www.myspace.com/talesoflo

It came out better than I expected. I even got to play up a photo I took on Haleakala!



Lots to do/go with this.

Alas, first day back to school for the new term has arrived. I'll be a near FT student at Saddleback this semester to patch up some things of my past. I must say, this will be quite awkward as the last time I was at this school during the day was in the days of Ashley. So, my nerves are a bit, but more for excitement. I only have 2 (3 at the most) semesters left till I graduate!!!!
Sag's Horoscope:
Monday, Jan 12th, 2009 -- This is a perfect time to enroll in a new course of study or to read a book about a philosophy, a political perspective or a religion that is beyond your normal scope. Fortunately, you have the ability now to integrate new ideas into your current thinking without threatening your intellectual foundations. Remain open to changing your mind as you take in these exciting mind-expanding ideas.

I'm reading a new book on the several 2012 prophesies. I came across the Archangel Zadkiel. I've known a few friends who have used Archangels in their rituals. I'm trying to understand Archangels in a Pagan's viewpoint.

Anyone care to shed some light?

I've had a pretty decent night so far. I think things are starting to settle down a bit. I actually slept this morning very well. Woke up earlier feeling rested, fixed a cuppa tea and started to pick up things around the house. I managed last night to fix my computer, so I don't have to bug Midge so much for hers… at least for a while. Looks like my USB ports are going out on my computer. Since it is the only way I can connect to the internet (among a few other things), I doubt the usage on this puppy will last a few months. I'm hoping to get a new laptop within the next month. This coming semester will be a busy, yet fun one. I feel that my need for a laptop has finally come to the point where I should start looking.


Speaking of classes… I'm thinking about adding one more class to this coming semester. I know it will be a bit much with 5 classes, but I feel confident enough that I should be able to pull it off with no worries. I think this past semester was a bit of a learning experience, as well as a bit of confidence that I can pull off extremely hard classes and be able to manage a social life. Now… What to take…


I started reading HP book 6 a couple nights ago. I'm hooked (naturally) and am just over 100 pages in. I'm hoping to crank out a few books while I'm off of school for the season. Also, I'm hoping to pull a Hermione and read the books for my new classes before they start. Prepping is key.


I've also made a few promises to myself this past week. For one, I realize that in order to maintain the inner self, one has to make sure that the physical self is also healthy. This means change of diet, and a fair amount of exercise. Secondly, I wish to work on my inner self more. I've already commented to a local friend of mine that I want to join a meditation group. I'm aware of a group in Laguna, but I want to seek out bigger groups that are a bit more away. If you know of anything, let me know. :) Also, I want to seek out ritual and may tie myself to a couple nature groups. I'm seeking anything healthy to bring the real me out.


This past Friday I cut my hair 5 inches. It's so healthy!!! I was nervous at first, but I had full trust in my stylist. She helped me turn my hair from a nasty egg-ish red into a caramel brown several months ago when I was hired by HP. If that girl can pull that drastic change off no sweat, I knew she could handle a scissor-stress-induced girl who was panicking at the thought of her chopped off locks. Needless to say, she did a wonderful job. I haven't seen my hair this vibrant and bouncy since I was a little girl.


I just got back from shopping with Midge. I found a magenta cashmere beanie for $38 at Nordstrom. I had to find a pink hat to wear on Wednesday. I'm going to be in a boat parade with Midge (Gods help us all). I know it is going to be flipping chilly on the water so I went out on a hunt to find a warm beanie that isn't baby pink (because baby pink is not-so-much). Alas, luck. We finished off her evening (since I have hours left in mine) at Islands. I loved their North Shore tacos: spicy chicken, lettuce, cheese, pico de gallo, and more salsa love.


Hmm… Other than that, and the possibility of a date, I'm doing pretty well.

I finished the first Harry Potter book and loved it!

Also finished research on about 4 vampire books.

Started reading American Gods last Thursday (for pleasure).

Need to finish less than 10 pages in my philosophy book tonight/tomorrow, then outline them. Next book to tackle is for astronomy...

I'm digging this reading thing.

I started my Philosophy 110 class tonight - Critical Thinking. Professor is amusing. I really dig this whole school only thing.

Now, if only I can catch up after missing my first week...

Though I don’t feel it is an appropriate place to share experiences about Burning Man, I feel that I should express a little bit about my trip. Burning Man is a place that one can learn a lot about themselves. I caught a cold before I left, which made the trip to BM less enjoyable. This added into my old disorder of being a hypochondriac. It was my goal to visit the temple alone to release such negative energies. I visited the temple on Thursday, let the disorder’s energy go, and continued to the overall lesson.
The one thing that lacked at Burning Man this year was activity. Though I tried to get up and do things with people, I was constantly drained to the point of being in a chair at camp. I often went to bed early, spoke little, stressed, and rested in camp during the hottest point of the day.
Lesson from Burning Man this year: one doesn’t need to go to Burning Man to be themselves. Burners give the outside world of BRC a name called “the default.” I don’t live in the default world now. I did two years ago when I was with David. Burning Man was an escape for me then. Last year wasn’t so much… This year I realized that I broke a barrier. Trips in the forest make the life I live now “the default.”
Deep inside I knew this might be my last year at Burning Man. I feel this desire to live in the world (or universe) and not just the playa. I settled a lot of things at the temple this year, and gave a promise to those who shine. I left that on the playa, and took with me a new perspective on things. There are always regional burns, etc. to visit friends.
Next stop, the world.
I started class tonight – It feels good to be back (again). Now if Homie will grab our Adventure Pass*whomp.* I think it’s time for a waterfall (or two, or three, or four… hell, let’s go back to Yosemite).
PS – Gidi caught a cold too… He’s resting by my side, isn’t feeling too well. Send love to the poor little guy…

1. Do you like blue cheese?
No... In fact, I don't like green cheese, purple cheese, pink cheese...

2. Have you ever smoked a cigarette?
No. Not a smoke kinda girl.

3. Do you own a gun?
I'm more old-fashioned than that.

4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic?
I stay away from Sonic.

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments?
Nah.

6. What do you think of hot dogs?
Unless they are grilled or cooked in a fire pit, I don't touch them.

7. Favorite Christmas Song?
Rrrrrr... Don't really care for X-mas songs.

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
Anything high octane considering morning just isn't in my vocab.

9. Can you do push ups?
Not so much...

10. What's your favorite meal?
Steak

11. What's your favorite piece of jewelry?
My moonstone fixed in a moon necklace.

12. Favorite hobby?
Photography

13. Do you work with people who idolize you?
I go to school... I keep to myself most of the time.

14. Do you have A.D.D?
Nope.

15. What's one trait that you dislike about yourself?
Not sure...

16. Middle name?
Physical middle name is Marie.

17. Name 3 thoughts at this moment.
(a) Headaches suck.
(b) I'm impressed with my playa beef stew.
(c) These things are funny.

18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday:
(a) Rebar
(b) Channel locks
(c) Masks

20. Current worry right now?
Two professors won't get my email before next week and drop me out of their class.

21. Current hate right now?
Religion in government.

22. Favorite place to be?
Maui.

23. How did you bring in the New Year?
With a hobbet.

24. Where would you like to go?
Ireland and Greece.

25. Name three people who will complete this?
Dunno.

26. Whose answer do you want to read the most?
Dunno.

27. What color shirt are you wearing?
Black.

28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets?
Silk.

29. Can you whistle?
Sort of.

30. Favorite color(s)?
Crimson red and indigo blue.

31. Would you be a pirate?
I could roll like that.

32. What songs do you sing in the shower?
I normally don't sing in the shower

33. Favorite girl's name?
Lily, Rose... I dunno...

34. Favorite boy's name?
Skylar, Bryant.

35. What's in your pocket right now?
Nothing! :)

36. Last thing that made you laugh?
Me teasing Morph to death.

37. Best bed sheets as a child?
Fresh out of the dryer.

38. Worst injury you've ever had?
Cat bite.

39. Do you love where you live?
Its not bad... I wish I were home in Ireland though.

40. How many TVs do you have in your house?
Just one.

41. Who is your loudest friend?
Morph.

42. How many dogs do you have?
Nada. I wish I had a husky/wolf.

43. Does someone have a crush on you?
*scratches head* Yes.

45. What is your favorite book?
I'm really digging the HP series right now. I know, I know... I'm *way* behind.

46. What is your favorite candy?
Reeses Cups

47. What is your favorite sports team?
Don't have one.

48. What song do you want played at your funeral?
What the?

49. What were you doing 12 AM last night?
Cleaning

50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up this morning?
I'll wake up in another hour *smacks several alarms*

I really should make it a point to post on here.

Here's a run down of stuff as of late:

Leaving for Burning Man this Monday. Coyote won't be going with us this year, so Phil is riding up with Profit John on Saturday. Midge, Morph, Melissa and myself will be driving in a rented 15 passenger van from Budget. I've been haggling back and forth between different car companies all day to figure out what to do regarding the van. Budget wants $300 extra for a deposit, on top of the 400-something bucks that they want to charge Midge's account with before we even get the keys. So, today has been a crazy day regarding money budgeting, BM stuff, AND school. But, all the BM stuff got worked out, so I am a happy camper (no pun intended). :D

School is rocking! I finished my first semester with a 4.0!!! Last week I completed summer semester, one class, and got a B. So, GPA is running at 3.71. I'm going to miss the first week of fall semester next week. I'm enrolled in 15 units: Astrology, an Astrology lab, Critical Thinking in Philosophy, Algebra, and Theater in Film. I've been attempting to get a hold of all my professors before I leave for BM to ensure that I have a place in class. I've had one response so far...

On that note - I quit my job at Source a few months ago. I started working for Home Depot, quit after 3 months of hell, and now have been asked to not work at all by Midge. Though I feel very odd about not working and just going to school, I am very grateful for the opportunity. I keep getting reassured that money is not an issue for me, to just go to school and get decent grades... Make something of myself. I think I keep thinking this is a dream or something, or Midge is going to stop and say "just kidding" or something. But, two semesters strong, and she keeps smiling. So, it has been school (tons of it) and house stuff for me. I guess with Midge being a full time student herself, and working two jobs, its kinda nice to have someone at home to take care of it. *shrug* One thing is for sure... It has allowed me time to reflect more on my inner self.

I have grown in so many ways...

I promise I'll keep this thing updated. Much to tell soon (pictures will be involved)!!!

Honest!

It's been a difficult two weeks. I've been under a depression spell that has been hard to break. Someone broke it tonight.. Through conversation, love and understanding.

This entire time I thought I was seriously off my rocker. But I understand now that I have to look into the energy and grasp what it really is. Is it really mine? In this case it is most likely a blend of my holy wow-ness and someone else. I've been reading into this person, this person is having trouble and is often left with a feeling of insecurity, confusion, depression, among many other thoughts and emotions. Something was said earlier tonight that may have triggered an even lower low. I may have misunderstood what this person said, let my mind wander, and in the end I was left really hurt as this person is very close to me. I've been threw thick and thin with this person, and for this person to say such a thing to me was... cold. But I have to understand that this person is going through hell. I need to understand that energy is everywhere, and I have yet to understand control enough to where I take it all if it is in front of me.


So... I am happy for this person who is there for me. I am thankful that such a person who is just like me to be so close. I'm not alone.

I'm happy that I have my second cup of coffee of the night on my left, my baby boy to my right and a house full of things to do to keep me on my toes.

Tomorrow is going to be a great day and night. No matter what happens... There will be great people, a beautiful ocean, and a smile on my face.

I've been so drained all day. Work was difficult, but I kept myself busy. I almost feel like I am catching a cold, but I am not. I need energy... serious.

Went to the chiropractor for an adjustment. Felt a little better. I had my first re-evaluation. I'll see my results tomorrow, but from what he said, I have had improvement.

I took PCH from Laguna to Huntington tonight. It was beautiful. Made me feel a lot better. I can agree with my brother... I don't think live far from the ocean. There's just something so compelling about it. It's energy is so mysterious and amazing.

I broiled some steak tonight. I had some left over bbq black beans from the night before. Added some broccoli and corn. Everything was wonderful.

I love spending time at my brother's.

I want tomorrow to be full of energy and go well. Though it is difficult to even think about sleeping this early at night, I think I may turn in with a book. My body aches for it.

Tonight I dyed Melissa's hair. I put deep red streaks throughout it. Looks great. We'll re-touch some streaks on Sunday. I really want to pop the color.

Tomorrow I am going to a blue grass concert with Midg. Busy busy day at work too - it is our quarter end. So many invoices to enter, I can't see straight - just numbers. ;-)

--

IKEA - vs. - Goth Sub-culture

Emails don't work... Melissa, Phil and I were talking about this earlier. My mom looked at this ad and was offended by it. I think I may go to IKEA with the ad in my hands and ask to speak to a manager, with my mom. Maybe I should let her do the talking, coming from a non-goth's point of view. Maybe that is a more direct route. But then again, it is an online ad only (??). I just read a post that someone has contacted the media regarding this ad and how it is becoming an uproar in the community.

I don't think the ad wouldn't have been that bad if they would leave it as "creepy gothic roommate." The "bad influence" is just pathetic.

--

I think I will re-dye my hair too.

Sylvia, my co-worker, told me about her niece earlier. She's 20 years old and showed up in tears on her doorstep last night with an 8 month old baby girl in her arms. Her boyfriend had seriously beat her up (as he has done several times before) and he was at that point in custody. His side of the family wanted to take the baby from her. So, she left everyone and showed up to Sylvia's house last night with baby in arms, half a can of formula, two bottles and some clothes.

This poor girl has nothing.

Karen at work is giving her a portable crib, Denise got her diapers and wipes, tonight my mom and I chipped in together and got her $70 worth of baby clothes, bibs, socks, etc.

I feel so compelled to reach out to this young, single, abused mother.



Light a candle and send out your love to her. The Gods know she needs it.

There are very few words to describe this past weekend. Some parts were disappointing, but then aside from that it was full of discovery. I enjoyed it. It was too short.
Saturday was the IEV Meetup. BBQ place didn’t pan out as I had hoped. The 6 of us wound up at Victoria Gardens. Had coffee, pastries, thoroughly tested our waiter at Johnny Rockets, bought a car cell phone charger and called it a night before 10. Drove to Melissa and Phil’s with Melissa and Sam snoozing in the back seat. He’s a cutie. Melissa and I talked for a short bit. When we got to the apt. we watched Ginger Snaps. It’s an okay movie… Still cracks me up over B tapping Gingers tail to her leg. Screw the whole movie; I think that was the highlight.
Sunday we met with Lily at Starbucks in Orange. Then we met with Morph at Starbucks in Rancho. All of us carpooled to Big Bear to visit Tammy’s shop. It was a stressful trip to say the least. We didn’t have a clear understanding as to where her shop was. We all got lost. By noon I was crawling into Jack n’ the Box demanding French fries to curb nausea from an emotional migraine and a dizzy car drive. We all ate at some Cuban café in the village. It was okay. Potato salad really needed some mustard or something. A short while after lunch we found Tammy’s shop. She’s incredible as always. I look forward to seeing her again and watching her shop grow into a beautiful healing retreat.
I feel bad that Morph had to leave early. My car was crammed full and Lily had to leave to get back to her sons. We left not far after they did. I wanted to leave no later than 5:30. I wanted to avoid the crazy drivers going down the mountain while there are some crazy shadows casted on the mountain.
We got down the mountain and ate at In & Out at the Mills. Guess who stopped by… Yep, you guessed it – David. I don’t think I have ever left a restaurant that fast. Before he could order his food, go to the soda fountain, we were in the car. I didn’t want to deal with the awkwardness and the possibility of him starting something.

So here it is, Monday night. I had chiro therapy tonight. Doing okay right now… I did a load of dishes, picked up a few things here and there, went grocery shopping, started a spare change bottle and went on a mini-mission to find cappuccino non-fat frozen yogurt. I failed… But wound up with old fashioned vanilla with some hot fudge on the side. ;-)
Friday I’m going with Midg to see a blue grass band play at the Greek. Not much of a blue grass girl, but what the hell… Nothing beats a good time and a couple of beers with this incredible woman.
Saturday will be a blast.

I got off work today at 1. I'll work 2.5 hours on Saturday to compensate for it. I went to the dentist. I've been bad... Haven't gone in two years. So I walked out of there an hour and a half later with some serious cleaning done. I have to go back in three weeks to check out my gums. They changed things around at my dentist, new office... new methods, etc. I like it.

I think I might lie down for a little while. Just relax. I want to set up the computer table in the other room, transfer this computer over there and install my computer in my room. I keep promising my buddy at work that I will bring in some of my photos to show. He just got back from Italy - dear Gods his photos were incredible.

I'm really looking forward to this weekend. Possible party (depending how work falls in place with it all) on Saturday during the day, IE Vampire Meetup at night. Sunday hit up Big Bear with Phil, Melissa and Sam for the re-opening of this neat little meta-physical store. Busy busy, so much fun!
Went out last night with a good friend. Took him down to the beach... Ate at BJ's, walked around, wound up in a dark alley that leads to a balcony off the cliff - beautiful ocean view! We talked for hours, telling stories about anything. I had a lot of fun.

I have had an incredible day going to Diamond Valley Lake. Mom and I grabbed an early breakfast at A's. We got to her district at 8:30 for coffee and orientation. We were given badges, boarded the bus and began our adventurous tour. We drove around Lake Mathews and then entered Diamond Valley Lake on its West side. We got the opportunity to by-pass security and cross over the dam. The dam is off limits to the public and most water employees. Only security has access across it, as well as a couple directors. It was really neat!!! That water is anywhere from 150-250 deep (it is said that near the pumping station it is literally over 200 feet deep.
Our next stop was at the lake's viewpoint. A short hike up a small hill lead a beautifully built compass made of stone. The view was incredible.
We had a catered lunch at the marina- ham sandwich, garlic garlic pasta with more garlic and a little tomatoes, choc. chip cookie. We took pictures with each other here.
Last we visited the paleontology and archeology exhibit. During the construction of the lake, there were quite a few skeletal remains as well as what life was like for humans many many moons ago. I left with a little stone that came with tools to excavate my own little fossil within. Cute for kids, but for the Anthro girl in me... I couldn't pass it up.

I learned a lot about how Southern California gets its drinking water. We rely on the districts to pull this water from up north as well as the Colorado River. San Diego Co. alone does not even have their own water supply (cities like Anaheim, Fullerton, supply their own... they tap into a well) and relay up to 95% on our districts to get them water. Conservation is key... It's amazing what these engineers, residents, archeologists, paleontologists have done to make this lake such a wonderful place.

Some day in the near future, water districts will be able to make ocean water available for consumption. Water is the key for life. If we pollute it by tossing trash on the street, sidewalk, etc. it can get to our oceans, streams, lakes... That comes back to us. A few months ago Orange County was under a water crisis. All the districts across OC were asking residents to conserve water or else it may run out. Districts had to tap into their emergency supplies to fulfill the demand of residents. The residents in return (as broadcasted in the media) said that it wasn't a big deal... That there was no way that water can run out. Quite the contrary... It can.


In the end, I left understanding about our water system, the amazing people behind it and took a piece of it that will stick with me forever.

A lot of health stuff going on. Whether it be mental, physical, spiritual, myself or the world...

Tomorrow I am going with my mom on a tour to Diamond Valley Lake. This tour is supposed to be for water district employees only, but my mom tossed in a few pleas and they said it would be okay for me to go.
The trip starts off here in Laguna. We board a bus (with a pot of coffee and pastries) and head out to Hemet. We get to cross on top of a dam (this should thoroughly freak me out - it will be awesome), visit a paleontology/archeology exhibit (I know, I am a serious geek) and get to hear about the history of the area. The district treats us to lunch, we hop back on the bus to be home late in the afternoon.

I'm stoked.

--
Burning Man tickets have arrived. We need to pick them up at the post office. So excited!!! I still have last year's ticket in my wallet. It sort of stands as a reminder - I know where home is...
Midg is excited about going. Everytime we hit up a store, she's always fleeing over to the camping section checking out stuff for BM. This year we are donating tons of chairs for our camp, Pleasure Garden.

--
David's mom signed a release of liability for Michael's old phone. Woo hoo, it's no longer on my account!!!

--
By changing my eating habits in the last month and a half, I have lost a total of 12 pounds!!!!!
The old me is starting to come about. :)

--
OC meetup is this Saturday. I'm so glad I will be seeing everyone again. I miss going to Melissa's meetups. I really miss everyone and love the fact that I can see everyone again!

--
... and... Tomorrow I am going to hang out with Sir Dave around here in Laguna. He's never been down here... Heh heh... What trouble can we get into. *evil grin*

So weird. My second session today with Dr. Dan. Get this... Last night I fell asleep at 7! Woke up when the Woman got home at 12:30, went back to bed and woke up this morning just in time for work. Jeezus, that's like... 10 hours of sleep! I told him that dispite a headache after my first adjustment, I feel asleep at 7. He said that my body had a positive response to the adjustment.

Very cool.

So tomorrow is my third adjustment and then I am done till next monday.

Three times a week for 3 months and then I get re-evaluated.

Now if the sinus issues will go away, I will be 100% wonderful. ;-)