The Write Life

The Starting Over Years - Life Lesson # 7

2011-08-07T03:46:00.000-07:00

Things I learned in a part of a whirlwind weekend. Number 1, Wise friends remain wise. No seriously sometimes awesome advice just needs to be shared.

“Take a deep breath.” Yes it seems on the surface to be very simple, but yet has profound meaning. Take a moment and center yourself.

“Don’t play with hearts.” That’s not exactly the words a good friend used, but it’s what I took away from the message.

“Listen to your self.” Okay this one can be taken in two different ways, and I chose to take both messages. One is simply what it says, listen to your self. You sound [fill in the blank]. The other has a deeper thought-provoking meaning. Listen to what your heart whispers. I believe your heart will never lead you where you don’t need to go, (that is my own belief, not part of the advice).

Anyway I am not explaining all of this, because for me it is too personal right now. Someday the story may come out, but right now I just wanted to share some solid wisdom I needed to hear from a good friend. Yes you know who you are... Keep in mind, the weekend isn't over yet!

The Starting Over Years - Looking back to look forward

2011-08-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

Wow yes I’ve been quiet for a while. College keeps me super busy it seems. But today I’ve been kind of reflecting back. The reason is because tonight is my twenty year reunion. While I am excited, I am also saddened in a sense. Let me see if I can explain.

Wise people say hindsight is twenty-twenty. I think I understand this expression now more than ever. It’s what leads to my sadness. I’m reading “Robert’s Rules of Writing” by Robert Masello, currently. I picked this book up in a recent trip to Powell’s with someone special, but that is another post altogether.

Something he said in Rule 22 “Pick Your Poison” got me to thinking. “That taste of ashes in your mouth is regret, and it’s something even Listerine can’t get rid of.” This struck home in a weird sense. I’ve done some pretty neat things, but I have also missed hundreds of neat things. Opportunities that could have been, I let slide for a variety of reasons.

Mainly out of fear, and naivety, I let so much slide that twenty years later, I look back and laugh and cry. Yes I settled down young and had children, which I by no means regret. But there are several other things I do regret. This post is not for me to sit and whine about my choices. I was young and naive, and lesson learned. The last nine months or so have taught me that it’s time to look forward and apply the lesson I learned. Don’t let fear hold you back, laugh often, and live in the moment.

While this may sound trite and over said, it’s something I feel I need to share, for myself and for anyone out there that might learn from what I’ve learned. Wish me luck tonight, because I’m going to have fun.

The Starting Over Years - Dating, a whole new world

2011-01-23T10:48:00.000-08:00

I know...I know I've been quiet for a long time. I apologize for my absence. While there are many excuses, I will just say: "Life comes at you fast". There, I like that. So now that the divorce is finally final, I have entered a whole new phase of the starting over years. Yes I've been dipping my toes into the world of dating. My experiences are definitely a mix of the bad, the good, and the ugly.

It's a whole new world out there folks. You may or may not be aware of that, but I sure wasn't. I wanted to share a specific experience for the humor factor. I was out on a date yesterday with a nice gentleman, when lo and behold, my mother and my aunt showed up where we were having a nice meal.

First I have to give you the tiniest bit of back story so you can fully appreciate my situation. My mother and my aunt are both eccentric to a point. For goodness sakes they both own akc standard poodles that are sisters. They both like bling, and both consider themselves cougars. Usually when they go out to eat locally they pick Red Lobster. Enough said? I thought so...Back to my story.

So here my date and I are having a cozy light-hearted meal in the lounge of Applebees. I happen to glance over at the restaurant entrance and I see a woman wearing a red coat. I first thought, "wow that looks like my aunt." It took another ten seconds or so for the light to come on. "That is my aunt!" Horror of all horrors, my mom and my aunt decided to shake things up a bit and eat at Applebees.

When my aunt happened to glance our way, I waved. Yes I know what you are thinking, big mistake right? It was. She waved back with an evil smile and turned around. I could hear her from where we sat.

"Hey come see who is here?" She was alerting my mother to our presence. My mom then peeks around the corner and proceeds to point at me and gesture with her fingers. You've all seen the commercial where the guy signals, "I've got my eyes on you." Yes that is what my mom did.

I turned probably three shades of red as I laughed. This is the way my life works. Luckily my date was very understanding. When we were finished eating, I wanted to sneak off, but instead we went and said the customary hello/goodbye bit. I introduced my date to my mom and aunt and then they let us leave.

Here is the funny part. My aunt later told me that while I was talking to my mom, my aunt was threatening my date with her Russian mob friends near Seattle. Thank god she was only teasing me. She didn't really scare him away like that. Probably just meeting them scared him away anyway.

I really believe I must live under a funny sign or something. Crazy, embarrassing things like this only happen to me. If I were to write my autobiography I would title it: "Did you ever hear the one about...a comedy of errors"

This is my life and I just do the best I can day to day. I will try to update a bit more and keep sharing the laughter as I experience the starting over years.

The Starting-over Years - Finding My Spiritual Self

2010-05-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

This week I want to talk about that reawakening of self. Well to be specific, spiritual self. You see my dad’s mother was a southern Baptist Christian. By the age of five, I could recite the Lord’s Prayer. She had a little fold up book and we would read it every night. Even though I couldn’t read, the pictures were fascinating to my little mind. I was raised in church, attended Vacation Bible School every summer, and I went to church camp for three years. Suffice it to say, those roots really bloomed. I have a good relationship with my lord and savior. Although in the last few years this had taken a back burner to life.

But that is not this post. In this post, I would like to explore the other part of my spirituality, the pagan side. My mom was born in Germany on a United States military base. Her mother was a French war bride. Grandmere met my grandfather when he patrolled the streets of Paris during the war. As far as we can tell her family traces back to the Celts. My mother has the honor of being named after a Gaelic saint.

I am now in touch with this part of my spirituality which is not at cross purposes with the other. This love of mother earth is profound in ways I can’t even explain. Recently while I was at the beach, I found a Celtic Dragonfly Pendant. I knew in that moment that our destinies were intertwined. I of course bought it, a present for myself, if you will. My old pendant went into the hands of the shop proprietor, because she was capable of sending it on to the next part of its voyage.

I know this sounds a little strange, but it was like a trade, not just a purchase. Here’s the interesting part. The woman was a Scot and seemed to understand what needed to happen without me explaining overmuch. She took it willingly, and promised to find it a new home.

Here is what I want to focus on in this post. Intuitively I just knew all this. I am learning to trust in this intuitive voice from within. It has ways of knowing things that I am not always aware of consciously. Here is another little example that will surprise you. I will not go into full detail of every moment, but M__ and I stopped in Astoria, and wandered into a little shop.

The woman started talking to us and would you believe she nailed some things down, that she had no way of knowing. While I was in creative writing, I unconsciously shared some of my innermost workings through poetry, without realizing it. When I left the shop I was in tears, because this woman had revealed things that hadn’t even occurred to me. How did she do this? I cannot say at all, but I will tell you this, she just knew things.

M__ was as blown away as I was. We left the shop, our eyes wide with wonder. Here, yet is the strangest thing of all. When we came back through Astoria on our way home, we could not find the shop. Yes, I know how odd this sounds, like an overdone story plot, but it is true nonetheless. I know the store exists because we bought things there. I cannot wait to return to Astoria to look for the place.

So I am curious – Are you in touch with your spiritual self? What beliefs do you hold? Feel free to share whatever you feel comfortable with sharing. I look forward to learning about others.

The Starting-over Years

2010-04-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

After over-hearing a random comment today, I began to think about my own situation. People seem to have names for parts of their lives. The comment I heard was someone referring to her bonus years with her husband. Within my own mind, I decided to try and define this part of my life. In a weird sense I think it gives me a bit of control. I’ve aptly named this period in my life the “Starting-over Years”. It’s a time filled with a lot of complexities. For me it’s beginning with a reawakening of self. For so long I was part of a whole, and now that’s no longer applicable.

I thought about calling this entry “The Road to Recovery”, but the more I thought about it, the more it sounded like rehab. This is something entirely different. So with this post, I am going to begin to share weekly about this part of my life. Hopefully if I can make you laugh, or make you think, then this “Starting-over years”, will have some good come from it. Stay tuned…next week I’ll have some fresh material for your thoughtful enjoyment.

A Jumble of Thoughts - Today in Peace

2010-04-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

My thoughts are all in a jumble today. Someone recently said to me, "You need to update your blog." Good point, but I don't know what to share. There are many nuggets of ideas, bits of this and that would not make for a thought-provoking update. I could tell you about last weekend at the beach. I could review the new Garnier Face stuff I bought, but would that really hold your attention? Not really. Therefore, I just have one short thing to share. Be of peace today.

I feel today as though I am through the veil, somewhere neither here nor there. I feel peaceful and still like deep waters...

One year later - day of devastation to present

2010-03-12T19:15:00.000-08:00

It's been exactly one year tonight since my personal life fell apart. Today it has hit hard, realizing that a year has slipped by. There has been beautiful moments filled with caring wonderful people, and moments when I really had to fight to go on. There are moments I feel so alone, trapped in a living nightmare.(these are fewer, but still happen, I still have moments--like today--when it hurts like hell).

Those first few weeks were some of the darkest times in my life. I spent about an hour a day away from home, where the children wouldn't see me, just sobbing. I drove to a local park, stared at the river and let the steering wheel support me as my heart shattered into a thousand little pieces.

It has really profoundly affected me in ways I never thought possible. Of course I am stronger than I ever realized. My eyes were opened to the worst of human behavior and the best. I've met angels disguised as mere mortals. Remember the anonymous poem, "Footprints in the sand", I have a much deeper understanding and appreciation now then ever before.

I've kept my head up. I've cried oceans of tears that no human should ever have to. There is something to be said for letting walls down and trusting people, but at the same time, that can be a devastating experience. When that trust is broken and those closest to you betray you, there is no pain that wounds the heart more. I realize now how naive I was.

I also realize now that the ex by words and actions holds no respect for me, none at all. Where I am now, I know that this really doesn't matter to me or affect me, unless I let it, and I don't. I have my self-respect, my integrity, and my honor. I am happy with the choices I have since made. My relationship with three of four of my children has grown deeper and stronger. My oldest is beyond my control, and my heart hurts, but I know someday that the relationship will be repaired.

I've gone back to school. I've met loads of interesting people. Even some of you on here, that I deeply admire and respect. My thoughts have really changed. I've learned more in one short year than I have in a decade. What does that say? I think...I should say I believe that something of such a great magnitude happening can be defining. It can bring out the best or worst in a person. Where am I on that scale? I would feel biased in saying that it has brought out the best in me, so I would rather have an impartial judge make that call. As always I remain humble. :) Well there it is. All the hurt, the pain, the ugliness, and the beauty. Most of all the beauty! I try to keep that in the forefront of my thoughts. There is so much beauty in this world! Don't even blink or you might miss it.

Adventures in Cheese - No really, Velveeta....

2010-03-05T22:20:00.000-08:00

Here is my funny for the day, oh and what an evening it was. My children have been bugging me to make nachos for dinner. I promised weeks ago and so far it hadn't happened. After school, I decided nachos would work, because it sounded really yummy. I stopped at Fred Meyers to buy what we needed. That is where my adventure began. I had heard that Velveeta was nacho worthy, as in it melted well, and tasted decent. I caved to convenience. This was the first of my mistakes.

I was carrying one of those little baskets. I stuffed it with chips, velveeta, sour cream, olives, and refried beans. Yes all of the goodies for our nachos. I finally made my way up to the checkout and set down my basket. When I reached the cashier, she reached into the basket to the bottom to pull something out. Now mind you, I was standing where you sign your checks or use their debit machine. When she popped out the bottom item, one of the cans of refried beans jumped out, rolled under the ledge and dropped right onto my foot, edge down. I kid you not it landed right where your big toe joins your foot.

The lady behind me asked if my foot was okay, and I squeaked with pain. "It's only a toe." The cashier looked at me funny and asked if it really landed on my foot. "Yes it really did on my joint thingy." By that point I was almost in tears and breathing slow to deal with the pain. She apologized and I hobbled out to my van.

About an hour later, after icing the bruising, swelling foot, I decided it was time to cook. This is where the velveeta came into play. I opened the velveeta and read the directions. It said microwave 5-7 minutes, stopping to stir every three minutes. I proceeded to open the inner wrap and began cutting and tearing the velveeta into small cubes. First let me tell you that stuff felt horrible. It was a combination of slime and mush.

I cut and tore up half the brick, before putting it into the bowl to microwave. Three minutes in, I then opened the microwave and stirred the congealed bubbling stuff. I waited three minutes and repeated the process and the congeal was worse, the bubble was worse, and it stunk! Finally, fed up I pulled it out of the microwave and said to heck with it. I asked the oldest son to scrape it in the garbage while I washed the yuck off my hands. When I began the oily gunk got all over my hands.

I grabbed my coat and keys and headed for Walmart to find real cheese. I noticed as I walked in that my hands were itching, and when I looked down I happened to notice that my hands had hives.

To sum it all up, Velveeta really sucks and to top it off I am allergic to the junk. There is now a Velveeta ban forever in my home. I can laugh now but earlier, I really wasn't really very happy.

Sentimentality - Or as I now understand it

2010-02-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I finally heard my Professor explain the definition of Sentimentality. I now have a more definite understanding of what he meant. It happened we were looking at art. I meant to type this up over the weekend, but life comes at you fast, and I am just now getting to it. Apologies...

So here goes, let's see if I can do it justice.

Sentimentality is basically a lack of depth, that requires no thought. The subject may tug at your heartstrings, leave you sighing, but it doesn't make you think. This is somewhat important, because along with tugging at your heartstrings, I hope to make you think. Let's hope I can achieve that. ;)

So now that I have a more concise understanding, what do you think?

On Writing Romance

2010-01-31T13:07:00.000-08:00

As you all may or may not know I am currently in a creative writing class. The other night my professor said something that made me think. He said, "Falling out of love is much more interesting than falling in love." In a sense he does romance writing a dis-service. I disagree with his thoughts because, romance writing is not necessarily just about falling in love, at least to my way of thinking, rather it's about the events and occurrences that can lead us to others.

The ultimate question - what brings people together? As it happens that is what I like to ponder, and succinctly that is why I write romance. For example one of my as-yet-unpublished novels deals with two people brought together by a murder mystery and ghostly intervention.

I believe the possibilities are endless, and that is what makes romance writing interesting. People fall out of love every single day, and I'm sorry I do not think that is quite as interesting.

Not Just Another Year in Review

2009-12-31T22:01:00.001-08:00

I don't want to write about your typical year in review, rather I want to write about personal growth over the last year. As many of you know early last year the fabric of my life unraveled. I imagine myself as the phoenix, destroyed by fire symbolically and rising from the ashes. I believe that the utter devastation gave way to new life - personal growth. I hope that doesn't sound arrogant, because that is not my intent.

I won't really waste my breath talking about personal things that you wouldn't be interested in, my point is to make you think. Did you grow this year as a person? In what ways? I really believe that personal growth is very important for everyone, because if we quit growing as individuals it leads to stagnation. What fun is that? On that note, I'll leave you to ponder your own growth....

Here it is - All I Want for Christmas - Part 2

2009-12-23T22:17:00.000-08:00

All I Want for Christmas

Usagi asks Santa for a special present...

www.fanfiction.net/s/5596755/2/

Please feel free to share your thoughts! Look for the conclusion sometime tomorrow. :)

I've written again + Christmas Wishes

2009-12-21T11:48:00.000-08:00

Okay first and foremost, I've done it. I am currently at work on a Christmas fanfic. Yes I know, but I had to start somewhere and it wanted to be written, more than anything else.

All I Want for Christmas

Usagi asks Santa for a special present...

URL: www.fanfiction.net/s/5596755/1/
Hey it's the first thing I've written creatively in nine long months, well since the fabric of my life unraveled. Let me tell you it has been disheartening to look back over the last nine months and see nothing written. I know all of this tragedy has reshaped me as a person, but I cringe at all the lost time, and the loss of my creativity. That is the curse that comes along with the blessing of growing as a person and gaining self-awareness.

On another note, I made the Dean's List in my first quarter in college. Talk about firsts...an A in math, and now the Dean's List! I continually surprise myself with what I am capable of.

On another note, I want to talk about the richness of the season, and I don't mean the money people spend on presents. I mean the small riches, such as angels disguised as mere mortals! People that touch me in ways, I never imagined were possible. So my wish this Christmas is for everybody to slow down and see the richness around them. I have met some very special people on here, people that continually inspire me, and push me to live an even better life.

Merry Christmas to one and all!

I survived my first quarter!

2009-12-10T21:50:00.000-08:00

I survived my first quarter of college, and kept my grades up! Trust me, there were days I wasn't so sure, but I did it! I passed the math final with an "A". See that, an A! Me...math...an A...who would have thought it possible? My GPA will be between a 3.0 and a 4.0 depending on my English Professor. The good news is the last essay I slaved over, paid off. I received 90 out of the 100 points possible. Today during the final, I also won twenty bonus points, for some awesome Balderdash skills. I had never played the game before, but I am going to buy it. Basically, each team makes up definitions of words, plots of movies, what people are famous for, and make up events that happened on certain dates. The point is to bluff the other teams into thinking your answer is the real one. :D

I know I know...thirty lashes for not updating. :)

2009-12-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

Sorry life has just been slamming me heavily. I have a question for you guys out here in blog land. As many of you know I am going through a nasty divorce now. The problem is the ex won't leave me alone. Wait let me clarify something here. He WALKED AWAY!, read that again for dramatic affect, he walked away. The problem is he won't leave me alone. Anything he can do to hassle me, he does. I do not understand this. He walked away, but now has to make my life miserable? Does anyone understand this? I don't! Why can't he just leave me the hell alone? :S

On a different note, this is finals week and I am busting my backside to pass said finals. The English one isn't so bad, just a self-analysis type essay. The math final on the other hand is more of a pain in the butt. I know the stuff, so I should be okay. Tomorrow is the big day so wish me luck. :)

College kills - Or that is my belief at the moment

2009-09-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have been rather quiet this week. This Monday I began my college experience. I have already had to write one essay and had math homework everyday. I also have an essay due on Monday on Communication Analysis. On the plus side I have signed up for the class Publishing Lit Mag. Now you all may or may not remember last fall when I submitted to the Salal Review. Well now I will be spending three quarters working as an Editor on you guessed it, The Salal Review. In December of 2010, I will be finished with a certificate that says I am proficient as a free-lance writer.

So for now that is my update. Now I am off to read "That's Not What I Meant To Say" Deborah Ta nnen. I have to read a few chapters to understand communication before I begin the essay from hell. ^-^;;

Book Review

2009-09-04T14:19:00.000-07:00

Normal People Do the Craziest Things, by Dr. David Hawkins – I just had the pleasure of reading this book. The title caught my attention first and foremost. I was pleasantly surprised by Dr. Hawkins writing. His style is engaging, and yet down to earth. This is an enjoyable, engrossing read. I found once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. It was like sitting down to coffee with a trusted friend. I was also impressed with Dr. Hawkins, himself. He writes courageously of his own struggles, and his beliefs. He quotes scriptures from the bible, to lend weight to his ideas, without ever sounding tedious or moralizing. Chapter three properly titled “Courageously exploring Inner Space” is fascinating. This chapter has to be my favorite. Each time I reread it, I find a new discovery. This book is a true gem for those seeking perspective and personal growth. I give it four stars.

Seeing amazing sights...

2009-08-12T23:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a good friend, I heard about this tonight.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/08/090812-perseids-perseid-meteor-shower.html

Thank god, that after a rainy wet day, it cleared off. After GHI(Ghost Hunt International) the kids and I piled into the van. We drove up a local back road to the highest, clear spot. We parked and shut off all the lights. Out in the dark the meteor shower was amazing.

The kids were duly impressed when I gave them a simplified scientific explanation. We stayed for almost an hour. It was definitely worth the trip. We had a lot of fun just sitting in the dark watching the meteors race across the sky....

Have you ever heard Cheesecake call your name?

2009-08-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

I have a hilarious story to share with everyone. Yesterday my mom needed me to go to Safeway for her and pick her up some carrot cake. Now if you haven't tried said carrot cake I demand you go out and buy a piece right now. I do not like carrot cake and this is really great carrot cake. It is an artisan fancy one. The cake runs around thirty bucks, and by the slice it is three ninety-nine.

Now imagine if you will, I am standing in the bakery among all the goodies while the bakery employee cut me some extra slices. The smells alone are delicious and I am eyeballing all kinds of wonderful, colorful treats. There are tortes, and cakes and then right before my eyes, I see a huge slice of heaven.

It was an extra tall slice of cheesecake with that perfect creamy color, a bit yellow, but not too much. Someone had lovingly drizzled melted chocolate on the top until it cooled into just a bit of a topping. At the top edge sat the most perfectly ripe strawberry. There wasn't a single green spot, or bruise. Every seed was perfectly in place and the stem was green and fresh. It was the pièce de résistance!

My mouth began instantly to water. I could imagine the delightful mix of flavor melting on my tongue. I turned away and then it happened. I swear to you it really happened. That little slice of heaven called my name.

"Crystal...", it said. I chose to ignore that bit of insanity. "Crystal," it tried again. I sucked in a nervous breath, just before it continued.

"You know you want me...I am after all a huge slice of heaven. Can you taste me all ready?" I was blown away that the delightful dessert had gotten into my head. I began tapping my foot to keep the urge at bay.

"Buy me...take me home...make me yours." My breathing must have increased because suddenly the bakery employee is looking at me oddly.

"Miss are you all right?" She gave me a concerned look.

"I am just resisting the cheesecake." The employee's eyes widened with surprise. I don't think that is what she expected. Finally the employee was printing the price labels. With a knowing smile she handed them over.

"Must resist the cheesecake..." I mumbled as I walked away. The cheesecake was still trying to garner my attention with sweet promises of how delightful it was. Let me tell you, it was a battle of wills. It took every ounce of my courage--knowing that a slice of heaven was calling my name--to walk away. It was the closest I've ever come to being weak-willed and caving in to five-thousand calories. So I ask have you ever heard cheesecake calling your name?

Pieces of me....

2009-07-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

I have to take a moment and share my thoughts/experiences. So here I am as a parent, here I am as a daughter, here I am as a person, and all that is good. Now here I am as an employee...not really. With no recent verifiable employment history this leaves me feeling inadequate at best and useless at worst.

All those other parts of me are competent, secure in the knowledge that I am capable. This other part of me, the part that provides financial security is a total puddle of gelatinous waste. No, seriously, I have been trying for five months now to find employment and provide at least the basics for myself and my kids. It isn't happening. I have sold myself until I am blue in the face.

People aren't willing to take a risk on a person that has no history of being a good employee. Keep in mind that being a Domestic Engineer--creative title for homemaker--for sixteen years does not count. ~(*o*)~

A Lovely Picnic...Me What?

2009-07-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

I had the best time today. A couple of ladies that I met awhile back, decided we should have a picnic at our local lake. The weather was neither hot nor cold, just cloudy and mild, perfect picnic weather. We all brought goodies, and man what a treat! (Cucumber Sandwiches, Dip, Chips, Deli Meats, Cheese. Can you say yummy?) We laughed, and had our serious moments too. The chance to just let down our hair and relax made for a great opportunity. I think we all needed the bonding, the laughter, the joy. I can't quite put it into words, but I believe a fabulous time was had by all. The cheesecake was just icing on the cake. ;D

Fourth of July What?

2009-07-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

Well although for me it's somewhat not so happy. This is my first fourth without my kids. Per the divorce papers, he got the kids this weekend. They are at the beach camping, and I am hanging solo. The upside is my neighbors cordially invited me over for dinner and to enjoy their fireworks. I bought a banana split ice cream pie to take for dessert.

I hope before that I can get some writing done. Sadly lately, my creativity is missing. On the upside, here in the next couple of weeks, I may have some exciting news.....So everyone be safe, but have a blast.

For those outside the U.S. enjoy your Sat/Sun..... :)

My first published short story.... :D

2009-04-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

On Thursday April 23rd, my short story "Everybody Wants One", will be available for your reading pleasure at http://www.everydayweirdness.com/ I mailed my contract off today. My first publishing credit and I get paid. It is only $5.42 which works out to a penny a word, for 329 words. That is not so much as important as is the publishing credit. :D

A Working Woman....

2009-04-02T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well good news. Last Thursday I saw a job on the Work Source Website and applied. Friday I had an interview and yesterday they called. It wasn't the front desk position that I applied for, but they offered me housekeeping.

Today was my first day. It wasn't too bad, but people are pigs! I saw things that astounded me. When I stay in a hotel, I am always thinking about the mess I leave behind for those poor people. Well now I know most people don't think about it.

Please have some kindness and compassion and clean up after yourselves.... :)

Life or something like it....Sorry for the lack of updates

2009-03-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

It's time to spill. Two weeks ago, Friday March 13th, my husband left me. My husband and I were sneaking up on seventeen years of marriage this April. I am bruised, battered, and broken, but I am continuing to live.

It isn't exactly easy, I have four kids to hold together and now I to find work to help support us. I have my first job interview in sixteen years. Scary, but I did go buy black slacks a nice shirt, and a little sweater throw-over.

The job is for a front desk clerk at a local hotel. I don't have much for job experience or schooling, but I have mad computer skills, so I have high hopes. I am not the best at selling myself, but today I learned that positive attitude does help.

I walked into Work Source with a confident pleasant attitude and the ladies inside were amazing in helping me build a resume and apply. January was a completely different experience when I was there.

So all in all, sorry for the lack of posts, but I haven't been up to doing much. I am trying to find my strong place and it hasn't been going so well. Everyone keeps telling me I'll find it, but that remains to be seen. Between bouts of crying and sadness I have taken baby steps to keep going....

Letter-writing a dying art or something special? A Challenge

2009-02-19T22:24:00.000-08:00

Today I went to my mailbox and was thrilled to see a beautiful envelope embossed with a treble clef and musical notes. I opened it with a growing sense of excitement. Inside was the first real letter I have received in years.

I read through it, and then read through it again. My friend in Tokyo has begun writing letters to brighten peoples' day. I decided almost instantly how nice it would be to send her a letter back. I went in search of stationery. Do you know I drove all the way across town. I stopped at these stores: Walgreen's, Micheal's, Hallmark, Office Max, Target, Fred Meyers, and last but not least Walmart. No luck until Walmart. If I had known that I would have stopped there first.

The reason I had avoided Walmart to begin with is, because when I checked online they had nothing. I bought a nice set, of which they only had two, and I will be writing her back. The sad thing is people do not write letters anymore. They scrawl hasty messages in note cards or send email, or texts. Therefore stationery is almost a thing of the past. I felt the strangest urge to cry today when I realized that. I remember my grandma reading letters from distant family as a means to catch up. She would be so happy to read their words....

What does that say about technology? Does it steal our means to communicate in a more meaningful way? With a letter you reach a level of connection that I just don't think an email can achieve. Maybe I am wrong, but it is really worth testing the theory. So I challenge all of you to put the theory to the test.

Even if you don't buy stationery, sit down and write someone a hand-written letter at least two pages long. Then come back and tell me if you could recreate that special feeling with an email. I am curious to see if anyone else can?

What I wrote today...nightmare bathroom.

2009-02-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

Today I am happy to report that I wrote a short story. Yoshi had been chewing on the idea for a while and he was finally ready to be his usual demanding self. So it is only about 350 words, but the idea is absolutely hilarious. I don't usually write comedy, or horror, but this just grabbed me by the throat and wouldn't let go. On top of that, I ended up cleaning my kids' bathroom. There is nothing worse than a bathroom that two teenagers, two elementary students, and one hubby share.

Eek, I am lucky I am here to tell the tale. The things growing/hiding in there were rather frightening creatures. Mildew, that crawled and shrank away when I sprayed the cleaner. I swear I heard some terrified shrieks too, but I can't prove anything.The stuff that hides around the edge of the toilet, yeah that stuff, was just as bad.

I carried my cleaner like a shield, in glove-clad hands. The sponge I carried I used as my sword to face the mighty beasts. With a lot of valor, a good dash of courage, and a strong heart, I conquered the monsters, and the bathroom once more shines, like a princess's tiara.

Feel free to ignore the previous silliness, the mood just struck and I couldn't willingly let an opportunity to play pass.

Bad news with a good spin....Eh what?

2009-02-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

Rewind back to Sept 29th, 2008, I submitted a story to Killer-works. It was just a short fiction piece that I was trying to find a home for. They said wait twelve weeks. January 5, 2009 I still had not heard a word, so I sent a query regarding my submission. No reply that is until today. Sadly they didn't think my short would be a fit with what they are looking for right now. The good spin you ask? Well, they did say they would enjoy seeing more of my short fiction. I printed the rejection and it is hanging by its twin up on the wall above me. Why you ask? Because, I believe, and this is just me, that each rejection pushes me one step closer to a acceptance. Also it's proof positive that I am out there submitting work. That after all is the biggest step in the right direction, to face down the fear and submit.

Psychic story update as promised....

2009-02-09T12:41:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning I was up early and ready to go again. I got my usual coffee and hurried across town. I can't explain the level of excitement thrumming through me. I was alive with nerves and curiosity.

Funny story really, I had not yet met the psychic. Well I walked in and this lady is like, "May I help you?" I kind of went, "well I think I need to talk to her." I pointed at the lady that had told me to come see the psychic. The lady looks at me and says, "She's the one that wanted to ask you a question."

^-^;; This is so my luck. Anyway the Lady was very gracious, and answered my questions. I did not have a tarot reading done. I may go back for one, but I am still searching for my own deck so that I can do it myself. We shall see. Now for the good stuff.

The Vertigo I mentioned? Well, I did ask, and it turns out that the earthquake that morning in Seattle had affected her. I had felt off too, but did not realize why. So the vertigo was literal, but brought about by the earth's movements.

She answered my questions, and I was relieved to have someone confirm most of what I knew. I now also understand the term lightning rod better and how it relates to me. I also have a semi-label for myself which I knew, but I hadn't thought of it in that sense.

You see a bit of personal information will explain. I am quite sensitive... My body is over-whelmed by strong medications, my skin is quite sensitive. I have sensory issues, smells bug me, as well as sounds, and sometimes even visuals can overwhelm me. I hope this makes sense. Also my nervous center is sensitive. All in all I am literally sensitive....physically, spiritually, and emotionally...

So when she pointed out that I was a sensitive, I was taken aback. I had never put it all together in that package....

Writing Update and a Personal Story

2009-02-01T21:20:00.001-08:00

Well I finished one piece today. It was a short at 426 words. I then edited something else. My big project from Sept. and Oct. I spent the afternoon re-reading and polishing it. I am almost satisfied now, the problem is going to be finding the right home for this piece. It is unusual to say the least.

On a different note, I have something to share. If you all saw the prior post, I ended up with the moon tarot card, which isn't too far off the mark. That quiz was snagged from Live Journal. Anyway it led me to share a story. So there is this tiny store near Office Max called Spiritual Healing. Well last Wednesday my father and I stopped in there.

They have lots of interesting things, but here is what got my attention. I was asking the woman working for advice, when she recommended I come see their psychic. The Lady comes in on Saturdays and she does tarot readings. Now I don't know if I need a reading. I would prefer to get my own deck and learn to do it for myself.

Rather, I want to pick the psychic's brain for technical information. I have been told several times over that I am quite sensitive. I am not fully certain of the terms of my gifts, but for the most part I understand.

Instead of a reading telling me what I already know, I need to know how to fine tune what I already have to work with. I hope this makes sense.

Anyway back to my story, I'm sorry for the ramble. I decided to go see her yesterday. Imagine my disappointment to find out she called in with vertigo. I am not sure if the woman meant literal vertigo or more of a psychic form. I plan to ask, not to be nosy, but am I ever curious. Next Saturday I am going to try again....

Suprised?

2009-02-01T20:19:00.000-08:00

You are The Moon

Hope, expectation, Bright promises.

The Moon is a card of magic and mystery - when prominent you know that nothing is as it seems, particularly when it concerns relationships. All logic is thrown out the window.

The Moon is all about visions and illusions, madness, genius and poetry. This is a card that has to do with sleep, and so with both dreams and nightmares. It is a scary card in that it warns that there might be hidden enemies, tricks and falsehoods. But it should also be remembered that this is a card of great creativity, of powerful magic, primal feelings and intuition. You may be going through a time of emotional and mental trial; if you have any past mental problems, you must be vigilant in taking your medication but avoid drugs or alcohol, as abuse of either will cause them irreparable damage. This time however, can also result in great creativity, psychic powers, visions and insight. You can and should trust your intuition.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Writing update - What should I be doing?

2009-01-29T11:43:00.000-08:00

This is thoroughly bizarre and I have to blog about it. I was working on the story that you read the snippet of, when lo' and behold this other idea blindsided me. A novel length story not a short story. The idea, and the plot, keep growing in my head. The story won't leave me alone.

Intuition tells me that I need to pay attention, so I am going to make a judgment call and shelve the Muse story for a short time while I flesh out this idea. This has never actually happened before so I am in unknown territory. *shrugs* Well I'll make the best of it....

Writing Update - Snippets are a go....

2009-01-27T21:51:00.000-08:00

Well last night I said I might share my current wip in snippets, and I decided I like the idea of teasing everyone. The story remains untitled at this point.

CURRENT WIP

~~~~~~

Kelly felt the phone begin to slip from her grasp. She started, catching it just before it went. “Wait that was a joke...Yeah I put out a twitter but...I was trying to work through writer’s block...” She trailed off realizing she was rambling. Think...think.

“Okay who is this? I realize this is a good prank, but who put you up to it?” Kelly questioned, expecting laughter. The Detective’s next words startled her.

“I’m afraid Miss Smith that this isn’t a joke. Matsumoto Yoshi gave me your number and told me to call you.” He kept going “We are going to need you to come out to Vegas and pick this guy up....”

~~~~~~
So there you have it....a peek into what I am working on. Share your thoughts if you like....

Writing Update - Writing really?

2009-01-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

Yes really, I wrote today even if it sucked like a dung beetle. Okay so here is the story. As you all know I was suffering from writers block. I even mentioned my runaway muse on Twitter. http://twitter.com/CrystalMartin/status/1144011158

Anyway somebody in passing mentioned I should be writing about the missing muse and thus it began. Today I started a story about my runaway muse and the call I got from the Vegas PD. Well I don't know if I like the premise or not, but I am going to write it just to keep writing. Maybe, just maybe I'll share it here in snippets. :)

Does anyone else out here in blogland twitter? If so follow me here. http://twitter.com/CrystalMartin

Well I am off for bed now, I'll be back sometime tomorrow.

Updateness - No writing, but makeup?

2009-01-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

Time for an update, I have been sick and accomplished very little in the writing world. Today I woke up feeling somewhat restored. I took an hour to my self and slipped away. My hair has been growing out, and I've been fighting the awkward stages. Well it finally got too long so I caved and went and got a trim.

Also for those of you interested, I made two interesting purchases, and I am going to rave about both products.

1.) EcoTools Makeup Brushes - $12 for a set of five. You can find these at Fred Meyers. I bought a set of five brushes, originally, and fell in love. The stick is bamboo the metal bit is recycled, plus the hair is synthetic. So all in all a nice product. I love the way they manage too. They are soft against the skin, hold the product well, and do not have a funky smell. So today I went and bought the foundation brush. Alas this one did not come in the kit. 7.99 for the foundation brush, but after using it, I have no complaints. The same brush from Lancome was around thirty-three dollars. (Ouch!) So if you want to save on cost this is a route to consider.

2.) Rimmel Lasting Finish Enhanced with Minerals 16 Hr. 6.99 You can find the Rimmel makeup at most drug stores. Okay lately I have tried several brands and types of foundation with mixed results. Last night out of desperation, I went to Makeup Alley, a website where average people review the products they buy.

This foundation had really high reviews and people were liking it. Desperate for a decent product, I caved and bought it. So I came home this morning after getting my hair trimmed and did my makeup with the brush and foundation. Here are the results.... Yeah I know the camera on my phone is crappy. I naturally have pale skin. I have to buy creamy natural or ivory products. Although the color is off look at my complexion it looks flawless. This also didn't settle into my fine lines either. As a side note I did not take the pictures right after application, there is probably a two hour wait in between. So there you go....

ETA - I thought it might be important to share these links....

http://www.lancome-usa.com/search/index.aspx?SearchKeywords=foundation%20brush

http://www.makeupalley.com

http://www.parispresents.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=3 6 [EcoTools Website]

Writing Update - what writing...sickness abounds

2009-01-23T22:07:00.000-08:00

Well this week has come and gone. I found I caught the nasty cold everyone has been sharing lately. :S I woke up this morning with a sore throat.

Thank god for green tea, fresh local honey, and lemon juice. Listen up-from experience-tea with lemon and honey really does help! Plus green tea is actually pretty good, the lemon and honey just add something.

Treasure Chests....

2009-01-19T15:07:00.000-08:00

I have a treasure chest sitting here on my desk. It is neither coated in gold or adorned with jewels. It is simply a little round ceramic box painted with a Japanese scene. Inside this beautiful box lie a few of my favorite treasures.

They are not gold coins or brightly lit jewels or silver chalices. Instead, my chest contains a cell strap given to me by a dear friend as my birthday present. As I dig deeper I find a cheap but beautiful necklace given to me by another friend. A dryer sheet scented in my favorite scent surrounds these goodies with a relaxing smell. Underneath all of it is the middle of sand dollar or what is known as a white dove. Also a small purple glass rose from inside a specialty cell strap that broke. My favorite pink earrings rest here too.

All these treasures are worthless in the eyes of a treasure hunter, but to me they are the most valuable of items. Why you ask? Because they hold connections. Connections to people and places and memories....That is what makes them beyond priceless.

Holiday...oh really?

2009-01-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

Today, according to all the calendars, is Martin Luther King Jr's birthday. Which means all the kids are home torturing me and that does not make a great holiday. I'll tell you what, kids and writing don't mix. Thank god for my iPod. :)

I have a short story that I just finished. Nine-hundred some odd words that I do not have a title for yet. It is a delayed Christmas tale that has been percolating in my mind. I have recently been suffering from writers block, but just sitting down and pounding away seems to have helped. :D

Bush writes a Book? Titles Galore....

2009-01-11T21:57:00.000-08:00

Today my father told me the funniest true story. President George W. Bush, when asked what he was going to do now that he is retiring, stated that he is planning on writing a book. I found this idea hilarious. The reason is because I began to imagine the wonderful titles Bush could use.

So without further ado, I present my top favorite titles for George W. Bush's forthcoming book.

1.) The life and times of mad King George - Fitting really don't you think?

2.) An Idiot's guide to being President of the United States - This one speaks for itself

3.) Curious George: Playing President - I just couldn't stop laughing.

4.) How to ruin a country in 5 easy steps - Another fitting title

5.) Talk Foolish: It really Works - You're lucky I didn't use hookt on fonix....

So Mr. President if you like these call me and we'll do lunch.

Something to make you think.....

2009-01-10T22:48:00.000-08:00

This article "Oppulance on TV: Escapist or Clueless?" caught my attention. Roger Catlin of the Hartford Courant, asks some pertinent questions. One of the replies bothered me enough that I had to post this.

Dawn Ostroff, entertainment president at the CW, compares it to the days of “Dynasty” and “Dallas.”

“Those shows were all very popular back in a time when there was a very similar financial climate in the country, ” she says. “When the country goes through times like these ... having entertainment be escapist is what our viewers look for.”

What viewers I wonder? Why would financially-drained people want to watch rich people? Call me crazy, but that is not a form of escapism. Torture is what I would call it. When I am choosing between food for my children and gas, the last thing I am going to enjoy watching is others wasting money.

You wouldn't believe the strong urge I have to email Dawn Ostroff and share my thoughts. I would love to see who their target audience really is. You know they have statistical data for this.

I'm ready for Nano

2008-10-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

I'm ready, plot in mind, stout of heart, with courage fed from insanity. Thirty days, 1667 words per day, and at the end, I'll have created something beautifully unique. This year's attempt is lovingly titled, "Once in a Lifetime". At the end of the thirty days I wonder if I will still love the idea as much as I do now? I'm chomping at the bit to write...write...write. Here's to hoping.

My Grandpa died tonight

2008-10-26T00:07:00.000-07:00

At around 8:20pm tonight, the lord called my grandpa home. He turned 100 on August 29, 2008. My grandma, his wife, left us back in 1994, when the Lord called her home. Now he has gone home to be with her.

I'm standing at a crossroad.

2008-10-22T22:56:00.000-07:00

"I think Crystal/Daisuki is the type of person who always strives to see the good and extraordinary in everything. I think she looks for new experiences and challenges and will never fall into a rut because she's too excited about life to allow herself to be bored with it."

What an intuitive insight about me. I quoted it because I was surprised by the accuracy of the statement. I had never really thought much about how I view everything. There is a giant white elephant in the room, how did I not notice that?

I stand at a crossroad looking in all four directions. I try to decide which direction is... Therein lies the problem, I don't even know the appropriate criteria.

Should it be the safest route, the healthiest route, the boring route, the truly makes me happy route? How do people make big life-altering decisions? While everything above is true, I have never been labeled rash, and this is exactly why.

The one thing I do know is I cannot go back the way I came. My feet have already traveled this road, and there is no point in backtracking. That leaves me with three choices....

Writing Frustration.....

2008-10-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

Has this ever happened to you? You are writing in the zone, the words are flowing. Bam! You don't know what happens. You may know the whole plot, but within the story in that moment it's gone. You don't know what happens next, and the muse ain't telling. :S

CSI - The season premiere

2008-10-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

Did anyone else watch the premiere of CSI tonight? I cried through most of the episode. For those that watch it, the last season ended with Warick Brown being shot. Tonight Grissom showed up, and held Warick as he died. Oh and Sarah Sidle returned because of Warick's death. The rest of the episode was Warick's coworkers solving his murder. I won't give it away for anyone that hasn't yet seen it. The end of the episode was the whole crew at Warick's funeral. Grissom spoke about Warick and at the very end, he was unable to continue. He simply said, "I'm really going to miss him."
I bawled like a baby at that....

Hi all...

2008-10-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

I have good news. My current WIP is finished. It ended today at 16,578 words or Novella length. In other news, my latest fan fiction from the series Vampire Knight flopped. Well that is to say it has 110 hits alone today, but nobody has said even boo.

It sparkled, I truly surpassed my own expectations with this piece. It was eight-thousand some odd words long. There were moments, I knew...I just knew, this is it.

I realize fanfiction.net is not the best place to expect much, but I hoped people that recognized my name would read and respond. I shared the link on my LJ and still nothing.... :s

In other news, is anyone familiar with Katy Perry? Yes she is the woman who wrote the "I Kissed A Girl" song. She also has one called, "Hot N Cold". This song is just something different. With a good beat and memorable lyrics this song caught my attention. Here is a link to the official music video. Sorry if you have to copy and paste into your address bar. When I used the link option the link wouldn't show up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWDnQdvWogQ

My i Pod already has it in my main play list. Someone really should make a meme out of i Pod play lists. I think it would be interesting. I believe we could learn a lot about people by the music they group together, and how they label it. ^-~ Night all,

Crystal R. Martin

Where have I been?

2008-09-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

So you're all wondering why haven't I updated? Here we go...I'll try to explain. The last week of August my mother went into the hospital for nine days. She was there until the Wed., after labor day weekend. Yes she spent the holiday weekend in there.

Once she was released she stayed with us on and off for two weeks. It has been crazy busy. Finally, last week she went home. Talk about everyone being happier. Not that it was bad when she stayed here, because it wasn't, people just prefer their own homes and beds.

In other news--writing related,

I had a critique done of a short story I wrote and the good news is in. They liked it, even said it had chilling possibilities. ;) It originated from a nightmare that my mind wandered through. I woke up nearly in tears, wanting to be sick. How crazy is that? As a catharsis I wrote it out and gave life to it. A bit more polish, and I think I'll have another submission....

ETA - In other writing news, I am still hard at work on an under wraps project. I hope to have it out of the way by Nano. Here is to hoping...I don't yet have an idea for Nano, because this current wip is stealing all my attention.

ETA - Also as for my last entry in case anyone was interested, the letter idea worked. My daughter was thrilled that Care Be's mom was so determined to check her out. She came to me the next morning, with Care Be, her mom and the letter. I let out a giant sigh of relief. I am happy to report that everything ended nicely, and disaster was averted.

Care Be's Grand Adventure - Or how one Mom messed up.

2008-08-29T22:32:00.000-07:00

My youngest daughter Kelsey just cried herself to sleep and I (mom) feel like a heel. Why is that? I now know why they say "The road to hell is paved with good intentions." I don't know who to credit, but boy is it ever true.

First you should know that Kelsey is eight almost nine and she has this care bear that she has had forever. It is a soft bedtime bear she lovingly named Care Be.

This morning I stopped at a garage sale only to find big plush bedtime bear for 50 cents. I thought it would be cute to put the small one away in exchange for the bigger soft one. Here was my cover story explaining the growth explosion while she was away at school.

When Kelsey came home, I told her that I spilled something on Care Be and had to wash him. I told her to go get him out of the dryer. She came back amazed at the change. I too pretended surprise asking her if she gave him vitamins for breakfast.

Everything went well until bedtime arrived. Did I forget to mention that she has slept with small Care Be since she was three? Ah I did forget to mention that, so bedtime arrived and she just knew it wasn't the original Care Be.

Now I am going to have to figure a way out of this mess without taking too much heat. Here is my plan. I am going to print up a letter from Care Be's mom introducing herself and explaining that Mom (me) didn't know she was trading places with Care Be for a short time. In order to get to know Kelsey, before revealing that she is Care Be's Mother. Pure genius or a recipe for disaster, I don't know yet, but I've got to try to fix this somehow....

Here I am...

2008-08-23T23:02:00.000-07:00

Yes I know I've been very quiet. Sorry things have just been crazy, hectic as we head for back to school. Let's call this the five day countdown. On Thursday August 28th my kids go back to school. My oldest is starting High school this year.

With nothing done yet, today was the big day. We drove the requisite forty miles or so to visit Hot Topic, Ross, Burlington Coat Factory as we do each year. Hot Topic should be a required visit before anyone ever becomes a parent. This is where your child will want to shop in fourteen years. Yeah I know, they start out so cute, and then... Skinny Jeans and Avenged Sevenfold Bags are the must have items. If only she had gone preppy, but no my oldest is too much like her father. She is the quintessential social rebel. If given the chance, her hair would be multicolored and I would find her nose or eyebrow pierced. The thoughts of her younger adulthood already give me nightmares.

My two middle sons are less of a worry. Jeans and t shirts baby. No arguing or anything. Even my older son with his sensory issues has gotten to the point where he's not so picky.

Thank god for my youngest daughter, heart of my heart, child of my loins and all that trite stuff. If I have one child that will go preppy it will be her. For now Ross suffices for all the name brand stuff, but one day I see her wanting Hollister and Aerophostle. E-gads, I really, really need the name of that fantastic publisher, and a once in a lifetime book deal now. ^-~

Ethics Question....

2008-08-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

I have an ethical question today.... Pick your favorite manga fandom and imagine that someone was selling a fake release several volumes ahead of where it actually is in the release schedule. What are you to do? Is this okay? People are being cheated into thinking their getting an official, but it's just a fan-made translated copy.

It irks me because portraying it as the real is dishonest, and beyond that I feel sorry for the saps that don't know...

So again I ask what would you do? After deciding what you would do scroll down to see what I decided....

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Okay, so I blew the whistle...I emailed the actual company, and sent them a link to the site. I also asked on the site if it was a cheap fan copy because the release isn't even close.

Twilight Godiva Chocolate....

2008-08-04T00:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been crazy. Okay first and foremost, Breaking Dawn came out Friday night at Midnight. We were there for the party, and what a party it was...

I actually caved and bought some Twilight Godiva Chocolate. The marketing scheme for this series is amazing.... I only hope when I finally reach publication, I can have someone market my book/series so well. Godiva Chocolate with the Twilight Logo, what a sucker....

The tie in of romance, chocolate, & sin, is beautiful and at only 4.95 a bargain. Again, I repeat what a sucker am I. It is Chocolate, and who can resist awesome chocolate?

p.s. Breaking Dawn so far is...indescribable?

My Introduction

2008-07-31T00:08:00.001-07:00

This first post thing is uncomfortable isn't it? Like a first date? Should I give you my requisite stats or just blab all about myself? Or, I could actually ask you all questions... Just kidding, I am a thirty-something year old woman. I have three finished manuscripts. Two are currently set away, while the newest one is in the editing stage.

I'm going to stop here for now, because it is quite late and my brain is going into sleep mode. I'll stop in soon and share some more.