Life's What It Is Sometimes

The Principles In Politics

2010-03-01T16:56:00.003-06:00

It's been politics as usual in Washington D.C. in regards to the unemployment extension and about healthcare. If you've watched the news on television you've heard the brainwash about this country being broken. If the truth was to be spoken, it has been off course for many years now, as far back as the foundation of this country. What I mean is since the beginning elected officials have always said one thing and done another. They have pointed a finger at the opposing side to an issue; they have gathered convenient information for their benefit.

Facts that make a point that helps create the illusion of urgency for the demands of a party, clearly not for the people. Now and then many politicians state that the costs of spending for things like war, bailouts to financial institutions, pay raises, and corporate deals are more worthy compared to lending a hand to us the people.

No matter your side of the scam we call politics you have to possess a heart, not just a brain that lacks common sense. One must possess a brain that is not mostly fueled by fear and greed, only thinking of dollars and cents. I've noticed since I first discovered our political system and its true design that elected leaders merely desire to stay in office, and speak from the wallet. To me this is a crime and a betrayal to humanity, a tactic that most of the baby kissing whores embrace.

Right now we have Jim Bunning talking about spending and how we should find a way to pay for the unemployed to survive on chump change.(This current extension is only for a month)It sounds like Jim Bunning thinks that we can't break this country with issues that would assist the unfortunate.

How can anybody in Washington say they care about spending when they make more than they're worth? When we finance war and continue to help the rich. We continue to help the people who drove our country to the brink of a depression. It's called a recession but how can it only be that. Forget the trivial definitions that concur on the term, forget how this country suffered in "The Great Depression" because if we remember it our current state would not compare.

I've heard hundreds of Americans speak of their personal lives and seen countless stories on television to know that we need compassion and proper action to stop the bleeding. I know many people who struggle to survive daily and will continue to in the near future. I know first hand how hard it is to put food on the table and find a job that fulfills the demands of providing for the family.

We have relied on unemployment benefits and will be affected by the denial of an emergency extension. We have barely gotten by, just enough to breathe and got a few extra things for our two year old daughter. The sad thing is I know many who have not and desperately need the extension.

It's too easy for people who have more than just enough to survive to acknowledge other people's place in life, let alone truly relate. It's easy to say to those who can't find work to flip burgers or pump gas if you care for the family! I say shut the hell up!

Just because inadequate jobs exist that does not mean they will choose you. Just because there are temporary employment agencies that does not mean you will be asked to work full-time anywhere. Because this country lacks sufficient amount of work and the proper pay for its people, it creates an overflow of workers. Therefore employers have piles of applications and resumes to look through, during this process the unemployed wait for sometimes nothing.

If people would take the time to think they could understand the added factors of our great struggle. There are the everyday bills,the costs of family, gas prices, the wear and tear of a vehicle and the human body! Anything extra that all children should have and the expenses that come with parenting will further break what bank that remains.

This country contains a majority that has relied on credit cards to get by, as a tool to deny poverty the power of kicking families to the curb. The negative reality to this strategy is the final result, high interests and even deeper debt. I know this because I've witnessed my family and friends pay dearly for doing so. I will admit I've never used one and most likely never will.

All my years I've wondered why we can provide good healthcare and pay raises for elected leaders but nothing legitimate for the voters. We the people have had no real pay raise in the minimum wage or real improvements to healthcare. Food prices rise and medical costs fluctuate monthly but no permanent assistance for the American taxpayers.

Common sense will show you that wealthy people don't fall into this experience. Yes they pay the high prices but can afford it. What bothers me about wealthy companies, politicians and the very rich is the obvious reactions to paying higher taxes.

What I was told by adults in my youth was "The more you make the more they take." Under that logic the super wealthy should be taxed more! If I as a teenager and as an adult accepted the deductions off my check as the amounts got higher then why can't those who are more privileged agree?

The reason I bring this up is most elected officials earn higher salaries and work closely with wealthy people. They seem to work harder for people who can finance campaigns and allow future opportunities for their families. But when it comes to the average American or underprivileged they talk the talk and rarely walk the walk.

Unless it's that time of the year when we have an election.

What bothers me about the current state of our nation and the continual push and shove amongst our political leaders is the lack of real focus. They discuss the importance of action and about the urgency to work together for the people, yet provide us with no real proof of it.

In the past I've stated that people prefer to point fingers at the White House and it's chief resident, many people fail to recognize it takes all branches of government to get things done. In the political world there must be real action and bipartisanship to allow this beautiful country to flourish, or this country will wither and die.

We the people are what matters the most, they are the civil servants.

Has anybody else noticed the scrutiny that our current President receives from the American people, the Teabaggers, the Republicans, the religious right, Independents, and some Democrats? I know that we have the right to voice our concerns and display opinions when we feel like it. I embrace our rights of freedoms and encourage all people to stand up for their beliefs.

What I don't understand is why now when we no longer have President Bush in office or his administration? We no longer have the designers of the current wars. The countless corrupted people who helped destroy this country with all their criminal activities. I wish to ask those who oppose President Obama where they were when the last President continued to do so much worse?

I can find faults in this President and our current administration but can't help but see the positive differences. After two terms of Bush and his peoples lies, I can easily give President Obama his chance. Well before the 2008 election I could see the slow results of the Bush years, the negative effects caused by his leadership, I could clearly see the real agenda of our elected leaders.

If anybody wishes to blame just the Democrats or solely point the finger at President Obama for all the troubles of today, I say shut the hell up! He may not have been my first choice to lead but since he won the election and agreed to deal with the problems in hand I will continue to support him.

Not because he's a Democrat or that he was just the better choice in 2008. I will support him because he is a President that tries to do the right thing in the political world. What I mean is most political leaders pretend to care about the American people, they pretend to care about the children and their future. They give a speech about compassion and moments later vote to deny Americans human decency.

They moan and groan about what they think is best and how "It's my way or the highway!" This kind of thinking gets us nowhere! This constant non-action will continue to destroy whats left of the political system and only hurt we the people.

Before I end this entry I must again state that we have spent trillions of dollars on unnecessary things,that the U.S. government has spent countless dollars on bogus agendas.

I feel that elected leaders should without question or selfish doubt provide human decency at all times for the people.

I must say to Jim Bunning and those who act like him to "Stop your greedy and heartless actions and sign the unemployment extension already!Stop talking about what this country needs and start doing something! You and all your like minded colleagues should create some decent jobs for the people in this country! If you and your corrupted colleagues can't provide humane opportunities then forfeit your salaries during these tough times! If you can't embrace progress or accomplish positive changes then pack your suitcase. Take your bags of money with you on your way back to your elected states."

If anybody can give me a real reason why my wife should not receive the extension or the rest of this country, feel free! But before you speak realize that I will not accept dollars and cents ideology.

Thank you for taking the time to read this entry and for simply stopping by.

P&L
Loren Ackerman & Family

Please Help Haiti!

2010-01-15T23:07:00.010-06:00

A couple days ago I was sitting and playing on the computer. When Lisa said to me "Did you here that Haiti had a bad earthquake?" I responded "yes, it happened a couple days ago, many people have been affected by it" She stopped me in my tracks, "Wes! This just happened today!" I was confused! I thought about it for a second, then realized it must have been a bad dream. I saw it on a Yahoo blurb and felt sad when I saw it. I was wondering why nobody else was talking about.

I feel bad for dreaming about it a couple days before, like it was just another story or bad dream. Then to discover the sad reality of this nightmare, that it's very real. I feel many emotions by the earthquake, they change at any given moment. Like aftershocks form my heartache. The main emotion is helplessness. I want to jump into the television and dig them out, to help and hug those children.

We've both watched the news and felt that countries tragedy. Witnessing the cut and debris covered victims expressions. The pain in the faces of a frightened people, the sadness and anguish they feel. Some screaming for family, others digging barehanded in the rubble. My heart aches to see their struggle, it breaks when the media overplays video of the bodies.

I know it's the job of the media to report the situation, but I feel that there should be a line of decency. I have seen a lot of death in my life and had to deal with what follows those affected. I know real loss and still hold the images of lost loved ones, most likely until I die! So, don't think I can't handle the truths of life and death. I just feel the media can focus on the positives and reveal the togetherness within the madness.

I've witnessed and heard many reporters and supporters choke with sadness and also anger. To me this is human, we should feel like this. I will admit I've teared up, but not truly cried yet. Not like with Katrina and countless other disasters that have occurred in history. Not to say that I won't, because I will!

Right now I'm staying strong for the world, spreading the word. Encouraging others to do what they can. I have a FACEBOOK friend his name is Daniel, he is an Army medic. (Just like my Dad was!)

Daniel said, "Alive and Well in Haiti. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.Will go forth and do great things and save as many as I can get my hands on." Indeed he will! I told him to please be safe and do what you can for all of us that care.

My wife and I feel the same when it comes to tragedy and human suffering. We love life and hope for world peace. I asked my wife how she felt about the situation she replied "I wish that all countries were able to help themselves, so when disaster happens it could be helped and not a have to.I wish all countries had the opportunity to to be prepared and could swiftly respond to the people! But, that's just never going to happen!"

I responded, "Just like world peace!"

I have had other friends point out the history of Haiti and how it was hurting before this quake. Indeed, just like the rest of the world. It is a shame that it takes a disaster to bring people closer. Sadly we have too many people ignoring world issues, treating them as invisible. The world can't ignore Haiti's quake, nor can we turn our cheek.

I have chosen to ignore certain comments by Religious leaders about Haitian sins, to ignore certain Radio and television hosts heartless opinions.

I wish to add that when the earthquake happened many people were injured, killed, and are missing. United nations workers, American civilians, and people from all over the world. May those affected find the peace,love, and support that they require.

Many of my friends have helped raise awareness and donations through word of mouth. By way of text, computer games, and others methods that I will soon mention.

I've heard that relief has been greater than most of our past disasters. They say it is due to modern technology, that it's easier to help others now. This statement rings true, my wife and I have already donated a couple ways. Even by way of text, but it can take weeks to process. So, please take the time to support our brothers and sisters of the world in any way you can.

Life's what it is sometimes! No matter what disaster or cause that calls for human action, together we can create a beautiful tomorrow. In life, in any country there will be sorrow. There will be issues that need helped! All we can do as human beings is to be human and help others when we can. Stay strong and allow our emotions to be powerful and positive. To love one another the best we can and follow the life in our beating hearts.

Here is just a few ways we can help.

Doctors Without Borders
Friends of the World Food Program
International Rescue Committee
Facebook Charity Gift Shop;including:
Water for Haiti from Oxfam
Light a Candle for Haiti from UNICEF
Food for Haiti from CARE
Shelter for Haiti from The American Red Cross
Survival Kit from World Vision
You can buy virtual gifts through Zynga games
You can text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to American Red Cross relief for Haiti

Feel free to find your own method, but pass it on! :)

Thank you for taking the time to read this! Please remember my words, but more importantly the people of Haiti! Please join me in helping the world to "live as one."

Peace & Love
Loren, Lisa, and Malayna Ackerman

To Good Times

2009-12-31T00:26:00.008-06:00

It's that time of the year again! When we break out the new calendars and ponder about our life. Another Christmas has came and went, the holidays have filled our bellies. Long distance friends and relatives have spread the cheer by sending greetings by computer,phone, and U.S. mail.

For my family we shared a small thrown together meal. You see our oven went out a week before Christmas day. We still had to bake our gifts for all the family, we made due with toaster ovens. They turned out surprisingly well, we even enjoyed some ourselves.

It would have been nice to have the landlord call us before he enjoyed a feast at his family in another state.

Like I said we made due, we had a Cornish hen with butter, savory, and rosemary. I made some deviled eggs,red roasted potatoes with red peppers, with sugar snap peas. Lisa made some stuffing and crescent rolls. Lisa, Malayna, and I shared a good warm meal together.

Malayna got sick just before Christmas and both us shortly after. So, we had plenty of tissues to go around.

Later that evening we watched "It's A Wonderful Life" it is our favorite holiday film. I usually discuss this film in depth, but will let it speak for it self this year. I really enjoyed Charles Dickens this year, "A Christmas Carol" really touched me this year. More than most years, I guess it's because I feel blessed to have friends and family in my life.

For the first time I was able to read "The Night Before Christmas" to M.J. She asked me to read it twice, Lisa enjoyed it too. We allowed Malayna to open 2 gifts, she was overjoyed by it. It was a bit of a task to stop her after two, even more so to get her to sleep. Eventually she crashed, so we placed the cookies and milk out.

Then from the top of the roof we heard a clutter and Santa delivered her gift. We told Santa it was about time and went to bed.

Late afternoon we opened all the gifts and documented the occasion with cameras and video. Lisa got me a "Doctor Who" book that I wanted and I put together an album of our family. It contained photos of her youth, photos of things we did before M.J, what I like to refer to as B.M.J.(1999-2007)

I placed her baby belly photos with some birth pics, and countless photos that have been stuck on my cell phone. They have been on it since 2007, I had won the battle and retrieved them all.(Another long story.....) I had prints made and surprised her with this family album. :)

My father and stepmother Kay stopped by and handed out more gifts. We had a good time and they were off. They left to prepare for the get together in Pekin, IL. They booked a Hotel for a couple days and threw a bash for the closer relatives. It went well, we shared more memories, food and gifts.

The trip home was nerve racking, the roads were covered with snow. The three lane interstate had only half of a lane cleared enough to drive. There was no drifting and it had stopped snowing, but they never cleaned the roads? I think it was a money issue that caused the madness for the holiday drivers. It didn't help that the majority was discourteous and I had my wife and daughter in the car.

I was fearless in my youth, but having loved in your life can alter your behavior. Most of the time it's for the better! :)

I do hope those who read this entry had a good holiday. If anybody would like to share a memory, feel free.

In the last year my family has dealt with cancer. My Dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer and has recovered for now. My wife and I had dealt with a miscarriage and some other troubles. Just like most people we have grieved and celebrated the passing of loved ones. We've cherished the good through all the bad, for it could always be worse.

In life we can march to a slow death or embrace life for what it is sometimes. Maybe we don't have much to be thankful for, but we have just enough. The ups and downs of the past years have shaped our souls, the years have granted us some truthful wisdom. My wife and I are in our thirties now and have to start from scratch again!

Every bad year allows us hope for a new beginning, it permits us to try again. Some people say that if they had the chance to do it all over, they would, that would be me. Only I would try a little harder to remain healthy and optimistic with my life.

The truth is life's what it is sometimes and we have to accept it for what it is.

I would like to make an early New Years toast before I finish this entry.

May this coming year be rewarding and kind for all that wish it so. May the world embrace peace and love. I sincerely hope the best for humanity and the rest of this wonderful world. Let us welcome the start of the next decade and learn from the mistakes of the last one.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by my place and reading this basic blog. Maybe next year I will try to make it "Sassy" or something.

Until next time, please take care!

Peace & Love
Wes,Lisa, and Malayna Jane Ackerman

The Lights In My Life

2009-12-10T07:33:00.005-06:00

I do enjoy looking at the tree in the morning night. Sometimes peace and quite is more valuable than any sum. The light of the tree is bright it stands silent.Our pad is quiet, on occasion the heater hums.

The tree is decorated, dressed up for the holiday. An ornament here and there, with some spots bare. You see a small creature moves daily, grabbing a candy cane. It's not a mouse, it's a toddler named Malayna Jane.

She is sometimes naughty but mostly nice. Children too can brighten the darkest room. I look at the tree with anticipation, for my heart waits to place the gifts upon the skirt. The holiday hurries,the days pass swiftly.
Christmas morning looms!

No worries.

In just two short weeks it will be the eve of our delight. The morning will come, M.J will rip open her surprises. Each tear with laughter and sweet grins.
Whatever your reason for the season, if there is love it will be alright.
Shortly after the holiday ends our new year begins.

I look forward to the start of a new decade, the chance for another year.
Before I part, I wish to say Happy Holidays to you all.

Cheers!
Cheers to you my dear friends!

I wish to send genuine gratitude and unconditional love to my wife Lisa and our little girl M.J

Peace & Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman

What Do I Know

2009-12-03T03:52:00.005-06:00

Certain subjects are best avoided with family and close friends, unless they are like minded. Religion,Politics, and personal beliefs. I know many people who judge others by these three mentioned topics and they are usually deeply religious. The moral majority pass judgement on those who oppose the bibles sacred truths.

I believe it contains relevant stories and many ideas that should be practiced daily. It can be used for a the greater good and help people in life. I believe in Gods and that we should love thy neighbor. That we should try to be like Jesus and practice what we preach.

What bothers me is that people think it was written by God. When the fact is it was written by mankind centuries after the time of Jesus. That it was corrupted by controlling leaders and used it to benefit powerful people.

That it suggest that Women are to be regarded less than a man.

Even as a small child I could see holes in the Holy Bible. I did not look at one again until I met my wife. It was then I saw many things in it that I already believed and practiced. I did this without reading one, I did it by following my heart.

Back in the day there was no greedy churches, people went to others and spread the word. They went out and helped thy neighbors instead of praying and going only on Sundays to buy a a golden ticket.

I'm just explaining a small portion of my beliefs and I respect religious beliefs. I still love thy neighbor and I'm friends with all walks of life.

Just because I talk doesn't mean I'm always right. It does not mean anyone else is wrong.

If we could all rid ourselves of hate, we would live in a world of peace.

"People who love the same sex are sinners and should not have the same human rights as heterosexuals." Why because that is what God said? Is that what Jesus taught us?

Did you speak to God and he told you this?

"People who practice other religions are evil and wrong. We mustn't love Muslims or Atheists because they don't believe in God.

"We can't love Jewish people because they betrayed Jesus."

"People who have abortions are baby killers."

(I support Life)

If this was true than why do we prefer War over peace. Women,elderly,children, and infants die everyday in war. Mostly by military weapons and powerful governments.

This war has gone on too long, it has cost all countries involved. The price has been human lives on all sides and economic death for our nation.

People deny us fair health care because it will cost to much!

That is the typical reason people tell me.

Yes, I have asked strangers on the street about their opinions. What they would do if they were president, or would like to see President Obama do.

Many people bring up Jobs and good Health care for all.

If people support life than what about the pollution that taints our soil,air, and water. What about the garbage killing the oceans wildlife, the chemicals being dumped in the waterways, the chemicals being pumped into the atmosphere?

Big business has contributed to Earths demise more than the natural process of the Earths cycle.

The media and the Republicans talk about stolen Emails and the Liberal lies. They dismiss science when it gets in their way, but when data favors they accept it.

Most political leaders mention Global Warming because it can be discussed either way, part natural and the majority caused by man. They act as if they care, yet they propose plans that will not be quick enough.

Even President Obama has done this, he has also suggested clean coal as an option. You don't have to be a genius to know that it is not.

The truth is most people say they care when they fail to realize the true damage, the true cause. We spend way too much time talking instead of taking action.

Most of us defend and discuss fluff politics, the kind that truly doesn't matter.

Why can't we the people persuade the elected leaders to push for "Real" Environmental changes? Why can't leaders recognize the danger, and more importantly inform the public of the urgent need to fix it?

I believe it is because big business contributes to their reelection, industry provides monetary gains for those who help it. If they were push for strong laws that would make it hard for power companies, oil companies, and the pharmaceutical industry to poison the world, it would be bad business.

So, most powerful people will not wholeheartedly pursue this Idea of a safer and cleaner world. They will pretend they care and continue to denounce Global Warming. That way we can continue with fluff politics and ignore important issues. This pertains to many issues that need real attention, so that we can live a healthy life.

Both sides argue more than they contribute.

I can't recall the last time we had real unity. Some would say September 11, 2001 but that's not true. We were in shock and fearful of the reality of such a tragic day.

We took the time to notice one another and hug each other. We gathered together to remember those who perished, we mourned for the families affected by it.

In reality the entire world was changed by it.

On that day I heard panic on the radio, screams that Saddam did it! That gas was going to be five dollars a gallon and coworkers speak of killing "Those Sand Niggers!"

We did not even know what truly happened yet and the media was echoing Hussein.

The president sat frozen among the children when he should have reacted swiftly Then again look who I'm talking about a person who only acted swiftly to corrupt and destroy this country.

On that day I put the American flag at half mass with a gay man named Will. That's right he was Gay! Does that mean that he desecrated it by touch? Does that make me wrong to feel proud that we did this on such a terrible day?

NO!

I've noticed Fox News is concerned about the energy of the Obama Afghan Speech. That it was boring and lacked the charisma of Winston Churchill. That the end of it was put in for liberals, that he tried to make everyone happy.

Then we have Dick Cheney running his mouth about "The danger" and the mishandling of the Obama administration. How he displays American weakness, come on look who's talking. One of the central figures in the Bush Administration, a person who helped create the lingering mess we the people face today.

I think after all the years he spent in the white house his true motives have been reveled. I would hope the American people can see he is an evil man. He has been in the shadows of more than one President, causing only misfortune for all. Cheney defends his actions by blaming others when he should look in the mirror.

I just want to say to Dick Cheney, shut your mouth already!

Now back to the Obama Speech, it may not have been the speech of speeches, but it was important. I may not agree that we should follow the footsteps of Bush, but feel we should pull out cautiously. It lacked a real mention of Americas need for change, a change when it comes to war.

I believe most counties like Obama because he is not Bush, that he has stated that we would not continue the course.

When in fact he will briefly embrace war.

I know the main focus was Afghanistan, but I feel he should have put some attention on Jobs. That the billions spent could benefit this nation and that he was moving forward with jobs creation along with this Idea of more troops. Simply touched it more than what was said.

Why can't he Address the nation with the truth about the economy? Why can't he discuss the progress of prosperity, even if it is small.

I'm one of millions without a job and without benefits. I struggle each day to find work, it is easy to say that I should have one already. Sure if I had the cash to spend for gas,a good car, decent cloths, and didn't have medical issues that make it hard to get out of bed. I've applied for jobs that should be begging me to work, jobs that I'm qualified for.

Even past employers like The U.S Census Bureau which I had done in 2000. I passed the test and then received a letter regarding a 13 year old drug charge. I was arrested for a misdemeanor Marijuana charge, the amount would not even fill a pipe.

I was young and have paid for it every since. The strange thing is I once worked for Census Bureau and they had no problem then. They even begged me to continue until it was completed.

Now let the judging begin and say that I deserve what I get.

I've been clean as a whistle for longer than I can remember and have never failed a drug test. So, why am I treated like a child molester?

It is nothing new to me or to millions of other people who get discriminated. We make mistakes like not furthering our education and by poor choices in our youth. It sometimes can be a roadblock, but we usually find a way around it.

Every day gets harder for me emotionally and I can barely look in the mirror. I rarely like myself and try to stay confident each day.

I bring this up to partly vent and also use myself as an example of America today.
I know that life's what it is sometimes and tomorrow can be better.

Still I look at my wife and child with worried eyes.

After knowing this information about me you can understand why I try to avoid the news. Why I don't visit you as much anymore. After all many of us are only half the person we used to be these days. I know my heart and soul has not changed but I know I'm not the same.

Like I said people should not discuss certain subjects with others unless they are like minded individuals. The exception would be a person who listens without judgement and believes in human decency. Someone with a big heart would understand no matter the divisions in life.

Then again opinions are like sphincters. Everyone has one and thinks theirs doesn't stink.

Thanks for listening.

P&L
Loren Wesley Ackerman

Loren Ackerman Is Present

2009-11-27T02:38:00.003-06:00

It's been some time since I posted here, but I was taught to think before I speak. For the longest time I've just wrote what I felt inside allowing the words to remain free. So, I have been writing countless pages about my feelings and my life. Almost trapped in my emotional limbo, my hearts cage.

I decided to keep those pages for me and will try my best to express myself honestly. Even if that means I lose followers and offend family.

I'm still young but getting older by the day. Just like most people I have problems, I too have loved ones pass. The car does not always run properly, the bills pile up.

The holiday puts a financial and emotional strain on family.
The best part about it is the smiles on happy faces. The stories being told, the memories being made in the moment. Sharing love with others is one of the greatest feelings known in life.

One of the worst pains in life is an infected broken tooth! I've been coping with it for too long! Popping pain pills like they are candy, still it stays. Please don't suggest going in to the dentist. It will have to wait, other things need repaired first.

A long time ago I heard that there are millions of children in need of dentistry. That there are millions of adults too, but never a mention of free dentistry. (Affordable Dentistry)

Every other night I question if I should do it my self. Just grab an ice skate and a rock, SMACK! Land on the floor, wake up and talk to a soccer ball named Wilson.

We here much discussion about Health care, both sides making points. The public in up in arms about Americans getting healthy, it hasn't happened because of money. (Then what about the money being spent to pay for war?)

Stalled because of fear brought on from false media propaganda. It has taken too long to get nowhere from the politicians from all sides of government.(What about the elected leaders being paid to destroy our country?)????-2009

If we as a country struggle to get by, then why do they get paid? Why can't they forfeit their top notch health care for their family? Why can't they forfeit their health care and salaries until we get back on track?

I'll tell you why! They don't want to suffer like our country does. They want to be separate, not desperate individuals. To remain powerful and overpaid. They wish to make proper decisions for this country and spread lies. To make promises so they might get reelected. There has been a handful of decent people who've held office. There are still a few remaining, a few who truly want good for all.

CCR once said "I ain't no senators son." This line remains true to life today. It applies with war, wealth,and health. In this world it really does make a difference in who we know.

Most of us are not from the realm of prosperity, most have had to honestly earn it.
We've had to keep on moving and stay strong. Inch by inch we crawl, step by step we walk tall. Hand over hand we climb tall mountains, but arm in arm we will right the wrongs. Together we will survive these times, as one we will overcome.

I have left out a great deal of information about my present status in life. I don't wish to overload compassionate hearts. Nor, do I wish to evoke pity. Let's just say I'm in need of a miracle in many aspects of my life. Believe me when I say it would benefit my family greatly if somebody would give me a chance to again prove my worth.

If anybody wants to fill me in on life or ask me about mine, feel free. My door is always open, as well my heart.

I do hope this Turkey Day was as splendid as mine. Love and food was passed around the table. :)

Thanks for stopping by.

P&L
Loren Ackerman & Family

Smell My Feet

2009-10-24T05:03:00.006-05:00

Halloween approaches, the leaves fall to the ground. Children and adults prepare for the celebration. Costumes hanging on a hook, the routes planned ahead. Minds on the prize, the sweet treasures. Buckets and bags empty, they scream to be filled.

Tick tock goes the clock.
The days fall away with the children's anticipation.
The night draws near, tick tock.

Parents are excited from the mixed emotions. Some of us still dress up and others dread the front door. Since we now have a 2 year old daughter we go out in the dark, we go trick or treating. Plus, I have an excuse to dress up, more of a reason to enjoy Halloween.

I too feel the anxieties of the evening, the hassles of the hunt. Kids have a tendency to pop out like ghouls in front of my car. I understand that children hold a one track mind, CANDY!

The catch 22 of the modern times, we must protect the children. Therefore more parents are present, unlike the simple freedoms we had as kids.

Don't think I'm suggesting to let the candy zombies roam free! (Candy, we want candy!)

I see the difference from my youth and today's, we had much longer chains. My parents were there, but kept a safe distance. We had the opportunity to run house to house, without a parent trying to catch their breath.

Yes, there has always been a boogeyman. There has always been danger around a dark corner. Today we have programs that require monsters to register in American neighborhoods. Parents today watch the news, we know of Amber Alerts.

We as individuals know the world is full of wrongs. It holds some truly scary humans, but also contains responsible people. It is very simple, when we take the kids out this Halloween, do it right.

Teach them to be safe, to look both ways before crossing a road.
To protect themselves and others around them.
Don't leave behind friends or family in a mad rush to grab the chocolate gold. Explain the importance of not talking to strangers.
The simple truths about the people they might know.
To stay in a group and to tell a guardian when something is strange.

Watch the children enjoy the night with our loving eyes. Listen to the excitement in their voice, imagine the smiles behind the disguise.

We were all kids once, leaves crunched under our shoes, we too braved the unpredictable weather. We made our way to the porch with a light, the doors of fright and delight.

Our youth still screams "Trick or Treat" despite are age. Some of us still enjoy trying to decide what clever costume to where. Which prank to pull or person to scare.

Once we reach a certain age we realize that we can buy our own candy. As much as we want, it's just not the same though. I don't sit in my recliner and eat candy and later think what did I wear. (Unless I leave a stain)

Whatever version or reason behind "Hallows Eve" it has transformed into something. If you think about it, this holiday is about fun, there is no pressure of the perfect gift. It's not just about love or religion really.

It's to share candy, dress up, to simply have fun!

Being a parent, a grandparent, a guardian, it is a different joy. We get witness the beauty of innocence, the variety of costumes. The contentment of the children after there done.

"Oh this one is my favorite."
"I'll trade you this one for that one."
"No way! You got one of those!"

We get to say to the kids, "Don't eat any until I've checked it first!" :)

Even though most kids sneak a piece or two. I did! I knew my parents would take out some of my favorite candy. Because it didn't look right?

That's strange, because when I looked it over the packaging was fine?

That is why I've enjoyed MJ being very young. We love to take a few pictures of her, and help her eat her candy. :)

She was a monkey her first year, a puppy last year. This year we let her pick out her own costume. MJ picked one off a kids show she watches, I will give you a hint.

It's yellow and has a funny tail.

Don't worry I will post some pictures of her on Halloween night.

This time of the year holds memories from our past, it allows us to share them with others. To be a kid, to feel the season. It leads us to tomorrows happiness, so that they too become wonderful memories.

After reading this entry feel free to share any memory that comes to your mind.

I just have one wish for those who celebrate this holiday, please be safe and have fun!

Thanks for stopping by.

L&R
Loren Wesley Ackerman

A Part-time Country

2009-10-23T02:55:00.012-05:00

Thursday was a wet day! It rained before I left for town this morning, I'd say it was before 11:00. As I type now it's still lightly raining. Of course I didn't bring a coat or my hat. After minutes I was drenched, still I walked determined. I pressed on, I went business to business filling out applications, only to notice several other people in line. I'm not discouraged, I remain optimistic.

I've known for quite some time that our country has declined. I've known what job possibilities existed for the common person. I expected lines, what I wasn't prepared to see that I was the oldest one. Everyone was in their twenties and I just turned 32 years old this month.

I tell myself that thy will hire experience over youth. That they will smell desperation over the strong scent of spanish fly colognes. Who would you hire a married man in their thirties, a person with a toddler, or a unpredictable kid?

I've got my fingers crossed in my hunt for a descent job. It is slim out there, mostly part-time employment. I even called my previous Temporary Agency to get a feel of the place. After all it has only been 5 years since I dazzled them.

I started as temp some years back, then got kept over 77 other people on the job. I took every posted job on the company board. Shortly after I was hired on full-time, they liked my drive. They loved my work abilities, I started me on an assembly line. Within a couple months I was a tester-inspector, working on several computers at once.

I had no computer experience, but I was multitasking with several. To make this long story short, there was a shutdown at the plant. So, I wanted to work, they asked me if I would. I said yes! They offered me 2 positions, one being lawn maintenance, the other was cleaning. I decided on cleaning the place for a couple weeks, they loved it.

When the bosses returned, they asked me if I wanted to co to school for electronics or they would help me start my own cleaning business. I thought about it for a couple days, then I gave them my answer. I told them I've always desired to have my own business. I didn't care if it was cleaning, a business meant my wife and I could work together for real money.

The next year the plant closed due to millions lost. They wanted cheaper labor in Mexico, so they left Springfield. My wife and I were the last two people in the plant when we left.

I had my own small company, we felt proud of our accomplishments.

Life's what it is sometimes!

Currently we live in the present, the past is the past. The other day I decided to call the agency, to seek employment. I hoped that I was still in the computer system, I hoped that they would remember me.

The lady told me there was only part-time work to pursue. I mentioned my achievement of my proud past. She laughed, then spoke in a rude tone saying "People change!"
I tried to speak, but she said "I see your work record in front of me. It doesn't mean a thing to me.We go off your last 6 months of work. Illinois is at a fourteen percent unemployment rate and good luck."

I decided to keep my cool, even after she denied me respect. You see for the over last year I have been raising our daughter, while my wife worked construction. Her hours were 12 hours or more, six days a week. She made decent money, but now it's slowed down. Now it's my turn to work, to show them how much I loved them. To provide for them, to give Lisa back some of the time she lost with MJ.

I've discovered that people who make good decisions for a family can also be penalized. This kind of logic baffles me, how can loving parents be disrespected?

No worries! I still have the compassionate State Unemployment office to assist me for work! :)

I have respect for my fellow human beings, I recognize our struggles. For a couple decades now I've tried to put myself in others shoes. I have recognized the emotions as someone scanned my merchandise. When they preformed their tasks, I noticed. Then I remained courteous, for I've been there.

I noticed when I worked as a janitor several times, how society treats a human being.

What the world fails to recognize, it that life is similar to a Pogo stick. It goes up and down, it requires balance. We need to hold on with both hands, so we can stay on longer. Yes we will fall eventually and must get back up. That is all part of the living joys we endure.

I don't wish invoke pity by my words in this entry. Trust me when I say I know others feel this way, I know that many people have it worse. I've been a witness to America's tragedy for many years now. I've tumbled countless times in my short life, but find it hard to except the truths of my life.

I will try to understand how society allows powerful individuals to kick us down in every way they can. How big business manipulates our benefits by only offering Part-time work. How they encourage people to betray others to keep bread on the table.

It is very simple GREED! They know that we have families, that we need our measly paychecks to barely survive. History repeats itself, many times over. The Great depression lives on, instead of fruit, it is fast food. It is toilets, it is unsafe Chinese made products.

How can the country be in such a mess, but countless restaurant jobs exist? How can so many people afford to eat out, plus a tip. Consider the gas and time involved, it is a luxury to do so. It would be less expensive and less of a hassle to eat at home. I believe if people eat out more than a few times a week, it is due to laziness. What do you think?

I can remember when you could actually talk to an owner of a company, when they would be willing to train a new hire. In my youth I could get a job before I finished the application. It was time when face to face meant something, a handshake meant something.

No, I'm not disillusioned, the world has always had liars and cheats. But, there was a time when hard work paid off. A time when people weren't just a number, like it has been for many years. Why do you think Temp Agency's came about? It was to pay Americans less money to do the same work as full-time employees. Then after a certain amount of time they could let you go, and bring in a new batch of suckers.

In the past we have heard that unemployment has went down, but that does not include people who have lost it. Struggling to provide for the family when it's gone. Forcing people to take what they can get, even if educated. Then there are people like me who have neglected to receive further education. People like me who have been stuck with a resume that consist of "demeaning jobs"

For those of us who have no choice, there are jobs that we will most likely be looked over. Jobs that we are too qualified for, or lack the proper education. Hey, there is the food industries, factories, Hotels, and gas stations.

Don't get me wrong I've seemingly lucked out in the past. I remain very optimistic for my family that I will find my place. I continue to keep hope for society, that one day very soon we will overcome the greed of our world. It will take time for our country to be a world leader in jobs creation, but the amount is unknown.

Until then we must work together! We must stay realistically positive, despite the fact that most of us are starting over. That we lack proper health care, but must stay strong.

Struggle knows no age, it touches the majority of this beautiful Earth.
Without it there would be no real lessons in life.

I thank you for stopping by my place. I wish you all a kind Friday and pleasant Weekend.

P&L
Loren Wesley Ackerman & Family

No Buts About It

2009-10-13T04:02:00.004-05:00

Insomnia is a brutal thing, a bittersweet ailment. They say that we sleep most of our life away, but not an insomniac. We survive on the bare minimum, a couple hours in the morning, sometimes only minutes. The years pass, daily tasks lag. In my youth I was lightening, sleep was seldom. The years passed and I became thunder, functioning within a system.

They say we spend a bulk of our life on the toilet, thank goodness I don't have severe constipation. Insomnia can be like a mental constipation or like an emotional diarrhea. But, it all depends on the person.

The more the time ticks we as individuals can feel wiped out. Little pieces of our soul stick in the cross hairs of life. It is important not to let negative vibrations crack our spirits. We must go with flow, blow with the winds my friends. I guess this entries moral was even though life can stink, it can also be a gas,gas,gas!

Gotta go,
Wes

Truth Tells No Lies

2009-10-10T03:44:00.005-05:00

In the current state of this nation, we struggle. Pinching pennies and eating in unhealthy ways. Sacrificing on expenses, some that we should not have too. Like going to the dentist and fixing the second car. As if we had the money to do either. Like most of the country, we barely have a pot to piss in.

For example the other day I made a big batch of beans and weenies, thinking we could make a few meals out of it. On the second day I noticed thick black pepper in it, then I thought about it. I didn't put pepper in it!

It was the black coating from the pan, a pan I have only used a couple times. After my discovery I suggested my family not to eat it. Since I had ate half a bowl, I finished it anyway. It's now days later and I'm still alive.

We go nowhere, we mainly do things together at home. Both cars have over 250,000 miles on them and only one starts up without a jump. My wife is very worried about the state of things. Over the years we have struggled countless times. The difference was we had no child.

To be truthful I'm worried too, I just bought groceries with change. (Bread,Eggs, and more hot dogs.)

I know the world suffers, people in my state share the same menu. So, believe when I say I'm not complaining, only worried. Construction has been slow, causing her to draw unemployment. It will most likely run out before they sign an extension. Forcing me to take anything, any job this under qualified applicant can get.

We've done it before, we will do it again.

Our other worry is MJ, she requires patience, and understanding. We lack the proper finances to place in her good hands. We don't have many people who could watch her on a regular basis. We will most likely work opposite shifts, then take care of her.

Most families are forced to do so in this country. If only the elected officials could help the voters. The people who pay taxes and sacrifice so they can live without financial worries.

I bring these personal matters up because this is the story for millions of families. I don't wish for pity, or sage advice. If someone has advice, point your finger toward a decent job. One that will benefit my family, one I hope would not betray my soul. I've cleaned toilets, served food, I've even cut trees in my youth. (Storm damage for the city)

This from a man who has helped save the California Red Woods. :)

For the longest time now I can't tell the difference between a Monday and a Friday. They are the same for me, other than trash is taken out on Mondays.

I know in my heart that things will get better in time. We must remain optimistic in the madness of life. "Zorbo" once said that a man needs a little madness in life.

I believe that no matter our song we must dance to the beat. Might it be defeat or our own victories. Like fruit it can be sour, it can be sweet.

I think too much about the troubles of the world, when I must stay focused on my family. There will be a time for my soul to feel free,when I don't feel ashamed. One day I will forgive myself for the choices I've made. My hope is that my family will forgive me for our struggles. For the time I've dreamed of better, when I should have taken feces from evil people.

In the real world employers are greedy. They don't recognize right from wrong, they don't appreciate positive suggestions. They wish us to break our backs while they make the big bucks. "It's my way or the highway!"

I have met many wonderful people on the computer. People who have earned an education, a place in life. Doing jobs that they chose to do, gaining respect in their field. Benefiting in so many ways, educating by example.

I've met people who have a beautiful homes, pieces of land. People who help animals , a retired actor, other writers. Many people who have inspired me to keep writing, to keep on dreaming. I love everyone for that! I love to hear about traveling,family, books being read.

More importantly their thoughts and opinions.

When a person opens up they allow the whole world in. We can obtain a better understanding of our fellow man. We can love our brothers and sisters of this Earth.

We love by listening.
We love by understanding.
We love by sharing.

I simply speak with honesty.
I believe that truth can sometimes set you free.
I speak with admiration, appreciation, and with affection.
May all your lives be what you wish it to be!

Peace&Love
Wes Ackerman

A Road Without Traffic

2009-10-01T03:08:00.014-05:00

The Autumn rain falls outside the window, it gently drops. The trees whisper in the slight wind, almost dancing. They dance for the evening, rather the early morning. They softly shake their leaves before they tumble to the ground. I do not hear a car on the quiet road. No coyotes tonight, not even the friendly owl?

Now, our friend a Mourning Dove sings her beautiful songs to the distant train. I've known her since my early years, it has been since Junior High school. We have shared many mornings and many moons. Countless Seasons, she has been there for my soul. For this I thank her daily, after all I will soon be 32 years old.

Birdie has been around for many hardships and may blessings. When I switched from drawing to writing, she was there. When I've had to carry loved ones coffins, she has been there. When Lisa carried MJ, she cooed sweet songs to our fantastic fetus.

MJ greets her like family in the morning, she coos songs right along with her.

Birdie is a blessing to my family, she is a joy to know. Speaking without words, but reaches our hearts.

I write about what I know in my life. What I can feel and see. Right now I hear her singing to me.

My family is a blessing, they keep my spirit in a good place. Creating important adventures, taking me to places I've never been. Wonderful places in my heart, an important destination. My genuine happy place, a location I gladly call home.

Granted I stumble on my emotions, I get stuck in memories muck. There is an expression that suggest that we get our hands dirty or another about our feet getting wet. How about the heart or the mind, they too get dirty.

Our eyes can shine, they too are wet. A smile can raise our cheeks, as easy as sadness can cause leaks. Life provides growth! After all every garden needs rain to become fruitful.

What I'm trying to say is that a Happy place is not constant, we are human beings. We struggle internally with our conscience, then with Humankind. We sleep,eat,work, and play. Wake up, defecate, and simply be.

Life and death have no manuals, still many try to go by the book. I believe people are different, with similar traits. Similar tastes with common thinking. You notice I did not say common sense, for if this was true, the world would be our happy place.

I may seem like I'm blowing all over this web page, I'm merely trying to make a point. Trying to help those who feel like me sometimes.

When time catches up to me, or life seems bittersweet. I notice my surroundings, I listen to my own voice. This morning I heard the soft rain, I smelled the Autumn scents.

The smell of the rain, blew in with the gentle wind. I watched my family sleep peacefully to the sound of Birdies beak.

My mind was clear, it merged with nature. I rolled around in the leaves, I became the air in the wind. Again, residing at a happy place. It puts a smile on my face to sit by a window and hear no traffic. One of the luxuries to living on the outside of a small town.

My advice to those who feel as Blue as I did yesterday, give yourself a quiet moment. If possible block the traffic that congests your mind, that clogs your heart. Try to silence it's noise, try to listen to your joy.

If even for an instant, find your happy place.

10/01/09

Our Birdie sings.
Life dings, it stings.
People, places, and things.
Don't be bound, cut your strings.
Become the wind, or sprout some wings.
After all who knows what tomorrow brings.

Peace & Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman

Take It Or Leave It.

2009-09-24T01:47:00.008-05:00

Summer has turned into Autumn now, the Robins are gone. The leaves have started to fall to earth's floor. The temperature has been in the Eighties in the day and cool at night. The butterflies linger, sticking to the withering flowers. Soon the lucky ones will journey elsewhere in flight. The bee's devour the pollen that remains, the beetles find a way inside our domains.

The seasons are passing, the time is fleeting. We will loose the minutes of the evening daylight with each new day. This process is necessary, our Earths orbit, merely completing a cycle for life.

This time of the year has been troublesome for me, it brings me personal growth. In years past I've let the season defeat my happiness. I've let the memories of my loved ones bring my spirits down like the falling leaves. My mistake was to dwell on their passing, I have not moved on. I've tried to live life for them and not me.

This year will be different, I will enjoy the little things. I will be strong for my family, we will have a happy harvest in memories. I'm looking forward to wearing a costume again. As parents we will be giddy taking MJ out for Halloween. Lisa and I will enjoy some Autumn walks under the changing leaves.

Now that Fall is here, we can pull the sweaters out of the closet. (If we can still fit in them?)

Typically we have more fires for wiener roasting, and marshmallows for Smores. For me there is the Spoon River Scenic Drive, a place where I get my Birthday pickled beets. I could go on about the many positives of the season, but will let you cherish your own.

Feel free to name a few, I will gladly listen to your loves in life.

I was going to write about the Summers passing, about all the things I'll miss. About garden tomatoes and swimming pools. About the evening sky and fireworks. I didn't feel the need, I wish to think about the present. I will look forward to our near future, even when it turns to cold again.

You see Summer is fleeting, like our lives. The difference is the seasons return unlike our youth. If we get stuck in mind fields of our past, time will pass ever so fast. We must not dread change, it arrives like Autumn. There will be rain, there will be wind. Yes, it can blow in all directions.

Before the season turns again we will witness many colors. My advice for those who dwell on age, for the ones who choose not to see the colors. Your heart is not colorblind, only human.

In Autumn the leaves naturally fall, so rake a pile or two. After you make a few, jump in one. Be the kid at heart you know you are, have some fun!

The more I type I realize this entry was more for me, but if it helped you, Great!

I will take this time to thank you for stopping by my place. May Autumn be a Harvest of memories for you as well.

Peace & Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman

Good Conduct Mustn't Be Stealth

2009-09-17T01:58:00.013-05:00

I just finished watching the "New York Philharmonic Opening Night Gala Concert" it's 168TH. It Had Soprano Rena Fleming and it was a delight to watch. The very funny Alec Baldwin was interviewing and with much poise.

I bring this up because I love most music, at least one song in each style. To me music is a gift to our souls. I love watching the Symphony Orchestra perform together, with its strings,brass,wood winds, and percussion's. The conductor is indeed the maestro, but if the people preforming know the music, they could be obsolete.

Still, I respect the conductor and feel they keep the Orchestra in harmony.

Have you ever watched the movement of the music, the passion from the people? It is a musical masterpiece to witness. A pleasure to hear the sweet sounds of teamwork.

Maybe one might prefer the strings over the brass, or the percussion. Some might choose the wood winds, no matter your preferred instruments, together they make the orchestra.

Why can't society mimic this artistic beauty? Why does Politics contradict it's true purpose and function in the opposite manner? I would think that our founders would want it to be similar to a Symphony Orchestra.

If you believe in a God above, would he wish us to be more like one?

Instead of playing the strings, both sides pull on them. Pulling so hard that they break during the performance. Our elected civil servants were chosen to play their part, not distort the sound. Beating down the hopes of a desperate society, drowning out the sounds of decency. Instead of beating the drums, they beat each other down, they deny the audience genuine human satisfaction.

We pay taxes, if you will allow me to say our admission. Our ticket to the performance of American life. We pay our whole lives only to witness our elected leaders perform poorly. Working against each other, pulling the fear strings. Manipulating the informational keys, pitting us against each other.

Forgive me if I'm incorrect to state that we deserve respect and consideration. That our Elected President deserves to be treated with patience and respect as well.

We the People deserve the opportunity of a healthier life. I'm talking about affordable health care and a cleaner planet.

With this nonexistent bipartisanship and continual tug of war, we the world will suffer. We have endured many hardships throughout history. The last decade alone has set our future decades back, if we indeed have a future.

I remain optimistic for our children, but will always be a realistic person. Enough with the health care smokescreen, pass it already!

Let us work together as people, as politicians! If we wish to have a future we must move on to the next humane issue. We must focus on the environment, without a healthy one, life is pointless. Jobs are meaningless, unless you want to merely pay the bills. Buy a big fancy house, a car for a road to nowhere. A path to endless desert, a future without hope.

Why can't the Republicans admit they are what they are?

Why can't the Democrat's pass a good bill, when they control most of the legislation?

I'll tell you why, politicians are mostly wolves in sheep's clothing. Say anything to get elected humans, hiding in the cloaks of sheep.

Mankind acts as if they want all that is good. "In the name of God" Christian folks simply wish for gods plan to be true. When human actions prove mankind's truth, that fear is the fire that fuels the pits of hate. Fear prevents good people from accomplishing great things.

Let me ask the moral majority a question! Where were you when Bush was "In Charge"? Where was your protest when United States Soldiers dropped like flies? Where was your outcry when thousands of innocent civilians perished in the desert? (By the way, the War continues on! God's Children still spill innocent blood overseas.)

But here is a group of people shouting about money and a President destroying a great nation.

Where were you when Government stole our countries finances for WAR? It is our right to stand up to the leaders of our country, it is our right to believe what we want.

So, continue on with the fight to deny unfortunate families the chance to afford health care. Go forward with false information and harsh judgement. March on to Washington! Scream at the man who tries, the President who attempts fix the last eight years of greed.

Equal rights doesn't mean that a select few can have their way. It doesn't mean we should decide who gets married or gets a job first. It means we should be color blind, we should not see sex. We should see Mankind for what it is and accept our way of life. We are human, not Gods.

Go ahead and shout it, spread it, print it, and broadcast your deceptions. Spread your distorted interpretations to the masses. I still believe that the majority can see the truth. That we can decide our future, by means of working together.

Most will say I'm wrong, most will say wake the hell up! Guess what I am! I feel that mankind has the capability to preform well together. We can make powerful music together, like an Symphony Orchestra. It will take patience and practice. When we work together we will break a few strings, but we are human.

I have more faith in myself than in Elected officials. Maybe I'm incorrect in my logic, I wish one day that politicians will conduct themselves like in an orchestra.

At the very least, respect the conductor. I mean until they harmonize and play well with each other, or compliment the process. We need a leader to lead, to conduct this country. To compose a sympathetic symphony and with compassion.

With all that is going on in the news.The protests and outburst's, we should work as one. There should be a nation that respects the promise of betterment. Wishes for affordability and well health. I regret to say that we live in a corrupted and stingy fearful world. A life built on manipulation and lies.

I don't blame people for distrusting big business and most government. But see the insanity in the recent uprisings. That goes for all parties, I mean we allowed Government to destroy the World for 8 years. Then came President Obama, a man elected by the people.

This man took over a sinking ship called the United States of America. A Titanic task for any man to bare! History has shown that in crisis panic does not help.

It may seem like we lack sufficient life boats right now, but together we can weld the leaks. When society separates themselves by class it sinks. When worries of money outweigh decency and the well being of the future of our children, life fails.

The time is now to provide affordable health care! We mustn't place bubblegum on the leak. If we continue on the last Presidents course, we will hit more icebergs.

I firmly believe that the musicians do not have to play on a sinking ship. We can all survive, more than just head above water.

Give President Obama a chance to lead us, at least for one term! Bush was handed two terms? Two chances! (I'm still scratching my head)

In the name of Peace and Love let us hear the tune of progress. Allow the country to truly heal from past mistakes. Give us the opportunity to treat the wounds that plague our lives.

GOOD CONDUCT MUST NOT BE STEALTH!
WE THE PEOPLE DESERVE WELL HEALTH!
WE THE WORLD MUST PRESERVE LOVES WEALTH!

P&L
Loren Wesley Ackerman

Get Your Popcorn, Right here!

2009-08-29T03:56:00.006-05:00

With all that is going on in the world, we continue. As I press the keys, I listen to the coyotes howl and an owl hoot outside my windows.

I try to keep my thoughts organized, or in my head.

Most of us try to move forward and make the best of life, others choose to be careless.I know many people who don't have a mind of their own, they follow the leader. As if most of the so called leaders know what to do, let alone lead.

What I'm referring to is political leaders, news leaders, the decision makes. The ones who decided and decide what we should believe today. The corporate scoundrels of our lives.

Take Fox News, they claim to be the most watched? Maybe they are and maybe the sheep zombies follow. I know a good number of people who swear it's the complete truth.

When I know other wise, for example they call the media a "Liberal Media"? Why is it called that when for almost a decade it was manipulated by the last administration?

For those who don't believe me or don't remember, come on over to my house. We can watch thousands of hours of news footage. From all news networks, local to the major network's. I'll pop the popcorn, while your head explode from the truth.

It will be like that scene in "Clockwork Orange" but without the straps and eye braces.

You might ask me why, or how thousands of hours. It's simple, I put a tape in when I left the house. This went on for years, because I needed research for an Idea. It became so crazy from the ever changing facts and misinformation. That I halted my project, the TV was an insane asylum.

Does anybody remember the terror alert, Jessica Lynch, the kid arrested for a Peace shirt? Senator Daschle's comment that made him go away. Howard Dean's scream or what the Administration did for eight years?

I could write a song that even Billy Joel would be proud, so I will leave it to your memories.

I possess tapes from the 2000 debates to the Obama administration.
So, I feel I can safely say I know more than most people. You see I combined Newspapers, magazines, all news channels,and some words from politicians themselves.

Nothing added up, other than it was a waste of my time. The good thing is I can use the news for over a decade to back my thoughts up. My mouth at the very least, so bring it!

Then I have common sense and don't follow the sheep headers of the world. My own family are sheep because of Fox news. If I've been one, it's been a black sheep.

Bush supporters complain about life now, they bash Obama and the Democrats. When they had Reagan,Bush Sr., and G.W. Bush. Way to go America! To be fair We must point the finger at democrats too. They allowed it to happen, even if control was lacking.

I watched some news about Ted Kennedy on all channels the other day. Yes, CNN and some other channels praised him. They recalled the good things that he did, but brought up the question of health care. Asking if his death will effect it's fate, and some people responded. Fox News seemed heartless with coverage. Host and guest attacked politely, raising few good facts. Giraldo spoke the kindest words of what I watched, (Mr. Sandman} himself thought decent of the man! In the background, Bill O looked angry about hearing it on his show.

I support it and feel it is needed for our country. Most of us pay taxes and slave our lives away. Our friends and families pay taxes and the government has put it where they wanted. Things like war and for personal gains.

My thought is why not? A major illness or an injury can destroy a family. It could take years to pay it off, because employers have not truly cared. Pharmaceutical companies and Hospitals haven't cared. If they did, then why so much debt? Other countries use it and it works.

"Waiting in line like the Post Office."
At least people who need care will finally get it.

I don't believe the American people don't want this. There are more poor than rich, there are more sick than healthy. It's the powers that be, that manipulate the system, persuade the sheep.

Politicians say they cared about Ted Kennedy and that they are sad for his passing. Then go on to say that there must be a compromise with health care. They say they care about the American people and just don't want break the country.

What the hell are they talking about? What did the last President do and what did they do to stop it?

Nothing! They gave themselves pay raises and helped scare the hell out of the country. Misinformation and fear tactics is what they spoke about. They attacked people who spoke against the war. They took out anybody who got it the way, so they could get their way.

Don't believe me, the popcorn's popping.

Even democrats contributed to the lies and helped spread the fear.

It is the victors who write in the History books. It is the winners who alter our lives. The true losers of the political game are the people. We the people continue to struggle unhealthy and hungry. While they get the best health care and we pay for their good lives.

In regards to Ted Kennedy, he did some good things for the world.He helped shape some good Ideas, but he was FLAWED.

Politicians can do wonderful things for the world. But, spend most of their time bickering. Blaming one's party, when it's Mankind that represents it.

I'm sick of people saying that they care about the man. Then go on to say they hope that this togetherness will carry over. That each side wants to make a difference for the people, but does nothing about it. They will have their vacation that we pay for. They will continue to live a high life, while many suffer.

It should have been a done deal already!

Now, we mourn a good leader's death and the Parties will cry. Most of them for their own mortality, not his passing. They will spend the time golfing and fine dining until they go back to work. Meanwhile, the majority of the country struggles to provide healthy meals for family.

Some say that if people want it bad enough, they will get it. Then what about the unhealthy, can they work to pay for medical bills if sick? Can the children live healthy lives if both parents work? It's another double edged sword, kids don't have the family support they need. They won't have the guidance or good health mentally.

Even when parents work, the bills don't get paid. Fine, get two jobs, feed kids junk food, and never be home.

It's a recipe for disaster!

Free health care will help ease the burdens of the American family.

I feel I've touched lightly on the reality of the American life. I rambled enough without much facts. You see this entry would take a decade to educate the general public with facts.

The sad thing is that most of we the people was living it, but not watching it. "Watch what they do, not what they say."

Back to the sheep, we must be individuals, not meat. If something is true, if something is right, then you support it. I know we have the right to our own opinions, and it's our leaders who decide. So, here's your chance to be herders. It's time to demand that our civil sheep move forward.

For the sake of the future and our children, please speak your own minds. Please listen to your own heart and souls voice. It is not too late in life to be free.

If you can't see the logic in my words,or remember the misinformation. Bring the deepest popcorn bowl you can find over to my couch. The popcorn is ready!

Are you?

Before I end this entry I would like to send my love to the Kennedy family and his friends. I wish to give a hug to those who mourn the loss of Senator Edward Kennedy.

The man may no longer be in body, but his life's dreams and accomplishments will linger.

For those who mourn please remember it is to celebrate his life, not to swim in tears of sorrow. My heart will cry, yet my soul will smile.He feels no pain, he is now healthy. He is no longer a sheep, and no longer human.

Ted Kennedy is now free.

Peace&Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman & Family

Sundials and Fine Wine

2009-08-20T01:32:00.022-05:00

The date is wrong on the photos? It was less than two weeks ago?

The Summer is swiftly turning into another Autumn. The time has been well spent, it may not be like Summers of the past. Maybe we didn't do the things that we wanted, but I'm sure we captured meaningful memories.

It's kind of like a Butterfly collection that we keep free. As they fly we can marvel at their beauty, at the flutter of flight. Landing on the colorful flowers in bloom. Both the butterfly and the flowers may soon be a memory. We mustn't fret, they will return.

Summers sun has not set just yet. The Summer heat will still linger, we will have more.

It is just me or does time gain speed the more aged we become?

Since we must age then let us age like a fine wine. Let the flavor of our lives be sweet. May time be kind, so that we will potent. Each day be a glass that is half full and delicious.

I will spare the first time readers and admit I ramble. Even in metaphors, so I will get to the point already! :)

My Mom returned from Ontario for another visit. It was a typical visit, she enjoyed her grand kids. My Mom tried to see as much family as she could. Then made her way to Savanna, Georgia. That is where my Grandparents reside, her parents. I went there a few years back, it was beautiful.

My daughter Malayna and I was going to go with my family, but could not. My Mom took my sister Melissa with her. My Nieces went as well, it would have been a memorable trip. I'm partly glad we decided not to go. There was some good ole family friction during the trip. I won't get into the details, but will say it was a FAMILY vacation.

They made it to Florida to see my Uncle and went to some beaches. All and all they had a good time. The down side was that MJ barely saw my Mom. We had a couple discussions about quality time and such. So, she stayed a couple extra days to visit with us. I wished I could say it went splendidly, if I did I'd be lying.

We did make it to New Salem State Park. It is only Ten minutes away, and it has a decent playground. We walked the trails and visited the village. It is a replica of the time Abe Lincoln was there. In September they have a Bluegrass festival on the main stage. During the day hundreds of people sit on hay stacks, they pick and grin till dark. It is a good time, if your in the area, check it out.

Some of the photos you will see are from there.

The last two days was OK, we had good visits. I was pleased to see MJ smile with her Grandma Myra. If I could do it over again, I would be more understanding. I would just keep quit, smile more.

I love you Mom and we miss you!

Has anybody ever noticed that most family members are set in their ways. Simple conversation evolves into complex communication. It may be a news story or an opinion, it will be ignored. Why do people want to complain about life, instead of enjoying it?

I try my best to get along with others, even if we don't see eye to eye. I'm friends with all walks of life, even friendly with my enemy. Will I cater to negativity, NO! But I will help those who truly want help. Most of the time, my mind is my worst enemy. My heart is by guide in life and my soul is my best friend. Sometimes the three quarrel, creating an emotional reaction.

Uncertainty engulfs my intuition, so much that its gluttony fills my guts. In the heat of the moment, my common sense is lost. It could be in the gutter, maybe it stands beside my street smarts. Perhaps it is Major brain fart, one that chokes the heart. Thank goodness for our souls ability to recover, to survive in life.

I feel like I've spoke enough from my heart and will move on.

Other than the visit, we have been cooking some good stuff on the grill. Once I've finished my cook book I will share. I will say that I've used lots of garden vegetables! I can't give most of them away, let alone cook them all. I think I will have to can some this year, or buy a dehydrator.

Egg plant,zucchini,squash,tomatoes,cucumbers,sweet corn, and peppers. OH MY!

If you wish to read what I write about the meteor shower. Then check out "A Poet's Travels" it is one of my other blogs. Just go to my profile and click it, or type http://apoetstravels.blogspot.com

I will be writing that poem soon, until then enjoy the poems written.

I can see out my windows that we are going to get hit by another thunderstorm. So, I must cut this short. Before I go, I wish to express my love to the families hit by the tornado nearby.It happened in Williamsville, Ill, it is only a few miles away from us. Some people lost homes and were injured. Businesses were destroyed, the good news, NO DEATHS! (I heard on the TV that is was a tornado or hurricane force winds?)

Speaking of hurricanes, I hope those impacted will be OK.

As I stated we still have the Summers sun, with it the Summer rain. May your remaining days of the season be enriched with love. May they bring you a cool soft breeze and happy memories.

I thank you for stopping by place again.

Feel free to stop by any time my fellow Lifers.

Peace&Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman & Family

Life's What It Is Somtimes

2009-08-04T03:15:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday to LWIIS!

8/04/08 to 8/04/09

I could win a staring contest against my computer screen. The last few days have melted into each other, like ice in my drink. I try to come up with something witty to say, but end up with my foot in my mouth. I guess my heart has a foot fetish. :)

Here is a joke: How do you know your getting older?
When you no longer have a good side.

WARNING POLITICAL CONTENT

I can't help but get caught up in the politics of life. You see I have decent memory of the last decade or so. When Bill Clinton took over we were in a deficit, then he pulled us out of the fiscal quicksand. Then came a Blow job, it wasn't right, nor was it illegal. He betrayed his family, not the country. Then came Ken Starr and the powers that preached. They spoke of truth and adultery, when a handful of them did the same. They lied about it too, that was until the press exposed it. After the so called IMPEACHMENT, came the bill. They spent millions on the investigation, and claimed that Bush inherited a HUGE deficit?

When the People were robbed of a fair election and were force fed manure, we received G.W. Bush. The man lacked the skills and integrity of past Presidents. The man lacked the know how of many other Republican leaders, like Roosevelt and Lincoln. It is who you know in the world, when you want to get ahead in life. It sure doesn't hurt to have many political leaders on your side, all of them with pre designed plans.

Does anybody remember what Bush said in the debates of 2000? The man spelled it out, loud and clear. When he discussed military build up and dealing with the Middle east. When I heard this, I asked myself how can he accomplish these goals. I was stumped at the time, I thought to myself, only if you could rally the majority of Americans to go back there. There were many hints in his speeches that screamed tragedy.

I'm not bringing him up to bash him, only to make a couple points. After 911 happened, he spent billions for the sake of FREEDOM. The man broke constitutional laws, when he could not rewrite them. His administration would not testify under oath, nor would he? Encouraged illegal wire tapping and torture. I was once targeted by Government, by use of illegal wire tapping and have the tapes to prove it! Yes, I recorded the entire conversation. It is a long story and I fear I've said to much. :) ( True story)

His administration destroyed this country in many ways, in ways that will take decades to repair. They contributed to catastrophic destruction across the globe. Manipulated the media, like never before. It bothers me when I hear current lawmakers speak about spending and when the media caters to the Obama haters. Like I said, it will take decades to begin the repairs, let alone make major head way.

I was once a harsh critic of President Obama, I preferred a certain Dennis from Ohio. Only because I had the honor of meeting then Senator Obama, plus asking him a question about the environment. In his own words "a three fer" I was not satisfied. The bill involved McCain and Lieberman. Imagine that? My question was not truly recognized by the public or the press. President Obama did his best, considering my question was a jab at the media, Government, and specifically politicians.

Back to my typical style of ramble writing, my point in hand. I heard the other day, that his popularity in the polls is at 50 percent? How could this be, it took Bush much longer? How can a regime as heartless as the Bush administration had a higher percentage? I mean President Obama has not been in office a year yet.

Cut the man some slack already!

Get off his back about Birth certificates, he would have proved it before running for President. If you want to point out illegalities, how did Dick Cheney become Vice-president then? He magically got his residency altered over night, Bush and him both lived in Texas. It was because it is who you know in life. The average American never receives a speedy process when it comes to important paperwork, especially by Government.

I have a little trivia question for you. How many years or Presidential Administrations have Cheney, Rumsfeld, and Bush Sr. been involved? The truth will blow your minds. After you find that out, look real hard on what they truly accomplished. Look at the deficits and hardships they left behind. I can say this about many political figures in history, but feel humanity has been affected by these people dramatically. At least responsible for Texas manure that has covered Main Street and Wall Street.

If we wish for the current President to succeed, we must help clear the stink. We must work as one, without hidden agendas. I'm not saying we allow any more leaders to write blank checks, but make sure it is spent for the greater good. Not just on vacationing politicians, on people who bicker over everything. Getting pay raises to do nothing and spend their careers denying the people a fair shake.

Has any body told us where the trillions of dollars that the Bush Administration spent really went? To protect our freedom, for the war. Then why did it take so long for the troops to receive proper equipment and supplies? Where did all the money that those contractors received go? Where did all the gold that was found in the war go?

How much money did the oil companies make off us hard working Americans, when we supported our troops? How much money did the major Corporations receive from the Bush administration? How much money did the Air Lines get wen bush was president? How much money did the Bush administration gain from their decisions?

I merely bring these questions up, because I'm sick of hearing people talk about Presidential spending. When in the past it was not even a worry for the controlling majority, or the Bush Supporters. It was not a concern to the people who gained from destruction of this once beautiful land of the free.

If all people can do is spread hate and negativity, then shut the hell up. Get a life, find a real reason to dislike a person. I have always said "I can at least find one good thing about every person." Think about it, even the worst people have at least taught a lesson or two.

We must love our fellow man, but that does not mean we have to agree. I have always looked at life in terms of Right or Wrong! I may not have always been in the right, but have known my wrongs.

I suggest we try our best to keep our heads above the manure.
My motto is: If there's manure, then lets put into the garden.

Why I say this is, after time we will share the bounties of our labor. Together we will sow the seeds of hope. We will harvest the love that provides the promise of our children's future.

Once again, I thank you for stopping by my place. In the year I have been blogging on the computer, I have met some amazing people. We have all shared moments that have changed our lives. Might it be a birth or a surgery, an election. A personal triumph or a tragedy, we were there. I know that many people have stopped knocking on my cyber door, and that's OK.

I will keep you in my heart always, I will be here for you when you need me. Just drop me a line and I will respond. I know I have not been knocking on many doors myself, I feel like a stranger these days. Every since I've joined Face Book, I've neglected my friends. Not because I'm lazy, or that I don't care. It's just life's what it is sometimes and I'm lost right now.

When I started to blog, my wish was to teach, not preach! I fear my heart has altered my speech, my mind has left me in breach. My broken sentences and dyslexic writing has allowed academic minds to drift away. I decided to do it anyway, I overcame my fear of rejection from others.

I would be a liar, if I were to say I don't care. Because I love you all for who you are, even if you became just a memory to me.

I'm struggling to be myself, the weight is bearing down. I'm just looking for a place that I can lay my head. I sincerely require realities paradise, not just a farm, A Mob,a job, or a huge bank account in cyberland.

I have some GREAT IDEAS to SHARE with ANYBODY WHO CARES. They are ideas that will require friends, and together we will all prosper. I will give you a hint, it involves a computer.

Ramble, ramble, ramble, Thanks!

Peace&Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman & Family

Dueling Summers

2009-08-01T23:06:00.004-05:00

When I started this blog almost a year ago, I was lost. The story of my life it seems, it will be a year on August fourth. I had no followers, eventually one! Her name was Beth, she made me feel good. It started with a picture of an owl, then some simple conversation. I was introduced to some real nice folks and some unique blogs. Those people, those wonderful blogs helped me get through my fathers cancer. Blogging helped me cope with crisis and gave me some sanity.

I wish to thank you all for everything.

This time last year I was mostly alone, except my too busy wife and amazing daughter Malayna Jane. She is my sunshine, our heart song. I loved my wife before I met her, I was convinced even more, when I did. Time passed, we grew a little older. Entering new points in our lives, then we drifted apart. Like most couples, she found happiness with other people. Last summer she tried to leave me behind. If only I would have psychic, or she would have communicated her emotions to me.

I love her more than love itself and will for the remainder of my life. To me Alisa Kay will always be beautiful and amazing. I try to show it daily, but often fail. Still, I know in my heart I love her. I hope she knows I love her, differently, but even more today.

The past is the past, and time shows no mercy. It is to easy to let your heart be muted and your mind be isolated from reason. We must get passed our pain, our personal fears. It can seem like the walls of our spirit can collapse, almost crush us. I emphasis the word seem, we each have a powerful inner strength that can support our soul. Powerful, only if we wish it so. I am blessed to know my Daughter, MJ. Her innocence and pure love, can override most things.

The downside to that love is when we can't do what most families can. We may not get vacations, or financial security. We may never own a new car or our dream house. Make it to the place of paradise, and that is OK. I have hope that our goals will be met one day, that we will find our place in life. Until, then we will bask in the love we share. It may not be perfect, it may not always be sweet. And that's OK!

We have each other in this Mad Mad world.

I feel joy in the happiness of others. I love it when people have dreams come true, simple or large. My concern for those lucky people is that they realize it. I have no doubt they do. Especially the one's who need it the most. One of my many wishes is that a person who has nothing, will win the lottery next time.

In a perfect world, my wishes would come true.

Blog, blog, blog.............. At least it's not other peace entry. :)

Thanks for stopping by my place and have a good weekend.

Peace&Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman & Family.

Onions In The Rough

2009-07-20T07:51:00.008-05:00

When man first picked up a stone or used a fist, there was battle. Battle for simple survival, or individual gains. One does not know for certain, only God.

Throughout history there as been much bloodshed, enough to fill the seven seas. Abundantly so, that it would be a feat for Mosses to part Wars red sea.

I speak from the heart, clearly through the madness. I am a spiritual man, who can see past the fogs of war. Through the smoke and hot flames of hate and greed. My soul is like the wind, it is free. My soul is powerful, cool liquid, dampening the flames at my feet.

Have I served in the Military? No!
Have I been in war? Hell yes! For our existence on Earth is an every day war. Just pick your battle, and choose your weapon. Make sure to choose which one and what to use wisely.

My weapon of choice is my hands, I pick up my pen. To shield me from emotional reality's of this War On Our World. The theft of our children's future and the heist of their promise.

I may not have fought in Military war, but my ancestors have. Some right along General George Washington in the Revolutionary War. Many of my people fought against the Yankees in the Dakotas, the Wasichu (White Man) on their Native lands. Soldiers from the North and the South in the Civil War. Both World Wars and Korea. Then Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the Wars of today.

I often wonder how man can justify death, how death is more respected than life? Think about it, man is honored with a funeral, but not in the every day. Spat in the face, but mourned when the heart no longer beats.

The reasons for grievance seems obsolete. The human heart is powerful, but too often in the wrong place.

In my short life, I've watched our great nation stumble into the pits of desperation. Act like sheep and follow fools to the slaughter. I've heard wise advice echo in mind, like a sharp sound in the mountains. Bouncing of the sides and and escaping into the serenity of this world.

"Think before you speak!"
"Think before you act!"
"Treat others how you wish to be treated!"

Simple suggestions and sound advice. My heart has always told ME to LOVE THE EARTH!

When it comes to war, I do not covey cowardice. As I do not condone it's action. I do believe we should defend ourselves against injustice, we should look WRONG in its ugly face.

My heart wishes that we could find other ways to achieve peace. My mind says that we can, if we work together. My soul speaks loudly, it shouts to the world.

It sincerely says, "WAKE UP PEOPLE!" "STAND UP FOR SOMETHING That is TRUE!"

There are other ways than war, to protect our human freedoms. We must find other means, to obtain resolve.

Yes, sometimes Evil slaughters the innocent. It seemingly conquers the bodies of man, but not our spirit. We continue to advance in peaceful technologies and human kindness. Unfortunately world leaders seek financial superiority. They prefer dominance, instead of assistance. They eventually show their true intent, Mankind is poor and fearful, but not stupid.

In the age of media and reality TV, we should shine the light on the darkness. It's purpose should be to inform and assist the world. Not spread fear and promote hatred. It should not just be murder and mayhem, but it mostly is. It's primary message is "buy into this or buy this."

We our smarter than the wizards that pull the strings, cloaked behind greed's curtain.

It is a shame how man decides which genocide to attack, I mean people to defend. It is a travesty when Governments allow people to be dominated, raped and murdered by evil people. It is an awful way to govern, to protect selected people, and merely for national gains.

Where was the world when Rwanda needed it? Where was the world when Darfur needed it? I could go on and on with this point and can name many more places, but will leave that for you. It is never too late to help those in need, so feel free.

For those of you reading in The United States of America, we have injustice too. We live and breath it, if we like it or not! We allow corporations to poison and deprive our children. Allow them to deny good people human decency and a healthy world. How can corporations get away with genocide? How can they continue to steel hard earned money from average people? The answer is MONEY!

This to applies to the world and it is because of our world leaders. When politicians speak of change, it should not just be coins out of deep pockets. It should not be hate blasted miles away, killing civilians by way of rockets.

I want you to know, I criticize the leaders of our "Free World", not you! Let their actions be the monkey on their back.

I do ask you to please open your ears, eyes, and to speak from your heart as well.

Past world leaders and even most historians believe that every war was fought for a greater good. Usually fought for God and people. To ensure peace and prosperity, for Gods children.

Why is it Man hides behind the Creator, when there is human destruction? Why is it that when a catastrophic event occurs, man question s God? We as man have been handed the tools and given opportunities to defend ourselves against some disasters.

How about Hurricane Katrina, was it more God or Man? It is easier to blame the creator, rather than accept we are human. That our world leaders were more responsible. Many of those people did not have to die that day, but chose to stay put. We have the gift of Free Will and deny its purpose, we sometimes fail to know our time.

It is hard to be alive sometimes, to stay focused. There are more wrongs than rights in this beautiful world. It is our job to stay happy and sane.

What would the innocent say if they could still speak? What would your god say, or the Prince of Peace? What do you say about the way life is today? For just one moment, forget what Jesus would do.

What would you do? More importantly, what will you do?

My question to the world is, what do you say about the idea of Peace and Love?

For right and wrong, we continue to hate our enemy, because they hate us. Human nature has many qualities, like an onion. One can slice it with steal and sharp hunger, layer after layer. Discovering burning tears and more layers, it can be bitter and sweet. Eventually reaching its crisp center and finding the heart of the thing . That is when we find or ourselves no longer in the stew we call life.

We will be in a place where peace and love echo in all hearts. A majestic garden we will grow, we will share the land. There will be no silent slaughters by means of separation.

Until that day, we must protect the land of the living dead. We must plant the seeds of life and hope in out children's future. It is our responsibility to lead them to the path of Peace. To feed them the fruit from the gardens of good. To teach them to harvest hope together! Teach them to be a warrior when needed, but a farmer in life.

Together we can sow the seeds of Love.

Thank you for stopping by and listening to this redundant ramble of mine.

Blessed Be
Loren Wesley Ackerman

The Price Of War Is More Expensive Than The Ticket Home

2009-06-29T05:16:00.021-05:00

The picture on the left is of "Doc Magoo" and he is my father. Donald Ackerman was just a young man when he enlisted. He started in the United States Naval Reserves, but he couldn't be in medical aspect of the service.

He then enlisted in the United States Army and trained to be a Medic. Arrived in Vietnam at the age of eighteen, he was just a kid. He received 3 Bronze Stars, one for valor. Was wounded 3 times and was given 3 purple hearts. He was also awarded a Silver Star by a General Zais. I posses the photograph with the general, I've seen the Medal growing up, now it is lost. He tried to replace it, but the paperwork no longer exist. He still has other medals and recognitions, but says the lives that he saved are more important!

I have had war on my mind for most of my life, but tried to live with peace. The first poem I ever wrote was titled Peace, and I was only 12 years old. I watch and read the news. I can here the complaints of the world and can drown most of them out. It's not that I don't care about most issues, rather I see through the smoke.

This issue is the most important right now, and next year we will bring back this one. That is just political manipulation at its weakest, playing with our emotions. Pitting us against each other, Rich verses Poor. Minority against non minorities, Republicans vs. Democrats! The same old song and dance, somebody saying they care and doing nothing.

Our Leaders find faults in a plan, criticizing rather than working in unity. I think I've made my point on the agenda of our political representatives. Fussing and fighting, blaming and shaming each other. The bottom line is We Our The People and without us, who would they be?

I feel strongly about many issues, but feel that after 911 we should have learned the truth. Why it happened, not just "The terrorists hate our freedom" attitude. Why we could not keep that (Idea) of unity, and the world working together. The real reason we went to war, not countless versions. It varied from our news outlets and political leaders. You have the right to believe what you want, and feel what you wish.

Plain and simple, the truth is the truth! Bush said that history will be in favor of this war and his leadership? I don't deny that Bin Laden was a Bad man or Saddam was evil. I don't doubt that we contributed to building of the "Freedom fighters" or helped Saddam achieve his power. Because we did, but that was when they were our friends. Think what you want about that statement, but people who watched the news in those times know of its truth. I know that September 11, 2001 was tragic! I cried like most of you, watching those people perish. Hearing the news throughout that day. Passing by my shocked coworkers, then the second plane! It was horrific to witness and is difficult to write about today.

I will not go into the details, because most of us will never forget that day. I will write about in the future, but not now.

What I feel compelled to mention is the costs of Afghanistan and Iraq wars. The costs emotionally and economically. The price that our world has paid with blood on the battlefield. Countless civilian lives have been lost in both countries. They have been victims of war, killed by bombs and by Man. The coalition forces and by small army's of their own people. Killed by misguided missiles and by bullets. In both wars there has been torture and lack of humane importance.

We went over to Afghanistan to find Bin laden and stop terrorism. How can you really stop terrorism? Go to war and kill the people we wish to protect? Support our troops, but give them limited resources. Go to Iraq, because Saddam attacked us? Free the the people only to harm them, and put them in harms way.

Just like Desert Storm, we can't leave? Violence has been in those deserts since before our country was born. Before our Freedom was penned on paper. The best we can do now is to really help them. When our troops pulled that statue down, we won the war. And had a banner to prove it!

What was the Bush administration thinking when we went to war. Then enter Iraq again, after the last time. It was to find Osama, it was to avenge our Nations lost. We lost a few thousand on that terrible day. Those people had families that will feel the full effects of 911, but war will not bring them back.

Now we have servicemen and women stuck in a war with no true meaning. I say that because most justifications have changed many times over. When it began, some were already enlisted. They had no choice in the matter, others were heavily Patriotic. True, red white and blue Americans. Defending our freedom from the evildoers, the violent killers.

Helping take down world leaders who were corrupt and did as they pleased. People who made their own laws and kept the country in fear. Fear and injustice, imprisoning who ever disagreed. Charging them as traitors and punishing them, sometimes by death. Regarding women as second class citizens and promoting violence if necessary.

It's ironic that we went there to assist oppressed people and eliminate criminal leaders. People who G.H.W bush, D. Rumsfeld, and DICK Cheney had political relationships with? At one time or another, wined and dined them. Trained the freedom fighters and provided the weapons. Who was once a Freedom fighter?

Then years later a Political nightmare occurs, the 2000 Election. Bush magically defeats Gore, and the world still says Bush won? Yes, with questionable assistance. I'm a political junkie, an watched the Red carpet debates in 2000. Bush said in a response that he wanted to build up the Military and deal with the Middle East. When he said something in those lines, my heart listened. Look what happened months later, he got his wish. Bigger military and back in the Middle East. Because of 911, he was able to do as he pleased. Damn near every stupid plan his party imagined.

I don't wish to discuss conspiracy theories, only the truth. The truth that we felt by common sense and emotions. By simply watching what is said and by our administrations actions. I tried to keep tabs on all the spending, it was too difficult to follow. Where it truly went and how much was approved. Just like with new one, we should always keep our eyes open. No matter the party affiliation, or the person.

I still believe that we should challenge President Obama on all the issues. The economy, Environmental concerns, these wars. I feel that is our duty to do so. We must respect him and give some patience in these matters. After all Bush did get elected a second time! Eight years of corruption and poor direction takes it's toll.

I passionately care about Our planet! Environmentally, but feel that we can persuade President Obama to end the wars. It would be easier to correct and swifter. I know without a planet there would be no life. But we are adding gasoline to the fires of hate, we are spending money we don't have. To keep our troops in harms way, for a war that now has no meaning.

Sending loved ones and children to fight for their survival. To keep their buddies alive, with the risk of causing emotional injury. An even greater risk of bodily injuries and death. And for what reasons? Many years from now, what will the history books teach their children?

Will their children be effected by the war as well? Can the soldiers live a life without memory and torment. Can they accept the reality of wartime actions without a legitimate justification for these wars. I wish their families and their souls a peaceful existence once they return. I will give them my respect and love.

I grew up with a father who was haunted by wartime actions. He tried his best to cope, he tried his best to be "normal". My father awoke afraid by the sound of a helicopter. He demanded we make no sound as we walked in the woods. "If you were in Vietnam, you would be shot!" I could mention more, but won't right now.

My point is that the best of men do the worst of things in battle. To protect themselves and their men. They go as boys and return as wounded men. Some choose to hide it, but the memories are there. The boy is still crying inside and all those around them are affected. I'm proud of my father, and feel blessed to be his son.

Just before he was diagnosed with cancer, he finally got help. He went to Chicago, Illinois to a place. It was a place for Veterans to get better, a place to let it all out. What he told the doctors there, I will never know in full. Part of me wants to know, but most of me doesn't. He always said when I reached a certain age, he would tell me most of it. When that moment arrives, I will listen. After he returned he was different. Different in a good way, he even started a journal.

When he was there he told me that some soldiers from Iraq had many problems too. That he made friends with them and tried to help them cope. It was then I realized that with all war comes injury. Think about all the veterans who now have brain injuries and lost limbs. Post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSS) and other mental pain. We must welcome these troops home and make sure that they know we still support them.

The Vietnam vets had no parade when they returned and were thought as "Baby Killers" and that's a damn shame. I believe that was the real spit in the face. The Vietnam Veterans lost 59,159 fellow soldiers, 1200 Americans reported killed in action. (No bodies) About 1,350 POWs' missing in action. I've met some of his buddies over the last couple years, they are good guys. I consider them my brothers too, we are all family in the struggles of life.

Wikipedia: 3-4 million Vietnamese on both sides perished. 1.5 million to 2 million Laotians and Cambodians died as well. The Vietnam war was a terrible action, it is considered a conflict to some. Wake up and smell the Napalm, it was a war! Growing up I thought it might have taught the United States an important lesson. Not to get involved into a long lasting war that we could not win.

I would like to get back to the discussion in hand. I feel that this war on terror can't be won, just like Vietnam. The longer we stay there, the more damage is done. The war has taken so many lives already. They are scattered and piled so high, we will never know the true number. The casualties are civilians, "the enemy", reporters,contractors, the Coalition Troops, and US soldiers.

Killed by weapons, accidents, illness, and by suicide. They all happened because of war! Because of past political decisions and the need to "Stay the course"

We The People have a new Leader now, so lets stand together. If you feel anything that I feel please join me in this cause! Help me end this WAR on terror! Help me bring our troops home! Let's work together and help President Obama make the CHANGES he promised!

Please let your State Senator know you care! Make your voice be heard on any issue. I'm going to write President Obama a long letter containing my beliefs on the issues that trouble me the most.

Feel free do what you think will help the troops get home. To stop the bloodshed that stains the streets and hearts of all people.

Here is just a few places I found on the computer that pertain to this entry. I started this entry for many reasons and hope you find it informing. When the It first started the Media covered the War on Terror heavily. We even color coded our levels of Terror. Back then we could keep track of our fallen soldiers by number.

If you wanted to know the extent of our losses and civilian deaths, then feel free. Beware the reports don't all match, but this will do for now. The numbers might shock you, like they did me.

iCasualties: Iraq Coalition Casualty Count - Iraqi Deaths

http://rethinkafghanistan.com/

http://www.iraqbodycount.org/

Cost of War on Terror-Homeland Security Market Research

http://www.homelandsecurityresearch.net/2008/05/01/cost

Paul Rieckhoff: More soldiers Lost to Suicide than to Al Qaeda in January:

Iraq Veterans Storm the Hill

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

Thank you for stopping by.

Peace&Love
Wes Ackerman

The Living Daylight

2009-06-26T10:35:00.003-05:00

I was going to write the other day, I had some stuff to report? I can't remember much of it this morning, too much on the mind. Between MJ constantly testing me and my imperfect marriage, It's hard to think, let alone write. I love them both with my heart and my soul, that is why my statement is not a complaint. It is the truth about my life, the way it is now. In my youth, I wrote endlessly about everything. It was like breathing, my hands would not stop. My brain could not shut off, my soul swallowed the paper.

It was my canvas to paint a portrait, one that I could place in the walls of my heart. I still feel this inside me, it beats in the chambers of my emotional being. I hope that makes sense, I was trying to keep the flow. But every few seconds, MJ needs something! Lisa will be back from classes soon! I do love the fact that people need me, I'm happy to help. I usually write in the very early morning, when my brain is mush. A time when nobody is awake to stop my flow.

Right now she is testing me, patting me on the back. Grabbing everything that is a NO NO! Smiling her beautiful smile as she does these things. I can't help but smile or laugh at it all. MJ is my daily thought, she is my every second everything. I am her Father, her Mr. MOM. It is a hectic pleasure, a wonderful duty, to watch over her. I will remember these times forever, one day soon she will be grown up.

I will enjoy the good with the bad, the ugly with her beauty. I encourage her to behave, but raising a child is a real test. She taps the keys on this laptop, she stands too close to the Magic box. (TV) Here of late she screams "Wes, Wes, WEEESSSSSS!" I want to say "I'm Dad", but enjoy just being Wes.

I deserve no medal, people have kids all the time. People raise family's often, with more than one child! I can hear those people pulling hair out right now and pretending to use the Bathroom. Knock, knock, "what are you doing?" Nothing I'm going to the bathroom, I will play in a minute! Frantically typing in their modern office, tap, tap, tap. I'm almost done!

I do know that I was thinking about the violence In Iran. I think it is tragic to see the footage of the beatings. Why can't humanity wake up and simply love thy neighbor?

I was feeling the joy for those people who passed, the one's who will now feel no pain. All the human problems will be no more, they will be at peace now. Ed, Farrah, and Mike, so long. Thank you for the lessons you taught us all. Lastly, thank you for your Art! We will miss you! Our love goes out to your families and friends.

I have been catching up with people on Face book, and it feels refreshing. I miss talking to some people, but they already have enough friends. That is why I keep my numbers down here and on facebook. The computer god's created Email, you can at least drop a line. I know I try to, but feel that not everybody does the same. "Treat other people how you want to be treated" that is one my favorite quotes.

Good weather and short time denies good company, this I know from experience. Still, I wish to say hello to all who cares. My heart is always open, feel free to stop by anytime.

The thing about this technology world, with mostly computers and texts. Words don't always convert, like face to face. If you have a question, just ask me what I mean. If I offend you more than compliment you, then please stop following me.

I was going to try to make my blog more news worthy. Help it be more popular, but I write here for me! I write from my heart more than my mind. If I used my brain more, this entry would be scary. Some people faces would melt, your brain would explode from truth. I report the truth and only the truth! There are plenty of people who do that already, that is why I just talk.

Too much most of the time! The subjects of my life matter to me I do enjoy getting up in the morning and spending time with Malayna Jane. Even though she tests me, I love it! Life is a test, one big challenge. Even so, I love it!. I live for it! I enjoy the people who talk to me, the conversation is gold to me.

I will try to write more later.

I thank you all for stopping by, more importantly for taking the time to listen.

May your day be filled with life, may it be touched by love.

Peace&Love
Wes Ackerman

Those Aren't Balloons

2009-06-21T01:58:00.003-05:00

SUMMER has arrived with a warm smile and burning handshake.

Summer has brought many gifts in countless Summer's of our pasts. From our childhood, when we loved our School breaks. Getting together with family and friend's, to enjoy the moments. I can remember the thrills of a nice cool swimming hole, a pool if you were lucky. When we were kids we had a sprinkler, later a Slip and Slide. The water felt so relieving on the body after a scorching Summer day.

Once when we were kids, when we were very young we had a water balloon fight with the neighborhood kids. We ran out of balloons, so my Brother Don and I told our friends, we had some more at home! We then rushed home went to our Dad's dresser drawer. We found his colored balloons, we ran to the spicket to fill them up. Made our way back for the fight with these long multicolored balloons. We tossed them, the damn things wouldn't break. My Brother, our friends, and I were kept tossing them. NOTHING!

Some time later, one of our friends parents passed by in disbelief. Grabbed their son and left in a hurry. Later on that evening, our parents had called us into the living room. They told us that they needed to talk to us. They weren't mad, they weren't HARD on us, but told us to please stay out of our father's dresser drawers! I was too young to understand what we had done at the time, but know now our Dad could have been a real DICK to us.

It has been one hot Mother lately!

Our Air conditioner does not work, I'm trying to get the Landlord to fix it. I can't reach him, but will deal with problem, one way or another. If I have to fix it myself? It doesn't bother me as much as my wife, I grew up without the luxury. Now that I have traveled a little further in the sands of time, I miss the wonderful cool air. I dread going to the market, any place with the magic cooling contraption. When I finish my tasks in hand, I must drag my keester back o the hot house.

The sweat drips down your face and into your eyes. You know that salty sting that causes your eyes to burn. Have you ever noticed people tend to be more pleasant when comfortable, I must get this problem solved quickly! Thank goodness for ceiling fans, for fans in general. Nuff said!

I cooked on the grill tonight, I cooked some mesquite chicken breasts. I sat in a chair on the deck, and listened to The Band. They are one of my favorite groups, I love most of their songs. I have a 6 disk set, called A Musical History. Five Cd's and a DVD, it came as a book, describing the History of the band. I purchased it last year at FYE, before they closed their doors. I only paid Twenty bucks for it, it was originally over $100. It was a steal, but I was sad to see my store close down. At Least we got quite a few things and bottom dollar prices before that dreadful day.

The Band (If you don't know who they are please check them out!)

We played with MJ and watched SNL this last night. MJ passed out a little earlier than usual, so Lisa and I took advantage of the night. We laid on a cool sheet, with fans on full blast. Held each other tight for a while. I enjoy these times, no kid begging for constant attention. Getting jealous when I simply Hug Mommy.

Don't get me wrong we love our time with MJ, but miss the moments when it was just us sometimes. If we wanted we could lay in bed all day on a weekend, those days have become a different happiness now.

Now we do what we can, when we can. I've noticed that when you have kid, you look over your shoulder like a spy. Always on the lookout for other agents, whats that sound? Was it her? Could she be watching? Is she listening to us right now? Hurry cum quick! (Double OHHH OHHH Seeevvveeeeen!) :)

It's her!

Minnie Me!

We must stop her before she discovers our deed. Ha Ha!

After our catching up, we then watched a BBC show we own called "The Vicar of Dibley" It is a show starring Dawn French, and written by the writer who did "Notting Hill" and "Four Weddings and a Funeral". I like this show better, you have to see it to know what I mean.

Speaking of Weddings, I went to an old friends wedding last weekend. It went well, but we took MJ. I wanted to take her so people could meet her and my wife. It had been TEN years, since I'd seen some of my friends. It was a great ceremony, and it was nice to say hello to everyone. The time went by too quickly! MJ was a handful and my good friends were in the wedding party. I wished I had more time to talk, more time to be me.

LISA AND MALAYNA LOOKED BEAUTIFUL AS EVER!

Like I said it was OK, but a Three and a half year old boy kissed MJ! That's right he kissed my 2 year old daughter on the face. Good thing I didn't see it, Lisa told me about it. I know it's innocent and kind of cute. They hung out most of the wedding, they colored together and what not.

I did bump in to his father later, so I innocently TOLD on him. The boy denied it, but eventually confessed his sins to his father. We joked about it, and discussed our children. Still I couldn't shake that fear parents have about teenage children. I know I have many years to go, before the boy knocks on our front door. I pity the poor fellow, he doesn't know whats coming.

I have thought about it, It could go a few ways. I could put up a front and hope I don't push her into the arms of another? But I could be a good Father, a friend to our daughter. Keep the lines of honesty open, and she will trust me to trust her. HA HA That rarely happens! I promise to be a good father, but will keep my eyes open. I was a nice young man as well, we may be nice but be a boy as well.

I think I will play it out to be his friend, show interest in him. Find out what I need to know, and allow MJ to think I reeeaallllly like him. That way I can still be in good graces with her. When he calls and asks if she is there, "Say no, neither is my wife! If you know what I mean! Why don't you stop by more often?" Ha Ha Maybe that will scare a few of those nice boys away from our front door.

No, I think I will just clean my shotgun while we discuss the dance. Suggest he be a gentleman and bring her home at a descent time. I could sharpen a knife, like my father In Law did for me.

I'm just joking around about the whole idea of her future. I know we will all do just fine.

Back to the wedding, it was not what I wanted it to be. It may not have been the blast from the past that we all would like create. Still I will remember that very special day. I will keep all my friends in my heart and memories.

To Zak and Brandi, may your years be blessed with great happiness!

Yet again, my entry has become very long. So, now I must try to cut this short.

(If anybody has a Summer memory that makes their heart smile, please feel free to share it!)

I want all parents to know that every day is your day, so celebrate it wisely. I know I will try to do the same. I will try to raise my child to be the best person they would like to be.

I also want to wish All Men a Happy Fathers day, even if you have no kid. Because there is at least one person looking up to you right now. Somebody who sees you as a great father figure.

I wish you all a great day today and a kind week. Thank you all for stopping by my place, the door is always open. Even if sometimes I act as if I want to be a hermit. I know your there!

Before I end this entry I would Like to wish My Grandpa Boker a Happy Birthday on this wonderful Sunday.

Happy Fathers Day Dad! I'm glad you were able to fight your way to another Fathers day.

Peace&Love
Wes

I Rant With Ants In My Pants

2009-06-09T03:37:00.009-05:00

As I sit here and type, there are ANTS invading our apartment. They travel trough the kitchen, like heavy traffic. A seemingly endless trail, we have tried a commercial poison. With no result, after a couple Ideas off the Magical Internet. HA! Still no results, I will try something new tomorrow? I refuse to bomb the house, or use harsh chemicals!

We have a toddler in the house and an old bird. A morning dove, I've Had since the end of Junior High School. She is a blessing, we have shared many moments of our lives together. I love the sound of a Dove cooing in the house. She has been a great friend in this life, she sings a beautiful song to my heart.

I'm a little conflicted, I can still see "Antie" defending those poor kids shrunken in the backyard. :)

Anyhow, back to the Army of Ants. A bomb would do no good! Too many places to get in the apartment, plus I noticed over the winter no real insulation? I usually don't harm earth's creatures, but now they left me no choice. I will have to pull a Casper Van Dien on their little butts! Minus the poor acting, cheesy effects, and long screaming speeches.

We have been just getting by these days, trying to be a happy family. Cooking on the grill, watching some TV. Going to the park and what not. Making trips to the video store and picking some crappy movies. Lucked out on some good films, like "Last Chance Harvey" if you like Dustin Hoffman, please rent it!

I can't remember them all right now.

We might go to the Rt. 66 Drive In and go see that new Ben Stiller Film, the one with the Smithsonian. The later show will be The new Terminator film, or "Angels and Demons". I'm not sure which one for the second one, but do know MJ will love the first one! :)

I'm getting ready for a wedding Saturday, it's for an old friend. We haven't spoke much over the years, but talked for 3 hours the other day. It will be a good day to celebrate and see some old friend's. Finally a Wedding for once and not another funeral!

We both have many things in common, even a loss of our Older Brothers. His brother and I were good friends, I even spoke at his funeral. He still lives in the town where I had many problems growing up, a small town! A place where everybody knows everything about everybody. A gossip town, a place where my family was branded, therefore me. A place where the Police told me to stay out, so I did.

We can't change our past or our family. I was a fine young man once, then I gave into a false reputation. I became a punk, a person who rebelled against logic. I won't say I was innocent, but never got caught for what I did. Nothing serious, just kids stuff. You could say stupidity was my ruler, I wore a purposeless mask. Deep down I was still a decent human being, born in the wrong time. I lived in the wrong place, a town not worth mentioning.

I do regret not going to see him or his brother all those years. There was a moment, where stupidity was in control and they helped me. As long as I live, I will be forever grateful to them both.

I know I'm rambling about my past and leaving many details out. I do that for my own well being, you see I was young and foolish. What I can say is I loved the Idea of "My Name is Earl" for this very reason. The idea of making it up to the people you did wrong, Fantastic! I sometimes can't sleep because I know I was wrong. I wish I could do the same for those I've mistreated. Especially the one's who have now passed, the people I cared for deeply. One day I will write about these stupid things, one day we will cross paths. Then I can say I'm sorry! I just hope I can forgive myself.

If anybody is interested (MNIE) is now cancelled, but could be picked up on another network?

(The picture of my family and I on the top of this page) the one with my mustache. It was only grown for fun, just goofy humor for my wife. I don't have that (flavor saver )anymore!

FOOD! You perverts!

I know I don't post like I used to or drop lines much either. But, I'm still here. I could write countless entries, I could write one of many poems. Submit many of my short stories, but feel very human right now. Dealing with unexplainable emotions, I write constantly for myself. I feel stingy with my writing, like in my youth.

Like an oyster hiding a pearl. At the same time trapped like the pearl, inside a tight shell. Accumulating pearls for a beautiful necklace, strung together by my soul. One day, I hope to share its beauty with the world. Before it chokes me, or the weight drags me to the bottom of the sea?

These days it's hard to write here at LWIIS, being reminded by entries. Realizing that people must not get me, or care to know Wes the human.

Looking at "Wes Lassos Stork" I don't have the desire to erase it, but feel pain by it. I loved our lost child, I loved feeling the joy of Fatherhood! The trips to the Doctors office, the sonograms. The love my wife and I felt during her pregnancy.

I was born to be a father, this is one thing I'm certain of in my life. I love babies and children! They are the most amazing thing on this earth and I have been blessed for MJ! Malayna is so beautiful, like her mother. Her laugh penetrates all feelings. When I have to get on her, I try to keep a straight face. Even when she misbehaves she can be too damn cute. Sometimes Lisa and I turn our heads to smile at each other. Then work together to teach her well. Being a parent is tougher than most people think. Parents already know this, but people who are young and horny won't!

"Most people can have a kid, but can't always be a parent" I love this quote.

I don't really know where I'm going with this long winded speech about whatever is bouncing in my tired head? I could write about the news, a book I read. Very easily write about how WalMart has become "Big Brother" on censorship. (Specifically Cd's) How there is no real outlet for new musicians at Music stores. Most are closing because of places like Best Buy and WalMart. Yes the computer can be a good source, but how about just walking into a store. (Like how it used to be)

WARNING IF MY FAMILY IS READING THIS ENTRY PLEASE STOP HERE! I"M LOOPY AND MIGHT OFFEND SENSITIVE PEOPLE! Pleas have a great day to you all!

I could write about the TV, on how they brainwash people. Think about it, infomercials, they play on insecurities. From weight, hair loss, acne, even the size of the PENIS. Even if it's large, they could make a weak man think they should buy it. Because: "This could be fun"

They play with peoples minds, "Get Rich Quick" schemes? Sexy talk or text. Matchmaking ads and use the word HAPPINESS for food commercials? I could go on and on and on and on....... But I won't.

Yes I will! As long as you know It's all in good fun.

OK, they want us to keep our hair! Have clean skin and stay thin! Get rich and find real love! Talk dirty on the phone, by texting. Use one hand to type and the other play with Mr. Winkie or Mrs. Pinkie?

Buy decent life insurance, give money to God.

Keep calm! We must stay calm or buy into these miracle cures. Let's see stress can cause baldness, acne, overeating, impotence. The economy brings worry to most, so you better get rich now! Find your soul mate, even though the commercial says women only want Giant wiener's.

If your lonely call a model and text her, if your sad take pills that have several side effects. If your really unhappy, go to a buffet to find "Happiness" stuff yourself. So, then you can buy an exercise machine from the mighty Chuck Norris, or buy weight loss pills.

If you don't, you better have great life insurance. So, your family don't get stuck with the bills.

Don't worry, some of you have donated money to the TV Church. As the man said you have just bought your way into heaven.

As you surf the TV and can't sleep, just take a sleep aid you just saw on the tube. Buy a Fancy Bed, so you can jump on it and not spill a drop of wine on it.

If you can't find much on, turn it to the news. That will really relax you, right?

If you can't handle all this, then turn it to some "Reality Television"

I will stop here, I'm getting more loopy by the second! I could have said more, maybe I will continue this later?

I hope whoever reads this has a wonderful day!

P&L
Wes Ackerman

Life's Poetry

2009-05-26T04:22:00.004-05:00

These days I'm a ghost, I'm a shadow.
I'm here, I'm there.
Obese from emotions, I grow.
I'm nowhere.

One day I wake with smiles.
The next day I'm frozen.
My thoughts walk endless mental miles.
I think about the paths I've chosen.

I know I love my life's chart.
Good fortune has given me a wonderful wife and Daughter!
Happy memories sing to my human heart.
Have you ever asked yourself, why life is like a teeter totter?

In order to remain balanced, we must keep our feet on the ground.
Unless we share life with another, then the weight should be shared.
From a child to an adult, lessons will be found.
It is up to us not to let others down, when lovingly paired.

I believe action is words ruler, it has great measure.
A promise should be kept, for me it's an important belief.
Completing a life task is my souls pleasure.
My hope is after the storm , there will be a peaceful relief.

5/26/09

By Loren Wesley Ackerman

Dear Friends:

I know it has been some time since I posted last, you haven't heard much from me on your sites.
I do check in from time to time and if I missed something in an entry that you've grown from, please drop me a line. I will listen, I will congratulate, I will simply be your friend.

I assure you things are OK, MJ is happy! I will put some more photos of her up soon. Lisa is doing OK and we have been trying to enjoy the spring. I have been cooking out on the grill every night for weeks now. I've cooked every type of meat, with different sauces, spices, and veggies. Running out of ways, if you have any ideas send them my way.

I have been trying to get my life together, be here for my family. Write my book and find a great job! I'm going to take some classes on computers and if things go well, go back to school. Daycare might even be covered as well? I'm just trying to do the best I can with the way life is sometimes.

I will try to stop by all your places very soon! I hope life as been fair for you and yours! My heart is grateful for the wonderful ways you have all touched my soul, for the kind words over the last few months. Please Know that with me, once a friend always a friend.

Peace&Love
Wes Ackerman & Family

Life's Beautiful

2009-05-02T01:47:00.008-05:00

I have been up thinking about my past and all the Ghosts I called friends. Stuck on my own mistakes, if I could of? If I would have? If had done this different?

I was young and too confident that life would go my way, despite the way the needle on my life's compass pointed.

Why am I in this frame of mind anyways? I'm not like this ordinarily, but have struggled with this human flaw throughout my life! It could be because I was a fool in my past, and a unintentional jester in life.

The problem is I'm sometimes the wall to my own success, every now and then I break the wall. Only to find myself surrounded by many walls, boxed in with human emotions.

Sometimes my best effort is like a runner breaking the wall, only to find cool shade to sit and think. To catch my breath, and continue running seemingly nowhere.

Man, even with much purpose can be blinded by confidence, fear and doubt can stop one in their tracks. It is my belief that we must first clearly see our paths, before we can continue the race.

Enough already with my ancient Wes wisdom! I'm 31 years old and still use my words to hide behind, when the truth kicks me in the keaster. I can soup it up, dish it out, but sometimes can't digest reality.

I will be honest, when I write my thoughts they come naturally. Lately I've struggled to complete sentences in conversations with people. Feeling as if I don't have much to say, when in fact my soul never shuts up. My mind never shuts off! My fingers deny me from my blog, my mind is Swiss cheese!

Then my soul screams to let it out, to shout at the world. Only to find that no one is there to listen, yet it screams? Throughout my life there has always been a group of people who cared to listen.

Others that I could listen to and to be of assistance sometimes. Other's so that I could be a gentle clown and to lift their spirits.

For some time now, I've found it difficult to laugh. Sometimes impossible to smile, and make others laugh. Growing up I might have gone out of my way to make people like me. As I matured I realized I enjoyed allowing others to like themselves. I will forever feel a calling to do so, the hard part is helping those you love the most.

With each tap on my computer pad I find it harder to type. I had no desire to enter my own site, but heard my screams whisper to write.

I want to read your entries, to see if life has been kind to you all. To hear about every joyous moment, and every damn detail of the day. To be strong enough to help you when you feel like me.

Being human is complicated as hell most of the time isn't! We must get out of bed no matter what. Even if it is to just go to the bathroom, or force yourself to eat. I feel lucky in life to have a handful of loved one's in my life.

I've discovered this place I call the web, in which sometimes you find friends. You find people who really read your words, no matter if it's fun or even interesting. People who really listen to you speak and sometimes they stop by for a visit. I feel blessed to have the chance to connect with you, no matter if it was a couple times or every time.

I thank you all!

I know my entries can be long and appreciate your curtius patience and warm words. I love the love and your utter honesty!

So, to be honest to my soul I will write what's on my mind.

My wife Lisa and I went to the Hospital today. We had to use our last option, she had to get a D&C. We could not deal through it naturally and the pills didn't work twice. After weeks of waiting and bleeding we had no choice. They thought it could have been a Partial Molar, and so far so good! The surgery went well and she is home tonight. We have been loving Malayna and each other throughout the night. We've discussed the way Life is the way it has been for us and I realized that even though I've handled it well. It is very hard for me to keep trying to comfort Lisa and to keep lying to my heart.

Since we lost lost our forming child, I realized that many people have had gone through this. Many a couple times before they had a child, and that 20 to 25% of parents have miscarriages. That number is pretty high and it makes me think about all the people affected by this. I want to hug them all!

I look and our daughter with pure love and realize how amazing she is. How she is our blessing, our miracle. When we first heard about her the Doctor told us that she may not be in the uterus.

I look at the amazing wife I share life with and know in my soul she is my miracle! Before her I was lost and unloved by a significant other. She entered my life when I was at my hearts emotional lowest.

I had lost my only Brother and Best friend Don, dealing with a grieving family. Being the glue that held our glass house together. I was dumped by my girlfriend at the time and dealing with my parents.

I was the first to Identify the body, so my parents didn't have to! I just turned 21 a month before and then suddenly became th oldest child and only son.

I will never forget the funeral, my parents crying on the floor. My saddened sister and his wife and my 11 month old niece Emily.

The Guy who handed my Brother the keys to the truck, after he had been drinking earlier in the evening. He reached out with his hand to say he was sorry, and I shook it.

I gave a Eulogy that people said was the greatest thing they ever heard! If it was so great then how come I can't remember what I said?

I was a Ball bearer and have been to many funerals. I have been asked to speak at several and sometimes expected. I don't mind helping others cope with death and live to help those in need. If only I could help myself sometimes, the good thing is I DO when it matters most.

I bring this up for many reasons, mainly to remind myself how strength has been stronger than sadness when dealing with death. To acknowledge that my Parents and I now have something more in common, my Mom had one after my Sister was born. My father had two in a previous marriage and lost two other children in a car accident as well. His total of children lost is 6! I love my Father and again bring this up for strength, he is a strong man. I wish we could really talk like we used to, but he is still recovering from his cancer.

My brothers Birthday is May 14 an this the time of the year we went Morel mushroom hunting with my family. Most of the time my Father, brother , and I would find many pounds together.I love it and still go by myself! I have found a few already and will go out tomorrow and get some more for my family. If I'm able I will take Emily this weekend? Still, I think the idea is great. No matter the weather the next few days I will go out, because there is only about a good week left in the season. (depending on the weather?)

If things go well, I will have great entry about it! But my pictures will be on Face book.

Malayna Jane is growing so fast and helps our hearts feel love! We will take her to the park to play this weekend. Maybe go to the Drive In to see a couple movies, just get out and enjoy this beautiful spring.
GO BULLS!
We have been hooked on the NBA Playoffs, like every year! The best part about it is, even though the refs are swine we go to Game Seven tonight! The last game was awesome and the series has been one of the best in years!

I thank you for stopping by and wish you all a wonderful weekend!

Thanks for Listening!

Peace&Love
Wes Ackerman & Family

A Restrained Rant

2009-04-23T02:01:00.009-05:00

April 22, 2009 was another calendar Earth Day. Every one that has passed since I was a small child has brought out a desire to express my love for this planet. A beautiful place we share called earth. I try my hardest to stay positive and not to sound too negative, but usually say nothing. Not for fear of being labeled a tree hugger or a liberal piece of trash. I hold back for the fear that humanity truly doesn't care, and that we believe we are the superior species.

Why? Because humanity does feel this way, we talk about the race for a cleaner world by country? Not sincerely working together, not really listening to those who our informed enough in the matters of science. I don't claim to to be a know it all or a scientist. Certainly not a political graph man, nor a dog that will not learn knew tricks.

Over the years I've heard and read about many technology's or Ideas. Many of them are indeed beneficial to our lives, some are naturally cleaner. From certain flowers or weeds, and from our earths natural energies. I watched our political leaders question our EPA and the Obama administration, and felt that they worked against each other. Ripping a new one into the current administration, when most of them sat back and allowed the last one to turn our country into one of the worst leaders in clean energy. Allowed them to destroy many regions by greed and environmental rape.

The last administration had spent countless blank checks, and we still don't know where all the money went?

We spend countless dollars on useless projects and unearned pay raises. I feel on the matter of politicians, they should forfeit their salary's. Especially in our countries economic troubles, I mean have they really earned it? They will still have a great medical package, has anyone else heard people say that Americans should be responsible for our health care. When most families have none? Some of our health issues are due to pollution and intentional poisoning to our water sources. I've heard that the amount of pharmaceuticals leaked are not harmful, but am smart enough to know that babies and children should not be ingesting any amount of these adult medications!

What about cigarette smokers poisoning people by a cigarettes outdoors? When we have smoke stacks and gas hogs pass our crowded streets. But people cringe at cigarette smoke at out door events. I would say this if I never smoked! It has been proven that pollution is a leading cause to asthma and many breathing problems. We have Isotopes that linger in the clouds and certain isomers that spill into our water as well. They thrive in water and cause much ill health. Like I said "I'm not a scientist!" but know that we the humans build broken bridges! We make roads that only lead in one direction, a road to nowhere.

It is not too late, and I still cling to the hope of our children's future. If I accept defeat in this war on our beautiful earth, then I would just give up. Deny our daughter her future, and the Ideas of a promising future. What kind of life would that be for her, and the rest of the living things on this planet. I know in my heart if we the world wait till 2020, or 2050 to change our ways it will be too late. Do I have proof? Who really has proof when it comes to life? I may not know it all, or have all the facts. That's what your fingers and brain is for, we must use these to better understand things. That is what the computer is for, we must allow uneducated people lead the way, I don't mean people who have not been to college. But the people who have and have reached a political career. Been in the loop and should know better.

Why has politics been a tug of war? Why a party divide, I feel strongly that people allow greed to get the way of progress. I'm 31 years old and have been witness to most smokescreens and more important issues? War, disease, drugs, a blow job, and abortion! Thy are all good issues, minus the blow job! If Hillary was OK with it , then we should have moved on to bigger things.

When it comes to abortion, I feel it is a woman's choice, but feel adoption should be the choice in most cases. There are many people who would love to raise a child as their own, but don't have the option. I have had family who did abort the baby, and had I known that was the path, I would have tried my hardest to adopt the baby. As some of you know we just recently lost a child due to a miscarriage, and most likely will be forced to have it removed. Because nature and the pills can't remove all the remains, I can't understand how someone could do it to a healthy baby?

My point on the matter is if people are pro-life, then why can't most believe we need great change. The reality is when it comes to this planet, IT SUPPORTS ALL LIFE! There for all babies, all life!

(I know some of this entry is same old, same old! But I will not apologize for the reappearance)

Watching Republicans and Democrats pit against each other, makes my stomach sick. That is why years ago I chose not to be in a specific party, but support the lesser of two evils. I vote with my heart, brain, and soul! When a person shouts or blames others it only allows the rest of us to see that it easier to point a finger. Rather than do anything about it.

I watched and heard that the green jobs aren't going to create as many jobs that it will take? The truth of the matter is we will loose jobs and the planet if we don't change are ways! The truth is most plants and factories are dirty. There will always be the footprints of man, all over Mother Earth's face. As long as there is a separation of our species, by party and class. Greed and ignorance will rape our children's future.

Maybe we don't have all the facts or the knowledge of God, but for once I feel humanity is DEMANDS CHANGE! WE the people do give damn, and we have an Administration that cares.

We face many big challenges, and I don't deny we need to care about spending! I do care about humanity and it's survival! I do care about jobs and places like Michigan, we need it to build cars. I drive my Chevy Blazer with my favorite Environmental bumper sticker "The Earth does Not belong to us, we belong to the Earth" Chief Seattle

We need to gradually convert are transportation, so poor people like myself can afford a cleaner car. We need to use other methods for paper, instead of trees. We've had the means for over a century! We need to eliminate plastic bags, because when they are recycled it still creates pollution.

I often wonder if we can make a real difference? "Give a hoot, don't pollute" that owl had it half right! It then goes into land fills and poisons the earth! We try to avoid plastic spoons and forks, but then wash our dishes and cloths with detergents. We use water to clean our dishes and our selves, flush our wastes. Then going into the water, and some towns even reuse the waste water to drank.

I've worked for the state of Illinois a couple years ago, and witnessed abuse to the Earth. Toilet water breaks down by means of chemicals, then drain into our rivers. They placed cans for aluminum cans, but not paper. We were told to throw the cans in the dumpsters and that we would be fired if we took them?

We were told to throw our oil dry away in the woods and dumpsters! Oil dry is a product that absorbs the oil from parking lots, and it was the states job to collect it. They never did one time!

The water was toxic and I was told not to inform the public, but I did. I could not sit back and watch a mother mix her babies formula with it. They allowed my bosses to use poisons on state land, which caused some of our hawks to be poisoned. They ate the poisoned wildlife on the grounds. (We all belong to Earth's food chain)

These are a few examples of my great state of Illinois and its love for humanity. After I learned this, is caused me to wonder about other states? Has anyone ever traveled and noticed signs that read?

1. Don't drink the water.

2. Don't eat the fish.

3. Don't swim in this water.

Our fore fathers would be outraged to read these signs, and to know that this great country has helped destroy our natural resources.

In my short life, I've met political leaders. Some good some bad! I have met Robert Kennedy JR. and President Obama. I was honored to be one of a handful at our Town meeting to ask a question to our then State senator. My question was about politicians and our children's future in regards to environmental awareness. I think he answered it the best he could at the time and still wish to persuade all politicians to open their eyes. (I know some of you have been waiting for my Obama Entry, but I must admit it is in a big project that I have been carefully writing)

Talk is cheap, so society needs to work together in these sacrificial economic times! We need to take small steps for man and giant leaps for Earth's kind. We must remember that EVERY DAY IS EVERY DAY! We must try yo preserve Earth's Beauty at all costs and remind our leaders to do the same.

I wish to thank everybody who has left kind regards to my family and I!

We are strong and remain happy as we can be! I wish you all the best and want you to know that our lives have been accompanied by hugs, smiles, and laughs as well! I wish you all to be happy as you can be too! Please be patient, I will be back to reading your journals very soon. You are not forgotten, each and everyone of you have been in my heart!

Thanks for listening!

Peace&Love

Wes&Family

A Day That Stood Still

2009-04-12T02:12:00.006-05:00

I wish to make this an entry from my aching heart, to convey my emotions right now. Not really certain on how to say it or how to start. For the first time in a long time I write for hope and help. I have always had the ability to help others, but never been consistent with myself. Only by way of writing, and I've held back on many things in the last year. Only a couple people know how much. I've dealt with my father's cancer, and until very recently I cried inside every one of those days. For now he has seemingly won the battle, I'll take it. Good news has always been better than bad news.

I type right now for a healing form of therapy! What I'm about to write, will be one of the toughest things I will ever write! My words will ramble, they will hurt my heart and soul! What I'm about to say stings like hot coals on my heart and flesh. My hope is to take this entry and turn into a beautiful song, that will reach the heavens.

I don't wish to forget our memory, or our life's lesson. I wish to honor the importance, the love for family, and (our unborn) child.

For the last few months we have had the chance to prepare for another child. That statement alone allows me to acknowledge how lucky we are. (Another Child)

I've known many great couples who wish to be parents naturally. To share love and to blessed by a living being, to feel life beat inside of life.

I'm a man who is fertile, who could never feel that joy inside either. To feel the pain that is felt during birth, nor feel the pain of having an unborn child inside me! I never really thought this could happen to us, I knew it could. But never imagined it would happen, I feel really sorry that Lisa has to carry that pain inside her right now! Still I feel the pain and new found emotions. A pain that effects 25% of all women who become pregnant. I feel the emptiness, our lifeless child when I hold and hug her.

One month you see the healthy heart of child beating on a screen. You pick up the sonogram photo countless times and smile with your loved ones. Then your next visit, you take one look and see no movement! No beating heart and the tears of your wife streaming. When just seconds before they were beaming with promise of a new life. Our future was uncertain, now the present is certain, and your heart stops.

The shock blankets your pain, and anger overtakes your joy. Without anybody to be angry at, the shock causes the mind to be in denial. The pain sticks inside like cotton candy in an infected cavity. The Doctor said it "I'm sorry, it's not antibody's fault!" "I'm sorry!" The majority of what was said is a blur. I held my wife's hand as I held MJ, holding back my own tears. I know I wouldn't want the job of the nurses and doctors who deal with things like this there.

MJ and Lisa went to the rest room, as I sit silent in the room. Later on that evening, Lisa told me cried in the restroom. And that MJ said " I love you Mommy, it's OK mommy!" She just turned 2 and doesn't know what is going on. I believe children pick up on emotions and that the soul is wiser than any body. When she told me that, it made us both smile.

I will say that the sadness and bad feelings can blanket the soul like a lingering fog. But sharing this with the one's you love will guide you. (Like a Light House, allowing the ships to come to in) one day?

The sun will shine for brief moments, then here comes the fog again! We will we be OK, we will hold our hands tightly together. I've noticed time is like the clouds, fast and slow. Few and far. With highs and lows.

Life is like the sky as well, Rain or shine. The stars, sun, the moon, they will be here tomorrow. So, we must remain true to our path, and our love. We must be true to our emotions and our family now! Only time will tell.

I FEEL PAIN IN OUR LOSS BUT JOY IN OUR GAINS!

"We must take care of the living!" I've never understood the true meaning until now. I feel for Lisa, because we had no sign. She carries the burden of our loss around with her literally. Her body grows like it is still pregnant, and I want to be with her. To help her emotionally and in any way I can.
We have three options:
1.Wait and See!
2. Take a pill.
3. Surgery.

Dear Sweet Child:

You arrived by way of love.
Discovered by bloat and a tester.
You grow daily, and change with each beat of your heart.
I've stared at your photograph seemingly forever.
We wait with open arms
We welcome you to our family.
Your soul is sweet and beautiful.
Take all the time you need little bean of a child.
We will wait patiently to hold you and kiss you.
When you see the light of this world,
one thing will always be true.
We will always love you!

I wrote this some time back for our child Maggie or Henry? We will never know! But can tell you we always love them and our thankful for our blessings. That we our saddened by the way life is sometimes. How warm the tears are that spill down my cheeks, and how fear can render the body weak.

That the next chapter in life is uncertain, yet the most important things in my life is certain. I know without doubt I will love Lisa and MJ forever! I know together we will stay on out paths in this life and will be a beautiful family. A family who will grow together no matter our future.

After all the eulogies I have given and caskets I've carried. Life has found another way to teach me what it is worth and to remind me of the equation to life. The answer that some of the greatest minds have tried to solve on their deathbeds. The Answer: Is to simply LIVE!

Since I struggle to find a way to end this entry, perhaps from denial. Maybe I'm struggling to fully except reality? I will say thank you for listening! I would also like to say BLESS YOU TO YOU AND YOU FAMILIES!

Happy Bunny Day!

Peace&Love
Wes&Family

It's Your Call

2009-03-29T07:01:00.022-05:00

" We have the whole wide world in our hands"

Last night was Earth Hour and my family took part in it. We spend some quality time together by candlelight. I wish more people would do this on a regular basis, because you can really connect with loved ones. (Or yourself by reading a good book or some much needed meditation)

Back to last night, while Lisa relaxed watching "The State" a TV show that was on MTV in the 1990's. It only lasted a couple years, it had a very funny cast! They all went on to do many things, the one that most people know is "Reno 911". (New shows will be on Comedy Central Soon)

She watched by way of my laptop, which was ran on a battery. So, we stuck to our guns and turned off all the lights and didn't turn anything on!

I attempted to read "A Modern Anthology of Modern Poetry" 1938 edition. It has some wonderful works by some of the greatest writers of that time. (Sandburg, Yeats, frost, Masters, Cummings, Eliot, and many others.)

You noticed I said "Attempted"! MJ was fine at first, but wanted to play with the candles. She wanted to hold the book, when I say hold I mean play with it! She just turned 2, I cut her lots of slack. I did manage to get through several pages of the book. I watched her play with toys, and wondered how kids did without electricity? People for that matter!

Can you imagine the kids today doing without their game systems or any thing else that requires power? Today most things rely on batteries, so it wouldn't be too bad for them. How about society in general, would it cope well living like our ancestors of the past?

I myself have gotten used to my microwave and gas stove. I still listen to my (record player) and occasionally watch TV. I'm a very modern person, who likes his shower Hot! I understand that we have methods for centuries, in which we cook, bath, and communicate.
That doesn't mean I can't like modern ways.

How about means of transportation, we have our cars. Back then it was animals for motors and our two feet. We've all heard a relative tell the tale "When I was your age" (Here's where you fill in the blanks with a story you've heard.)

Has anyone noticed that it's easier to find a used condom on the sidewalk, then a Payphone these days? I mean what does that tell you about the world?

Is that a cell phone in your pocket are you just happy to see me?
A world without payphones could be bad, because some cell phones say "No Service" Then what? Your SOL!

Kids today have a cellphone, Ipod, laptop, and a car! They have these things while they are in school and have no job? I had to walk everywhere, listen to the radio, work for what I had, and find a pay phone. (A Pay phone was away to talk dirty)

You could find it sticky and greased up, from someones hands, mouth, and ears. Sometimes find it with a cut cord, or even better with gum on the earpiece.

The good old days, when had our Walkmans. We had to walk to the library and find information. (No google) Listen to our local radio stations and stand in line for hours for concert tickets. Sometimes overnight and brave the weather.

Today is a different way of life, a life filled with Credit Cards and convenience.

We are so accustomed to the way life is currently designed, and for the most part can't complain. Some of the things I mentioned, I truly enjoy! Still I appreciate an easier way of life and cherish good inventions.

Which brings me back to Earth Hour, we don't have to give up our luxuries! There is no need to travel back into the Olden days, we can simply live greener lives. There are technologies that can give us clean power and help our economy. We can live healthier lives while expanding our growth in technology and peaceful relations with each other. We could become less dependant on Old Ideas and other countries. We can lead the way for change and prosperity!

http://www.earthpolicy.org/

I found it interesting that Lester R Brown's birthday was on March 28, the same night as Earth Hour.

For those of you who don't know who he is, check out the above site for that reason.
Just simply get on the computer and type anything to do with the Environment and I know you will find something to your liking? It is a big world we share and we all have to care about something.

I don't wish to tell people what to do, only ask you to at least look at the facts. To simply take a look at our options and find the truths in your heart.

Without a world, there would be no life.
Without life, there would be no other issue!

We must work together to find answers and help raise awareness concerning OUR planet.

We must ACT NOW!

Peace&Love
Wes

Fear & Loathing Contraceptives

2009-03-24T01:28:00.012-05:00

Malayna Jane's Birthday was the other day and went it well! Our baby turned 2 and it caused me to think of her birth. It brought me many memories and stirred many emotions in my heart and soul. It replayed countless moments in my mind, mostly good ones. It reminded me of the day we found out about her.

My heart smiles when I look at her and her mother. I think of that stormy day in March, when she was born. It was at 11:20 am and she weighed 8 pounds & three ounces.

I can remember saying to my wife and family right after birth, that I can't wait to have another one! GOOD THING LISA COULD"T REACH ME and she really didn't hear me! Rookie mistake, I won't say that this time, out loud any ways. In my defense I was caught up in the moment!

If you noticed the picture above his entry, it was a couple days after MJ was born. Enjoy it while it's here. Smile at my attempt to grow my "Earl" mustache. Lisa's not thrilled I put that picture up, she says she looks tired and ugly. I think they both look beautiful and I wouldn't change a thing, maybe I would have shaved my mustache off.

I would like to share some history about our lives, and will try my best not ramble. For those of you who have read my entries I have a habit of jumping around and will try my best not to confuse you.

It was our second trip to Ontario and we were excited! Our last trip we made to my Moms I was sick with a bad case of bronchitis, and got a mystery skin rash on my face? I had it for most of the trip and I looked severely disfigured. It went away when I got home and have no trace of it left, like it never happened? Before we go into the border we stopped at a Diner and we ordered coffee and I got pie. About half way through I discovered some curly hair in the cream? It got stuck in my throat like a familiar scratch. I mentioned to my company, then to the waitress. I said I wanted pie, not hair pie. We all got a big laugh out of it and free coffee.

I have found worse things in my food during my traveling years. Things that I would have won a million dollars for on Fear Factor. That chapter will be called "What the **** is in my dish?"

What I don't understand is when they ask if I want another one? No thanks, I'm good! My stomach going hurt bad enough!

We reached the border with relief and thought we would be at my moms soon. It all seemed simple enough, we would give our identification, and be off. They told us to pull over up ahead and come inside! We did what was asked and we were told us we could wait there until the immigration officer arrived.

To make this long story short we waited for a few hours, my mom almost falling off the chair asleep, my wife tired as well. We decided to go back to the casino and wait. We spent some money and I broke even, we were passing time. The two slept in the car, while I roamed the casino with my notebook and pen.

I was feeling a bit Gonzo, due to my lack of sleep. I could almost hear Hunter's voice telling me something I could not understand. I was mumbling strange things to myself and felt completely worn out.

It was then when I came to room with free coffee and some comfy chairs, so I decided to sit. There was a older man with white hair sitting quietly, reading a newspaper. He spoke to me, "You look tired and worried." I mention our situation and he told me it has happened to many other's. That I had no worries.

We talked for some time and I discovered he was the owner of the Casino, and he mentioned that we were welcome to some rooms for a few hours. "On the house!" I told him we only had another hour or so to return to the border, but thank you kindly. We did get free breakfast though, he was a rare kind of man.

Our return the border was interesting, I had to be interviewed by officers. Asked several questions, and was asked to go into a room alone with a female officer. She told my family that she needed to be alone with me. We entered a room with a cot, and a chair. She basically flirted with me, and asked a couple questions about myself, then my marriage. "Are you in a happy marriage, or just a marriage?"

(The sound of porno music was ringing in my head) "Chicchaa wamp wammp chichaa waaa"

I stayed calm and conveyed my feelings about my wonderful wife and said I just wanted to visit my mom at her house in Canada. That I always wanted to see the beauty of the country and to just relax.

Winked at her with a smile, and said "If I was single and not in love. I would take you up on your interest in me!" She smiled, then released me and allowed us to enter Canada.

That was the last trip and the second one was much easier! We basically passed right through and made good time. I think it was due to my niece Cassie and my sister Melissa taking this trip with us. We seemed more like family and was in a mini van, plus my Mom didn't hand them a gun card for identification by accident this time!

The sunrise was beautiful, filled with bright hue. A sky filled red, orange, yellow, gold,pink, and light blue. We rested up awhile when we arrived and had a good brunch. My Mom is the best old fashioned cook I know, she can make anything from scratch! Her Italian beef is the best I've ever had, once a month I ponder driving 13 hours to taste her cooking! One of these times I just might do it, or I can just wait for her to come back?

Back to the trip, we had a good day, but Lisa was sick. She was loosing wait and vomiting? Another day passed, we were wondering if she ate something bad on the way. Finally we convinced her to go to the hospital. She was down to 100 hundred pounds, and couldn't keep any food down. After a few hours we talked to the doctor about her results, he was acting strange!

He asked me to leave the room, that he needed to talk to Lisa. It was brief, he called us back in. The doctor says, "Congrats, you guys are going to be parents, Aye! But the baby might be outside the uterus, and we might have to remove it?"

We were shocked, happy, then sad! What kind of Doctor says it that way? I mean it was like telling a organ patient "We got your organs you needed, but we might not be able to give them to you!" I was so filled with emotions, I wanted to put him in his place, or the floor!

We waited many hours and she had to hold her pee. Time passed and she asked me to go to my Moms and wait till morning. She wanted go to sleep, I fought for a brief moment, and respected her wishes. It was the longest morning I ever knew, I almost lost my wife, and now our first kid! I prayed like I never prayed before. I cried like I never did before and offered my own life for both of theirs. I was going crazy with worry, until my family calmed me down some.

The morning sun took it's sweat @** time, but it was time for me to go back to the hospital. I hurried my way to her room, but they had moved her. I didn't take me too long to locate my beautiful wife and child. Lisa still hadn't urinated yet, if it was me I would have gone in the bed.

More time passed and they took her to oncology and told me to wait outside. My mind was filled with complete fear, for I knew what oncology meant. I wanted to break down the door, but then what? She was in good hands and if it was cancer, was I supposed to heal her disease.

They came out of the room and I calmly asked her what was going on. She was smiling, and showed me a sonogram. "The heartbeat was strong, and the baby is the size of a bean." I was told everything is fine, she was hydrated now, and the baby is fine. My heart was smiling and I could finally breath. This is the shorter and cleaned up version of our first notice of our little MJ.

(My Stepfather collapsed and passed out during this visit. We had to keep him alive until the ambulance came.) It was a trip that changed all our lives forever!

If you want read the full story, it will be in my memoirs. The title will be called, "Fear & Then Scared Shit less" :)

We had been together since 1999 and only wore a condom twice in almost 8 years. Then we take our trip and discover a pregnancy, we thought one of us had fertility problems?

The baby was conceived with both our cars were in the shop, we were forced to stay home for a while. I can remember we didn't watch a lot of TV or read any books. Cum to think of it we spent most of our time doing exercises.

The odd thing about it all, was a couple weeks before I had a dream my deceased brother Don handed me a baby! Then the night before the trip, Lisa had a little bloating look. She said "I'm crapping and look a little bloated." I kissed her lips and then her belly, saying "Good night Lisa and good night little baby, Sleep good you two!"

Life is funny in a good maddening way sometimes! We live our life a certain way, almost care free. Then it can envelope you in a joyful fear, and give you a blessed happiness. We were scared, like we our now! We have another child on the way, and feel unprepared. The difference between the two is our experience and new found family. I've heard from many people "You can never really afford a kid, so just enjoy the moments!" The advice is true, but I plan to give it 200% this time. We are nervously happy for our family and welcome another member. May life allow my family be blessed with good fortune and well health.

May life be kind and filled with love for all of you as well! May life hold all the needed doors open for everyone of you! Thank you for reading this entry and have a great week!

Good news! My father was told today his cancer is in remission!

I will try to put some more pictures up, or write a good entry about Malayan's Birthday.

Peace&Love
Wes&Family

The Day Did Not Go off Without A Hitch

2009-03-18T04:02:00.006-05:00

March 18, 2000

We woke up to an ice storm and guest were driving over an hour to Washington Park. A beautiful little park in Springfield, Illinois, it has a variety of trees. Some older ones dating back to President Lincoln, and a fair share of wildlife. Considering it's in the middle of the city and has high traffic of humans, even in bad weather. Speaking of weather I must get back to our wedding day, we woke to large amounts of ice on the car and roads. Most of the guests were in the ages of 70 and 80 rage, my Grandfather included. I called my relatives to see if they still wanted to attend and agreed that the weather was too bad.

My Mom was late and we were supposed to begin the ceremony, so we stalled the small group. I can't forget to mention how magnificent Lisa looked, she wore a beautiful dark blue dress with flowers on it. Blue? (I'm slightly colored blind, so I will say Royal blue?)It fit her perfectly, and it complimented her bright blue eyes. She held a bouquet of daisy's that she made the night before, and wore her wonderful smile.

I wore a borrowed suit that was slightly too big, and a fresh haircut. A haircut that our gay barber Steven, cut way too short. I watched the video this morning and thought to myself, "It wasn't that bad, but damn how young I look!" We were in our very early twenties! Father time does paint our bodies with his brush and has a tendency put it on thick for some of us. My wife is very lucky she looks more beautiful then she did we met and on our wedding day. She ages like a fine wine, or a classic car that has kept it's original paint. She never believes statements like this, but to me it is true.

We were very lucky my father rented an a back up place, in case the weather was terrible. A wonderful pavilion with good space and good lighting. Use of a kitchen and had a big fireplace, where we stood to get married. We were relieved but a little disappointed, because we had picked a large gazebo by the lagoon. It had an excellent echo effect, where I still love to take MJ to sing and goof off. (We have fun! FUN.....Fun.......fun.....)

I will spare you of most of the details and decided not to show the video for the same reason. I would like to mention that we originally chose September 30, but decided during tax time we should just elope. While we had some extra cash, we would go down to Carbondale, Illinois, and get married at the Garden Of The Gods. A beautiful spot in Shawnee National Forrest, and we would honeymoon in Elizabeth town by the rivers near Kentucky and Illinois border. Stay in a Bed and Breakfast and just enjoy each others company, and maybe go to some vineyards. I had hoped to go see The Cave In Rock, it was where they film some of "How the West Was One" and was used in the manner the movie depicted during the Pioneer days.

Back to my point, our tax returns were lost and the wedding was very soon. (A little piece of advice, don't call an IRS agent a Dick! Even if their first name is Dick, and don't repeat it a handful of times sarcastically) In my defense we had been calling for a couple weeks and with no avail. We couldn't get a straight answer! We found out that we couldn't get a Preacher or anyone else to go to the Garden of the Gods. After calling over 50 people, they all said we had to take mandatory wedding classes. We were going to get married on St. Patrick's Day, but it was on a Friday and we didn't want a judge. We lucked out and was able to get one of my Uncles friends to marry us, but we had to meet with him for a visit first.

He came over to Moms house and met with us. It was all going well. Until he handed us his Bible, he told us to feel the indention's all over it. He told us they were from people biting on it when he released demons. OK, that we didn't expect! But we wanted to get married, the sooner the better, so we chose him anyway.

The closer it got to the day, the worse we felt about not inviting the family, especially the elders. Naturally, we broke down and purchased some invitations for a handful of guest. Then told people we are getting married with or without you. Here is the date, please show up if you wish to. I had already asked Lisa's parents months in advance, I don't think they thought I was serious at the time.

After we said I do, and kissed our kiss. We cut the cake and did some of the traditional stuff. We danced to our song "A kiss to build a dream on", we had a great time with kids. Enjoyed my dads disco dance moves and had made our toast with a glass of wine. (Her family is deeply religious, I mean judgemental) They made comments and used the word alcoholic during the toast, it was a glass of wine to celebrate the day. Like I said I would try to spare you of the details, and please don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining or downing the day, if anything sugar coating the truth.

If anyone wants to read the whole truth an nothing but the truth, then read it in my memoirs. That Chapter will be called: Honey the knife is for the Wedding Cake. :)

We made the best of the day and the weekend for the matter. My advice to anyone who wants the big wedding or have family present, make sure its the ones you love the most, or the ones who love you in return. Invite who you want, do what you want, but make sure you get good gifts. Ha Ha

The day was not what you envision as a child or see in the movies, but It was at the time the proudest moment of my life. It is still in my top 3 and I would do it all over again! I can still feel the love I had for her on that special day and the love I feel for her with every beat of my heart. Lisa is a very amazing woman and an important part of my life. She is like hitting the lottery in my life, only the odds of finding another Lisa are even harder. With MJ, Lisa, and Baby #3 on the way I feel like the luckiest guy around! I just wish that life would get easier for us and we can start living the Better rather than worse. Most of society knows what it is that I'm talking about.

I would like to take the time to thank my wife for 9 years of marriage and the love I have received. The lessons we have shared and the love we have discovered together. I wish to thank her for everything she does for our family. I would also like to say that things are seemingly hard right now, but we will get through life together as a loving family. We will endure life's challenges and grow into stronger and more loving people because of it. Life is what it is sometimes and together we can achieve all the things we want in life, or at least receive the things we will have needed the most!

Here are some words or phrases that only she will know:
"A coke and a smoke"
"I know what you like"
"I feel Good"
"Nervous in the service"
"Wild thing"
"Bit it"
"You taunter"
"Keep em coming Gleep glop"
"Why God Why"
"Things like that there"
"The Bubbles, the bubbles"
The Jolly Red Pig
"No sex in the champagne room"
"Try head first next time"
"Niters"
"Just your feet now, Just your feet now"

Lisa, Thank you and Happy Anniversary!

Thank you all for stopping by and reading this entry and have a good day!

Peace&Love
Wes& Family

Laughy Taffy Time

2009-03-12T05:09:00.010-05:00

Here we go......

I don't know what to say or where it will lead. I'm sleep deprived and I like it! I'm loopy with a capital L and feel high like when I took my teenage medicine! Instead I don't have to smoke it, drink it or eat it to feel funny. I've always has sleep issues and have adapted to lack of sleep and always had some strange luck!

When I get tired and loopy, I hear Garth Algar say "It makes me feel kind of funny."
Great now I'm quoting a line from "Wayne's World"! In it's defense there are some funny people in it and some funny lines. But you have to like that sort of thing, I appreciate most humor. From the beginning of man, when all we could do was grunt and laugh and point. Uuuughhaaa!

That's another movie I grew up with was "Caveman" it was hilarious to me and my family. I still quote parts out of that film. And that's no "Ca Ca" if you don't like it I won't tell you to "Zug Zug" yourself. If you haven't seen it, its your loss.

I love all the greats, and then some. I feel if you can't laugh in life then you aren't living. Even if you don't like film, there is all sorts of writers throughout history. If you don't read, then your illiterate. No, there are other ways to get laughs. Just step out your doorway and take a gander on how the world is going, and you find some insane humor in it. I say cry tears of joy and laughter, not just tears of sadness.

I grew up with the Three Stooges, Laurel and Hardy, Bob Hope, Abbott and Costello, The Carol Burnett Show, SNL, Hee Haw, In Living Color, Bill Cosby, The Smothers Brothers, Monty Python, Steve Martin, Richard Pryor, Tracy Ullman, Johnny Carson, and then Letterman.

In my later years: Mr Show, Curb your Enthusiasm, Christopher Guest (and Crew), Stella, and Dawn French. Now I'm hooked on The Office, 30 Rock, and too many comics to mention.

Let me know where you get your comedy!

I have seen some in person and will only name a few. George Carlin, Jerry Seinfeld, and Tommy Chong. A few from The Bob and Tom Show and some unknown comics.

I will say that Carlin was at his best, when he went into the subject of kids and parents I cried and nearly went in my pants. Seinfeld was superb, he was on! Even with the problems with the microphone he made it work. I feel the unexpected things can make it even better. Last but not least Tommy Chong, he was multi-talented. He could do skits, tell jokes, and "whale" on his guitar. He could have been as big as Eric Clapton or Robbie Robertson.

Some of you might be saying Robbie Robertson? He was in the Band the group who used back Bob Dylan. Until they split, and I'm glad! The Band is one of my favorite groups.

I would like to bring up the fact that Late Night With Conan O'Brien recently ended I was reminded of how that show was uniquely funny. Jimmy Fallon is doing a good job at keeping the humor alive, considering that is where David Letterman used to call home as well.You can go to NBC.com and watch clips and shows if your feeling nostalgic. If you don't like it, check out some other shows. I recently got a new lab top and have been making up for lost time. I've wanted a computer for years now and been having fun with it. Now I have to catch up with my computer knows hows and learn some fancy stuff.

Also Try Hulu.com and Funny or Die.com

I'm learning slowly, but "Surely". I had to throw an "Airplane" quote in here somewhere and that's no "Jive"

A little shout out to Beth: You were right about Lasso! (You get 100 LWIIS points :)

Things have been good, we just got our first sonogram picture. We love our little Bean, with it's 2 month heartbeat. If it's a boy we will call him Mr. Bean. "Hhuuummmmmuumnnn"

If it's a girl I'm thinking Dia Ria, so when I'm mad at her I can yell "Dia Ria get your butt in the house now!" It does seem that with all the girls being born into our family, it must run in the genes. (Drums being played)

All we hope for is a healthy baby, and no matter the sex they will always be our second little happy accident. Ha Ha (just in case my children see this)

A message to world's youth:

Condoms are not 100% effective!
I already knew this, but please help me pass along the message "Only 99% effective"

........Warning........

Humor that contains sexual content and sexual situations!

Similarities of war and sex:

Sometimes both need hands on experience.
One side in the conflict can take a good licking.
In the situation that you might be performing your service, you might need a gas mask.
Get naked and a physical workout.
Wear a uniform, just pick a size, color, or style.
(Do something you can't do in the field, wear one that glows in the dark.)
To call someone up for Service and requires a salute.
When in battle and sex there is almost always an explosion or two.
Sex without a condom leads to troop deployments.
Just like a terrorist it only takes one to slip into the border and alter your freedoms.
Just like in war the results can put you in a long lasting deficit.
Just like the troops in a war there is eventually a pull out.

Where do I go from there?

I will say thanks for stopping by and wish you all a splendid day!

Giggles&Love
Wes (The Loopy Man)

Wes Lassos Stork

2009-03-02T18:07:00.004-06:00

Today has been a regular day, I have cleaned the house and played with MJ. I'm getting as much playtime as possible given the fact we are expecting another baby! Lisa is about 6 weeks into pregnancy and already feeling it. I'm trying to do everything to comfort her, but she is sick with a cold as well. We are very excited about it, we always wanted another child. Just not so soon, but we both agreed some time back that we should try not to have an only child. Even if we had to adopt.

It is wonderful to have a sibling or two. I know I had a Brother named Don and still have my sister Melissa. We had loads of fun growing up, we did almost everything together, until we started to have our own friends. We remained very close, but kept our friends separate. I have to be honest I was a tag along with my brother and his friends and they sometimes let me know when I wasn't wanted. I will save those embarrassing stories for another time.

We celebrated Lisa's Birthday on Saturday, and it went OK. I spoiled her with love and appreciation for all that she has done for MJ and I. Except I did open my mouth and upset her with reality, my mistake! I should have just celebrated her special day, but I was able to smooth things over though. At least I think so! I have been told numerous times in my life that "Your a great person when your mouth doesn't mess it up.

Back to my day, I'm waiting for my tires to be replaced and rotated at Sears. (OUCH!)

There a couple things in life I've learned: That you really never own your own land because of property taxes. That most things are never really free even if it says so. (Read the fine print) That we will always have to worry about car maintenance, it will be never ending. (Tires, parts, service, and eventually a new one.) Finally, most people can never really afford kids. (With each kid everything goes up and for less material to make clothing. Shoes, pants, coats, etc.)

Why is it so damn expensive to make infant and kids cloths? They will only wear it for a short time and for way less materials. Why: Because they know that most of us have to buy it, that is you don't go to a consignment shop. Enough about this gripe, we are very happy about the pregnancy.

I wish we hadn't have donated most of our baby stuff the weeks before we found out the good news! (Stupid, stupid, Stupid) I'm smacking my head like Chris Farley Right now!

We are worried like crazy, but happy! Life is a very funny sometimes, it can be an emotional journey. The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful. :)

They just called me about the tires, so now I must motor!

I wish you all a great week!

Peace&Love
Wes

Dog Gone It Dream

2009-02-26T01:29:00.003-06:00

Where has the time went? I mean it seems like just yesterday when I had not a care in the world. M y main goal was to find an adventure to write about or share with good friends. We would just hop in my Eco line van and head on down the road, without any plans. Sure we had ideas of what our nights would become, but it hardly ever worked out the way we wanted. I grew up in a small town with not many options for fun, so we made the best of it.

We would us usually find our way on the trails of our state parks, our any kind of nature retreat. Don't get me wrong we made our way into the big city sometimes, but that was for Concerts or food. Only a couple of my friends had a car, so most of the time I would haul several people in my van. I had a table, fold out bed and a few seats, and a Television. It never was in tip top shape, but after time my passengers broke almost every chair, door handle etc.

All we needed was some good tunes and laughter, and some teenage medicine? When we our young we do things that we would not do now, even if we could. Not that age really plays into most things, but the wisdom we learn along the way matures our actions. It allows us to see the bigger picture, sure I know that we all will make decisions that will bite us in the anus cheeks. The difference for most of us, is that now we think of other people first. That is what can make it more difficult to be care free.

I feel that one of mankind's greatest flaws is fear, it can almost paralyze a person. Preventing us from taking the chances we took as children. I say children because of two reasons: Firstly, kids are born without fear, and Secondly, most adults still act as teenagers. We can act irresponsible and immature at times and take our emotions out on others, if we realize it or not. I know that I have plenty of things about my character that needs improvement and little quirks that have carried over from my youth.

They say you can't teach a dog new tricks. But I say if you give a dog enough time he will mellow. You can help a dog break bad habits and teach them a trick or two. I suppose it depends on the dog and what a persons definition of new tricks means. I say let the dog be and the dog will be your best friend.

I don't really know where I'm going with this, so I will throw you a bone and stop it with the dog analogies. I would like to pose a question that pertains to dogs, or a related thought.

Has anyone heard the saying that a dog has a cleaner mouth that ours?We have tooth paste and mouthwash, and a dog has only its tongue? How could this be we don't clean our Kibbles and Bits with our mouth? :)

I guess in this entry I am just trying to encourage others to take a chance every once in awhile no matter what our lives have become. What ever little thing we wanted to do as a youngster it's not to late to dream. We should create as much happiness in life as we can for it is Ruff enough without it. Remember I discussed a thing called wisdom, we must know our limitations. My main point here is that the world is unstable and chaotic, and we can achieve a stronger joy if believe in ourselves. We can gain more wisdom about ourselves and others if we (try not) to live in fear.

Peace&Love
Wes

Greetings

2009-02-12T17:26:00.003-06:00

It has been some time since my last entry and want to wish you all a Happy New Year! I don't have much time, so I will make this very short. I hope everybody is doing well, I have not been able to stop at your places since Christmas. I have been mainly doing the Mr. Mom thing and enjoying the winter months with MJ, and rarely seeing my wife. Sometimes I feel like a single parent, but we have Sundays together do some family stuff. I try to step aside , so that they can make up for lost time.

I will try to make V-Day as special as I can, considering I have always been the Romantic one. Some years back, we were eating at a restaurant, and A Barber Shop quartet was there too. I convinced them to surprise my wife and sing a couple songs while we ate. I have always done something and didn't realize that in the future I would have to out do myself each time. So, to all the lovers that think that you can keep up with your self in the romance department. (Good Luck) I have wrote books of poetry, several songs, and planned a many romantic occasions.

My advice is to take it slow, for I have Valentines Day, her Birthday, and our Anniversary to achieve greatness. All in less than a months time, each one more special than the next, and MJ has a Birthday right after our Anniversary. These are my busy times and it is my pleasure to make the ones I love feel special.

I have a hard time swallowing being parents with my wife sometimes. It seems that when we have a moment, MJ has they are getting intimate Radar! It never fails the moment we feel warm and toasty, she comes a running in. She jumps in the middle and wants all our love. I don't mind that she loves us, but crave brief moments to remember our youthful passions. Life's what it is sometimes, and must adapt to our lifestyles. Still, for anybody who thinks that people can remain the same after parenthood, I have some advice! (Laughter that you can't hear) Wake up! Or wear a condom! What gets me through it is that one day in about sixteen years we will be able to just simply lay in bed quietly together, and hold each other and fall asleep.

I'm just kidding around for the most part, I feel blessed to have a family! To have a wonderful wife and Beautiful daughter in my life.

The catch this year is her 30Th Birthday, and she is not happy about it at all! No matter what I say or do, so if anybody has a suggestion concerning her Big 30. Please let me know! I have never pretended to know people, let alone woman! If I did my life would be a hell of a lot easier. I'm a simple man who has always had high expectations on myself, and have struggled with it. I know all will turn out fine in the end, but still I want to help her cope.

I would like to let people know that MJ is getting bigger, and will turn 2 in March. She is finally getting some long hair, but the bad news is I don't know how to prepare a girls hair. Braids, curls, and the works! I will be like Michael Keaton in "Multiplicity", when he sends her to get her pictures done for dance. Ha Ha (I love that movie)

Her vocabulary has multiplied and I really have too shelter her from the storm of worldly profanities. We play, we dance, we sing, and we learn something new together every day. If only she wasn't as stubborn as me sometimes, we would make more progress in her life. If I could curb her jealousy of my affection toward her Mom, our late nights would be easier. I'm not complaining, only venting, seeking a little advice. MJ is a doll but sometimes can require my full attention seemingly at most times. It is my pleasure to be her loving father, and I will do everything I can for her and her future.

I said this entry would short, so I must go! I thank you for stopping by my place and listening to this ramble. I will be posting some more stuff in the near future. About 2 months worth of writings, but I will try to keep them shorter next time. I wish you all a blessed week and a Happy Valentine's Day.

Peace&Love

Wes

Happy Christmas

2008-12-25T18:35:00.007-06:00

Since our move some time back, I've been using a pen and paper. I can't complain we have ball point pens or pens with a good grip. Our paper is clear and crisp, with blue lines. I try to mix it up and use plain white paper, sometimes computer paper. (To feel more modern) :)
A step above leafs and ink dipped feathers. My hands are the keys and the paper my screen. My brain is my Internet helped by the knowledge I pull off my bookshelf.

I thumb through my books, I see my quote books, and novels. Pondering which one to read, then I spot Charles Dickens. Browsing through its pages, I recall how his work was genuine. How he described the times with great detail mixed with struggles of mankind. In his writing I find truth with a twist of fiction. The time period he wrote about is very reminiscent of our present.

Think about our global economy, and the harshness of winter. The division of classes, and the struggle to survive the chaos. The journey to stay true to ourselves, and find love in this seemingly heartless world. I see society's hands reaching for coins, while the Wall Street Big wigs carry their wealth with heavy chains. The Super Rich don't realize that the weight from greed will pull us all down.

Tiny Tim walks with a limp, while the greedy CEO's pockets bulge like "The Goodyear Blimp"

This is the Tale of countless cities. Where is the Love?
I can see the Christmas Ghost of Past, and the Christmas Ghost of Present standing. But where is the Ghost of Christmas Future? Hell, where is our children's future heading?

I'm mixed with emotion every Christmas, but this one is a Sleigh ride in a blizzard. A sleigh ride without horses, a driver, or reins. Our country is heading home for the holidays with Our Nuts roasting on an open fire. At least for the people who can pay the bills for their cash devouring house.

I'm not trying to be clever or coy! I'm not trying to depress anyone, merely letting my thoughts and prayers bleed onto paper. No specific point or order, I'm just calling it how I see it.

I can remember a time when a gift was from the heart. Not just from a store, or a plant in China. A time when we expressed feelings to our loved ones, from our lips arms, and finger tips. Not from a mass produced greeting card, fill up with words from a starving writer. The words were created from our own mind and heart. Plus some of those cards are just not meant for anybody I know. Too little are to much! I stick with blank inside or write something myself.

Don't think I'm Christmas harping, I'm no angel myself. I too politely plow through the so called courteous people.

After all tis the season! Ha Ha

Trust me I'm a very caring and positive person. I try not to let others bring me down to their selfish and rude level. Has anybody noticed how discourteous some people can be be this time of the year? Is it just me that can see that during the holidays people can be hateful? I'm trying to stay focused on the joy and the real reasons for the Holiday.

I love Mankind, Candy Canes, and Hot Cocoa. Christmas tunes, A decorated tree, and Mistletoe. :) The whole ball of snow!

I love celebrating with warmth and love. That includes Hannukah, Kwanza, and Christmas! (All Holidays) I may not be black and I might be a Jew, but I love Christmas! I love it for all the good that is shaken out of the pockets of Scrooges. The Holidays reveal the true misers, stinges, and stooges.

It shines the truth of so-called Religious folks, and allows us all to see more clearly. Our wants and needs, or what really matters in life.

I wish I had all the fortunes of the Wall Street type Scrooges, so I could give it all away! I'd kiss the worlds ouchies, ans say its going to be OK. Open a box of band Aids, and gently place it on the wounds of Earth's children. Even the misers, but I would hope that next time they would buy the biggest birds in town. Then knock on the doors of the "Working man" and give their families a real feast. Deliver wheel barrels of coal with a genuine goal of compassion!

Once again I ramble with my words, but with a message of hope and good intention. I do apologize if I came off as Anti Christmas, or an unrealistic dreamer. Please know that I'm thankful for the many things, and for the love I receive in my life. I just want to give the world a Holiday Hug, with a dash of loving understanding. May this Holiday be what your soul needs and the coming year be kind to your hearts.

I must get back to the family gathering, I' ll have a couple more post soon. Trust me one of them will be more uplifting.

Merry Christmas to All and all a good night!

Peace&Love
Wes& Family

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-12-21T15:51:00.002-06:00

Mom:

Thank you for everything you have done for me in this life. I know you tried the best you could in this unpredictable world! I wish to say that I love you and hope your day is well! Try to stay warm and dry in Ontario, and enjoy your wonderful day with your loving husband Reijo.

If anyone reads this entry, please wish my Mom a happy 50Th Birthday today! :)

Thank you All,

Wes

Hot Dog

2008-12-17T15:19:00.004-06:00

I don't have much time, I feel a little like the Rabbit in "Alice In Wonderland" these days. Life has been going well for us, but it could always be better! I watched "It's A Wonderful Life" a little while back, and always feel blessed to be alive! What a story! I still can't believe that movie was a flop in it's day. It is my (All Time) favorite movie, then "The Grapes of Wrath".

I love stories that convey the way life is sometimes. If we could all be like the leads in these films, the world would be the place. In many ways we all have the heart of George bailey, and the will to make a difference. It just sometimes we don't realize our impact on the lives of others.

I know my life has not turned out the way I envisioned it to. But I know I'm on my path, and that just around the corner is my "Bedford Falls".

I can see that the way the country is going we will all wish for a "Savings and Loan"

It is a real shame that I can't do my impressions of this film, I can do almost everybody. I can quote every part. I do tear up at the end, like many others do! I'm not afraid to admit this. If only the majority of the world would do so.

I can't help but think of all the people in need of help in this "Mr. Potter" world. I wish every one this season could help their angel get their wings. My heart goes out to humanity this Holiday season. (Just like every day!)

I have read other entries that pulled my heart strings for the Holidays and for my family. I think of my past and all the Christmas's. I can only laugh and smile at the memories. I can only feel a sense of happiness, I recall every person. Every person who has now passed and those who are here now. Even the worst Christmas joins the best ones in harmony, as we sing our songs.

I remember the sleigh rides at my Great Uncle Jim's house and the long walks in winter with my Brother Don. We felt no cold on the toes as we journeyed in our 100 acre woods for hours. We skated on the family ponds till we could no longer feel our butts. I can remember the long talks with my family as we devoured our meals. I could go on forever about the joys of the my past, but must stop myself before I really ramble.

I'm sure you all have a wonderful memory you could share with me, so feel free!

I just wanted to deliver a message of appreciation and love! I sincerely wish you all an Amazing Holiday, whatever you have planned this year. I want to relay a message of hope and warm thoughts for your upcoming year.

Please be safe with the arrival of Winter and the fruits of its bountiful cold and snow!

Peace&Love
Wes& Family

Hey Now

2008-12-10T16:45:00.002-06:00

Everything has been going OK this last week. I have been enjoying my family every chance I get, but MJ is still sick. Lisa and I have a touch of it as well, but the show must go on! We received about an inch of snow last night. MJ was very pleased to see the earth lightly covered with white delight. I bundled her up warm and tight, to allow her to dance in the snow for a second or two by the door. The littlest thing pleases a sweet child, we as a adults look at frosty weather as a chore. A chore that includes scrapers and shovels, but deep inside my inner child screams for snow ice cream and a speedy sled. I will make a snowman with MJ and Lisa, when we get enough snow. I got up early and captured some beautiful snow and ice covered window shots. We watched Curious George together while we ate cereal on this glorious morning.

A couple nights ago I put in a double record f Ray Charles for MJ and I to listen to while we colored and doodled drawings. She loves blues and Jazz like me, so we boogied down to the Genius! It will be a memory that will last for eternity, our smiles and laughs accompanied our silly dance moves. After we were done MJ got tired, but it took quite some time to get her to sleep. The wind banged the windows and howled like the scene in the film "The Grapes of Wrath". When he returns home to discover that the farm was gone, and talked with Casey. Any hoo, you would have to know the the film, so I will say it was a constant eerie wind. Needless to say after her fear subsided and her eyes closed, she fell softly a sleep in her warm bed.

I'm just about caught up with most of the little things in my life right now. Life has been pretty good for me and my family. I can't complain too much, for I know other people have it worse than we do. The world we share together and the times we as a society live in are tough right now. We should count our blessings and enjoy every moment for what it is. No matter what tomorrow brings we should keep hope alive for all who need help this holiday season. We should give what little we can to others everyday and keep the promise of a kindness to our fellow man.

If we could all be like "George Bailey" for there are too many "Mr. Potters" in this cold world.

I hope that life is going well for you all! I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a great week! :)

Peace&Love
Wes, Lisa, and Malayna Jane

Busy With A Capital B

2008-12-04T17:09:00.002-06:00

I'm still here! Please bare with me, I'm extremely busy with the finalization of the move. I can't get computer service in the new place for days. I will be back to reading your journals and writing entries soon. MJ has been really sick with a cold, and I have been helping my Dad out around the house. I have to go to a Memorial this weekend for a Good Friend. Finish up with many loose ends. I sincerely hope All IS Well for everyone who reads this and that life is gentle to your souls! :)

I will try to get back to the swing of things as soon as possible. I miss reading every ones entries, and feel a bit lonely without your love! Until then feel free to read my older posts on both sites. I could not have dealt with a lot of stuff in the past few months without my good friends here in Cyber land. Again thank you all for everything you have done for my soul and please stay true to your selves! Feel free to send me an Email, I'll be checking those as often as I can!

Like I have said "Life is what it is sometimes" and you get the privilege to share friendships with wonderful people like you! :)

Peace&Love
Wes

Good Morning Sunshine

2008-11-28T02:14:00.007-06:00

11/27/08

On this morning I awoke from a restful night. I fell asleep holding my child and wife. I woke early to one of natures delights. The morning hues were dark blue almost black.Light shining through with a lighter blue. A whitish blue and blue gray. Behind the treetops beyond the houses. The sun lit the early sky with a hint of yellow and gold. A faded orange with a brighter orange as the sun rose. I stood outside in the cold morning. I stood outside slightly shivering in a thankful silence. The approaching sun revealed a thin frost on the ground. I was like a shaking statue watching the Fall sky. I waited for the glorious star to punch through the horizon.

I said to myself " I can feel joy overtake me! I can clearly see the Earth and Life's beauty! I feel the thrill of the morning chill."

It was a still quiet outside. As the seconds passed I remain motionless, I stood peacefully at ease. Then suddenly the morning sky turned silver and bright! It was a shame my camera's batteries were dead! No matter, it will play over and over in my head. For in my minds eye, I will remember this day. In my heart I will remember this sky! The rays of the rising sun allowed me to feel alive. Surprisingly refreshed in so many ways. Getting up before Five O' clock and without Coffee?

On this day I think about friends and family. Of all the memories and joys I've known. I can't help but think of those who have passed or moved far away. Happiness mixed with yearning for those I miss. Still my heart and mind is smiling from this morning. I think and thank life for the gift of living. My soul is surrounded with love and peace. I was casually content on this Thanksgiving still shivering in my pajamas.

I heard a soft sound from a short distance. It was the sweet sound of MJ waking. I dashed to greet her, and felt the warmth of the house envelope my body. I then stood over the bed and saw her smiling face. Snuggled next to her mommy under comfy covers. The bed looked more inviting than the Sunrise.

Although their beauty resembled the morning sunset. I stood there silently and noticed their white lights. With layers of hue and a warmth that touches the soul! Then suddenly they were both awake with a smile. We giggled, we laughed. I was reminded a loving laugh outweighs words, or a photograph.

Our baby girls innocence is so sincere and pure. We love her dearly and will love her always! With a love as bright as the sun and endless as the sky. We will love her with tight hugs and soft kisses. She will always be a baby in our minds eye! These are just a a few of the reasons why I was thankful today. I wish to state that my family's love is so bright, that it will warm your heart on the coldest days.

I wish to thank my family for the delicious meal today and for the love, happiness, and memories! Thank you All! :)

Blessed Be,
Wes

Fourteen Steps and A Baby

2008-11-25T02:32:00.010-06:00

The last few days I have been moving stuff back and forth. Getting all the things in order for our move to the new place. Dealing with the Electric, Gas, Water, Garbage, and Cable company. Getting the address switched and discussing some repairs with the Landlord. Cleaning the place and shuffling the furniture around the boxes. Weeding out the items that are no longer suitable, now that we are parents of a very curious and mobile child.

I used to want to be an Antique dealer, or do the EBay thing. I have a wide range of collectibles, paintings to several types of glass ware. Most of the glassware is going, but I don't want to give away thousands of dollars in stuff. Especially, when I need some cash with the holidays coming up. When we need so muchfor the Apartment and for our future. A few years back I donated several old books from the 17oo's and some Glass items, that valued to over 10,000 dollars. I just don't have the time right now to separate, and look up the current values in this weakening economic market. It is hard enough just getting the many things done for this move, MJ requires lots of attention! It is mostly just me doing all these things while I'm watching her. Lisa is working like a dog, and getting little sleep right now. She is stressed about the money, and there is talk of a Lay off after the holidays? I will remain positive and hope for the best.

Tomorrow I have to wait for the Gas man, from 12:00 to 4:00? There goes most of my day just waiting, I might try to put some shelves together? Lisa and I put one together last night, it would have only taken about twenty minutes. Twenty minutes turned into over an hour, MJ was trying to help! It was so damn cute to see her grab a tool and try to assist us. Still, she is too young and would not play with her toys. She would not watch a movie or eat snacks. MJ wanted to help her Mom and Dad! :)

I have been trying to catch up on laundry and keep packing boxes. It just seems like I'm fighting the current right now, but the place is shaping up! It has and will take Baby steps! I realized (I HAVE TOO MUCH STUFF)! I could name all the nick knack stuff to the Antiques, but I have been collecting Sports cards, Autographs, Comics, etc. I have been lugging these things around since I was 5 yrs. old and sometimes I feel like I no longer need them.

I also have the responsibility of holding onto family keepsakes for most of the family. I proudly keep what is left of my Brother Don's stuff, until his Daughter Emily Jaye gets old enough to care for them properly. I love my niece, but until she moves out of her Moms, I will hold onto it!

I came to a decision (NO MATTER HOW OLD OR COOL SOMETHING IS I WILL NOT TAKE IT FROM FAMILY) right now! Unless, it is one of my Grandpas Grandfather Clocks. :)

I have loved those since I was very little, and can remember marveling at them for long periods of time. Trust me when I say I could go on about the items in hand, but I will leave it with the memory of the clocks. I do thank you for listening to that little rant about material items. (Mostly Crap)

The funny thing is just before we found out about MJ, we decided we would go out into the world and help people. We would put everything in storage, or sell it for the finances to travel the world. What was left we would donate to families that needed things, and the Antiques to Museums. It sounded great, and one day we will continue with the plan. We must wait till MJ says "Mom and Dad I want to go help people too" or she grows up.

I will always look back on the day I found out about Lisa's pregnancy as one of the greatest days of my life. It goes along with the day MJ was born. Right next to the day I married Lisa, and the day I gave her my telephone number. There are so many good memories to mention as I sit and write them on the computer. So, I will stop before they flood this screen like they have my heart and soul. It is a good flood, the kind that wets the river of my soul. It is the kind of emotions that I will undoubtedly cling to when the sky's are gray. They are my sunshine in my human mind, and my warmth inside my heart.

I'm one of those people who appreciate the little things, but also accept reality too quickly. Over time I have become a realistic dreamer, but still dream of pulling a "Ben Stein". For the people who don't know who he is, don't loose sleep and give yourself red eye. In my opinion he is true Jack Of All Trades, he was a speech writer, Author, Actor, and Game show host. I know I have forgotten other accomplishments, but would like to leave you with one his lines "Bueller, Bueller"

I know with life I will have to take it one step at a time, and do one goal at a time. Especially now that I'm a father and a Husband. I'm sure people feel this way who are not, I think it is just motivation mixed with urgency, and a little confusion. I would like to add a quote by Dr. Leo Marvin's book and Bob Wylie reaction "Baby Steps, Baby Steps"
Quote from "What About Bob" Ha Ha ;)

I have no Idea what I am typing right now, it is though my fingers and mind are working together. While I just sit here and stare at the keyboard, so bare with this cluttered ramble. I just wanted to say a simple Hello, and to keep some people posted on my last couple days. I'm so sick of the steps to the apartment already, there is only FOURTEEN, but lately it feels like more! It would not be so bad, but I must lug MJ in one arm and a small box in another! (I mean lovingly carry her in my arm) while I carry a small box.

I get more things done when she naps, or goes to bed. MJ has been having some sleep issues, she has not been going to bed very early. The earliest the last couple weeks was tonight, it was about 1:30 this morning? I do love how she went to bed tonight, she came into the computer room all wobbly. She mumbled something and gave me a hug. I hugged her tight in return, and softly said "I love you little girl, now please go into your bedroom and go to sleep." Malayna Jane went into her room, and went to sleep. But not before I sneezed a few times and she said Bless you, and went to sleep.

I love it when she says Bless you, or uses manners in general. I always told people that my children would be well mannered above all things. If they were the rest would come easy and I would be truly happy to see them act as I was as a child. I'm so proud of her theses last few days, and of her mother. They have been putting up with me zigzagging all over the place. Putting up with me all jacked on coffee and talking at super speed.

I just want to have it all done on time, and have most of it done before Turkey day! I know now that it is an unlikely task to complete without much help, so I will go a little easier on my self. (Who needs exercise machines when you got stairs, countless heavy boxes, and heavy furniture?)

I thank you for stopping by my place and wish you all a Wonderful Day today! :)

Peace&Love

Wes

Yesterday Is Today's Future

2008-11-22T22:34:00.014-06:00

On November 22, 1963 a great man was shot in Dallas, Texas. The man was John F. Kennedy, and he died soon after. For many years now there has been many theories, and I don't no which one to believe. It has been said it was Lee Harvey Oswald who acted alone, but will we really ever know? I wasn't born yet, but many people in my family were. They can only tell me with certainty that it was a sad day in American history. That the United states wept tears of rivers, and was slapped in the face with a bitter sting. I once did a report in school and I asked my grandmother "Who her favorite President was?" She responded with "It was John F Kennedy, because he was so young and tried to solve the many problems that faced this great nation at the time." She added "In the 1960's with all the tension and divide in the country, it was JFK who touched her, and got her to vote regularly. It sparked a passion for politics inside her, and was saddened later by Robert Kennedy's death as well."

Throughout the years I have researched much information on President Kennedy, and have watched numerous footage. I have made it a point to discuss it with my older relatives, and friends. It brought me to the conclusion, that he was an imperfect human like the rest of us. That this man who became President, was a very passionate man. He helped put this country in the direction it needed to go, but was robbed of his true success. I believe had he lived, we would have ended the war in Vietnam sooner. Many human rights issues would have ended earlier than they did. I could go on with speculation, but feel like it would be pointless. The bottom line is he helped this country in so many ways before is death, and with the help of his brothers, and did many great things.

I have met Robert Kennedy Jr. and was impressed. His father was a strong man as well, and believed in nature too. I believe had he not been robbed of the chance to lead this country, it would be a better place today. I'm not going into much detail about the Kennedy brothers, for most people no more about them than I do. I just wanted to pay tribute to JFK and to express my thoughts about the man. I wanted to remind people to remember the good things about him, and provide you with some of his quotes.

I would like to state that he would be proud to see that the American people voted for Barack Obama, despite of the color of his skin. He would be pleased to see that a Black man will be in the White house. I'm glad to see that people can get along sometimes and hope for a better tomorrow. I sincerely hope that society has embraced love and not hate for him and his family. I wish with my whole heart that we the American people can see the change that has been promised, and more importantly President Barack Obama's heart will stay strong. That he will be able to witness the better future that he helped create. May love bless him and his family! May the World be a kinder, better place for all.

JFK Quotes:

"If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich."

"There is inherited wealth in this country and also inherited poverty."

"I am certain that after the dust of the centuries have passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit."

"Our national strength matters, but the spirit which informs and controls our strength matters just as much."

"No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings."

"One hundred years of delay have passed since President Lincoln freed the slaves, yet their heirs, their grandsons, are not fully free. They are not yet freed from the bonds of injustice. They are not yet freed from social and economic oppression. And this nation, for all its hopes and all its boasts, will not be fully free until all its citizens are free."

No one has been barred on account of his race from fighting or dying for America-there are no "white" or "colored" signs on the foxholes or graveyards of battle."

"Peace does not rest in charters and covenants alone. It lies in the hearts and minds of the people."

"Never have the nations of the world had so much to loose, or so much to gain. Together we shall save our planet, or together we shall perish in its flames. Save it we can-and save it we must-and then we shall earn the eternal thanks of mankind and, as peacemakers, the eternal blessing of god."

"All of us do not have equal talent, but all of us should have equal opportunity to develop our talents."

"I believe this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him home safely to earth."

"Now we have a problem in making our power credible, and Vietnam is the place."

"Once you say your going to settle for second, that's what happens to you in life."

"With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own."

If you have a favorite memory or a quote, or just want to state something that you liked about JFK. Please feel free, and please have a wonderful Sunday!

I would like to leave you with a poem that I penned on 11/22/93

JFK

He was a man who knew many things
When he ran for President.
When he gave a speech,
we knew what he meant.
What he stood for.
What he would teach.
He wanted peace, and intended to stop the war.
In so many ways, he contributed to this country.
One of his wishes was to help end racism,
even when others said it was out of reach.
Without men like him where would we be?
The day he was assassinated,
many said it was the day America lost it's innocence.
But, I feel this country has felt this pain many times before.
It is proven in the past, as it was in the 1960's.
What we lost was another good hearted human being.
The years have proven that we have not forgotten.
We the people remember!
One of our greatest presidents in history.
It still brings tears to Americans today.
It may always remain a mystery.
To the question, who killed JFK?

Peace&Love
Wes

The Marie-Antoinette A Real Person, A Real Award

2008-11-19T05:37:00.006-06:00

Until I figure out how to do all this fancy computer stuff, this will have to do!

If you see the list of followers in the right hand corner of my place, I nominate all of them!

I would like to mention that Bucko put my name over at Bucko's World, so I would like to thank him for doing so.
:)

This is just a tired person trying to remember all of your first names, not in any specific order!

Bucko

Beth

Lisa

Jamie

Indigo

Amanda

Mark

Melissa

I would like anybody who does not know who theses wonderful people are, to please go have a look see! They all have unique qualities, and something special inside them. I can mention them specifically, but will let you discover them for yourself.

I want to thank everyone who stops by my place, and then decides to comes back again! I just want you all to know that this Lo Tech guy, with his Lo Tech site, is appreciative. Until I can get my Labtop, or I learn a few tricks, my words will have to paint you my pictures. My feelings and thoughts will have to be my computer extras! :)

Once again thank you for stopping by "Life's What It Is sometimes"

I wish you all a GREAT day today!

Peace&Love

Wes

The Stars Fall In November

2008-11-18T01:53:00.012-06:00

Time is our music in life, it can be emotionally rewarding. It can reveal the truth that our soul has been aching for. What I mean is the answers to questions that has alluded our reach, when we required the meaning. Sometimes we are not supposed to have all the answers, we were meant to learn from our circumstances. By not knowing the meaning to our grievances or dilemmas, it has allowed us to grow.

Allowed us to become who we are today, time has revealed our current image in the mirror. Revealing our true light inside our body, and provided the answers we need to help others, before they duplicate the choices we've made in our lives. The hands on the clock can tick so loud in our brain, that we stay trapped in our bodies. When in reality, the tick tock in the clock is our rhythm to the beat in our hearts. It is the beat to our life's journey, it plays, it sings to our soul. Time speaks to us, it whispers to our heart.

Motivates us to get out on the dance floor, we call living. Every person has their own tunes that touches the heart. We as individuals, are the worlds conductor. Together we can play sweet music, together we can share life's stages in harmony. Time is not our enemy, it is our own fear that denies positive actions. Fear can prevent a person from moving forward, and halt humanities momentum. Think about it if the majority live in fear, that only leaves a minority who picks up an instrument to play in life's orchestra.

I'm not saying that people who live in fear don't help humanity, I have always tried to help others first. Even if I allowed time, fear, or myself get in the way of my own happiness. I would envelope my emotions by doing good deeds, because it took away the hurt inside my heart. I think no matter what I do in this life, I will still carry some sadness. But will try not to let the fear, or societies madness interfere with my path.

For some time now, I've had great positivity in my life! I have had a wonderful wife for almost a decade, and have had beautiful children in my life. I have a couple nieces, a nephew, and now an amazing daughter! Some of my family has kept my souls candle burning, but for some time I have been lighting the candles myself.

It feels good to have love, faith, and hope in my heart. I know I sound like a touchy feely Guru or something! I only speak the truth that I have discovered on the journey I've shared with those who have wandered onto the path I take. I love the souls that have touched my life, no matter their reason! I have gained so much strength, in such a short time.

Sometimes fear still tries to dig holes under my fence of faith, it tries to cross the bridge to my heart. Sometimes it does get in, but I sick my dog named strength to chase it away from my soul. Fear can be like a hungry animal, circling its prey. It waits to pounce, when we let our guard down. We must not fear, fear itself, but feed it love. Quench its thirst with courage and strength!

Just like time, fear can be a part of the music. But we should only allow it to be a small part of our opus. When we finally reach the climatic finish, we should be elated.

I would like to share a couple poems I wrote on November 18 in my life.

The first one I wrote shortly after my Brother's passing, and have used parts of it in many of my friends and families Eulogy's. I put it in an entry called "Just Think About Flowers" on 8/25/08

11/18/98

From the second we are born.
We are dying.
Time casts its shadow over life.
Father time continues in full circle.
Life's hands fold as hands do with prayer.
Picture one hand as life.
The other hand as death.
When you pray to your god,
realize despite all cries.
They are joined together.
So, I ask can courage cover the eyes of fear?
We are born to die.
Acceptance and faith is key.
The body is motionless,
but we are now free!

11/18/02

I looked up many miles away.
At the fading fall sky with wonder.
What a wonderful show, meteors pierced the heavens.
Shooting across both dippers, and right through Orion's Belt.
The frost nipped at my fingers and creeped into my bones.
Standing Still,
I could not take my curious eyes off the Earth's Television from above.
One after another, whizzing, zipping through the moonlit sky.
Vision is so overlooked.
I feel lucky to be alive!
To have witnessed such a splendid scene.
To hear natures feathered audience applaud with a whistle.
One after another chirping and cooing, up in nature arms.
There was another!
Did you see it?
Right passed that ball of cheese.
I will remember the quiet that put me at ease.
The frost traveled down to my little piggies,
yet I did not go home.
Star bright, star light, one of natures delights.
All the shooting stars, rather meteors!
I gazed above, I was lost in thought.
A million falling stars.
A million wishes.
I made enough to last my lifetime.
At this point I could not feel my fingers,
only a slapping sting.
In life there are tough decisions,
and speckles of regret.
As the cold touched my head to my toes, I made a final wish.
I know customarily it's supposed to be a secret.
Just this once I will let it slip.
I wish for World Peace!
So, that our children's children will get to see beautiful things too.

I thank you all for stopping by my place, and reading this early morning ramble.
I wish you all a fantastic day and a beautiful evening!

Peace&Love
Wes

Hear No, See No, Speak No...

2008-11-17T03:40:00.006-06:00

It has been a busy weekend for my wife and I. We have been hauling stuff to the new apartment, and packing. We have managed to find some time to relax and enjoy MJ. She is getting big and I mean fast! Outfits I bought her not even a month ago aren't fitting her. I knew this happened, but not this fast! She will only be 20 months old on the 22ND, and she is already been a tad bit over three feet. I will have to go get her some more outfits for the rest of Fall and Winter.

She is enjoying all the new space, and the echo effect of the apartment. The last few weeks have been entertaining with MJ, she is mimicking just about anything I say or do! At least when other people aren't around, it never fails. If I get her to say certain cute phrases, she will make me a liar almost every time. The downside to it is I really have to watch what I say now. I don't want even a humorous comment about a certain family member to get back to them. I don't curse that often, but do sometimes, so I take extra steps not to use them in front of her. I use words like "Darn it to heck" "Oh fooey" "Fudge it " "Oh Thumper's Mother" she did say that "If you don't have anything nice to say. Don't say any thing at all."

I noticed years ago that kids are like animals, and right now we have a little parrot named MJ. Your children will investigate things constantly, and get into the things they are not supposed to. Kids will test their boundaries, and your patience. You are not really in control, they only allow you to think you are sometimes. I'm not saying I sit a food dish on the floor, or give her a flea bath. I don't have one of those leashes for kids, that I have seen at the parks or the mall.

A leash for children, I knew they existed, but never saw one in use. They are almost like a choke chain, at least that is how some parents use them. I have been half tempted to go put a parent over my knee, and spank them. (Only the good looking ones! HA HA)
No, seriously if you have one, or think that they are good. Please don't treat your kid like a dreaded pet! I think the next time I see a parent with one, I will ask them can your kid do any tricks? Or will they chase this ball if I throw it over there? I wonder what they would say to me if I really did ask them that? All right enough with the rant, I will just stick to talking about our beautiful little devil. :)

(No she is an angel who can act like most adults sometimes)

Malayna is a joy and a motivator at the same time! She can make the most negative days seem a little more optimistic. Still I try not to think about her future, because it unknown like ours. I try not to think too much about time, when it comes to her. I try to just live in the moment, and plan for our future as a family. I can be one of those people who converse with someone about movies, and catch myself thinking "That movie was 20 years ago, Wow!" I have been guilty of listening to music and recalling a concert I went to 15 years ago, and wondering where the time went? It is magnified with a child in the family, or from a kid you used to babysit. So, it is best to to keep focused on the moment, and then look back years later with a smile.

I will admit it is tempting to have her quote parts from certain movies, or have her sing some mature songs. But if I did I wouldn't tell you! (WHISPER WHISPER) We have secretly been quoting Tarantino films, or listening to Lenny Bruce stand ups. Watching the Exorcist and Cheech and Chong movies! :) Ha Ha

We have been just enjoying life for what it is sometimes, and have the most fun that we can in this wonderful world.This weekend was pretty good Lisa, MJ, and I laughed lots. We played games and did some crafts for mom. Ended up watching a couple movies in bed "Cuddly, comfy, and cozy" style.

I hope that you all have good day and even better night!

Peace&Love
Wes

Howdy All

2008-11-12T02:22:00.007-06:00

It has been a crazy November, and I want to let everyone know that I will try to get back to your journals. As you can see I can barely find the time to get to mine! I have been helping family out, and boxing some stuff up. Also dealing with many things at once, and trying to keep positive. Trying to keep sane in this maddening planet we call home, and raise our daughter. Going to storage and digging out the Christmas stuff, and our winter things! I know I said it WINTER! My mind still has not made the adjustment to the clock being set back yet.

The last few days I have been checking out some apartments. Some have been good and others have been awful! I had been looking for another house to rent, but no luck. For some time I thought about buying a house, but not in these times. Once the economy gets healthy again, I hope to find a decent house for my family. This will have to do for now, and they will accept our Morning Dove Birdie and Froto the ferret. I talked them out of the year lease, and that pleases me. If I can get out of the lease, that allows me to move to somewhere else sooner. It all seems OK for now, and I will bust my butt to make things better.

I have had some computer problems as well, I have tried to reach some journals. When I start to read them they freeze or my computer wants to shut off? Once I figure out the new bills, and get moved I will get me that lab top. This will do for now! The last few days I started writing some kids books again, and some very serious stuff. I'm waiting for some research to make into my hands, and I will be ready to go. My family is doing OK for now, and MJ has been amazing!

I miss reading all your journals, and hope everything is going well for my cyber friends. I want to thank Beth, Ken, and Indigo for stopping by the other day! It meant so much to me to read your comments! :)

I hope life has been "Marvelous"for you all, and that your days have been peaceful! Bless your Hearts, Souls, and Minds. Bless you and your days! I also wish to Bless your Families lives as well.

Peace&Love

Mr. Mushy

He Was A Good Man

2008-11-09T02:44:00.016-06:00

Born: 5/14/76 Died: 11/08/98

WE LOVE YOU DON AND ALWAYS WILL!
Love your family!
Rest In Peace & Love.

Love,
Your Little Brother Wes

I Approve This Message

2008-11-02T02:06:00.023-06:00

THIS IS ABOUT POLITICS AND SOME OF MY OPINIONS!
IF YOU CAN'T HANDLE SOME TRUTH AND SOME SWEAR WORDS.
IF YOU ONLY BELIEVE IN ONE PARTY POLITICS.

THEN PLEASE DON'T READ THIS!

I can remember the first time I thought about politics, it was when I was about six years old. I was thumbing through an encyclopedia and looking at the Presidents. It amazed me, it consisted of mainly portraits, but a couple photos. I gazed at Washington and thought he looked like a nice man, but I thought he looked funny with his white hair. I had heard the story about the Cherry tree, and his wooden teeth. I counted my way through the Presidents, and was stuck on Abe Lincoln. I thought his portrait looked very distinguishable, and read a little about him.

Our 16Th President, during the Civil War. I thought what a time to be president, and with slavery going on! Then I read about his tragic death, and that he was popular in Illinois. My home state, and that I wasn't too far from where he was a Lawyer, and later became a Congressman. His Ideas, and actions really resonated in my soul. Then to be shot in Fords Theater by John Wilkes Booth, leaving Johnson in charge!

I made my way to Both Roosevelt's, and found good things about each man. Then I made my way to John F. Kennedy, and I looked at his portrait, and began to read more about him. I was impressed with his Idea of the Peace Corps, and memorized his quote "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country!" Later I learned about Bay of Pigs, and the rumors of M. Monroe. When I was at that age, I was impressed by many simple things, but was stuck on November 22, 1963! We has lost another Good man to an assassins bullet, and learned that his brother Robert was shot too. He would have made an even better President than most, including JFK! I'm not forgetting the other tragic losses in time, but merely discussing the Presidents. I made my way to Jimmy Carter, and was favoring him, because he was Commander and Chief when I was born. Plus there was something to be said, about him being a peanut farmer, and I loved peanuts.

I learned later in life, that what they taught us in school wasn't always the truth! That in history, it is usually written by the victors!

I learned more about the power of the position, when Ronald Reagan was President. He was the man who affected my life more than those in the book. He was showing America how Reaganomics worked, and how many of his people face criminal trials. I asked a lot of questions, concerning the trials, and the wrong doings. Many adults would say I was too young to understand, that when I got older, I would see the big picture! I may have been a child, but I saw the impact from the Reagan Administration. Many people starving, and being put on welfare, and having to use food stamps! Broken unions, and the lack of good jobs. How some parents had to work two jobs, and miss out on ballgames and family functions. I noticed they had lavish engagements at the White house, while Americans suffered. Having to eat powdered eggs, and mix powdered milk with regular milk. Going to second hand stores, instead of regular stores.

That's why when I look at pictures of kids from this time period, we look like we are from the 1970's. All wearing plaid, or corduroy pants, with generic tennis shoes. We had to learn about the Iran Contra scandal, good old Ollie North. We watched him fall asleep during important televised events! His dealings with Nuclear arms, and his reactions to the Aids epidemic. His actions were pretty clear when it came to the Earth's pollution, and here is a quote by President Reagan in 1980.

"Approximately 80 percent of air pollution stems from hydrocarbons released by vegetation, so let's not go overboard in setting and enforcing tough emission standards from man-made sources."

You can break down old walls that separate people, but put up larger ones that are invisible! I could go on about all the "Positives" and Negatives, but will say that Bush was his second in command. He was just as responsible for the economy, and the decline of America as President Reagan!

Then came the election of 1988, Bush verses Dukackis. I remember it well, I assisted on the canvassing for Micheal Dukackis. My siblings and I went around the Bartonville, Illinois area to hand out literature. It was in the fall, and I could smell some leaves burning as the chilled air nipped our noses. Overall most people were friendly, but some were plain rude! I had someone spit at me, and tell me that my family were cowards for sending me to their door. I tried to state my point, but they slammed the door.

Nobody would believe a kid my age would want to partake in a civic duty anyways! I was proud to be part of the 1988 election, and to help our country shed the Reagan administration. Like I said George Bush was a big part of our times, and we needed better for children, and their families. I know at the time I was too young to understand why Dukackis lost, but can remember seeing him in the tank with his helmet. People had a hay day with that, and focused on it till the end of the election. I was reminded of the same kind of coverage, when Howard Dean went, "Heeeeeeeeehaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwww!" To this day, I will never believe that a man ahead by that much, and nobody near him points wise, could suffer over a holler?

I was proud of our efforts to get some new blood in the oval office, but that was when I learned about political defeat. It was one of my first times I tasted false hope, and realized that I could make a good President. I practiced my hand shakes, and signing my name years before. Now I no longer wanted to be a ballplayer, or a magician. I wanted make great changes for our country, and the world. I would be the greatest President ever, I would break the barriers that existed between all people, I would join together The People Of this Nation! I'd fight all Injustice and end all wars, especially the Weaponless Civil war that was still ramp it. I desired to heal all sickness by spreading the wealth. Instead of letting people become Billionaires, I would encourage them to donate some of their fiances to Great causes!

Together we could solve world hunger, together we could save the planet from greed's destruction, and yes I did talk like this as a child! I can be honest, I thought of this stuff on my own. (My Father did teach about manners, and introduced me to Nature!) If I did get some guidance, it was from some of the worlds greatest leaders in history. John Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King, GANDHI, and Jesus! I had good intentions, and wanted to guide our Country to a better tomorrow! I did grow up watching "Mr. Smith goes to Washington" and thought that I could be Jimmy Stewart, but stay true to myself and Country! HA HA

When I was Finally 18, I was so excited! I would get to vote for a President, and other political issues. My voice could finally be heard, and I could be part of a greater change. I could participate in electing some new Hope, and start my political ambitions.

I deeply cared about the environment, homeless, unions, and education. I cared for peace and togetherness, which I rarely have seen in any election. My first Election I was able to vote was in 1996, Clinton verses Dole. I was so sure that Clinton would win, I wanted to vote for Ralph Nader, but didn't. (Nader bit us in the behind later)

I stuck to my environmental heart, and voted Clinton. Even though I know he betrayed the Union, over at Caterpillar. He shook hands and looked those workers in the eyes, and told them all that he cared, and that he would help them! They ended up getting the short end of the stick, and that is what pisses me off about that blow job! People lost focus on the mans actions as a Politician, and spent all that money on an investigation! Almost impeached in the house and senate. When we have had a President do much worse to all Nations. I can prove it to you, a list so big, that your head will spin, but I hope you can use some common sense! Open your eyes, and shut off the guilt inside, if you voted for him!

Count the troops lost in the Iraq war, when it was Afghanistan who was responsible. It was convenient to go get Saddam, for the Twin towers, when Bush Sr. could have and didn't years before! I used to know the total of civilian deaths in Afghanistan, and Iraq combined. But the number got so high I Lost track, but know it is over the casualties lost in New York. I know that in 2000, the American People did not want him in office, but the Supreme Court ruled in his favor. That was My wife's first time getting to vote, and that was truly a wasted vote for her and for most Americans. Yes I said It, A WASTE OF VOTE! The only happy people were people who voted for Bush, when no matter your opinion, he lost that race! He was handed the job by the powers that be, and it was not the PEOPLE!

"Too Close To Call"

I still cringe at those words today, and they will forever haunt my head! They will pain my heart like the rain on President Clinton's last day as our Nations leader. They burn in my memory like the day President Bush laid is hand on the Bible, to become Our Commander and Thief!

I thought for sure in 2004, that the American people would not allow him to have another chance. Just like this election, and most elections, John Kerry was not my first choice! I just knew that our Great Country would face a horrible future if he won again, and then came the words "It's a time to heal" My heart cried for too long, and my soul knew that the world was heading in a economic spiral!

It was heading in an Environmental collapse, and the world was mostly willing to improve their efforts, but he ripped up the Kyoto Treaty. It wasn't perfect, and I forget all the facts! But nobody can tell me what Bush has done is better! I have told you I belong to NO PARTY, and don't know everything! I use my heart and mind to discover truth, and common sense!

I had an Idea some years back, it was to collect information from all the newspapers, magazine's, and the News on television. Sit down add all the numbers up (The War Spending, and all Bills passed) and put the truth in order! Ha Ha

I could mention several times when money turned up missing, or how the Reasons for War changed! Who was a "traitor" for using the Freedom of Speech, and how people didn't support the troops, if they opposed the War. (When in fact it was the politicians who denied the troops proper gear, and Life Saving equipment! It was so damn hard to keep up with the lies from the Administration, and the Media! I compiled so much information, I had to get a storage unit! My friends and I went through so much information, that it would blur, or it would feel like your head could explode. The spending numbers never added up, and it was impossible to track exactly where the money was truly going?

We have all witnessed things in the last 8 years, that are criminal, and unjust! (Katrina, The war, Corruption, Environmental Crimes) We the People have allowed many people in the Bush administration, Democratic and Republican parties, Corporations, Pharmaceutical companies and other Countries POISON OUR CHILDREN! Poisoning them with Pollution, Greed, Hatred, and Toys! We have allowed places like Walmart sell faulty products, for far too long. Have you ever went near the back of the store to read the recalled products? It is usually electrical products or Baby/Child products, and it has been going on for years! Don't you think that POLITICIANS KNOW ABOUT THESE ISSUES?

We have allowed these people to touch Our Constitution, and pass laws that take away OUR Rights. I will admit that with time comes change, but will continue to state that The United States was significantly changed by the 2000 Election, and has paid the price every since! It has cost us many Liberties, Soldiers lives, Our Economy, Children's Education, A Cleaner Earth, and Millions of Lives World wide! I have noticed over the years that other countries, Stand up for their rights, and seem to have more freedom from courage. I'M A PACIFIST, I do not believe in violence, unless in SELF DEFENSE! I mention Freedom In Courage, when I see other Countries Rise to the Occasion, and March together for all causes!

When John Kerry said that "It was a time to heal" he should have said, Put your head between your legs and bend over! I don't belong to a specific Party, so if any one reads this an thinks, I'm a"Liberal piece of shit" YOUR WRONG! I have voted for a republican before, on lower levels of politics. I will admit all these people were never my first choice, and I could find better candidates in this country. They are too smart to want to be President, for the President is just a puppet! Senators and Congressman usually just fuss and fight, and give themselves raises. Put horrible things inside good Ideas, and make a point to mention that so and so, didn't vote for this bill. But fail to mention that inside that bill was hidden spending! They do that to persuade good people to vote for bad things, and if they don't vote for it "They don't care for the American people!"

They would rather honor people by naming a Street or School for an individual, instead embracing that persons Ideas. It easy to say that you believe in something but harder to hide the truth by your actions! If people believed in MLK, then why do we have leaders and a Country that still flames the fires of hate. If most of the World believes in Jesus, why are we still fighting these wars, and why does our Country fight healing lives?

I could go on about many people from both parties over the years! I know that within politics there are some Great decisions made by good people, and some needed laws passed! I know without law their would be disorder, and without Puppets there would be nobody to blame! It has been very difficult these last couple decades for me, I wanted nothing more than the betterment for mankind. I wanted to be a Great Political Leader, only to Discover that "Mr. Smith Goes To Washington" is the overall truth in Politics. I still am proud to Vote, and excited about the political process, but try to put the CHILDREN FIRST on Voting day!

I just wish that We The PEOPLE would not only vote to clear our conscience, but vote to remove the People Responsible from their elected positions. I wish WE THE PEOPLE would not have waited this long, to take action! I hope that the American people will (Wake Up) and not wait for the moment we swear in our New President, to STAND TOGETHER.

NO matter who wins, we need to challenge them to make the Right Decisions! We need to make sure the Future of the world is stable enough to survive the coming years! It is not too late to make things right, It is not too late for a Healthier Environment.

I know that when I saw Barrack Obama on July 5, 2005, he was outside talking to reporters by his SUV. When I was selected, I asked him my questions about the Environment, he really didn't give solid answers.He said that we need to limit people from driving Gas hogs, and that there was no proof that droughts and bad weather was due too pollution. He defended McCain and Lieberman on a bill they were trying to pass, that he cosponsored? He did say that we needed to come up with new technologies, to curb our dependency on Foreign oil. I had heard all this before, and wanted something more!

If you were wondering my questions or more about this day, you'll have to wait till a later entry! This was before he announced that he would run for President, yet after the town hall event the Local News papers were saying this could be our next President?

I have followed McCain for some time, and used to like what he stood for? Years ago I would have maybe voted for him, but things change, and so did he? I do agree with Obama when he brings up the fact that McCain has voted with Bush several times. I saw an add where McCain says "I voted with President Bush more than any other member in his party, about 90% of the time"????

Like I have told people for the longest time, that these candidates were not my first choices, and will vote for OUR CHILDREN'S future! I will vote for the environment, and for the betterment of mankind! I will not sit back and watch the World crumble any longer, we need change! We need somebody who will not continue to run this Country into the Depression it is heading! We need leadership that can put a dent into the damage caused by President George Bush, and lead (Our World) into a brighter hope for tomorrow, and a cleaner place WE THE HUMANS can peacefully coexist with all LIFE! A healthier place to call home, and a Future for OUR CHILDREN!

Whoever wins on Tuesday is obligated to the World to Begin the process of Change! They are expected to Deliver the Hope that they PROMISED THE AMERICAN PEOPLE! They must not forget WE OUR THE PEOPLE, and that we will Challenge them to do what is right this time!

WE MUST ACT NOW!

PEACE&LOVE
Loren Wesley

A Wake Up Call

2008-10-30T04:58:00.003-05:00

My wife called me a little after 5:00 this morning, and said she was in the Hospital! She started work at 2:00 am, and was directing traffic at the plant. Apparently she was walking when she passed out, and hit the gravel road. She said it was like she felt like a robot, and she was shutting down? When I loaded MJ up, and drove to pick her up, the Security guard told me her blood sugar levels spiked? Lisa can't remember much, but said it blood pressure was very bad. She will go into the doctors soon, and we will know more than. She required several stitches, and bit through her lips. She told me on the phone that she was ugly, and that I would not recognize her. She was wrong I saw her beautiful Blue eyes, and Shining soul!

I have tried to tell her that it could have been much worse, and thank goodness for the Hard hat, and Safety glasses! I don't know how , but she should have knocked out most of her teeth and broke her nose, but didn't? I just want to help her out in any way that I can, and will love her always!

Everybody has been sick, and MJ has had the oddest sleep times! She has been going to bed past 3:00 in the morning, and didn't pass out till 4:45 am when Lisa called me! I didn't get much sleep, and will have to do lots of stuff today. Forgive me for my ramblings, and lateness on reading entries.

Her is some good news! My Dad finally got out of the Hospital, and is home right now sleeping in his own bed! I hope it last longer than 2 days this time, and that he is kicking CANCERS ASS!
I will be putting out a few entries in the very near future, when I can find the time.

I wish you all beautiful days and magnificent evenings! :)

Peace&Love
Wes

A Poet's Travels: I Had It "Made" for a while!

2008-10-27T03:04:00.017-05:00

The house still smells like coconut shrimp and mango sauce. A friend from my old job brought me a box to try, and I couldn't say no! I will have to admit it was delicious, and the sauce is what made it even better. The funny thing is less than two years ago, I wouldn't have touched shrimp, or coconut anything! I have loved almost all foods, but did not like either one. I have been eating things with coconut, and shrimp every since my Grandfather in Georgia made me some fried shrimp. I know all about the mercury in fish, so I try to limit myself to eating it all the time.

The moral to my little story is (Don't be afraid to try new things, or food you hated as a kid)
Taste buds change over time, and eating certain things continually, will seemingly burn you out! There are many types of food I could eat all the time, and one is Italian anything!

My old friend Franko, who lived near Chicago owned a wonderful little place. It was a little white church, turned into a restaurant. On the front of the joint said "Bachi" in red letters. (Which is weird for a church restaurant, an Italian friend told me last year that it meant something naughty?) It was on Lockport Street, in the town of Plainsfield, IL.

Franko was Italian, and his place was full blown Italian food. I walked in there one day, and he says to me "Have you had the Pizza yet, No! Then its on the house, and every day that you come in here I want you to try something new, and let me Know what you thinka! And I don't want your money! Mario, don't ever take these two guys money! It's on the house"

Needless to say I went there all the time, and that included the wine list! I still gave great tips, and helped him on some small "Jobs."

I met all the people in his crew, and we HIT it off. "I was part of the Family"

I was working as a salesman in Chicago, and was staying in Hotels. The cheapest hotel I could find was near Plainsfield, and the BEST ITALIAN FOOD EVER was for FREE! I couldn't complain, I was doing alright. I loved many things about this time in my life, and almost worked as a male model, but chickened out. I don't regret it either, has anybody seen "Zoolander" when he's dancing like a monkey! :)I feel that would have been me! I almost got a job as Window washer! The ones who wash the windows on the skyscrapers, I didn't mind the heights, but in the "Windy City!" (Thanks but no Thanks)

Back to the restaurant, I was doing OK, and one day he approaches me, with a BUSINESS proposition. He Offered my friend and I a job, catering his food to business corporations in Chicago. I had the van, he had the food, and all we had to do was get the big food warmers for the van. He said "He Would take care of everything, and that we would make a lot of dough. That it was in our hands, if we wanted in on his BUSINESS." My friend Minor and I , only knew this guy a short while, and he seemed to good to be true! That we would be delivering "Food" to places, and driving around Chicago traffic. We would waltz into big corporations with unopened dishes, and that would be it?

My friend backed out, and I still entertained the Idea, because I try not to judge a book by its cover. That was until I sat and notice things, like all the shops on the street were owned by Italians, and some of his people made numerous trips to the bank?

One day I was sitting and eating at the restaurant, and a beautiful waitress comes by. She smiles at me, and I smile back. Later My friend comes out and says "Do you think she is pretty?" I replied "Yes"

He says to me "That is my niece from Italy, and she would make a good wife! If you want I could introduce you to her, and let you two get acquainted." He calls her over, and walks away. Leaving the two of us alone. She was an amazing girl, but I wanted him to return as soon as possible. He returned a few minutes later, and sensed that I wasn't happy.

I was so shocked, but upfront with him, and said "I mean you and her no disrespect, but I'm kind of trying to work something out with a girl, and I'm not looking for marriage right now! I believe you when you say that she would make a good wife, and I would like to get know her as a friend. Like with you!" He looked as if he was shocked and pleased at the same time.

Then he says to me "I like you! I like your honesty, and the fact that you are a strong individual. I meant you no disrespect, only wanted to offer you the chance to find some happiness, and be a part of my family. I hope this does not get in the way of our business opportunity, or our friendship!"

I told him that everything was fine, and that I appreciated the offer. That there was no disrespect by is invitation, and that I hoped he was alright with that. His niece and I did have dinner that evening, and it was very pleasant. We had the top of the restaurant to ourselves, and laughed and talked for some time. We listened to some amazing Opera music, some of the Rat Pack tunes, and drank some wine. The night lasted longer than I anticipated, and the moment carried over till morning. We both knew that we were not going to see each other again, so we made the best of our time. It was a good night, and a wonderful morning!

After I declined on the business idea, he offered me a job at the the restaurant. Until I figure out what I wanted to do, and got a decent place. Somehow he persuaded this lady that turned me down a month ago to rent this great place! It was above the local Newspaper, and he said he could get me a job there if I wanted it. At this point I was freaked out, and didn't know what to say. I told him I had a family emergency back home, that I would return in a couple days with an answer.

I returned a couple days later, and told him that I appreciated everything he did for me and my friend, that I had to respectively decline. That I was going down south for some sales work, and would call him when I came back into the area. Time passed and life had other crazy plans for me, and I didn't make it back to the area for almost a year.

Franko welcomed me and Minor with open arms "Anything you two guys want it is on the house, and bring the best bottle of whine we got!" After we hate and had a couple bottles, he told me that "The wine we were drinking, we could not get any more, that some of the greatest writers, and Italian artist drank this wine! I can't remember the name of the wine, and didn't get to see a bottle, but it was good and strong! I could tell it was an aged wine. I won't pretend to know a lot about wine, but it was Delicious!

I don't know why things were the way they were, but can say it was fun. I can't tell you everything, for fear of a horses head in my bed, but can say it was an experience that I will always remember!There is more to this story, and I would love to tell you all the details. But I fear I have said too much, and must be a Good Fella, and not rat nobodies out! Ha HA

I can still hear some Italian sayings that echo in the my mind! But one sticks in my head like the cheeses in the lasagna, "Il tempo idenaro" Time is money! I heard him say that one often, to his employee's. Another one I say to my wife and daughter, "Tu are splendido" You are beautiful"

We talked about the last year, and that we loved his friendship and his food! I told him that I would return, and tell all my friends about the place. It was about a couple years later, and I went back with a girlfriend. I went to ask about Franko, and his brother told me he moved to Arizona, and that he was well. I told him to tell him that one of the "two guys"says hello! His brother was kind to me and my date, he gave us a meal on the house. I discovered after all these years, that it was kindness that ran deep in his Family!

So, in memory of my my past, and to all the good people. I raise a glass and say "salute" and "Grazie"

I hope you all "Buona giornate" and "(Milles) Grazie" for stopping by!

Arrivederci,
Wes

Row, Row, Row Your Boat

2008-10-23T14:14:00.013-05:00

I try to stop thinking about all the things that are bothering me, but can't! I try to think of something funny to say, but keep thinking about reality. Life can be very challenging, and full of surprises. We can go to bed with a smile to wake up with a frown, and one moment be on top of the world, only to be knocked down. One thing is constant, I will keep positive about life's plan.

I know that other people have bigger fish to fry than myself, and know I'm not a victim, rather a student in these lessons of life. I have to keep my mind focused on my spiritual growth, and the love I have for others. I can remember in my youth, I was certain that I would be very successful at this point in my life. I was certain I could save those who needed saving, and lead all the people in my life to calm waters. When we are young, we think that we can conquer anything that stands in our way. I read other peoples entries, and see that whatever happened in life, they have strength from their experiences, and a place to call home.

I was and am a dreamer, I still cling to Ideas that I will be something great! That I will be able to help others for a living, whatever that might be? I have always done better helping other people, before myself. In past jobs, and walking down the street people have came up to me for advice. A few times total strangers have shared a small part of life, and looked to me for advice. I would tell them, I don't know you or your life story, but think that you should follow your heart. I will listen to what the problem is, and put my two cents in, but ask myself Why Me? Not that I don't want to, or don't like to help. It scares me that it happens so often , it is like a moth going to a bright flame. I only wish is I did in fact help them, and they were able to feel their good soul inside, like I do when I help them!

Right now my heart is aching, and my mind is uncertain. My soul screams to help people, but whispers to my heart, to help myself first. It is hard for me to get out of bed theses days, because I don't have a sure path. I know I love my family, and myself! I do know that if I could find a career that lets me help others, and make descent money. I could discover my inner peace, and be where I want to be in this troubled world. If money didn't exist, I could be more clear minded. Unfortunately it does, and so do bills. Now that I'm 31 yrs. Old, and have a family I have to think about financial security. I have been trying to do that for a few years now, and seemed to have chosen the wrong jobs. It has never failed, I get the short end of the stick when it comes to keeping that security.

I will not go into great details on the jobs I have had, but say that in some I helped Mentally and Physically challenged people. I loved that job, but realized that the people in charge didn't care about others like I did! I have worked with animals, and found that the powers that be would rather kill than heal. I have worked with churches on distributing food, and the main focus was being selective on who would receive help. I have worked at places like Goodwill, and discovered that items would be placed aside for the bosses, and what was left would be priced too high! I worked at a nursing home as a janitor, and witnessed neglect and abuse. In one occasion, a man was standing with his pants all the way down, begging me to pull them up, before a guided tour would see him. I assisted him , before they could see, and the bad thing was the Director was with them. In this example, the man's son was an assistant coach for the New Orleans Saints at the time. You got to figure he made good money, but placed his father in a home?

Don't get me wrong, I loved the people in all these jobs , but could not stomach the neglect, and could not keep quiet. Resulting in unpleasant departures, and people told me to do my job, and keep quiet. People in my family looked at me with disappointment, rather than pride. I don't regret the ways I handled myself, and would do it all over again. I would just deal with it better, and would have found a way to hold those accountable for their actions. I have discovered people like to sweep things under a rug, or pretend that all is good , when it's not!

I have worked on other jobs where safety was supposed to be number one! When in fact it was the opposite, we did not have the proper equipment, or training. I know this happens all the time, and most people will continue to do the jobs asked. I have been guilty of this too, but have stood up for the other workers, even if they didn't want me to. I can recall a time that we were supposed to go into a tank, and have respirators. It was almost lunch time, so I stated to my coworkers "Lets go have an early lunch, and wait till we get our safety equipment" We started to leave when the "Boss told all of us, if we went to lunch we would not have a job to go back to! Go ahead and take lunch Wes, but don't come back" The rest of the workers went back work, and I went to lunch. I wasn't fired for it, but lost respect for my coworkers, and my job!

I know that there are good jobs out there, and I will find one, but without school? I know that if I want to I can still help others without payment, but have to think of my family. I will still help others, but do it like I always have for free! I lack the proper qualifications to land an amazing job helping others, but would like nothing more than to devote my life to helping people, or animals!

I have said enough about that, probably too much! I don't ask for hand outs, and have never owned a credit card. I have not tried to take more than my own fill, and have followed the belief "If I don't have the money, I don't get it!" Sometimes I have splurged on things like movies, or a CD, when I should have saved it. I'm far from perfect, and know that I could have realized the truth about myself a lot faster! I could have helped myself before I helped others, but still feel good, no matter my place in life. I know that my life was designed, and have slowly accepted my path. I have grown from my mistakes, and from my choices! I have gained information from the school of life, and have graduated on so many levels. I have become stronger than I was as a teenager, and wiser than one too.

I look at our daughter and see I need to locate my path as soon as possible. But at the same time I look at her and see my path. I love taking care of her, and sometimes feel that I can do better. I want her to be happy, and not have to worry like I had to when I was a kid. I want her to be in a position, where she can go to any school she wants, and give her more than love, when the bills come in. I want her to understand that we have to work for what we want in life, and not be discouraged by my lack of financial security. Not be discouraged by my place in this world, and to understand that sometimes we live on principals, not the mighty dollar. It is extremely important for me to find my middle, and get paid for something I love doing. I no longer want to dread a job, and justify it by the paycheck. I will do what ever it takes to provide for my family, but will always long for better. A Better for the ones I love, and the strangers on the the street.

My life as been very hard, and very emotional this year. I wouldn't say harder than others, but more complicated. I have been trying to keep the love and peace in my family, and for myself. I have been juggling my life, and not making much head way. It all comes back to acceptance and strength. I have no regrets about most of my actions, but wish to make them up to others and myself. I want to lead by example, but must first find my present self.

Cancer is starting to eat at my heart, and is spreading to my brain. I have experienced death countless times, but it was usually sudden. My fathers situation is very different, he withers away from cancer and his treatments. The man that stands before me can't even stand! The man that sits before me can barely keep his head up, and shakes from pain. The man who lays before me can't even open his eyes, or talk. The man who sleeps before me can't even hug his children, or weep.

I will remain positive that he will heal from prayer, and from love. I will keep faith in life's plan, and that no matter the outcome. I will still wake up each day with infused knowledge, and keep my head up. When I sleep, I will still keep my dreams alive, and when I'm awake I will try to be strong and true to myself and to others! I will still keep the love for all things flowing in the unpredictable rivers of life. I know that If I fight the current my body will tire, and if I let the current take me, I will be pushed into places that are not my home. I will swim with the water rather then be pushed down another waterfall. I can see a boat by the shore, and will try my damnedest to reach it. When I finally do, I will pick up all the passengers I see!

Peace&Love
Wes

That's Not Mud McCain/Palin Are Slinging!

2008-10-22T02:47:00.014-05:00

LWIIS NEWS :)

We Report:
As of 2:00 A:M this morning a spokesperson for the McCain/Palin campaign said this:

"We at the McCain headquarters wish to apologize for attacking a person character, and for slandering the good name of Barrack Saddam Osama Hitler Hoover Stalin Bush Obama. That we wish to cater not just to the rich, but any one who will vote for us, and believe what we want you to believe."

Reporters yelling and shouting! "If he is so sorry why is he.." "Why has he been saying.."

"Sorry no questions or comments!" "We only wish to apologize to the American people and the Barrack friend of a terrorist Obama campaign. We Wish you all a good day!"

LWIIS Reports:

Reporter No.1 There you have it folks the McCain/Palin people sure know how to say there sorry, and really seem to care about the American people. When I say care about the American people I mean Joe the Plumber!

Reporter No.2
What was the words of wisdom he was saying? I believe he said if we vote for Obama life would go down the crapper! That Obama's words don't float in his bowl, that when he is near McCain/Palin that he smells something very familiar. That it reminds him of his duties at work?

Reporter No.2
Could it be the smell of victory? Could it be he thinks that that the Republican party has a chance to flush the democrats out of their victory, and that he chooses to plunge head first into this election?

Reporter No.1
I really don't have the answer, but can say that he can decide what is best for America, and the working man! That who better than Joe the Plumber! I can say that these times are tough, maybe a little SWIRLY, but we can do it together as Americans! He's right we can smell something familiar with him, and the McCain/Palin campaign.

Reporter No.2
I believe your on to something here, but fail to realize it is the smells of shit being thrown around!

Reporter No.1
Well there you have it folks the McCain/Palin people have given us a wHOLE new meaning to the term mud slinging!

South Park & Lakewood Terrace

2008-10-21T03:50:00.004-05:00

5/5/98

The empty forest,
The unoccupied tables.
Not a roaring fire in sight!
For me the voices echo eternally,
down the forgotten trails.

To the many faces I've came across,
all the conversations, hopes, and dreams.
Sharing them together.
watching the countless sun rises, and sunsets.

Taking all the good with the bad.
Season after season.
Lost souls united, speaking as one mind.
But as the time passed,
another link of the chain was seemingly broken.

The trails intertwine, they connect.
So, shall the lost souls.
This park that surrounds the Terrace will remain.

One day!
One night!
One year!

We shall all be one again.
From this forgotten friend
I send a message of gladness, sadness, uncertainty,
but most of all Thanks!

I wrote this about a place that brought me peace& love. A place that healed my heart, and help free my soul. This a place that memory will play, until god rings a bell to come home.

I just wanted to share a little piece of my youth, and to think of old friends. I wanted share this with my new friends, and hope you all have a rewarding day! Thanks you all for stopping by, and do me a favor today! :) SMILE! :)

Peace&Love
Wes

Zoinks!

2008-10-19T02:39:00.004-05:00

As usual I waited till last minute to get a costume, and they were picked over. I was going to be a drunk Scotsman, after all I am part Scottish. I chose not be that in case of cold weather, and I didn't want a draft up the ole kilt. I thought about being a Spartan cheerleader, but I preferred other Will Ferrell skits. I passed on the Officer Jim Dangle from "Reno 911", for the shorts would be inappropriate for the youngsters. I saw so many funny costumes, but had to dress age appropriate.

After all the several family members would be there, and all the kiddies. I chose "Shaggy" from "Scooby Doo", and my wife was "Daphne". Malayna was a puppy, because right now she is puppy obsessed. Almost every animal is a puppy, and a short time back we would go through a whole list of animals. MJ would name each one, and do their sounds. She was stuck on "Puppy", and would pant like a dog. I tried to find a little "Scooby" or "Scrappy" but could not find one in time for my Dads party today.

The morning started off normal, as normal can be right now! We got up and got her snacks, which is really breakfast. Then her juice, and let her watch her shows. Mom had to get up and go to the Doctors office today, and get some test done. After she was done we would go over to the campgrounds, and go to the costume judging. Mom was running late, so I got her in her costume, and made it over with seconds to spare.

They called for our age group, and I took MJ by her hand, and she carried the sign that read "Beware of Guard puppy". She did so well, and held on to the sign as the judges passed us by. People in the crowd commented on how cute she was, and asked if we could stop for pictures, so we did. I was the only adult dressed up during the day, that was until Lisa showed up. As the judges walked by I couldn't help but think of "Best In Show", I laughed about the film in my head. I noticed MJ was looking at the kids, and smiled and laughed at most of them. Once I ever get around to figuring out all this computer stuff, I will post pictures of us.

Back to the contest, they named off the top three costumes, and she did not get called. Oh well, I didn't think any thing about it. Then the second place girl passed all the kids and stuck her tongue out at all the kids and said "I got second place, Ha Ha!" It truly didn't bother me, but part of me felt for the other kids. When I made my way back to the family, my niece mentioned what the little girl did, and I responded by saying "That it did not matter, that it is about having fun", which we did!

An odd thing happened to me, and it made me laugh! I was standing next to my Step Mother Kay, and she tapped me on the back. So, I turned around and this woman was standing behind me with her hand out. Naturally I shook her hand, and she was complimenting my costume, She was telling me how she had a crush on "Shaggy" growing up, and dated guys who resembled him. I'm standing there with Kay, and she's by her kids, and a man, and she says "I just want to say that you Really look like him." Zoinks, that was awkward!

It shocked me for two reasons, I didn't expect it. The other reason who had the hots for "Shaggy", I mean it's him, and not to forget it's a cartoon!

Thank goodness for the family coming to my rescue, and by the way I have always had a goatee, and wore green shirts. My dad used to kid with me about the resemblance, but he wasn't serious. I just wished I didn't shave my real one a few days ago, I had to keep placing it on my chin. I felt like a cast member on SNL, when the fake mustache would fall or tilt. Those were some of my favorite parts of the show.

When it was about time for the hay rack rides, and the trick er treating Lisa pulls up! (Woo Ho)
Here comes "Daphne, and now I can show the world that "Shaggy and "Daphne" could be a couple, that it wasn't always about "Fred"! MJ was really happy to see her, and I was relieved too! Now I could start video taping some more for my dad, he wasn't able to make it. The Doctors said he couldn't leave the hospital until he could keep food down, and the chemo treatments were treating him kinder!

We got our candy, I mean Mj's Candy! Ha ha
We opted to walk the roads with the stroller, rather than be crammed on the hay rack rides. All went well, and we made it back to the family. Then my Grandparents showed up ,and we visited with them. My Grandfather mentioned that he just saw my father, and that he was doing better.
So, I called him and asked him if we went to Springfield to grab some food, if he would like us to stop. "Would I want you guys to stop by, I've been waiting!"

We were off in the "Mystery Machine" to grab some "Scooby Snacks" and see Pa Pa! After we loaded up her stroller, and got all the things that MJ needed, we made our way to the doors. People already were smiling and staring, and so I put on a show. I took those really long steps that Shaggy takes, and responded with "Zoinks"! A few kids even yelled "Hi Shaggy" and the old men looked at Lisa's Daphne outfit, with her 70's boots. Doctors, Nurses, patients, and visitors enjoyed us being all dressed up.

I always try to make it humorous for all when I go to the hospital, and most importantly my father! The bonus is that the other cancer patients get a kick out of it too. I just don't like hospitals, but I know that there are angels who roam those halls. I praise any one who works in a hospital, even if it is the janitor! I used to be one in a Nursing home, and it was a learning experience!

We made it to the room , and my sister was there. She beat us there, we did stop for snacks. My dad was pleased that we were having a good day, and that we stopped by. The smiles on his face were heartwarming, and the joy in his tone was wonderful. I finally sit down, and he laughed! He stated "That goat under chin, you usually have one, that one his so goofy!" He laughed all through that broken sentence. I almost didn't wear it in, but thought he could enjoy it.

I could dress up every day of the year, if society wouldn't lock me up! It is amazing how costumes, and impressions can brighten up peoples days.

My father felt well enough to walk to the waiting room, and he even picked Malayna up, to show her to his new found friends. I have made friends with many people on the cancer floor, and just about every floor for that matter. We sat in the waiting room, and laughed, talked, and reminisced. Several doctors and nurses stop by to give candy to MJ, and it gave my dad the chance to brag about his little puppy, and his family! After a little while we said good bye, and made it back to the house to change out of our costumes. It had turned colder, so we wanted to be dressed warmer for the Chili cookout.

Arriving back at the campgrounds, we sat by Kay, and talked about what movies we thought were scariest. Watched the Adult costume contest, and ate chili. Played with kids, until somebody came through the crowd with a fake chainsaw, and mask! MJ did not like it ,so I pulled her off to the side. We went over to the playground, and played with Cassie our niece. She was scared too, and I told her don't repeat what I'm about to say to anyone "If that guy tries to scare you or MJ again, I will put that chainsaw somewhere, and it just might hurt!" I got a laugh out of her, and told her was fake, that there was no blade on it. Once again all was peaceful, so we gathered our things, and went over to the bonfire.

It was the biggest bonfire I have ever seen, it had to be at least 20 to 25 feet tall. It was in a safe location, and so were we! Me personally I would never have one that big, and I felt even with volunteer Fire Fighters there, it was too big. Ask me if I thought it was awesome, and I will tell it was a site to see! The kid was getting irritable, and we had been gone all day, we started to get ready to go home. Plus, SNL was on in thirty minutes, and we still had to say goodbye.

We said our goodbye's, and followed each other home. We made it with seven minutes to spare, and the opening was funny! I just don't like the fact that undecided, and uninformed people will vote just because of the show tonight! It is all fun and games, until we have four more years like we have had the last seven! I love elections, but don't understand how anybody can vote for the candidate that entertains them, and not the one who would be best for the world. Enough about politics and a confused nation.

I can say that despite my father not being able to show for his own party, and the stresses in my own life, I had Fun. My family had fun today, and we were able to make strangers feel good. I was able to relax when I got home, and lay with my family until they passed out. Almost finished my S. Brown book, and ate some homemade brownies and chocolate chip cookies.

Before I go, I would like any one who reads this to answer three questions for me please.

What are some of the movies that Scared you?
What is your favorite costume of all time?
What will you be this year?

Thank you all for stopping by my place, and I wish you all a Groovy day!

Best Wishes,
"Shaggy"

I Paint A Picture With Broken Crayons

2008-10-17T03:02:00.012-05:00

I wish to write about what is on my mind , but can't right now. So, I write about some instances where I encountered racism first hand. I should say bigotry toward mankind, and myself. When I was under two years old, I witnessed some neighbors yelling the N word. They were yelling at our neighbors to our left. I know people say you can't remember things that young , but I do! It is really hard to block out hate like that. I was playing with my brother outside in front of the green house, when a fight erupted. My father told us to go inside, and to go get a snack. I know you thinking is there more to this story, but at my age just that little bit was enough for me to be introduced to racism.

After all, Pekin, Illinois high school mascot used to be the "Pekin Chinks" I think until the late 60's. I won't judge the town today, but in recent years past, people who were different didn't stick around long enough to see the truth. I can recall another time when we got rained out from detasselling, and we sat at the park until our rides showed up. This nice car comes barreling through the parking lot, throwing gravel all over cars. We didn't think anything about it, and kept playing cards. About ten minutes later, a Police officer comes over to talk to my brother Don, Scott, and me.

I forgot to mention Scott was from Guam, and looked different! Any ways, the Cop says "You boys been throwing rocks at cars?"

We respond "No Sir"

"That ain't what I heard, I heard a gentleman saw you throw rocks at his car" My brother looks at me with his don't say a word face. Then the cop yells to Scott "Get up boy! Your coming to the station with me!" That was all I could take so I said "Look I know the law and we didn't do anything, and you can't do a thing to us!" My brother gave me a you should of shut up face.

The next thing you know "He's going to haul us all to the station". I couldn't resist the urge to make the point again, and to state that he was being a racist! He told me if I said another word, he'd put the cuffs on me, and I said a few more words. To make this long story short, I was handcuffed, I have always had trouble with racist people. Even if they wore a badge, it made no difference who you were. We ended up in the cell for a few hours, and was released without charges. My Older brother gave the face that said you should have listened to me. Maybe so, but I would do it the same way all over again!

Years later, when I was about 17 yrs. old, I was working on a job. We were doing all the work on top of grain bins, I was a millwright. It had rained one day, so we decided to go get an early lunch. We were in this tiny town I will call "Somewhere, Illinois" and we walk in this little restaurant. I sit down with the crew, and take my coat and hat off. Suddenly the whole place stopped eating, and the workers stopped working. They were staring at our table, they were staring at me. I didn't think anything about my long hair passed my waist, and waited for our table to be served.

Less than a minute later, a bunch of "Deliverance" looking men came over to me and surrounded me. I was working with my brother Don, who was about to get up from the table, and so was the rest of the crew. When Mike our boss said "Just sit down boy's, we are here to get some food!

When one of the men looked at me, and got in my face and said "Look at the faggot, an his pretty faggot hair!" I start to feel anger rising inside me, and I looked at my brother, and he's giving me the let's kick there ass face.

When a couple police officers walk in, and ask the owner if there is a problem? The owner shouts"NO, ain't no problem here, these boys were just leaving!" So, my boss Mike tells us all to get in the truck, and we went several miles away to eat lunch that day. This was in the late Nineties when this occurred. All I kept thinking was about that seen in "Easy Rider", and wanted to get the hell out of that town. I wished I could tell you the name, so you could avoid it, but I blocked it out.

I will be honest there are too many to mention, and will recall them some other time. I would like to bring up one last incident. I was working a Door to Door job selling floor cleaner, and we went up and down this country. It is a really long story, so I will get to the nitty gritty here.

Wait a minute, I can't forget to mention a little of the night before. We were staying in a Hotel near London, Ohio, and I was talking to my mom. I was using a phone card, and venting some complaints about the job. I was telling her it felt like they were brainwashing me , and wouldn't let us leave our group. Not even to eat a different joint. The card quit on the part about letting us leave.....

It was couple days later, and I'm eating potato soup, while hang out with a friend. After I was done eating, I made my way to the Hotel, when I noticed several cops there. One of my friends comes my way and says "Wes, they are looking for you! I don't know what they want, but they checked every room. Even the bosses suite, and he is mad!" My friend kept walking by me, when two cops come up to me, and say "Is your name Wes?" I shook my head yes, and asked what the problem was?

They filled me in on all the details, apparently my mom called my Uncle Paul telling him I was kidnapped, and held captive by a cult. They had been searching the whole state for me the last couple days. I guess I should have got another phone card! Ha Ha

Now back to the story I'm in Akron, Ohio, where I was waiting at the bus station. The company I was working for failed to tell me about the eight hour wait. It wouldn't have been as bad if I wasn't the only white guy there. I had three suit cases, and my stereo to carry around, I'm not saying I was worried about a theft, but mentioning for the sheer pain in the butt! I would have to say I sat there reading a book for a couple hours, and I noticed a kid messing with the video games. It had to of went on for about an hour, so I went over and put a couple bucks in change on the machine. I said "Hear you go kid, play a couple games to pass the time." The kid replied "Thank you"

I didn't think much about it, and tried to make my way back to my seat. That's when all hell broke loose! I'd say about twenty people got up, and started swinging and screaming! "How dare you give money to my kid, and what makes you think" When an elderly man pulls me out the door, and says "What were you thinking, and why did you do a stupid thing like that? You should know better than to do that!"

Meanwhile a couple good Samaritan's are holding people back. The man says "You'd best stay out here for a while , and let it settle down! I will watch your stuff." I had a some time to think about what had just happened. I couldn't believe that people that I have been standing up for my whole life, treated me like that. I was appalled that black people were just as racist as the white people who harassed my black friends. They were just as racist as the police who picked on me and my friends.

Ask me if I regret it, and will say no I don't! It showed me that all people are racist, but with every color there are other's like me. Believe me when I say there are too many stories to tell, and that I can't accept ignorance, and bigotry. It pains my heart and soul that RACISM is alive and well, in this world! That people won't vote for someone because of their color, or their sex. The poetic part to this election, is that we will have Black President, or a Woman for Vice President.

If only Erin Brockovich or Caroline Kennedy were running on a ticket. If only Bill Cosby or Danny Glover were a choice.

We have to look at it like this, we will be done with the Bush years, and the people who advised him on his mistakes.

I just pray that we get someone who actually cares about the environment, humanity, and our human rights!

Peace&Love to All

Wes

A Burning Question

2008-10-14T02:09:00.007-05:00

With the recent forest fires that are burning as I type, it reminds of the need for environmental education. When I say education I speak of the children, and to the people who care about their future! I grew up wanting to change the world, and fix all the Earth's problems. My father gave some sound advice when I was a teenager, he said "Son I know that you want to rid the world of destruction, but realize the truth. Most people don't care like you and I , so do want you want. I suggest is that you do your part, and first focus on your own backyard!"

It took me many years to understand his words, and to accept them. I do see the logic, because if everyone took care of their own back yard , we wouldn't leave as big a mess for the children of the future! I still aspire to create positive change for the world, and have worked for the Sierra Club a couple years ago. I was able to get enough petitions signed to save the Giant Red woods in California. At least I think we saved them, between the fires and the greed's hands. I just haven't had the heart to see if the specific Sequoias were saved.

For year's now, I have insanely laughed at some people's Ideas about life, What I mean is I have heard the expressions, and seen it on bumper stickers. "I support Life" "Choose Life" Don't get me wrong, I am all for babies being born. I just think that the Earth is Life, and without it there would be no life! So, when I hear politicians ,or civilian's quote that, a question comes to mind. I want to ask them why they don't believe in fighting for the environment?

A little side note, I believe in a woman's choice, but believe that there are better choices then that! Like adoption, or having family that would take on the responsibility. Until the person who wasn't ready, was ready! I know I'm not a women , or know what it is like to have to face that decision. But I have had family members go through what I think would be the toughest of all decisions! I just take a look at MJ, and think I could never do that, or think about all the parents who can't have children. Enough said, and now let the judging begin!

I used to get so upset about society's lack of compassion for the Earth. I never gave up hope, but would get discouraged. Let me tell a couple situations, that have inspired me to continue with the hope that has never left me.

One day I was at a park in Pekin, Illinois, sitting eating lunch. I watched the garbage be thrown down to the ground like rain. I saw at least ten people toss it on the ground, rather than walk fifteen steps to the can. I was disgusted at this point, and thought about picking it all up. When a mother and a young boy walked by, and the mom threw hers down too! It just about put me in a frenzy, but then I heard the the boy say "Mom don't throw trash down, take it to the trash can, or recycle it! We need to save the planet, and stop all the polluting!" She picked it up, and put it where it belonged. (Even though landfill space is scarce, and contaminating!)

Another time I was feeling down about the lack of concern and effort. From the poeple that I knew, and from the world. I was driving down the road to go eagle watch at a Lake near Topeka, Illinois. When I witnessed a man with no arms picking up trash out of the ditches. The man had no arms, and he was doing his part to clean up the earth. He was using his feet, and doing quite well. I was so impressed the next time I saw him, I introduced myself. Later we both picked up trash together!

Before I go, I would like to state that this man I will call "Jimmy", did almost everything that I could do. He got his own groceries, and even drove his own modified car. He has inspired me to never give up on the fight for the Earth! He taught me to try, and overcome life's "little" problems. It has been a few years now since his passing, but his strength and compassion is something that society needs to remember. I know I will!

I wish to thank all the people who taught me the importance of conservation, and the need to educate others. I wish to thank the people who do their part, and the ones who tend to this garden we call earth. I will leave you all with this message I have been saying for years now, and it is mainly for those who are selective on the life they support.

"For the sake of the children,
"WE MUST ACT NOW!"

Peace&Love
Earth Spirit

Riddled With Emotions

2008-10-13T02:03:00.003-05:00

Life's what it is sometimes, and then there was the last few days! I am at the crossroads looking in all directions. My heart is aching and my mind is mush. The good news is that spirituality is hugging my heart, and numbness is my strength. My love for life is my pen and earth is my paper. Right now it is hard to write, let alone express my emotions. The love I share for those who love me is strong, as for the ones who did me wrong. I still see the goodness of a soul, but question it's truth. I believe we contribute in the way life presents itself, but can only do so much for others. I will remain strong and true to myself, and take each day as a new beginning!

Peace&Love
Wes

Love Rested In My Arms Tonight

2008-10-09T23:50:00.003-05:00

As I type she is falling asleep in my arms, something MJ rarely does anymore. I cherish this moment, when she is still small enough to fit in my arms. Her blue eyes gazing at me with unconditional love. The way she looks at me will forever be in my heart and mind. Right now I'm taking a mental picture, that will remain in my soul.

I can see that she just fell into her slumber, but will continue to type with one finger for a little while longer. I'm amazed at a child's take on life, it seems so simple. Yet very complex, every second they learn something new, things that we take for granted. They look at everything in wonderment, unless it scares the poop out of them. Don't get me wrong as adults we still learn something new everyday, and we have eyes filled with wonderment.

The difference is we no longer see joy in almost everything, we have done did that, now let's move on! We get bored too easy, our attention spans can be like a small child's. We lose focus on mundane tasks, for we are thinking too much. Unlike a child, who doesn't think before they act sometimes. I mean think about, we are all born without fear, but when we mature over time we remember the pain. We remember regret, heartache, and mistakes. It is good that sometimes we learn from or mistakes, and other times it seems too late.

What I'm getting at is after each time we feel negative emotions, we hold back on our actions. I believe that fear should mean go! We should not cower by life handing us lemons, or by our lemon stained hands. We as a society make lemonade all the time, we are human. What I like to do is make lemon shake ups, screw the lemonade. I realize from my own life that overcoming fear, is easier said than done. In most cases it takes years to master the art of confidence. The actions of self help, or to simply laugh in the face of diversity.

Laughter can be the best medicine, and joy the best emotion in life. We all live separate lives, but link together as a chain. Look at these journals for example, people connecting from all over the world. A society becoming a cyber family, and people from all backgrounds conversing about many wonderful things. Sharing memories and current events. Driving our thoughts onto the "Information Super Highway", and for the most part I've seen no real cyber rage!

I would like to say that the people I have looked in on, and commented to are very special people! Don't worry I'm not going to get all "Stuart Smalley" on you, but would like you all to know that I feel blessed to have come across this path some call blogging. I feel blessed to finally be reading other peoples Art, yes to me it is Art! I don't care if you're reading a grocery list, and talking about nothing. To me it is Art, and there is no other way for me to call it. I feel blessed to be able to write again, and have others read it. (Aren't you glad I didn't say "Art" again!) Oops

I would like to take the time to mention Nutwood Junction, my Pal Beth has been an inspiration to write, and to let myself be free. Free enough to express the humor that has been "locked away, with crazy aunt in the attic." Ha ha

I bring her up, because for the longest time she was my only responder. She would set um up, and I would knock um down. (Vice verse)
I would like to let other people know that with the way my life is right now, I'll try my best to get to know you!

Before I forget, I would like to thank you for stopping by, and wishing my father and my family well! I wished I could say that he is getting better, but his fevers returned with his chills. The cause seems to from the experimental chemo treatments? We will find out more tomorrow, and hopefully my father will feel a little better. I have a super busy day, and am contemplating what to do first.

Sometimes I wish I could do what Michael Keaton's character did in "Multiplicity", but you can see how it turned out for him. "She touched" the over cloned one as well! I love that movie!
I'm already living the role in "Mr. Mom", minus a kid or too. I don't complain about it, at least not that often. Ha ha

I really feel for parent's who raise children by themselves, and wish them Lot's of hugs. I wish them the best of luck, and pray that they can take time to enjoy themselves! I mean I have to decompress and journal at odd hours. It is all good, for I am a partial insomniac. I've been one since the age of five, and with each year it got worse.

The only real cure was working myself to exhaustion, and pretty much passing out when I got home. I do miss working, and being a part of a team. I don't miss the bull of a boss telling me to do things backwards, and coworker gossip. I bring this up mainly because I received a letter in the mail saying I have an interview soon. It is the same line of work as my father and wife, a Construction Laborer. It is good money, but long hours! It is an apprenticeship program, therefore you can't refuse work, or skip anything. You have to go to classes, and meetings, no matter what!

I mainly signed up to make my dad happy, and to maybe make some real good money. But after seeing what the job has been doing to our family, and the way MJ is expressing sadness. I feel, now is not the best time to start such a demanding, and time consuming job. That maybe I should take an office job, or something that will allow me to be here for my daughter more. A job that won't have the word mandatory attached to it, in case I have to miss days due to my fathers illness. Maybe I'm wrong, all I know is I would like to get back to work, or go back to school.

I would like to say that my wife and I were able to lay together watching some of our favorite shows tonight. It was so awesome to be able to hold her, and laugh at "The Office", and SNL on Thursday! I made every second count, and didn't let anything get in the way of our love.

I had MJ locked away in the basement with "Sloth" and they were eating "Baby Ruth's" Ha ha

I held Lisa till she fell asleep in my arms, or about the time ER came on. I switched it back in forth to My Chicago Bulls preseason game against Dallas. They made a late comeback, and missed a shot that could put them within 2 points. The Mavericks made a three-pointer, and that was all she wrote.

I would have to say it was wonderful night, and say that I was blessed to have both of my loves fall asleep in my arms.

"Scrambled eggs all over my face. What is a boy to do. Good night, everybody."

Thanks
Wes

I Wish Him Well

2008-10-08T23:56:00.010-05:00

These last few days have been rough for me and my family. I know I say life's what it is sometimes, but can't it be easier on my dad. I have made several trips to the hospital these last couple weeks, and he's usually asleep. When he wakes up it almost seems like he doesn't recognize me. I tell myself that it is from all the medications, and chemo, and radiation treatments. I just never realized how much the human body can take at one time.

He can barley talk, due to his lumps in his throat. You have to believe me this man can talk your head off. Especially about politics, and he hasn't said a word about it in a few weeks.Speaking of politics, on one of the nights of the Democratic Convention, MJ and him watched it together. I wished I could have seen it, but Grandpa told me she sat back quietly, and applauded every time they did! That made grandpa and grandma's night! Just the other day she said Obama, my dad has a sign in the front of his yard. I wished he could have seen it, or I had the video camera.

My father has been in the hospital for over two weeks, and in a different room every couple days. I have been on level 2, level5, and now back to level 2. What brought him back, besides the cancer, was he had mystery fevers that would not go away? At least he is a little better now, but I don't think he will return home soon.

It has been such a tease for my father, he will return home one night, then have to go back for a few days. He even missed my Birthday on Monday, and Lisa even made a cake with Hershey's Whipped Chocolate on it. Lisa, MJ and I celebrated it together. My Birthday wish was, for my Father to get better. I know you aren't supposed to tell anyone your wish, but I hope that anyone reading this will pray for him. Even if you don't believe in a god, please think of a fast recovery for him. I'm a strong believer in positive energy, so at least believe in that!

This time he can't keep food down, even the stuff they pump into him. The good news about today was no vomit yet! We did go see him earlier today, and he was able to goof around with MJ for a few seconds. It hurts me to see him like this, but I take MJ to see him anyways. It makes him smile, and it makes me feel better about the cancer.

I have gotten lost every damn time, and have had to ask so many different people. My daughter MJ and I are starting to get to know everybody there. I do love how she can make all the cancer patients smile, and one gentleman even laughed so hard, he snorted. The doctor's and nurses think she's a doll, and many say "I wish I could take her home with me!" I kid back, and say "You can take her for awhile, but here's my cell phone number. For when you change your mind!" Not one person has offered to take her after that, maybe I shouldn't add the last part. Ha Ha!

I will admit the cafeteria food is awesome, and the people are nice to. I never thought food could taste that good at a hospital. I take that back, because when MJ was born , the cafeteria food was done by actual Chef's. Don't worry I won't get on a big ole food kick, I just wanted to tell people that hell froze over! That hospital food is the bomb!

I'm keeping hope in my heart, and happy thoughts in my head. I'm keeping faith in my father that he can still be Superman. I'm remaining very optimistic about life, and holding my spirituality tight. I believe in love and God, and that together they will heal his pain!

I thank you for reading this, and allowing me to express some of my pain and emotions. Thank you for listening, and for being here for me in our time of need.

I also want to wish you all a wonderful day!

Blessed Be,
Wes

A Poet's Travels

2008-10-07T01:07:00.009-05:00

In my youth, I loved to travel. I would snap at the chance to go somewhere new. I was reading "On the Road" at the time, and I realized I would like to give that a try. I loved the way Jack Kerouac was able to be so free, and the style of his writing. You have to consider that he wrote that in 1951, and didn't publish till 1957. I was a teenager in the 1990's, and wished I could go to places that have been long lost. I did manage to follow some of his footprints down the old Route 66, and I still travel on it often. The parts in Illinois that is, I don't get around much any more.

I was more like a mix between Jim Morrison and "Charlie Mackenzie" Aka Mike Myers from "So I married an Axe Murderer" "I like the night life. I like to boogie."

I'm still fascinated with the Idea to just get in the car, or take a train to travel this country. I still crave the smells of dinky little dinner's, and stories you here about the town you arrived in. I don't miss the prejudice, from being an outsider. You see, when I did my travels I had long hair down past my waist. I then learned that this country was an "Easy Rider" world we lived in. I said in my my profile, that I was once a Jack of All Trades. Meaning I took any job that allowed me to travel, so I could get paid too.

The down side to that was, I worked more than I played. The plus was that I did get to see big cities, and little unknown towns. The kinds that would remind you of "The Last Picture Show"and some that that reminded me of Mayberry. I was in Chicago years back, I was wearing a suit playing my harmonica on the sidewalk. Waiting for a friend to come outside to meet me, when people started throwing money in my hat that I had set o the ground. So, I kept playing and by the time I was done, I had enough to pay for lunch for both of us. (True story)

I lived near Chicago for a little while, and I loved it. Mainly because I didn't have to drive in it everyday. I mean if you gave an inch, they would take it! A little piece of advice, Don't ask anybody directions at gas stations, or any stores in general. They will send you in the Ghetto, even if you're having car problems. Don't try to look at a map, without paying for it! "You must buy!" "No pay" "No stay!" "Get out now, I call the cops!" Please Don't drink coffee and drive without a good lid, before you go to the office. Beep, Beep, and Beep in Beep Beep!

That was not the sound of a car horn, it was the words flying out of my mouth that day. That's right, all the advice I just mentioned happened to my friend Minor and I. In the same morning at that, we did manage to get to work on time. Don't get me wrong I love Chicago, and the delicious foods. I don't remember the street, but it was a restaurant here, and a suit store there, up and down that street. I loved the mixed cultures, and the Blues Music! I could go onand on about Chicago. I could ramble on about my travels forever, but I will spare you for now.

Trust me, when I say some of my stories are crazy like a dream. The kind of events, like if there was no other witnesses, I wouldn't believe they happened myself. I will save some of those for later, and leave you with a poem I wrote in a Cyber Cafe In Chicago, IL. It was so cool for a small town Illinois boy to see. I mean they had hand chairs, bean bag chairs, in all different colors. Fresh desserts, and wonderful coffee. I attempted to publish this poem in a European Poetry contest, and somehow goofed it up. It never made it into publication.

Spring of 1998

I'm a chameleon
adapting to my environment.
Perhaps a lizard
shedding my old skin.
Wiping away my grin.
Ridding away my personal sins.
Changing with the seasons and the winds.
Shedding my friends.
Changing calendars
Again and again!
Traveling to distant places.
A stranger in a strange land.
Sometimes it seems
It is only me that understands,
the world's demands.
I will not feed the furnaces of hate.
By having two faces.
By staying within same realm's.
The same places.
No, for I'm a chameleon.
Blending in.
Occasionally a snake.
Shedding my old skin.
Keeping my grin.
Slithering with my own personal sins.

Peace&Love
Wes

Life's Graduations

2008-10-06T12:33:00.009-05:00

June of 1997

When I took my first step.
Learned to tie my shoes.
Acknowledged death for the first time,
I wept!
I still look for my parents' support, but now I must choose.
In are youth, in who would we confide?
Who would we depend upon?
Reality check, now I must decide.
Little league days have been long gone
Society doesn't see our innocence any more.
Why is it people take more than their own fill?
How I'm curious, at what the future has in store!
For example: How will I pay for this bill?
Childhood memories are not lost.
I will continue to focus on the present, on how to succeed.
I will stop at nothing, at all cost.
It is good to realize my life's deed.
I have figured out the way.
It is to accomplish, what I've set out to do.
To restore hope into another day.
Most importantly, to belong to something that is true.

By Wes

I Won't Grow Up!

2008-10-06T12:14:00.004-05:00

May 28, 1999

Supper's done!
Time to come in.
Childhood was fun.
I'm sitting listening to children play.
Just remembering of bubblegum, and games.

Hide-and-seek
Trick-or-treat
The ice cream man and photographs
Waking up on Saturday.
Eating Captain Crunch.
I will never forget childhood laughs.

Wishing for the day.
I would grow up to be a man.
I remember my father saying,
"Enjoy it while you can."
"In every way,
For, your day will come."
In a blink of an eye.

I'm now in my twenties.
There lies a kid inside.
To all the memories, and lessons I've learned!
To the holidays'.
To the days' of summer.

The tables have turned.
I am the teacher,
I am the fool.
We grow with responsibility.
But I will always be a kid.
To experience life and learn.

A toast to childhood!

By: ME

An Early Birthday Gift

2008-10-05T23:22:00.010-05:00

My wife and daughter are sleeping like babies, and now I can write! I shall start off with my day of The Spoon River Scenic Drive. I didn't get there as early has I had hoped, time frames disappear into the demands of children! Before MJ, I always TRIED to be punctual. My dad's motto growing up was "Always be at least a half Hour early where ever you go!"

After being Brainwashed, I mean raised under that logic, I have always tried to be early.

You can call it what you want, but it drives me bonkers, not being able to tell anybody the precise arrival time! I know people will understand, and that things will get easier the older she gets. Ha Ha

Life is what it is sometimes, and we must accept life's plan! Being a parent is like a multiple personality disorder! One minute were looking at our kid, and admiring their ability to walk. "Look how cute she is!" The next minute you can find yourself saying "Why must you keep turning the television off?" "Don't run away from me, please come here now!"

I love how she can act up, and then seconds later come give me a hug & kiss. Like I forgot that she just stuck her hand in the VCR, or dug something out of the bathroom garbage. Daddy " I love daddy!" "Hug please!"

It is so damn cute, but I Must Be The Enforcer! What she doesn't know is that I smile, and laugh when I finally hug her. MJ is very well behaved, and tries her best. Considering mom is gone most of the time, and Grandpa Don has been in and out of the hospital.

My father has been diagnosed with cancer, and was put in the hospital due to high fevers. Every time they said he could come home, his fever would spike. He is finally back at home today, but has the machines hooked up to him. I'm not used to seeing my father like this, or be like this.

So, I will cut my daughter a lot of slack. We do the best we can, after all "It's A Mad Mad World" you know! Now I must quote Britney Spears "Oops I did it again" Ha Ha

You may have already noticed that I started my Parental ramblings again! I do apologize for my lack of concentration. I like blame this on my (Waltermittyinitus), or my Multiple Parental Personality Disorder. Shuckey darn, maybe its a bit of both!

I will make this as short as possible! We got in the Blazer, and headed down the road. I took route 29, instead of my usual way through Petersburg, IL. I did it to avoid most of the traffic, I took a left at the four way stop at Mason City. I Cut through Easton, and made it to the road to Havana, IL.

Then we pulled into Dickson Mounds State Museum, and then got out to walk the grounds. I first started going there when I was Malayna's age. Some people in my family ask me why I still go there. They say you've seen everything there is to see.

What they don't realize, is that I go to see the tree's. I go to walk the ground that the Native Americans walked. I go to feel the energies of the earth, and to share this place with my daughter. When I started going with my family, I was about Malayna's age. The trees were dwarfs, and now they are giants.

Our lives are similar to the trees, we start off from seedlings. Then over time our roots grow, connecting to the earth. Arms reaching for the sky, and growing over time. We share our life with others, might it be family or a friend. We connect with them, and share the the time. We grow in countless ways, and share the seasons. Together we dance in the wind, and survive all weather.

I took some pictures, and played with MJ at the Picnic Hill. Then my family met up with us at the the orchard. It was a pleasant surprise to see that my sister Mellisa, Marshal, and our niece Cassie was in the van with my mom. After all the Hello's and How do you Do's, we made our way inside.

I went straight the beets, and grabbed all but two jars! I had to leave a couple for other people. Good thing I did, because my mom and sister wanted one. I then got a few jars of "Apple Butta", Pumpkin butter, apple jelly, strawberry rhubarb jam,bread and butter pickles, and some apple cider. I can't forget the caramel nut clusters, and other candies!

Don't worry some of that was gifts for other people. I always make sure to give enough gifts, so I can get the good stuff for me! Ha Ha

Next we made our way down to the fairgrounds in Lewistown. In years past this was the spot, you could get a wide range of foods. Not only that they had several vendors with tables full of good stuff. I'm talking antiques, books, crafts, pony rides, cool gadgets, coins, all styles of hats, cloths, paintings, and Records! Too much to name, and too much to fit in the car!

This year was different, there were less vendors. Not as many things that I like to get, and no Records! :(

I did manage to snag three home made pies, and if you're wondering the types. They were apple, blackberry, and peach. Mmmmm
After we left the fairgrounds we all went back to Dixon Mounds, and looked around. Took some pictures, and gave hugs.

It's funny how people can be saddened by departures, even if you will see them in a couple days. I think that most of us didn't want the day to end, or the memory to become the past.

I will make a short list of why I loved this year, more than some in the past.

1. I was able to share it with some of my family.

2. Malayna made me smile often.

3. I talked to many good people along the way.

4. The weather was phenomenal!

5. The Bluegrass music!

6. The FOOOOOOOOD! I had a foot long corn dog, hamburgers, fries, a pork chop, kettle corn, honey roasted peanuts, honey roasted almonds.

6. Lemon Shakeups, and Strawberry Shakeups!

7. The scenic drive was breathtaking, and the wildlife was everywhere that day.

I now realize, that were too many good things about the day, and this thing has become the longest thing I've most likely written in a while. On that note I would like say thank you for stopping by, and for taking the time to listen to my ramblings. I wish you all a splendid day!

Burrrpp,

Mr. Stretchy Pants

It's Late or Is It Early?

2008-10-04T03:03:00.000-05:00

All I know at this point, is that it is 3:00 a.m my time. I have to get up very soon, and pick my mom up for The Spoon River Scenic Drive. I had made an entry over at AOL (Curses) I said the A word!

All kidding aside, if any one wants to know what my plan's are for today. Please check out "Life Is What It Is Sometimes" I haven't switched my entries over here yet.

The only difference is my Beautiful wife can't make it! Lisa has to go to work today, and she will get up in less than two hours. I hope I get to see her off this morning, because I love seeing her amazing blue eyes in the morning. "It's the best part of waking Up"

LISA you will be in our hearts and minds today! I will just imagine your smile, and your snort when you laugh so hard. If your lucky I might bring you back something. Ha ha

I'm very excited about today, for I get to spend it with my Mom and daughter. I can remember going as a small child with my family, and having fun. It has been about a decade since my Mom and I went. She has lived in Thunder Bay, Ontario for years now. The good news is that we three will enjoy our day, but the bad news is I have to share my Pickled Beets!

A little note to self: Don't forget to wear my strecthy pants!

I wish everyone an AMAZING weekend, and wish to say THANKS again for stopping by!

Bless you and your day,

Wes

Beautiful Accident's

2008-10-03T12:19:00.000-05:00

I'm not talking about my daughter either, even though she is beautiful! Ha Ha
I'm referring to something I saw on AOL news, and it was about the accidental discoveries of certain foods. I wish I could have been the one who discovered cheese, or chocolate chip cookies! Ah! The power of Chocolate!

I just never realized that the sandwich had to be invented. I mean it is two pieces of bread, with what ever you desire to put on it. I sure came into this life in the wrong century for food inventions. I admire the early (Foodeologist's), or rather the inventor's of (Heaven)!

All this talk of good food, and recipe's of delicious cookies. MJ needing to be fed, and with my tummy rumbling. I must leave you with some food for thought. I know I have went to the kitchen for a snack, only to find that I'm lacking key ingredients. Being lazy, or what I call adventurous. I combined some strange combinations, and realized that I created something delicious.

What are some of your strange, but scrumptious treats? I don't blame you if want to keep it a secret. If you noticed, I didn't reveal any of my treasures. Arr!

Don't worry my entries will not always be about food. I wish everyone a magnificent day, and to say thank you for stopping by!

Peace&Love

Wes

Wakey Wakey Eggs and Bakey!

2008-10-02T09:39:00.000-05:00

Good morning Blogger.com!

It's another beautiful day in the neighborhood, and the hummingbird's are eating, and the sun is shining. I don't really have any plans for today, but feel compelled to go out and enjoy the day. Will I go out and change the world, or simply get dressed? I better get dressed first, before I go into world to do anything. Right!

I hope to find someone in need of some assistance on my path today, paying it forward is my addiction! Never fear, Super Dad is here!

I'm excited for the fact that if my dad feels better today, he will return home from the hospital soon. He has cancer, and had been put in due to a mysterious fever for over a week now. I know we have missed him, and he has to be sick of the hospital by now.

I don't know what MJ and I will do today. I do know that I don't know! First I must get us both dressed, and fed first. Then get our things loaded up in the car, and pick out some Cd's. We might take a little rode trip to somewhere new. The problem with her being only a year and half is there aren't too many places we can fully enjoy together. Plus I try to spare other's from the joys of an unpredictable infant.

For example if I take her to a movie, we would be ran out, or tared and feathered. If we go to an Art museum, people would not be able to take in the art. Go to an Antique shop she would most likely break something expensive. I can go to some stores, if I keep her in the stroller. Well you get the idea, most places aren't accommodating for us. She likes to do things she is not supposed to do, and touches things that are too dangerous.

I bet she would like to take a tour at a scissor factory, or a garbage dump. But that's where parenting skills come into play, or is it plain common sense? I can see it now, MJ running with a pair of scissors trough a dump. Sticking used contraceptives, and broken glass in her mouth! Yuck!! Wait a minute I think that was at a park we went to a little while back. (Don't worry she didn't put either one of those things in her mouth!)

I'm proud to be a father, and cherish every moment with her! I just wish there more things that we could do together. I don't think it is too early to expose her to the arts, or to take her to a ballgame. I choose to respect other's, who got to these events to escape the madness of their lives. I think too MUNCH about peace, and don't wish to add more paint to THEir Scream.

Like I said we will just go out and do something new today. We Will enjoy the day no matter what we do. I mean she gets excited at plastic bottle, or a fart! She is a baby, so as long we are both doing something safe. We should create some good laughs, and memories today.

"Here comes the Sun"

Blessed Be

Wes & Malayna Jane

Having A Ball

2008-10-02T00:51:00.001-05:00

I got up today with the intention of doing something early. It turned out the Direct T.V guy was coming in between 12-4 p.m today, so I made the best of it with my daughter MJ. We went outside and went on a stroller ride around the block. Then we went outside in the yard and played with her Thomas the Tank Engine ball. She loved it when we played catch, and kicked it to each other.

I snapped some pictures on the phone and sent them to Lisa. Then I put the message "Having A Ball" on it. My wife works long hours, and this week even longer hours. So I send pictures with messages to cheer her up. It kind of cheers me up too, but we both miss her so much. Last week I took a picture of MJ in a Pink dress that mom got her. Then recorded the song "Pretty in Pink", and put it with the picture. I know it meant a lot because she loves the movie, and the "Psychedelic Furs".

The Satellite man came, and it was done in no time. Since I had the bags all ready to go, we were off to the races. It's just an expression! I would never take her to the track, not till she's at least 2 year's old!

We set out to a park to play, and then grabbed some num num's. Then we went to the mall to go look for some warmer cloths for her. I grabbed Lisa a warm blue hooded shirt for work. Don't worry I'm not forgetting myself, I went and grabbed a couple Cd's and a movie. Since MJ has been walking, we have become regular "MallRats". I mean everybody who works there knows our names, "And there always glad we came." I have noticed that every time we go, I hear that Weezer song off the film "MallRats". It is usually when MJ is holding my hand, and I have to look down to make sure it's not Susanne! Ha Ha

WE WATCHED THE SUNSET TOGETHER, AND IT WAS BEAUTIFUL!

We went to Family Video and picked up some movies for her, and for Lisa and I. Have you ever wondered when they will change the name from FamilyVideo to Family Movie? I know it's a mind BUGGLESer "DVD killed the Video Store"

We made it home after mom, and we all had supper together. We started the film "Leather heads", while she was still awake. Before it was over they were both asleep. I enjoyed it, but thought it would be funnier. I did appreciate the way they showed Professional Football in the 1920's. It's not as thorough as "Hoosier's", or funny as "Slap Shot' with the Late Great Paul Newman. I don't want to spoil it for people who have not seen it yet, so I will let you be the judge.

"I'm off like a dirty shirt!"

Peace & Love

Wes