I love tattoos and I love images of women who are sensual or powerful preferably both. To me the woman holds most of the power dynamic in any relationship even if the male counterpart likes to think different. I am not for a moment saying men are weak, quite obviously they are not. Nor am I saying women don’t need men, we do. The fact is it is the female of the species that rears the next generation. Women need to be strong and independent without losing touch with their femininity. Women of history were strong but still kept their grace, elegance and beauty. There is no reason why a woman has to give up the essence of being female to hold down a career, raise a family or anything else she wants to do. That is not what equality or feminism was about.
Saturday, 29 December 2007
Morning Pages - Sea Goddess
Wednesday, 26 December 2007
Our Handfast Day
As your bride soon to be your wife
All nerves, fears and doubts banging in my head
This is forever not just for life
Then I see you and I know Beloved
All doubts cast away I know we are right
Today is yours and mine alone
Looking in your eyes I know the future is bright
The pledges cast in sacred ritual
Eternally binding our hearts as one
One ring never ending our love eternal
Jumping the broom our future begun
The scared pledges said and received
Love, Honour, Protection, Trust
Respect and Truth the promises made
Held dear in our blessed handfast.
Sunday, 16 December 2007
600 seconds at lunch - what triggers your anger?
I don't get angry that easily but I do get angry at dishonesty. I really do not accept that telling lies or deceiving people is ever a necessary or good thing. OK sometimes the truth is hard to face but surely it is better to face any issues sooner rather than later. If the truth is going make someone angry a lie and finding out that one has been lied to will only make that anger and any recriminations far worse. Relationships of any kind require trust, and lies even little ones break that trust down to nothing. Without trust no relationship can survive. Honesty is always a far better and stronger option. In the D/s lifestyle trust is something valuable between a Dominant and submissive, lying is not only a danger to a relationship its is also physically dangerous to hide behind deceptions you are capable or more experienced than you really are. I rely on my partner's honesty and integrity without that there can be nothing. The high level of trust in a D/s relationship does indeed make them very strong and codependent. That strength of trust is the key behind any power exchange that may occur.
Morning Pages - Native Eagle
The eagle is a powerful totem in Native American culture representing the freedom of spirit. I adore birds of prey especially eagles as they fly with such grace and elegance using the natural thermals of the atmosphere to sweep and glide with seemingly no effort. The accuracy of their vision when they spot their prey is a wonder to behold and then that dive of the hunter as they soar down silently grabbing the prey with their talons without breaking flight and swooping back up effortlessly. Is it any wonder the Native culture holds them in such high esteem. The freedom of spirit is something I hold close to me as nothing can take it away.
Wednesday, 5 December 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Spike
Spike is a sleek and agile tabby tomcat. He is a very shy gentleman, preferring mog company to human. Spike loves to play with anything that dangles, though being so shy he is kind enough to leave shoe laces alone. Spike loves being outside and will even venture out on colder days, snow and rain are no obstacle for a hardened bird watcher. His favourite sleep place is on top of the wardrobe. Spike is extremely agile and elegant in his movements. He is a good natured cat and rarely get into scrapes with the other cats, in fact he doesn't like conflict at all and would rather walk away. Spike comes out of his shell a little when catnip is on the go and will even get up on my bed for a few of the buttons.
600 Seconds at Lunch - Where does the light go when the switch is turned off
I believe light somehow travels to relax in the fridge when you turn off the switch. Every time you open the fridge door there it is shining out. So I think the fairies that make light take it there when its not needed. While the door its shut it sleeps ready for when it is needed again. When we open the door we wake it up and its shines out briefly till we shut the door again, allowing it to return to its dreams. Now there begs the question 'What does light dream of?' Perhaps it dreams of finding the darkest places and helping to make our world an enlightened one. The light fairies magic light to help us see our way maybe they also help us to see magic too.
Morning Pages - What is the difference between love and lust
What is the difference between love and lust? Love is about caring, supporting, and accepting another person. Lust is the need for instant gratification or instant attraction. Lust can indeed lead to a deep and loving relationship. Lust is that initial physical attraction between two people; it does not see the inner being or deeper value of the individual. It is just about sexual need and desire. Love is when that desire and need can be put to one side and the other needs of life can be met. Love is finding your partner attractive when they are bedraggled and wet not just when they got their glad rags on and their hair is brushed and neat. Love does not need the rose tinted glasses of fantasy it is part of reality. Love is holding your lover's hand when they are hurting to offer support not to get them between the sheets. Sex between a couple in love is awesome the needs of both being important. Lustful sex is only about sating your own sexual need and wants.
And It's Goodnight From Me - Morgana
Morgana is a quiet and elegant queen cat. She is very refined which is fitting as she is named after Morgana le Fe. Morgana never makes a song and dance out of life and just gracefully backs off if the other cats are causing mischief. Her best friend and constant companion is her sister Stripe and she is also close to her brother Pierrot. Morgana like a gentle cuddle and fuss, but hates noise. She is not too fond of children as they make too much noise. Morgana loves her egg milk shake and a few catnip buttons as a treat before curling up on top of the wardrobe for her sleep. She is not too shy to come out into the living room, if there are no kids about to sit on the back of the couch elegantly and ask for a fuss. She is not a lap cat and rarely if ever sits on a human. In the summer, Morgana likes to sit out side watching the world go by or dozing in the sun. She's not keen on being outside in winter and will only venture out on dry warmer days.
600 Seconds at Lunch - If I was a muppet which muppet am I
Which Muppet am I? Miss Piggy I guess, as I adore Kermit. I am opinionated and mouthy with it just like the diva piggy. So yes, I think Miss Piggy would be me. I used to watch the Muppets as a teen, definitely a step up from the puppet TV shows we had when I was a small child. Bill and Ben and Andy Pandy still have a place in my heart though, even Muffin the Mule too. I was raised on these characters and Trumpton and Camberwick Green too. I think every kid had a knitted Lamb Chop too, courtesy of our mothers reading Woman's Weekly and Jean Greenhowe's knitting patterns. I even used her patterns when my own children were small making them scarecrows and pirates, and baby clothes for Tiny Tears and high fashion for Barbie for my nieces. Now I knit when I get chance with a knitting machine long gone are the painstaking hours of knit one purl on a pair of needles. Can't say I miss that really. It has left me free to pursue other interests and hobbies that maybe I would never have done. Now for the first time I am having to type I don't know what to write in my free write 10 minutes. Shocked I am devastated or does it mean I am typing faster... is that a good thing!
Tuesday, 4 December 2007
Morning Pages - Write a wedding vow that reflects your style and personality
My Beloved I give you my heart
To entwine with yours from this day
As we join and become one
My path will be beside you all the way
My Beloved I give you my honour
It is you My Beloved that I trust
As the years roll by our love will grow
Times change we together will never fall to dust
My Beloved I give you myself
In our joyous and blessed handfast
To souls in union, one ring binds us
A love never ending, all eternity we will last
My Beloved I give you my love
No conditions, it is yours for all time
Beside you and with you I want to be
Tenderness and grace our lives we entwine
My Beloved I give you all that I am
Precious and blessed by the Goddess above
Mind Body Spirit and Blood
One together bound in Her tender love
As we stand united amongst the Stones
There circle all around us, where we belong
My Beloved my dream lover
With you I am safe from the world's wrong
©JeMs2007, all rights reserved.
And It's Goodnight From Me - Pierrot
Pierrot is a shy but refined tabby tomcat. He is an absolute gentleman with excellent manners and always waiting his turn. The queen cats he treats with moggie courtesy and his fellow tomcats with respect. Pierrot is not a born leader but he is not a sheep-like follower either. He prefers to do his own thing quietly without causing a fuss. Pierrot likes to sleep on top of the wardrobe and can often be found curled up with Ferret and Smurf. He likes his catnip buttons but always shares with his sisters Stripe and Morgana who he loves dearly. In the summer, he likes to play out in the garden, in winter he prefers the laundry room if the tumble dryer is running.
©JeMs2007, all rights reserved.Monday, 3 December 2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - When is nothing better than something
It is better to having nothing if having something is wrong for you and making you unhappy. When it comes to relationships, it is easier said than done of course. How often do people remain with the wrong person because they fear being alone or the unknown. Breaking away from a bad relationship can be very much like jumping out of the frying plan into the fire. It damn well hurts as much as a fire too. However when the emotions settle down and the heart begins to heal, the slow realization you are away from the cause of your sadness is immeasurably strengthening. One is often left wondering why took so long to do it.
©JeMs2007Morning Pages - Chocolate
That sweet satin taste as you first touch my lips
Eager and hungry, I savour your first embrace
From the end of my toes to my finger tips
My senses yearn only for your silken grace
Easily between my lips of sultry red
You slip without resistance my tongue lingers for a moment
Slowly licking then sucking the fusion to my head
Oh, yes the chocolate fix, pure pleasure my intent.
©JeMs2007And It's Goodnight From Me - TC
TC is a large stocky tabby tomcat. He was adopted by Riz as a kitten and still behaves more like a dog than a cat. TC even tries to bark at the door knocking and has a dog’s passionate hatred for postmen. TC misses Riz and often curls up by her memorial statue or under the chair where she used to sleep. He is not the most intelligent of chaps but he is adorable. TC likes to leap up on to the human shoulder, which hurts like hell not because he uses his claws but because he is such a heavy fella. Thankfully TC is a docile natured moggie rarely getting into scraps he would rather avoid all that nonsense. TC loves his saucer of cream or if daddy has them a cream tea of scone, clotted cream and strawberry jam, or just plain scone if no one is looking.
©JeMs2007Friday, 30 November 2007
600 seconds at lunch - What does pain do to a person
Emotional pain is something we all have to face from time to time. Personally I believe in the long-term learning to deal with that is a form of empowerment. So the boyfriend dumped you and it hurts like hell, but allowing yourself time to grieve then move on is very much a strengthening process. Of course, it also means that grubby ex doesn’t win. We learn from our own mistakes, that is for sure, but we also grow from the hurt others put us through. Physical pain is more of a case of the endorphins rushing from the nerves to the brain to say ‘Ow that hurts’. This rush can be addictive and make some people actively seek pain from self or others. I don’t know of anyone who would seek emotional pain.
Copyright:JeMs2007Morning Pages - The pains of a using a computer
‘Are you sure you want to delete that’ message flashes on my screen. Yes, that is why I pressed delete, give me some cred PC. I know I am a mere human and cannot possibly process things as fast as you with your 80-gig memory can. In fact if you are so damn clever how come you can’t auto delete the spam email? I am a female, PC, what would I possibly want with a penis enlargement. And come on, at 44DD do I really need breast implants? So quit asking me dumbass questions and do something useful, send my spam back where it came from with a not so polite ‘Go away.’
Copyright:JeMs2007And It's Goodnight From Me - I am flying
Just recently I wrote on how simple acts of love can lift the spirit. Tonight that fact was brought home to me in the most wonderful way. A very special person who I call cheeky writes poetry and today used two of my paintings as inspiration. I am on such a high I am crying. I love painting its my soul on paper and cheeky's poetry is her soul on paper. I have no words to express how I feel, I don't know how to. I don;t want to write about anything else tonight.
Pirate Cove by cheeky
Trick of the Eye by cheeky
Copyright:JeMs2007
Thursday, 29 November 2007
Morning Pages - A dog's devotion
A dog is devoted to the hand that feeds and fusses it. Treat a dog with love and they will give it back to you without reservation. I am also convinced if you treat a dog with cruelty that is what you will get back and deservedly so. I guess its the same for any animal unlike the human beasts who are capable of using and manipulating the kindness of others for their own ends. I have never known a dog or any other animal do that. It so easy to see why some humans prefer the company of their pets when humans can do that.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Nobby
Nobby is our youngest tomcat kitten. A tabby coated bundle of mischief and mayhem. He hides waiting to pounce with all claws on any human legs that may be passing by. Then he looks up at you with appealing eyes of angelic innocence. Nobby loves to play with a toy mouse throwing and chasing it from one end of the house to the other. After all that activity, when he is totally knackered out he flops out on my bed contentedly purring or is that a little self satisfied snore. Nobby does wake up for his catnip and then its back to his snuggle spot for a good nights sleep. He likes to be warm and often snuggles up with Harley or Pooh as long as they don't give him a bath.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Have you had a psychic experience
I firmly believe that our loved ones that have traversed to the spiritual planes come back and visit us now and then.I know I have sensed the presence of both my daddy and my granny on many occasions. My daddy ever the practical joker is still up to his tricks. The only difference is this chip of his block will have to wait to get her own back unlike when he was here in the physical plane.My daddy was my hero and still is. I sense his comfort and support when I feel down and that is when my granny stops by too. I have no doubt it is her kicking my ass when I know what I should be doing and I am dithering about it. It is from both of them that I get my nature and my mile wide streak of pig headed stubbornness. It is my darling daddy and my dear granny who have made me Jem and not the lost soul I could so easily have been.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Wednesday, 28 November 2007
Morning Pages - If feet had imagination how would you know?
Well for a start, shoes would certainly become more interesting. How bored must our feet be stuffed into the same old smelly trainers each day. We already know our feet have special qualities that benefit the rest of the body through reflexology. I guess a foot would as part of a twin pairing so maybe they would be chatting to each other and sharing ideas. Socks are already becoming inventive with decoration, more exciting designs and textiles, so just maybe feet are already beginning to let us know that they are worthy of a little more consideration.
Copyright:JeMs2007And It's Goodnight From Me - Crowe
Crowe is a black longhaired witch's tomcat. He is this witch's personal familiar and has been since kittenhood. Crowe loves to hug into me, going almost flat against m, his head purring contentedly on my shoulder.He knows just how to get that too. His sexy amber eyes take on a puppy like appeal as he mews to be picked up. Crowe is a happy go lucky mog and very friendly. Any visitors get his personal attention and he is always the first of the cats to say hello. Crowe is a dandy cat with a saucy strut to match his sexy charisma. His tail is always held high with just the tip flipped to one side as he walks. Elegant, charming, sexy and handsome is Crowe and by tomcat don't he just know it!
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Why do men wear ties
Why on earth anyone would wear anything tied tightly at the neck is beyond me. Possibly men who wear ties are really closet masochists, hiding behind an image of correctness. I am almost certain a tie is for the wife to use as leash. Yes, I know a tie looks smart but really, who came up with the idea and just how closely related were they to the Marquis de Sade. Personally, I prefer the cravat, ok that is a tad old fashioned but oh, wow it is extremely sexy. I have never seen the point of a tie and I am in no doubt it serves no real purpose. The fashion world's wasp maybe.
Copyright:JeMs2007Morning Pages - The world's end
Not as depressing as you might think from the title which I have pilfered from the name of a pub in Sussex. Just entering the bar my senses were hit by jovial hospitality and a warm roaring fire. At once I got the gist of the name of the place as meaning one doesn't want to leave. So maybe the world's end is finding somewhere one wants to stay. For me that is always at home with Andy and my boys. I miss them so much when I am away. Don't get me wrong three men in my life drive insane and I need a break from them now and then. Despite that they are the biggest blessings in my life and I love them all so much, I wouldn't want it any other way, well not too often.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Where is light brightest
Light is the brightest in the very depths of darkness. A small flame from a candle will fill a small room with the most welcoming glow and warmth. When life is giving its worst the same is true, one small act of love is awesomely powerful, elevating the spirit and heart to the highest of levels. Most of the time we are all guilty of taking love and loved ones for granted, its only when in those darkest moments and we are in the pits of despair that the true wonder of love is felt. Something as simple as a comforting arm on a shoulder or a gentle word is all it takes. Love is awesome and without a doubt the biggest high.
Copyright:JeMs2007And It's Goodnight From Me - The sky is the limit
Sometimes our dreams and ambitions seem so distant and unattainable. Does that mean we should give up on them? Or should we have a go and see if we can? OK we may not get exactly what we want but we do get a wonderful experience of knowing we gave something our best shot, and the sense of pride that goes with achievement. The alternative of a life of 'if only' and 'what if' is not an attractive one. There sky is the limit as far as having go is concerned. OK so if it doesn't work out this time there is always the next time.
Friday, 16 November 2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What is an extended family?
For me the extended family is not those distant relatives you hear about but never meet, its the people who come into your world (not necessarily related by blood) who you come to welcome as part of yourself. A friend who really cares about you and you really care for. People who don't judge you for what you are but embrace you for being you. These are the special folk you look forward to seeing and feel excited anticipation at meeting for a quick coffee and a natter. You know both of you will gain something from each meeting and be eagerly looking forward to the next one.Friends who come from all walks of life and bring light into your own life.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - I remember...
I remember when mobile phones were science fiction. I remember when an album was made of vinyl not Cd's and MP3s. I remember black and white TV. I remember when "Snickers" were "Marathon". Computers were the size of a double decker bus, now they fit in the palm of your hand. I did my math calculations using my head or a book of logs, sins, cos, and tans. I know how to do long division. I read a book long before it became a movie. TV finished at 11pm. I remember the test card and only having three channels of crap to choose from. I listened to the radio if I wanted up to date information. I remember getting excited at shouting "Breaker, Breaker 19" into a CB radio. Yes I am old I am!
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages -Movie Talk
I am not a great movie buff by any stretch of the imagination but this is the prompt so I will have a go at it, as to not do so is a little bit like cheating I think. So whats the last movie I actually sat and watched? "Four Weddings and a Funeral" so a real oldie but still a good one. OK I adore Hugh Grant so I maybe a tad biased but hey too bad. I love the totally unsubtle humour of "Four Weddings" and it never fails to have me laughing and giggling no matter what grumpy mood I may have been in. I have been feeling in the pits recently and Andy saw the film was on the TV so, bless his white sox, sacrificed his beloved wrestling and put it on for me. Apparently worth the sacrifice to hear me laugh... awww he is just to sweet sometimes.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Thursday, 15 November 2007
Morning Pages - What type of mythological creature are you?
I am definitely a mischievous pixie type, always getting in to trouble with the rest of the fairy folk. Maybe a naughty sprite even. I am very much a "light blue touch paper" and sit back and watch the chaos and fun unfold. I could be a good fairy type but I would soon tire of that. I am not a wicked person so the bad guys of fantasy are out too. So somewhere in the middle, good at heart but naughty and mischievous too. If I am a mythical animal it is the Phoenix, as I have had to rebuild me from nothing a fair few times when life has gone to ashes around me.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Wake me up before you go go
Just lately sleep and I haven't been the best of aquaintences which means when I do finally get to the point of being able to sleep I'm worried I'll wake up late and can't sleep! Yeah its a vicious circle stress keeps me awake followed by a dose of worry.I kind of need a certain level of stress to function, I think we all do, but when the pressure piles up it sure becomes a problem. The last couple of weeks have been high pressure for me with just one thing after another causing me hassle. Thankfully that seems to be easing up now,and life may just return to some sort of normality if such a state exists.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What does your partner bring out in you?
What does Andy bring out in me - that is a tough one to answer but then he has never tried to make me something I am not. He accepts and loves me for who I am and doesn't try to stop me being me. With his wonderful love and support I have slowly started to embrace me for myself, and Andy has been there to pick up the pieces when I totally stuff it up, which I do a lot. When life gets me down he is there - my knight in blue jeans, stuff the shining armour it would take too much hassle to keep clean. Now I am trying to build a new career doing the things I love to do Andy is encouraging me and totally behind me.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Every new beginning comes from a previous ending
As the old saying goes, as one door closes another one opens. A closing door or closure marks the end of something, it also marks a change or new beginning. Open doors are opportunities or choices and it is up to the individual to take them or not. If they are taken then it is a case of making the best of it. In he circle of life there is technically no end but I am sure that doesn't mean things cannot change. It is possible to embrace change and make it a positive force within our lives. Even sad ends such as bereavements and break ups have a positive even if its so very difficult to see at the time.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - What is the speed of dark?
With the long nights of winter fast approaching it seems the dark comes so much faster. The warm sunsets late on a summer's evening seem like a fading distant memory as they are replaced by cold, dim winter weather. People seem to be more hurried too, rushing about instead of being calm and having time to dwindle. That is not really so surprising, who wants to hang about when its cold and raining longer than needs be. How much better to be at home, snuggled up with a loved one in front of a roaring fire. The mog folk in our house have become more inclined to snug up warm too. Even the anti-social Spot is curling up with us in bed. I think that is as close to a human lap as Spot will lower himself to somehow.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Saturday, 10 November 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Discworld
Discworld is a satirical fantasy series by Terry Pratchett. "The Lord of the Rings" meets "The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy" is quoted on the back cover blurb of "The Colour of Magic". I am a huge fan of the world travelling through space supported on four giant elephants stood on the back of Great a'Tuin. From the beginning I was grabbed by the hapless 'wizzard' Rincewind and his travelling companion Twoflowers. Indeed there is a similarity between these two and Ford Prefect and Arthur Dent from "The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy". Then there is the Luggage which is seemingly infinite in how much it can contain much like Dr. Who's TARDIS. Discworld does however stand up in it's own right. Terry Pratchett's characters from Rincewind to Granny Weatherwax and Death himself are all strong and each brings some to Discworld as a series and to the various novels.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - I have a right to be happy because...
I am not sure happiness is a right. I do believe, however, the biggest block on me being happy is me. I am fighting to accept myself and be myself and more often than not I lose. I am getting better at it though and one day I hope to let go of the brain washing and bullshit of my childhood and past and really be true to me. Hey, who knows, one day I may even allow myself to feel happy to do that too. I know I fear rejection and disapproval especially from my horrendous family who are so disappointed with me. One, I am a girl, two I am not a doctor, and three I am not married to Mr. Billionaire. OK to bad, perhaps I don't want any of that, but hey that is my mother, expects everyone else to live life just for her benefit and her way.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Moving on
Sometimes we have to accept things we do not want happen. We cannot let what may be very painful events stop our lives. Of course we have to allow ourselves to adjust an accept, maybe even grieve if needs be. But eventually it is time to bite the bullet, close the door on the past but not forget it, and get on with the job of living and look to the future. We often hear of a need for closure on something, more often than not that is found within ourselves. Oh yeah, it is the devil's own job to find it of course, but it is there. Sometimes it takes some counselling, advice, or just simple peace and quiet to help us find it. Accepting changes or facts we do not like or want is not easy but if we allow ourselves to focus on what is positive in our lives we can move on and look to the future.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What kind of help will resolve your feelings?
Hearing Andy say "I love you" normally gets me back on track when I am feeling hurt or down. With my family that is at least once a day with yet another put down or disparaging comparison to Mr Golden Balls, my brother. I know I should be used to it by now, of course I should, and most times I am really not that bothered by it. I have built my own life and it is good, OK certainly not good enough for 'them' but hey I am happy to be me, Andy is happy with us and my boys are wonderful so whose loss is it anyway - it is certainly not mine. Just sometimes it would be nice to feel my family actually give a damn and that is when it hurts.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Freedom Fighter
What is a freedom fighter? Is it some one who battles against a tyrannical despot? Is is some one who battles for personal freedom? When some one is facing an inner struggle to be themselves the battle for self identity is every bit as terrifyingly desperate as one against a tyrant. Finding one's identity in the chaos of life can become is one most of us face at some point. Whether we are searching for inner peace or an answer to personal confusion it is a fight for freedom, to get life back on a balanced track. Destiny may have it all mapped out for us but we being human have a habit of doing the wrong thing and thus ending up facing a battle for personal well being. So yes at times we are all freedom fighters for our own sense of freedom, the freedom to be.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Friday, 2 November 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - New Read
My new read is an 'old friend', Discworld's Mort by Terry Pratchett. Mort is one of my favourite Discworld novels, as always TP's unusual look at the character of Death plays a key role. I love TP's depiction of the Grim Reaper and I can guarantee it will have me smiling if not falling out of my bed laughing. The perfect end to any day, s little humour, much needed humour right now. It is sure not a happy time for me with Pops passing away, though I think from his point of view it is a good thing and I am sure he is in a much better place. OK I am knackered with all the stuff I need to get done but I am grateful it stopped me having to think about things for a bit, a sweet moment of room to breathe.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - People should ...
People should respect others' right to be. They should accept each other for who they are. Not a lot to ask you might think but such a rare thing to find. Maybe is we start with self respect and self acceptance we then might also begin to do the same for others. It is impossible to accept some one elses choices and opinions if we have problems accepting our own. To judge others as being wrong or right, in truth, is not really our right or place. No matter what gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc., every one has a right to be. No that does not mean being in some one's face about your self and who you are. Discretion and tact are also acts of respect.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Fairy wings
Shimmering bright, the wings of fairies glisten in sun and moonlight as they flutter about, unseen, unheard, their business. Flower fairies, tree fairies, water fairies, pixies and sprites, all different but all equally blessed with iridescent gossamer wings. As they meet up at the fairy glen for dance, play or just to socialize the mass of sparkling wings glints in the light like morning dew in the first rays of the sun. Hush now, let your ears listen for the soft butterfly whisper of a fairy in flight.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Coco
Coco is a friendly black with white smudges long-haired queen cat. She keeps her long, shiny fur pristine but still likes her brush through. Coco is a lady and gracious until it is kibble time then she has no qualms about getting in the thick of things with the rest of the mogs. Coco's favourite sleep place is on top of the book shelf in amongst my art kit. I think she fancies herself with a brush and paint or maybe as a life art model, if she could keep still long enough to pose. Coco's preferred treat is oaty biscuits at bed time. Of course she likes her catnip and milky buttons too. Coco loves being fussed and curling up beside human thigh, fluttering her long lashes for an extra fuss. She's not a lap cat but she is a friendly little soul.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Ratzy
Ratzy is our biggest cat. A huge great gentle grey and white giant of a mog. Not the most intelligent example of the feline world but then muscle and brain rarely inhabit the same being. Ratzy is a friendly chap and quite refined. His sleep place is on the towel shelf in the bathroom. Occasionally he is joined by Trouble if she can be bothered to climb up the shelves. Ratzy's favourite past time is fly chasing not that he particularly successful at it. Despite is enormous size Ratzy is light on his feet and extremely agile, more so than some of the sleeker and more streamlined cats. Ratzy has become Waya's hero and she adores him and he looks after her.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Write down your favourite poem
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe:
All mimsy were the borogroves,
And the mome raths outgabe
"Beware the Jabberwock, my son!
The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!
Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun
The frumious Bandersnatch"
He took his vorpal sword in hand
Long time the manxome foe he sought
So rested he by the Tumtum tree
And stood awhile in thought.
And, as in uffish thought he stood
The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame
Come whiffling through the tulgey wood
And burbled as it came!
One, two! One, two! And through and through
The vopal sword went sniker-snack
He left it dead, and with it's head
He went galumphing back.
"And , has thou slain the Jabberwock?
Come to my arms, my beamish boy!
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!
He chortled in his joy.
'Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;
All mimsy were the borogroves,
Ands the mome raths outgabe'
Thursday, 1 November 2007
Morning Pages - The Dreamcatcher
The Native American Dreamcatcher, for me, is a very precious symbol of culture and belief. I have a Crowe tribe Dreamcatcher hanging over my work desk and when my mind hits slack, or worse, a creative blank, it is a useful focusing point for a brief respite into meditative state. That brief pause often allows my brain to have a break from the creative grind and declog from every day life. Today's dinner menu will happen in its own time, so will the bundle of jeans in the laundry. Sometimes simple daily chores block my creativity and make it difficult to get my mojo going, on to paper whether in picture or word form. So my Dreamcatcher not only stops the evil spirits invading my dreams but helps me to clear my head too.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - who would you be for 24 hours?
If I could be anyone I would be me at 18 with the knowledge I have now. Basically there is nothing I would change about me but there are sure some decisions I would make differently and some things I would do totally different. Of course one can only know that with the benefit of hindsight. Too late when one is already up to the neck in the proverbial cow dung. Hindsight is one of those things that is only going to be useful if an event is repeated. OK who would I be other than me. A cat, a pampered and spoiled cat of course. Much like the feline crowd that so kindly permit me to live in their house.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Friday, 19 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - FW1 and FW2
FW1 and FW2 are identical twin black and white tom cats. When they were babies they had no sense of fear or danger, still don't really. Being identical twins its almost impossible to tell who is who unless they are together.FW1 is a little bigger than his brother. As felines this dynamic duo are a pair of klutzes, you have to make sure all the decks are clear of breakables with these two about. Other than their clumsiness the FW boys are charming characters and know they are adorable. FW1 is more chatty and forward of the two and has no qualms of letting the human know it is a meal time and to get on with it. FW2 on the other hand is a little more patient, well that is not saying he is the patient type, what cat is? The FWs sleep on my wardrobe or on the couch if there is a human about. Their favourite treat is an oaty fruit biscuit which they will share between themselves. Basically they hang out together and with Sharky and Dali. The four have grown up together and are incredibly close.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - I don't like to be alone because...
Hm I really can not complete that sentence, not in anyway that would be honest and truthful. I am one of those odd ball people who relishes solitude and being alone. I enjoy my own space, I crave it almost to the point of lusting after it at times, and on my own is how I work best. Even if I am doing life art I tend to work from photos after the initial pose session. I like my studio space quiet, its my creative space and I get resentful if people intrude on that. When I am writing its the same, I like quiet and need to be left alone to get on with it. The quickest way to kill creativity for me is someone wittering on in background trying to take my attention from my work. My work matters to me. I do not care if it is meaningless to anyone else, it is important to me. Needlessly demanding my attention when I am working gets me frustrated and angry. Obviously if it is an important thing I drop what I am doing, other than that no, I have to be disciplined and get on with it. I do not really enjoy chatting about nothing, actually I hate that. What wise doof invented the curse of my life, the cell phone? So all lone time can now be invaded by some spanner who thinks they have a right to my time. Thank goddess for the silent ring tones and off buttons are such a blessing!!!
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - All acts of love are sacred to the goddess
We are not talking sex here since when has that had anything to do with anything other than lust and desire, its certainly not about love. Acts of love are the things that empower the people we love to fulfill their full potential. Its a mother nurturing her children, a brother standing up for his sibling, a friend supporting a friend through a bad time. Its the things we do for those we care about because we care not because we expect praise or thanks. These are the acts that truly glorify the goddess, bring her love to shine on us, that love is divine so the acts that bring Her to us are indeed sacred.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Thursday, 18 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Ceefer
Ceefer is my little princess cat, and very much my baby girl. She is a chirpy, chatty and cheeky little moggie. More like a monkey than a cat she likes to sprawl across my shoulders, thankfully she is a little mog. I think that is her way of keeping me still and getting her mummy time. Ceefer always shares my morning banana , she leaves the Rocket Fuel coffee alone thankfully. She is scatty cat enough without caffeine and gaurana sending her ballistic. Ceefer tries to keep the younger cats in order, they of course ignore Miss Dinky Bossy Boots. Ceefer sleeps on my bed or behind the tumble dryer if it is on. She is a chatterbox, chirping away to anyone who will listen. She does not have a meow just a cheerful chirp. Ceefer's best cat friends are Stripe and Morgana.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And Its Goodnight From Me - Kanga
Kanga named after another AA Milne character, is a stoic grey/white Burmese tom cat. A totally cool dude mog. Kanga would give the Fonz a run for his money on the cool stakes. Each morning he takes his place at the foot of my bed as I get up. Yep my bed is a mass of cat when I get up, they all come in and find their own spots to say 'good morning'. Who am I kidding its the cat nip they want. Kanga loves his cat nip, and he likes a fuss too when the other cats are not looking of course. A cool cat has his reputation to consider. Kanga does not, walk or run - he struts, nothing would make him run that is so not cool. He hangs out with Feather or Ferret when he is not sleeping or strutting that is.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Does love exist?
I believe we all have a profound emotion which we claim is this thing called love. I also believe in the powers of love that come from the deities. Do I believe in the popular idea of hearts, flowers and cottages with pink roses growing round the gate? Hell No! OK i am in no way shape or form a romantic, I actually detest all that malarkey. I am not a huggy, kissy, touchy, feely person. Does that mean I am unable to feel love? I do not think so, and if love is all that clinging to each other crap I will be living without it quite happily anyway. Love is letting someone be themselves. Love also starts with the self, and that means letting yourself be yourself. That is a tough cookie, so many people have pre-conceived notions of how they should be. I am by no means perfect and I do not want to be. Perfection allows no room for growth. Love allows for a person to grow. to not do so is to smother and suffocate the essence of a person. Love is letting someone be free to fulfill their destiny, even if one is not part of it.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Create a mythical creature that lives in a petrol pump
Have you ever wondered, as you stand there filling your car with fuel, just how the petrol gets from the underground tanks to your car? Well, my friend, wonder no more, inside every petrol pump resides not computer chips and other techy junk but an Essell. A creature made purely of gas, on a hot day you can smell it as you fill your car, and you thought that was just petrol fumes! If you are lucky and catch a glimpse of the Essell, out of the corner of your eye, the gas is in takes the form of a large cat. Stripes of cloudy vapour, a gaseous tiger, and there you thought 'Put a tiger in your tank' came from some advertising executive's marketing ploy. Oh no that urban myth is very real. The ethereal Essell works its wonders spiriting petrol from the storage tanks under your feet to the fuel tank of your vehicle. All that effort just for you? No of course its not for the mere humans, as always we are just a side issue in the feline agenda. The object of the Essell's attentions is the kitten that purrs seductively into life every time you turn the key in the ignition. Next time you press your foot down on the gas pedal at the garage listen out for the roar as Essell meets kitten.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Tuesday, 16 October 2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What do you do when you feel stuck
When life gets in the single lane I have learned to mentally back away, if I cannot physically do so. OK it doesn't often give me a solution, but it does give me breathing space and grounding to myself which in turn makes me more able to focus and make progress. In a way that is a solution as not all problems are solved by radical solutions or in exactly the way we want them to be. Maybe what we want is not right for us at that time anyway. I may know myself better than anyone else but like anyone else I do not always know what is right for me. Invariably if I get into stuck situations I have made some naff choices that are just not right for me.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - My Three Wishes
Apart from the usual world peace, a solution to poverty and hunger, love, health and wealth as everyone and the pet mouse wants, its wishes not all out miracles. My first wish is for my boys, and yes its an impossible one. I wish they are happy in life and never feel the pain of betrayal or the hurt of denial. I know we all do at some point, so maybe I should alter the wish so that they have the strength and courage to face the bad aspects of life. So yes my first wish is my boys are happy in life, but strong and brave when its not so good. Wish two is an end to cruelty in the world, not just to animals, but to our planet too. The tree hugger in me speaks again. And a final one Mr Genie, for a change give yourself something huh? Use your wish granting powers to do what you want. I have a feeling things do not work that way somehow.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Monday, 15 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Ashley
Ashley is a Burmese grey grand mama cat. She came to us unloved and unwanted, totally abandoned. She is so beautiful how could anyone not want her. To begin with she was un-trusting and cautious and who can blame her. Now Ashley has the love and security she so desperately needed she has become a loving and affectionate lady. A matriarch of our cat community she watches over the other cats with the benevolent eyes of a granny, Don't be fooled if anyone steps out of line she will reprimand with a firm paw and a stern word. With Smudge she runs the pride even the old lion grand pappy Patch knows his place and when to just shut up.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - What we have here is a failure to communicate
I am terrible for not saying things to avoid causing another person offence. Of course, I should not go around offending everyone, that would be totally wrong, but sometimes we have to, and should be, open with our feelings, especially when it comes to love relationships. Part of any loving relationship is being able to communicate freely, we all need to listen and be heard too. If we do not share the issues causing any problems they just bigger and eventually totally insoluble. Communication is one of the things that helps keep any relationship solid.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - When I think about jealousy...
This has got to be one of the most destructive emotions in existence. I have no doubt it touches us all at some point in life. In most cases we get over it and get on with our lives. To allow jealousy to control and take over life is dangerous. It blinds us to reality and rationality. If its related to another person we not only hurt ourselves but the other person too. It also effects those around us and that other person too. More often than not jealousy is unfounded and irrational. So what if an ex has moved on, how you deal with that says heaps about you. Jealously is based on ones on low self esteem and insecurities.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Friday, 12 October 2007
And Its Goodnight From Me - Dali
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - I am Always Proud of My Children For ...
My boys are my pride and joy. I am so proud of how they are young men who have learned to be true to themselves. That means more than anything in the world to me. My own mother was one of those people who used those emotionally blackmailing words, If you loved me... I swore I would never love my boys conditionally. My love for my sons is absolutely unconditional. I want them to be happy to be themselves and not live their lives for their mother as I have for too many years. Its been a painful heartbreaking time learning to live for me and be happy with who I am. I will never put my beloved boys through that. They mean too much too me to be that cruel.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Not Such an Ill Wind After All
I am sure everyone has experienced the feelings that something can bring nothing but wrong or bad. Often these instincts are right. On the occasions they are not it is a wonderful feeling discovering something is not as bad as we thought it would be.
When you think you are entering a closed tunnel, that relief is finding out you have options you did not realise existed. Worry and stress are at best an inconvenience at worst dangerously unhealthy. For me I found yoga and organic living at a time I was in suicidal depression and diabetes was causing me major health problems. What had I actually done wrong, I had stopped caring about and making time for me. Yoga gives me my space, a change to an organic diet has allowed me to taste food and enjoy it. I have somehow dropped several stone in weight - I am not eating a slimming diet. Yes I feel better for that and my diabetes is back under my control instead of it controlling me. I ain't complaining any.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Tuesday, 9 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Sharky
As Sharky is sat with me right now I am taking the sledge hammer hint that he thinks it is his turn to be star of the page. At six months old Sharky is turning into a fine young gentleman. He is a smartly turned out cat, his black suit has a flash of white on the chest and his tail a snowflake tip.Very much a snuggle puss he likes nothing more than to curl up tight against a human thigh or on a human lap. That doesn't stop him playing with his mates Dali and FW1 and 2. Their favourite game is cat football, normally played in the early hours of the morning.Many a night I get woken by the four chasing a ball across the laminated floor. Right now is not match time and and Sharky is resting his chin on my thigh, he loves his fuss. And if I forget he nuzzles the paper and if I ignore that he chases the pen. Determined little cat he is, and he knows what he wants and just how to get his own way. Sharky is a bit of a telly addict especially liking to flop out and watch Matt Hayes fishing. I am sure they are just waiting for him to land a nice tasty tuna fish.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What things have you desired and then received?
Oh this prompt brings back the day my baby dog came to live with me. I love dogs and had been in my first home about three months. It so did not feel like home without a dog. All my life I had been surrounded by dogs, cats, rabbits, and various other cute furries and feathereds. Every week I would visit the dog rescue centre, hoping that special dog would be there. Then after several visits there s he sat, a 6 month old puppy dog, and our eyes met and I knew I had found that special little dog. I think she knew too. Taking Riz home I had expected a few rough w eeks as she settled in. That didn't happen. Instead she made herself at home straight away. the fleecy lined dog bed never got used, her bed was on mine with me. Riz was a gentle, loving dog and so very loyal. I could not have wished for a better canine friend.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - I love the colour...! It reminds me of....
I love the colour blue above all other colours. I love it in all its shades from the palest baby blue to the darkest navy. For me it is a peaceful, calming colour. Blue brings me images of sweet peas, irises, beautiful freesias and morning glory. Beautiful blooms each and every one but for me but with my love of fairies flowers instantly connect me with the fairy world. Thus blue keeps me calm but also sends me diving for my pencils and paints and now my pen as I hope to write fairy too sometimes, Blue is my muse colour I guess. I am a self confessed tomboy so its also more macho than the dreaded girly pink.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - What is Silbury Hill?
Legend, and there is many legends surrounding Silbury Hill, would have it that it is the last resting place of King Sil, buried on the back of a golden horse. Being a king he would have been buried with grave good that reflected his royal status too.
Then there is the local legend that says the devil had a shovel of earth with which he was going to bury the town Marlborough. He was stopped on his journey by a cobbler or priest (opinions vary) who somehow convinced the devil dropped his shovel of earth. Thus Marlborough was saved and Silbury Hill was formed.
As a Pagan, Silbury Hill is symbolic of the Mother Goddess and this particular view with the rising moon is even more poignant. Two great Goddesses gracing us with their glorious presence. Sisters in union, as we should also be. Unlike many Pagans and tourists I have no great desire to cause further damage to this most precious monument left by the Ancients by climbing her. My destiny is already in the hands of the deities I do not need to dance on one to prove that.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Monday, 8 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Pepe
Pepe is a long-haired white cat with black ears and bum patch and tail. An elegant and dandy tom cat. Like his name sake Pepe le Pew he has style, class and panache, a regular sophisticated gentleman. With a graceful saunter he wanders in for his kibble, normally with his buddies, the four mouseketeers, Aramis, D'artagnan, Porthos and Athos. Pepe would be a designer label nut, YSL more than likely. His sleep place is in the bedding, cat bedding naturally, drawer under my bed, tho he will grace the humans with his regal presence when the catnip comes out. Pepe loves his steamed chicken and rice supper too. Simple pleasures maybe, but his dapper ways enhance all his habits. Pepe my sophisticat, as I write is sat across from me looking elegant as he watches my pen move on the paper but he is far to well mannered to chase it.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - What did you do last time money was burning a hole in your pocket?
Yeah that is such a common occurrence for a breaking artist... NOT!!! As an artist if I do have a few extra pennies in my jeans (artists ain't worth money till they die) I tend to have a spend out at my favourite art store, 'Inkspot'. Maybe some Derwent watercolour pencils to use in my art journals, so much more convenient to carry than tubes of paint, brushes etc for sketching off the cuff they are brilliant, all I need is my pad and pencils. If I don't need any art kit, yeah like that is so rare, then I go to my second passion of books and hit the resale book store hunting for the unusual and research material, and of course that is so very expensive too. Last time I found some sweet little fairy books, one for each season, very old and so very pricey but hey it is fairy stuff... do I care!!!!
Copyright:JeMs2007
Sunday, 7 October 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Patchy Boy
Patches arrived at our house three years ago along with Ashley. He is a tabby and white tom cat, that is tom cat he would like to remind everyone he is male. Patches had the misfortune of being called 'Hermione' by his previous humans and even now he can still be a little camp. He is a very affectionate saggy old lump of a mog. Patches co-owns Paul with Tigger but is certainly not as aloof. He likes to chat away to the human staff from his grandiose station on top of the fridge, chirping and meowing till the cows come home. As the granddaddy of our cat community he as absolute no control whatsoever over the younger mogs, preferring to curl up on or in my bed for hours and only moving when he hears the kibble hit the dishes. Then he will swagger out with a nonchalant look on his face barely acknowledging the human servants putting out the meal. In patches opinion the only good human is the hot water bottle variety.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What was your favourite subject at school? Why?
My favourite subject at school, oh good an easy topic for a change!!!! At primary school I loved English as it meant books, books and more books and I loved art cos I could make and get into a right mess without getting a telling off. Oh how simple my pre-adolescent brains was. My primary English teacher, Mrs Roberts (I think) introduced me to the worlds of fantasy over a term of daily story times reading CS Lewis' 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' and for that I am truly grateful. My life without Narnia, Middle Earth and Discworld is something I cannot and do not want to imagine. Harry Potter and his friends at Hogwarts encouraged my own sons to read. Fantasy fiction may be escapism but without it reality would be hell.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Public Schools are Better in Most Ways than Private
As a former boarding schoolgirl I would not change the education and schooling I had. Discipline was a strong point in my school and I needed that. OK I probably did not wholeheartedly agree with that when I was on the receiving end of a cane, I have no doubt it was quite the opposite if I remember right. Now I have a strong sense of self discipline which I need in my life. On an academic level I left school with 12 high grade 'O' levels, GCSE did not exist back then and 3 pretty good 'A' levels, none of which I have ever used. Like most people I hated the school regime when I was there, let's face it we only realise just how wonderful being young is when the grey hairs set in and the bits that once were perky and firm give in to gravity and sag a bit. For me to argue that private education is better than public I would have to have knowledge of both, I do not. I am not a teacher so I do not know if it is better or worse for them. I am sure I was pretty horrendous as a school girl judging by the number of times I met with discipline but I guess I would have been anyway. To be honest I do not think it makes that much of a difference, a child who has the desire to learn will do so no matter what type of schooling. Would I still have the same moral outlook and self discipline, probably most of that is my inherited genetic code.
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - The Tortoiseshell Girls
Topaz and Roo are our two tortoiseshell cats, almost identical, no surprise as Roo is Topaz's daughter. Topaz is Ashley's daughter, but that is neither here nor there and I doubt Ashley wishes to be reminded she is a grandmama. Tortoiseshells are beautiful patchworks of colour cats, the female equivalent of the much maligned ginger tom.Topaz and Roo are very close, unusual for a pair of queens, but more often and not they are found together. They like to sleep in warm places, the top of the tumble dryer is their favourite spot. Topaz has a sweet tooth and her favourite treat is Lindt chocolate, yes she has expensive tastes and an eye for quality. Roo on the other hand is a little more down to earth and prefers her catnip buttons. Both have a liking for beaten egg and goats milk shake too. The tortoiseshells are classy ladies, elegant and serene in both their movement and ways.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - How much would you sacrifice to save an animal?
Is the animal a pet, an endangered spieces? What is meant by the word save? A beloved pet suffering is not an easy time. Just how much do you force the poor animal to endure pain and suffering just to keep it alive? We are responsible of caring for our pet and ensuring they live a happy and fulfilled life. When they get old, sick or injured they cannot tell us exactly how bad it is or where it hurts. We and the vets have to evaluate whether enduring treatment is helping or hindering our beloved pet. For me this is a raw and sensitive issue as a year ago I had to make that decision I had been dreading for sometime. My much loved baby dog and best friend suffered a series of nasty strokes. For a week she battled on, trying to give me some hope all would be OK. But I knew, I had to say stop. At 21 years old she was an aged dog and I couldn't in all conciousness let her suffer endless tests in vain. So I asked the vet to stop and help her pass away, stop her pain. My beautiful dog went to sleep one last time in my arms. This time she couldn't lick my tears away. Yes I miss her so very much and I hurt like hell, but she will always be with me in my heart and I know my Rizzy is in a better place free from pain and suffering as she so deserves to be. I love and miss you so much my baby dog xxx always.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Talk About Animals
The Cat
Sleek and elegant,
Full of grace,
Yeah right,
Not so at our place.
Loner cats are,
They say, aloof,
Ours are friendly
Always acting the goof.
Our feline babies
Each and everyone
Spoilt Oh Yes
But so full of fun
Smudge came first
Followed by Ash and Patch
Three lovely cats
We mad quite a catch
Five years on
Our home is a feline domain
The rule of mog
Long may it reign
Copyright:JeMs2007
Saturday, 6 October 2007
Morning Pages - Write a Paragraph in Which Every Word Begins With a Vowel
Early each afternoon Emma entered into an empty aviary. An eagle owl asleep in as artificial eerie, eyed inactively above, Emma's actions. Easily Emma adjusted and improved ooze and ordure off overgrowth uses as an etage.
Yuck!! What sadistic bastard came up with that one. And was there any point. Well it made me scream if that was indeed the purpose. And no Mr Promptwriter (has to be a man that one) you have not scared me off writing, just given me a vent to rant at. Serves you bloody well right too. Keep 'em coming baby, if you think you are tough enough!
Copyright:JeMs2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - The First Cat, Smudge
Smudge is a sleek black cat with a white smudge on her nose and white sox. I got her for Andy when he was laid up after the RTA and she is still devoted to him. Smudge had a canine friend in Riz and has adopted her protective nature towards her chosen human. Maybe not as loyal as a dog, unless the human is dishing up cat kibble, then cupboard love sets in. Smudge is not a social butterfly and is selective with the company she keeps. When Ashley and Patch arrived she decided Patch was cool to be with and its only now she has even begun to acknowledge Ashley's existence. Smudge is a strutty cat and wiggles those feline hips with her tail held high. Such a snob for a humble street cat. Smudge humble never!!!
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Create a Story Around a Family Event
The family event I am going to share is our family reunion. We are a ghastly bunch of genealogists and every two years or so we all meet up, see who is newly hatched and whose been dispatched, catch up with members who we do not see, and to share family research updates.
The last big party was August just gone and as I usually do I paired up with Mitch, my cousin/twin. Mitch and I are extremely close being born three days apart, I am the oldest just, so we grew up together, went to school together and left them a path of chaos behind us, we still do that. More like sisters should be really.
Anyway I digress as usual, we got to London on the Saturday morning and met up with the our cousins David, and real twins Steve and Sean. The gang of five nonconforming tree huggers complete, our cousin Graham would have been the sixth reprobate in our motely crew but he now lives in Queensland, Australia. We all arrive at the venue, denim clad, much to the shock horror of our respective mothers, the fours witches of north, south, east and west, huddled together without a cauldron.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Wednesday, 3 October 2007
Morning Pages - Viva the Bolshoi
For all my tom boy ways and attitudes I love watching the ballet. I love art, I guess, in all its forms. Yesterday I had the pleasure and delight of watching the Bolshoi perform 'Swan Lake'. OK it was on the TV but that is one of the bonuses of having channels dedicated to the arts. At last some of what is considered elitist arts are available for people like me who love them but but do not always have the opportunity of seeing the live versions. Art should be freely available to everyone who wishes to enjoy it. It should never have become something kept only for those with wealth or a Oxbridge degree. Art has the magic something that unites the classes brings different cultures and traditions together. Through art we can capture the sensations of vision, hearing and sometimes touch and taste to life. We learn abut history and maybe understand the present better. Maybe we even learn a little tolerance and compassion. The arts can capture emotion and hold it until the eye brings it to life. Maybe it helps us to better understand love, lust, hatred, fear and other powerful feelings. Maybe it helps us to begin to learn from them. I do not know I am an artist not a psychologist.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Tuesday, 2 October 2007
And Its Goodnight From Me - Little Nipper
Nipper is a cute kitten, soft furred, black and white. We had to hand rear Nipper and because of that he does not consider himself a cat. As far as Nipper is concerned I am his mummy and daddy is Andy.
Nipper has a wonderful character, very cheeky, maybe to the point of a brat at times, he is our baby so gets away with it.
Nipper started life being carried about and kept warm in a canvas bag. Feeding every two to three hours he went everywhere we did. Trips to the farm, Tesco's, town etc., were all part of his daily life.
Nipper is the only cat permitted in my studio and he often sits with me while I paint or write. If he thinks I am going out he's in my bag raring to go on a trip. Show him his cat reflection in a mirror and he does not recognise the cat.
Nipper is a very happy little chap, always purring and loves nothing more than sprawling out on his back, legs in the air for a belly rub or tickle. He prefers to eat from our plates than eating cat food with the other cats, he is not a cat so why would he eat with cats? We are trying to break that habit as its so not healthy for him.
Now we have Waya, Nobby and Nightmare Nipper is learning to play with other cats albeit smaller ones. He is developing a close relationship with Nightmare, who is also black and white so there is hope he will one day be a cat.
Copyright:JeMs2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - What in life gives you pain?
As a mother the greatest physical pain is that which is also the most precious gift, the birth of a child. That physical pain leaves you as soon as your baby is placed in your arms and for me it was replaced by the most beautiful and wonderful sense of unconditional love.My sons are now both fine young men even if the do tower over me. They still cause me stress and pain of course. I hurt for them when they get hurt. When they bitch at me I hurt. OK they have been taught to bith by a queen bitch so what do I expect!! I hurt every time Jamie's problems get in the way of his life, it is so unfair. I hurt when Paul's ex-girlfriend treated him bad. But for all the pain of being a mother, I am more than rewarded by the joy of being mum to two wonderful sons. I have seen them grow and yes I wish they had not grown quite so fast or so tall. I am lucky and when all is said and done they are the only good thing to come from the human disaster of my relationship with their father. Something good had to come from that.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Being Half Cherokee
My mother is English and my father was Cherokee, making me a half breed. My skin is darker than white, my hair natural dark and straight, my cheek bones high. I am Cherokee blood. I am not a Red Indian, do not insult me by calling me a Squaw, I am no white man's toy. I am proud to be Cherokee, Native American and Tribal. My beliefs are those taught to me by my paternal grandmother and my father, that we are part of the world and should respect mother earth and nature's wonderful gifts. My daddy was and is my greatest hero, influence and guide. Even after 6 years I miss his counsel and unwavering love. OK I was his princess and could do nothing wrong in his eyes. But given that he was my rock and gave me a wonderful heritage and a sense of right and wrong and honour. Being Cherokee has given me an ability to remain outwardly calm even cold and uncaring maybe, when inside I am in emotional turmoil. The Cherokee do not wear their hearts outside their sleeves.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Monday, 1 October 2007
600 Seconds at Lunch - Open the dictionary and pick a word at random, write your journal entry about that word.
Loyal - firm in allegiance to a person, cause, country, party, etc., faithful; demonstrating unswerving allegiance.
This word always brings back memories of my lovely baby dog, Riz. She was my companion and confidante for 21 years and not once did she ever let me down. When my life was a royal bowl of cow poop, unlike a majority of my human so called friends, my Riz stayed with me. On those dark nights when I cried alone my faithful dog was there to lick my tears away. Riz was there through my bad times and also my good times. When I met Andy, Riz was the first to welcome him into our space and the first to make sure he was kissable. Being loyal means hanging in there when life is a crock of shit not just when the good times role. It is taking the rough with the smooth. OK Riz was a dog but I will always be grateful and honoured she was such a big part of my life.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Sunday, 23 September 2007
And Its Goodnight From Me - Crookshanks and Tigger
Crookshanks, named after a cat from Harry Potter, and his brother Tigger, named after the bouncy friend of Pooh, are tabby and white tom cats.
Crookshanks is solid and muscular whereas Tigger is slim line and sleek. They are both friendly gentlemen and very placid unless wound up, which as they are older boys the younger ones have learned not to do too often.
The cat is described as graceful and agile, whoever came up with that had not met this clumsy pair of clowns, but what they lack in cat style and panache they make up for by the bucket load with their loving natures.
Tigger is more aloof than his brother, preferring not to rough it with the floor cats. Crookshanks is that little bit more into mog socializing.
Tigger owns Paul and will seek him out above any other human. When Paul is as college or out with his girlfriend Tigger will be by the door at the time he is due home. If Paul is late he will be made to feel totally guilty.
Crookshanks employs Jamie as fuss giver and ear scratcher. He is a really special cat having given Jamie, who suffers from ADHD and Asperger's, a sense of calm and security.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Bad Language
In addition to my morning and evening pages I am going to also do 60o seconds at lunch.
Yesterday's morning page was far to deep for my just waking up brain. So at lunch time I am going to do a 600 second scribble on a set topic or question. No limits, whatever comes up from the prompts. I will have a go at it. I apologise now if the language gets a little fresh but I do not believe in hiding behind a fear of a word. Personally I do not think any words are bad language in the right context. It is the intent behind the usage of the word not the word itself that can be good or bad.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Saturday, 22 September 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Mrs Pooh
Pooh, named after AA Milne's bear with little brain, is a smokey grey and white mother cat. She is mummy to Waya, Nightmare and Nobby.
Pooh is a wonderful mum too, very attentive to her babies who are now weaned and ignore her, much like human kids really.
Pooh is a quiet little moggie unless she is calling the kits to bed, for a wash or a meal. Then she finds her delicate, little meow.
Like all queen cats Pooh is elegant and serene, friendly but that little bit aloof. Pooh's best friend is Tiddles, who I suspect is also daddy to the kits.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - What Part of Your Body is Most Sensuous?
Is it the fingers that can caress so gently, stroke so vigorously and probe so divinely? Or is it the mouth, lips and tongue which sucks eagerly, licks so fast and leaves butterflies as they kiss? Oh my god I am sure I am not the right person to answer that!!! Surely that is a question for the one receiving the attention not the one giving it. My kick is causing and seeing reaction with and for my lover so maybe it is my eyes as they observe.
Actually I would say no to all of the above, the most sensuous and erotic part of he body is ' the little grey cells'. Where is the sense of erotica and desire fed most, the brain, of course.
Sensuality is not just doing touchy, feely, licky, licky. Its using the lust, love, need and desire of myself and my lover to enhance, heighten and develop pure pleasure, using the act of sex as a tool to release the senses to fly without wings and barriers.
Imaginative sex keeps the intimate side of a relationship vital and alive, allowing a little fantasy to become a safe reality. To be on a level of physical intamacy way beyond that of the casual-one-night-stand-lust-satisfying-fuck needs thought and effort. The act of love should be a respite from the daily grind and not a part of it. To allow sex to become mundane runs the risk of lessening a deep relationship.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Friday, 21 September 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - The First of the Girls, Waya
Waya is the youngest grey kitten, she is given the Tsgali name for she wolf, named after me and the Celtic goddess of the wolf. Her wolf grey eyes hopefully will not change to the cat standard green or amber.
Waya is lively and full of mischief, a typical young, playful kitten. Her sleep place, if she escapes mummy Pooh putting her to bed, is snuggled up with a group of moggies at the back of under the couch. Out of reach of all the human staff, but as yet she cannot find a place where Ferret cannot find her.
Waya's favourite game is shoe kayaking, especially with my trainers and clogs.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Childhood Heroes
'Who was your childhood hero?' asks the journal prompt. Can I even remember that far back. Well yes I vaguely remember being fanatical, no make that obsessive, about Enid Blyton's 'Famous Five'. My hero was George, short for Georgina, and a world class tom boy, so a natural hero for me.
Julian and Dick, being boys held no interest for me and at my young age boys were definitely yucky, very yucky. Anne was too girly girl and then there was Timmy, George's dog and he was a babe.
I don't really remember their adventures but somehow this group of boarding school kids got into dangerous and exciting adventures even if they were unlikely.
Naturally their adventures included picnics and ginger beer. Every meal it seems included ginger beer.
If I remember rightly George's dad was a scientist and her mum, as was typical to the time era, was a housewife, cook' cleaner etc.I think she even makes the ginger beer.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Thursday, 20 September 2007
And It's Goodnight From Me - Mr Snowy
Snowy is another gentleman tom cat. As his name suggests he is predominantly white apart from his tabby ears and snowflake tipped tail. The only thing missing from this dapper gentleman's appearance is a bow tie and monocle. Mr Snowy is suave and sophisticated to look at.
Snowy likes to play ball even consenting ti pick it up and bring it back. Well that way he gets to play longer, he is not a just a pretty cat.
Snowy's sleep place is on top of the wardrobe and he will gently nuzzle, from above, the head of the human staff so he gets his fuss.
Snowy is a bit of a ladies man but a gent and not a cad. The tortoiseshell girls, Topaz and Roo, are frequently his companions or if he is spending time with the chaps he is found with his best buddies Spike and Charlie.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - Simply Painting
Much like my Morning Pages my Simply Painting is my free writing equivalent with pencil and paint.
And much like my free writing the ideas jump all over the place. I wonder if anyone will ever make sense out of either journal.
Both are sure fun to do and look back at. I know from my art journals the base of many an idea that has become a painting has been born this way. Hopefully that is the same for a writing journal. I guess all good stories started as a glimmer of a thought.
Now I am wondering if classics like The Hobbit came from some nugget Tolkien put in his journal one day. Its hard to imagine that an epic novel such as Lord of the Rings came from a mere nugget of thought. Could that really happen?
Copyright:JeMs2007
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
And Its Goodnight From Me - Ferret Wishes to Introduce his Brother Smurf
Smurf is a fluffier version of Ferret, still the same bluey grey colouring though. He tends to stay in his brother's shadow being the timid one of the two. However, he is the first to his brother's side if needed.
Smurf is a very pretty cat, the sort of mog that appears on chocolate boxes or jigsaw puzzles, a real cutie pie cat.
Smurf also likes to sleep on the pillow, Ferret's pillow, on my bed, which being Ferret's place, he is one of the select few permitted to do so. He also helps out with the kitten sitting. Perhaps they get paid in catnip.
Smurf enjoys watching the fishing programs on TV if I remember i
to switch over before I go to bed.He's a very quiet cat with simple pleasures, the cat type you don't know is there.
Copyright:JeMs2007
Morning Pages - The Devil Wears Prada
My new read is 'The Devil Wears Prada', I have not seen the movie as yet or even read the first page of the book but thought I would use the title for my journal prompt anyway.
So is the old devil label concious? A fashion guru even? I can't see it somehow. The concept of the evil lord mincing about in high fashion doesn't really work for me. Then again the concept of the devils doesn't work either. Perhaps he looks like Jeff Banks or David Emanuelle.
Wh would the devil wear Prada? Is he loyal to one fashion housed or designer? Or is there Gucci and Versace in his wardrobe too? Maybe even Nike flashed trainers for his more casual days.
I am sure the devil would be a well heeled gentleman, the bad guys always are, Count Dracula for one. Suave evening dress, cape and cane a right dandy. Do they have dress down days in hell? Let's face it the bad boys would look just as hunky in levis and leather jackets.
I would have thought the point would be to live unnoticed in the world of man and in today's world, although it is gorgeous to see a guy dressed as a gentleman of style, dressed up in man speak means a clean t shirt, is if he posesses such, and a scrape or two with a gillette. OK us girls are not much better prefering to wear denim to elegant dresses (never even owned an elegant dress me).
Copyright:JeMs2007
