anywhere in the rain

The Professor, Lithium, and the Jade Stalk

2012-01-22T15:03:00.000-08:00

(should sex NOT be this big ass mystery?)

It's always interesting when parents decide to tell their children about sex (if they do). I guess some children will learn from osmosis? When I got my first period, my Mother gave me a "care kit" which included one horrible strap-on Kotex and a booklet on human reproduction. "If you have any questions, feel free to ask me," was about all I got in terms of sex education, but at least it was something. I had early lessons in terms of learning how things really were beyond the safety of my parent's door. They were invaluable lessons for someone like me who developed at such a young age.

I do not think my Mother understood how really bad it was out there. For some reason, we Black girls stuck together. We knew to be the most cautious of those who others trusted: Our teachers. My first experience with inappropriate behavior was with one of my elementary school instructors. Though without any previous sexual experience, I knew his proximity and touches were unsuitable, that his requests for me to stay after school were not to be heeded. He had the nerve to have a sleep-over at his house. NONE of the Black girls went. We just knew this dude had some really bad intentions.

The predators which continually attempted to lure us into their cars on our way to school? Classic.

And then there were the high school instructors. The librarian who continually made sex jokes. I remember his eyes all goopy with some sort of discharge, and me begging my friend to sit with me during my T.A. period. He was one sick puppy!

I once had a chemistry teacher that was more hilarious than freakish. Nothing offensive with him. He'd teach the class from behind his lab table, blah-blah-blah. One day we were almost asphyxiated by him taking lithium from its oil suspension, putting it on a paper towel vowing it can be exposed to oxgyen for a few minutes without igniting, and then watching it ignite after 30 seconds. Worst still was him immersing the flaming mineral in water, and choking on the billowing smoke which resulted. Yes, he was fairly daffy. It was just funny in that I don't think he realized what he brought back from Japan. What I first thought were salt and pepper shakers were actually ceramic penises. They were removed the next day.

Let alone college professors trying to exchange grades for sex.

With all this said, you'd think in this day and age that children would be told about the birds and bees. It amazed me to learn how a 17 year old girl in this area was coaxed by a college music professor to take off her clothes and masterbate in front of him. He told her he was doing a study on sexual arousal and how it affected vocal performance. She said he told her that this would make her be able to reach lower octaves while singing. Was she naive? Or sheltered by her parents? If she knew this man was attempting to take advantage of her, it might have spared her the memory of acting so idiotically.

So what's the point to all this? Not discussing sex in at least it's basic form suits no purpose other than leaving your children open to any predator that may pop up. They won't have the knowledge in which to compare their information given to them from a trusted source against what some predator might be saying. Just tell them the basics, and sprinkle in a little worldly-type scenarios. It just may save you and them from a lifetime of regrets.

rainwriter jones

Who Will Be Invited To My Responsibility Party?

2011-12-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

"back alley wisdom" by rainwriter jones

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By now many of you know the troubles I have with the bar and grill across the street. The tomfoolery which prevailed throughout the years seemed like a never-ending, butt-burning movie. Well, they gave us a Christmas present this year by closing for two entire days! Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were like living in the woods: Quiet, peaceful, and serene.

What I found interesting wasn't the fact that they were closed for business, but the activity in the parking lot. I watched as ride after ride drove up to the building, the occupant walking to the doors, and then trying the handles. Damn! It's Christmas Eve!! Ain't you got no family? And then I thought: Maybe they don't have family, and that's why they hang out at this God-foresaken hell pit in the first place.

How does one not have a family? I'm not speaking in terms of unmarried people. Just because you're single doesn't necessarily mean you haven't any family. I'm talking about those who have distanced themselves from their family for whatever reason. I had a tenant who had no real relations with his biological family members, but "created" grandchildren, daughters, sons, etc. He used to get on my nerves: Spilling cigarette ashes into my shopping bag, stinking of liquor, etc. His need to please me was pitiful! His inability to connect with his family manifested itself into being overly affectionate to anyone that would give him the time of day.

Why didn't he communicate with his family? Because there is an innate responsibility when you're in a relationship. You have to be emotionally and physically available. This is something that those who hang out in bars and create makeshift families may lack.

Responsibility. A real mouthful for those who don't want that encumbrance. Lets face it. It sometimes can be a terrible thing; being accountable for someone else's happiness. Those of us who choose to take on the challenge have the possibility of being fulfilled. Unfortunately, the ones who don't are watched by me as they desperately try to find a connection to other human beings at the bar and grill.

rainwriter jones

50 Years of Bare-Bottomed Rock Jumpin'!

2011-12-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

"tiny rain bouquet" by rainwriter jones

Throwing caution to the wind.
Take a chance…no underpants.
Leap of faith from the rockery
so carefully placed by my Father.

The smell of mint is in the summer’s heat.
The boys wait with anticipation
as they swat bumble bees
that cling to the clover.
As I fall earthward,
my skirt flies skyward;
making no effort to hold it down.

The audience scrambles as the porch door opens.
A glance over my shoulder to view my daddy
with a new green switch
selected especially for me!

=====================================

Bare-bottomed rock jumping is a dangerous pursuit for a young girl. But even with that said, it set the tone by which I live my life today. Taking chances sometimes entails “baring it all,” but I wouldn’t have it any other way! Risk-taking is paramount to attaining growth. And though I caught a good switch from my Father for exposing myself to the neighbor boys, I learned that being bare-bottomed is extremely free-ing. (LMBAO)

Be "here," be active, be proactive, be spectacular! Enrich someone else's life as it will enrich yours. If you help just one person in need, you could start a chain reaction of kindness. It doesn't have to be monetary, either. Sometimes just a simple kind word to someone who needs it can make a world of difference. Be brave: Start the chain...

Be present in 2012: That would be the best gift I could ever receive.

With love,

rainwriter jones

When Rights Outweigh Responsibilties: My Point of View on Gun Control

2011-12-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

I remember standing out in the woods with a friend on a summer's day. The air was still except for the rustling of ponderosa pines above our heads. And then, BANG! The sound of gunfire! We let the pistol cool before re-entering the car. We shot the gun just to hear what it sounded like, and what it felt like to shoot. For me, this was a startling revelation: I realized the deadly force of a firearm, and with possessing one, I had the power over life and death.

A few years passed, and I moved 30 miles south. Things were a little bit more rural, though I still lived in what was called a city (more like a big "small" town). As I drove to an appointment, I watched pedestrians cross the street from an adjacent stadium. In their arms bundled up like precious children? Guns. Lots of guns. It was revolting!

Americans have been given inalienable rights: One of which is to carry firearms. I'm sick to death of the escalating violence, and the de-sensitization of our citizens. Just this morning I awoke to the news wherein yet another person was shot after a heated dispute at a house party. Drive-bys, road rage, and now school shootings fill the headlines almost nightly. But then again, we have the right to carry weapons. Or do we?

As I see it, there is a gradual disintegration of society as a whole; an unraveling of a single thread which will ultimately destroy the garment. That thread is that of benevolence. One-half percent of the population is financially controlling the other 99.5%. We wait for crumbs to fall from their over-filled plates. These people have long since forgotten that there are others in need, and look for more ways to hide their wealth rather than share it.

Unemployment is a major factor which guides societal behavior. It's like a "shit rolls downhill" effect. The big companies tighten the reins on their finances, jobs are lost, and people are thrown into despair. There is a sense of hopelessness; a bleakness which blankets the community at large. This can translate into abhorrent behavior. A feeling of helplessness could drive someone who's psychologically unstable over the edge.

Guns are a ready source of satisfying the need for immediate gratification: A cessation of that which is bothersome. Pull out a gun, and end a fight. Pull out a gun, kill that cheating lover. With the click of a trigger, frustrations disappear. If guns weren't readily available, people who chose to use them as remedies may actually find positive alternatives to violence. But we may never know as buying a gun has become as common place as purchasing groceries. They are in the hands of criminals, and those law-abiding citizens who become criminals via crimes of passion.

Associating gun violence with unemployment is critical. They are closely related as the amount of shootings invariably increase with the lack of employment. Those who teeter on lawlessness can be found packing, and wait for an opportunity to act out on unsuspecting victims (like at house parties and bars where liquor flows like the Nile). And though gun supporters claim that we have the right to bear arms as our Second Amendment right, more often than not, guns are used not for self-defense, but in acts of flash aggression. I often make reference to the bar across the street from my building. About a year ago, there was one incident wherein a bar patron was executed two blocks from the bar over a dispute over a woman. If the shooter didn't have a weapon, the victim might be alive today.

I don't agree with the saying that guns don't kill people, but people kill people. If guns weren't dispensed like candy in a vending machine, we might be able to use the brains God gave us. Reason with each other without violence. Be...

HUMAN.

rainwriter jones

Everybody's Got a "Thang." What's Yours???

2011-12-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

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A few years ago, I found a receipt in her grocery bag: Aspirin, shampoo, lotion, and SEVERAL bottles of wine. Was this receipt left in the bag by mistake, or purposely left there for me to find? We used to stand at my front door to talk, but there always seemed to be something behind her eyes: As if to say something to me. But then she'd leave me with a pregnant pause, and conjecture at my feet. I'm not surprised at all when I received a phone call from her on Saturday. With my suspicions confirmed, I (and she) can breathe a sigh of relief at her confession.

Holding onto secrets can be very intense. Friendships, marriages, and even political careers can be destroyed by them (Herman Cain?). Though all of them are not grievous, the ones that cause great distress can be the true life changers. And the thing about it is each and every one of us has had them in the past, is sheltering one now, or will have one (or more) in the future. I think this is why I was not judgmental when my friend admitted to being an alcoholic.

I guess it all comes down to trust, and finding someone who can lessen the burden of guilt. There's a reason why we hold onto secrets. Because of the fear of reprisal, we won't expose ourselves. The thought of losing someone close, social standing, and in some cases, freedom, can be unbearable. I had a life-changing secret in the past, and finding the right person to share it with was difficult. It took YEARS to finally confess, but it was the best thing I ever did!

For 2012 make a promise to yourself: If you have a secret which is burning you up inside, find someone you trust to share it with. At the very least, use this website to spit your rap: http://www.postsecret.com/. Confessing your "sin" annonymously may ease the pressure for a while, but always keep in mind that whatever you did that caused you to go undercover is still there. Deal with it, and for God's sake, don't do it again! It gets no better the second time around.

Let it go: And then move on.

rainwriter jones

A Promotion For a Grope ("Oral" Arrangements Over Dinner)

2011-11-29T10:19:00.000-08:00

herman cain

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By now I'm sure all of you have heard the sexual harassment claims by numerous women in regards to Herman Cain. Well, do you think he did it? I say, HELL YES!! I think he views all people as commodities to be traded for goods, favors, and in the case of women: services. You have sex with me (probably "hands and knees-type" acts), I'll give you that promotion.

In my humble opinion, I think people who hold seats of power have a tendency to use their power for their betterment (but not always to the benefit to those who are being used). He's not the only one to blame for the mess he's in. There were women who took him up on his offer to further their causes. Of course, they're not speaking as the revelation would surely destroy their careers. But we're not discussing willing participants in the Cain Circus, but those who wouldn't perform sex acts for personal gains, and possibly missed out on opportunities because of their refusal.

Throughout the centuries, men (and women) have used their bodies to further their position in the world. But the problem is this: Using your perversions to abuse men/women who are trying to improve their position in any given situation (i.e., school, housing, employment, etc.) is not only wrong, but illegal. Mr. Cain f*cked with the wrong women! Some of them took offense to his nasty thigh-touching ways, and blew the whistle on him. And now that he's "reconsidering his campaign," women all over the world can breath a sign of relief. Unfortunately for him, a big can of worms has been opened, and his troubles have just begun with litigating females.

Hell, he ain't even cute! (LMBAOOO)

rainwriter jones

If Children Were Pets, They Might Be Treated Better...

2011-11-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

forgotten by rainwriter jones

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I can't tell you how tired I am seeing big-eyed dogs and cats glossing my t.v. screen at 5 a.m. They peer at me from metal cages, or huddled in corners, with Sarah MacLaughlin singing sad animal songs in the background: All the while, pleading for money to aid these "helpless creatures." Don't get me wrong. I'm a full-fledged animal rights advocate. Well, who really can be an animal rights advocate if you eat animal protein (yes, hamburger meat came from one of those big-eyed animals).

What about children right here in the United States who suffer EVERY SINGLE DAY? We'll treat animals better than our own species! Special doggy beds, cat furniture, pet purses, etc. In grocery stores, there's even special pet food in the refrigerator section. Shit looks so good, you could make a meatloaf from it, and your guests would none the wiser.

I had these thoughts for a long while, but a few days ago I saw a disturbing news story which documented the lives of homeless children in Seattle's "Nickelsville." Nickelsvilles is a homeless encampment in Seattle named during ex-Mayor Greg Nickels governing of Seattle. After several years, it has been relocated to different locations, but has never removed. The kids in this community were noted to be "living under plastic" by a King 5 news reporter because of the tents they are forced to live in due to homelessness.

You can see the video here: http://tinyurl.com/87tqt3q

Don't you think this warrants a second look? So many humans are disconnected to the wants and needs of our own kind, bypassing a child who's living in a car or tent, and buying bullshit trinkets for their animals. They could at least provide warm coats, hot meals, medicine, to the neediest of citizens. And before you start to say I don't have a heart, I say this. Please do donate to animal shelters, charities, and anti-abuse programs, but don't forget the children who really need you. If I see one more dog wearing a coat a child should have, I'm gonna scream!

I believe in species-specific charity: Giving to our own kind BEFORE we lend a hand to an animal. I know humans can treat each other horribly, and I think that this is why certain individuals have chosen to do their good deeds for animals instead of human children. But look at it this way. If we don't take care of our children now, who the hell is gonna take care of us in the future?

rainwriter jones

R. J.'s Rules of Satisfactory Internet Interactions (welcome to my window...)

2011-10-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

promise and decay by rainwriter jones

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A few days ago, I read the comments on a friend's Facebook page wherein another person had attempted to pry out personal information. I watched as the poster very tactfully evaded answering the questions from the postee. I'm like, damn, back off!

It reminded me of the interactions I had when I was an internet virgin. Since 2006, I've seen so much online, and have lived to tell the tale. Many of you may remember Yahoo! 360? A hot bed of messiness. Back in the day when I used to frequent IM, random folks would just pop up in my status window to chat, or appear on my page and make weird comments. I had some dude who called himself "Joe" from the United Arab Emirate. As I was fairly green at the time, I allowed him to speak to me from time to time. One day things turned ugly as I saw his cartoon avatar turn into the blank white form. Then he threatened to harm me! Uhhh...shit!

And then there was another character who was cool until I figure he stopped taking his bipolar medications. He stalked me through my page to get to another blogger. It scared me so much that I left blogging for a while. Hell, not everyone in cyberspace are what they present themselves to be.

I still consider myself one of the friendlier folks online (pats self on back). I'm eager to meet new people, gain new insights into other cultures/lifestyles. At one time, I chatted with a dominatrix and her sex slave. She was a really nice lady who loved cats just like me. Problem being her sex slave kept creeping out of my closet, licking my shoes, or crawling from beneath my skirt. He served morning coffee with sugar, and LOTS of cream! But...he was a nice guy. (LMBAO)

Through the years, I've come up with my very own internet rules of engagement. Here they are:

1. Unresponsiveness. If you just sit on my page week after week without uttering a single word (not even a wave, or that you're still "alive"), I'll delete you. I recently deleted a fellow who was cool, and then went dead. I left a note on his page, and messaged. He didn't respond, so he's gone.

2. Flirting. Okay, don't get me wrong. I LOVE flirting! I do it very frequently, but if (and only if), I've known you for at least 6 months or more. I want to make sure you ain't gonna appear on my doorstep with a woody. I had a dude say that my cheesy, gap-toothed grimace was "amazing." You could see the plaque build-up on me teethies; that's how absurd his statement was. Ya, right! That made me feel like a used piece of toilet paper, so I flushed him.

3. Threatening violence. Well, that's more than obvious.

4. My humor, my page. Many folks can get their panties in a winch with the things I find funny. If you're reading this post, you're probably cool. Besides, I've made sure to show the parental guidance page before anyone enters my world. It can get raunchy. I had more folks "unfriend" me on 360 or Multiply because they thought I offended them. My page, my rules! Don't leave nasty comments about my conduct...just leave!

5. Exhibitionism. I love looking at naked body parts just as much as any other pervert. Add a sprinkle of sexual activity, I'm more than good. But, don't show me your "stuff" without getting explicit permission. I had this chick show me a picture of herself squeezing her titties together in one gigantic, amorphic mound of flesh. I'm like, DAMN! I didn't ask to see your business. It just came out of the blue: Her face; then knockers. I could have done without that vision. Til this day, I still have nightmares. She was immediately "unfriended."

I have several friends I peek in on to see what's happening with them, leave a note, a wave, a hug, or even a flirt. I make myself visible: Let you know I like you. It makes me smile when they do the same. Hey, I ain't no stalker...just a groupie! (LOL)

We all have our very own set of rules for interactions online. And though I've written only five, there are several more that I employ on occasion. I'm fairly flexible in bending the rules from time to time, but not about the exhibitionism. Please, don't show me your stuff!

rainwriter jones

Sex Toys and Masturbation: The End of Civilization?

2011-10-23T17:24:00.000-07:00

ungloved by rainwriter jones

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I recently watched a show entitled "Japan: Robot Nation" on CurrentTV. Some of the information piqued my curiousity. It was reported that Japan is experiencing a marked population decrease. There are several reasons for this, but I will concentrate on the lack of sexual activity on the part of fertile adults. It is predicted that in 100 years, the Japanese people will no longer exist. Men and women are simply not engaging in intercourse. However, men and women are still having sex: But by themselves!

Here's the link for your perusal:

http://current.com/shows/vanguard/89610631_japan-robot-nation.htm

There's been an insurgence of sex toys that both men and women are using for sexual gratification. No need for a messy partner when you can have clean, neat sex by yourself. No commitment, no wining (or whining), no dining. Just pleasure. It wouldn't be a bad thing if a great majority of the population weren't engaging in masturbation.

There is also a rise in the production of "robotic citizens." The Japanese have developed life-like machines to serve as caregivers, maids, companions, and even a substitute labor force. They have even created robotic pets! And lets be real, if they are using sex toys to climax, why not humanoid contraptions? I can see it now: A ship-load of robotic sex slaves sailing westward, and eager customers anxiously awaiting their very own non-committal, plastic doll!

It's a matter of intimacy, or lack thereof. There is a disturbing distancing the Japanese are creating regarding human interaction. A separation of individuals by means of robotics. However, self-pleasuring has become an exported commodity which is leaving not only the bedroom lacking a partner, but creating a worldwide societal change. Why bother establishing a relationship with another human when all you have to do is turn on your machine? When you're finished, put it away for another time. What do you think this means regarding entire nations which choose not only to be spouseless, but also to masturbate instead?

On a species level, this will surely spell our demise. We've lost the human element: The need to touch another person. The want of making a connection to fellow humans not only on a physical level, but a spiritual one. To bond. The Japanese often set the tone for technological advances, so it's just a matter of time before planet Earth will be smelling like used plastic discard.

And to think a steely dan and a few "C" batteries were the reason for our extinction? We don't need an asteroid to finish us off!

rainwriter jones

Coffee and Rape: A Matter of Complexion?

2011-10-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

my hands by rainwriter jones

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I recently had a conversation with an elder who I've known for several years. As we talked, she spoke of her travels to Antigua, and the beautiful, dark skin of the residents. I watched her eyes glaze over as if revisiting a past she was never a part. She spoke of rape: Rape of females by many different ethnicities which caused our Black skin to be the hue it is now. She also spoke on how we as Blacks have forgotten what it was like; the atrocities we suffered as a people.

Are ethnicities of blended races created by centuries of rape?

This conversation was very troubling to me on many levels. Why would she bring up this topic at this late juncture in her life? Why does she speak like this, and then associate with those she deems as the oppressor? Is she correct in her assumption that as a culture, we were created from acts of violence?

This isn't the first time I've had conversations with elders who seem to fixate on the past wrongs of history. The old folks recall things not only from their past, but that of an entire culture. Maybe they're venting years of pent-up frustration in their own circumstance: Trying to "clear the air" so to speak, before their own demise?

I do believe that the further removed we are from slavery and outright racism, we have a tendency to "forget" the miseries of antecedants. In a previous blog post you may recall my watching the characters across the street that hang out without purpose. It is quite clear they haven't a clue, nor a care, as to what happened 400 years prior. But these are not the only kindred which I feel have lost their way. It's as if there's an ancestral genocide in progress. Our fragmented roots being further broken by not only distance, but time. I met an African several years ago who told me that American Blacks don't remember their past. I have a tendency to believe him.

So what are my thoughts on this topic? I feel as though we were created not only by the violent acts of a few, but through mutual consensual encounters. Not downplaying the rape aspect by no means, but not using this sordid fact as the sole means of our existence.

But we all have our own opinions, our own way of viewing life. Looking at it with a skewed perspective serves no purpose, but creates this negativity that I can better do without. I'm from this time, and not that of those who have come before me. Their experiences greatly differ from mine. I know the people who raped our ancestors are long since dead, and not to make these abuses the primary focus of the present.

Remember, be humbled, and continue your journey...

rainwriter jones

The "MMMMmmmMMM" Factor

2011-10-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Dave Navarro!

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A few days ago, I shopped at the infamous WinCo where prices are as cheap as the people you find in the aisles. I was just there to buy a few groceries when I see this deliciously yummy individual hidden amongst the produce. He had those eyes, and a warmth about him that made him stand out from all the others who surrounded him. Uhhhh, and he looked great, too!

And before you pass judgment, let me say this. I'm just saying what y'all are thinking. I'm a wee bit more vocal than many of you, and have a tendency to express myself a little more readily than the average person. I think there are only a few of you that know where I'm coming from. That there are some people who have that "MMMMmmmMMM" factor. They exude sensuality and sexuality without even saying a word. It's not so much as how they look, but that they're a person that will make you stop your busy life if only for a glance; to take in their essence. Breath in their aura, no less.

I have a short list of those who (at least for me) have that "MMMMmmmMMM" factor:

5. Dave Navarro: Something about those deep brown eyes and pierced nipples does it for me! Though I think he's a freak, he portrays someone who is very emotional and caring. Plays a mean guitar, too.

4. Common: This brutha brings a smile to my face every time I see him. His music is warm, just like his eyes. A person who I'd just sit and watch a while.

3. Marian Gold (Alphaville): A soulful man who wears his heart on his sleeve. Very honest in the way he conveys his emotion through his music. I've been dying to meet this man: One day, I will.

2. Lenny Kravitz: One fine brutha, and one hell of a musician. There's something about the way he carries himself which makes him attractive.

1. My Husband: Don't think this an obligatory add to my list of yummy men. I wouldn't have married him if he didn't have the "MMMMmmmMMM" factor. Sexuality and sensuality all wrapped up into one neat, tidy, ACCESSIBLE package! (LMBAO)

All these men don't have to try to impress as what they are is not seen, but felt. Expressed through their eyes, through their gestures, through just being emotional creatures. Whether you admit to it or not, I'm sure you've had times when you've seen or met someone who just did it for you. You just couldn't place a finger on it why he/she was of interest to you. Hopefully this blog will clarify what was going on at the moment when your mundane life stopped: And took in their essence...

rainwriter jones

Amplified Car Stereos and Sociopathic Behaviors

2011-10-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

the shop: photo by rainwriter jones

Another 2 a.m. thought. Not that I want "2 a.m." thoughts, but I haven't a choice. Why, you might ask? Well, it's like this. I am awakened at least three nights a week by the bar across the street. Young men and women who seem like they haven't work or school in the morning because they're in the parking lot with BOOMING bass, loud talking, tire screeching, and an occasional brawl. The activity has been so noted by officials, but nothing in particular seems to be done regarding the disruptive behavior of the bar's patrons. So, I frequently call the authorities to come handle their business with these idiots. During the day, I take exception to the throbbing bass of car stereos, but really get pissed off when that shit is blasting after 10 p.m.; bouncing through my windows and rattling my walls (and nerves). The tribal and city police are as regular there as the regulars.

So why this blog. Yesterday with yet another episode of racket, I began to think more from a clinical standpoint than that of an irate neighbor. Their behaviors may go deeper than their obviously knuckle-headed actions. I think those who engage in such activities may be sociopaths. The following text is quoted from eHow:

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A sociopath is a person who completely disregards and violates the rights of others while refusing to conform to societal norms.

1. Notice if the person exhibits a lack of conscience. Signs of sociopathic behavior are usually present in childhood, so take note if you witness a person torturing or killing animals, showing no emotions when something bad happens to someone else, or showing no guilt or remorse for any of his own actions.

2. See if there is a pattern of irresponsible or poor behavior, including doing poorly in school or on the job. Other behaviors to look for are recklessness, impulsivity and participation in illegal activities.

3. Pay attention to the person’s personal relationships. Many sociopathic people have an inability to love or have lasting personal relationships. This is because they can be very manipulative.

4. Recognize patterns of pathological lying. Sociopaths will continue to lie about things even if they are caught doing them. They can also be very charming and get others who are blind to their behaviors to side with them.

5. Notice if a person has an inflated sense of self-importance or narcissism. A sociopath behaves as if he/she is the only person who matters and he/she will have complete disregard for everyone else. Although he/she has the ability to charm people, he/she will take advantage of them at the same time.

6. See if the person exhibits a need for stimulation by engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors. These behaviors can be sexual or just thrill-seeking. Sociopaths tend to get bored easily, which is why they seldom complete tasks and seek out forms of excitement.

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It suits these barflies to a "T." Either they have total disregard to others' right to peace and quiet, or they are not aware that their behavior is disturbing others. In either case, there is a major problem that we as productive citizens have to deal with. How to manage those who are content to create discontent. And to give them the same rights they are more than willing to take from us? A hard-sell to those who are awakened by their obstinance.

And then there are those who follow the ill behaviors of others just because they are doing it? Maybe only 1 out of 10 who participate in this behavior are sociopaths. What does that say about the other nine who follows these mentally ill offenders? To me, that's the scary part of this whole scenario. Those that are knowledgeable/aware that they are doing wrong but since someone else is doing it, they feel it's a free-for-all. History will show that there is one individual or a small group that usually dictates the larger groups' activities. Can anyone recall WWII and the dictators who shaped the mindset of millions? (sorry, I digress)

*back to 2011 and my neighborhood*

Look at it this way: What happens when these people disturb the sleep of our children? These sleep-deprived youth may be our future doctors, lawyers, or scientists. They may never actualize their full potential as their lack of sufficient sleep directly effects their ability to concentrate. He/she could have been someone destined for greatness, a world-changer, finding the cure for cancer, no less. We may never know what damage those lost sleep hours have caused. Who knows: Maybe as youths, some of the rabble-rousers across the street were sleep-deprived?

So, it's 5:12 p.m., and I begin to say prayers for a good night's sleep. The urge to sedate myself is a strong one that I can resist on rare occasion, but usually give in around
9 p.m. just prior to the beginning of the show. I often find myself peeking through the blinds at the spectacle across the street. I can usually tell if there will be a 2 a.m. awakening by the amount of cars in the parking lot. With summer being the worst time for these disruptions, I feel blessed by the rains which clean the streets, and that damnable bar parking lot. Of those who would loiter beneath the "no loitering" sign.

Here's to an uninterrupted sleep...

rainwriter jones

Political Indigestion With No Pepto-Bismol

2011-09-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

political rustlin' and tusslin'

As my stomach burned like a m*tha f*cka yesterday, my Mother expounded the facts regarding Obama's new $447 billion legislative package to stimulate job creation. Due to the fact that I was in such discomfort, I couldn't care less about any political rants, today (without a sore belly), I STILL don't care. Why?

It doesn't matter who is voted into any given office. It's all the same: Campaign speeches are slathered in promises just so that the politician can get voted in...and then...NOTHING! In some instances, I think there are actual desires to fulfill what was promised, but there are constituents who make it difficult, if not impossible, for these politicians to have these promises come to fruition. These individuals, lobbyists, etc., would rather see their opposition fail rather than do what's right for the country just to gain political status for themselves and/or their party.

It's all the same. A good person thinks they can change the world, just to leave office as tainted as the person who previously occupied that seat. At the end of their term, they end up looking like Nadine in Stephen King's "The Stand" after she sold her soul to the devil. Yes, it's all the same: Nothing changes.

To me, politics cause great discourse, and to a certain point, I could do without the political process. We need to have some sense of order which government provides, but it's high time that we work as a people to accomplish goals for the betterment of society as a whole, and not just serve individual's selfish needs and desires.

And since that day will never come, I sometimes find myself just checking boxes on my election ballot. It doesn't matter...

rainwriter jones

Military Personnel Trawling for Sex at the Mall?

2011-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

*disclaimer When I searched for images of "young girls with soldiers," most of them were pornographic. Go figure!

===========================

Yesterday while watching the news, there was a story regarding several enlisted men who are accused of raping two teenagers. The young girls were seen at a Portland area hospital, and stated they were taken to a hotel and assaulted by several men. Two soldiers are under arrest for the alleged crime. The fact that they are in jail proves at the very least there was some sexual contact.

My questions are these:

1. How in the hell did these girls get to be in the company of MEN?!

2. Are men cruising malls for young girls to have sex with?

3. Are these girls being monitored by their parents, or left to their own devices?

4. What is the allure of picking up what appears to be underage sex partners?

5. Wouldn't it be easier for these guys to pay for sex, rather than risk incarceration?

This isn't the first time such stories have circulated in our area concerning military personnel taking advantage of little girls. There was a news story a few months ago involving young girls being snuck into the barracks, getting high, and being raped. One teenager died after overdosing on a narcotic. I wonder if the military has been aware of such exploits in the past, but preferred to cover them up?

Now the biggest questions regard who is to blame? These girls for going with these obviously horny dudes? The parents for not supervising their children? The soldiers who probably knew from jumpstreet that these "ladies" were just months from playing with Barbie dolls? Or the military for not locking up these men?

Your thoughts or opinions?

rainwriter jones

Blue Panty Day (drawers to suit your mood)...

2011-08-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

glove...roadside

The Pick of the Day

is not creating any unnecessary noise today
is creating an adult space filled with music and booze
is creating a unique piece which suits my personality
is being selective in her selection
is putting sweaters in the cleaners (fall's coming)
is being led where she wants to go
is going as far as YOU let me
is seeing "it" from my window: a testament of living wrong

but deliciously so...

===============================

I awoke this morning staring into my underwear drawer. Gazing deep into a cotton-polyester (sometimes silk) oblivion, I felt a strange peace fall upon me. Why do I feel so content? Because life is moving forward. Sometimes I'm at pace with it, and sometimes it's just slightly ahead: Encouraging me to keep up. Quite a prolific thought for a cloudy, unusually cool summer's morning.

Then I also thought: Do men wear their underwear to suit their moods, too? I'll lie mine out onto the bed (color coordinated, of course), and pick which bra and panty set will match where my head is at that particular moment. Red for sexy; funny/quirky panties for creativity; black for solemness, etc. Do guys do this? Or do they just pick out any drawer from their drawer?

Today is blue, but changed my mind to white. What does that mean? I really do think the choice of undies for the day is fairly significant, don't you?

rainwriter jones

The Day I Had Red Hair (and lived to tell the tale)

2011-08-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

...and this AIN'T me!

Life does, indeed, have it's twists and turns. My turn toward righteousness and good deeds happened a few years ago when I decided to dye my hair red. Shocking red: The shade of Bozo the Clown! Feeling cavalier, I knew that I was the baddest chick this side of the continental divide (though I would find out differently a little later).

The truck needed some major body work, so it was in the repair shop. I needed a ride, and I called a taxi to pick me up. The driver was a lunatic! Said he wanted to kill someone 'cause he was upset. I kept talking to him: Get his mind off of driving me over a cliff or something. Well, I make it to the auto body repair shop unscathed, but this is where the REAL life-changing event occurred.

I was on the cell phone with my husband, snacks in hand (jelly beans, of course). As I crossed the street from the gas station, a white car careened down the road, nearly striking me. So, out of anger, I yelled at the dude. He slams on his brakes and yells something back. I pass this off as another idiot who needed to head back to driving school, and continued my stride toward the shop. Just as I entered the parking lot, a white car FLIES into the lot (the addition of dust and rocks made the scene even more terrifying). At this moment, the prideful red head disappeared, and the chicken took over. I found a crowd of bystanders to hide amongst! Yep, human shields. One of the guys re-assured me "that wasn't the man you were arguing with." (LMBAO) The car passed through two parked cars, and crashed through the hedges of an adjacent parking lot. Out pops an employee late for work at the gas station. WHEW!!!

I think I shaved 5 years off the end of my life that day, but learned a valuable lesson. A big mouth full of nasty words coupled with arrogance can get you into a world of trouble. Believe me, I've been cool ever since.

And I vow NEVER to sport red hair again!

rainwriter jones

How Did You Get SOOO F*cked Up! (or, the policy of living "messy")

2011-08-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

just another bum...or not?

Had a lovely and interesting trip to Nevada. For the past 4 days, I sunned, funned, and watched bums forging through garbage cans for recycling items and whatnots. As I saw yet another indigent in the center lane of a busy boulevard either stoned out of his mind, mentally ill, or both, my thoughts began to wander. How did this man end up in my view at this particular point in time of MY life? My blog today addresses the issue of being "messy." You can either be messy by being physically cluttered (i.e., messy house), or mentally messy (i.e., finding or creating trouble, not taking care of your life business, just a f*ck up).

I have had several incidents of mental messiness in recent history. This is a "cleansing" blog to which I know several of you can relate. It doesn't matter what social standing to which you belong, what neighborhood you live, or even what country in which you reside. I'm sure EVERYONE has had someone in their lives who just don't get it. That throw hot potatoes your way, just waiting for you to get your hands burned, and maybe even laughing at your pain. Those who have taken advantage of your good nature by using sh*t that doesn't belong to them, taking sh*t that doesn't belong to them, or simply doing f*cked up sh*t behind your back. Aha, I KNOW you have a special person in mind that has done this type of "mess" to you! (LMBAO)

Back to the dude in the middle of traffic on a hot summer's night in Vegas. My thoughts? He got there by living messy, by not taking care of his life's business, by not listening to what his mind/heart told him, by lifting that bottle one time too many. The messy folk I deal with may tinker with a little drug and/or alcohol, but the main deal with their ass*s is that they refuse to take responsibility for their station in life, which leaves them stationery: Rooted to the spot. They think that just because some folks are living without grips of stress, have it "together," that they are allowed not to pay the obligations that are due, or even slough at the jobs at which they are paid. Ya, it was one of those weekends, and yes, I'm bitchin' BIG TIME!

As I organize my thoughts and free my mind of these evil thoughts of retribution, I take into consideration that being nasty ain't gonna do anything but bring me to their level. I'm gonna be okay, believe me. Knowing that all of you have suffered at the hands of others, too, makes me feel better!

*sigh*

Messy is a state of mind.

rainwriter jones

The Media: Their Role in Creating Chaos

2011-08-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

As a child, I was taught by my Mother not to trust strangers. She instilled into me that some strangers mean to do us harm. Shit, not even policemen could be trusted in certain circumstances. I didn't know how true this statement was until one day as I walked home from school with my other siblings, we were approached by a man in a car who told us that our Mother was in the hospital, and he was told to come pick us up. We didn't get in, and he drove off. Who was waiting for us at home? Our Mother! I was in Kindergarten that year, and have NEVER forgotten how close I came to being that child on the milk carton.

Throughout the years as my friends and I walked to/from school, there were men who made attempts to abduct us. I don't think our parents realized how dangerous the tree-lined boulevard actually was. We took it as a fact that it was best to walk against traffic so you could see "them" approach, and then cross to the other side of the street before their doors flung open. I've often been told that I have this un-approachable look on my face, and a "don't-mess-with-me" type attitude. It was acquired at a very young age out of necessity.

This blog post isn't entirely about my dubious encounters as a child, but how the media sensationalizes stories like these for ratings. It can harm the community at large by encouraging copycat incidents by those who may have thought about performing such crimes, but were not seriously thinking about acting on them. The news can influence those with abhorrent and/or crimimal thoughts to act on them, and even give ideas on how to implement them. With the reporting of these crimes, the media often gives details of the original crime. This can give ammunition to those who are easily swayed to do wrong.

In the case of child abduction, there wasn't much reporting of this type of crime. In 1974, a 4 year-old named Heidi Peterson was abducted. This started a string of missing children cases which to this date are unsolved. Did media coverage play a role in the increase? I do believe it did. There is a point to which reporting turns to over-emphasizing the details to increase ratings.

There were numerous school shootings in the United States a few years back. I don't think there would have been so many of them if other emotionally unstable children wouldn't have been given the information on how the attacks were acted out, or if the media were not to have continually reported on it. The would-be perpetrators saw how much media coverage the massacre received and for their 15 minutes of fame, decided to do it themselves.

And now in London riots. What started out as a protest revolving around a shooting has escalated to an all-out battle between police and hoodlums. Media coverage showed the chaos and mayhem, and those who had criminal intentions made their way to add to it. Hell, with my own eyes, I saw people laughing as they called on their cell phones for others to join them.

Do I think the media should be controlled? To a point. Better judgment should be used on not only what is covered, but HOW it's covered! To exercise better control over the content that is shared, and how often to share it. A little restraint goes a long way.

It could even save a life. Maybe yours.

rainwriter jones

Yes, Dear Harriet: There's Cream in that Coffee!

2011-08-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

Life in the multi-cultural family is an interesting one. Yesterday I went to the community center with my grandson, nephew, and Mother. We had a lovely time playing in the park with the other children, taking pictures, and spending time together. At the end of our visit, we entered the center to cancel the membership of my elder daughter. I have been friendly with one of the staff members there, so I thought I'd introduce my family to her. I received a slow, dissecting look on her part at my relatives: Trying to make heads or tails at our relationship towards each other. We range from very dark to very light in our complexions, yet, we are family just the same. She was even bold enough to ask my nephew "does he (my grandson) belong to you?" At that point, I eased out of the office thinking that this woman was a total idiot. She had imparted me with information that she was involved in an interracial relationship, so I thought she was "down." Needless to say, I won't be dealing with her ass any longer! In another instance, I've had someone straight up ask me what my grandson was "mixed" with. Lord have mercy! I answered her matter-of-factly just to let her know that I wasn't fazed with the question, but amazed that she would ask it.

My family is comprised of many ethnic groups, and it's always laughable to see folks' reactions when we're all together. Black, White, and Asian. Some of us with only the one ethnicity: Others a beautiful blend. But...we're family just the same. We were never taught to differentiate between races like some people do, but to judge the character. With this said, I do believe there still is an underlying racism embedded within our society. Little nasties like this often arise when the economy is bad, folks are struggling to pay their bills/keep their jobs, and they've got to find someone to place all their troubles.

Interesting how my little interracial family can cause such a stir. I'm proud to stir up the pot!

rainwriter jones

Blood / Sweat / Religion / Bullets

2011-07-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

...or The Theory of Fundamentalism

The arrest of Anders Behring Breivik for his murdering 93 innocent people (most of which were children) has brought to the forefront a troubling trend towards fundamentalism. For some reason when the economy is having difficulties, fundamentalists seem to creep out of the woodwork. They attempt to blame others (more namely a certain group of their choosing) for all the present problems of the world. "He has said that he believed the actions were atrocious, but that in his head they were necessary," his attorney said on his behalf. Killing innocent children is necessary? I will be looking at this problem from the standpoint of one single man, and not the whole collective of fundamentalists.

The combination of weapons, religion, and mental illness makes for a lethal combination. Yes, I am saying that fundamentalists can be mentally ill as they tunnel-vision themselves into a single-minded thought process of categorizes one group of people into something "evil," something to be eliminated, being ethnically cleansed. Breivik's tunnel-vision is towards Muslims. He is not willing or able to ascertain only a few Muslims have fundamentalist views, too, and are willing to commit mass murder on behalf of their cause. Yes, the same way he did.

I have read that others believe like me, that religious fundamentalism is a type of mental illness. Some of the symptoms are linked to delusional schizophrenia, which the American Psychological Association's DSM-IV describes as involving a profound disruption in cognition and emotion, assigning unusual significance or meaning to normal events and holding fixed false personal beliefs. Please follow this links:

http://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/delusional-disorder
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delusional_disorder

Breivik must have exhibited signs of a delusional disorder for years, but no one thought to get him help. Those around him probably thought him weird, and dismissed his views as that of a wacko. Unfortunately, 93 people died because no one stepped up and tried to seek assistance for him, or even to detain him in order to keep him from hurting others. These people NEED to be tracked as to their whereabouts at all times! I know you might say this is against their rights of human beings, but just think if YOUR child was on that island?!

21 years is not nearly enough for the massacred...

rainwriter jones

For The Love of Pete and Really, Really Poor Decisions

2011-07-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

downtown with no place to go by rainwriter jones
As I headed out to my vehicle this morning for my workout, there was a female with a RAGGEDY Jaguar parked behind my next door neighbor's RAGGEDY Thunderbird. As I'm backing up to leave the parking lot, she comes down the ramp and starts shouting something. I don't even know what she said as she is insignificant in the entire scheme of things. I think that's why she's upset: Because of her insignificance and how I perceive her.

I try not to be judgmental, but it's so very hard with such "in your face" ignorance. To me, someone who is ignorant is a person that doesn't take responsibility for the circumstances they are in, but blame others for their predicament. This woman doesn't seem to have a job, nor a place to stay that she can call her own. Instead, she vents her frustration at her station in life on others she perceives belittles her. My NOT responding to her infuriated her. But, I shall not be intimidated, especially on my property.

She's just a small example of unresponsible people who are content in their discontent. A sad lot who early on in life gave up trying. Either from poor parenting, or by them not listening to good advice, they end up being societal parasites. They are the type of people you make sure your children see that if they don't do what they need to do (i.e., stay in school, get a degree, stay away from disreputable people, etc.), they will end up like them.

As my husband oftens says, it's not one or two bad choices which result in these type of folks sleeping for crumbs in some nitwit's bed, but a series of them. The fact that they don't and/or won't learn from their mistakes makes it it that much worse.

God love them, bless them: And keep them out of my hair! (LMBAOOOO)

rainwriter jones

The Tender Mercies of Forgotten Naughties

2011-07-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

"indulge" by rainwriter jones

Love’s In Bloom…
(from a clinical standpoint)

A herpes zoster:
Sam remained buried and long forgotten.
A chain-smoking virus.
A booze-guzzling shingle.
A herpetic lesion that drunk dials
at 2:45 a.m. after the pub closed.

An oozing blister
to which Rhonda applies salve…

=========================================

I think we've all misplaced things. In a hurry, set down car keys someplace you normally don't put them, and then have one hell of a time locating them (especially when you HAVE to be somewhere...like...yesterday). I have this tendency to set something down with the intention of coming back for it later, just to forget where I had placed it. But there are some things that never should be forgotten, laid places, left behind. Some items which, when discovered, will cast a discerning eye upon the person who left it. Damn!

Years ago when my husband and I were just married, we assisted in moving a family member's belongings to her new apartment. Have you ever had an impression of someone who seems conservative? Well, she was one of these type of folks who obviously had an alternative lifestyle because what we found amongst the boxes shocked us! Yep, pornography! Real tasty bits of flesh mixed with some devilishly delicious body parts. Also included in this array of naughtiness was a few toys, lotions, and edible underwear. Well, being the youngsters we were, we figured taking one or two items wouldn't be missed, so we took a book called "Ass Masters." (LMBAO)

Fumming through the book was quite interesting. Men and women in all sorts of compromising positions and all, laughing at their glasses all catty-whompess on their heads as they (and we) lost ourselves in their provocative scenes. The funny part of it all was the fact that our dearly beloved had all this freaky shit in her possession! Lawd have mercy!

We placed the book in the glove box of our car: And forgot about it. Now this is where forgetting something can get you into a world of hurt. We sold the car with the book in the glove box to none other than...*drum roll puh-lease* MY FATHER!!! Try explaining the unexplanable to your parent. It wasn't originally ours, but no one was going to believe us.

Hmmmmm, I wonder where that book eventually ended up? Do YOU have it? (LMBAOOOO)

rainwriter jones

My Special Talent

2011-07-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have this special talent. I may not be able to play an instrument, perform mathematical calculations, or tie cherry stems with my tongue. My talents are much, much more special.

I've watched and analyzed one person in particular whose movements (or lack thereof) fascinates me. I saw how this person spent their time f*ckin' off with know-nothing females and so-called "family," extravagant spending, and continual drinking. Now that he's close to retirement age and has nothing. Not a pot to piss in, nor a window to throw it out of. I've watched him be king of nothing in particular, prideful, and selfish. Now that he's in dire need, there's no one to help. Show me your friends, and I'll tell you who you are.

I've had a few interesting interactions as of late, one just recently in an online conversation regarding abortion. Though not too terribly disrepectful, his manner was abrupt and off-putting. As our discussion continued, he became increasingly terse; wanting to talk over me. At this point, I couldn't be bothered spending any more keystrokes on him. With my "special talent," I ascertained he was highly opinionated and quite difficult to get along with not only web-wise, but in "real" life.

For years, I've dealt with a person who gave the impression of being more than they were. Though very intelligent (and she went out of the way to let you know this fact), she draped herself in pride, hid behind her husband's earnings, and marveled at her social standing in church and the community. After it's all said and done, she needs help with things she didn't need assistance with in the past. An explanation as to her declining abilities would be appropriate if she wanted to enlist others aid. Her hard head won't let her PROPERLY ask for help.

Not saying that I'm Sally Jesse Rafael (though I've been referred as one in the past), I'm very observant. And though I may not say anything, I'm watching...

YOU!!! (but probably not as hard as you're watching me). (LMBAOOOO)

rainwriter jones

No Smoochin' Allowed!!! (when PDA's go wrong)

2011-07-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

"push for flasher"

25th Block From The Water

The clank of bicycle chains break the silence on a tree-lined, two-laned boulevard. Past waving neighbors, friends ride 2-by-2 with creeping shorts, ashy legs, and worn

sneakers, on their way to the lake choked with milfoil, waders, and garbage. The day is perfect as breezes blow on sweaty skin and flattens afros. Vicious dogs and

trolling predators alike take respite from this route: if only for today. They pedal with flat soles that chocolate doesn’t cover, over potholes, and race each other to murky waters: eyes closed, no hands, no helmets.

rainwriter jones

=================================

READ THIS!!

http://tinyurl.com/6ckfegm (You have to copy and paste, but I'm sure you can manage.) *chucklin'*

This article made me applaud! I'm SO glad I'm not the only one who thinks public smooching, touching, or generalized fondling in public is a no-no! Not necessary, I say! Take it to a motel, I plead! (LOL)

Many of you don't know my revulsion towards PDAs. It started when I was a little girl. I would attend Camp Fire Girl meetings at a neighbor's house, and her daughter and the daughter's live-in boyfriend would scurry upstairs for a little "in-out, in-out" while the mother was away. Another couple of incidents (well, numerous) involved a teacher's roving hands and/or inappropriate comments, and experiencing several would-be abductions on my way to school. Though these latter two instances aren't PDAs, I'm sure it helped me develop my repulsion thereof.

Okay, back to today's regularly scheduled programming of mirth and mayhem! (LMBAO)

Will Hug Ya When I See Ya...

rainwriter jones

photo "push for flasher" taken by me (rainwriter jones to you!) :-D

2011-06-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hot off the presses! New poetry by Korliss Sewer (aka, rainwriter jones). Please come by and check it out.

it fell from a concrete sky by Korliss Sewer by Korliss Sewer | Make Your Own Book

They Hold Up The Walls Whilst Their Pants Fall...

2011-06-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

...and I see them holding up the wall at the smoke shop across the street. I watch them (pants hanging/shit-talking) gathering on the premises, slinging "illegals" to anyone who may be interested in their wares. Now they've set up a hair cutting area in the parking lot. Beneath the canvas, who knows what transpires there.

Most of the time I'm angry with them: Being the absolute scourge of all I despise in life. Unmotivated to do the things I feel they should to become real men. Lazy, siftless individuals who would no sooner steal from you than to secure legitimate employment. They run in packs, these wall-holder-upers do. They give me sly smiles as they know I think of them as an abomination to mankind. And being that I absolutely DESPISE lazy men, it couldn't get much worse than to view their ineptness.

Yet in still, I pity them. I have a pretty good idea how they ended up holding the walls with their backs. No fathers nor viable male figures. I'm speaking in terms of males who made the choice (whether consciously or subconsciously) to abandon the lives of their sons. I know someone who through his actions left his son high and dry. His son found other males to fill the hole that he should have occupied. Unfortunately, often times the "hole-fillers" are those that have been left behind by THEIR fathers, gang members, or other disenfranchised-type individuals. This young man (to whom I referenced in a previous blog) has since found a questionable lot to call his family. With no upstanding male to guide him, his only option was to run with what I would call a gang.

To me, the male bonding experience is an important one. I've found that those who group together and have had positive influences in their lives do much better than those who do not. There is little tomfoolery in those circles, no criminal activity. Just guys enjoying each others' company. On the other hand, there can be negative consequences to those males who gather not so much for companionship and comraderie. The ones who didn't have the benefit of positive male sculpting early in life can engage in unlawful activity when in these groups. Yes, all under a hair cutting tent in a smoke shop parking lot! My rage in male parental abandonment will be aired in another blog.

Note to the absentee male figure: Take a look over your shoulder and see who you're leaving behind...

rainwriter jones

Deliciously Down-Low Dirty Deviant Devils

2011-06-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

In the recent past, there have been a series of sex scandals involving high-profile individuals.  As each story develops, I begin to question all the hoopla-la regarding sex, and how some have made a three-ring circus surrounding the act.  There's definitely a difference between someone who enjoys sex or the pursuit of such, and those who are compelled to have sex.   Shall we explore this?

PART ONE: Sexual Deviancy

I knew a person that I considered a very close friend that I can classify as a deviant. I thought he was a very charming and endearing person, and didn't know of his activities at the beginning of our friendship. Being promiscuous at a young age might have set the tone for his adult pursuits of multiple partners, questionable sex practices, and pornography. We knew each other for over 20 years, and he held his "unusual" desires to himself for almost the entirety of our relationship. However, one day while visiting him, I found a few pieces of unmentionables missing from my suitcase.  His constant denials led to an eventual confession. We haven't spoken since.

Sexual deviancy is a mental health disorder and like with any addiction, it takes larger doses of the drug to elicit the same desired effect. In terms of sex, the perpetrator tasks bigger risks. Many may be acquainted with a person they may consider sex addicted, but what is sex addiction? In my previous blog, "Sex Addiction 101," I list the symptoms as follows:

- Compulsive masturbation (self-stimulation)
- Multiple affairs (extra-marital affairs)
- Multiple or anonymous sexual partners and/or one-night stands
- Consistent use of pornography
- Unsafe sex
- Phone or computer sex (cybersex)
- Prostitution or use of prostitutes
- Exhibitionism
- Obsessive dating through personal ads
- Voyeurism (watching others) and/or stalking
- Sexual harassment
- Molestation/rape

To be truthful, I'm sure many of you have engaged in one or more of these activities (me included). But when does it change from pleasure to destruction? Possibly when it becomes obsessive and/or detrimental to relationships, employment:  Anything that is important that is disregarded due to having to get the next fix.

Rep. Weiner is a primary example of what could be considered sex addicted. From what I've been reading (and what he has confessed), he has had many encounters with willing and unwilling partners, and engaged in exhibitionism and cybersex. He stepped far and beyond what would be considered healthy sexual desires.  Addicts often hide their abhorrent behavior from family and friends, especially their spouses. Clues are often left as to their activity, but one needs to be receptive enough to interpret them.

PART TWO: Freaks (and the freakazoids who frequent these freaks)...

In my honest opinion, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tiger Woods aren't sexual deviants, but men who enjoy the company of women: MANY women!  Hot, lusty freaks that relentlessly chased females, even engaging in sexual activity with them. It's probably a good guess that Maria Schriver knew about Arnold's tastes for the female gender, and only objected to it when the public was made aware of his adulterous behavior. The possibility of many other women showing up and a child fathered with yet another woman couldn't be tolerated for someone of her social standing. She would surely be shunned by her high society friends for allowing him to step out on her like that. Too calm, too laid back, she HAD to have known. I wonder what his childhood was like? Was it okay in his household for the males to have women on the side?

On the other hand, Tiger liked to do the nasty with whomever he could catch a hold. His ex-wife Elin didn't have a clue as to his extramarital affairs as evidenced by her using his golf clubs on his ride . Why he left a trail of text messages pointing a finger back to him is beyond me.   Might as well have been bread crumbs. In his case, the inability of sexual experimentation may have led to his sexual exploits. So do you think that having a little "taste" before marriage would have curbed his philandering? We may never know. He was sexually underdeveloped as he acted like a school boy humpin' girls behind the portables.  What's ridiculous on his part is that he knew these women would not hold his secret. And speaking of secrets...

PART THREE: Somewhere In Between (or the world according to Alec Baldwin)

I followed a link on twitter regarding the Anthony Weiner sex scandal. It was a real eye-opener as spoken from a "matter of fact" perspective. Mr. Baldwin is taking the stance that cybersex "...is sex for many people now." The rest of the article can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/6h7fjux.

Can this be true? I know with the advent of being able to virtually touch anyone on planet Earth courtesy of the internet, we have accessibility to just about anyone we desire to interact with (for any purpose).

Another quote from Baldwin: "Weiner is so busy, he forgot the important rule that everyone you interact with on this plane becomes a co-conspirator. You rely on them to remain confidential." A fascinating statement. Maybe part of the game is being secretive: That raw part of the clandestine affair?  Maybe even moreso than the sex itself? It sounds perfectly logical that holding one's secret is one of the highs of undercover sex. A wink, a nudge, a confidence held between two (or more) co-conspirators.

CONCLUSION: The Truth in Advertising

Being up front about sexual tastes/habits with your partner is a favorable thing to do. Your partner should be able to make an informed choice as to whether to continue a relationship with you. It isn't fair to hide these facts from someone you supposedly care about. But if you're lying to your partner, you probably don't care enough to let them go. Extremely selfish, but so is sneaking around, AND putting your partner ask risk of STDs (believe me, if someone is creeping, they're probably not using jimmys).

Taking the mystique out of sex may alleviate the need for some individuals to lie about their pursuits. The other person should have the choice as to whether they want to accept their weirdicities," or move on. It might be a surprise that when you confess, your partner might have a confession or two for you as the knife cuts both ways!

rainwriter jones

P.S.: If you use my coined word "weirdicity," make sure to give me credit!

The Wrong Parent Left Behind

2011-06-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

Where do I start? Well, from the beginning of his story. A tiny baby born to parents who didn't want him. The two of them made a decision to put him up for adoption in lieu of parenting. In comes two parents who chose to adopt him, wanting to make sure that he felt loved: Wanted. That it wasn't a mistake for being born, but a miracle that he was created. And after 3 days, the birth parents take him back. With this, the psychological abuse commences with the father walking out after three years, and the mother being emotionally vacant. He's left to raise himself while the adoptive couple helplessly looks on.

I have personally seen this story re-enacted over and over. One parent walks out, leaving the other parent to take on the entire burden of raising a child on their own. In this particular situation, both parents were (are) dysfunctional. But there are other instances wherein one parent is more capable to taking care of the child(ren), but the OTHER parent has custody. The result are dysfunctional children who turn into dysfunctional adults. There is an endless cycle of men and women who never had a nurturing relationship with the custodial parent, nor the part-time parent. They cannot emotionally connect with others. If you've never seen what it is to be loved, how can you love?

I'm not knocking single parenthood. Though in the past, I had my doubts regarding the viability of such a relationship. However, it works in certain circumstances wherein there is a support system established between the single mother or father and other family members, friends, etc. I have a friend who single-handedly raised two beautiful, functional children without the aid of a deadbeat father. In this instance, the removal of the father from the equation was to the benefit of the children. I'm referring to a custodial parent who is incapable of raising a well-balance child due to their lack of parenting skills, drug abuse, or lack of "availability." Those who check out of their parenting responsibilities, or were never emotionally available to begin with. Those who show no love toward their offspring. These children have a tendency to engage in anti-social behavior.

It's too bad that parents aren't assessed for their ability to love their children. Just a hug, a kiss, or a word of encouragement is all some of these kids need to become productive citizens. But here we sit, and we wait, and we cry as to what has happened to these children right before our eyes. I know because I'm the adoptive parent who could only stand by while my son's life was ruined. Yes, I call him my son because he was, if only for three days...

rainwriter jones

Pride in Censorship

2011-05-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

As I uploaded more poems for inclusion in a book I'm creating on Blurb, I thought I'd better take a deeper look at some of the more questionable words and/or phrases I use while writing. This excerpt is what I found:

11.1 Prohibited Content. YOU MAY NOT INCLUDE “PUBLISHED BY BLURB,” “BLURB PUBLISHING” OR ANY OTHER REFERENCE THAT DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY SUGGESTS OR IMPLIES THAT BLURB IS THE PUBLISHER OF THE BOOKS THAT YOU CREATE USING THE SERVICES. You agree that you will not post, submit for print services, or otherwise provide to the Services, any Prohibited Content. “Prohibited Content” includes Book Content or Other Content that: (i) is offensive or promotes racism, bigotry, hatred or physical harm of any kind against any group or individual; (ii) bullies, harasses, or advocates stalking, bullying, or harassment, of another person; (iii) involves the transmission of “junk mail,” “chain letters,” unsolicited mass mailing, or “spamming,”; (iv) is false or misleading or promotes, endorses or furthers illegal activities or conduct that is abusive, threatening, obscene, defamatory or libelous; (v) promotes, reproduces, performs or distributes an illegal or unauthorized copy of another person’s work that is protected by copyright or trade secret law, such as providing pirated computer programs or links to them, providing information to circumvent manufacturer-installed copy-protection devices, or providing pirated music or links to pirated music files; (vi) is involved in the exploitation of persons under the age of 13 in a sexual or violent manner, or solicits personal information from anyone under 13; (vii) provides instructional information about illegal activities such as making or buying illegal weapons, violating someone’s privacy, or providing or creating computer viruses and other harmful code; (viii) solicits passwords or personally identifying information for commercial or unlawful purposes from other Users; (ix) contains viruses, Trojan horses, worms, time bombs, cancelbots, corrupted files, or similar software; (x) violates any applicable law, including, but not limited to laws and regulations governing export control, unfair competition, anti-discrimination and false advertising; (xi) involves commercial activities that are detrimental to the interests of Blurb; or (xii) otherwise violates this Agreement or creates liability for Blurb. BLURB RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PRINT ANY BOOK THAT CONTAINS CONTENT THAT IT DETERMINES IN IT SOLE DISCRETION IS PROHIBITED CONTENT, and you agree to indemnify and hold Blurb and its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, employees, suppliers, service providers, and partner companies harmless for any claims, losses, liabilities and expenses arising out of or relating to any breach of this section.

Yes, a lot to assimilate and for someone like me, very restrictive. Those two yellow highlighted words, obscene and offensive, are certainly subjective. Who is to determine what is offensive or obscene? A bare breast which nurses a child is fine, but a breast of a reclining female is not? A penis in a medical book is totally acceptable, but one that is displayed in a photograph (let alone erect) is deemed as unacceptable? (If you take note and read the red highlighted text, you'll certainly get a chuckle in seeing it's okay to promote sex and violence to anyone over the age of 13).

Censorship in the United States has always been a delicate subject. The First Amendment allots for freedom of speech, but only to a certain extent. Profanity and obscenity are not allowed in certain circumstances, which I can understand (i.e., around children under 18, etc.). I think people should have the right to hear (or not), read (or not) anything they desire as long as they have been aforewarned that questionable words/phrases are being used. In my case, I found "Tom Sawyer" particularly offensive back in my formative years as the word "nigger" was used liberally. But, the powers that be found it perfectly acceptable language because this book was a "classic." Still pisses me off 'til this day! Whoever made that decision decided to include this book in the curriculum regardless of how Black Americans felt. Damned right, it was OFFENSIVE!

Just recently Thomas Dolby used one, just one, explicative, and was subjected to a torrent of comments from those who preferred not to hear it in his song "To The Lifeboats." In my opinion, it was perfectly placed within the context of the song, and I wondered why folks were getting so bent out of shape behind this word. It was the only time I can recall him using a swear word in his music. Maybe because they thought it out of character? Or their civility wouldn't allow for its usage?

My blog has an adult lock which warns people that certain subject matter may be objectionable, and they have the choice whether to enter. Why Blurb doesn't have something similar is interesting. Because I wanted Blurb to publish my book, I toned down the language of my writing, which in my mind lessens the impact of certain pieces. Well-placed verbiage of any kind is necessary for relay the emotion the author is trying to convey. Needless to say, I'll be looking for another book creating site that will publish my work in it's entirety (uncensored) like many of the e-zines and free press literature publications out there.

I don't know. Maybe adding an astericks would make it more acceptable, and shit? Oh, wait a minute. That should be "sh*t!" (LOL)

rainwriter jones

Arnold: The Unwed Father

2011-05-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

I have decided to re-open my blog page after several months of not posting. This spot will be used whenever I have something a bit controversial and/or long-winded in style. Not wanting to off-put anyone, feel free to visit my opinions at "anywhere in the rain."

Arnold Schwarzenegger. Yep, I'm sure you've all heard of him, and the scandal involving him and his procreative activities. I'm sure his family/wife/friends were aware of him having several women on the side. To me that's not important. As long as a couple is aware that either party is "out there," who's business is it other than between the two of them? My issue comes into play when high-profile individuals deem themselves without fault, often placing others onto their moral compasses, and THEN get exposed for their dealings.

The love of the female/male form is admirable, and I'm not chastising anyone for getting a taste here and there, but I don't think of sex as love: It's an act. But again, that's my opinion. Things were probably cool between Arnold and Maria until the word got out regarding his secret child. Since she would look disgraced in the eyes of her contemporaries, all of a sudden, it wasn't cool that Arnold was "out there." Who's the hypocrite? Damn, cut him some slack, Maria. Don't play dumb now! She probably stopped having sex with him years prior. And who knows? She might have knew about the child(ren) in question.

Have your fun, but don't make children or bring home diseases.

But...this is only my opinion. Please feel free to leave yours, but don't be cruel in how you relay them.

rainwriter jones

A Weekend to Remember (or not) ... The Follow Up

2010-12-27T16:04:00.000-08:00

This is a postscript to my "A Weekend To Remember" entry. Here's a letter that I wrote the the hotel manager: and a letter from him as his response.

Dear Mr. Cox,

This e-mail is in regards to our hotel stay in room 3560 on December 11, 2010. We have our annual Christmas visit in Seattle, and thought that staying in a hotel we remembered as first class would be great.

Well, it started out on a sour note. When we arrived at 10 p.m. in the midst of a horrible storm, we expected to have our vehicle valet parked so we could go upstairs to relax. No such luck. The valet parking lot was filled, and we were forced to park our vehicle across the street, drag our bag in the pouring rain to a lobby filled with 20-somethings. When I complained to the desk about having to park off-property, she just gave a blank stare.

At 12:30 a.m., my husband was awakened to the couple next door engaged in sexual activity: banging and thumping on the wall, etc. This would have been funny any other time but seeing that we had been poorly treated mere hours prior, it wasn't laughable. At 2:15 a.m., we both were awakened to the sound of a loud party held by 20-somethings in the same room in which the sexual activity was heard. I call downstairs, and am told they have been notified by other guests of this party, and that security was on their way. 30 minutes later, I put my clothes on and head downstairs because there's no sign of security to break up this raucous party. In the lobby, I find security at the front desk smoozing with another female guest. They follow me upstairs, and clear the room of all but two hotel occupants. After a brief sleep on our part, we are again awakened at 5 a.m. to the LOUD sounds of sexual intercourse.

Here are a few questions. What is your policy on valet parking? It seems as though registered guests should have priority when it comes to parking on the premises. I saw lots of eveningwear in the valet parking area, and lots of kids in dressy garbs. Was there some party/gathering going on that made it impossible for those who were paying hotel guests to park? Sending your guests at night into the pouring rain doesn't seem like good policy. And I can rest assure that if an older couple were to show up at 10 p.m., their keys would have been taken, and their car parked!

Also, what is your policy on allowing anyone under the age of 25 to rent rooms? These youngsters turned the Westin into a spring-break-type location wherein drunken kids were allowed to disturb other guests who had come to enjoy the view and relax. Everyone should have been thrown out of that hotel room, including the registered guests who showed a total lack of judgment. I'm sure they were in violation of their hotel registration agreement with the party and excessive noise. This certainly should be grounds for them to be extricated along with their party guests.

Also, the lack of response by the security staff in taking care of problem hotel guests is despicable! With all things considered, our night at your hotel can be compared to the perfect storm: everything lined up to make our stay a miserable one.

Hopefully the poor treatment we received as hotel guests isn't typical.

Yours truly,

rainwriter jones (of course this ain't my name, silly!) (LOL)

********************

Ms. Jones,

First off please accept my apologies for the delay in responding to your e-mail. I have been on vacation and this is my first day back in the office.

I would like to thank you for taking the time to share your comments about your recent stay with us. I’m sorry to learn that you had such an awful experience. Our goal is to have every guest leave feeling relaxed and renewed and clearly we did not provide that experience for you.

On the day you arrived we had a group of guest attending a large social event in our ballroom. Clearly we underestimated the impact of this on our parking garage. You are correct in thinking that you should have priority when it comes to parking at the hotel. I was shocked to hear that you were not allowed to park in our garage.

To rent a room at our hotel you must be at least 18 years of age. However none of our guest should be engaged in such debaucherous activates as you described in this email.

I will be sharing this email with our parking, security and front desk staff to make sure this never happens again.

As a gesture of regret, I feel it is only fair to refund you for the room and tax. I have contacted our accounting office to issue a credit of $137.56.

Once again, Thank you for sharing your comments on your recent stay with us. While it is never pleasant to receive bad news, it is only through honest feedback that we are able to identify and address our shortcomings.

Warm Regards,

Jay

======================

And although I haven't the notion to stay there again, at least I feel like I didn't pay for horrid treatment.

rainwriter jones

Happy Holidays

2010-12-14T08:54:00.000-08:00

Please come visit my store on Lulu for some really great gifts for the holiday season and throughout the year!

rainwriter jones

A Weekend to Remember

2010-12-13T16:11:00.000-08:00

Downtown Seattle View from the 35th Floor
Photographer: Korliss Sewer

Our family has a tradition of spending a weekend in Seattle for the Christmas holiday. However, due to training on my part, we had an abbreviated but lovely Saturday at Pike Place Market. We were a little unconventional this time around as we didn't just concentrate on the shops and restaurants, but visiting with some of the street musicians and performers that frequent the market. We had a caricature made by one of them of the entire family which I will soon frame and display in our home.

After dropping off our daughters, my husband took me around Tacoma to take night time photos. This is the first time I've had the opportunity to go shoot certain locations because I don't feel safe taking photos after dark. Snagged some really cool photos, too! Award-winning, I might add. :-D

We headed to the Westin for a little couple time. It started pouring as we made our way to the valet parking feeling secure we would be comfy in our suite shortly. We pulled up to the curb just to find out the valet lot was full, and we had to park our own vehicle off the property. Dang-blanged fools wouldn't even park our ride. So at 10 p.m. in the pouring rain we find a lot, pay $24, and then drag our bag across the street like a little run-away boy to the hotel lobby. A slip of a girl worked behind the desk: I decided to ask her about the parking situation (or lack thereof). She looked a wee bit afraid, so I let it go.

We have a grand view of downtown Seattle from the 35th floor, and again, I score some excellent shots. A little alcohol later we fall asleep, just to be awakened at 3 a.m. by a WILD party in the next room over. Drunken 20-somethings making all sorts of noise dancing and singing. Half asleep, I call the lobby to lodge a complaint. They say they have security coming up shortly. Well, 20 minutes later there was no security, so I put my clothes are to confront the front desk. Guess who's still on duty? (lol) She busied herself as I stood and stared at her with braided hair peeking beneath my hood. Finally, security shows up, and I tell them about the wild party. We go upstairs, and they shoo away the partygoers, leaving the couple behind that originally rented the room.

Back to sleep I fall 'til 5 p.m. LOTS of mad humpin' going on against our headboard. Sounded like homeboy was going to slam her through the wall into our bed. I'm like, damn, can you keep it down! I couldn't even take care of my business with them taking care of theirs! (LMBAO) According to my husband, these two were going at it around 12:30 a.m. which originally woke him up, and then the party started around 2 a.m. Damned kids!

Time for check-out, and I'm exhausted. No real resolution to the poor service from this hotel. But all in all, the weekend was a good one. We're securing another weekend get-away to make up for this fiasco. But it won't be at the Westin, that's for sure!

rainwriter jones

The Gift of Thrift

2010-08-23T13:19:00.000-07:00

L.A. Sellin' & Tellin'

Photography by rainwriter jones

The thrift store (or charity shop) was once condemned as a place where only poor folks would tread: now they're all the rage in even the wealthier communities. My first experience with bargain shopping was back when I was a mere lass (well, not so young, 12-ish) when the very first Value Village opened within walking distance of my house. It smelled kind of musty with the toss-offs of clothing, furniture, and knick-knacks from God knows who: but it smelled like paradise to a cheap-o like me! Mind you, I'll spend top dollar for something that "calls my name," but for everyday clothes? The cheaper the better! I remember I purchased a lovely sky blue cashmere sweater for $.25! I wish I still had it, but it is long-gone (probably someone else's thrift store find). And seeing as though this was a reduction from the $.50 price 'cause it was half off that day?? LUXURY!!

Yesterday I had to spend a little more than I wanted heading to Goodwill instead. My favorite items are sweaters, purses, men's jeans and sweaters (none of that prissy ladies sweaters), vintage clothing, and teacups. I scored two of the latter for $.69. Of course they match as they are the love ritual cups for our morning joe. :-)

Here I offer some tips for the casual thrift shopper:

1. If you find something interesting but it hasn't "called your name," place it in your shopping cart any way. If it calls to you before you're ready to head to the cash register, buy it. You'll be pissed if you changed your mind, went back for it, and found it riding in someone else's cart.

2. Be frugal. If it costs more than what you think it should, ask if you can get a price reduction. They don't want to deal? Put it back!

3. Keep your mind open as to what you are looking for. Things "call to you" (at least they do for me). It may be a pair of jeans or an antique desk.

4. Bring a vehicle big enough to haul larger items. You don't want to head back home to get the truck to find your item gone.

5. Don't let the pushy thriftshopper budge you from your scouring area. Stand your ground, and cast a glaring eye if necessary.

6. Some of the questionable items that you placed back on the shelf may call your name later. Come back 'round to see if it's still there. If it isn't, it wasn't meant to be yours.

7. Be sure to look for any imperfections BEFORE you purchase. If you can live it 'em, buy it and/or repair it at your leisure.

8. Don't buy it 'cause it's cheap. Buy it 'cause it suits a purpose! You don't want to be deemed as a hoarder! (LMBAO)

9. Go out shopping without adornments: come home with the necklace of your dreams. He'll just figure this is a piece he hasn't seen.

10. Make sure your spouse doesn't see you bring it in. E...A...S...E into the house whilst your significant other is out and about. Like with the adornments, they won't notice that new sofa if you've got a slip cover on it! (LMBAO)

Ummmm....saw a distressed shelving unit yesterday. Heading out to see if it's still there!

rainwriter jones

Child Abuse and the Solo Risk Taker

2010-06-11T13:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't come "here" often, but every now and again something just chaps my hide so much that I've got to blog about it.

What's been troubling me, you might ask? The fact that there are actually parents who let their children fly airplanes, sail 'cross the world, or other risky ventures on their own! Yes, they may say that they are indeed supervised in the respect that they're in radio contact with an adult at all times, but look at the latest situation involving Abby Sunderland. Who's idea was it to let this 16 year-old attempt such a feat? Even if it was hers, the parents should have patted her on her head like lil' Sue Who and send her upstairs to bed with a glass of milk! And to think that her brother Zac did a solo trip on the Indian Ocean, too? And another 16 year-old named Jessica Watson sailed around the world. Are these parents crazy?

No. Just sensationalists! Trying to gain fame for themselves through the efforts of their children. I do believe this behavior is closely akin to the mental health diagnosis Munchausen by proxy whereby the adult caretaker exaggerates their child's illness (or even sickens them) in order to gain attention for themselves. (See link below). But instead of the illness aspect, they have substituted risk-taking for their children. While they are out sailing or flying, the parents are basking in the media. Even the Heene's put their children at risk for fame and fortune with the "Balloon Boy" fiasco.

So what are we to do with these parents who endanger the lives of their children? I know for me, I don't watch anything that is reported in the media in regards to their antics. Giving them attention is what they want (along with the money, of course). Neither of which this writer is giving.

rainwriter jones

http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/munchausen.html

Sitting Here Watching Slugs Slime

2010-04-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

The days around here have been cool, if not cold. Looking forward to some consistently warm temperatures. They must be on their way with the emergence of this little fellow. Took a picture of him easing his way down a bathroom mirror outside of my front door. The mirror makes the yard look bigger.

Even this gastropod finds motivation; even if it's just to find a tasty morsel in our garden on which to munch. Yes, I know it's only instinct, but why can't we human be instinctual in regards to finding something productive to do? Create something? Inspire someone? By taking time to blog this, you should know by know that motivation is sorely lacking for me, and I think I shall return to bed for a few hours: see what inspires me to even rise from the sheets.

Or grab the salt shaker to watch him shrink...

Ain't instinct beautiful?

rainwriter jones

Peeking Through The Key Hole: Three Songs For Romance

2010-03-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate another anniversary together. We fell in love quickly; marrying only after a 3-month courtship. I knew he was "the one" after our very first kiss!

The weather is the same as it was 23 years ago, partly cloudy with occasional rain showers. I remember quite clearly the image of my future husband standing in the doorway of the courthouse, smiling and nervous. Taking on this new responsibility of a wife; promising my Father he will honor and cherish me. I know he is smiling down from Heaven knowing I made a good choice in my marriage.

I have this strange habit of associating a song with a particular time/event. There are three songs that play to our relationship:

1. "Something About You" by Level 42. This is the tune that I knew I had to learn more about this man who made me pause in 1987. He was different than the average man enjoying a large variety of music, always striving towards improving his circumstance, and funny as hell! Different: like me.

2. "I Don't Run From Danger" by The System. We rolled to this back in the day: before marriage, before children, before everything we are at this moment. This is where we cemented our love for each other.

3. "Always" by Atlantic Starr. Our first dance was to this tune. It still brings a tear to my eye as I remember the couple featured on the video young like we were, and then standing aged on the porch watching their children and grandchildren. We have followed their timeline.

As I watched my husband sleep this morning I wondered: What will be the fourth song of our union? I guess I'll just have to stick around to find out!

Happy Anniversary. I love you more than the day we said "I do!"

As Always...

~Korky

Give Me That Old Time Religion: A Guide to the Self-Righteous

2010-02-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

Are there people who are truly dedicated to their religion? I'm not speaking of any religion in particular, but all sects. Where is character formed: inside or outside the church? I remember attending services as a youngster. No sooner had the preaching ceased were sisters such-and-so gossiping about another church member inside the vestibule.

I had a strange situation with a person of faith who had been picking up someone I know to take them to church every Sunday. I had doubts about this young man from the start as he had the "look" of someone untrustworthy, though he expounded the word with great conviction. He had previous run-ins with law enforcement, and claimed he was a changed man. He started out well enough, but eventually picked my guy up later and later (or not at all). Well, this Sunday he called to tell me he wouldn't be taking him any more; that he was working with another group of folks, etc., and that he would tell my guy when he picked him up later in the afternoon. I said okay, but knowing that this was yet another fabrication. Lo and behold, brother never showed up: even after two phones calls asking if he was coming. He hasn't called back yet, and it's Tuesday morning.

This brings up our troubled Tiger Woods. He says that he hasn't followed his Buddhist upbringing, and that's why he strayed. Jimmy Swaggart strayed. Tammy Faye Baker strayed (so did her husband...big time). There are innumerous members of the religious community who have strayed: turned to the dark side, no less. There is a common theme with all these folks in that they were held to a higher standard than most of us. To behave in a manner that many of us can't (or won't). I have to wonder whether they are standards that any one of us can uphold. It's almost as if these folks were set to fail, maybe by their own doing. Their self-righteousness being used to shield their untowardly ways from public view.

Can people really change their ungodly behaviors when they've strayed from their beliefs? Did they ever change in the first place?

rainwriter jones

Sex Addiction 101

2010-02-19T09:33:00.000-08:00

There's been lots of discussion regarding Tiger Woods and his recently publicized antics.  His infidelities have brought to the forefront a disturbing disorder: sex addiction. What is it, and how is it treated?

The symptoms for sexual addiction are as follows:

- Compulsive masturbation (self-stimulation)

- Multiple affairs (extra-marital affairs)
- Multiple or anonymous sexual partners and/or one-night stands
- Consistent use of pornography
- Unsafe sex
- Phone or computer sex (cybersex)
- Prostitution or use of prostitutes
- Exhibitionism
- Obsessive dating through personal ads
- Voyeurism (watching others) and/or stalking
-Sexual harassment
-Molestation/rape

Like any addict, he/she places their needs in front of all else: their daily routine revolves around how to obtain what they desire without care of consequences.  I know a few addicts, and have worked with some in a clinical setting. I have watched them relentlessly pursue their drug of choice. It is not unusual for them to have multiple addictions. In the case of sexual addiction, sex is their "monkey on the back," causing them to put themselves and their family in precarious positions, risking everything for that next "hit." Satisfaction is always out of reach.

The treatment for sex addiction may include:

- Controlling addictive behavior
- Helping the person develop a healthy sexuality
- Education about healthy sexuality, individual counseling, and marital and/or family therapy
- Support groups and 12 step recovery programs for people with sexual addictions
- Medications like Prozac or Anafranil which treat obsessive-compulsive aspect of this disorder

Sexual addiction is extremely hard to treat effectively, if not impossible. And like with all addictions, there is no cure.  Relapses can be a possibility with any addiction.

I believe sex addiction exists, but for those to use it as an excuse for his/her infidelity is appalling!  It's easy to hide behind a diagnosis rather than to admit one's human fragility.

Check yourself, Mr. Woods.

rainwriter jones

*information from http://www.medicine.net/*

Ethnicity Within The Black Community

2010-01-31T12:25:00.000-08:00

Light-skinned versus dark-skinned. This war is centuries-old, beginning back in the days of slavery. Thought of as resembling their owners because of their shade, the fairer-skinned slaves worked in the house while the darker ones toiled in the fields. First initiated by Whites, a tradition carried on by Blacks.

I was born in the time of "two hospitals." There were only two hospitals which delivered Black babies in Seattle. Though segregation was not openly practiced, there definitely were color lines wherein Blacks were not allowed to cross. A quiet separation of Whites and Blacks. Only a small amount of White doctors took Black patients. The others simply didn't admit any into their practice. That was a mere 50 years ago.

Back in the 60s, there was a definite color line: a division between dark-skinned Blacks versus light-skinned ones. Our darker brothers and sisters were often color coded: being treated as though they were less worthy of the benefits fairer-skinned Blacks received. There were even names associated with being of a darker hue (of which I will not mention here). And of course, there's the matter of "good" hair versus "bad" hair. I have two children, both of which state that the same old tune is still playing on the Victrola. After all this time, it's hard for me to believe this is true.

What is trying to be "White?" What is trying to act "Black?" Do you think if Obama was dark skinned that he would have won the election? Your thoughts...

Debating With Self...

rainwriter jones

Dangerous Height-Challenged Son-O-Guns!

2010-01-21T12:42:00.000-08:00

I have to tell you, this has indeed been troubling me for quite a time. Those who are excessively limited in height can be excessively aggressive? (note: I said "can be"). I think this is a timely topic as I've had a recent conversation with a friend from another site who spoke upon the topic, and her experience with an aggressive checker who scares the hell out of her! God bless her! (LOL)

I remember attending a concert in Seattle with my sister in 2006. We were all standing 'round singing 80s tunes, some folks somewhat inebriated, but all waiting for the performance to begin. A clipper ship of a woman came cruising through the crowd, pushing intoxicants aside in a wave of drunkeness. Folks were just about to start cursing her out, this lil' 4ft. x 4ft. mass wearing a fez, but the look gave us let us know that if you DARED say a single word to her, she'd let you have it. Her ship cruised to the front of the crowd beneath the stage: just where she wanted to be.

I remember way back when having a boyfriend who was short. He was a real son-o-bitch, with his conniving self. Played me and many other women at the same time! I think his lack of height and male appendage made him what he was, and he had to prove himself by being the Stud of Seattle. The last time I saw him was at a barbeque with his ugly wife-y. She looked like a pig. (LMAO)

Please watch this film as a testament to the potential woes of short folks, and possibly why they act a fool!:

You heard him?? "Women don't give short men no play!" (LMBAOOO)
As for myself? I stand 5'2": 5'0" without glasses. I, too, have a tendency to "act" taller than my actual height, pushing and shoving my way through life, sometimes with reckless abandon. Maybe I should score a fez like the one above. Then you know I've got to be crazy, and I will get my way without knocking you over! (LMBAO)

Your thoughts?

Broadcasting With Elevator Shoes...

rainwriter jones

Partie Merlot Pour Deux

2010-01-19T09:20:00.000-08:00

My husband and I had an intimate wine tasting party this Friday by the fireside. I was the host this month, deciding upon Merlot as our grape in its varietal form. There were five labels for consideration, two from Washington, and three from California:

2007 J. Lohr Merlot Los Osos
2007 181 Wine Cellars Merlot Clay Station
2006 Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard
2006 Ghost Pines Merlot Winemaker’s Blend
2007 Charles Smith Merlot Velvet Devil

The bottles were allowed to breath for one hour prior to tasting. Britannia Crisps were used to clear the palate between wines. Korky’s meatballs were served along with a few other munchies.

===============

Impressions:

- J. Lohr: The attack was harsh, though flavor mellowed into a nice cherry with deep flavored richness. Overall, a delightful wine, especially during second round of tasting.

- 181: Cherry nose, buttery short finish. (note: with my palate if a wine is enjoyable, the finish is usually a “butter-flavored” one, and not in reference to the wine being a Chardonnay). Floral notes throughout. Another keeper!

- Chateau Ste. Michelle: Not very impressive, taste barely discernible; hollow. A blend of tangerine and oak perceived. Fairly flat; thin-bodied. With a 2009-2011 drinking window, I have to question the quality of the wine. Will not re-purchase.

- Ghost Pines: Cherry nose, a little bit drier than the other wines; less tannins. Pleasant backdrop of almonds. I may be a wee bit partial to Louis M. Martini’s wines as all I’ve tasted thus far have been very good. A re-buy for this one!

- Charles Smith Velvet Devil: Gasoline nose up front; very offsetting. Plum-y taste towards mid-palate, buttery backdrop. I’ve tasted this wine in the past and compared to the other three California offerings, it doesn’t measure up. Re-purchase only if on sale.

===============

Truthfully, the California wines fared much better than that of Washington state. I haven’t given up on our wine producers, but I need to taste a greater variety from different wineries.

After the first small samples, a break was taken to sufficiently clear our palates. Upon re-tasting, our favorite oscillated between J. Lohr and 181. J. Lohr got the tip of our fedora! A cigar to finish the evening, of course.

rainwriter jones

The Airline Industry (i.e., let's git nekkid!)

2010-01-09T11:05:00.000-08:00

Do you think the world's gone crazy? I mean, with all the mess going on with the airlines, and folks threatening our very lives with their radical views?

Here lately, there's been a grip of threats and near distasters involving air travel. I don't know if it's from a lack of sufficient airport staff, their lack of training, or just a lack-lusterness that I've been feeling for the past several years wherein nothing or no one matters. All I know is that there needs to be an improvement in securing all places in which large amounts of people gather: malls, theaters, amusement parks, and yes, airports.

And with that said, I've got a proposal which may be somewhat controversial. I think everyone needs to be strip searched with body cavities probed to the fullest extent! Yep, I said it! Grandma Jenkins bent over a counter, with a gloved worker's hand up her coochie! As indelicate as that sounds, it will keep all but the hard heads from flying. Look at it this way, the airports won't be crowded with all those damned families trying to get to grandma's house as their dignity won't allow them to get nekkid in front of a crowd of people. A true relief to the weary traveler that don''t want their flight-time sleep impaired by screaming kids.

I, for one, will be the weirdo who would be the first to volunteer! (LMBAO)

rainwriter jones

The Wife: Not Baby's Mama

2009-11-13T12:05:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post this blog from a topic broached by a friend on Twitter. What is a wife. What is a "good wife?" And how do we teach the young ladies of today how to be a wife, and not a "baby's mama?"

Wife: a female partner in a marriage

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wife

That's Merriam-Webster's definition of marriage. Here's mine:

A partner for life to love, honor, cherish, discuss with, fight with, brawl with, be vulnerable with.

The wife is not being enslaved or subjugated, but working as a partner to raise children; make it through this madness in one piece. My marriage of almost 23 years has not always been a bed of roses, and I'd be lying if I told you that. I consider myself a good wife. Why? Because I have stuck through it with a man that I love, honor, cherish, discuss with, fight with, brawl with, and am vulnerable with. And because of this, both my husband and myself teach our daughters how not to end up as another statistic: the baby mama. Not to choose reproduction over marriage. Instilling into them that if a man is not "good enough" to marry, why would you have children with them?

The role of the woman has changed. Back in the days when fire was first created (circa 1960 and prior), women wore a different suit than today's woman. She was a wife, chief cook, and bottle washer. There were definitive roles for both men and women. She was taught by her mother how to keep house and tend to children. A man was taught how to bring home the bacon and manage his household. He was often the disciplinarian; bringing the children back into line when they crossed it. That's where the term "wait 'til your father gets home" came from.

In the years I've been here on planet Earth I've seen things change, and not for the better. Many of the problems arose when women entered the workforce back in the 1960s not because we had to for economic necessity, but because we wanted to show men that we were equal: that we could do everything they could. Things started spiraliing downhill as more and more women entered the working world as our young ones were left at day cares, or even to fend for themselves. The mentality that a woman can be both a mother AND a father further created the divide we see today. As we became more sexually aware, more "out there," the desire to have a man as a husband waned. The divorce rate increased; the marriage rate decreased.

The baby mama-drama stems from all this. The need for women to feel empowered: being the one in control of every aspect of her life, especially reproduction. With the man being a mere sperm donor, he does not feel the need to stay around. And the cycles continues as yet another generation of women feel the need to leave menfolk out of their family equation. Men are not off the hook for creating this mess. Since they've been severed from the role of provider for the family unit, they figure they might as well take advantage of not having any responsibility at all in regards to raising children. There is chaos pursuant to NEITHER party willing to create a bond of man-woman-child.

Now that society has created a new mindset on family and family values you have to ask yourselves: will we ever go back to the time when a man and a woman raised children together? To set up a firm foundation with the man or woman before there is reproduction? Is there a stigma attached to those who choose to marry, and not simply reproduce?

So many questions: so many choices.

rainwriter jones

And It All Came To Me: News At 11

2009-10-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

I know I've been told change is good. That might have been true in the past. Back in the 60s and 70s when change meant there were new jobs to be had: new opportunity for anyone who tried to make something of themselves. When getting an education was worth more than written words on a sheepskin. And as much as I hated it as a child, church was attended, and faith was nurtured. A part of the family structure.

Now faith has been replaced by the evening news. Last night had me think about how not many things seems to hold the same significance any more. Boeing had been a long-term employer to the Seattle area for decades. No one ever thought they'd pull up stakes, but they have been slowly but surely easing their business to other states. Before that, the Supersonics (Sonics in the latter years) moved to Oklahoma after having their start here. A mainstay: 100,000s of fans watched them disappear into the clouds.

Our trees are ripped from the ground to make way for brand new homes no one can afford; while older homes sit neglected. The only thing that stopped the senseless slaughter was the recession. The news says that new housing starts are significant to the rebuilding of our economy. The builders will begin anew: stripping the land of it's vital resources.

Then it spoke of the holidays, and how only 63% of employers were having a Christmas party this year. Lord have mercy, where's the spirit?? The malls once had Christmas sales which are now called "holiday" sales for fear of alienating anyone who doesn't celebrate Christmas. Okay...that's fine. But can we as a people come up with ONE major holiday we can celebrate TOGETHER during the month of December? United We Stand Day? There seemed to be so much more unity back when I was growing up. Preserving everyone's rights have made us a very secular society. Even with eating a pretzel in public, you could be liable to be named in a lawsuit.

This thought turned over in my head: are we as a country become "insignificant?" Not in just the sense of political power, but by way of losing our traditions: our commitment. Just seems as though the fabric of our country has been washed too many times, and is now beginning to fade through.

Maybe I shouldn't watch the news?

rainwriter jones

Beyond The Sheets: "Friends With Benefits?"

2009-09-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Do you believe that men and women can engage in sexual activity, but still remain friends?

I know of several men with many female acquaintances who treat their bedroom doors as revolving ones. They say they admire the female form, and enjoy encounters with anyone they can persuade to lie beneath their covers. They're called friends or company. To have sex with and nothing more. These women leave in the morning, supposedly with no strings attached. One man in particular says he wants a long-term relationship: someone to come home to that he can love. If having sex is strictly biological, why would he say this? Problem being is he also says the females he beds aren't "good enough." Are there different categories of women: those to bed versus those to marry? A woman to only use for sex, but not for anything else? He says he's looking, but yet in still...here comes another woman to his bed. But even with this, there's a distinct yearning for more than just the physical.

The same can be said for women. We say we don't want anything more than sex, but is that true? With us languishing in the orgasmic afterglow, I beg to differ. We would leave immediately if that was all we wanted. To snuggle, cuddle, and wake up with this person can be more enjoyable than the sex. Thoughts can linger in the back of our heads as to whether something else can come out of the bedroom...to bring this "relationship" to another level.

Is there an underlying need to connect: to feel affection with the person we sex? Emotions ALWAYS seem to creep in, whether we're willing to admit it or not.

rainwriter jones

It's A Matter Of Race...

2009-09-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a feeling that I've had all along in regards to the health care battle here as of late. While I was pouring myself out of bed, President Carter said everything I had thought, but didn't want to admit in that racism is driving the resistence to President Obama's health care initiutives. The public outcry against government spending by certain groups is just a cover up for a much deeper, insinuous feeling that a Black President should not lead our country. There will be this "arms folded" style resistence with any plan presented before these right-wingers; refusing to discuss and/or negotiate like a democratic society should, but instigate an uncooperative spirit amongst their constituents. Can I go as far as say ilicit hate amongst the masses?

It left a pit in my stomach knowing that someone else had the same impression but they, like me, didn't want to broach the topic...fearing it would stir up what was perceived as a long-buried race issue. Seeing as though this was spoken from the mouth of an Ex-White House employee creeped me out! With him being in the know, he's quite aware politicians sheninagins, and how the Republicans have played upon the fears of a group of citizens which do not want President Obama to succeed. They will throw any obstacle in front of him and his administration to assure that he fails.

My problem with these so-called protestors is that all hell has been breaking loose since the last 8-year term with Bush as our President. Where were they then? Weren't the same problems present during the Bush administration? And why is there all this ruckus now? Why can't they trust that we are heading in the right direction? And if they feel we are not steering a clear course, why can't they negotiate, sit down at the table, instead of disrespecting the highest office in the free world? You know why: it just hasn't been spoken until now.

This is only the tip of the iceberg. It goes beyond the fact that President Obama is Black, but into the deep-rooted fear of change to the status quo. From those who were empowered by the mere color of their skin, and not by any gains they had made through perserverance and hard work. It frightens me every time I see a "rally" wherein the angry disenfranchised are wielding hateful signs, all behind the rabble-rousing of the many Joe Wilsons who spread mis-information to these simple-minded protestors.

I was a child of the 60s, and caught the tail end of the civil rights movement. I saw the riots, and hate, the destruction. But...I also saw the gains, and have directly benefited from the sacrifices my forefathers/mothers made. So I could be "here." "Here" is anywhere I want to be: without restriction because of my brown armor. With the social environment in the state that it's in, I think there's going to be more b*llsh*t before things get better.

Peace...

rainwriter jones

This May Sound Crazy...

2009-09-11T13:56:00.000-07:00

But do big a** truck drivers disappear? Or only petite, fair-skinned damsels? I've noticed the media covers the disappearances of those we associate with being frail in some manner. Someone perceived as helpless graces the t.v. or internet; a picture of them on our monitors in happier times. Smiling, no less. Does anyone else go missing? I can understand children but as with missing females, hardly ever a child of color is given a write-up or air time.

And hardly ever a Black man. I can't EVER remember a Black man being featured as one of the lost. You know some of them have got to have disappeared over the years. What's up with that?

There definitely are some inequities by which who is considered worthy of news coverage: that only certain individuals fit the profile of being vulnerable. Hell, aren't we all vulnerable given the right circumstance?

rainwriter jones

United We Stand? Not So Hidden Racism in the U.S.

2009-09-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

As you probably know by now, I'm not a politically-inclined person. Not saying that I don't keep up with what is happening here in the U.S. and around the world, but I don't follow every bill or legislative act on a daily basis. But, I've been watching a troubling trend here lately. Masked racism. Yes, these words from someone who is quick to befriend anyone no matter what their race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, etc. As long as someone treats me well and with respect, we're good to go.

What's troubling me? The fact that there is an underlying element that is attempting to not only undermine the policies set forth by our President, but his presidency as a whole. Not seeking to offer useful alternatives to them, but arguing and hell raising. But what do I see with my observant eye? It's not about the politics whatsoever. It's about the man!

I see it, don't you? The latest "protest" is the pulling of their children from school because they don't want them to hear President Obama's speech. Totally disrespectful to the Office. Now tell me the truth. Even when ex-President Bush was at the depths of his presidency, would they have pulled their children from the classroom when HE was making a speech? Absolutely not! Because President Obama is Black, he is not afforded the respect of his Office. This has not happened to any other Democratic president since before I was alive. Even in the 60s and with President Kennedy's policies. Although some did not agree, their children watched his speeches out of respect for his Presidency. The divisive attitude of these groups is despicable.

I may not agree to all the policies of ANY President, Obama included, but there needs to be a respect given to anyone who assumes the Office. And at the end of Obama's presidency when nothing gets done after all the rabble-rousing they'll stand proudly and say, "We told you it wouldn't work!" Of course it didn't, because YOU did all you could do to stop it through your disruptive practices!

rainwriter jones

A Woman Talks About Male Friendship

2009-09-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

I've got a question for everyone that has been pressing on my mind for a bit. Can men and women be friends? I mean true friends without any preconceived notion of a sexual relationship?

I don't know if you've been following my Twitter updates about home dude who lives next door who chases women. ALL WOMEN! I've sufficiently put him off because I figure he's a man whore who chases p*ssy as much as he chases money. Now he asks my husband will I ever speak to him again. The answer is "no" because of his inability to treat women as mere sex objects.

It seems a person of this character hasn't a clue as to what it is to have a friendly relationship with someone of the opposite sex. But does everyone have this problem? Though most of us do not overtly give the "vibe" of pursuing a person of the opposite sex (or same sex), do we still give off signals? In the way we dress? Speak? Demeanor? Just the fact that you're an outgoing type of individual, chatty and such, can give folks the impression that you want to bone them! (LMBAO)

I don't know...what do you think?

rainwriter jones

The Pied Piper of 29th Street

2009-09-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

He swaggers across several lanes of traffic

where neon pours free-handed

And beckons those who suit his fancy

to finish the evening

sprawled on his living room floor.

=================================

Do you know someone that can entice people to do things they may not do, but with a little prodding, they'd jump off a building?

I've watched the antics from across the parking lot: the view from this angle is an interesting one. I see people coming and going at all hours of the day and night in various states of inebriation. From the disenfranchised crack whore, to the pseudo businesswoman. The term "Sis" is the catch-all phrase for these females. The semi-employed male will show up on rare occasion, too. All get drawn into his world of fun and merriment. I can only imagine what goes on behind THAT green door!

Yesterday he had a visitor that came during daylight hours, and left just before my daughter was to catch the school bus! You wonder if these folks really have a life? Or is home dude is so lonely, he'll do anything to keep company. Or is it manipulation? Him leading people to where he wants them by means of money and/or alcohol?

In any case, to watch the various/similar scenarios are funny as hell! We're at the point where we're taking bets on how long his "company" will be staying, if they'll leave with some of his cash, if they'll steal some of his cash, and when they'll be back for more. It's hard to tell who is being manipulated.

And he doesn't know Mrs. Kravitz is watching. (LMBAO)

rainwriter jones

Lawd Have Mercy!! When Are Adults "Adult?"

2009-08-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Responsibility. Quite a mouthful for young babes. I have been trying to instill a sense of "caring for someone outside yourself" type of attitude with my daughters. Sometimes it works without intervention, sometimes I have to use a firm hand to get my point across.

My elder daughter BEGGED me to keep a feral kitten a few days ago. I was going to let nature take it's course, but changed my mind seeing as though she is older now (nearly 19), and should be able to take responsibility for this young life with a wee bit of help from myself. Well, the kitten stopped sucking on the nipple about 24 hours ago, and was in obvious need of hydration and nutrition. What was she doing? Online and texting! I'm like, damn, call the doctor and see if there is anything you should be doing to help it. If she doesn't survive, at least you know YOU did all you could. Reluctantly, she goes to the vet and picks up a syringe to force-feed the kitten. She comes back, feeds the kitten, and then smiles with pride.

Yes, as adults we have to look outside of what we want to do for the betterment of those around us. Being "self-less" is a difficult concept for some to grasp, but it is very rewarding once you get it.

I wonder when young adults "get it." Do you know? Please help me out on this one! (LOL)

rainwriter jones

Promises and Compromise

2009-08-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

I don't know, but it seems as though this country is on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as of late. Why? Because of the promises which were made during the election year. Those promises that had us riding on high; figuring that Obama was going to be able to fix everything with the wave of a magic wand. Reality has set in that he is NOT the messiah!

Many of us knew this would happen. When you put someone up on a pedestal, eventually they will teeter. President Obama looks a lilttle worse for wear having to fight off all the nigh sayers, protestors, and Republicans who would like more than to see him fail. He's just getting a real taste of politics: and how some individuals or groups will not support you; even if you have a great agenda.

I think what upsets me the most is that people know there is a problem to which the President is trying to fix, but won't stand behind him, or even come up with alternatives...just bitch! The town hall meetings are a joke, and someone's going to eventually do the unspeakable. You already have homeboy totting a weapon: what else do you need to prove those meetings need to be shut down? I know I'm not going to any of them! (LOL)

Do you think President Obama needs to back-pedal on some of the promises he made? Is there a way for him to obtain his objectives, and not sell himself out? Is compromise a sell out? I don't know. What do you think?

rainwriter jones

And They Do Grow Up...

2009-08-09T14:09:00.000-07:00

I had an interesting evening yesterday. My elder daughter brought home another boyfriend, but nothing like the dudes she'd brought by as of late. This one actually works AND has a car! He drove 2 hours round-trip to cook dinner for us. I couldn't believe that there were actually gentlemen left out here in this twisted world!

He shone through with flying colors, impressing me more than my husband, that he would actually do something like this for us. Brought her flowers, too! While we were at the table, he told me that he's saving up for a ring. I don't know if I'm quite ready for that, but I guess I'll have to...some day. :-)

rainwriter jones

Big Warm Ball

2009-08-04T12:41:00.001-07:00

I found this article very interesting, and thought I'd share it with you. It's a bit controversial in respect that it gives a counter argument about global warming as a man-made phenomena. That Mars is also experiencing warmer temperatures and polar ice cap melts.

I've always had my suspicions about the global warming discussion as a whole; seeing that the planet has had ice ages and warming periods in the past. I don't know if we could have done all this "damage" in the short period of time we have been driving automobiles. (lol)

Read it, and let me know what you think.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/02/070228-mars-warming.html

Here...Again.

2009-08-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I had taken a break from a dedicated blog for more than a minute. I had been thinking about re-opening this one, so here I am...again...spreading the word to those who will here me. (lol)

I've created two other websites to host my poetry, photography, and any interesting this and that's which suited my fancy. They are:

www.ElusiveDragonfly.com

www.MoreChitlinsIPresume.net

When I'm not yacking here; I'll be yacking there! Feel free to drop by either/both at any time. More Chitlins is an "earthier" site where I'm a lil' bit more straight forward in my poetry and material presented there. Elusive Dragonfly has more of a "hempdresser" feel where I present a smoother, gentler approach toward life as we know it. Hey, we all have at least two sides, don't we?

So, I'm glad to be back. I'll come by to visit you once I get my house back in order.

rainwriter jones