Thank you for taking the time to visit; enjoy the posts...
Happy Thanksgiving- 06
I've always thought of my self as a conservitive tradtionalist, but over the last several years I guess I've begun to realize otherwise. Not only am I neither conservitive nor a tradtionalist- though I do have leanings that way; I'm just me - trying to make my own mark in the world (like everyone else, no different, no better).
America, and The States more specificly, continues to undergo changes. Thanksgiving, nationally founded by our ultralconservitive forefathers, has continually retained the idea of "just being thankful for our most basic of needs"; helath, home, and friends. We're going to observe Thanksgiving today - one day early; because it's my regualr day off from work today, We're having the traditonal turkey with trimmings. But rather than being gathered about a Norman Rockwell painting, (we don't have a dinning room table) we'll balance our meal on our laps. Not watching Parades, but Lord of the Rings, most of the extended family has yet to be wowed by the Jackson version of Tolkien story - filled with hope riding on the edge of doom and gloom special effects. Afterwhich we'll play non-traditional board games like King's Corner, and What If ?
HOWEVER you set aside time with your loved ones to be Grateful this year, may you all be blessed and comforted with only the hope, peace and love that family and friends can bring. When a stranger crosses your path remember these as a gift to bestow.
America, and The States more specificly, continues to undergo changes. Thanksgiving, nationally founded by our ultralconservitive forefathers, has continually retained the idea of "just being thankful for our most basic of needs"; helath, home, and friends. We're going to observe Thanksgiving today - one day early; because it's my regualr day off from work today, We're having the traditonal turkey with trimmings. But rather than being gathered about a Norman Rockwell painting, (we don't have a dinning room table) we'll balance our meal on our laps. Not watching Parades, but Lord of the Rings, most of the extended family has yet to be wowed by the Jackson version of Tolkien story - filled with hope riding on the edge of doom and gloom special effects. Afterwhich we'll play non-traditional board games like King's Corner, and What If ?
HOWEVER you set aside time with your loved ones to be Grateful this year, may you all be blessed and comforted with only the hope, peace and love that family and friends can bring. When a stranger crosses your path remember these as a gift to bestow.
FORBIDDEN REQUIEM: TNA
Here's a photoshop project I've been working on for awhile. Since I have gotten a new computer, and have worked in PS more, I need to redo many of these shots. I would love to purchase a good dital video camera, and put together some other type of film work; any sugestions?
Working, Working, Blogging. . .
While surfing the web I learned a dear friend died. Yesterday, after struggling for many years of striving to produce works of interest, he was found down in his basement, slumped over his desk with an expression of maddness frozen on his face. He was Blogged to death. To view the remains of his efforts please visit these sites: Blogspot, Typepad, MySpace, VOX, Flickr, Del.icio.us, Cafepress.
Sinking lower still - Like I said.
Sex with dead dog
A 44-year-old Saginaw man remains jailed on charges of bestiality after he was seen engaged in sexual acts with a dead dog, Michigan State Police troopers said.Ronald Kuch was arrested after police searched the area of Midland and Carter roads on Oct 20 for a man who ran away from a Bay County Animal Control officer. The entire incident was within view of a nearby day care center.
At his arraignment on Oct 23, Kuch demanded a preliminary examination in Bay County District Court. District Judge Craig Alston ordered him to remain jailed in lieu of $500,000 bond pending a hearing on the evidence Nov. 6.
Kuch is charged with crimes against nature and assaulting a law enforcement officer.
Troopers said a woman from the day care center called for animal control because there was a dead dog near the property that had been hit by a car several days earlier.
Before officers could arrive, the man showed up and began engaging in sexual acts with the dog, police said. The animal control officer also reported seeing Kuch involved in the sex act and as he approached him, Kuch shoved him away and ran off.
State troopers searched the area and found the man hiding in the attic of a nearby house.
Officers determined that the house belonged to the man's girlfriend and later learned that the dog, a black Labrador retriever, also belonged to the girlfriend. The dog had been dead for four or five days.
The official charge of crimes against nature carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. If the person is a repeat offender, the maximum is life in prison.
Americas lowest point - Still to come!
OJ Simpson's "If I did" has been mentioned as our lowest point; I believe we can sink lower. Every time I hear, "Man that's the worst thing I've ever heard" you always hear something worse. After Manson came Damher; need I say more?
VOXing...
I've started another Blog at: VOX. It was extremely easy to set up, and in many ways much better than Blogger; however I don't like NOT being able to leave a comment, without first having to have an account. Blogger you can leave a comment, and not have an account; like our D&D players on my sites.
Oh! How I have grown lazy. Funny how when I'm at work there's so many things I think about needing to get done, started, or just completed - then when I'm off, like the last three days; seems nothing has gotten done. NOTE to self - Clean up your desk; thanks.
Oh! How I have grown lazy. Funny how when I'm at work there's so many things I think about needing to get done, started, or just completed - then when I'm off, like the last three days; seems nothing has gotten done. NOTE to self - Clean up your desk; thanks.
Feeling cold
The leaves are falling and the sky greying
the days are shortening and the winds brisk
my bones are chilling with the cold
and another year turns its face into the past
as we all grow another one older...
the days are shortening and the winds brisk
my bones are chilling with the cold
and another year turns its face into the past
as we all grow another one older...
OUR - Campaign
Here are a few Windows Movie Maker films that I pieced together, using my Photoshop pictures. These were used to help tell the back story in our Dungeons & Dragons Game; the S'sainen Watchers - are the Guardians in our world - Thay. Enjoy. . .
OUR PLAYERS:
INTRODUCTION:
LORE OF THE S'SAINEN:
THE GREAT SEAL:
MEETING THE NINE:
THE RITUAL:
OUR PLAYERS:
INTRODUCTION:
LORE OF THE S'SAINEN:
THE GREAT SEAL:
MEETING THE NINE:
THE RITUAL:
Wedding CONGRADULATIONS!
My eldest, and best-good friend, TEHUTI is getting married! He and Victoria Rose were close friends a thousand years ago in my youth and it somehow only seems fitting that all these ages later they find themselves belonging to one another. Deepest hopes for the best of Blessings to them both. A Spring wedding is in the works.
9/11 5 Years Later
9/ 11 -2001
I was working 3rd shift, 10pm-6am, at the Corpus Christi State School. I came home and went to bed to get some sleep; about 8:45am my wife woke me up, saying that our daughter was watching TV - "a plane just hit a building!" The rest is history...
NEW BABY!!!
My daughter, Elizabeth and her husband, James had their second baby - A Boy! August 11, 2006; Jamison DeLane Garza was born into the world at 8 pounds and 12 oz. CONGRADULATIONS guys we wish you both the very best.
Making of the S'sainen
My work schedule changes back to "Patterns" come September 1st. What that means is, instead of working weekends, I will actually be able to have a weekend or two off; 3days on 1 off, 4days on and 2 off, and one weekend a month off.
Being a DM (Dungeon Master), or Game monitor is a lot more intense than I originally knew, I love it. A more experienced player has joined Our-Campaign, he's pertty impress from the onset with all the Props, maps, and web pages that I've designed to enhance our game. With a change in work schedule I wont have all that weekly time like I had before so I'm doing alot now.
In the World of THAY we have Avatars called "The S'sainen" who head a Secret Council geared toward ridding he world of its Evil. Here is a "Making Of" video I pieced together. Notice Tehuti?
A Pirate at 43
Yesterday, the 12th was my 43rd birthday; we ate out at a really nice Chinesse place, took in a Pirates of the Caribbean movie - which was a 2.5 hour, rib splitting, good time. Got a TENT set for camping, a great cake, and family time. My life may be boringly mundane, boring, dull, quaint and simplistic to most but its my life in America; with the simple pleasures of a Pirates freewill...COMING SOON!!!
I'm working away on a video clip on my story The Nephilim Age: FORBIDDEN. I'm realizing that some of my photoshoped pictures on my old e-Machine weren't quiet all that. Plus I'm tinkering about with mereging video clips. So impressed with Tehuti's work, I can't let him down trying to impress him back... So, just staying in touch here.
Hey, check out Our Campaign Site if ya haven't yet.
Hey, check out Our Campaign Site if ya haven't yet.
VIDEO: My Grand-Daughter
I'm so proud of my daughter, Elizabeth and my new son-in-law, James; struggle as they do, they are doing very well with Savannah. In a few months, another one will be on the way. Playing around with the Windows Movie Maker, and my little digital camera; here's
VIDEO: Meet Our Game PLAYERS
Here, we are in Game Play, meaning no distractions are allowed; everyone is to stay in "Character".
DM-ing is taken very serious during Game Play. We are the gods of the Campaign; if there are any deveations from the canon, then our word is gospel. We're not jerks, it's just the way it is; a standard has to be set and followed, even when Chaos, Magics, and the Impossible is the Order of the day. It's all in agreed upon fun! Several breaks, a meal enjoyed, and plenty of laughs to go around - wishing you were here!
Glory
Beating down upon our heads
the last rays till we're dead
the Sun burns bright then out
all our lives lived with shouts;Live and LearnDie and Forget it all...
laughter and love
pain or sorrow
all pleasures or defeat
beneath that Orb's glow
neath blue or thunderous clouds
life is what it is
something to be experienced...
Dungeons & Dragons
My brother-in-law, Michael Smith, and I are Co-"Dungeon Masters",(Dungeons and Dragons). We GUIDE the Characters of players in a roleplaying game. Those interested or invested in their own Worlds can check out our Online Notes. I have been quiet busy designing the City of Calah, Captial of the Empire. So far the city map is taking up 36 pages (aprox. 4'x5'), worth of details. I enjoy using some of my artistic abilities in drawing the maps, and crafting various props for our Campaign's game play; which enhances the imagination and realism for the players. We're homey kind of folks so this is about it on the Social Scale for us.
Birthday-Moons
My grandaughter, Savannah just turned a year old, (April 14, 2006). Seems the highlight of the party for her was diving into her Cake! Though she enjoyed the clean up bath afterwards as well; she's begun babbling-talk, and is a constant joy to be around. The rocking horse; whose pinched ears activates its singing feature, was not her favorite party gift - it scared her. The drums, and other toys were a hit. I don't know who got a bigger kick out of the party, her or the family.The "Moon Phase" pictures of her life, is something I am determind to keep up with as she grows older. For, seldom do pictures like these seem to surrive the passing years of our own lives. Few of us have such memories of our own early years. I am the Historian in our family, and this is just another aspect of keeping a record of our events.
Garza-Snow Wedding
INTRODUCING:
Mr. and Mrs. James & Elizabeth Garza
In a private home ceremony, before a Minister, with Union Candles, ending with a Kiss; my daughter now begins a new chapter in her life.Feandar and the Guard
Deep within the dampness of the woods, Feandar meets a shadowed figure of a guard from Ra`More. Yet the Elven Shrine lies still miles to the south, on the small island of Eul. Cautiously approaching, he hails a greeting, just as the figure fades from site...Sexy Feet
I remember when my wife and I first started dating. We went to a local hotel's swimming pool with a group of our friends; while floating about I would playfully nibble on her toes - they're still yummy. . . uhmmm. I love Sexy Feet
Keeping an Eye Out
We watched my daughter like a hawk, as she grew up. Driving her back and forth to school, and all points inbetween. I vowed to my wife that our daughter would never have a picture on a milk carton, either; we were succeful. Now we have a granddaughter, and another one on the way - living up here in the Metroplex is all the more scary. Some friends of ours endured the long pursute of an offender; they did it the right way, I would have taken care of it myself. Keeping an eye out on your own neighborhood can be eye opening!
Remembering that life is repleat with oppertunities for reinvinting ourselves can be difficult, when comfort zones become the order of the day. I once Crafted an awesomely detaild Coven ritual, based on renewal, because I could feel so many of the lives about me on the cutting edge of change. However, I missed the oppertunity to manifest that Ritual due to changes, and movings in the lives of others. I kept its details Masked away. But someday I would like to preform it. Change is often desirable, frequently necssary, always inevitable
Commissioning the Movie
Here on my site, in the right hand side bar there is a FED GOV site link; anything you want to know and more, (except for who shot JFK, see: X-Files for that one). Before the Movie, United 93 comes out, I thought it might be interesting to pass on something I resently read, The 911 Report. Its said the film makers got the go ahead from all the families involved before making the movie, it'll be interesting to see how close they come to the Congressional Report of the event. Nine-Eleven will be a bench mark date for years to come, it has been intereting thus far to see how our Leaders have used it, now to see how Hollywood views it.
Savannah's A Year Old
Actually, Savannah Alise Garza's birthdate was April 14; we just celebrated it a little later. Just our family - mostly for us anywho. We took several pictures, but guess they'll have to wait as well; my digital is out. A year has already gone by, and another DUE date comes in August, with Elizabeth's second child; which I'm saying will be a boy, though they've not sexed it yet. With tight finaces and all it would be far better for them to have another girl; sisters, mixed means another bedroom and male clothes. Least with another girl there'd be hand-me-downs. But I said it'll be a boy.
A grandson. Neat.
A grandson. Neat.
April 17, 1982
Today is our 24th Wedding Anniversary. A night out in a Hotel, dinner at Steak&Ale - just me and my gal.
We've weathered a few storms, seen a lot water under the bridge, had many cars, jobs, homes, and religions - but I've been very blessed that Alice has always remained by my side. She, more than anyone else has remained my greatest source of strength and encouragement. There have been many times, (that she's never even been aware of), where depression has edged me close to some very grim thoughts; but in the pools of her eyes I see the only proof I need of GOD, hope and unconditional love.
We've weathered a few storms, seen a lot water under the bridge, had many cars, jobs, homes, and religions - but I've been very blessed that Alice has always remained by my side. She, more than anyone else has remained my greatest source of strength and encouragement. There have been many times, (that she's never even been aware of), where depression has edged me close to some very grim thoughts; but in the pools of her eyes I see the only proof I need of GOD, hope and unconditional love.
Happy Anniversary, Alice I love you is something I try to show everyday .
Thank you; first and foremost for being my friend!
*******
We took a night away in a really nice Hotel, and ate at Steak & Ale, (first time there, very nice). I hadn't always appreciated, her but she deserves better - she make me want to be that better man...
The Coming of a Slow NOVEL
I have actually forgotten how many years I have been working on my novel. Piddling more like it; obviously - since it remains no where near completion. I am redressing it, with photoshop pictures for the internet, in hopes that some readers may find it interesting. I am in constant need of encouragement, due to my insecure nature, I guess. Anyway. The story has undergone many title changes, the latest to be settled upon is: NEPHILIM FORBIDDEN.
The Nephilim are the central characters, and it only seems appropriate to keep their name in the header somewhere. The background setting for my novel is a blended cross between: Middle Earth, and the ancient Biblical World. The peoples are also a blend of Tolkien's work and Scripture, for both have influenced my personal thinking greatly.
My Nephilim are the Elves who remained behind in the Gray Havens of Middle Earth. They are the "Sons of God." Who, in their quest to repopulate and rule that ancient time, have fallen from their High Nobility. They have turned into greedy and lustful teachers of lesser men. With their appearance, in that pre-flood world, came an age of herindious chaos.
However, one of the desendants of the Nephilim, Feandar, learns of his true nature, and seeks to regain that nobility in his own personal life. He seemingly goes foolishly through life without a care. Such are the trials, and experiences of enduring life in an upside-down world filled with war, terrorist, pain and sorrow; sucide is only an easy course, and a hollow loss. Time and again various lessons are learned, til one day the maturity of finding true love awakens in him the desire to live, reguardless of the coming rains. Just as, in real life it seems, when we realize "what it's all about" we reach our ending years of mortal life. So too is it with Feandar, and the coming of the Flood.
Visit TIE-DYED Brain Rays for yourself...
EXPERIENCE
and see if you don't agree:
"No matter what phase he's gone through - he's still the Best Blogger in the Middle East!"
BEST of Friends
After we moved across our small town my parents were happy that we were only a block away from an Middle School. Only thing was I couldn't attend - bussing was the order of the day. I had never ridden the bus before was outright terrified. Noticing a group gathered in front of the school's main enterance I tried to be absored into it without notice, only to be all the more afraid that I would miss the correct bus. So trying to scrounge the courage to make conversation about something I could sound intelligent about I asked a kid with high arched eye brows, "Hey, are you related to Leonard Nemo?"
Looking at me with a smirk he replyed,"It's Nimoy - Leonard Nimoy; No. You new here?..."
"Yeah." Thinking I was fixing to get the crap beat out of me, the Spock looking kid told me to join him on the bus. When I asked why there were so many dents in the celing above the driver I was told to just wait and watch. After the school bus was loaded and the chattering volume began to rise our elderly troll of a driver grabed a short handle stick, and proceeded beating the hell out of the top of the bus, yelling,"Chut-up! Chut-up!" At which you could hear a pin drop on the entire trip across town to my new Middle School.
Man, this kid was smart. He became my best friend. Through the years to come where ever you saw him, you saw me joined at the hip. My own brother was three years older, on a far different wave length; actually we never got along - always fought, and never found anything in common to agree on. This new kid - knew my thoughts even before I did.
Looking at me with a smirk he replyed,"It's Nimoy - Leonard Nimoy; No. You new here?..."
"Yeah." Thinking I was fixing to get the crap beat out of me, the Spock looking kid told me to join him on the bus. When I asked why there were so many dents in the celing above the driver I was told to just wait and watch. After the school bus was loaded and the chattering volume began to rise our elderly troll of a driver grabed a short handle stick, and proceeded beating the hell out of the top of the bus, yelling,"Chut-up! Chut-up!" At which you could hear a pin drop on the entire trip across town to my new Middle School.
Man, this kid was smart. He became my best friend. Through the years to come where ever you saw him, you saw me joined at the hip. My own brother was three years older, on a far different wave length; actually we never got along - always fought, and never found anything in common to agree on. This new kid - knew my thoughts even before I did.
(From my Junior High School Yearbook 1979-80)
Michael was a Star Trek fan, like I was. He was a Baptist, Pentacle-something or other; never really caught it. You see I was raised a Jehovah's Witness; you know, that "Thou Shall Not" kinda of religion. But the neat thing about it was - far as I could figure - we never had much to say about our religious backgrounds. Others stayed as far away from me as they could, or I them. But Michael accepted me for who I was, and didn't seem to care (or knew) that he was going to perish during Jehovah's Armageddon; and after awhile, I began to wonder why I didn't care either.
I seemed to be over Michael's house far more times than he was over to mine, for the most part it didn't bother me; being at his home was like being in a different world. His parents treated one another as though there was a real interest in each another, and their kids. Michael's brother was even cool; not as cool as him mind you.
Building on our interest of Star Trek, came our mutual love of art; drawing and crafting things with our hands. I think in some respect I've always had an edge over Michael when it came to art, but his imagination blew away the breath of any talent I had. I would spend an hour on a project that came out pertty good, while he would churn out masterpiece one after another.
During Junior High School, my religious focus waned even though my attendance continued at the Kingdom Hall; my life was about to change. The change for me came with the expantion of my circle of friends. There was Tony, a Boy Scout trooper who loved, and introduced me to Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. Paul, introduced me to Styx, and Battlestar Galactica. Lane Boyd, another artist who could do the Robot as well as me. Shannon - an "atheisit", but he loved Science-Fiction, so he was okay. And of course, there remained Michael. Those were the days, and the individuals who influenced me most in life - more than they will ever understand.
In Jr. High, our art teacher, a Mrs. Pat Dunn asked Michael and I to "paint" a picture for her. I believe it was on a masonite board. Our school looked like a prison with no windows, so we jumped on the oppertunity to give the 'ol Art Mum the view we saw of the world outside. Actually it somewhat resembled Middle Earth: with a great mountian (mine), in the background and a Hobbit tree (Michael's touch) in the foreground. It was fun working on the painting, but we were not the Brothers Hilebrant.
(Brownwood Bullentin Newspaper; page 10-A Sunday, September 21, 1980)
Through the years Michael and I were always a pair. An influence on one another more than even we realise now. He was the Best Man at my wedding, and I a pallbearer at his father's funeral. Yet, even over the long years, when we lost contact with one another as adults, Michael remained a driving inspiration of hope and imagination in my personal life.
Somehow, these many years later I was able to reconnet with my old friend; and have never regretted his presence in my life. Old, and dear friends like Tehuti don't come along that often, and when they do, too many times in this crazy world of ours we never seem to take enough time to thank them for the many contributions they have made in our lives. So, Thank you Michael for accepting me for who I was then, for being more of a brother than my own, and for being at my wedding when even my own father wasn't; "you have been and shall always remain my friend."
Agatha
She
Who always seems so happy in a crowd
Whose eyes can be so private and so proud
No one's allowed to see them when they cry
Who always seems so happy in a crowd
Whose eyes can be so private and so proud
No one's allowed to see them when they cry
COMMENTS...
I have visited several Blog sites, and have come across those with many comments; it's nice to see that I've finally wiriten one which has earned many responces. The subject of Immigration Reform here in America raises many sideline topics, and has been faced many times before in our country's history, and I bet will be brought up again in the future. An ever changing Country of Immigrants, like the U.S., endures these growing pangs - that enable it to be strengthened to meet far greater challenges. We are facing another phase in our national experience, just as many before us endured; however, we need to keep in mind that this too shall pass, and that the steps we make today will be followed by those who come after us. 
As much as I frustratingly think that our Leaders do not listen, I have also come to believe that they are a reflection of who we really are as individuals; we have grown arrogant, self centered, and misguided - the immigrant issuse has only awaken us to the fact that our journey is on going. We are just one small country among the community on this globe, taking care of the community and the globe is obviously something we've neglected on both accounts.
As much as I frustratingly think that our Leaders do not listen, I have also come to believe that they are a reflection of who we really are as individuals; we have grown arrogant, self centered, and misguided - the immigrant issuse has only awaken us to the fact that our journey is on going. We are just one small country among the community on this globe, taking care of the community and the globe is obviously something we've neglected on both accounts.
"Illegal"
Can you imagine? You are sitting on your lunch break, when someone else enters the room. You stike up a conversation about the weather. Later, the conversation turns to complaining about work issues: you hadn't gotten a raise increase, benefits arn't all what they should be, and a host of other subjects. During the entire conversation with your guest something just doesn't sound on the up and up. Then it suddenly dawns on you. You don't even know this person. In fact they are not even a co-worker, nor an employee of the same Company! Yet, here they are complaining to you about your Company situation.
What does it mean to be an employee, a member of an Organization, a citizen? If we give Texas back to Mexico, and North Dakoda to Canada, then what remains of the US? Every American is an immigrant after a fashion, so the argument of not allowing them into the country is mute; we are a country of Immigrants. However, we are also a country under the rule of law. So, what does it mean to be "Illegal"?
Illegal immigrant, like the rest of us, are only striving to seek out a better way of life. When I hear the argument that the citizen wont work for such-and-such wages - so let's hire the illegal immigrant; all I hear is an illegal act that victimizes another person, and drags the economic system down. It is just this slow, erroding away type of thinking that has brought us where we are today in America.
We need to secure the boarders the way we always have, not by fences and walls but by upholding the legal system that our immigrant forefathers founded, and our dying, patriotic fathers before us upheld. It wasn't considered racist then to protect the nation, and it isn't rascist now. It is sissy, and foolishly politicly correct to think that Homeland Security can be upheld by buring our heads in the sand, and not facing the issuses, or boarding ourself in against the facts. Treat the immigrant with the same humane respect you as a natural citizen deserve; their only right is that, and the Rule of Law. Don't like the rules? Then Vote otherwise.
What does it mean to be an employee, a member of an Organization, a citizen? If we give Texas back to Mexico, and North Dakoda to Canada, then what remains of the US? Every American is an immigrant after a fashion, so the argument of not allowing them into the country is mute; we are a country of Immigrants. However, we are also a country under the rule of law. So, what does it mean to be "Illegal"? Illegal immigrant, like the rest of us, are only striving to seek out a better way of life. When I hear the argument that the citizen wont work for such-and-such wages - so let's hire the illegal immigrant; all I hear is an illegal act that victimizes another person, and drags the economic system down. It is just this slow, erroding away type of thinking that has brought us where we are today in America.
We need to secure the boarders the way we always have, not by fences and walls but by upholding the legal system that our immigrant forefathers founded, and our dying, patriotic fathers before us upheld. It wasn't considered racist then to protect the nation, and it isn't rascist now. It is sissy, and foolishly politicly correct to think that Homeland Security can be upheld by buring our heads in the sand, and not facing the issuses, or boarding ourself in against the facts. Treat the immigrant with the same humane respect you as a natural citizen deserve; their only right is that, and the Rule of Law. Don't like the rules? Then Vote otherwise.
Finally.
Looks like my brother-in-law, Michael T. Smith has finally made it to Cyberspace; good for him. His site's title: In the Beginning was the Word - Scriptural as it may sound, is really about Writing, and believe me he's a pertty good Word Smith. Drop by sometime, folks and give him a welcome - I know he will have some very fasinating things to share.
Some Fellow Bloggers.....
Like setting back for an hour or so watching TV, I get a kick out of surfing the web via NEXT BLOG, you come across some rather interesting people in the world...
The Bear in New Jersey has a political slant going on and some great links to check. LynnCorney of Chaple Hill, NC. also has some really neat stuff to share; something about her writing makes ya want to tune in. Heidi Granada of Barcelona, Spain has some beautiful pictures; makes me want to be a world traveler for such. Steve in Austin, Texas has a good site, neat format; I like the picture of the baby with the ram horns! I like Lucy Quintanilla of Neptune, New Jersey's format; good flavor of the area, I'd like to see more pics though- makes me want to write more. Wendy C. of Arlington, Texas has a really nice "In-the-Life-of" blog going on. Dave, in Michigan has some neat tech items, and very sharp photos - I like the Sand Castle.
Still Questioning...
I don't think that someone has to have been a durg addict to tell me about the dangers of drugs; likewise I can still learn insights about McDonald's from a former employee.
I was raised as one of Jehovah's Witnesses from 1969, until I left in 1982. I waned in my attendance during my last years in high school, and shortly after my marriage. My Dad left the Society because of the hypocrisy of others, my brother and sister fell away because there was no demand to continue going to the Meetings, and my Mom - well she left afterwards as well. I stayed because I believed everything I had been taught, I was faithful to Jehovah's Servant without question.
The day I bagan studing the 80 Questions for baptism, was when I began to have serious questions of my own. The Elders grew wary of my search for the TRUTH; a Truth beyond their doctrinal, cookie cut answers. One of the major things that began my journey of leaving was researching and questioning the Leaders of the Organization itself. Never ask questions. Don't think for yourself; or you will be in darkness, lost and apart from Jehovah's Servant.
Jehovah is the same yesterday and forever; the Watchtower leaders are ever changing, their Light always a different color. Why all the changing dates for Armageddon? Why the many changes in the Biblical Translations, to suit their doctrine of the day? Why? Why? Why - must I accept only what they say; when what they say is ever changing? So, I became a Southern Baptist; a Lay Minister for seven years - preaching Jesus is LORD. After 15 years, I began to question again; returning to many of the same JW questions that lay unsnawered.
Surfing the NET, purchasing many books and studying the Bible for myself I finally washed myself clear of JW-ian Shadow. However, I remained psychologically scared for life; skeptical of everything. One reoccuring theme that touched, and "haunted" me was how everything was Pagan related. So, I studied Paganism. Today I call myself a Pagan. I got a tattoo on my left arm of a Tripple Moon with a Pentagram and Hounds. My tattoo reminds me that you can never unring a bell. The misinformation, and out right lies of the Jehovah's Witnesses, and the misiformation of Christianity is something I can not unlearn, unresearch, nor go back to "not knowing."
As a Seeker, truth can be found in many places and love seen in many faces; one belief is not invalidated by another's view of their walk with Deity. I believe the cults like Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses mislead people through the manipulative misdirection of zealous Leaders seeking their goals. Organized Christianity is a farce on mankind, for Jesus taught things which were layered upon by men with their own agendas. Paganism sees the Universe as the beginning and end unto itself; men responcible for their own actions. Ill treatment and decption upon ones brother - watch out - Karma's a bitch.
I was raised as one of Jehovah's Witnesses from 1969, until I left in 1982. I waned in my attendance during my last years in high school, and shortly after my marriage. My Dad left the Society because of the hypocrisy of others, my brother and sister fell away because there was no demand to continue going to the Meetings, and my Mom - well she left afterwards as well. I stayed because I believed everything I had been taught, I was faithful to Jehovah's Servant without question.The day I bagan studing the 80 Questions for baptism, was when I began to have serious questions of my own. The Elders grew wary of my search for the TRUTH; a Truth beyond their doctrinal, cookie cut answers. One of the major things that began my journey of leaving was researching and questioning the Leaders of the Organization itself. Never ask questions. Don't think for yourself; or you will be in darkness, lost and apart from Jehovah's Servant.
Jehovah is the same yesterday and forever; the Watchtower leaders are ever changing, their Light always a different color. Why all the changing dates for Armageddon? Why the many changes in the Biblical Translations, to suit their doctrine of the day? Why? Why? Why - must I accept only what they say; when what they say is ever changing? So, I became a Southern Baptist; a Lay Minister for seven years - preaching Jesus is LORD. After 15 years, I began to question again; returning to many of the same JW questions that lay unsnawered.
Surfing the NET, purchasing many books and studying the Bible for myself I finally washed myself clear of JW-ian Shadow. However, I remained psychologically scared for life; skeptical of everything. One reoccuring theme that touched, and "haunted" me was how everything was Pagan related. So, I studied Paganism. Today I call myself a Pagan. I got a tattoo on my left arm of a Tripple Moon with a Pentagram and Hounds. My tattoo reminds me that you can never unring a bell. The misinformation, and out right lies of the Jehovah's Witnesses, and the misiformation of Christianity is something I can not unlearn, unresearch, nor go back to "not knowing."
As a Seeker, truth can be found in many places and love seen in many faces; one belief is not invalidated by another's view of their walk with Deity. I believe the cults like Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses mislead people through the manipulative misdirection of zealous Leaders seeking their goals. Organized Christianity is a farce on mankind, for Jesus taught things which were layered upon by men with their own agendas. Paganism sees the Universe as the beginning and end unto itself; men responcible for their own actions. Ill treatment and decption upon ones brother - watch out - Karma's a bitch. 
INSPECTION
Once a year the variouse State Agencies come together to converge with a vengence, it seems, on the campus' of the State Schools. This July will make eight years that I have been with the State; April is here and so are the Survey teams Inspecting, and the overwhelming stress levels shooting through the roof. 
Walking on razor blades and egg shells, while holding your breath, with that pretend frozen smile. Over acting every exacting detail, to preform in front of a clip board toting stone face jotting ever wrong thing down. Like Smokey the Bear's "Only You can prevent forest fires" - you are made to feel that passing the Inspection of the State Schools is totally dependant on you; while Pink Floyd's Teachers leave those kids alone, plays in your head as taunting, downward brows glare at you.
I know we'll pass. I know life will go on. It's just the time of the year, at work that everyone dreads most; the headachs of dealing with the Pro Staff running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Pretending it's just another day, as they reem you out about some minuet stupidity that has nothing to do with you, but something they themselves should have taken care of weeks before.
Come next week - same 'ol same, till Inspection next year...
Walking on razor blades and egg shells, while holding your breath, with that pretend frozen smile. Over acting every exacting detail, to preform in front of a clip board toting stone face jotting ever wrong thing down. Like Smokey the Bear's "Only You can prevent forest fires" - you are made to feel that passing the Inspection of the State Schools is totally dependant on you; while Pink Floyd's Teachers leave those kids alone, plays in your head as taunting, downward brows glare at you.I know we'll pass. I know life will go on. It's just the time of the year, at work that everyone dreads most; the headachs of dealing with the Pro Staff running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Pretending it's just another day, as they reem you out about some minuet stupidity that has nothing to do with you, but something they themselves should have taken care of weeks before.
Come next week - same 'ol same, till Inspection next year...
NAME CHANGE
Nephilim Forbidden is the working title of my novel; that's been in progress, since - like forever. My, self chosen Pagan name of Falconmyst ("Soaring through the fog of life") seems more appropriate for such an eclectic Blog as this, and hopefully I can focus more on writing again.
Married and Moving on...
My daughter, Elizabeth got married this past Saturday, March 25, (pictures forthcoming). We held the small humble ceremony in our townhome. Comeing down the stairs, hand-in-hand with her made me feel so proud. When the minister asked, "Who gives the woman away?" I almost froze - Woman? Has she really become a woman? Like, when did this happen? I mean, just yesterday she was my baby - "Her mother and I do." Then as I gave her hand to my, her, - James, I said, "No take backs!" Everyone laughed at my nervous humor, but I didn't want to give "my baby" away. But she's a Woman now; The Wheel has turned and it's now my role to play Grandfather, the father-in-law, and grow grey gracefully. Wow... where has all the time gone?
I love Elizabeth so very much, and it tearfully makes me proud at how much she truely does love James; she's matured SO much with the birth of Savannah. And now, now they've moved away. Oh, still in the same area; from three miles, to nine miles away. But - the cord is so difficut to let go and her love in her own way. The "empty nest" never had such a punch with meaning as it does now. I thought it was my wife, Alice who be the emotional one - but I guess it's not really hit either one of us yet that the Wheel of Time really does cause one to view the world differently with age. Not that forty-three is ancient mind you; just, never saw myself at forty-three wondering how if came so fast...
I love Elizabeth so very much, and it tearfully makes me proud at how much she truely does love James; she's matured SO much with the birth of Savannah. And now, now they've moved away. Oh, still in the same area; from three miles, to nine miles away. But - the cord is so difficut to let go and her love in her own way. The "empty nest" never had such a punch with meaning as it does now. I thought it was my wife, Alice who be the emotional one - but I guess it's not really hit either one of us yet that the Wheel of Time really does cause one to view the world differently with age. Not that forty-three is ancient mind you; just, never saw myself at forty-three wondering how if came so fast...
Will Trek for Food
WOW! Ya know, some people will go to ANY lengths to be a Trekker! Sad - even worse than Tehuti with his sign, are those folks striving to revive The Original Series; or the guy who went bankrupt! Geesh! Some people need to get a life. Man, I'm glad no one knows I'm a Lord of the Rings, and Babylon 5 - kind of guy...
Being a big Star Trek fan; since a kid, I've always wanted a StarFleet Computer. I came across a freeware program: HOLONOTES, that enable you to create files: address directories, inventory your books, phone book - whatever you want.
Another one lets you re-program your computer into the LCARS Starfleet format; if you're a little more savy with codes.
MY FORBIDDEN STORY
Still plugging away at my novel, a little here and there. Reformating the links and adding texture to the story; updating the online version a little at a time as well. . .
Full Circle
She's all grown up. This coming Saturday my twenty three year old baby girl will be getting married.
Wow.
Weirdly amazing, somehow.
It really does seem very difficult to imagine; only - wow, not too long along, I was getting married to my pregnant girlfriend, two months later I was holding our baby in my arms.
And now-
Now, I'm a grandfather holding my baby's baby; getting ready for a wedding...
I have never really had any ill feelings toward Elizabeth; I think its just that we're "too much alike," and how I imbued her with a certain brashness to be accepted-most of all to herself. Too hard? I have always been afraid. Afraid of the resopncibility, of being a "Dad",(Wow, the pedestal image of my own). But now looking back on it all I guess I did- I guess WE did alright.
Yeah. Elizabeth is pertty special. Atractive, smart, witty. I'm very proud of our daughter; the wheel truns us along toward another chapter in the story of our lives.
I remember when, it was now...
Wow.
Weirdly amazing, somehow.
It really does seem very difficult to imagine; only - wow, not too long along, I was getting married to my pregnant girlfriend, two months later I was holding our baby in my arms.
And now-
Now, I'm a grandfather holding my baby's baby; getting ready for a wedding...
I have never really had any ill feelings toward Elizabeth; I think its just that we're "too much alike," and how I imbued her with a certain brashness to be accepted-most of all to herself. Too hard? I have always been afraid. Afraid of the resopncibility, of being a "Dad",(Wow, the pedestal image of my own). But now looking back on it all I guess I did- I guess WE did alright.
Yeah. Elizabeth is pertty special. Atractive, smart, witty. I'm very proud of our daughter; the wheel truns us along toward another chapter in the story of our lives.
I remember when, it was now...
BEEN - Still, coughingly sick. . .
I have these coughing fits lately that rasp of deep seeded conjestion; been getting over being sick for eight days now. Sever left ear infection; that's thrown off my equalibrium, and had nearly lost my voice from bouts of coughing. Phlym, yuk, and blahs - all of which I am more than tired and ehausted from. NighQuill, pills, bottles, remidies; this thing's just having to run it's course - and it anit over yet.
I feel... well, just - bad.
Don't fell like doing much. Nothing seems to be interesting; other than getting rid of the head conjestion so I can breath. Yeah, nothing seems to matter when ya can't breath. Tried all last Saturday, during my 16 hours at work, to get off and be sent home; only to be given one frustrating excuse after another about the "coverage" shortage. So I called in on Sunday. Went to work on Tuesday afternoon; got sent home for being sick. Yesterday (still sick mind you) I got "writen up" at work for not having a Dr.'s excuse for last weekend! Great! Not only do I feel like the bottom of a tired shose but get reemed out for missing time at work; I have 237 hours of sick leave but can't take it - go figure? F- State!
grrrr sigh.... I feel - bad.
maybe i'll erase this crappy post later...
I feel... well, just - bad.
Don't fell like doing much. Nothing seems to be interesting; other than getting rid of the head conjestion so I can breath. Yeah, nothing seems to matter when ya can't breath. Tried all last Saturday, during my 16 hours at work, to get off and be sent home; only to be given one frustrating excuse after another about the "coverage" shortage. So I called in on Sunday. Went to work on Tuesday afternoon; got sent home for being sick. Yesterday (still sick mind you) I got "writen up" at work for not having a Dr.'s excuse for last weekend! Great! Not only do I feel like the bottom of a tired shose but get reemed out for missing time at work; I have 237 hours of sick leave but can't take it - go figure? F- State!
grrrr sigh.... I feel - bad.
maybe i'll erase this crappy post later...
STAR TREK Revived!
Star Trek: NEW VOYAGES! Soars high in cyberspace. A fastly growing new subculture. I for one am excited to see The Enterprise complete her voyage; though new faces, they're still old friends.
Retro TRIP
This past week I went to visit my Dad. Even though I've lived in various places I still refer to Brownwood as my childhood stompping grounds. The 'ol homestead's been sold, reworked and ready for another resale; time marches on.
An old 1950s railroad car has been redone into a resturant - that actually serves rather good sandwiches. Across town a new Train Museum is underconstruction, that will be neat to revisit.
Though many things seem the same there are changes over taking the forest of Deadwood. Goggin Park, where we were married, is now undergoing a face lift; with all its playground equiptment removed. Several new Howard Payne University buildings have gone up. An underpass' overpass has been deconstructed. Various neighborhoods across town have fallen to neglect and disrepair, which is sad to see. 
Seeing my Dad again was nice. Because I work the weekends everyone else was at work, which freed up a lot of time to revisit the past. It was great visiting Tehuti, and Victoria Rose; who are both some of the neatest folks you could ever meet. Then, of course there was HOWARD.
Exploring the Adventurious Side, again
I've not played Dungeons & Dragons since the summer of 1981. A thousand years ago and someone elses memories it seems. I've always retained good memories of D&D, because it symbolized so much of my personal awaking. Many friends made then, have stayed with me through the years. Least of which continues my wife - of twenty-four years.
My brother-in-law happened to be my first Role Playing Guide; he and another Dungeon Master made our imagination of fantasy worlds come alive. Now, once again I find myself edging back into that world. Not returning to a stagnate memory, striving to relive the past that will never be, but sparking the interest of a new group of friends and creating new meories, and new personal bench marks for new players.
Let the Dice roll, and the Orc's blood pour!
Happy New Year
A lot like the old one; just differnt. . .
Aaggar! Pirate Songs are cool...
HINT: We all want to be remembered; even those under the ground, behind the chain-linked fences.
MUSIC: Soothing the Background Noise
I've finally stumbled, via NEXT BLOG; onto a site where I can now get some excelent background music for my Blogs.
If you are seeking some tunes, Bill Cushman's GHOST NOTES site is well worth the stop over!
SHARE the ExPerIeNcE
I believe we should share our experiences and talents when and where ever possible. For example, there is a co-worker, who is a devout Christian, who's trying to put her ministery oppertunities on the web. Not that I know a great deal about web designing; she flipped when she saw my site, and wanted some advice. So, now I'm assisting in designing a Christian web site; me a Pagan - isn't that a hoot!
My Resolution for the New Year...
I don't usually go in for the New Year's Resolution bit, though this year I have set a few that I wish to follow through on.
One is to stop making excuses and follow through on things; and guard what "power words" I put out there. Another is to develop my writing skills. Foremost, is to follow through on writing to my brother in Indiana. Though we have never been close, and are in fact more oppisite than one could imagine I do want to develop a relationship that has been needing some attention for quiet some time. Excues for not doing so have come too easily in the past. The past is in fact, in the past. . .
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