When Did You Last Disconnect?
Posted by Michelle Moquin on June 25th, 2013
Good morning!
Steve Wozniak discusses his dependency on a MacBook Pro and his affinity for transistor radios
Every week, a new and interesting human being tackles our decidedly geeky take on the Proustian Q&A. This is the Engadget Questionnaire.
Steve Wozniak pioneered the personal computing industry with the Apple I and II. In a throwback to our 31st issue of Distro, we’ll take a very thorough look at the mind and habits of the Woz. Spoiler alert: he has a thing for the bitten fruit.
What gadget do you depend on most?
Macbook Pro 17-inch for most of my email, including web links and video links.
I have a calendar life that is complicated, so I use BusyCal and Google Calendar. I keep two different browsers open to avoid some confusion. I enter calendar dates with time zones, which I can’t do on my iPhone. I watch DVD’s since I don’t have broad- band where I live. I record videos for promotions and interviews and it’s handy to have the notes in front of me on the screen. I do a lot of Skype interviews and it’s handy to see notes for those as well. I often copy from one source (web page maybe) to an email I’m composing.
I read Google news and use NetNewsWire to keep up with general and tech news. I use it when I travel for Slingbox. I’m better on the large keyboard. The larger screen is great for maps and photo viewing. I also keep tons of music and movies on the SSD, although the smaller size cramps me over a full HD. I often take notes regarding business talks and paste them into TextEdit docs to view during phone calls. These calls I usually make with my iPhone. I use FileChute to upload files that I want to distribute but which are too large for email. I use Dropbox to share with my iPhones. I’m always backed up with my home Time Capsule. I write AppleScripts, too.
Most of my photos I collect with iPhoto but I use Aperture for my finer photos, mostly from my Leica M9. I keep reminder links and files on my desktop and I have categories (folders) in my dock for things like “fun relief” and “important”. I keep folders on my desktop for things like the songs I’m currently attracted to and upcoming speech events. I also keep many notes of info I need all the time, like home IP numbers and game scores, in Stickies, but I close Stickes to keep things neater. I also have a few games in my dock for quick access.
If you read this you’ll see why my life has many aspects that don’t translate well to an iPad or iPhone as my primary gadget.
Which do you look back on most fondly?
My first transistor radio was the heart of my gadget love today. It fit in my hand and brought me a world of music 24 / 7. Even while I slept it was right there beside me playing. The ham radio transmitter and receiver I built when I was 10 was a very important gadget. I learned a lot of radio theory and [about] electronics and construction of electronic devices that would stick for life. I didn’t know the word ‘gadget’ but I would always be in love with devices that were interactive, where you turned dials and the device responds. I wouldn’t say that my first 4-function calculator was a favorite gadget but my HP-35 scientific calculator certainly was. I guess before that you’d call my slide rule a gadget.
“After my third year of college, I built a bunch of gadgets for myself and they were all favorites.”
I had a tube radio that brought the early days of FM to me in my bedroom at home. Eventually, in my own apartment, I would have a Pioneer 828 Receiver that was the heart of my music life. I had a turntable, too, but I got a reel- to-reel tape recorder (GE) at a local discount store and it was a very unusual gadget for 1970. I recorded all my Dylan albums and others onto tape this way.
After my third year of college, I built a bunch of gadgets for myself and they were all favorites.
One was a Pong game that worked with the TV in my apartment. I would have called the Breakout game that I designed for Atari a favorite gadget but they got the prototype and I don’t even think I kept a schematic. My TV terminal to access computers on the ARPANET over modems was a great gadget and it got a lot of attention. Needless to say, the Apple I and Apple ][ were useful and fun gadgets.
After that I’d say that my first Navigation system (an Alpine unit in my Hummer) was a great gadget and life would never be the same. The Apple ][c was my favorite Apple ][. I actually liked the Portable Macintosh. Possibly my favorite Macintosh ever was the Duo, although I very much like the current MacBook Pros.
Over the years I had pocket TVs and small, battery-operated video tape players for movies. I can’t pinpoint the models now. I had many very thin CD players and recording Walkmen — usually such gadgets were Sony branded.
Add to this list every iPod ever made (and every size), every iPhone and the iPads.
My first camera was a Kodak Brownie camera. I had too many important cameras in my life to detail them all here. Some early Casio PHD (Push Here Dummy) cameras were so thin I loved them and recommended them. I liked the Sony cameras with internal zoom. I’ve had a lot of analog and digital DSL cameras but not since the Canon D5 Mk II. Plus, I dearly treasure my recent Leica M9-P camera.
I had the Motorola ‘brick’ cell phone and then moved on with all the subsequent Motorola advances… Star TAC, Elite, etc. I probably used my RAZR the longest of any phone. In later digital phone days I liked my Nokia 8890 very much. When the iPhone came out, I’d carry the iPhone for internet stuff and the RAZR for phone calls, for quite a while.
The Segway is a great gadget that I haven’t had to move on from, in all the time since it first came out.
“My first camera was a Kodak Brownie camera. I had too many important cameras in my life to detail them all here.”
I had a couple of very nice scanners that I used to listen to analog cell phone calls. One was some- thing like RC-1 and it fit in your palm. The other had a name like AOR 900 or something. I’d have to go out to the garage to get the exact models. I used these quite a bit and have good stories as to what I heard.
I could add many to this list.
For each of these, and many more, I have many specific memories of carrying them around and showing them off and using them in ways that meant a lot to me.
I’m sure that I’ve missed others.
Which company does the most to push the industry?
You have to be kidding. Apple leads the way. A bunch of companies could be like an ocean of products with waves and ripples. But Apple is an Everest. The day Apple introduces a new product you know it’s not the same as before and you know it’s the future for everyone.
What is your operating system of choice?
OS X. We had something similar in the LISA but at the wrong point in time, cost-wise. I never got comfortable when I had to use Windows. As for mobile devices, I prefer iOS. It’s limited in some ways but that can be an advantage for many of us.
What are your favorite gadget names?
I’m not coming up with a good answer to this one. Apple has to be first. Newton was great too. iRobot isn’t bad. Google is another great name. I have loved the name “Mophie” as well. MiFi isn’t bad.
What are your least favorite?
Boring technical names, like ThinkPad xxxx. For things like cameras there are never enough names so they mostly have boring numbers.
“For things like cameras there are never enough names so they mostly have boring numbers.”
Which app do you depend on most?
Mail. I wish that Eudora, the unsupported original Eudora, would run under Lion. It made my life much easier and better.
What traits do you most deplore in a smartphone?
Lousy sound quality, even for voice. The iPhone is the best that I’ve had, by far.
When battery life is poor. Hard to truly multitask while on a call without a second phone. Navigating web pages can be frustrating on a small screen. Accidentally touching the screen can be disastrous on occasion.
I don’t like running an app to take a photo. More and more apps and features require internet connection and servers [that are] not overburdened.
When servers are down, the messaging is all wrong, causing you to take unneeded actions like resetting accounts. Printing limitations.
Which do you most admire?
Slimness, single-handed usability, hands-free links to cars, use of camera in apps for things like QR codes and Google Goggles, phone locating services, NFC payment systems with the ability to put funds on NFC via internet rather than ATM, syncing with computer, texting, VoIP apps like Line2 and Skype, Sling Player apps, radio apps, Sirius-XM app, voice recording for reminders, photos and movie taking.
What is your idea of the perfect device?
Hard to say. Best features of all the best gadgets plus a voice recognition system that really understands me and what I want, no matter how I say it. It returns answers, rather than links to sites that may not even have the answer I want. It would ‘see’ me with video and gauge other things about what I’m saying or doing. It would know me as well as any best friend and always know what to say and how to say it to me. I would want to give up on human friends.
What is your earliest gadget memory?
Transistor radio, about 1958.
What technological advancement do you most admire?
The transistor or the planar process for making chips. That’s technology at the component level. At the device level, I’d say the iPhone is the best current one, although the Apple ][ is close (taking into account when it was).
Which do you most despise?
Moving to the cloud too fast… you don’t own anything out there. You aren’t assured that what works today will even be there tomorrow. Things that used to be built into my iPhone now fail because the cloud is ‘down.’
I despised my HTC Thunderbolt phone greatly. I hated the Sense UI and the battery would often go down in one hour.
I also despise email because I get too much for my open policies. International cellular data is very dangerous. I had a $7,000 bill once after half a day in Ger- many. I had a $16,000 bill after a day in Moscow with my iPhone in my pocket the entire time except maybe a couple of Foursquare check-ins. (AT&T has no coverage of Russia on any international data plans and if your iPhone is locked to AT&T, you can forget about a local SIM card.)
“I despised my HTC Thunderbolt phone greatly. I hated the Sense UI and the battery would often go down in one hour.”
What fault are you most tolerant of in a gadget?
Color? Screen quality? Sound quality?
Which are you most intolerant of?
Every time you do something that would seem to be the right thing based on other parts of life, but it does the wrong thing. Battery running out too fast. Apps quit- ting after working for a while to get data entered correctly. Some- thing that works in one mode fails in another (Siri and hands-free connection). Too many to list here.
When has your smartphone been of the most help?
Travel — keeping up with flight info, checking tip rules for a country, looking for concerts in a city, notifying friends, photo memories, trading contact info, etc.
What device do you covet most?
iPhone 4S unlocked. Beautiful. Easy to manage. Just right in so many ways.
If you could change one thing about your phone what would it be?
Built-in auto navigation.
What does being connected mean to you?
Not as much as to many. I don’t use my mobile devices much while walking around. I save computer time for my computer. I don’t like my iPhone to take me from the friends I’m with. Hotel internet is so unreliable and slow that I carry many MiFis and mobile hotspot phones though, so in that way my phones are a big part of my connectivity.
When are you least likely to reply to an email?
When I’m busy and it requires a long answer.
When did you last disconnect?
Right now I fear disconnecting from the internet but in the late 90′s I took a three-week cruise in the South Pacific with no phone or internet service. I had other priorities and survived. It was a very pleasant time.
**********
Readers: If you read to the end of this article, and I am most certain you did, I am doing what Wozniak did. No, I am not going on 3-week cruise but I am unplugging for 3 weeks. Yes, I am taking a vacation, and for the first time in the almost 6 years I have been blogging, I will not be blogging.
This is not easy for me but I have been encouraged to “take a break.” So I decided to heed the advice. I know it will be weird for me as I am so used to being here everyday with all of you. I am having a little bit of anxiety over it as I also know I will miss connecting with all of you, and the pleasure that I get out of reading all of your comments. However, like Wozniak, I plan to have a pleasant time… a very pleasant time.
Please feel free to stick around and comment on anything and everything you wish. The blog will remain open. I will look forward to plugging back in around the 18th or 19th of July, and seeing what you have all been up to. And I promise I will share my adventures as well.
Until then…sending you lots of LOVE.
Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.
Gratefully your blog host,
michelle
Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)
If you love my blog and my writes, please make a donation via PayPal, credit card, or e-check, please click the “Donate” button below. (Please only donations from those readers within the United States. – International readers please see my “Donate” page)
Or if you would like to send a check via snail mail, please make checks payable to “Michelle Moquin”, and send to:
Michelle Moquin PO Box 29235 San Francisco, Ca. 94129
Thank you for your loyal support!
All content on this site are property of Michelle Moquin © copyright 2008-2012
“Though she be but little, she be fierce.” – William Shakespeare Midsummer Night’s Dream
" Politics, god, Life, News, Music, Family, Personal, Travel, Random, Photography, Religion, Aliens, Art, Entertainment, Food, Books, Thoughts, Media, Culture, Love, Sex, Poetry, Prose, Friends, Technology, Humor, Health, Writing, Events, Movies, Sports, Video, Christianity, Atheist, Blogging, History, Work, Education, Business, Fashion, Barack Obama, People, Internet, Relationships, Faith, Photos, Videos, Hillary Clinton, School, Reviews, God, TV, Philosophy, Fun, Science, Environment, Design, The Page, Rants, Pictures, Church, Blog, Nature, Marketing, Television, Democrats, Parenting, Miscellaneous, Current Events, Film, Spirituality, Obama, Musings, Home, Human Rights, Society, Comedy, Me, Random Thoughts, Research, Government, Election 2008, Baseball, Opinion, Recipes, Children, Iraq, Funny, Women, Economics, America, Misc, Commentary, John McCain, Reflections, All, Celebrities, Inspiration, Lifestyle, Theology, Linux, Kids, Games, World, India, Literature, China, Ramblings, Fitness, Money, Review, War, Articles, Economy, Journal, Quotes, NBA, Crime, Anime, Islam, 2008, Stories, Prayer, Diary, Jesus, Buddha, Muslim, Israel, Europe, Links, Marriage, Fiction, American Idol, Software, Leadership, Pop culture, Rants, Video Games, Republicans, Updates, Political, Football, Healing, Blogs, Shopping, USA, Class, Matrix, Course, Work, Web 2.0, My Life, Psychology, Gay, Happiness, Advertising, Field Hockey, Hip-hop, sex, fucking, ass, Soccer, sox"
June 25th, 2013 at 11:37 am
I love Apple but they are going the way of the other big corps in the arrogance department.
June 25th, 2013 at 11:56 am
Have a wonderful vacation, Michelle.
xoxo
/SB
June 25th, 2013 at 1:24 pm
Enjoy, Mischa, you deserve it…!
And regarding yesterday’s topic, I hate that word, cheating, people it isn’t the end of the world but if it wreaks havoc in yours bc someone (you or them) had a one night, brief or long fling, then just move on already. If it happens repeatedly you are in an implicit or explicit (as the case may be) ‘arrangement’ and if it isn’t killing your or their self esteem then what’s all the hoopla about?
if it does apin you endlessly though, & you feel must stay bc you are married with kids (and financially feel better staying, and I’d urge rethinking that – unless- you can find a way to still feel good about yourself bc you simply must be able to walk around feeling good about who you are, the heck with the other party in that regard or you are seriously compromising too much of yourself!
To me, the notion feels absurd that I’m going connect with one person and never ever again be attracted to anyone else, not saying I’m a cheater, not saying I’m not a ‘cheater’ (I’d likely share that I’m crushing on someone with my primary someone), though I’d be likely to hide it if I acted on it sexually -until- it was identified to me that it was becoming more of an emotional attachment and then it’d be decision time. I’m only guessing bc this has not happened yet, but it could…btw, in many cultures accept that there will be ‘side affairs’ in the course of the business of marriage, sometimes it just occurs and is a blink of eye start to finish (that I have done, brief and meaningless essentially but fun and interesting within the brief moment of time)…
If that makes me a ‘cheater’ in anyones eyes, I just don’t care, I was married for 14 years and have not been for 5 now and I know what works and does not work for me, (and probably countless others who don’t want to be labeled) I’m independent and need my time/space and that time/space may or may not include the same ‘other’ at all times, and that’s why I have a hard time with the broad brush approach to relationship articles like that (sigh, and arguably I am very personally and professionally qualified to write them) and frankly, I don’t care what works for others, as long as it does work for both (or more) parties, why should it be open to anyone else’s scrutiny?
I don’t compromise myself or intentionally hurt anyone in any of my dealings, I think of that firstly, that just the way it is, the way I am.
…and I agree that relationships don’t and are not always there to make you happy, in fact, I challenge that, I think we have them for growth, and sometimes growth is just freaking painful (and sometimes growth is just delightful ; )
And I’m out but not for 3 whole weeks…wow, I am jealous!
Luv, Zen Lill
June 25th, 2013 at 1:35 pm
You wouldn’t dare.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:35 pm
I don’t know if I can take the withdrawal. Please reconsider Michelle.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:36 pm
I just read that Michelle, can’t you get someone to do it for you. We need to see the connection.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:36 pm
Howie Help. This can’t be happening.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:37 pm
Well, what about Doug? Aren’t you two still talking? Can’t he carry on for you?
June 25th, 2013 at 1:38 pm
What makes you think we will be here when you return? I have been faithful for 4 years. This is insane.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:38 pm
I knew I shouldn’t trust a woman.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:39 pm
Do me a favor and forget us. This is just going to be horrible.
June 25th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
oh people, it’s not total abandonment!
I know I’m not Mischa but I’ll be checking in here, other regulars will be here, too, let the woman disconnect for a rest, you’d want that too if you worked everyday for 5+ years, please, wish her the best and let’s keep chatting…there’s no betrayal so why the mistrust of a woman so near and dear?
Me, I’m too connected for my own good but right now I have to be, when I get a chance for 3 weeks, I will take it!!
Peace Out Commander (I’m saluting ; )
June 25th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
I’ve been a loyal fan for five years. I can’t believe you would do this!
June 25th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
My children started talking to me again because of his blog and now you do this.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
Greece loses again. And it isn’t even one of the countries you will be visiting.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:06 pm
Okay Zen Lill, you will still get to talk with her.
WHAT ABOUT US?
June 25th, 2013 at 2:06 pm
I’m going to see my doctor.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
You, know Michelle, you are not above a Class Action. :)-
June 25th, 2013 at 2:08 pm
What do I do now?
June 25th, 2013 at 2:08 pm
At least publish the remaining pictures of Zen Lill. Can you do that?
June 25th, 2013 at 2:09 pm
Somebody talk to this woman. Mine won’t talk to me because she is so hurt by this decision.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
I got one word for you. SELFISH.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:11 pm
I won’t be here when you return.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:11 pm
I agree with you Fred, if she thinks she can just kick us to the curb, she’s got another thing coming.
June 25th, 2013 at 2:12 pm
Me, I just want to know what happened to commitment?
June 25th, 2013 at 2:12 pm
Sure, ZL, you will be checking in. How the hell will you be doing that?
June 25th, 2013 at 2:13 pm
This is a disaster!
June 25th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
Look girls and guys, it’s not like the blog is going to be shut down. I’m not taking a vacation from the blog. I am just taking a vacation from being the blog. This blog will remain open and you can carry on the discussions on this day until my return. Who knows, I may even chime in as a regular reader, as I have just done. Besides it’s not like you always comment on what I post. In fact many of you usually comment on whatever you like regardless of what I post. So I don’t see this as a too big of a deal.
Yes, I am touched that this blog means so much to many of you. It means a lot to me too, and so do all of you. But I am also surprised at the harsh words and threats. Believe me it was not an easy decision to make. So I would love your support. Thanks Social Butterfly and ZL for the good wishes.
As far as my commitment to this blog, I am not breaking my commitment – just taking a break from my commitment. Can’t a girl take a much needed vacation? I will be back as promised. And I HOPE that when I come back, all of you will be here too.
Sending love,
~Michelle, BABE
June 25th, 2013 at 5:51 pm
I can live with that.
June 25th, 2013 at 5:53 pm
One cold bloodied broad!
June 25th, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Relax – The Lady said it’s open. So use the opportunity to explore your minds, as small as they may be.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
Gods bless Wendy Davis’ (D-Tx) solo filibuster attempt going on right now in Texas. She’s standing up (pun!) against the Republicans attempt to force through abortion restrictions
Under Texas’ legislative rules, Davis can delay a vote in the Senate as long as she continues talking about SB 5 without stopping to eat, drink, go to the bathroom, sit down, or even lean against a desk. SB 5 first came up for consideration around 11 am on Tuesday, so that’s when Davis had to start speaking.
“I’m rising on the floor today to humbly give voice to thousands of Texans who have been ignored,” Davis said when she first begun her filibuster. “These voices have been silenced by a governor who made blind partisanship and personal political ambition the official business of our great state.”
One person can make a difference. Thank you Ms Davis for taking a stand. I hope you succeed.
/SB
June 25th, 2013 at 7:30 pm
Michelle, I think you should just go and enjoy yourself. Your true fans will be here.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:31 pm
Does anybody have a fucking life?
Evidently not!
June 25th, 2013 at 7:35 pm
Lulu, fucking was my life until my girl start taking advice from Michelle’s blog. She made me get a job and start eating pussy.
I liked the last part so much I started reading this damn blog too. How’s that for a fucking life?
June 25th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Lulu babe, my life is this damn blog. I love the banter. But I get it now. We can just speak our minds and let the chips fall where they may.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
It time we all settled back and accepted the inevitable. She is taking a break.
I hope you get some good dick where every you are vacationing.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:38 pm
How long did it take for the sickos to come out?
June 25th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Forget dick Michelle, a good woman is what you need. I can take you places only a sensual woman knows.
Give me a chance to show you Lady-Love.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Lulu bet you would like me to spank you for using that bad word.
Have whip will travel.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
Come to Spain Michelle and I will make your day. I own two very nice villas. The beach and me. You couldn’t do better.
I love you smile and hot vibes.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:44 pm
Hope you are coming to Egypt. I can show you love in the tombs.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:50 pm
As I said no one has a fucking life. You all answered so quickly. Like I said no one has a fucking life.
June 25th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Lulu you made my day.
June 25th, 2013 at 9:33 pm
45 mins from her goal, Republican Lt Govemor Dewurst cockblocked Davis.
Sad.
/SB
June 25th, 2013 at 10:10 pm
aaaaaaand all seems to be back to normal… ;-)
June 26th, 2013 at 9:17 am
/SB, sad.
Seriously, life is still here, much as I will Mischa my day doesn’t revolve around what happens here, it’s a part of my day that I do love very much, I’m wondering why would anyone be soooo offended by a brief break? The woman technically should not have to chime in to defend her decision(s), that was her choice and it’s your choice, too, whether you wish her well (or not) or come back (or not) – those who choose the (or not) options, maybe it’s time to take a look at your personal beliefs systems, do you hold your own feet to the fire like that? Is that how your inner voice speaks to you, in harsh words?
Hmmm, I wish all of you the very best whether you like me or not, whether you banter here or not, regardless of my preferences (and we know my preference is that we all just carry on.
We know /SB or someone will throw out a political or otherwise controversial subject on the table to discuss…please don’t stress unnecessarily…
Luv, Zen Lill
June 26th, 2013 at 2:28 pm
/SB fanned and faved.
June 26th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
Well, is that the Doug the ex Main Man or some pretender?
June 26th, 2013 at 3:28 pm
it’s never the end until the end.
400 protesters staged “a people’s filibuster” from 11:45 p.m. to well past midnight in Texas after Lt Gov Dewhurst stopped Davis’ attempt at her filibuster. The senate started the vote but prrotesters were too loud for the vote to be taken. Although Dewhurst said they had 17 to 10 to pass it failed a little after 3 am.
.
“I didn’t lose control (of the chamber). We had an unruly mob,” Dewhurst said
Sisters are doing it!!
/SB
June 26th, 2013 at 4:30 pm
I agree /SB if we don’t take control of this attempt by men to herd us like cattle, we will lose any chance of gaining equality with those limp dicks.
June 26th, 2013 at 5:34 pm
And how about Leticia Van de Putte? She made one of the best comment of the night!
http://youtu.be/dnDO9nifI2M
Bravo!
June 26th, 2013 at 5:43 pm
Well done, Elma. A pretender he is not.
June 26th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
Interesting article here about Snowden’s former employer….a look down the rabbit hole.
http://www.dailypaul.com/290258/booz-allen-hamilton-what-you-dont-know-about-snowdens-fomer-employer
June 27th, 2013 at 12:21 am
Great News one of the crazy STARK, Kennedy deserted his masters to vote for gay rights.
June 27th, 2013 at 12:47 am
if it was not for arguing against settled issued the republicans would not have anything to say
June 27th, 2013 at 12:47 am
that is the goal. Make no mistake under mining the culture, society, and breaking up the family is always the goal of leftists and revolutionaries of any stripe.
June 27th, 2013 at 12:51 am
Helen, is right. Kennedy did for gay rights, what he refused to do for OTWs on the voting rights vote. White boys can occasionally flip for some dick in their asses but never to help the bigger dick.
June 27th, 2013 at 12:54 am
Amen. Gay, straight, asexual, we all win when human rights are honored.
June 27th, 2013 at 12:56 am
5-4′s are all you’re going to get until Alito, Scalia or Robert’s dies. Even then you’ll get it pretty often until Kennedy kicks it (assuming that all these justices pass under Democratic presidents).
June 27th, 2013 at 1:37 am
http://thinkprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DOMA_graphic-22-e13722575415841.png
June 27th, 2013 at 1:39 am
I read that. — Mike Huckabee channels Jesus’ tearducts: On Twitter, the former Governor and leading GOP Presidential candidate had two words: “Jesus wept.” He later elaborated, saying that the Supreme Court declared itself “bigger than God.”
June 27th, 2013 at 1:40 am
Michelle are you serious about not doing the blog? Damn girl, I read this thing almost religiously.
June 27th, 2013 at 7:18 am
Michelle, Are you coming to Ireland? It would nice.
June 27th, 2013 at 7:27 am
This is a message to those of you getting medicare. Right now, Congress is considering legislation that would crack down on Medicare fraud. The PRIME Act would help stabilize the Medicare system and prevent fraudsters from stealing your benefits, saving billions of dollars and protecting your benefits for years to come.
Congress needs to hear from you – without enough support, we won’t see these important protections pass.
June 27th, 2013 at 7:39 am
Hafa Adai. I really don’t think SCOTUS has settled the matter about gay marriage. What happens when someone from a gay marriage state moves to a state or territory like Guam?
Do they get to force the new place to accept the benefits that the marriage state gives them such as the right to file a joint tax return. Can they claim the marriage benefits the new non gay marriage state provides to straights?
June 27th, 2013 at 7:55 am
Share This
Email On:
Twitter
FacebookDear San Franciscan,
San Francisco is blessed with a large and vibrant LGBT community and a strong history of advocacy for equal rights for all. Since my first day in Congress, ending discrimination against gays and lesbians has been a top priority. I want to share with you my recent statement following the Supreme Court striking Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional, and issuing a ruling on Proposition 8 allowing same-sex marriages to resume in the state of California. To learn more about my work in Congress, please visit my website or sign up for my weekly e-newsletter.
Pelosi: Supreme Court Reaffirms ‘Equal Justice Under Law’
Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Supreme Court struck down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional, and issued a procedural ruling in the Proposition 8 case that allows a lower court decision striking down Proposition 8 to take effect, allowing same-sex marriages to resume in the state of California:
“Today, the Supreme Court bent the arc of history once again toward justice. The court placed itself on the right side of history by discarding Section 3 of the defenseless Defense of Marriage Act and by allowing marriage equality for all families in California. The highest court in the land reaffirmed the promise inscribed into its walls: ‘equal justice under law.’
“Soon, the federal government will no longer discriminate against any family legally married in the United States. California will join 12 other states and the District of Columbia in recognizing the fundamental rights of all families. Our country will move one step closer to securing equal protection for all of our citizens.
“Nearly 44 years to the day after the Stonewall Riots turned the nation’s attention to discrimination against LGBT Americans, the fight for equal rights took a giant step forward. Yet even with today’s victory at the Supreme Court, the struggle for marriage equality is not over. Whether in the courts or in state legislatures, we will not rest until men and women in every state are granted equal rights. We will keep working to ensure that justice is done for every American, no matter who they love.”
# # #
June 27th, 2013 at 7:59 am
I see how this works now. Okay Michelle. While you vacation we get to make this the longest blog ever. And we can talk about anything. I like it. Certainly better than covering the Trayvon murder trial. All the major news stations seem to be covering it.
Nice to be white. We get to kill OTWs and explain why we should in a trial to other white people on the jury.
June 27th, 2013 at 8:04 am
5 Foods You Might Never Think to Grill
Don’t limit yourself to grilling just meat. Grilling gives a caramelized, smoky flavor to all sorts of foods. Grill over direct medium heat. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, use a stove-top one.
GRILLED WATERMELON
You can eat the watermelon straight off the grill, add it to salads or serve cubes with cheese.
¼ seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch-thick slices (about 10 slices, shaped like triangles)
2 Tablespoons olive oil
Brush both sides of the watermelon slices with olive oil. Grill three minutes. Turn and grill two minutes more. Each side should have grill marks. Five servings (two slices per person).
CARAMELIZED BANANAS
Use as a topping for ice cream or cake or add to fruit salad.
4 ripe-but-firm bananas
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
2 Tablespoons sugar
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Pinch sea salt
Peel the bananas, and cut them in half crosswise and then lengthwise. Each banana will yield four pieces. Brush the pieces with lemon juice. Combine the sugar, cinnamon and salt in a bowl. Sprinkle the bananas with the mixture on all sides. Place the bananas, cut-side down. Grill one minute. Turn the bananas over with a pair of tongs, and grill three minutes more. Four servings.
GRILLED POUND CAKE
Serve with your favorite raspberry or chocolate sauce. Add a dollop of whipped cream.
1 Tablespoon canola oil
4 1-inch-thick slices of pound cake
Brush the grill grate with canola oil. Place the pound cake on the grill, and cook until toasted, about two minutes per side. Remove to four plates, and drizzle with sauce. Four servings.
GRILLED TOFU
Use the tofu in a salad or add to a stir-fry.
1 pound firm tofu
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
2 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
Cut tofu in half sideways to make 2½-inch-thick pieces. To release excess juice, place the tofu on a baking sheet, and put another sheet on top. Put a heavy weight or several cans on top of that. Leave for 30 minutes. Mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and garlic in a large self-seal plastic bag. Add the drained tofu, and marinate in the refrigerator at least two hours or overnight. Bring the tofu to room temperature, and place on the grill. Grill four minutes per side, brushing with the hoisin sauce. Four servings.
GRILLED ROMAINE LETTUCE
The outer leaves take on a crisp texture, while the center softens slightly.
1 small head romaine lettuce
Olive oil spray
⅓ cup vinaigrette dressing
Cut the head of the romaine lettuce in half, leaving the base intact. Spray all sides with olive oil. Place cut-side down on the grill for five minutes. If the lettuce starts to burn, move it to another section of the grill. Turn and grill three minutes. Spoon vinaigrette over the lettuce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Two servings.
Source: Linda Gassenheimer is an award-winning author of several cookbooks, most recently, Fast and Flavorful: Great Diabetes Meals from Market to Table (American Diabetes Association). Her free Webinar, Delicious Diabetes Dinners Everyone Will Love, is available at http://www.BottomLineExpertsLive.com.
June 27th, 2013 at 8:41 am
Me, I’m looking to hear from Howie. Can anyone explain this? http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/23/san-diego-ufo_n_3322134.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular
June 27th, 2013 at 9:23 am
If we are bringing up any and everything how about this? Last week, the Supreme Court helped bring us one step closer to fair prescription prices when they ruled that “pay-for-delay” agreements could be considered illegal. These deals allow brand-name drug companies to pay their competitor to delay bringing their cheaper generic version to the market – and out of reach from the millions of people who are struggling to afford their medications.
What I’d like to know is why we can’t sue those criminals for all the money we lost because of their collusion with companies that could have provided us with cheaper drugs. That could have been the difference life and death in many cases.
June 27th, 2013 at 4:20 pm
RlCK Per’ry’s TEXAS is #1 in AW’FUL! Just the FA’CTS!
1. #5 in Tax Burden on the 20% P00R and #1 BlG 0lL SU’BSlDlES at $1.4 Billion
2. #1 in EX’ECUTl0NS – More than even CHlNA
3. #1 Lowest high school completion ra’te.
4. #4 from B0TT0M in Tax expenditures/capita
5. #2 in Percent of population with F00D lNSE’CURlTY
6. #1 in PERCENTAGE of PE0PLE without ME’DICAL INS’URANCE
7. #1 in number one in te’enage PREG’NA’NClES and BlRTHS
8. #1 in Percentage of population 25 and older without a high school diploma
9. #1 in W0MEN not receiving PRE’NATAL care in first TRlMESTER
10. #1 in least coverage for W0RKERS’ C0MPENS’ATl0N
====================
And this piece if shit proceeded to deride Wendy Davis.
June 27th, 2013 at 4:26 pm
When will white male dems stop sucking that fat slob, Chris christy’s dick?
June 27th, 2013 at 4:51 pm
White women are responsible for those insane men in Texas. If they don’t wake up, women will have to wait until OTW women get control of the vote to get back the equality that white women are willing to give to men.
June 27th, 2013 at 4:55 pm
I agree with you Vivian. I am tired of hearing that women are perfectly capable of making their own decisions. That may be true for OTW women, but it is definitely not true for the majority of white women. Those idiots are perfectly happy following lock step behind white men.
June 27th, 2013 at 5:24 pm
Vivian,
At least the opportunity for OTW women to get control the vote is not too far off.
Currently, OTWs are the majority in the under 5 years of age category and in just 5 years, OTWs will be the majority for everyone under 18.
Perhaps there’s still hope for the planet surviving….if the whites don’t kill us all first.
/SB
June 27th, 2013 at 10:59 pm
Red states have reenacted all those laws that the federal government disallowed because they were “discriminatory on their face.”
Texas has set up measures to deny 800,000 hispanics the vote and reformed the districts of dems and OTWs to give them to white politicians.
June 27th, 2013 at 11:25 pm
True /SB but it won’t be that simple because the whites are putting into place every scheme they can think of to suppress the vote of OTWs. They are gerrymandering the political districts so that they only have to worry about the racist view.
June 28th, 2013 at 3:22 pm
A Victory for Americans Everywhere
This week, the Supreme Court once again bent the arc of history toward justice. The court placed itself on the right side of history by discarding Section 3 of the defenseless Defense of Marriage Act and by allowing marriage equality for all California families. The highest court in the land reaffirmed the promise inscribed into its walls: ‘equal justice under law.’
For these historic decisions to come at the end of LGBT Pride Month and almost 44 years to the day of the Stonewall Riots should reaffirm how far we’ve come in the march toward equality and should lead us to rededicate ourselves to the cause of justice now and in the future.
In this month, Americans can take pride in our efforts to end discrimination in our society and in our laws – from the passage of a fully-inclusive hate crimes law to the end of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ In this month, elected leaders can take pride in our LGBT colleagues in Congress – from the record-number of LGBT Members in the House to America’s first-ever LGBT Senator.
Congresswoman Pelosi joins with community leaders from labor, faith, and advocacy groups in a roundtable discussion to discuss the efforts to achieve comprehensive immigration reform.
One Step Closer to Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Yesterday, a bipartisan coalition in the U.S. Senate voted to reaffirm our values, advance our ideals, and honor our history as a nation of immigrants by passing comprehensive immigration reform by 68-32. With this action, the Senate moved our country one step closer to achieving commonsense reform that reflects our heritage and makes America more American.
Now, it’s the House of Representative’s turn to act on legislation that echoes the spirit of the Senate bill and upholds our basic principles: to secure our borders, protect our workers, unite families, and offer an earned pathway to citizenship.
From generation to generation, immigrants have built, strengthened, and enriched our culture and our society; they have reinvigorated our economy; they have brought their hopes, optimism, and aspirations to the ongoing pursuit of the American Dream. That tradition is embedded into the very fabric of American society and strength, and in our time, we must make our own contribution to that legacy with comprehensive immigration reform.
A Step Backwards for Voter’s Rights
Unfortunately, on Tuesday, the Supreme Court took a step backward on voting rights, and on civil rights, on liberty and justice for all with their decision in Shelby County v. Holder, invalidating Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act. Their decision weakens the cause of voting rights in our time, disregards the challenges of discrimination still facing our country, and undermines our nation’s ongoing effort to protect the promise of equality in our laws.
In 2006, Democrats and Republicans came together to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act, garnering overwhelming bipartisan support in a Republican-led Congress – passing the House by a vote 390-33 and the Senate by a vote of 98-0, then signed into law by President George W. Bush. This year, we must follow in that same tradition, taking the court’s decision as our cue for further action to strengthen this legislation.
Voting rights are essential to who we are as Americans, to the cause of equality, to the strength of our democracy. It is our responsibility to do everything in our power to remove obstacles to voting, to ensure every citizen has the right to vote and every vote is counted as cast. We must secure the most basic privilege of American citizenship: the right to vote.
Please feel free to forward this information to your family and friends. To learn more about these efforts, to express your views, or to sign up for email updates, please visit my website. I am also on Twitter at http://twitter.com/NancyPelosi.
best regards,
June 29th, 2013 at 10:48 am
Howie, I hope this finds you in great health. How are you doing? We miss you in your other country.
June 29th, 2013 at 3:02 pm
How to Deal with a Tough Diagnosis
“You have cancer.”
“It’s Alzheimer’s.”
“The diagnosis is Parkinson’s Disease.”
No one is ever truly prepared to find out that he or she has a chronic and/or life-threatening disease.
But it happens all the time. So even if this information doesn’t apply to you right now, bookmark this article, because you never know when you—or a close friend or family member—might need it.
A serious diagnosis usually leads to a flood of emotions. In fact, some patients say that the mental aspect of dealing with a disease (coming to terms with it) can be even more challenging than the physical part (whether it’s managing pain, fatigue, memory loss or other symptoms).
Here’s how to handle what goes on in your head when your body breaks down.
OVERCOMING DENIAL
Most people experience disbelief when they first learn that they have a serious health condition. They may be confident, intellectually, that the diagnosis is correct…and yet somehow, it just doesn’t seem real.
“The healthier you feel at the time of diagnosis, the more you may be in denial,” said Walter Baile, MD, a professor in the departments of behavioral sciences and psychiatry at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston who counsels doctors on how to communicate delicately with patients who have cancer.
If you truly doubt your doctor and need extra confirmation about your diagnosis, get a second opinion, he recommended. But beyond that, he said, the best thing that you can do is give yourself some time for the diagnosis to sink in—as it will. “This could take anywhere from moments to days,” he said.
GETTING PAST YOUR FEARS
Once the disbelief has worn off, you may feel fearful and/or anxious. A lot of times, people are frightened and worried because they feel lost and out of control—they don’t know what’s going to happen next, said Dr. Baile.
So the best way to reduce any panic or fright is by learning everything you can about your disorder or disease. Read any pamphlets your doctor gives you…check out books from the library on the topic…and search for information on legitimate medical Web sites, such as http://www.MedlinePlus.gov, the site for the National Institutes of Health. The more you know about your condition and what’s ahead, the fewer surprises there will be and the more you will feel in control, said Dr. Baile.
STAYING POSITIVE
At this point, patients often become demoralized and can even feel grief. “Even though nobody has died, you can still experience a sense of loss,” said Dr. Baile. After all, a serious illness can cause you to lose not only your health but also your job and/or financial stability—and you may worry about how it might negatively affect relationships with your loved ones and friends.
At this stage, it’s usually helpful to speak with a trained mental health counselor, such as a social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist, he said, because a counselor can help you manage stress and maintain optimism.
LETTING OTHERS IN
As you start to develop a more positive state of mind, follow this last piece of advice.
You might feel embarrassed at first to tell relatives and friends about your diagnosis, but keeping it hidden from the outside world may only make you feel lonely.
“Remember that there is nothing to feel ashamed of, and the effect of holding feelings in is much more damaging than getting them on the table,” said Dr. Baile. “You can’t deal with your emotions when they’re all locked inside.” Plus, when more people are aware of your diagnosis, more people can help you cope with it.
If you’re too tired of telling people the story of your diagnosis or if you’re too busy going to medical appointments to share the news, appoint a close friend or family member to spread the word for you, he recommended. Or you could tell people via a single mass e-mail or Facebook status update or by using a Web site such as http://www.CaringBridge.org.
And join a support group full of people who have your condition—either a group that meets in person, an online group or both, said Dr. Baile. You can find one by talking to your doctor or by entering the phrase “support group” and then the name of your condition into any Web search engine.
If talking with an entire group feels overwhelming, some hospitals have patient-to-patient programs that can match you one-on-one with someone who has (or had) your condition, so your ask doctor about that.
The supportive voicemails, e-mails, cards and baskets of fruit that you will likely get from people who hear about your plight are bound to make you smile and realize how much you’re loved—and this will help you continue to stay positive.
Plus, these loyal and compassionate friends and family members may offer to help you—and you should let them, said Dr. Baile. When people offer to bring you dinner or groceries…clean your house…or accompany you to a medical checkup or procedure, say “yes.”
Don’t feel as though you are putting them out—most people don’t offer to help if they don’t want to help. Instead, when you accept help, see it as a win-win—a good deed that makes your life easier and makes the other person feel good about himself, too.
Source: Walter Baile, MD, professor of behavioral science and psychiatry, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.
June 30th, 2013 at 8:20 am
Excuse me while I come here to vent. I am so sick of whites who act as if we should respect “their right” to be bigots. I say we need to get armed. Take advantage of the right to protect your space.
The way it is now is if you accost a white person he has the right to protect his space. He can kill you without having to retreat. BUT, if he accost you, the rules change, it becomes you have to wait until he attacks you and then you have to measure your response.
I say get a gun and shoot the bastard.
June 30th, 2013 at 8:28 am
Hafa adai, I want to address the women on Guam. I feel it is necessary because the men are being typical men. I talking about the men on the island coming to the conclusion that we have to allow Cock fighting because men will do it. The will just go underground to do it according to our legislature so it doesn’t make sense to do it.
But when it comes to a woman’s right to have an abortion, the fact that if it is outlawed, it will go underground is no deterrent to these same men.
If Guam women are going to follow in the steps of american white women and follow lock-step behind their men, this will never change. Let the legislature know that you are not going to stand for either of these two idiotic decisions.
Hafa Adai
Anna
June 30th, 2013 at 9:10 am
“The louder they scream, the more we know we’re getting something done.”
That’s not a line from one of the bad guys on Game of Thrones. That’s something that Texas Governor Rick Perry actually said this week about his own constituents — the ones fighting for women’s health.
He was referring to the sweeping anti-choice legislation that he’s trying to ram through in the Texas state legislature — legislation that was blocked earlier this week by a courageous group of legislators led by State Senator Wendy Davis — which would have the effect of shutting down access to basic health care for many women across the state.
I don’t understand how Rick Perry could look at what happened in the Texas state house this week — where thousands of Texans gathered to support Wendy and her colleagues against this extreme anti-woman legislation — and take it as a sign that he’s doing a good job. But that’s what we’re up against.
A lot of people thought the Republicans would take a lesson from the loss we handed them last November — I certainly hoped they would moderate their policies and rhetoric, especially towards women and other underrepresented groups.
But eight months later, they still look like the same party that talked about “binders full of women,” the same party who said their “job is not to worry” about 47 percent of the American people, and the same party that talked about “legitimate rape.”
The Republicans aren’t becoming more reasonable — if anything, they’ve become more extreme. And if we don’t get serious now, they’ll be in a good position to have major gains in federal and state offices across the country later this year and in the years to come.
June 30th, 2013 at 9:11 am
I feel you Pedro, but that’s a little too violent for me.
June 30th, 2013 at 9:12 am
So Michelle, what the hell are you up to? Where are you? Let your fans know.
July 1st, 2013 at 8:23 am
Since Michelle is on vacation for publishing data I thought I would enter one that will act to clear up the information gap about what the US is collecting. Keep in mind that this is but a small about of the total.
=======================================
FAQ: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NSA’S SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMS
by Jonathan Stray, Special to ProPublica — I have added detail to complete his analysis. The numbering, paragraphing and the information in quotes are mine., –Mike,TM
——————— ———– ————————
There have been a lot of news stories about NSA surveillance programs following the leaks of secret documents by Edward Snowden. But it seems the more we read, the less clear things are. We’ve put together a detailed snapshot of what’s known and what’s been reported where.
WHAT INFORMATION DOES THE NSA COLLECT AND HOW?
We don’t know all of the different types of information the NSA collects, but several secret collection programs have been revealed:
1. A record of most calls made in the U.S., including the telephone number of the phones making and receiving the call, and how long the call lasted.
This information is known as “metadata” and doesn’t include a recording of the actual call (but see below). This program was revealed through a leaked secret court order instructing Verizon to turn over all such information on a daily basis.
Other phone companies, including AT&T and Sprint, also reportedly give their records to the NSA on a continual basis. All together, this is several billion calls per day.
2. Email, Facebook posts and instant messages for an unknown number of people, via PRISM, which involves the cooperation of at least nine different technology companies.
Google, Facebook, Yahoo and others have denied that the NSA has “direct access” to their servers, saying they only release user information in response to a court order.
3. Facebook has revealed that, in the last six months of 2012, they handed over the private data of between 18,000 and 19,000 users to law enforcement of all types — including local police and federal agencies, such as the FBI, Federal Marshals and the NSA.
Massive amounts of raw Internet traffic Much of the world’s Internet traffic passes through the U.S. even when the sender and receiver are both outside the country.
A recently revealed presentation slide notes the U.S.’s central role in internet traffic and suggests domestic taps can be used to monitor foreign targets.
4. A whistleblower claimed that he helped install a network tap in an AT&T facility in San Francisco on NSA orders in 2003. The tap sent the entire contents of high capacity fiber optic cables into a secret room filled with monitoring equipment. An unknown fraction of the intercepted data is stored in massive databases in case it is useful in the future.
“So, yes, Michelle, the government is monitoring EVERY means of communication that you use. Say, Hello to Madaline for me and while you are at it say hello to the US government because they are listening.”
5.Because there is no automatic way to separate domestic from international communications, this program also captures U.S. citizens’ internet activity, such as emails, social media posts, instant messages, the sites you visit and online purchases you make.
6. The contents of an unknown number of phone calls The details are sketchy, but there are several reports that the NSA records the audio contents of some phone calls.
This reportedly happens “on a much smaller scale” than the programs above, after analysts select specific people as “targets.”
7. There does not seem to be any public information about the collection of text messages, which would be much more practical to collect in bulk because of their smaller size. “Therefore, I believe Jonathan has been mislead here. They are definitely collecting all text messages.”
8. The NSA has been prohibited from recording domestic communications since the passage of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act but at least two of these programs — phone records collection and Internet cable taps — involve huge volumes of Americans’ data. “Rest assured they are collecting this data also.”
9. DOES THE NSA RECORD EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYONE, ALL THE TIME?
No. “That is Jonathan’s answer. “I believe Jonathan was allowed access to information so that he would publish this report which would calm the public a bit.”
“This collection of ALL information about everyone on the planet was started under Bush. It was so out of control that Obama didn’t hear about it until the last year of his first term. And even then he was not fully made aware of the depth of the collection.”
“When he found out about it he knew that he did not have the power to stop it because some agency would continue it “off the shelf” somewhere. He also knew that whatever control he attempted to limit the collection would not be continued by white Presidents following him.”
“So he decided to put into place some legal protection for the people. He is hoping that those legal protections will prevent some of the massive data collected on individuals from being used against them. Especially to frame them for crimes they did not commit. Or as in most cases taking pieces of truth they have collected about an individual and adding lies to make it seem the lies are true because the bits are true.”
“These agencies have hired “script writers” who can take any bit of not so good info about a person and weave it into a tale that would make their mother hate them. No one will be able to trust what they think they know about anyone.”
10. The NSA routinely obtains and stores as much as it can of certain types of information, such as the metadata from telephone calls made in the U.S. (but not their content) and some fraction of the massive amount of raw data flowing through major internet cables. “You had better believe they are collecting every bit of your content.”
11. It is also possible for the NSA to collect more detailed information on specific people, such as the actual audio of phone calls and the entire content of email accounts. NSA analysts can submit a request to obtain these types of more detailed information about specific people.
12.”By specific people, they mean EVERY one. They isolate from that collection the specific people they are targeting. But they have yours also. Therefore, years later if they wish to go back and use a bit of past information they collected on you to target you, I will be available from their storage banks.”
13. Watching a specific person like this is called “targeting” by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, the law which authorizes this type of individual surveillance. “So you see why Cheney not Bush knew about the 9/11 event and allowed it to occur. It gave them the opportunity proposed by the first Bush to get Congress to allow them to permit this collection of data on EVERY ONE ON THE PLANET.”
14. “So as Anon suggested. The W.Bush and Cheney regime were not unaware of a bunch of dumb arabs taking classes on how to pilot jumbo passenger jets, but not how to take off or land them.”Well to be more accurate, Cheney was. Under orders from H.W. Bush’s secret government he allowed it to occur so that 9/11 could happen.”
“H.W.Bush got the idea from the Pearl Harbor staging. That planned event like 9/11 was discovered before it happened. But, FDR allowed it to happen to get the support of Congress and the people to enter the war against Germany and Japan before Hitler conquered all of Europe and Japan all of Asia.”
“H.W. Bush’s advisors put Cheney in the White House to insure that the planners would not be stopped before they completed their mission. Like Pearl Harbor, they didn’t plan it, they just took advantage of those that had to use the success to accomplish their goals. W.Bush was just a drug addict pawn.”
“Obama knows that now, and is reluctant to prosecute him for the crimes of his father.”
15. NSA is allowed to record the conversations of non-Americans without a specific warrant for each person monitored, if at least one end of the conversation is outside of the U.S. It is also allowed to record the communications of Americans if they are outside the U.S. and the NSA first gets a warrant for each case. It’s not known exactly how many people the NSA is currently targeting.
“However, it is safe to say EVERYONE.”
16. How the NSA actually gets the data depends on the type of information requested. If the analyst wants someone’s private emails or social media posts, the NSA must request that specific data from companies such as Google and Facebook.
17. For information that is already flowing through Internet cables that the NSA is monitoring, or the audio of phone calls, a targeting request instructs automatic systems to watch for the communications of a specific person and save them.
18. It’s important to note that the NSA probably has information about you even if you aren’t on this target list. If you have previously communicated with someone who has been targeted, then the NSA already has the content of any emails, instant messages, phone calls, etc. you exchanged with the targeted person.
19. Also, your data is likely in bulk records such as phone metadata and internet traffic recordings. This is what makes these programs “mass surveillance,” as opposed to traditional wiretaps, which are authorized by individual, specific court orders.
20. WHAT DOES PHONE CALL METADATA INFORMATION REVEAL, IF IT DOESN’T INCLUDE THE CONTENT OF THE CALLS?
21. Even without the content of all your conversations and text messages, so-called “metadata” can reveal a tremendous amount about you. If they have your metadata, the NSA would have a record of your entire address book, or at least every person you’ve called in the last several years.
22. They can guess who you are close to by how often you call someone, and when. By correlating the information from multiple people, they can do sophisticated “network analysis” of communities of many different kinds, personal or professional — or criminal.
23. Phone company call records reveal where you were at the time that a call was made, because they include the identifier of the radio tower that transmitted the call to you.
24. The government has denied that it collects this information, but former NSA employee Thomas Drake said they do. For a sense of just how powerful location data can be, see this visualization following a German politician everywhere he goes for months, based on his cellphone’s location information.
25. The type of data can be used to discover the structure of groups planning terrorism.
26. But metadata is a sensitive topic because there is great potential for abuse.
27. While no one has claimed the NSA is doing this, it would be possible to use metadata to algorithmically identify, with some accuracy, members of other types of groups like the Tea Party or Occupy Wall Street, gun owners, undocumented immigrants, etc.
28. An expert in network analysis could start with all of the calls made from the time and place of a protest, and trace the networks of associations out from there.
29. Phone metadata is also not “anonymous” in any real sense. The NSA already maintains a database of the phone numbers of all Americans for use in determining whether someone is a “U.S. person” (see below), and there are several commercial number-to-name services in any case.
30. Phone records become even more powerful when they are correlated with other types of data, such as social media posts, local police records and credit card purchase information, a process known as intelligence fusion.
31. DOES THE NSA NEED AN INDIVIDUALIZED WARRANT TO LISTEN TO MY CALLS OR LOOK AT MY EMAILS?
32. It’s complicated, but not in all cases. “Actually it is never needed. They can and do collect EVERY thing out there in EVERY form of communication data about you. An since they have the ability to collect and store this data on microscopic silicone chips, they can store it for thousands of years.”
33. Leaked court orders set out the ‘minimization’ procedures that govern what the NSA can do with the domestic information it has intercepted. The NSA is allowed to store this domestic information because of the technical difficulties in separating foreign from domestic communications when large amounts of data are being captured. “Convenient, huh? And after collecting it they say to the Congress, ‘darling keep sucking, I won’t come in your mouth.”
34. These documents show that individual intelligence analysts make the decision to look at previously collected bulk information. The analyst must document why they believe the information belongs to someone who is not a “U.S. person” (roughly, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident) but they do not need to ask anyone’s permission before looking at intercepted information or asking for additional information to be collected.
35. If the analyst later discovers that they are looking at the communications of a U.S. person, they must destroy the data. “If you believe that, I have Brooklyn Bridge I can sell you, cheap.”
36. However, if the intercepted information is “reasonably believed to contain evidence of a crime” then the NSA is allowed to turn it over to federal law enforcement.
37. Unless there are other (still secret) restrictions on how the NSA can use this data this means the police might end up with your private communications without ever having to get approval from a judge, effectively circumventing the whole notion of probable cause.
38. This is significant because it is not always possible to determine whether someone is a U.S. person before looking at their data. For example, it’s not usually possible to tell just from someone’s email address, which is why the NSA maintains a database of known U.S. email addresses and phone numbers. If the NSA does not have “specific information” about someone, that person is “presumed to be a non-United States person.”
39. Also, the NSA is allowed to provide any of its recorded information to the FBI, if the FBI specifically asks for it.
40. IS ALL OF THIS LEGAL?
Yes, assuming the NSA adheres to the restrictions set out in recently leaked court orders. By definition, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court decides what it is legal for the NSA to do.
But this level of domestic surveillance wasn’t always legal, and the NSA has been found to violate legal standards on more than one occasion.
Although the NSA’s broad data collection programs appear to have started shortly after September 11, 2001, the NSA was gradually granted authority to collect domestic information on this scale through a series of legislative changes and court decisions over the next decade.
41. “Now you see why HW.Bush allowed 9/11 to occur. Without that event none of this would have been allowed by Congress. But the fear of another 9/11 did the trick. All that was needed was a huge event like the taking down of the towers(with bombs strategically planted to insure the total collapse of both buildings) and the successful attacks on branches of the federal government.
“The cowards may have accepted attacks on ordinary americans, but not on someone who may bomb their place of work and endanger their cowardly asses. So they were quick to acquiesce to Cheney’s demands for complete surveillance of everyone.”
42. See this timeline of loosening laws. The Director of National Intelligence says that authority for PRISM programs comes from section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and the Verizon metadata collection order cites section 215 of the Patriot Act. The author of the Patriot Act disagrees that the act justifies the Verizon metadata collection program.
43. In March 2004, acting Attorney General James Comey ordered a stop to some parts of the secret domestic surveillance programs, but President Bush signed an order re-authorizing it anyway.
44. In response, several top Justice Department officials threatened to resign, including Comey and FBI director Robert Mueller. Bush backed down, and the programs were at least partially suspended for several months. “Cheney told W.Bush to pretend to stop, but to continue to do it “off the shelf.”
45. In 2009, the Justice Department acknowledged that the NSA had collected emails and phone calls of Americans in a way that exceeded legal limitations.
46. In October 2011, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court ruled that the NSA violated the Fourth Amendment at least once. The Justice Department has said that this ruling must remain secret, but we know it concerned some aspect of the “minimization” rules the govern what the NSA can do with domestic communications.
47. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court recently decided that this ruling can be released, but Justice Department has not yet done so.
48. Civil liberties groups including the EFF and the ACLU dispute the constitutionality of these programs and have filed lawsuits to challenge them.
49. HOW LONG CAN THE NSA KEEP INFORMATION ON AMERICANS?
The NSA can generally keep intercepted domestic communications for up to five years. It can keep them indefinitely under certain circumstances, such as when the communication contains evidence of a crime or when it’s “foreign intelligence information,” a broad legal term that includes anything relevant to “the conduct of the foreign affairs of the United States.” It can also keep encrypted communications indefinitely. “It keeps ALL data collected on EVERY ONE on the planet FOREVER!
50. DOES THE NSA DO ANYTHING TO PROTECT AMERICANS’ PRIVACY?
Yes. “The truthful answer is NO. But you can continue to read Jonathan’s report if it will make you feel any better. That was the intention of the NSA anyway, to calm you down. ”
First, the NSA is only allowed to intercept communications if at least one end of the conversation is outside of the U.S. — though it doesn’t have to distinguish domestic from foreign communication until the “earliest practicable point” which allows the NSA to record bulk information from internet cables and sort it out later.
When the NSA discovers that previously intercepted information belongs to an American, it must usually destroy that information. Because this determination cannot always be made by computer, this sometimes happens only after a human analyst has already looked at it.
The NSA also must apply certain safeguards. For example, the NSA must withhold the names of U.S. persons who are not relevant to ongoing investigations when they distribute information — unless that person’s communications contain evidence of a crime or are relevant to a range of national security and foreign intelligence concerns.
Also, analysts must document why they believe someone is outside of the U.S. when they ask for addition information to be collected on that person. An unknown number of these cases are audited internally. If the NSA makes a mistake and discovers that it has targeted someone inside the U.S., it has five days to submit a report to the Department of Justice and other authorities.
51. WHAT IF I’M NOT AN AMERICAN?
All bets are off. There do not appear to be any legal restrictions on what the NSA can do with the communications of non-U.S. persons. Since a substantial fraction of the world’s Internet data passes through the United States, or its allies, the U.S. has the ability to observe and record the communications of much of the world’s population. The European Union has already complained to the U.S. Attorney General.
52. The U.S. is hardly the only country doing mass surveillance, though its program is very large. GCHQ, which is the British counterpart to the NSA, has a similar surveillance program and shares data with the NSA. “That is the problem with idiots like HW. Bush and his cohorts. They think they have discovered something others can’t duplicate. Now that they have opened Pandora’s Box. NO ONE is safe.”
53. Many countries now have some sort of mass internet surveillance now in place. Although passive surveillance is often hard to detect, more aggressive governments use intercepted information to intimidate or control their citizens, including Syria, Iran, Egypt, Bahrain and China.
54. Much of the required equipment is sold to these governments by American companies.
~
“The truth is now every sovereign nation with the money to afford the storage space and the money to buy the hard ware with the manpower to use it knows EVERYTHING you do when you use a means of communication besides face to face communication or snail mail.”
“So HELLO, people, can you now, understand why they want to get rid of the US Postal Service. It is too difficult, and costly to read all your snail mail. If you want a measure of privacy. Use the post office!!!!!!!
July 1st, 2013 at 8:55 am
When news first broke of Paula Deen’s indelicate turns of phrase, I ignored it.
C’mon. What American hasn’t used the word nigger? We teach children the word each time Mark Twain’s Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer are assigned in class.
After the initial headlines, there came anecdotes so salacious that she was a no-show on The Today Show, where she’d been scheduled to give a mea culpa and get on with her life.
Through it all, my admiration never waned for her along with Martha Stewart and B. Smith, women who’d turned housework into home-making, built empires and given millions of women immense pride in the work they do for their families.
Then, I heard Ms. Deen speak of her great-grandfather’s having gone into a barn and shot himself because the Civil War had been lost and “he didn’t know how to deal with life with no one to help operate his plantation.”
“There was 30-something people on his books and the next year’s census it’s like zero,” she told a live audience. “He couldn’t deal with those kinds of changes.”
Never did she mention the price paid by Blacks, pre- and post-change, over centuries of enslavement and segregation. She did say that “Black folks were such an integral part of our lives; they were like family.” She even called a Black male employee, Hollis Johnson, “black as a board” onstage. “We can’t see you standing against that dark board,” she joked.
To Matt Lauer on The Today Show, she offered her critics a self-serving monologue and a defiant “I is what I is, and I’m not changing!”
Hence, this open letter:
Dear Ms. Deen,
I know that you’re in great pain at this time. Your world — and everything you’ve worked for — has been rocked. Much as it was for your great-grandfather, it must seem that life has brought “terrific changes.”
I cannot, however, sympathize with the plight of your great-grandfathers who, for centuries, victimized mine. I will not mourn the “way of life” lost to those who joined the Ku Klux Klan, lynch mobs and “picnics” where white families spread blankets, shared baskets and “picked niggers” to dangle as “strange fruit” from their hanging-trees.
You are suffering because you refuse to understand that lives have been lost to the “I is what I is” mentality in which you take such pride.
Given a forum, you gave a diatribe. “Someone evil out there saw what I had worked for and they wanted it.” Do you understand that millions of hard-working people only want to hear you say: “I said the things I said. I was wrong. I’m willing to learn and to grow?”
Given a lifeline, you chose a lie when you said the only time in 30 years you used the word nigger was when a Black man had you at gunpoint in a bank robbery. Playing to stereotypes instead of humility, you sought to justify bigotry.
Forget worrying that what some say about you isn’t true; it’s what you’re saying about you that’s causing outrage.
Do you know what it means to me, a dark-skinned person, to watch a man who looks like me publically humiliated for his skin tone?
His family had to see that. What were you thinking? Should you tolerate being “white as puss?” If you won’t, should I sneer at you for being politically correct?
Your laugh-line was the work denied me for being “dark enough to offend.” “Were you 5′ 9″ and blonde, I would’ve hired you in a minute,” said one network news executive.
Your employee’s humiliation was my first day of college. A white dorm mother had me stand for inspection — as if on an auction block — to give my assigned white roommate’s parents the option of having me removed from “their daughter’s room.” My family paid the same tuition with no such option.
And, do you really think a wedding celebrating the heyday of plantation life is a good idea?
No, Ms. Deen, this isn’t just about the N-word. It’s about the picnics of your youth. It’s about your lack of remorse — or compassion — today.
It’s about your timing. You misused your platform for self-pity two days after George Zimmerman’s defense attorney opened a murder trial in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed, dark-skinned teen, with a knock-knock joke.
This is about what you’re willing to do for yourself, for the millions of people who’ve believed in you and the thousands whose livelihoods depend on your “brand.”
And, it’s about your caring enough about them to use your pain to move others toward the healing our nation so desperately needs and rightly deserves.
Sincerely,
Janus Adams
July 1st, 2013 at 9:00 am
Wow, Mike TM, when you come with information, you deliver! I’m blown away…there is no privacy, snail mail is little reward. Your cell phone esp if its a smartphone has all the info, phone calls, texts, Facebook, etc…inc emails they could ever want. That is distressing news…and there’s nothing we can do about it. Ouch. BUt thank you for the full fill-in, it’s much appreciated.
Luv, Zen Lill
July 1st, 2013 at 9:43 am
Hi Everyone,
Even though I am having a fantastic time, I am missing my readers. I HOPE all of you are doing good. And…being the political junkie that I am, I am trying to stay on top of the news which currently isn’t easy. My internet connection is not the best. However I did pull up the Huff Po today and was able to peruse the latest for a bit.
Social Butterfly: It seems the repubs are still trying to control our vaginas. Big kudos to Wendy Davis for standing for over 12 hours and speaking during the filibuster, and to all the pro-abortion peeps for standing up and cheering with her. Yes, the sisters are doing it!
Unfortunately, Ohio passed House Bill 59 which is going to affect low-cost family planning services as well as some pretty sick measures, “included several controversial anti-abortion measures, including one that will force any woman seeking an abortion to undergo a trans-abdominal ultrasound.”
sigh….
Peter: I am! :) Thanks for continuing to be with me here when I am back.
Lulu: Evidently not. :)
Scott: Stick around. There are plenty more benefits to reading this blog.
Irene: I intend to take in all pleasures of the senses.
Lisa: I wish that were true. And I am not saying it couldn’t be but right now, I ‘ll stick with dick, thank you. :)
Marcos: Unfortunately Spain is not in my travel plans but I would love to visit there someday soon. You certainly got me on the beach part – my fave thing to do – when it comes to you, I would have to see. :)
Josie: It is only for 3 weeks. I promise I’ll be back. But I have to say it is fun just making a few comments here without the pressure of having to be here daily. Don’t get marie wrong, I love being here daily but it isn’t always easy.
Catlin: Nope. Ireland is not in my plans this time.
Kenny: I am thoroughly enjoying myself. This is a much needed vacation. I promise to share when I return.
Congrats to those who can now marry! I bet that made the Gay Pride celebration in SF on Sunday even more meaningful for all of you!
Lastly, my heartfelt condolences go out to the firefighters in Colorado.
Peace & Love…
~Michelle, BABE
July 1st, 2013 at 10:27 am
Great to hear from you. The Gay Pride event was off the hook. It was a all day long party.
July 1st, 2013 at 10:29 am
Mike,TM that was so eye opening. I was wondering why Obama did what he did. Now it makes so much sense. He realizes that he can’t stop it so he is trying to give us a means of contesting its use in court against us.
Too bad the media is not as smart.
July 1st, 2013 at 10:33 am
Michelle, I hope you are soaking up sun where ever you are. You certainly deserve the break.
I agree we as women have to unite more. We need to stop these little bitty dick men from using their political positions to take away our right to control over our bodies.
July 1st, 2013 at 10:42 am
Mike, TM:
I suspected from the git-go that 9/11 was a set up. Those guys were just too dumb not to be caught. What was the FBI thinking when they were told foreign arabs were taking only flying lessons in jumbo jets.
July 1st, 2013 at 10:48 am
Hafa adai, it looks like the crooks in the legislator are earning their bribes. Sen. Dennis Rodriguez Jr. came up with a plan to circumvent the five gambling proposals in the past decade.
He proposed gambling to be passed by the legislature only. He said that it would be to help pay for Guam Memorial Hospital expenses. What a crock of shit.
Bill 19 will not create additional tax revenue. It will get legalized gambling on Guam off to a good start. Pretty we will be owned by the mob and gambling interests. The island will be in debt to criminals and they will prostitute most of our women as they did in the Philippines.
Yes, Guam we have our BAPF LSOS on Guam too.
July 1st, 2013 at 11:42 am
Ditto Zen Lill, thanks it was much needed.
July 1st, 2013 at 8:26 pm
Mike, TM, are you afraid for your life. If not, you should be. This is awesome.
July 1st, 2013 at 9:30 pm
Imagine being able to light your San Francisco tap water on fire.
That’s a reality right now in communities across the country as the fossil fuel industry pushes our country into an all-out—and dangerous—”fracking” boom.1
Want to learn more about fracking and how to stop it? We’ve teamed up with Oscar-nominated filmmaker Josh Fox for a fun, informative, and sobering nationwide event to watch his new HBO documentary Gasland Part II on Sunday, July 14, and you can have a front row seat—in your own living room!
Fracking for gas and oil has been linked to water so contaminated that it catches fire, illness in residential neighborhoods, unusual earthquakes, dead livestock, and tanking property values. And the methane released by fracking is a far more potent global warming gas than carbon dioxide.2
The hopeful news is that MoveOn members are fighting back—and Gasland Part II gives us a powerful new weapon to grow our grassroots movement. That’s why hundreds of MoveOn members are signing up to host a Gasland Part II Movie Party on Sunday, July 14.
Hosting a movie screening is easy and very rewarding. We’ll provide a host guide with special materials, we’ll help you recruit MoveOn members in your area to attend, and we’ll invite you to join director Josh Fox and thousands of other MoveOn members for a special briefing after we view the film together.
Because the film is only available right now on HBO, you’ll need an HBO subscription—or a friend with HBO—to host a movie night. If you don’t have HBO, we may be able to match you up with a MoveOn member near you who does.
July 2nd, 2013 at 1:35 am
Ym,
I miss you babe.
Love,
Yw
July 2nd, 2013 at 8:13 am
I miss you too. I will call you later today.
July 2nd, 2013 at 9:15 am
Though the controlled corporate media apparatus is suppressing the story, 40 tons of GMO crops were torched, prompting an FBI investigation. There has been a complete media blackout. It was only reported locally live on KXL Radio and echoed by the Oregonian, where the ONLY web mention exists, hard to find because the headline wording carefully avoids the most likely keywords for a search.
Here’s what happened — 40 Tons of GMO Sugar Beets were set ablaze in Eastern Oregon. FORTY TONS — the entire acreage of two full fields of crops in the ground were set ablaze over a three night period of time. That means arson.
Evidence is that 6,500 plants were destroyed by hand, one plant at a time. That, in turn, implies a lot of people were involved. Would you want to stick around once a fire was going and wait to be discovered? No, someone (many someones) probably wanted to move as quickly as possible. We are talking about a movement — and this is exactly the kind of retribution that many have warned was coming; when lawmakers and corporations refuse to honor the Constitution and instead engage in ‘legalized’ criminal acts such as enabled by the ‘Monsanto Protection Act.’
More than a decade ago, environmental saboteurs vandalized experimental crops across the country in a revolt against high-tech agriculture. Foes of genetic engineering also struck in 2000, when members of the Earth Liberation Front, with roots in Oregon, set fire to agriculture offices at Michigan State University. ELF’s position was that genetic engineering was “one of the many threats to the natural world as we know it.”
But ELF cells normally come forward immediately to claim responsibility, because to them, its all about publicity to educate the public. Since there has been no statement about the recent arson this may have simply been Oregon farmers who have said, ‘Enough!’ Another clue that this may be the case is that this comes on the heels (two weeks) of Japan’s rejection of the entire Oregon wheat crop for the year (a tremendous financial blow because over 80% of Oregon Wheat is exported) because one report said one field was contaminated with at least ONE GMO plant.
(copied from realfarmacy.com)
July 2nd, 2013 at 9:16 am
The rightful fear is, because of pollination processes, once you introduce a GMO crop of a given variety anywhere, the wind and insects will spread its genetic contamination to non GMO fields, and thereby ruin the entire industry for a region. In fact, Oregon farmers have tendered a multi-billion dollar class action lawsuit against Monsanto, joining a long list of states doing so. Monsanto has experimented with GMO crops before they were approved in 16 states. They were supposedly all destroyed, but state after state is finding out the hard way, that Pandora’s box has been deliberately left open.
But while other governments in Europe and elsewhere are passing laws to ban GMO crops, and burning entire crops themselves, in America, our government is passing laws protecting Monsanto from legal repercussions, and therefore, it seems, farmers are forced to burn the crops, themselves. This means that where in other countries, citizens are being protected from corporate crimes, in America, citizens are forced to become ‘terrorists’ to survive. That’s how blatantly corrupt our corporate police state has become, I’m afraid.
July 2nd, 2013 at 10:36 am
boys, the box is still full.
July 2nd, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Obama has shown that his power is way more potent than any of the past 12 presidents. All the major countries on the planet are jumping all over themselves to help him show traitors like Snowden that from Obama you can run but you cannot hide.
This is going to get real interesting. Putin actually called Obama to ask if he could be of service. Obama does not want to take possession of Snowden just yet.
============================
Ruth said that you would have dinner with us tomorrow. Please do not be alarmed by the security measures necessary. We will take care of all your personal needs. Only your presence is necessary.
We have your absence covered. Don’t worry about anything.
July 2nd, 2013 at 9:42 pm
Thanks Mama, we have figured out how to empty it.
July 2nd, 2013 at 10:13 pm
Herman, we live it every day. The state says our water is safe. This is insane.
July 3rd, 2013 at 9:29 am
Anonz, thanks for the post, enjoy your dinner with Ruth, the commander, and whoever else is present, as always glad you’re alive and well and reporting in here. Luv, Zen Lill
July 3rd, 2013 at 9:41 am
Zen Lill:
Thank you. If not for security implications that can’t be discussed here, we would love to have you present. Your input and company are definitely missed.
July 3rd, 2013 at 8:42 pm
I’m ready to love – who will love me?
July 4th, 2013 at 8:04 am
A, I wish I could have been the one….
July 4th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
I want to love somebody too.
July 5th, 2013 at 8:54 am
Anonz, well now, that is unfortunate news but I will trust you at your word that you would’ve wanted me there.
Whisper, A & Homer, are you actively participating in talking to people, male or female, bc you just never know what a chance encounter with someone, anyone, a stranger of either sex will bring…
For anyone not feeling the consciousness of the masses shifting for the better, this is for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdneZ4fIIHE the hearts intuitive intelligence (and it allows me to give some heart/and the brains psychic input to the party taking place without me ; )
If there’s anyone who doesn’t ever feel that feeling in life, start practicing energetics with those closest to you, or rather, I should say, allow yourself to feel it – practice sounds too contrived.
For those of you that lost weight with the ZL program a few years back I just wanted to share one of the ‘heart’ exercises here today, this one is for you and I’ve shared this recently with some that laughed, cried and then – hmmm, their own ‘energetics’ shifted for the way better…you ready…?
In the morning, oh well go ahead and have coffee, brush your teeth, whatever you need to feel good to start with…And then I want you to look into your mirror (for the duration of the exercise) and take a deep breathe and exhale any thoughts, actions from previous days, excess tension, or just anything that does/is not serving you in a positive way, and then I want you to say out loud,
‘I love you -your name here-’ and repeat this exercise 3 times, deep breaths in between.
Maybe you’ll laugh or cry or not be able to do it initially for a variety of reasons, keep trying till you can deliver that message to yourself until you hear it/feel it and embody it, you’ll know when that is, bc you’ll be feel a shift and you’ll be a lot gentler on yourself and others. And when you feel that way it is very easy to feel compassion for others as well…try it, you’ll like it (eventually) if you have a tough time even thinking of wanting to do this, then my best guess is that you’ve gotten so far away from nature and your own natural state that you don’t feel much of anything, don’t give up, please… I assure you that you will…
my other best guess, there may be some underlying self loathing or lack of self love, again, please do not give up, this exercise is the highest form of extreme self care…stay with it. the love that you’ll feel for yourself and others will grow and will be of the unconditional variety at some point and wow, when you get there, life is quite beautiful…sound ethereal and like you’ll lose your edge? Nope, not.at.all. (trust me ; )
And with that sharing, I will wish you all a lovely Friday, Luv, Zen Lill
July 6th, 2013 at 12:05 am
Love the way you write Zen Lill.
July 6th, 2013 at 12:06 am
Celebrating Our Heritage and Our Hope
July 5, 2013
Share This
Email On:
Twitter
Facebook
Congresswoman Pelosi joins with Nisei veterans of World War II for the opening celebration of the Congressional Gold Medal Tour at the de Young Museum
Celebrating Our Heritage and Our Hope
On Saturday, I was honored to attend the opening celebration of an exhibit highlighting the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to the Nisei (Second Generation Japanese-Americans) veterans of World War II at the de Young Museum.
With this exhibit, “American Heroes: Japanese American World War II Nisei Soldiers and the Congressional Gold Medal,” we continue to pay tribute to heroes and veterans of the Greatest Generation who were willing to pay any price and bear any burden to fight tyranny and secure our future. It is fitting that their motto, as inscribed on the Gold Medal, is “Go for Broke.” The Gold Medal awardees were willing to “go for broke” — fighting for freedom abroad and against discrimination here at home, even in the face of injustice of internment. Even in the age of racism and prejudice, endless Japanese-Americans endured brutality in their own communities. These brave men in uniform rose above feeling embittered. Instead, they felt compelled to demonstrate their love of country and their loyalty to the cause of democracy.
Simply put, the 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the Military Intelligence Service saved American lives. Across the Atlantic, they faced deadly combat in Italy, France, and Germany. In the Pacific, they interpreted radio transmissions, translated enemy documents and interrogated prisoners of war. Some gave what President Lincoln once called the “last full measure of devotion,” never to return to their homes again. All through, they were great fighters; all through, they were great patriots. All recognized the task in their mission wasn’t simply the end of fascism, but also the end of discrimination here at home. All embraced and all advanced the American ideal of equality, our heritage and our hope.
This weekend, we have another opportunity to honor these values as we commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence with the celebration of the Fourth of July. Let us take this weekend to commemorate our past and honor our Founding Fathers, our veterans, and our service men and women. Let their example continue to be an inspiration.
Please feel free to forward this information to your family and friends. To learn more about these efforts, to express your views, or to sign up for email updates, please visit my website. I am also on Twitter at http://twitter.com/NancyPelosi.
best regards,
July 6th, 2013 at 8:04 am
Zen Lill your fans here are so excited that you have decided to inspire us again with your advice.
Merci beaucoup.
July 6th, 2013 at 10:19 am
Kelvin, thank you.
Ma Qin, you just made my day and what I do every day so worthwhile, merci beaucoup to you (and my fans there).
So I’ll add this advice…only speak openly on things you want, energy goes to that on which you focus so if you find yourself speaking about what you don’t want, don’t like, wish were different, switch that up to speaking ONLY on how it will be, can be, could be…bring energy and focus there.
The universe and your brain is not wired for ‘no’ and ‘don’t want’ its a computer in there give it a ‘problem’ to ‘solve’ and it will output all synchronicity you will ever need to get the things you want…(and don’t want bc it doesn’t hear the word NO in its various forms).
Using your brain and heart for intuitive and natural living is the closest we will ever come to how we all used to be when ancient sages spoke and lived…it sounds cliche but bring love to those things you desire not fear based wishes. Ex. I desire excellent health and in that desire is the loving wish for you all to have that as well so when I can I share information/products/etc…that will bring you into a state of excellent health. If I were in fear of losing my health I may approach that mentioned above in a very different way bc of the perspective.
& remember this: secure people ie. people who love and value themselves, aren’t busy living in fear, they are out creating things from a place of love…insecure people are very busy trying to control things/people and I understand bc it’s difficult to release that need when you’re feeling out of control on the inside (keep doing exercise from above and this CAN change if you wish it to), & that internal chaos requires attention to order on the outside which is fine in controlling certain things/events, but never works with people, so become okay with (and eventually embracing) that you can just let people be who they are and YOU will always be fine, better than fine actually (because you can fee very light when you’re not holding to everything and everyone else’s ‘outcomes’ and ‘expectations’ so tight).
& out into the sunshine I go…
Luv, Zen Lill
PS commander hope you’re soaking in some sunshine and love : )
July 6th, 2013 at 10:40 am
Ah, I wanted to add something bc I know all of the above can sound ethereal and only applicable in our personal worlds…no it can be used to great affect in how we want the world to be, only speak politically about what you want to occur not on what you don’t want to see more of, same with our global sisters, I only speak on how improving the lives/conditions of women benefits the women and in essence the ecology of the village/town/city/state/country…I don’t waste energy on what’s wrong about it, we all know what’s wrong and staying focused on how we can right some very wrong things occurring in this world gets things done. the other way is negative lip service bc it affects no real change (but if it feels good to do it, and it shakes off the stress of it, then – indulge!).
Its been pointed out to me that I can get ‘passionate’ ( a word I love) or ‘aggressive’ (a word I used to not like) but if anyone (usually a man) wants to mistake the 2 to make himself feel better bc he has no true feeling stance on a given subject I’m okay with it : ) & I’m secretly giggling bc I know they can only wish they could see the other side of that passion and aggression, lol…
- ZL
July 6th, 2013 at 1:34 pm
WOW a 777 Boing Asiana Aircraft crash landed in SFO about 2hours ago. There were very little deaths about 3.
July 6th, 2013 at 1:36 pm
I smiling too Zen Lill cause I would surely like to be on the other end of that passion.
July 7th, 2013 at 1:40 am
I met this girl when I told her that I was in love with a woman who was the right fit for me. She smiled and said that I was wasting a lot of good dick because there is a lot of good fits out there.
That made me smile because When I see you tonight I will be reminded that although there may be a lot of good fits out there, there is only one right fit.
July 7th, 2013 at 2:09 am
Okay readers…now I know who Anonz is.And believe me he looks every bit the part of a desert warrior…Lawrence of Arabia has nothing on him. He promised me a more in depth interview if I give him a couple of days. And of course I will. What girl wouldn’t? :)
Yes,I am getting out in the beautiful weather. Speaking of…back to soaking up the rays in my itty bitty teeny weenie bikini. I Hope everyone else is having as much fun as I am.
Lastly, I want to give a Special shout out to Howie and Al.
Peace and love. I HOPE you’re getting some. I certainly am.
July 7th, 2013 at 8:10 am
Good morning Zen Lill, some of my friends told me to head back to the blog because you were starting up your diet thing again. I confess when you stopped I stopped coming here.
I just couldn’t take all that anger that is on this blog sometimes. Most of my friends stayed. I think they like all the commotion. They didn’t talk to me much about it because I asked them not to.
but as I read some of the stuff here I can see why most of my friends said that I missed a lot. It is very informative and like they say I can skip the parts I don’t like. Actually after staying away for so long I am glad you brought me back.
Delaney
July 7th, 2013 at 8:12 am
Okay Michelle if you are in the mood for giving it up, where are you. I live in Europe and if you are here it will be worth a trip to come to see that beautiful smile of yours.
Hell, we can’t let Anonz get all the love.
July 7th, 2013 at 8:17 am
Unbelievable, Zen Lill you are giving lessons again. Fantastic! I read you all the time. when my daughter turned 16 I told her this is one smart American lady. Read her often.
That was 3 years ago she is still reading and calling me. She was the first to catch your write about it. I haven’t made it pass 78. I thought it would not last once Michelle stopped. I was so wrong.
But my daughter could use some exercise advice. She gets lazy some times and just quits. A reminder from you every now and then will do wonders.
Thank you from a grateful mother.
Stacy
July 7th, 2013 at 8:26 am
Michelle are you near Serbia? Probably not mostly racists from America come here bragging about what they do to their non whites. My brother said that a family of 4 came to his restaurant complaining about their minorities and saying that we had the right solution and that they wish they could shoot their problem away.
He said that he put small pieces of rat shit in their food. No one in my family is proud of what some of our racist country men did. All serbians are not racists. Many of us lost very close and dear friends in that crazed period.
Bratislav
July 7th, 2013 at 8:54 am
Michelle, I live Kagoshima. It is a great place to visit during July and August. We have our best summer weather then. I could show you around and take you on a ferry ride to visit one of our live volcanos.
You can see Mount Sakurajima from the many points the city but Siroyama Observatory is a great place to see it from. We have a beautiful city. I wish you would come. I could show you how better a GirlZ I would be for you. I practice law here but I have been dreaming of being a GirlZ since I started reading your blog.
I am sorry more is not talked about as you used to. But there is more to Kagoshima City than just me. It is the capital of Kagoshima Perfecture and we have some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere. The ocean around us is so beautiful and the skies so blue and warn this time of the year. You can wear your itty bitty teeny weenie bikini with pride and super enjoyment here.
I could pick you up from Kagoshima Airport and you take you to downtown. It is about a 45 minute drive and we could talk about Girlz, your Madaline(I love her) or anything.
You would love our hot springs waters, they are beautiful and great for the body. I could drive you to Ibusuki Hot Spring(指宿温泉), it is about an hour from my place. You could stay there with me I have much room.
I know you love animals and we also have a beautiful one with animals. It is Kirishima-Yaku National Park(霧島屋久国立公園). You have many fans here, I am your biggest.
Etsuko
July 7th, 2013 at 8:57 am
Thanks for the shout out to Howie and Al, Michelle. I hope it will coax them out. Your fans in the Philippines miss you Howie.
Have the aliens come and grabbed you? Or has Carr taken you to parks unknown?
July 7th, 2013 at 9:06 am
Michelle, are you in Greece. More tourist are coming now that our currency is weak. But you better believe that doesn’t apply to our love life.
If you are feeling to replace Doug and find real love, I am 28 and in love already with you. I am a professional athlete, in great shape and ready to commit. Unlike most here in Greece my income was not affected by the disaster.
If you are not in or coming to Greece tell me where you are and if my team isn’t visiting where you are, I will come anyway. I am a gentleman, you will see.
Sikander
July 7th, 2013 at 9:09 am
Damn Zen Lill watching your beautiful pictures while reading you tell me how “aggressive” you can be with a man made my whole week. If I could get leave to visit the USA, I would make it a straight line to you.
July 7th, 2013 at 9:12 am
The Girlz of Egypt would love to see you Michelle. It is a hope I have nourished for years. I will graduate for the University this year. Oh my god to be a Girlz. What an opportunity!
Have fun but think of us here in Egypt.
Love
Naeemah
July 7th, 2013 at 9:15 am
Howie, I hope you will answer Michelle and come back to the blog. You have not answered the call from your Israeli country men and women, but if it takes Michelle to being you out, GREAT.
Your posts are missed here in Israel.
Naamah
July 7th, 2013 at 9:20 am
Lulu what happened to you? I have read through every post and have you quit or changed your moniker? I think I would recognize your post if you had.
So what’s up?
July 7th, 2013 at 9:25 am
Michelle, I could swear I saw that face and hair in my town. I won’t say were but if it is you I will say hello tomorrow.
July 7th, 2013 at 9:44 am
Men are just so disgustingly evil. Here in Potiskum, Nigeria. the men are sneaking up on school dormitories and killing students. Some are actually burning our girls and boys alive.
I am talking about shooting in the back 10 year olds. This is so evil. I wish I could be a GirlZ so I could kill them all.
July 7th, 2013 at 1:28 pm
Quit teasing us Michelle. Tell us where you are.
July 7th, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Mischa, very cool, cannot wait to hear the detes on the peace and love in the sun, and the Anonz interview…enjoy, commander! I’d ask questions but I know security would require you to not give answers, inquiring minds want to know ; )
Delaney and Stacey, welcome back to you(!), I’m glad I got you back here. Now, where’s Caroline+4 and Maple from the weight loss program fr a few years ago…I wonder now…
16 year olds can be lazy about weight and exercise, and big into sugar as well…it’s a challenge but here’s a good way to get your girl started without even realizing she’s doing anything. Remember the $1000 bill held in the butt cheeks technique, well it is right out of the ‘Alexander Technique’ playbook, and here we go…
…this is for all of you to started with body movement, first do that ‘I love you (your name)’ exercise (and 13-18 yrs old will scoff, then do it and cry, and totally get it)…I have noticed with weight loss clients that self love and self care have to precede any food/body actions for the idea of losing weight and exercising to be meaningful (otherwise it feels like they’re doing it for someone else, much like an alcoholic giving up booze for the spouse, it won’t work for long…), once the idea of self love/care are in place it makes the thought processes preceding poor eating or imbibing or lack of movement or exercise come from a place of thinking the best of ourselves and the actions that come after that really are ‘replacement’ behaviors/thoughts/feelings that were there prior to learning and thinking about extreme self love/care. Hope that’s clear…?
This part is about being conscious and aware of how you move, so from a standing position take a deep breathe in, feel it in your belly, let it expand and fill diaphragm and lungs and exhale squeezing tummy muscles in towards the spine allowing you to get in touch with muscles that maybe you’ve let go of or are just not ‘in touch’ with…as you lift your foot to move forward (walk) squeeze your buttocks in (that $1000 bill) and allow your foot to land softly on your heel and roll through to ball of foot and repeat on other side, make every step matter in terms of alignment of spine and the action of each muscle – roll your shoulders back but not so far your hyper-extending, breath and expand belly on intake and pull it in towards spine on the exhale…lifting each leg with purpose and squeezing and releasing buttocks, hamstrings and quads as the motion takes you forward.
Stacey, tell your daughter to practice just that for now and ask her to go get things from your car for you (or anything that makes her walk a city block or so, I have stairs in my house, lots of them so I ask my kid to go get the mail or go to garage and get my this or that…get creative!), I’ll get more into foods and sugar specifics later…for now, shop the outside aisles of the store: veggies, fruit and fish/chicken and grass-fed organic meats (if you must have red meat), and stay hydrated, esp if you are in the middel of summer heat, I know it sounds like a lot but 1 ounce per pound of body weight is good, I drink about a gallon a day (and yes, some water is better than others, and I’ll get into that another day also).
There’s so much to being a holistic seeker of your good healthy set point (I don’t call it ‘weight’ bc the number isn’t relevant, muscle weighs more than fat) so it’s hard to tell you a perfect weight for you, I only know mine, but you will feel it when you reach it…
More to come soon…
Brad and Larry, you both made me smile.
Very glad this info is so well received, I’ll be adding exercises and food info and info re: water/hydration, and more about your self talk/thoughts!
Luv, Zen Lill
July 7th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
PS I know Howie wanted to ‘disconnnect’ himself for a bit from here, I’ll see I can confirm he’s ok and still just on disconnect mode. – ZL
July 9th, 2013 at 7:27 am
Clean Pacifiers Increase Allergies and Asthma
We have become a very clean-conscious society, especially where our littlest ones are concerned—but a “germaphobic” approach to life could be doing kids more harm than good.
In fact, many experts suspect that the too-clean lifestyle is behind the rising rate of allergies.
The hygiene hypothesis holds that, when babies’ exposure to germs is so limited, their immune systems are deprived of the opportunity to learn how to fend off pathogens properly…consequently their immune systems become so sensitive that the babies develop allergies.
That would also explain why people who grow up in large families or who have early contact with animals are less likely to develop allergies.
So what can you do to cut down on the risk of your child developing allergies, short of buying a pet pig or moving in with a crowd of relatives? Well, for one thing, you can suck on your child’s pacifier, according to recent research.
SALIVA SWAP
The new study included 184 healthy full-term babies, many of whom were at risk for allergies by virtue of having a parent with allergies.
When the babies were born, their parents answered questions about the pregnancy, delivery, their family structure and living conditions…and they were given diaries to record events in the babies’ lives, such as illnesses, food introduction, medication use, etc.
Then when the babies were six months old, the parents answered a series of questions, including one about pacifier use.
For the 74% of parents who indicated that their babies used pacifiers, the next question asked which method or methods parents used to clean the pacifiers—boiling (used by 54% of parents), rinsing in tap water (used by 83%) and/or the parent sucking on it before giving it back to the baby (used by 48% of parents).
Babies were examined by a pediatric allergist when they were 18 months old and also whenever symptoms suggesting a possible allergic reaction were noticed.
The allergist looked for signs of eczema and asthma, both of which can indicate an allergic response, and also checked the babies’ blood for markers that suggest specific food sensitivities.
Results: 25% of the babies had eczema…5% had asthma…and 15% had food sensitivities. Pacifier use itself did not affect allergy risk.
However, among the pacifier-using babies, the cleaning method made a big difference—because babies whose parents cleaned the pacifier by sucking on it were 63% less likely to develop eczema or food sensitivities and 88% less likely to develop asthma than babies whose parents did not use this cleaning method.
Reassuring: Though parents often worry about spreading respiratory infections to their infants by kissing them or otherwise “swapping spit,” babies in this study whose parents sucked their pacifiers had no increased risk for respiratory infections.
Explanation:
Researchers suspect that parents’ sucking on their children’s pacifiers introduces microbes to their children…and the early introduction of those microbes stimulates the infants’ immune systems into learning appropriate protective responses to germs.
Saliva contains a complex mix of microbiota, just as the gut does—and in fact, swallowing the microbes that wind up in the mouth may have beneficial effects on the balance of microbes in the small intestine.
Some questions remain.
For instance, would it be helpful for grandparents to suck their grandchildren’s pacifiers? Would the allergy-fighting benefits still accrue if a parent who felt squeamish about sucking a dirty pacifier first rinsed the pacifier in tap water, then sucked it before giving it to the baby?
Might licking your baby’s spoon or planting nice wet kisses on your baby’s mouth also stimulate the immune system? Should parents with communicable diseases (colds, flu, gum disease, etc.) refrain from sucking those pacifiers?
The researchers suspect that the answer to all these questions is yes, though more study is needed to say for sure.
Bottom line: We can be too clean, it seems.
Source: Bill Hesselmar, MD, PhD, associate professor, department of pediatrics, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. His study was published in Pediatrics.
July 9th, 2013 at 7:29 am
I’m with Ze Lill, Michelle what are the girls like?
July 9th, 2013 at 7:35 am
Wow, I can’t believe you remember us Zen Lill. We are now Petite things. I met and married the man of my dreams. I confess he didn’t notice me until I lost significant (32) number of pounds, but once I got the courage to speak up we hit it off right away.
It was your help that encouraged me to stay on the diet. Without that I would have never had the courage to approach him. He was the office catch. There were 7 other office girls chasing him.
July 9th, 2013 at 7:43 am
Zen Lill, I tried to get in yesterday to say I am looking forward to trying your exercises. I didn’t try them in the first time because I thought you were too pretentious by the time I came around to seeing that you were a genuine find for this blog I couldn’t access your old exercises.
Thanks so much for bringing them back.
July 9th, 2013 at 8:33 am
Samantha, I’ve been called many things but pretentious was never one of them, thanks for the giant smile on my face right now : )
Caroline, congrats on the wedding, I bet he saw that YOU were the office snag! : )
& I was going to address the ‘attraction’ factor of this holistic weight loss approach to being your just your personal fit best today. I can give you the nutshell version now and come back a little later, heading to the gym now…
it’s one word, and it’s what you receive when you start to feel the self love/extreme care and take action on it, and it just allows you the honor and privilege of exuding mostly loving thoughts, extending kindness and other positive things/ways with self and others because when you feel ‘confidence’ all those other things come along for the ride…
(and if it seems pretentious to others that says more about them than it ever will about you, Samantha caught that all on her own and good for you bc when you’re finding fault with others, it’s usually inner resistance and/or some vague insecure feeling you’re tapping into and I’m glad you shook it! & not bc I need to be liked or thought of in a certain way…no one’s perspective ever changes how I feel about me, but because you received a ‘growth’ message all on your own without any input from me, not on the surface anyway, though my words got to your subconscious and rightfully so, it is what I do : ) – more later, on this confidence subject and some exercises as well…
Luv, Zen Lill
July 9th, 2013 at 8:58 am
I never believed in aliens even though I like this blog and it is talked about a lot here( sorry Howie). But my girl friend of 2 years 9 months, Traci, revealed to me that she is an alien.
She asked me why I always spent a few minutes each day checking out the computer alone. I told her it wasn’t porno, it was Michelle’s blog.
She asked me what was so special about it. I told her that it was totally raw. She reacted the way she usually did when I suspected she didn’t really understand me. She said, “okay.
I swear I used to think she was an illegal who had stayed passed her passport from some baltic country. Her accent is strange and she never seemed to understand any of our slang.
We were talking after making love yesterday(she is most talkative after we do the deed), and I asked her if she believed in aliens?
She said frankly I am one. I said no, I mean ones from outer space, she smiled and said, “oh, why?”
So I showed her a few passages I had saved from Howie. She asked if I had any more, I said no but if she wanted to I would give her the link to this blog and she could check it out and maybe catch a UFO convo, or something from Howie. I left that with the caveat that I didn’t believe in aliens.
She read it and asked me why I didn’t believe in the possibility that there could be other life out there. I said it may be, but I don’t believe any have visited this place.
She said “but Howie seems so genuine.” I said some on the blog think that he and Zen Lill, among others, are characters made up by Michelle and Doug. I kind of lean that way too. So it’s probably for those people.
While I was explaining the new relationship between Doug and Michelle, she said “Regg I’m an alien from the planet Jorno. Do you still love me?”
I laughed and jokingly said, yeah baby, I don’t care where you’ll from, you fuck my brains out. Then she said “I’m glad so now I don’t have to wait for you to get up to get that glass of cold water for me after sex any more.”
Before I could say, oh baby I don’t mind, a glass of cold water appeared in her hand and she was drinking it and smiling at me.
She said “I’m so glad, I was beginning to get annoyed with how I was going to tell you.”
I was stunned. I mean she didn’t get that I was joking and at that moment I wasn’t sure I was seeing what I had just seen. Thank god for all those crazy alien stories on your blog Michelle.
I said get me one, please honey. A split second later there on the table was mine. Same glasses we always used to drink from after sex. Hers, with Ice water and mine with room temperature Teva tea.
I was in shock thinking fuck me I’m in love with an alien from outer space. Then it was gottdamn wow!
What’s next I have no idea. I didn’t know they came in ladies.
July 9th, 2013 at 8:59 am
Thanks Zen Lill for today’s diet advice and thoughts can’t wait to hear the rest. I will be checking in from time to time while I slave her for my boss.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:36 am
Anonz, I think I recognize you in that young man that was selected by his squad as 20 years ago to lead. I commanded the Unit at that time. I won’t say where. I don’t want to out you.
But I want to say I have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It is in the third stage and I will die in about 3 months. I would love to see my favorite recruit. I have been keeping up with your exploits but until a comrade told me about this blog and sent me some pass issues, I thought I would never be able to see you again.
I know you have saved many lives in your career, but if you remember my helicopter took a direct hit pulling out of a hot LZ and you volunteered to stay behind with one of those vietnam LAWs and a three quarter clip on a M60 to check for survivors.
There were only 4 of the 32 aboard that survived, but we all owe our lives to your courage under fire that day. I fell in love with the young man that guided us through enemy territory when others decided that we were too injured to continue. You were the son every man dreams of having.
Those 19 days of dodging enemy reconnaissance, and tending to 4 injured ornery brass showed me that if you made it back, you would have a great future.
Its been 20 years to the day, and you have. You have not wavered in your commitment to duty and country. I am proud to have commanded you and to have played some small part in your growth.
I regret I didn’t say it then, but thank you for saying I was an example you looked up to. I hope my career didn’t cause you to change your mind.
I have 4 children. There very fine boys any man would be proud of and a daughter that would have made you a fine wife. She has been running my companies for 3 years.
I’ve often told her about you and my love and respect for what you did those 19 days. I told her that a week into our journey we conspired to eat and drink less to prevent you from giving up you share to keep us alive. I didn’t tell her about the numerous scrapes and full on battles you endured for our lives during that journey.
I did tell her about that one when you assaulted a bivouac to replenish our food and water supply and the infirmary raid you made to get us medical aid.
She would love to meet you. I retired a three star, if that helps, but I hardly think you need that additional information to find me if you wish.
It hope you will see it worth the risk to grant a dying man’s wish for you to make one more rescue and save me from passing without giving you a hug and a thank you.
Dan
July 9th, 2013 at 9:37 am
Zen Lill I’ve never though you were pretentious or imaginary.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:39 am
Of course Zen Lill is a work of Doug and Michelle. Did anyone notice that she is running the blog now that Michelle is supposed to be on vacation.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:41 am
Reggie, I bet most of the regulars like me know that Zen Lill is Doug. They talk alike on the blog. Notice how Zen Lill has matured into this all wise woman version of Doug.
And now that Doug and Michelle are splits, Zen Lill has taken a more active role on the blog.
Yeah, main dude you have been busted.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:43 am
The talk about Zen Lill being a fabrication of Doug and Michelle is idiotic. Did you see that beauty’s picture. That is no made up Babe.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:44 am
Thanks Zen Lill for renewing your exercises. I missed it the first time around.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:46 am
Ditto Glen. That babe’s pictures says REAL.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:47 am
Glen so when does a picture make someone real? I’ve been reading for 3 years also and I have always suspected that Zen Lill was Doug.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:50 am
I see the chatter about Zen Lill being Doug is back. I was about to broach that topic when Doug, oops Zen Lill piped in with she would check on Howie.
I have long suspected that Howie was a Doug clone to. It is convenient that Howie disappears about the time of Doug and Michelle’s break up.
I think he refused to continue the “Howie” character because of the divorce.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:51 am
Michelle, so where in Europe or Asia or ????????? are you? What’s the big secret?
July 9th, 2013 at 9:52 am
Eric, you are an idiot. She is obviously in Europe. She visited that rogue Anonz and fucked him there.
July 9th, 2013 at 9:54 am
Chill out boys. She could be here in Iceland keeping warm and snug with me.
I wouldn’t tell.
July 9th, 2013 at 10:05 am
What difference does it make where she is. I personally am taking a week off to look for her here in France.
Michelle, I am 31, very good looking and a perfect gentleman. 1.88; and 78kg17g, blond, well tanned. I live in Paris, but have the means to travel anywhere in Europe.
A hint to get me started is that is needed. J’aimerais commencer une relation amoureuse avec vous.
Lucian
July 9th, 2013 at 10:32 am
If I may bring the blog back to a more serious topic. I have always said white people can make anything seem great because they have no taste.
Take some of the bands they say must be good because their sales have been so high. That only supports what I have been saying, NO Taste.
Why am I raving? I just heard that Rick Perry is the longest serving governor of Texas. I mean 13 year for that idiot.
Fuck, white people have no taste.
July 9th, 2013 at 10:55 am
I met this alien on a cruise ship. He was on the top deck. I snuck up to be with the elites and super rich one evening.
He was sitting on a couch playing chess with a machine. I say next to him. Men kept coming up to me to hit on me because I was a young 21 beauty that looked 16.
Old leachers and young rich studs figured I was easy prey. He looked up and said if you are so bothered tell them you’ll with me. Then use this card to go where you want on deck before you go back downstairs.
I was a bit stunned he knew that I didn’t belong. I took his card and went on a spending spree. Well not really. I only purchased two outfits and cute bag. I think it was maybe $1200 total.
When I returned to give back the card he was gone. I asked for him but couldn’t find him so I left my address on the second deck.
The next day he called to say I could bring it up and he would be in the same place in the lounge. I invited him to come down to see me.
I told my girl two friends who had booked passage with me about him. They were excited to meet this rich guy who just gave his ship card to strangers.
When he came down we were sitting together when my Debbie came in and fainted. She had been sunning on deck and appeared to be having a heat stroke.
He put his hand on her stomach and said that she was pregnant about two weeks and that the baby had caused her reaction.
He told her to not to eat the lettuce on the ship as it had been sprayed with a substance to make it look fresher than it was and that it was causing the baby to react negatively.
We laughed and then he said that we should get some ice because a real heat stoke candidate was about to come in and need it.
Again we laughed and Sheila said this guy is crazy. About that time Linda came in as red as a beet and collapsed. While we were looking for ice.
He asked me to step aside with him when we were out of view by the others, he opened his mouth and produced about 8 large sized ice cubes one right after the other.
I took the bowl he put them in and helped Linda with them. He left. I later discovered he had taken his card back. It was in my change purse in the bag I had purchased which was in my state room and we never went there.
That was the last time I saw him. When I went up to try to find him I was told there was no such passenger aboard.
I Swear this is true.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:09 am
Oh, I forgot to mention when we returned home Debbie called two weeks later and told us she discovered that she was about a month pregnant.
She also told us that she had asked him why he thought she was pregnant and he told her he didn’t say he thought she was pregnant he said you are pregnant and your baby will be a green eyed blond 6 lbs 10 oz. On my planet the gestation period is much shorter. You humans are inefficient.
I asked her why she never mentioned it. She said she thought it was a pick up line. She just laughed and walked away from the crazy black guy.
Linda said that Debbie was just stupid the guy was from the Middle East because she saw some arabs come and escort him to the upper deck.
Anyway he seemed to enjoy the antics before all the commotion started. He was laughing at my stories about me and the girls before Debbie screwed things up by coming in sick.
I never told anyone about the ice. I hoped we would meet again. That was 41 years ago and I guess I can give that up now.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:11 am
Henry I have an opinion, I’m now white and it is fuck you and your silly conclusion.
Sure Perry is an asshole and he was elected by mostly by white people, but I live in Texas and I can say that it was probably because they suppressed the vote.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:12 am
I meant I am NOT white.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:13 am
Lucian you are dreaming. If Michelle is romancing Anonz, you have no chance.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:15 am
Ditto, Sonja. I would add Doug’s lost is Anonz’s gain. He may be all that. But for certain Michelle is all that and more.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:18 am
Hey, hey, Michelle hasn’t said that she is doing anything but dinner with Anonz. And what makes you think she would be interested in that greedy member of the 1%?
She would be more interested in guys like me. I’m keeping my options open. You people are just too taken with that Anonz mercenary.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:20 am
Frankly, I also think that Zen Lill, Howie, and Al are products of Michelle and Doug.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:34 am
Tai;
I met a guy who coughed up ice cubes and put them in a hot glass of coke I gave to him after we made love. He laughed and said, “I’m a magician.”
This guy could get hard at will and keep it as long as I wanted him to. We had a 3 week affair before I had to return home.
He left me a long(three page) note which he told me not to open until I got home. The note was written in a perfect Armenian form of Latin I was told by Father Kern.
I never told him I was Armenian or that I had a uncle that was a priest serving in Rome. He was also a black guy that could pass for an arab. He never said what he was and I never asked.
Was your gentleman short, brown skinned with a hint of henna to it? He was always a perfect lover and but he didn’t seem to have any friends or care to. He also seemed to be spoiled as he didn’t do anything for himself. I don’t think he knew how to tie his shoes.
That was about 30 years ago. I lived in New Orleans at the time.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:36 am
Howie, if you are around, What’s up? I miss your insightful and entertaining writes.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:49 am
This is very interesting. When I was 19 about 50 years ago I met a guy of that description. He was a bit more mischievous than the guy you described. I remember one time we were walking through a little glen on his estate and he touched me on the stomach and removed my panty.
I mean it just disappeared. He then put his hand under my skirt and let the wet juices from my pussy drip onto his fingers.
He took the moisture and spread it over the head of his dick an bent me over and fucked me the best I ever had it in my ass. That was my first time having a dick in my ass and the only time he ever did me in the ass. I tried for 40 years to duplicate that feeling.
I remember him telling me that he wouldn’t do it there again because he should have used a condom and since he hadn’t he had to sanitize me in a way foreign to this planet.
That was his first and only reference to being a alien.
July 9th, 2013 at 11:52 am
Lol…I’m on the run till later, wow, love this place, now all the regulars are fabrications of Michelle and ex-main dude, okay, sure…I said I’d check on Howie bc sometimes very occasionally I check in bc he’s my blog bro and I know he’s chronically ill and I like to just check in. I’m not in collusion with anyone about anything, Howie included.
I also knew someone would say I’m ‘running’ the blog with the commander gone, and no, I’m not guest blogging posts, I’m just commenting same as I always do, time permitting I comment briefly and/or disappear or I’m here several times a day for days, again it’s all time permitting.
Right now, a client beckons so I shall return with next steps for the people who just read and want info on weight loss program.
Everyone else can dramatize who or what we all are, (and perhaps I am a cyborg, what difference does it make really? None…)
Anonz and Mischa are both adults and if they feel the need to disclose a newfound love that will be for them to decide. We all have private lives and so do they. Those of you still jealous of the honorable man that he is, well maybe he deserves all the kudos, did you read the letter above, clearly he’s not your average 1%-er.
Just an opinion.
Mine.
- ZL
July 9th, 2013 at 11:59 am
Josie is not my real name I live in Brazil where I met him. He moved and I never was allowed to visit his residence again.
In fairness he said that he was leaving because his people said that I was a danger to him because I slept with other males uncovered.
In my defense, I was only 23 and too stupid to know what I had and it was only one person I made love to uncovered. The other three I made wear condom. Yes one of those broke, but I could not have known that would have happened.
He was cruel because he left without ever telling me he was going to go. All he every said was that “his people” were not happy with my sexual habits.
I don’t see that as being a gentleman or a man at all. I am 74 years old and I still think about what he did to me. I remember my daughter visiting with a black guy that looked so much like him when she was 23 years old.
It was so unnerving I told my husband to forbid her from seeing him. She has never forgiven me. So you see that experience was bad all around for me.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:12 pm
Anonz, I am the daughter of Dan. He doesn’t know it(he does now) but I have been reading this blog every since I came in about 4 years ago and discovered it on his dest top computer screen.
He really does admire you and he had never stopped comparing every thing we do with what you would have done under those circumstances. I can’t speak for my siblings but I am between jealous and enthusiastic about meeting you.
You were the ideal mate for me for so long I didn’t give any male a serious chance at winning my affections until my father suffered his fatal diagnosis 7 years ago.
I have since matured into a more sensible person and I have met and married a very special person. I no longer care to meet Mr. Swashbuckler, all around super hero any more.
However if it will make my father’s last days better I will put no impediment in the way of his wish. We are billionaires. I say this so that you know that we can provide any security you would require to make this happen.
He assures me that if you want to contact us, you have the means. Please do.
Mindy
July 9th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
Henry, I’m a white person. You are a bigot.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:15 pm
…& thank you, Irene. -ZL
July 9th, 2013 at 12:15 pm
Hello, Zen Lill is a GirlZ, so she would be running the blog when her Commander is away.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:30 pm
Michelle, I just want a chance to show you that I can be that special man for you.
I’m a Orthopedic physician, 41 years old, never been married, no children(not looking for any), I have a beautiful 4 year old Golden Retriever named Pam, I make about $3 million a year, and I live in Dallas TX.
I am 5’9″ 167 lbs. I played tennis for my alma mater Stanford. I love TX, but I would consider moving and certainly commuting to court you.
I could also head for any point in Europe at your request. I have been reading your blog for a little over a year. You have my complete attention.
Brains, Beauty, Boldness, and Better than most when holding your own in an argument. I have met many beautiful, brainy women, but you are the most consistently intellectual person I have read man or woman.
I look forward to your reply
July 9th, 2013 at 12:32 pm
Will you people please add the #number to the person you are replying to. Keeping up with this blog is driving me crazy.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:34 pm
Okay joyce#177 I can do that.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Roger#178, always a smart ass.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Michelle, I’m going to be honest. I just want to meet you because you are so hot. I don’t know what’s with Doug, but if you still look like your pictures, he is an idiot.
John
July 9th, 2013 at 12:38 pm
I’ll ditto that John#180.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:39 pm
Michelle, congratulations are in order your blog passed another mile stone.
July 9th, 2013 at 12:40 pm
I would like to know where you are too, Michelle?
July 9th, 2013 at 3:38 pm
180/John, sometimes things just don’t work out between two people, it usually has little to with facial features and hot bodies at that point (or being an idiot). Many beautiful people break up and if all relationships were based on just that then there’d be a lot of superficiality and egotism to overcome in life…anyone over 25 knows relationship dynamics are complicated (if you have to use just one word).
Great alien stories, keep them coming ; )
Exercises to start that body moving again: Hold and squeeze butt muscles as if you’re trying to keep a $1000 bill between your sweet cheeks. I want you to start by doing some breathing exercises designed to get you in touch with your belly muscles. Take a deep breath in, counting to 4-5, hold at the top of breath, as you release I want you to visualize your belly contracting towards your spine, see your bellybutton moving towards your spine, sometimes when you’ve had belly weight on for awhile this takes a day/2/week to get to, keep trying and you will feel it, do it 5 x’s and build up to 10-15-20…hold at top of breath for longer as you go into 10-15-20 breaths.
For your posture stand up against a straight wall, make sure your shoulders are touching and your buttocks also, there should be a small space at your lower back that you can slip your hand into, if not you are tucking your pelvic area under and it will eventually cause issues with your lower back as well as rounded slumpy shoulders, on your next breath in, roll your shoulders up back and down, they should feel rested but upright, this alone with the breathing technique adds an inch to height and the look of losing 5 lbs immediately. Please get into this habit, it helps your mental state to have confident positioning physiologically.
http://youtu.be/lKyeBXrEk_A Zen Lill is REAL?! yup, I made it in my car just for you skeptics ; ) enjoy…
- ZL
July 9th, 2013 at 4:32 pm
…and the world keeps spinning…
July 9th, 2013 at 7:13 pm
Michelle, why not come to Russia. Real mean live here I think that you were just not satisfied with the men in America.
Try Europe if you must, but if you are looking for a Real man, come to Russia.
July 9th, 2013 at 7:24 pm
Michelle, I blew up that picture above of you and put along side my Lana Turner, and Elizabeth Taylor. You are way more beautiful.
I am commissioning an oil. I will have one made for you if you agree to autograph mine.
Ted
July 10th, 2013 at 1:08 am
Ted#187, I put my blow up with my two all time favorites, Natalie Wood and Rachel Weiz. I like hers better than both. I think its the smile and hair that grabs you.
I love to let visitors attempt to guess which star she is.
July 10th, 2013 at 1:18 am
Sorry guys that picture is great but it doesn’t show her great heart shaped ass. I have a few pictures of her from a few Burning Man events.
She has a spectacular bod, including beautiful toes.
July 10th, 2013 at 1:44 am
I’m at work here in Paris and I discover three of the attorneys here discussing who Michelle reminds them of most.
Well ladies your boss know which blog you are paying more attention to than your work this morning.
For your information I she reminds me most of Brigitte Bardot, and to prove it Monday I will hang a picture of Michelle along side my Brigitte. After all she has been hanging their far too long alone.
The Blonde and the Brunette, both the ultimate beauties of their generation.
And for those of you who can’t read english.
———————-
Je suis au travail, ici à Paris et je découvre trois des avocats ici discuter Michelle qui leur rappelle de plus.
Eh bien mesdames votre patron qui savent blog que vous payez plus d’attention à que votre travail ce matin.
Pour votre information, je Elle me rappelle plus de Brigitte Bardot, et pour le prouver lundi, je vais accrocher une photo de Michelle aux côtés de mon Brigitte. Après tout, elle a été suspendus de leur trop longtemps seul.
La blonde et la brune, les deux beautés ultimes de leur génération.
July 10th, 2013 at 2:09 am
I couldn’t miss out on this one, Michelle. I know that it is not gentlemanly like to discuss a lady with such ardor.
But to me you remind me of Dorothy Dandridge. When we first met I was surprised to discover that you weren’t as white looking as I thought you would look.
You reminded me of the sultry extraordinary beauty of New Orleans Creole ladies. Sexy without trying and with eyes that enable a smile to penetrate so deep into a man’s heart, he leaves thinking no other man has experienced the pleasure.
To this day I still don’t believe a woman couldn’t possibly smile as innocently seductive without it having some secret meaning.
Thanks for the memories.
July 10th, 2013 at 2:49 am
When I see Michelle I am reminded of my friend Carol Channing. For a long time I thought she had a little sistar in her.
When she told me that her mother told me in 83 that it was true, I promised to keep her secret. She said her mother finally admitted her father was half black.
July 10th, 2013 at 3:18 am
Michelle, anyway you look at it, you are a very beautiful and talented woman. The quintessential timeless Beauty!
The next time you are with Anonz ask him about how he paid back the Catholic church for backing his enemies.
The rumor is he had Pope Benedict XVI seduced by a pretty boy and photographed. He told the Vatican that if they didn’t get rid of him, he would put the video and photos all over the internet.
The result old sweet boy Benedict XVI became the first pope to step down in 600 years. It seems it is true. Nobody, but NOBODY fucks with Anonz.
July 10th, 2013 at 6:54 am
I agree w/Mike TM, you can look at the commander from any angle, and she is def all that and more, she has a personality filled with intelligence and compassion also, killer smile and eyes, what man or woman wouldn’t want to spend (or make) time with her?
Interesting story about the pope, too, thanks for posting.
Anyone on the ground in Egypt want to say what’s going on there? Would like to hear some unadulterated news…
I read a news report about a young couple who left their 9 month old in a 70+ degree car while they went into a sex shop, when the cops arrested them and asked why they left the baby for 20 minutes in a hot car, the response: no one under 18 is allowed in the store. Seriously, some people are just born with zero common sense (and they’re procreating), scary.
Luv, Zen Lill
July 10th, 2013 at 9:57 am
Zen Lill, it is scary here the Moslem Brotherhood(MB) is trying everything it can to get back into power. Many of the people are frustrated because we are being divided.
As I see it there are at least three distinct factions, not counting the outright resistance by the MB.
1. The first camp I am in. That is the one that believes that the army is just insuring that the MB won’t be able to force their way back into power. The army intends to return back civilian democratic rule as soon as they said with a temporary appointed civilian government until elections can be held.
2. The second camp doesn’t trust the military and believes that the military intends to stay in power. I think this camp is playing into the MB’s hands. They are unwittingly being motivated to help the MB overthrow the military. This would be terrible as the MB is trying to set up a Shiiria type government.
3. This camp is the neer-do-wells. They move from one camp to the next. Mostly they just want to be out harassing females, throwing bottles and generally causing mayhem. In their defense most of them are frustrated because of the lack of jobs and no sense of what is to come.
I can’t write much more right now.
July 10th, 2013 at 9:59 am
Mike#193, the buzz is out about what you wrote. Some are angry about what Anonz has done. But most see it as outing the hypocrisy of the Vatican.
Anonz should do more.
July 10th, 2013 at 10:44 am
Readers: Thanks so much for continuing the conversation! I have so enjoyed being on your side of the blog. Upon my return, I will tell you where I have been.
Etsuko # 126: What a wonderful comment. Your write was delightful to read and HOPEfully some day I can make it to your country, and do all that you mentioned and more. Thanks for including my four-legged friends in the visit too.
Sikander #128: A girl always loves to be admired. :) Greece will always have a special place in my heart. I have many fond memories there, and more to be created. Happy to hear you are prospering in spite of the economy. I HOPE your team is doing well. Wishing the best for you and your country.
Naeemah #130: I consider Egypt my second home in my heart. I am very drawn to it for reasons that I can’t get into now. However, I send love to the Girlz of Egypt and look forward to seeing you soon. Congratulations for graduating from the University! I will most definitely keep you and the Girlz of Egypt in mind when recruiting for GirlZ again.
Kiania #134: Yes, some men are…and what goes around comes around. Be well. I will keep you in mind as well when recruiting for GirlZ.
Zen Lill # 136: Thanks for the good wishes. I am thoroughly enjoying myself. It seems your fans are again loving your advice, and benefitting from it! I HOPE all is going well for you too.
Caroline & 4 Cuz #140: Congrats too on your weight loss and marriage!
Reggie #143: Your story was cute. Thanks for sharing. Loved the ending. I HOPE you’re enjoying your alien love affair. Please say hello to your lady for me. I would enjoy hearing about her planet Jorno.
Dan #145: The story about Anonz was fascinating. They always seem to be. He is an extraordinary man. I HOPE the last few months of your life are pain free, and you are surrounded with love and joy from family and friends.
Lonnie # 147, et al: Ah…so we’re back to ZL is made up eh? Zen Lill is definitely Zen Lill. :)
Got to run again. I will check back in soon and read the rest of your comments. Thanks again for being here!
Love,
Michelle, BABE
July 10th, 2013 at 12:08 pm
Hasina, thank you, thank you, thank you for writing in to address my question, your #3 version makes sense, when people, esp men, are frustrated they can resort to violence. Poverty and lack of job will bring out the beast in people also. I can understand how MB can use #2 effectively and it takes an ‘observers point of view’ like yours to be able to see that #1 is likely best option under the circumstances. I wish you the best for safety and swift resolution there.
EM, I can’t speak for Anonz but I’d say he probably doesn’t give a rats ass what anyone thinks of his hypocrisy fixing tactics, more people should be willing to take action, publicly or through actions like his that stop them dead in their tracks.
Mischa, BABE, thrilled your having such fun in the sun and great company, I am a titch envious but I’ll get over it : ) and looking forward to hearing some good stories upon your return.
MM blog BABE’s – remember that negative thoughts once had a vital function, they kept us alert and alive, we no longer get chased by saber toothed tigers so most of our residual negative thoughts are just random and free floating and can manifest as generalized anxiety, I want you to practice caling upon your inner truth, that understanding, supportive and self assured (I will make it) place inside and use self talk to sooth your inner sabateur/nay sayer down off the ceiling…it is vitally important to your self confidence, and Caroline I’m sure you made the connect with the fact that when you’re not feeling your best physically or are carrying extra weight, it’s tough to pull out the self assure, confident that is inside. The ‘I love you’ exercise will help you love yourself NOW as you are and you will continue to love yourself as you reach your body’s natural ‘set point’ (the desired ‘number’ if you will)…
When you create an inner environment of acceptance of the self as is, you won’t get complacent, you will grow and progress so keep on doing that exercise, it’s not an ‘ok I get it’ thing, it’s a daily practice until you can feel it and feel it pretty much under any circumstances. Next up: eat one meal that has zero animal protein but that has protein – quinoa, tofu or brown rice, put in on a salad and use oil & vinegar/lemon.
So exercises from yesterday, take a 10-15 minute walk rolling your shoulders abck and squeezing that $1000 bill in your bum cheeks ; )
More tomorrow…off to office!
Luv, Zen Lill
July 10th, 2013 at 5:24 pm
the word I’ve been looking for just came to mind!
I’m happy for you, Caroline, though you mentioned that your dude was the office catch, and we’ve seen it here in the past quite a bit with Anonz, the vying fr position with a ‘coveted’ man, it’s called hypergamy, i.e. marrying up (and the office catch and an honorable bils man def qualify : )
It’s something even modern women indulge in and sorry to inform men but it’s almost from a DNA place for women, it’s a seeking of the man who will be able to provide best or at least, it used to be, now I think it’s evolved into the idea that men who have certain things in place (like professional success) are just more ready to take on the commitment some women still want (marriage). I don’t, though I’ve softened over the past 5 years to ‘never say never.’
It’s interesting we females still care about that, I know it’s not my specific criteria, although I’d expect someone to love what they do and be able to do some fun things together, and that requires some financing I suppose, but I have many friends that won’t even consider a man who isn’t stashing lots of cold cash and all the ecoutrements of the good life and they’re all making excellent money on their own. Again, it’s a hypergamy thing, have to move on up, have someone of higher status…see more success and progress…I guess…
Sometimes I think that it’s true, ‘the more things change the more they stay the same’…
- ZL
July 11th, 2013 at 7:09 am
http://everydayfeminism.com/2013/07/how-we-ignore-poverty-and-blame-poor-people/?utm_source=Everyday+Feminism+Subscription&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1832586d5f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_term=0_d19c2176ed-1832586d5f-71331585
Above article explains what’s going on in very simple terms.
I play tennis at a private club in a very wealthy isolated enclave of rethugs, as I played last night a bunch of WWll vets were singing nearby, the lyrics, ‘…praise The Lord fr supplying healthy ammunition…’ And other such nonsense linking religion and fighting to protect their country (white privilege wealth). That’s some serious hypnosis right there, touting violence is sanctioned by their lord Jesus Christ – unbelievable.
Luv, Zen Lill
July 11th, 2013 at 1:19 pm
Republicans in Texas thought they could pass legislation that would effectively shut down women’s health clinics and no one would put up a fight.
But then Wendy Davis stood up — and she kept standing up for 11 hours. Thousands upon thousands joined her in Texas and across the country. But Rick Perry and the Republican-controlled Texas legislature are still trying to ram it through.
If you look at what Republicans are doing to restrict a woman’s ability to make her own health care decisions in Texas, North Carolina, Wisconsin and 14 other states, it’s hard not to think that they want to turn back the clock a few decades.
Well, here’s some news for those Republicans: we’re not going back.
Tens of thousands of Democrats, men and women alike, have been standing up to be heard — and you should be part of it. Say you’re in.
First, Texas. Then, last week in North Carolina, Republicans introduced a similar bill just before the Fourth of July holiday. Over the weekend in Wisconsin, Republican Governor Scott Walker quietly signed a highly restrictive measure while everyone was out for the holiday. Maybe he thought no one would notice.
But we noticed. People are standing up in North Carolina and Wisconsin, and in states across the country that Republicans have targeted for legislation that restricts women’s access to health care.
Democrats are determined to do everything it takes to stand with Wendy Davis and everyone else fighting for women’s rights.
Say you’re with us in this, Bill:
http://my.democrats.org/Womens-Health
Thanks,
Debbie
Debbie Wasserman Schultz
Chair
Democratic National Committee
July 11th, 2013 at 1:20 pm
Thanks for the exercises Zen Lill. I am delighted to be able to follow your routines.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:25 pm
There is just too much violence by men against women. I read the other day about men killing children in Nigeria just because they are going to school.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:30 pm
Michelle, I got a hard on reading your post. Reading your write while admiring your picture is sometimes so HOT!.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
I agree with Zen Lill#198, Anonz is the bomb.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:33 pm
I can’t handle all the replies. Michelle hurry back so I can get my barrings.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:38 pm
EM#196, let that crazy murderer stay mute and out of lives of others.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Michelle, I agree with Zen Lill#198. I am anxious to hear about your encounter with Anonz.
I dream of meeting him at least once a month. I can only imagine what it would be like to be held romantically by him.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:47 pm
I hope I will be able to find all the ingredients you suggest here in England, Zen Lill. Some of my friends are calling me about your new diet program.
I can’t wait to see the results.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:53 pm
#199 Zen Lill, I am definitely into hypergamy. Well my whole family is
Mom divorced out middle class dad when we were kids for man making more that 10 times what our old dad was making.
We eventually left the state because he refused to allow our new dad to adopt us. That’s how selfish he was.
Me and my three sisters have all married very successful men.
July 11th, 2013 at 1:57 pm
Zen Lill#200 I agree 100% with – “Why should I pay higher taxes so that some lazy poor person can pick up another unemployment check and then go back to sitting on the couch and spending my money?”
Why should those lazy bastards get their hands on my tax dollars? You have a polished way of presenting opposing views.
Speaking ov views, I have to say I am looking forward to more pin ups of you. Michelle if you are reading this consider it putting you on notice to get it done.
John
July 11th, 2013 at 2:01 pm
Zen Lill loved the term. I was not familiar with it. Regardless, I would spread these legs for Anonz. I can barely contain myself thinking about being in his presence.
WHATEVER he asked of me I would give. Just take me anyway you want would be my retort to any question that might arise concerning consensual sex.
July 11th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
Zen Lill #200:
I thank you for showing that americans are just as guilty of using religion to justify their aims.
July 11th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
Zen Lill, it is so true that the men are wrapped up in this political mess. I can’t feel the same passion because I know that regardless, the struggle for equality for us women will have to continue, unabated.
July 11th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
Michelle, I am Hopi I would love to offer you an invitation to visit the sovereign Hopi nation in northeastern Arizona.
My nation occupies part of Coconino and Navajo counties It encompasses more than 1.5 million acres, and is made up of 12 villages on three mesas.
I love that you protect women of all races and countries. You are a beautiful and great woman. I pray to Maasaw every day that He will bless and protect you.
Love
Wuti
July 11th, 2013 at 2:34 pm
Zen Lill #200, I think you missed why those old men were thanking their god. I think the “ammunition” they were praising their lord for was the ability to continue to fix a load in their penis.
With fine ladies like you exercising so close, it would only be natural.
July 11th, 2013 at 3:14 pm
211 John you misread go back and gain understanding please!
July 11th, 2013 at 3:19 pm
As far as Anonz, he is hyper hypergamy and so he can be selective ; ) lol
July 11th, 2013 at 3:30 pm
That being said about Anonz, offering up parted legs and doing anything for him (or any man) isn’t what impresses them, they either FEEL it fr you or they don’t, though I’m pretty sure most ‘hyper’ men won’t turn you down either! I don’t offer up like dat, it’s a ZL thang…not judging, just saying…agreeing by omission of statement just isn’t my thing, think we all know that by now, yes?
July 11th, 2013 at 4:00 pm
I respect your opinion #219, Zen Lill. But I agree with #212 Oana If I were in the presence of Anona, he could do whatever he wished in bed with me.
Kathy
July 11th, 2013 at 4:01 pm
I agree with you”220 Kathy. And I don’t care if it is in a bed or not.
July 11th, 2013 at 4:05 pm
Just so the John/211′s of this blog don’t go taking my article out of context, I’m posting it here in its’ entirety, nice try, John, now go hang your tea party head in shame for glomming on to one sentence.
From ‘Everyday Feminism’
“Why should I pay higher taxes so that some lazy poor person can pick up another unemployment check and then go back to sitting on the couch and spending my money?”
Sound familiar?
Unfortunately, most of us have heard this anti-welfare sentiment many times before, from sources both expected (a new Tea Party candidate) and surprising (a colleague or friend).
The most recent Census data shows that about 48.5 million people, or 16% of the population, are living in poverty.
This is the fourth consecutive year that the poverty rate has increased. The recession pushed millions of Americans into poverty, and although the economy is now improving, wages are still lagging, and people continue to struggle nationwide.
For many, the only recourse is to turn to safety net programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as food stamps), child care assistance, TANF, and unemployment benefits, to name a few.
These government programs exist to help those in need – and they really work, lifting millions out of poverty every year.
Still, many Americans would rather pretend poverty isn’t an issue in our country.
Worse yet, they’d prefer to blame low-income people for their status while supporting plans to dismantle the safety net.
So, How Did We Get Here As a Nation?
Even the Middle Class Has Turned on the Poor
How did it come to pass that many Americans of average education and income rail against welfare and vote for politicians that promise to cut entitlement spending and lower taxes?
These same people don’t seem to notice that corporations like General Motors, Apple, and Verizon evade billions in taxes every year or that their monumentally rich CEO’s pay lower effective tax rates than their secretaries.
That’s billions of dollars in revenue that the government doesn’t get.
And this wealth just doesn’t trickle down the way some would have you believe.
Nor do critics of the safety net appear to consider the billions of dollars spent annually on defense or the often wasteful use of resources in the Pentagon budget. In 2012 alone, defense spending accounted for 19% of government expenditure.
And yet, these issues are not the problem, they say. It’s that 12% of government spending on safety net programs that will break the bank.
Racism, Class Privilege, and Society
Black and Hispanic people were hit hardest by the recession.
But these minority groups were already struggling long before the recession’s arrival and are historically more impoverished than Caucasians.
So why are people of color disproportionately poor?
Let me give you a hint: it has nothing to do with “laziness.”
Racial oppression has created a cycle of poverty so encompassing that it invariably affects all people of color, despite immense gains in civil rights over the last fifty years.
White privilege is not imaginary either.
And yet people born outside of the deeply powerful system of racial oppression are often happy to make wildly outrageous and untrue claims about the work ethic or morality of minorities.
How many of them have ever taken a minute to consider where they would be if they had been born into an entirely different socioeconomic status?
The “Pull Yourself Up by Your Bootstraps” Mantra Is Bullshit
Not everyone is born with equal opportunities.
Some people are born with a trust fund and a summer house in the Hamptons.
Some are born to a single-parent low-income family in a city slum.
I’d like someone to rationally explain to me how factors such as your family situation growing up, your level of education, the job opportunities you are handed, the rate of crime and drug use in your neighborhood – and so many other similar factors that shape our young lives – aren’t supposed to affect a child’s future.
How is a poor kid who has to drop out of high school to help care for her younger siblings supposed to “pull herself up by her bootstraps” when she lives in a self-perpetuating cycle of poverty that is nearly impossible to break out of?
Many Critics of Government Safety Net Spending Depend on Welfare Themselves
A New York Times piece that ran last year quoted a Minnesotan small business man named Ki Gulbranson who makes about $39,000 annually and is a strong opponent of the American safety net.
This same Mr. Gulbranson has depended on the federally-funded earned income tax credit (EITC) every year since 2009. His children receive government-subsidized free school meals and 88-year old mother has had two hip replacements on Medicare’s dime.
Despite rallying to cut government spending, he himself depends on the very welfare programs he despises.
Mr. Gulbranson’s dilemma helps illustrate the rapid decline of the middle class.
Tuesday, June 25 was the 75th anniversary of the Fair Labor Standards Act – but there wasn’t much to celebrate in terms of wages.
The minimum wage has been frozen at $7.25/hour and the tipped minimum wage has remained at $2.13/hour for over two decades.
As the cost in living increases and global changes make fuel and other necessities more expensive, the minimum wage has remained stagnant, pushing more and more middle class families towards poverty.
If the minimum wage were raised to a modest $10.10 as proposed in the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013, almost six million workers would be lifted from poverty – and 60% of these would be people of color.
“Great! Let’s do it!” you say.
Except that before this can become a reality, we need the support in Congress and in the general populace.
And that means that people need to start acknowledging the problem and stop treating poverty like the elephant in the room.
Who Out There Is Talking About Poverty?
The President and Poverty
President Obama shocked some people when he mentioned poverty an unprecedented four times during his 2013 State of the Union speech.
That’s more times than in all of his other SOTU speeches combined.
If the Democratic President of our nation is barely willing to mention poverty, who out there will bring it to the national agenda?
Religion’s Complicated Relationship with Poverty
Ever heard of the Sisters of Mercy, NETWORK, or Bread for the World?
These are just a few of many powerful faith-based organizations that lobby tirelessly for the rights of low-income people in Congress.
Yet we have an increasing majority of conservative politicians in Congress who fight vehemently to strip safety net programs threadbare while citing religion as central to their belief system and their impetus to serve in public office.
How do they rationalize their desire to cut food assistance and basic needs from poor people when the faith community is dedicated to doing the opposite?
The Very Well-Respected “Let’s Blame Poor People” Foundation
Conservative groups like The Heritage Foundation are quick to follow up on Republican and Tea Party members’ suppositions that poor people are hoodwinking us all and taking our money.
A recent Heritage Foundation report cites the principal cause of the millions of children living in poverty as “the absence of married fathers in the home.”
According to the research of this well-respected and oft-quoted foundation, safety net programs like food stamps, income tax credits, and unemployment benefits are “disincentives to marriage.”
As if struggling impoverished single mothers are purposely not getting married in order to game the system.
Who out there is buying this baloney?
A lot of people, actually.
The Heritage Foundation runs on an operating budget of about $80 million and is funded primarily by donations from individuals, corporations, and other influential foundations such as that of the hyper-conservative billionaire Koch brothers. They have over 700,000 members.
What Can Be Done to Bring Poverty to the National Discussion and Change Policy?
Feeling a little hopeless after reading this?
Well, the fight’s not over.
There are many ways that everyday people can help change the way our society functions around the issue of poverty.
Educate and Disseminate Information
Sometimes the best thing you can do is try to sway the national conversation.
Study up on facts about the safety net and who it serves.
Speak out when you hear someone spouting out tired lines about lazy welfare bums.
Most of them will not have a defense ready when you confront them with the facts and tell them who they are really talking about.
No one wants to feel responsible for taking food away from poor children.
Write to Your Members of Congress
Advocacy groups are constantly providing us with opportunities to write to Congress through email-able letters and social media campaigns.
Visit the websites of some of the major organizations that work on combatting poverty. The Half in Ten Campaign, Center for American Progress, Food Research and Action Center, and the National Women’s Law Center are great places to start.
Also make sure to follow these organizations (as well as your members of Congress) on Facebook and Twitter for more opportunities to take action.
Sending emails and tweeting at our elected officials actually works, when done strategically and at a high volume.
Support Low-Income People in Whatever Way You Can, Big or Small
Volunteer at the local food bank. Donate to organizations that advocate for low-income people. Participate in a campaign to support a safety net program in your state.
Just doing something that you believe in makes a difference!
Whether you advocate through Facebook from the comfort of your home or go out in the community to do anti-poverty work, your efforts will help.
—
Poverty isn’t going away.
But with better education to combat racist, old-fashioned stereotypes about low-income people – and more folks joining the fight to protect the safety net – there is hope for positive change in the future.
There, John, what part of this made you believe I was presenting a case for your agenda?? Please…I may not have the clout to get top officials to resign but I sure do express myself when someone misquotes me or abused my fairness to showcase their bullpoopoo.
Luv, Zen Lill (although I extend unconditional luv, John, you pulled a fast one, luckily I had time to post often today, please do not do that again, thanks)
July 11th, 2013 at 4:17 pm
220/221 In was simply giving you my ZL take on who and why I spread em’ – Anonz being who is is likely to be selective, if you want just the momentary pleasure go ahead and hop on, I don’t care, that’s between two parties, just saying that I ZL am also selective about my pleasure partner(s) and don’t rate big money and clout as my criteria, the honorable dude that he is, that part works for me ; ) though seriously I am all about the energetic connect and if it isn’t there I know how to get pleasure elsewhere ; o o0000000hhhhHHHH – lol
(and then you get annoyed when alpha males stray? BC women act just like that, I’ll do anything for you, hahaha…well, I won’t and I don’t compete on that premise, A you want me (& what I will or will not do for you) or B go take the one offering to do anything, that shit is too draining for me!)
- ZL
July 11th, 2013 at 4:19 pm
I have read some accounts of confrontations with Anonz by many arabs that have made reports about it.
Most agree that Anonz was a terrifying opponent. There are many references to his bravery and daring tactics. While I don’t think they are afraid of an encounter with him, I can definitely see it is not something anyone looks forward to.
Of course I could be prejudiced since I too would make all I have to offer him available at his discretion.
July 11th, 2013 at 4:22 pm
Zen Lill #222, isn’t it terrible when someone quotes you out of context.
I’m sure those who know you are aware of your political opinion on that issue. It was a waste of time for John to try to mislead anyone.
July 11th, 2013 at 4:27 pm
Zahia, #224 You will be caught and punished for disgracing muslim women with your brazen posts.
July 11th, 2013 at 4:31 pm
Zen Lill #222, Don’t expect people like John not to try again. Lying is their stock and trade.
July 11th, 2013 at 4:36 pm
Henry and Sloan, points taken and thanks for writing in. -ZL
Time to get ready for an outing ; ) catch you all tomorrow morning!
July 11th, 2013 at 5:00 pm
Yuan 216, lol…those old ‘tools’ would need more than a blue pill to keep up with me, although they were running commentary about the 6′ blonde moaning on court 3 (I did an upper body workout that left every tennis movement feeling like an arm ‘orgasm’ if there is such a thing : ) ok now I’ve got to go…!
-ZL
July 11th, 2013 at 8:12 pm
The shits getting deep now.
July 12th, 2013 at 2:03 am
I’m Kicking the Sugar Habit!
The average American consumes 32 teaspoons of added sugar per day. That’s right—32 teaspoons a day. (Test your sugar IQ!)
We all know that sugar can lead to weight gain, but that’s just the beginning.
People who eat a lot of sugar have nearly double the risk for heart disease as those who eat less, according to data from the Harvard Nurses’ Health Study. They’re more likely to develop insulin resistance and diabetes. They also tend to look older because sugar triggers the production of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), chemical compounds that accelerate skin aging.
If you want to avoid these problems, you may want to kick the sugar habit with an easy-to-follow sugar detox. Here’s how…
It’s not enough to merely cut back on sugar. In my experience, patients need to eliminate it from their diets—at least at the beginning—just like addicts have to eliminate drugs from their lives. In fact, a study showed that sugar cravings actually are more intense than the cravings for cocaine.
You don’t have to give up sugar indefinitely. Once the cravings are gone, you can enjoy sweet foods again—although you probably will be happy consuming far less than before. After a sugar-free “washing out” period, you’ll be more sensitive to sweet tastes. You won’t want as much.
Bonus: Some people who have completed the four-week diet and stayed on the maintenance program for four or five months lost 35 pounds or more.
FIRST STEP: THREE-DAY SUGAR FIX
For sugar lovers, three days without sweet stuff can seem like forever. But it’s an essential part of the sugar detox diet because when you go three days without any sugar, your palate readjusts. When you eat an apple after the three-day period, you’ll think it’s the sweetest thing you’ve ever tasted. You’ll even notice the natural sweetness in a glass of whole or 2% milk (which contains about three teaspoons of naturally occurring sugar).
You may experience withdrawal symptoms during the first three days. These can include fatigue, headache, fogginess and irritability, but soon you’ll feel better than you have in years.
Caution: If you have any type of blood sugar problem, including hypoglycemia, insulin resistance or diabetes, you must consult your physician before starting any type of diet, including the sugar detox diet.
In addition, if you are on insulin or an oral medication to control blood sugar, it is likely that your dosage will need to be adjusted if you lower your daily sugar intake.
During the three days…
No foods or drinks with added sugar. No candy, cookies, cake, doughnuts, etc.—not even a teaspoon of sugar in your morning coffee.
No artificial sweeteners of any kind, including diet soft drinks. Artificial sweeteners contribute to the sweetness overload that diminishes our ability to taste sugar.
No starches. This includes pasta, cereal, crackers, bread, potatoes and rice.
No fruit, except a little lemon or lime for cooking or to flavor a glass of water or tea. I hesitate to discourage people from eating fruit because it’s such a healthy food, but it provides too much sugar when you’re detoxing.
No dairy. No milk, cream, yogurt or cheese. You can have a little (one to two teaspoons) butter for cooking.
Plenty of protein, including lean red meat, chicken, fish, tofu and eggs.
Most vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, peppers, kale, lettuce and more—but no corn, potatoes, sweet potatoes, winter squash, beets or other starchy vegetables.
Nuts—two one-ounce servings a day. Almonds, walnuts, cashews and other nuts are high in protein and fat, both of which will help you feel full.
Nuts also will keep your hands (and mouth) busy when you’re craving a sugary snack.
Lots of water, but no alcohol. It’s a carbohydrate that contains more sugar than you might think. You can drink alcohol later.
NEXT STEP: A FOUR-WEEK PLAN
This is the fun part. During the three-day sugar “fix,” you focused on not eating certain foods. Now you’ll spend a month adding tasty but nutritious foods back into your diet. You’ll continue to avoid overly sweet foods—and you’ll use no added sugar—but you can begin eating whole grains, dairy and fresh fruits.
WEEK 1: Wine and cheese. You’ll continue to eat healthy foods, but you now can add one apple a day and one daily serving of dairy, in addition to having a splash of milk or cream in your coffee or tea if you like.
A serving of dairy could consist of one ounce of cheese…five ounces of plain yogurt…or one-half cup of cottage cheese. You also can have one serving a day of high-fiber crackers, such as Finn Crisp Hi-Fibre or Triscuit Whole Grain Crackers.
You also can start drinking red wine if you wish—up to three four-ounce servings during the first week. Other alcoholic beverages such as white wine, beer and liquor should be avoided. Red wine is allowed because it is high in resveratrol and other antioxidants.
WEEK 2: More dairy, plus fruit. This is when you really start adding natural sugar back into your diet. You can have two servings of dairy daily if you wish and one serving of fruit in addition to an apple a day.
You can have one-half cup of blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, raspberries or strawberries each day. Or you can have a grapefruit half. You’ll be surprised how sweet fruit really is. You also are allowed one small sweet potato or yam (one-half cup cubed) daily.
WEEKS 3 AND 4: Whole grains and more. The third and fourth weeks are very satisfying because you can start eating grains again. But make sure it’s whole grain.
Carbohydrates such as white bread, white pasta and white rice are stripped of their fiber during processing, so they are easily broken down into sugar. Whole grains are high in fiber and nutrients and won’t give the sugar kick that you would get from processed grains.
Examples: A daily serving of barley, buckwheat, oatmeal (not instant), quinoa, whole-grain pasta, whole-wheat bread or brown rice.
You might find yourself craving something that’s deliciously sweet. Indulge yourself with a small daily serving (one ounce) of dark chocolate.
JOIN OUR SUGAR DETOX!
Several of us here at Bottom Line Publications are following this 31-day sugar detox diet. We’ll be reporting on our progress (and setbacks!) on Facebook.
Why not take this opportunity to break your sugar addiction? Go to Facebook.com/BottomLinePersonal for more details.
If you’re ready to kick the sugar habit, you can also take the pledge on our Causes page.
Source: Patricia Farris, MD, FAAD, clinical professor at Tulane University, New Orleans, and member of the media-expert team for the American Academy of Dermatology. She is coauthor, with Brooke Alpert, MS, RD, CDN, of The Sugar Detox: Lose Weight, Feel Great, and Look Years Younger (Da Capo Lifelong). http://www.DrPattiFarris.com
July 12th, 2013 at 6:51 am
This Health info comment is very timely…
It’s not enough to merely cut back on sugar. In my experience, patients need to eliminate it from their diets—at least at the beginning—just like addicts have to eliminate drugs from their lives. In fact, a study showed that sugar cravings actually are more intense than the cravings for cocaine.
3 days is enough to break the cravings cycle, I would highly recommend doing this as a personal challenge and a jump start to effective weight loss, too.
I did this many years ago & thought it would be impossible, I ended up being sugar free fr 2 years! You don’t have to be that extreme but for quicker effective health benefits, try it for 3 days!
Your exercise for today, get somewhere where’s there’s at least 20 stairs and walk up tightening those buns, quads, and hamstrings on every move, shoulders rolled back and Tummy expanding on the inhale and pulled in towards spine in the exhale, climb up and down 5 times and if your up for it, 10xs. I know you can do this, my house has 24 stairs and I do this at least 15 x’s a day, often way more (I’m forgetful and my sunglasses are always on the kitchen counter when I’m in my subterranean garage : ). If you can use a yoga mat fr some floor work, lie supine, then bend knees halfway feet flat on floor, fingertips linked lightly behind your head, lift till you feel that crucial one inch of movement, and stay there and come up and down within that super tight area, never releasing the tummy muscle, exhaling on the upward movement – do 15 of these effectively and you can giggle next time you watch others do 3 sets of 15 ‘real’ crunches (makes me cringe watching people throw themselves up and down doing crunches, it’s jarring to the entire body and has no real value fr the muscle your trying to bring attention to) – and try a new veggie today! Blanch some asparagus or book Chou and drizzle sesame oil and rice vinegar on it, or lemon if you like. I know braggs amino acids is excellent for you and it has replaced salad dressings and soy sauce for me, hopefully you can find it in the UK and elsewhere. I know it’s sold online, not sure if cost fr shipping and handling though.
That’s it for today, it’s Friday and its work and tennis happy hour fr me, wishing you all a lovely beginning to your weekend (you, too, ‘anonymous’ – ill show you shit, deeper shit than you’ve ever heard or lived before, you understand me, oh nameless one ; )
Luv, Zen Lill
July 12th, 2013 at 6:55 am
Sorry, that’s bok choy, wrote ‘ book Chou’ and Chou is a French nickname fr someone and I guess it’s in my predictive text, sorry about that. -ZL
July 12th, 2013 at 10:04 am
Zen Lill I’m adding the sugar cleanse to your exercise suggestions. I see you recommended it for 3 days. Are you suggesting that I shouldn’t try to combine the other stuff until I get results from your exercises.
I’m okay with that. I just want to know if you think it will be too much for me to attempt both at the same time. I am about 38 pounds over weight.
I have tried other exercises but it has been too difficult for me to stay on one. I really want this to work. I’ve gotten very good feed back from my friends who have given it a try back when you first proposed it.
July 12th, 2013 at 11:05 am
*groan*
July 12th, 2013 at 11:26 am
Emma, all the other things I’ve recommended will not interfere with a sugar cleanse, though I would urge you to evaluate yourself, can you handle the 3 things at once, clearly 38 lbs doesn’t come on overnight and it doesn’t go away overnight, sometimes it’s best to take some baby steps first…so do the “I love you’ exercise, the food suggestions, the exercises and then when you feel ready do the sugar cleanse…if you’re up to it, go for it, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised within 24 hours, you just never know and without personal interaction, I am just guestimating at best what will work for the masses.
A(hole)235 – *backatcha* :D
Luv, Zen Lill
July 12th, 2013 at 12:18 pm
oh, of course … It’s about you ZL
July 12th, 2013 at 2:26 pm
Hey Everyone,
I HOPE you’re enjoying your Friday. I can see you all have been flapping your lips. :)
Silvia #182: Your comment caught my attention. Since being on holiday I forgot that my blog is about to turn 6 on the 14th. You have a good memory. Thank you for the early congratulations!
Guys: Such a nice shower of compliments. Thank you.
Rrt #191: If you are who I think you are, it is such a nice surprise to see you post a comment here. I will always consider you a fine gentleman, and “discussing a lady with such ardor” would not change my mind.
Ah yes…the memories. I thank you for them too. Shall we create more?
Mike, TM # 193: Thank you too for saying such nice things. Loved hearing the “rumor” about the Pope. I was wondering myself what made him step down. And if the rumor is true, we now all know. But just to be sure, I do plan to ask that very question very soon when I see him, just to confirm that “rumor.”
Hasina #195: I too HOPE you and yours are safe.
Zen Lill #198: And I look forward to sharing all of the details.
Wuti #215: So nice to hear from you. And thank you for the invitation to visit. I would love to someday. I appreciate the kind sentiments too. Thank you. My best to you, and sending love back.
I’m done flapping my lips. Your turn. Happy Friday!
Oh…PS: My father forwarded this to me. I thought it was a hoot.
“I think it is just terrible and disgusting how everyone has treated Lance Armstrong, especially after what he achieved, winning seven Tour de France races while on drugs.”
“When I was on drugs, I couldn’t even find my bike.”
- Willie Nelson
Speak to you all soon. Thanks again for being here!
Love,
Michelle, BABE
July 12th, 2013 at 2:49 pm
237, done with your noise unless you want to identify yourself, you know, it is 5pm somewhere in the world, perhaps you should try to drown that ZL bug up your ass with some alcohol? : D
*note to self: most inflammatory and critical comments ALWAYS come from ‘anonymous’ types – do NOT engage (although it’s fun to get snarky with YOU this time, anonymous, this is my pronouncement that a comment, no matter what it says, written by an ‘anonymous’ will be completely overlooked from this point on, just sayin’).
Mischa! Hey BABE so nice to hear from you, we’re hanging pretty well here though we all miss the fine blog host that you are and are anxious for your return.
Love Willie Nelson’s statement, that is too funny!
- ZL
July 12th, 2013 at 5:01 pm
I don’t think I’ve ever met such an enormous ego from such a tiny brain before. Every’s about you, is it? too funny and too stupid!
July 13th, 2013 at 7:39 am
I thought I’d supply something new to chat about and since I’m known for showing men some balance in the mix, I thought I’d let this article just speak for itself…I’ll comment at the end, hope you don’t mind commander but we need a topic other than weight loss and my ego ; )
The Misguided Message Of Men’s Rights Groups
Double X has a disturbing profile today of the men’s rights movement and its involvement in belittling domestic violence against women.
According to writer Kathryn Joyce, men’s rights groups (like the one whose members climbed Buckingham Palace dressed as superheroes to protest custody laws) see domestic violence laws as discrimination on a par with racism. They contend “that false allegations are rampant, that a feminist-run court system fraudulently separates innocent fathers from children, that battered women’s shelters are running a racket that funnels federal dollars to feminists, that domestic-violence laws give cover to cagey mail-order brides seeking Green Cards, and finally, that men are victims of an unrecognized epidemic of violence at the hands of abusive wives.” A statement from RADAR (Respecting Accuracy in Domestic Abuse Reporting) reads, “It’s now reached the point that domestic violence laws represent the largest roll-back in Americans’ civil rights since the Jim Crow era!”
This is obviously an exaggeration, but, as Joyce also points out, claims that domestic violence law is discriminatory have gained some mainstream acceptance. RADAR board member Ron Grignal says, “I’ve had Democrats on Capitol Hill tell me they agree with everything I say,” and Joyce writes that an LA conference on male victims of domestic violence “received positive mainstream press for its ‘inclusive’ efforts.” So are men’s rights groups on to something? Is domestic violence law marginalizing men?
According to Joyce, probably not. She writes that “while some men certainly are victims of female domestic violence, advocates say the number is closer to 3 percent to 4 percent, rather than the 45 percent to 50 percent RADAR claims.” In general, men’s rights groups appear to be relying on “cherry-picked studies” that ignore, for instance, the distinction between one-time, relatively minor violence and sustained battery, which is overwhelmingly perpetrated by men. This is not to say that even minor violence is acceptable — but men’s rights groups aim not just to address violence against men, but to downplay violence against women. And this goal is, frankly, pretty sinister. Joyce writes:
[C]ritics like Australian sociologist Michael Flood say that men’s rights movements reflect the tactics of domestic abusers themselves, minimizing existing violence, calling it mutual, and discrediting victims. MRA groups downplay national abuse rates, just as abusers downplay their personal battery; they wage campaigns dismissing most allegations as false, as abusers claim partners are lying about being hit; and they depict the violence as mutual-part of an epidemic of wife-on-husband abuse-as individual batterers rationalize their behavior by saying that the violence was reciprocal. Additionally, MRA groups’ predictions of future violence by fed-up men wronged by the family-law system seem an obvious additional correlation, with the threat of violence seemingly intended to intimidate a community, like a fearful spouse, into compliance.
It’s upsetting but perhaps not surprising that the men’s rights movement’s tactics mimic those of abusers, given that the movement itself sets up such an adversarial relationship between men and women. The sad thing about this is that, in a very real way, women’s rights are men’s rights. Being a feminist or an advocate for domestic violence victims doesn’t mean you want women to be allowed to batter men. It means you believe in egalitarian relationships in which partners resolve disputes through communication rather than violence — something that benefits both men and women.
RELATED
Gunman Murders Gym-Going Women; Misogynists Approve
George Sodini killed three women and injured at least ten others at a Pittsburgh-area gym before shooting himself yesterday. His online diary reveals … Read…
Men’s rights groups also often focus on father’s rights — the right to custody of children after a divorce, for instance. But feminists work for fathers’ rights too, arguing that women aren’t the only “natural” caregivers and that men can and should play an equal role in raising their children. We’re just not in favor of giving custody to abusive fathers — and some high-profile members of the father’s rights movement have been accused of abuse. The men’s rights movement includes some pretty scary people — according to Joyce, some even defended Pittsburgh gym gunman George Sodini — but it no doubt also includes some decent men who believe the old lie that feminists are out to get them. In fact, we support their right to healthy relationships, and to be treated as equal partners in their families — we just don’t think they have a right to beat us up.
My commentary…
When you read this article it almost makes male criticism of women being emotional sound trite/silly, what could be more emotional and irrational than this ‘cherry picking’ behavior to try to protest for equal rights (and wearing superhero tights while climbing Buckingham Palace, ahem, that’s logical/clear headed and ‘rational’??).
Clearly, male violence perpetrated against women is higher in percentage and in regularity within a household. Clearly, women will always fight men who are abusive on child custody issues, trust me the men who aren’t abusive usually have female support for fathering, in fact, we would like it if that type of father would step up even more, parenting takes energy and effort…
My favorite irrational line, “battered women’s shelters are running a racket that funnels federal dollars to feminists” I’m not a violent type though I would seriously consider going a few rounds with the ‘man’ who threw this tid-bit of idiocy out there.
Your thoughts?
(BABE, Mischa, sorry, just wanted to throw out some fuel for opening up the lines…)
Luv, Zen Lill
July 13th, 2013 at 7:59 am
MM BABES, today is the day, if you’re serious and this is a NON-shaming NON-judgmental exercise, if you are NOT ready today, I will post it every Fri/Saturday. Why on the weekend? bc it gives you the opportunity to see where you’re at and spend the weekend doing what I’ve already outlined and just carry on till Monday when I give you more to add to your day/thoughts, OR you can do this to see where you’re at and live the weekend without having taken 2 steps forward 1 step back in the name of the ‘weekend’ (parTAYYY or eating things you wouldn’t during the week, try to go easy on the weekend warrior way of life, please, it has been known to create yo-yo dieting and unhealthy thoughts/behaviors re: weight loss and it’s place in life)
So…1. weight yourself, write down the number, please do not write an end ‘goal’ # today bc we need to discuss variables such as your height/weight/BMI/muscle vs fat, etc…so no judging the # – please. (pass on the exercise if you think it will make you sit in judgement of yourself and do the ‘I love you’ exercise an additional 2x’s instead.
This is about extreme self care, not about shame/blame/self loathing…
& 2. take your measurements, just the following 5 please. 1. bust 2. waist 3. high hip (3″ below waist) 4. Low hip (around healthiest part of your buttocks, about 6″ below natural waist) 5. thigh(s)
Write the weight and the measurements somewhere and forget you did it. It’s just a personal benchmark, that’s it. You’ll feel change in your clothing and while there is no such thing as ‘spot’ weight loss, I’ll tell you that if you do the sugar cleanse along with this and add in some cardio (fast walking or cycling) you will slim your torso faster, it will happen anyway, though sugar and high heart rate for sustained periods will kick it up a notch or 2 in terms of time, don’t fret this if you’d like to do baby steps though, and I’ll tell you why, anything that is done slowly over time and is allowed to be habituated becomes, well, habituated/habit/a lifestyle/and no ‘diet’ ever does that.
….and newsflash: the femme body is DNA designed that way, it will hourglass itself accordingly…so slow or fast, as you lose weight that’s what will happen with your torso, so my only suggestion: watch the hidden sugar intake and if your going to fast walk to kick it up, make sure your swiveling your hips with each movement and keeping your foot firmly planted with each step (easy to roll your ankle while doing this type of exercise).
Hint for what next week holds: those of you who have free weights (get a set of 2, 5, 7.5 or 10 lbs over the weekend if you want good looking arms, if you never lifted a weight get the 2 & 5 & 7.5′s I do variety sets, if you have lifted then have what you judge as a good starting weight on hand). The upper and lower body workouts will be addressed and there are 2 schools of thought on this: upper body/belly one day, the next lower body/belly then next and on and on…OR upper/lower body on one day, the next upper/lower but different exercises and muscle focus. I do the upper one day and lower the next version bc I go 4-5 x’s a week without missing, it’s probably best to do upper/lower in one day if you only have time for 3 days of exercise though let’s move slow and have you do brief amounts everyday to start please…?
I’d rather focus on your mindset than your choice in the above though so…
So, in addition to your weight/measurements on that piece of paper that you’ll share with no one, please write 3 things you LOVE about yourself, and smile as you tuck that piece of paper somewhere private yet with easy access in case you need to remind yourself of those 3 lovely qualities you possess…
Luv, Zen Lill
July 13th, 2013 at 10:28 am
Ym
I wish you would come and visit me. I. Miss.You.
July 13th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
Malala is my hero!
http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2013/07/12/video_malala_yousafzai_s_speech_at_the_u_n_on_malala_day.html?fb_ref=sm_fb_share_chunky_bottom
July 13th, 2013 at 7:07 pm
It will never change in this country until the demographics change. White folks just will not give justice to murdered OTWs by whites.
Get your guns provoke some white boy, and………….
July 13th, 2013 at 7:11 pm
#237 quit hating on Zen Lill
July 13th, 2013 at 7:22 pm
You may hate Islam, but your white Christian god will never bring you minorities justice.
All white juries will always acquit whites when they kill their niggers.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:29 pm
#240 You are just jealous of the status Zen Lill has with the readers of this blog.
Get over it.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:31 pm
#240 you are probably one of those ugly bitches who envy beauties like Zen Lill with desperate hatred.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:35 pm
#240 Ugly begets ugly.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Sorry I missed you for the past 2 days. But I will see you tonight. On pantie will be the rallying cry.
I won’t wear any, if you won’t.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
#240, Zen Lill, I wouldn’t pay any attention to that sort of jealousy. She just can’t take your combination of Beauty and Brains.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Seems like someone is jealous of all the respect and attention you are getting on this blog.
We got your back.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:44 pm
You niggers should know better than be in the wrong neighborhood in a Stand Your Ground state.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Zen Lill, don’t even bother sparing with that jealous bitch. We got that for you.
July 13th, 2013 at 7:53 pm
#240 give it a rest babe. You can’t win this one.
July 13th, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Oh thank you, Brenda, Larry, Sam, Clark, Tim, Choe, Mindy and Stacey…I’m actually feeling a little embarrassed that I bothered to engage at all w/#240, really appreciate the back up though. – ZL
July 13th, 2013 at 10:10 pm
No need to thank your posse. We got your back, ZL.
July 13th, 2013 at 10:22 pm
You are the single most beautiful female on the planet. I know that we are a decade or so apart, But it matters only to you. Why can’t the lady be older than the man? I want to spend my life with you.
It’s your call, but I hope it occurs to you that you have a heat that beats only for you. I will be happy whatever your choice. If you want to stay, I will stay and be your man for as long as you wish to be courted by a young stud.
But if you decide you have had enough of your husband. I will accept any relationship you choose for us. It is your call.
Always
Ym
July 13th, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Now that they have gotten away with excusing the murder of another black child, they will fill the air about respect for justice.
The law has spoken. They will say. But that is not what they said when OJ was found innocent. They chased him until they got their pound of flesh.
Storkely Carmichael once said, “if a white man hits me I will kill him before god gets the news.” Make it happen.
July 13th, 2013 at 10:40 pm
Will you two just get a room. And do it before she is too old to spark your interest.
July 13th, 2013 at 11:22 pm
Emmet, I hear you, am deeply saddened by this poor just-us system decision, personally everyone I know feels this way and perhaps it’s time for Americans to take to the streets and stop the lawlessness, I’m stunned though frankly, i guess I shouldn’t be *sigh* g’nite.
- ZL
July 14th, 2013 at 12:38 am
Zen Lill, you are so right. But I don’t think street demonstrations will help. Those kind of people only resect equal power.
There used to be an open gun carrying policy in CA. That was until in the late sixties when the Black Panther Party began talking advantage of the law and openly carrying guns.
The new law outlawing the right to carry guns passed so past it was scary.
If OTWs make it their business to legally buy and carry a weapon in all those stand your ground states they will change their laws. Bullies don’t like even odds.
July 14th, 2013 at 7:56 am
Hello…
Readers: I was ready to celebrate the blog being 6 years old today only to wake up and read the news. I am so upset by the Trayvon Martin case and Zimmerman now a free man. My heart is heavy and my attitude is sick with anger. There was no justice here. Simply “Just-us.” What a travesty.
Maurice: I’m with you. OTW’s should just carry a gun and if they are attacked, shoot to kill, before they become like Trayvon. If enough whites are affected, (meaning killed) by the absurd Stand Your Ground law, that law stands a chance of being removed. Until then, we can expect the same same thing to happen again and again to OTWs.
Zen Lill: I can’t say I am anxious for my return from holiday, but happy that I am missed (thanks too for your kind words and compliments), and certainly looking forward to beginning a new blog day and getting back into blogging on my side.
Oh…and I am with you on ignoring “anonymous.”
I am keeping my comment brief.
PEACE & LOVE TO ALL OF YOU,
~Michelle, BABE.
July 14th, 2013 at 8:17 am
Sorry, I missed you again. What’s Up? Did I say something wrong?
July 14th, 2013 at 8:31 am
Happy 6 year anniversary of your incredible blog, Mischa!
It’s been quite a ride and I’ve learned many life lessons here, thank you!
Sent with lots of LUV from your #1 fan, Zen Lill
July 14th, 2013 at 8:42 am
I am saddened by this atrocity to justice. FL judicial system, and the multitudes of other courts throughout the country are bought and paid for, this is obvious. I agree that bullies do not like a fair match, so the laws would begin to change when OTW’s follow through with using the Stand Your Ground ruling. However, the courts are corrupt and not fair, so the problem with OTW’s using their right with the new Martin “Stand Your Ground” precedent is that the judge and jury will carefully find room against them, somehow. Just as the OTW woman who fired a warning shot, and used the stand your ground defense, in just these past few weeks, was found guilty and sentenced to 20 years.
Law isn’t fair or just.
July 14th, 2013 at 9:19 am
Ym,
Patience my love. I will try you very soon.
Yw
July 14th, 2013 at 10:28 am
Hafa adai, the haoles have taken over Guam. They have brought gambling. That will corrupt the entire island.
They already have corrupted the hot taste of Guam by forcing us to import Tobasco to enrich the pockets of the haoles. They do this by forcing the price up on finadene dinanche. There is no logical reason it should be twice the price, it’s home grown.
July 14th, 2013 at 10:30 am
Ditto Doug
July 14th, 2013 at 10:30 am
Happy anniversary Michelle.
July 14th, 2013 at 10:32 am
Hafa Adai,
Peter you are so right. Why do we buy all this imported tobasco when local hot peppers are so abundant and free?
July 14th, 2013 at 10:50 am
Peter when I read this – ” The results are in and Guam still maintains its number one spot in Tabasco consumption per capita. That unique tidbit was released today from a recent conference hosted by Tabasco in Thailand.
The spicy sauce is sold in over 165 countries and territories worldwide. Coming in a distant second was the U.S. Tabasco is distributed in Guam by Market Wholesale Distributors Inc.”
————————–
I thought what about the gambling? This is going to turn our island into one big whore house. I have lots of haolie blood in my veins, but I am starting to hate that race big time.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Joyeux anniversaire à partir de Marseille Michelle
July 14th, 2013 at 1:13 pm
بھارت کی طرف سے شادی کی سالگرہ مبارک
July 14th, 2013 at 1:16 pm
Zen Lill you are a great friend. I bet Michelle feels so lucky to have friend like you.
Michelle, I want to wish you a Happy 6th Anniversary, and many more to come.
Kristi
July 14th, 2013 at 1:18 pm
Happy 6th Michelle. You have made my reading special here.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:20 pm
宮崎から記念日おめでとう
July 14th, 2013 at 1:23 pm
Doug, It is a shame isn’t it. I’m white but I feel so bad for this situation. They just gave bigots the right to profile and kill black kids.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:25 pm
Michelle,
יום נישואים שמחים מישראל.
Howie, hope you are doing well.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:27 pm
Happy Anniversary for you 6, Michelle.
Hotaru
July 14th, 2013 at 1:29 pm
The Girlz of the Apache Nation wish you a very happy Anniversary, Michelle.
You are a girls best friend.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:30 pm
You Go GirlZ.
HAPPY 6TH, hope the 7th will be written from somewhere in Europe.
Love
Ruth
July 14th, 2013 at 1:33 pm
South Korea says 한국의 결혼 기념일
July 14th, 2013 at 1:37 pm
Happy Anniversary Michelle Scotland loves your blog.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:42 pm
Your blog has given my black mother a new lease on life. She married a very cruel white man. He fathered 7 children by her, but he only claims the 4 that came out white.
I wasn’t so lucky. It has made our mother miserable. After 31 years of marriage, she finally got the courage to leave the man.
We owe it to you. When you announced that you were divorcing Doug, she called us and read it to us one by one, she ended each read with If Michelle can call it quits, it’s, why am I hanging on.
She filed for the divorce the next day. I cannot tell you how happy she is and we are for her.
Thanks
Demarco
July 14th, 2013 at 1:45 pm
This country would be better if more were like you MIchelle, This Native America would feel better sharing his country for certain if more had your love of the planet.
Happy Anniversary on your 6 consecutive blog year.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:47 pm
This Welchman has been in love with you and your writing for 4 years. I wish you had made it to the United Kingdom. If you are here, please say so.
I wish you many more successful years at the helm.
You are the most beautiful Welsh girl I have ever seen.
Love
Rregus
July 14th, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Brooklyn, says It’s been a good 6 years, looking forward to the next 6, from America.
July 14th, 2013 at 1:50 pm
Feliz Aniversário a partir de Portugal
July 14th, 2013 at 1:54 pm
Several friends say they believe they saw you from afar here in Italy(I won’t name the city) but they claim that as they got closer your appearance changed from the smiling beautiful face on your blog to an entirely different one.
Are you cloaking in my country?
Happy Anniversary da Italia
July 14th, 2013 at 1:57 pm
Michelle, I chose this name to honor my big sister that you made a Girlz. I discovered this blog from spying on mother.
Please make me a Girlz too.
July 14th, 2013 at 2:02 pm
I beg to differ with my Countryman, #288, but you are definitely the most beautiful example of Celtic womanhood ever, those green eyes say it all.
Comóradh Shona ó Éirinn
July 14th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
Spain will not accept anyone stealing its adoptive national treasure. But if I have to in order to preserve a National Treasure for my country, I will ask for you hand in marriage.
I am a 22 year old college student, but I am now without means. I stand to inherit several hundred million euro.
Say yes, and legally preserve on of my country’s National Treasures.
Feliz aniversario de España
July 14th, 2013 at 2:15 pm
I have equal portions of Latin, Spanish and Italian heritage. But I will gladly add Americano to the mix if you will consent to be courted by a 43 year old independently wealthy ex-playboy.
Many say I look as if I could be your brother. It fascinated me so much that I took to reading your blog about a year ago. Now, I long to meet my female twin.
What say you, me lady? Are you game to be romantically pursued by one of Europe’s most renowned ex playboys?
I say ex because, this time I would be marriage material. I look forward to you making me an “honest” man.
Fabio
July 14th, 2013 at 2:17 pm
You horny men need to quit.
Happy anniversary Michelle.
July 14th, 2013 at 2:19 pm
The Girlz of Israel wish you many more years of blogging Michelle.
Happy Anniversary for you 6th.
Zakiya
July 14th, 2013 at 2:21 pm
To be a arabic woman today is exciting. We have the possibility to be free, thanks to tireless efforts by free women like you Michelle,
Happy Anniversary
Tabassum
July 14th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
I have to admit it’s been a blast these last three years. I live in San Francisco. I saw you dancing once in the City. I wanted to ask you to dance, but I connivence myself to just watch.
You can move. I met someone. We got down but it was you I was making love to. I keep going back there, but so far you have been a no show.
I won’t make that mistake again. I watched you dance for two hours that night. I never took my eyes off you until you left. You left with your girl posse. I didn’t want you to think I was a stalker so I watched you leave.
If we become a couple, I will never cheat on you or leave you for anything. You are my dream girl.
Happy 6th
Nathan
July 14th, 2013 at 11:31 pm
Michelle, I actually danced with you in a hotel in San Francisco. I won’t name the club to keep you form being possibly stalked.
We were dancing and you were switching between me and about three other ladies that you were there with. We danced through about three songs by the band.
I wanted to walk you back to your seat but you were sitting so close to the dance floor that by the time I was about to make my move your friends started taking their seats and the table was full.
I waited to get another chance but you were too preoccupied. I watched you go to the table of another lucky guy, I say lucky because he kissed you on the lips when you left his table.
I thought you two might eventually leave together but he left before you did. I was a guess in the hotel. I went to my room to take a phone call and when I returned you had left with your entire table.
I had planned to talk to one of them if I couldn’t get to talk with you. But I lost you. I will return to San Francisco on the 5th of August for 8 months. I hope to see you there sometime.
I am a venture capitalist from Austria. I would love to meet and present my credentials to you some time. Since I have seen you up close and personal, it is only fair that you know what I look like.
I am very athletically defined. 5’10, 170 lbs. with blue eyes and a full head of sandy brown hair. I don’t image that you would remember our chance encounter.
But I am certain that if given the opportunity to chat with you, I will be remembered. There are no shy bones here.
I have been reading your blog for about 21/2 years. I admire your style and convictions. I am divorced. I was married for 24 years.I have been divorced for two. We parted amicably. Like you and Doug we are still friends. We share three lovely children, 20, 22, and 24.
Although I pay a generous amount in alimony and child support, if it matters, I make a high 7 figure income. I say that to say I would enjoy courting you in whatever style you are accustomed.
When I return to the San Francisco, I will make it a priority to attend that hotel’s dancing facility every Saturday for the eight months I am there until you show.
I described the events of that evening to make it clear which hotel we were at, f I have not made it clear which hotel it was please say so and suggest how specific you wish me to be concerning the name of the hotel.
Respectfully
Rick
July 15th, 2013 at 7:39 am
I know it is difficult to get away from the hubby sometimes. But I was hoping that you would have made an effort to catch me today.
July 15th, 2013 at 3:20 pm
Ym,
Baby I tried you this morning twice. As far as leaving the hubby, we have talked about this and you know I want to spend my life with you. but it is you and your health not the age difference that has been the ongoing topic of conversation.
You know I love you and if we could truly be together as I desire, it is my first choice. I will try you again later.
Yw
July 16th, 2013 at 3:20 am
Did someone shut this down? I have been trying to read and post for at least all day.
Will this work?
July 16th, 2013 at 7:42 am
It’s open (I think) and I’ll be back for those new exercises, so sorry…life and work got busy suddenly, be back later today. – ZL
July 17th, 2013 at 6:52 am
The AG of the United States has essentially declared banking executives strategic national assets. Thus, not only are the big banks “too big to fail”, those that run them are now “too big to jail” and the banks, in addition to not bearing the financial consequences of their actions, no longer have to face the legal consequences of their actions.
Those belonging to the banking cartel are thus a new gilded aristocracy living under an entirely different set of laws than the common citizens.
The only way to end this system is to disband the cartel, which means dissolving the Federal Reserve and moving to a free banking system, lest we wind up right back in this situation one or two generations hence.
A topic that could do with further exploration is the utter meaningless of the reported bank ratios. Banks have an almost unlimited ability to take on debt and are constantly inventing new ways to do so while officially maintaining their capitalization targets.
The rehypothecation of client collateral for proprietary trading operations is one of my favorites as they use the same collateral (which, again, is not their own) over and over again for successive loans with only the skimpiest of markdowns at each step of the way.
July 17th, 2013 at 7:04 am
Michelle did I see you on a United flight yesterday? I saw the tiny vision of beauty that looked much like the Photo on your blog.
July 17th, 2013 at 7:08 am
I saw this on Huff Post. Will the right wing/corporate media be reporting the most significant story of the day?
New York state officials are poised to announce Wednesday that unsubsidized health insurance premiums will fall by roughly 50 percent next year under the Obamacare exchanges to take effect, according to the New York Times.
“Beginning in October,” the Times reports, “individuals in New York City who now pay $1,000 a month or more for coverage will be able to shop for health insurance for as little as $308 monthly. With federal subsidies, the cost will be even lower.”
=================================
Too bad Obama will probably be out of office when this health care thing really starts to show the people how badly the right lied about it.
July 17th, 2013 at 7:39 am
Davis, did you take a picture? You do have a cell with that ability don’t you?
July 17th, 2013 at 10:24 am
Well yes, but who can stop when you are deplaning to take a picture?
July 17th, 2013 at 10:59 am
MM BABES, take out your weights, stand tall, roll your shoulders back and down, tush squeezed,knees slughtly bent, one weight in each hand, elbows tucked at sides and they don’t move, dold weights straight out from elbows (not low on hip, just elbow height and almost up to shoulder is what we’re doing here) now engage your bicep muscle, and lift up exhaling, inhale down to start position, never disengaging the bicep muscle…do this with your lowest weights until you have to break form to lift it, this could take 12 lifts, it could take 30, just do it…it’s pre-exhausting the muscle. your next set do 12 repetitions at next weight up, so move from 5 to 7.5, your third set do 8 of heaviest weight, that’d be 10 lbs in this example…at least make it to 6, then take a 30 secnd pause and pick up the 5 lb wieghts again and do as many as you can and stop, that’s it for today!
I’ll add a few other exercises as we go to give you nice bicep/tricep and shoulders, along with other body parts ; )
How’s the ‘I love you’ exercise going? & eating 1 meal a day vegatarian/vegan? Walking 15 minutes and stretching never stops…
Be back later (I hope, another busy day) and we will keep adding on till you are your personal best.
Luv, Zen Lill
July 18th, 2013 at 7:52 am
Zen Lill I am working with you on this diet. I hope that you will be okay with me asking you questions about choosing certain foods to try with it.
July 18th, 2013 at 7:56 am
If you love to dive or are interested in diving, Guam is one of the easiest and cheapest places to learn to dive
Read more: http://www.dvidshub.net/news/110021/children-adults-can-experience-guam-below-sea-level#.UegBPuB9ntU#ixzz2ZPQLh7gc
Come to Guam. Post here you are a Moquin blogger and I will meet you at the airport with other fans. You can even meet the GirlZ of Guam.
Or some of us. We do have our share of stuck up pretenders, here too. Oh, please, you know who you are.
Hafai Adai
Anna
July 18th, 2013 at 8:02 am
Howie It’t been a week since we had that Island wide blackout. The rumor from some military personnel is that some aliens landed and they lost their “cloak” and blacked out the island to prevent being discovered.
So what is the real story? The bullshit we are being told is that it was a fuel pump leak at one of the MEC units triggered the failure of that unit and led to Thursday’s island wide power outage.
Come on Howie what’s the real story?
July 18th, 2013 at 8:08 am
Peter you and Anna are always touting Guam what about the bad things on this island and we haolies have very little to do with them.
Here’s a few:
• Guam has the most liberal abortion laws in the nation, which allow for the termination of nearly one out of 10 pregnancies with more than 60 percent being Chamorro (2012 Guam Medical Records).
• Guam has the highest divorce rate in the world (4.7 divorces per 1,000 population, 2010 Guam Statistical Yearbook, vs. Russia’s 4.5 per 1,000, 2011 United Nations Demographic Yearbook).
• Guam has the 14th highest suicide rate in the world and a rate 1.2 times the national average (2011 World Health Organization and A Profile of Suicide on Guam, September 2011).
• Guam has a 20-percent age points higher out-of-wedlock birth rate (60 percent) compared to the rest of the nation (40.8 percent, CDC 2010). Note: Guam stopped reporting “illegitimate” births in 2005 — 60 percent is based on the average between 2000 and 2005.
• Guam has double the teen birthrate compared to the rest of the nation (June 25 Pacific Daily News).
• Guam’s rape rate is 94.4 per 100,000 (2011 Yearbook: 151 reported rapes). This is nearly triple the national average of 29.8. (U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstrace of the United States: 2013, Table 314).
• And, worst of all, Guam abuses and neglects its children at nearly double the national average (Guam child maltreatment rate of 76.81 per 1,000 children, based on 2012 CPS report and 2010 census vs. 41.2 per 1,000 children national average as per Table 3-2, Child Maltreatment 2011, Children’s Bureau, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).
And we’ve “accomplished” all this without a casino, poker machines, or even (Speaker Judith Won Pat) the relocation of the Marines.
—————————–
Hafa adai
July 18th, 2013 at 8:26 am
Hafa adai
Okay T. You’ve made you point. But this is still my home and I have my two cents. One is the men in the legislature on this island are cowards in the face of the catholic church. That cult rapes our children and the pedophiles go free to do it generation after generation.
Then the hypocrites rant an rave about abortions but don’t support any serious programs that seek to help the children already here. They just want to force a woman to come to term to increase their pedophilia options.
Then there is this preoccupation with weed. It is not the evil that our legislature wants to make it. Yet, they are still bent on sending the youth of Guam to prison for smoking a bit of weed.
They have to keep the myth alive that it is a dangerous “Schedule 1 Controlled Substance” Woooooooo!
—————————
Guam – 64 year old Jesus S. Duenas was magistrated Thursday on charges of manufacturing a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance and Possession of More Than One Once of Marijuana.
According to the Magistrate’s report, Duenas “claimed ownership of the marijuana” and told police he was using the marijuana “to treat his cancer and arthritis.”
Duenas also told police “no one else in the household was aware of the growing or use of maijuana. Duenas provided a written statement and was arrested.”
11 marijuana plants were found growing openly along the property line at Duenas’ home which is co-owned by his son, Guam Police Officer Jeffrey Duenas. Officer Duenas is assigned to the Governor’s security detail.
GPD Spokesman Lt. Art Paulino told PNC News yesterday that an internal investigation cleared Officer Duenas of any involvement. “Officer Duenas had no part in cultivating or manufacturing of the substance. He does not reside there, or frequent the residence,” said Lt. Paulino.
—————————————————-
So they go after anyone who uses it. Pathetic! Yes, there are a lot of things wrong with Guam, but I call it home and I love my home. We as a people have to continue to work on our problems and those who work to cause them.
And the last time I checked the Roman Catholic Cult and the folks in the US Senate were haolies. That still makes the chief problems on Guam their fault.
Hafa adai
Peter
July 18th, 2013 at 8:36 am
Hafa adai:
I love too. Here is a video of some baby blacktip sharks in the waters of one of Guam’s beaches. You can learn something about the Blacktip shark and get a view of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches and Guam has several.
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=35996:video-baby-blacktip-sharks-filmed-near-tumon-shore-biologist-brent-tibbatts-says-nothing-to-be-afraid-of&catid=45:guam-news&Itemid=156
July 18th, 2013 at 8:37 am
Oh and Michelle, isn’t that a beach that you would like to visit. Next time skip europe and come to Guam. The GirlZ of Guam will show you a great time.
Lea
July 18th, 2013 at 8:45 am
It’s almost 3 AM and I get a call to check out your blog Michelle. I guess it really isn’t about some baby sharks near Tumon beach that hardly is unique. Perhaps it’s about convincing you to come see us here.
Okay, as a Girlz in good standing, I’ll add my voice. What say ye me hardi Chief of the GirlZ? Can we get an aye?
Hafa Adai Michelle
Jolene
July 18th, 2013 at 8:46 am
Howie, I just read about a possible UFO connection to that total island blackout on Guam. Can we get a definitive word from you?
July 18th, 2013 at 8:50 am
Hafa adai
What about all those products that claim they are made on Guam? Where is the GEDA to stop them?
July 18th, 2013 at 8:58 am
So are you back Michelle? What’s the real story about these sightings? I got an email saying you were spotted on at a Lithuania terminal.
July 18th, 2013 at 9:01 am
Scott#319 it would help if you used a number so the rest of us wouldn’t have to read the entire 300 to find out what you are referencing.
How do you expect Howie to answer if he doesn’t know what you are talking about?
July 18th, 2013 at 11:11 am
Lois, and all other MM BABES following the luving weight set point program, I am totally open to questions of any kind, mind/body/spirit, exercise/fitness/health/food/hydration, etc…(sex and relationships are always fun subjects, too), and on that note, watch your other halves as you start losing weight, your new (I love you-name-) confidence may leave em’ a little rattled in a variety of ways, not to worry, nothing thrives in a vacuum and life is dynamic not static, so give them time to adjust and if you must, you can nicely chat with them openly about any sabotaging maneuvers they may consciously or – more likely – subconsciously pull, bc peeps like their ‘normal’ and they may not realize that while they’d like to see you healthier they’ve become at one with your weight bc it may have secondary gain for them (and that ought to slow their roll ; )
Today, here’s a thought: nothing changes overnight so keep up the ‘I love you-name-’ exercise until your feeling absolutely magnanimous towards most peeps : ) and squeeze that bootay while walking anywhere, do that all day today (or as much as possible), along with all other exercises, if you did biceps yesterday skip today, if you didn’t – do it – now : )
Luv, Zen Lill
July 18th, 2013 at 3:42 pm
How about the way the hoalies manipulate the price of gas to rob us blind. They pretend to be competitive but they each takes turns raising the price if their gas and the other two stations follow.
This shit sucks. I am tired of being used by these damn greedy hoalies.
July 18th, 2013 at 3:51 pm
Hafa adai, Holly, when they aren’t stilling our money they are stealing our natural resources.
http://www.guampdn.com/article/20130718/OPINION02/307180012/Guam-s-reefs-being-pillaged
July 18th, 2013 at 9:46 pm
Three Surprising Ways Diet Sodas Harm Your Health
Millions of Americans rely on artificial sweeteners to minimize their sugar intake. And really, who can blame them? Sugar has absolutely no nutritional value and can be downright dangerous.
In fact, the over-consumption of sugar can be blamed for countless health conditions ranging from diabetes and heart disease to cavities and obesity (and let’s not forget obesity-related diseases like stroke, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea and various cancers).
One of the most widely consumed artificially sweetened products on the market is diet soda. The food and diet industries have fooled much of the population into believing that these calorie-free beverages are the superior choice for our waistlines and overall health. And it makes sense, doesn’t it?
After all, zero calories means less weight gain, so who wouldn’t want to indulge in a can or bottle—or two—a day?
Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth. Diet sodas are proving to be just as harmful as their sugar-laden counterparts. Here are just a few reasons why.
Tooth Troubles
One of the telltale signs of heavy methamphetamine or crack cocaine use is rotting teeth. And, of course, regular sodas (and other very sugary food products) also cause tooth decay.
But who would have ever thought that sugar-free diet soda could have the same exact effect on oral health? Indeed, a shocking study published earlier this year found this to be the case.1-2
In this study, the lead researcher observed that a woman in her 30s who drank two liters of diet soda every day for three to five years experienced the same tooth decay seen in a 29-year-old meth addict and a 51-year-old habitual crack cocaine user. (All three participants came from similar socioeconomic backgrounds and admitted to poor oral hygiene habits, as well as not having regular dental exams.)
According to the lead researcher, the severe dental erosion was caused by the extreme acidity of their “drug of choice.” The illegal drugs are naturally acidic—particularly methamphetamine, which requires the use of highly corrosive materials in the manufacturing process—while sodas contain high levels of citric and phosphoric acids. All of these acidic substances prove to be disastrous for the teeth.
Pack on the Pounds
Ironically, these zero-calorie fizzy beverages can actually cause you to gain weight! It all starts with how the brain processes and the body responds to these super-sweet sugar replacements.
In one study, researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to evaluate the brain responses young adults had to diet (saccharin-sweetened) soda versus regular (sugar-sweetened) soda.
They found that those who drank the diet soda experienced much greater activation of the reward-processing centers of the brain.
In addition, the diet soda drinkers who consumed a greater number of diet sodas had reduced caudate head activation—stimulation of neurons in the brain that are associated with emotions, memory and learning—suggesting that “there are alterations in reward processing of sweet taste in individuals who regularly consume diet soda, and this is associated with the degree of consumption.”3
In other words, artificial sweeteners increase our desire for more fattening sugars, starches and carbohydrates, so by drinking diet soda, you’re more likely to consume additional sweets to calm your cravings.
To add fuel to the fire, artificial sweeteners trick our bodies into thinking more sugar is on the way, which leads to the production of more insulin—and more visceral fat.
Diabetes Dangers
And speaking of insulin…diet soda has been linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. This is particularly disturbing considering so many diabetics use artificial sweeteners and drink diet sodas regularly in their efforts to avoid sugar.
In a recent Japanese study, researchers measured the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and diet sodas in 2,037 men. They received annual medical exams over a seven-year period to test for diabetes.
During the study period, 170 men developed diabetes, and the researchers found that the diet soda consumption was a significant risk factor. They concluded, “Diet soda is not always effective at preventing type 2 diabetes, even though it is a zero-calorie drink.”4
Another crossover study evaluated the effects of sucralose (Splenda®) on the metabolic response of 17 obese participants. The volunteers underwent two different glucose tolerance tests—one after consuming a sucralose-sweetened beverage and another after consuming plain water (the control).
The results showed that, compared to control, the sucralose caused higher glucose and insulin levels, and a greater peak insulin secretion rate.
In conclusion, these researchers wrote, “These data demonstrate that sucralose affects the glycemic and insulin responses to an oral glucose load in obese people who do not normally consume [artificial sweeteners].”5
Ditch the Diet Sodas
It should go without saying that we advise that you completely eliminate all artificially sweetened beverages from your diet.
There are plenty of tasty low-calorie or calorie-free alternatives to diet sodas. Using sparkling water as your base, add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon, lime or orange.
Or create a 75-25 mixture of sparkling water and cranberry, blueberry or pomegranate juice—not only refreshing, but rich in antioxidants.
Another very healthy zero-calorie alternative is white, green, red or even black tea sweetened with stevia or xylitol—both 100-percent natural sugar alternatives that actually have very positive health benefits.
References:
1. Bassiouny MA. Gen Dent. 2013 Mar-Apr;61(2):38-44.
2. Academy of General Dentistry press release. http://www.agd.org/media/145594/soda_meth_mouth.pdf.
3. Green E and Murphy C. Physiol Behav. 2012 Nov 5;107(4):560-7.
4. Sakurai M, et al. Eur J Nutr. 2013 Apr 11. [Epub ahead of print.]
5. Pepino MY, et al. Diabetes Care. 2013 April 30. [Epub ahead of print.]
July 19th, 2013 at 7:30 am
Click through to site on my name fr what you should be drinking, staying hydrated is important, we are 70% water, so drink lots of the right water. It’s not an act of self promotion, it’s a holistic addition to what I do to educate people about their minds and bodies. Health info is right fake and real sugar does it’s damage and the right clear stuff is totally life enhancing, click and get the free ebook. Plenty of free info and videos there, too, I sell nothing…you find value you ask fr more info, you don’t you don’t, it’s my favorite ‘live your best’ life product…healthy, green footprint (remember aliens suggested using charged water to replace household chemicals and kill bacteria inc ecoli?) and once tried…it’s hard to get uneducated about these things…
-ZL
September 17th, 2013 at 3:04 am
Hi there just wanted to give you a brief heads up and
let you know a few of the images aren’t loading properly.
I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue. I’ve tried it
in two different browsers and both show the same outcome.
November 15th, 2013 at 5:23 pm
My system is Finally releasing Pai You Guo http://www.paiyouweightloss.com/ and that i am so so glad but I’ve a matter…
February 10th, 2014 at 4:45 am
What’s սpр all, here evewry one iss sharing these know-how,
ssօ it’s fastidious to read this weblog, and I used to
pay a visit this webpage еѵerƴday.
Also visit my web site: orquesta hermanos flores
March 2nd, 2014 at 8:06 pm
I truly love your blog.. Excellent colors & theme. Did you build this amazing site yourself?
Please reply back as I’m trying to create my own personal site and want to learn
where you got this from or just what the theme is called.
Thanks!
April 1st, 2014 at 10:12 pm
Just desire to say your article is as amazing. The clearness in your post
is just excellent and i can assume you are an expert on
this subject. Well with your permission let me to grab your
RSS feed to keep up to date with forthcoming post. Thanks a million
and please keep up the gratifying work.
June 16th, 2014 at 3:45 pm
cheap chinese Knicks jerseys Review China
July 5th, 2014 at 1:24 am
It’s hard to find your posts in google. I found it on 12 spot, you should build quality backlinks , it will help you to increase traffic.
I know how to help you, just search in google –
k2 seo tricks