What is on your mind

[Reach *BANNED*]

Tomorrow. My sister and niece and I were supposed to spend the day together. But, plans have changed and my niece is going to take my sister somewhere for Mother's Day. So, that means I will be here hanging out - trying to remember to keep the good memories in the forefront of my mind and to also shed tears if I have too. However, I also know even though this is a day set aside to remember how special our Mom's are to us - every day was that day for me when my Mom was alive- I think on Mother's Day I just let her know a bit more than I did throughout the year.

[PlatinumPearl]

I need to cut ties with a Narcissist who is a family member.... sooner rather than later.

[Happyfemme]

The healthcare organization that I work for updated the timekeeping and PTO system. Tomorrow is the first payday in the updated system. I think there will be glitches in the system and at least some of the staff that I supervise will have issues with the system which could mean incorrect direct deposits. I will spend the morning in the office making sure they are all set. I supervise 30 people and I am hoping the system will correctly pay them.

[Stone-Butch]

The two hour conversation with my brother yesterday when I said what needed to be said for a long time. I think he needs anger management and he agreed instead of getting angry. His rages only hurts himself and he is really a gentle kind man who needs answers.

[Orema]

I have a tingling sensation in my neck that comes and goes. Got an ultrasound yesterday to see if it’s from a pinched nerve but they didn’t find anything. Saw a physician’s assistant a week or so ago and she doesn’t think it’s an indication of an oncoming aneurism or stroke. Wishing I could see my doctor in Cali. Not sure what I’ll do next.

[Gemme]

I got news today that is going to affect work for a long time to come. I'm not sure how to unpack it, really. They are consolidating two stores into one. Mine is the largest so that will be the home store and the smaller store will be a satellite store that is only open 3 days out of the week. I'll go back to being open 7 days a week. The manager there will come to my store as an equal "co-manager".

This is someone who has radically opposite political views as me, is outspoken about them in person and on social media and is notorious for not wearing her mask. She has a very strong personality and is a regular smoker so the office will smell of faint smoke all of the time with a light cover of perfume, like her current office does. I'm sensitive to smoke so that's going to go over like a lead balloon.

Oh, and instead of 85% of our quarterly bonuses that we get now, we'll each get 50% minus percentages for others that helped out too during the quarter. THAT is not sitting well with either of us. :fastdraq:

My boss told us on a video call as he was driving so he wouldn't have to look us in the eye when he told us. I kinda want to knee the Hell out of him but I know it's not his decision. I still want to kick him for being such a coward, though. He was one when he took my employee to run another store too.

This is happening so I need to find my center on it so I can do the best job possible but I'm going to wallow in my misery for just a wee bit longer. I need to grieve for all of the planned OT I will not be getting now. :blink:

[Kätzchen]

I'm thankful for everything I've got: My health, life here at home and so thankful for my Love (rico).

K9yYUX6hY4U

[Orema]

Finally got the cabinets in the kitchen cut yesterday and the fridge is fitting in nicely. Now I can continue unpacking the kitchen boxes. Just have to decide what I’m going to keep and what to give away or toss out since I’m working with a lot less kitchen space.

:poc-cool:

[Gemme]

I've worked two days with the other manager and my fears were justified. She has been spotty about the masking and has gotten defensive when I asked her to wear it around me, saying that she "doesn't have germs and I won't catch anything from her". Neither of us are vaccinated and she is refusing to get it done, so this is a push to get me to work harder now that I will have more time off to get that taken care of to protect myself. She has a large family and is almost never alone so that's a massive uptick in my exposure risk.

Neither of us want this and have spit balled several scenarios as to why the home office is doing it. In the end, both of us agree that it will wind up with only one left standing. I'm not sure if the Highlander theme will be an intentional effect but it definitely reflects that this is not the same company I started working for over a decade ago. Now would be a great time to win the lottery or develop a new app that can be sold for billions. Since I don't have the tech know-how for that and I've had little luck wishing myself independently wealthy, that leaves the former option.

:thinking:

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Finally got the cabinets in the kitchen cut yesterday and the fridge is fitting in nicely. Now I can continue unpacking the kitchen boxes. Just have to decide what I’m going to keep and what to give away or toss out since I’m working with a lot less kitchen space.

:poc-cool:

I have been thinking about doing the same thing. I have a secondary hand mixer that just takes up room in a drawer and gets in the way every time I try to get anything out of that drawer or shut it. I have only used it once, and it's an awkward shape and takes up a lot of room. I have multiple measuring cups and spoons, and utensils that have been melted or damaged in one way or another. I have three tea balls. I would be a lot happier with my drawers if I would get rid of some of that crap.

[Kätzchen]

I'm concerned about how our country will remain democratic nation, rather than the latest nation ruined by a dictator-wanna-be and their enablers.

I came across a good read @ The Atlantic (https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2021/05/phil-scott-vermont-republican/618944/):

America’s Bluest State Loves Its Republican Governor

Here is a short excerpt from this article:

The biggest mystery about Scott is why he remains a Republican when the party nationally has moved so far to the right and has bowed so deeply to the whims of a man he can’t stand. No elected Republican in the country—not Baker or Hogan, not any member of Congress—has gone further in repudiating Trump than Scott. He supported both impeachments of the former president, and on Election Day, rather than writing in the name of a GOP luminary, Scott voted for Biden.




****************************

Did anybody else get the letter from Nancy Pelosi in the mail? I did. I filled out the survey, donated to the Democratic Committee's war chest, and succinctly stated my number one concern (which is two fold): Tax Code Reform (STAT), and hold the orange menace accountable (and every single person who helped this grifter/con-artist in wrecking people's lives).

[Stone-Butch]

Just listening to fireworks that will go probably until Tuesday as many folks have to have the first and last word for the Monday Victoria day celebrations.

[Reach *BANNED*]

I was standing on My deck this morning with coffee in hand - wondering where all the time has gone.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

I was pondering serving a Southern-style antipasto display for a cocktail party, and wondering what would be the best way to serve honey glazed bacon. Probably cutting the bacon in half strips is the way to make it more manageable. Still, utensils? I don't think a toothpick will hold it securely. I spent some time contemplating whether roach clips might work. Maybe if I thread each bacon half-strip onto a metal skewer before oven frying it, that would hold it. Hmm.

[Orema]

Kobi is on my mind this morning. This is around the time of year she'd sometimes "moan 'n' groan" about the tourist traffic in her neck of the woods.

Hoping she met up with LieslKate and they're having a grand time wherever they are.

[homoe]

Kobi is on my mind this morning. This is around the time of year she'd sometimes "moan 'n' groan" about the tourist traffic in her neck of the woods.

Hoping she met up with LieslKate and they're having a grand time wherever they are.

I always tend to think of Kobi in August when the Little League Championship playoffs take place...

[Orema]

Was just leaving home this morning when I saw some wild turkeys a few doors from me. This must be their mating season because they were showing off like there's no tomorrow and they paid no attention to me and my camera, though I wouldn't get out the car. Very beautiful plumes, too.

Last week there was a deer on my property for an hour or so. I didn't see it but my neighbors told me about it because some idiot was honking their horn at the deer. Deers often visit around here they tell me.

Think I'll start taking early morning drives to see if I can take some better photos than what I got this morning.

And no bears, thank goodness!

:bow:

[homoe]

Was just leaving home this morning when I saw some wild turkeys a few doors from me. This must be their mating season because they were showing off like there's no tomorrow and they paid no attention to me and my camera, though I wouldn't get out the car. Very beautiful plumes, too.

Last week there was a deer on my property for an hour or so. I didn't see it but my neighbors told me about it because some idiot was honking their horn at the deer. Deers often visit around here they tell me.

Think I'll start taking early morning drives to see if I can take some better photos than what I got this morning.

And no bears, thank goodness!

:bow:

https://www.mediastorehouse.com/p/172/brown-bear-adults-mating-13233424.jpg

Yup, you were lucky it wasn't bears mating! Once seeing that, it's hard to unsee it!

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Was just leaving home this morning when I saw some wild turkeys a few doors from me. This must be their mating season because they were showing off like there's no tomorrow and they paid no attention to me and my camera, though I wouldn't get out the car. Very beautiful plumes, too.

Last week there was a deer on my property for an hour or so. I didn't see it but my neighbors told me about it because some idiot was honking their horn at the deer. Deers often visit around here they tell me.

Think I'll start taking early morning drives to see if I can take some better photos than what I got this morning.

And no bears, thank goodness!

:bow:

Wow at the wildlife. Sounds beautiful and peaceful. I thought you had moved to a city?

[Orema]

https://www.mediastorehouse.com/p/172/brown-bear-adults-mating-13233424.jpg

Yup, you were lucky it wasn't bears mating! Once seeing that, it's hard to unsee it!

I bet! Ha!

Wow at the wildlife. Sounds beautiful and peaceful. I thought you had moved to a city?

It is a city and I live in a city that’s inside a city. I can walk to Walmart, Chili’s, SuperCuts, major businesses are nearby, but there are lots of trees and wild life around here, too. I have five beautiful trees on my lot. I took some pics of the Turkeys and posted one in the gallery, but it’s not that good. Will try to get some more.

I love this area.

[Stone-Butch]

The family is moving two hours away on the worst stretch of hwy. between here and there. I guess Skype is my answer. I helped pack up my van and will do so again tomorrow. I guess in life, what is, is.

[Reach *BANNED*]

I was sitting in My recliner yesterday and reading a Harlan Coben book - and I thought about the new "normal" that I live now. No matter what type of catastrophic event happens to us - job loss, death, storms, fires, etc. everything changes after that. That change can be just to each of us - or the town you live in - or the Country we live in - or the World. You can feel the shift - and ever since I lost My Mom that is what I feel. The shift. My sister was telling Me yesterday that I have taken Mom's place for her. What she would have called Mom for she now calls Me - or if she wants someone to go shopping with her - she now calls Me - or advice, etc. I told her I feel like we are 4 ducklings that have gotten separated from our parents for some unknown reason - and that pretty soon they will find us again. But, I know that is not the reality of it - and when I feel that reality - it hurts like crazy.

I apologize that I go on and on sometimes about this stuff - but sometimes this is the outlet I have at the moment I am thinking of certain things. Thank you for listening - even if it is in silence.

[Stone-Butch]

She knows.

[nhplowboi]

All the "new" members we are seeing. Borodach means bearded or beaver in Russian. All things considered I guess that would be appropriate in a crude way.

[nhplowboi]

Let me explain. This AM when I logged on there was a "new" member called victorborodach. I see now there is a new member named "zMarinkazx". In Russia there is a witch known as Marinka. Odd coincidence I think. :|

[Bèsame*]

While I was chit chatting with a friend at work about what we were watching..she mentioned shows I really have liked. I figured we were on the same wave length, so when she mentioned Cobra Kai, I sorted turned my nose up on it. Naw, that cant be something I would like.

Well, I'm gonna try it. So far so good. I really love the soundtrack!!!

[Orema]

I live in a small city (within a small city) that’s 1 sq mile with appx 3500 residents.

The city has a garage sale every August where the town folk put out our wares for sale. I’ll take part this year and am putting things aside to sell for August.

Should be interesting.

[JDeere]

My eye exam later today, its been since 2015 that Ive seen an eye doctor!

I finally have the means to do things for my health, for once.

I officially ended a relationship 2 weeks ago that was draining me financially, mentally, physically and such!

[C0LLETTE]

DOES EVERYONE HATE EVERYONE ELSE?

Four family members who were out for a walk are dead, and a fifth in hospital, after a man drove into them deliberately – an act London, Ontario police say was motivated by racist hatred.

Husband and wife Salman Afzaal, 46, and Madiha Salman, 44
Their daughter Yumna Salman, 15
Mr. Afzaal’s mother, 74
The survivor was the couple’s nine-year-old son, Fayez Salman, the statement said, adding that he was “on the road to recovery from serious injuries.”

Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.
Nathaniel Veltman, 20, is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one of attempted murder.
Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.

[C0LLETTE]

Let me explain. This AM when I logged on there was a "new" member called victorborodach. I see now there is a new member named "zMarinkazx". In Russia there is a witch known as Marinka. Odd coincidence I think. :|

A few months ago I commented on the inordinate number of "new" Russian and Ukrainian nics flooding in here.

If you're a Russian or Ukrainian troll this must be uproariously funny to you.
The rest of us just wonder why you didn't learn anything in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky middle school sex ed class.

[JDeere]

yes pretty much everyone hates everyone these days, sad world we live in.

DOES EVERYONE HATE EVERYONE ELSE?

Four family members who were out for a walk are dead, and a fifth in hospital, after a man drove into them deliberately – an act London, Ontario police say was motivated by racist hatred.

Husband and wife Salman Afzaal, 46, and Madiha Salman, 44
Their daughter Yumna Salman, 15
Mr. Afzaal’s mother, 74
The survivor was the couple’s nine-year-old son, Fayez Salman, the statement said, adding that he was “on the road to recovery from serious injuries.”

Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.
Nathaniel Veltman, 20, is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one of attempted murder.
Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.

[Reach *BANNED*]

I was just sitting here thinking it is nice to see people not just say or write the words - but actually do the actions connected to them, or if the person says they are trying to improve their life by doing x, y, or z - they actually do it - and you can see the improvement in them. That is why once in awhile we need to take a pause and say something to that person - so that we let them know - that we are taking notice of how they contribute to the world in a positive way.


(wow - why did I just reread all of that and think it sounds weird somehow and I am going to hit submit reply anyway?) (laughing)

[FireSignFemme]

DOES EVERYONE HATE EVERYONE ELSE?

Four family members who were out for a walk are dead, and a fifth in hospital, after a man drove into them deliberately – an act London, Ontario police say was motivated by racist hatred.

Husband and wife Salman Afzaal, 46, and Madiha Salman, 44
Their daughter Yumna Salman, 15
Mr. Afzaal’s mother, 74
The survivor was the couple’s nine-year-old son, Fayez Salman, the statement said, adding that he was “on the road to recovery from serious injuries.”

More on the suspect/reaction to crime
https://london.ctvnews.ca/what-we-know-about-the-man-accused-in-the-london-ont-attack-1.5461538


Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.
Nathaniel Veltman, 20, is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one of attempted murder.
Police say a 20-year-old London, Ont., man deliberately struck down five members of a Muslim family with his truck in a hate-motivated act of mass murder, an attack that prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for the accused to face terrorism charges.

The family of five had been out for an evening walk, and were waiting to cross the street when police say the truck mounted the curb and struck them.

Four of the family members – a 74-year-old woman, a 46-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman and a 15- year-old girl – died on Sunday evening. The lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital.

More on the suspect/reaction to the crime-
https://london.ctvnews.ca/what-we-know-about-the-man-accused-in-the-london-ont-attack-1.5461538

[C0LLETTE]

America is blowing its brains out to protect the "2nd Amendment"

Maybe it's time that those of you that own one, two, three guns for "self protection" figured out that YOU are the problem.

[Orema]

Have finally settled on curtains throughout the femme cave.


Living room curtains are burnt orange (love these)
Project den curtains are pink (the soft pink is perfect for the black, gray, and white colors in the room, and I love how the light comes through the curtains, so calming)
Bathroom curtains are sheer and rust color on top of Venetian blinds (it took forever but finally found some curtains I like)
Bedroom curtains are taupe.

The bedroom colors are the most drastic change for me—blue and brown. The walls are light blue, trim is mostly dark brown wood, and I went with a browny taupe that is perfect. Will paint the doors a light brown color. And will use chalk paint to paint the dresser in a dark teal color. Artwork/wall hangings with soften it just right. Am already diggin it.

Am so enjoying this—especially because I’m not rushed.

[Reach *BANNED*]

Have finally settled on curtains throughout the femme cave.


Living room curtains are burnt orange (love these)
Project den curtains are pink (the soft pink is perfect for the black, gray, and white colors in the room, and I love how the light comes through the curtains, so calming)
Bathroom curtains are sheer and rust color on top of Venetian blinds (it took forever but finally found some curtains I like)
Bedroom curtains are taupe.

The bedroom colors are the most drastic change for me—blue and brown. The walls are light blue, trim is mostly dark brown wood, and I went with a browny taupe that is perfect. Will paint the doors a light brown color. And will use chalk paint to paint the dresser in a dark teal color. Artwork/wall hangings with soften it just right. Am already diggin it.

Am so enjoying this—especially because I’m not rushed.

Miss O. - I am so glad that the link I sent you helped in this process. However, you are right about the color thing. I went on there today - because as I had mentioned I wanted to get rid of the white - and go with something else - well it appears they offer other colors - they just happen to be out of the color I want in the size I need. So, I will have to start another search.


What is on My mind - is that Life is too unpredictable to get bogged down in things that are not important - or where the walkway is only one way. I have said this to Myself so many times over My life - and never truly lived it. Well I am here to say - that with the losses I have dealt with in the last couple of years - there is no more of the talking to just to hear Myself talk - when I let go of something - when I stick a fork in it to say it is done - I will live every single consonant and vowel.

[Orema]

Miss O. - I am so glad that the link I sent you helped in this process. However, you are right about the color thing. I went on there today - because as I had mentioned I wanted to get rid of the white - and go with something else - well it appears they offer other colors - they just happen to be out of the color I want in the size I need. So, I will have to start another search.

It was a big help, Reach, and your link led me to the curtains I ended up getting that I like a lot. They have a belly-dancer feel to them with the little bling added the to the hem of the top curtains. Anyway, thanks again. :)

What is on My mind - is that Life is too unpredictable to get bogged down in things that are not important - or where the walkway is only one way. I have said this to Myself so many times over My life - and never truly lived it. Well I am here to say - that with the losses I have dealt with in the last couple of years - there is no more of the talking to just to hear Myself talk - when I let go of something - when I stick a fork in it to say it is done - I will live every single consonant and vowel.

I heard that.

[Bèsame*]

What is on My mind - is that Life is too unpredictable to get bogged down in things that are not important - or where the walkway is only one way. I have said this to Myself so many times over My life - and never truly lived it. Well I am here to say - that with the losses I have dealt with in the last couple of years - there is no more of the talking to just to hear Myself talk - when I let go of something - when I stick a fork in it to say it is done - I will live every single consonant and vowel.

Agreed!!

Life is for living and enjoying memories. It's time to concentrate on that and let the little things just meander by the wayside.

[Orema]

Getting my blood pressure down. Have been eating too much salt (with vinegar). Will reduce the salt, increase my water and veggies.

[Bèsame*]

It was a great unplanned experience! I was able to have two lengthy phone conversations with both of my brothers...in the SAME day.😯

And of course daily conversing with Mom.

It was a total family affair day and this song suck, going on two days now..lol

MbT_ask1Cco

[Reach *BANNED*]

I woke up this morning thinking - it is great to be in a happy state of mind, body, and soul. It is great to say it and actually feel it. To know that I surround Myself with good people and have learned that it is ok to cut ties whether it is My choice or the choice of another. There is no more dwelling - there is only living.

[Orema]

9 Horrifying Facts From the Facebook Whistleblower's New 60 Minutes Interview

By Matt Novak, October 3, 2021 11:40PM

You knew Facebook was making the world shittier, but it's so much worse than you realized.

https://i.postimg.cc/P5q7H12y/d5091cbd2ba8afb01a1318105fd4b904.png
Ms. Frances Haugen, Facebook Whistleblower

Last week, the Wall Street Journal published internal research from Facebook showing that the social media company knows precisely how toxic its own product is for the people who use it. But tonight, we learned how the Journal obtained those documents: A whistleblower named Frances Haugen, who spoke with CBS News’ 60 Minutes about the ways Facebook is poisoning society.

The 37-year-old whistleblower liberated “tens of thousands” of pages of documents from Facebook and even plans to testify to Congress at some point this week. Haugen has filed at least eight complaints with the SEC alleging that Facebook has lied to shareholders about its own product.

Fundamentally, Haugen alleges there’s a key conflict between what’s good for Facebook and what’s good for society at large. At the end of the day, things that are good for Facebook tend to be bad for the world we live in, according to Haugen. We’ve pulled out some of the most interesting tidbits from Sunday’s interview that highlight this central point.

1) Facebook’s algorithm intentionally shows users things to make them angry

Haugen explained to 60 Minutes how Facebook’s algorithm chooses content that’s likely to make users angry because that causes the most engagement. And user engagement is what Facebook turns into ad dollars.

“Its own research is showing that content that is hateful, that is divisive, that is polarizing, it’s easier to inspire people to anger than it is to other emotions,” Haugen told 60 Minutes.

“Facebook has realized that if they change the algorithm to be safer, people will spend less time on the site, they’ll click on less ads, they’ll make less money,” Haugen continued.

2) Facebook is worse than most other social media companies

Whenever we talk about social media and the ways it’s harmed society, a lot of Big Tech companies get lumped in together, whether it’s Twitter or YouTube or Pinterest. But, according to Haugen, Facebook is uniquely awful.

“I’ve seen a bunch of social networks and it was substantially worse at Facebook than anything I’d seen before,” Haugen told 60 Minutes.

Haugen previously worked at Pinterest and Google, and insists that Facebook really is worse than the rest of Big Tech in substantial ways.

3) Facebook dissolved its Civic Integrity unit after the 2020 election and before the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection

Haugen worked at the so-called Civic Integrity unit of Facebook, in charge of combating political misinformation on the platform. But the social media company seemed to think they were in the clear after the U.S. presidential election in November 2020 and that Civic Integrity could be shut down.

“They told us, ‘We’re dissolving Civic Integrity.’ Like, they basically said, ‘Oh good, we made it through the election. There wasn’t riots. We can get rid of Civic Integrity now.’ Fast forward a couple months, we got the insurrection,” Haugen said.

It’s important to remember that Facebook isn’t just destroying American democracy, it’s chipping away at democratic institutions all around the world.

4) Political parties in Europe ran negative ads because it was the only way to reach people on Facebook

One of the documents Haugen smuggled out of the company shows that political parties in Europe had to start running negative ads to get any engagement on Facebook.

Summarizing the position of political parties in Europe, Haugen explained, “You are forcing us to take positions that we don’t like, that we know are bad for society. We know if we don’t take those positions, we won’t win in the marketplace of social media.”

5) Facebook only identifies a tiny fraction of hate and misinformation on the platform

Facebook’s internal research shows that it identifies roughly; 3-5% of hate on the platform and less than 1% of violence and incitement, according to one of the studies leaked by Haugen. And yet Facebook still considers itself to be the best in the world at identifying hate and incitement on social media.

Facebook takes issue with this characterization, naturally. In fact, the company seems to think the real problem is the internet itself, at least, according to a statement the company sent Gizmodo on Sunday night.

“If any research had identified an exact solution to these complex challenges, the tech industry, governments, and society would have solved them a long time ago,” a spokesperson for Facebook told Gizmodo. “We have a strong track record of using our research — as well as external research and close collaboration with experts and organizations — to inform changes to our apps.”

6) Instagram is making kids miserable

Facebook owns Intagram, and as 60 Minutes points out, the documents leaked by Haugen show that 13.5% of teen girls say Instagram makes thoughts of sucide worse, and 17% say it makes their eating disorders worse.

“What’s super tragic is Facebook’s own research says, as these young women begin to consume this— this eating disorder content, they get more and more depressed. And it actually makes them use the app more. And so, they end up in this feedback cycle where they hate their bodies more and more,” Haugen told 60 Minutes.

And that’s all part of the business model. Facebook is making lots and lots of money from this misery. But Facebook obviously has a different take.

“We do internal research to ask hard questions and find out how we can best improve the experience for teens and we will continue doing this work to improve Instagram and all of our apps. It is not accurate that leaked internal research demonstrates Instagram is ‘toxic’ for teen girls,” Lena Pietsch, Director of Policy Communications, told Gizmodo via email.

“The research actually demonstrated that many teens we heard from feel that using Instagram helps them when they are struggling with the kinds of hard moments and issues teenagers have always faced. This research, like external research on these issues, found teens report having both positive and negative experiences with social media,” Pietsch continued.

7) Employees at Facebook aren’t necessarily evil, they just have perverse incentives

Haugen says that the people who work at Facebook aren’t bad people, which seems like the kind of thing someone who previously worked at Facebook might say.

“No one at Facebook is malevolent, but the incentives are misaligned, right?” Haugen insists. “Like, Facebook makes more money when you consume more content. People enjoy engaging with things that elicit an emotional reaction. And the more anger that they get exposed to, the more they interact and the more they consume.”

And while it’s easy to see why Haugen might believe “no one” at Facebook is malevolent, that’s quite a bold claim at this point. Facebook’s negative impact on society isn’t exactly a secret here in the 2020s.

Again, Facebook doesn’t see it that way.

“Protecting our community is more important than maximizing our profits,” Lena Pietsch told Gizmodo via email Sunday night. “To say we turn a blind eye to feedback ignores these investments, including the 40,000 people working on safety and security at Facebook and our investment of $13 billion since 2016.”

8) Haugen even has empathy for Zuck for some stupid reason

“I have a lot of empathy for Mark. And Mark has never set out to make a hateful platform. But he has allowed choices to be made where the side effects of those choices are that hateful, polarizing content gets more distribution and more reach,” Haugen told 60 Minutes.

But as Haugen herself said, it doesn’t really matter whether Zuckerberg set out to make a hateful platform. In reality, he set out to make a website for rating the hotness of women, but that’s really neither here nor there. What matters is how the platform is being used and abused today.

9) Haugen believes she’s covered by whistleblower laws, but we’ll see

When 60 Minutes talked with Haugen’s lawyer, John Tye, who works with whistleblowers, we heard about how the law protects people who talk with the SEC.

“The Dodd-Frank Act, passed over ten years ago at this point, created an Office of the Whistleblower inside the SEC. And one of the provisions of that law says that no company can prohibit its employees from communicating with the SEC and sharing internal corporate documents with the SEC,” Tye told 60 Minutes.

And while Dodd-Frank hypothetically protects employees talking with the SEC, it doesn’t necessarily protect people talking with journalists and taking thousands of pages of documents. But we’re going to find out pretty quickly just how much protection whistleblowers actually get in the U.S. Historically, let’s just say the answer has been “not much.”

https://gizmodo.com/9-horrifying-facts-from-the-facebook-whistleblowers-new-1847791184

[Reach *BANNED*]

The steps I am taking to become a first time homebuyer. I never thought in a million years I would buy a house. I have always rented - like My whole life. But, after My Mom passed something in Me changed when it came to home ownership. Before I liked the freedom that renting gives you and of course there is the cost benefit as well - no home repairs, etc. The change I believe is that I have finally decided to put roots in the ground - to have something that is Mine - where I have the freedom to decorate the way I want (I cannot even paint an accent wall in My current townhouse) - put a big garden in, and a host of other things.

I hope My Mom is looking down from the Universe and has a smile on her face.

[Orema]

There’s a woodpecker or two doing its thing in the neighborhood. The noise isn’t too bad, but it’s causing damage to the wood siding on the condos. I took photos of a hole it left on my condo and will send it to the HOA board. It has beautiful zebra-like markings. I think it’s a Downy or Hairy Woodpecker.

https://birdfeederhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/hairy-vs-downy.jpg
Pictured: Downy (left) and Hairy (right) Woodpecker. Photo from BirdFeederHub.com

[Stone-Butch]

On my mind? She has been for quite a while now and unfortunately still is.

[FireSignFemme]

Coming up with game plan for the day. I want to take it slow, call J and cancel in advance for Monday, but we've spoken about that. She cancels, reschedules a lot but it's different when I do it. Well since the good outweighs the bad I'm biting my tongue and forcing myself to follow through. I think I'll be able to get the last little bit of everything done before then if I execute it right.

[Gemme]

On my mind is the day I've had. It's been excellent and I'm so thankful for my friend. We had a great time, found some unique and interesting treasures for each of us and we shared a really good meal as well. We also got in quite a few steps today, which is always a plus, and didn't even mind that it started to rain a couple hours before we left.

I really needed this time with her to just laugh and chill and forget about work, life in general and the bunch of chores I have yet to do at home. I'm going to miss her when she moves but we're already talking about visits back and forth so that makes my heart happy.

[Stone-Butch]

Thinking back on all the wonderful Thanksgiving meals we spent around the family table together and looking out the window from my desk and wondering where it all went so soon. Its a lonely day.

[Orema]

My sweet tooth is acting up. Think it’s time to make a keto lemon pound cake with cream cheese icing. Wish I had some berries but I don’t.

My family is a little annoyed because I won’t see them during the holidays, but I’m sticking to my guns.

I bought more soap yesterday. Just couldn’t resist. Caswell Massey triple-milled collection.

Everyone is getting the 1619 Project book as a gift from me. Even the little ones. I imagine most will not be excited. Oh well.

[FireSignFemme]

My sweet tooth is acting up. Think it’s time to make a keto lemon pound cake with cream cheese icing. Wish I had some berries but I don’t.

My family is a little annoyed because I won’t see them during the holidays, but I’m sticking to my guns.

I bought more soap yesterday. Just couldn’t resist. Caswell Massey triple-milled collection.

Everyone is getting the 1619 Project book as a gift from me. Even the little ones. I imagine most will not be excited. Oh well.

Orema's soap collection. More soap! You need a 12 Step program around that or a museum or something... just kidding. I LOVE Caswell Massey soap and if I had enough money I'd be addicted too.

[Orema]

Orema's soap collection. More soap! You need a 12 Step program around that or a museum or something...

Goodness. You don’t know the half of it, FSF! LOL

just kidding. I LOVE Caswell Massey soap and if I had enough money I'd be addicted too.

Luckily, I don’t like some other things as much as nice bar soap. Yes, lucky me.

:)

[Stone-Butch]

Here have all the members gone?

[homoe]

Here have all the members gone?


EXCELLENT question Stone! I'd like to know too

[Kätzchen]

We are headed to our beach house for Christmas and while it's good to get away and take in some ocean air and hear the tides nearby, we worry about what is in store for us during the next coming year.


We are wishing everyone a season of joy; and that life will be kind to all of us, in the coming months ahead.


:balloon:

[homoe]

~~

The leftovers of that Cloverleaf pizza in the refrigerator!

[Gemme]

I have an official crap ton of stuff to do this week before I go out of state on Friday and I'm not sure if I'll get it all done. I may have to get creative with work.

[akiza]

I want for the year to end and to see how it'll go not in a festive mood still wish you the best though

[FireSignFemme]

How great kids are with their wonderful unconditional love that isn't based on monetary things. My grandsons don't love me because I give them stuff. No they just love me because I'm there for them, they feel safe with me and enjoy the time we spend together. Tonight when we got to my son's place my youngest grandson didn't want to go upstairs and play with the pile of new toys he'd just scored or where the boat ton of food and treats were. He just wanted to stay downstairs, sit on my lap, watch a children's Christmas program with me and cuddle. Latter when his uncles arrived and said they'd watch him and I gave him a choice, finish the movie with them or come upstairs with me. He turned around, paused, gave the television a look then decided nope he wanted to go upstairs with grandma. That felt so good. Upstairs three different people reached out to hold him and he was having none of it. He reached out his arms, kicked to try and wiggle free and cried for me to hold him.

Everyone spoils him, his cousins too much. My older grandsons go to their room, I swear its ankle deep in toys when they don't make them pick up. My oldest and J aren't quite as bad but still, no child who isn't even two years old yet needs all that stuff. I refuse to buy them any presents – clothes, food, toys nothing like that. I'm buying them savings bonds and spending time with them. I think it works. I can't wait for the weather to get warm they really like hanging outside with me, studying plants, insects, rocks, wood. Picking berries, watching planes, cars and trucks go by. Stroller, scooter, bike rides and walks to the park. Until then we build Legos and color and scribble, read books, clean house together and do so much more indoors. Anyhow I was just thinking about how much fun we had today. I know enjoy it now while it lasts because sooner than I'd like they'll be teenagers rolling their eyes at lame ass grandma wanting to be left alone but for now it feels really nice :)

[Kenna]

My upcoming surgery and how things went from a simple outpatient surgery to being required to be admitted for several days because my blood work came back bad. I'm not a happy camper.

[cathexis]

Today, I go back to the Endocrinologist. The last time I went (5mos. kept putting off), my renal status was Stage 3 failure. Afraid that I'm going toward dialysis which is Stage 5. In the last appt., she asked me if I would want dialysis or palliative care. I was too shocked that I didn't ask, "well what about a donor's kidney." My brother died of renal failure in his early 60s, I am 62. Today, I will ask though not sure I want to learn the answer.

I have latent onset type 1 diabetes. She tells me (based on history) that I probably have been diabetic since childhood. Wondered why I ate candy corn about half a pound daily and failed HS algebra which was my after-lunch class, which was slept through when I had a burger and chocolate milkshake. Almost daily I had that and a salad.

Back when I was younger, and in Indiana, people didn't do labwork on children as a rule unless one is very ill. I was a sickly child, but my 2 times each Winter illnesses were cured by Penicillin shots. A bit angry about not finding out about my diabetes until age 36, I probably wouldn't have had my heart attack if I knew to make some changes. I loved candy and other sugary treats as they gave me a buzz. Didn't know I was harming myself. Sheesh, the first time I had a Coca-cola (also in my 30s), thought I had found Nirvana.

[Kenna]

For 2021, I lived every day focussed on surviving.
For 2022, I'm going to focus on living and enjoying living.

[Orema]

Following my instinct.

This morning I canceled my knee-replacement surgery that's scheduled in two weeks. I just don't feel right about this surgery happening right now.

One concern I have is the snow. We're getting more than 6 inches in a few days with more to come next week. Another concern is my caretaker, Bae-Bae, doesn't like to drive so we'll need to use Ubers. That's an even larger burden with the snow, though Bae isn't concerned about this. Still, something hasn't felt right and I can't say exactly what it is... so I cancelled and will reschedule for the spring or summer.

I seldom get these last-minute fears that are this strong, but the older I get the quicker I am to follow my instincts. I feel better now that I'm getting the replacement joint later in the year.

[Orema]

There’s a cat, Bruno (my name for him), that I want to foster and adopt. Went to the Humane Society today to meet him. I’m in love, but they weren’t truthful about his age and I’m concerned there may be other things they’re possibly hiding.

His page on the humane society website (https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false) says he’s 5yrs and 4 months. I met the owner of the humane society who (mistakenly?) told me he is 8 and she knows this because the person who brought him to the mission told her she’s seen him for at least 8 years with people or on his own. I reminded her that the website lists his age as 5 yrs. She suggested I misread the info. I ain’t misread anything.

He’s adorable and literally rough around the edges. His ears are a bit beat up from fights.

He likes me and I like him, but I don’t want to start with a cat who’s 8 years old. He has FIV, but I can work with that in a younger cat, but I’m not sure I’m up to having a cat this mature.

I’m suppose to pick him up Saturday morning, but I’m not sure I’ll go with him.

https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false

[afemmenatalie]

Hi Orema!

As you may know, I work with senior cats in a residence for cats who have lost their owners due to illness, death, incapacity etc.
I think I might be able to help you think through some of what you are going through, or at the very least, shed some light on his situation through my experience.
Please drop me a line if you would like to chat about Punky/Bruno! We can talk on the phone or in pvt msgs here. I am in Arizona which is Mountain Standard Time, currently the same time as the west coast.
Will check back in this evening when I get home from work, about 7ish my time.
Oh, and by the way, 8 years old is really not that old!!!

Natalie

There’s a cat, Bruno (my name for him), that I want to foster and adopt. Went to the Humane Society today to meet him. I’m in love, but they weren’t truthful about his age and I’m concerned there may be other things they’re possibly hiding.

His page on the humane society website (https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false) says he’s 5yrs and 4 months. I met the owner of the humane society who (mistakenly?) told me he is 8 and she knows this because the person who brought him to the mission told her she’s seen him for at least 8 years with people or on his own. I reminded her that the website lists his age as 5 yrs. She suggested I misread the info. I ain’t misread anything.

He’s adorable and literally rough around the edges. His ears are a bit beat up from fights.

He likes me and I like him, but I don’t want to start with a cat who’s 8 years old. He has FIV, but I can work with that in a younger cat, but I’m not sure I’m up to having a cat this mature.

I’m suppose to pick him up Saturday morning, but I’m not sure I’ll go with him.

https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false

[Orema]

Hi afemmenatalie!

That’s good to hear and thank you so much! I’ll contact you shortly.

Hi Orema!

As you may know, I work with senior cats in a residence for cats who have lost their owners due to illness, death, incapacity etc.
I think I might be able to help you think through some of what you are going through, or at the very least, shed some light on his situation through my experience.
Please drop me a line if you would like to chat about Punky/Bruno! We can talk on the phone or in pvt msgs here. I am in Arizona which is Mountain Standard Time, currently the same time as the west coast.
Will check back in this evening when I get home from work, about 7ish my time.
Oh, and by the way, 8 years old is really not that old!!!

Natalie

[JDeere]

Dreading going back to Texas, tomorrow! Gaming commission is being slow, but that's Native Americans for ya, yes my own people! *smacks forehead*

I dread going back to see what fresh hell is there, being gone for almost 2 weeks, with the quiet and such, I'm going back into non peace and quiet!

[Stone-Butch]

I am taken back by how much someone can surprise me. I had no idea.

[Stone-Butch]

Like every day mother, you are on my mind but today is your special day and I wish we could share it together. I miss you more than words can say but I am sure you know this. I remember telling you that you were the most important person in my life and I am so glad I got to say it before you were gone.
Happy Mothers Day mom, You are loved and missed.

[FireSignFemme]

Grocery delivery tomorrow. I did my best to make sure most things would likely be in stock but who knows. It's hard to plan meals when you're never exactly sure what will and won't show up. I can't allow substitutions because whoever did the deciding times I've let them didn't go very good job selecting comparable ones. If I was able to go to the stores, in person I'd probably have better luck finding what I want but with the way fuel prices have risen I'm doing home delivery more often now to save J and my son as much running around as I can. Anyhow keep fingers crossed we'll see. Nothing like giving it up to God and begging of the universe - CHOOSE ME!!!

[Stone-Butch]

If she doesn't notice me or give me a sign or tell me to F off or smile then desperate measures are in store cause I have run out of patience.

I will take two extra strength Tylenol and throw myself off my couch.

[JDeere]

If she doesn't notice me or give me a sign or tell me to F off or smile then desperate measures are in store cause I have run out of patience.

I will take two extra strength Tylenol and throw myself off my couch.

HAHAHA you sound like me!

I will be taking 3 of my meds and throwing myself off the bed :superfunny:

[Gemme]

There’s a cat, Bruno (my name for him), that I want to foster and adopt. Went to the Humane Society today to meet him. I’m in love, but they weren’t truthful about his age and I’m concerned there may be other things they’re possibly hiding.

His page on the humane society website (https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false) says he’s 5yrs and 4 months. I met the owner of the humane society who (mistakenly?) told me he is 8 and she knows this because the person who brought him to the mission told her she’s seen him for at least 8 years with people or on his own. I reminded her that the website lists his age as 5 yrs. She suggested I misread the info. I ain’t misread anything.

He’s adorable and literally rough around the edges. His ears are a bit beat up from fights.

He likes me and I like him, but I don’t want to start with a cat who’s 8 years old. He has FIV, but I can work with that in a younger cat, but I’m not sure I’m up to having a cat this mature.

I’m suppose to pick him up Saturday morning, but I’m not sure I’ll go with him.

https://petlover.petstablished.com/pets/public/1311234?awo=The+Muskegon+Humane+Society&widget=false



I get your concern but c'mon....he's soooo cute! Dat face! If you like him and he likes you and you feed him good stuff and not junk, he can live 15-20 years. Cats outlive dogs and even if you come in on the short end, that's still 7 years of good times. Not too shabby, I say.

He'll have a better chance of a long life if he's strictly an indoor cat, too.

Either way, trust your gut, and don't second guess yourself!

If she doesn't notice me or give me a sign or tell me to F off or smile then desperate measures are in store cause I have run out of patience.

I will take two extra strength Tylenol and throw myself off my couch.

Maybe let her know you're interested?

As for myself, I am working on the mess I've gotten myself into. I made my bed and now I have to lie in it.

[Orema]

I get your concern but c'mon....he's soooo cute! Dat face! If you like him and he likes you and you feed him good stuff and not junk, he can live 15-20 years. Cats outlive dogs and even if you come in on the short end, that's still 7 years of good times. Not too shabby, I say.

He'll have a better chance of a long life if he's strictly an indoor cat, too.

Either way, trust your gut, and don't second guess yourself!

I know—he is so cute (and adorable) and is even cuter (and more adorable) in person. We got along like old pals till he came home. Now he's just casin' the joint and getting used to his new digs. I know he'll come out eventually.

I will not feed him junk and we'll see the vet in a couple weeks for her to check him out and make sure he doesn't need anything.

He's only indoors. Along with other reasons, we have a lot of wild life in these parts and I'd hate for him to go up against a wild turkey, duck, or deer. So he's staying inside. I think he's okay with that.

I'm fostering now and have decided to adopt. Bissell has a promotion going with Humane Societies and I'll either be a part of that program or adopt him under the senior-to-senior program that Bruno and I are eligible for. Either way we're stuck with each other :)

Ahhhh. Thank you for comparing a cat's life span to a dog's. I think because I had a dog die when she was appx 12 years old (I got her when she was 8 or so), I was turned off on adopting a cat 8-years old thinking I would only have a few years with him. Then I spoke with Afemmenatalie and she explained what you're saying. I did some reading that confirmed what both of you say. But I've decided even if I get just a few years with Bruno that will be okay, too.

Thank you for chiming in, Gemme.

Maybe let her know you're interested?

As for myself, I am working on the mess I've gotten myself into. I made my bed and now I have to lie in it.

Good luck with the mess. Here's hoping it's not as bad as it seems.

[firecat242]

Georgia....

[Soft*Silver]

I started a new job. The training is very intense. The amount of computer skill I need is pretty extreme. I have it, but haven’t used it in a decade. So much has changed!!!
Love the new job. Really purposeful.

[Gemme]

I know—he is so cute (and adorable) and is even cuter (and more adorable) in person. We got along like old pals till he came home. Now he's just casin' the joint and getting used to his new digs. I know he'll come out eventually.

I will not feed him junk and we'll see the vet in a couple weeks for her to check him out and make sure he doesn't need anything.

He's only indoors. Along with other reasons, we have a lot of wild life in these parts and I'd hate for him to go up against a wild turkey, duck, or deer. So he's staying inside. I think he's okay with that.

I'm fostering now and have decided to adopt. Bissell has a promotion going with Humane Societies and I'll either be a part of that program or adopt him under the senior-to-senior program that Bruno and I are eligible for. Either way we're stuck with each other :)

Ahhhh. Thank you for comparing a cat's life span to a dog's. I think because I had a dog die when she was appx 12 years old (I got her when she was 8 or so), I was turned off on adopting a cat 8-years old thinking I would only have a few years with him. Then I spoke with Afemmenatalie and she explained what you're saying. I did some reading that confirmed what both of you say. But I've decided even if I get just a few years with Bruno that will be okay, too.

Thank you for chiming in, Gemme.



Good luck with the mess. Here's hoping it's not as bad as it seems.

You know you can count on me to run my mouth about something. lol As for the mess, it's not repealing Roe vs. Wade bad, but it's bad for me. I'll make it through but I'll have some fresh scars to go along with the experience.

Vague enough? :sunglass:

[Stone-Butch]

Same old!!

[Bèsame*]

Next couple of weeks. Pre-OP appt and surgery 5 days later. This is why I brought my Mom to Florida. I feel really confident with the Doctor here vs the ones she was seeing in Arkansas.

On my mind......

I'm preparing myself mentally to what is up ahead.

[JDeere]

Tomorrow and this upcoming week.

[Kätzchen]

Not sure how to articulate what is on my mind, but I'm becoming very disenchanted with American political parties (D or R or I or xyz) and the toll social disenfranchisement is having on, I'd say, most anyone in our country.

I recently sent financial support to the DCCC and this week, I got another letter asking for political financial support.

I think, too, that along with feeling unheard as a lifelong citizen, I feel our political (and Justice) system is rewarding crazy minded people and not giving a hoot about what's really at stake.

This is something that has been on my mind for a few weeks, now.

[JDeere]

Not sure how to articulate what is on my mind, but I'm becoming very disenchanted with American political parties (D or R or I or xyz) and the toll social disenfranchisement is having on, I'd say, most anyone in our country.

I recently sent financial support to the DCCC and this week, I got another letter asking for political financial support.

I think, too, that along with feeling unheard as a lifelong citizen, I feel our political (and Justice) system is rewarding crazy minded people and not giving a hoot about what's really at stake.

This is something that has been on my mind for a few weeks, now.

DITTO on this!

[FireSignFemme]

Lilacs! Lavender! Plants in general. About how much time, care, attention to detail went into planning the landscaping here. When one thing isn't in bloom something else is so we're never without at least a little color all year long, and most of the year there's a lot. Last year I thought the plants close to me might be lilac but it was too soon to tell. It's only this year they came to full bloom leaving no doubt about it.

I'm happy because both are some of my favorite flowers. I didn't count all the lavender near us but did inventory the lilac. There are fifteen bushes, five along one side of the building, five around the corner on our side of the street and an additional five across the street from those. My apartment is on the corner so I'm surrounded! I can see some out every window.

It wasn't until I'd been here awhile that I discovered something wasn't wrong with the lavender, it's just a different variety than I was familiar with. It's only this year the lilac came to full bloom, I could tell for certain it's lilac. Again just a different variety than what I'm used to seeing. I think the varieties of both might have been chosen because they're on the smaller side perfect for the flower beds here.

Anyhow I'm going to do a little research on those as well as some of the other plants around us. Some have flowered but I just don't recognize, others look perhaps immature, like it still might be too early to tell. I need to find out when gardenia start to scent, and for how long. The plan was to put some out on the balcony at some point but don't want two such strong scents hitting full force all at once.

Gardenia are my favorite flower but I've never seen plants here, only blooms from the florist. Hopefully both won't bloom, scent their heaviest at the same time. The the gardenia and lilac. Surprising to me the lavender doesn't really smell so won't clash, overpower. Anyhow that's what has been on mind the most this morning. Landscaping, mostly flowers but also trees a little bit too.

[FireSignFemme]

How to get rid of pigeons. Apparently pigeons love the smell of cheap off brand dollar store oven cleaner. Turns out oven racks aren't bothered by it either.

[Reach *BANNED*]

My move. I cannot believe May is almost done. Then, one more month to go. To say that I am looking forward to this move is an understatement. It truly is a beautiful place in a very quiet and serene location.

Also, on my mind is that I am looking forward to July when I will be going to see the Dave Matthews Band in concert for the second time! I am taking my sister with me and this will be her first time seeing them live! She is in for a treat for real!

[Stone-Butch]

I Skyped with the family today and mom and the little one have terrible colds. She tested them for the covid and it was negative so they must have just got the sniffles somewhere. I hate to see the little one stuffed up but she is taking it in stride. I don't think she knows how to complain LOL.

[Soft*Silver]

The latest school shooting in Texas weighs heavily on my mind and in my heart. I am grieving for those poor children and their families, the teachers and their families. I can’t imagine what this kind of loss feels like!
Also,
My daughter is a third grade teacher in an inner-city school. She is acutely aware of all the shootings that occur in the neighborhood surrounding the school. Right now our city is in a swatch of shootings and killings based on drug territory, family and gangs shooting each other in retribution. I hold my breath every time I hear of a shooting in her school’s neighborhood. I am terrified that one of these retribution shootings will go after a child in her school, and not limit themselves to just that one child. (They just gunned/killed an 18 year old mother of a one year old, who was gf of a dealer who stepped on rival land to sell drugs. They tried to kill her last week but only shot her. Oh, she was pregnant too) I live in a city where violence drugs and crime are the number one industry. I am hyper vigilant about violence. I now work on the highest drug infested/gang related/shooting violent street in my town.
Yes, violence is on my mind

[Bèsame*]

Next couple of weeks. Pre-OP appt and surgery 5 days later. This is why I brought my Mom to Florida. I feel really confident with the Doctor here vs the ones she was seeing in Arkansas.

On my mind......

I'm preparing myself mentally to what is up ahead.

No matter how you think your prepared..your not. This has absolutely been a very stressful week. Lots of tears while sitting in my car. Support calls to my brother has helped.
I feel, it's getting better.

Yet..its not over

https://www.quotemaster.org/images/s_bb/bb35a84cc27b4d9a67ef20e7f46bd7f5.jpg

[cathexis]

Since the beginning of the year, the number of mass shootings and how concerned citizens can ameliorate this. Why are they happening now? How can we change peoples' minds about owning guns, basically assault rifles?

What can a Leftist like me do to effect change?

[Stone-Butch]

To get rid of pigeons buy a plastic owl, large one and place it where they land.

They also hate wind chimes and they work.

[JDeere]

Since the beginning of the year, the number of mass shootings and how concerned citizens can ameliorate this. Why are they happening now? How can we change peoples' minds about owning guns, basically assault rifles?

What can a Leftist like me do to effect change?

There is basically nothing that you can do, personally, unless vote. My gander of why they are happening is anger due to governmental divide, like they want us to be divided and a lack of proper mental health care, proper thorough background checks, not basic ones.

Guns will always be around, please educate yourself on types of guns, there are alot of them, different ammunitions used as well. I am for guns for property safety, personal safety and personal hunting for food, as Venison and such, can be stored for long winters. I am not for a mentally ill, angry person having an AR, getting them online so easily or black market guns.

All i can say is vote!

[JDeere]

My mind is figuring out if I have to go back to Texas or not!

Trying to get my past criminal paperwork to me, is stressful, this was supposed to be explunged and sealed!

Job hunting is still ongoing. I need something soon, because I do not want to go back to Texas.

[Stone-Butch]

I have been looking for places to visit and I can't find any that I would like to that are cool enough for me. It is almost unbearable here so I guess I have to keep looking. The whole world can't be cooking.

[JDeere]

I have been looking for places to visit and I can't find any that I would like to that are cool enough for me. It is almost unbearable here so I guess I have to keep looking. The whole world can't be cooking.

Oklahoma aint cooking that bad!

Try the pacific northwest, its not as bad, from what I heard

[Reach *BANNED*]

My upcoming move!! I am sooo excited - but the whole packing thing is just daunting. You know the saying - you never know how much stuff you have until you have to pack it all. However, I need to give Myself a kick in the ass - and get moving on it because the clock is not going to stop ticking.

[JDeere]

My upcoming move!! I am sooo excited - but the whole packing thing is just daunting. You know the saying - you never know how much stuff you have until you have to pack it all. However, I need to give Myself a kick in the ass - and get moving on it because the clock is not going to stop ticking.

THIS!!!

I dread packing up again, I know I'm going to have to do it anyways, grr..I condensed when I moved in my apartment, I will condense when I move out!

The DREAD is building!

[FireSignFemme]

Sitting here contemplating, speculating, asking myself which would be better, Biden living out the rest of his term or our vice president coming to power. Considering why people can't accept COVID is something we might just have to learn to live with, deal with, as we do with the different strains of flu? Thinking about the rising cost of everything. Plotting and planning - death, death, death to all pigeons each and every time one one lands or even just happens to fly by. Wondering if we'll actually get the thunder predicted for this morning, which didn't show up, tonight. Debating with myself should I do the smart thing and get the meatloaf leftovers J sent home out of the way or go for the gusto. Live life with a passion, to the fullest and and figure something else out.

[Stone-Butch]

I was just speaking with my brother and he called to tell me his beautiful, lovely old dog is not doing so well. He wants me to come to take him to the vet for him as the dog falls constantly and is in obvious pain. I really really like this dog (my fur nephew) and it will be sad to see him go but it is better than to hear him cry if he falls. So, tomorrow I make the trip to my brothers and we take the dog and he waits outside for me to come back. He told me he has had a good cry session lying on the floor with his dog on a blanket knowing what he has to do for his best friend. I will go tomorrow and help him do what has to be done. His wife died last year so now he will be alone. Something has to be done. We will see.

[Orema]

Thinking about Bruno, Tina and Eartha Kitt

Took Bruno (aka Prince Charming) to the vet yesterday and he received a partial report that was good. Will get a full report after the blood test results come in. He's a perfect sweetie pie who loves jackin' up his toy mice in the middle of the night.

Tina is a woman I lived with for a short while in the NYC area in the early 80s. We both worked in NYC but lived in NJ. We were both femmes and we were mismatched, but we were good stepping stones for each other. We were able to help each other move from bad situations to better situations. I hope she's well wherever she is.

One night she wanted to go to Club Isis, a small supper club in NYC, to see Eartha Kitt. Eartha Kitt was the last entertainer I wanted to see. That was part of my mama's generation—not mine. I think it was Tina's birthday or something ... I just remember I couldn't get out of going. So we went and it was one of the best shows I'd seen. Eartha had the audience in the palm of her hand. She told stories and sang songs while sashaying between tables. I can't remember any of the stories or songs, but I remember us leaving feeling we had a wonderful time.

Cats, old friends, and entertainers is what's on my mind this morning.

And that will all change once I turn on the news.

[Bèsame*]

I'm sitting in the ICU waiting area. My Mom isn't doing so well. Nothing major but this isn't how recovery is suppose to go. Worried, yes. Stressed, even more.

I'm surprised I was able to post today. I tried before from the hospital, and I was banned! "adult website" go figure🤔😮

[cathexis]

I'm sitting in the ICU waiting area. My Mom isn't doing so well. Nothing major but this isn't how recovery is suppose to go. Worried, yes. Stressed, even more.

I'm surprised I was able to post today. I tried before from the hospital, and I was banned! "adult website" go figure🤔😮

Besame, I was a Critical Care RN (ICU/ER) for 30 years before going on disability. If you have any concerns that the staff haven't explained to you, I can try to answer any questions you might have.

[Stone-Butch]

Besame, all caring and comfort plus many prayers are sent to you and your precious mother. I remember sitting with my mother in the hospital and it can sure make you feel helpless. Take care and blessings on your mother's recovery.

[JDeere]

How companies, utility companies can get by with charging,insane fees for nonsense...

[Kenna]

On my mind is a recent chat I had with a friend I've known since 1994/95 and how they admitted something to me that shocked me.
My whole world would have been different if we had gotten together as more than friends (as they had wanted but didn't tell me).
My son's world would definitely have been different and better.

[Reach *BANNED*]

On My mind right now is the happiness I feel at making the decision to move. I know I am going to look forward to coming home from work much more once that happens.

I have also been thinking about deciding where I want My camping trip to be this year - I joined a FB group that is specifically for My state - so that alone has been giving Me a lot of ideas.

Finally, I have been thinking a lot about retirement and what that is going to look like. I had been tossing the idea around of getting a seasonal campsite set up and staying there during the Summer/Fall months and then doing some traveling during the Winter months. I have a lot of friends out west that really want Me to come out to visit and it would be cool to go out there and hang with them for some time. The only wrinkle is given it would be winter there would not be a lot to do - but I am sure we could dream up something.

[Stone-Butch]

I was speaking with my brother and he says he is going down home to find a house and wants me to move in with him. I have to think about this. I would love to be home but he and I get along for a while as we are both the same personality and we do clash. SO, I have to think on it for a while. I have to get rid of most of my apt. which is no meager task I tell you.

[Bèsame*]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS0n0UyUtIDNmDtdAUqlB1XScyUr1vde 1lxyPJ-l4JcCI0yzhxejbKWXKCx3D9O470A2ac&usqp=CAU

[FireSignFemme]

Phone stuff. After spending hours and many many days turned to weeks researching this stuff, and three failed attempts prior, today I sat next to Jillian, saw her phone and said – that's it! That's what I've been looking for, something small like that. She laughed and said well that's a mini. I got it because sometimes with the baby I only have one hand to work with. I don't need two to operate to it and for me it's comfortable, just the right size. Plus it wasn't expensive.

She said her phone is just as flat, easy to drop as any I'd seen it's just hers is in a case that has a built in wallet. Yes, finally something easy to hold onto, simple to understand - sign me up! Anyhow I got it, it's on its way. Now I don't have to be confused because she can be my owners manual. She said she'll walk me through it show me how it's done, put some things on it she thinks I'll find helpful as well as some just for fun. I'm really excited about getting my new phone!

[JDeere]

When they will fix the equiptment failure at my complex so I can get internet and when I do move, I can take it with me.

Job, why is human resources and companies hiring but they can't even return phone calls or emails?

Finding another apartment a little cheaper because plans to go to Oklahoma may be put off for awhile.

[VintageFemme]

I'm having one last big adventure before I take up the rocking chair :) and am moving to what the locals affectionately call, The Island aka North Padre Island. It's going to be a little before I can make it happen but I'm putting all my ducks in a row and planning and dreaming and getting ready to get ready. I always thought that my retirement years would be in the mountains somewhere so imagine my surprise when in the last couple of years, the beach and an island vibe has been pulling at me. Who knew. It's very exciting though!

[Gemme]

I stumbled across something kind of neat this weekend. I drink a lot of fruit juices (the real stuff, not the artificial rot your teeth crap) and have started to concoct my own blends. Yesterday, I found the perfect blend that brought me back to my childhood. I created a drink that tastes exactly like the bottom of a can of fruit cocktail with cherries, with all its cherry goodness.

I am, in fact, quite pleased with myself. Subsequent drinks did not pan out and I thought it was a one off but I figured it out again today, so I'm good to go. It's funny; the taste of it reminds me of the sound of my spoon scraping the bottom of the can so I guess what's on my mind is how interesting my brain is and how creatively it links my memories.

[Stone-Butch]

I am mortified. I was told today that all three of the family have Covid and perhaps the little one got it from school as her mother rarely leaves home and never without a mask and dad wears a mask all day at work. Both parents are up to date on their shots but unfortunately they had no shots for 5 yr olds. The little one is quite sick and the parents are not much better even with the shots. All I do is pray for the little one, that she gets through this. She has a high temp and lots of coughing and sleeping. I feel sick.

[JDeere]

Trying to figure out my next step.

[Stone-Butch]

My mind as always is on the kids. They are no better but no worse so that's a good thing. I have to trust in the fates and give things time I guess.

[JDeere]

Packing and moving!

Virtual job interview in 10 minutes, never had one of these before.

[JDeere]

Hurry up and wait game..

rolls eyes

[JDeere]

Accepted an contigent job offer and filled out all the onboarding paperwork. Now just to wait on background check to clear and make sure all i's are dotted and t's crossed.

[Reach *BANNED*]

Moving Day is here!!! I am currently waiting for My movers to arrive. We had originally scheduled for noon - then changed it to 10am - and then the truck placed had a delay so it went back to noon! (laughing). It does not matter to Me - it will all get done today and that is the happiness that I feel right now.

I stopped after work yesterday to pick up My keys and garage door openers along with dropping off July rent - and I did not want to leave. (laughing). Although I am quite sure My cats would have been a little miffed had I not come home!

It is a scorcher out there though - and I feel bad for the guys having to do this in the heat. However, I am quite sure this is not the first time they have had to deal with it. I actually went out and bought a case of water to help them keep hydrated and I plan on buying them some lunch as well.

My only wish is - that My Mom was here - she would love My new place and would help Me with doing flower pots on the patio and decorating and whatnot. But, I am sure she is watching with a smile on her face. I love you Mom!

[Stone-Butch]

Since my brother lost his dog he is going back east to see about buying a house. He wants me to come too. I have to think long and hard here.

[JDeere]

Time to get things packed up to move, my background is clear for them and I start training next Friday!

[cathexis]

Accepted an contigent job offer and filled out all the onboarding paperwork. Now just to wait on background check to clear and make sure all i's are dotted and t's crossed.


Nosy Alert

Where you headed for your new job and what will you be doing? Congratulations and Good Luck!
Do keep us posted on how you like it. Inquiring minds wanna know, I wanna know lol.

I'm waiting for acceptance to a Ph.D. program. Got a dissertation that I've kinda been researching. The effect of propaganda in extremist political movements. My areas of research will be Nazi Germany, Nicaragua or Cuba, maybe Eritrea, definitely the US and perhaps Mainland China

[JDeere]

Nosy Alert

Where you headed for your new job and what will you be doing? Congratulations and Good Luck!
Do keep us posted on how you like it. Inquiring minds wanna know, I wanna know lol.

I'm waiting for acceptance to a Ph.D. program. Got a dissertation that I've kinda been researching. The effect of propaganda in extremist political movements. My areas of research will be Nazi Germany, Nicaragua or Cuba, maybe Eritrea, definitely the US and perhaps Mainland China

I will be in the security sector and am moving to Oklahoma, where Ive wanted to for a long while. and thank you!

[Reach *BANNED*]

I was just sitting here thinking how quickly My 4 days off flew by. (laughing). Likely because all of them have been filled with getting things done - versus having a 4-day vacation of sorts. Tomorrow I will do some grocery shopping - and finish putting My kitchen together and make a list having to do with My new patio that My sister and I will go shopping for at the end of the week!

However, this will be an even shorter work week as I have tomorrow off.. and then will work only Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday because My sister and I will be going to see the Dave Matthews Band on Friday. So, I will have a 3-day weekend!

[Bèsame*]

I have always been intrigued by thunder and lightning. Growing up in So Cali, we only had one kind of weather. Or rather that was what I was used to. Then while in Texas, it was such a quick change. And seriously quick! That just amazed me. I would go out to see the lightning streak across the sky, like x-rays behind the clouds. Those storms were miles away.
Now that I'm in Florida, there are afternoon thunderstorms almost every day. Day light lighting is just intense.

However, in the last 2 weeks, people have been struck by lightning. I mean, within 10 miles of me. One child was hit and the storm was 6 miles away.

On my mind...new mad respect for lightning.

[Stone-Butch]

I have always had a total respect for mother nature. She has a way of telling us we are not in charge. I keep this in my mind always especially during weather situations.

[Orema]

Wishing Bruno would come home.

Am worried one of the wild animals in my 'hood may have taken him.

Hoping someone found him. If they don't turn him in then hopefully they're taking good care of him.

I don't want to get another cat for a couple reasons. I miss Bruno too much and when Bruno returns I will need to give up the newer cat because Bruno can't be around other pets since he has the feline virus (FIV) and he doesn't like other pets, anyway. My lovely niece, Bae-Bae, has offered to take the newer cat when Bruno comes home, but I'm not good with that either because I know I'll become attached to the new cat, too.

I'm tired of looking for Bruno twice each day but I'm scared to stop in case he's nearby.

Have been paying a couple teenagers to look under the decks for me in the afternoon or at dusk, depending on when they're available. The best time to do this may be at nighttime but I'm not going out looking under people decks with a flashlight at night and neither will I ask anyone else to do it.

It can only get better when it comes to Bruno because I can't imagine it getting any worse.

:playingcat:

[Gemme]

I have always been intrigued by thunder and lightning. Growing up in So Cali, we only had one kind of weather. Or rather that was what I was used to. Then while in Texas, it was such a quick change. And seriously quick! That just amazed me. I would go out to see the lightning streak across the sky, like x-rays behind the clouds. Those storms were miles away.
Now that I'm in Florida, there are afternoon thunderstorms almost every day. Day light lighting is just intense.

However, in the last 2 weeks, people have been struck by lightning. I mean, within 10 miles of me. One child was hit and the storm was 6 miles away.

On my mind...new mad respect for lightning.

Most definitely! Florida is the lighting capital of the US. 83 lightning events per square kilometer every year, with it focusing in the central FL area around Orlando. That's near where I spent more than 2 decades of my life so I'm very familiar with it and the 3pm afternoon showers that leave it more muggy and disgusting than before the rain.

[JDeere]

I should have stayed at a regular hotel then check into this extended stay place, ugh. I will be out on thursday morning anyways, thank the lord!

Also, Id rather eat hot dogs and beans in a can than stay here another week!

[Bèsame*]

https://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/81/58/1526816136-escommdu.jpg

[JDeere]

So freaking TIREDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

[cathexis]

Most definitely! Florida is the lighting capital of the US. 83 lightning events per square kilometer every year, with it focusing in the central FL area around Orlando. That's near where I spent more than 2 decades of my life so I'm very familiar with it and the 3pm afternoon showers that leave it more muggy and disgusting than before the rain.

We used to live near Everglades N.P. and had loads of Summer T-storms. It was a deluge in the afternoon each day. The weather cooled down a bit and by evening the humidity had also dropped.

[Reach *BANNED*]

On My mind is the updates they continue to give on the shooting in Uvalde, Texas as they unpack all that happened (and did not happen) that horrible day. My heart hurts for those families - not only for the loss of life - but also for the response that should have happened and did not.

[cathexis]

Sorry for the horrid vision I'm gonna share.

On my mind is the 2024 election.

Folks thought I was a rubber chicken running around yelling, "the sky is falling, the sky is falling." That I'm a raving lunatic (debatable).

Better buckle and strap up for a bumpy Election 2024

There are still many Kool-Aid Kowboys for me to get all comfy in this here chair
:batman::leatherflag::

[nhplowboi]

Yesterday while watching a news clip about all the displaced, injured and murdered children in Ukraine, followed by a clip about the Uvalde school shooting, I suddenly realized how analogous these two situations are. One lone evil thug responsible in both incidents while ample resourses to stop the carnage stands by, unsure of what to do. As the Uvalde report states, "systemic failures, egregious and poor decision making" were at fault and I now feel that statement clearly applies to the world's handling of Putin.

[Orema]

Sweet Bruno.

Hoping he's okay.

:playingcat:

[Reach *BANNED*]

I fell asleep on the couch watching whatever the heck it was, and I missed hearing My phone ring. I am so mad, I could .. ummm.. spit?

[bright_arrow]

Entertaining the idea of playing hooky tomorrow to spend all day with him exploring somewhere new... it will just take some convincing! :praying:

[Reach *BANNED*]

On My mind... how very, very happy I am and everyone and everything that has contributed to that happiness lately.

[JDeere]

Finally being able to send my parents money,to pay them for all their help and for them to have a bit extra, I go without sometimes but I don't say anything to them, I'm just finally happy to be able to help them.

[kittygrrl]

a few things

[Soft*Silver]

Christmas and the buying of presents

[Cin]

The perfect nectarine. It was so delicious. It was amazing. When you eat a perfect piece of fruit it is like a religious experience with a visceral twist. I don't know why it is so hard to get. A perfect piece of fruit I mean. You just don't know. Picking fruit is like buying a grab bag from the flea market. Pretty much it is a given it going to suck and be a waste of money. But every now and again it can surprise you. I live for unexpected surprises. I know it sounds like the same thing, unexpected and surprise, but it's not really. You can get a surprise that is expected. Like when it's your birthday or xmas. It's a surprise that isn't really surprising. But say you opened your gift and it was a bat house. That might be an unexpected surprise.

[Kätzchen]

I was just reading about Team T---p, over on MSNBC: Team T---p Leaks National Archive Letter, Hurts Its Own Cause (LINK (https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/maddowblog/team-trump-leaks-national-archives-letter-hurts-cause-rcna44432)).

This is a short read (thankfully, lol :| ) but here is a priceless observation from that news release:

Last night, Team Trump seemed to kick the ball into its own net once again. Politico reported:

The National Archives found more than 700 pages of classified material — including “special access program materials,” some of the most highly classified secrets in government — in 15 boxes recovered from Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in January, according to correspondence between the National Archivist and his legal team.

It was John Solomon, a conservative writer and one of Trump’s authorized Archives liaisons, who published online a May 10 letter from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). As Politico’s report added, the document showed that NARA and federal investigators “had grown increasingly alarmed about potential damage to national security caused by the warehousing of these documents at Mar-a-Lago, as well as by Trump’s resistance to sharing them with the FBI.”

I have no idea why someone from Team Trump would voluntarily show this to the public. It not only bolsters damaging reporting about the Mar-a-Lago scandal, it also makes the former president look worse, not better.

Indeed, the NARA letter confirms that Trump took highly classified national security materials to his glorified country club. It confirms that the Republican’s haul was extensive and wasn’t limited to a handful of documents. It confirms that the National Archives was amazingly accommodating, accepting multiple delays in the hopes that the former president would eventually cooperate and return the secrets he wasn’t supposed to have.

AND... Here is the original report from Politico: https://www.politico.com/news/2022/08/23/national-archives-letter-trump-security-00053250

[Bèsame*]

That awesome feeling when someone is making an effort to make you smile.

https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/18390/production/_98461299_gettyimages-87442223.jpg.webp

[Reach *BANNED*]

On My mind is the future, and what that might look like.

[FireSignFemme]

Thinking about my youngest. It was such a relief seeing him today. He actually showed up for family dinner tonight. That was a shocker. He's started meds, therapy, then took his therapist's advice and agreed to go to marriage counseling as well. He's been refusing to wear glasses since the age of seven but finally has agreed and wow he actually looks good in them. Women his wife reports are flirting with him. Yeah well it's amazing how when you keep your hair looking good, your clothes clean, your beard trimmed and your socks changed women don't find you revolting them as much as you used to. He's also made it a priority to find a good job. He's always been a worker but never held jobs that paid very well or offered any real benefits. His father and brother are being being very supportive, doing all they can to help him. It's good to see the three of them getting along, working together, not fighting, arguing the way they used to. I hope with all my might he gets the job he's applying for but if not that he'll stay on track, not let it stop him. If not this one there are other good jobs out there he could make a career of. Anyhow it was a really good time. I'm just thinking about that and looking forward to getting together again next week.

[Reach *BANNED*]

It feels good to be appreciated.

[Bèsame*]

https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7IyHgq69R50/XcklqTUEwsI/AAAAAAAAcmM/U6AoJRPToVMPudHxvlx_lxP_0M45expjgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Change-the-world-quotes-and-making-a-difference%2B%252842%2529-min.jpg

[Reach *BANNED*]

Hoping that this is a good week and that I get positive vibes going in My professional world. I am also thinking about My doc's appointment tomorrow morning - and I hoping for good things there too!

[Bèsame*]

So excited to go see Sir Rod Stewart on Saturday!! I think I've seen him 10 times?? I just love his voice!

I'm going by myself so I can get my own emotional experience💝💝💝💝
🎸🎸

4 DAYS!!

[Reach *BANNED*]

What a great doctor's appointment I had today!!! ALL good news!! and the doctor himself is just amazing - and really listens - like actually listens!!! When is the last time I had a doc that did that? I could not tell you. Also, he is transgender (FTM) and of course that helps as well.

The infection is cleared from My blood and I will finish out this course of medicine and then I am done!!!

He also switched some other stuff for Me which I am super glad for- and I just feel grateful in general that I found him.

[Bèsame*]

https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QtwcVzyiGp0/YHWnD3r9pHI/AAAAAAAA6W8/NBqOBGF2C5Q2bnGQvWqbFjXoIN_4LyiigCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Reality-quotes-that-will-make-you-think-differently%2B%25281%2529-min.jpg

[Reach *BANNED*]

I had to cancel My camping trip which should have started yesterday. My sister and I just have too much going on this week to make it happen. Thankfully I was able to get a partial refund.

We talked the other day and decided to see what we could put together for September - possibly coinciding with My birthday.

[Stone-Butch]

Waiting for my concert on Sept 10, got my tickets printed out and paid for and room rented. I can hardly wait. My brother and I are going together.

[Reach *BANNED*]

The weekend of My birthday and what will hopefully take place around that time. :candle:

[Bèsame*]

Maybe you didn't ask for this chapter of your story, the one that feels like a winding road with no end in sight. Yet. Here you are, with fortitude. Showing up for e very turn in the path.

Like a river curving and carving along the edges of the bank. You are a force to be reckoned with. Here to become who you really always meant to be.

https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/2/winding-river-at-golden-hour-in-hof-anna-gorin.jpg

[BullDog]

That I deserve to be loved with as much commitment, passion, focus, and intensity that I love. Its one of the things that has been on my mind a lot lately. I have been loved and treated very well but I haven’t experienced that kind of love. I thought I did once but it didn’t last. I have been single for a long time and probably will remain so but if I were ever to be in a relationship again I know what I need and deserve. I also know that kind of love takes time and continues to expand and deepen over time. It’s not instant.

[Stone-Butch]

Back on the date search. Last one did not work out at all. Life is like that eh.

[Bèsame*]

https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/dec35a6c-919a-42f6-af79-569ed19a58e1/d5vf0zf-c2e407c0-2154-4ace-ad8b-509d6388b53f.png/v1/fill/w_300,h_400,q_70,strp/90_minute_turkey_blueprint_by_shabnabit_d5vf0zf-400t.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ 9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYw ZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OT gyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7InBh dGgiOiJcL2ZcL2RlYzM1YTZjLTkxOWEtNDJmNi1hZjc5LTU2OW VkMTlhNThlMVwvZDV2ZjB6Zi1jMmU0MDdjMC0yMTU0LTRhY2Ut YWQ4Yi01MDlkNjM4OGI1M2YucG5nIiwiaGVpZ2h0IjoiPD0xMz Y2Iiwid2lkdGgiOiI8PTEwMjQifV1dLCJhdWQiOlsidXJuOnNl cnZpY2U6aW1hZ2Uud2F0ZXJtYXJrIl0sIndtayI6eyJwYXRoIj oiXC93bVwvZGVjMzVhNmMtOTE5YS00MmY2LWFmNzktNTY5ZWQx OWE1OGUxXC9zaGFibmFiaXQtNC5wbmciLCJvcGFjaXR5Ijo5NS wicHJvcG9ydGlvbnMiOjAuNDUsImdyYXZpdHkiOiJjZW50ZXIi fX0.A-az6fGdm8yFuxR6hNrJLv5W0EIl8ZzqOx9vUxIldvw

[Bèsame*]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CyEGlyyXgAQD7UD?format=jpg&name=small

[clay]

Very happy to finally know a diagnosis......very saddened to hear prognosis

Just thinking about options, mulling Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville...my wife...

[Orema]

This (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/dec/06/us-judge-saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-khashoggi), this (https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/14/china/beijing-zero-covid-easing-streets-impact-intl-hnk-mic/index.html), and this (https://thegrio.com/2022/12/14/oregon-governor-commutes-all-17-of-states-death-sentences/) but mostly getting my knee joint replaced. I have an appointment with the surgeon in a couple weeks. I passed the stress test, though I may still need another cardio approval, and I think all my ducks (insurance, co-pay, after-surgery care, etc) in a row. Am looking forward to being on the other side of this.

:bow:

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Calculating the precise amounts of Benadryl, dextromethorphan, guaifenisin, codeine and Jim Beam that will keep me from coughing and dry out my lungs without making me hallucinate. This is an everchanging calculation that shifts throughout the day and night depending on how I feel.

Why don't I just follow the instructions? Nah, that never works.

[Kätzchen]

Will you-know-who and all his co-conspirators get the comeuppance they fully deserve, and will it include wearing prison garb??? Will DOJ actually carry out justice on behalf of The People??


<<<<<<~~~ fingers crossed. :vigil: x4cazillionwishescometrue :|

[nina03]

I hope this is not out of place in this thread.

Content note: discussion of suicide and mental illness. Protect your well-being as needed.

This is really long, but it's important, so please read it if you are able.

So I found out that a performer I've really loved, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, died by suicide this morning. It really hit me hard for a couple of different reasons. First, his joy was infectious. Watching anything he did just made me smile every single time. He was brilliant, talented, and seemed so kind. His death is a loss for a lot of people. (Yes, depressed people can both have infectious joy and still have depression. Depression is an illness, not just a feeling.)

The second reason it hit home is how he died. I have struggled with suicidal ideation since I was a child. I don't usually talk about this because there is so much stigma about mental illness, but I live my life out loud about pretty much everything else, so it's time to talk about this, too.

There are a few different reasons I'm still here. The first is that I have an amazing community of love and support. I've had friends who have shown up for me in a myriad of ways. You may not even know that you've done something that has helped me in any way, but chances are you have. Friends and a great spouse aren't enough, though. They can listen, but they aren't qualified to make a treatment plan or help me adhere to it.

The other reason I'm still here is because I am privileged enough to have access to excellent mental health care. I have a therapist who works with me every week. I see a psychiatric nurse who helps me with medication, and I'm working with a naturopath to make sure I'm looking at all possible causes and treatments. Depression is not just a made-up thing that can be fixed by doing a yoga, eating more kale, or walking in a forest. All of those are great and important in a balanced life, but they are not enough. We wouldn't tell a type 1 diabetic to think themselves into producing insulin. Likewise, people with clinical depression can't think ourselves into healing the imbalances in our bodies. We need help. There are many avenues to getting that help, and this is not a statement on the validity of any of them. I just know what has helped me so far.

There is no shame in asking for that help. No shame in needing it in the first place. The real shame is that not everyone has financial access to the kind of care I have, and even for some people who need it and can afford it, they don't know that they can ask for it. The thing about depression is that it's a big fucking liar. It can convince the depressed person of all kinds of things that aren't true, like we're worthless, or a burden, or nobody will miss us. Those voices can be way louder than any of our loved ones telling us anything else, and sometimes those voices win and the rest of the world bears that loss.

I guess all of this is to say, if your brain is telling you lies about how you don't matter, and you shouldn't be here, reach out to me. Let's find a way to get you some care. You matter. So do I.

Also, here's an article from NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) that can give some insight into this issue. If you've got it to spare, throw them a donation. They do important work. https://nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/December-2022/How-to-Help-Yourself-and-Others-with-Suicidal-Ideation

[Gemme]

I hope this is not out of place in this thread.

Content note: discussion of suicide and mental illness. Protect your well-being as needed.

This is really long, but it's important, so please read it if you are able.

So I found out that a performer I've really loved, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, died by suicide this morning. It really hit me hard for a couple of different reasons. First, his joy was infectious. Watching anything he did just made me smile every single time. He was brilliant, talented, and seemed so kind. His death is a loss for a lot of people. (Yes, depressed people can both have infectious joy and still have depression. Depression is an illness, not just a feeling.)

The second reason it hit home is how he died. I have struggled with suicidal ideation since I was a child. I don't usually talk about this because there is so much stigma about mental illness, but I live my life out loud about pretty much everything else, so it's time to talk about this, too.

There are a few different reasons I'm still here. The first is that I have an amazing community of love and support. I've had friends who have shown up for me in a myriad of ways. You may not even know that you've done something that has helped me in any way, but chances are you have. Friends and a great spouse aren't enough, though. They can listen, but they aren't qualified to make a treatment plan or help me adhere to it.

The other reason I'm still here is because I am privileged enough to have access to excellent mental health care. I have a therapist who works with me every week. I see a psychiatric nurse who helps me with medication, and I'm working with a naturopath to make sure I'm looking at all possible causes and treatments. Depression is not just a made-up thing that can be fixed by doing a yoga, eating more kale, or walking in a forest. All of those are great and important in a balanced life, but they are not enough. We wouldn't tell a type 1 diabetic to think themselves into producing insulin. Likewise, people with clinical depression can't think ourselves into healing the imbalances in our bodies. We need help. There are many avenues to getting that help, and this is not a statement on the validity of any of them. I just know what has helped me so far.

There is no shame in asking for that help. No shame in needing it in the first place. The real shame is that not everyone has financial access to the kind of care I have, and even for some people who need it and can afford it, they don't know that they can ask for it. The thing about depression is that it's a big fucking liar. It can convince the depressed person of all kinds of things that aren't true, like we're worthless, or a burden, or nobody will miss us. Those voices can be way louder than any of our loved ones telling us anything else, and sometimes those voices win and the rest of the world bears that loss.

I guess all of this is to say, if your brain is telling you lies about how you don't matter, and you shouldn't be here, reach out to me. Let's find a way to get you some care. You matter. So do I.

Also, here's an article from NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) that can give some insight into this issue. If you've got it to spare, throw them a donation. They do important work. https://nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/December-2022/How-to-Help-Yourself-and-Others-with-Suicidal-Ideation

I felt the same way when I found out about tWitch.

Excellent article.

As for myself, my thoughts are a wee bit too jumbled to untangle tonight but the ole noggin is just a'hummin' away.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

It's the 18th of December and I have not watched one single, solitary Christmas movie yet this year. At some point, I will make time for the following:

The Nightmare Before Christmas
It's a Wonderful Life
Auntie Mame

although I may take until New Year's to do so. No, what I'm talking about is a good old-fashioned Hallmark Channel movie. A rom com. Something that gives me all the good feels about Christmas.

Any suggestions?

[FireSignFemme]

Celebrating Christmas. Not wanting to do it. Thinking about how to bow out gracefully. Fantasizing about faking illness, pretend coming down with some nonexistent croup but knowing I won't. Bah! Humbug!

[Gemme]

It's the 18th of December and I have not watched one single, solitary Christmas movie yet this year. At some point, I will make time for the following:

The Nightmare Before Christmas
It's a Wonderful Life
Auntie Mame

although I may take until New Year's to do so. No, what I'm talking about is a good old-fashioned Hallmark Channel movie. A rom com. Something that gives me all the good feels about Christmas.

Any suggestions?

Auntie Mame is my FAVORITE!!!

j_3yUNA1XBI

jgbObOsvBJU

[Orema]

It's the 18th of December and I have not watched one single, solitary Christmas movie yet this year. At some point, I will make time for the following:

The Nightmare Before Christmas
It's a Wonderful Life
Auntie Mame

although I may take until New Year's to do so. No, what I'm talking about is a good old-fashioned Hallmark Channel movie. A rom com. Something that gives me all the good feels about Christmas.

Any suggestions?

Here are some you may like, though not all will be found on the Hallmark Channel:

The Preacher's Wife with Denzel and Whitney and it's a remake of...
The Bishop's Wife with Cary Grant and Loretta Young
The Perfect Holiday with Morris Chestnut and Gabby Union
While You Were Sleeping with Sandra Bullock and some great character actors
The Apartment with Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine
The Shop Around the Corner with Jimmy Stuart and Margaret Sullavan
Holiday Rush with Romany Malco and Sonequa Martin-Green


On my mind:
Christmas falls on a Sunday this year and churches will be packed, COVID or not

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Here are some you may like, though not all will be found on the Hallmark Channel:

The Preacher's Wife with Denzel and Whitney and it's a remake of...
The Bishop's Wife with Cary Grant and Loretta Young
The Perfect Holiday with Morris Chestnut and Gabby Union
While You Were Sleeping with Sandra Bullock and some great character actors
The Apartment with Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine
The Shop Around the Corner with Jimmy Stuart and Margaret Sullavan
Holiday Rush with Romany Malco and Sonequa Martin-Green



Thanks Orema, Holiday Rush was the ticket! And it was conveniently on Netflix. I'm feeling more Christmasy already! It was a really cute movie, and Sonequa Martin-Green did not disappoint!

[Bèsame*]

https://render.fineartamerica.com/images/rendered/default/greeting-card/images/artworkimages/medium/3/merry-winter-solstice-and-happy-yule-th-transparent.png?&targetx=0&targety=50&imagewidth=500&imageheight=599&modelwidth=500&modelheight=700&backgroundcolor=000000&orientation=1

[Bèsame*]

The weirdest days of the year are the 5 between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. Like what day is it? Do I have to work? Is school in secession? Should I pour
a drink at 10 am? Is it New Years yet? Like what the what??

[GeorgiaMa'am]

The weirdest days of the year are the 5 between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. Like what day is it? Do I have to work? Is school in secession? Should I pour
a drink at 10 am? Is it New Years yet? Like what the what??

One of the main benefits of working in academia is that everything is closed the week between Christmas and New Year's. Unlike regular vacation days, when you know work is accumulating in your mailbox and on your desk while you're away, the winter break gives me time to actually relax my mind, knowing that no one is at work making more work for me.

[Bèsame*]

And now we welcome the new year.
Full of things that have never been.https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2021-12/27/19/asset/4ebab251a02a/sub-buzz-6603-1640635093-17.jpg?downsize=700%3A%2A&output-quality=auto&output-format=auto

[Orema]

Fat Tuesday and Lent are on my mind. Last year I gave up alcohol and never picked it up again. I keep saying I’ll get my favorite bottle of tequila come Easter, or my birthday, or Kwanzaa, now I’m thinking of getting a bottle after both knees are replaced or maybe I’ll wait for my 70th birthday next year. It’s a game I enjoy playing with myself. Well see what happens.

Am wondering what to sacrifice this year. Lent starts tomorrow and I think I’ll give up cussin’, but that’s a really hard one for me. Maybe I’ll give up the white lies. We’ll see. Maybe I’ll just give up nothing.

[FireSignFemme]

How Little Man (youngest gradson) is going to behave today. I'm watching him this morning and again in the afternoon while J keeps some appointments.

[Kätzchen]

https://live.staticflickr.com/7658/28191475551_c9e2cf107f_b.jpg

[nhplowboi]

Slava Ukraini!

[Soft*Silver]

I live 30 minutes away from East Palestine Ohio. If you watch the news, perhaps you’ve seen that we had a train derailment. Toxic chemicals were released into the air and into the water. Thousands of fish have died and yet they’re telling us that there’s nothing for us humans to worry about. Animals have died and many many more are sick. They evacuated the humans and then send them back home in less than a week saying that it was perfectly safe. But don’t drink the water yet! Oh, and by the way, this is how you should clean every surface in your house, and you probably should get rid of , anything in your dwelling that is porous like towels and couches… thankfully, I’m not too close. But I fear for those who are living there, continuing to work there, or pregnant near there, or going to school there, or farmers, with livestock and fields, etc. not enough information is being released to the public, and they’re very hush-hush about it around here. If you don’t know about it, Google East Palestine, Ohio and look at the damn cloud. It’s still there! Yep, that’s what’s on my mind.

[FireSignFemme]

The way I understand it many living there were already having a tough time financially as it was and now this? It's easy enough to say oh though it's not all that dangerous just in case anything porous in the home that can't easily be cleaned you might want to pitch that but how many of us no matter what our income level could actually afford to do this. Okay that's bad but even worse whether rich or poor or somewhere in between what about everyone's health? I'm thankful no one in our family or anyone we know is going through it but truth is just because we're safe now it doesn't mean this or something similar couldn't happen to any one of us at any time. I wish I had better faith in insurers, our government, corporations but I just don't. What it all comes down to is (to hell with animals, the environment, the people living there, not even the elderly or children) $$$. It's sickening.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

I live 30 minutes away from East Palestine Ohio. If you watch the news, perhaps you’ve seen that we had a train derailment. Toxic chemicals were released into the air and into the water. Thousands of fish have died and yet they’re telling us that there’s nothing for us humans to worry about. Animals have died and many many more are sick. They evacuated the humans and then send them back home in less than a week saying that it was perfectly safe. But don’t drink the water yet! Oh, and by the way, this is how you should clean every surface in your house, and you probably should get rid of , anything in your dwelling that is porous like towels and couches… thankfully, I’m not too close. But I fear for those who are living there, continuing to work there, or pregnant near there, or going to school there, or farmers, with livestock and fields, etc. not enough information is being released to the public, and they’re very hush-hush about it around here. If you don’t know about it, Google East Palestine, Ohio and look at the damn cloud. It’s still there! Yep, that’s what’s on my mind.

It's been all over the news on NPR and BBC. So yes, other people know about it. I heard an interview yesterday with a very strident man from the EPA talking about how Norfolk-Southern will clean the mess up, completely and to the EPA's satisfaction, or the EPA will do it for them and charge them three times the cost of the cleanup. That's in addition to the fine the EPA is going to levy. I've never heard a representative of the EPA sound so tough.

* * * * *

What's on my mind is the session I had with my therapist today. It was not fun. I'm hoping it will not cloud my thoughts for the entire weekend.

[Bèsame*]

On my mind,

If I keep talking about it, my will power will prevail! So I'm down a size in pants! Yay me

My 50 mile goal for Feb has about 14 miles more to go. This month is short, but I'm going to do it!

Next month will be 62 miles and add on some weight training. The inches are coming off faster than the curves!

! Lol

[Orema]

New knees are on my mind and what I'm going to do with them. I plan to...

– go on walks and maybe do a heart walk in the D
– go to festivals on the lake
– wear tights with low sexy pumps
– go to church, light a candle, say a prayer

[nhplowboi]

Todays school shooting. I cussed out loud when the most minimal of details were given of 3 children killed. The later details are more than disturbing. The act was committed by a 28 year old MTF woman. Why are we so broken. This is not the world I grew up in.

[Stone-Butch]

You are so right there my friend. We have had more stabbings than shootings but even one is too much, The amount of people killed in the last 10 yrs is more than I have read about for the rest of my life. In the past, peace was obtainable. Now, killing is easier to many,. The world has gone wakko,.

[nhplowboi]

Please everyone be safe tonight. The Trump indictment is going to cause hell raising. Just be aware of your surroundings.

[nhplowboi]

I'm debating just how superstitious I am. I just had a little Junco fly into the house and years ago that portended bad luck maybe even a death. Couple that with a full moon......I think I am staying in tonight.

[nhplowboi]

Governor Abbott.......please tell me he is not going to really pardon Daniel Perry. My hope is the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole has some spine and will never give this fool Abbott a chance to pardon the murderous racist SOB Perry. All hell is going to break loose if he does and rightly so.

[Femmewench]

Governor Abbott.......please tell me he is not going to really pardon Daniel Perry. My hope is the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole has some spine and will never give this fool Abbott a chance to pardon the murderous racist SOB Perry. All hell is going to break loose if he does and rightly so.

How does 'stand your ground' apply when you're in a moving vehicle? And drive to the man holding a rifle who apparently is threatening you? Doesn't every white man in TX have the right to open carry?

[kittygrrl]

my garden...it's raining...baking bread..and a fire 0n the hearth...and
one more thing to make it perfect

[Orema]

Juneteenth is on my mind.

I’ve been invited to the D for the Juneteenth weekend. They’re throwing a party that I really want to attend. There will be a portrait artist, DJ, fortune teller, an Aunties dance contest, etc. This child knows how to throw a party. But I’m still a little (a lot) wobbly on my knees and should probably stay close to home.

There’s always next year.

[kittygrrl]

Just off the phone with my bff and she is coming over to help me make the cinnamon rolls...she's bringing dinner & her boyfriend..fun for a Monday

[GeorgiaMa'am]

I have an appointment with my oncologist tomorrow morning, and I'm wondering what she will find, if anything. I really hope there's nothing to find.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

I have an appointment with my oncologist tomorrow morning, and I'm wondering what she will find, if anything. I really hope there's nothing to find.

All is well, she found nothing of concern, just a tiny tear that only needed a dab of Neosporin. No growths, no sign of anything that shouldn't be there. "Go home, don't worry, come back and see me in six months."

[nhplowboi]

The poor people of Miami as the biggest clown of them all brings his circus to their city. Please be safe everyone.

[ksrainbow]

The poor people of Miami as the biggest clown of them all brings his circus to their city. Please be safe everyone.

... members of our military, secret service, FBI, DHS etc. They may have had/or currently have their employment/service to the protection of the United States compromised. These are the folks (and their families) Trumps reckless behavior has jeopardized!

[nhplowboi]

... members of our military, secret service, FBI, DHS etc. They may have had/or currently have their employment/service to the protection of the United States compromised. These are the folks (and their families) Trumps reckless behavior has jeopardized!
Absolutely ksr!

[Kätzchen]

The fact that we have an opportunity to correct how our society rewards public servants elected to office: A) do we allow them to collect financial benefits once they are voted out of office? B) I say if they harm our country and it’s citizens, they should effectively be REMOVED from collecting any financial benefit. Period. Full stop.

As soon as our country fully realizes this and takes steps to excise grifters from taking money for a job not done well, then in my mind we finally move past grifters on the payroll.

[Kenna]

Selling my camper.

Visiting my happy place.

Going back to Kitty Hawk and Corolla.

Marking off a couple more bucket list items.

[kittygrrl]

5 men in a tiny sub at the bottom of the Atlantic Ociean

[FireSignFemme]

Toddlers heading out to go camping. I worry every time they do. I just have to remind myself of all the crazy things their parents did growing up, insane things my siblings and I did when we were young and we survived it all without any serious harm. You can't hover, fuss too much or they'll grow up all nerdy and strange and weak with all kinds of hang ups. Unable to relate to other children and be the butt of a lot of cruel jokes. Yet at the same time you don't want to play a part in helping raise a jerk or someone over confident, with no concern for others or regard for safety. It will be nice for Monte and I to have some alone time though, and all the adults going have good safety habits. They've always made it back safely... I need to breathe. Deep breaths.

[kittygrrl]

froze peaches for fall....summer is here

:flowers:

[nhplowboi]

The Supreme Court. I did not realize today's ruling did not involve a real case. It was a made up case to get this ruling on the books. The woman bringing the case did not own a business, there is no person/couple they denied and it was all fabricated and brought before the court just to create this ruling. WTH

[Soft*Silver]

My beautiful big red truck died. I sold it for parts but now I am without a truck for the first time in a decade. I miss it. It’s become part of my identity to be a truck girl. Sighing….

[clay]

on my mind is......
shingles......I have them on my right side, on my eyelid, and side of my face..........I am so tired of my journey, since last November!!! Am on a medicine for it now for 7 days!

[ksrainbow]

The Supreme Court. I did not realize today's ruling did not involve a real case. It was a made up case to get this ruling on the books. The woman bringing the case did not own a business, there is no person/couple they denied and it was all fabricated and brought before the court just to create this ruling. WTH

https://www.npr.org/2023/07/01/1185632827/web-designer-supreme-court-gay-couples

[GeorgiaMa'am]

on my mind is......
shingles......I have them on my right side, on my eyelid, and side of my face..........I am so tired of my journey, since last November!!! Am on a medicine for it now for 7 days!

I'm so sorry! Shingles are miserable. I know three people who have had them, and one even had the vaccine, and she got them anyway. I hope it goes away soon!

[clay]

I'm so sorry! Shingles are miserable. I know three people who have had them, and one even had the vaccine, and she got them anyway. I hope it goes away soon!

Thanks, Ma'am!

I got both the vaccines, too. Getting them doesn't mean you WON'T get them, just means if you do, is milder case!

Saw eye doc today, she wants to wait 2 weeks, let them abate, then will prescribe glasses for me!!!

[Soft*Silver]

on my mind is......
shingles......I have them on my right side, on my eyelid, and side of my face..........I am so tired of my journey, since last November!!! Am on a medicine for it now for 7 days!

I had shingles three times in the past 13 years. The worst case involved my face. It was some of the worst pain I ever experienced! All I could do was lie in the dark w wet cold compresses on my face. It was even in my mouth! I was disfigured until the scars healed. I never felt so ugly in my life as when I was covered facially with those awful, painful sores! I hope yours are mild and you recover quickly!

[clay]

I had shingles three times in the past 13 years. The worst case involved my face. It was some of the worst pain I ever experienced! All I could do was lie in the dark w wet cold compresses on my face. It was even in my mouth! I was disfigured until the scars healed. I never felt so ugly in my life as when I was covered facially with those awful, painful sores! I hope yours are mild and you recover quickly!

Thanks, Silver!! My case thusly IS mild. I didn't get blisters at all. Saw eye DR yesterday, they are not IN my eye, but on eyelid, face.

These are painful enough! Sounds like you had a severe case.

I got the shingrix vaccine series of 2, so that afforded me a much milder case!!

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Fireworks. Seems like I post how annoying these are about twice a year, but in addition to upsetting my doggo, I learned some new things:

- they cause birds to wake up and fly into each other, accidentally killing each other. (I'm going to check out my yard for dead birds tomorrow, to see if this is BS or real.)

- they cause honey bees to get confused and unable to find their hives.

- they affect people with PTSD negatively.

Thankfully, there are regulations about how and when people can shoot fireworks in my county. I think this is one of the two holidays when they're allowed to shoot them until 1 a.m.

Only an hour and 41 minutes to go.

[Bèsame*]

zaLlxXYW9fU

This is the main reason I'm heading off to London. Already have my ticket. The rest is a bonus!! Off Broadway show, visiting the Abbey,
BigBen, changing of the guard and oh so many more places. Then off to Paris. Where there is a Disneyland among all the others.

[Kätzchen]

HjRwDIxAE04

:listening:

[kittygrrl]

C a l i f o r n i a

BciS5krYL80

[kittygrrl]

Home ..
from my sister's....We painted bird houses and made mistakes..it was fun .. a cozy dinner....
then we curled up on her couch w popcorn and watched a movie...it was so nice

[kittygrrl]

dreaming ......

O5y0KGHxF2I

[Orema]

Purging is on my mind.

I”m getting rid of things and it feels good.

I still have work products and items I can toss out. Not sure why I kept them in the first place. A lot of tools are going out. I’ll probably take them to Detroit.

I have a boat load of cables, wires, old audio stuff that can and will be tossed out.

Feels good to let go.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Bariatric surgery has been on my mind. I got a lecture about it from my ortho doctor, when he told me my knees are completely shot and I need knee replacements, but at my weight there's no way he can do it.

I just can't see a need for the bariatric surgery. I know lots of people on here have had it, and I'm wondering how it has worked for you? To me, it seems that the surgery just makes you do something (diet) that I could do on my own without the surgery. I have lost lots of weight in the past, but then gained it back. But I understand that this happens to about half of the people who have bariatric surgery too.

I also understand that they make you lose a lot of weight fast on a crash diet - like 50 pounds - before they will even do the surgery. I have lost 50 pounds in a single go before, and I don't understand why I can't just do that on my own, rather than go to doctor's appointments and pay them for something I can do myself.

I am going to start contacting people who have had the surgery and talk to them about their personal experiences. I have a while, since I'm going to lost this 50 pounds on my own. Once I reach that goal, I will decide.

[Soft*Silver]

Recently, I have gotten involved in animal rescue. I’ve always helped animals throughout my life. But the older I got, the less I was able to chase a dog down the highway, or traipse through Woods looking for feral kitties.
A few days ago a very hurt and sickly cat ran into my house seeking shelter. Before I could get the crate to put it in to take it to the vet, it ran back out. I have been setting out live traps, but was able to just walk up and pick it up when I saw it on the road. I took it to the vet. He was a fine older gentleman of a cat, who had once been someone’s pet. But he was covered in maggots from head to toe, horribly infested with worms and fleas and ticks. His tail was degloved and needed amputated. He had an open wound above his eye and beneath his ear. He had a severe upper respiratory infection, and was feline leukemia, positive.
Why do people discard their cats? This sweet old man did not deserve this. As I was talking to the police officers involved, making a decision to euthanize him, this dear dear animal, lay down his head and died.
*
So today as I’m drinking my coffee out in my garden enjoying my life, I’m thinking about the suffering beyond the garden…

[Orema]

Jann Wenner (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/jann-wenner-rock-roll-hall-of-fame-black-female-musicians-comments-1235592239/) is still on my mind. Never liked him. I used to read his mag in the early 1970s in high school, but stopped after a few years.

So glad to see him fall from his pedestal. Also glad they didn't waste any time kicking him to the curb and off the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Board after his interview with the NY Times.

Good riddance and all that jazz.

[Bèsame*]

on my mind...



That cute woman I met in California. We've been texting. 😎😎😎

[Kätzchen]

The fact that a court and judge held Juliani (intentionally misspelled) accountable for his election lies about election workers in Georgia and how his race to the bottom is only a part of the picture.

Hopefully, all those people who have believed in that horrid person's words and acted violently at the behest of him and the spray-tanned weasel will come to an end once people see that lies can cost you your freedom and leave you penniless with a ruined life, just like they've ruined lives of every American alive today.

[A. Spectre]

The fact that a court and judge held Juliani (intentionally misspelled) accountable for his election lies about election workers in Georgia and how his race to the bottom is only a part of the picture.

Hopefully, all those people who have believed in that horrid person's words and acted violently at the behest of him and the spray-tanned weasel will come to an end once people see that lies can cost you your freedom and leave you penniless with a ruined life, just like they've ruined lives of every American alive today.

Luckily we weren't traumatized by his head not leaking shoe polish. He doesn't have the funds to pay this, he will go via the bankruptcy option ala Alex Jones. He'll probably move to Florida known as debtors paradise.

The court will attach whatever income he has coming in e.g. podcast, His stints on WABC, speaking fees. But what is the pecking order of who gets the money (what money) first, his third wife or the two victorious women?

Maybe orange fuck face will chip in. ROFL!

[Stone-Butch]

I have made up my mind. If I do not get a call to come to the airport, or a call to come pick her up, or meet me here or there. Then, forget it. Who am I talking to? Nobody yet.

[Shystonefem]

I haven’t been here for a long time and everything’s changed. 😳

[Stone-Butch]

Welcome back shy. No need to be everyone here is friendly and respectful.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

On my mind: How will the fam get along tomorrow at our Christmas gathering? Since my mother just passed, I expect it will be somewhat subdued. But I hope people can make an effort to be glad to see each other.

[Bèsame*]

My boss and I are walking a thin line. Neither of us has made the aggressive next step. I'm anxious to see how New Year's Eve plays out. Oh we have plans. And I know that there is usually a kiss at midnight.

I'm excited to see how this plays out. I guess we are both too shy..lol.

[Soft*Silver]

At the end of October I was laid off. Since then I’ve been on eight interviews and received 8 job offers. I’ve narrowed it down to two that appealed to me the most.

I also expect after the holidays I’m gonna get called for more interviews for other companies that I applied to.

I really like this one job offer a lot a lot a lot. it doesn’t pay as much as the other job offer that I’m mulling over, but it’s got other factors that make it rise to the top.

After Christmas, I will have a job again. Once this is a signed and sealed deal with someone, I will breathe a sigh of relief.

[Stone-Butch]

I had a nice day yesterday with my brother but he insisted on going home. I do not know why but once his mind is made up he is like me. LOL. I missed him today and it wont be the same without him here for Xmas.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

I will try to limit this topic to one post. Most of you know all about it anyway. But I just want to say, for the record, THIS YEAR SUCKED. To me, it was even worse than the year that T...p won the presidency (in a different way).

- My partner Dixon died.
- Our family member David died.
- My mother went into a nursing home, and then died.
- I was in the hospital for two separate weeks, with kidney problems. Dialysis was discussed.
- I gained nearly 50 pounds, and I can barely walk.

Next year HAS to be better. I cannot take another year like this.

[Stone-Butch]

Quiet Xmas np. Thinking of the years going to the club for festivities of New Years eve. Drinking an eating and dancing and visiting with a lot of friends. Was a wonderful time in my life and I remember it with smiles and good feelings. Some of my friends have moved away to other provinces. Some of my friends have passed away. It is a quiet time now but I still have my book of memories of better times. I also think of those who still go out for New Years eve and wish them a happy time and a safe go and return.

For the new year you should all share{ JOY== HAPPINESS== GOOD HEALTH ==LOVE and especially WORLD PEACE !!!!!

[Kätzchen]

I’m in the middle of baking Apple Pecan Toasted Coconut Cake (2) and watching favorite shows on DVDs before the ice and snow storm hits us. Hope we don’t lose power. Maybe I should curl and style my hair today too, while I’ve still got power. :eyebat:

[Soft*Silver]

The first essay….

[Glenn]

1 degree F!
Feels like -24 degrees F!
On my mind:
Feathers
Fire
Food
Fur
Wool.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

How cold does it have to get before the outside faucets start to pop off the wall? I can't find my little Styrofoam thingies. I also can't find my waterproof boots. I also can't get the boy to take care of this; something about spiders and snakes in the woodshed where the Styrofoam thingies probably are located. <feeling unprepared>

[Kenna]

How my world and attitude has changed since first finding out my dearest friend had pancreatic and liver cancer.

[Bèsame*]

On my mind..
This weekend with my boss butch. We are staying at her Mom's and taking her dog.

Her Mom will love me. All Moms do. (She is excited to meet)😊😊

[kittygrrl]

enjoying my morning...maybe flapjacks soon

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Trouble with my insurance company. About once a year, they either call me or send me some forms to fill out about my disability. They called, and I thought the interview went well. Now they're sending forms to my doctors, which is typical. But I got a call from my osteo knee doctor's assistant, who said, "We don't do long term disability. We only do short term."

What do you mean, you don't "do" long term disability? The doctor told me it's going to take about two years to fix my knees. That's long term. The good thing is, my knees aren't what my long term disability claim is based on. That's a different illness. But I don't want the knee thing to mess things up with my insurance company. I know that they will use any little thing they can to try to send me back to work. And I cannot do it. Not just because of my knees and my main problem, but other problems too.

I may end up having to find a knee doctor that "does" long term disability. I'm sure I would qualify. I'm hoping it doesn't really matter because, as I said, I have a different problem that my disability is based on. But this is what's on my mind - it's always worrisome to me when the insurance company wants anything.

[Soft*Silver]

Last night my husband‘s sister passed away. He got the phone call this morning. Time, his mother passed away. My heart hurts for him….

[Bèsame*]

On my mind...I remember winning an award at work a few years back. We got to pick a song to walk up to get our awards..this was mine..*RIP*

3umaLe37-LE?si=PeQPcvfr_ZIXWjG0

[kittygrrl]

Balance ...

[Bèsame*]

https://positivelyjane.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Inspriational-joy-quote-1-Positively-Jane.png

[Stone-Butch]

Dealing with passive aggressive people becomes boring and irritating.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

Dim sum is on my mind. I had some earlier today:

- radish cake;
- shrimp wrapped in little crispy strips of spring roll wrapper with a sweet and hot sauce;
- BBQ pork in a bun;
- shrimp and pork dumplings;
- sticky rice (my prizes were a shitake mushroom, a dollop of salted egg yolk and a piece of red Chinese sausage);
- and of course, a pot of Oolong tea.

My dining companion ordered off the regular menu and had a beer. I tried to interest him in the wrapped shrimp and a BBQ pork bun, but he wasn't having it. He was accommodating my desire to go to dim sum, though, so I didn't complain.

It's still on my mind because we had fun and it was delicious. Also, I brought home plenty for a late night snack!

[Bèsame*]

Reminiscing....I so remember the sights of Paris. Watching the Olympics are bringing all the memories back. It's been 2 months since I was there.

I hope those of you see (some up close) the beauty of the Eiffel Tower.

[Gemme]

Now that I've accepted an offer from a company, other companies are coming out of the woodwork to court me. Feast or famine, I suppose.

[GeorgiaMa'am]

How cold does it have to get before the outside faucets start to pop off the wall? I can't find my little Styrofoam thingies. I also can't find my waterproof boots. I also can't get the boy to take care of this; something about spiders and snakes in the woodshed where the Styrofoam thingies probably are located. <feeling unprepared>

I was just reading over some old posts, and this one made me realize how much I not only miss Dixon, but how much I miss having a butch around to help me with household things. I can do some of them myself, and when I was younger I could do a lot more. But Dixon always took on some of the workload, without complaint, without asking if it needed to be done, without pointing out every single little thing he had accomplished because he wanted praise and gratitude. He just did those things. He was an awesome person and partner. Now every little thing in my house that breaks is a reminder of the person I lost and how much I needed him. I miss him so much.

(Don't even mention the boy. He's not mechanically savvy, and he has to be cajoled into doing anything butch-like. He has to be nagged, and when he does anything at all, even the smallest chore, he thinks he deserves to be praised for it. Don't get me wrong, he has his good points and he helps me a lot. I love him. But he's no substitute for Dixon.)

[nhplowboi]

I have a friend who does a lot of buying and selling on line. I spoke to them about a couple of boxsets of baseball cards I have left over from the store that I would like to sell. They were like "Yeah we can split the price of the sale.". Am I wrong to be put off by that response? I was just looking for information and help and was not planning on paying them $100+ for some information. Am I wrong to be upset?