The Red Hour Glass

Adventure No. 1- Get Your Car Towed

2010-01-14T22:27:00.000-08:00

Not that I would actually encourage anyone to intentionally get their car towed, but after experiencing it for myself I feel that it should definitely be added to any “thing to experience before you die” list. Most people go through their whole life living between the lines of civilized society and the dregs. Those who do never truly get to experience such a unique experience as getting your primary means of transportation and potentially your livelihood withheld from you by what at that moment in time will appear to be the dregs of human society.

First off let’s cover the many ways one can go about getting your car towed:

Parking in front of a fire hydrant
Parking in a spot that isn’t yours (i.e. a handicapped spot without being thusly handicapped, your neighbor’s parking space in a crowded apartment complex, etc.)
Driving without insurance
Driving under the influence
Parking on the sidewalk
Parking on the roof
Parking in a supermarket or in the parking lot of a supermarket
Pretty much anywhere you thought you were safe… think again…

The possibilities for getting towed are truly endless… get out there and find them! The more unique the better.Again I reiterate, mostly for my own CMOA reasons I don't actually encourage anyone to intentionally break the law. I believe this activity on the list can be completed practically unintentionally...

My particular adventure begins one late Saturday night in downtown Portland, Oregon. The evening had taken an unexpected turn beginning when I found myself at a party filled with friends made through my most recently failed relationship. An evening that I originally thought might have the potential to be the most awkward of my life turned out to be just the opposite. I made a few new friends and got invited to join them downtown.

Downtown Portland on this particular evening in December was crawling with our traditional “pub crawling Santas”. They are part of keeping Portland weird and they're a visual treat to enjoy during the holiday season. As I cruised down Burnside looking for the Marathon tavern I noticed that the streets were crawling with these red suited devils. As a result traffic was excessively confusing. The populace of the city, not used to such sights as these, slowed to photograph the phenomena. Parking as usual on a Saturday night was scarce but I did what I usually do and looked for an area with plenty of room where other people have parked. The badly lit and horribly unmarked parking lot of the Panda Express on the corner of Burnside and Trinity Place. There were about 5 or 6 other cars parked in that lot and it appeared to be completely safe.

After choosing a spot and walking nearly a block, I watched a tow truck run by and thought to myself, “shit, I probably shouldn’t be parked there.” Returned to my spot and moved my car. 5 spaces. Would have been more except I found myself crossing paths with my Elijah Wood look-a-like lawyer friend who was drunkenly making his way down the streets of the busy metropolis. Of course I stopped for a brief dialogue with said individual and the topic of parking came up. He agreed that it was a safe place to leave the car.

On a daring whim, I left the car and proceeded down the street to the appropriate drinking locale hoping, praying, and gambling on the presumption that it couldn’t possibly happen to me. I calculated all the times I have parked illegally and tried to guess-timate how due I was for a karmic retribution and decided to leave my car where it was. I was only going to be a few hours and surely if they were going to tow me they would have to tow everyone else. I contemplated the likeliness of that happening and figured it was next to impossible they would tow everyone in the lot I was in.

Hours later- escorted back to my car by a soon to be good friend. We approached a now empty lot and I felt a sinking sensation in my stomach as I viewed the empty space that used to hold my cute little white Aura. As the stomach started to settle and the haze in my head stared to clear I commented, “my car isn’t there.” He says, “You’re joking right?”

“No, my car is gone its REALLY gone!” I exclaimed as I waited for the eye roll and exasperated sigh from the individual who was about to become a reluctant hero. It came in about the beat I was expecting, and in the same breath he says, “I’m parked over here.” On the 4 block walk to his sleek Camaro, I called the tow company and negotiated the retrieval. $228 dollars if it’s picked up before 3 AM. A quick glance at my cell confirmed that it was 12:30 AM and there was ample time. Next it was time to contact After 2 calls to Onstar and some route calculations we were on our way to Columbia Blvd. There tucked tightly in between very large industrial warehouses was a dilapidated old house with a razor wire topped fence on the other side of which I could see my little white Aura.

After a brief discussion on where not to park the Camaro, my reluctant hero and I made our trek into the “office”. For all the money that tow companies make it is a wonder that everyone I have seen looks like it’s been pieced together with whatever throw-aways were found on the street with a big cardboard “Free” sign on them. Wall to wall carpeting a myth, the floor of worn plywood is covered in patches of very used and worn down shag in mix-matched colors.

At this point in the story I feel that it is crucial to explain to you things to be sure you have when this happens to you. These are not suggestions as the more prepared you are for this sort of adventure the less stressful, aggravating, and terse it will be.

A GPS or Onstar connection as apparently all tow yards are hiding in the dark recesses of the industrial areas of your metropolitan zones

Title

Registration

Proof of Insurance (the most recent card)

Driver’s license

An exorbitant amount of money on hand to dispose of into the waste basket of tow companies pocketbooks

Flat soled shoes or person with flat soled shoes upon whose shoulders you may piggyback as the lot will be inexplicably filled with the mud of ancients

All the patience you’ve been storing for most of your adult life as the lady holding your livelihood in hock explains to you that : NO you may not call the insurance company to have them verify insurance; NO you may not use the internet to print proof of insurance and NO, the paper work you do have with you is not good enough to prove the car ACTUALLY belongs to you

Things not to bring:

Weaponry of any kind since you might be inclined to use it should your stores of patience run out

A Checkbook . . . they are worthless for use with the car-dragging population. Cash or Credit Only.

Other forms of photo ID such as your Police ID card as it doesn’t confirm that you own the car

As I said earlier these items are not optional folks. I can’t say that things got easier after finding where my car was- which I thought would be the most complicated part. However when the lady running the tow yard, who looked like the red-neck grandma of nightmares, all but refused to release my car to me due to my apparent lack of paperwork I understood very quickly why most tow yards charge an “Anger Fee” as it was all I could do to prevent myself from imagining gruesome means of disposing of this interesting combination of Satan and the Sugar Plum Fairy. After a few piggy-back trips back and forth from the car in the mud laden yard to retrieve whatever available paperwork that was at my disposal, some well placed phone calls to my insurance company and a faxed copy of my current insurance complete with VIN the car was finally back in my possession. An aggravated sigh of relief and I was finding my way home, exhausted from the whole experience. Never have I craved bed more.

In short the experience was certainly educational and an experience all unto it's own.

And now for some info you might not know…

The tow truck was invented in 1916 by Ernest Holmes, Sr., of Chattanooga, Tennessee. He was a garage worker who was inspired to create the invention after he was forced to pull a car out of a creek using blocks, ropes, and six men. An improved design led him to manufacture wreckers.

The List- Please feel free to add to this as necessary

2009-12-23T12:38:00.001-08:00

The New Adventure… the Anti-Murtaugh List

2009-12-21T12:55:00.001-08:00

So in light of the last year of malaise, a sense of stagnation, and the frustration of attending 3 weddings and 8 baby showers in 2009 when you yourself have been dumped 3 times in one year, I have decided to embark on an exciting adventure and blog about the experience as I go along.

I was inspired this summer by a film called Julie and Julia- a story about a young woman who writes a blog about her cooking escapades. Well, I decided to put my own spin on this concept. I enjoy cooking but really my quest has more to do with finding out what there is to do in adult life besides marry and have babies. I purchased a book this last Friday. It’s by a man named Richard Horne and it’s called 101 Things to Do Before you Die. Sounds easy enough right? We shall see.

However rather than numbering them thusly and leaving myself a mere 101 things to do I choose to call this adventure the Anti-Murtaugh list. Why give it such a strange name? Famous quote from cult classic Lethal Weapon films comes from the character of Murtaugh, he says, “I’m getting too old for this s***” repeatedly through out the films. At this point in my life there shouldn’t be too much that I am too old for. I need to look adventure in the eye and get moving. So stay posted because as I check things off the list I will be sharing that experience here with you the reader.

First thing on the list, Write a Best-seller. This one will be a work in progress as I expect that these blog entries as I become more involved in the adventure will become my best seller. At least I hope. So since that is started- we move on to the rest of the list. Some of the things on the list are quite outrageous and may take years for me to complete. So in the interim I will take suggestions from you the reader of other tasks to complete and share my experience with. Is there anything you’re afraid of? Anything you’ve ever wanted to do but were not enough of an adventure to do?

Let the adventure begin…

If you have comments, suggestions for adventures, or questions please feel free to email me here or on Facebook.

Tarot Tuesday Reading- “Should I stay or should I go?”

2009-08-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been feeling a nagging sensation that says part of why I am so unhappy and underserving my potential is because I settled too early. I am bound by my current way of life and thinking. I haven’t taken any risks to do things I dreamed of doing. I never went abroad, I stayed too close to family- stinting personal discovery. I feel kind of like a coward. Now I feel like I am being called to drop it all and go and do something daring. Something different, something worth doing. But where am I to go? Am I to go alone or take someone with me? When am I supposed to go? Am I supposed to wait until it’s a “good time” or is that just an excuse that perpetuates the cycles I am currently locked in? Is the only time now? What about friends and family? Will they understand and support me or will they feel abandoned?

Significator- The Magician- Creativity in Action

This card is me and I have been enlightened. There is a need to continue on one’s path toward the understanding and appreciation of natural laws. Once armed with this knowledge I may safely participate in the current situation and be a positive force for creating the world around me.

What Covers Me- Seven of Swords- Possibilities

It is important for me to understand with precision and logic that which has occurred in the past. Seven is the number of contemplation and introspection. I may feel like I am misguided and lost; that I am drained of my power, but I shouldn’t put stock in this feeling. I’m merely second guessing myself. I am doing this largely due to some form of deceit.

What Crosses Me- The Universe- Mastery

I’ve feel as though I have received a mandate from heaven to continue on my path and create my life. I’ve accomplished so much and experienced so much already that I should take care not to short change myself. My accomplishments are to be recognized by myself and by others.

What Crowns Me- Page of Cups- Reversed- A Messenger

“The Knave” is still in my head haunting me. His words fill my head with self-criticism and harsh judgments. I need to remember that his words are not helpful and create more harm than good. He was using his intelligence and sensitivity for his own purposes and took advantage of my friendship.

What Grounds Me- Queen of Shields- Security

This card tells of rich inner spirit. It cautions me to us wisdom, sensibility, and compassion. I need to use my earthly resources wisely. I should have amazing confidence in myself and in nature. Both my inner and outer wealth are great. I should dig deeply inside in order to come up with something of value from my own internal treasure house. The circumstances at hand indicate that I will overcome any life problem through the wise application of truth that I know within.

What Lies Behind Me- Page of Spears- Helpful Information

This Page is a symbol of fire and creativity. I need to rest assured that the decisions I’ve made have been divinely guided and the right course of action has been taken. I listen to messages that are sent to me.

What Lies Ahead of Me- Ten of Shields- Wealth

My whole life is ahead of me and in it feelings of confidence and security. Family matters will go very well and there will be a definite change for the better in the very near future.

Myself- Ace of Cups- Celebration/Fertility

There is an abundance of love in my life. I am surrounded by uplifting expressions of love. I need to step back and admire its beauty and bounty. I’m a very loving individual and need not doubt my ability to love wholly and completely.

My House- Queen of Swords- Mental Chaos

This card speaks of mental confusion and depression. Indecisiveness in terms of what road to take after some form of intellectual deceit. It would be best to wait until there is greater psychological peace before making any major decisions.

My Hopes and Fears- Justice- Reversed- Balance

I am being unfairly punished in the present circumstances due to imbalance in the past. An individual in my past made decisions that didn’t take into account other people’s needs. However that time has ended and things will balance themselves out. I should be sure to think my decisions through fully to avoid further imbalance.

Outcome- Nine of Spears- Stability

There is strength and clarity behind my actions. Self-discipline and an understanding of structure and organization have been rewarded. I’ve done my best. Nothing important has been lost. At the very least, I have gained further life experience.

Tarot Tuesday Reading- “What now?”

2009-08-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

The meditation of this reading focuses on the source of my recent melancholy. I feel that I have sank into a dismal slump of self-loathing, pity, and despair. I wallow in it and the drinking I am sure doesn’t help any. It’s more of a general feeling of loss and idleness. I want to be rid of it but it seems to hold on to me tightly. I feel I am in a rut and can’t pull out. I feel listless, lonely, and without direction. So what happens now?

The Significator- The Magician- “Creativity”

This card is me. It also reminds me that I have control of my immediate environment. I have the power and influence over what is going on in my life and the circumstances that surround me. I possess all the talents and abilities to accomplish whatever I set out to do and achieve whatever goals I have in mind. I just need to use them.

What Covers Me- Ten of Cups- Reversed- “Peace”

This is a time of unhappiness and disappointment. I have suffered a lot of emotional abuse. Not just from the residual loose ends of the breakup but the last two years of being repressed, broken down, and rebuilt in someone else’s image.

What Crosses Me- King of Shields- “Influence”

Financial stability and well-being are mine, but perhaps I am too responsible for my own good. The choices I make have everything to do with good business sense and not really what I want or feel passionate about.

What Crowns Me- Six of Swords- “A Journey”

The next step in my life is to be taken. The destination is uncertain, the journey however is continuing. This message from above encourages me to think of ways to move forward and not wallow in the past. Time is passing. The longer I flounder the more of the journey I am missing out on.

What Grounds Me- Three of Shields- Reversed- “Skill”

I’m not living up to my fullest potential. This card indicated that laziness or indecisiveness may be part of the problem. I need to use my creative impulses to point myself in the appropriate direction.

What Lies Behind- Ace of Shields- “Success/New Enterprise”

I’m beginning a project that will lead to success. Money is being made through positive creative inspiration. However I should be prepared to achieve my goals. This project could be me getting to know myself better or just trying to live a fuller life.

What Lies Ahead- Two of Swords- “Friendship”

Recent adversarial circumstances have resulted in a mutual alliance or stalemate. I am free to continue with plans and projects and I have the support and respect of my friends and allies. Some new understandings have come to me as the result of strife. These new insights into life will help create additional possibilities for success in the present or future ventures. Alliances and friendships are forming that will help me attain my goals. This is a good time to resolve any outstanding differences that still remain.

Myself- Ten of Swords- Reversed- “Ruin”

A new set of life experiences are needed along with a more objective world view and attitude toward life. The possibility for this to happen will come after complete destruction of the old way of thinking has occurred.

My House- Three of Spears- “Patience”

I’ve established a solid foundation but I am still at work expanding my place in the world; still growing. Strength in creative enterprise as well as courage and initiative will be rewarded. Remain emotionally calm and mentally alert.

My Hopes and Fears- Nine of Swords- Reversed- “Despair”

I am experiencing great despair. There are definite feelings of isolation and failure. There is an opportunity, however, to find a deeper faith in life. I accept the potential double meaning of this card given that my name is Faith. I am to develop a deeper relationship with myself as well as my life. Soul searching is required.

Outcome- Six of Cups- “Pleasure from the Past”

A positive future is ahead if I can shake off the despair and gloom. I need to be willing to work to restore and recapture those moments of pure contentment and joy.

Restoring Childhood

2009-05-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

Summer is the season for fun and games. Children laugh, run, and play. The major bummer of adult life is that you can't enjoy all those simple pleasures anymore or if you do- you would look pretty strange.

The first major activity of the summer involved restoring a part of my childhood. Not only was it massively nostalgic but therapuetic as well. Step one in falling in love with me- start from the beginning.

So the goal was to restore our childhood merry-go-round. Dad bought this merry-go-round when we were kids as something to keep us occupied over the long summer camp months. Over the years in Oregon weather the boards that we sat on had rotted and moss had grown over them. Dad's want of grandbabies and the adoption of every visitor's children fueled the need to return safety and dryness to this childhood toy.

First step- Remove Rot

Just like one removes rot from the soul this took some effort and powertools. I left this job to Aura. She's better at it.

Meanwhile...

I started on the construct with this as my base of operations.

Some days I ask myself why I never finished my apprenticeship. Working with wood brings me such joy. However, given current economic situations I am blessed to be in computers as the demand for carpenters seems to be on a decline.

Once the destruct was done Aura jumped in to help me with the construct. Radial Sander was the word that came to mind. Without one wood work is more like this:

See the similarities...

Finally the finished product!

Of course we rejoiced on pogo sticks!

The first day of the rest of my life

2009-05-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

So I want to get back in the habit of blogging. (I know I always say that about the same time every year and it doesn't seem to take but the people say they like what I write. Got to give the people what's they want yo!

The month of May has so far been chock full of activity. I'm anxious for it to be over. In more ways than one it seems to be a transition month. Everything in my life in transition. Just as the spring relinquishes its youth I feel the experiences of May will lead to a full ripe harvest of the Spirit.

So, to start however, for those who hadn't heard My Myspace romance ended just as it began.

I have stopped trying to make sense of it all, leave it lie and move on. It's been real, it was fun, but it wasn't real fun. It would seem that as long as there was a piece of electronic equipment (i.e. cell phone, computer, movie screen, etc) as a buffer between us the relationship was marvelous.

Living together however was a mistake. He was romantic and charming over text message and myspace but the words that would come from this mouth would shock even the least verbose and undiplomatic of speakers.

Now its just a matter of waiting for him to get his butt out of my apartment and into another one. So I can have my home back. I know I should be rejoicing and reveling in the awesome that is me knowing that there are better fish in the sea but I can't help but feel a little despondant.

The summer goal:

Find myself while staying as busy as possible doing whatever fun I can to keep my mind off things. I need to fall in love with me all over again, like a second honeymoon.

2009-05-18T10:41:00.001-07:00

Watching children play in a fountain at work makes me long for the lazy summer dayz of youth. Watching they're faces as they laugh so captivated by the world

"Mr. Right?"

2009-05-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Things with Simon become more and more a struggle. Relationships are supposed to get easier with time but ours seems to get harder. I can’t help but feel like we’re trying to put a square peg in a round hole. I can’t remember the last time we had fun on a date. Now most dates end with a fight and me crying. I am so exhausted by this relationship. Starting to feel like too much effort is being expended for too little reward. We’re building a castle together but we’re building it out of sand. When I was a little girl I dreamt of meeting the man of my dreams. I didn’t want the Messiah to return until after I was married because I was afraid I wouldn’t find my soul mate in heaven. I believed whole-heartedly in love at first sight, Prince Charming, white knights on horses who were going to carry me away to their castle.
Now I am older and I know that the reality isn’t as poetic. My Prince Charmings are usually toads. But the dream is still there; ever out of reach. Every now and then I get a glimpse of what it is supposed to be like, but then as in a blink of an eye it’s snatched away. Shaun and I totally connected on an emotional level but he couldn’t function as a member of society, so he was never going to carry me away to a castle, I was going to be building it by myself and dragging him along.

Simon has plenty of ambition but no emotional connection. Is there both? Will I find it? Am I wasting my time with a “Mr. Good Enough” and unfairly trying to shape him into “Mr. Right”? Should I be taking the energy I am investing in another individual and investing it in myself?

Significator- The Fool- Entrance

This card is me. I look to heaven for guidance. I carry only what I need with me. I’ve come literally out of the mountains (just as the individual on the card is). The mountains symbolize the structure of the Divine Order. I understand the Higher Laws of Heaven in ways no one else can because of the experiences of my life. I require little in the way of earthly goods as I am creative enough to manage without them. I’m clouded in inner wisdom beyond my years. I’m protected by the Divine. I am faithful to the Spiritual path and have control over the animal nature of humanity. I carry a white rose- the symbol of the purity of spiritual love. I’ve achieved through experience a certain degree of authority over the path’s I’ve traveled and I have a thorough understanding of the right/correct use of will power. Why am I the fool? Because even with all my wisdom and love, I still decide to leave the heavenly realm and venture forward into the realms of the senses.

What Covers Me- Justice- Reversed- Balance

This card is rich in the symbols of balance. Justice stands between opposites, seeking and administer harmony and right living. These aren’t the Laws of Man. These are of the realm of personal karma, cause and effect, which balances between the Laws of Heaven and the Laws of Humanity. The Spirit bathes me in light coloring my decisions. Justice decrees that we must eliminate all forms of expression in our personal life that impedes a harmonious outcome. It is only then that Heavenly Justice can prevail, bringing right action into the outer circumstances of our lives. Because the card is reversed it indicates prejudice, bias, and the abuse of justice in the current situation. The people involved are being unfairly or excessively punished in the present set of circumstances. Another interpretation is that decisions haven’t been thought all the way through or needs are being ignored or neglected. This results in injustice and requires balance actions to resolve.

What Crosses Me- Knight of Cups- Love

The Knight of Cups is questing for love. This love is very idealistic and spiritual. There is someone in my life who is very well meaning. Although he has a great deal of imagination his is not grounded enough in life’s experiences to make all his ideas practical. Even so, he means no harm. All of his intentions are good. He wants to bring new opportunities into my life. He is very ambitious but just hasn’t achieved his creative potential yet. He is practical minded and willing to take risks. He has courage and responsibility but just can’t focus on his own goals yet.

What Crowns Me- Judgment- Reversed- Beginnings

I’m indulging myself in doubt and self-judgment. My deliberation is causing me to miss the new opportunities that lay in wait. The “Voice of Heaven” has sounded. The decisions made transcend the needs and desires of personality. Accept the results and move forward.

What Grounds Me- Ten of Cups- Revered- Peace and Domestic Happiness

This is a time of unhappiness and disappointment, indicated by the inverted placement of this card. Judgment is clouded by unfulfilled promises.

What Lies Behind Me- The Tower- Reversed- Destruction

The structure of my conscious mind has been struck with a jolt of heavenly energy. What I thought was solid and whole no longer serves my highest good. I received a flash of intuition that tore apart my previous sense of security and unity. Yet this destruction frees me for the possibility of greater wisdom. There is a divinely inspired set of circumstances which on the surface may seem very challenging. The purpose of this struggle is to gain greater awareness and this greater awareness can only come from freeing ourselves from what is familiar. Healing and wholeness will follow. I may not be able to avoid a certain degree of tearing down in the present moment but I have the inner wisdom to recreate my life at a higher level. A door is closed but a new one is opening. Even though I’ve achieved some form of great knowledge or high achievement we must be prepared to sacrifice whatever is required on order to serve greater growth along the way. Things will change and adjustments will be made but circumstances are not as difficult as they might have been.

What Lies Ahead- King of Spears- Reversed- Honor

There is an austere and powerful man in my life that may not be particularly helpful. He may try to use his power and influence for his own welfare and his offer of friendship is likely to be conditional. Although he is not harmful, he is not generous with himself. I may not receive the assistance I would like but that should not stop me from pursing my aims.

Myself- Page of Spears- Helpful Information

I know that the path will be made clear. I will receive communication at the right time so that the important decisions can be made.

My House- King of Shields- Reversed- Influence

I am comfortable with the power, influence, and status I have achieved. I have mastery over my possessions and not the other way around. I am truly a wise person who has learned how to dominate the urge for material accumulation. I need to rely on this inner judgment to make a decision.

My Hopes & Fears- Six of Shields- Prosperity

A charitable attitude towards others should be taken. Prosperity surrounds the issues at hand.

Outcome- The Moon- Psychic Awareness

The light of pure consciousness is being taken over by the emotional nature. The result is the quickening of fear and the stimulation of the animal nature. Don’t let false psychic impressions over take the situation. Spiritual insight is at an elementary stage. I will be led to the Truth but the mountain of accomplishment has yet to be climbed. Some information is lacking and wisdom not present. I need to be sure not to let the desire nature dominate the situation at hand. Emotions run very high, and are given the tendency for exaggeration. Further study, mediation and contemplation are necessary. The entire scope of the situation has not been formulated, nor is there enough vital energy to create something new. There are hidden forces at work in my life. Things aren’t as simple or as clear as they might seem. There is a need for caution when making decisions, especially of an emotional nature. Disillusionment is likely to occur surrounding personal matters and endeavors.

2009-04-21T07:14:00.001-07:00

So I have joined the ranks of BlackBerry users. It's been a week and my Crackberry are very much in love. Now just to hook up with our brethren...

2009-04-21T07:08:00.001-07:00

Test

Transferring Blog here...

2009-02-05T11:36:00.001-08:00

I never seem to have the time for logging into Myspace anymore so it seems to make more sense to transfer my blogging here. People have been wondering whats been going on in my life and I don't have time or engery to contact everyone who is curious. So.... yeah... I'll retro post back to last June and then start over from there. New project! Yay!

"Partnership"

2009-02-03T13:09:00.000-08:00

I did this reading well over a month ago and don’t completely remember the focus of the meditation. I assume it probably was connected to concerns over Simon and I finding a harmonious balance in our relationship. There has been some growing stress over my ability to trust and rely on him that is largely clouded by the misdeeds of his predecessors. How is a true partnership attained?

Significator- Eight of Shields- Purpose

This card tells me that I understand what the problem is and what is required to fix it. I have all these skills at my disposal but I am not utilizing them efficiently.

What Covers Me- The Lovers- Reversed- Union of Opposites

There are challenges in relationships. These conflicts are due to disagreements arising from a lack of personal communication. One or both parties is not thinking clearly and thus creating confusion. The cloud of misunderstanding grows larger. Egocentricity and separation are replacing love and inclusivity.

What Crosses Me- Nine of Spears- Stability

There is strength and clarity behind my actions. Self discipline and an understanding of structure and organization has been rewarded. Things may not turn out 100% in my favor, but something positive is always gained; even if it is merely a new life experience.

What Crowns Me- King of Swords- Mental Strength

This card stands for a very challenging situation and one where I am being forced to compromise myself. I should be careful because the power of the situation is greater than my own.

What Grounds Me- Page of Shields- Reversed-

I think that this could represent previous relationships. Memories of the individuals who have wasted my emotional and financial resources are not easily forgotten. These men of my past were great guys who were talented but only used their talent for personal gain. I should take care not to waste my resources.

What Lies Behind- Eight of Cups- Reversed- Concern

Restlessness and anxiety are present. I’m rejecting what’s being offered due to my inability to believe in the positive nature of the circumstances. This could very well be everything I’ve longed for but I’m afraid because I am uncertain of the outcome.

What Lies Ahead- Six of Spears- Good News

The answer is on the way. The message is one of success and the accomplishment of hopes, dreams, and aspirations.

Myself- Strength- Reversed- Personal Power

This card points to current debilities in my character and the circumstances that are bringing them about. My stubbornness and personal will/want of control are what I am stumbling over. I need to learn to relinquish control and understand that no matter what happens something positive is always gained. These debilities can be sickness, depression, lack of inner cohesion, or a loss of connection to a Higher Self. I’m abusing or not using my personal power, causing further problems for myself. Actions will need to be transformed.

My House- Eight of Spears- Reversed- Activiation

Circumstances are forcing me to act although it’s against my natural instincts. Impulsiveness may lead to unpleasant circumstances. Too much energy is being utilized for too little reward. I need to watch my energy levels to be sure that vitality and creative impulses are not being wasted.

My Hopes & Fears- Six of Swords- A Journey

The next step has to be taken. The destination is uncertain but nonetheless the journey must continue. Don’t dwell on the past. Keep moving forward no matter the outcome.

Outcome- Page of Spears- Reversed- Helpful Information

This individual may be charming and intelligent but his energy is scattered. Promises made may not be reliable.

"A Magical Home Together..."

2009-01-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

The meditation for this reading is based on recent discussions between Simon and I on whether we should move to Hillsboro or not. With unemployment so high and my credit so bad I worry about finding a desirable place and the financial means to secure one. I don’t want Simon to have to commute all the way to West Linn. We’ve talked about moving to be closer to Jen and Alex, and we’ve talked about staying in the complex we’re in until Simon has another job. We’ll probably move into a larger place where we are but I want to be sure that is the best course of action. Will the alignment of the star chart promote good things? Will the energy of the place be appropriate? Will it be a happy and magical home for us? Or are we better to look elsewhere?

Significator- Two of Spears- Obstacles

Anxiety is present in my life and I fear losing control over what I have gained. I’m not sure what the best course of action is. A time has come to stop and assess the situation with as much clarity as possible.

What Covers Me- Seven of Swords- Reversed- Possibilities

Different things are going on that may stifle success. It may not be feasible to change too much right now. It’s best to stay within my means or happiness may be hindered.

What Crosses Me- Ace of Cups- Celebration

I am celebrating a culmination of love. Things are going well for Simon and I right now, but I know if we stay put here in the current apartment he will be unhappy.

What Crowns Me- Seven of Shields- Reversed- Profit

Caution is advised in all financial matters. I know Simon’s income isn’t going to change and that I haven’t even received a paycheck yet. As well, I am probation for this new job until June. The economy is doing poorly and it’s probably best not to stretch out budgets too thin.

What Grounds Me- The Fool- Entrance

I require little in the way of earthly goods. Within me I have all the promise of creativity. I have nothing and I have everything. However, I am on a spiritual path. It is necessary for me to move forward into the unknown to bring the gifts of the Spirit to others. I must be ready to undergo further tests and trials along the way.

What Lies Behind- The Chariot- Use of Inner Will

This represents the struggle for duality; achieving balance, being strong and ready to receive the weight of added experiences. It is through the wisdom we obtain in our efforts to harmonize opposites that we create the right set of personal values for ourselves; through the right blending and use of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual forces we create a proper foundation for personal growth. This was the basis of my senior thesis and an affirmation that anything I set out to do I will accomplish. My intentions are pure and I have a disciplined focus. Purely personal goals are being sacrificed and/or transformed for the greater goals of the Spirit.

What Lies Ahead- Knight of Cups- Offer of Love

The Knight of Cups s very ambitious, but hasn’t reached his full creative potential yet. He is very practical minded and willing to take risks. He has a great deal of hopeful imagination but it’s not grounded enough in life experiences to make all the ideas practical. However his offer of love is sincere and he wants to bring new opportunities to my life. His creative potential will come to full bloom if I am patient and loving.

Myself- Eight of Cups- Reversed- Concern

I’m restless and anxious over the decision to move in together; to essentially combine our possessions, responsibilities, and lives. I’m inadvertently rejecting what Simon and a life with him offers. A life together is what I have longed for but attempts to pursue this dream have failed so dismally in the past that I am nervous about beginning this venture.

My House- The Hermit- Inner Reflection

I need to be honest with myself and pursue deep study and meditation. I’m lying to myself. I need to listen to my heart and the Spirit. I already know what the answer is. I’m just afraid that something will go wrong. I can’t move forward in my journey if I am standing still- too afraid to take the risk.

My Hopes & Fears- Eight of Shields- Purpose

I understand what is required to achieve what I am seeking. I have the skills to achieve them and the knowledge that permits success to occur.

Outcome- Ace of Spears- Beginnings

It’s time to begin a new phase of life; one that is filled with positive growth-producing activity. It’s time to act with self-confidence and create a foundation for future success.

Kyla's Birthday

2008-08-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

We gathered the Willamette ensemble to celebrate Kya-bug’s birthday. Two of us were broken, Brian having rolled a motorcycle earlier in the summer and I having sustained a neck injury at Autumn War. Acupuncture and physical therapy were doing there work in the mean time I had a delightful little cocktail of prescriptions to keep me going through the night.

It was so hot and someone had the brilliant idea of getting an ice cream cake. It was tasty and pretty but definetely much with melty as the eve progressed.

Jamie was excited to eat cake.

A rousing game of whose the werewolf- Brian’s foot happily sitting on a chair. We were a team because between the two of us we figured our drug-laden brains could manage to be 1 coherent person.

Is Stephen the werewolf? or the witch?

SOOOO hot… there were all sort of means of cooling down.

Autumn War

2008-08-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

I was invited by some good friends to accompany them to Autumn War. This would end up being the beginning of a love affair with the SCA and a massive sewing project. I embarked on putting together my own costume, ordering a new corset, and prepping for this rustic camping affair that I was much looking forward to. We got there. Night fell. We set up camp and lounged about the fire. Becky and I had some great girl time chat. Something I had really been needing.

Morning rousted Becky's two chitlins. Food was required. How can you resist those eyes? Becky fired up the grill. Cooking in a corset. So much fun. :) Everything is better in a corset.

It was a really tepid morning and the fog rising over the mountains seemed like something out of all those cheesy medieval films I love.

The "biffies" filled up rather early for the weekend so we had a disruption from modern technology. It was much welcomed however. I learned valuable lessons about functioning in a corset this weekend. One actually can hold up the edges of one's skirt so as not to scrap the nasty floor of the biff, while holding a child over the biff to pee, all in a corset. Mighty! When child asks you to assist with cleanup however- yeah... ran out of hands.


Myself looking wenchy	Our benevolent hosts	Becky and Alexa

Later that night came the fire dancing. WOOT!

Llamas

2008-07-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

This is the first year I have had people to do group holidays with. I got really into it and even decided to cook Challah bread to celebrate the Harvest season. I thought I would be creative and shape it into the shape of a pentagram given the religious significance to me and the group with which we were celebrating. Admittedly now I realize I don’t know the first thing about braid Challah bread. It ended up looking less like a star and more like a deformed butterfly. I covered it in poppy seed goodness and gave it a blessing. The hope was that it would bring joy and happiness to our households. Particularly Jen and Alex as their wedding was fast approaching. I also picked up some Yarrow incense which was special for celebrating love and marriage in particular.

My Harvest Loaf

Jen put together this really beautiful alter with cut apples from the tree in the back yard. She said a blessing and we returned the offering to the earth from which it came. It was a really lovely ceremony and I hope that we get to do more of these sort of things together.

Jen’s Llamas Altar and Offering

Crystal's Birthday

2008-07-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Our first order of business was to venture out forth to Club 21. I felt that this "club" looked very much like a Hobbit home or some other such whimsical location. The exterior was very decieving as inside you are greated with video poker and David Bowie (or some such nonsense) instead of carousing ruffians and the smell of mead.

Despite the some what tainted backdrop we were however not devoid of a standard cast of characters complete with special appareance of Buddha himself.

The Hierophant	The Damsel	The Rogue	The Witch
The Scholar	The Bard	The Knight	Buddha The Divine

After our own carousing and a through debate over the semantics of hetero and homosexual intercourse we decided that our rag-tag fellowship must quest forth for nourishment. We wandered down the streets of Portland until coming upon the golden grail of satisfied drunken cravings, Voodoo Donuts. I have always found this place a unique establishment, finding everything on the menu from a chocolate dildo...

...to Captain Crunch.

The style and presentation of this establishment is reminiscent of the Famous Cunningham Muffins of Cunningham and Cunningham. However I have yet to see a blood or glass donut at the Voodoo venue.

With full bellies we trekked further down the Sandy/Burnside boulevard until we reached the Burnside Rocket.

There were some misgivings about its worthiness of our patronage...

...but with some convincing we made it inside. The debauchery that followed was to be expected...

Summer in full swing...

2008-07-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

So I really wasn't kidding when I said I was going to try to stay busy this summer. Once July hit my social life hit high gear. My sister and I hosted a low-key 4th of July party and once again had enough beer for 40 but 6 people showed up. We had a good group of people, but the common complaint was that it was a sausage fest. Aura and I can't help it that we have so many male friends and unfortunately aren't making many new single female friends. Why?, you ask. Well, the long and short of it is that women are crazy and Aura and I like to keep our lives as drama free as possible. I will never understand the female need to create drama just to entertain oneself.

The best part was that my brother Evan came up from Salem and stayed over. We decided to do that tourist gambit a bit while he was here and took in Powell's Books downtown. Afterwards we grabbed a beer at McMennamin's Annex and shot some pool. A well rounded day and nice way to spend Simon and mine's anniversary weekend.

The next day we caught coffee with Simon's sister Sarah and decided to catch a late afternoon showing of Wall-E with Sarah's in-laws. The movie was really cute and I was psyched to hear tunes from Hello Dolly in the flick. Its very unusual to hear music from classic broadway plays (especially ones you know all the words to and can sing along and then have stuck in your head for weeks and weeks aftward) in modern films, let alone cartoons. I also thought the film had a valuable message about where American lifestyles are taking our culture. I fear our future may not be as different as it was for the characters in that film and I partially blame Wal-mart.

To celebrate our anniversary Simon and I attended the Blues Festival. Its a tradition for us to try to go every year. Its where we first met face to face and holds fond memories for both of us. We danced a little to the blues music- wandered around and shared a cheeseburger.

Aura came over later that week and we rented the film Untraceable. I had wanted to see it because the parking lot outside of Central precinct have been flooded with movie trailers and personnel during the filming and one of the officers I knew out at FSD was even in the film! It was interesting to see all the familiar Portland locations in the film, however I think they painted an unrealistic image of how our road system works. I swear in the scene where she is stuck in traffic she crossed the river three times at least (note- the Broadway bridge, the Markham Bridge, and the Hawthorne Bridge). Why???? Anyway, the flick is kind of gruesome so its not for the faint of heart but the good guy wins so that should make it better right? Also felt it had a valuable message about how internet crime and media sensationalism is out of control.

Last but not least Simon and I took in Country Faire. It struck me as the type of place I would have either really gotten into a few years back in my less responsible days or could really get into once I retire from public sector. Certainly well worth the experience and aside from the pungent and familiar odors and the odd people- the art was fantastic and it really does breed creativity.

Midsummer

2008-06-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

Toward the middle of June the Midsummer celebration has always been one of my favorites. My sister and I decided to celebrate in style by evening out our already dark Jamaican tans at the local nude beach. Sauvie Island is an interesting little pearl in the Portland Metro area. A wide range of folks head there for everything from fishing to corn mazes to nude sunbathing. That day however I swear the only individuals on the beach were old men that had nothing better to do than walk back and forth along the beach just south of where my sister and I were laying. *CRINGE* You remember the scene in Sex and the City where Samantha sees the old man behind? Imagine the front of him- on second thought don't, too late? Sorry about that. Want to feel better? I know what the front looks like and I don't have to imagine. I thought that would make you feel better.

I had a small housewarming/Litha celebration. A few people over. I believe strongly in the ancient tradition of housewarming. I think its necessary to fill your house with myrth and positive energy after standing vacant. We aren't raising roofs or anything but its the idea that counts. The house isn't officially yours until you have one.

This same week I celebrated yet another four months CANCER FREE!. Hurray! Soon I can go back to seeing the doctor once a year instead of every four months. ICK. My parents came to help me get the remainder of my crap lingering at Tom's place and move it into storage. I mis-estimated how much space I would need and so my storage unit looks like a leaning tower of Pisa with scaffolding around it. Hey its their fault for putting in 10 ft ceilings. Hopefully in the next year I won't need anything on the bottom.

And best of all- with June came summer BBQs and Jen & Alex have a Tragger! Spent many an afternoon at their place enjoying the good life!

Getting Settled

2008-06-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

My first week in my new place Brianna ventured from Boston to surprise her sister by attenting her graduation. I'd been in the place for only a few days but was getting pretty well settled. Surprise visit also included a visit from Bria's dad Glen who I hadn't seen since sophmore year at Willamette. Our time was spent purusing Borders Books, going on nature walks, lounging (and reading) by the pool, and just catching up.

During the same week I had an auditon with Jon Russel Powers. Hoping to take my modeling to a more professional level, I sat and waited for 3 hours only to find that they of course wanted a very large fee and that they would probably have a hard time casting me as I was "too old". Could have been worse. Could have been "too fat" but still it was a waste of two hours.

The novelty of Portland having its own personal Ikea had struck all of us pretty hard. So, given the new living arrangements and no place to comfortably put my house guest, the Pride Collective ventured to the new Mecca of household goods. I was able to find some fairly exsquiste pieces to decorate up my mantle and some cheap basics like a shower curtaina and mat. However the real win was a futon under 200 dollars. Unfortunately, we didn't really figure on it being most of the way assembled in its packing so we had to improvize on getting into Jamie's SUV. This left me up close and personal with my new beloved furnishing.

The weekend brought Brittnay's graduation party which had a lovely garden theme with all of her art displayed. I made off with some fantastic pieces done by both Britt and her mom Terry. New pretties to dress up the living room.

Zee Artist!

Zee treats! (Why does art always make me want to talk with a french accent?)

Father's day followed the celebration and I spent the mid-morning kayaking down the Willamette just out of Oregon City with Simon and his folks. The river was beautiful and I had never been kayaking. Being on the river made me wonder what it must have looked like to Oregon settlers before all the houses lined it. I was very much amused by the signs posted everywhere warning you of how fatal the going over Willamette Falls was and how you should not under any circumstances attempt to go over the falls. No really you really really shouldn't ever attempt to go over the falls. In case you didn't understand that you really should never attempt to go over the falls. Catch my drift? *bad pun*

Before Bria left bound for the East coast (that means she was headed there not that we tied her up first). Her family and I went out for a little dinner treat at Sweet Tomatoes accompanied by Aunt Sherri. Everyone had trekked over to see my new apartment and decided that dinner was in order. Dinner discussions included Scio's love of violating sheep and the upcoming arrival of a new family edition, "Hayden Ninja". Apparently the christening of Aunt Sherri's grandbaby wasn't taking into account a life of torment for the poor child. Further developments on the expected child as they arrive.

Moving and Vehicles

2008-06-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

Moving isn't something that ever goes well for any one and in the beautimus state of Oregon you can always count on one thing. Rain.

An rain it did... however... it was not the weather that brought this glazy look to my eyes...

The glaze comes from turning this into...

...this.

And yet some how you always end up with those unaccounted for, assorted, plethora of junk left over that ends up requiring...

... this.

Did I mention I hate moving???

Salem Night Out!

2008-06-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Moving is always fairly costly and with mine on the horizon I spent a lot of weekends at the office of UBC plugging away at their books so I can afford a rock-and-roll lifestyle. I know you are thinking, what "rock-and-roll" lifestyle? But little did you know there is more to me than my left brain drollery- did you know I hate computers?

Often when I am down in the area I take in the nostalgia of Salem. My friend Jamie's words from college echo back to me. She'd always say it was a great place to raise your "kildren". Yeah, if you want your kildren to be a bunch of meth addicts and rednecks. I will find it endlessly amusing that someone at some point decided to put a prestigious law school smack dab in the center of this cespool. Just be warned that when leaving the safety bubble of the campuses of my alma mater never travel without Jamie's patent-pending townie knife.

Its weird being in that town and being of legal drinking age. My friend Sarah had a girls night planned for one of the weekends I was down in the area and we went out on the town. Well, as much as that was possible in Salem.

We prefunked at her place and headed to our usual starting place, Duffy's Hangar. Sadly, I like Duffy's redneck atmosphere. Its like the type of smokey joint you see in movies (no not that kind of joint) with pool tables, bad karoke, and everything is lit up by the lights of video poker. Bad country music plays and sadly there are a few flannel clad individuals who feel that it is their god-given right to wiggle in some seedy fashion and call it "dancing".

We were met there by my darling, Lorenzo and our newly assemble menage a trois made plans for the rest of the evening.

We moved on from Duffy's and headed to Copper John's. Discovering that they were at capacity we paused briefly for a little road sign pole dancing as per my usual when drunken meandering takes me to the streets. The danger here is for some reason people find it necessary to park close to the most perfect street signs, making dancing more like a gauntlet of avoiding a hefty insurance claim.

Bored with that activity and my hands aching from the surface of the pole, we headed to the Southside Speakeasy. A favorite of Lorenzo's and one of the nicer gay/lesbian venues I have been to. Dancing was in order before turning in for the evening.

Jamie's Birthday

2008-06-06T14:30:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of June, my Willamette troupe and I celebrate Jamie's birth. This year we celebrated at our bi-weekly game night with an ice cream cake, a rousing game of Balderdash, and the usual generous dosing of wine. Balderdash with Jamie is like Star Wars Trivial Pursuit with me. The woman is a walking dictionary, I envy her possesion of the English language. Of course if I had spent more time reading something other than Star Wars...

Simon's Birthday Party

2008-06-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

So busy-ness is actually starting to catch up with me and slow the blogging. *GASP* Real life interferes with my internet socialization?! WTF?! When did that happen? I'm a hermitty geek! There will be none of this real life... I refuse.

So weekend in review... as this week I have fallen a little behind. Simon's birthday party was on Friday. The theme was "Tied Together". This meant everyone wore a tie and not that we were having a bondage party as some individuals assumed on intial glance.

The perfect themed party is not complete without the perfect themed outfit.I went with the somewhat aggressive twenties mobster look with some goth/punk embellishments.

I was the desinated driver, a new experience for me, and while not unpleasant- perhaps preferrebly repeated only on rare occasions. While I had a good time and everyone had fun, I need to remember in the future how drunken strangers irk me so. I call to mind the image of Barry in BeerFest who stared into the mirror thinking he looked like a disco stud but was acutally a tomatoe covered dud who through his beer goggle glassed eyes ends up with Queen Latifah and not Carmen Electra.

We arrived just in time to hear/see the Rose Festival fireworks as we made our way in the club. I had various discussions with several people as to the nature and appropriateness of various club fashions. Outfits I wouldn't let myself out the door wearing much less anyone else. Eventually, people are just going to wear the black bars of censorship and nothing else.

We had a nice group of people.Thank you to everyone who came. We had a blast! Same time next year?

High in the Sky

2008-06-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

Friday, the guys at work and I took a stroll on the waterfront, leisurely taking in the Rose Festival sights on our lunch break. Rose Festival provides new lunch food opportunities. On our way out of the Justice Center (makes me sound like a superhero)we bumped into Fiscal division who was headed to ride the Big Slingshot on the waterfront. They said they had worked a deal to ride for 15 dollars a person.

We tagged along to watch them all scream their brains out, none of us really feeling brave enough to board it ourselves. After the first several pairs Tom and I got talked into it. Totally worth it and I say if you get the opportunity you should try it. Surreal. Some photos from Dave's cell...

AND VIDEO of my flight!

If the video doesn't work you can go to Photobucket to view it.

Rose Festival

2008-05-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

It seems that once summer roles around I feel more inclined to blog. I assume its because of the increase in activities that make me feel like less of a bum and more like my life is actually interesting, therefore people might read about it. *sigh* See look! My life is exciting! I do things! I enjoy being outside my house and not tied to my computer or television!

So this week marks the beginning of Rose Festival. One of my favorite times in Portland. I love it when there is a lot going on in the city and plenty of things to do. That and the carny in me is thrilled at seeing the waterfront bustling with activity. It's not quite the big top but its good enough.

It seems that even though I know when its coming (being a City employee) I always end up missing the festivities. For years this has been very frustrating. It never fails that I'll do something like plan a bachlorette party, get downtown with all the girls, and then thwack my head against the bar as it dawns on me why the place is crawling with sailors.

However this year was going to be different. This was my second year assisting with the PPB computer install at the Rose Fest and I was able to snag VIP wristbands. They allow you to ride all the rides for free as many times as you want, but most importantly gives me a physical reminder that I need to take in the sights.

Rose Festival is always marked with the arrival of the replica ships, often dubbed pirate ships. Every year for the last four that I have been living in the Portland area I had missed the opportunity to view them. Seems like they were always the first to arrive and also the first to leave. I snapped some quick photos of them on the way in, just in case I blinked and they were gone.

Last year's Rose Festival had a theme, and all the while last night I kept trying to figure out what the theme was this year. I still am coming up with zeros (and ones) but they did have this awesome dinosaur exhibit there this year (I assume courtesy of Omsi and the special events they have been having this year). Simon and I both being a dino enthusiasts checked out that exhibit first.

On entrance I signed up to be a volunteer at next year's Scream at the Beach. Thought it might be a fun experience and something that would keep me busy as winter months approach and I get sluggish.
I tried to get Simon to dig in the archeology dig pit and find me a dinosaur bone but he was having none of it. The selection inside the tent seemed limited to North American inhabitants. Some familiar...

Some not so familiar and a bit more threatening...

I did find the fellow with the "Perma" dunce cap rather amusing,avoided certain demise at the razor sharp teeth of an attacking oversized lizard,and managed to get Simon to pose for at least one photo... how very sneaky of me...

As we made our way out of the tent both of us lingered just long enough to face our personal phobias. The adjacent tent was filled with an assortment of snakes and spiders. I mused over the tarantulas and reminded him that I had planned to own one at one point, naming it "Betsy".Mostly this was just to torment him. However he got back at me by laughing as I rushed out of the tent at the sight of a giant python raising itself up to reach a tree branch in its terrarium.

After leaving the jurassic land behind we wandered past a heraldry stand. Both of us got to view our family crests and hear a little about our kin. The crest he showed me was different than the one I was familiar with.

What I was familiar with...

What he showed me...

My family's surname apparently comes out of Somerset nobility and interestingly enough more British than his family name being that the Bellamy's are out of Normandy. Apparently we invaded Ireland and arrived in America before the colonies (which makes sense since most of my immediate ancestry is Native American).

We rode a bunch of the rides. Nothing that spins in circles as those tend to make me ill. Hit all the haunted houses and were sadly disappointed by the lack of fright they inspired. I could do better. Simon convinced me to go on the Octopus (mostly based on it's black widow emblem) and I got him to go on the Kamikaze. Afterward we closed the evening with some cuddling on the Ferris wheel.

Ferris wheels have always been massively romantic for me. Part of its the view, the country girl in me who looks forward to state and county fairs every year, and the other part is connected to thousands of old films I've seen where the couples have romantic moments on the Ferris wheel. Movies like State Fair, Charlotte's Web, etc.

The view was very nice. Portland is so beautiful this time of year.

On the way out we noticed that the ships were open for viewing and decided to try our sea legs out. I love masted ships and some day wish to have one of my very own and live out the later years of my life as a swashbuckler.

I think I have that Sea Dog look...

Can't you see us being the terror of the Pacific?

Simon's Birthday

2008-05-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Simon's birthday. While he was distracted at the gym I gathered the necessary supplies for a birthday surprise, including a bottle of "award-winning" champagne, a rose, and a strawberry tuxedo Tiramisu.

Sneakily, I set up a romantic setting for two on his back porch and closed the door so he would be none the wiser. Dinner went well, we had chicken fajitas... sorry no pictures.

However without further ado... the Birthday boy!

The action shots....

Victory! I told him to look victorious over his cake...

Afterwards I had some photography fun...

GTO Tiger Run, Deathcab, and a weekend away from it all

2008-05-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

So this Memorial day weekend I hooked up with Gunslinger and her guy to head to the GTO Tiger Run in Redmond and catch the Deathcab for Cutie concert in Bend. It was nice to just get out of town and do something different. We got there Friday around seven or so and Gunslinger started making her steak kabobs.

We rented this cute little condo. It was great but we think that it was either inhabited at one point by a family of elephants and rhinoceri or something was seriously wrong with the beds. All of them seem to have this hammock affect.

Simon and I ended up in a room with two twins instead of a queen. We thought it had this very 1950s appeal to it. All proper retro couples sleep in seperate beds. Needless to say it was exciting to share the twins and we tried out each of them over the two nights we were there to see if there was any difference in that hammock sensation. There wasn't.

Saturday morning, Simon and I got up and went took in all the shiny pretties at the GTO show. I've always been really passionate about cars and part of our goals are to indulge each others passions and learn about our different and similar interests.

Simon showed me a few of his favorites. I showed him a few of mine. I'm trying to convince him that classic car restoration is a feminine hobby :P

I was really excited to see a "Shelia" there. The firebird that I had sunk so much into at one point in time. She is no more but this is what she would have been had she ever been finished.

We spent some time just relaxing and I really felt like that was the best part. We've both been so busy lately it was just nice to take a moment to breathe and have some really good conversation

Saturday evening we took in the Deathcab for Cutie concert. The show included Mates of State and the Decemberists. It was a pretty happening show, but the tickets stated rain or shine and those Oregon clouds were making a good attempt at trying to rain out the concert. We made our way to the safety of the beer garden to avoid the atrocity of teeney bopper hell that I experienced at last year's Deathcab concert.

Simon and I ended up huddled on the ground on an plastic ice bag with our $23 dollar bottle of yellow tail, an umbrella, and a blanket wrapped around us both. We met this interesting couple from the 'Couv who were intent on discussing City of Portland politics and the recent election results. They had about the same to say about the new Mayor as I did, "It's a good beer at least".

Eventually some semblance of sunshine came out about the time that Deathcab came out to play. Beautifully timed. All in all a memorable and fun weekend.

Aren't memories what memorial day is all about?