Judging Something Good or Bad

It seems I’m up and about for the day (it began early, about 4:30 a.m. – oh well). Sleep disorder has been one of the things I’ve had to cope with since being laid off from my job with LandAmerica back in December of ’08. Sometimes my schedule just gets all turned around because I might worry about the future, how to pay the bills when savings and unemployment run out, etc. It’s during these times that my mind just won’t shut off and I end up staying up late (or even through the night) to make some headway on reworking my website or searching for jobs. When that happens I must grab sleep when I can so it turns out the middle of the day is the moment of availability… Then a vicious cycle begins. Fortunately I’ve been feeling exhausted enough by 8:30 in the evening that I’ve been having no trouble getting to sleep. Only problem is I then wake up a couple of times through the night; mostly just to use the “little boys room” (you know, the facilities .. LOL) and then I’m headed back to sleep, hopefully for the rest of the night.

This morning I woke up [again] around 4:30 and figured, “oh well, might as well research some things I want to work out regarding WordPress.” That’s the software I’m implementing so that I can host my blogs from my own site rather than be at the mercy of whomever (i.e. Blogspot or Myspace). There is one problem I’m having which makes me hesitate to move ALL of my blogs over to my site on WordPress – and that’s connecting to the site via Adobe’s Contribute software (but I’ll [hopefully] figure it out in time). Meanwhile, while checking out some of the nifty new videos on Wordpress.tv I stumbled across a reference to this website by Anny Chih. She’s pursuing a job as Caretaker of the islands of the Great Barrier Reef and has been shortlisted (along with 49 other candidates) for the position. Anny seems like a nice girl … um, okay “lady.” She posted a blog this morning about some email she received from someone who is apparently not so nice however. They were using the opportunity to insult her for her nationality. Sad really, that we as humans sometimes get so caught up in the events of what we’ve experienced in our own lives that we allow those experiences to bring out the worst in us. My recommendation to Anny is simply to not let this detractor’s form of vitriol distract her from her own goals and dreams.

Here’s a link to Anny's blog entry as well as my own comment to same.

My Comment: "I’m really sorry you had that experience. Yes, sometimes good things bring out the worst in people. As much as I’d like to say humans are not, people are often very self-serving. There is always another side to the coin however and it is that side I choose to focus on rather than the people who appear to embody the worst humanity has to offer. Don’t let this person’s response to your page bring you down or deter you from your goal(s). Everybody has rubbish in their lives and how they choose to respond to the rubbish will play a part in defining who they’ll ultimately become. The one who sent you that email obviously has allowed something to affect them in such a way that they have become resentful (in this case, of an entire race of people). That’s really sad but it’s their choice to do so and though they chose to interact with you in such a negative way, it doesn’t mean you have to allow it to become anything more than a blip on the radar of life for yourself. While it may be difficult to do so, don’t judge their comments as good or bad; just acknowledge that it happened and move forward. In so doing you refuse to allow THEIR baggage to attach to your own experience (life) and weigh you down. I wish you the best in your travels and hope you achieve what you’ve set out to achieve. —Michael P.S. Don’t for a moment think I’ve been successful in applying this approach to my own life “every waking moment.” *laughs-gently* I’ve had some rather harsh experiences with an ex (including consequences such as his infecting me with HIV) and there are times when it takes a great deal of effort for me to simply acknowledge what has happened and move forward. It takes practice, effort and [sometimes] the gift of time."

Some might question where I’m coming from with such advice (given my own experiences with an abusive ex). Also I must admit that one of my more recent blog entries might give one cause to think I myself harbor some resentment toward persons of a foreign nationality. Perhaps to some degree the majority of us DO fight such feelings and I readily admit that the events of 9-11 did affect my opinions of the Middle East (and sadly, still do to this day). However, the blog in question which makes reference to the levels of foreign aid by the U.S. was intended to be only a wakeup call to American citizens that we need to jog our priorities a little bit and start taking care of some of the problems within our own borders. We can’t do that effectively and still play the role of savior to all of the other countries in around the globe.

At any rate, the intent of my comment is you can give in to another’s hate and anger and let them win by focusing on what THEY did – or you can see their actions for what they truly are and dismiss them as insignificant in the broader scheme of things. Of course, it is not always easy to disregard the rants and tirades of a detractor but with practice you can and you’ll be all the better for having done so.

A little background: When I left my ex in 2001 I later enrolled in a meditation retreat (which would interestingly enough begin shortly after the events of 9-11). The focus of the retreat was on Vipassana Meditation. Vipassana means “to see things as they really are” and is one of India’s most ancient techniques of meditation. Regardless of one’s feelings toward the Middle East a person can benefit from the calming techniques inherent to this form of mediation (in my opinion).

The retreat and its teachings did seem to help me then and I’ve come to realize I need to again apply the lessons I learned back then. It’s amusing how we can all be knocked off our guard when everything in our lives seems to be moving along without any effort of our own; when money becomes the focus because of a job that has begun to pay more than we’ve previously made – and all of a sudden the job is gone. It’s kind of like “God” is for all too many people. When the events of their lives are going great thoughts of a higher power are nowhere in sight but as soon as they become riddled with stress and rife, who do they turn to? Don’t pretend it doesn’t happen. I’ve observed this in my own life many times … or perhaps I’m not as strong as most in this world (I don’t really believe that to be the case, however).

Folks, we appear to be entering into some VERY trying times given the current state of the economy and the number of people being laid off from their jobs. Now is certainly the time to learn how to cope with stress and difficulty if there was ever a time to do so.

Blessings and Light,
Michael

Ever failing economy and still we send more $$ overseas

The way I see it other nations look upon the U.S. as a great place to go when asking for assistance but when it comes time for those countries to repay us for all we've done they are nowhere to be found. Japan has benefited in more ways than I can describe (in part because of past aggressions which resulted in the institution of Article nine of its Constitution, prohibiting the country from maintaining land, sea and air forces). Though no “formal agreement” was ever in place whereby Japan officially relied on the United States for its defense — the continued presence of our troops over there cannot be mistaken as anything but…

Then there are our neighbors to the south who simply cannot seem to get a handle on the drug production and trafficking which continues to spill over the borders, creating more and more serious problems for our own country. While I’ve no doubt there is a lot of corruption, some at the highest levels of government, here within the U.S. I have less confidence in the politics of Mexico.

Let’s talk about the dollars that are being spent in Israel. Click here to see a breakdown of how much money has been “loaned” as compared to how much was given as “grants” to the country for military and economic purposes. Will we ever be repaid? I’m doubtful… We gave Israel $2,340 million (that’s almost $2.5 billion folks!) in 2007 alone to benefit their Israel's military, an additional $120 million in economic aid and another $40 million for the resettling of Jewish refugees.)

The aid we’ve given (and continue to give) to Israel and Egypt is for the most part just a reward for the cold peace in 1979. I have a difficult time believing what we’ve seen coming out of the Middle East is “peace.” Furthermore, if those in the Middle East sincerely believe theirs is a climate of peace then perhaps we could do far better spending our hard-earned dollars elsewhere — like here at home.

Of course we could always take a moment to talk about China. They do after all hold human rights in such high regard (sarcasm intended). Personally speaking, I am simply tired of seeing our country rushing in all of the time to police the affairs of the rest of the world when all it gets us is their disdain and uses up resources which could be put (in my opinion) to better use right here within our own borders. I’ve argued before that we’re a country founded on variety, ingenuity and opportunities. That we have flourished BECAUSE of our open borders and welcoming arms, but… I believe it is high time to say “enough is enough” and start handling our own affairs. It’s also time to close the loopholes which give tax incentives to those businesses that are quick to take jobs out of the USA and outsource to other countries.

It is time that American citizens stopped bickering amongst themselves long enough to take an active interest in just how our tax dollars are being spent and where the loyalties of this great nation lie. If we don’t… Well, I’m afraid that the future will be very bleak indeed. We are already experiencing trying times with an economy in deep distress … as more and more are being laid off from their jobs every day. When do we stand up and say, “Enough!”?

Just wondering.

Adobe Contribute CS3

I have no idea what this is going to look like when I go and view it from the web browser. /laughs/ Okay, let me explain. I awoke this evening after having gone to bed exhausted at about 8:30 or nine; couldn’t get back to sleep right away and decided to check a couple of things on the computer. Stumbled across an application that came with my copy of Adobe Master Collection (CS3, not the new CS4 version) called Adobe Contribute and thought to myself, “What does THIS do?” Ya, I’m inquisitive – it’s how I believe we continue to learn on the computer. Through experimenting and never being afraid of pressing F1 for the online Help. LOL!

Well, apparently it is kind of a scaled down version of Dreamweaver (which I use for making changes to my website) but it also allows you to connect to, edit and publish new pages on online blogs. Cool.

So this is the first entry I’ve made using this software, thus my comment about not knowing what it’s going to look like in the end. I’ll know soon though. Here goes!

Hugs and best wishes to all,
Michael

Montebello High School ("Teaching the ingrates!")

foreign,illegals,national,ungrateful

(When this entry was originally posted it appeared that all of the photos shown below were taken at Montebello High and that all of the students involved were from Montebellow High School. As so often as is the case, appearances can and often are deceiving. I've left the post intact since my feelings really have not changed with regard to the REAL students who were involved in this protest. However, you may also wish to go to the Urban Legends website, which more accurately explains what happened on this day.)

I’m posting this because I’m so sick and tired of others coming in and going to work illegally, not paying any taxes and then benefiting from government programs and/or assistance they never paid a dime in to help form. You doubt me? What happens when the illegal alien gets hurt, opting to go to the county hospital where he or she is not turned away (free treatment at the taxpayer’s expense)? NOT to mention numerous other federal benefits some illegal’s manage to scam out of the government, all paid for by those of us who DO pay taxes.

Screw them. I say send all the illegal aliens back home (with their kids if need be), lock down the borders and start patrolling “effectively” – preventing ALL who attempt to come across illegally from doing so. I’ve had it with crap like this.

Do not misunderstand. I believe America is a melting pot of many different nationalities – and should remain as such. BUT, I also believe once you are here [LEGALLY], your first priority should be to start blending in. Learn the English language and SPEAK it in public! Don’t expect the rest of us to bend to the traditions of your own nation of origin. Don’t expect us to give your children a public education using books written in the language native to your land, by instructors speaking YOUR language. (If that is your desire, stay where you are! We, in America, speak English! Learn the damn language or get the hell out! It’s that simple!)

Our forefathers gave their blood and their lives to pay for the freedoms you so easily take for granted. If your heritage takes precedence over the freedoms you enjoy here in America, then get out and go embrace your heritage in your native lands. …because I, for one, am sick and tired of seeing a country I am proud of, and proud to be a PART of, bending to the whims of a bunch of self-centered, ungrateful pricks who aren’t willing to give thanks for the freedoms they began to enjoy the moment they crossed over our borders.

Wondering what motivated me to write this blog? Keep reading…

---

I guess they already finished their English homework!!! Montebello High School in California. You will not see this heart-stopping photo on the front page of the NY Times or on the lead story of the major news networks.

The protestors put up the Mexican flag over the American flag flying upside down at Montebello High School in California

I predict this stunt will be the nail in the coffin of any guest-worker/ amnesty plan on the table in Washington. The image of the American flag subsumed to another and turned upside down on American soil is already spreading on Internet forums and via e-mail.

Pass this along to every American citizen in your address books and to every representative in the state and federal government. If you choose to remain uninvolved, do not be amazed when you no longer have a nation to call your own nor anything you have worked for left since it will be ‘redistributed’ to the activists while you are so peacefully staying out of the ‘fray’. Check history, it is full of nations/empires that disappeared when its citizens no longer held their core beliefs and values. One person CAN make a difference.

One plus one plus one plus one plus one plus one……..

The battle for our secure borders and immigration laws that actually mean something, however, hasn’t even begun.

If this ticks YOU off…PASS IT ON!
(If it doesn’t it should.)

Do you know the person you're sleeping with?

Relationships

As I was preparing for a night out this evening, soaking in the tub, my mind began to wander (as it often does!) I was thinking about how best to put into words an observation regarding “relationships” (be they romance or simply a relationship between two friends). I was going back over my own track record, whereas boyfriends and LTR’s were involved. I’ve made disastrous decisions regarding the latter but most of you already knew that. ;-)

My hope is that anybody who takes the time to read this will really hear the message and [hopefully] not make some of the same mistakes I have made. You may still make them – but I hope you’ll be saved some of the heartache I’ve put myself through over the years.

So here we go.

When a person first starts seeing another person both parties are [usually] on their best behavior. We don’t really get to see all of the wonderfully, unique “flaws” which make our counterpart the person he or she is. I don’t know about you but I’VE never passed gas around somebody I’ve just begun dating. Have you? (Of course, ask a couple whose been together for twenty years if their partner ever farts in the bed and I’ll bet you get a resounding “YES!” …and they’d be LYING if they said “no.” LOL)

Okay, anyway…

The point is nobody really ordinarily puts all of their cards on the table the first time you pull up and deal the hand. In fact, you’d be lucky if they EVER did! We each have our little secrets; those things of which we’re embarrassed and we’d just “die” if our boyfriend found out about. But you know what? He’s got his own stash of secrets hidden out of sight, trust me —- so get over yourself and understand that we’re all human, flaws and all. It’s what makes life worth living and God only knows it’s what keeps us amused (and interested)!

So, you see that cute, studly hunk across the room and you think to yourself, “Wow! I’d bare HIS children!” (or some variation thereof). You ask your friends, “Do you know him? Do you know somebody who knows him? I’m gonna get to KNOW him! You watch.”

…and off you go, strategizing and trying to figure out what your new “husband” is interested in. What turns him off, what turns him on, what’s his favorite position (wait, I’m getting ahead of myself) … but you get the idea. How many of you have made it a point to find out whether he’s a bottom or a top before you even know his last name? Come on, raise your hand. Shit! (raises hand) Moving on…

The point is all too often people race along at full speed, trying to get to the finish line without even taking the time to see “who it is” that’s in the race … and then they’re SURPRISED when the race is over.

They’ve made all of these wonderfully laid out plans, centered around this “other person” which are built upon a perception they have of him. But did they take the time to perceive him in a true light? Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying all of our potential boyfriends are inevitably going to lie and misrepresent themselves. They might. They’re men. (Okay, they probably will but that’s not really the point.) What I’m trying to say – and not doing a very good job of – is that all too often we don’t acknowledge the truth. We see what we want to see; not what’s before us.

We make plans based on our perceptions and… not on what’s real. (And THEN we bitch because we’re disappointed in the outcome. Well, surprise surprise!)

While I’ve done my fair share of joking up to this point to keep you interested and entertained, the first part of the message I’m trying to get across is simply this. “When others present themselves, believe them.” Listen to what they are saying; even if they’re trying to lead you down a path full of bullshit, the truth is there for you to hear. You just have to be willing to listen. You have to set aside your book of fairy tales and realize it isn’t always going to be a bed of roses. Even if what you hear isn’t what you want to hear, you need to hear and acknowledge it … and THEN make your plans, with your boyfriend/partner/etc. based on the truth (and move forward).

BTW, the aforementioned quote isn’t mine. I wish I could take credit for it but I can’t. I don’t recall who she was but I’m quoting another. When I first heard the line, it rang true on so very many levels that I believe it bares repeating, “When others present themselves, believe them!”

Okay, there’s a second part to the message I’d like to get across to those of you who are already IN established relationships (Note to self: I did not say “dead, boring, dried up, non-sexual or embittered! {grins} j/k)

My second observation is this. “Don’t go LOOKING for trouble (unless you truly want ‘verification’ of what you’re suspecting)!” You will find it! This may seem every bit as confusing as my earlier observation/message so bear with me for a moment.

The mind is VERY powerful. Just as you can fool yourself into thinking the stud across the room is perfect in every way and has a twelve-inch … um, changing course… Just as you can convince yourself he’s perfect with nary a flaw, so too can you find “convincing” evidence (if that’s what you desperately want to believe) to support whatever suspicions you are sleuthing on about! I’m not saying to IGNORE your intuition or gut feeling… not at all. I’ve written much about paying attention to your intuition in the past. No, what I’m saying is “be real.” If you believe something isn’t right, fine, pay closer attention to what is going on in your life. If your boyfriend isn’t being truthful with you about something that’s really important to you (because he knows you’d bust his balls if you discovered the truth) … be patient, the truth WILL eventually come out. You just need to be willing to “listen” and “hear” it when it does!

That said, don’t go “constructing” the truth to fit your “perceptions” if you aren’t basing what you believe on evidence and fact.

After all, he might have just been getting a tattoo of a ruler on his … um, tally whacker … to surprise you with during the next night of your lovemaking and that was why he had to get a hard on, on, for the cute guy in the [tattoo] shop next door. (Should this turn out to be the case, just humor him and let him believe that “yes, it really is in scale for a full 12 inches dear!” and move on. It’ll be healthier for your relationship. Hell, if he really BELIEVES he’s hung like a horse he might start fucking like one! Oh, did I say that out loud? {Grimaces} )

So, to recap quickly: (1) Listen, and (2) Don’t go looking for trouble if it’s going to result in your constructing some sort of false scenario you really believe to be the case but which isn’t. (You can convince yourself of anything you truly want to convince yourself of. Really. The mind is that powerful.)

I’m done. Goodnight. :D

Ever feel like a number?

dreams,Relationships,romance

The following is just something I put up on an online service earlier this week (you know the kind— online dating). {groans} LOL!!! At any rate, this may give you a little more insight into the kind of guy I am – as well as what kind of guy might interest me when it comes to dating (or more)…

About Myself

What to say that’ll make you like me! How about if we just keep it real and if you like what you hear, great; if you don’t, you can simply move on, no hard feelings.

I’m not always the most courageous guy on the block but I have my values which I try hard to uphold. (And if anybody threatens someone I love or care deeply about, well, hell hath no fury… you get the picture.) I suppose my philosophy on objects is that while the material things in life are nice to have around – you can’t take them with you. I’ve made a lot of money and I’ve lost it all and basically, what I’ve learned is this. When my ticket is called the only thing that’ll matter is “how will I see myself when that day arrives?”

On the day I die (many years from now – I hope!)…

Will I think of myself as one who embraced life, seizing opportunities to make every moment count – or as somebody who ‘floated through, unwilling to cause even the slightest ripple in the pond; to make any kind of an impact or leave even the smallest of legacies? Will I be a man of substance; someone who was willing to be a friend to others, able to be counted upon — or just another face in the crowd who’s only interest was “what’s in it for me?” Will family have played a major role in my life – or will my family really even know me? Will I be missed by those I leave behind? Did I take the time to tell those whom I care about … that I truly love and care for them?

I’m a hopeless Romantic. I have strong opinions and I think I have pretty good values. Even so, I try not to judge others when their own values/opinions differ from my own. It’s true we are all a part of the community of man but we are also individuals. We’re entitled to reach for our own dreams and live our own lives according to our values. Also, we each have crosses to bear and vices to feed (we’re not perfect). But… each of us can (and should) take the time to touch another’s life in some small way; to do things every now and again, for somebody else, without any expectation of personal gain.

My Hobbies…

Include camping and getting out on the lake on my Sea Doo. I absolutely love nature and if I ever won the lottery you can bet your [butt] I’d buy about 300 acres (upon which I’d build my own version of paradise, building a spacious, comfortable log cabin right in the middle of it all). I enjoy people, as well, so I suppose such a place could become a bed and breakfast. Getting away to nature is what keeps me sane (if you want to think of me as being so). I mean, what better way is there to commune with God or Spirit than to remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, to enjoy the natural wonders this world has to offer?

I also enjoy writing poetry and a bit of photography. Some of my poetry has been published but I wouldn’t make a big deal of it. (I think it was more of a scam to get me to purchase one of their books. LOL! That said, the poem, imo, was quite good.) I’m proud of my photography, as well.

Who I’d Like To Meet

You don’t have to be hopelessly romantic yourself (but I certainly won’t stop you). You should have strong family values and be willing to put yourself out there; for yourself, your loved ones and others. You needn’t be “Mother Theresa” but shouldn’t be selfish either. I’m not interested in narcissistic personalities. If you’re only cute and hunky… you might be a pleasant distraction but if you aren’t participating in life for some of the right reasons we probably won’t date for long. I find myself attracted to younger guys … I don’t know why that is. Maybe I’m attracted to a younger man’s zest for life – but I’m open to a serious relationship with someone my own age (supposing you “live” life). We never know how much time life will afford us; one has to make every moment count for as much as he or she can.

Basically, Life is intended (imo) to be enjoyed so enjoy it for God’s sake!

Commitment/Compromise

Some people think, when they’re in a relationship, that they belong on a pedestal (or that they should put their partner on one). If I meet and fall in love with someone, sure, he’ll be my Number #1. The person I’ll think about during those lulls at the office and the one I’ll happily come home to every night, without fail or delay. But, I’ll know he’s a person just as I am; just as prone to making mistakes as I can be. (We’re only human, after all. Neither of us needs to be held to expectations we’re inevitably going to fall short of. We will likely have moments when one will disappoint the other. When that happens, we talk about it and move past, forgiving and looking toward the future.) Communication is key!

Any special person in my life should never have cause to question my feelings for him. I’m not afraid to express my love; he shouldn’t be either. Goes back to being a romantic, I suppose.

I don’t expect fireworks at first sight, but if the attraction heats up it’d be nice to know we’re both working toward something long-term. If you’ve problems committing, you should say so up front. I won’t hold it against you but it’s always nice to know where one stands, in the grand scheme of things. If the dating does [eventually] work into something long-term, know that monogamy is the ONLY word in my dictionary. If you’re a slut, keep walking. {laughs}

This is probably as good a place as any to mention I’m HIV-positive. It’s part of the reason why I’m insistent on monogamy. Right after I ended my last serious relationship, I discovered my partner of 6.5 years had been lying to me about his own HIV status. For lack of discussion, just know I accepted him at his word and as a result, made some bad decisions while he and I were together. Those decisions led to my being infected with the virus. I’m healthy now but others should be aware of this up front. To some, it’s a deal breaker. To those who are better informed, it’s a matter of me being honest about my health status; one which precludes anything BUT safe sex. Just know that I won’t stand for behavior by anyone I care for (we’re talking “boyfriends” here) which could put that person at risk of being infected. If you’re already HIV-positive, it’s a matter of taking precautions to avoid your being re-infected; if your negative, it’s a matter of keeping you this way.

(Oh, was that a tad bit of a let-down? Sorry..
Better to get it out of the way now if it’s a deal-
breaker -but on to more pleasant talk… )

I enjoy getting together with friends but generally don’t prefer to be the “center of attention.” Anybody I’m dating can have as much or as little of the stage as he requires or desires. I won’t be competing. {winks!}

I’m not interested in loners or total introverts (again, I enjoy spending time in social gatherings) but I also enjoy down-time. I can fully appreciate those quiet, intimate moments where we just stay in, snuggled up in front of a good movie or roaring fire. I suppose it could sometimes be said that I live for those moments, being the hopeless romantic that I am.

My Accomplishments

In the twenty+plus years since I moved to Dallas, I’ve done my fair share of dating and have had a couple of serious relationships, as well. I’m single so (obviously) the relationships failed for one reason or another. Feel free to ask why but understand that I [try] not to dwell on those periods of my life. Doing so serves no real purpose (which isn’t to say I haven’t learned from my mistakes or even that I won’t talk about them). That said, my last serious relationship was particularly difficult so be prepared to earn my trust slowly. If you enjoy playing mind games, move along (I’m simply not interested in mind games or drama).

In closing, know this— While I lost pretty much everything seven years ago, I went on to rebuild my life. It isn’t everything I want it to be [yet] – but I’m getting there slowly and surely. Make no mistake about it, I’m not perfect but I have my self-respect. I demand no less from others; for myself as well as those I love.

Feeling nostalgic (Thinking of Grampa Smith and Gaga)

Nostalgia,grandparents

Well, a friend of mine got me to thinking today when he blogged about memories of his grandpa so I thought I would share a couple of memories of my own. The first is of Grandpa on Mom’s side of the family. Sadly, he was lost to me early in life when he died. The last memory I have of him is there in the hospital. I can STILL see the box planter with all of the plants within, located just next to the stairs leading up to the higher floors of the hospital.

At any rate that wasn’t the memory I wanted to share. This grandpa liked his cigars. My cousin and I, who pretty much grew up together for the first six years of our life, would sometimes get into Grandpa’s cig stash. One day he caught us and (I think in an effort to dissuade us from smoking in the future) he made us smoke an entire cigar each. We went GREEN (and you know, I don’t think we ever did touch another cigar of his after that).

The other memory involves us being VERY naughty. Grandpa would NEVER spank or discipline us. We were HIS boys! …Um, but one time my cousin and I sort of got a little bit out of hand when we filled up the gas tank of the lawnmower with gravel. Oh, poor Grandpa. He had to take the lawnmower apart and clean everything up. When complete, Grandpa went into the house to tell Grandma and my mom not to let us anywhere near the lawnmower again. (Meanwhile, we had gone out the back door and …. you guessed it; filled up the mower with gravel [again]. )

I don’t understand why but Grandpa gave BOTH of us one gentle swat on the hindquarters. (You would have thought Freddy Krueger had just come after us. We went running inside to “tell on Grandpa” and let mama and Grandma know what he had done to us!) LOL!!!! I never did anything like that again, though my cousin did later try to help Grandma out by filling up her car with water. See it was always my cousin’s fault!) ;-)

~.^oO^.~

Now, a memory of my grandfather on the paternal (sperm-donar) side of my family. Gaga was great! Quiet but kind and loving. Most of my memories of him involve him being out in his workshop. He LOVED to work with his hands, building one thing or another. I have two cedar chests and one cedar bedside table that he built for me. (I was the first-born grandchild and … um, given a little bit of preferential treatment I s’pose. I deserved it. ;-)

The funniest memory of Gaga involves my return with an ex-boyfriend of mine. That side of the family hadn’t [quite] figured out that their oldest grandchild was … um, shall we say it(?), GAY yet! I needed to return home to visit family and I really didn’t want to leave Charles to his own devices here in Dallas. (Long story; I have a bad reputation for picking “good” relationship material. {sigh} never mind that… back to the memory)

So Charles and I are visiting my grand-folks. Some of my aunts and uncles (who QUICKLY figured out what the story was) were there. My grandmother and I think even my great aunt figured out the score fairly early but not Gaga!

Charles and I had gone out front for a moment and, I’m told, Gaga was heard to say to some of the rest of my family, “I’ll bet Michael is interested in dating Charle’s sister.” LOL! Poor, sweet, misled and innocent Gaga. I am certain he is up there right now looking down on me and saying, “I’ll bet Charles DOES have a sister … who would be better for you than Charles was” (and he wouldn’t be wrong about that either – Charles was a disaster … LOL!!!) ..but I digress.

I miss both of my Grandfathers, for different reasons. Grandpa (on Mom’s side) because I just didn’t get enough time with him and family is really important to me. I miss Gaga because; well, Gaga could be so sweet. Such a small-framed man who had not a bad word to speak about anybody. That wasn’t a trait that rubbed off on his kids, wife or sister-in-law. While I loved all of them too I (sadly) have to admit they could definately talk trash about others behind their backs. It wasn’t something I cared much for much and I let most of them know my feelings on the matter.

That’s all for now.
Best and Blessings…