Watch the 47th Grammy's and look for DVR's Wife and Producer, Andrea Vuocolo Vanronk, and our beloved Christine Lavin [who helped edit it] February 13, 2005 8PM on CBS.
William Valdez is our Son-in-Law Extrodinaire. You can support our troops via this site, and support William, personally, if you wish. His TFT ID is 1862195 Thank you!
Uneffingbelievable!!! And I just can't blame Reps only with the caving ot the congress not standing firm on their timeline to get the troops out...but I just heard on Keith Olberman's Countdown that our local area military base, Fort Lewis, has decided that the numbers of our troops now dying are too high to have individual services, instead, starting June, they will, instead, have group monthly service [including 3 more today via a car bomb at a police station]!!!
Tacoma, WA - Thursday, May 31, 2007
Fort Lewis Moves to Monthly Memorial Switch Reflects Reality, Says Top Post Chaplain
MICHAEL GILBERT; The News Tribune Last updated: May 30th, 2007 01:21 AM (PDT) "Fort Lewis, which this month has suffered its worst losses of the war, will no longer conduct individual memorial ceremonies for soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Instead the post will hold one ceremony for all soldiers killed each month, the Fort Lewis acting commanding general, Brig. Gen. William Troy, wrote in a memo to commanders and staff last week.
“As much as we would like to think otherwise, I am afraid that with the number of soldiers we now have in harm’s way, our losses will preclude us from continuing to do individual memorial ceremonies,” Troy wrote in the memo, according to a copy obtained by United for Peace Pierce County and posted on the group’s Web site.
A post spokesman confirmed the policy change Tuesday. It will start in June.
There are some 10,000 Fort Lewis troops in Iraq, more than at any other time since the March 2003 invasion. The post has reported 16 soldiers killed there so far in May, by far the most in any month of the war.
The previous worst month was December 2004, when nine soldiers were killed, including six in the Mosul chow hall bombing. In all overseas deployments since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, 124 Fort Lewis soldiers have died." [snip] read more..
OK, I've been posting and touting people who are democratic candidates, but today is a HUGE straw for me...this camel is on the verge of breaking with their lack of spine. How on earth can I vote for any of the candidates who have made promises to end the war, and to force Bush's hand until he takes the bill as the only way to get money to the troops, and then they cave like this?
They have all let me down.
I will accept no excuse. I don't care if Bush wouldn't pass the bill. I truly don't accept any reason they have; they can not convince me they are different than any other politician, who breaks promises. They were all voted in based on their campaign promises, and the hope of their convictions, but nope, they blew it in a very big way.
Bush gets to approve these "markers" and we know he'll continue to be self-serving, and, of course, there has been no realistic proposal from any politician yet as to how to pull out of Iraq. So, if the Dems get in, which methinks is getting less and less likely, they start from a hugely negative place. A debt that is beyond words, unrest at home, a mistrust of politicians, a global dislike if not hatred from the world, and our kids in Iraq.
They will prolly end up, if Bush keeps stalling, having to create a draft so our boys and girls can get a respite. Now we know that isn't gonna make the public happy. And, they'll have to raise taxes to deal with the health care, the social security benefits, and our debt. That will make everyone unhappy as well.
And, with the global warming, there will be "fire" after "fire" needing money and people-power to get them aid. That will create more inroads of unhappiness yet again. It's a lousy election facin the winners of '08.
And, if Hillary gets in, they'll blame the incompentency on "women", and if Obama gets in, people will pull out the "he's black" card, and the republicans will spin spin spin it so that sexism and racism finds a resurgance. That will be unbearable.
I don't know what to do, I'm not smart enough to have a plan. But, I know that inaction, and not sticking up for one's principles, is not a way to achieve or inspire any resolutions. This is the first year that I'm really thinking that if someone from a different party appears viable, they may be getting my vote, and it won't be a "throw-away" vote -- as of now, either of the 2 parties getting my vote will be a known factor, and that is an honest to goodness throw away vote for sure.
I hope someone bites the bullet and proves to me they are truly dedicated and worthy. Right now, I'm just scared and nervous about what has not been accomplished with the country behind them in 2004. And, yes, to date, the Reps are worse, but that has never been a surprise, especially with dubya - he's either insane, dim-witted, narcissistic, evil, ignorant, psychotic, pathological liar [aka mythomania], or any combination of the afore mentioned adjectives.
Support the troops! End the War !!! is the name of a site of merit. It's John Edward's site which leaves no doubt about being pro-troops, and anti-war, and proving it is NOT an oxymoron. No one can see loopholes here with this site name...well, then again, I have to imagine people being "creative" and finding a way to dispute it...seems to be a theme the past 6+ years, eh?
So, John is requesting Memorial Day Weekend be more than simple picnics and fireworks viewing, and I think it's a great idea. He also has a map with local area events to check out and see if it's a fit for us'all. Last night while watching Lewis Black's HBO special, I loved all he said, but left it feeling so bereft of hope for peace and /or a good candidate. I told Gordy that I don't think that there is anyone really who can change things around at this point, that in my fantasy, if Bush stops the war because of the Dem's [and some Reps] voting, and he allows his hand to be "forced" to bring the troops home safely, it can work, as both sides can say, "Not me" no matter which side a person is on regarding war v. no war in Iraq. They can finger-point to the other side to their heart's content.
I just couldn't see a way that this will end. And I don't see a bright or better planet or government or..anything I'm leaving to the wee ones, Robyn, Mike and Evan. This is truly overwhelming to me. I've been fighting all my life for things, doing it "my" way, or as I prefer to say, I'm avante garde or passe' but not au courant .
But, waltzing into this site, and seeing that this site is a good effort to straddle the line honoring the troops while getting them home, and hearing John Edwards message, and noting that this site is paid for by John Edwards for President, well, it's heartwarming. John is already working and paying to make things happen v. just campaigning. This is a new type of candidate--a working candidate, go figure. One can only hope, and hope has been long gone in my vocabulary. The site he supports about bringing the troops home from Irag is here, and his campaign site is here.
So, please check out the site, and look at this map, and maybe join in the effort to bring our men and women home ASAP and safely. Thank you!
Ooopsie, almost forgot, when we were telling her about the logisitcs of a wedding, she "heard" it and was so excited and smiley and happy for us, and for me. The world according to Gerry, always has been that her daughter must be married to be happy. I know she's projecting her own needs and life onto me, but she was truly delighted, and she loves Gordy so much, and i dunno if they ever stopped holding hands. ahhhhhh :-) ##
Oh I wish I had a camera last night for our visit and supper with Mom! We got in late, mostly because of huge traffic that Gordy had to fight going down there...ugh. Despite his feeling pooped and raw, he was "up" for our visit with Mom, so she had no idea.
Like the old days, Gordy leaned back in the "comfy" chair there, and rested, no slept, nor even managed a nap, but as close as he could get to one and still be present...and Mom smiled and looked at it, and encouraged it. Very sweet.
When we left, Mom wanted to come with, and was on a verge of an outburst of sorts, but after we left, I hope she could be diverted. Her memory was very good yesterday, and she looked so pretty again, but not flushed, just normal. She still manages to remain gorgeous, methinks I am still acting as her live Dorian Gray picture .
I brought the one bright red poppy that bloomed, and put it in my water bottle - after the drive, she was a tad worse for the trip, but still appreciated by Mom - and again, I brought placemats, and our "dish towels" as "fancy napkins" [and great for clean up too if needed], and this time, I grabbed some of our "flame-less" tea lights, and put them on bright yellow-gold napkins.
We turned down one light in the room, and it was softer, and seemed more separate than the rest of the hospital. I also maneuvered it so Mom was looking at the inside wall instead of the 2 glass walls, so she wasn't as distracted. I also loaded my faux mp3 player with some tunes from the past, songs she used to sing to me, our favorites according to Mom like "Que Sera Sera" and "My Little Corner of the World" and some other goodies from the 20's, 30's and 40's. We also had some broadway mixed in, and towards the end Mom and I were singing and boogying in our seats.
Kim supplied the lemon squares....oooh, Mom loved it, and then added some chocolate pudding to it, and reveled in it -- I love to see her enjoy pieces of life. Kim also created a puree of roasted vegetables in a chicken broth, which the visual appeal wasn't there, but when she tasted it...yes!
Gordy made the squish with love, and I made "American spaghetti" [don't ask, it's comfort food to our family] and she loved it, and it was a hit! Yes! And it's good to mush other flavors or food in it, and so Mom did with relish [not literally relish hehe].
Last time bringing some cabbage soup turned out to be not so good, as the veggies can get "stuck", so I decided to get some "broth" from the soup, and she enjoyed that, especially when coaxed to mix it with her spaghetti. Kewl Beanz [no, litertally no beans either].
It jusy all hit the spot, not a lot of stress to chat etc., it came out easy this time.
Mom ALWAYS knows Aunt Joan, and I think it took a few seconds to "see" me, but once she did, she knew me big time. She also managed to have a REAL big memory -- she commented on my hair a few times, but all of a sudden, she said, "you cut it didn't you -- it looks good"...and I think it's real, not a disconnect which was very neat.
Being a belated "mother's day supper" I phoned Jim and Mary, but they were either asleep or not home, as we got the Machine, but Mom talked a while on it, understanding the concept of answering machine, which is huge, it's so abstract, and she talked and talked, and said "sweetheart" and sent her love and asked him to visit etc. so she "knew".
She was aware of her not knowing or not speaking well too. Which is a hard concept as well. And she didn't play games, if she didn't know someone, she asked who they were. And if she didn't recall, we let it go.
I have not mentioned, I don't think, a neat letter I received from her team [signed by all, too, which makes it extra special] where they answer some questions I asked, and hinted at the possibility that if Mom stays at this level of behaviour, she could be discharged -- holy sh**!!! Dare to dream? And dare to pray that the state will approve Careage, the back room which is secure? Oh that would be heaven on earth.
Well, actually, if Careage hired Joe and Bob and Tammy and Nicole and some more of the staff on her team, then it would be heaven on earth -- they all are brilliant and amazing at what they do, and how they care for and about everyone, but most importantly, Mom. They all know she's special, and can recognize her sense of humor. They are the best people, honestly. They make Mom's being there palatable for her, but prolly even more for me, because I know there are loving and professional people there with and for her. It's hard enough to live with the reality that she's there, but add the staff, and it makes it less guilt-inducing, and I feel less the failure for her care. Stellar employees, especially E-8, I can't speak to any other wards.
We still want to have a "picnic" with Doris, we missed both Mother's days...she's a sweetheart, and we want to spend some time with her and have her be out of her facility too -- although it's an assisted living home, with 4-6 people max living there, so it's nicer and more intimate.
Well, the only other news, is that Jenny may be driving here for her reunion, so that means some more Coale-people and Valdez-people will be here! We already have dibs on the kids one night, and having a BBQ here. Now it's time to cross fingers etc.
Physically, I'm taking pain pills daily, which is too much, but my left side is killer. The gashed foot is pretty well healed [no puns now] but it still is tender. I've no clue what this pain is about, and why so HUGE. I need to reach Mandy and co., and see if its time for a Clear Passage trip.
Ooops, one more major Mom thing, she was reading way better, even potentially "hard" words like 'mocha' etc. which is exciting to see her recoup some of that loss.
I love my Mother sooooo much. I miss her. I need her, and pray she'll find herself feeling well and living nearby soonest. ##
I've been "playing" phone tag with my Aunt Joan, and it's very frustrating. Her most recent message said that her Mom wasn't doing well, she had a stroke! Damn. Of course I'm sending positive energy back east, and hoping Grace [Joan's Mom] is getting some healing vibes, and is feeling no pain or frustration...loving people can be really tough -- no big secret, eh?
As always, I'd appreciate any prayers, energy, etc. you can send her way. Thank you, and I'll keep trying to catch up with Joan.
More health issues with Moms, since I heard from my dear friend, Jacqueline. She is not doing well either, but just today I received a note saying the MDs are pretty hopeful that she can come home soon. It will be tough on my sweet friend, but the other options would be pretty horrific, and so I hope that she will hire some help and not wear herself down caring for Mom.
From my perspective, I'd tell anyone to find a way to not be "the" caregiver, delegate that piece, and be a buddy instead, spend time with your loved one, eating, not working the medicine angle, or cleaning, or potty breaks, etc. This is a chance to have some warm memories and make a connection, strong if it's historically weak, or even stronger with nicer memories, and fun and laughs. Beg borrow or steal the money to get someone else to do the physical care. My .02 fer free.
Again, a request for love and light to my friends and family's health and good spirits. Thank you. ##
Like lemmings?!? Wolvowitz stepping down and Gonzales says me too today? Yikes...Gonzalez is remembering things now that McNulty left? Too convoluted for my wee brain.
[Big] BAD Wolf (all the fallout is coloring me more and more afraid...)
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Embattled World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz will resign at the end of June, his leadership undermined by the generous compensation he arranged for his girlfriend.
His departure was announced late Thursday by the World Bank board.
Wolfowitz's departure ends a two-year run at the development bank that was marked by controversy from the start, given his previous role as a major architect of the Iraq war when he served as the No. 2 official at the Pentagon.
"He assured us that he acted ethically and in good faith in what he believed were the best interests of the institution and we accept that," the board said in its announcement of his resignation.
His departure was all but forced, however, by the finding of a special bank panel that he violated conflict-of-interest rules in his handling of the 2005 pay package of bank employee Shaha Riza.
WASHINGTON, May 17 — Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales’s standing in Congress became even shakier today as Senate Democrats called for a vote of no confidence in him, and the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee and others predicted that the furor over Mr. Gonzales’s leadership of the Justice Department would end with his resignation.
Mr. Gonzales’s position was weakened by disclosures this week about his involvement in 2004, when he was White House counsel, in an attempt to circumvent Justice Department officials who had refused to renew authority for the Bush administration’s secret domestic eavesdropping program.
Those disclosures were cited this afternoon by Senators Charles E. Schumer of New York and Dianne Feinstein of California, both Democrats on the Judiciary Committee, called for a no-confidence vote on Mr. Gonzales.
“We need an attorney general who is a prosecutor, not a puppet,” said Mr. Schumer, who has been one of Mr. Gonzales’s sternest critics.
Ms. Feinstein said Mr. Gonzales’s record had caused her to have “a significant loss of confidence” in him. “Simply put, I don’t think the American people are well served by this attorney general,” she said.
Mr. Gonzales cannot be removed by a Senate no-confidence vote, but Mr. Schumer said it would send “a powerful message” to the White House.
Adding to the pressures on Mr. Gonzales was a report in The Washington Post today that identified additional United States attorneys whose names had appeared on various Justice Department lists in 2005 and 2006 as potential candidates for dismissal. Mr. Gonzales is already come under severe criticism for the removal of at least eight federal prosecutors last year.
It has been known that the names of a number of prosecutors were added and removed from Justice Department lists as officials planned the firings. The latest account, confirmed by government officials, said that as many as 26 prosecutors had been considered for removal. [snip] With the new disclosures have come additional bad news for Mr. Gonzales, as more Republicans have said he should realize it is time to quit.
“When you have to spend more time up here on Capitol Hill instead of running the Justice Department, maybe you ought to think about it.” Senator Pat Roberts of Kansas said. Earlier this week, Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska joined the Republicans calling for Mr. Gonzales to step aside.
At the same time, Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania, the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, all but predicted Mr. Gonzales’s departure. came closer to saying that Mr. Gonzales was finished.
“I have a sense that when we finish our investigation, we may have the conclusion of the tenure of the attorney general,” Mr. Specter said today at a meeting of the Judiciary Committee.
At a news conference this morning, President Bush would not discuss whether he had ordered Mr. Gonzales and Andrew H. Card Jr., then White House chief of staff, to the sickbed of John Ashcroft, then the attorney general, to obtain his signature on an order reauthorizing the surveillance program.
In Congressional testimony on Tuesday, a former deputy attorney general, James B. Comey, suggested that Mr. Bush might have sent the two officials to Mr. Ashcroft on March 10, 2004, after he and other Justice Department officials had concluded the surveillance program did not comply with the law and refused to sign the renewal directive. Mr. Ashcroft was hospitalized with a serious illness at the time.
“There’s a lot of speculation about what happened and what didn’t happen,” Mr. Bush said. “I’m not going to talk about it.” [snip] David Stout contributed reporting.
WASHINGTON, May 14 — Paul J. McNulty, the deputy attorney general whose Congressional testimony in February provided a spark that turned a smoldering issue over the firings of federal prosecutors into a raging inferno, announced his resignation on Monday.
Mr. McNulty, the fourth and highest-ranking Justice Department official to resign since the uproar began in Congress over the dismissals of the United States attorneys, had told friends for weeks that he was planning to step aside.
In a letter to Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales, Mr. McNulty said he would remain at the Justice Department until late summer, adding “The financial realities of college-age children and two decades of public service lead me to a long overdue transition in my career.”
The departure of another senior aide at the Justice Department appeared to leave the attorney general in a somewhat more isolated position. But with President Bush’s support, Mr. Gonzales has so far fended off demands by Democrats and some Republicans who have called on him to resign.
Mr. McNulty, 49, will leave after spending more than two decades in a variety of positions at the Justice Department and on Capitol Hill. He was a United States attorney in Virginia before taking the deputy’s job in November 2005.
Mr. Gonzales said in a statement that the Justice Department “will be losing a thoughtful and dynamic leader,” citing Mr. McNulty’s efforts on corporate and procurement fraud issues and in creating a new legal system in Iraq.
In a brief interview, Mr. McNulty said that his years working at the Justice Department and as a Congressional staff member had been “extraordinarily rewarding” and that he would soon begin looking for a legal job outside the government.
But friends said that Mr. McNulty had long chafed in his role as second in command under Mr. Gonzales and had realized that the furor over the prosecutors had probably ended his hope to be named to a seat on a federal appeals court.
Mr. McNulty, whose affable presence was said by friends to conceal an aggressively conservative approach to legal issues, had been shaken by the intensity of the storm over the removals and the sometimes sharp personal criticism directed at him from the White House and former Republican allies.
At times, Mr. McNulty found himself pushed aside by D. Kyle Sampson, the former chief of staff to Mr. Gonzales, who granted Mr. Sampson wide-ranging authority, especially in personnel matters.
Mr. McNulty blamed himself for failing to resist the dismissal plan when Mr. Sampson brought it to him in October 2006, according to associates. He took one prosecutor off the removal list but acquiesced to the removal of seven others, according to Congressional aides’ accounts of his private testimony to Congress on April 27.
[snip] White House aides complained privately that Mr. McNulty’s testimony gave Democrats a significant opening to demand more testimony from the Justice Department and presidential aides. Several aides said he should have been combative in defending the dismissals. [snip]
No sleep and painstuff makes my brain scramble, but add these events upon events, and I can't even think about thinking anymore. ##
On TV is a very informative, but not necessarily my experience with Mom, about Alzheimer's on KBTC, a PBS station we now get.
Expectations: Living With Alzheimer's Disease
Right now they are showing a "group" and I never was a "group" kinda gal, and this support group just "validating" isn't so swell, I feel such the failure with Mom's care, and alone and sad to boot. I just with I could create that twinkle that is so Gerry.
She's so lonely, and I can't be there for her phsycally still.
I have huge "empathy" whether it's what she's honestly feeling or not, but we're pretty close, one of my "issues" growing up -- separating us -- so I think I may be more right than wrong in what she's feeling. Add her crying phase of late, and her worse walking 'cuz of the Rx impacting her walking.
They just came up with some "got my gut" experiences with Mom, re: "combatative" behaviour, rummaging, hiding things, crying out, etc...shit...poor Mama, she can't help herself, how do I make her feel safe again?
Damnitall. so sad to watch...so effing sad! So true, talk of giving Mom a bath, and "creative white lies" and, of course, keep a sense of humor.
So scary, so sad. I love her, and if love could make it all better, she would be happy and joyful and Gerry.
..now they're talking about the "final stage" and "letting go", and there could be some good feelings of worth the "caregiver" could have. No effing way for me. I want her here, I want her alive and Mom. • • Later...
• • •
They just said your can order this from wfwa.org if you want, here's their synopsis about this program [FWIW, there's a good chance you may be able to rent it from your local library]. 20-20 Hindsight, if I had this early on, I may have done things differently, and with a greater knowledge that the books didn't offer me -- but, then again, maybe not?:
PBS39's documentary special, EXPECTATIONS: LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, profiles how families and caregivers cope and adapt and care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s Disease.
This documentary has been released for airing to public television stations nationwide through NETA (the National Educational Telecommunications Association).
While the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease are clear in very broad scientific terms and treatments and research have greatly improved, Alzheimer’s Disease remains a disease that people cannot fathom striking them; it always happens “to someone else.” Even so, with all the awareness that has been built around the general effects of the disease on those who have it, one facet of the total picture painted by Alzheimer’s Disease remains unexplored: its effect on the families and caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients.
EXPECTATIONS: LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, takes an intimate, poignant look at the other people affected by Alzheimer’s Disease – family members, caregivers and patients in early stages — as they navigate and experience the current continuum of care for Alzheimer’s Disease.
Offering viewers the chance to learn about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and tips on how to cope with a loved one who may become, or may be afflicted, EXPECTATIONS: LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE takes you into their world, illustrating through their stories the problems they have faced, the obstacles they have overcome and the creative and compassionate solutions and resources they have been able to utilize during this experience.
During EXPECTATIONS: LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, you’ll meet:
• Gary: In his late 40s, he was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease. While his wife refused to talk about it and deal with the diagnosis, Gary has focused on squeezing every last drop out of life, maintaining a vigorous lifestyle one day at a time — all while facing the uncertainty of when the disease will advance and change the lives around him.
• Mary: An attorney specializing in Elder Law, Mary also cares for her mother — an Alzheimer’s patient. She provides detail and insight on the legal and personal lessons people should prepare for.
• Dick: Happily retired, the world of he and his wife, Phyllis, was turned upside-down when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Viewers will hear about Dick’s emotional journey from retiree to caregiver for his wife, and also how he was able to accept a transition from total home care to adult day care and beyond.
• The Caregivers: From counselors to experts and Alzheimer's caregivers, you’ll hear stories of creative compassion and uncommon sense in the face of grim odds. These individuals also offer tips on how best to decide when the time is right to make critical decisions, and suggestions on how people can find help within their local community.
At once informative, touching and dramatic, EXPECTATIONS: LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE is a documentary from PBS39 that offers viewers the hope that if they or a loved one becomes diagnosed, the journey they face for the future will not be traveled alone. ##
I'm not going to go into great detail, I'll leave this for Gordy's site, as it's his Grandfather's work, but it's amazing news -- Griffith Baily Coale's artwork was used to create a super looking, and the shape is a triange to add to it's uniqueness, a 41 cent stamp!!
Here's the link to the USPS Stamp site for information about it, and don't forget to stop by Gordy's blog frequently for updates.
Here's an unveiling of this stamp chez "zoe's piece of the pie" :
What the -- I mean, how do these guys manage to all weasel word things and be believed, while the Dems end up on the defense and looking weak and stupid, go figure! Color me frustrated and befuddled.
From "Meet the Press":
MR. RUSSERT: But the duly elected people's bodies, the U.S. Congress and the Iraqi parliament, say they want a troop withdrawal. That's more than a poll. Isn't that the voice of the people?
SEN. McCAIN: Well, the--as far as the Iraqi parliament is concerned, the Iraqi government obviously doesn't feel that way, their--the representatives in their government. Second of all, there is some, a certain amount of domestic political calculations involved there in what the Iraqi, quote, "parliament" said. The Iraqi parliament has their ability to, to voice their views, and I respect them. And I, as I say, I--I'll repeat again, I understand how democracies work. I saw it in Vietnam. I saw it in Vietnam. And I saw it in Vietnam, the predictions, that everything would be a worker's paradise in, in Vietnam if we left. And thousands were executed and millions went to re-education camps. So I, I believe that, that the consequences of failure, and particularly sitting on the large reserves of oil they have, particularly considering the influence of al-Qaeda is concerned, you will see enormous destabilization in the region, and that's my duty. That's my obligation. It's not my privilege. And political calculations should not enter into any information or position that I take on, on a, on an issue of national security.
See Stephen distracted in this fantastic clip I found on Arianna Huffington's site! I stopped by her site, and bookmarked it after seeing her on Bill Maher. You can hear her and Bill and Co. via Itunes, for free, by subscribing to it. Back to Steve and Jane I missed seeing this live, dang it, but this is a hoot -- enjoy.
I dunno if I've mentioned that I am very very blue and depressed of late or not, but I am. Methinks is started around my birthday, having some impact regarding Mom not being there to that "extra special" things that only she does to make a celebration feel personal and special. I have a lovely time, but that "twinkle" of her's was missing.
Of course along with that, I missed my nephew's marriage on the 28th, and I wasn't feeling well, and all sorts of other pieces parts too, but it was bitter-sweet. I know that there will be no more "extra special, high octane joyful Gerry celebrations" in my life.
And, surprisingly enough, living on an Island doesn't preclude, or create a double-negative re: the feeling that "no [wo]man's an Island...I'm sad and feeling alone and heavy hearted.
But, today something unexpected and delightful came via a phone call.
I had written to the folks at WSH and asked about having a wedding [small] at WSH, E-8 area, so Mom could be there. It's not pretty there, so I would not have anyone have to go there, but dear Robby, had said he would get his Reverend certs from ULC, and he'd marry us. So, I asked if there was a way, a room, a place there that we could do a teeny tiny ceremony with just Robby [as JP /Rev], Mom, a care-giver, Gordy and Me [of course Miz Hannah might come too, it all depended on how she felt about being "there" at WSH].
Today Dr Tino phoned me. After the initial intro and heart attack at my end, later to find it was not about Mom, but the request, I started to breathe again , and he said he was phoning about my request.
There is a chapel in the East Wing, 2nd floor [where Mom is] and given the EXTREME circumstances, such as Mom's age, and my bringing my own "JP" /"Rev", that it could be done, BUT, he offered a more exciting idea.
Lakewood *just* opened a City Hall, and it's 2 miles away from WSH, and he said we could get married there, and that someone from the ward could accompany us [when I offered to pay, he said no need - WOW] and that Mom might like an outing, etc.
Holy crap! You KNOW she would!!!
I can see getting her all dressed up in her nice clothes, nay, better still, her OWN clothes, and putting her beloved jewelry on, and then going out to City Hall, and have a "ceremony", just 2 witnesses is all we need, and then exchange vows, and then maybe celebrate with a DQ soft cone [ooooh that's such a treat for her that she hasn't been able to indulge in since she was at HP] and maybe a stroll? OMG, I can't tell you the spirit lift it gave me. I've been feeling so overwhelmed by responsibility, and my inability to do the right thing, or nice thing for Mom, to make her being on this planet more palatable for her.
I even started thinking about how I've hurt my cats, and how Cassie was exposed to a horrible death by coyote, and her suffering, and Yoko's being in pain from her heart and inability to breathe, and that I thought dropping her off at the vet would be a get better thing, instead, on Saturday, when I phoned to see her, as we planned, she had a coronary with Kitty CPR etc. and she was gone.
And then Daphne flying 3k miles with me to WA, and she was old, and deaf and I put her through that, especially when I tried to pamper her w/milk on the flight, and instead, she got the runs, and being in that damn cat caddy [I bought her a seat on the plane, we both went 1st class, our first and last time ] got all messy when we landed, and I took her to the hotel and tried to clean her, and it was so nasty, but no matter how much I love these people and animals, I am not a "good enough" mother of provider...so I am "blue and dragon", but this call, this one call, gave me hope on steroids.
I love the thought of Mom being out and about and safe and looking all pretty and her face delighted and roses and blue twinkles for eyes..sigh. Methinks that Gordy would be willing to marry me just to accomplish this for Mom. He truly cares for her, nay loves her. We'd both do whatever we could to make her days better.
So, thank you Western State Hospital for caring, yet again, and going the extra extra mile. You have to love them.
Were it not for the grandkids, and the cat /pet special trust I'm gonna have, I'd leave my $, life insurance - 100k, to them so these kind folk could make a nicer looking environment to work in, and the residents could live in. I'll prolly leave some, or allocate some from my life insurance, maybe that will give the E-8 folk a nice coffee machine or something? We'll see.
WSH Campus From the Air
But, it can't be said enough that these folks really really really are above and beyond in caring. Thank you again. ##
I used to be Christine Lavin's webmaster, but finally my illness took it's toll, and between no energy and brain farts, I didn't feel I could do the best job she deserves, so Gordy took it over [keeping it in the proverbial family].
Chris just posted a new, haunting, song she wrote, which you can download directly from her site, or feel free to do so here. Share the song, and links as you see fit. Here's the link to the lyrics page.
[To download the MP3 Mac users press Ctrl key and select "Download link target" PC users Right click and select "Save target as..."]
Christine Lavin: vocals/guitar Steve Doyle: bass Robin Batteau: violins Brian Bauers: percussion/SFX Produced by Christine Lavin & Brian Bauers Engineered by Brian Bauers at Midtown Sound, NYC May 7-8, 2007
Christine wrote: ...Herbert's column contained a statistic that haunted me until I wrote this song. I read Bob's column religiously -- he's a terrific and thoughtful writer. After the Virginia Tech massacre, it's clear that something has gone wrong in this country when it comes to guns. Please help get this song into circulation. Thanks so much. ##
YAFT [Yet Another Ferry Threat]. I might as well create a new acronym, because I received more email about a bomt threat that evacuated a different ferry, Bremerton:
Bomb Threat Evacuates Bremerton Ferry
POSTED: 2:21 pm PDT May 8, 2007 UPDATED: 5:21 pm PDT May 8, 2007
BREMERTON, Wash. -- Police evacuated the Walla Walla ferry at the Bremerton dock because of a reported bomb threat Tuesday afternoon.
Ferry officials said the threat was received via phone while the Walla Walla was on the way to Bremerton from Seattle.
When it arrived, the passengers were offloaded and the state patrol investigated. Officials also conducted an investigation at Seattle's Colman dock. The ferry's Bremerton-to-Seattle run was stopped for several hours while police searched the boat and terminals.
Nothing was found, and the run resumed around 4 p.m. The bomb threat was the second to a ferry this week. On Monday, the Spokane ferry was out of service for more than five hours while the state patrol and other agencies responded to a bomb threat note left in a men's restroom.
On very small scale, "the war on 'terror'" [can you have a war on something innocuous, v. a fixed thing...curiouser and curiouser] as this happens occasionally, but I thought i'd post the Bomb threat that stopped a Ferry run.
EDMONDS, Wash. -- A note threatening a bomb on a state ferry at Edmonds has shut down the Edmonds-Kingston route, ferry officials said.
Officials said ferry workers found a note in the car deck restroom on the ferry Spokane and evacuated everyone.
They are evacuating all vehicles.
The Washington State Patrol is at the scene with a full bomb squad response, including a robot and a bomb-sniffing dog.
Washington State Ferries said the route was closed as of 9:28 a.m. The ferry Puyallup was diverted to Seattle.
Just keeping Seattle awake, keep that paranoia nearby [Republican tactics of misdirection through fear] ...not nice to say, but there is truth in their philosophy. One day we'll all become complacent re: Bush et al's continuing game, and end up feeling like they're "crying wolf" until someone gets hurt again. Stooopid scare tactics used amongst their slander, "talking points" and their "bait and switch" speaches simple (yet dangerous) misdirection in hopes of gaining votes v. fear and slander - working it working it....
Color me stoopid. About 7:00PM yesterday, after taking my shower, I decided to change the sheets and comforter, freshen up the bedroom. Gordy was asked to help, but was too slow in coming to my aid for my patience, so I got gobs o' covers and sheets, and walking out of the bathroom, into the bedroom area, I put full force of my stepping forward weight onto something that managed to go up into my foot, and HURT! Youch!
Not only pain, and ambulatory issues, but I bled over stuff, and then we went to the ER.
I anticipated a tetanus shot, but Dr B said no need, and he approved of my cleaning job. They irrigated it, and said no stitches despite the length and deepness of the laceration. They didn't take xrays, cuz I told them I thought it was on wicker, later to find at home that it was plastic and metal..but oh well for now. He didn't see anything to worry about, and cleaning it prolly did the rest if something got in.
So, no sleep last night at all, and the night before maybe 2-3 hours? Am on adrenaline.
I bled through the dressing they put on, so I did my own last night, but later /earlier? this AM, I did it again cuz is hurting and I saw more blood.
I've also been icing it.
So, to state the obvious, I (we) didn't get to go to the Street Dance at Mukilteo Coffee Co where Robby works. Dang.
So, I'm not happy, it adds to the "Excuses" /reasons? to not do the treadmill, for a while.
I go to see Linda again about my CPAp machine, my nose gets icky and dry so it's not working or helping. Hence I postponed the follow up sleep study. Speaking of follow ups, I have to get my 6 month diagnostic mammogram - I'm nervous of course.
Mom's day is coming up fast. When I saw her Tuesday, despite her better "mood" and appearance, as we drove home, I had a huge cry. I'm not sure exactly where that is coming from, maybe another b'day w/out her, or just hating the environment she's in [not the people -- I like them, especially the "night shift". Last time there were 2 screamers.
I love her. I just drifted a sec, and saw Mom in a suit looking damn goodand she said something I can't remember.
I have to bid y'all adieu, I can't even finish a sentence I'm writing. I hope I can get to sleep.
We salute the Grammy nomination of the late great
Dave Van Ronk's final concert album: 
