitizensforthearts.org
www.mncitizensforthearts.org
@MnCitizen
Arts Action Center

October 21, 2011
ACT NOW! To Oppose Diverting Legacy Arts Funding to Vikings Stadium

As unbelievable as it may seem, some legislators have proposed diverting Arts Legacy funds to pay for a new Vikings Stadium. We must vigorously oppose this proposal which would do harm to arts funding in every corner of the state.

Go Here Now to send a letter to your legislators opposing this proposal. Talking points are provided there for you to use, and it will automatically send the letters to your legislators, even if you don’t know who they are:

http://www.capwiz.com/artsusa/mn/state/main/?state=MN

If you see your legislators in the next two weeks, here are some talking points:

I am alarmed at press reports that some legislators are proposing diverting the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund to pay for a Vikings Stadium. I want you to know that, as your constituent, I am absolutely opposed to using this Fund for the stadium.

Thousands of Minnesotans worked together on the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Vote Yes campaign to ensure dedicated funds for the outdoors and for the arts and history. Diverting these funds is not only illegal, but a bait and switch to the taxpayers who voted for the amendment with the belief that we were preserving the arts and outdoors.

Those who have made this proposal have obviously not read the constitution. The constitution limits says these funds “may be spent only for arts, arts education, and arts access and to preserve Minnesota’s arts and cultural heritage.” There is no mention of stadiums anywhere in the constitution.

It is clear that the legislative intent of the Fund is to support Minnesota’s arts and history. No where in that debate, nor in the constitution itself, is there language that says these funds can be used to pay for-profit stadium. Legislative intent is very clear on this matter.

The non-profits in every corner of Minnesota who depend upon these resources to provide arts opportunities in every county would be harmed by this proposal. There is not a single legislative district that would not have a negative impact from it.

Please immediately oppose the diversion of Legacy funds for any stadium.

Take Action Now!
***If you hear back from your legislators, please let me know what they are telling you about this proposal. Thanks! ***
_______________________________________________

RESOURCES
Everything MCA does is made possible by our passionate and committed members.

JOIN Today on MCA’s secure web site at: mncitizensforthearts.org/join/membership/individual-memberships/
TWITTER: @MnCitizen
FACEBOOK: Minnesota Citizens for the Arts
YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/user/Mncitizensforthearts
TAKE ACTION: www.mncitizensforthearts.org at our frequently updated, one-stop site for: information about Minnesota Citizens for the Arts and how you can get involved, an Action Center where you can write a letter to your legislator, or even find out who your legislators are, facts about the arts in Minnesota, the latest on legislative and congressional action on arts issues and more!
PRIVACY: MCA values your privacy, and will not sell or distribute your personal information to anyone.
ABOUT: MCA is a nonpartisan statewide arts advocacy organization whose mission is to ensure opportunity for all people to have access to and involvement in the arts. MCA organizes the arts community and lobbies the Minnesota State Legislature and Congress on issues pertaining to the nonprofit arts. If you are interested in learning more about how to advocate for the arts, or how to activate people in your arts organization or community to lobby for the arts, please call us at 651-251-0868 or e-mail staff at mncitizensforthearts.org . State arts funding supports access to the arts for all Minnesotans. The state-funded Minnesota State Arts Board and eleven Regional Arts Councils provide grants and services in every Minnesota county for artists, arts organizations, arts projects and school artist residencies. For more information on regional or state grants, go to www.arts.state.mn.us.

What A Day

2011-10-04T00:22:00.007-05:00

root canal day or?
oh no, they were complete dicks, completely refused the RC, and pulled my tooth.
it's finally over though - and go the pain meds!
was even able to eat.

took in the cans - netted $13

replied to a text from Rach - and got my hair coloured for wintah - dark, for $37!
(damn cheap for that place) and spent a lovely few hours connecting with my girl.

veggin with homework and tunes

Time for some of this:

then this:

and,

what the heck, this too

My Tree Today

Fall Colours From My Walk

2011-10-03T21:24:00.008-05:00

Noticed Kev finally cashed his bday check today - nice.
At least now I know he received it, and hopefully treated himself in some way.
Hard to think that a year ago I was there visiting and now we're no longer friends.
Too bad really.
I wish him all the best.
Life's short and people so easily dismiss each other, friendships, and relationships.
Seems so many do not understand or live the true meaning of friendship.
This, coupled with this time of year, makes me miss Joe all the more.
But it all also makes me really happy that George and I reconnected last year.
Peace.

What a Gorgeous Day

2011-10-02T00:11:00.008-05:00

Over 70f, Sunny, and Clear Blue Skies! +1

My Hot Thai Peppaz!

My Red Maple

My Red Maple is starting to turn. It looks more red than it really is yet due to the seeds on it being more yellow/tan/red, and my crappy phone's cam - but it's starting.
This is one of the peak weekends for fall colours up here, along the north shore, and on the range. They're really starting to show around town.

Dinner

Where'd September Go?

2011-09-30T00:01:00.003-05:00

Mmmm Fabian Day!
Red Snappers & Jumbo Prawns!

Approx 2lbs each - just right for grillin!

Another Glorious Day

2011-09-08T00:06:00.013-05:00

8th
a day off?
no
letters...

Yup another nice day spent indoors.
It's currently 9p and 71 and gorgeous with a slight breeze and large moon.

Have you tried to look at the Pinwheel Galaxy by the Big Dipper/Ursa Major?
It's only.. 21 million light years away, and visible with binoculars for up to two weeks!
CHECK IT OUT! It's awesome!

Speaking of Supernovas...

And as if that wasn't cool enough, try this:
Sept 7, 2011 - National Geographic Photo of the Day
Swimmers, Lake Superior, Minnesota

Classroom Day 1

2011-09-07T00:01:00.004-05:00

eeet was fun
and interesting
and encouraging
and the kids were great.
so far, the instructors were too

I feel a bit better about attending this school vs LSC
it really seems as if people care here
and want others to succeed.

that may seem a lot to say after one day of classes
but I am not only referring to one day of classes
so far, in every door i've peeked and inquired
i've received many positive answers and encouragement
and solutions as if they were just there for the asking
which they are, to an extent.

let's hope this last time is the charm

I'm off to read for class
gnite.

hugs

Transition

2011-09-05T04:58:00.004-05:00

A gorgeous yet somewhat chilly day out of the sun.
The house stayed cold all day, and this evening I had to close windows.
The weather is changing fast.
Days still are warm-ish, but nights are really cooling off.
I'm not yet ready to let summer go.
I tried to be outside as much as possible today.
Weeding, watering, picking tomatoes, and just listening to the sounds of life as people mowed, bbq'd and had fires, and of course, the birds chirping and crows cawing.
Even a Jay came to the lilac bush and called at me, then helped himself to the seed there.
I can't bear the thought of winter coming, and all the lovely plants dying away.
Some are already starting to show signs of this, and leaves are falling - not turning - just falling already and I've noticed a few trees on my routes sporting a few coloured leaves as well.
The air smells different, the sun's path has changed, and the clouds are showing that high whispy flow pattern that always comes this time of year.
I really wish I had a camera right now to capture all the things I see changing, or for one last photo.

No photos today, they are all in my head.
For Your Eyes Only.

¡Abrazos!

Sunny September Sunday Sunflowers

2011-09-04T00:17:00.004-05:00

August Goes By Way Too Fast - So Does Summer

2011-08-31T00:43:00.007-05:00

The last day again!
The last day of August, ugh,
and the last of the three summer months,
or what most consider as summer, ignoring the actual dates from solstice to equinox.

I don't have much today,
been feeling under the weather
and
the weather's been shit
gone cooler, with rain and fog the past two days
and some kinda intestinal bug has made it's home in me

I feel a bit like this mouse - flat.

Stopped at the library downtown today and when I returned to my car, this was the sight.
I wonder if I did it? Hard tellin, as there really wasn't more blood/splat/squish than what you see here, and not any nearer to my tire. And, I know I didn't step on it.

As I sat here typing, something in the back of my mind reminded me that perhaps some wine might help cure or settle my affliction. Sure enough, a quick Google search produced a couple of links supporting that very fact. Red wine, in particular, is good for stomach issues; namely combating food-borne illness and stomach ulcers.

So off I went in search of some Merlot or Zin.
Finding one of my cheap Aussie faves, Lindeman's at a greatly reduced price for a 1.75L, I went with their Merlot vs the Ravenswood Zin I also like, but at the same price, clearly the larger bottle was a better wallet value, and would provide more than one night's cure if needed, or just a nice drop for another evening.

Also, I reckon I may retire the Ravens Wood out of my choices, as it serves of a reminder of questionable times with Kevin. Then again, it might be the only really good thing to come out of that liason, so why limit myself. Perhaps in time I'll drink it again, or find another Zin to better love. I'll have to ask my sista-in-law for a recommendation - she's always in the know as she works in the wine biz.

Anyway, I had a fortune cookie from a recent lunch - hard to read (actually it's an eye test ;-)) as it was taken via my mobile (funny how clear the mouse pic is) and it's lens is so scratched from age - it reads:

"You will attract cultural and artistic people to your home."

I laughed, as Renan has not been here for a few months, so
perhaps he's due to pop back in again, as has occurred in the past.

On a final note, I took out the garbage tonight, as I do every Wednesday night, and was surprised to find a large bag already in my bin. Clearly not mine, as it was a type of bag I don't use, and full of product refuse I don't use. I knew right off it was the neighbour Anita's - as she's not had garbage service/pick up for months (all of the other neighbours do), ever since the huge mess back a few months ago, they've been stockpiling the garbage, and other stuff in the garage. About a week ago, a recent new female visitor/renter exclaimed how gross and smelly the garage was, and that it should be removed. The garage was open today as I drove past literally packed wall-to-wall to rafters with furniture, odds-n-ends, and yes, PILES OF GARBAGE. Months worth from some heavy producers. (She does not recycle. or compost.) Pure filth, and smell when the door is open. Her dogs are constantly clawing at the door and sneaking in when they've left it open or unlocked. Gross. And, she carries them around letting them lick her face. Nasty.

Clearly I'll be stashing my bin until next week - or finding a way to lock it. Cheap smelly people.

My Sunny Volunteers

2011-08-30T00:03:00.003-05:00

These guys are all starting to bloom and make such a happy sight.
(Taken via mobile - I need a new camera soon.)

There Was A Hummingbird. I Swear!

2011-08-02T00:08:00.003-05:00

Tonight there were several actually, only each time I'd reach for the camera, they were gone.

One single, then a pair hovering over the lilacs, then one over there by those lilies - I swore I got that one, but, looks as if I missed again. Damn.

They're finally comin round again though. I'll have to really be on my toes!

August Sunrise

2011-08-01T06:02:00.009-05:00

I woke up just after 5am (who knows why - maybe for this very reason it was supposed to be?), and called to leave Ardis a Birthday message, then as I was lying here to go back to sleep, the red colour coming through the crack in the shade caught my eye.
The other night at the ball game, it was:
"Red Sky at Night; Sailor's Delight"
This morning, as warned on the news last night, it's:
"Red Sky at Morning; Sailors Take Warning."
Storms are predicted.
I looked up the sunrise time and Google said 5:48am.
I could stay awake a little longer.
Then I remembered the web cams, and as always, the best views were from the LSMMA cam, so I screen capped it to share this spectacular view.
As I took them I wondered if you were up (probably) and if the red colour was like that down there on your lake too?
If you were up, and looked out, I hope it was as lovely as this - and would like to think that during this time - we shared the first sunrise of our month!
Happy Birthday!
Happy August!
Enjoy!

1 August 2011 - Sunrise 5:48am

One fisherman heading out, and two ships parked on the lake.

In this one: some seagulls in flight.

Another fisherman.

It's August!!!

2011-08-01T00:16:00.004-05:00

YAY!
Ok, now slow it down a lil, I wanna enjoy this month, my month.

¡Muchos Besos!

Happy Birthday to my sistaaaa Ardis
and to Rich too!

¡Abrazos!

On another note:

The Echinacea is blooming and looking lovely as ever.
Here are a few shots playing with the focus on my near dead camera.
There's also a shot of a nasty thistle plant, and a wayward Blue Jay who had wandered into the yard. First one I've seen since the group of them descended on my yard last spring. Poor shot though, and he flew off before I could get a better one. Ah well.

Enjoy!

as always, click to enlarge

More blooms to come:

Gotta pull this buggar - the nerve pestering my lil dasies!
There's a second plant nearby that's got to go as well.

The Last Day of July!

2011-07-31T00:04:00.008-05:00

Already!
Damn, although tomorrow, starts my most favourite month of the year!
YAY!
but, shit, summer's goin fast.

Anyway, my bro sent me this link to my sis-in-law's cousin Kevin Rhoad's (k.s. rhoads) blog, and I quickly looked up his other links to find some of his music.
Have a listen here.

Also, everyone's been talking butterflies and butterfly gardens, and I've lamented not seeing any beyond some plain ol white ones flitting about, but this afternoon I lucked out - As I sat outside for a bit before work, I happened to turn and notice this Monarch sitting on one of my Echinacea flowers. So I got the camera to open, and snapped a couple shots only using the zoom. Then, I decided to move closer, and of course, it took off. It circled around a few times, going way out to the front of my house, all around the neighbour's backyard, and each time nearly re-landing on the flower - could I have been too close? (I was still about 10 ft away, but closer to hopefully catch a much more zoomed in view.) Anyway, it never did re-land and I was grateful to have noticed it when I did.

Here, have a look:

As always, click to enlarge

These were just because the lilies looked so lovely in the sunshine.

Half July Already? Yikes!

2011-07-15T00:22:00.002-05:00

It's the 15th!?!?!
Fuck where does time go?

I have so much to post and pics to upload - one day in my spare time when all this ship stuff calms down.

Stay tuned!

Full Moon & Fire

2011-07-14T00:10:00.006-05:00

Just after midnight I captured these pics of the full moon through some clouds.
As always, click to enlarge.
Enjoy!

Later, as I got ready for work, I smelled smoke.
Odd, for 9am on a Thurs
I looked out several windows, only to discover my strange neighbour's man-friend out the back of her house with a giant pile of crap he'd lit on fire. He was tossing large cardboard boxes on the pile, and it didn't only smell like wood, but more toxic smelling as it made me actually cough, and my throat feel funny, not to mention a fair bit of smoke come into my lower level and large pieces of ash from the cardboard flying everywhere. The wood in the pile was not firewood, but treated boards and whatnot from renovations she's been doing, as well as other misc. garbage. Not good.

Well, he, (and she for that matter) must not realise there is a burning ordinance in Duluth, and this fire pile was so large and not even all in say a burning barrel, or neat pile, but stretched out over a large area, and directly under some power lines.
Dopes. Totally unsafe.
He did have a hose, but still, this is dangerous, and not a way to get rid of garbage in town because you've neglected your responsibilities/bills. (She just received a huge settlement for fucks sake from her accident. No excuses)
911.
I also has my suspicions that they'd probably try to burn all the garbage they've hoarded in the garage since quitting their garbage service weeks and weeks ago (yes, it's piling up in there, and the dogs are constantly scratching at the door to get in there at it - she even says to them in her mousy voice, "I hope you're not getting into the garbage out there." As if those dogs will ever take her seriously.

I can't wait to move.
George reckons she might be getting the house ready to move herself.
I can only hope.

Birthdays

2011-07-13T00:06:00.006-05:00

It's a crazy day for me, all this work, and on top of it I'm making a huge carrot cake for Neill's birthday tomorrow.
If the recipe turns out, I'll post it.
*pics too*
So here are the cakes.
Doubled the recipe, and it made one large cake and as you can see, the extra loaf pan too. It took so long for the full cake to bake (1hr 50 min) and for the loaf pan too (40-45min) - such wet batter.

Later, I received a message they postponed the treat day til next week
so I looked online and the cake and frosting can be frozen - yes, I made the frosting too (Cream Cheese of course!), as the cake was baking as it was so late, figuring that I'd frost it in the morning. Let's hope it works as that'd be a lot of cake to waste.

I did have a small slice of the loaf- man it turned out delish - I just pray that the cake is as good, and fully done inside. The picks came out clean - so I'm crossing my fingers it's all good.

This reminds me, today is Kev's 37th.
We don't speak anymore, but I still wish him a Happy Birthday, wish him well, and hope he has a good day whatever he does. Hopefully, in this next year, things will change for the better for him.
I hope his family and friends send/surround him with lots of love today.
Hugs.

A Real Summer Day!

2011-07-02T17:56:00.014-05:00

I can't get enough of this day, mainly for fear that it will all come to and end and go back to cold and/or rain tomorrow or very soon. Can't trust any forecasts, just what each day brings, along with the radar maps.

For now, though, it's been a busy day outside and running.
Gonna head to the river soon for a swim to cool down and then clean up for the evening - get all this yard dirt and grunge off me. Although, it feels good to get dirty, and to play amongst the plants, and enjoy the fruits of my labours.

I picked my first ripened strawberry
and noticed that the critters stole several of the others that were nearing ready. lil shits. I sprinkled cayenne pepper all over the plants yesterday, only to have it downpour last night washing it all away.
So I've just finished re-applying the pepper and picking the one unsampled strawberry for my treat. First of the season always tastes best.
Anyway, here are some pics of some bloomers (the daisies are starting), an iris, and heaps of silly little dragonflies which must have recently hatched and were flitting about the yard, in the sunshine, sunning themselves on the branches stored in the fort.

Enjoy!

The asters are coming up nicely

Later, I took a ride to the Skyline Parkway, passing through Hawk Ridge and the scenic overlooks, on my way for an evening swim in the Lester River, along the Seven Bridges Road.

Lake Superior Scenic Overlook

The Hawk Ridge release area and scenic overlook

Lester River at The Smilies

Lots of sun, and rushing water (big rain Friday night)

One of the Seven Bridges above,

and the view above is from on the bridge, looking upstream.
This view from the bridge is looking downstream on The Smilies (if you look on this photo, there's a rock in the upper left which has a smile face painted on it in white spray paint - hence this being known as The Smilies) swimming area.
It was so lovely; the water so refreshing.

2011-06-29T00:02:00.004-05:00

wednesday
double day
downtown
and huskies
more later, just look at the pics

as always, click to enlargeDucks

1st Shot

old skool panorama (l to r, matching the red signs, and rightmost telephone poles):
1

Buried Fiber Fail

2011-06-27T22:12:00.003-05:00

I walked up to the bus stop this morning and was treated to this lovely view.

This crevice was quite deep too, although you can't really tell by this photo.

This corner piece is very soft as well; there's even an imprint of a woman's dress shoe(click to enlarge) that has significantly sunk as she boarded a bus perhaps? I bet she was happy in her high heels. I didn't stand there, but on the cement sidewalk edge, and the bus pulled up as if I as standing in that dirt area, so I had to maneuver over the patch to get onto the bus step. I was thinking thoughts about the driver's lack of concern for those waiting, but then figured, maybe they can't tell from their seat that it's that soft there.
So I told her, and she thanked me, as she had heard similar stories from others along the route.

Seems as though there wasn't quite enough soil packed back into the trenches dug for the fiber lines laid last month.
All the rain has caused the areas along the fiber path to crack and sink like these two areas. I noticed several more on my ride too.

Time to call that contractor back.

Back to the Grind

2011-06-27T01:57:00.007-05:00

Back to the grind.

Wait, what am I talkin about - I've not really had to deal with 'the grind' fully for some time. This week though, will be a bit close again, as I had to go into the office today, and again tonight, and will be going to Dos Harberos tomorrow and Thurs, subbing downtown on Wed - and have a games to work Wed, Thurs, and Friday nights as well. I'll be glad for Sat and Sun off and for the day game on the 4th. Actually, there are games all next week. Fun!

At least it pays the bills.

In between office runs, I ran up the hill to Cub for some groceries as my dad sent me some good money off coupons - Thanks Dad! So I grabbed a few items, and mainly stayed out of the late afternoon showers that were building. The wind was another story - almost blew the skirt up several times. (heh)

Anyway, coming back down the hill I was treated to a Rainbow! So I took a heap of shots in transit.

Later, glancing out the window as I packed up the laptop to leave the office around 9p, the last of the setting sun coloured the clouds above the Holiday Inn a bright pink, so I snapped a shot of that too.Literally, less than a minute later, the clouds were gray, and the sun had gone down.

After returning home, I could not find my mobile, after 2 searches of the car, my purse, and pockets. I feared it dropped somewhere along the way, as the pockets of my jacket and my skirt are low cut. Or, the worst - that I left it all the way back in my office downtown. Please no. I just wanted to be home for the night to relax.

As I sat pulling things from my purse searching, I opened the laptop lid to start up. I then noticed my new fun friend Greg online and sent him a quick message to ring or text it for me to see if I could hear it in the car or purse. He obliged.

Minutes later it started to ring, loud, and vibrate me. I LAUGHED SO FUCKING HARD. Quickly, I retrieved my mobile and answered the call laughing quite heartily, and he asked, "What's so funny?"
I said, "You rang my cleavage, I had just absentmindedly dropped it into my singlet (as I often do since it's a convenient pocket and I can actually hear/feel it ring there), heh heh, and I had totally forgotten all about it. The office keys were in there too.

He laughed so hard, saying that was the best thing he'd heard all day. I was still laughing, as we both joked about the vibration and retrieval and such. Good times.

sadly started sucky grey sunday, saved by the Sun, now sublime

2011-06-26T19:11:00.012-05:00

Was a bit of a shippy day.
The horns went off early starting with this one:
Then later in the afternoon, the series of horns alerted me to another.
Gotta love this cap - even captured the flying rat in flight!

Putzing outside, I noticed this lil spider down the bottom of the pot.
I freed him to a nearby plant.

Then this larger one a few minutes later

Late afternoon shown the sun attempting to do it's job inspite of these friggin clouds. Actually, this is the most blue sky I'd seen since this morning. And now it's all gone grey again.

C'mon! Grill's on,
with a cold beverage,
Sun's sinkin,
evening sounds surround,
here's a lil somethin to chill to

The sun hath prevailed!!!!¡¡¡¡!!!!

and then, when you've had enough of the neighbours, and you wanna send them back inside, queue up some of these guys
Start with:
They're All Gone

Settle in to eat, and relax, about 830p or so... and RAIN!
I'm done.

Cheers!

Surely Hell Has Frozen Over!

2011-06-16T18:57:00.005-05:00

They've FINALLY resurfaced my street!
After 19.5 years of living on the craters of the moon.

Say it isn't so!

When I was up around 8a, nada.
When I left for work at 11:45, nada.
Well, save for the 18th Ave E side being blocked off with cones and a road closed sign.

So off I went to Two Harbors for the afternoon.

Afterward, I met George & Gus for a walk at the cemetery (since it wasn't raining).

Returning home, driving up 19th Ave E and glancing down the block I was glad to be sitting down. Could it really be? After all these years of half-assed patching, they've finally made a slightly better effort and resurfaced the mofo.
A bit sloppy on the 18th Ave E end - not even fully fixing the areas there to the 'true corner'And totally leaving the upper-side corner still as fucked up and half-ass patched as ever. Way to go City of Dull-uth. You ALMOST did a good job, but it'd be so unlike you to actually do something right the first time. Ah well. I feel bad for the new people on both corners.
I'll be curious to see how long this lasts (actually I hope I've gone within this next year and won't ever know), since that is all it was, a resurfacing, not a full and complete actual street replacement. (Which is good for me in a way, so as not to be fully assessed for a huge job like that.)

Anyway, it is nice to see it finally done.

I might actually drive down it now as the alley is worse than the street was. (deep craters, pitted, and rebar exposed in many places)

Rain at last.

2011-06-15T21:32:00.015-05:00

We needed it.

My plants and yard needed it.

I needed it.

However, it's weighed down my lilacs and flowering plum.

I did go out a couple of times and used a broom to shake off some of the water.

Hopefully, none of their branches will break off.

Anyway, I had a day to sleep in a little, after an odd night's sleep.

Then it's been sorting insurance papers and paperwork.

I am, however, a bit curious as to all the little signs up and down the block today proclaiming that tomorrow is a day of no parking. Hmm...

I wonder if they're going to trim trees, or patch, or? Guess we'll see come 9am.

Then it was time for another delicious brekky dinner!Mmmm I'd been craving french toast.

The Greyhound's were pretty yum too!

Too bad it's too foggy and overcast to see the full moon tonight.

I loved Googles interactive for the Lunar Eclipse though
- they really come up with some cool stuff.

Also, I think I've found a solution for my insomnia problem!
I've got Samuel to read me to sleep.

To Renán

2011-06-14T20:41:00.010-05:00

I have but this to say to you:

We are upon our longest days of the year,
near solstice.

Tonight, the moon is full.

Take this to heart & relish these moments;
drink in the waning spring & impending summer;
rejoice within it all & within yourself;
feel it all embrace you, as I embrace you,
and feel loved.

¡Abrazos!
xo

I used to write
I used to write letters
I used to sign my name
I used to sleep at night
Before the flashing lights settled deep in my brain
But by the time we met
By the time we met
The times had already changed
So I never wrote a letter
I never took my true heart
I never wrote it down
So when the lights cut out
I was lost standing in the wilderness downtown

Now our lives are changing fast
Now our lives are changing fast
Hope that something pure can last
Hope that something pure can last

It may seem strange
How we used to wait for letters to arrive
But what's stranger still
Is how something so small can keep you alive
We used to wait
We used to waste hours just walkin around
We used to wait
All those wasted lives in the wilderness downtown (seriously, eh)

Ooooo we used to wait
Sometimes it never came
Ooooo we used to wait
Sometimes it never came
Ooooo we used to wait
Still moving through the pain

I'm gonna write a letter to my true love
I'm gonna sign my name
Like a patient on a table
I wanna walk again
Gonna move through the pain

Now our lives are changing fast
Now our lives are changing fast
Hope that something pure can last
Hope that something pure can last

Ooooo we used to wait
Sometimes it never came
Ooooo we used to wait
Sometimes it never came
Ooooo we used to wait
Still moving through the pain

We used to wait
We used to wait
We used to wait

We used to wait for it
We used to wait for it
Now we're screaming
Sing the chorus again

I used to wait for it
I used to wait for it
I used to wait for it
Hear my voice screaming
Sing the chorus again

Wait for it
Wait for it
Wait for it

Don't wait too long.
Life's too short.
Love ya,
E.

New Fiber, But Not For Us

2011-05-17T19:05:00.007-05:00

I reckon if it's going through my block, and digging up my lawn (as marked), that as a taxpayer and internet user, they should hook me up!

I rang up the City yesterday to find out what all the markings were about (I wanted to mow my lawn).

This morning, Pat from the City Engineers Office called and said it's not for us.

Just passin through:

Up/Down Snelling

Across 19th Ave E

Up/Down 19th Ave E

Up/Down E 9th St

Up/Down 18th Ave E

Across E 8th Street, continuing up/down 18th Ave E

Worn Street and Potholes Revisited

2011-05-17T18:27:00.004-05:00

Judging from the evidence, the City's pothole crew has come by today, filling exactly two small holes along the edges of one part of the street, and spilling bitumen on their way in front of and behind of the patched spots.
Nice.
Way to go.
Another half-assed job and more waste.
Two patches (one next to the back wheel of the car, and the other directly across, along with the spilled bitumen.

Nearby potholes and crevices that need filling

The two small patches close up (only 8-10 inches or so)

More spillage (in the shadow of the trailer) above, additional shots of the worn street,
which could use much more efficient patching, or total replacement.

Now I wonder how they came to decide that those two small spots needed patching vs. all the rest of the craters on the street (as shown). Guess it's time to call the City again and inquire what their thinking is, and seeing if they can justify an explanation of more wasted tax dollars.

Everybody Howl!

2011-05-17T00:54:00.007-05:00

Ahhhhhoooooooooooooooo

Even when my pics aren't perfect, some still look pretty cool.
This full moon shot especially - the moon isn't in perfect focus, and yet it's all good, with the lights of park point in the distance and the church on the corner in the foreground.

From this morning's ride to Two Harbors - Sch idt Creek (someone rubbed out the M)

Leave The Driving To Us

2011-05-12T06:11:00.007-05:00

Heading down to Mpls to meet up with my son and go to the Cake concert tonight.

With gas prices being what they are, and him coming home on Sunday, I've decided to take the Greyhound bus down vs. driving a big car alone, then return with him.

The fare, pre-paid online, was only $19.80 one way. If I had wanted round trip, it would have been $34 and change. Damn cheaper than a tank of gas for sure, and I can nap or play online, as the bus is also WiFi enabled - cost included. How can you beat that?

In my travels I have found that sometimes there is free WiFi to be had, but more often than not, there is a fee - and usually nearly what one would pay for a month's service. Even many places claiming to have WiFi - charge you some ridiculous fee.

Anyway, I am glad to have this available so I can catch up on some of my posts, as well as emails, or just to read as well.

The bus wasn't very full either, so I had a fair bit of privacy around me, which was nice too.

I also learned later that this was one of Greyhound's last trips before Jefferson Lines takes over.

Happy Bird Day

2011-05-11T18:31:00.002-05:00

Today I put out a few more feeders.

I picked up a couple smaller ones at the dollar store.

Fixed my finch feeder and one of the older feeders the squirrel had annihilated.

Added more seed to the tray feeders on the gas grill.

Filled the water/bird bath trays. Even scrubbing all the algae out of the larger bath - my sinuses are thanking me for that one - but so were the birds, as it was nearly dried out and really smeggy.

Put the plants out for some sun. (since el Sol graced us with his presence for short bursts throughout the day - no where near the 70f+ and sunny predicted by both the local weather stooges or the weather channel.)

Today some new winged friends came to partake at the feeders, including: the Blue Jays above (at least eight!!!, if not more - a record for my yard for sure, as I've only ever seen one at a time, and even that is rare), 2 Woodpeckers, and some Finches with orange-ish-pink breasts. (I managed to capture some of them in action.) Some of the regs were back as well. The sounds of them singing, along with seeing them flitting about and feeding made for a really nice view as I worked in the house and kitchen.

click to enlarge

Chromebook

2011-05-11T18:14:00.004-05:00

My bro sent me this link today - pretty cool stuff.
Might be good for a lot of people and eliminate PC and other issues for many.

I Made The Cut!

2011-05-10T20:57:00.008-05:00

Got called today to work for the Duluth Huskies organization!

I am so excited and can hardly wait.

This is going to be one fun summer!

Redeemed

2011-04-28T21:55:00.005-05:00

Today started out shit again.
No sign of the sun, only more rain.
And cold.
Until about mid-morning.
Then, the SUN started coming through.
OHTHANKFUCK!
Temps warmed up too.

What still sucked, was working past five.
The compliance guy was in town and he and my boss weren't quite done til closer to five thirty.
Ugh.
I just wanted to go home - I nearly asked the bank president for a ride.
But, I had ulterior motives - I wanted to stop by the liquor store for some wine - and I knew my boss would afford me that. So I toughed it out.

Then bonus - the Bota Boxes were on sale, and there was rebate!
Score.

I was home by about six and sat outside for a bit in the late afternoon sun, along with the birds, and some of my homemade salsa and chips for dinner. Yum!
Just that hour outside was sooooo relaxing and rejuvinating after a day indoors at a desk.

I'm now enjoying a glass of shiraz, while settling in to write, sort a couple of pics, and post this entry.

As expected, my neighbour's garbage was never picked up - I'm guessing the dumb cunt hasn't kept up with her bills and now we ( the rest of us neighbours) will have to pay the price.
Garbage was being picked apart by the crows and other critters overnight, and into today, and also blowing around the alley from the breeze.Bits of garbage can be seen in the alley - some in puddles, some outside the bags, and in that yard by the evergreens there was much more. As the crows picked this evening, the spread grew.
Nice eh.
She's home.
So are others.
Music is on.
Lights are on all around the house.
No one's made any effort to pick up or re-store it all in the garage (where it was previously), until she sorts her bill or pick up issues.

Later, just at about dark, my texts went off.
In my messages was this lovely photo of a sunset from my girl friend Krystal.

Such a lovely sight.
A very nice ending to the day.

And here's this to top it off:
Hot Sauce Committee Part Two
New Beastie Boys - Out May 3rd!
Good Shit!

Make It Stop Already

2011-04-27T21:46:00.005-05:00

Woke to thisBy 11a some had melted
All day it flaked like a shaken snow globe, rained, sleeted, melted, and accumulated on and off.

More this evening

Weather for Thursday and Friday is predicted as Sunny, with temps in the 50's Thur and 60's Fri. *Thank Fuck* I'll be so glad when it stays that and temps go higher.

Enough is enough with this crap cold weather of late.
C'mon SUN!

My Neighbour Is....Ugh.

2011-04-27T21:23:00.007-05:00

She put all of this out for pick up in the morning.
The birds/animals are already picking at it,
not to mention the same-sized recycling bin is overflowing as well,
(hidden here as it's on the other side of the garbage bin)
and it was recycling week last week.

When I returned home from work at 5p there were already cans and other bits of garbage in the alley, and in my and others yards.
I'll be so glad to move away from this.
Or pray that she would before I am able to.She's also taken to having parties or some sort of late-late gatherings quite a bit lately - loud music/thumping bass (the first time I thought my washing machine was off balance - mind you all my doors/windows were closed, as were hers) going til way past midnight on weeknights - and judging by all the beer cans/boxes/wine bottles and cartons easily seen in the trash pictured.
She's also been leaving her dog outside barking - accidentally (I'm guessing) locked outside the doors or her fence gates. A call to the cops sorts that.

I feel bad for the couple in the house on the other side of hers whose bedroom is on that side of their house nearest hers. Lucky for me, mine's opposite so once I go to bed, it's relatively quiet. Unless of course she neglects the dogs again and they're left barking indoors/outdoors like most of last year. For some reason, they're louder than music.

*yes it was snowing when I took the pic*

Earth Day 2011

2011-04-22T18:28:00.008-05:00

Here it is Earth Day again.

Google has a cool little interactive logo today.

Mouseover makes it do stuff! Check it out!

I wanted to go out and plant some stuff in the yard, but it's too cold, and rained on and off.

I did, however, pick up some garbage that was blowin around - so I guess that's something.

I also decided against the Buick - too much work needed for the money.
Looked at a Toyota Tercel as well, it was even worse, and they wanted $3k for it - it was like an empty tuna can, with odd damage and they didn't have much/any first-hand knowledge of its history. The rearview mirror had markings, as well as the interior of the roof - like it had been in water maybe? Yikes. No thanks.

I'll keep looking.
I'm just glad it's spring, and that I am able to bus, walk or bike for the most part. All good for me and the earth. I won't need a car until the Cake concert - or Home Grown - as that gets out too late for the bus. I'll just borrow a car then; I've had some good friends offer - pretty nice of them.

When I took the Buick to Jimmy's, I also stopped and cleaned out all my stuff from the Beast. Bummed me out some. I really liked driving that car, just too much of it was falling apart to keep paying on it.

I reckon I could probably go without a car for quite some time, maybe even for good. Sell this house, move, and then maybe, maybe buy one then, something new-ish and perhaps a hybrid. I've never owned a brand new car, nor have I ever cared. I mainly only use one for larger grocery runs (when I stock up on heavy stuff like juice/liquids), or to go to the cities a few times a year.

In the meantime, I rode the bus today, and walked too.

A small contribution to Earth Day, but a contribution none-the-less.

While waitng for the bus, I noticed yet another new business had gone into/taken over where the craft place was.

Campus Fuze

Another one of those Fusion drink places?
We'll See.
Ever since the Baseball card place went out of biz years ago, everything else to try that spot has gone out of biz in months to just a year or two. One of those jinxed places I'm guessing.

Time will tell.

Anyway, this gave me a craving for pizza - so I 'made' one - doctoring up an Italian Melt - basically garlic-based cheese with spinach and mushroom, adding other toppings - lotsa veggies. YUM!

Just add a tasty ice-cold beverage!

Cold As Hell, But A Pretty Good Day

2011-04-19T00:29:00.010-05:00

Slept in - a deep sleep - so needed!
I was so glad to not have to get up to go to Two Harbors this morning as it took me til 330-4a to fall asleep for some reason.

Then I woke to an offliner from Boris with some bad news. I felt so bad I had slept through his messaging as he's such a nice guy, and he was so totally there for me when things were going to shit in Florida, and afterward. Sometimes the people we least expect to be friends are so much more than people we're 'used to' and who aren't or never really were friends. I was glad he came to me, and felt so bad I didn't hear the alerts go off. As soon as I woke and read his messages I messaged back to check on him - and he was doing ok - well as ok as could be expected. I got ready for work and then once at work, kept in close touch with him as the day progressed.

Sometimes it sucks so much to have online friends you feel so close to and wish you could just go hug, but you cannot. I mean I tell them when I would, or when I think they need one, but it's just not the same as being able to actually be there/go there and give them one. I used to tell this to Kev - and he said he'd welcome them, but then he felt overwhelmed by the ones I did give - go figure. I welcome all and any I can get from friends or family anytime. Words are nice, but hugs are so much better, especially in person. I send the words, and mean them.

Ran off to catch the bus this morning not realising that it was SO cold and windy out. I literally left with wet hair, and in a lighter sweater and skirt. Man it was cold, but the bus came within minutes - as I had suspected it would when I ran out.

Brr fuckin Brr!
I want my warm days back
NOW.
kthx.

I was so glad to not have to make the run to Two Harbors today, but rather work downtown and then enjoy one of my most favourite lunches. Grilled Turkey and Swiss on Cranberry Wild Rice Bread with Horseradish Cranberry Mayo and Russian Noodle Soup. So YUM and SO filling and JUST what I needed on a cold day like this. Each time they've had this sandwich in the past few months, it's been a Tues or Thurs and I've been up working in Two Harbors, so imagine how happy I was to check out the Greenery menu online and discover that my lunch would be ever so heavenly. *contented sigh*

Later, when running back across the street for a beverage/caffeine refill, I ran into Terry too and we had a quick chat about the website, Homegrown, and more. And a hug! Always good to see him too.

I worked away the afternoon and was then surprised to discover my mate had my bus route - so this is what I've been missing all these Tuesdays. He was as surprised and glad to see me as I was him. He'd had a rough day, and there are new traffic delays in town, and he seemed really relieved to have me to vent to. I was glad to see him as well, and then found he'd be heading back around when I had to go downtown for my Homegrown meeting, and he suggested I meet him at his break at the college for a ride down the hill. I was more than happy to take him up on the invite, as well as have the walk to the college (10 min fast) to stretch out - dressed warmly of course - and enjoy more time to have a private visit without a bus load of people eavesdropping or bustling between us as we talked. I really need to invite him over soon for a relaxed visit, and perhaps a dinner or something for a real catch-up. Maybe on the weekend.

I was lucky enough to get some hugs from him today as well - I can never get enough of his hugs. Always warm and meant heartfelt, and I love giving him them as well, as he appreciates them fully. I could always hug him to pieces, and would if given the chance.

While home, Sister MT called to let me know she was out of the hospital finally, and to see if I'd still help out volunteering at the reception desk on some weeknights. I said I would and she was a happy camper. Sometimes working at the Monastery seems a bit hypocritical of me, as I don't go to church, use some colourful language, and well, for other reasons.

Sometimes I swear I can hear the Holy Water boil in the receptacles as I pass...lol But the sisters love me for helping out, and they feed me dinner too - how could I say no? Do you realise how hard it is to say no to a nun begging you to work so they can attend mass? Yeah. Very.

Anyway, afterward, I went to the Homegrown Music Festival Volunteer Meeting - I've picked up a couple door shifts during the festival to get out, hear a bit of music, and to also take advantage of the free entrance to the other shows, as well as a free t-shirt with the cool 13th year design. I was hoping that it would be a black t-shirt, but this will have to do - guess it's easier for them to see overall who is a worker vs someone darkly dressed in a darkened venue. They also gave us our lanyards and volunteer passes, as well as a Field Guide to familiarise ourselves with the bands and venues, as well as a rules and information sheet. We all went over some basic information, and a few 'what if' scenarios, then we were done. I was glad as it was early enough to catch the 8:10 bus, rather than have to wait around for the 9:10.

While waiting, some people were standing shivering in the bus shelter, so I pressed the button for heat. Heh, heh, so nice of me, or dumb of them eh. Those shelters have had heat for two years now, but rarely does anyone make use of the heaters. Although, as I mentioned in an earlier blog, the heaters are up on the ceiling of the shelter, and heat rises...so it's not like you really get 'warm' but it kind does come down enough to feel it some. The tall kid, who was shivering the most, moved outside once it came on - too bad for him - he would have been tall enough to really feel the heat and benefit from it, as he was only wearing a thin zip hoodie.

Also while waiting, I noticed this unmarked cop car sitting right across from us waiting for the light to change. What caught my eye was the glare of the computer screen.

Anyway, back home to warm up, have a bit of dinner, hot tea, and write this post.

Cheers!

Coachella Live!

2011-04-15T21:37:00.003-05:00

Streaming

What A Great Day

2011-04-09T20:00:00.013-05:00

It didn't rain as predicted, and the sun was even out for most of the day.
Only a high of 50 though - but still seemed warm enough.
No Jacket Required!
(haha me complaining about 50 when I'd have killed for 50 just a month or more ago)
Ok, I'll be thankful!

Sorted out some BS last night, then slept like a baby.
For the first time in a long time.
Some people are really clueless, but hopefully one day they'll wake up to themselves, and
maybe, they'll stop hurting themselves, and others in their lives.
I am going to write a specific entry about this, soon.

Had a later-night text from Paul - he's been working with his brother to pick up some cash on his trip. Good to hear from him - I miss that boy sometimes. Hugs Pauly!

Got up at 9, sorted some stuff.
Took a walk to UMD to sort my property taxes.
Saw my ol pal Renan on the walk back home.
Watered and sunned some of my plants for a while outside.
(Still too cold to leave them out nights)
Sorted some house chores - the best being fresh bedding!

Later, I took a ride to the library to pick up Kerouac's On The Road - recommended by a new friend, and again passed my pal two more times - down and back - funny stuff.
I swear, sometimes I never see him, and other days every time I turn a corner or have this odd feeling and look up, his bus or car is there - today was one of those days with the bus.

George called for a walk, so a quick stop home to change into my wind pants and get my knee brace on, then head over to the cemetery.

On the way - our paths crossed again - I had to send him a text laughing about it.
Got a very nice reply back as well.
Love ya too bub! ¡Abrazos!

George and I walked with Gus for nearly an hour.
Again, it's so nice to have the upper part of the cemetery open again as the hills are more of a workout and the past 4 months of the same scenery has sucked. I love the upper part as it is full of the really old tombstones - the huge tall ones, the military ones, and some of the big mausoleums and such. Plus the views from up there are so cool. Some pics are in previous posts.

Afterward, came home to sort my making my bed and a pizza - well a garlic melt - YUM! Paired that with a glass of Shiraz = Perfecto!

I'm now alternating between the NCAA championships - GO Bulldogs (2-2 in the 3rd at this post)
** Edit 9:18p** BULLDOGS JUST WON IN just over 3 min of overtime! w00t!

and the Twins game - GO Twins! (0-1 Oak - 7th)
**Edit 9:15p** Twins Lost - 0-1 boo!

Another new acquaintance is online watching the two games with me from a sports bar in St. Paul - haa! gotta love technology/teh interwebz!
And again, normal people are so welcome.

The sun is finally down and it's gone dark, time to put a light on and relax for the evening.
Might need to take some pain meds for the knee as it's starting to feel a bit swollen - probably overdid the walking today - but man it felt so good at the time.

I hate sitting, miss volleyball, love walking and exercise.
I think I'm gonna go bike riding tomorrow if it doesn't rain.
Doc said it's supposed to be good.
(Might even think about some late-night swimming later.)
And wash my car!
It's filthy and covered in sap again.

Cheers!

Go Twins!

2011-04-08T18:53:00.012-05:00

Home Opener!
Twins Win!

Ahh, another sign of approaching summer besides the warming temps and longer days.
The Return of Baseball.

Go Twins!

I got off work early today (1p) and came home, pulled some chairs from the garage rafters, and proceeded to have my lunch out on the deck in the warm sunshine and catch the game.

Man it felt so good.
The first real day sitting out it the sun for this year.
Tempted to grill, and have a fire.

Then again, a movie and some popcorn sounds like a ideal dinner combo.

2 Pics from today's walk:
Click to enlarge

More Seagulls
waiting for the pond to thaw -
mind you the geese and ducks were smart enough to set on open water.

The top part of the cemetery is open again.
We happened onto a group of six deer,
and I tried to quickly snap a pic before they fully got away.

I captured five of the six.
Pretty good shot for a last second idea and zoom.

Thursday in the Sun

2011-04-07T17:11:00.005-05:00

w00t 57F! First day to sit outside in the sun on the deck!

Finally.
I left work early and sorted a temporary seat bringing my desk chair outside.
(I'll have to pull down a chair or two from storage in the garage - perhaps this weekend.)
I love it.
Sun so warm on my skin.
People walking down the alley waving/saying hello.

Nice.My pal the crow calling away at me or his pals in the tree above.

(S)He makes me laugh as (s)he's the only one to make the low growling-like sounds - and when I make them in answer, (s)he responds. This one is one of the new-er crows, and if I've followed right, he was the one that was new last year and had trouble early on when pushed from the nest and hidng in a 5 gal bucket next to the garage/fence for a few weeks last spring. I fed/watered her/him and it always made the same sound - and again, is the only one to have ever made that sound of all 'my' crows in over 10 yrs.

This same crow is one to follow me to and from the bus stop each day, or hang around close in the tree when I am outside year round.

I'm tempted to grill some dinner, but I've nothing thawed.
And I have left-over pizza. Mmmm.
Tomorrow though - it's supposed to be warmer - look out!

Cheers!

WWW.Wednes.Day

2011-04-06T19:23:00.008-05:00

It started out with him

talking to me as I waited

then just work, lunch (some really delicious Chicken Mexicali soup & Roast Beef n Cheddar on a Croissant), more work, then a ride to pick up my boss's other car, and drive it to his cabin. How fukt is his rear-view:

Another view: one of Pike Lake on a sunny warm (50-ish) afternoon

Yeah.
It was like that.

Except for the fact the rest of Dull-uth below the hill-line looked like this all day.

Oh and I saw and collected some hugs from my good guy friends downtown and on the bus.
They always come through for me.
Thanks Guys!
You're THE Best!
xo xo xo

Tue(Harbor)sDay

2011-04-05T18:57:00.009-05:00

Worked in Two Harbors today.
Afterward, I called George to see about a walk, and he was on his way to Flood Bay. I decided to join him and Gus for a bit, and drove the few miles north after work.
I really didn't take too many pics of the bay itself, but as I was leaving, I captured this shot of the creek flowing. It sounded so nice and was framed in newly blooming pussy willows among thr old cattails and reeds/grasses.

(as always - click to enlarge)

Looking north from the footbridge:

Looking south as it flows toward the bay:

Looking toward the bay from the footbridge:

Looking back over the footbridge - it's decorated as if a wedding was held there and across you can see a small pile of rocks. On the rocks are painted the names and dates of couples/people who visited and/or married at this very scenic point.

Pussy Willows in bloom

Gus came to the footbridge and cried - I think he was trying to tell me to come back and walk longer, but my knee was so sore, and I was ready to head home after a long day. I left him some in pod sweet green peas as a treat on George's truck. I had brought them along as a treat and found some left in part of my fleece pullover's pocket as I walked back to my car. He loved them.

Pussy Willows

A view of a ship passing Flood Bay

Zoomed

On the drive home

Funny those turned out so blue, when it was so grey out.

Along the ride the lake is always there.

Duluth ahead (click to enlarge and see the antenna farm looming kind of center left)

Grey clouds and sprinkles

Looking down Woodland Avenue to the Lake
click to enlarge and see if you can spot the ship.

Fuck I miss going to volleyball - but my knee's been so sore from the weekend and there's no way that I should go as today's beach walk aggravated it a bit more. The uneven footing along the shoreline really was hard on it - but it was so gorgeous out and I couldn't resist a walk. I really need to stick to flat surfaces for now as the hills and stairs really exacerbate the pain and inflammation. Some good pain killers would be nice. In the meantime some heat/exercises and wine coupled with a smokey treat will help.

Cheers!

Road Trip Sunday

2011-04-03T23:07:00.008-05:00

Woke early to the gentle sounds of rain,
which turned to snow.
Some of the largest flakes I've ever seen.
Well, really, they were actually several matted together,
but they looked so cool falling as if someone had shaken a snow globe.
Later the rain returned, melting it all off again.

Anyway, slept in some, then decided to check with Mom and Dad and see how things were going in the cities. They had SUN! No fair! So, I decided that I'd head down for a quick visit to see them, my son, and attend an Oxford Seminar about certification for teaching English as a second language. I had received an email on the 30th - kind of short notice.

I've been toying with the idea of becoming certified for this for some time, as it would allow me to be able to travel and help people - something I've wanted to do for quite some time. I figured the weather wasn't bad for a drive and if I was also driving toward the sun, even better.

So after getting into town I first met up with the boy for Burgers at Annie's Parlour. YUM. Huge burgers, and we split a half order of fries (which you'd swear was a full order - I couldn't imagine what their full order was as this basket was HUGE.), and a large malt. He ordered the malt for us, which was chocolate and included Oreo cookies, and coffee flavoring. It seemed to be missing the coffee flavour, but it was huge - two big malt glasses full and heaping with Oreo pieces. So filling and SOOOO good.

Afterward, I took him grocery shopping. A few weeks ago I had gotten groceries for the former 'friend' in FL, and I so wished I hadn't wasted so much time and effort on someone who was so unappreciative - complaining about and eventually giving away most of the purchases (not only this trip, but in Oct as well), as my son was so grateful for the goods and I could have then spent more money on him. Ah well. I mean really, who complains about free groceries? Heck I could have donated them to someone in more need. Anyway.

We then returned to his frat house and unloaded, and then I set out to map my way to Macalester for the seminar. That sorted, I then pulled up the photos from the Twins pre-season game I attended in Florida - the one he had to miss and shared the pics. He really enjoyed them, and picked a few I need to send him of his 'crew'. The boy has loved baseball and the Twins since he was a lil slugger.

I found the Olin-Rice Science Center ok, but the presenter was late. Once sorted, there were about 9 of us in attendance. Jeremy our speaker gave his spiel about Oxford Seminars and we all listened, then asked our questions. I didn't notice anyone signing up that night, but everyone seemed to fill out the paperwork to register for the free drawing. The seminar in Duluth is not until the end of May so I have some time to research the certifications more and make a decision. One of the guys sitting next to me seemed a bit disenchanted with the presentation and the weight the certification(s) would hold. I, myself had a problem with Jeremy's presentation in that literally very nearly every other word was "Um' and it really got old - especially as he presented himself as a linguist specialist and had been with the organisation for four years, teaching in a couple of countries and in private schools. The 'um' got old really fast and I should have kept a tally of usage for kicks. I think I'll email him. ;-) Seriously, that usage really took away some of his credibility and in my opinion, knocked him a bit down as a company rep for teaching English and proper grammar, as well as just got to be grating.

Once done, it was off to Mom & Dad's for the night. As we watched the news it was reported that Dull-uth received up to four inches of snow in some places. Oh goody!
Just what I want to go home to. The weather guys (they surfed a few channels to check out each forecast) all said it is to be crap for the early morning drive - rain mixed with snow. Yay! I can hardly wait.

Before fully retiring I had a couple of lovely chats with some male friends - one a long-time friend, one newer - and it totally reminded me how chats should be; two-sided and courteous, unlike the one's with the same friend mentioned above I had gotten 'used' to. It makes such a difference to 'be' a part of a conversation, not to just listen to one ramble on and on, but actually sharing and playing both the part of the listener/reader and talker/typist.

Thanks guys!

Time to crash.
Gnite.

(Pics later.)

National Cleavage Day!

2011-03-31T19:29:00.006-05:00

( Y )

Shots Day

2011-03-28T00:00:00.020-05:00

No, not those kind of shots.
Gel shots.
No, not those kind either, although, they'd be yum and make my knee numb.
Too bad Paul lives so far away in Australia, or I'd get him to make me some of his famous jelly shots. He's perfected so many recipes and they all sound delicious.
Ah well, one day perhaps.

Anyway, I always love the view from the second floor of the orthopedics area of Essentia
(formerly the Duluth Clinic) - some of the clinics other floors offer a better view, as well as even more panoramic windows down at the First Street clinic. Here are a few pics from today's visit.

(as always, with all photos - click to enlarge)

Looking toward park point and the ice chunks in the harbor.

Park Point Ice Hills from the Lake Side.
They're really breaking down fast.
I might have to go back down there and take a few more pics soon.

Zoomed to the Blatnik Bridge between Duluth and Superior, WI

After my appointment, I went to work for a few hours, then headed home for lunch and to muck around here with photos. I had a nice surprise of my bus driver friend being my driver and a little chat with him. Always a pleasure.

Later, George called to go walk Gus out at the cemetery. I noticed these buggars (flying rats) on the frozen pond. They looked so out of place there on the ice - as if to say, "who decided we come here, it's still frozen?"

Stupid Seagulls

It's time those brown unsightly wreaths come down.

Playing with the zoom.

At least these ducks were a bit smarter and hung out at the one end with some open water.

Quack!

A partial view of the pond.

More gulls.
Before I left there were six, but I was out of cam storage.
They all hung out in the middle facing west.
Odd I thought.

I was trying to capture all the sap on my windows - mainly the windshield and the passenger window. Even clicked to enlarge, you can't really tell as I'd hoped - but it was just thick and took a lot of scrubbing/windshield fluid to clean them off. My Maple out the back does this every spring. I should find someone who'd want to collect the sap. Alternately, look at how cool the reflection of the tree looks on the hood! I'm such a dork to notice this.

Regardless, it was a gorgeous day.
Sunny and warmer at 36F - 40's expected the rest of this week! yay!
I was so glad to be able to get outside and enjoy it. I hope you did too!

Just Another Sunday

2011-03-27T00:21:00.009-05:00

A relaxing one at that.
Slept in.
Made bacon and dippy eggs with toast. MMMmm
Watched Movies:
diary of a nymphomanic
easyA
get low
All good.

Went for a walk to the video store to return them, and for my regular Sunday can walk.
Lots of odd garbage along the way, some revealed by the melt, some newly discarded.
People are pigs.
I missed a shot of a pair of new-looking boxers on one sidewalk, and when I went back to capture them for my spontaneous combustion collection, they were gone. I'm guessing they were recently dropped by someone who had just visited the laundromat vs someone who burned up LOL

Anyway, without further adeiu...some of today's oddities:

A broken up traffic cone - I can only guess this belongs to the City of Duluth.
Come pick up your crap.This looks to be a chewed up face mask - perhaps the person was attacked by the Killer Rabbit! As there are really getting to be heaps of rabbits in this area now, when there used to be none just years ago.

Regardless, this is all that remains.

One of the many mittens and gloves.
I'd run out of SD space if I took pics of them all.

Toothbrush anyone?

The big bag of cans I collected.
More than last week even!
How can people be so careless in only a week.
Perhaps they all blew down the hill last week in the huge winds.
One other thing I've noticed - most of the cans,
I'd say 95%,
are always found on the upper side of the street.

Lastly, here's an updated pic of my Rabbit Attacked Flowering Plum since the melt.
I hope those branches end up surviving their damage.

It's always weird when the snow melts to think it was ever that deep. Sometimes it seems like it never could've been so deep.

Another gorgeous day - even though the high was only about 26F - lots of sun! It can only keep getting better and better.

Cheers!

Subdued Saturday

2011-03-26T19:56:00.016-05:00

A pretty low-key day overall.
Just puttering about the house.
Went for a walk with George and Bonnie, and Gus of course.
It was so good to visit with Bonnie as we walked.
It had been such a long time.
She's so lovely and easy to just 'be' with.
We talked and laughed about George and Gus's walking habits,
shoe repair, work, and the chilly weather - the sunshine being a bit deceiving due to the wind.

Returning home I decided (after a year) to play with some of the toys on this Mac, and tried out iMovie with some of the several videos I've taken and never really done anything with.
OMG what fun!
So easy compared to Windows Movie Maker.
I wish I had played with it sooner and also taken more videos.
I played around with a short video of my friend Renán surfing, and it turned out kinda cool for my first one, even for it just being a short.
I sent it to him - he liked it.
Call me Spielberg (as if) - what can I say...heh heh heh

We had a few texts as well about some art stuff that's coming up and I learned he was not feeling well. That sucks. Hazards of his job though - so many people on the bus, so many germs, uncovered coughs, hands touching everything. Hopefully he'll feel better soon.
I jokingly said I'd send him a fish head if he needs one. Private joke, but it worked - he laughed.My work with him was complete! ha!

Next I'll work on vids from my trip and others I've taken around town.
Sometimes being unemployed isn't so bad when I can use the time to learn new things or catch up on others.

While online, my friend Boris sent some pics of his day trip to his cabin - some fish and octopus concoction - looked...well...interesting. Lotsa tentacles in that one. I guess I can't say until I've tried it - I mean I've only recently learned to eat Oysters and Clams with Kevin - and that was delicious, so I guess. It just looks...different. But, different can be good, right?

Perhaps that J helps it all taste even better...hahaha

The fish he said they had looked good. I was jealous of all the fresh fish they ate - I love fish.
Here's an online photo of the kind they had with the name below in both Croatian and English.
Croatian: Trlja od kamena, Trlja kamenjarka.
English: Striped red mullet
They kind of look like Red Snapper to me.

Here are some others he said they regularly eat called Kovač or Šampjer - the name is in Croatian - he said he didn't think there was an English name for them, but later found they're called John Dory.

Later one of my two best-ever Aussie girl friends came online for the first time in a bit - she has a new job and been sorting the new house she bought with her man-friend and her girlies. All are well. I've missed her so much - it was so nice to catch up. I so wished I'd have saved my money and waited, and gone back to Australia - I miss her and so many others so much. They keep asking me when I'm coming back - not soon enough, I tell ya.

Another surprise was a quick hello from my mate Greg there too. Last time we had a long chat was while I was in Florida, before that it had been a couple of years - it was sooo good to catch up too. He implored the same, "When are you coming back down?" Man, 'o man, not soon enough, not soon enough. I miss them all so much.

Anyway, it was a quiet evening, having several chats with both some new and good ol mates,
who truly know what friendship is. I felt truly loved and appreciated, and as Paul would say, "deservingly so." I hope his trip to Sydney is going well and cannot wait to hear his tales.

Oh, and it light out til nearly 8p!
only 26F though for the high.

For an over all quiet Saturday, it turned out awesome.

I'm off to start a movie.

Cheers!

Flood Bay

2011-03-25T00:05:00.013-05:00

View Larger Map

No 'S', No, 'S'! Bring on El Sol!

2011-03-22T23:42:00.005-05:00

Started 6:50pm
Stopped 7:30pm

Bedtime 11:30pm Just wind.
Early wake 3:00am More Wind
6:30am Wind, nothing else, clear streets

March, afterall, is the lion/lamb month.

or

March Madness

Surf's Up!

2011-03-22T23:39:00.010-05:00

Pics from my ride home from Dos Harberos (Two Harbors)
I made vids too, but have to sort them later.

Iced Rocks Along the Highway

Brighton Beach

Lester River Wayside Surfer

1st Full Day of Spring - 21st

2011-03-20T21:36:00.011-05:00

The high was 43.
Clouds moved off giving way to full sun.
I left work and George called to walk.
How could I resist.
It had turned pretty breezy and cooler over lunch,
but as we approached the far side of the cemetery,
the trees blocked the wind and we could feel the warmth of the sun.
We decided to circle around that area again so we could feel it on our faces, and just take in an enjoy it a little longer, knowing that a big storm is coming our way.
So much for spring.
Take it while you can here in the Northland.

I left the walk early, after 40 minutes, as my knee was really sore.
I had had my second set of two gel shots this morning, and then walked to work.
I know, I shouldn't have, but I've been so sedentary and it felt good, and was warm.

As I looked out the office window, noticing that it was clearing off and el Sol making his appearance, I hoped George would call.
He did, and I jumped on the bus home, dropped off my laptop, jumped in my car and made straight for Forest Lawn.
I never did put my brace on, mainly because last time it didn't feel right on top of my jeans and became loose, and because, it really makes my leg feel heavy, something I'll have to get used to. George reprimanded me for not wearing it. I still held my ground.

It was a lovely walk really.

I stopped and picked up some fresh fruit afterwards, then once home, decided to thaw some stuff and grill.
Just because.
Plus I figured that the good foods would get me through the next few days if we were snowed in, and I just wanted that grill taste.

I ended up grilling:
1 black grouper fillet
3 small chicken breasts
1 hamburger
1 hot Italian sausage
1 old cube steak
1 small....steak
6 red potatoes
1 yam
1 sweet potato
1 half piece of butternut squash.

That oughta give me more than a few meals.

I was tempted to call Renan, but with such short notice, I figured he'd decline.

After the food was done, I just HAD to toss on a few pieces of wood, and breathe in that fire smell. Get it on me, and my clothes.
The second grill day and first fire day of the year.

The snow can come, and these thoughts and smells will tide me over until it melts off again.

Here are some pics of the yard melted so far - I'll add more if and when it storms
Hopefully, with any luck, it goes north, or south, or the lake stops it in it's tracks.

Cross your fingers.

In spite of it only being 36F, I am toasty here on the deck by the fire.
I can't wait for more nights like this, as it stays lighter later and the days become warmer.

It was truly the calm before the storm:
Blizzard Warning = 8" to 16" or more expected totals.
Damn you tournament time.

Cheers!

SPRING 2011!

2011-03-20T00:03:00.002-05:00

Happy Spring!

VERNAL EQUINOX March 20, 7:21 P.M. EDT

Perigee Moon

2011-03-19T19:12:00.009-05:00

Super Full Moon or Perigee Moon

Check out Moonrise/Set or SunriseSunset.com for your local times.

***EDIT***
I tried to go out and capture some shots of the moon, in spite of the cloud cover. It did appear about 7:55, partially, and even with proper settings all I managed to get was black shots.

Guess it was another case of "For Your Eyes Only"

I'll check again during the night, but it's pretty much a moot point.
The moonrise was missed for the most part.
*Drats!*

Sunrise

2011-03-19T19:11:00.004-05:00

Was awake,
hadn't capped one in a while
was lovely
I thought
and I didn't even have to get out of bed.

enjoy Watch or Capture your own on the LSMMA Cam

Friday Night Walk

2011-03-18T21:00:00.007-05:00

As tired as I was at the end of the work day (330p), I decided to run my errands up over the hill to keep awake and maybe rejuvinate me - I've been such a blob of inactivity as far as walking/exercise go due to all the ankle/knee stuff, or just work and stuff keeping me sedentary. They're feeling a bit better due to the shots now - not that I should really take advantage of the masked pain and add to injury - but I can't just sit.

So I ran up to the Dollar Store - mainly to stock up on Ibuprofen, and then hit a few more places. The whole time I felt as if I was a Zombie. Yawning and just dazed. Cashiers noticed, and so did a woman I seemed to meet in every aisle and get in her way. I apologised. I really needed to go home and take a nap.

As I drove down the hill, and along 9th Street, I noticed how clear the sidewalks had become with all the melting going on, and how nice it was out for 530p, and thought that a walk to the video store would be good (also a no-no, but hell with that) - I could get some movies to pass out to, and maybe a real walk would do me good, as well as it was just too nice out and sunny still not to go.

Pics from my walk - (Click to enlarge - Also, I forgot the camera at home, so these are cell-phone shots - and it's camera sometimes takes great shots, sometimes just blur - it seems to be going as even the way it runs and processes pics is difficult lately):

A house for sale - the old pumpkin has to be the sale-point!
That or the old plant pot from last year with the dead stuff in it.

Shirt for sale at the video store:
Front: Nice Cones
Back: And Good Ice Cream
o.k.

Crossing Chester Creek Bridge looking towards Park Point
Ice along the beach and the sunset coloured sky.
It really was a lovely evening.

As I passed this block on my way down, I smelled natural gas - well the egg-fart smell of the chemical they put in natural gas, as it's colourless and odorless to serve as warning. It was thick in the air right in front of the green and white houses. There was one city Water & Gas truck on my way down, and four on the way back. Four trucks on a Friday, with four 'older' workers too. Must be a bad leak, and or, a good waste of the overtime/higher paid older employees and such after hours on a Friday.
The 4th guy moved off to the side just as I took this.
Two working, two standing around.
I was waiting for the explosion.
Jus sayin
Not that I was really 'waiting' but...yeah. I moved across the street on the walk back, just in case.

Remnants of Xmas Holiday Decor.
I photographed this house around TG,
when they were the first to put up yard decor.
Now it's all deflated and dirty. Time to clean up people.
It's past mid-March and this stuff's been up since mid- Nov.
This is a pet-peeve of mine.
I do like the setting sun on the house next door.

Chester Creek and Trails below the 9th/8th Street Bridge
The rushing water sounded lovely.
A couple of guys and a dog were enjoying some exercise down there on the trail.

^caught a bit of finger in that shot too ^
LOL

Trail Map and Legend posted on the corner of 15th Ave E and 8th St trail access.
It really is a nice trail all along the Chester Creek.
There are some well worn paths and nice bridges all along the way.
You can actually walk from Chester Bowl Park all the way to the Lake.
I've only gone as far as 4th Street.
I personally won't use it again until it dries up.
I hate the muddy parts and it's still pretty icy/snowy,
making the footing really questionable unless properly shod,
which is not at all good for my knee/ankle issues.

Looking back over the bridge and waiting for the previous pic to send, I noticed the sun setting over the one house. The camera took so long to send/adjust that I pretty much missed the actual sun that was still showing on/above the one part of the house. It looked so cool, but all I captured was this bit of residual 'glow' - not the actual sun as it kinda looks like. Ah well.

"For my eyes only"

As always, I brought a bag and collected cans along the way. All but two I smashed (many were crushed already) and filled this plastic bag. Again, not a great shot, but it illustrates some of the garbage between 18th Ave E and 8th Ave E where I turned around. This doesn't take into account all the cig butts, cig boxes, and plastic bottles and other misc. garbage littered about the street. Shame on people. There was well over a pound of crushed cans. I had just picked this walk about two weeks ago too.

Anyway, time for some wine and a movie.
Cheers!

Update

2011-03-18T09:07:00.002-05:00

At some point during the night, the snow mushroom committed suicide
jumping to it's deathHOORAY!
DEATH TO ALL SNOW!

Mmmmelting!

2011-03-17T19:09:00.005-05:00

Yay! 50F today!
Started out overcast, some rain, then SUN!
Lots melted!

The mushroom is shrinking and slip-sliding away

All that was left at 5p

The remnants of the Snowman

I shoveled all the rest away so I can pull out some chairs tomorrow.

My backyard is one soggy, slippery, ugly mess, but soon this too will all be gone and done.

Yay!
(hopefully before I wipe out on it)

More evidence of the melt and spring along the road today:

MN 61 N - Morning Commute: 7 dead deer, 13 live ones, and one dead very bloated raccoon. Bonus: One bald eagle and 11 geese in flight.

Geese flying North over Lake Superior just outside Duluth

Then they left the lake and crossed over us over the highway.

MN 61 S - Evening Commute: 3 dead deer, 6 live ones.
some of the deer on both routes were freshly dead, others recently melted/unburied/quite bloated.

Happy Happy

2011-03-17T17:42:00.005-05:00

A man is sitting at home with his wife on the verandah
and he says, "I love you."

She asks, "Is that you or the beer talking?"

He replies, "It's me............. talking to the beer."

and a Big Wet One To Ya!

Muaah!

Booby Smashed

2011-03-16T20:51:00.020-05:00

Got ye olde mam-o-gram today.
Smashed goods.
Six Pics
For the worst, or the best, depending on how you take it.

Hell, they can lop em off for all I care.
They're useless to me.
Easy 10lb weight loss.

I always laugh at the guys who profess to love huge tits.
They all talk the talk, but rarely in my life have they ever really shown great interest.
Even Kev. For as much as he 'claimed' to love them, he barely ever touched them.
Second trip I even had to be the aggressor and pretty much boobysmash him, and nada.
Yet before I went to visit the first time, all he could do was talk about them and his love for the big bewbs. After I went back home basically untouched, he lamented his boob-slackness for months, yet when I returned, it was more of the same - except for poking 'at' them with a finger or a game controller - like a child. Go figure.

He's not the only one to behave this way though, as I suspect men are expecting the young pert perfect boobs of a younger woman, not surgically enhanced, as they all seem to hate that and praise the natural ones, but, don't seem to realise natural is natural, in all shapes and forms. Just like their dicks and balls. There are all kinds.

Anyway.
I was a bit down.

Realising that I'm kind of alone as far as something as important as this - having a significant other, or best friend to come along and wait, or just be concerned. Krystal was at work/school, but I am more talking a good man-friend or just a bestestest friend/S.O. who'd be there for me, when so many others are just way too superficial, or disinterested, or just..well, yeah all about themselves or their own dramas.

It's a mind-fuck thing going through feelings such as these.
I've done it before, when I was 27 and they found lumps. When I was 40 and had a very questionable PAP and a very unsupportive/aloof bf. All was good then, but there was an inflamed or swollen duct or something.

Hopefully the lump-thingy will only be due to my smashing my side-tit against the decorative banister woodwork (ow fuckin ow), or an infected/blocked duct/node, etc., similarly to 1997 when I had my last mam.

Either way, whatever it is, it is.
Nothing I can do about it now, but await the results.

Wish me luck.

Best thing overheard today:

As I was waiting for the bus after work, a woman was talking with a man there about work in Duluth. When he asked if she was still working at X, she stated that she had recently resigned her position. When he inquired as to why, she replied, "That place was a vexation to my spirit."

"A vexation to my spirit."

I like this.

I am now adopting this phrase into my life.

I am going to consciously try to avoid any and all vexations to my spirit.

So that's where I am now.
Trying to keep a very pleasant spirit, inspite/despite (I'm never sure which) of all that comes my way. Not that I've not always pressed on, but, sometimes I just don't avoid the things I should, even when I know better. It's hard to hey. I don't want to appear selfish either, or arrogant, or anything. I DO want to just avoid the negative.

It's A Good Kinda Pain

2011-03-15T23:48:00.006-05:00

Sunset sky over Thompson Hill on the way to Volleyball in Proctor
I probably shouldn't have, but I did.
I went to volleyball.
One last time for a few weeks.
I had to go.
I had to see.
I don't really regret it.
But, I'll probably pay.
Much more than I am now for the pain I am in.
But,
I had a fun team.
With one of my best mates (and cancer survivor), wanting me to play next to him and set him.
And I swear, I couldn't have been more on with the sweet sets, or fuckin well-placed serves, than I was tonight. Perhaps the volleyball gods were smilin down on me for part of the night, as I nearly could do no wrong. I was totally on.
Until early on in the first two games when I totally smashed both knees making an awesome diving play for an extremely low pass into an incredible perfect set. Then in the third game, a side-step again totally tweaking/twinging my pinched nerve in my ankle, leaving me nearly hobbled between the three areas of pain.
But fuck, it was so worth it - or so it seems now.
I made it through the night, slacking back some in the remaining three games to not diving at all, but still making some very deep bending passes and saves, a couple were polo-style, and serving like a fucking banshee.
My serves were so on.
I only missed two all night, trying to go short front corner court, and just barely missing, the ball rolling along the net and back on our side. Grr.
The rest were stellar, and the streaks of long serves were both amazing to me and my teammates - I was so on placing them where I wanted, at the speed I wanted, and scoring many points bringing us back from deep deficits, or putting us way out in front early on.
I love to serve.
If I could just serve only, that'd be so awesome.
I am that good at it, and pride myself in it.
I may be a suck hitter, an ok passer/defense player, and a damn good setter, but I am a stellar server. Probably because I love it, and have so much fun with it.

Anyway, I can't find any advil/ibuprofen and the vodka isn't working, so I am off to dig up some old pain meds I have hidden away and hopefully my ankle and knees will stop throbbing and I can sleep.

Yes, it is a good kinda pain, and I can now take a few weeks off to rehab my bones, feeling that I left the courts tonight getting my full game on (for the most part) and can just hold this night as a good memory to get me through and motivate me to work hard at rehab.

Speaking of rehab. I get to wear this hinged knee brace for 'activities' for awhile.Pretty schmexy eh.