SwedeHart Stories II

New Digs

2006-12-26T17:55:00.000-05:00

I created a new blog for the new year.

As Mae West said in I'm No Angel,

"Come up and see me sometime."

;-) Jess

à bientôt.

2006-12-10T19:11:00.000-05:00

I have decided to take a break from blogging until after the New Year. I want to get away from my inner thoughts and my computer for a while. I also have a lot of things to do to prepare for the holiday. For instance, tomorrow I need to take my dad Christmas shopping. He told me that he thinks that he will screw it up, but last year he did a fantastic job all by himself. It will be his second Christmas without my mom. It is still difficult for him. It is still hard for all of us.

On Thanksgiving Day, I saw a video of my mom from Christmas Day two years ago. (My dad is in the process of converting a gigantic pile of VHS tapes to DVD format) It was just two months before we found out that she was sick with leukemia, and four months from her death at age 57. I had to run out of the room. Just seeing her pretty hands made me cry. I peeked in again, and watched her fasten my new pearl necklace, as I held my long hair out of the way. Her face was gorgeous. I remember that she smelled like cinnamon and syrup from the French toast she made for brunch. There was syrup next to the corner of her pretty mouth. My sister told her to lick if off. My sister was always telling her to do that.

I will help my dad find great gifts for his grandchildren. He will still sign the cards, Love Granddad & Grandma.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Peace be with you.

Another Christmas Meme

2006-12-10T17:35:00.000-05:00

1. Does Santa wrap your presents or just sit them under the tree?
Fancy paper makes gifts look more glamorous and mysterious, so I like them wrapped.

2. Do you read The Night Before Christmas on December 24th?
No, but it would be romantic to read it in bed with a lover, while all snuggled up with hot chocolate or champagne.

3. Fake, Real or Cut-It-Yourself Christmas Tree?
A modest-sized real one, so I can plant it in my backyard after New Year's Day.

4. Favorite Christmas Movie

5. Mall, Outlet or Internet?
Internet, mall, toy and video game stores

6. Stockings before or after presents?
Stockings first, so we can eat chocolates and candy, as we find fun little trinkets. My sister and I always found really yummy and girlie things in our stockings, so I try to find cool things for my children.

7. If you can have one GIFT this year what would it be?
(No world peace, no financial anything, no healing of the sick, no lottery ticket, no free car, nothing for anyone else- for YOU, something that someone can actually get you!)
I haven’t given it any thought. My husband and I are not exchanging gifts this year.

*I found this @ The Phat Lady Sings . I modified it, since some of the questions were on the previous one.

Coquettish Creator

2006-12-10T09:58:00.001-05:00

Coquetry is the essential characteristic, and the prevalent humor of women; but they do not all practice it, because the coquetry of some is restrained by fear or by reason. ~François Duc de la Rochefoucauld, Maxims

The coquets of both sexes are self-lovers, and that is a love no other whatever can dispossess. ~John Gay, The Beggar's Opera.

The greatest miracle of love is the cure of coquetry. ~François Duc de la Rochefoucauld, Maxims

Coquetry whets the appetite; flirtation depraves it. Coquetry is the thorn that guards the rose - easily trimmed off when once plucked. Flirtation is like the slime on water-plants, making them hard to handle, and when caught, only to be cherished in slimy waters. ~Ik Marvel

Coquette
1. a woman who flirts lightheartedly with men to win their admiration and affection; flirt.

2. a woman who makes teasing sexual or romantic overtures.

Main Entry:
flirtatious
Part of Speech:
adjective
Definition:
teasing
Synonyms:
amorous, arch, come-hither*, come-on*, coquettish, coy, dallying, enticing, flirty, libidinous, nymphomaniac, philandering, spoony*, sportive, wolfish

Main Entry:
kittenish
Part of Speech:
adjective
Definition:
frisky
Synonyms:
childish, coquettish, coy, elvish, flirtatious, frolicsome, fun-loving, impish, jaunty, mischievous, playful, roguish, sportive
Antonyms:
serious

Main Entry:
playful
Part of Speech:
adjective
Definition:
fun-loving
Synonyms:
antic, blithe, cheerful, coltish*, comical, elvish*, flirtatious, frisky, frolicsome, funny, gamesome, gay, go-go, good-natured, happy, hilarious, humorous, impish, jaunty, jesting, jocund, joking, joyous, kittenish, lighthearted, lively, merry, mirthful, mischievous, peppy, pixie, prankish, puckish, roguish, rollicking, snappy, spirited, sportive, sprightly, teasing, tongue-in-cheek*, vivacious, waggish, whimsical, zippy*

Main Entry:
seductive
Part of Speech:
adjective
Definition:
sexy
Synonyms:
alluring, attracting, attractive, beguiling, bewitching, captivating, charming, come-hither*, desirable, drawing, enchanting, enticing, fascinating, flirtatious, inviting, irresistible, magnetic, provocative, ravishing, siren, specious, tempting

Main Entry:
sexy
Part of Speech:
adjective
Definition:
attractive
Synonyms:
adult, arousing, bedroom, blue, come-hither*, cuddly, erotic, flirtatious, hot stuff, inviting, kissable, libidinous, mature, naughty, provocative, provoking, purple, racy, risqué, salty, seductive, sensual, sensuous, shady, slinky*, spicy*, steamy*, suggestive, titillating, voluptuous

*I often use a thesaurus while I am writing, so I can find fun and sexy words that will spice up my story.

Passionate Reservation

2006-12-09T11:08:00.000-05:00

I am intensely perceptive and sensitive, even more so a few days before my period, which usually comes soon after the full moon. I usually have a little trouble sleeping a day or two prior to its arrival, as my hormones are taking a dive. It makes me have “fast brain” nights with vivid dreams.

I also spend more time making my house spotless, shiny and tidy, and become fixated on exercising, food and sex.

I have cramps. Sometimes I hate being a female.

Outwardly, I don’t appear to be an intense person. It all happens silently and secretly inside of my head. I am polite and somewhat soft spoken. Strangers wouldn’t guess that I have a fantastic imagination and wild side.

I guess that most adults have learned to play the role of propriety and decency, all the while having hot, dirty and devious thoughts.

Are most of us honest enough to share our ideas? Or are most people too shy to be themselves?

I am usually willing to tell someone exactly what I am thinking, as long as it isn’t something hurtful. I believe that we are all susceptible to strong emotions and warm sensations. I choose to feel them. Otherwise, I think that life would be boring.

Vote for Me!

2006-12-08T07:51:00.000-05:00

I found this cute thing at Aisby's blog.

Christmas Friday Random Ten

2006-12-08T07:10:00.000-05:00

1) A Marshmallow World – Frank Sinatra
2) Sleigh Ride – Ella Fitzgerald
3) Baby, It's Cold Outside feat Natalie Cole – James Taylor
4) Christmas Time Is Here – Diana Krall
5) All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
6) Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – Luther Vandross
7) I’m Dreaming Of A White Christmas – Barry White
8) Have A Holly Jolly Christmas – Burl Ives
9) The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole
10) Santa Claus Is Coming To Town – Bruce Springsteen

Adorably Sweet Song

2006-12-07T20:49:00.000-05:00

Marshmallow World - Frank Sinatra

It's a marshmallow world in the winter
When the snow comes to cover the ground
It's the time for play, it's a whipped cream day
I wait for it the whole year round.

Those are marshmallow clouds being friendly
In the arms of the evergreen trees
And the sun is red like a pumpkin head
It's shining so your nose wont freeze.

The world is your snowball, see how it grows
Thats how it goes whenever it snows
The world is your snowball just for a song
Get out and roll it along

It's a yum-yummy world made for sweethearts
Take a walk with your favorite girl
It's a sugar date, what if spring is late
In winter it's a marshmallow world

Christmas Past Photographs

2006-12-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

These are the most precious presents that God gave to me, my son and daughter, Cory and Alixandra. I stopped taking Christmas photos of them a few years ago, as they are no longer interested in starring roles on my holiday cards. Prior to these photos from three/four years ago, I didn't have a digital camera, so I don't have older photos on my laptop. They looked like little dolls as small children. I am so proud of them in every way. Our dog, Tabi passed away.

Walks of a Lifetime

2006-12-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

I have mentioned that I love watching travel shows more than once. I devour them with my eyes, since I have seen and tasted so little of the world.

I have recently discovered a way to listen to them, too. Rudy Maxa’s interesting and educational podcasts are a click away at National Geographic.com. He closes every lesson with a short quiz. He pauses briefly between each question and then offers the answer.

Last night, Rudy Maxa read me a bedtime story about Philadelphia and Paris, while I was snuggled under my fluffy and soft blankets with my furry puppy.

Rudy’s voice took me on a walk through Barcelona early this morning, as I did a few chores. I imagined tasting tapas and churros, while I made my bed.

It is fun to break up the monotony of my day, as I dream of beautiful and exotic places--and adventurous and fortunate guys like Rudy actually visit them.

Go US Military!

2006-12-01T11:09:00.000-05:00

Real Life Philadelphia Hero is the most interesting post that I have read this morning.

My dad has been hanging out with his military buddies all week. They come together from all over the country each December to see the Army/Navy game. The game is being held in Philadelphia again this year. They will spend the day tailgating, reminiscing and reconnecting before and after the game. There is a brotherly bond between them, as most of them went to war together and have kept in touch for 37 years. My dad and his friends served in the Army during the Vietnam War. A few of the guys were in other branches of the service. All of them were lucky enough to make it home alive--not necessarily in one piece, but alive.

I hope the Navy Officer from Philadelphia, Anthony McCloskey, who wrote Don't Judge Me will make it home safely. I'm sure that his family and friends are waiting with open arms.

I believe that most Americans are proudly anticipating our troops return, as we cheer them on from home.

Classical Friday Random Ten

2006-12-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

1. Eroica - Beethoven
2. Claire de Lune - Debussy
3. impromptus for piano - Schubert
4. Romantic - Hanson
5. Spartacus - Khachaturian
6. Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18 Adagio sostenuto - Rachmaninov
7. Suite In D Major: Air - Bach
8. Prelude Op. 28 No. 4 In E Minor - Chopin
9. Symphony No. 5: Adagietto - Mahler
10. The Firebird: Berceuse - Stravinsky

Predatory Female

2006-11-30T18:27:00.000-05:00

My results...

(I wish)*I found this quiz @ Urban Jams.

Burnt Out

2006-11-30T14:01:00.000-05:00

My best friend Kate left a haunting message on my answering machine this morning, as I was rushing to get my daughter ready for her dentist appointment. Her mom’s house, the house she grew up in, burnt down last night. Thankfully, she told me that everyone was okay.

Kate’s mentally and physically disabled older brother, Dan, set the house on fire shortly after his home health care nurse left for the day. He threw something into his bedroom trash can and started a blaze that would have probably killed him if his older brother, Fran, didn’t hear the smoke detector alarm from his downstairs apartment.

Fran had to physically pull Dan’s shirt and insist that they leave, as Dan resisted in the other direction.

I walked through what was left of their home this afternoon. It smelled charred and candles were melted to the wall. Everything was covered in soot. All of the windows had been broken by firemen, the floor was soaked, the ceiling was busted and the furniture was destroyed. The whole scene made me nauseous.

They had lots of Christmas presents stashed in closets and a brand new computer.
Now, they have nothing.

I feel like a lost a piece of my childhood, so I cannot imagine how they must feel about losing their home.

Kate’s mom stayed with her family last night. Fran stayed with his cousin’s family. Dan spent the night in the hospital for smoke inhalation. He will probably need to be placed in round the clock care, as he is a danger to himself and his family. He is no longer functional.

His illness has gradually progressed, making him socially inappropriate, and a stranger to the toilet and remembering to chew his own food. He has been diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia, which was brought on by MS. All I know is that the mind of my best friend’s handsome, blonde-haired, golden-eyed older brother, who used to bully me as a kid, and flirt with me as adult, has evaporated.

One afternoon after elementary school, I was twirling a baton in the front yard with Kate, when Dan came home from high school. Dan decided to pick me up and carry me to the empty trash can at the curb. He put me into the empty can and then proceeded to sit on the lid until I screamed and begged for him to let me out.

Dan told on us when he caught us smoking for the first time as teenagers.

I danced with Dan, who was seemingly still normal and healthy, at Kate’s wedding five years ago, while he kept an eye on my cleavage. He even asked me to go out to the parking lot with him, as our spouses watched him give me a twirl. I pretended that I didn’t hear him.

His current state makes me sad. He is only 39-years-old and he is almost completely lost.

His family is distressed. They have assisted him as much as possible, while his abilities have wasted away. He was a carpenter. He was very skilled with his hands.

He became addicted to cocaine after using various recreational drugs for several years. His family staged interventions and tried getting him into treatment. I believe that drug abuse stole most of his faculties, as well as his dignity.

I hope to be able to provide emotional support for my best friend and her family.

Exposure

2006-11-29T12:47:00.000-05:00

Sharon Stone uncrossed her beautiful long legs in Basic Instinct revealing the feminine shape in between. Lately, I have read that Paris Hilton, Lindsey Lohan and Britney Spears have been tempting the paparazzi to take crotch shots, none of which have turned out to be flattering. I have also heard that Pink likes to go pantiless. I have seen footage of Tara Reid pretending that her new implants fell out of her top by accident. I have heard about multiple celebrities who created their own porn. I found it amusing when they feigned shock and sadness after their home movies were released to the public, which made them all more famous and intriguing.

Sexy body parts and videos grab attention. Most people are exhibitionists and voyeurs. I don’t believe that anything that I mentioned above was exposed by accident.

Going out sans panties under a short and sexy evening dress makes me feel seductive. It turns me on to know that I’m naked, without anyone else knowing. I think it is a really hot way to make a date more exciting. I also like sneaking touches and subtle caresses under the table, while sharing a meal. Seeing a wet spot kiss the fabric of my man’s crotch adds intensity to my desire. I love glancing at the tent in his pants, knowing that he is aching for me to satisfy his want. I want him to need me.

I think that most people crave attention and want to be craved. I understand the desire to be noticed, as I have shared naked photos and showed off on my webcam in the past. The novelty of that wore off quickly. I stopped stripping myself after I realized that I didn’t care if men at large found me alluring. I realized that I was really looking for love. I wanted someone to love me, really love me, even when I was feeling neurotic and sad. I wanted someone smart, sweet and special to think that I was really adorable. I also wanted lust--lots of brilliant lust.

Sometimes people are attention whores, but I believe that people just want to be loved, which is undeniably human.

Bitch in Heat

2006-11-28T13:14:00.000-05:00

I just fought off the temptation to get fake nails, as I was getting a manicure. I don’t think that acrylic nails are healthy or even pretty, but for some reason when I saw the white tips in the box; I considered having a French manicure glued onto my tapered digits. I kept repeating to myself, "Short and chic, short and chic. I have long pretty fingers. I don’t need that tacky plastic stuff."(In my head, not out loud.) I cut my fingernails and toenails really short last night, too short. I know that they are too short because my Swedish clogs hurt the tips of my tender toes as I walk. I went to get a pedicure and manicure this afternoon, mostly because I wanted to have the soles of my feet buffed, while I sat reading in the massage chair. (I exercise a lot and I don’t want calluses.)

I also needed some comforting after what I did to my silky mid-length hair earlier this morning. I went to the salon and got another haircut. I just got a bob two weeks ago, which really didn't compliment my squarish jaw line, so I had another inch taken off and added some choppy long layers, which looks much better on me. It is shorter than I have ever had it in my life. (Jaw length) It makes my neck seem longer.

I need to start Christmas shopping now that I feel clipped and polished. I am as well groomed my toy poodle, Josie-Eve. I gave her a French name--and now I feel as chic as une femme française, which tempted me to go buy long and skinny cigarettes that will go stale, since I don’t smoke.

I had a glass of Beaujolais with a petite wedge of Camembert and a handful of cashews for lunch.

Lokshen Pudding (Kugel)

2006-11-28T09:24:00.001-05:00

Noodle pudding is just as comforting as rice pudding. Who doesn't like feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, especially now that it is getting cold outside? I am sharing Nigella Lawson's recipe, since I think she is gorgeous and yummy. It only uses a few simple ingredients. I like to add cinnamon and a little bit of freshly grated nutmeg to mine, otherwise it is a bit bland. I love cinnamon and even add a sprinkle or two to my coffee grounds before I brew a pot.

I like to serve Kugel the same way that I serve Julgrot.
*I made sure that my sister got the almond in her pudding cup two years ago. Her wedding was on October 14, 2006. ;-)

In the Spirit of Christmas

2006-11-26T21:20:00.000-05:00

Here is a Christmas meme...

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Hot chocolate w/marshmallows made with warm milk.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Beautifully wrapped

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
White snowflakes and icicles, wreaths and red or burgundy bows

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Yes, I love having an extra excuse to kiss everyone!

5. When do you put your decorations up?
The weekend after Thanksgiving

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
Pot Roast

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child:
I have so many, but I guess I was about eight-years-old when got an enormous Barbie estate that took up my entire pink playroom. It took my parents a long time to build that dollhouse--and I adored it! I was also really excited about my first 10-speed bike at age 10, bubblegum pink.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
In second grade, a blonde boy, Brian the big mouth, blurted, “Santa is fake”, while I was swinging. He followed that statement by telling the first dirty joke that I had ever heard. (Punchline was, Can I put my finger in your belly button?--Ah, that’s not my finger.)

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Only if we get together with family members or friends that we won’t see on Christmas day

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
White lights, silver balls, white garland, red or burgundy bows and a pretty star on top.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
I love it! Snow is romantic, beautiful and fun.

12. Can you ice skate?
Yes

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
My favorite gifts were the watercolor portraits and pictures that my Swedish grandmother placed on top of each wrapped toy. She was a talented artist and the paintings were personal and pretty. I still have some of them.

14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you?
Seeing my children’s eyes light up when they discover the heap of gifts under the tree on Christmas morning.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
My grandmother’s snickerdoodle cookies and Julgrot

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Sharing the day with family, while we listen to Christmas music all day and open gifts and play, eat, drink and be merry

17. What tops your tree?
A sparkly crystal and silver star

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
Both, but watching my kids open gifts is definitely the highlight of my day.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum?
I usually eat one peppermint candy cane on Christmas morning. I love the smell of peppermint scented body scrub. It makes me smell like yummy candy.

*Give your answers on your blog or Santa will leave coal in your stocking. ;-)

The Escape Clause

2006-11-24T08:18:00.000-05:00

I made this statement last year and I will repeat it today, I don't start my Christmas shopping Friday after Thanksgiving. I spend it with my kids. I think that I will take them to see The Santa Clause 3 this afternoon. I'll start my shopping on Monday. Do you like going out on this busy shopping day?

Crush - Friday Random Ten

2006-11-24T08:05:00.000-05:00

1. Crush – Dave Matthews Band
2. Love at First Sight – Kylie Minogue
3. I Love You – Sarah McLachlan
4. I Wanna Be Loved By You – Marilyn Monroe
5. Love At First Sight – Blue
6. Crush – Lila McCan
7. Love At First Sight – Styx
8. Crush – Useless I.D
9. Love At First Sight – Michael Bublé
10. Break Me – Jewel

Cranberry Chutney

2006-11-22T15:53:00.000-05:00

My sister and I made this cranberry chutney for our dad, after asking him if he had any requests other than apple pie for Thanksgiving. He replied, "The cranberry stuff that your mom used to make." I don’t like cranberry jelly or sauce, but this stuff is kind of yummy on turkey and it makes the kitchen smell delicious.
1 orange, peeled, tough membrane removed, chopped
1/4 cup orange juice
1 package (12 ounces) fresh cranberries
1 3/4 cups sugar
1 large Golden Delicious apple, peeled, cored, chopped
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup chopped pecans and walnuts
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

PREPARATION:
Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until cranberries are bursting. Chill until serving time.
Makes about about 4 cups of chutney.

Philadelphia's Thanksgiving Day Parade

2006-11-22T09:42:00.001-05:00

It is supposed to rain tomorrow, so I’ll watch the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade on TV with my kids. I like to watch some of the NYC parade, too.

I am going to my sister’s house in a little while, so we can prepare for Thanksgiving. We did our grocery shopping yesterday. We are baking pies and making cranberry chutney today.

I hope that everyone enjoys feasting with family and friends tomorrow. Happy Thanksgiving!

Something Pretty for Me

2006-11-20T17:40:00.000-05:00

They are my favorite colors--and they even came with a romantic love note!

Left Begging

2006-11-20T10:15:00.000-05:00

For those of you who read all of my hype, including a fictional fantasy, about Phil Roy in the past couple of weeks, I mentioned that he would be on CBS "Sunday Morning" yesterday. Unfortunately, he got bumped by 90 minutes of somewhat boring tales about food. The most snoring story of the morning was about aprons. I think aprons are cute, but I don't want to watch a whole bit on them. A silly lady even wrote an entire book about them. I was hungry for Phil, so I fast forwarded my TiVo all the way to the end of the show. I felt like a puppy that missed out on her favorite treat.

Phil combines food and music, which are two of life’s most sensational things. Hopefully, he will air at a later date. I'm sure that all of Phil's family, friends and fans feel the same way. We will continue to hope for a little taste of someone especially talented and tempting—on TV.

Phil's dog, Travis (left)

*Here is the online version from CBS News Online, which is like licking frozen yogurt instead of ice cream.

*Phil is just as cute as Emeril Legasse and the Swedish Chef.

*Here is a visual presentation of his "Not Leaving Home Tour."

Hello City

2006-11-19T17:57:00.000-05:00

This morning, we took our daughter on a 30 minute train ride to the Market East Terminal. We walked through The Gallery and out into the street. We walked two blocks and entered Philadelphia’s Chinatown. It was smaller than my daughter expected. We took her shopping at the Hello Kitty store, which tickled her pink. We also stopped at a pastry shop. The “pastries” tasted strange. I thought that they were yucky.

After we covered Chinatown, we continued walking toward Center City. We stopped to check out the Reading Terminal Market, and then continued on to shoot some photos of landmark buildings with interesting architecture. Then we walked into the Historic District and took a 30 minute horse carriage ride, which was educational and fun. It was the highlight of our daughter’s day. She chose the white horse. His name was Noodle. He had a braid on his rear-end, which made my daughter smile.

We decided to catch the train home after we spent four hours perusing around downtown. My husband immediately crashed on the sofa after we walked in the front door. I am downloading photos, while he naps. However, my camera battery ran out after ¼ of our trip. My father, a fantastic professional photographer, was not impressed by that news.

I loved watching my daughter’s pretty face light up as she took in the city sights. I asked her if she liked her first train ride and she shouted an enthusiastic, “Yes!”

An Urban Evening

2006-11-18T13:56:00.000-05:00

Last night, my teenage son invited me to go to a hardcore concert with him and three of his friends. We took a 35 minute train ride to Philadelphia and talked, joked and laughed the entire time. I talked about hair dye with his pretty girlfriend. The boys discussed their plans to mosh as much as possible.

We got off at the 30th Street Station, and walked to 21st and Chestnut where we found the concert venue. My son entered with his friends -- and I continued walking toward 18th and Walnut with my husband. Once we arrived in Rittenhouse Square, we chose the Devon Seafood Grill for dinner. Afterwards, we walked around and admired dogs and their walkers. As we approached Broad Street, we encountered what seemed to be a Civil War parade. The small army and their horses were briefly amusing.

I was wearing four inch heels, so after an hour of walking we decided to take a cab to Old City to do some shopping and people watching. It was a pleasant clear and cool evening. Next time I go downtown, I think I will have to wear something a little more practical for walking. My feet are snuggled in UGG slippers today.

How many teenagers invite their mom to hang out with them? My son has even told me that he would like to take me to school with him someday. My son is a likable, funny character. He is bright, charming and cool enough to get away with teasing his teachers. I think he wants me to see his good rapport with other students and teachers. However, I would not even consider asking the school to let me tag along as his parental unit for a day. I’m not sure whey he would either. He is a piece of work.

I love that he has friends from a variety of ethnic and economic backgrounds. He makes plans with them to see movies and concerts, etc. He also has remained close to the boys who he grew up with in our neighborhood. I am happy that he seems to really enjoy life. He embraces new experiences with confidence and excitement. Being with him is refreshing. I am so lucky, overjoyed in fact, that he is part of me/my life.

He crashed at his friend’s place after the concert. He called me first thing this morning from his cell phone, while he was waiting in a line of cars filled with students on their way to do community service at a church in Philadelphia. They had planned to help build homes for Habitat for Humanity, but the school changed plans, as there were too many volunteers. The school requires that all students do twenty hours of community service per school year, which I think is fantastic.

My son reported that he got punched in the face at the concert. He assured me that it was an accident that occurred during frenzied dancing. He’s okay—and he told me that he loved me. I’ll see him for dinner.

We promised our daughter that we will take her on a train ride tomorrow.

Global Orgasm Day...

2006-11-17T13:13:00.000-05:00

...is on December 22, 2006. I learned about this day of shared climaxing at Philly Future.

Oh, Oh, Yes!

Spank Me Very Much!

2006-11-17T10:51:00.001-05:00

Jim Carrey is wacky, but he is also funny and handsome, which is a fantastic and very attractive combination. I am thinking about him because my daughter recently brought her copy of How the Grinch Stole Christmas out of her movie cabinet. It is hard to believe that the holiday season is already here.

When I began watching Jim as the Grinch I began thinking about all of the wildly fun characters that he has played. He is hot fantasy fuel! I’m sure that my daughter’s sweet, young mind was in a more innocent place.

I am looking forward to taking my kids to see the holiday lights in Rittenhouse Square on Friday, November 24 at 5:00 PM.

Wind Me Up - Friday Random Ten

2006-11-17T07:40:00.000-05:00

1. Make You Feel My Love – Bob Dylan
2. Wind it Up – Gwen Stephani
3. Rendezvous – Bruce Springsteen
4. Le Disko – Shiny Toy Guns
5. Bones – The Killers
6. Love Me or Hate Me – Lady Sovereign
7. Tell Me – Diddy feat. Christina Aguilera
8. Dangerous – Ying Yang Twins feat. Wyclef Jean
9. Suddenly I See – KT Tunstall
10. WAMP WAMP – Clipse

Don't you want it now?

2006-11-16T21:14:00.001-05:00

"Where passions rule desires dared to be dreamt."

SEX Intro:
"This book is about sex. Sex is not love. Love is not sex. But the best of both worlds is created when they come together. You can love God, you can love the planet, you can love the human race and you can love all things, but the best way for human beings to show love is to love one another. It's the way we spread love through the universe: one to one. Love is something we make. Pass it on.

-Madonna on her Sex book, which I have never seen. I'm curious about it. I think that most people are intrigued by lust and sensuality--and are into mutual pleasure, but at the same time are somewhat uptight about sharing fantasies and nudity. I admire Madonna's boldness, but I think that some men might be intimidated by women who are honest about their interest in erotica.

Any thoughts? Thrust em at me. ;-)

Embarrassing High School Senior Prom Photos (1990)

2006-11-14T18:42:00.000-05:00

*Top photo, Lisa, Denise and Diane my pretty, big-haired pals. Lisa, my friend since fourth grade. Denise and Diane were girls I met in homeroom in 7th grade. We had "H" last names and remained attached until we graduated.
*Second photo is of Rae and me. Best friends in high school. We slept like spoons, laid out in bikinis after school and smoked lots of cigarettes. (I quit years ago.)
We all had ungroomed eyebrows, gigantic hair and teeth that were fixed with braces.
I was slightly chubby and had recently given birth to my son. Fortunately, I still graduated.
*These are table shots from my prom. I'm the proud idiot in the center standing beside my handsome baby daddy/future husband. I was 17, he was 22. My make-up was yucky. I wore lots of black eyeliner under my eyes and no lip liner! We got these pictures because my dad's company photographed the prom.

Surreality

2006-11-14T16:46:00.000-05:00

Today was a mommy and son day. I just got home from Center City Philadelphia with my little/big buddy. It is about a ten mile trip from our house to the heart of brotherly love town, when we drive straight down Broad Street. I am glad that we made it home in one piece. My son drove, both ways. It was the first time that I let him drive into the city, since he got his permit.

This morning was a little disappointing, as I took him for his driver's license test, which he failed for palming the wheel during parallel parking. He’ll try again in seven days. I’m a little relieved that my baby won’t have the freedom to drive without me in the car beside him--yet. I’m not sure I’m ready for all of the adventures he may decide to take with his friends without my knowledge. He is a good driver, but I explained that there are a whole lot of reckless ones to watch out for.

The driver’s test guy was handsome. He was obvious about finding me attractive—I wasn’t. He had a surprised look on his face when I acknowledged that I was the “parent”. I get a lot of curious looks in that regard. I apparently don’t look quite old enough to be the mother of a child who happens to be 6’ 3” and 213 pounds. I am glad about that, but I don’t like that my son grew for sixteen years in what seemed like the blink of an eye.

When I became a young mother, I did the math in my head…when I am 33, my son will be old enough to drive—and if he becomes a parent when he is 17, as I did, then I will be an absurdly young grandmother! I have encouraged him to wait until he has graduated from college, has a well-established career and is ready to settle down and have a family. I felt like this day would never get here and I can’t even imagine becoming a g-mom.

I want him to have the whole college experience, and have time to travel and get to know himself and the world before he dedicates his life to loving and rearing little reproductions. I wound up going to a community college for nursing instead of to a campus apartment with my best friends.

As we circled around the city, we discussed his college choices and majors. He is currently considering computers, teaching or culinary school, although he isn’t close to making a decision. I told him to do whatever he feels most passionate about and not to pick something just because a friend is doing it. He is currently on the honor roll for the first time since 6th grade, so I am super proud of him. He is trying his best to make his records look good for colleges this year, since he is a junior.

Life seems so surreal sometimes, like it did while riding down busy city streets dodging pedestrians, cabs, buses and wild drivers. I laid a comforting hand on my good-looking son’s manly thigh. I have loved being his mom every single minute since the day he was born. I feel the same way about my gorgeous ten-year-old daughter.

Translucent Groupie

2006-11-13T10:30:00.000-05:00

I weighed myself this morning, and learned that I have lost four pounds in the last two days. This diet works! I don’t know how much I have lost in the past 11 days, since I didn’t weigh myself when I started. However, I do feel leaner. At this rate, I’ll be looking my sexiest very soon. I feel healthier since I’m eating lots of fresh produce, taking a daily vitamin and drinking lots of water. I’ve never been on a diet before, so self discipline regarding food was never part of my life. I hate it because I love to cook--and I love to eat even more! I even decided to give up watching the Food Network, since I can’t try any new recipes that aren’t on the South Beach plan.

Early this morning, I spent a few minutes with my son on the sofa watching the Three Stooges. If you have never seen Curly do the Rumba, I highly recommend it. I laughed pretty hard between sips of my coffee. The Stooges are ridiculously entertaining, which is why I TiVo it for my son. It was a great break from cleaning up after pets and children all morning.

I also TiVo The View, but I usually only watch the hot topics portion of the show. Lately, Rosie O’Donnell has been gushing about her adoration of Barbra Streisand. She is completely obsessed with her in a way that is over-the-top. She seems to develop pretty wild crushes on other celebrities (Tom Cruise) and is not shy about her feelings. Her honesty is admirable and sweet in a way, but I don’t understand her level of intensity or the reason why she feels the need to see every single Barbra concert. I have never been that excited or addicted to anyone or anything.

Recently, I have discovered that maybe I am capable of being a stupid groupie. I have been infatuated with Phil Roy for a few weeks. However, I wouldn’t see multiple concerts or collect memorabilia or photos. I wonder why he likes the word Octopus. I need to stop listening to his music for a while. I don’t like feeling so syrupy over someone who is a stranger. I become mesmerized while watching his mouth and his mannerisms. Something about him has enraptured me, which brings this song to mind...

Fever Lyrics
Peggy Lee

Never know how much I love you, you never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me, I get a feeling that I just can't bear
You give me fever, when you kiss me, fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning, fever all through the night.

Bless my soul I love you, take this heart away
Take these arms I never use them
And just believe what my lips have to say
You give me fever, when you kiss me, fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning, fever all through the night

Listen to me baby, hear every word I say
No one can love you the way I do
Because they don't know how to love you my way
You give me fever, when you kiss me, fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning, fever all through the night

The sun lights up the daytime, the moon lights up at night
My eyes light up when you call my name,
Because I know you're gonna treat me right
You give me fever, when you kiss me, fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning, fever all through the night.
You give me fever, you give me fever, oh yeah,
Fever all through the night

*For the next few weeks, I am going to keep carbs and Phil’s music out of my body and mind, so I can start to feel like me again.

Multifarious Vocabulary

2006-11-12T16:15:00.000-05:00

Your Vocabulary Score: A

Congratulations on your multifarious vocabulary!
You must be quite an erudite person.

How's Your Vocabulary?

Feverish

2006-11-11T21:09:00.000-05:00

Stewart Sternberg said...
Jess, I have a writing assignment on my blog I think you might enjoy. I mention this based on some of the posts you've made. The writing assignment is a challenge to write 1000 words or less, focusing on character development and dialogue, to write about a seduction. The seduction can take any form. It can be light or dark. It can be romantic or not. I will link to all postings with the assignment this coming Friday. Anyway, just thought you and anyone here might be interested.

I wrote this fictional tale in response to Stewart Sternberg’s assignment. It is more romantic than seductive. I realize that it is lacking in dialogue and it is over his count suggestion by 270 words, but it is what I was inspired to write. Maybe I’ll write something sexier later in the week. Thanks for including me Stewart. I added your interesting blog to my Luring Link List.

I look forward to reading other submissions. I’m sure that I will learn something.

Jessika Eve saw him for the first time while he was onstage tickling his guitar strings and her heart with his seductively sweet lyrics. He had curly dark hair and a large masculine presence that was inviting to her at a deep level. She immediately felt the urge to lick his perfect teeth. After falling in love with his soulful words and style she felt her body aching to sit on his lap. She wanted to wrap her long legs around his back and feel his broad chest pressed tightly against her full and tender breasts.

Jessika was wearing a mini skirt. She imagined how the denim fabric would slide up and over her hips exposing her shapely thighs. She imagined feeling his bulge pressing against her pelvic bone and making the crotch of her pink panties damp. She wondered how his lips would taste.

She just learned that the musician with the captivating male voice was called Dylan Ray. Dylan was the surprisingly handsome and intriguing opening act for a fantastic female named Fiona Apple. Jessika doesn’t attend many concerts, as she has two young children. She had attended many concerts as a teen, and had never felt a physical attraction to a musician or band due to digging their style--or even because they were hot.

Jessika was new to her third decade, which had surprised her with a sexual awakening and openness that she had never expected. She was relatively shy around men in her teens and twenties and had almost always ignored their interest in her. However, a hormonal frenzy had transformed her into a woman who was ripe with hunger for experimentation. When she laid eyes on Dylan, she didn’t mean to feel the way she did. It just happened, as naturally as a rose opens its silky petals unto the warmth of summer sunshine.

She was giddy with an internal excitement that made her feel almost desperate to capture his heart—his lust. She was also struck with shame as to the intensity of her desire to make him notice her. She had always thought that groupies who threw themselves at musicians were vacuous sluts. Jessika was an intelligent, selective woman who had fewer lovers in her adult life than she could count on one hand.

Jessika sent Dylan an email to tell him how much his talent had touched her. She shared details and photos of herself, even though she knew she was only a raindrop in a sea of enamored fans. She wanted to stand out. She wanted to make him as curious about her as she was about him.

His reply was friendly and polite, but somewhat clipped. He gave her his phone number after reading some of her blog entries. However, Jess was too much of a coward to actually call him. Dylan followed up by saying that he was intrigued and was looking forward to meeting her at a show, but he was not interested in trying to develop intimacy through emails. He had a busy week traveling from LA to NY for gigs and then home to have a crew waiting to tape a show, which would air on a major network the following week.

Jessika was anxious and excited about meeting him. She was unsure if she should go through with her idea to have a sleepover party with her girlfriends after his show at the Bed & Breakfast. She really wanted to spend time bonding with her girlfriends, while they enjoyed cocktails and Dylan’s great music. She also planned to play Truth or Dare like they did as girls, and have a pillow fight--and jump on the beds--and collapse giggling.

Motherhood allowed little time for such uninhibited fun.

She was also hoping to find the courage to ask Dylan to hang out with them for a little while in their room. She was even secretly hoping that he might kiss her goodnight.

Kate has been Jess’s beautiful auburn-haired, Irish best friend since they met in first grade. Like Jess, she is a mother of two. They still live in the same neighborhood, a little more than two blocks apart like when they were little girls. They played tag, hide-n-seek, jump rope, cheerleader and baton twirler during their elementary school years almost every day until Kate threatened to go home from sheer exhaustion.

Lisa is Jess’s pretty, petite German girlfriend. She has chestnut hair and eyes, and a beautiful wide, warm and inviting smile that Jess has known since fourth grade. They played Nintendo games like Mario Brothers together a lot after high school. Lisa is a social worker who is dedicated to her job. She drives so fast that Jessica found herself holding on for dear life, as a passenger in her Prius on their way to college classes.

Rae is Jessika’s almost-twin, physically. However, Rae is the prettier twin due to her cuter nose and fuller mouth, which Jess tells her often, as she affectionately kisses her on the cheek. However, Jess was genetically blessed with bigger breasts. They both have shoulder length blonde hair, long legs, narrow size-nine feet and heart-shaped faces with big round eyes framed by long lashes. Jess has blue and Rae’s are green. Rae lied to her friends in high school telling them that Jess was her twin from Texas who used to live with their dad. (Jess was forced to fake a southern accent on one occasion while visiting Rae at the restaurant where she was a waitress.)

Jess corralled her pals after several phone calls, emails and babysitting arrangements. All four women rode together in Jessika’s white SUV, while singing and being as silly as teenagers on the forty five minute ride to the show. The group of women discussed what they were going to wear down to their accessories--and the results were stunning. Jess chose a curve-hugging black, cashmere V-neck sweater, skinny jeans and scarlet, peep-toe, sling-back, patent leather pumps. She accented her outfit with a simple pair of large silver hoop earrings, a diamond bracelet and a sleek black wristlet. Her new lacy black lingerie was hidden, but made her feel more feminine.

After they arrived at the cozy B&B, they gathered around a table and ordered cocktails. Dinner was served a short while later, as Dylan took the stage. They quietly fed each other forkfuls of rich food, but Jessika was transfixed by the delicious man onstage, and therefore had trouble swallowing.

The room was relatively small and they were the only table full of women, but the professional performer didn’t seem to notice them in the small venue. However, after the concert he approached their table, as Jessika felt her legs begin to tremble. She felt like a little girl who was about to meet Fonzie, from her favorite show Happy Days for the first time. Phil’s manner was cool, as he smiled and said, “Hello ladies, thanks for coming out.” His attention turned toward Jess, as he said, “You must be Jessika.” All three of Jess’s friends focused on her, as they waited for her reply. They were aware of her crush.

Jessika’s voice came out as a whisper, “Hi. You were terrific.” Her mouth was dry. She picked up a glass of water and sipped, as she gazed up into his friendly face. Their eyes held for the briefest of moments, as Jessika felt her whole body buzzing with the realization that Dylan recognized her face from her photographs. Jess forced herself to continue to introduce herself and her friends, while feeling a little dizzy and overwhelmed by excitement. Her heart was fluttering faster than butterflies’ wings, as she offered her hand. Instead of shaking it, Dylan pulled her to her feet and into a tight embrace that flooded her with a feverish flush. Jessika melted into his arms.

Rewind & Repeat of Today

2006-11-10T20:28:00.000-05:00

I gave myself a manicure and pedicure early this morning, and then ventured out to get a chin length bob haircut, since it is the current happening hairstyle. See Jessica Simpson's sassy shorter haircut above. Her silly face is still beautiful.

I went to the park to walk three miles with my sister this afternoon. She showed me table shots from her wedding and pretty photos from her trip to Maine. I introduced her to Phil Roy’s newest CD. She liked his music.

I ate a purely vegetable diet all day, so when I drank a glass of chardonnay with lunch I got an extreme buzz. I made coffee to help me get my head back, and then drank lots of water the rest of the evening.

I will be adding protein again tomorrow. I feel so low blood sugary this way. This diet has an all fruit and an all veg day once a week. Those days are difficult to get through. It was hard enough giving up bread, potatoes and pasta!

I better fit back into my skinny jeans fast. This South Beach type diet is torture. I’m glad that is an eleven day on, three day off plan, so I can have an occasional serving of comforting carbs. I’ll be so much happier and healthier when I lose fifteen pounds.

My sister lost weight quickly for her wedding, so her hot little bod is proof that it works. I was too sick with wisdom tooth issues to take the best care of myself for a while. Now that I am finally beginning to feel better, I want to whip myself back into my sexiest/slimmest shape.

I saw Borat yesterday. It wasn’t as funny as I had expected. Four people walked out of the sparsely filled theater during the scene in which tall, skinny and hairy Borat wrestled naked with his short, 300 poundish, even hairier friend. Some people are so uptight.

Phil Roy - Friday Random Ten

2006-11-10T18:51:00.001-05:00

1. Exceptionally Ordinary
2. Melt
3. She Hurts
4. Amazing
5. Nobody Has To Know
6. Why Do We Make It So Hard
7. Perfect One
8. This Business Of Love
9. A Deeper Meaning
10.Undeniably Human

*You can see Phil on the CBS show "Sunday Morning" on November 19th.

*Phil video clip

*Phil Roy podcast

Proud Philadelphian

2006-11-08T12:39:00.000-05:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: Philadelphia Your accent is as Philadelphian as a cheesesteak! If you're not from Philadelphia, then you're from someplace near there like south Jersey, Baltimore, or Wilmington. if you've ever journeyed to some far off place where people don't know that Philly has an accent, someone may have thought you talked a little weird even though they didn't have a clue what accent it was they heard.
The Northeast
The Midland
The Inland North
The South
Boston
The West
North Central
What American accent do you have? Take More Quizzes

*I found this quiz on Bud's site.

Phil Me Up

2006-11-07T18:14:00.000-05:00

I’m drunk on Beaujolais and Phil Roy. I fell in love with Phil, while I heard him singing the songs Exceptionally Ordinary and Melt at an intimate local theater—or maybe it was the sweetness of his folk songs that captured my heart. I rarely come across something/someone that really moves me, so it was a special moment.

I am usually touched by specific songs rather than artists or albums. Is album a word anymore? There are very few musicians who I follow faithfully. I infrequently anticipate the release of a new CD, so when I discover someone extraordinary I feel like a little girl on Christmas morning.

A few days after the show, I purchased all three of Phil’s CDs from his website, so I could absorb him in the privacy of my home. Curiosity was buzzing in the back of my mind for a few days until they arrived. His sexy, masculine voice is coming through my speakers as I write. The quality of his sound and lyrics physically aroused me—I had a damp panties moment, as soon as the pleasant vibrations of Nobody Has To Know began—and it wasn’t because I cranked up the bass. I imagine that his talent makes most women feel like melting in his arms, to steal a line from one of his songs.

I find that I often become bored with an artist, since they tend to sound similar in every track, but Phil uses an eclectic mix of styles, so his songs feel fresh and entertaining. Some are light and sweet, some are more complex and deep--and all of them are exploratory and romantic.

One of his songs is called I Love Everyone, which reminded me of a silly Jerky Boys track. My favorite Jerky Boy’s character, Tarbash, stifled a laugh as he said, “I love everyone in this life” at the close of a very silly phony phone call. (The bit is called Stop That. The Egyptian Magician also elicited many giggles.) That line has stuck with me and it’s a philosophy I try to carry with me every day. Phil’s song helped reinforce that beautiful idea. (I realize that I am a weirdo for being moved by a line that came from something ridiculous.)

I was going to list my favorite Phil tracks, but I think I need more time for them to seep in. One play isn’t enough. I'm so amazed.

Pull over—Out the door
Spread those legs
Up against the wall
Seductive lyrics sung by Phil

Why Do We Make It So Hard
-P. Roy

Light a candle it will glow
Water flowers see them grow
Speak the truth and you will see
The result is honesty
Squeeze an orange you’ll get juice
Find a lover reproduce
If you’re tired go to sleep
The simple things are all you need

Why do we make it so hard
So hard

Tell a joke and make them laugh
If you’re filthy take a bath
If you’re lonely make a friend and
If you’re guilty make amends
When you’re happy show your smile
When you’re fighting reconcile
If you like music sing along
Learn the lyrics to this song

Why do we make it so hard
I don’t understand
It’s so simple
Why do we make it so hard so hard

Have you ever thought about
Time is food for a clocks mouth
Eating every second of life
Eating every second of life

Voted

2006-11-07T10:05:00.000-05:00

I went to my local polling place early this morning. There were only two people in front of me and four people behind me in line. I was happy that I got in and out of there quickly. I took my son with me. He even went inside the booth with me, as is our usual custom. He is in the Model UN Club at school, so he often knows more about the candidates than me. He was helpful.

This has nothing to do with the election, but I thought that I would share two pretty sentences that I read while finishing a book last night…

The moon had risen long before the late summer sunset. In the west, the night kissed the last rouge off the cheek of the day, and in the east the full moon hung high, the lamp of romance.

-Dean Koontz

Did anyone notice that gorgeous autumn moon last night? It seemed enormous!

Singing Along with Fiona

2006-11-06T19:51:00.000-05:00

Gabcast! SwedeHart Stories #1

I made this sound bite early this morning. I wanted to learn to use Gabcast. The sound quality is so poor that I won’t be likely to use it again. This is spontaneous take one, which was done with a little computer mic and laptop speakers. I also have a slight cold and sore throat, which makes my voice sound more nasal. I don't claim to have a pretty voice, but I love to sing.

Fiona Apple Favorites

2006-11-06T08:05:00.000-05:00

Embosomed

2006-11-05T20:47:00.001-05:00

I’m feeling very happy. I just had my kids on either side of me with their heads on my chest, and their arms draped around my waist. I sniffed their hair and kissed their heads repeatedly as I sang, “It’s double huggy time! It’s double huggy time!” There is nothing that makes me more delighted than sharing warm closeness with my precious children. The rule is that it’s not over until we have thoroughly squeezed and snuggled--with a few ticklish pokes thrown in for giggles--for at least five minutes. My kids will only be released after they have planted kisses on both of my cheeks.

Our affectionate embrace made my day!

Brief Weekend Wrap-Up

2006-11-05T18:07:00.000-05:00

On Friday afternoon, I got a facial and reflexology pedicure at Heaven Spa thanks to my sister, who generously gave me a gift card for my birthday. It was something that I wouldn’t have done otherwise, so I am grateful to her. My pores were steamed and treated until my face was clean and pretty. My feet were massaged and scrubbed and painted. The whole experience was relaxing. I felt like a pampered Swedish princess. I left the spa doing the Oola dance.

On Saturday afternoon, I found a birthday card inside of my mailbox from my best friend, which had been hiding for a week. (Our postman usually puts our mail on the rungs outside of the box.) She mentioned our dinner date last Saturday night and wrote that we should do it more often, since we still have so much to catch up on. It made me smile.

I shopped online for new lingerie, pjs and slippers, a winter handbag, scarlet patent leather peep-toe heels, a hot pair of brown shoe boots and a black pair of clogs, sweet body lotions and a few other girlie things.

I watched Adam Sandler’s new movie Click on Saturday night, while my daughter had a sleepover with her best friend. (My son was at a concert with his best buddy.) It wasn’t as funny or cute as some of his other films, but I liked Christopher Walken. I love his voice and manner of delivery. He is sexy, suave and a little bit scary.

I planned on seeing Borat this afternoon, but household chores and errands postponed that idea. I am hoping to see it this week with my sister. I heard a movie critic say it was the funniest movie that he has ever seen, and he has seen a lot of movies.

In between scrubbing, polishing and mopping my little house and buying pet food and a pink Nintendo DS Lite for my daughter, I sat down and watched my favorite travel shows, which I saved on TiVo. I love Globe Trekker, Smart Travels and Rick Steves’ Europe. I spent the morning learning about Australia, England, Mexico, Seattle and China Towns across the globe, while sipping creamy coffee. It wasn't as great as exploring the places in person. I couldn't shop in all of the tempting and colorful outdoor markets or eat all of the delicious local food or feel and smell the scenery, but it was interesting and educational.

I am a geek.

PA Map of Hate Groups

2006-11-04T20:02:00.001-05:00

Heinous!

Pennsylvania-27 Hate Groups Found

Active U.S. Hate Groups in 2005

Ten Ways to Fight Hate

101 Tools for Tolerance

From Childhood Albums - Friday Random Ten

2006-11-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

1. Free To Be You And Me – The New Seekers
2. Glad To Have A Friend Like You – Marlo Thomas
3. Rainbow Connection – Kermit
4. Movin' Right Along – Kermit
5. Jelly Man Kelly – James Taylor
6. Wynken, Blynken And Nod – Doobie Brothers
7. Blueberry Pie – Bette Midler
8. One Good Turn – Al Jarreau
9. I've Got Two – Big Bird and Oscar
10. "C" Is For Cookie – Cookie Monster

What are some of your favorite songs from childhood?

*Other playlisters... Ben, Ellen, Seeking Solace and Howard.

Trees 11/1/06

2006-11-03T07:59:00.001-05:00

Photos Around Philadelphia 10/31/06

2006-11-03T07:58:00.000-05:00

SwedeHart Stories Second Bloggiversary

2006-11-01T10:50:00.001-05:00

Dear blog pals,

It’s November 2006, which means that it is my second anniversary as a blogger. My first year can be found here.

I began this blog with a somewhat delusional and embarrassing post , in which I wrote about publishing my blogs as a book or two. However, I haven’t written much worth reading much less publishing, but I’m still having fun typing my thoughts. I like finding connections with interesting people who also post their news and views on life. I have learned a lot from cool friends and strangers. Thanks to those of you who take the time to keep in touch with me here!

Sincerely,

Jessica

Vintage Inspired Self Portraits

2006-10-31T16:56:00.000-05:00

I found dusty old newspaper clippings in my Dutch great grandmother's cookbook. I thought that the ads were super cute, but they made me sneeze. They inspired me to give a couple of my photographs a retro look. I am wearing a vintage angora/knit pillbox hat and pearl earrings. I think that I look very republican.

Samhain Chant

2006-10-31T09:39:00.000-05:00

Fire red, summer's dead,

Yet shall it return.

Clear and bright in the night,

Burn, fire, burn!
Dance the ring, luck to bring,

When the year's aturning.

Chant the rhyme at Hallowstime,

When the fire's burning.
Fire glow, vision show

Of the heart's desire,

When the spell's chanted well

Of the witching fire.
Dance the ring, luck to bring,

When the year's aturning.

Chant the rhyme at Hallowstime,

When the fire's burning.
Fire spark, when nights are dark,

Makes our winter's mirth.

Red leaves fall, earth takes all,

Brings them to rebirth.
Dance the ring, luck to bring,

When the year's aturning.

Chant the rhyme at Hallowstime,

When the fire's burning.
Fire fair, earth and air,

And the heaven's rain,

And blessed be, and so may we,

At Hallowstide again.
Dance the ring, luck to bring,

When the year's aturning.

Chant the rhyme at Hallowstime,

When the fire's burning.

One need not be a chamber to be haunted;
One need not be a house;
The brain has corridors surpassing
Material place.
- Emily Dickinson
Samhain by Elspeth Sapphire
Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. - Shakespeare "Macbeth"
Quiz on Halloween

A Jazzy & Soulful Evening at the Keswick

2006-10-30T11:01:00.001-05:00

I went to see Madeline Peyroux amongst an older crowd at the Keswick Theater last night. Her voice is reminiscent of Billie Holiday. I found myself wishing to spend an evening onstage, looking and sounding as sexy as Mademoiselle Peyroux, who happens to be the same age as me. My favorite songs were Don’t Wait Too Long, Careless Love and La Javanaise. The jazzy sound of the piano, bass, trumpet and drums were as mesmerizing as Madeline’s voice. Her new CD is called Half the Perfect World.

Phil Roy opened for her -- and he was adorable. His happily bobbing, handsome head reminded me of one of Jim Henson’s super cute Muppets. I had never heard his feel good music before, but was enamored with him after five minutes. His lyrics and voice were sweet and poetic. I felt myself smiling, while sitting in my little old seat in the small old theater, in my quaint old neighborhood. Phil’s new CD is called The Great Longing. The charming song Exceptionally Ordinary is my favorite track , although I have to get to know the rest of his songs.

I purchased both CDs, even though I had already pirated some of their music from LimeWire. I rarely buy CDs, but once in a while I fall in love with a fantastic artist or two, which was the case with Madeline and Phil.

Trust

2006-10-29T11:09:00.000-05:00

Perhaps everything else that mattered in a relationship grew from trust – from a tranquil faith in the courage, integrity, and kindness of the other person.
-Dean Koontz

Can a relationship survive and/or flourish after trust has been broken down by a variety of untruths and betrayals?

Pleasant Birthday

2006-10-29T10:09:00.000-05:00

I woke up yesterday and felt my pretty daughter’s silky little arms wrap around me. Her little pink lips whispered, “Happy Birthday, Mommy.”, and then the puckered into a small, damp kiss on my cheek.

A short while later, my adorable son woke up and came downstairs to wish me a happy birthday with a squeeze and a smooch. Next, my handsome husband opened his sleepy eyes and embraced me and repeated the same phrase.

After my husband ran out to pick up a few groceries, I was treated to a hot cup of coffee, a pink pastry and a vase of salmon roses, which was brought to me as my family sang, “Happy Birthday to you…”
About fifteen minutes later, my family served me homemade French toast and bacon with a glass of milk, which was followed by sweet birthday cards and gifts. (I finally have TiVo, but have no idea what to record since I don’t watch anything regularly. Anyone have a suggestion or two?)

After the kids left the room my husband and I shared “alone time”, which was sensational. (34 playful spankings and lots of kisses on my rear end and elsewhere...)

A little while later, I discovered that my husband had gotten me a carrot cake decorated with my favorite colors, pink and orange, which made me smile. We all had a piece for lunch, as my sister called to talk to me from work, and then my dad called to wish “his first born daughter a happy birthday.” He reminded me to check my email. (He sent some cute photos of me with my mom--and my first Cockapoo puppy when I was a little girl.)
In the evening, we all watched Monster House, which was somewhat disappointing, since it was reviewed well by critics.

My birthday dinner will be shared by my extended family tomorrow evening at my favorite local restaurant. (We are waiting for my sister who is a psych nurse. She worked over the weekend. She works three twelve hour shifts Friday-Sunday and has the rest of the week to herself.)

On Tuesday, I will be starting a new South Beach sort of eating plan, which was recommended by my sister. I have to get back into healthy eating after overindulging for days. We are also headed back to the gym this week, since it is getting too cold for our daily three mile walks in the park.

I had a very pleasant and relaxing birthday thanks to my loving family.

Cultural Warrior?

2006-10-27T16:38:00.000-04:00

I am watching Bill O’Reilly on Oprah. I have never listened to his radio show before, so this is the first time that I’ve heard his opinions. He makes some good points, but his new book says that you are either a Traditionalist or a Secular-Progressive, leaving no room for people who have views that fit on both the Left and the Right. Bill: I don't like the words "middle ground." I just took his quiz and ironically it told me that I have not committed to either side.

Take his “Cultural Warrior” test.

Melodious Moments

2006-10-27T14:03:00.000-04:00

If you wanted to share the most romantic music that you could possibly imagine with someone special, what 18 sincerely sensational tracks would you choose to make one sweet sounding CD? I am trying to put together some sexy music that will really make my whole body sing -- and make even mundane moments feel melodic. However, I’d prefer to share gorgeous music with my soul mate…

Romance in Red, Alfred Gockel

Bathtub Ambience Friday Random Ten

2006-10-27T11:14:00.001-04:00

1. I Am In Love With You – Imogen Heap
2. Angelicus – Delerium
3. Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup – Arielle Dombasle
4. Colors/Dance – George Winston
5. The French Café – Mike Strickland
6. La Vie Est Belle – Andre Rieu
7. Satori – Rodrigo y Gabriela
8. Northern Lights – Enigma
9. Fantasy – Sting/John Dowland
10. Those Sweet Words – Norah Jones

Grattis på födelsedagen - Happy Birthday

2006-10-27T08:54:00.001-04:00

Swedish Birthday Song

"Ja, må du leva"

A birthday celebration in Sweden often starts early in the morning. The family "surprises" the one with a birthday by bringing in a special breakfast tray with a hot beverage, sweet roll and lighted candle and singing "Ja, må du leva". (I hope that my family will do this for me tomorrow morning.)

This song is sung to celebrate birthdays and other special occasions. The Swedish version as well as an English translation are presented here.

Swedish Version
Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva, Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva,
Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva uti hundrade år.
Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva, Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva,
Ja, må du (han,hon, dom) leva uti hundrade år.

Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva, Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva,
Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva uti hundrade år.
Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva, Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva,
Ja, visst ska du (han, hon, dom) leva uti hundrade år.

"Ett fyraldigt leve... leve du (han, hon, dom). HURRAH, HURRAH, HURRAH, HURRAH."

English Translation
Yes, may you (he, she, they) live, Yes, may you (he, she, they) live,
Yes, may you (he, she, they) live for a hundred years.
Yes, may you (he, she, they) live, Yes, may you (he, she, they) live,
Yes, may you (he, she, they) live for a hundred years.

Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live, Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live,
Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live for a hundred years.
Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live, Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live,
Oh sure, you (he, she, they) will live for a hundred years.

"A four fold cheer ... cheer for you (him,her, them). HURRAH, HURRAH, HURRAH, HURRAH."

Lovely Cala Lilies

2006-10-26T08:59:00.001-04:00

A pretty reminder of my little sister’s even lovelier wedding two weeks ago.

His Latest Project

2006-10-26T08:44:00.001-04:00

My husband is a construction company owner. I am his secretary. I take dictation, type and fax/mail proposals and invoices and write a few checks. My dad took these photos last cloudy Monday at a site in Bucks County, PA.

Spank Me

2006-10-25T11:14:00.000-04:00

I'm Weird, 9 Ways...

1. I am annoyingly tidy. I compulsively throw things out and clean closets to donate clothes to charities. I steadfastly recycle. I even make my bed as soon as I wake up, and then spend the rest of my morning restoring order and doing laundry. I like my living space completely devoid of clutter before I begin the rest of my daily activities.

2. I often buy clothes that are one size too big because I tend to imagine that I have gained weight.

3. Every time that I change my hair color I tend to like the previous color instead, but I’ve learned that hair is not a crayon. Thankfully, I stopped the cycle before I made myself bald from abusing blonde, red and then brunette shades.

4. Showing off my pretty, full breasts makes me feel ripe, juicy and sexy and so does wearing lip liner all over my little mouth.

5. I like to be dominated in the bedroom. Light, playful spankings and taking orders to please make me really hot. Although sometimes I like to take control.

6. I like wearing 4” heels even though they make me 6’ tall.

7. I am extremely attracted to handsome, gigantic men and fantasize about f**king them only if they are 6’2” or taller and 200+ pounds. Lately, I find that my natural desire to procreate overwhelms me. I often feel a desperate desire to be fertilized by my 6’ 4” stud before or as I have an orgasm.

8. I shower and apply lotion to my legs before and after I exercise, so I smell clean and feel silky while I work out.

9. I delete all of the tracks from my MP3 player once a week because I get sick of hearing the same songs very quickly.

*Feel free to advertise your inner-weirdness on your blog. I copied this closing statement and this meme from my new blog pal, Matt-Man.

Three Playful Pets

2006-10-24T19:14:00.000-04:00

Casual Candids

Josie, our two-year-old apricot toy poodle
Dahlia, our four-month-old stripped kitty
Magnus, our three-month-old cream cockapoo

Air Your Dirty Laundry

2006-10-24T11:29:00.000-04:00

I share things about myself as a way of feeling sparkling clean and fabulously free. I believe in the healing power of whole hearted honesty. It’s more refreshing than the scent of apple mango sheets tangoing in a sunny & cool autumn breeze.

His Angel

2006-10-24T10:35:00.001-04:00

well he's hotter than hell
and he's cool as they come
and he smiled and he's wild
all rolled into one
ya you say I'm the girl that you wish you could be
it's not easy to see
that he's an angel to you
but he's a devil to me

How Many Of Me?

2006-10-23T16:57:00.000-04:00

I am one of four in the US who have the same first and last (maiden name) as me...

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
4
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

There are a lot more Jessica's with my married name....

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
257
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Meet Magnus

2006-10-23T10:44:00.001-04:00

There is a new fur face in our family. We fell in love with him as soon as we laid eyes on him yesterday--and adopted him immediately. He is a twelve-week-old, white & buff Cockapoo. His name is Magnus. Origin-Swedish. Meaning-Strong warrior.

Ten Why's

2006-10-22T10:22:00.000-04:00

Although, I could probably list 10,000.

1. Why do friends, family members or strangers often seem jealous (make disparaging remarks) rather than happy for others when they accomplish or acquire something or look fabulous?

2. Why do people from different cultures often seem to dislike or even hate each other rather than trying to see the value and beauty of different customs?

3. Why is anyone homeless?

4. Why are some people starving when so many people are overfed?

5. Why are some people so greedy and selfish?

6. Why aren’t all children adored and well-cared for?

7. Why the hell would anyone invent and sell something knowing that it can be destructive? I.e., Weapons, drugs, diseases, nuclear power plants, bombs, etc.

8. Why do politicians waste so much time attacking those with differing views rather than focusing on making real improvements? Attack ads make me dislike our entire political process and the tacky politicians who “endorse this message.”

9. Why aren’t sick freaks like pedophiles, murderers, rapists, arsonists and violent abusers immediately extinguished so they cannot harm another human being?

10. Why are Hollywood actors or entertainers so ridiculously overpaid and admired for putting on costumes and reading lines or singing and dancing?

Getting to Know You, Getting to Know All About You

2006-10-21T11:10:00.000-04:00

I've pilfered this meme from Aisby’s blog.

1. You can press a button that will make any one person explode. Who would you blow up? Anyone who flirts with my hot husband.

2. You can flip a switch that will wipe any band or musical artist out of existence. Which one will it be? I’d rather just change the radio station, since there are several singers that I don’t like. If I had to pick one, I agree with Aisby, Kelly Clarkson.

3. Who would you really like to just punch in the face? Everyone who is cruel, rude or obnoxious, but my punches don’t pack much force and I’d probably just hurt my hand, so it would be worthless anyway.

4. What is your favorite cheese? Mmm, cheese! Cheddar?

5. You can only have one kind of sandwich. Every sandwich ingredient known to humankind is at your disposal. What kind will you make? A taco with ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and hot sauce or a cheeseburger with the works.

6. You have the opportunity to sleep with the movie celebrity of your choice. We are talking no-strings-attached sex and it can only happen once. Who is the lucky celebrity of your choice? Chris Noth is my American choice. Magnus Samuelsson is my Swedish pick.

7. You have the opportunity to sleep with the music celebrity of your choice. Who will you pick? Tommy Lee, but my attraction to him has nothing whatsoever to do with his music. My husband is a more handsome combination of Tommy Lee and Chris Noth, which is why I probably find them both so attractive.

8. Now that you've slept with two different people in a row, you seem to be having an excellent day because you just came across a hundred dollar bill on the sidewalk. Holy shit, a hundred bucks! How are you going to spend it? Sexy shoes.

9. You just got a free plane ticket to anywhere. You have to depart right now. Where are you going? Paris.

10. Upon arrival at the aforementioned location, you get off the plane and discover another hundred dollar bill. Now that you are in the new location, what are you going to do? Go to a cozy café et demandez un verre de vin. I’d like to relax and people watch before I go sight-seeing and shopping.

11. An angel appears out of heaven and offers you a lifetime supply of the alcoholic beverage of your choice. What are you going to choose? Good wine

12. Rufus appears out of nowhere with a time-traveling phone booth. You can go to any time in the past. What time are you traveling to and what will you do when you get there? I’d love to travel back to my childhood at the end of my life and do it all over again!

13. You discover a beautiful island upon which you may build your own society. You make the rules. What is the first rule you put into place? Pleasant and polite people are only allowed on island Pretty Paradise.

14. You have been given the opportunity to create the half-hour TV show of your own design. What is it called and what is the premise? It would be a reality show called Everyone Deserves Everything – and the whole world would be provided with plenty of healthy food and water and comfortable living conditions and lots of entertaining items for all ages.

15. What is your favorite curse word? Sugar! What? I have kids.

16. One night you wake up because you heard a noise. You turn on the light to find that you are surrounded by mummies. The mummies aren't really doing anything, they're just standing around your bed. What do you do? Assume that I’m either dreaming or that I’ve lost my mind – and scream!

17. Your house is on fire. You have just enough time to run in and grab one inanimate object. Don't worry, your loved ones and pets have already made it out safely. So, what's the item? My jewelry box.

18. The Angel of Death has descended upon you. Fortunately, the Angel of Death is pretty cool and in a good mood, and it offers you a half-hour to do whatever you want before you bite it. What are you going to do? Spend it wrapped in a tight hug with my adorable family.

19. You accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what's even cooler is that they endow you with the super-power of your choice. What is it? Immortality.

20. You can re-live any point of time in your life. The time-span can only be half an hour, though. What half hour of your past would you like to relive again? I would spend it walking in the park with my mom before she got sick.

21. You can erase any horrible experience from your past. What will it be? April 11, 2005, the day my mom died. I wish there had been a way to save her life.

23. You have been eternally banned from every single bar on earth except one. Which one is it? I am not attached to a bar.

24. Suddenly you've gained the ability to float. Whose house are you going to float to first and be like, "Dude, check it out....I can float!!"? My sister’s house.

25. The constant absorption of magic moonbeams mixed with the radioactive vegetables you consumed earlier has given you the ability to resurrect the dead famous-person of your choice. So which celebrity will you bring back to life? None

26. The Celestial Gates of Beyond have opened and Death appears. As it turns out, Death is pretty cool and happens to be in a great mood. Death offers to return the friend/family member/person, etc. of your choice to the living world. Who will you bring back to life? My mom!

27. What's your theme song? Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

I am tagging anyone who reads this meme. You can't catch me!

Unsexy Shoes

2006-10-20T10:03:00.000-04:00

I tried em on but I'll never buy em. Some people say crocs are comfortable. I disagree. They are trendy -- and ugly! I am surprised that they are still popular. I think that they ruin any cute outfit.

Sweet & Sticky Friday Random Ten

2006-10-20T07:30:00.000-04:00

1. Concentrate – Xzibit
2. Save Room – John Legend
3. Oh What A Beautiful Morning – Ray Charles & the Count Basie Orchestra
4. Honey – Mariah Carey ft. Mase & Puff Daddy
5. So Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is – Jet
6. Feels So Good – Jamiroquai
7. Blue Moon – Billy Holiday
8. Sweet Sticky Thing – Ohio Players
9. How To Save A Life – The Fray
10. Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch – Temptations

What is Honey?

Other lists: Ellen and Howard

Copycat

2006-10-19T18:58:00.000-04:00

She's sweet, she's sassy - she's swassy! Dripping with inexplicable attitude, this spectacular specimen can be found trolling the fashionable mega-stores and corporate storefront money-vacuums with a delightful disdain for her less fashionable inferiors - namely everyone. Usually observed in pairs or mini-packs, our accessory-laden subject offers a study in contrasts; despite her perky attire, her demeanor suggests that of ordeal and over-stimulation. Could it be that she aspires to the very same high-maintenance lifestyle of the trash-magazine celebrities she emulates so enthusiastically? Or are her and her army of lookalikes simply spoiled empty-headed twits with dangerously indulgent parents? You be the judge.

*I am a relatively intelligent and attractive mother of two adorable children. However, I still find myself examining fashion and celebrity magazines while waiting to be beautified in nail or hair salons. I often get a haircut based on the glossy, Photoshopped headshots of Hollywood hotshots. Afterwards, I usually go to the mall in search of similar trendy clothes, shoes and accessories. Reading this post made me feel a little pathetic for my automatic desire to copy the twenty-something celebs who are paparazzied into every page, in hopes of looking a little like them. However, I have learned to accept the fact that I look like me—33.

*Read the rest of Life's Rich Pageant here.

80s Movie Trivia Questions

2006-10-18T09:50:00.000-04:00

The Questions

How hot was this movie?

9½ Weeks

*The Answers

Play DK

2006-10-17T09:35:00.000-04:00

Play Donkey Kong

Birthday Calculator

2006-10-17T07:52:00.001-04:00

I found this Birthday Calculator @ iFlipFlop this morning.

28 October 1972
Your date of conception was on or about 5 February 1972 which was a Saturday.

You were born on a Saturday
under the astrological sign Scorpio.
Your Life path number is 3.

Life Path Compatibility:
You are most compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 3, 6 & 9.
You should get along well with those with the Life Path numbers 1, 2, 5 & 11.
You are least compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 4, 7, 8 & 22.

The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2441618.5.
The golden number for 1972 is 16.
The epact number for 1972 is 14.
The year 1972 was a leap year.

Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/15/1972 and ending 2/2/1973.
You were born in the Chinese year of the Rat.

Your Native American Zodiac sign is Snake; your plant is Thistle.

You were born in the Egyptian month of Tyby, the first month of the season of Poret (Emergence - Fertile soil).

Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 20 Heshvan 5733.

The Mayan Calendar long count date of your birthday is 12.17.19.4.14 which is
12 baktun 17 katun 19 tun 4 uinal 14 kin

The date of Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 2 April 1972.
The date of Orthodox Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 9 April 1972.
The date of Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) on your birth year was Wednesday 16 February 1972.
The date of Whitsun (Pentecost Sunday) in the year of your birth was Sunday 21 May 1972.
The date of Whisuntide in the year of your birth was Sunday 28 May 1972.
The date of Rosh Hashanah in the year of your birth was Saturday, 9 September 1972.
The date of Passover in the year of your birth was Thursday, 30 March 1972.
The date of Mardi Gras on your birth year was Tuesday 15 February 1972.

As of 10/17/2006 7:28:43 AM EDT
You are 33 years old.
You are 408 months old.
You are 1,773 weeks old.
You are 12,407 days old.
You are 297,775 hours old.
You are 17,866,528 minutes old.
You are 1,071,991,723 seconds old.

Celebrities who share your birthday:
Joaquin Phoenix (1974) Julia Roberts (1967) Daphne Zuniga (1962)
Bill Gates (1955) Bruce Jenner (1949) Dennis Franz (1944)
Charlie Daniels (1936) Cleo Laine (1927) Jonas Salk (1914)

Top songs of 1972

The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Roberta Flack
Alone Again (Naturally) by Gilbert O'Sullivan
American Pie by Don McLean
Without You by Nilsson
I Can See Clearly Now by Johnny Nash
A Horse with No Name by America
Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me by Mac Davis
Me and Mrs. Jones by BillyPaul
The Candy Man by Sammy Davis, Jr.
Lean On Me by Bill Withers

Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 4.8559686888454 years old. (You're still chasing cats!)

There are 11 days till your next birthday
on which your cake will have 34 candles.

Those 34 candles produce 34 BTUs,
or 8,568 calories of heat (that's only 8.5680 food Calories!) .
You can boil 3.89 US ounces of water with that many candles.

In 1972 there were approximately 3.7 million births in the US.
In 1972 the US population was approximately 203,302,031 people, 57.4 persons per square mile.
In 1972 in the US there were approximately 2,158,802 marriages (10.6%) and 708,000 divorces (3.5%)
In 1972 in the US there were approximately 1,921,000 deaths (9.5 per 1000)
In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds.
In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds.

In 1972 the population of Australia was approximately 13,409,288.
In 1972 there were approximately 264,969 births in Australia.
In 1972 in Australia there were approximately 114,029 marriages and 15,655 divorces.
In 1972 in Australia there were approximately 109,760 deaths.

Your birthstone is Tourmaline

The Mystical properties of Tourmaline

Pink Tourmaline promotes female balance and protection. Green Toumaline promotes male balance.
Some lists consider these stones to be your birthstone. (Birthstone lists come from Jewelers, Tibet, Ayurvedic Indian medicine, and other sources)

Opal, Jasper

Your birth tree is

Walnut Tree, the Passion
Unrelenting, strange and full of contrasts, often egoistic, aggressive, noble, broad horizon, unexpected reactions, spontaneous, unlimited ambition, no flexibility, difficult and uncommon partner, not always liked but often admired, ingenious strategist, very jealous and passionate, no compromises.

There are 69 days till Christmas 2006!
There are 82 days till Orthodox Christmas!

The moon's phase on the day you were
born was waning gibbous.

Life is Sweet

2006-10-16T19:29:00.001-04:00

I am going to snuggle under a soft, fuzzy green blanket with my two adorable children and watch It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, while we eat buttery popcorn and strawberry twizlers.

Donkey or Elephant?

2006-10-16T10:25:00.000-04:00

The Democratic Donkey and the Republican Elephant
Ever wondered what the story was behind these two famous party animals?

The Weekly Rebuttal's--Are you a Democrat or a Republican (a legitimate, no non-sense quiz)

You are most likely a Democrat.Please rate this quiz to make it known how helpful or unhelpful it was to other test takers. Also please visit TheWeeklyRebuttal.comIf you disagree with how this quiz has been setup please don't hesitate to email the creator at TheWeeklyRebuttal@yahoo.com, thanks!
Take this quiz!

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Spicy & Saucy

2006-10-16T10:00:00.000-04:00

I love the yumminess of these words.

Sailing (mostly 70s) Friday Random Ten

2006-10-13T09:33:00.000-04:00

1) Fields Of Gold (New Version) – Sting
2) Sailing – Christopher Cross
3) Listen To The Music –The Doobie Brothers
4) You Are the Sunshine of my Life – Stevie Wonder
5) Come And Get your Love – Leon Redbone
6) Silly Love Songs – Paul McCartney and Wings
7) She’s Got A Way – Billy Joel
8) Come Sail Away – Styx
9) Sometimes When We Touch – Barry Manilow
10) Don’t Go Breaking My Heart – Elton John

Good Guys?

2006-10-12T18:46:00.001-04:00

Last night, I began reading By the Light of the Moon by Dean Koontz. I came across a passage which was so well written that it made me smile. Writers often use metaphors to make stories more descriptively interesting. Sometimes while reading, I come across metaphors that sound kind of silly or seem inappropriate or far reaching. I thought that this one was amusing…

Although prepared to accept the blame for the implosion of every romance, second-guessing herself with the intense critical analysis of a bomb-squad cop deciding which of several wires ought to be cut to save the day, she finally concluded, not for the first time, that the fault resided less in herself than in those feckless men she’d trusted. They were betrayers. Deceivers. Given every benefit of the doubt, viewed through the rosiest of rose colored lenses, they were nonetheless swine, three little pigs who exhibited all the worst porcine traits and none of the good ones. If the big bad wolf showed up at the door of their straw house, the neighbors would cheer him when he blew it down and would offer him the proper wine to go with his pork-chop dinner.

I think that slow-cooked pork chops are delicious with sauerkraut, mashed potatoes and green beans.

The character that made this statement followed it up by calling herself a bitter vengeful bitch. She also wondered if she would ever meet a decent man.

I would like to hear a few romantic, true stories about...

Do you have one that you are willing to share?

Thinking Treats

2006-10-11T12:20:00.000-04:00

These would make my teeth look really pretty, and would be yummy with Hershey's chocolate!

Experiences

2006-10-10T08:47:00.000-04:00

Place an X by all the things you've done. This is for your entire life:

(X) Smoked a cigarette
(X) Drank so much you threw up
( ) Crashed a friend's car
( ) Stolen a car
(X) Been in love
(X) Been dumped
( ) Shoplifted
(X) Quit your job
( ) Been in a fist fight
( ) Snuck out of your parent's house
(X) Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back
( ) Been arrested
( ) Gone on a blind date
(X) Lied to a friend
(X) Skipped school
(X) Seen someone die
(X) Been lost
( ) Been on the opposite side of the country
(X) Swam in the ocean
(X) Felt like dying
(X) Cried yourself to sleep
(X) Played cops and robbers
(X) Recently coloured your hair
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
(X) Made prank phone calls
( ) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
(X) Danced in the rain
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe
(X) Watched the sun rise with someone you care about
(X) Blown bubbles
(X) Made a bonfire on the beach
(X) Crashed a party
(X) Gone roller-skating
(X) Ice-skating

Peachy

2006-10-10T08:35:00.000-04:00

You scored as Peach. You are a Peach! That\'s awesome! People who get you love to be around you and then again some people just think you are a little too weird. You are a really nice and caring person though especially towards your friends and family

Peach

81%

Cherry

75%

Kiwi

63%

Mango

63%

Pineapple

56%

Which Fruit are You....?
created with QuizFarm.com

The tradition of dressing up started because...

2006-10-09T08:49:00.000-04:00

...it's fun!

Halloween Quiz

Your score is 50.

0 - 20: Let's just call you Casper.

21 - 40: You're a sorcerer's apprentice.

41 - 50: You devil you.

Plug Him

2006-10-06T08:23:00.000-04:00

Who buys this stuff? Imagine all of the materials and manufacturing that goes into creating foolish getups.

Damn Girl Friday Random Ten

2006-10-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

1) Nasty Naughty Boy – Christina Aguilera
2) So Excited – Janet Jackson
3) Damn Girl – Justin Timberlake
4) Come Dance With Me – Diana Krall
5) Slow Dancing In A Burning Room – John Mayer
6) J'ai Deux Amours - Madeleine Peyroux
7) Candyman – Christina Aguilera
8) Get It Out Me – Janet Jackson
9) I Got Trouble – Christina Aguilera
10) Autumn Leaves – Diana Krall

Morgen's Halloween-Theme Meme

2006-10-05T16:40:00.000-04:00

Morgen invited me play his Halloween Meme Game. His answers were more entertaining than mine. I am tagging Melissa, Howard, Frank, Trek and Pax for this one.

1. What's the scariest movie you've ever seen?
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986) I snuck into a theater on the Wildwood boardwalk with John G. who was my boyfriend at the time and my girlfriend, Kate. I was 14, Kate was 15 and John was 16. I’ve never seen a Friday the 13th film since. I don’t enjoy being so scared that I feel like I might wet my panties for two hours.

2. What was your favorite Halloween Costume from childhood?
When I was twelve, my mom took the time to sew a letter “A” on my favorite sweater to go with my cheerleading skirt and saddle shoes. She put a black beauty mark on my cheek and painted my lips pink. She also put my hair in ponytails tied with red ribbons. I felt very pretty when she was finished.

3. If you had an unlimited budget, what would your Fantasy Costume be for this Halloween?
I love playing dress up, so I want a whole closet full of cool costumes!

4. When was the last time you went Trick or Treating?
I still go every year with my children, but I gave up collecting my own candy when I was thirteen. Now, I just steal theirs.

5. What's your favorite Halloween Candy?
Twizlers

6. Tell us about a scary nightmare you had.
I rarely have nightmares. When I was a little girl, I used to have a dream about a wolf chasing me home from school and blocking my path across the creek to my house. I must have read Little Red Riding Hood too often in kindergarten.

7. What is your Supernatural Fear?
I don’t have one, but if there are ghosts I’d like my mom to visit me.

8. What is your Creepy-Crawly Fear?
I’m not fond of insects or snakes! Remember the episode from the Brady Bunch when they woke up with that gigantic spider on them?

9. Tell us about a time when you saw a ghost, or heard something go bump in the night.
I don’t believe in ghosts and things are quiet on my suburban street at night. The only bumping I hear happens under my soft Jersey sheets.

10. Would you ever stay in a real Haunted House overnight?
It would be fun to have a sleepover party. I love to play Truth or Dare?!

11. Are you a traditionalist (just a face) Jack O'Lantern Carver, or do you get really creative with your pumpkins?
I usually carve the same face that I learned as a kid, which consists of three triangles for the eyes and nose and a big toothy grin for the mouth.

12. How much do you decorate your home for Halloween?
I like to put a velvet black ribbon around the maple tree in my front yard. We also have a big, blow up Jack-O-Lantern that sounds like a vacuum cleaner. I also put decorations on my front windows.

13. What do you want on your Tombstone?
Tombstone? I’m a vampire. We’re immortal.

Captain Condom

2006-10-05T10:39:00.000-04:00

This guy looks like a d**khead rather than a condom to me.

Mom?

2006-10-05T09:17:00.000-04:00

Yesterday felt like a pleasant day in June. I went for a long walk at a local trail. Sweating in the sunshine felt good. The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson is one of my favorite sexy and inspirational walking beats. I also downloaded Christina Aguilera’s new CD. I love its retro sound!

I spent most of my walk alone on the track. I was trying to absorb myself in the music. I stopped singing abruptly when a woman who reminded me of my mother smiled at me as she walked by. My mood immediately sunk.

Once in a while I find myself searching for my mom in stranger’s faces. I find myself thinking, Are you my mother? It reminds me of a book by P.D. Eastman that I used to read to my kids when they were little.

I miss having my mom next to me.

Pink Monster

2006-10-04T11:32:00.001-04:00

This Halloween costume is so stupid looking that it cracked me up. Imagine wearing this. How much fun would it be to look so completely ridiculous?!

I loved Frankenberry cereal when I was little. Check out this great 34-second computer animated redux of a classic Frankenberry cereal commercial.

Silly Halloween Stuff

2006-10-03T13:45:00.001-04:00

You Are

A Happy Pumpkin Face

You would make a good pumpkin cheesecake.

What's Your Pumpkin Face?

Halloween Horoscope for Scorpio

Halloween is your favorite holiday for scaring and shocking others.
You like to bring out your alternate persona on Halloween - and have the night of your life.

Costume suggestions: A freaky monster or prince / princess of darkness.

Signature Halloween candy: Candy cigarettes

What's Your Halloween Horoscope?

Your Haloween Costume Should Be

A Girl Scout

What Should You Be For Halloween?

Your Monster Profile

Wild Lunatic

You Feast On: Power Bars

You Lurk Around In: Olive Gardens

You Especially Like to Torment: Cops

What's Your Monster Name?

Tootsie Roll Pop

It only takes three licks to get to your center!

What Kind of Candy Are You?

Your Sexy Halloween Costume Is

Cocktail Bunny

What Sexy Halloween Costume Are You?

Swoop, Here It Is!

2006-10-03T12:22:00.000-04:00

SWOOP is a wacky Eagle who excites football frenzied fans at Lincoln Financial Field. In addition to his crowd-raising antics at home games, the community-conscious character also makes appearances throughout the Philadelphia region.

2006 Eagles Season

Millennium Eagles Stats Page

Eagles Fight Song

Fly Eagles Fly, On The Road To Victory.
Fight Eagles Fight, Score A Touchdown 1-2-3.
Hit 'Em Low. Hit 'Em High.
And We'll Watch Our Eagles Fly.
Fly Eagles Fly, On The Road To Victory.
E-A-G-L-E-S, EAGLES!!!

Listen To The Eagles Fight Song "new vocal version"...

Listen To The Eagles Cheer "E-A-G-L-E-S"...

Play Pacman

2006-10-02T11:16:00.000-04:00

Play

Cute Tee

2006-10-02T10:54:00.000-04:00

I'm going to have to buy this t-shirt.

Second Annual Showing

2006-10-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

It’s October, which means it’s time for the Fifth Annual Blogger Boobie-Thon.

I flashed for breast cancer awareness month last October, too.

This was my submission for this year…

Breathing Earth

2006-10-02T09:45:00.000-04:00

This pretty cool website contains a map of the world like the one shown here. Once you log on, it will show you how many births and how many deaths are happening right now. It will also show you where they are taking place. You can put your mouse over any country and it will show you the population, and births and deaths the country experiences per second -- and how much CO2 is being emitted.

No Wild Card

2006-10-02T09:12:00.000-04:00

The Phils won their final chance game, but the other teams won more games. Reading this helped wrap up the Phillies baseball season for me...

It Was Fun While It Lasted by Mike of A Citizen's Blog.

Jos & Dahl

2006-09-30T11:50:00.000-04:00

Remembering Mike

2006-09-29T16:14:00.001-04:00

A little more than a decade ago, we moved to the northwestern most section of Montgomery County, which is on the opposite end of the county from where my husband and I grew up. It’s the country side. I briefly mentioned the setting during those four years of my life in an old post called My Splendid Suburban Lifestyle. (After reading it again, I realize that I really sounded like a snob.) I didn’t refer to the area very fondly, even though it had its charm, but I had neighbors who we liked -- and who left a lasting impression on me.

Mike and Kathy were the lively and friendly neighbors who lived on the west side of our tall and skinny old farmhouse. The ones on the east side of our property were deceased, as we lived next to a small church & cemetery, and therefore weren’t part of our evening chats.

Our neighbor’s young blonde daughter shared the same patch of big backyard as our young blonde son, so the lumpy green carpet was a place to hang out and play in the evenings after dinner and on the weekends.

Mike arrived home from work early every evening. He drove a somewhat battered blue, Ford pick-up truck. Its ruggedness matched his. His muscular physique and hardened hands told of his long and laborious days as a mason. His handsome face, warm eyes and extraordinarily loud metal music tickled me with electricity. He was ten years older than me, but didn’t look it. I was attracted to him – and he was attracted to me. However, I tried very hard not let it show while in his presence. He was vocal on several occasions about his interest in me.

One Saturday afternoon in early summer, he pulled noisily into his driveway. I observed his arrival, while waiting on my front lawn for a girlfriend to pick me up to go to the local swimming pool. I was wearing a stunning red swim suit. It made me feel sexy and shy.

Mike got out of his truck and began crossing the lawn toward me. I noticed that his white dress shirt was halfway unbuttoned down his tanned, blonde chest. He smelled like man – a sexy, sweaty man with alcohol on his breath. He stumbled over his own feet as he approached me, but it didn’t seem to faze him. He kept walking toward me. We stood breathing a foot apart for what felt like several minutes. He explained his dressy attire, as our eyes remained locked. I don’t remember if I replied. I just remember feeling magnetized.

There were other times I walked away from the fact that I was drawn to him. He would make comments about my appearance when we crossed paths, even at our shared burn pit. Burning yard waste was even appealing in his presence. He told me I was beautiful whenever I was near him. His eyes made me feel powerfully feminine.

He often stopped by our house to offer us some of his freshly processed kills. Mike was a hunter. My husband and son appreciated his sausages and jerky. I refrained from eating it because it reeked of garlic and I wasn’t fond of the idea of eating deer.

Handsome Mike hunted with my handsome husband on a few occasions. They were buddies. They both worked in construction, loved fishing, guns, archery and the thrill of a fresh kill. Mike would knock on our door to show off a carcass whenever he scored some local game.

One warm and dark evening, Mike knocked on our door to warn us not to come outside. He told us that he was going to put down his dog, Max. The hunting dog bit his elderly neighbor’s rear end, while she was trying to give the him a bowl of water. Her husband came to our house to share the ugly photos of her bruised and bitten booty. Mike felt obligated to shoot the Springer Spaniel and bury him behind our properties, which made me very sad.

One spring afternoon, I banged on Mike’s door in a panic, after my six-year-old son wiped out on his new bike. He skidded on the rock hill that snaked through the farm behind our houses. My little boy got road rash from head to toe. Mike watched my crawling daughter, while I cleaned my son’s scrapes. He sat on the toilet in my bathroom and gazed at me, while I put ointment and band aids all over my brave son. After my son left, we were alone in my tiny bathroom. I found it hard to breathe. I wanted to straddle his lap and sit glued against him until we melted into each other, but I walked out of the room and thanked him for his help.

Mike often joined my son and me in our yard whenever we played soccer or wiffleball. He practiced shooting arrows at archery targets with my son and husband. One fall evening, he hit golf balls deep into the corn field behind our houses with my son. His shed door was open, as I followed them passed. We paused briefly at the doorway and silently considered the intimacy and privacy of the small empty shed. However, we chose not to give into temptation. We were never unfaithful to our spouses even though our senses were gripped by an almost desperate, natural lust.

He kissed me goodnight one cool evening when we were going inside from his daughter’s backyard birthday party. The taste of his lips lingered on mine as I walked away from him. I also kept thinking about how his hands felt like sandpaper.

I never offered him a reciprocal compliment, although I wish that I had. It may have cooled us down if I had been honest, too. However, I wasn’t sure enough to give it a try. I would usually just blush when he said sexy things and then walk quickly away from him.

His cute wife was a nice lady. She was a smart, down-to-earth and petite brunette. I sensed that being married to Mike was a challenge. He tended to occasionally drink too much and say inappropriate things. Neither of us ever shared our marital woes, although we lived close enough to each other to have an understanding without verbalizing our problems.

On the hot, late summer day when we moved away, we didn’t expect to see our neighbors. However, Mike had come home early. He explained that he had gotten dizzy and felt like he was having a heart attack from the heat at work. He seemed like he had been drinking. We needed to give our house a final cleaning prior to settlement. We borrowed their vacuum. Kathy told me that my yellow sundress was pretty. I smiled and thanked her.

They both came outside to share a final conversation. We stood in our backyard beside a cherry tree. Mike asked me to lie on the grass and uncross my legs, followed by three other surprising statements. Our spouses were standing beside us. None of us acknowledged what he had just said.

Upon leaving my very first house for the final time that day, I knew that I wouldn’t miss it, but I knew that I would miss Mike. It was probably a good thing that we made the move. I’m not sure how much longer my willpower would have won.

My husband and I drove by our old house about four months ago to see if the new owners had made any improvements. We also planned to knock on Mike and Kathy’s door to say hello and catch up. We were in the area to go fishing at a nearby reservoir, which is full of bass, catfish and crappies. We hoped that they would join us. However, when we arrived we noticed that there was a For Sale sign in front of their house. I tried to mask my disappointment, although my husband had been aware of our mutual crush. He was pretty cool about it.

My husband called me from his jobsite today to deliver news, which immediately stole my breath and made me nauseous. He said, “The reason no one was home at the R***’s house is because Mike is dead.” I whispered, “What?” He replied, “Yeah, I’m working with some guys at the site here who are from our old neighborhood. We got to talking about the area and they knew it. They even knew the old one roomed school house where the R***’s lived. One of the guys grew up with Mike and the other one used to work with him. They said that Mike shot himself after a standoff with the cops. There were helicopters and everything. Mike fired two warning shots and then turned the gun on himself.

He called Kathy and told her that he was going to do it. She called the cops and they arrived with an ambulance. Kathy had recently left Mike and got custody of their two children. She got half of the house, so they had to sell it. I guess that’s why he did it.”

I can’t even explain how saddened I feel, especially for his children and family.

I even feel sorry for myself, since I will never get to see him again, which is silly since we moved away several years ago.

I told my son about it when he came home from school this afternoon. He said, “I really liked that guy. He did a lot of fun stuff with me when I was little.” I said, “Yeah buddy, it is really sad that he is gone.”

*This photo of me was taken two days before we moved away.

I wish that I had a photo of Mike.

*Update 10/2/06

Dear Daniel Rubin,

Thank you for taking the time to find this obituary in your special secret midnight reporter's database, as you know I googled and came up with nothing. You're a really cool guy!

This information confirmed what I really didn't want to believe. However, I felt like I needed to read it.

Michael ****, 43, died February 16, 2006 in his home. He was a mason for the past 25 years. He attended Lutheran church. He was a member of a sportmens association, fire company and gun club. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

*Update 10/3/06 - I was so floored by this tragedy that I let my feelings pour out without considering accuracy. I shared the story as it was told to me. I have learned that it was somewhat inaccurate.

Mike passed away on Feb 16th at 7:30 am. He died from a single gun shot wound to the head. The day that Mike died, the sheriff showed up to arrest Mike for a DUI. Mike had failed to show up to court for this offense. On the day he died, Mike fired exactly one shot, the shot that took his life. Mike never fired warning shots nor fired at the police. The Chief of Police quoted this in the local paper.

I realize that no one is responsible for Mike's death but Mike.

I also know that you cannot love someone enough to change them.

Feel Good Friday Random Ten

2006-09-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

1) What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
2) We Live – Superchick
3) Feeling Groovy – Simon and Garfunkle
4) I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown
5) Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles
6) Peaceful Easy Feeling – Eagles
7) Good Day Sunshine – Beatles
8) Sing A Song – Earth, Wind and Fire
9) It's A Miracle – Barry Manilow
10) I Feel Pretty – Maria (West Side Story)

Sweet & Sour

2006-09-28T10:47:00.001-04:00

My daughter started singing a spontaneous song last night…

Kitty was stuck in a tree
She said help me
Daddy came by and sang a lullaby
Kitty came down and gave him a crown
And they all lived happily after

…after my husband went outside to rescue our kitten from a tall lilac tree in our backyard. (The kitty sneaks out of the door sometimes when we take our puppy outside. This was the third time in as many days that he had to climb the same tree.) My daughter was happily hugging Dahlia when she suddenly paused and exclaimed, “Mom, she’s puzzing!” I giggled and said, “Don’t you mean purring?” She said, “No, she’s puzzing, listen.” She held the cat up next to my ear. Her fur tickled. I said, "Well, I guess it sounds a little like puzz puzz." Next, she walked over to her brother and put her up to his ear. He said, “Yeah, she’s purring and next time road meat gets stuck up in that tree we’re leaving her there overnight until she ends up like Mr. Bigglesworth.”