Things are starting to look up!
I got a call from my sister Friday. Dad's got his second opinion from a doctor in St. Louis, and has decided to go ahead and have surgery to remove the tumor, and has sugery scheduled for May 5th.
This is good news. The type of cancer he's been diagnosed with is actually the slowest acting and slowest growing, and does'nt respond well to radiation and chemotherapy...but has a tremendous recovery rate with surgery!
Dad did'nt originally want to have the surgery, because the doctor's in Quincy told him the surgery was very risky and that he could end up on a respirator for the rest of his life, if he even lived through it.
The doctor in St. Louis on the other hand said it was practically routine, and that he does this kind of surgery al the time. They also said that the cancer may not even be as serious as the doctor in Quincy had diagnosed.
To quote my brother: "Fucking Quincy Doctors!!!"
These are the same medical professionals that diagnosed my brother's migraine headaches as "depression", and put him on antidepressants and recomended therapy!
But anyway, does'nt matter, things are going to be alright now, I think.
The Scottish Festival went well yesterday. Even though they called for thunderstorms all weekend for the festival, we hardly saw a drop. Only now, at 3am in the morning am I even hearing the distant roar of the promised thunder.
Brandy came to the festival, and absolutely had a blast. She got her face painted and bought a flower wreath headband and wore it all round the festival...I told her that I would have her "converted" and in full costume and start taking her regularly to renaissance festivals yet!! And that was only half joking! If I can accomplish it, I'm sure-as-Hell going to do it!
In fact if I can convert the whole world to going to festivals in full costume and just having fun, I personally think it would start a golden era of peace.
Ok, maybe I'm going a little far with that....maybe!
I want to thank all of you who left me comments about my recent woes. I appreciate them much more than you think I do, really.
Later my friends.
I got a call from my sister Friday. Dad's got his second opinion from a doctor in St. Louis, and has decided to go ahead and have surgery to remove the tumor, and has sugery scheduled for May 5th.
This is good news. The type of cancer he's been diagnosed with is actually the slowest acting and slowest growing, and does'nt respond well to radiation and chemotherapy...but has a tremendous recovery rate with surgery!
Dad did'nt originally want to have the surgery, because the doctor's in Quincy told him the surgery was very risky and that he could end up on a respirator for the rest of his life, if he even lived through it.
The doctor in St. Louis on the other hand said it was practically routine, and that he does this kind of surgery al the time. They also said that the cancer may not even be as serious as the doctor in Quincy had diagnosed.
To quote my brother: "Fucking Quincy Doctors!!!"
These are the same medical professionals that diagnosed my brother's migraine headaches as "depression", and put him on antidepressants and recomended therapy!
But anyway, does'nt matter, things are going to be alright now, I think.
The Scottish Festival went well yesterday. Even though they called for thunderstorms all weekend for the festival, we hardly saw a drop. Only now, at 3am in the morning am I even hearing the distant roar of the promised thunder.
Brandy came to the festival, and absolutely had a blast. She got her face painted and bought a flower wreath headband and wore it all round the festival...I told her that I would have her "converted" and in full costume and start taking her regularly to renaissance festivals yet!! And that was only half joking! If I can accomplish it, I'm sure-as-Hell going to do it!
In fact if I can convert the whole world to going to festivals in full costume and just having fun, I personally think it would start a golden era of peace.
Ok, maybe I'm going a little far with that....maybe!
I want to thank all of you who left me comments about my recent woes. I appreciate them much more than you think I do, really.
Later my friends.
I'm better now...
Dad's hopeful about his chances and all, but still....this whole thing still upsets me. Though, for his sake, I'm going to be hopeful for him.
My brother and I are planning a trip up to see him soon.
Anyway.... The Arkansas Scottish Festival is this weekend, and I'll be in attendance once again. Drop by if you're in the area. And if you want to find me, just look for the largest fellow in a kilt.
On a side note, I've been feeling reeeeeallly fucking lonely here lately.....
Dad's hopeful about his chances and all, but still....this whole thing still upsets me. Though, for his sake, I'm going to be hopeful for him.
My brother and I are planning a trip up to see him soon.
Anyway.... The Arkansas Scottish Festival is this weekend, and I'll be in attendance once again. Drop by if you're in the area. And if you want to find me, just look for the largest fellow in a kilt.
On a side note, I've been feeling reeeeeallly fucking lonely here lately.....
Last Thursday, I got a call from my sister.
At my Dad's last medical check-up, they found a tangerine/small-orange sized mass in his left lung.
We were hoping that it was merely a formation leftover from his last bout with pneumonia last winter.
I talked to my Dad just a few hours ago.....the tumor is cancerous. It's stage 2 Lung Cancer. And he has opted for Radiation and Chemotherapy.
Dad's being very upbeat and hopeful about this....I'm not really sure how to take it. I've been hopeful myself up to now. But all this ts really bothering me.
I don't know if I ever talked about the tormented, stormy, and convoluted relationship I have with my father.
He was...well, still is an alcoholic (even when they join AA and sober up and swear off the stuff, they never really stop being addicted to it), and he did alot of shit to me as a kid that it took me a very, very long time to forgive him for.
The best example I can give is the scar I have on my forehead. I think I've talked about this here before. I don't know if you can see it in my pics....maybe if you d/l them and zoom in you can. But, to make a long story short, he threw a baby bottle at my head when I was ten. He was real sorry afterward when he saw the blood start pouring out of my head. Anyway, enough of that. I'm trying to let that shit go and move on...to stop dwelling on the past.
Anyway, my Dad's a different man now. People change over the years....both he and I. After a period of about ten years of not even speaking to him on the phone, a few years ago, he and I started the healing process and began to reconnect.
And now this happens and I may lose him!
I know alot of you would'nt understand me forgiving him....but he's my Dad. He's the only Dad I'll ever get. And there are a Hell-of-alot worse fathers out there! Believe me, I know there are. My mother works for social services with the people who deal with child abusers. You would'nt believe the shit that goes on out there!
The worse part was, that when I started to reconnect with Dad a few years ago, my brother actually started the process of distancing himself from Dad like I did before. He even went so far as to change his phone number and purposely not give it to Dad or my sisters!
But this whole situation has basically forced my brother into reoconnecting. I feel kinda bad for him. I had years to deal with my emotions and get past my fears...he's only had a few days!
We're both planning a trip soon up to Illinois to see him....I'm just praying to God it's not for the last time and that my Dad gets over this and many, many more years left to him.
And to be the Cherry-on-Top of the Bad-News-Parfait I've had recently, I found out today that my Sensei may have to close down the Kenpo Karate classes he's been teaching, and move out of town. I could always start taking Brazilian Jui-Juitsu, but I really wanted to stick with Kenpo. There are very few things in my life that I've started AND finished....and this was one of those things that I wanted to commit to.
IT'S RAINING SHIT RIGHT NOW, AND i DON'T EVEN HAVE A FUCKING UMBRELLA!! 
I think I'll get piss-fucking-drunk-off-my-aas and smoke a couple of cigars.
At my Dad's last medical check-up, they found a tangerine/small-orange sized mass in his left lung.
We were hoping that it was merely a formation leftover from his last bout with pneumonia last winter.
I talked to my Dad just a few hours ago.....the tumor is cancerous. It's stage 2 Lung Cancer. And he has opted for Radiation and Chemotherapy.
Dad's being very upbeat and hopeful about this....I'm not really sure how to take it. I've been hopeful myself up to now. But all this ts really bothering me.
I don't know if I ever talked about the tormented, stormy, and convoluted relationship I have with my father.
He was...well, still is an alcoholic (even when they join AA and sober up and swear off the stuff, they never really stop being addicted to it), and he did alot of shit to me as a kid that it took me a very, very long time to forgive him for.
The best example I can give is the scar I have on my forehead. I think I've talked about this here before. I don't know if you can see it in my pics....maybe if you d/l them and zoom in you can. But, to make a long story short, he threw a baby bottle at my head when I was ten. He was real sorry afterward when he saw the blood start pouring out of my head. Anyway, enough of that. I'm trying to let that shit go and move on...to stop dwelling on the past.
Anyway, my Dad's a different man now. People change over the years....both he and I. After a period of about ten years of not even speaking to him on the phone, a few years ago, he and I started the healing process and began to reconnect.
And now this happens and I may lose him!
I know alot of you would'nt understand me forgiving him....but he's my Dad. He's the only Dad I'll ever get. And there are a Hell-of-alot worse fathers out there! Believe me, I know there are. My mother works for social services with the people who deal with child abusers. You would'nt believe the shit that goes on out there!
The worse part was, that when I started to reconnect with Dad a few years ago, my brother actually started the process of distancing himself from Dad like I did before. He even went so far as to change his phone number and purposely not give it to Dad or my sisters!
But this whole situation has basically forced my brother into reoconnecting. I feel kinda bad for him. I had years to deal with my emotions and get past my fears...he's only had a few days!
We're both planning a trip soon up to Illinois to see him....I'm just praying to God it's not for the last time and that my Dad gets over this and many, many more years left to him.
And to be the Cherry-on-Top of the Bad-News-Parfait I've had recently, I found out today that my Sensei may have to close down the Kenpo Karate classes he's been teaching, and move out of town. I could always start taking Brazilian Jui-Juitsu, but I really wanted to stick with Kenpo. There are very few things in my life that I've started AND finished....and this was one of those things that I wanted to commit to.
IT'S RAINING SHIT RIGHT NOW, AND i DON'T EVEN HAVE A FUCKING UMBRELLA!!
I think I'll get piss-fucking-drunk-off-my-aas and smoke a couple of cigars.
Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!
or, as I like to call it....
Happy Perfect-Excuse-To-Get-Stone-Blind-Stinking-Ass-Falling-Down-The-Stairs-Drunk-Off-Your-Ass Day!!
Though, I won't be doing that myself...I have work. Oh well.
We had Chewy cremated. His ashes now sit on my shelf. I think when I'm ready, I'm going to spread them over the farm where he was born.
In other news...well, the same old boring shit really. I've got my little routine down. *sigh* Nothing more exciting than that really.
Kenpo class is going well. Our Sensei said it will be three years before my brother and I will get our Black Belts. It only seems like long time if you're not willing to commit to that sort of thing....and I've already resolved myself to do it!
Sensei has also decided that Thursday nights are the nights we are gong to work on our endurance, stamina, and basic cardio...translation: THURDAY NIGHTS ARE A FUCKING BALL-BUSTER!!! But i'ts all in the name of bettering myself.
He set a goal for us to lose somewhere in the neighborhood of 100lbs each! (Both of us are over 300lbs each) But it seems like an achievable goal. We've both already started losing weight. My brother more than I, since he's on Weight Watchers as well. He's lost over 75lbs so far!! But that's not included in the 100 lbs our teacher's talking about. HEHEHE!
Me? Well, I don't know really. I have'nt weighed myself in almost a year. But I have started toning up, and I've noticed that my clothes are loser. I no longer have those "Flab Wings" under my arms and I'm having trouble keeping my damn pants up! LOL!
I'm also getting out more. I've started playing Vampire 2nd edition on Thursday nights down at Bald Man Games here in town. Yes...it's the same night as Kenpo, but it's after class. And hell, Sensei and another student are the ones who invited me. I'm not really much into Vampire though. I'm trying to tempt everyone into playing Mage 2nd edition!
I much prefer that game. Not so much backstabbing or politicking, and much more action!
I really need to get my camera's software and pics loaded onto this computer. And I need to get a flickr account or something that'll take those pics so that I can post them here. I'm going to try to get a pic of me in my Karate Gi. When I first got it, I looked like an over-stuffed sausage. Now that I've lost some weight, i'ts losser, but I'm still kinda flabby. I'm gonna keep working on that though.
That's all I have for now.
Later my friends.
or, as I like to call it....
Happy Perfect-Excuse-To-Get-Stone-Blind-Stinking-Ass-Falling-Down-The-Stairs-Drunk-Off-Your-Ass Day!!
Though, I won't be doing that myself...I have work. Oh well.
We had Chewy cremated. His ashes now sit on my shelf. I think when I'm ready, I'm going to spread them over the farm where he was born.
In other news...well, the same old boring shit really. I've got my little routine down. *sigh* Nothing more exciting than that really.
Kenpo class is going well. Our Sensei said it will be three years before my brother and I will get our Black Belts. It only seems like long time if you're not willing to commit to that sort of thing....and I've already resolved myself to do it!
Sensei has also decided that Thursday nights are the nights we are gong to work on our endurance, stamina, and basic cardio...translation: THURDAY NIGHTS ARE A FUCKING BALL-BUSTER!!! But i'ts all in the name of bettering myself.
He set a goal for us to lose somewhere in the neighborhood of 100lbs each! (Both of us are over 300lbs each) But it seems like an achievable goal. We've both already started losing weight. My brother more than I, since he's on Weight Watchers as well. He's lost over 75lbs so far!! But that's not included in the 100 lbs our teacher's talking about. HEHEHE!
Me? Well, I don't know really. I have'nt weighed myself in almost a year. But I have started toning up, and I've noticed that my clothes are loser. I no longer have those "Flab Wings" under my arms and I'm having trouble keeping my damn pants up! LOL!
I'm also getting out more. I've started playing Vampire 2nd edition on Thursday nights down at Bald Man Games here in town. Yes...it's the same night as Kenpo, but it's after class. And hell, Sensei and another student are the ones who invited me. I'm not really much into Vampire though. I'm trying to tempt everyone into playing Mage 2nd edition!
I much prefer that game. Not so much backstabbing or politicking, and much more action!I really need to get my camera's software and pics loaded onto this computer. And I need to get a flickr account or something that'll take those pics so that I can post them here. I'm going to try to get a pic of me in my Karate Gi. When I first got it, I looked like an over-stuffed sausage. Now that I've lost some weight, i'ts losser, but I'm still kinda flabby. I'm gonna keep working on that though.
That's all I have for now.
Later my friends.
In January of 1993 we drove to Pocahontas, AR to a relatives farm to pick a puppy out of a litter of seven that one of their dogs had in November of the previous year. They were all mutts, with barely any clue as to what mix of breeds they had in them....some Lab, some Chow-Chow, was the best guess we could make.
The cutest among them was a little fuzzball that looked like an ewok, which was what our cousins were originally calling him. I said back then, "He going to grow up bigger than some cute little ewok. We'd be better off naming him Chewbacca."
And so we did.
For sixteen years that wonderful mutt was a part of our family. He knew me as "Bubba". Whenever anyone told him to "Go to Bubba", I'm the one he'd run to.
Sixteen years of love, laughs, playing, fighting, yelling....all the experiences of family.
Sixteen years of coming home everyday with him to greet me at the door, and always excited to see me.
But not anymore.....
A little more than a year ago Chewy (as we called him) started slowing down, eating less, acting sadder and sadder. His arthritis was getting too much for him to handle. And just before Thanksgiving, things started gettting worse for him. He could no longer get up without help. Could no longer control his bowel and urinary movements. He was in a constant state of pain!
Yesterday, we made the decision that it was time to end his pain.
At 9:30 am today, we took him to the veterinarian, the same one we'd been taking him to since he was a puppy to have him euthanized.. I held him as the vet gave him the injection...I wanted him to know Bubba was there with him and that I loved him. I held him until his final breath left him.
He's gone now. Who will be there to greet me at the door when I come home now? I almost expected him to be there when I came home an hour ago.
I love you and I miss you Chewbacca, and I'm sorry, but I did'nt want to see you hurt anymore!
The cutest among them was a little fuzzball that looked like an ewok, which was what our cousins were originally calling him. I said back then, "He going to grow up bigger than some cute little ewok. We'd be better off naming him Chewbacca."
And so we did.
For sixteen years that wonderful mutt was a part of our family. He knew me as "Bubba". Whenever anyone told him to "Go to Bubba", I'm the one he'd run to.
Sixteen years of love, laughs, playing, fighting, yelling....all the experiences of family.
Sixteen years of coming home everyday with him to greet me at the door, and always excited to see me.
But not anymore.....
A little more than a year ago Chewy (as we called him) started slowing down, eating less, acting sadder and sadder. His arthritis was getting too much for him to handle. And just before Thanksgiving, things started gettting worse for him. He could no longer get up without help. Could no longer control his bowel and urinary movements. He was in a constant state of pain!
Yesterday, we made the decision that it was time to end his pain.
At 9:30 am today, we took him to the veterinarian, the same one we'd been taking him to since he was a puppy to have him euthanized.. I held him as the vet gave him the injection...I wanted him to know Bubba was there with him and that I loved him. I held him until his final breath left him.
He's gone now. Who will be there to greet me at the door when I come home now? I almost expected him to be there when I came home an hour ago.
I love you and I miss you Chewbacca, and I'm sorry, but I did'nt want to see you hurt anymore!
Time for an update...
I hope everyone had a Happy New Year....I had to work, but it was'nt so bad. I did'nt really miss out on anything....I've never even been to a New Year's Eve party anyway, so I don't know what I'm missing. Hehe.
Time for the big news...last night, in my Kenpo Karate class, I got my Yellow Belt!
I know that may not be big news to some, but for me it really is. It means I've stuck it out. I have'nt given up on it like so many other things I've wanted to do but quit doing for one reason or another. We basically automatically get a White Belt just for signing up for the class and showing up, but that Yellow Belt is the first one I EARNED! It means I have achieved something! That Yellow Belt symbolizes that I can do anything I set my mind to.
And my goal is to go all the way to Black Belt! My Sensei says it will take about three years...but I'm not going anywhere.
Also, as I mentioned in an earlier post where I first mentioned taking the class, on achieving Yellow Belt we were to chose an animal to represent ourselves and which would also be our title...and I've chosen mine. "The Bear" I think it suits me well enough. Large. Strong. A general gentle nature. Not easily angered, but dangerous when made so. Dangerous to underestimate. And of course, Cuddly!
This is a huge step in ending my procrastinatory nature. I think this will be the start of many things I've procrastinated about. We'll see.
That's all I have for now
Later my friends.
I hope everyone had a Happy New Year....I had to work, but it was'nt so bad. I did'nt really miss out on anything....I've never even been to a New Year's Eve party anyway, so I don't know what I'm missing. Hehe.
Time for the big news...last night, in my Kenpo Karate class, I got my Yellow Belt!
I know that may not be big news to some, but for me it really is. It means I've stuck it out. I have'nt given up on it like so many other things I've wanted to do but quit doing for one reason or another. We basically automatically get a White Belt just for signing up for the class and showing up, but that Yellow Belt is the first one I EARNED! It means I have achieved something! That Yellow Belt symbolizes that I can do anything I set my mind to.
And my goal is to go all the way to Black Belt! My Sensei says it will take about three years...but I'm not going anywhere.
Also, as I mentioned in an earlier post where I first mentioned taking the class, on achieving Yellow Belt we were to chose an animal to represent ourselves and which would also be our title...and I've chosen mine. "The Bear" I think it suits me well enough. Large. Strong. A general gentle nature. Not easily angered, but dangerous when made so. Dangerous to underestimate. And of course, Cuddly!
This is a huge step in ending my procrastinatory nature. I think this will be the start of many things I've procrastinated about. We'll see.
That's all I have for now
Later my friends.
Sorry I've been gone.
I got back into playing World of Warcraft...so when I come home, I don't spend much time on SG if I spend any time at all, that is. The only reason I'm here now is that Tuesday is the regulart scheduled maitenence day for WoW and I can't play. LOL So I apologize if I've been neglecting anyone.
I did get on here a few times to post in the BPAL group because I finally got my stuff from them in the mail. I originally ordered three bottles, and two, six-vial sets of their "imps ears". I got a nice little surprise though, when I opened the box....ten more imps ears! For FREE! I've been trying these new scents out, one a day, to see how many I like or don't like. "Brom Bones" and "Dee" are my faves so far, but I still have many to try.
My best friend, the one who moved back to Michigan some years ago, is moving back to Batesville...but it's not exactly a happy occasion. The reason they moved in the first place was because his wife's sister kicked them out of the house that she owned and that they were living in over some stupid shit that I won't go into here. They had no place to go. So, they turned to his parents who were living in Michigan, taking care of an elderly gentleman up there. The deal they got was, they could live in the old fellow's house, and they would take care of him...his wife being an LPN..., while his parents would help them out once in a while.
Well, that gentleman finally passed away yesterday. And now, they have 30 days to vacate the place....talk about ingratitude. "Thanks for taking care of my elderly, bedridden relative...now get out!"
And since they had a falling out with his parents about a year ago, they can't stay with them up there...so there's only one alternative....move back in with her sister.
Only, my best friend is not allowed.
You see, he and his wife separated more than a year ago, but it was an amicable split, and he kept living with her, and her new boyfriend, for the sake of their son. But now, her sister is welcoming them all back in, except for my best friend, with whom she had the problem in the first place. So my firiend now needs a place to crash while he tries to find a new place of his own.
What can I say? No? He's my best friend in the world! He's the very first person to ever stand up for me. He's the one who taught me to stand up for myself. If it had'nt been for him, I might've given up a long time ago. You might not be sitting there reading these words i've typed....because I would've been too wrapped up in my own pathos or too scared to join this site or...well, let's not go any further with that line of thought. The way it is, my life is better for having him in it, and I owe him. It' just that space is going to be a problem, but we'll manage somehow. I just wish he were returning under happier circumstances.
But maybe this will be a good thing.
You see, my friend suffers from a type of manic-depression as well as depression. I don't know if he's exactly 'bi-polar' or not, but they've had him on several different medications...he's had to be institutionalized a few times while up there...he confessed to me recently that he's tried to take his own life a few times. I don't think Michigan was very good for him. What with his parents (that's a long story I won't get into) and the depressing environment he was living in (having to take care of a dying man). I don't think he ever mentioned having made even one friend while up there. He grew up there originally, and he had childhood friends, but most of them had moved on or such. But coming back here...he's at least going to have one good friend!! And perhaps, reconnect with some others, and maybe with my help, make some new ones. A good friend can be a life saver....I know this, 'cause he was that for me once.
Anyway, not much else going on. I still have two more presents to get, but hopefully, that should'nt be any trouble.
And there's about half-an-inch to an inch of sleet/snow/ice outside, and it's bitterly cold (at least for Arkansas it's "bitter")...but I like it!
That's all I have for now.
Later my friends.
I got back into playing World of Warcraft...so when I come home, I don't spend much time on SG if I spend any time at all, that is. The only reason I'm here now is that Tuesday is the regulart scheduled maitenence day for WoW and I can't play. LOL So I apologize if I've been neglecting anyone.
I did get on here a few times to post in the BPAL group because I finally got my stuff from them in the mail. I originally ordered three bottles, and two, six-vial sets of their "imps ears". I got a nice little surprise though, when I opened the box....ten more imps ears! For FREE! I've been trying these new scents out, one a day, to see how many I like or don't like. "Brom Bones" and "Dee" are my faves so far, but I still have many to try.
My best friend, the one who moved back to Michigan some years ago, is moving back to Batesville...but it's not exactly a happy occasion. The reason they moved in the first place was because his wife's sister kicked them out of the house that she owned and that they were living in over some stupid shit that I won't go into here. They had no place to go. So, they turned to his parents who were living in Michigan, taking care of an elderly gentleman up there. The deal they got was, they could live in the old fellow's house, and they would take care of him...his wife being an LPN..., while his parents would help them out once in a while.
Well, that gentleman finally passed away yesterday. And now, they have 30 days to vacate the place....talk about ingratitude. "Thanks for taking care of my elderly, bedridden relative...now get out!"
And since they had a falling out with his parents about a year ago, they can't stay with them up there...so there's only one alternative....move back in with her sister.
Only, my best friend is not allowed.
You see, he and his wife separated more than a year ago, but it was an amicable split, and he kept living with her, and her new boyfriend, for the sake of their son. But now, her sister is welcoming them all back in, except for my best friend, with whom she had the problem in the first place. So my firiend now needs a place to crash while he tries to find a new place of his own.
What can I say? No? He's my best friend in the world! He's the very first person to ever stand up for me. He's the one who taught me to stand up for myself. If it had'nt been for him, I might've given up a long time ago. You might not be sitting there reading these words i've typed....because I would've been too wrapped up in my own pathos or too scared to join this site or...well, let's not go any further with that line of thought. The way it is, my life is better for having him in it, and I owe him. It' just that space is going to be a problem, but we'll manage somehow. I just wish he were returning under happier circumstances.
But maybe this will be a good thing.
You see, my friend suffers from a type of manic-depression as well as depression. I don't know if he's exactly 'bi-polar' or not, but they've had him on several different medications...he's had to be institutionalized a few times while up there...he confessed to me recently that he's tried to take his own life a few times. I don't think Michigan was very good for him. What with his parents (that's a long story I won't get into) and the depressing environment he was living in (having to take care of a dying man). I don't think he ever mentioned having made even one friend while up there. He grew up there originally, and he had childhood friends, but most of them had moved on or such. But coming back here...he's at least going to have one good friend!! And perhaps, reconnect with some others, and maybe with my help, make some new ones. A good friend can be a life saver....I know this, 'cause he was that for me once.
Anyway, not much else going on. I still have two more presents to get, but hopefully, that should'nt be any trouble.
And there's about half-an-inch to an inch of sleet/snow/ice outside, and it's bitterly cold (at least for Arkansas it's "bitter")...but I like it!
That's all I have for now.
Later my friends.
I'm sick.
It started the week of my vacation...well, near the end of it anyway....with really bad nasal congestion. I could hardly breathe! But I got some nasal spray, and went ahead into work the next week, all week. I skipped one class of kenpo last week to give myself some time to get rid of this crap.
I had almost gotten rid of this cold when I came home this morning. The night before, I went ahead to class, feeling just fine, then went into work, tired as hell of course, because our sensei is getting us ready for our first test. So when I got home yesterday, I was completely exhausted, but still feeling fine. So, not to long after getting home, I lay down on the couch and promptly pass out.
I woke up three hours later hardly able to breathe or speak. Apparently, sometime during those three hours, I've had some sort of relapse. When will I get rid of this SHIT?!?! I tried going into work tonight, but I just could'nt do it. So, I'm home, sitting here with a nice Hot Toddy of Herbal Tea with Echineacea, Honey, and Lemon Juice, resting up, and hoping I can finally kick this Goddamn Cold!! Fortunately, I have tommorow night off, and I've already decided to skip tonight's kenpo class. so I'm going to get some real rest and hope this is just the last stretch in this sickness.
Ok. Enough rant.
Chris, the new partner I have, did a pretty good job last week. Things were a little cluttered and crowded when I got back, but I can expect that at this time of year, with the Holidays coming up, and I can also chalk it up to the quality of help he had that week, so overall, he did very well. Well enough that I could trust him to cover for me tonight.
I did go down to the local branch of the Tandy Leather Factory down in Little Rock last week. Bought a new basic leathercrafting kit. I got that because it has most of the tools I'm going to need, as well as some instructional material, and several precut leather kits for a wallet, keychain fob, etc., so that I can get a good start. I think the only things I've left to get are a stylus, a marble board. a new skiving tool, and some carving patterns that I want to get, and I'll be ready to go. I'm going to start with the wallet, my brother needs a new one and this is the perfect opportunity. I think I'll got with a Celtic knotwork pattern.
I've also been hearing alot lately about .Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab. Ever since they discontinued my favorite cologne, Tuscany Pour Uomo Forte I've been looking for a new scent to wear. I've heard so many good things about this place, I thought I'd try some of their stuff. I ordered three of their limited edition scents, and about ten imp's ears of different scents I wanna try. Let's see if I can find my new scent! I can always turn it from an oil into a cologne if I like it, with the instructions posted on their boards. I also joined the local BPAL group here on SG. Will update with more on that later.
Well, that's all for now, I've finished my Hot Toddy, and I'm off to make another.
Happy Holidays!
Later my friends.]
It started the week of my vacation...well, near the end of it anyway....with really bad nasal congestion. I could hardly breathe! But I got some nasal spray, and went ahead into work the next week, all week. I skipped one class of kenpo last week to give myself some time to get rid of this crap.
I had almost gotten rid of this cold when I came home this morning. The night before, I went ahead to class, feeling just fine, then went into work, tired as hell of course, because our sensei is getting us ready for our first test. So when I got home yesterday, I was completely exhausted, but still feeling fine. So, not to long after getting home, I lay down on the couch and promptly pass out.
I woke up three hours later hardly able to breathe or speak. Apparently, sometime during those three hours, I've had some sort of relapse. When will I get rid of this SHIT?!?! I tried going into work tonight, but I just could'nt do it. So, I'm home, sitting here with a nice Hot Toddy of Herbal Tea with Echineacea, Honey, and Lemon Juice, resting up, and hoping I can finally kick this Goddamn Cold!! Fortunately, I have tommorow night off, and I've already decided to skip tonight's kenpo class. so I'm going to get some real rest and hope this is just the last stretch in this sickness.
Ok. Enough rant.
Chris, the new partner I have, did a pretty good job last week. Things were a little cluttered and crowded when I got back, but I can expect that at this time of year, with the Holidays coming up, and I can also chalk it up to the quality of help he had that week, so overall, he did very well. Well enough that I could trust him to cover for me tonight.
I did go down to the local branch of the Tandy Leather Factory down in Little Rock last week. Bought a new basic leathercrafting kit. I got that because it has most of the tools I'm going to need, as well as some instructional material, and several precut leather kits for a wallet, keychain fob, etc., so that I can get a good start. I think the only things I've left to get are a stylus, a marble board. a new skiving tool, and some carving patterns that I want to get, and I'll be ready to go. I'm going to start with the wallet, my brother needs a new one and this is the perfect opportunity. I think I'll got with a Celtic knotwork pattern.
I've also been hearing alot lately about .Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab. Ever since they discontinued my favorite cologne, Tuscany Pour Uomo Forte I've been looking for a new scent to wear. I've heard so many good things about this place, I thought I'd try some of their stuff. I ordered three of their limited edition scents, and about ten imp's ears of different scents I wanna try. Let's see if I can find my new scent!
I can always turn it from an oil into a cologne if I like it, with the instructions posted on their boards. I also joined the local BPAL group here on SG. Will update with more on that later.Well, that's all for now, I've finished my Hot Toddy, and I'm off to make another.
Happy Holidays!
Later my friends.]
Time for an update.
No reason in particular....just felt like it.
I'm off work on vacation this week. And I did'nt have to go through as much trouble as I usually did. The new partner I have working with me is actually intelligent and responsible enough to cover for me and do my job while I'm away without my having to babysit him!!
Talk about a shocker!
Anyway, not going to be up to much this week. Got some necessary, major cleaning to do around the house. I'm not exaggerating. This place has become a mouse and roach infested crack den! Well, it was. It's a bit better since I've gotten some cleaning done. I have no excuse for the previous mess other than I was just plain lazy. But, as previously stated throughout my earlier posts...I'm changing some of the more negative aspects of my life for more positive ones.
The past few weeks I've been buying a Shitload of stuff on Amazon. Mostly books. Those of you who know me, know that I love "How to.." books. I have a full shelf dedicated to them on my bookshelf. Some of it I've followed through with, some not. Blacksmithing, Flintknapping, Primitive Survival Skills, etc. Last week, I got a new one on Leather Braiding, of which I already have a few books, and is one of the few crafts I've actually worked on (I have a Mace that I wrapped the handle on in what's called a "French whipping or grapevine service wrap" that I have been intending to show you all...it's so cool!). I think one of the things I'll make a point to do this week is to take a little trip down to Little Rock to the local Tandy Leather Factory and pick up some more supplies. I've gotten an itch to do some more Leather Braiding, and I feel like scratching!! The new book I got has a braid called a "Conquistador Braid" which I'm thinking about making into a belt.
I also bought some books on Hermetic traditions, Kabalah, Tarot, Astrology and other esoteric subjects, and a couple decks of Tarot Cards and a couple of Chakra Pendulums...mostly out of curiosity. I consider myself very spiritual, but I don't think I'll be becoming a dedicated student of any of it. I still consider myself a Christian, but I'm more of an open minded one...willing to listen, rather than to automatically jump to conclusions or to judge others for their beliefs. I believe a spiritual journey should be more about Self rather than others in the end. Anyway, enough deep subject.
Kenpo classes are going well (see previous post). I had to miss last week because my Sensei was sick, but I'll be going twice this week. It's going to be really punishing because I have'nt worked out between classes as much as I should have, but I'll make it. Our Sensei told us that later on we'll be learning some weapons forms, which has me so stoked!! I have always wanted to learn martial arts weapons. Especially any kind of stick fighting!! And one of the things he'll be teaching us are the Escrima Sticks!! I'm so excited about this, I went ahead and ordered some!! Got a set for myself, and I even got my brother two sets for his Christmas present!! Tee Hee! I'm so excited about this!!
Another thing he told us was that, once we achieve Yellow Belt, which is the next level, each student will have to chose an animal. That animal will be our title, and will be written on our new belts. Like our teacher's title is "The Falcon"...John "The Falcon" Chiaromonte.
I thought of two right off the bat...my two astrological signs. "The Lion"...from the Classcal Zodiac, and "The Ox"...from the Chinese Zodiac. I was also thinking perhaps "The Bear"...it kinda fits me in a way with my stature, strength and general demeanor. But, that's still a few months away at the shortest. (if any of you get any notions or wanna cast your vote, lemme know).
Anyway, that's all I've got for now.
Later my friends!
No reason in particular....just felt like it.
I'm off work on vacation this week. And I did'nt have to go through as much trouble as I usually did. The new partner I have working with me is actually intelligent and responsible enough to cover for me and do my job while I'm away without my having to babysit him!!
Talk about a shocker! Anyway, not going to be up to much this week. Got some necessary, major cleaning to do around the house. I'm not exaggerating. This place has become a mouse and roach infested crack den! Well, it was. It's a bit better since I've gotten some cleaning done. I have no excuse for the previous mess other than I was just plain lazy. But, as previously stated throughout my earlier posts...I'm changing some of the more negative aspects of my life for more positive ones.
The past few weeks I've been buying a Shitload of stuff on Amazon. Mostly books. Those of you who know me, know that I love "How to.." books. I have a full shelf dedicated to them on my bookshelf. Some of it I've followed through with, some not. Blacksmithing, Flintknapping, Primitive Survival Skills, etc. Last week, I got a new one on Leather Braiding, of which I already have a few books, and is one of the few crafts I've actually worked on (I have a Mace that I wrapped the handle on in what's called a "French whipping or grapevine service wrap" that I have been intending to show you all...it's so cool!). I think one of the things I'll make a point to do this week is to take a little trip down to Little Rock to the local Tandy Leather Factory and pick up some more supplies. I've gotten an itch to do some more Leather Braiding, and I feel like scratching!! The new book I got has a braid called a "Conquistador Braid" which I'm thinking about making into a belt.
I also bought some books on Hermetic traditions, Kabalah, Tarot, Astrology and other esoteric subjects, and a couple decks of Tarot Cards and a couple of Chakra Pendulums...mostly out of curiosity. I consider myself very spiritual, but I don't think I'll be becoming a dedicated student of any of it. I still consider myself a Christian, but I'm more of an open minded one...willing to listen, rather than to automatically jump to conclusions or to judge others for their beliefs. I believe a spiritual journey should be more about Self rather than others in the end. Anyway, enough deep subject.
Kenpo classes are going well (see previous post). I had to miss last week because my Sensei was sick, but I'll be going twice this week. It's going to be really punishing because I have'nt worked out between classes as much as I should have, but I'll make it. Our Sensei told us that later on we'll be learning some weapons forms, which has me so stoked!! I have always wanted to learn martial arts weapons. Especially any kind of stick fighting!! And one of the things he'll be teaching us are the Escrima Sticks!! I'm so excited about this, I went ahead and ordered some!! Got a set for myself, and I even got my brother two sets for his Christmas present!! Tee Hee! I'm so excited about this!!
Another thing he told us was that, once we achieve Yellow Belt, which is the next level, each student will have to chose an animal. That animal will be our title, and will be written on our new belts. Like our teacher's title is "The Falcon"...John "The Falcon" Chiaromonte.
I thought of two right off the bat...my two astrological signs. "The Lion"...from the Classcal Zodiac, and "The Ox"...from the Chinese Zodiac. I was also thinking perhaps "The Bear"...it kinda fits me in a way with my stature, strength and general demeanor. But, that's still a few months away at the shortest. (if any of you get any notions or wanna cast your vote, lemme know).
Anyway, that's all I've got for now.
Later my friends!
If nothing else, The Secret has given me more confidence in my life to do the things that I was always afraid to do before that in my heart I really wanted to do!
Telling Brandy how I really feel was one of them...(see previous post)
(btw...it's now definite that were only going to be friends.)
Taking Martial Arts was another.
Tonight, I had my first lesson in American Kenpo Karate! And it won't be my last either!
And i'm not learining it just so I can be a badass...that's actually the last thing i want to be!
Taking martial arts will give me the self-discipline and self-confidence I have always waned and desperately needed all my life. And hopefully, this will also help whip my fat ass into shape. Admittedly, I have let my own fear and laziness stop me before.
NO MORE!!!
I am now doing things I have always wanted to do, and not letting my fears and inhibitions get in the way!
I know that sounds like bragging...but for a change, I'm very proud of myself. I'm becoming a better person...a person I have always wanted to be...a person I had only thought about being before. And I have to feel good about that...haw can anyone who does so not feel that way.
Anyway, I just thought all this worth mentioning.
I think my next move will be to officially join the SCA.
Oh! For anyone who lives in the local area (who reads my blog that is...maybe one or two people) if your interested in taking classes, here's the contact information:
CLEARMOUNTAIN MARTIAL ARTS
Pregressive American Kenpo Karate
Classes beginning in September
Tuesday and Thursday Nights
Children's Classes
Little Tigers ages: 3 - 5
Little Dragons ages: 6 - 8
Juniour Black Belts ages: 9 - 13
Adult Classes
Adult ages: 14 and above
LIMITED ENROLLMENT
CONTACT: John Chiaromonte at 870-214-0957
Right now, the adult class consists of me and my brother...so there's room for a few more in the adult class, and the rates are pretty reasonable. I'm only paying like $30 a month for one class a week.
Anyway...that's all I have for now.
Later my friends!
Telling Brandy how I really feel was one of them...(see previous post)
(btw...it's now definite that were only going to be friends.
)Taking Martial Arts was another.
Tonight, I had my first lesson in American Kenpo Karate! And it won't be my last either!
And i'm not learining it just so I can be a badass...that's actually the last thing i want to be!
Taking martial arts will give me the self-discipline and self-confidence I have always waned and desperately needed all my life. And hopefully, this will also help whip my fat ass into shape. Admittedly, I have let my own fear and laziness stop me before.
NO MORE!!!
I am now doing things I have always wanted to do, and not letting my fears and inhibitions get in the way!
I know that sounds like bragging...but for a change, I'm very proud of myself. I'm becoming a better person...a person I have always wanted to be...a person I had only thought about being before. And I have to feel good about that...haw can anyone who does so not feel that way.
Anyway, I just thought all this worth mentioning.
I think my next move will be to officially join the SCA.
Oh! For anyone who lives in the local area (who reads my blog that is...maybe one or two people) if your interested in taking classes, here's the contact information:
CLEARMOUNTAIN MARTIAL ARTS
Pregressive American Kenpo Karate
Classes beginning in September
Tuesday and Thursday Nights
Children's Classes
Little Tigers ages: 3 - 5
Little Dragons ages: 6 - 8
Juniour Black Belts ages: 9 - 13
Adult Classes
Adult ages: 14 and above
LIMITED ENROLLMENT
CONTACT: John Chiaromonte at 870-214-0957
Right now, the adult class consists of me and my brother...so there's room for a few more in the adult class, and the rates are pretty reasonable. I'm only paying like $30 a month for one class a week.
Anyway...that's all I have for now.
Later my friends!
