TO BE OR NOT TO BE

Once a person becomes depressed, do they ever really recover from it?

Gratitude statement: I'm thankful for the time to search for that answer.

SOMEONE OUT HERE LOVES ME!

Oh no! This can’t be! Who would do such a thing and not want sexual favors in return? OOOPS…maybe I spoke too soon! Please read on and experience the mental orgasm I had from discovering/rediscovering how friendship via the ole blogosphere transcends time and distance. I highly recommend you add the links below to your list of "must reads".

There’s No Place Like Home?

"It’s my mother blog. It’s my sister blog. It’s my mother and my sister blog."

Okay, so I paraphrased a quote from Chinatown. Sue Me. I used it as an example of just how screwed up and fickle I am. After reaching the bottom of a very empty blogspot barrel and realizing I had nothing left to scrape, I did what I thought was necessary. I closed down and came back to my mother blog, hoping for some kind of renewal…a kind of blog barrel refilling, so to speak.

Unfortunately, mother/home/blog no longer offered sweet repose on her ample bosom. The old gal had undergone plastic surgery, an extreme makeover, a rethinking of old values and decided sitting around waiting for an errant son was not her cup of Earl Grey. Stupid bitch was out partying.

Not to mention, most of the kids I went to blog school with were no longer here. What I hoped would be a stay filled with the aroma of fresh baked bread and pies while visiting with good friends on the stoop, turned out to be disappointing. A post-it note on the fridge telling me to "throw a lean cuisine in the microwave if I got hungry" didn’t quite have the warmth I was hoping for.

So, I did what most ungrateful brats do in today’s world. I left my blog a mess, hopped a boxcar, and hoped ma blog would clean up the place and put a candle in the window…for the time when I would grace the ol’ gal with another visit when I was down and out…or in need of money.

I returned to the newer place I had shuttered a few months earlier, reopened and decided Thomas Woolfe was correct. Bye, Bye Blog American Pie.

Anyway, one of the reasons I had returned to Ma Blog in the first place was to reunite with my first blog love/kindred spirit, Red Kitten. She was the first person I met in blogland and I always felt a certain camaraderie that was warm and fuzzy from the get-go. She left the Spaces ship last year, and though I missed her and checked for her return often, I never did more than that. (I never claimed to be a good son or a good friend.) I always have good intentions, but…well, enough of my deficiencies.

Point is, RK was gone and ol’ ma blog was out doing her Thouroughly Modern Millie thing. What reason did I have to stay? Spaces still moved like compacted shit through a diseased colon and…

Well, bust my buttons, Dorothy, Red Kitten has returned from the land of OZ. Of course, I’m somewhere else on the Yellow Brick Road, hawking home-made poppyseed bread and pastries, but it sure is nice to see her safe and sound in her own backyard. Now, if she would just ditch the blue gingham and pigtails.

If, for some reason, someone stumbles upon this roadside stand, do yourself a favor (after buying a poppyseed brownie and an apple smoothie from yours truly) and head on over to Abnormally Normal People. Find out what truth in bloggertising is all about.

Me? I’m At The Altar of My Ego if you’re interested. I’ll be the one sticking straw down my tin jockstrap in an effort to ease the pain of, you know, wearing a tin jockstrap (tin doesn’t breathe, damnit).

COMMENTS 

Wayward
MAY 9, 2009 AT 6:03 AM EDIT
Karen,Nice post, but is it really love….Happy Mother’s Day! 

Peace, Love, Hippie Stuff,Wayward Bill

Stephen Craig
MAY 10, 2009 AT 7:41 AM EDIT
Dear Karen, Wishing you a very Happy Mother’s Day and As ever be well


Jock
MAY 10, 2009 AT 1:35 PM EDIT
Karen: You do me honor, and it’s not really necessary…although, a mental orgasm does sound intriguing. It’s true, of course, that an internet friendship does not replace the day to day, face to face, but in these times, when so many of us turn to the internet for some kind of connection, I’ll take whatever I can get. Now, about those sexual favors….Wayward Bill: Love is a many nuanced and multi-definitioned word. I can’t love Karen in the physical sense, but I can love what she stands for, what she’s been through in life, and what she brings to the table in a relationship. Does the fact that I will probably never meet her negate the "L" word. Hardly. She’s also smart enough to know that. But to makes things clearer for you, let me simply say…I love her for who she is. By the way, Karen: Hope your Mother’s day is filled with all kinds of love.

EbonyWyvernDragon
MAY 10, 2009 AT 2:17 PM EDIT
Happy Mommy’s Day, my friend! Dragon

I'VE FALLEN AND I CAN'T GET UP

Lately, it feels as though my life is some sad cry in your beer County & Western song.  The only thing missing is some two-timing womanizing jerk...thank God for small miracles! It's hard to motivate myself to even begin to write about my days MIA.  I do appreciate all the messages and emails I've received while I've been in this dark cave eating Oreos by myself (just a silly metaphor). Most of you, seem like gentle, patient people who understand how life can really throw zingers a person's way.  

Those of you who nudge me gently...thank you and those who have been demanding and rude...get a life! For Christ sake, life does not revolve around blogging or the internet.  Yes, writing is an excellent outlet and blogging is a great way to get to know people who you might otherwise never get to know...BUT sometimes sharing is just too painful especially when the wound is fresh.  Sometimes the words just aren't there. So how do you capture a tear? Or share a broken heart? How do you convey that being alone is what you need even though everyone says being alone is the worst thing in the world? No, the worst thing in the world is having to watch someone you dearly love slowly waste away and die. The worst thing in the world is not being able to help... And in the end the worst thing in the world is not really knowing if who you loved so dearly knew how deeply you felt or how much that they will be missed after they die. 

 

My father died a week ago. The pain is fresh and I'll be back when I can focus on topics other than my own sadness.

Comments:

Stephen
JUNE 25, 2008 AT 8:15 AM
Oh I know where you’re coming from on SO MANY levels. I wish and hope that the rut you are currently in fades and goes away. It’s not easy to just "get over it" as so many people might think. Life happens and there isn’t a damn thing we can do about it other than duck quickly when something gets hurled at you, if you know what I mean. 🙂

We’ll all still be here when you come back – take your time and be good to yourself. 🙂


Nina
JUNE 25, 2008 AT 9:15 AM
Thinking of you! Take good care of yourself and don’t rush through what you’re feeling…just because you or others think that you should feel differently…faster. Be patient! Life sometimes throws shit our way. "This too shall pass", as they say, but for now…just be with it and mourn your loss(es)! Many hugs, Nina


Cat
JUNE 25, 2008 AT 1:20 PM 
Loss like that one never really ’gets over’ or has’closure’ – be kind to yourself – hugs and soothing cups of tea to help you heal as best you can – and take all the time you need – and I found that I could write a bit about the pain of my recent losses and fear of loss even if it was only a sentence or two – and there were those who understood and that helped – was awhile before I could even strat catching up on other’s spaces but I’m working on it…


Laoch
JUNE 25, 2008 AT 1:39 PM
good wishes to you



Sleepdeprived
JUNE 25, 2008 AT 3:25 PM 
Take the time you need to take care of yourself. Loss is difficult and the stages of slowly watching someone you love move on is heart-breaking, at best, soul-shredding at worst. Be kind to yourself and try not to second-guess what you’re feeling or whether they know how you felt. Chances are really good that they did and the best way to show them is to have their love, laughter, and joy live on through you! All my best to you! R


Scottishpeace
JUNE 28, 2008 AT 12:47 AM
How sad you "sound"….Please know that you have a shoulder available to "cry on" privately if needed, and I’ll feed you all the Oreos you want (within health safety guidelines, of course.) Take care of yourself. You obviously have a lot of support out here in "cyberspace"….Maybe if I leave a trail of Oreos I can coax you out of your dark cave???? Think about it as an option, not a demand. I’ll be thinking of you.{{{{{{{{Hug}}}}}}}}}


barbara
JUNE 30, 2008 AT 1:10 PM
Don’t neglect yourself. Take the time you need just don’t forget the beauty in the world. Even if at times like this it seems hollow and without meaning, the beauty isn’t just in what you see. Take good care of you…….. and don’t eat too many Oreo cookies.


Stephen Craig
JULY 6, 2008 AT 7:06 PM 
Dear Karen, I am sure they will know and feel your love. My Father is fading fast but seemed to light up again this past week. Mom said one day he was singing and knew all of the words to the song. Next day he was fully dressed in his wheelchair with a big smile and had his wits about him. Mom wheeled him out into the sun for awhile. Today when I called he was back in that deep sleep. God bless him. From the All we come and into the All we must one day return even though we are ever a part of the All.

Sadness is an experience as singular as pain. No one else knows how one feels. Friends keep friends in thoughts and prayers.

As ever be well,

My Friend,

Stephen Craig Rowe


EbonyWyvernDragon
JULY 7, 2008 AT 5:23 PM
I understand. more than I can say…..our hands are here for you whenever you are ready to take them….. our eyes will read whenever you are ready to share….

((((((((HUG))))))))

Dragon


Linda
JULY 8, 2008 AT 9:54 AM
Take care and know that you are loved – always and forever!

Alone is sometimes the best place to be – especially during rough times. There we can release our frustration and gather the strength to go on.

J W
AUGUST 7, 2008 AT 7:07 AM
We parted on bad terms. It was my failure to notice your struggle with pain that made this so. You are correct. There are simply times when we need to heal, or try to heal, alone. Mistakes were made. I take full blame. Yes, love really does hurt. Being a total jerk is the lot I have to live with concerning you. Hoping you find your peace. I’m working on mine. Sincerely hope you find yours first. Second chances are not always readily at hand. Just want you to be happy. That is a perfect truth.

John


Stephen Craig
AUGUST 23, 2008 AT 11:24 PM
Dear Karen, Work has been busy and all here has been madness mixed with hope, dreams and prayers. The day to day has become, one day at a time. When I rise near the crack of noon my first words are, "Thank God!" As I see the time on my nightstand then fire up the day! Dismissing all that needs be done I then light up my screen and make a pot of coffee. Call my Mother to see how Dad is doing and check email, spaces and blogs. Frame some paintings or make some new art. Then realize it is time to go to work. Enough of this for now. Hope to talk with you soon. As ever be well,

Stephen Craig Rowe


Rick
SEPTEMBER 6, 2008 AT 8:51 PM
Well hope everything is working out for you.But honestly for me this place is ruined. And done so by one person to whom the masses bow down to like sheep in the pasture. Why I can’t even come on here unless I’m piss drunk, and then it’s usually just to stir up some shit with the bad doktor blood whom I consider a Internet predator. No, I’ll never have a blog again, and certainly can see why you have left yours.Too bad really. Because it was enjoyable at one time.Take care…

GOT MILK?

In the UK, they not only know that milk does the body good, but they know great commercials equal big bucks! This is just alittle something I stole from bones777 while visiting his blog. I thought this commercial might bring a smile to your face this beautiful Sunday morning and make you want to give your bones a boost with a quick shot of milk!

I’ll drink to that!

Comments:

JaAG
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 11:42 AM

Too funny. I’ll have to make sure my drummer friends see that. In the beginning I started to wonder if the ape was going to break out dancing. Now, the catch line for my e-mail to my friends. Hmm… anyone can drum? No, that’s only funny to me. ’But can he change tempos? Hey that may work. How about how is he with the brushes and high hat? That’s it!

Red
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 11:56 AM
He might be able to get the gig as back up drummer for Phil Collins. And I'm glad you liked it…I thought it was cute and worth passing on.

Kenneth
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 12:28 PM
Hello RK.
I have had this vid. on my space for months, and I find it strange that some people find it "funny".
Yes it has a humorous side to it, but I think it also carries a message with a deeper meaning than just humour. You yourself RK. use the word "cute", I think that description does not do the vid justice. I think personally that it harbours a subliminal message from the deep primeval instincts of our past, " to make music". This great and beautiful beast of the Forrest\’s beats his chest to let others in the family know that he is the best the strongest the wisest, and it is a small evolutionary step to substitute chest beating, to the beat of the drum. A brilliant vid, me thinks.

Jacki M
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 12:35 PM
It was a good commercial…I got to send it to a drummer I know. thanks for sharing this. smiles all around..LJ

J W
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 1:11 PM
No Karen, not feeling neglected in the least. Just unaware of your daughter’s pending wedding….sure hope you like the guy because I have a feeling he don\t want to mess with you…just a gut feeling of course. Actually, I totally agree with you regarding the condition of content on Spaces now. Truth be known, I could give a rat’s rump about the drama queens and pseudo studs prowling among us. Gezzzzz, one guy has close to 1,000 female friends on his list!! Makes me what to come out of retirement and check him out…but then again, NOPE, not for a man who is willing to self destruct on the logistical battles with that many women. Anyway, there is a time to be serious and a time to be silly. I’ve had to be serious for over three decades in my job so now I’ll have to rewind the silly spring and unleash some nonsense long overdue. Do they have spring break for the over fifty crowd in your neck of the woods? Hummm, think I like that idea. Tell your future in-laws cats have sharp claws! J.W.L.

Jaysey

FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 3:13 PM

I enjoyed that-thanks for sharing.  This is a nice space you’ve got going on here–I know how you feel with "Where have all the bloggers gone?"  I’m trying to make new friends because so many keep disappearing. 

Jaysey
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 5:33 PM
I like new blog friends from all backgrounds–I think it helps make me a better person by helping me see the world through other people’s eyes. It expands my mind. Plus, I like to read…and I like people to comment on my thoughts (as long as they’re not just being mean). So I look forward to a new online friendship, too! Thanks for coming by!

Red
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 8:49 PM
Kenny, I figured it’s been around for awhile. I guess I should come out of my cave more often and do more visiting. I used the word "cute" for lack of a better word. My family are big commercial freaks and rate commercials as we see them. I was so excited about this one that when I told my youngest son about it, I said if the graphics were a little better it would be Superbowl quality. He understood exactly what I meant and also thought it was great. Perhaps you’re right about the subliminal message…really didn’t look at it in any other aspect than for entertainment value.

LJ, I hope your friend likes it. Let me know what he thinks, okay?

JWL, I haven’t written much about the wedding. In fact, I think I’ve only made one reference to it when I posted their wedding invitation awhile ago and talked about his family. Bobby is a wonderful guy and he treats my daughter like the princess she is and as long as she’s happy then everything is wonderful. I’m really glad that working for the government all those years didn’t make you all twisted. You seem to be open-minded and that’s a rare quality to have these days. That guy with the "harem" is obviously a legend in his own mind. Guys like that have never interested me because it’s difficult to get past the ego. In those rare instances when they really do let someone inside, the inside isn’t worth the effort. I'm sure without ever going to his blog, I’m going to guess he’s not a deep thinker …more the glamor and glitz type filled with fluff and frills. Pictures of his new cars and big talk about his pipe dreams for the future. I wonder how he’s going to afford to keep 1000+ high maintenance women.


Jaysey, I agree and look forward to reading more that you have written on your blog. It looks like both of us are going to be around for awhile so we’ll have plenty of time to become friends.


DANNY
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 AT 11:13 PM
That video is funny I like that, that gorrila is cute I wonder if he can play the rolling stones hey can I borrow your new rules I would love to put them on my space

Red
FEBRUARY 25, 2008 AT 12:44 AM
Dan, I don’t mind you borrowing my rules as long as you give credit where credit is due. Those are a some of the basics rules to "karenism."

Stephen
FEBRUARY 25, 2008 AT 10:50 AM
You’re right, It did make my day Red Kitten!!!
BEAT THOSE DRUMS you hairy rocker, good song too!!!

THE ART OF KITTEN-FISHING

Recently, I’ve been innocently challenged to think about my current relationship status. The million-dollar question seemed to be: How could Red Kitten spend Valentine’s Day flowerless or "uncandied"? Was it just a rude oversight on someone’s part or perhaps a harmless stroke of bad luck that the deliveries were never made? Or could the rumor be true? Is Red Kitten really just a cave-dwelling feline who only comes out periodically to hunt, to feed and to occasionally mate?

Over the years (ten to be exact) that I have been single, many people have inquired why I am alone. Often times, the question almost seemed like the person was implying that being alone meant that I must be defective in some way. Yes, I have 10 toes, 1 head and 2 arms! I hold down a full time job and am self-sufficient in every way. Okay, I have to confess it’s hard to get to my age without having some baggage or defects, but I do try to keep my defects to a minimum and small enough to fit in an overnight size bag inside of one of those bulky steamer size captain’s trunks or huge cargo crates.

I must admit I am abnormally normal so that binds me to living a life filled with doing my own thing whatever that thing may be. I am proud to say that there is no one I pine away for or look at as "the one that got away." In fact, the truth is simple and fairly obvious as I examine my past. If any of my potential love interest slipped away empty-handed, they must have done so because they were oblivious to the fact of what a great catch they tossed back into the pond. [LOL] Because my heart is void of any emotional entanglements at this time, that might lead a person to wonder if free spirits ever miss being in love and what type of expectations they have for the future.

First, I would like to say that I learned long ago that being alone is MUCH better than being with the wrong person. I would also like to say that I see no point in dating just for the sake of dating. Quite frankly, it’s been a long time since I’ve met anyone who I’d like to get to know better, but I suppose if I did meet someone who piqued my interest I would allow my curiosity to be more than superficially satisfied. I’m not opposed to emotional entanglements, I simply am not actively seeking one right now. Perhaps, what needs to happen is "it" needs to find me and convince me that life is too short to put things on hold for long periods of time. Afterall, when is the right time for love? It isn’t something that can be planned for or done in an orderly way. Nothing about falling in love is logical…at best, it’s chaotic and quite overwhelmingly intense.

I suppose some people might consider me a picky person because I haven’t met anyone who has tickled my fancy lately or because I do have certain preferences when it comes to which lures actually attract me. When one goes fishing, it’s crucial to use the proper bait if you expect to catch a fish. To attract a Red Kitten fish, a skilled fisherman would use the following things as bait:

1.Wit/Intelligence
2.Creativity/Originality
3.Honesty/Openness


The mystery of my solo status is one that can be easily solved. What really keeps me from throwing myself into the relationship arena? At this time in my life, I am the caregiver to my two elderly parents. My mother suffers from dementia, which has stripped away her desire to participate in the everyday activities of life. She no longer sees the need to do anything, but sit in a chair all day and stare at the floor. My stepfather is a dialysis patient with several other serious health problems. Neither can drive anymore and are completely dependent upon me for most of their basic needs. After working all day, it seems there is little time for anything else and my lovelife is at the bottom of the list. So if being single and not dating means I’m defective in some way then I must confess that yes, I am defective and will continue to stay defective until I feel I have the time and energy to devote myself to another human being besides my family.

Comments:


₪Μy§TẲfiЄĐ₪
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 2:42 AM 
Hello Karen
I’ve only then..just finished sharpening my fishing hooks 
My step dad has dementia and…just reading how you’re looking after
both of your parents…I have total admiration for you
I don’t know how many people would realise how much work that
would be. I know that it would be more than a full time job!
This is a very good entry Karen
I like the way you write and…your honesty
and…the way you come to my space to comment.. ok?
I promise that, I’ll even put my fishing rod away 🙂
I hope you’re having a good weekend
Garry xo


Reeking Havoc's Lair
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 8:02 AM 
Yeah, Worrying about it or rushing around in search mode tends to lock it into place, that’s what I learned from experience.Now that I’m happily married, I can’t make any plans to tickle your fancy, but if you’d post a picture of it I could use my imagination…

J W
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 12:25 PM
You defective!! Hardly. Perhaps one of the more open and grounded persons I’ve had the good pleasure to meet on this Spaces thing. I’d gladly give you a standing ovation if you could see or hear it. All good things come to those who wait….donkey crap! You aren’t waiting for anything. Truth be told, you are doing exactly what most people fear most….you are living one day at a time with responsibilities and quiet comfort in doing what comes natural to you. Frankly, I can’t see you just settling for anything mundane or repetitive. Your parents raised a responsible daughter indeed. A tip of the hat to you lady…..J.W.L.

Stephen
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 1:09 PM
Since you’re a caregiver that puts certain strains on you and your social life and that certainly plays a roll in getting out and doing your thing to mean anyone. I admire you for that you’re putting family first, but that doesn’t help you meet anyone as par for the course. I would try to be open as possible to dating someone and they will come along sooner or later. Obviously you’re loving and understanding so those are two great qualities that you have on your side. Just don’t get someone whom you have to take care of as well as everyone else. I wish you hope in meeting someone to date. You’re human and you have needs that aren’t being met currently, for that to hell what everyone else thinks – you’re you and that’s that.
I hope you have a fantastic weekend!!! 🙂


NATIVE
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 3:21 PM 
You are perfectly fine to me, and I agree with John whole-heartedly. What is a relationship status anyway? Two people conjoined at the hip, making the wanderings more meaningful, or is it substantially more? Daring to hold on to such a rare thing as compatibility and concern. When that very lucky man stands upon your thresh hold and asks for your hand take that leap and be the happiest and most beautiful person we already know you are. You aren’t defective, either. Peace my friend.~DD

EbonyWyvernDragon
FEBRUARY 16, 2008 AT 4:21 PM
Hello Lady – I couldn’t agree with you more – being alone is FAR preferable to being in a bad relationship! I’ll never quite understand why it took me so long to learn that but……… i guess some of us are just slower than others!

I did not realize you had moved to the "caregiver" stage of the relationship with your parents – that is an extremely hard role to fulfill – especially working full time and having parents who need so much care…….. it is draining and exhausting. I completely admire the dedication you have to your family. They raised a wonderful daughter!

Remember, though, that in order to care for them, you need to care for yourself first. There are organizations (like local churches) who can arrange for a responsible adult to come care for your parents while you take a respite.

Please take care!

MotherHenDragon


Hanging Judge
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 1:39 AM
Greetings:
I love catfishing. The fillets when breaded and lightly deep-fried are terrrific.
My Courtroom is filling up with the guilty! 2 new trials are scheduled!!

Bittersweet on-the-hill.
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 10:31 AM
Hello Red Kitten,
This was a wonderfully written piece. Yes, elderly parents are a full time commitment and I’m happy that you have embraced the task. Nothing easy about it but when all is said and done, you will have no regrets. We were lucky with my Dad, and not so lucky with Mom. A tortuous, harrowing end – something she didn’t deserve. But we know life was never meant to be easy. At least that’s the refrain I say to myself. The one consolation…..you are not doing it in sub zero weather. Today continues with bone chilling wind and most of the week, rain, sleet and snow. February…..well I hate it!

The pup, little Sydney is doing well. Within a few days she was back to her precocious self. Our only recourse is an electric fence. So Wednesday hey will fence in 2 or 3 acres so she has the space to run and let all this energy out. I’m sure in time she\’ll slow down but if she has a chance of making it, I better invest in this fence. At the moment she resting in front of the woodstove after being outside the past two hours.

I’m satisfying myself by going through seed and flower catalogues. It’s the only way us northerners can make it through February. You take care lady. Bittersweet

Bittersweet on-the-hill.
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 11:17 AM
Karen,
I just had to come back. I was reading some of your other entries and then came upon your Super Bowl entry! So the Giants had no chance!!!! And Eli would have to wait another year or so before his opportunity for greatness???? Bonebreaking……bonebreaking indeed. Wasn’t the Giants offensive and defensive line just great? Laughing with you. I\’ve been a Giants fan since the years of Y.A. Tittle. I know pain and heartache. Go back and read my entry on the Super Bowl. It was a great game…..unexpected…..and great. Bittersweet


Jacqueline M
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 12:08 PM 
I’m very glad I stumbled across your site this morning during my networking hours. In your honor for having what it takes to be the caretaker to your mother and step father. I heard a long time ago that child parent their parents as they were parented and for sure my mother does not or would not want me in that role. my father has passed and my mother is 84 and "just waiting" as she said on our last phone call. One of maybe two times a year we say four minutes worth of words to each other.

I love your thinking about this subject and though it\’s other things that keep me busy these days I know from past experience that when someone comes along that stirs me I\’d find the time but until then I have enough to fill my life with. great words here. LJ


JaAG
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 12:48 PM 
Sounds like someone could use a good pirate joke. What do you get when you cross a zucchini and a pirate?
A squashbuckler! Argghh!
Keep smiling.


Kenneth
FEBRUARY 17, 2008 AT 3:05 PM 
The third paragraph jumped out at me and hit me square between the eyes, the final chapter hit me in the heart.
I posses only one type of bait that you mention to catch a Red Kitten fish.
However, when I fished for women (years ago) a big fat juicy worm usually done the trick.


Jade
FEBRUARY 19, 2008 AT 10:36 AM 
wow, a dragon told me to visit you..and I can see why. I’ll be back later.

Red
FEBRUARY 20, 2008 AT 2:36 AM
Jade, dragons are wise creatures…always listen to them! Thanks for dropping by and I look forward to your next visit.

Kenny, So which was more powerful..the heart or the mind?

Gandalfe, thanks for the joke!

Lady J talks, Thanks for commenting and I do hope you come stumbling back again soon.

Bittersweet, sigh! I’m glad to hear your "baby" is doing better.

Lood, you stay busier than anyone I know. I think you may need to expand and get another judge!

EbonyDragon, I’m only doing what I feel is right. They always were there for me and now it’s my turn to be there for them.

Double D, all this support is so wonderful. You guys really made me blush.

Stephen, now if I can find someone as wonderful as you then my situation with being a caregiver wouldn’t be something the person would mind at all…they would understand and support me…but in the real world there’s not many that would take on the kind of responsibility.

JWL, you’re making me get a swelled head. You don’t want that to happen…I might post something deep and meaningful then! LOL

Havoc, IF I ever find my fancy I’ll post a picture but I’m sure MSN will slap my hand and we wouldn’t want that to happen.

Garry, what do you have for bait over there? Anything I like?

SPRING CLEANING

As I went through my list of links now titled "The Road Not Taken" I suddenly realized that nothing is constant but change. Many of the old familiar faces are no longer out here in the blogosphere.  Maybe they hit that dreaded writer’s cramp that most of us experience from time to time or maybe life’s demands had caught up with them and blogging fell to the bottom of their list of priorities. While some take brief vacation from Spaces, others pack up and find a new homes elsewhere.  I often wonder what other sites are like compared to MSN Spaces and how these people like their new homes.

As I brought out my feather duster and cleaned up my list of links, it gave me a moment to reflect upon each person before I deleted their link from my list.  I remembered how my list itself has gone through a metamorphosis. Once titled , "The Clique" as a joke, I had some people bash me because of its name.  Those people obviously were not a regular to my blog or else they would have seen the name as my New England sarcasm at play.  I also remembered the list being named "Blogs To Avoid" and having some well-meaning soul going around to each person on my list and tattling on me. That person warned each person of Red Kitten blackballing their blog.  That made me laugh til I cried.  A few people corrected that person by telling him/her that it was an honor to be on my list of blogs to avoid.  The rest simply ignored the person as being just another person out here trying to stir up trouble amongst the masses. Finally, the list has had rather sedate names like, Blogland Safari and now, The Road Not Taken. Like most things around here, it will change as the spirit moves me and hopefully, with each change it will grow in number.

What I would like ultimately on my list are blogs not only of people who participate here and actually leave comments, but also of blogs I have discovered and find worthy of mentioning to others. The ones I have deleted are simply blogs that either don’t exist any longer or have become dormant from having no new entries posted. If I deleted anyone in error, please feel free to publicly humiliate me and tell me I acted much too hastily with the DELETE botton.

My 2008 House Rules:

First, I want to point out that this is my blog and I don’t have the policy of unconditional acceptance. I expect people to treat others with respect and to behave like an adult, not like a bunch of children on the playground!

1.The people I add to my friends list will never be flamers or people like the guy yesterday going from blog to blog leaving spam by inviting people to attend an orgy. He sent me a request to be added to my friends list…like that’s ever going to happen!  I wonder if he was going to buy everyone’s plane tickets.

2. The people I add will be people who actually participate and leave comments here.  This doesn’t mean you have to agree with me on anything I write. I want people to be honest and express their opinions.

3. The people I add will be people who have blogs worth visiting and like me, they enjoy feedback on the things they write. Sending someone a private message is great, but blogs are supposed to be interactive so everyone has the opportunity to throw in their 2 cents worth.

4. If you want to act out your bad boy or naughty girl fantasy, do it somplace where its appreciated. I have a great rule of thumb…if you won’t do it in real life, don’t do it on the internet!

Comments:

Sleepdeprived
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 4:22 PM
I solemnly agree to abide by Red Kitten’s House Rules. 
*cheesy grin*
Had to be me, you know.



R U Serious
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 6:09 PM 
Did you clean me off with that duster of yours?? I just met you!!!! But I agree to your rules… OK?


J W
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 6:11 PM 
I could easily write a short story titled "About Time!!" after finding and reading your latest post. Having run the gauntlet of critics, skeptics, gossip lovers, hate mongers and persons coming at me from all directions with advice about being either too serious or needing to be more humorous, I nearly jumped for joy to finally find someone choosing to march to her drumbeat regardless of how many fingers are pointed at you. Actually, I’ve also found myself laughing literally out loud (the wife thinks I’m going senile when doing this) at some of the things people say and try to interject on this wonderful domain. Having been "gang tackled" by some of the social gossip groups you have so realistically labeled, I’ll admit to just deleting their comments as a form of personal entertainment. Trying to reason with some people about finding common ground is like me telling my wife I expect her to be my slave…..fat chance along with a fat lip and divorce papers would be her responsible choice!! Also like you, I’ve ventured cautiously into other similar domains on this vast Internet, but have found Spaces to be the lesser of all the evils when choosing a home base for moral and meaningful friendships with others that are likely to never cross our life’s path. With just that one post you have earned this man’s respect. Given time, hopefully I’ll earn yours. I’ll leave you with a hearty salute for remaining true to yourself.
J.W.L.


Nina
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 8:32 PM 
Hi! I just happened to come across your Space through another friend…really like the title of your site. Seems to fit me perfectly!
I think we have a lot in common! I enjoyed reading what you had to say here! All well said and stated! Esp. liked your 2008 House Rules! We just can’t please everyone…I had to say goodbye to a "friend" recently (I ended up uninviting myself from her space)…apparently I don’t fit the Christian mold that she belongs too…but I have never been a "cookie cut" anything. Still it made me feel a little sad! I am a liberal like yourself…and what I write may not always fall into everyones taste or sense of humor! Ohh, well!
Feel free to stop by! Warmly, Nina
PS. The Osjui guy…the crazy sales guy…last month he was trying to sell real estate somewhere…now it’s orgy parties somewhere. HA! You made me laugh by writing "I wonder if he was going to buy everyone’s plane tickets." If he comes close to my site…WATCH OUT, Man! I have the "guns loaded"! LOL!


NATIVE
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 9:10 PM
Hello, my friend. It was a wonderful surprise to be asked to be included in your friends list. From what I have read, it has ever been a joy to pop in and read, I’m a slacker about commenting sometimes. But well, with John and Bob stopping in too, I most certainly will be a more active participant. I also hope that list gets much longer…now, I’m off to catch up on some great reading. Peace~Rich

R Michael/artist-poet/activist
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 9:45 PM
Howdy, enjoyed your site. I’m new to site and am a beginning blog-gerrrrrrr, oops. Loved your research on the chicken. And would you please tell people NOT to come to my site, and to NOT read any thing I write. Like they say "any publicity, is good publicity". Oh, also I’ve set aside two tickets to the Moon, just in case you go on a first date (you’ve really never been on one before?) RR


Red
JANUARY 22, 2008 AT 10:36 PM
SDM, a cheesy grin back at ya!
Bob, I still have you on my friends list and intend to add you and some other new people to my list of blogs to avoid.
JWL, welcome to my madness and I’m glad you can relate to what I’ve written. I’m sure there will be those who come and tell me what to do with my rules. To them I will say my most favorite saying…"opinions vary". I look forward your future visits and hope you always feel welcome here.
Nina, abnormally normal people always seem to find each other. I hope this will become one of your regular spots to hang out and sound off when the spirit moves you. Thanks for the info on Mr. Orgy. Even if I were into stuff like that, I think I’d find his gatherings as boring as the invitation he copied and pasted on so many blogs. There’s only one thing worse than unsolicited sexual offers and that’s boring unsolicited sexual offers.
Double Dragon, slackers are welcome here and I’m glad to see you’re friends with some of the others who have recently discovered me. I’ll try to be a good hostess and keep everyone entertained.
RR, wow…another new person! My heart be still!! Welcome to my blog and the chicken research I can\’t take credit for. Perhaps Bill can tell you where it originated since he posted he same thing on his blog. I got it as a joke in an email and thought it was cute so I passed it on to my readers here. I do that from time to time when someone sends me something I thing is funny or informative. I’ll make sure you get put on that list of blogs to avoid. Two tickets…thats so kind of you and no, I’ve never been to the moon on a first date but I can keep hoping, can’t I?

Stephen Craig
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 2:34 AM 
Dear Karen, Smile! Big grin…..I thnk you will like this.
http://www.o2lmusic.com/
Post Script: There are no rules. For Spsce is Only As Deep As One Makes It. I pray that all who manage this platform find the computer as a powerful tool to imporve the betterment. Helpless, hope less romantic that I be. I know you have touched the lives of others and made them better for it.
One well placed word can change the world forever. Thank you. As ever be well. Stephen Craig Rowe


EbonyWyvernDragon
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 1:26 PM
Hey there – I LOVE your "House Rules" – seems as though they should not HAVE to be posted, though – adults should behave like adults….and it is so sad to see that there are many who may chronologically claim the title "adult" but do not fit its description! I, for one, am glad to see you back blogging. I have always enjoyed your honesty and forthrightness! the Dragon


JUDGE
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 1:31 PM 
Hey Doll,
In ansewer to yer inquiry, no you were never in my court. I only had a few high profile cases last year, befare being deleted by MSN!
Anyway, I am de judge, I’m back and justice will be served! The Guilty will be shafted! and the Lame will be deleted!
Karen, I may have you serve on da next jury, though. However, hawt Irish redheads always get all the ’perks’ in my courtroom!

Sincerely,

Judge Q.Qwaylood, presiding


Kenneth
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 3:57 PM
Kenny enters the room ! falls to one knee before you Red Kitten and swears by all that he holds sacred, to respect and follow the house rules to the letter. "Now"…where’s the bar ?


Reeking Havoc's Lair
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 5:28 PM
I’ve been writing again in recent months…Looks like you are too! I am glad for that.


Red
JANUARY 23, 2008 AT 9:41 PM
Dear sweet Stephen…there are always rules. Just like in life nothing is free. Certain truths are absolute and my rules are just that…absolutely mine.

EbonyDragon, you know how people get at times and how rude, lewd and crude they can be. I know since I’m back that makes me subject to the flamers who for lack of nothing better to do spread their garbage on people’s blogs secretly hoping to get verbally spanked for their misbehavior.

JUDGE QWAYLOOD, perhaps I have my Loods confused. Do you have a brother running around here? I’ll have to go back in my archives and see which Lood was rude.

Kenny, I have one question to ask you…please get up off your bended knee and bring your ear close so I can whisper this softly so no one will hear. Are you flirting with me? so if it looks like a chicken and sounds like a chicken then is it really a chicken?

Havoc, I think we’ll go down with the ship!



Kenneth
JANUARY 24, 2008 AT 4:51 AM
Flirt…me.. nooooo. I am a gentleman and far be it from me to exceed the bounds of good taste, I am here for three reasons and three reasons only…to look, listen and learn.
If a man falls to one knee before the Queen then is he flirting with her ? I don’t think so.
RE. chicken…probably.!!!
"Chickens" are like women I never know what to take the breast or the leg.


Red
JANUARY 24, 2008 AT 11:32 AM 
Kenny,
As we all know, flirting is quite harmless and also an off-handed way to pay a person a compliment. We also know gentlemen flirt in a way as to always boost a ladies ego and to make her feel like a queen. You have done exactly that and I want to thank you. You’re definitely abnormally normal and I feel privileged to have you as one of my many new blogging friends.


Holy
JANUARY 24, 2008 AT 1:12 PM
It’s great to do spring cleaning in winter…
Yes I moved….tired of the Spaces traffic. I’ll email you with my new link.



Stephen
JANUARY 25, 2008 AT 10:06 AM
RedKitten – Great post, It was quit thought provoking!!! PS – Thanks for your support on not smoking or at least trying to quit.


gordon
JANUARY 29, 2008 AT 2:23 AM
hi thanks for the message,i just read hat you had to say i agree 100%. i have just started my other site visit when you can hammer-out.