[Duchess note ... this tidbit is from a recent newsletter from Moveon.org. Great organization! Check it out if you wish.]

The Democratic National Committee has now joined the fight with a "Supreme Court Countdown" and online petition, and we think it's important to support them too. We've spoken to chairman McAuliffe and he's agreed to deliver our petition comments personally to Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. He'll ask Sen. Daschle to get your comments to his colleagues in the Democratic caucus as well.

To sign the DNC petition and send your comment, just go to:

http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon

We expect chairman McAuliffe to deliver these comments next week, so add your voice today.

President Bush and the right wing are pulling out all the stops on these nominations. They've even talked about a "nuclear option" -- attempting to change the rules of the Senate to deny the use of the filibuster in the consent process. It's amazing that these politicians would consider destroying the time-honored traditions of the Senate and undermining the "advise and consent" provisions of the Constitution.

The Democrats are standing up in this fight, in the face of heavy pressure from the Bush White House. They need to hear our appreciation for this courageous stand and our demand that they hold the line. They need to hear that we understand what's at stake and will stand with them.

Go now to:

http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon

As I'm sure you know, these appointments are for life, and these judges make decisions that impact every aspect of our public and private lives. Our actions today will affect generations to come.

Interesting article from Denver Post ... "Musicians Blast FCC Plan - Members of R.E.M. & Pearl Jam Decry Radio Consolidation". Rock on dudes! God damn government and big corporations are slowly taking away our first amendment rights et al. Down with corporate media ... let's hear it for free speech!!

http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~78~1406829,00.html

On to something light and fun ... Elf Quiz! I took the quiz/test and found out I'm a tranquil elf. Cool! Check it out:

http://www.orlandobloom.co.nz/elftest.html

Even tho the weather mostly sucked [overcast, wet, cool] over the Memorial Day weekend, we did have a lovely, sunny, warm Sunday afternoon upstate NY. Did a few fun things over the course of three days ... such as: visit the Bennington Battlefield in VT, took a tour of Schuyler Mansion in Schuyler [NY], visited Saratoga National Cemetery, hit several tag sales [lots of good bargins], eat out a few times, shopping in Saratoga Springs [NY] & Manchester [VT], visit family and watch cable telly. Dad rented a car from Enterprise and it was a nice, little Mazda. Mom and I toodled around in that while Dad utilized his car and worked at golf course. It was nice and relaxing to get away for several days.

Interesting article/link from Common Dreams website and UK Times ... check it out if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0523-03.htm

Another terrific article/link from BBC News Online regarding war media coverage:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/2982861.stm

Came across this link/article on the GREEN PARTY website and wanted to share it with you all. Check it out, if you wish:

http://www.gp.org/press/pr_05_13_03.html

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As promised awhile ago, here is my book review......

"The Eagles Shadow - Why America Fascinates & Infuriates the World"

By Mark Hertsgaard ... He's put out four other books, including "Earth Odyssey" and "On Bended Knee". Mark is first and foremost a journalist who's articles have appeared in New Yorker, Time, Newsweek, The Nation [current fav of mine], Die Zeit, Le Nouvel Observateur and many other worldwide publications. He's a featured lecturer at Harvard and Yale, plus a regular contributor to National Public Radio.

I first heard about this book and author after attending the awesome February 15th Peace Rally at UN here in NYC. While surfing the Internet I came across a great website called Booksense.com. The article and interview was quite fascinating and intriguing, really peaked my curiosity. Two months later I finally found "The Eagles Shadow" at Shakespeare & Co bookstore. Brilliant book ... informative, thought provoking and well researched. One that I highly recommend others to read. Remember that knowledge is power or enlightenment, especially if its utilized correctly and not abused.

"Americans rarely used to think about the outside world", says Hertsgaard and that statement is so true for about 50% of our nation. The media over the last 20 years or so doesn't help, as its more into sensationalism [ie: money profits] then truth, knowledge or vital issues. Hertsgaard gathered perceptions regarding America from people in 15 countries. Ranging from business leaders, teenagers or Islamic fundamentalists, these people felt both admiring of and uneasy about the US, also enchanted, bewildered, appalled and yes, even envy. In his book, Hertsgaard exposes uplifting, as well as uncomfortable truths that force Americans and foreigners alike to view this country with fresh open eyes. Read it today and you'll be glad you did.

Here are the lyrics to a terrific Pearl Jam song [Long Road] and seems to be appropriate [I think] for these days. . . . . .

and i wished for so long, cannot stay
all the precious moments, cannot stay
it's not like wings have fallen, cannot say
but without you something's missing, i cannot say yeah
holding hands are daughters and sons
and their faiths are falling down down down down
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
we all walk the long road, cannot stay
there's no need to say goodbye
all the friends and family
all the memories going round round round round
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
and the winds are blowin'
and the sky keeps turning grey
and the sun is setting
the sun will rise another day
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
how i wished for so long
how i wish for you today
we all walk the long road
(we all walk the long road)
we all walk the long road
(we all walk the long road)

Interesting BBC article on "Saving Private Lynch Story 'flawed'". Check it out:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/correspondent/3028585.stm

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Another interesting BBC article on Democratic presidential hopefuls for the 2004 elections. ABB = Anybody But Bush!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/3017119.stm

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A snippet from the May 12th Green Party press release called "Revelation of Halliburton's Oil Distribution Deal Tops The Extensive List Of Bush's Wartime Lies"

[Greens also note that the White House and intelligence agencies are blocking the release of information about the September 11 terrorist attacks, delaying publication of a 900-page report from Congress on how the attacks happened. The blocked information includes details of early warnings received by the FBI, as well as testimony already published, such as the Phoenix memo.

"Why aren't these deceptions and evasions a major scandal and cause for investigation and prosecution?", asked Starlene Rankin, Lavender Green Caucus delegate to the national party. "Where's the outrage from the public and media? Why is perjury about oral sex cause for impeachment, but not perjury before Congress, the American people, and the U.N. about reasons for war? Why is the Democratic Party, except for a few vigilant Congressmembers like Henry Waxman, asleep in the passenger seat?"]

Here is the link:

http://www.commondreams.org/news2003/0512-07.htm

Came across this really good article on American versus British media today [ie: regarding Iraq war] on Common Dreams website. It is so true, one has to go elsewhere for good detailed news coverage, cause its just not happening here in the USA. Check it out ... if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0509-01.htm

Yesterday afternoon I was up in Yonkers doing my beloved volunteer work at ferret shelter. Aliza and Briana met me at the train station and we drove to shelter. Its great seeing them again and chatting. When we arrived Joanne was outside working on flowers in front and Harley was sitting in his doggie house. We talked for awhile about several things, one of which was the new 4-level cage Aliza purchased for her two furkids. Then Aliza and her daughter took off and I went indoors with Joanne. In the kitchen we caught up on "news" before going into shelter. Dear Bouncy Bear has been adopted, several new ferrets are in-house and one of the oldsters had to be put to sleep a week ago. In the shelter the first group of furkids were out ... the regulars whom I know well and love dearly [ie: Oliver, Sweet Pea, Emily, Big Willy & Spats]. While brushing their fur and cleaning their ears I put a large, empty Q-tip box on the floor. OMG! They went nuts over it. They dragged it all over the floor or tried to squeeze into it. Very amusing to observe their antics. Then it was time to put them back in their cages and go around filling up all the waterbottles. That done ... Joanne and I took out next group [10] of ferrets for play time. This included several newbies and one oldster. They too played with the Q-tip box. I brushed their fur and cleaned ears. Then it was time for a tea break with Joanne and a liberal discussion on politics. During this whole time her cat Mushy sat on my lap purring away. Back in the shelter we put away the furkids. I cleaned up poopy papers, mopped the floors and put down fresh papers, plus straightened up all the toys.

The last furkid to come out for his playtime has quite a "story" ... which I'll briefly relate. Hearing Joanne tell it damn near brought tears to my eyes. She said that two weeks ago a woman called her and said she'd found a ferret, in a park out in Forest Hills [Queens]. She was walking her dog when the pooch went to sniff a towel on the ground near a tree. She thought it might have a dead animal, but then a little ferret slowly poked its head out. The poor darling was thin, dirty, couldn't walk and very shaky. Joanne said the woman made several phone calls before being referred to her. The little three year old fella is doing better these days, tho not 100% and is slowly able to get around. Whomever the original cruel owners were, Joanne says they must of keep the wee one cooped up in a small cage on a 24/7 basis. Bastards! The little ferret is very friendly, doesn't bite, gives kisses, inquisitive and likes being held. He's such a darling. Soon Joanne plans on taking him to the vet for a thorough checkup. While there I brushed his fur and cleaned his ears. It was apparent that the previous owner didn't perform these duties. Makes me so mad to hear of people who are cruel to animals and innocent pets. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Spent the rest of my Barnes & Noble gift card yesterday evening and picked up several cool books.

"I'm a Stranger here Myself" by Bill Bryson
"The Master & Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov

[Plus a pretty, blank journal to utilize as a record-keeper of my volunteer work at ferret shelter.]

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Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark......

One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four: Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six: Build your future on high ground.
Seven: For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
Eight: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.
Nine: When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.

Really good article from Common Dreams website on the media verse protest marches. Check it out ... if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0507-06.htm

[Duchess note ... I will continue to participate in Peace Rallys and Protest Marches. I go to lend my support to a worthy cause and making my "free" voice heard. Whether the media covers the events or not, we must continue to go out there and fight for our democratic rights. Or we'll lose them to the evil, greedy, ruthless, destructive Bush Administration empire.]

Next on the agenda ... check out this link ... if you wish:

http://www.operationstrangelove.org/

[Be part of a national anti-war action on May 14th. Screen "Dr Strangelove" (Peter Sellers film from 1963) and raise money for groups still working hard for peace, justice and relief in Iraq.]

One of my bosses gave me a belated "Administrative Assistant Day" gift card [$50] to Barnes & Noble. WooHoo! During a late lunch I stopped by a B&N in Union Square and picked up two books. Still have $35 left on the card. Yeah!

The Buddhist Handbook by John Snelling
Daughters of Britannia - The Live & Times of Diplomatic Wives by Katie Hickman

More political news:

http://www.gp.org/documents/spoiled.html

Join the party that fights for democracy instead of empire, peace instead of endless war, working people instead of corporations, and the health of our planet!

The Green Party and its candidates take NO money from corporations.

On Sunday, May 4th, I joined my friend Debbie in going to see Cirque Du Soleil ["Varekai"] out on Randalls Island. Our tix were for the 5pm showing. Took subway up to 125th Street, where Debbie joined me and we got on special buses [$4 roundtrip] bound for Randalls Island. A short ride and a nice, sunny spring day. After leaving the bus we stroll, along with the crowd, to were the many yellow/blue stripe tents are situated. Then the usual procedure ... go thru security check, show ones tix, look at the merchandise, hit the bathroom and then find our seats. Its like a "one-ring" circus only there are no animal acts, delightful music and costumes are fantastic. Believe me, when I say, there isn't a bad seat in the whole venue. The show started shortly after 5pm, had one 20 minute break and ended close to 7:30pm. Amazing show! Fantastic! Visually appealing and all the performers were incredible. I highly recommend to all in seeing a Cirque Du Soleil show at least once in their lifetime. Worth the price of admission. No doubt about it.

A friend of mine sent me a terrific article ["My Country: The World"] by historian and author Howard Zinn. It can be viewed at:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0505-07.htm

Here is a quote from that article:

[Tom Paine used the word "patriot" to describe the rebels resisting imperial rule. He also enlarged the idea of patriotism when he said: "My country is the world. My countrymen are mankind."]

I've also finished the book by Mark Hertsgaard called "The Eagle's Shadow" and will have a review end of week. Stay tuned..............

Pearl Jam Concert Review
Albany, NY

Tuesday
April 29, 2003

Arrived into Albany, via Trailways bus, at 5pm. I checked into the Ramada Inn near the bus terminal at 5:30pm. Good thing I made reservations for a room way in advance, cause they are sold out, mostly with Pearl Jam fans. The room was on the 4th floor overlooking the thruway. Oh yeah, noise factor. Sigh! Freshened up then changed into my concert attire of jeans, sneakers and POLICE t-shirt. Then strapped on my fanny pack and grabbed my jeans vest before heading out to arena at 6:30pm. Yeah baby!

Strolled to arena and arrived at 6:45pm. What a mob scene outside! Ran into some cool Green Party dudes who were handing out Xerox copies of PEACE sign to any and all fans. I already had mine protected in plastic sheet and snuggly stashed in my fanny pack. Got to talking to one of the dudes about a few topics [ie: local cops, etc] and he gave me the number to contact Green Party here in NYC.

Went into Pepsi Arena and had no troubles with security check, plus the guard was young and so cute. ;-) After showing my tix I noticed the Pearl Jam goodie table and a huge line of fans. I was like, no way, too pricey for my humble wallet. Had a slice of pizza, which tasted like some icky frozen kind nuked. I was hungry, so figured what the hell. Yah know. Hit the bathroom, cause I refuse to leave during mid Pearl Jam gig to take a pee. By this time its 7:15pm and I go in search of my seat, which is 104 C 3. I could see the stage just fine from my seat. Totally different from what I experienced at Saratoga show back in August 2000.

Two gals [ie: Alexa & Cheryl] are in seats next to mine and we strike up a fun conversation. It’s their first Pearl Jam gig and my second. Cheryl is in her mid-30s, married with kids and Alexa is in college. They live way south of Albany and were nice gals.

At 7:30pm SPARTA comes on stage to do a so-so 45-minute set. Well folks, this band did nothing for me, though I must admit the drummer was pretty good and the bass player sucked. But hey, to each his own, yah know. I wore earplugs to tone down their noise. Took the roadies about 35 minutes to clear SPARTA stuff and do final setup of Pearl Jam equipment. By this time my stomach is doing flip-flops. Hell yeah, I’m getting that excited.

At around 8:50pm the lights dim, everyone jumps to their feet, screams and lots of applause as Pearl Jam hits the stage. WooHoo! I’ve got a piece of paper with me and pen to jot down the set list, plus other notes. Watched them come on stage, observing them closely, especially Mike AND Jeff. They all looked good and ready rock the arena. I was hoping they would start off set with LONG ROAD, but they jumped right into I AM MINE. After that they blasted into WHIPPING. Awesome! Jeff started in with some pogoing, but poor Mike was having trouble with either his guitars or pedal board. This unfortunate occurrence continued thru next few songs and kind of curbed his style. Next song was LAST EXIT, followed by an intense version of BLOOD. Ed raging into his mike and I thought his voice would go, but it didn’t. Next on set list was CROPDUSTER with Matt supplying the backup vocals. Then comes one of my fav songs DAUGHTER with several cool tags, one of which is ABITW by Pink Floyd. Mike is still having troubles, but is dealing with it and his roadie is doing all he can to resolve situation. Jeff, as always, is looking and sounding wonderful. I’m taking in the whole stage, but my main focus is on Jeff, Mike and Ed. In that order too. Through it all I’m happily dancing, bopping up and down, plus screaming “yeah baby”. The two gals next to me are also dancing and smiling. We be happy!

The arena has signs all over stating NO SMOKING and despite this people are lighting up cigarettes and joints. And damn security is doing nothing! The smell of the pot is slowly giving me a sinus headache. Damn!

Next song on Pearl Jam set list is another fav of mine – EVEN FLOW. Mike, Jeff and Ed do a jump during the song and Mike is the bomb with his solo. Wow! They follow with a fav song off their RIOT ACT cd called GHOST. This is one of Jeff’s songs and he does backup vocals. Sweet! Next is ELDERLY WOMAN, though Ed chats abit with crowd before singing that song. Audience really gets into this song, and then they do another RIOT ACT song called LOVE BOAT CAPTAIN and features Boom Gaspar [?] on keyboards. Awesome! Next is WISHLIST and I admit not one of my fav Pearl Jam songs, though at the end Ed does an interesting tag. Then they do a kick-ass version of SAVE YOU and the whole band is totally grooving. Then, to my surprise, they swing into ONCE.

Along this time both Cheryl and Alexa had to leave, as their ride is waiting for them outside. I told Cheryl, who is a Ten Club member, to order the CD boot online. That way she will hear the whole gig.

Next up a great version of CORDUROY with Jeff grooving all over the place, but mostly with his back to us, which affords me a nice view of his amazing shoulders and butt. What a fine looking man. Mike rips off a bitchin solo towards end. This is followed by BETTERMAN, which the audience sings along to and quite loudly. They end the first part of their set with a fantastic rendition of PORCH. They are really into it and if I remember correctly, Ed and Mike stroll around the whole stage waving to fans in the back. This really gets the whole audience jazzed.

They head off stage for a 7-minute or so break. This give me and hundreds of others in the crowd time to whip out our white 8x11 papers with PEACE sign on it. The Green Party asked us to hold these up when the band came back on stage for encore. Not only do I hold up mine and proudly I may add, but also several hundred fans do likewise.

The look on the guys faces as they gaze out to see so many PEACE signs is priceless. Ed says something about peace, and then Jeff strolls over to mention something in Ed’s ear. Also, at this time, Ed spots someone in audience and brings up on stage. She is a young, petite gal who shakes hands with all the band members, but hugs Stone. I’m thinking lucky girl, but also what’s wrong with her. Hug Stone? Fuck that – go for the good stuff and hug Jeff. Oh well. Then Ed introduces her to the crowd [name is Rachel], asks her to hold a piece of paper and be a human music stand, which she does. One could tell she was nervous but happy. After the band finishes a great rendition of Patti Smith song called PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER, Rachel hands Ed her small camera. He takes pix of her with Stone, then Mike & Jeff and finally with Matt. Whoa! After she leaves the stage, Ed and band do a cute improv about how Rachel came to show and wished for world peace. Definitely a highlight to the evening. DO THE EVOLUTION follows this and then another fav song of mine GIVEN TO FLY. Audience is so into the show, me too, lots of energy. Then Ed says the next song is being performed for first time on NA Tour [or something like that] and they do ALL OR NONE. Sounds good too.

OMG! They follow that with an amazing version of ALIVE. I’m singing and dancing. Love it all! Throughout the whole encore Jeff is wowing us with great jumps and pogoing all over. A joy to watch. The final song of the gig is The Who’s BABA O’RILEY. Ed is whipping up frenzy on tambourines, Jeff dances a little Irish jig near Mike, and Matt is a powerhouse on drums. Towards end of song Ed runs around the whole parameter of stage, not once, but twice and flings tambourines to the crowd. Mike throws out guitar picks by the dozen. The guy’s finish the song to cheers from audience, they wave goodnight and Ed says goodbye. Awesome two hour show, though I’m wondering why no second encore. Doesn’t take long to exit the arena and walk back to Ramada Inn. The air feels so cool and fresh.

And there you have my lengthy review.

Did everyone remember that Wednesday, April 23rd was Administrative/Professional Day. Hum?!? Well, the company I work for did remember and sent all us wonderful Admin's a nice gift. Received a small box of Godiva chocolates, plus an American Express gift certificate. With this gift certificate, on Thursday, I went to the local bookstore [Shakespeare & Company] to purchase a few tomes. I ended up with two books I've been wanting for sometime:

"Ferret Chronicles - Rescue Ferrets At Sea" by Richard Bach
"The Eagle's Shadow - Why America Fascinates & Infuriates the World" by Mark Hertsgaard

I just finished the first book yesterday and loved it. Richard Bach [famed author of the book "Jonathan Livingston Seagull"] has this delightful series out called "Ferret Chronicles" and its inspired by his own beloved pet furkids. He's got ten of them! Lucky guy! "Rescue Ferrets at Sea" is the first in the series and last year I purchased the second book of the series [Air Ferrets Aloft}. Both are delightful books for teens on up to adults. Anyone who loves ferrets ... then get these books. The next book in the series is called "Rancher Ferrets on the Range". I've seen it in Barnes & Noble and hope to pick it up soon.

The second book I purchased with my "gift certificate" was by Mark Hertsgaard. About a month or so ago I read a cool, fascinating interview with him on Booksense.com. He was promoting his new book called "The Eagles Shadow". I started reading this last evening and so far its great. Hard to explain it now, but after I'm done reading it I'll write up a review and post it here. If your wondering if the book has a political theme ... yes ... it does.

Today I participated, along with several other co-workers [ie: Laurie & Heather], in the annual March of Dimes Walk America. The weather today is a lovely, perfect Spring day. Great for walking and walk we did, about 6 miles. Received lots of free goodies AND got to briefly meet Joe Namath [brilliant football player from 1960s/70s]. Good ole Broadway Joe has been an honorary celebrity chairman of the March of Dimes for years. Wish I'd brought my camera, so as to get a pix with him. Oh well.....................

On that note ... gotta split ... remember to keep rocking in the free world!

Check this out ... if you wish ... if not ... that's okay too. Found this little political tidbit on a Pearl Jam chat room [Sony-BBS] today and it claims to be from music artist MOBY.

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

Question for you from Moby Posted: Apr 23, 2003 2:26 PM

ok, here's a little question for you...

how would the republican leadership deal with a democratic president who:

a-had been a cheerleader in school.
b-was a documented draft dodger.
c-had been arrested for public drunkenness.
d-had lost the election by 600,000 votes, but was president after being installed by his fathers friends in the supreme court.
e-had been best friends with the ceo of the corporation involved with the biggest instance of corporate fraud EVER.
f-had invited the perpetrators of the aforementioned fraud to the white house to set policy.
g-had long standing family ties with saudi arabia and the bin laden family.
h-allowed a private jet to fly around the united states after september 11 to pick up members of the bin laden family and return them to saudi arabia without being questioned by the fbi.
i-had presided over the steepest drop in the stock market and the greatest rise in unemployment figures of any president in the last 60 years.
j-bombed afghanistan looking for osama bin laden and never found him.
k-bombed iraq looking for saddam hussein and weapons of mass destruction and found neither.
l-proposed a 700 billion $ tax break for the wealthiest americans and planned on paying for it by cutting money to the police, fire departments, education, etc.
m-had members of his administration who had long standing ties to racist and white-supremacist organizations.
n-had a vice president who had been in business with the bin laden family.

And so on. How would the republicans and the conservative media deal with george bush jr. if he were a democrat? They would roast him alive and would probably impeach him. I write this as a reminder that:

1-the democratic party in the united states is pathetic for not drawing more attention to the fact that bush and his cabinet are corrupt and inept.
2-george bush jr. is still a terrible president with a terrible record. don't forget. especially when it comes time to vote in the next presidential election.

thanks,
moby

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p.s. In a non-political comment ... I'm participating in the annual March of Dimes "Walk America" this Sunday here in NYC. Hope the weather is halfway decent. I'll be joining some of my E&Y co-workers and having a good time. If you know someone who is participating in this worthy cause, please make a donation or participate yourself. Make a difference and you'll be happy you did. Peace!

Have received some unpleasant news today regarding my Duchess website. No, not my blogger online journal, but my website called "Tea, Tales & Travel with the Duchess". If I wish to continue to utilize the services of that particular site, I'll have to pay for it, as of May 4th it'll no longer be free. DAMN!!!! Now I have to look for a new, free service for the Duchess page. This sucks!! In the meantime, I've saved all the info from my site, so it'll be easy to "set up" a new page elsewhere. Geez!

Anyhow ... enough ranting for now. Below is a listing of links to websites that I read or check out on a regular basis. There related to current events regarding democracy, war in Iraq, freedom of speech, etc, etc. Definitely check them out............

http://www.nonviolence.org/vitw/

Http://www.unitedforpeace.org/

http://www.moveon.org/

http://www.workers.org/

http://www.internationalanswer.org/

http://www.notinourname.net/

http://www.commondreams.org/

http://www.copvcia.com/

http://www.wbai.org/

http://www.progressive.org

http://www.thenation.com

Some of these links have been shared with me by good friends and others I've located via articles or scanning the Internet. Quite a wealth of info, facts and truth.

Remember to keep rocking in the free world or what's left of it. Peace!

Back on Sunday, April 13th, we had another lovely spring day here in NYC. Took my camera and headed off to Central Park for a leisurely stroll. It seemed like everyone was out and about. Naturally the horse & carriage rides were doing a booming business with the tourists. It felt soooo good to be out, walking leisurely and feeling the sun on ones face. Considering we had a snowstorm only 6 to 7 days before. Weird! Then on April 15th and 16th the weather got alot warmer ... up in the 80s and plenty of sunshine. One didn't need a coat cause it felt like summer. Oops ... I'm rambling again ... anyhow ... back to April 13th. After strolling around the southern part of Central Park, I walked down 6th Avenue to 50th Street and Rockefeller Center [Radio City Music Hall]. That weekend the annual Orchid Show was being held in the Rockefeller Center councourse. For years it was always held at the World Trade Center, but since 9/11 its been relocated to midtown. I took lots of pictures of dozens of beautiful flowers and arrangements. Breath-taking, fantastic and yes, even sensual! The show was also very crowded with New Yorkers and tourists.

Recently read an article by Norman Solomon on "Common Dreams News Center" website. Mr Soloman was talking about one of America's most revered writers ... Mark Twain ... in connection with todays current events. Here are some quotes from the article:

[Mark Twain was painfully aware of many people's inclination to go along with prevailing evils. When slavery was lawful, he recalled, abolitionists were "despised and ostracized and insulted" ... by "patriots". As far as Twain was concerned, "Loyalty to petrified opinion never yet broke a chain or freed a human soul."]

["Who are the oppressors? The few: the king, the capitalist and a handful of other overseers and superintendents. Who are the oppressed? The many: the nations of the earth; the valuable personages; the workers; they that make the bread that the soft-handed and idle eat."]

[What Mark Twain had to say is all too relevant to what's happening these days. But policymakers in Washington can rest easy. Twain's most inflammatory writings are smoldering in his grave ... while few opportunities exist for the general public to hear similar views expounded today. "None but the dead are permitted to speak truth," Twain remarked. Even then, evidently, their voices tend to be muffled.]

And finally, one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes ... "I am an anti-imperialist. I am opposed to having the eagle put its talons on any other land."

Has it been a whole week since my last post?!? I meant to do some posting earlier, but it was a good, productive work week and I put in over two hours of paid overtime. That is always a nice perk. Let's see ... on to some news:

Back on Sunday, April 6th, I did volunteer work for the 18th annual MS Walk. This is my 10th year in either participating in the walk or doing volunteer work. Sunday dawned a cool, windy, but sunny day. I dressed in layers, put on gloves and my sneakers, then headed to Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn. Got there, via two subways, at exactly 12 noon to find the tables had already been set up by other volunteers. So I helped with putting the rest of the free goodies on the tables for when the walkers come thru. Cadman Plaza, in Brooklyn Heights, marks the second rest stop along the 12 mile route and there are a total of three. Some of the volunteers I'd worked with in past years and their a fun bunch. Some of the free goodies we handed out to the walkers were oranges, bottled water & fruit juices, cookies, chips, raisins and sports bars. After the last walker came thru we proceeded to pack everything up in the waiting van while noshing on free Subway sandwiches. Us volunteers also received free MS Walk t-shirts and whatever leftover goodies we could carry home with us. I had a little satchel of oranges, cookies, sports bars and bottled water. Yeah! Overall it was a good day.

Today I went up to Yonkers Ferret Shelter to do my usual volunteer work. Which I always enjoy ... love those furkids. It was good seeing Joanne again and when I came in she was in the process of feeding baby squirrels. [four weeks old] They are soooo cute. While there two of new, young female shelter ferrets tried to bite me. I'm like ... what the hell did I do wrong. Joanne assured me I didn't do anything wrong, its just that those two came into shelter as known "biters". Tho, she says, they are getting better over time and with socializing. One of the older furkids I had to give a bath, as he was abit stinky. Joanne also informed me that dear Bouncy Bear may be adopted this coming week. I'll miss the little critter with his playful, perky personality. [The weather was delightful today. After all that cool, windy rainy crap we got a warm, sunny, blue sky day. Lovely!]

As you know, I've been talking about war and politics for last month or so. Well, this is still a free country and I'll continue to sprout my views on these topics. The latest are not my thoughts, but by others and I wanted to share some tidbits with you all. In the April 4th edition of THE RECORD-REVIEW the Reverend Doctor Bill Weisenbach [First Presbyterian Church of Katonah] wrote an article in the "guest column" of this newspaper. The title of the article was "Let Us Not Disparage Those Who Disagree". Here is one of his comments:

"Protest is healthy, not scary. Remember, our nation is the result of protest. And where do you think the word 'Protestant' comes from! In the last month we have heard commentators argue that protest against the war is wrong, during the war and even after the war. Not so ... Protest is our heritage and a mark of freedom."

Amen reverend amen!!

Recently, I received an email from a friend [merci beaucoup Josee] of mine in Ottawa, Canada. It was an article from the "Ottawa Express" [independent newspaper] by James Sinclair called "Winning the War of Words". I wanted to share some tidbits from it with you all.

"With another war in Iraq comes a new campaign to win our hearts and minds. And as in any propaganda campaign, semantics are crucial. Decoding and understanding the terminology used by the military and the media can be a daunting task. To assist you, FRONTLINE spoke to some propaganda experts to define the new war lexicon. COALITION FORCES ... The good guys, right? This term, 'creates consensus where one does not exist,' says Jonathan Rose, a professor of political science at Queen's University. Many of the 40 or so countries that form the supposed coalition were brought onside by the expectation of U.S. aid, adds Randal Marlin [Carleton University]. Buying legitimacy must be the next best thing to going through the legalities of the UN. 'Coalition' sounds better than 'unilateral'. OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM ... Straight-up doublespeak. Along the same lines as 'Operation Just Cause,' these phrases are used as slogans by the media to promote the war, says Rose. This particular phrase implies that the US war is to liberate Iraq, same as the last Gulf War was all about liberating Kuwait. Whats not said, however, is that Iraqis will not be liberated from a US-imposed future, says Marlin. 'Its a matter of trading slavery for domination by the US,' he says. That's of course for Iraqis who survive the war."

Okay ... enough politics from this lady for one day. As I've said in the past ... if you wish to read my thoughts and/or comments on Gulf War ... great ... if not ... thats okay too. I won't be offended. One has the right to freedom of speech, thought and action.

Press Release Statement from Pearl Jam
Thursday April 3, 2003 @ 8:00 pm ET

OKLAHOMA CITY, April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- There were close to 12,000 people at the April 1st Denver show. It's possible two dozen left during encore but it was not noticeable amongst the 11,976 who were loudly applauding and enjoying the evening's music. It just made a better headline to report otherwise. [You'll note the writer doesn't mention this in his review of the show from the day prior. See "Pearl Jam Show Will Make a Great CD" by Mark Brown, Rocky Mountain News. And it is little more than a mention in any of the show reviews.] Dissension is nothing we shy away from -- it should just be reported about more accurately. Ed's talk from the stage centered on the importance of freedom of speech and the importance of supporting our soldiers, as well as an expression of sadness over the public being made to feel as though the two sentiments can't occur simultaneously.

[Just me expressing my democratic right to freedom of speech, thought and action. The tidbit below is from "Vote to Impeach Bush" website. If you disagree, then don't read on, but if you do, then read on and take action.]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks to the outpouring of support from founding supporters of the VoteToImpeach movement, the first full page ad of the impeachment campaign was placed in the New York Times on March 19 - Bush's ultimatum day - in the front section of the paper, page A23.

The political impact of the New York Times was far-reaching. The circulation of the New York Times extends all over the country and all over the world. In turn, the response of people across the country to the ad was magnificent. The office was flooded with thousands of letters from people who filled out a VoteToImpeach ballot. Tens of thousands more immediately went on line and voted to impeach Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and Ashcroft for their criminal conduct in waging a war of aggression against the people of Iraq, wantonly sacrificing the lives of U.S. servicemen and women, and for the assault on our civil rights and civil liberties at home.

The VoteToImpeach newspaper ad campaign is expanding.

With your help, we are now seeking to place the full page ad in the San Francisco Chronicle in the next week. If you can, please help this to happen by making an online donation at http://www.votetoimpeach.org/donate.htm

Also check out this website for intelligent, progressive, balanced views on current and/or world events:

http://www.thenation.com/

Damn … has it been almost two weeks since my last entry?!? Geez! Naughty me!

Well, lets see if I can correct that today. Okay … where to begin. Hum. . . . . . .

First of all … back on March 22nd, I went to the Protest March, which started in Times Square and headed down Broadway to Washington Square Park. It was a gorgeous day out and felt very Spring-like. Got off the subway at Rockefeller Center and walked over from there. Got all the way to Broadway and 42nd Street was stopped there at intersection by a wall of cops. The protesters were on the other side of intersection, surrounded by barricades and heading down Broadway. At that moment, it all seemed frustrating, so I started talking to a chap standing there with a blue flag [world on it] on a poll. It was rather pretty.

We were there for about 15 minutes or so observing the action around us. Times Square, even without a protest march, is still a busy area on Saturdays. At one point I notice three teens [with small protest banners], their mother and an elderly chap in a wheel chair asking the cops how to get to march. Cops were sending people down to 6th Avenue. Way too far. So this group left and I nonchalantly kept them under observation. Next thing I know, there across the street and thru a small opening in barricades to the march. So I said to the chap I was talking to … roll up your flag cause we’re moving into action. Walked about a 100 yards or so down towards 6th Avenue, crossed the street while traffic was stopped at light, strolled down opposite sidewalk and casually thru the small opening in barricade. Voila!

At this point I turned to my companion and rather belatedly introduced myself. His name is Michael, about my age and works in film/music industry. At this point it’s about 12:20pm. So roughly over the next two hours Michael and I hung out at the march. What a turnout of people! It was awesome! Along the way, we talked to lots of different people, general observations, read the many banners/signs, buy buttons/pins and took some photos. Plus Michael and I talked between us on many different topics. I found myself really liking this man and quite frankly was attracted to him. Before parting ways I asked Michael for his phone number, which he gladly gave me and he asked me for mine. At about 2:15pm we’d gotten as far as 36th Street & Broadway, when I had to leave and make my way to Grand Central Station.

At GCS I had some sushi for a late lunch and purchased my train ticket to Yonkers. Caught the 2:53pm to Yonkers where Aliza and her daughter Briana picked me up. From there we went to Joanne’s home [ferret shelter] … as we’d been invited [amongst others] to celebrate her 60th b-day. We got there at about 3:30pm and Joanne was already there. So much for the surprise, yah know. Despite that it was a fun party and I met some really cool people. Joanne’s daughter Liz and a friend [Maggie] organized it all. Did a good job! At the party one could have soda or wine; naturally I chose the latter, plus nibbled on some taste food and later on some yummy desserts. A few days before I whipped up some homemade cookies and brought those with me for the festivities. While socializing I also went into the shelter to visit the furkids, play with some and fill up their water bottles. There all such darlings and most were busy snoozing. Finally, sometime around 6pm, Joanne sat down in the living room to open all her presents. She received lots of lovely items. I purchased a small, charming book called “Pets Letters to God”. Around 7pm Aliza took her daughter to her fathers and came back to Joanne’s place. We hung out until 8:30pm or so, when I noticed the time and said I had a train to catch. Missed the 8:49pm train to NYC, so I hung out at Aliza’s place for a while before catching the 9:49pm train. While at her place I played with her two adorable furkids … Vanilla and Chocolate. One is an albino and the other a dark sable. Got home that evening a little after 11pm. Overall it was a terrific day!

On Monday, March 24th, I received a phone call from Michael, the chap I’d met on Saturday. What a delightful surprise! We talked for about 15 minutes and he asked me out for dinner/drinks on Thursday. Naturally I said yes. We also exchanged email addresses and said he’d try to call me in a day or so. On Wednesday we connected again by phone and finalized plans for following evening. On March 27th I met him at the Starbucks, which is next door to my building, at 5:20pm. From there we had a great evening … drinks at Mercantile Grill, sushi dinner at Taste Of Tokyo and ending the evening at Delmonico’s Grill for tea/coffee and dessert. The whole time talking about many things and getting cozy. Got home at 11pm. I really like this man and hope to see more of him. Stay tuned........

Well folks, that is about it, for now. I think I’ve prattled on long enough, yah know. More news next time. . . . .

The website listed below is regarding a petition to impeach Bush. If you feel strongly about all the issues going on at this time and want to lend your support, then check out the URL Make it known that as a law-abiding American you are displeased with the Bush Administration.

http://www.votetoimpeach.org/

Happy St Patty’s Day! Erin Go Braugh!

OMG! The first day of spring is just around the corner. And we’ve been feeling some of its glory within the last week or so. Good thing too, cause its been a long, harsh winter and the warmth of the sunshine is a soothing balm. The first signs of spring hit us here in NYC last weekend, March 8th & 9th. It put me in the mood to do some Spring Cleaning. Did all sorts of stuff from cleaning windows to washing bed comforters [blankets]. It was an energizing experience. This past weekend was also very nice outside and felt damn good to walk about in it.

Speaking of this past weekend … I went to the annual Triple Pier Antique Show yesterday. It’s located on the Westside of midtown Manhattan [piers 88 thru 92]. Huge display’s of antique items to look upon or purchase. Everything from books, linens, toys, furniture, clothing, jewelry and so on. Every year I noticed at least one item that seems to be HOT. Well, this time around its ladies handbags from the 1940s up to 1970s. All types of styles, sizes, and materials … you name it. I did not purchase anything this year [though was tempted] … as I’m trying to keep a watchful eye on my wallet.

Yesterday evening I participated in a Candlelight Vigil for peace in my neighborhood park. It was held from 6pm to 8pm and many people brought their children too. The total of peaceful protestors against an upcoming war with Iraq numbered about 50. I met several interesting folk [i.e.: Don, Barbara, Jennifer, Tom, etc] and had stimulating conversations on current world topics. Most people agreed that it feels like we’re heading towards a George Orwell society. And that’s not good. Check out these web sites on how you too can become involved.

http://www.moveon.org/

http://www.unitedforpeach.org/

http://www.internationalanswer.org/

NO BLOOD FOR OIL!!

Have several things to chat about today and will do it in segments.

First segment ... check out this cool FM radio station called WBAI [99.5]. Especially on Monday nights ["Homefries"] from 9pm to 11pm, tho the rest of the week is cool too.

Second Segment ... The Yahoo Group I belong to called "inrockwetrust" is looking for new Pearl Jam fans to join. Swing on by and check out a fun, interesting group of Pearl Jam fans. [If your picked as MOTM you'll receive free goodies from the groups founders.] We chat about everything from our fav band, books, movies, music, current world events and even the weather. Its a blast! Here is the URL:

http://www.groups.yahoo.com

You can also access via a link on my Duchess website:

http://dreamwater.net/duchess38/

Third Segment ... If you live near Missoula, MT then check out this college radio station [KBGA]. Hum ... so you don't live near Montana, well then you can check out this cool radio station's website at:

http://www.kbga.org

Especially a great program on every morning from 8am to 11am EST. [Hosted by a cool e-pal of mine] This Monday, March 10th, they'll be playing music associated with Jeff Ament [Pearl Jam] ... since its his 40th b-day. WooHoo!

Fourth Segment ... Did volunteer work at the Yonkers ferret shelter this past saturday and as always, an awesome experience. Did all the usual duties and I never think of them as chores. Being around the furkids is always an interesting, fun, soothing theraputic experience. Since my last visit in early February, several furkids had come into the shelter and then promptly got adopted. Many of my favorites [ie: Oliver, Sweet Pea, Big Willy, Emily & Spats] are still there and just as adorable as always. During my tea break with Joanne ... she gave me a lovely one-year anniversary gift. So sweet and thoughtful of her. Oh my gosh ... has a year gone by already?!?

What a flurry of phone activity early Friday evening in obtaining Pearl Jam tix. [These were "pre-sale" tix & passwords were obtained via Krock, as well as other sources.] They'll be starting their North American tour in early April, then a break in May, followed by more gigs in June and ending the tour at Madison Square Garden in early July. Going to my first gig in two months up in Albany, NY and then the two MSG shows. Yahoo! I'm so excited! Many thanks to those who helped me with tix ... hugs and lots of my homemade rumballs to Michelle [MT], Josee [Ottawa] and dear Michelle [my brothers main squeeze]. Also ... thanks to Erica in TX and Kerensa at 10 Club. You ladies totally rock! It'll be Pearl Jam party time, in July, when a whole group of us converge here in NYC. Natually I'll be reporting all the details here in my journal.

Lets see ... any other news ... well ... the usual stuff going on ... such as sessions with my personal trainer, work, shopping, chiropractor visits, etc, etc. This coming saturday I'll be heading up to Yonkers to do my volunteer work at ferret shelter. Looking forward to seeing the furkids again.

Yeah, I know, this is a short entry. I'm trying to focus, but its damn difficult when one is hungry. Just noticed the time and no wonder I'm itching for food. Its past 1pm! Okay ... I'm outta here ... time to purchase some grub. Later....................Peace!

Oh My Gosh! Got a day off from work yesterday due to the blizzard that whipped thru our area and dumped 20 inches of snow. WooHoo!

Called my office voicemail late Sunday night and they said office would be closed on Monday. Hurray!! I woke up anyway at 6am on Monday, looked out the window and it was fiercely wicked outside. Checked my office voicemail again ... nothing ... sweet. Went back to my warm bed and slept until 8am. Got up and called my parents to see how their doing. All is okay and Dad heard back from the doctor about his colon test [ie: to see if he had cancer] and he's in the clear. This is a huge relief ... not only to Dad, but rest of family too. Mom had to go in later that morning to her foot doctor for surgery. Removal of a small, non-cancerous tumor under her big toe nail. Yeah, I know, yucksville. Their news made me feel better, as I was quite anxious for the results. If it was your parents, you'd be too.

Anyhow ... after chatting briefly with them I threw on layers of clothes et al and went outside for about 5 to 10 minutes. Yah know ... to see what it all looked like while the blizzard raged on. Well, let me tell you, it was bitterly cold ... 5 foot high snowdrifts and fierce winds. Mon dieu! Not much activity going on ... just a few people shoveling their areas or idiots trying to drive their SUVs thru a foot of snow. Geez!

Back indoors I took off all those layers and warmed up with a cup of herbal tea, plus homemade pancakes. Yum! Did lots of puttering around the apartment throughout the day, phone calls with friends, cooking, emails, reading, painting, listen to music, take out garbage, emergency run to grocery store and chatting with my neighbors. Called my friend Sarah in Toronto, but she wasn't home, so I left a message with her brother. Looking thru my address book I came across Pat C's name. We've known each other since 1981, when we hung out at BARNUM. [Broadway show starring Jim Dale.] Those were fun days. Pat and I email or snail mail each other, but haven't spoken on the phone in ages. Got her number via information and called her. We had a great conversation on a number of topics. Finally crawled off to bed around 11pm and had to deal with a slow commute to work this morning. I hope it improves before I head out of here in 1/2 hour. Off to the gym to work off some steam doing some intense cardio. Today I called Josee in Quebec to chat about Pearl Jam and other topics. Plus I received a parcel from Andrea with Pearl Jam goodies. Yahoo!!

Gotta jet ... time to do travel plans for one of my bosses. Peace on Earth!

Oh my god! Amazing experience yesterday!

I participated in my first Peace Rally ever! Yeah, I know, starting abit late at my age. But ... yah know ... what the hell! You don't have to be young or in college to participate in a protest or rally. No way! If you feel very strongly about something, well then, go out and participate or volunteer with a particular organization. There were all ages there yesterday. Folks with their children, as well as people on up thru their 60s. All race's and religions too. Had a interesting conversation [while waiting on line for bathroom in Mexican restaurant] with a small group of Buddists [co-ed]. Also met up with a really nice couple [David & Carolyn] from MA [about 60 years of age] who basically took me under their wing. They met at a protest during Nixon's 1972 inauguration and been involved in events ever since then. Mostly conversed with Carolyn and her personality is so infectious, bubbly and sincere. I orginally started out on 3rd Avenue and 52nd Street at 11:45am. Already there was a huge gathering and we were walking uptown. At 3rd Avenue near 56th or 57th Street the cops pulled back the barricades to let us cross to 2nd Avenue. While walking down the residental street students were chanting "who owns the street" and the response from all was "we do". Then we headed up 2nd Avenue and stopped at 63rd Street. We refused to budge until finally the cops opened up the barricades and we marched down towards 1st Avenue. It was amazing and the spirit of it all was very high, despite it being bitterly cold. Down the avenue, near 58th Street, we viewed a huge video screen, which was displaying the speakers at 50th & 1st Avenue platform. Some gals near us had huge boomboxes atop their heads. From the boomboxes a radio station was broadcasting it all live. [The speeches were all very inspiring.] There was OVER 200,000 people on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Avenues within a 20 block stretch. All I can say is WOW!!!!!!! Give peace a chance and dump Bush's government. Eat some duct tape you goddamn twisted cowboy!!

Check out ... http://www.unitedforpeace.org/

[Say NO to an America bent on destruction of the UN. And YES to an America committed to work with international institutions, appointed to improving them to the betterment of the world and the achievement of peace. Say NO to war with Iraq, with or without UN blessings. Say YES to containment, negotiation and disarmament.]

First of all ... remember that fella [Michael] I mentioned in last post ... forget about him. Never heard from him after he asked me for my phone number. Well, yah know, its his loss not mine. Men are always saying us gals are fickle and I'm inclined to think its the other way around. Anyhow ... enough on that dead-end topic.

Had an interesting, as well as amusing encounter Saturday evening. Was heading home from Manhattan around 7pm Saturday night ... when only 100 yards from my apartment building I ran into my upstairs neighbor [John]. He was walking towards me on the sidewalk after chatting with another neighbor. I could tell he'd had a few drinks, but seemed to be in a jovial mood. He was! I said "Hi John, how the hell are you dude"? He was like "hey hey, whats up"? I told him I was heading home to make some dinner and get out of the cold. John asked me what kind of dinner and I said a nice tossed salad. Well, that didn't sit to well with him. And proceeded to tell me that his live-in lady love and her granddaughter [Ashley is 8] were ordering Chinese food. He didn't want any of that and was going to get some Italian food. Before I knew what was happening, he took my arm and led me in opposite direction towards a nice Italian place. I tried to protest [ie: lack of funds, etc] ... but he wouldn't hear it and said "I'm treating you to dinner, since we've been good neighbors all these years". 17 to be exact. We had a fun time [totally platonic], many laughs, gossip, bitch about neighbors or world news and ate some decent food. We strolled back to our apartment building and respective apartments around 9:30pm. John is a character with a good heart and has always been a good neighbor to me.

Recently ran into one of my gym pals who was excited about an upcoming Peace Rally at the UN this Saturday. I'm very much against a war with Iraq and dislike Bush. Whom I think is a narrow-minded, stupid, smug, arrogant little shithead. I've been wanting to become more involved with protests and rallies for some time now, due to this Afghan and Iraq situation. Allyn [gym pal] will be calling me Friday night with all the particulars. Don't know what to expect, but I'm jumping in feet first.

Another couple of busy weeks at work, as well as a few social commitments et al, have kept me from making entries into my journal. Well, at least the weather isn't as bitterly cold as it has been. Wicked weather back in January ... burrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Have some free time and will convey a quick summary of latest events. Just recently started corresponding with a new fella and he sounds great. We haven't met yet, but from our few email exchanges, well folks, he sounds marvelous and I like his photo too. :-)

My friend Anni had a sweet, healthy, little baby girl [Rachel] on Tuesday, January 28th. She called me a few days after the event to briefly chat. Anni sounds happy, says the baby is sooo cute, her hubby a proud Papa and she's looking forward to going home. My co-worker [Lyra] is still out of office on short-term disability and we hope she'll be back in office on Feb 17th. She is due to have her baby in early March.

The office situation is abit improved from when I last made an entry on Jan 19th. That overly demanding, pain in the ass executive now has a different secretary and at a different location. Amen!

About 1 1/2 weeks ago I learned that Pearl Jam tix would be available via the 10 Club. These are special tix for fans and are usually situated within the first 10 rows at gigs. Yeah baby ... right there ... up close and personal. We members have to send separate money orders and state which gigs/dates we want. At first I was soooo excited about this news and calling PJ friends [emailing too]. Then the bad news ... I'd forgotten to renew my membership with the club back in October 2002. Oh my god! I was so upset about that and in tears. Made phone calls, sent emails and things seem to be resolved. So many wonderful, supportive friends who listened to my rants and helped me to work things out. I am so looking forward to meeting Josee and Michelle in July. Their coming to NYC to visit me and go to two PJ shows. I'll also get to meet up with Cynthia, Andrea, Erica and hopefully Sarah. Pearl Jam's first gig on their "Riot Act" tour begins this Saturday in Australia, then goes to Japan, followed by a break and then doing an extensive USA tour. WooHoo!

This past Saturday, February 1st, I went up to Yonkers and the ferret shelter. Always a joy getting to see the furkids. Several had been adopted since my last visit and Joanne mentioned at least four orphans coming in this week. Also got to see my new friend Aliza and her daughter Briana. They didn't have little Vanilla with them, as they'd just come from religious school & temple. While at the shelter they did adopt another ferret, as a cagemate for Vanilla, and christened this fella Chocolate.

At 6:30pm I have a session with my personal trainer and again on Thursday evening.

Yeah, yeah, its a short entry and I do apologize. Just noticed the time and need to wrap things up before I split. Peace!

Why is it ... when dealing with "dating services" like Yahoo Personals or Match.com ... guys will write to you for abit and then disappear. [I guess if a gal doesn't ask them out or start talking about sex, they lose interest. Geez!] Or, they'll give you their number and say "call me ... now". I'll give them my number and say a lady never calls a gent the "first time". Then I never hear from them ever again. Or they claim they called and I know damn well they didn't. Sigh! Dating standards have really soured over the years. Yah know. I feel if a chap is really interested in you then he'll make that first phone call and treat a lady with respect. Right?!? I mean, the chap wrote to me first, so he must be interested. Seems like there are lot of chaps out there who don't want to persue a gal and rather she do all the work. Well folks, that is not right. The few times I have persued a chap in the past [years ago] they turn around and treat me like crap. Now your probably thinking its the younger fella's who are behaving in this fashion. Yes and no! I'm talking about men my own age or five years older! Sad ... very sad. Sorry for the rant ... but I'm PMSing and needed to get this little angst off my chest. Okay ... I feel somewhat better now. Did I mention its bitterly cold outside and the wind just rips right through yah. Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

As I sit here sipping a Caramel Apple Cider drink from Starbucks and reflect on the last two hectic weeks at work, as well as personal commitments. I'm thankful that I work for a corporation these days that really cares and supports its employees. Their not spitting out empty phrases ... they back up what they say with truth and action. Last time I made an entry things were fine and motoring along smoothly. On January 7th the other secretary in my office fell on ice while coming into work that morning. Your wondering ... is this a major concern. Yes ... it is when that secretary is 7 months preggers. In the early afternoon she left the office to rush to the hospital, as the labor process started to kick in. Not good. Doctors managed to stop that and the gals been on bed rest ever since then. So, in the meantime, I've been taking care of her executives. You would think this wouldn't be a problem and your right. Except that one of the executives is a f--king pain in the ass! Good thing he doesn't work in this office much and is on the road alot. Cause if he was I'd have chucked him out our 25th floor windows some time ago. Need I say more? I didn't think so. On the 10th there was a 2 hour meeting I had to attend regarding major office structural et al changes that will take place March thru May. While on the subject of work ... the big and unpleasant news happened on the morning of the 15th. I came into work and two of my co-workers are sitting in reception area with upset looks on their faces. Plus the doors are wide open and I hear all sorts of noices coming from our large conference room area. This does not bode well. What happened is that the "private executive" bathroom on the floor above us clogged up during the evening before from someones "large load". Basically the water from the toilet ran down threw airducts et al for 9 hours and really made a HUGE watery mess on five floors. Since we're right under the f--ker, we got the most water dumped on half of our office. Not a pretty sight. Especially with it running into our expensive datacenter. The cleanup and repair work went on thru yesterday. The combined two weeks I clocked in about 5 to 6 hours of "paid" overtime. Okay ... enough work talk and on to more interesting, fun stuff.

On January 11th I visited my good friend Katherine in CT. I took her out to lunch, we exchanged Xmas gifts, catch up on news and did some shopping. Her daughters were out and about, so I left their Xmas gifts under the Xmas tree in their livingroom. Had a fun chat with Katherine's brother Al. On the 12th I joined a friend in going to see "Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets". Its really good and the visuals are wonderful. Kenneth Brannagh is perfect as Gilderoy Lockhart. On the 7th and 9th I had sessions with my Personal Trainers. On the 16th I picked up two cool books regarding LOTRs The Two Towers. One is the "official movie guide" and the other is on "the making of the trilogy". Great shots and lots of neat information. Speaking of movies and such ... I read on Yahoo News that book five of the Harry Potter series is due out on June 21st. Its called "The Order of the Phoenix". Excellent! And lastly ... yesterday I went to an ex co-worker/acquaintance baby shower in Brooklyn. Had a very nice time, ate some free food and socialized. Those of you who live in the Northeast know its absolutely freezing outside. You bet winter is here and nothing like the last two mild ones we've had. This is the real thing!

I'd love to chat somemore ... need to work on answering some emails. Remember to keep rocking in the free world and get somebody to beat the crap out of that war-hungry f--ker in the White House. Ciao baby!

Hey All and a Happy New Year!

Had a really good weekend and did some cool stuff. On saturday I went up to do volunteer work at the Yonkers Ferret Shelter. At the train station in Yonkers I met up with a new aquaintance [Aliza] ... whom I've been chatting with thru one of the Yahoo Groups I belong too. Then we switched to emails. Anyhow, she adopted one of the furkids from the shelter [for her daughters b-day] I volunteer at and mentioned it online. Thats how we got to chatting via email. When Aliza showed up at the station she had her daughter Briana with her, plus little Vanilla peeking his head out of her shoulder satchel. Jumped into her car ... chatting the whole time ... drove to shelter. Aliza, Briana and Vanilla came in with me. It'd been two months since I'd been at shelter and it was good seeing Joanne and her pets. We talked for abit on a few topics before heading into the shelter area. Stayed in shelter area for 10 minutes while Aliza chat with Joanne about ferrets and I played with a few. The main group was out and about, scampering here and there just sniffing everything. Joanne mentioned that during December only one ferret was adopted and four were taken in. At 1:30pm Aliza left with her daughter and furkid. She's a cool, fun, interesting gal. We'll catch up on talk via email. I then got to work on my duties ... which included cleaning/filling up waterbottles, brushing furkids and cleaning their ears. Throughout all this I socialized with them, gave them belated Xmas gifts, as well as yummy treats. They were a happy bunch. This time Oliver, Emily and Big Willy were following me around. Their so sweet. Had a nice tea break with Joanne and gave her a large tin of my homemade cookies as a gift. Back in the shelter we put one group of fuzzies into their cages and took out next group. I brushed their fur and cleaned their little ears. While that group was playing I washed the floors, changed the poopy papers and cleaned out litterboxes. Then Joanne and I put that group away, as well as give them extra treats. Then it was time for me to change into clean clothes and head back to the train station. All in all ... a most enjoyable visit.

On Sunday I went with a friend to the cinema and enjoyed viewing LOTRs "The Two Towers". Saw the first LOTRs film [Fellowship of the Ring] a year ago and greatly enjoyed it. [Rewatched the film while on vacation in Cape May.] Even tho the films are 3 hours long, you don't mind or notice it due to it being so well directed and acted. The Tolkien trilogy is wonderful and I re-read it back in October/November. First time I read "The Hobbit" and LOTRs was back in the mid-1980s. These films are directed by Peter Jackson and he's assembled a brilliant cast to flesh out [well, not in Gollums case] the characters of Middle-Earth. Most of the filming takes place in New Zealand and what gorgeous scenery it is. Breathtaking! The special effects and fantastic computerized work are top notch. Some of my fav characters in the plots of "Fellowship of the Ring" and "Two Towers" are ... Aragorn, Faramir, Gandalf, Shadowfax [yes, the horse], Treebeard, Boromir, Elrond, Merry, Pippin, Gimli and Legolas. Yes, I know, I didn't mention Frodo. Oh well ... sorry about that ... he's not one of my fav Trilogy characters. Anyhow ... lots of amazing scenes in the second film ... especially the battle segments and Ents. Awesome! I highly recommend renting the first film in video or DVD format and then quickly go out to see the second film. You won't be disappointed, not at all.

The following tidbit regarding "ebay" was written by one of my co-workers [Rob Roberge]. I wanted to share it with you all. Enjoy!

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I can't wait to get off this plane, run to a cab, and get to the hotel so I can log into ebay and see if my most recent bid is a winner. They say the first step to recovery is to admit you have a problem. Well, with over 100 transactions under my belt and a collection of "stuff" that I can't even remember why I thought I needed most of it, I admit I may have an issue. But I have bought some things I needed (like these Bose QuietComfort headphones that prevent you from hearing the snores of the person seated next to you). Luckily, I've got some great deals and haven't run across any fakes or fraud. This I contribute to my rules. I'll share my rules with you, but with the understanding that I cannot be held legally responsible should you also become an ebay addict.

Rule No. 1 - Never bid or buy an item from a person that does not have at least 10 positive feedback points. Avoid them if they have any negative feedback at all. You should also read the feedback (you can learn a lot about the quality of their merchandise and shipping habits).

Rule No. 2 - Set a maximum amount you are willing to spend for an item (this should be something less than your annual salary) and NEVER EVER bid more than that amount. Sounds easy, but during the heat of battle you will be tempted to bid more just to win!

Rule No. 3 - Never bid on an item from a seller that will not accept online payments (Bidpay.com, Paypal.com, etc.). These online services go through a verification process and you can be reasonably sure of the seller's name and address. If they don't want to use one these payment services they most likely have something to hide or they don't know how to use a computer and you should avoid them in either case.

Rule No. 4 - Learn the art of "sniping". When you can "snipe" an item with a last second bid, you have mastered the surprise attack and will be victorious on more than your fair share of auctions. A really good sniper uses probing bids to discover the actual high bid of their competition but this is a topic for the advanced ebayer and not covered in my introductory course. Just understand that by placing your final bid at the very last possible moment, you prevent them from retaliating with a counter bid -- there is no "going once... going twice... sold" on ebay. When the auction clock has expired, it's over and the high bidder wins.

With our busy schedules, finding the time to shop in a real store can be tough. Online purchasing can really help, it can be fun, and best of all, you don't have to talk to a salesperson. But you do have to be careful of scams and the less than honest individuals who want your hard earned money. Well, I need to go surf and try to find a 12 step program to cure me of this addiction. Good luck and happy bidding!

OMG!! The last five days have been quite interesting. Not only with Xmas, but other happenings too. Mon dieu!

Hope everyone had a nice Xmas and spent it with family and friends. New Years is just a few days down the road and then its 2003. What a year ... huh?!? Before I go into all my talk about the "happenings", let me relate what friends, co-workers, family and ole Santa brought me for Xmas. Lots of lovely goodies ... several boxes of assorted chocolates/truffles, bookmarker, magazine, CD holder, keychain, Avon 4 in 1 Companion, toiletries, wine, ferret note pad, CD [Queens of the Stone Age], more scented toiletries, lip balm, sweatshirt, soap, Xmas ornament, book on Teddy Roosevelt, bubble bath, muffin mix, candles, Ansel Adams calendar, basket of edible goodies, power cordless screwdriver and another calendar. Today I'm sending out "thank you" cards and returning phone calls.

Okay ... now on to the "happenings" of the holiday season. Last week wasn't that busy at the office, with the exception of a caterered meeting [free food] on 19th and the companies main holiday party on 18th. As to that later one ... for the most part it was okay. I went with my boss Ed to the party at Copacabana and we only knew a handful of people [literally]. Most of the crowded seemed to be between the ages of 21 and 27. [Guys were talking sports/money and the gals were into primping/ gossiping.] I only knew about 5 people and same with Ed. It was an open bar and the buffet tables were loaded with good food. Quite frankly the disco music was way too loud and reminded me of being at a rock concert, only I'm not grooving to the band. Ed and I only stayed two hours. I went home and he went on to a different party.

Left NYC on Sunday, December 22nd, and head upstate NY for the Xmas holiday. My aunts hubby picked me up at bus terminal and brought me to my parents home. That afternoon Mom and I went shopping, then visited her friend Barbara in a very nice nursing home [was once a posh mansion]. Dinner at home and taking care of Dad, who is still recovering from his hospital ordeal earlier in the month. He's doing better, tho not quite 100% and was regaling me with his hospital stories.

Monday morning we woke up to learn that my Aunt and her hubby had to take my Uncle Bob to emergency. Hum ... doesn't this sound like shades of Thanksgiving weekend all over again. Anyhow ... he's more stubborn than my father when it comes to doctors and hospitals. Apparently blood was gushing from his nose and down inside his throat. While all this suspense was going on I had to drive my father [with Mom] to a doctors appointment, as well as the hospital for X-rays to his left elbow. Fun ... huh ... still with me. Good! We came back to learn from Nick [aunts hubby] that my uncle came home [stubborn man] with his nose packed to stop bleeding, but it didn't stop, so they took him back to hospital. He's been there since then and had to have surgery on inner nose region that Monday night. Hopefully the surgery worked okay and he'll be released on Saturday. Updates on all this next week. Yeah, I know, I can tell your just as excited about it all as I am. Sorry about the sarcasm ... he is my fathers brother ... tho Bob and I never ever got along. A good friend of mine has nicknamed my uncle the "pole" and it fits him to a T. Inbetween all this I'm helping Mom out in the house with assorted chores, painting picture frames, cooking, watching cable tv, phone calls, etc.

On Tuesday, Xmas Eve, I'm up early to get my hair colored and trimmed by my hairdresser in town. Afterwards do errands before heading home to pick up Mom. Dad didn't feel like joining Mom and I in going to my brothers in Schenectady for Xmas Eve luncheon. Mom and I had a very nice visit down at Duane & Michelle's. Hadn't seen Michelle [she's working out at a gym 3 times a week] in a long time and I last saw Duane at Thanksgiving. We had a yummy meal of tossed green salad and Michelle's homemade Macaroni & Cheese. Then we exchanged and opened gifts, plus I took photos. We left their place shortly after 3pm, cause Mom didn't want to be out after dark and its a 70 minute drive. Back home we settled in for the evening, heard Nicks report on my Uncles situation, had a lite dinner and opened our gifts. Instead of opening the gifts Xmas morning we did them evening before ... cause I was leaving early to head back to NYC. Or so I thought.

On Xmas morning we're up early and I whipped up a yummy breakfast of pumpkin pancakes and fried eggs. The weather report said snow was on the way, but nothing was happening at that time of the morning. Plus no other alerts on the local news stations. Nick stops by around 9:30am to pick me up and we head off to Albany Bus Terminal. At this point I'm figuring on jumping on the 11:30am back to NYC. One thing I learned on ride down to Albany with Nick is that he likes Pearl Jam. So I played the Milan 2000 bootleg CD. Yeah! Should of known something wasn't right when we pulled into the bus terminal, but he was in a hurry and I wanted to get on a bus. Nick dropped me off and I walked into a pretty desolate bus terminal. Only one other passenger was sitting in there and a few employees were manning certain posts. Learned that ALL the damn buses were cancelled as of 10am [I got there at 10:30am] until further notice due to the snowstorm. Mind you it hadn't started to snow in Albany, but I guess it was kicking up a mess down south and west of us. Naturally I'm abit annoyed by this "news" and quickly phoned Mom. Asked her to phone Nick on his cell phone and come back for me. I phoned her 10 minutes later ... Nick doesn't have his cell phone with him. Great! Geez! Instead, Mom called a friend of the family [Steve] and he'd come and get me. So I waited until shortly after 12 noon when Steve picked me up and drove me back north. Arrived at the family homestead after 1pm and ate lunch with my parents. Then made phone calls to let my co-workers know I wouldn't be at office tomorrow. Taking an unexpected personal day. Rest of day was spent watching cable tv, playing in the snow [blizzard blew in at 2pm & left after 10pm], continually shovelling the porch/walkway, nibbling on snacks, drinking wine, working on pastels and chatting on the phone.

Next day dawned with about 18+ inches of snow outside, sunny skies and cold temps. Shovelled the porch, walkway, cleaned off Dads car and started it up. Didn't take long for it to warm up. Took Mom to the store for a few groceries. Called the bus terminal several times for updates and schedules. The buses are running ... hurray! Nick and my Aunt Nan picked me up shortly before 12 noon and drove me to Albany, where I got on a very crowded bus leaving for NYC at 2pm. Arrived at Port Authority about 4:45pm and waited 45 minutes on line in getting a taxi to go to my apartment. Ahhhhhhhhhh ... NYC!

Overall it was an interesting holiday, with many little happenings that add up into bigger ones. Until next time......................

Damn ... In yesterdays entry I forgot to mention news on Pearl Jam et al. Thats not like me to go forgetting anything to do with my current, fav band. About two weeks ago I called up PJ e-pal Sarah in Canada. It had been awhile since we last chat and we had fun talking about PJ and other topics. [Sarah, don't worry girl, I'm sure you'll do just fine in regards to finals.] Within the last 2 to 3 days I've chatted with several other PJ e-pals on the phone. That awesome dude Sean [Toronto] called me on Friday at work and left an amusing voicemail. I phoned him back on Monday [from work] and talked/laughed about several topics. That evening I phoned Erica [how's Maggie] down in Texas to hear all about her recent visit to Seattle and seeing PJ at Key Arena on December 8th. Lucky girl!! She had a great time, took pix and went with her very hip Mom. They both enjoyed the gig very much. Today I received an unexpected ... such a delightful surprise ... phone call from Melissa [Missouri]. Last time I saw her was when she visited NYC back in August with her friend Jodie. Since then she's moved from Missouri to Eureka Springs, AR. [Happy Belated B-day!] Both Sean and Melissa I know thru the Yahoo Group IRWT. And Sarah and Erica I know thru Synergy BBS. Their all really groovy, kind, fun, generous people. We're all excited about Pearl Jam's upcoming "Riot Act" tour for Spring 2003. Yeah baby! Keep on rocking in the free world!

Good lord, has it been two weeks since my last entry? Yeah, I know, naughty me. I meant to write up a short bit this past Friday. Then one thing led to another here at work and before I knew it, 5pm rolled around and it was time to go home. A thousand and one apologies for my absence.

Damn ... can you believe it ... Xmas Eve will be here in a week and then a week later its New Years Eve! Geez! The year flew by so quickly. The good news is I finished my holiday gift shopping this past Saturday and wrapped everything last night. All my Xmas cards have been mailed, as well as gift parcels to friends here and abroad. Amen! Speaking of gifts ... I've been baking away these last few weekends making cookies and quick breads. This week I'm distributing my "goodie baskets" to co-workers, bosses, friends, personal trainers, etc. Today I received two nice gifts [ie: Guylian truffles & toiletries from Bath & Body Works] from one of my bosses [partner here at E&Y].

This past friday, December 13th, my father finally came home from the hospital. He's doing better, but still has a long ways to go in recovering from major colon surgery. A nurse comes to my parents home twice a day to clean, re-dress the incision and sometimes help Dad take a shower. He's on a special protein diet right now to help in the healing process. Once that is 100% okay he'll then be on a different diet to keep his colon healthy. This means no more beer, mixed nuts or fried foods. From now on he needs to consume more veggies, fruits and water. Dad's not happy about it, but the doctor laid down the rules to him in big, bold letters. Basically he needs to follow the "rules" or be dead. For now he's taking it easy at home ... this includes sleeping, watching cable tv, some socializing, healthy eating and reading newspapers. Mom is doing her best in coping with the whole situation. I'll be heading upstate NY this coming sunday and stay thru Xmas day. I'm sure I'll be busy helping them out around the house, as well as enjoying being away from the city.

Oops! Damn ... just saw the time. Must finish up work before heading to the gym and a one-hour, workout session with Personal Trainer. Happy Holidays!! Ho Ho Ho!!

Well folks, sit back for a spell, as this will be a long entry. Several things are going on or have happened.

Hope everyone had a nice, safe, fun Thanksgiving holiday and started their Christmas shopping.

I spent the long holiday weekend with my family in upstate NY [near VT border]. Weather was cold with some snow on the ground. Seven of us sat down for turkey dinner with all the trimmings at 5:30pm. I usually don't eat much ... partook of sweet potatoes, stringbeans, roll and a little bit of turkey. Everyone else piled their plates high with food, plus a few of us were drinking a nice, fruity white wine. Most of the time I don't say much or act like a silly thing. Alot of my relatives don't seem to take me seriously and are always critical. Even when I'm straight-forward or serious, they'll still find something to joke about or critize. You bet its frustrating, annoying and my feelings do get hurt. With close friends I'll express my deep thoughts/reflections, but with a portion of my relatives, no way. Why set myself up just to be chopped down without a thought or care. Anyhow ... enough of that ... on Friday Mom, Dad, my brother and I went to Saratoga Springs and the huge Wilton Mall to do shopping. Damn! Was it ever crowded! Mom and I were saying to each other that last year, at this time, the Mall was practically empty. Many people stayed away from the Malls day after Turkey Day cause they were afraid terrorists would strike. Not this year! Mon dieu! Friday evening the relatives came over again for leftover turkey dinner and the usual bullshit. Saturday I got my hair done [ie: colored & trimmed]. That afternoon Mom and I went shopping over in Manchester & Bennington [VT]. Saturday evening my fathers health wasn't so good, but he refused to go to hospital. Stubborn man! Sunday morning was a different matter and he was worse. My uncle took him and my Mom over to Bennington Hospital. He's been there since then and yesterday had 1/3 of his colon surgically removed. Doctors are keeping him there until Friday. So thats my holiday weekend in a nutshell.

Came back to NYC Sunday afternoon, went grocery shopping and started putting up my Xmas decor that night. Finished the decorating and putting up the tree last night. So many lights, garland and pretty ornaments. The apartment is looking very colorful and festive. This coming weekend [Dec 7th & 8th] I start my holiday cookie baking. Every year I make about 8 to 10 different kind of cookies and brownies. Set up Xmas goodie containers with an assortment to give to friends, family and co-workers. Speaking of work, its been a nice steady stream of activity since yesterday morning. Some meeting cancellations, new travel plans and such for my bosses.

Did I mention its terribly COLD and WINDY outside. Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Lets see ... remember me briefly mentioning that chap from the midwest? Well, I haven't heard a peep from him in a week. He's either not interested, out of town on business or away on vacation. Oh well.................

I'm sure there are other bits of news to relate, but can't seem to recall it to mind. If it comes to mind I'll just tag on another entry. Gotta jet for now....................

Hiya ... I'm back! Just remembered that the pipes under Mom's kitchen sink decided to give us troubles on Turkey Day. After the meal Mom and I are cleaning up the table and notice the wet carpet under sink. Not a good sign! All underside was soaked with water. Had to clean it out and then my aunts hubby tried to fix it. Dad's terrible at fixing plumbing and would just bitch the whole time. So my aunts hubby had the honor. Got it to a point were Mom and I could do dishes, but it still needs to be taken care of by a professional. Also, over the weekend, watched some cable tv. Which was a treat for me, since my telly died back in May. So I caught up on a few movies and Foodtv Network. Love to watch Emeril! Oh, one last thing, with Dads help early Saturday [or was it Friday - anyhow] we put the white Xmas lights along the roof and porch of the house. Looks very nice. Okay ... I think I'm done babbling this time. Remember to keep rocking in the free world!

Not much to report since my last entry. Been busy baking cookies and candies for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Looking forward to getting out of the city for a few days and breath some clean fresh upstate NY air. Last week at work was a nice, steady flow of duties or projects. This week will most likely be quiet, as many folk take vacation time to be with their families, those with children et al. Can you believe a month from today will be Christmas Day. The end of the year sure do sneak up quickly on one. Damn! Other brief news and it will be brief. Jorge is totally out of the picture and has been for 1 1/2 weeks. Good riddence to that snobby asshole! I should of heeded the warning signs of emails and conversation [mostly one-sided ... his] during our October dinner date regarding his recent divorce. The man still has issues & much anger regarding his ex-wife and seems to catagorize ladies in conjunction with her. There were other things that annoyed me regarding him, but I will not waste my breath relating it here in this journal. Time to move onward. Lately I've been corresponding with an interesting, fun, fascinating, good looking chap who lives in the midwest. He's into Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and Monty Python. Yeah! On that note ... time for this gal to get her ass back to work. Remember to keep rocking in the free world!

Well folks ... another week has gone by and I've been very busy at the office. Meetings, coordinating conference calls, making travel plans, etc. There is an all day meeting going on today in our large conference room. Had to set up for this at 8am ... as well as set up the breakfast buffet at 8:30am. At least I get free breakfast ... yeah! Then there were troubles with the projector and I took care of that and then at 11:30am I set out the lunch buffet. You guessed it ... free lunch for me too. Partook of a tasty pasta salad with spinach and sundried tomatoes. Very good! Rest of work week should be relatively quiet, but things can change at last minute. It has in the past.

This past Saturday I travelled up to Yonkers. Yep, its volunteer time again at the ferret shelter. Got to see my darling, sweet, musk smelling furkids again. Several had been adopted since my last visit, two new ones are there and the little fella that was very sick died two weeks ago. The wee thing had stomach cancer and was only five years old. Sigh! As always did my usual duties around the shelter, as well as chat with Joanne during tea break. Can't wait to go back!

Nope, didn't fall off the face of the earth or even the island of Manhattan. Its been abit quiet lately ... tho I did watch the NYC Marathon on November 3rd. The race goes right through my neighborhood in Brooklyn and its fun cheering on the runners. It was abit cold and windy that day ... these people are running with barely shorts and t-shirts on. Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I've been taking some classes within my company [E&Y - free] to improve my skills as a valuable employee. Its interesting, fun, informative and gets me out of the office for a few hours. A nice way to relief some boredom. Boredom you say? YES! August and September were such busy months here ... then it was mostly quiet and dull during October and now November is picking up. Amen!

Oh happy day! Pearl Jam is in NYC! Their taping at the David Lettermen show tomorrow at Ed Sullivan Theater. Most likely doing songs from their new album called RIOT ACT, which is soooo good. If anyone is interested ... check out "Late Night with Lettermen" on November 14th & 15th starting at 11:35pm on CBS. Yeah!

This past weekend I went down to DC/VA to visit my friend Nancie. She lives in a nice community not far from Fairfax, VA. Children are at college and hubby was down in Florida for a long weekend visit. I think he was at a function dealing with guitars. Anyhow ... took friday off from work as a vacation day. Left NYC on Amtrak at 9:35am and arrived into DCs Union Station at 1pm. Weather was very nice that day ... sunny and warm. Headed to her house so that I could unpack, drink some tea, relax and catch up on gossip. At 5pm we went to get one-hour massages by physical therapist that Nancie knows. What a wonderful experience! I highly recommend it to everyone. Stick with licensed professionals and not those cheap ass, sleazy joints. Afterwards we went out to dinner and had sushi. Yummers! Before heading back to her house we did some grocery shopping at a huge store called GIANTS. Back at her house we put on our swimsuits and utilized the jaccuzzi/hottub next to the house back porch. Soooooooo relaxing! The next day we headed out just after 10am for abit of scenic sightseeing. Drove west thru Virginia to such towns as Warrenton, Manassas [checked out the civil war battlefield & museum], Sperryville, Luray and finally Shenandoah National Park. Along the way we checked out a cemetery, road food stands, church bake/craft sale, emporium and lots of pretty scenery. Finished off the evening with dinner out [Nancie's son Sam joined us] at a good Afghan restaurant. My first time trying that type of food and I loved it. I stuck with vegetarian dishes. Delicious! And the waiters were soooooo cute! Afterwards we dropped Sam off and then went shopping at a local Mall. Back at Nancies house we again put on swimsuits and jumped into the jaccuzzi/hottub. Wonderful! On sunday my sinus/allergies are really bothering me big time, but the medicine I took helped out abit. Most annoying! On Sunday, before heading back to NYC on Amtrak, we went to a craft sale at a local Jewish temple and then toured a plantation [ie: Sully]. I really enjoyed that latter one. Followed that with lunch out at a place called BOB EVANS. And then more shopping at another Mall before Nancie dropped me off at Union Station in DC. Got home after 9pm sunday evening and my allergies cleared right up. Very strange! Next year I'd love to check out and tour more civil war battlefields and plantations. Totally fascinating!

Well, thats all for now. Later.....................

Hey All! Hope everyone had a fun, but safe Halloween. I'm kind of glad its over, cause I definitely had my fill of candy corn. Oh dear ... I think I'm due for another cleaning at the dentist. Usually do that AFTER Halloween. :-)

This afternoon I spent my time [leisurely] at the crowded Metropolitan Museum of Art on Fifth Avenue. There were two exhibits I wanted to view ... famed photographer Richard Avedon's Portraits and 18th/19th Century American Drawings & Watercolors. Both were very enjoyable, tho the latter one wasn't that crowded. In regards to Avedon, his work is wonderful, but I prefer his fashion photography from the 1940s thru 1970s. Before arriving at the museum, I stopped to chat with an artist who was selling his watercolor paintings. I was impressed with his work and we had a fascinating conversation. His name is Georgi Dimov, painting for 20 years and check out his web site ... www.dimovart.com. Since Monday, October 28th, been listening to lots of new Pearl Jam CDs I received in the mail from e-pals. [Rock on Seany!] Even tho their new album isn't due out in stores until November 12th, a sweet darling e-pal in Finland sent me a burned CD she received from a friend. Thank you so much Jeanie ... I'm grooving to it. One of my fav songs on the album ["Riot Act"] is called "You Are". I LOVE IT!!

I know this is short, but I just wanted to touch base with everyone out there in Internet Land. Remember to keep rocking in the free world!

Awesome! Excellent! WooHoo! Received some cool CDs from a few Pearl Jam e-pals via postal delivery. I'm so looking forward to going home tonight and listening to lots of Pearl Jam live. This group is totally groovy! I love them! They'll be touring next year ... starting with Australia in February, then Japan and finally [after a brief break] through the USA. Now that I'm a member of the Ten Club [since October 2000] I'll be able to get some good seats/tickets. Also in the mail today I received the clothes I'd ordered via Newport News. I soooooo needed new jeans, leggings and pants. I know this entry is short, but I just wanted to express my joy on these topics. Yeah!

Lets see ... what has been going on since my last entry. Had a one hour session with my personal trainer on the 22nd. Mostly worked on legs, butt and stomach ... added in some cardio too. Always a pleasure seeing Jamie and he highly recommended that I see the film "Bowling for Columbine". He's always filling me in on films he has seen. On the 24th, after work on upper westside of Manhattan, I met up with my PJ e-pal Andrea. We went to the Cafe section in Barnes & Noble to chat for a few hours about Pearl Jam, work and men. We both adore Jeff Ament of PJ and looking forward to hearing their new album [Riot Act]. Its due out on November 12th and they'll be appearing on Letterman November 14th/15th. Yeah! I believe it was the evening of the 25th, that I heard on the radio that Irish actor Richard Harris passed away. Very upsetting news ... as he's a wonderful actor and making a comeback in his career. His last two films were the Harry Potter series playing Professor Dumbledour. He was perfect for the part and it'll be hard to replace him when they start working on third in the series. Yesterday I joined Debbie and a co-worker of her's [Holly] in a delightful Halloween tour at Greenwood Cemetery [Brooklyn]. It started at 12:30pm and ended around 3:30pm. It was lots of fun, interesting and the weather was decent. Mostly cloudy, tho the sun did pop out several times. We even got to check out catacombs. Debbie and I had been on a different tour there two years ago. Plus we'd visited the cemetery with my friend Larry in his car. The landscaping is wonderful, so many pretty trees, ponds, birds, squirrels, etc. I believe there are over 400 acres of land and over 600,000 dead buried. Pick a lovely spring or autumn day ... take the R subway to 25th Street stop and walk up the hill to the entrance. Admittance to the cemetery is free and its worth the effort to stroll around. The further into the cemetery you walk the more it feels like being in Vermont and not Brooklyn. Well, it does to me. Thats about it for this entry. More next Monday ... on November 2nd I'm off to the ferret shelter to do my volunteer work and on the 3rd is the NYC Marathon. This huge event passes thru my Brooklyn neighborhood. Its fun to watch and cheer on the runners. On that note............time to sign off...............remember to keep rocking in the free world!!