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Nov. 29th, 2009 @ 12:29 pm Tom Katte Family continued
Current Mood: satisfied
Hi Folks....Thanks for stopping by.

Tom Katte Family continued...

We left off just after the big uproar for Cuss not eating his pie crust. This event happened nearly ever 3-4 weeks. Maybe not the exact event, but none the less an event that caused the squealing and screaming of cats throughout the house. At times it was quite unnerving.

Fuss and Cuss continued their growth and typical brothers. Fuss would often speak for Cuss, and Cuss continued to be determined to do what he wanted to do. They both went to Young Cat School in the neighborhood, and their mom was a great homeroom catmom. All was well to their way of thinking that is until Tom and Jean decided to have another litter. Yep, nine years after Fuss and eight years after Cuss they wanted another kitten. After all kittens were so cute...

The litter was born, and they kept the little girl kitten. She was to be named Truss. Truss tended to be a Daddy Cats child. She bonded with her Mom, but there was something special about her Dad. She grew up as a normal little kitten, but she was not always liked by her big brother cats. They would tease her and do things to her that were not kind. But, she loved them, and wanted to grow up to be like them.

In the back of their cathouse was a shed for storage of all sorts of trinkets. This shed became like a clubhouse. Except the shed felt more like a torture shed to Truss. Unspeakable dark things took place in that shed. Things that little Truss never wanted to talk, or shed a mew about. Fuss and Cuss would explain to her that all she was good for was to be a Mom Cat, and they were boys and had all the power. They would lift up their swishy tail and show her why they had power. Sometimes Truss felt so little and powerless, and she kept this thought deep in her being as she grew older. Truss had been exploited by her own family. She didn't like it, but couldn't express it. She hid the events and her feelings to herself.

Having two big brothers wasn't always bad for Truss. She enjoyed and wished she could do the things that they got to do, but she was just a girl kitten; not old enough and not a boy. That didn't stop her from idolizing them. On occasion they would befriend her, and show her how to do things, and involve her in good games, and good times.

Sometimes at night Truss would remember that she had borrowed something from her brothers, but hadn't remembered to bring it in, and she'd seek her Dad out to help her go get the item. She DIDN'T want her brothers to be angry with her. No telling what would happen to her if she didn't bring it back in better condition than she borrowed it. Truss would remember exactly where the glove, the catnip toy, or the balls were located, and she would find them easily in the dark.

The house didn't settle down the fights were still as frequent, and Truss felt as if they were her fault. The boys would sometimes get into a fist fight at night for they slept in the same room. If they got loud enough then Dad would come back to their room, and whip them. Little Truss thought that her Dad was going to beat them to death. She never liked the arguing the whippings nor the fights, but she liked it less when her dad was doing the beating. Little Truss was scared, and she didn't want to get beaten like they did. She worked at trying to please them at all costs. So much so, that this was a detriment to her health and mental health.

Truss had some similar experiences that Cuss had with his pie. There were at least two times that Cuss didn't eat something and was told to eat it or be left sitting there until it was ate. One time we were eating cereal before cat church and the kittens had always been told that they must drink all the milk in the bottom of the cereal bowl. Truss was an unusual kitten, she didn't really like milk. She chose not to drink her milk, and time was running out for they needed to leave for church. She was threatened with a spanking if she didn't finish that milk. She decided that she deserved a spanking so she let her Dad spank her with a heavy suit belt.

Cuss, Fuss, and Truss lived in a family that played together, worked together, and fought together. When one of the kittens didn't do something that Tom liked or the way Tom liked then all hell would break loose. When one of the kittens didn't respond to Jean as she would have liked then all hell would break loose. This family was a functional dysfunctional family, but one made with love.

This family was made with love, but this family was not stable. Laughter and play never lasted. They would work together as long as they followed Tom Katte's instructions to the exact tee. Jean would fight for her rights and her beliefs. The two together could drive the family apart and yet at the same time keep them together. Not always in a healthy way. Some would say that Tom was a dry alcoholic. (In other words he at times had the same characteristics of a drunk.) The family system was complicated.

To my niece and nephews....This is our family. This is your Dad's parents and how we grew up. I wanted you to know the problems that may arrise in your own family, and why. I am not giving this as an excuse, but to say: "Hey, this is why my Dad does this. Now I understand." Then you can create your own family differently.

My love to each of you.

That's all for now...
About this Entry
Nov. 19th, 2009 @ 07:47 pm (no subject)
Current Mood: complacent
Hi folks....

Here is the Tom Katte Family Continued....

Fuss the oldest would often times speak for Cuss. Fuss would talk Cuss into conspiring to tell lies about something they've done that would get them in extreme trouble. One time they conspired with each other to tell their parents that another kitty ventured down the alley, tipped over the milk crate. Well, Mom sashayed down the alley to look to see if she could find the wayward kitty. As she wandered down and back she realized that her lovely kitties had lied. There was no way that the kitty would be able to come into the yard and tip the crate over. She knew, and steam was escaping from her ears. She stepped back into the yard, stared at the young ones, and said, "Is there something you two want to tell me?"

They looked at each other, looked at their Mom, and Cuss said, "Fuss did it Mom, and he talked us into telling the lie."

"You know that telling lies is the worst thing you can do. Don't you? I don't want to hear another word. You get in the house, and you get in their now. Go to your rooms, and don't come out. We'll talk about this later." With that the two with their tails lying back, headed to their room.

Now, Fuss didn't always get his way with Cuss. There were many times that Cuss would get fed up with Fuss, and wallop him with his paws. One time Fuss and Cuss were outside playing kitty games, and Cuss had gotten his fur riled enough and had enough. Cuss let his temper control him, and he waylaid Fuss in the face making Fuss run into the pole of the fence. As Fuss got up, blood was streaming down his whiskers and face. He slowly crawled to the house, and showed his Mom. She immediately stopped everything and took him to the family Vet. After a long wait the Vet stitched him up, and they headed home.

If you'll remember Tom Katte wanted everyone to do things his way, and he expected his kitties to do what he wanted, and if they didn't, then all hell would break loose. For example: Jean loved to bake mice pie, and milk pie, almost like custard pie. Fuss loved milk pie, and he always chose that specific pie to eat. Cuss on this particular evening wanted mice pie. All was going well until Cuss decided that he didn't want to eat the crust. Oh that was not a good choice. Tom reared back and yelled at Cuss that he needed to eat all of his pie, and that included the crust.

"I don't like the crust. I'm not eating it." Cuss responded with a stiff lower lip.

"You will eat that crust because I said so."

"Tom, don't be that way. He doesn't like the crust, I'll eat it."

"To hell you will." he said looking at Jean. "He is going to sit there until he finishes his pie. We don't let food go to waste. He asked for that slice, and he's going to eat all of it."

Jean fumed. She told Fuss to leave, and she began to clean up the evening dishes leaving Cuss at the table. Tom in the meantime stayed at the table for another 30 minutes or so. Cuss just sat there and said, "I'm not going to eat it."

"Don't backtalk me. You will, and you stay there until you do." Tom said and then left the table to go out mice hunting.

The minutes ticked slowly by turning into hours. Jean couldn't stand it any longer. "You go outside and play. I'll take care of this." She picked up the pie and finished off the crust.

"Mom you'll get in trouble."

"I'll take care of it. You have nothing to worry about. Now go."

With that Cuss left the table, and pranced off as only a little cat would do. Later on in the wee hours of the night the trouble continued. Tom and Jean could be heard all over the neighborhood. The fur went flying, but Tom didn't hit her, but the verbal abuse was horrible. Words and mews that only the alley cats would say came out of each of Tom and Jean's mouths. The little kittens were scared, and Cuss felt a tad guilty for he knew why this unsettled evening was bad. After some time the house became quiet, and all seemed to be back to normal.

To be continued....

I promise soon a new litter will come, and a little sister kitty will be added to the family. But not today.

That's all for now...
About this Entry
Nov. 6th, 2009 @ 06:40 pm Tom Katte Family
Current Mood: recumbent

Hi Folks,

Here is more of the story of the Tom Katte Family.  I hope you are enjoying this story.  I'm enjoying writing the story.

Tom Katte Family Continued...
By Carrie Fleharty

Fuss and Cuss were in competition of their Dad's love and admiration whether they realized this has yet to be determined.  Fuss and Cuss were treated exactly the same.  Right or wrong doesn't matter.  That's the way the kids were treated by Tom and Jean.  They wanted to say that the two were loved equally.  Equality is not all that it's cracked up to be.  Just ask Cuss. 

After the move life was good as far as the outside world could tell.  There are times and often the house would rock with the sound of loud mews and outstanding crashes.  Tom and Jean would scratch and mew their differences very loudly.  Tom expected to get his way, and Jean hated to always back down to his very ways.  Then again...Jean was controlling and wanted to control her life.  Tom wanted to control everything, and he wanted everyone to do things his way.  Truth be told his way was the only way.

This setup of the family made life more difficult.  Both Cuss and Fuss couldn't understand that their feline parents could love that way.  The two boy kittys were scared at times.  Their home was not stable with that love, the parents could at anytime start the arguments that screamed of disharmony. 

Disharmony caused Fuss to do things more like his Dad, and do things to help out his Mom.  Cuss just seemed to want what he wanted, and that's all that mattered to him.  He knew his Mom intervened for him between he and his Dad, and he and his brother Fuss.  All of this made the two small cats grow up with some mental health trouble.

Fuss grew up and unknowingly to him he was the most favored boy.  His parents would buy him the things that he wanted, and often buy Cuss the same type of thing or the very exact thing.  .  At times it seemed as if the two boys were treated as if they were twins.  They weren't and the two especially Cuss hated that treatment.  They weren't twins.  Never have been, and never will be, and the rift between the two boy cats began to widen.

Traveling they stopped at a major feline department store.  Cuss was having his birthday.  His Mom and Dad told him he could have anything he wanted in the store.  He chose a bright looking hammock type swing.  He knew that he could have that swing.  After diligently looking at every kind of toy, implement, cat perch in the store, and he had his mind set.  Guess what?  You bet...The feline parents said no. 

Cuss became enraged.  His claws came out, he hissed at everyone, and mewed so loud that it embarrassed his parents.  His Dad and Mom refused to purchase his cat hammock.  He didn't understand why. After all they told him he could have anything he wanted.  So, you see, Cuss had reasons to have a chip on his shoulder.   He wasn't like Fuss, or Dad, or Mom.  He was his own feline animality.  He might as well feel as if he was adopted.  For no one would treat their own biological cat son that way.  No one!


Tune in again in a few days hopefully sooner than this last one for more of the Tom Katte Family Story...Another litter is born, and they add a daughter.

That's all for now...

 

About this Entry
Oct. 30th, 2009 @ 12:50 pm The Tom Katte Family
Current Mood: quixotic
Hi Folks!  I'm glad you have come back to read more of the Katte Family.

Let's see we pick up Tom provided for his family as best as he could...

Well, the years were slim, and tight on making ends meet.  So Tom and Jean decided to use Tom's Cat Army Corps pay to attend technical school.  So, the family of four got up packed their pawbags and headed to the State Technical college.  There Tom took up the class of Cat TV Repair.  The times were hard, and Jean would babysit with her kids and take care of them.  One day while Tom was at school Cuss disappeared for he had wandered away.  About the time Jean realized he was missing she heard the squeal of tires.  There out on the highway was Cuss; standing on all four paws in the middle and the a kind male stranger was bending over and picking him up by the scruff of the neck.  He walked quickly to the side of the highway where Jean met him. 

Jean collapsed as if she had fainted.  The man stood holding onto Cuss, and looked down toward Jean and wondered what to do now.  But, slowly Jean pulled herself together and shook off her shock and began talking with the stranger.  "Bless you! Thank you for stopping.  I didn't know he had disappeared until I heard the squeal."

The man replied, "I don't know what made me see him, but luckily for all of us I did.  How did he get away from you?"

"I'm not sure." Responded Jean.  "I was hanging up our sheets when the next thing I realized he was gone.  As I started looking for him, I heard you.  Then I saw that the gate had been opened.  He must have gone through the gate."

"Well better lock that gate next time."  The man said.

"I will, and thank you ever so much again."  Jean replied as she took Cuss in her arms and held him close.  The man strutted back to his truck, and left.  Jean had left Fuss in the cathouse and opened the door quickly praying that Fuss was where she left him.  He was, and Jean took both Fuss and Cuss and pulled them close to her all the time stating. "I love you guys very much.  I don't know what I'd do without you.  Oh Cuss you scared me.  I thought you were a goner.  Jesus thank you for saving my kittens and keeping them safe."

When Tom arrived home after classes Jean told him the events of the day, and they went and fixed the gate so that neither kitten could get out of the yard.  Tom was equally surprised that Cuss had left the yard, but he was a determined little cat, and tried to do whatever he wanted when he wanted to do things.  He was different than Fuss, and yet he wasn't.  Fuss tried to do what his cat parents wanted, and Cuss just wanted to be Cuss.  Not necessarily wrong, but wanted to stand up and be himself.  The two shared many things together including Christmas and Birthday presents, and not always what either of them wanted.

Two years passed Tom finished school, found a job in another city and the happy family moved.  The town was small, but was bigger than any other cat town they had ever lived.  The time of the year was Christmas, and the downtown sparkled with lights and decorations everywhere.  A beautiful little town, and it seemed that every business and every citizen took pride in their town.  Jean thought she had moved to a new heaven.  Tom and Jean thought this would be a wonderful place to put down their roots, and raise the male kittens.

To be continued....

That's all for now folks....

Come back soon.
About this Entry
Oct. 22nd, 2009 @ 02:44 am Short Story Families
Current Mood: good
Hi folks!  Thanks for stopping by.  Here's the beginning of a short story that is being written for my niece and nephews.  I kind of thought you might enjoy it too.

Tom Katte Family

Tom Katte was a handsome dude, with the best tiger stripes as any of the male cats.  Tom loved the girls and dated many as a youngster until he went to the Paws Movie Theatre in their small town.  He had broken up with Charlotte his latest cutie and immediately something inside him made a swift change of his ways.  He never expected to change his love 'em and leave 'em ways, but Jean was the best looking cat in town.  Well his whole body and mind shifted, and he ended up sitting next to the blue eyed brown furry body.  That very night she made everything in his whole being take notice, and thus began a full time date only one relationship.  Jean was the one, and he intended to marry that cat.

As time went on...months he was to be enlisted into the Feline Army Corps and would need to be away for some time.  As there was a war going on, he couldn't be certain that he would come home alive.  So, on February 9, 1952 they eloped with their best of feline friends.  The marriage ceremony was quick, and Jean who never lies and hates people who lie did just that on this very day.  Her age at the time would have needed a parents signature.  She told them she was of age, and that was that, no one questioned her or anyone else. 

The funny part about all of this is that Jean, a senior at Paws High School, played basketball, and they were going to the state playoffs.  Consequently there wasn't a honeymoon for Jean had to play basketball that night, and Tom had to get ready to leave for the army corps.  The honeymoon would have to wait until later.

Years passed and the two managed those couple of years apart very well.  Tom would send Jean the money, and she eventually found a bookkeeping job in the area.  She was highly sought after for her skills, and landed the job on the same day as the interview.  When Tom got back they started their lives together and started their feline family.

Two years after marriage Fuss from the first litter was born.  Jean almost gasped in horror when during his birthing he was so furry, she looked at him and thought, "Oh my God what have I given birth to, and what did Tom do to me?"  The doctor informed her that the bushiness of Fuss' fur would after several weeks fall away, and his true coat would shine.  Jean was not too sure, but trusted the doctor, she had known the doc for many years, and knew he was a good one.  Fuss was dark, furry, had the same color of fur as his dad Tom.  They settled into their lives of being a service station owner for all of the cats in town.

Thirteen months later...Little Cuss was born, another male kitty to add to their family.  Cuss was much different than Fuss.  Cuss had straight dark fur, and the longest legs of any newborn kitten.  He didn't look anything like his Dad nor his Mom.  He was his own.  In fact at the time of his birth neither side of the family knew where his genes came from, but Tom and Jean knew he belonged to them.  He was as cute as Fuss, with some of the same mannerisms.  Cuss was theirs and they teased him that he came from the dairycat.    Everyone doted on the two, and they were special they were males, and much adorable.  Tom and Jean thought they made an adorable, happy and the cutest little family of four.  Tom and Jean were proud of their two kittens. 

Cuss wasn't exactly planned, but he was made by love, and times were hard for the family.  The catnip station was good at times, and others not so good.  When Cuss was born many times Jean's side of the family would donate little items to help out with the kittens so they would be clothed.  Feeding the family was supplemented by Tom's great ability to hunt for mice, and birds.  Thankfully he was one of the best hunters in the area.  They never went hungry, and Tom made certain he provided for his little family to the best of his ability.

To be continued...

That's all for now... 
About this Entry
Oct. 4th, 2009 @ 01:10 pm (no subject)
Current Mood: enthralled

Thanks for stopping by, and here is the conclusion....

Beneath the Surface

By Carrie Fleharty 



John shook his head as if he were shaking off his anger toward the world.  He didn’t want to unleash his mountain lion on his best friend, and he knew what that would be like.  He breathed.  “OK, here’s the deal.  I’ve been trying to keep this to myself.  For the most part I’ve handled things relatively well.  I just can’t keep two sides of the coin going all the time.  I want to be totally me, and I want to love myself.  Six months ago I put myself into therapy once again.  This time I needed to change my thought process.  I needed help in loving myself and learning that I am a wonderful person.  All my life I’ve had a deep self-hatred and at one time suicide seemed to be my only choice.”  John paused.  “This topic that you brought up became something I couldn’t handle.”

 

Kim responded.  “How so?”

 

“Well…you see…uh…how do I put this?  I feel as if I’m barely living.  I believe that my life could fall apart at any given moment.  At times I feel as if all the gears and springs would break that are holding me together.  My fear is this will happen when  I’m in my classroom with my students, and splang…parts, springs, and more parts fly everywhere, and you folks would have to call the men with the white coats carrying a straight jacket.  That’s not fair for anyone to see.  In order for me to keep myself together every morning I put on my mask for the day.  You see only one aspect of me, my friends see a totally different me, and my family sees another.  My psychiatrist tells me that I’ve been living three different lives and it’s time I stopped.”

 

Looking up towards the blue sky with painted fluffy clouds he continued.  “Each morning I get up and I dread walking out the door of my own house.  Each day just before I leave; I pray that no one finds out about my truth.  I pray that I hold myself together in order to make it through the day.  I don’t even ask to have a good day.  I ask only to make it this day.”

 

Interrupting quickly Kim interjected, “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?  I am one of your best friends.  I know that at times you seem to hold yourself down by expecting perfection.  I’ve been through many adversities with you.  John, we are the dynamic duo we are friends.”

“I know, I know.  What can I say?”

 

“Everything…You tell me everything.  Spill your guts boy.  Tell me what triggered all of this, and especially today’s outbreak?  Besides the masks.  What is it?”

 

Frustrated John spurted, “I’m getting to it.  I really thought I could hide behind my research, my classes, my students and being an excellent professor.  Being that over achiever would keep me hidden among everything, and no one would need to know anything personal.  Since I’ve been here, I’ve kept my personal life outside the office and the classroom.  In that process, I’ve kept my true self from everyone.  Within time and each day I put that mask on, I get crankier, and it becomes harder to hide.  The way I dress, the way I pick my trade mark tie is my ritual for a compensation of a mask.”

 

“Yes, we talked about that a minute ago.  What’s the big deal?” 

 

“The tie is related to my character just as if I were a character in a story.  When I look into the mirror I make certain that I have put my mask on for that day.  You know me better than anyone, but you really know nothing about my personal social life.  Well, I have come to understand that the only person I’m fooling is me.  Dr. Sawyer has told me and explained to me many times that people believe what they want to believe.  My beliefs has always been that if people knew the real me, then I would be hated just as much as I hate myself.”

 

“You and I are close friends but how often do I tell you how I really feel?”

 

Kim thought for a minute…”Not much.  You keep your emotions mainly to yourself.”

 

“That’s right.  I consciously put a mask on to control my feelings.  The ties help accomplish this, because I use them to either send humor toward everyone, but most often just keep everyone pondering on what I’m thinking or doing.  The tie is my mask, and keeps my emotions to myself.  The mask keeps me in my own shadows.  Are you getting where this is going?”

 

“I think I do.  Well, at least I’m beginning to comprehend.  So, my topic of masks and shadows was too close to your emotional upheaval that you’re feeling and attempting to hide.  Today you thought you could manage the meeting while continuing to hide behind your own mask.  Have I got it” This time Kim stared at the turtles on the log after one of them dove into the  pond.

 

“I should have known better, but I tried one more time.  Dr. Sawyer told me that that time would come that holding emotions in would no longer serve me.  I believe I have reached that time.  He’s been working with me so that I would begin feeling my emotions immediately.  I’m not used to it!  I think that flow of spontaneous response got to me today.”

“I think you’re right.  Are you just working on feeling your emotions or is there something else?”  Kim said as she switched from turtles to Johns eyes.

 

“Are you a true intuitive?”

 

“Maybe, but that’s not the topic we’re talking about.  Give it up John expunge yourself.  I know you, so just stop hiding with me.  Why do you want to hide your emotions?”

 

“Because I’m a man.  We’re not supposed to be feeling.”  John said with a chuckle in his throat.

 

“I’m not going there with you on that one.  Quit being so flippant.”

 

John continued with sincerity, “It seems that emotions were not felt in my family.  I was ridiculed, beaten, scolded told that I was a whiner, and told to keep my mouth shut.  I know it’s not my fault which I know, but I wasn’t safe expressing my thoughts or feelings.  In fact I wasn’t safe to be me.  Throughout my life especially in my family I hid everything, and that makes for a hard life.”

 

“Yes, it does, and I bet it’s interfered with your teaching of literature and writings.”

 

“My writing has suffered more than anything, but I use it to release my emotions.  I overcame the teaching aspect because I was a darn good researcher.  I’ve learned to compensate, but it’s getting harder and harder to hide.  I am changing and with therapy I’m changing faster than I anticipated.  The tie as my mask is becoming useless, and I can’t even hide in my shadows.” John sighed.

 

Kim now knew.  He wondered if any of this would change their friendship, but he knew her to be a loyal friend, and he was counting on that.  Sounds from the rippling water the rustle of falling leaves and a few honks from the geese were the only sounds heard.  John reached over and took Kim’s hand.  “I’m sorry I stormed out today, but I’m sorry I hadn’t talked to you earlier.  Maybe if I had I might not have fallen apart during the meeting today.  Anyway, I have one question for you.”

 

“Sure what is it?”

 

“Will you help me save face among my colleagues?  I don’t really want them to know anything about me especially Gwen and Sarah.  They would have a heyday with this information, and broadcast it among the whole campus. 

 

Kim snickered.  “You bet we’ll figure out something.  First we need to find Bob, and convince him.  He will be our first line of defense.  I’m sure that will be easily done.”

 

“Sounds like a plan, and the start of a beautiful friendship.  There’s a movie in there somewhere.” John added.

THE END

I hope you enjoyed the story.  Look for more stories coming soon.

That's all for now.

 


About this Entry
Oct. 2nd, 2009 @ 12:20 pm Short Story Continued...
Current Mood: restless
Thanks for stopping by, and here's another episode:

Beneath the Surface...By Carrie Fleharty
Part 3
Continued

John couldn’t believe that he just walked out on everyone.  Hearing the distinguished sound of Kim’s ring reaching into his back pocket he pulled out the cell and quickly turned it off.  Walking and walking his mind began to think of where he could go, that no one would find him.  Not even Kim, and he knew her, she would be hot on his heels.  He had gone the wrong direction to get into his car easily; anyway she’d look there first.  “Where to go,” was his thoughts as he kept aimlessly walking.  Then as if a lightning bolt hit him he knew, and hurriedly turned north to his special contemplative place.  This was his second office.  No phones, no motor cars, no luxuries, and very little people of which most were strangers.

 

As he found his favorite spot he looked across the rippled pond and gazed at the swans and geese.  Safe at last he thought, and safe to clear his mind, his thoughts, brush away the cobwebs and the day.  “God, what a day.  Help me to calm myself, and gain back face with my colleagues.”  He practiced his meditative breathing; in and out, in and out and feeling much more relaxed, but not at happiness.

 

The hourglass would have been turned twice when Kim sidled up to him on the bench overlooking the pond.  Looking everywhere on campus Kim checked one of his classrooms just to make sure, and there on the whiteboard was a clue.  There written in plain site was a writing prompt:  “Describe a place that gives you comfort, safety and solitude.”  At that very moment her memory engaged and she knew where to find her upset friend.

 

“John, what’s up with you?  What’s wrong?  You can tell me.  You are safe with me.  I care about you, and I don’t want to cause you pain.”

 

John glanced to his left a minute, and then spoke with a tension behind every word.  “You, you of all people.  Why in the hell did you pick this subject to discuss?  All of the possibilities and you picked this one.  Why?”

 

“Easy there.  I didn’t pick the topic Bob did.  I originally just wanted to keep Gwen, Sarah and Mary from causing a ruckus about what was considered a good teaching project.  I had no idea we were going to have the round table discussion.  If I had known that this was going to bother you in any way, shape or form, then I wouldn’t have brought it up.

 

“Hell, you should have known!”  John said trying to hold in his volcano that could erupt at any given moment.  He continued, “Bob will pick anything especially a topic that would cause each of us to do research.  He loves to give us work.  I’m surprised he didn’t have everyone submit a small research paper to him, so that he could convert it into an article.  He’s always looking at our research to be published and claim as his own work.  He uses us for his gain at our expense.  You know that, we’ve talked about this many, many times.”  John stopped and looked at Kim searching for words to keep away from the real problem.

 

“I know he does.”

 

“He likes to make himself look brilliant among the other staff, and the board of regents.  He thinks that we don’t know what he’s doing?  Hell he doesn’t. Most of the other department heads think he is, but there are a few who know the truth.”  As John looked at a log a half dozen turtles had crawled up onto to sun themselves.  He punched Kim, “Look at those turtles.  Wouldn’t it be great to be like them?”

 

“Yeah, they always make me smile too.”  Kim turned back to John, and glared for a moment.  “John I’m not here to discuss Bob and his tactics.  I’m here out of my concern for you.  What happened today is just not like you.  Not at all.  I’m safe.  We know more about each other than anyone in the world.  Talk to me.  Tell me what you are thinking and feeling.  I had no intention of hurting you.”

 

Breathing heavily with a big sigh and picked up his tie and held it in his hand.  “Do you see this tie?  Each day I pick out a tie that fits my mood.  Sometimes I choose one to remind me that I am a fun person.”  John let his tie flop down back to his chest.

 

“Yes, you are known for your wild, funny, weird and classic ties.  What does that have to do with you storming out of the room today?”

 

“I know I shouldn’t have left, but I couldn’t stand it any longer.  I thought I was more prepared mentally and emotionally than I was.  I didn’t want it to be a long drawn out argument, and Bob’s such an idiot that he’d let it go on and on and on until we beat each other up.” 

 

Kim took a breath and waited for the right words.  “That’s not the truth and you know it.  That’s a cop out.  Tell me the whole story.  You were prepared and calm when we sat down together.  We’re not just the dynamic duo; we are partners, and best friends.  I want to know.  Tell me.”  Kim was hoping that she hadn’t crossed the burning bridge of hatefulness.  She looked into his eyes and saw his volcanic fire, and gasped.

To Be Continued.....

That's all for now...



About this Entry
Sep. 29th, 2009 @ 08:40 pm Short Story Continued...
Current Mood: optimistic
Hi folks!  Thanks for stopping by...  Here's more of the story.  I hope you enjoy.


Beneath the Surface....Continued
Part 2
By Carrie Fleharty


John pushed himself back into his office with his butt in his chair and rolling the chair.  Kim as properly as she could rose and pushed her chair back.  Gwen and Sarah were having a mini discussion about grading with Mary eavesdropping.  Bob quickly hurried himself back into his office so no one would corner him.  Sandy began typing the notes of the mornings meeting so that everyone in the department would have these ASAP in their email box.

 

John arrived at his desk and pulled out one of his infamous yellow legal pads from his desk drawer.  In the center of the pad he drew a bold vertical line, and at the top of his page he drew another line horizontally to make a “T.”  On the left side he wrote the word “Shadow(s)” and underneath that he wrote the words “Foreshadowing and Shadowing.”  The right side he wrote the word “Mask(s)” and along with that he wrote “Literary Element.”  Clunking the pen on the pad a while he thought about the specific meaning of the words he wrote.

 

Then he turned his mind and attention to his information connection at his desk connecting to the database “Contemporary Literature” he began his quest of research.  He had his thoughts, and knew that he could prove them, but wanted to have them backed up by some good resources.  He was one of those that could get lost in his research so he would need to keep his eye on the clock.  He needed to remove himself from the research cave and be ready for his 10:00 am class. 

 

While he searched his thoughts about masks, shadows, shadowing and foreshadowing nearly consumed him.  His masks were his and he really didn’t want to share what they were.  He wasn’t aware of any writer using masks as a literary technique.  Masks were considered to be a psychological term process of hiding one’s soul, one’s psyche, one’s inner being, but not a literary device.  Most of the human population uses masks to avoid others from looking in and finding the true self.  John knew all too well about masks.  They were his and not anyone else’s business.  With that final thought he looked up and noticed he had 30 minutes before class.  He had enough research notes for the moment.  He’ll organize them later.  “First things first,” he thought as he turned everything off, and placed his notes in the top right hand desk drawer.

 

Camelot’s roundtable disguised as a department meeting day had arrived.  John had his satchel full of notes arrived just after Kim.  They both hated these meetings, and were just flat out of luck to have them removed from their department.  Anyway, they were there in spite of their feelings.  Kim spoke up first, “I am certain that you’ve done your homework on this topic and researched it thoroughly upside down and backwards.”

 

“Me? Why would you think that?  I don’t spend all of my time getting lost in Cyberspace researching every topic.  I sometimes spend time playing computer games.”   John responds brimming ear to ear with a grin.   “You bet I have.  You know me well. 

 

“Yes, I know that, but you gather and glean more information than anyone that I know except our friend Carol the head librarian.  She knows more than either of us put together.”  Kim stated.

 

John interjected, “Ms. Kim, I know you, and you too have done your homework.  Besides it’s your topic.  You caused this meeting.”

 

“I know and that I am sorry about.  At least I have a different kind of topic, and far better than what Bob would have chosen.”

 

“That’s true.  Hey, we are the Dynamic Duo…Trouble I and Trouble II.  We’ll handle this easily in more ways than one.”  John laughed and said as he elbowed Kim who also joined in the laughter.

 

The round table wasn’t exactly round, but oblong and solid with a mahogany finish.  Occasionally marks from the wear and tear through the years were seen by a dark indented spot, or a deep scratch.  The chairs were modern comfortable high-backed with rollers and arms.  The two together just didn’t quite fit the mood of the room.  Kim and John sat on the side facing the door to observe the others who would be strolling in soon.  Sandy had already been there fixed coffee, ice water.  Slowly one by one everyone entered the room and so did the box lunches from the food classes who were an excellent caterer.

 

Bob began the discussion with his usual babblings “We come together at this time in the spirit of the “Knights of the Roundtable” for discussion and camaraderie.”  John and Kim nearly croaked up a guffaw, but held it in check.  “Our topic today is one of literary importance.  Is or are shadows and masks used in literature as a literary device?  Or are they aspects of literature showing the psychology of the characters?  Are masks and shadows the same or are they different.  As we begin our discussion I am reminding each of you that we are using the Socratic approach.  One person talks, the others listens and interjects questions without being rude, inflammatory or insincere.  Let us begin.  Kim, give us your thoughts and means of shadows and masks.”

 

Shuffling papers and folders Kim found and opened the purple one and began.  “Uhhh…Shadows and masks or character development.  My question surrounding my premise is this: Could shadows and masks be considered a literary device or are they just an aspect of character development?  With that being the question, I embarked on a research quest.  I found that shadows and masks were common among the Ancient Greek Philosophers to the modern day philosophers.  I’m sure that most of you are aware that the biggest source of research came from the psychology and sociology areas of our lives.  Each of us, in our own way, and in our own day-to-day living wears many masks.  These masks change from moment to moment depending on the situation.”

 

John’s mind heard Kim’s words, but he was attempting to ignore that last bit from her oration.  Even though he had prepared for this discussion, his mind and heart didn’t want to be involved.  Hoping he could keep quiet and keep in control of his mind and emotions.  For now he continued to listen and keep himself under his force field. 

 

Kim continued speaking.  “When my African American Literature Studies class began reading several stories which contained actual masks for different situations; they asked if writers used masks as a literary device.  Through research, debates and arguments the class decided that masks should be considered as a literary device or technique.  Last week’s department meeting I happened to mention that debate only to give an example of one of the many different learning styles. At the time I hadn’t decided yet, but here we are having this discussion among my colleagues.”

 

“Gwen” said Bob.  “Considering the information given thus far, what do you think of masks as a literary technique?”

 

“Masks and Shadows who in the hell cares.  The most important aspect of any story is plot, setting, description, character development, conflict, climax and resolution.  Now some of you might argue about the mood and foreshadowing is equally important.  But not for me, the rest is just fluff.  Good story elements are the key to good writing.  Masks and shadows are part of the author revealing himself through the characters.  These are not literary devices.” Gwen matter-of-factly stated as she shook her head back and forth.

 

Sarah took up where she left off.  “To me these are aspects of human nature.  If a writer is good enough they will bring forth the masks and shadows in good character development among the plot.  That’s all.”

 

Putting her sandwich down Mary piped up.  “Let’s think about this.  We all know that a good story contains great descriptions, good hooks with all of the story elements.  But we, the editorial we, have not ever thought about adding additional literary techniques or devices.  If we can come up with solid evidence, then maybe there could be a change brewing in the literary world.  My brother, the psychologist talks about masks that we humans wear all the time.  Why not persuade the English community to develop a new aspect representing a new literary technique.  This department should think of writing a paper on that very subject.” 

 

Bob looked around the table and was surprised to find and hear nothing.  John was looking at his legal pad writing, and Kim was looking at John.  There had to be some reason that John wasn’t saying a word.  “OK, anyone else?”

 

“I just don’t see the need that we concern ourselves with this.  We have other more important things to do, such as provide information to the department heads about our grading procedures.”

 

“Gwen you don’t concern yourself with anyone or anything,” responded Mary.

 

“Well I for one agree with Gwen.  This may be a good discussion but let’s leave the topic for the psychology and sociology students and department.”  Sarah stated harshly.

 

Mary energetically said, “I disagree.  I think its good we look into the possibilities of this.”

 

“Mary you have way too much energy and not enough experience.  You are clueless.”  Gwen said as she rolled her eyes.

 

Quickly and fervently Bob, interjected.  “Hey we need to remember the rules.  We are here to be respectful of each other.  Your rudeness needs to remain in check.  Hey, John we haven’t heard from you.  What are your thoughts?”

 

“Thoughts? Hmmm…I have many, but I don’t think mine are worth sharing with the group.”  John gazed around the room looking at everyone except Kim.  “Actually I really have nothing to say on this subject.” 

 

Kim’s ears, eyes perked up, and looked over at John staring just a bit.  “That’s not like you.  I know you’ve done some research.  I was looking forward to hearing your thoughts.  I value your opinion.  Now, I’m puzzled, what’s up?”

 

Looking across the room John’s eyes rested on Sandy’s and breathed deeply.  “Honestly, I really just now decided not to engage in this conversation.”

 

“You are our research guru, and we need your input.” Bob interjected.

 

“I find it most amazing that John doesn’t want to share.  He’s always showing off his intelligence.”

 

“Yeah,” said Sarah.  “What’s the deal?”

 

Kim sensed John’s tension and said.  “Hey it’s ok with me if you don’t want to share.  That’s fine.  I’m not going to push you I respect you.  You don’t owe me anything.”

 

John looked down at his notes then up again.  “OK people here you are.  People and literary characters are the same.  The literary world tries to capture the human experience through the literary techniques and the author’s description.  Who really cares how and why.  Just like masks for instance they hide reality and so does the shadow.  We get glimpses through foreshadowing, but that’s just a technique and that’s all.  Just like I wear a different tie every day to represent my mood doesn’t mean I put on a mask.  Right now in this moment I’m not very interested in this subject.  I thought I would be, but I’m just not.”  With that said, John swept his arms down to the table and gathered all of his papers and his trusty yellow pad slid back his chair, stood up, and said.  “Excuse me.”  He left like a bat out of hell as they say leaving the room eerily quiet.

 

“Kim, what’s got into him?  You two are close friends.”

 

“I have no idea, but if you’ll excuse me I’ll go find out.”  Kim said as she gathered herself along with her research notes.

 

“Please do, and if there is anything I can do let me know.”  Bob said as the sound of Kim's heels could be heard outside the closing of the door.

To Be Continued....

That's all for now....

About this Entry
Sep. 24th, 2009 @ 03:12 pm Writer's Block: Would you want a do-over?
Current Mood: optimistic
A do-over...No way, not me.  But if I could have a do-over I'd write a script for it.  This is what I'd want.

I awake, and trudge out of bed.  Let the dogs in and out, take care of the cats, and then unwillingly do my exercises.  I'd think about my dreams, wants and desires, and realize that I still had to go to work.  If only...If only I had a large, very large gift of money.  Dressing, and eating breakfast I finish my morning abultions, and head out the door. 

I decide to get the paper first and look at it.  The headlines read...Unclaimed multi-millionaire lottery ticket goes unclaimed.  I think, "Did I check my lottery numbers?"  I don't think I did.  I run back into the house drop my stuff, and tear up my dressser to find the secret place that hides my ticket.  Finding it.  I look closely.  I look again.  My heart stops, just for a second.  I won...I don't have to go to work today.

Now that's a do-over.  But alas...Dreams are big, and I live in the now.   So, no do-over today.

Given the choice, would you start this day over again? How about this month or this year?


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About this Entry
Sep. 24th, 2009 @ 10:31 am Creative Writing Short Story
Current Mood: energetic
Thanks for stopping by...For my readers a short story...

Beneath the Surface
Part 1

By Carrie Fleharty

 

 

            What lies beneath the surface of torn, roughed, and torments life?  The questions often asked by our friends, families, neighbors, and co-workers.  John was of no exception.  He kept his colorful life in between the lines, and never leaving the boundaries.   John was a creature of habit.  Each and everyday he would rise clambered his way into the bathroom looked into the mirror which typically always revealed a monster staring back.  He could see just inside the pupils lurked and stared back if only for a flash of a second, a monster much like an ogre.  Quickly he bent over the sink and splashed water on his face hoping to rid himself of the monster in hopes that no one would ever see his lurking monster, his true self.  He then pushed back those thoughts, and began to start his day with his morning ablutions.

 

            Breakfast was eaten heartily with only two important morning chores left to finish before walking out the door.  The first one was to choose his tie according to his mood, or the mood he wanted to project.  The second one was sort of a ritual before leaving.  He quietly spoke out loud to no one, “Shields up, mask on the monster stays put today.”

 

            Today was no different than any other day.  The habits of human nature were no different with John than anyone else.  He always parked next to large Elm shade tree, and walked the rest of the way toward his office.  His colleagues tended to park as close to the building as possible.  John would rather walk far than to get in a car that would be 125 degrees at the end of the day.  These were the itty bitty things John would do to keep his monster unabated.  For his goal for each and every day was to keep his shields up, his mask on and his facial expressions intact to not reveal any signs of his monster. 

 

The trek to the East Wing of the community college was slightly uphill and across the campus from the West.  (This was his price to pay for a shaded tree parking spot.)  John loved nature and walking slowly kept his own peace in the world.  Nature’s beautiful creation soothed him, and kept him in the now.  By being in the present in the now, he felt better about himself.  The now wasn’t an easy task, but one he was learning to yield.

 

Entering the East Wing he was aware of the sights and sounds of silence which gave him a feeling that he was or nearly the only person in the wing.  Unlocking the department’s outer door darkness surrounded him with glints of light streaming under the other doors.  He glimpsed at the perfect desk and began to fumble through the keys of work he found the very one he needed to open the door with his name etched in brass, his very own office door, a sanctuary in some ways. 

 

First things first, he removed his suit jacket, and tossed it on his sofa, or if it were anywhere other than his office, the love seat.  Walked over to his slightly confused, chaotic desk, and booted up his computer.  Then to reward himself for being at the office first he sauntered over to the mini refrig and pulled out a Coke ® , his drink of choice.  While he drank slowly and cherished every ounce he would sit at his desk and play games.  He used games to relax his brain, before   emails, and lesson plans. 

 

Finally letting time pass, he began to sort through the 48 emails, and prepare for the day.  English department meeting at 8:30 the first class he taught would be at 10:00 am, the next at 11:30 and the last at 1:30.  Thinking through the tasks of these classes he knew that he was prepared, and nothing else needed to be added an added benefit of teaching the same classes for a few years.  His thoughts turned toward the departmental meeting as he heard the footsteps and commotion outside his door.  Of course he felt that this would be a mindless meeting.  Then again his thoughts weren’t important; they didn’t mean diddly among his colleagues.  He wasn’t in charge, and he had more on his plate than to mess with the politics of the department and the school in general.  He was there to teach, and teach well.

 

As a knock was heard, John jolted him out of never never land.  Kim, best teacher of the department poked her head in and said, “Time to quit playing your games and move on out here with your chair.  It’s romper room time.  You know you want to be here and keep up with the gossip.  No, I mean news.” Kim guffawed. 

 

“No, not really and you of all people know that.  I am at that place in life where indifference has occurs to the happenings of this place of who is doing what and why.  I’m here to make sure no one’s talking about me.”  John responded with a laugh of a hyena. 

 

“You are just silly; just silly I say.”  Kim laughed as John rolled his chair out behind his desk, with him still sitting in his chair.”

 

“I have no idea why you would say such a thing.  Yes, I am silly and that’s one of my endearing qualities you like about me.”  He interjected back with a twinkle in his eyes.  

 

As they entered the outer office Sandy was organizing the day.  She owns and lays claim to the philosophy that a neat clean desk is a sign of competency and a competent individual.  Whereas John, on the other hand believes that geniuses thrive on clutter.  It was his story and he was sticking to it.  The gathering of the department continued.  Kim sat next to John, flanked on the left was Gwen the lovely crone, Sarah the eager bee, Katy sassy and quick.  From the department a few were missing, but not Bob the ever pressing do it or die head of the department the leader of the pack.

 

Bob always began the meetings stating, “OK, everyone I want to know one exciting thing that is being taught in any of their classes.”

 

Sarah immediately piped in without being prodded, “I started a new unit in my grammar classes.  They are learning to write persuasive essays, and we are using the Opposing Viewpoints ® databases.  This way we can choose the lesser known topics.  I am keeping them honest.

 

“Thanks Gwen,” replied Bob.  “Let us know how it goes.”

 

Gwen the ever so grumpy opened up.  “I wouldn’t call that exciting.  Not that I could make it more exciting, but anyway…My group is studying and learning about several early African American writers.  My kids are experiencing quite a learning experience.  In return they will be required to write five papers on these women from each student.

 

“Isn’t that a bit much?” inquired Kim.

 

“Oh no. They are only 2-3 pages no more than a 1000 words."

 

Kim shook her head.  There wasn’t anything else she could say, for Gwen had said it all. 

 

“Well, Mrs. Grumpy, That’s just way too much to ask.  My students are having a discussion between shadowing in literature and the use of having characters hiding behind a mask or a shield.  The discussions and debates have been most interesting, and relative.  It’s not just busy work.” Katie added.

 

“Masks are not a part of teaching literacy.”  John responded.  “Masks are part of the makeup of the character brought to life by the author’s characterization.”

 

“True, but my classes have seen a link between the author’s characterization and using masks for characters instead of shadowing, or foreshadowing through the hidden characteristics.”

 

“But the character is supposed to be hidden; the author brings to light through their writings by the shadows and secrets of the characters in their descriptive writing.”  John added.

 

“I understand that, but I have a theory that my class has stumbled upon.  We all know that as humans we have many masks and we wear them proudly to different functions and events that we attend.  So, the author uses a new type of literary technique to bring forth these masks, shadows, and secrets of the characters.”  Rolling her eyes she added to the discussion.

 

“I’m not sure of that at all.  Yes, we all wear masks but in literature the masks are not shown and not mentioned it’s just part of the characterization from the author.” Kim interjected strongly.

 

Bob thought this conversation would turn into a free for all, so he broke through, “Looks like we have a great discussion going on here, but time is getting away.”  Looking over he said, “Sandy will you make a note that we will have this discussion at our monthly round table discussion?”

 

Sandy of course had already made that note just as she was reading into the future.  She thought these meetings were drier than a piece of wood on the floor of Death Valley.  “Sure,” she responded.  “I have it scheduled for next week usual time usual place.”

 

“Okay everyone Mid-Terms are coming up, and I need to remind you that everyone, yes everyone is to give a mid-term test.  The Dean of Instruction has made a very strong suggestion almost a mandate that each teacher will give a mid-term.  I will in turn receive a copy of said mid-term.”  Searching the room were his lingering eyes looking for some sort of reaction, a flicker of guiltiness in the room especially Sarah’s. “Any questions or discussions?”

 

Why do they want a copy of our tests?  What do you think their reasoning is for us to give a mid-term?” John asked without rolling his eyes.

 

"I'm not sure, but I think there were some complaints from a group of students claiming they received lower grades than others in the same classes.  The administration may have been told that an audit of grading and the grading procedures may take place at the end of the sememster.  Anyway, that's my speculation; I've had a few more inqueries from the top administration than the other departs."  Bob stated as best he could for a half-truth.  Sarah was known as Ms. No-test.  He had been instructed to crack down on the grading procedures in his department.  "Do you have any other questions?"

The circle was silent.  John and Kim exchanged smirk grins to each other, and they rarely asked any questions.  They seemed to be the ones who were always the good guys, the ones that never strayed from their target, and they were in the know. Many times the others in the department despised them, and called them the "uppity twins."  The only difference is that they always read their emails, kept themselves in the know by visiting other faculty members accross the campus.  They were hard workers and devoted their lives to expanding their knowledge. 

Bob began listing the events of the campus and the department.  Looking up at the clock he stated, "OK everyone.  Sandy will send each of you the notes of today's meeting.  Several of you have classes to teach in a few minutes.  be sure to do your research on masks, foreshadowing, and it's impact on literature and literay concepts for the round table discussion.  Other than that have a good day enlightening our students."  As usual mumblings, rustlings, paper and chairs moving filled the outer office and room.

To Be Continued....

Look for the next episode in a few days.  We will find out how the round table discussion went.  We'll look into the research of John and Kim

That's all for now....

About this Entry
Sep. 16th, 2009 @ 01:13 pm Things and Sayings Gone Bye
Current Mood: quixotic

Hi Folks,

I just realized that I haven't written in my blog since late July.  How could that be?  Oh, I guess that must have meant school has started.  Yep that's what it means.  School is going well, and I'm in a much better place spiritually and mentally.  That really helps keep me smiling and happy, because I choose to be smiling and happy.  I wake every morning choosing to be happy.

The theme today is things we will never hear or see again.  Some of these I will miss.
  • Trust your car to the man who wears the star the big bright Texaco Star
  • You sound like a broken record
  • Put a penny on that needle of your record player
  • 8-Tracks
  • Linda Soundtrack from Sound Warehouse
  • We're American Airlines Doing what we do best
  • At Continental Airlines we really move our tail for you
  • Up Up and Away with TWA
  • Fina with Flash puts the fun back into driving
  • There is more power than that Good Gulf Gasoline
  • Pick up a map when you fill up with Gulf
  • Good Morning Captain
  • Get a Good Start on Your Day with Everything the Captain has Coming Your Way
  • It takes a licking but keeps on ticking
  • The Un-Cola
  • I'll walk a mile for a Camel
  • Book-um Dano
  • Plop plop fizz fizz oh what a relief it is...
  • And that's the way it was...
  • I can't believe I ate the whole thing
  • How sweet it is
  • Danger Will Robinson
  • Time to make the donuts...time to make the donuts
  • I knew I should have taken that left turn in Albuquerque
  • From the land of clear blue waters, comes a beer like no other...H-A-M-M-S Hamms Beer
My favorite that I will miss dearly is:

It has a great beat and it's easy to dance to.


Thanks for stopping by, and letting me wonder down memory lane.  These little quotes and sayings will probably never be heard from again and it's my tribute to them, and early TV.  Some of the company's are still around, and some aren't. 

That's all for now...

Carrie

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Jul. 24th, 2009 @ 06:15 pm Society in General, Professor Gates, and Mr. President
Current Mood: uncomfortable

Hi folks,

Thanks for stopping by.  This entry is more about my ramblings than anything.  Maybe if you read it, you'll at least have something to ponder, and meaningful.

Here's my ramblings...We, Americans have forgotten even more about being courteous, and nice to anyone, and everyone we meet.  This includes, friends, families, neighbors, and foes.  Yes, I mean foes.  Just because you dislike someone doesn't mean that you get to trample over them, and make them a doormat.  There are ways in this free society to disagree, dislike someone without killing, maiming, or destroying property.  We know how to be nice and kind.  That's the way you want to be treated.  The best way to get treated in a loving way is to be that person.  Be the person who is kind, generous and loving.

Police officers, and other authority figures need to listen or think upon these very words.  This rudeness, is taking authority and lording it over on everyone.  Then we a group of people in our society that think and believe that the authority figures in our country mean nothing to them.  They kill, steal, torture, vandalize and disobey because they can.  They see nothing wrong with it as long as they don't get caught.

So, Now that I've heard both sides of the Gates and Cambridge police fiasco, I'm a little frustrated.  1)  Do you suppose the outcome would have been different if the officer involved would have stated the following:  "Sir we had a 911 caller about breaking and entering in this house. "  If it was a true robbery would the robber open the door?  Probably not.  2) Once finding out that the man was who he said he was and proved it, couldn't the officer just have easily walked away no matter what was said.  3) If asked for the officer's name and badge number couldn't he just give it, and sort it out later.

This is not the only incident.  Here in Oklahoma a Highway patrol officer and a first responder had some difficulty.

Now, Profesor Gates stated that he didn't say anything accusing, or rude.  Outcomes are determined by the intial first impression.  Both he, and the officer started off on the wrong foot as they say.  Let's ponder how we can react when confronted.  How we react is the difference in outcomes.

Now for President Obama's response.  For the first time in a very long time we have a President who is of the people.  Who cares about his choice of words.  He knew he didn't have the facts.  He spoke from the casual human side of his brain.  To be politically correct all the time is most difficult.  I ask that we give him a break.

That's all for now.

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Jul. 3rd, 2009 @ 07:29 pm Writer's Block: Dog Day Afternoon
Current Mood: hot

The Dog Days of summer, the hottest days of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, start today. What's your favorite thing to do in hot weather?


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The heat, the sweltering heat has arrived in fine fashion.  Waves of heat flowing up from the sidewalk, the street, the deck, and looking closely the grass.  So miserably hot that just stepping out the door, you are almost knocked backed into the cool house.  What does one do in this horrible melting kind of heat.

Going out the door, I pick up the sprinkler, put it on the hose, and set it up just next to the best lawn chair in the world under a tree.  Backtracking just a tad, I grab the spiket handle, turn till I hear the sound of water running.  I walk slowly (I don't want to exert too much energy) sit in the lawn chair with water flowing all over me.  I'd like to be naked, but think it's not wise. 

After being throughly soaked and feeling better, I meander to the spiket turn the water off, grab my towel, dry off a little and head into the area of coolness.  Stepping inside finding the refrigerator I grab a tall boy, strip off my clothes and spread out on the couch never to move again, until Hell freezes over.
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Jun. 14th, 2009 @ 01:09 pm Bicycles, Motor Vehicles and Saddness
Current Mood: sympathetic

Hi folks,

I am deeply saddened by the recent events on our Oklahoma Highways.  The senseless death of two bicyclist on Highway 51 just west of Sand Springs and South of the Arkansas River.  They never had a chance.  It was senseless.

Have anyone of you who reads this ever considered that a motor vehicle is or can be a lethal weapon?  Because it can you know.  Especially when you consider the speed we drive, and how much we are on the phone or are texting while driving.  Anytime your eyes move away from the road, your vehicle will soon follow.  Where are eyes are looking is where our movements and vehicle follow.  Now that's why I want to say "Hang Up and Drive!" 

The bicycle accident in which I have referred happened almost a week ago.  Folks, there is nothing between us and the road.  The driver is believed to have been drinking at the time.  Doesn't matter, the bicyclist were doing what they are supposed to do.  They were on the shoulder.  Whether the driver was impaired or not doesn't really matter.  What matters is this:  "This could have been avoided."  No drinking, but more important is to always watch the road!!!  Always watch the road!

Our driving habits are getting worse, and worse.  We forget to signal; we forget to follow with 2 seconds behind the car in front of us; we forget to look in our rear view mirror, or side mirrors;  we also forget to plan where we are going, and make left turns out of the far right lane.  I'll I ask is that you remember that you are in a lethal weapon, and innocent lives can be lost because of negligence.

I am a bicyclist.  I bicycle all the time, and I use the shoulder whenever possible.  I use the appropriate hand signals, and I wear a helmet.  I have been in mourning all week due to this tragedy with the two lives that were lost.  I have been attempted to hang my bicycle up on its rack, and say:  Forget it.  I'm never going to ride again.  Then this morning I did something about that attitude.  I loaded my bicycle and chose to ride on the pathways built for bicyclists and pedestrians.

May we all think about what we're doing when we drive.  Remember to watch the road.  Bicycles are vehicles too, and they have the same type of rules to follow. 

In Mourning and In Sympathy with Bicycles of Tulsa!

Thanks for stopping by.

That's all for now....
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May. 12th, 2009 @ 10:41 am Expectations, Hope, and Desires
Current Mood: thoughtful
Hi folks,

Thanks for stopping by...My musings of the day are about our own expectations, hopes and desires.  How do we allow these to manifest in our lives?  The answer lies in the ability for us to allow these things to happen.  Whereas, The Law of Attraction is one universal law the law of allowing is another.  You may think that allowing is not a big deal.  Who wouldn't want a million dollars if they were given the opportunity?  So, let's dig into this a little further.

The allowing is to let things flow into your life.  Taken from the words of Abraham through Esther Hicks "Nothing you want is upstream.  All that you desire, and are attracting is downstream.  There is no struggle when you go with the flow of life."  So, why do we fight for all that we want.  The wanting, the desiring is enough.  For in that wanting you are attracting that very want into your life.  One of our problems is that we think we know better, and we start paddling upstream against the current.  Through that struggle we stop ourselves short therefore we stop allowing.

Let's see if I can give you an example to clear some of the confusion.  A female person wants desperately wants a romantic mate, someone in which to share their whole life with.  Then again, she keeps taking the same call from her ex-boyfriend who is verbablly abusive.  She doesn't expand hershelf to include new acquaintances.  That is one example of not allowing.

Our hopes, expectations and desires are only important to us.  We have to decide how important they truly are.  Then we need to decide if we can allow our expectations, hopes and desires to manifest.  Are they really worth letting go and flowing downstream to attract them?  If they are, then look at your life, and decide fully decide to allow.  If you aren't receiving then chances are you are blocking.

Float down the stream, for all that you want, and all that you want to manifest is downstream.  Floating along the stream of consciousness.  I am choosing to let my life flow down the stream.  I am choosing to allow my desires to manifest before me.  What about you?

Thanks again.

That's all for now...
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Apr. 18th, 2009 @ 11:47 am Change of Life
Current Mood: curious
Hi Folks,

Thanks for stopping by...

My subject today is change of life.  What do we do when we say?, "Oh I need to change my life." or "I need to move on to a different job."  We may know the desired change, and the desired outcome.  But when we get down to the heart of the matter, the deeply heart of the matter are we able to make that change?  Think about it.

In my life right now I'm pondering a change.  This change is a major change in my life.  One that I am certain will be very good for me, good for Trish and our home life, and my sanity.  I need some some little extra time here to work on my  Personal Life Coaching Business, and my writing.  This change I'm pondering is BIG!  Very Big!  Yet when I do talk to people then I think that no, it's not going to work.  I'll need to stay the same, and be the same.  When I know that if I choose this path, then God will provide my every need.

Lynn Andrews says it best: "The Heyoka go into Battle on their horse backwards with broken lance and know that Great Spirt will take care of them."  (keep them alive, provide their every need.)  The Bible says that if you have the faith as tiny as a mustard seed you can move mountains.  I am about ready to move a BIG Mountain.  That  mountain is my way of life, and keeps me from pursuing my dreams.  Dreams are so important, and if we allow our dreams to fade, then we allow unhappiness to take over our lives.

Change, the hardest part of change is the unknown, fear of the unknown, fear of failing, fear of becoming homeless, and any other fear you can think of in our conjuring mind.  Change is inevitable, but change on purpose is harder than the change that comes through blowing open the door.  Let's all take a deep breath.  Focus our dreams, desires and wants are at stake.

Dare to dream....Dare to change....Life is full of both...

That's all for now...

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Apr. 2nd, 2009 @ 06:05 pm Perception Questions and Hierarchy
Current Mood: amused
Hi folks,

Thanks for stopping by.

I have been busy working on my Personal Life Coach Career.  I volunteered to present to a group of my colleagues the art of questioning.  This comes from the information I received and gleaned from the Book: Change Your Questions; Change Your Life by Marilee Adams PhD, and she has a powerful tool called a Choice Map to guide your life by asking questions that are not judgmental. The website is:  www.InquiryInstitute.com I would suggest that each one of you look at this Choice Map.  This map is truly a helpful tool. 

What I know about Human Nature is that people believe what they want to believe.  They make assumptions, and they perceive things based upon who they are, and their background.  Perception is real no matter if it correct or not correct.  The person who perceives the situation as bad that is real to them.  We don't often think about this concept.  If we are the ones who are involved in the situation and we know for certain that the situation is one way, and we think that all parties are clear and understanding.  Often the opposite is true.  Perception can be a hindrance.  Make sure that all is clear.

The United States of America has a hierarachy.  They are the three branches of government Executive, Judicial and Congressional.  But each one of them have leaders.  Yes, it would be nice if we could be like God, Jesus and Holy Spirit.  (Read The Shack.)  Each of them has no authority over the other one.  They work together for good.  Humans are humans, and we each have different backgrounds, hurts, and problems.  Most often we need a hierarachy. 

I write this because I know a group that came together for good reasons, and they are suggesting a change in the organization.  This group doesn't want a us vs. them perception.  This is good, but the whole organization doesn't see or believe this fluid type of leadership.  Yes, the group has developed the separate committees, and wants everyone on these committees.  But when a group of people go to a retreat with the head of the organization, then the perception is that there is a hieararchy. 

So, if you don't want to create a hieararchy, then truly make your group open, and make certain you have a true representation of all branches of the whole organization.  With that, and with a true understanding that anyone can be on the committee, then you will develop trust.  Trust is important.  Without trust the perception will remain and not change.

That's all for now...
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Mar. 9th, 2009 @ 03:40 pm Manners and More
Current Mood: aggravated

Hi there...Back as promised.  I hope is well in your neck of the woods, mountains or prairie.  Things seem to be fine here. 

However, my neighborhood seems to have a rat problem.  In fact they are living under our deck.  We've killed four that we know of, and we've seen two more.  We've put many a trap out, and we've been taking our dogs out in the front to do their business sort of speak.  While we've been out we noticed some things even in our yard, and not by us the inhabitants of said yard.  Ribs, pancakes, McDonald's (r) fries, pieces of candy, and anything else edible.  All our yard has is bird seed.  Well, that's all we put out.  So what am I to do.  Well, yes put more traps out, but I may just put a flyer in everyone's door in the area.  These rats cannot live at our house!

This brings me to my writing of the day, manners.  Have you ever stopped to think about manners?  We used to expect people to be guided in an appropriate mannerly behavior.  Look around, and not just on the highways.  We stop in front of doors and have a conversation blocking anyone who wants to go in or out.  Then the person who needs to get in has to cut through your conversation.  We (editorial we) throw our trash anywhere and everywhere.  We expect someone else to pick it up and clean up afterwards.  We must hurry and get in line before someone else does. 

Now there is the cell phone issue.  (I DON'T WANT TO HEAR YOUR CONVERSATION IN THE STORE, AN EATING ESTABLISHMENT ETC...)  So, either don't answer or answer quickly and watch the volume of your voice.   While you're trying to talk on your cell phone, and you're driving your driving is influenced.  If you don't believe me hang up your phone and pay attention. 

We need to look out for each other.  We are all humans, and we need each other. We tend to have a mindset of hey the only person who matters is ME!  I'm the one.  ME.  Think about it for a while.  Let's get rid of the ME, and come up with the WE are in this together.  All of this because I have a rat problem, and I'm tired of weaving my way through people standing talking in front of the door.

Thanks for stopping by

That's all for now...
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Feb. 25th, 2009 @ 11:30 am (no subject)
Current Mood: bouncy

The Scooter Girl
By Carrie Fleharty


The sun rose to a brightness
Will it last?
Who knows
I straddle the little steed
Decked out in the modern armor
I push the gentle guy out of captivity
Today is the day for his freedom

A cloud of breath exudes from my face
With my armor I add another piece
A warmth of protection for my neck
My ears seem not to object
With gloves I am ready
To boldly go where my steed leads

Key in the ignition
The little steed roars
Slowly at first
Chilly hands and frosty nose
We move on down the road
Faster and faster
The little steed drove

My destination in sight
I find it's stall
Hidden in the inner court
My steed will stay put
Until the work day is done
When I return to become
A Scooter girl
And travel on

(c) 2009

 


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Feb. 19th, 2009 @ 03:49 pm Writer's Block: Jackpot
Current Mood: enthralled

If you won the lottery, what would you do with your newfound riches?

Submitted By [info]kimbereli09


View 500 Answers

The very first thing I would do with my money is pay off all of my debt.  I then would buy some stock to help the economy get going.  After all I want to continue to have money, so I'll let it work for me.  The next step would be to rent a huge event room with catering services to have a party.  I would party with all of my friends and family.

After the winnings and the news has me settled into a totally different lifestyle, which may take a while.  I am going on a trip throughout the good 'ol USA and visit every National Park, and see every state.  Of course the beaches of Hawaii are calling and that will be a must.  I can see the ocean waves crashing onto the shore.  More than seeing is hearing the crash with their rhtymical sounds. 

After returning from my wonderful vacations, I want to buy season tickets to all of the Cubs baseball games.  They will win the world series one of these days.  While I'm at it, I think that having a one-bedroom condo near Wrigley field would be excellent.

The rest of the money is my little secret.
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