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Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness:
Congratulations to newdealfarmgrrrlll and Al the Spook on their engagement! [video here]
Wishing you all the joy in the world!
And my engagement present is this photo of a couple who held a Star Wars theme wedding, which sounds like one of the possibilities. Thanks be to Google.
We have evolved into a real community now with joys and concerns that touch people we've never met in "real" life. Some future sociologist can expand on what it means for us to have so many traveling companions that we know only electronically.
But every once in a while there is an opportunity to put a name with a face, jump the fence into that other world out there. I've had the privilege of attending Suzanne's excellent Boulder Creek pup meetups and getting to know other folks through Yearly Kos and the trial.
The people here at FDL have touched my life in so many ways from encouragement and support to challenge -- and did I mention support? And I have a feeling that some of the rest of you have similar stories to share about FDL friends who are there in good times and in sad times.
We are hoping that QuakerGirl is reading the many, many expressions of love coming her way throughout the comments every day as she struggles with leukemia in hospice.
There are those among us who have lost a parent recently, our hearts go out to you with much love. Nothing can prepare you for this kind of grief, it is an experience that changes your world. How can the sky still be blue? Don't people know everything is different now?
We are there for each other in ways visible and invisible.
I like the idea that we have some time to set aside our work, our struggle for Liberty, and talk with each other about Life and Happiness. Come on in and have some homemade cookies, and pull up a chair....
photo by sci-figal
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Mornin’, eg!
How nice for you to mention losing a parent. I still have a number of sort of regular or special times it comes to me to call my mother…to check in, chat, whatever. It is a physical,spontaneous impulse that makes me long to talk, hear her voice. Like now. Thanks
(((QuakerGirl)))
Good morning doggies!
I know what you mean about going to call, that and write to.
Morning egregious, QuakerGirl, et.al.
and more Happy Birthdays for Millineryman!
Ah, me too, and my mom’s been gone for 30 years… I still find myself thinking “I’ve gotta tell mom about that.”
Downstairs Millineryman let slip that today is his birthday. Anybody a good cake baker? It’s not one of my skills.
I did not know that QG was ill. (((Quaker Girl)))
My dad spent the last two years of his life in and out of convalescent hospitals. It wasn’t fun for any of us.
Driving through the Valley, I pass several of the places where he stayed. Still gives me the willies.
My sister and I have made a new habit of meeting on Wednesday evenings and take mom over to the park. We take turns walking my dog and pushing mom in her wheel chair. And, we all yak our brains out before going back to mom’s for dinner.
We promised dad we’d take good care of her. And, we promised to all get along. It’s working out well.
But, boy, do I miss my daddy. It’ll be a year this July.
Everyone here was so graciously supportive. Thanks, all.
I think FDL might have to get a 50-state license to practice therapy. Sometimes this group of “strangers” is the most amazing port in the sturm und drang of life, isn’t it? Many of us have learned that dealing with life-threatening illness 24/7 is even harder than living in the shadow of Junior and Darth. Quaker Girl knows. Prairie Sunshine knows. So many of you know. I wish that weren’t so. But (cliche alert: incoming) it is what it is. Thank you all for being so gracious when I dwell in the slough of despond, when I ask hopelessly naive questions of this body of wisdom, when I blather (much as I am doing now) about cancer, about BushCo, about whatever happens to be my issue du jour (du moment?). You are amazing folks.
EG, you are a huge part of this community. You’re always so kind and helpful. Will I get to see you at Netroots Nation?
How long has QG been in hospice care, and does she comment?
O dear: 30 years. After my mother died, someone told me it gets easier, it doesn’t go away. I guess that’s about what you are saying. What also surprises me is that often I will feel or think that I may know what my mother would say back.
I haven’t seen any comments from her since she told us she was in hospice, I think a week ago yesterday.
But, I could easily have missed some.
The last time she posted was here. She had one other comment later in the thread. (I had missed it, too, but
Google found it for me.)
((((QuakerGirl))))
Good morning pups, anybody got coffee?
Funny you say that about W. When I turned on the radio, it seemed to hit me hard that W is yet again still the Prez and mouthing off in the ME. About 6 months to go I guess. I do not recall when who’s the Pres. so effected my mood. Although I did go to the 1st Clinton Inaugural, and the hope/cheer in DC were palpable. Maybe that’s what is coming.
Someone (oops, I forget who) named her new rosebush Quakergirl and said she’d think of her on every bloom.
And, Eureka Spring said he planted some wild flower seeds in her honor.
It is easier, and it’s not painful any more. More wistful… But at this point I’m getting to where I’m saving up things to tell her when I see her again!
The duct tape on the alarm clock didn’t work? heh, heh.
Good to see you.
Coffee, tea or hot chocolate is always available on my virtual counter. And there are waffles this morning too.
I love my veritable family
and I love my virtual family.
FireDogLake changed my life,
gave me hope, friends, and faith in the system. And most importantly the
beliefknowledge that we can make a difference, by giving us the ability make that difference.This is a wonderful community.
and as egregious notes, prolly will be studied by future sociologists.
.
Are there any homemade cookies to go with the love?
Elliot, Marion, demi and Loo Hoo left you a note at the end of the last thread.
248 days and counting…
Was also at the 1st Clinton inaugural. The optimism was indeed palpable. I remember the huge crowd cheering when George Bush I’s helicopter flew away from the Capital building. This time when this flys away the world will be cheering.
and who’s counting?
(I should say, “Who isn’t counting?” ! ;)
It’ll be like New Year’s 2000! Fireworks all across the globe.
Linky you wanted at end of last thread……enjoy!
I recall the report that it was the highest ridership on the Metro to date; crowds poured out. Maybe I saw you…the weather was great on that morning.
Thanks Waccamaw.
It’s great to be a part of this community. It’s changed my life in may ways. Another link in my personal evolution.
NDFG and AK!!!
Is this engagement the first for FDL?
I would like to think that means there is only so damage he can do…but I dare not think. He is always so surprising, and I am in no mood for his surprises.
Oh, I hope so. The Bush years have really eroded our collective optimism, haven’t they? It’s hard to hope for the best with an intellectually challenged, socially obtuse narcissist squatting in the Oval Office.
Indeed it was a beautiful day. I had organized a bus trip for volunteers that had worked on his first campaign in MI. Rode the metro, went to a nice restaurant in Georgetown. Cabbies said Dems were much better tippers than Repubs. Who would have thought?
AFAIK
First that I’m aware of.
She told me they are thinking of tying the knot next year.
Up for a train ride to Texas? I offered to play my flute at the wedding.
You could see your old room mate Betsy.
I’m off to get more birdseed and possibly some plants for what has recently become the front weed bed. And then I’ll be working at home to pay for all that birdseed. But I’ll be lurking, so keep on being kind to each other.
((((QuakerGirl))))
Thanks, egregious.
I haven’t said anything here on the site, but egregious knows we buried my Dad this week, Thursday. I spent the last three weeks here with him at his bedside and Mom and I were there as he passed, though he was not aware in any way we could tell.
He’d been sick and declining and he took a real downturn in late April, just after my birthday. However, I happened to be in town on business then and we had a good little birthday dinner together.
Dad was a very good, honest and loyal man who always took good care of the people who needed his help, without fanfare or expectation of reward or recognition. He made people laugh and never talked about the war he fought, as he never thought violence was anything to be proud of. He even hated movies or tv shows with guns or killing, had no patience for romanticizing violence, be it the Godfather movies or whatever.
I’m proud to be his son, I’ll miss him terribly, but we’re all okay. Today I drive with my own family back to our own home in Virginia. Thanks to everyone who sent their condolences and warm thoughts our way, they have all been more appreciated than I can express.
Good morning all.
For several years now, since Christy was a commenter known as reddhead, CBL and I have been slavishly devoted to FDL. It has been our online base station, life preserver and touchstone. I mostly lurk because CBL is the brains of this outfit and I rarely have anything meaningful to add to the threads. However, my job allows me to have FDL up in the background all day at work and I follow along. You have all become a source of joy, wonder and information for me. The recent additions to the site are taking some getting used too. It seems a bit overwhelming still.
A bit of a ramble, sorry. I think what I really want to say is, thanks all. Especially Jane, Christy, Marcy, LHP, Egregious, Attaturk et al. Without y’all I would be woefully uninformed.
(((QuakerGirl)))
(((BobbyG)))
((((((((Pachacutec and family))))))))
Love and peace coming your way.
Sorry for your loss Pach.
That’s really thoughtful and very, very touching.
Why don’t they just get married during Netroots Nation?!!
(((Pachacutec)))
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
It’s a tough transition, certainly.
I’m glad you have fond memories. That helps a lot. I know.
Pach: I am very sorry. The only words I know are that it’s just very hard. Take care and travel well. B
It’s threads like this that remind me no matter how bad things seem to be, there is a better future ahead and friends to help us get there. We’ve had three hospital visits for our family members in the past three weeks. Nothing as frightening as above, but coming here always helped me find some peace.
Spot on the job, as usual LH.
I’ll pass that idea on to them via facebook, but they might even be reading now.
(((Pachacutec)))
((((Pachacutec)))
I’m sure your dad was very proud of you.
Pach,
We had no idea. You need to know that you have long been one of CBL’s favorites at the site. Please accept our most heartfelt condolences.
Sending you our thoughts for your comfort and peace.
Our dear friend Southern Dragon had a personal loss this week as well.
You doin’ okay, dear?
hugs to you and yours Pach,
He must have been a great man.
You were lucky to be there with him til the end, and he was lucky to have you. As you and your Mom treasure his memory, may he visit you in your dreams at night.
Is this the one in Austin? I read about that just about the time I had signed on here. I will need to get more information about the event.
That was a nice way to start the day, thanks again. I sometimes reply to people I know who ask how I am with some outrageous comment to see if they are listening. Their reaction is funny and we usually end up sharing a good laugh.
Yes. July 17-20!
Well, now I know what Al the Spook has been up to.
Pach, love to you and yours :(
(((Quakergirl)))
(((BobbyG)))
(((FirePups)))
Can’t begin to tell you all what you mean to me so,
((((((((((((( Each and every one of you pups )))))))))))))
((((((((((((( QuakerGirl)))))))))))))
(((((((((((((Pachacutec and Family)))))))))))))
Thank you for this post egregious.
*poof*
What a brilliant man he is. I remember last summer when he was on late night, he could keep up with 15 or 20 of us asking him questions. He’d answer with LINKS!
Good Morning everyone from Arizona…. the sun is just peeking over my back yard wall….. the Red yucca is in bloom… the last of my roses and the star jasmine is busting out all over…..
A big {{{{{{{{FDL}}}}}}} to one and all….. you were my family when I needed it and I return it back…… Pack, Quaker Girl and BobbyG and all those who don’t think they need it but really do…. I really do not know how I would survived last fall without you all….
EG I have a fresh pot of French Press coffee using Greek coffee I found in NYC…. Just warming up to the next vacation….
Thanks so much. I have been wanting to know more.
Oh, Pach, I’m so very sorry. Sending hopes for healing and peace your way!
Dan Schorr talking about how “inept” W was in Israel with his stupid remark; he’s so disgusted.
Your post really got to me…what a good man.
The sun is peeking through my lemon tree….. I can smell the fresh coffee, the rosemary bush right next to me and the bees buzzing around the jasmine…. everything was misted (low water use sprinkler system) this am and it sparkles with water drops……
My friends, the elitist, vicious, twisted liberal horde is holding forth at FDL this very morning. Read the current post and all its comments to get a good handle on how the wicked left thinks and conducts itself.
What everybody has said and so much better than I.
Having few blood relatives left, those who love the Lake have become the best extended family this pup could ever have hoped to find. Sanity and support you provide every day……more than you can possibly know.
Very sorry to hear of your loss.
well there’s Southern Comfort most every morning ;)
It’s just beautiful here in San Diego too. Amazing. Everything is in bloom and the avocados are ripe! It’s going to be really hot! My niece is graduating this morning top of her class from San Marcos State. The ceremony will be at the Del Mar Fairgrounds where the horses race, then the party will be this afternoon at my brother and sis-in-law’s.
Did you all see this?
Finally got a decent night’s sleep. Thanks to you and the other pups for the support I’ve gotten this week. I means a great deal to me.
For some strange reason I’ve been either out of the country or on the opposite coast when a family member passed. I got a call from my step-mother that my dad was in hospital. They had done an upper GI and suspected cancer. Opened him up, closed him up and gave him two weeks. Pancreatic cancer. I was scraping the money together to get to Myrtle Beach when two days later I got the call. He was gone. Absolutely the worst day of my life. I can only imagine how Pach feels. My dad was always my hero. A great piano player, couldn’t throw a baseball straight to save his soul. My parents and grandparents imparted a value system to me that passes the test of time and which I hold dear to this day. It’s been 28 years and I still miss him terribly. Grandfather, grandmother, mother. Same thing. I didn’t get those final minutes or hours to share my love with the ones I loved most in the world. Haunts me.
We’ve gotten a lot rain lately and nice little pool has formed in front of my house. Birds are taking a quick dip, and all the furry mamamals in the neighborhood are hanging out.
I wonder if they are discussing life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?
Just wanted to add that FDL has been a bright light in a dark time.
Pach, thoughts of concern and healing to you and your family. I’ve been hanging out here for about a year, and it has become very important to my daily life. I haven’t met any of you, but I feel like you are friends.
(((Christy and Jane (and TRex and Pach and Marcy and, and, and))), see what you started??? *g*
You forgot the vile, foul-mouthed feminazis.
EG as to FDL becoming a family and weddings as one of the outcomes….
Our Dean for America which evolved into the local DFA group here in Phoenix has had a series of matchups with weddings in the 4 years of the group…. it is interesting to hear them talk because many are middle aged, previously married and had been going through the dot.com sites to find someone…… and how surprised they are how compatible they are with their partner they found at our group.
It is so easy to explain….. those who flock to a specific group, work and become a part of that group usually have a specific set of values and core that are pretty similar……
the latest is my oldest friend here in Phoenix who I worked with at my first job here and have been trying to drag her to DFA meetings to get her invovled…… she would whine but not do anything about it….. well they are moving in together this month……
I did, didn’t I?! And the tree-hugging obstructionists and the pesky Constitution adherents and the hippie peaceniks and the tax-obsessed welfare cheerleaders.
((hugs)) to all of you who have lost loved ones…
I had to put my kitty to sleep this past week. She’d been a member of the family for fourteen and a half years.
Oh boogie, I am sorry to hear that. Such a long time to love the little one.
Some day soon, on another post, it would be interesting to shatter the myths about lefties and say out loud (well, as loud as comments can be) who we are, what we believe and how we intend to play that out in 2009 and beyond. Just sayin’.
Totally unrelated. For all these years, I have never known the significance of the name “firedoglake.” Color me clueless. Can someone make me smart? About this one thing?
(((boogiecheck and tiger)))
The fields beyond Rainbow Bridge have a few new loved ones waiting for their servants to come collect them.
(((boogie))), so very sorry.
sorry to hear that boogiecheck, hugs,
don’t know what I’d do without my Sweet Pea
Tom Toles.
Hugs to you.
Jane said she likes to sit in front of the fire with her dogs and watch The Lakers!
Once upon a time…… Lady Jane Hampshire lived at the Oregon Coast at a place called Otter Point….. with her poodles…… so it was poodles laying by the fireplace at a place on a lake = Firedoglake….
Thanks, SD, Egregarious,Elliott, Loo Hoo, Barbara. She gave as much as she took…and I’m not ashamed to say that she helped me through some of the darkest period of my life.
Ouch. GOP afraid of a Beer Hall Putsch?
Katymine. Different take. Hmmm. We better ask her!
Cool. I know Otter Point. Love Oregon. What the hell am I doin’ in Florida?
It could be the Lakers….. when I first started commenting on FDL way back in the olden days Jane did live in Oregon just up the road from my parents place…… but the fireplace & the dogs are right….. and that section of Oregon coast is chuck full of small lakes….
They have a way of doing that. Our furry friends have a sense about emotions that we can only dream of.
Lot of us have experienced that directly and indirectly. Folks at FDL helped me keep going during some rough times in Russia. I wrote down all the encouraging comments and keep them to look at again if the mood strikes. Among so many kindnesses from so many pups I have a special word of thanks to peterr, who got in under the radar one time when I was really hurting.
It just goes to show, you might not know the impact you have on other peoples’ lives.
loohoo and katymine, how cool is that?! Mystery solved. Merci.
For those here @ FDL who are in need of our thoughts & the sharing of our strength today, reading this thread will give that, in abundance.
“When we think of friends, and call their faces out of the shadows, and their voices out of the echoes that faint along the corridors of memory, and do it without knowing why save that we love to do it, we content ourselves that that friendship is a Reality, and not a Fancy–that it is builded upon a rock, and not upon the sands that dissolve away with the ebbing tides and carry their monuments with them.”
-Mark Twain
Maybe she watched the Lakers by the Lake!
‘mornin’, pups. And heartfelt hugs going out to all those who are sorrowin’, Pach, SouthernDragon…
QuakerGirl, we hope you’re readin’ right along with us and knowin’ we love you and the words you’ve shared here with us. Always in our hearts.
Eg, what a wonderful thread topic, reflective and yet an opportunity to show why FDL is such a welcoming place.
Hey, Barbara, I think the snow’s finally gone up in the north country!
And congrats to NDFG and Al… what better metaphor and affirmation that we can look forward to better tomorrows.
Happy Syttende Mai, every one…from the Norske land where the birds are beckoning, the spaniels want ball-catching time, and the toobz just tip-toes along…
Boogiecheck,
About a year ago, we lost our beloved hound, Rudy. Cbl was inconsolable. Until 6 months ago when a small, tuxedo colored kitten showed up at our back door. Dora has moved into both our home and heart. She is not a Rudy replacement but is, in her own incredibly way, a source of comfort and joy for us. (She has also reinvigorated the 7 year old Mike the cat.)
Thoughts of comfort and peace from us to you.
Condolences to you and your family, Pach. One day at a time.
QuakerGirl, I hope you’re reading today, but also there are comments of love and support for you every day on the threads. You are in our hearts.
I know the country’s in bad shape, but imagine how much worse off we’d be if the liberal blogs didn’t exist to stem the tide.
When history is written, the blogging pioneers will be credited with saving this country.
There were millions of us out there aware that our country and it’s values were being undermined. But while we were screaming, no one was listening. The internet gave us a chance to find each other, share info, learn from those better-informed, organize, reach new people, educate and vent our rage.
Personally, it saved my sanity.
The repubs had everything lined up to permanently give our country to the rich. And there was no organized opposition. The fights not over but at least we’re strong enough to fight them.
That thread (a CHS thread) is worth finding to see the spontaneous outpouring of affection and support. It was clearly not easy for (((Quaker Girl))) to post and was touching she’d made a special effort to post on a Christy thread to tell her how much she was personally inspired by her and others here.
I would speculate that for every person who shares their sadnesses and concerns, there are many who don’t for various reasons. I, for one, take great comfort and derive support from this community, though people here have no particular reason to know that. I lost the love of my life a couple of years ago and during that period had an incident that cost me a chunk of my vocabulary and my ability to express myself easily and clearly. It is the warmth and acceptance of this community that gives me courage to post at all, particularly when I’m struggling for words or hating using five words when I could have used one if I were on my game.
…the best pets I’ve ever had were the ones who *chose* me…of course, Dora won’t replace Rudy, but as you’ve already discovered, there is enough love in the heart for more. :)
I’ve added some links to the post, including the day when QuakerGirl first wrote us about her situation.
And Sunny, sounds from here like you are expressing yourself beautifully. Hugs to you for your losses.
I’m not sure what my mental status would be today if it wasn’t for the online community I’ve encountered over the past eight years or so. Only a few rotten apples have appeared, but I don’t let them get to me. I laugh at them. The unity of women online is as strong as the unity of women in my real life. I love that!!!!! Thank you…all of you. And you too, Gents, whom always make me laugh too and see things differently than I did before!
(((((WARM HUGS TO ALL OF YOU)))))
My heart goes out to Quaker Girl and her family. I’m sure they’re having a tough time. One thing is for sure, though, hospice is a gift. Thank you hospice care workers! You’re all heroes to me. Anyone who takes the time out of their lives to comfort the dying is an incredible person…unselfish, unwavering, loyal, and truly represents what it means to be a human.
In Christy’s post back along entitled, “In Need of Motivation?”, I talked about TWEAK who was another great patriot as Quaker Girl is and how TWEAK on his deathbed made sure the night of the historic 2006 mid-term election to leave us (AMERICAblog bloggers) a note. He died shortly after leaving it. Here’s what TWEAK said:
http://firedoglake.com/2008/05.....nt-1444306
I still find his words motivating today as I did back then. Here’s what TWEAK’s brother wrote to us later on AMERICAblog letting us know of his passing and how he felt. This is also very motivating!
With the passing of each great patriot we encounter each day on the Internet, we must hold onto them as if they’re an extra pitchfork or torch as we continue to fight the Good Fight! Hey, we can handle holding two pitchforks or two torches, can’t we? ;-) Well of course we can!
Thanks Egregious for the post this morning. You’re wonderful!!!
Okay, leaving to go canvas neighborhoods with my local Democrats. We go forth with pitchforks & torches!!! LOL
Thank you, EG. ((quaker girl))
With that, I’m off to read the links, and then off to start the day.
Thank you all.
If this represents your struggle for words, you have achieved something quite remarkable. Thanks so much for speaking!!!
Have to use the dreaded “believe” word, but I believe that the heart knows no bounds in it’s ability to love. It’s all the other crap that gets in the way. An open heart is an open universe.
I was there that day. It was amazing.
Thank you for your tender thoughts; we stand with you. Courage is an amazing thing, and we surely often do not know what someone else is going through. You inspire: my best to you.
(((SunnyNobility)))
Just want to share my lurker (((Quakergirl,Pach,firepups))) and thank the lake for support to my candidate, Jim Neal in NC. He did not win but inspired a lot of people and is regrouping for whatever is next. My nine year old son(a Netroots Nation volunteer) baked him banana bread to cheer him up.
I often think of John Edwards’s remark about his 2 younger children after losing his son. He said they didn’t lessen the pain but they “brought joy back into their lives”
some good news for those of us who have one of those nasty voter ID laws…
Missouri Voter ID law fails
Well nuns in MO might be able to vote in November…
then you have this…
U.S. Planning Big New Prison in Afghanistan
(((banana bread))) sure fire mood elevator!!
elevater?
(((Quaker Girl, David, Esten, Pach, and all the firepups)))
‘morning pups… coffee is ready - hold out your cups!
Start pouring….or I need to get up and brew a new pot….
I appreciate your support in my fight against Darrell Issa, Sunny.
[…holds out cup…] I miss the early, early morning pups. Thanks, OC
One at a time…. we will knock these guys out of office……
got old JD Hayworth out….. and Renzi finally got charged with crimes he should of been charged with in 2004 EXCEPT for the US Attorney interference…. OUR USA was fired too…. after all…. Issa and his big ego is the reason CA has the Govenator….
We’re all psyched to support you Loo Hoo! when you bring Issa down, we are gonna carry you ‘cross the Lake!!
trying to get a little more sleep these days, eg…
;-)
How about some homemade brownie cookies with all this love and ice cream?
They almost took our country down.
Another mood elevator, barbara- the Students Speak Out vid I just watched over @ yr. web site. Terrific!
http://www.clotheslineblog.com/
Oh totally! We’ve had some very unexpected victories. Looking for great things for Loo Hoo’s campaign against Issa. We might not win the first time or the second time, but we have to start pushing back. Being the team that stops losing all the games, and starts winning a few, then more and more.
oops! would help if I included the link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/m.....496383753/
those days will soon be done, LooHoo… who is running against Issa?
This is the FDL that I love. I’ve been lurking for a while, because I stopped feeling connected when there was so much fighting. Thanks, eg, for reminding me why I started hanging out here. And much love to all facing hardships.
I enjoy thoughtful, intelligent commentary from perspectives that are different from mine. Quakergirl provided many of these opportunities for me. I love Quakergirl. I hope to meet her someday.
Not exaxtly early morning, but hugs and kisses to everyone here. I got involved in FDL through the Libby trial. A lot of us over the past 8 years(and more!)have felt alone - feeling as if we were surrounded by people who wished us ill will for various reasons, lifestyles or beliefs. What FDL does really really well is let us all know that we are not alone - electronically or physically. There are a whole lot of us out here who may not exactly agree…but we are all moving in the same direction. What FDL also does is gives us focus for our passions and leadership in terms of enabling us to feel we ARE doing something positive, that what we do DOES have results. I never called or wrote any of my congress folks before; no week goes by when I am not doing that. And, like family, things do not always go smoothly for all of us all the time; we fight, disagree, hug, make up, wish one another well, send powerful thoughts to one another. Powerful community, folks.
Elliot — I have to work my way through the rhubarb patch first.:)
Hey TJ, good to see you again :)
Mornin’, pups.
(((group hug)))
FDL is my bridge.
Good Morning ((((Egregious and Firedogs)))
cbl here
Joyride is up against Robert Hamiliton - in CA-49 - tried earlier this week to look at odds - starting with #’s from the primary but it was pdf and in cleaning up the pc, I wiped out adobe and haven’t put it back X(
http://www.roberthamiltonforcongress.com/
the good news - the district went from ‘republican safe’ to ‘toss up’ and if ol Joyride keeps opening his mouth against first responders, etc. along with the tanking S Cal econ. could be highly competitive
morning all…. i’m not usually here this early lol but anyhoo
((((((((((FIREDOGLAKERS))))))))))
Bob Hamilton.
See me there by Francine Busby in the bright blue blouse?
I got up early to head to the local Farmer’s Market, in search of fresh strawberries.
No luck. :(
As if getting out of bed early on a Saturday morning wasn’t bad enough.
I’m watching MSNBC. Buchanon’s on. Seriously, does that guy never sleep?
And this, I think, has had the feel of a pretty good week. The slap down of W, the Farm Bill tweaked, the war funding bill running into a head wind. I think my Repub “good hair” Rep has some good opposition to go along with the LA and Miss. wins, etc etc. Quite a list: I heard some interesting coverage last night about how powerful it was that Clinton came to the Obama defense after W’s remark; the opinion was that W would not have counted on her speaking out. Good point of view, I think.
cbl, are you guys in CA-49?
ooo! you’re FAMOUS!
:-D
We won’t see stawberries here until June…so if I want strawberry rhubarb pie, I have to freeze the rhubarb…or use frozen strawberries.
Yesterday on my flight back home from NYC they showed the movie Seabiscuit which is a movie I really like and have seen several times. But as I watched it…. the parallels to today were really strong….. based during the depth of the great depression….. were there was little hope and lots of misery… just like now……. and you have a horse race. (Dems anyone) and it struck me that Obama and his race right now is a lot like Seabiscuit….. at first no one thought he would win, is a little beaten up but going strong…. big heart and gives people hope…..
Or maybe I need more caffeine…. going to make more coffee…
Beautiful version of Bridge, thank you.
QuakerGirl, this is for you:
I’ll take your part
When darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Sail on QuakerGirl,
Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
If you need a friend
I’m sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
come to new jersey!! we have some delicious berries - i just bought a lovely quart
Good Morning Everyone.
(((((Quakergirl)))))
Yes, Egregious, Elliot and all, this is SUCH a special place. I often think back, with a shudder, to days when I thought all I had to cling to was dear Molly Ivins’ wisdom, and hopes that others too would heed her call to reason. But I felt so alone.
Long story shortened considerably: FDL appeared out of the cloud over my head. The cloud’s still not dispersed [terrified over what nastiness shooter & junior will foment on their way out!], but it makes all the difference in the world to have the Lake here full of spirit, empathy, and a wealth of ideas. Not to mention real, genuine, feeling, expressive, tough, gentle people of substance.
I’ve looked at other blogs, but none compare. None even close.
Thanks a bunch, gang. If you think I sound nuts now [only on occasion, ahem], you should have seen the sorry mess I was before I found you guys.
I went out yesterday and replaced the faded, tangled, frayed yellow ribbon, and its accompanying flag by our driveway out by the road. We personally have no family “over there”, but we ache for those who must suffer because of shooter/junior’s madness. Today is Armed Forces Day. And Memorial Day looms.
As I was fussing with the ribbon, several cars slowed, and a passing runner wished me a good day. Our community is growing. People are often stunned into silence these days, but the mood is changing, and we must keep up the pressure.
Being a member of the Lake community helps. Ooohhhhh yes! ;->
P. E. A. C. E.
ah, my sister would make you a strawberry rhubarb pie, with one for Peterr too.
Only during the day - nosferatu
Oh, I agree there; but I think the Democrats learned a powerful lesson with Kerry and Gore - the only acceptable response to that sort of fear-based garbage is a sharp, hard, instant response. I’m not a big “Dune” fan, but the author is right…FEAR IS THE MIND KILLER.
We usually get them some time just before Memorial day.
I suppose I’m just a little impatient . . .
Damn….. where is the tissue…… gee… now you made me cry…
Lots of love to Quaker Girl…
I love your point. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by the hope embodied that Obama has even made it this far; who would have thought or dreamed even not so many years ago. Progress has been made almost no matter how it turns out. I am almost holding my breath. And maybe they will shut up about Michelle. We can still hope.
is he still whining? heh. ;->
I just keep a hand towel next to the mouse..I tend to use it often here.
Part of the year we have ranunculus here, and part of the year it’s strawberries.
Carlsbad, CA.
nah - just been paying attention bec -
1) it’s been a forever red district and we’ve been getting closer and closer
2) ol Joyride really needs to go down - he has carried so much tyrannical water, done so much damage (english only, recalled a sitting gov. & is directly involved with what is probably the biggest pot. scandal yet to blow up: Bajaaqua) he needs to go
loo hoo - how wonderful to have a face to go with your name
Mrs Peterr made me one as a surprise last year. The best part was that I didn’t have to share it with her. As she pulled it out of the oven, she said, “It’s all for you — I can’t stand rhubarb.”
Well, I did have to share it with my Little One.
Turns out that when it comes to strawberry rhubarb pie, he takes after his dad and not his mom.
Can someone tell me what’s up with Pach? Is he o.k.? I’ve been so out-of-touch lately…
See his comment @37
Look up thread and see Pach’s comment…..
You’re quite welcome. Great post, too!
Morning wdd
a morning quarter for you
Thank you for being there.
Thank you Katymine and Peterr.
(((((Pach)))))
Somehow, I’ll bet he knew you were there.
When my mom was supposedly in a coma, she sprouted a wide smile as my brother and I played music on our fiddles for her.
(((((peace and healing)))))
What is this new scandal?
Yes. He really is the worst of the worst. (And a firepup is helping me with a worst of the worst YouTube-so if you catch anything on CSPAN, please note the date and time along with which CSPAN it is.) The district is rapidly changing. Temecula and the rest of the Inland Empire is growing rapidly with young families. Plus, I’ll betcha the Camp Pendleton voters aren’t too happy with him either!
I use a large red table napkin.
some might look at the Lake today and think, what a mushy crowd of pansies.
Their loss, heh.
luv u guys!
Gotta go take recycling. Back later. Bye for now…
Love is stronger than hate. The Goopers gave up on love a long time ago.
“It must be said that genuine compassion is not like pity or a feeling that others are somehow lower than you. Rather, with genuine compassion you view others as more important than yourself.”
The Dalai Lama’s Little Book of Wisdom
Sounds like FireDogLake to me.
The google helps me not…
Just a thought here: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
Orison Sweet Marden
I may have to do something else with my day. G’by
am still so sleepy headed can’t remember whether it’s bajaqua or aquabaja - has to do with sewage San Diego/Tijuana -
fat contract awarded to campaign donor with zero experience and half ass plan - an international water ngo(?) had some say in it but good ol Cheney shows up out of the blue has a meeting (with nothing disclosed) and the contract is awarded. a coastal preservation group (hell maybe even surfers) agitated and there was some reporting in SD papers - but not much (even Rep Filner may be involved) it just stinks to high heaven.
there is a group POGO that has probably done the most work on it (they came up again in bringing something else to light recently) but I’ll see what they have on it
sorry to ramble as I am not doing the potential for scandal any justice
A bluesy morning to you, too, El. Coffee?
why thank you, don’t mind if I do. :)
Strong and hot…
Now I must run to store, later taters!!!
Ok…. getting off the sofa and clean up the deadhead roses and clean the flower beds…. before it hits 103 today….. catch ya all later… top of the morning to you all …
Then “some” would be missing out on a part of themselves, that quality called empathy, a most important component of our shared humanity.
It’s how we’ve all managed to survive together on this planet for so long.
David’s pansies are the most lovely, resilient little things. A couple of them even wintered-over, in spite of Minnesota temps and snow. They bloom early, continue late into the season, forgive neglect and generally cheer up the neighborhood. Booyah!
Morning all. Had an absolutely marvelous evening at Kevin Drum’s last night where Nixonland author Rick Perlstein was the guest of honor. Nice kid. Smart too. Met the Unspeakably Fabulous Digby at last.
The consensus among all those present is that if Obama takes Ohio he’s got the election. And rather than a “wedge issue,” gay marriage is going to find those opposed to it giving themselves a wedgie.
Got a bunch of stuff to do and not getting any of it done. Sayonara.
Peace Love Light
loo hoo -
this is from some college kid’s thesis - will provide you with some other links as I find them:
link
again, though fuzzy headed, it wasn’t just my bloodlust for Cheney’s hide that had me interested - there were illegalities aplenty involved :D
Just got back to this celebration of “we” and all else. Glad you liked the blog video. Aren’t they amazing “kids”? Much we can learn from them, I guess.
Barbara - pansies are my favorites because even though the little bulbs come up every spring, when i discover that some of my pansies have survived, it is just the greatest thing. Love pansies.
They are absolutely amazing. Been a reader of yr. blog since you 1st started posting here, I think. I have to leave to go do the morning doggie hikeathon, but just wanted to recommend yr. blog for its insightful posts & dry humor. Much appreciate it.
And, for everything else going on in yr. life… (((((barbara)))))
Good Morning egregious here is a little digg for you! NFG and Al the Spook Good Luck with your future together may there be many happy years together for both of you:>)
Now pups don’t forget to digg this for egregious as she had to get up at the crack of dawn to post this wonderful post dedicated to the happy couple!
me, too. oh, david just filled the little feeder outside my office window, and the goldfinches are going bonkers there! another of my favorite things.
barbara ‘no caps’ cummings
Thanks, cbl2. Here’s one from Huffpo too. Don’t know how I missed this.
Did anyone see Bill Moyers last night?
The first segment was an interview with Berkeley Law professors Christopher Edley, Jr. and Maria Echaveste. One supports Obama and the other supports Clinton.
I expected, frankly, a blase recap of teh HRC v BHO arguments we’ve heard before, but I enjoyed the interview and want to note especially what Echaveste had to say towards the end of the segment:
link
There’s another wedge issue that the repubs are working on putting on ballots: Affirmative action.
Brilliant, actually since it will give Rush, Hannity etc. an excuse to talk race in the worst of ways.
This is paydirt, isn’t it? I have been striving mightily lately to be for Obama and not against Clinton. I will need a bevy of angels to keep me in that mode when it comes to McCain et al. Any volunteers?
Here’s the link for affirmative action ballot initiatives:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/…..01_pf.html
Thank you kindly, nahant.
s’okay, evvverybody has missed it - look at the dearth of 411 on google for goodness sakes- but yeah, it’s all there - Cheney, Issa, Bilbray, Carol Lam, and if I can ever find my stuff, there’s even a connection to the Cheney OVP Office Furniture mess - incestuous bastids
so glad you found that link - was sounding like a tin foil hatted fool -
Hamilton may not be able to use it, as one of his endorsers Filner took money from contractor (but that was in his Repub dayz)
Good morning, ‘pups.
caught that as well - Mr Edley is John Yoo’s boss at Boalt
found myself frustrated with both of them, esp Ms Eschaveste and all her equivocating (it’s an academe thing) so often their comments failed to be informed by the sheer numbers of Mr Obama’s electoral accomplishments to date.
btw firedogs - Moyers bonus: Phillipe Sands has written an essay for Moyers
(((Pach)))
(((Mr and Mrs cbl)))I love it when you comment, Mr. You’re no slouch.
I’ve been here a long time, too. Egregious went to Russia a lot then and would come here when things got rough, when the Slough of Despond threatened to swallow her up. Welcoming arms enveloped her and helped her make it through the night. Jane’s health troubles and her mom’s death
tightened our bond. And let us know there are some real assholes out there, making our place together even more precious.
It’s kind of telepathy, don’t you know, being truly connected to people who are physically remote.
(((all of you)))
oh great, the dreaded double post - I blame BobbyG :D
lotsa hugs today!
({({({(FDL)})})})
‘morning, Bobby G
‘morning Mommybrain… how’s tricks?
rim shot
(((right back at ya))) so glad you made it back from Nebraska without felonious assault charges *g*
The southern CA republicans who were involved with Bajagua make me very nervous. The project’s conection to Cheney is enlightening.
All the corruption and military/intelligence contracting connections make me think of telco immunity. Cheney has a lot to hide.
So, Kathleen Parker says Obama is not a “full-blooded American“?
I do think its fitting that I can’t really see ATS in the video…..
Intelligence, respect, compassion and great visuals brought me to the Lake. Recipies kept me coming back…..and all the great, intelligent, compassionate folks here.
What is a full-blooded American in her mind, I wonder? Has to be a Native American, doncha think?
oh Hi there ! great to see you on the threads
in my googling for Loo Hoo remembered that you had dug up lots on this - was just about to google Bajaqua - yellowsnapdragon - firedoglake - comments to see what I could find
didn’t you make some connection on the OVP Office Furniture thingy, or was it just something that was happening around the same time we were talking about Baja ?
who in the hee-haw-hell is Kathleen Parker and why do they use php3!?
SoCal firepups are here this morning! (I miss Burns and Peanut Butter, though)
Good morning Bobby! Glad you could make it :)
ru-roh - Ted Kennedy rushed to the hospital.
Is there really anthone full blooded American??? We all came to this continent from the OLD WORLD some just a hell of a lot sooner than others /S
Breaking on CNN Ted Kennedy in hospital with what appears to be a stroke… more news as it comes in!!
Some more things on the cancellation of the Bajagua sewage project that the multi-millionaire real-estate developers in SD and Tijuana tried to push through.
Bajagua dead…for now
San Diego Sewage Plan Blocked By International Commission
To drink of the lake…is to renew the spirit. To find strength, we must lend it in our love and support to our comrades.
{{{{Quakergirl, Pach, BobbyG, etal}}}}
Thank you, every FDLer, for all the knowledge, humor and comfort that I have found here.
What I see reflected in the waters of the lake is the face of our country as it should be. Every day, that reflection is clearer and brighter.
PW has a garden upstairs.
One “COKE” for you Oldcoastie…. dam… I am just too slow!
((((Quaker Girl))))
QG, I hope you have a chance to see this thread and know how many people at the Lake you’ve touched with your warmth and caring and wisdom.
I so wish that leukemia weren’t in your life (or anyone’s), and I wish you were here with us today. Selfishly, I’ve missed your gentle wit, kindness, and bright spirit. I am so sad to know the reason why we haven’t been seeing you: I miss you.
Nothing about dying - or leaving behind those you love - is easy. FWIW, I hope that the time ahead of you in the hospice is free of pain and fear and hurt, and that your loved ones spend as much time as possible with you.
Love to you and those you will leave behind.
Kirk
That is so repulsive; she is a little WASP who writes an occasional column and on Chris Matthews panel occasionally. A real twit, I guess, in the Noonan/Cokie mode. Who does she mean is full blooded American? I loved it when I learned I have genuine Native American blood; does that make me greater than full blooded. She is a twit; thanks for letting us know. How can they impugn this man for something so outrageous? What are her full blooded lines? Oooops, you got me started.
It was me, and she’s been blooming since that day that QG left that message.
Yeah, repulsive. What a lightweight.
CNN.com - Ted Kennedy rushed to hospital.
yes, I love QuakerGirl spirit
jus cogens!
thank you, thank you, thank you.
backed up sewage through corrupt influence fairly apt analogy to current state of gooper affairs
personal note: incredibly envious of your upcoming fieldwork - spent time there in my youth (orangutans were at the very top of my list of must see’s )
maybe you can find a way to ingratiate yourself to the limited few flying in to the recenty found ‘Eden’
thanks a million for those Baja links !
Uh, oh..they’ve got Buchanan talking non-stop on MSNBC about Ted…hmmm. Ted’s been looking pretty tired and frail as of late.
I think she must have read Michael Medved’s column on American DNA.
NO!
Just in case nobody saw this from CCR:
Oppose a Sweeping New Federal DNA Database! Say NO to the DNA Fingerprint Act!
Sorry I forgot it was you, hon. But, with the links to that thread, the smart pups figured it out.
Blooming ever since!!!
The universe provides.
ya know, I made it through the whole thread without tearing up - until I saw the note about your roses damn hippies and their empathy! :D
ps - did that puppy come back ?
No provable relationship that I know of to the furniture contract, but there are so many tangled connections between Cheney, Duncan Hunter, Duke Cunningham, Jerry Lewis, etc., that I don’t doubt for a minute that the so cal R cabal was involved.
Carol Lam had been asked to investigate Bajagua amoung other so cal R correuption cases before she got sacked. Remember that She was attacked for her handling of immigration cases and that was the purported reason for her firing. Well lo and behold, the letter of complaint about lam and immigration is signed by a list of R’s that is basically a who’s who of So cal R corruption.
Also, Sibel Edmonds whistleblower’s group has a lot to say about Bajagua. Don’t have the link just now.
And, Hi back.
“It is not necessary to repair antipathy appropriately directed toward people who disregard the laws of the land and who dismiss the struggles that resulted in their creation.” Don’t disregard no laws…with that attitude we would still have slavery and no uppity or other women voting.
Last week, we had a great link to that writer on “The Authoritarian.” Sounds like she would fit right in, in her self-righteous stupidity.
jus cogens!
Actually, the two may have collaborated as I first saw that column by Parker a couple of days ago, about the same time I saw the Medved stuff.
No, the puppy didn’t come back..I left food out for it though..just in case. Poor little thing. I’m guessing he ran up the road (pretty much zero traffic, because I’m back in the boonies) and into a neighbors property.
The official name of my rose bush is “climbing rose “America”….but she’s QG to me.
Isn’t it just amazing how you can follow the links- how the same meme jus “happens” to pop up in a few, then many, places.
Ted sent airflight into Boston…
That brought tears to my eyes at the time. What a good and articulate person you are.
(((Teddy Kennedy))) be well.
Good morning, all
In context with upthread, this community has been a rock of sanity and emotional support for me through some very dark times, as well as being a wonderfully elevated, constant conversation and spur to activism… and I love you all for it.
{{{FDL community}}}
Good morning RonD, beautifully stated.
CCR was established by the estate of one William Kunstler - love how he can stil speak truth to power from the beyond . funny how that name has been popping up so much lately :)
THANKS SO MUCH FDL, FOR THAT NON PROFIT LINK TO AID IRAQI ARTISANS! http://www.iraqi-art.com/gallery/index.html
As a person born of the water, I found a deep connection with the following piece, and bought it:
http://i284.photobucket.com/al.....hesman.jpg
The man running the gallery now, Charles Trimbach is truly an incredible being. If his trips to a dangerous Iraq weren’t enough, he’s now in preparation to open a new website devoted exclusively to the artists of the Hazara tribe of Afghanistan.
The Hazara were the original creators of those magnificently carved’ Budhas the Taliban destroyed, and whose very lives and culture are in grave danger amid the renewed strengths of the Taliban and Al-Qaeda.
I thought it was John Fogerty.
wanted to say this earlier in the threads - in speaking of our relationship to the site and it’s people
doubt I am the only one who has pictures of one another in our heads - Jane and Christy were 6′ 7 Amazons, Pach some reliable big brother (although he’s 20 yrs younger) and this was you :D
Pach yours are big blog shoes and those footprints across all the firedog’s screens were noticably as are Punaise and Kiddo. It is a good thing for us you came back I hope you have some great strategies to stop the madness, the slaughter and waste.
I believe Bushco should and can be at the very least put through the Impeachment investigation. Fear is not a character trait of a patriot and negativity is a reflection of fear. When you have a predator in your neighborhood you don’t wait for them to leave and continue to take the damage.
We have to deal with Bushco legally, politically and spiritually. The neocan rot is entrenched in all aspects of America. The corruption is everywhere it is institutional. It is not fair to the next generation or the rest of the world to tolerate it.
America was a light for the world. Until the cancer is removed the body is sick.
If you believe in the America as I do you must understand that the power of goodness and kindness and the fruits come after the yoke of oppression is removed. The oppression is more the neocon mindset.
I am greatly disturbed by the discouraging remarks against Impeachment here. The harm done has to be addrssed before moving on. The new administration will be in a much better position if the clean up starts now, to implement the policies and to heal America. It is a lot of worthwhile work.
Just as house cleaning makes your home liveable. remember “House built on a weak foundation will not stand”. The insipid corruption, the greed that parades as opportunity and the perversion of sound values won’t go away without a very strong message that those perversions lead to destruction and misery. What ever you all want for your country and what you leave for your kids will depend in large how this is addressed. The political will to prosecute will likely not be there.
In medicine the underlying causes must be cured as well as the symtoms. The Civil Rights movement did not cleanse the sickness of rascim and it has emergered again. So like that we can anticipate that under the tip is the iceberg. The media dog and pony show attempts to cover up political realities using sophistic reasoning.
Please consider carefully the implications of inaction as the maladies will linger long and the perpertrators will be in the wings building another greater tradgedy as they were in the 1990’s. PNAC and their ilk know how to currupt and destroy. We have great potential but the window of opportunity is closing fast…our fellow indicator creatures are already becoming extinct.
Wow…thank you. That’s beautiful
I didn’t know that, thanks!
I missed this wonderful thread but wanted to add it is always a pleasure to gather here.
(((firepups)))
Open for 24 hours — please feel free to add comments.
Thanks for bucking me up the other night.(((Dosido)))
Very late and jumping in near the end of the thread without reading above. (I’ll come back later and do that) Spent the morning working on the Habitat for Humanity house that my congregation is a partner in building. Actually, ours just broke ground and is a muddy hole in the groud but we’re on site with 3 others that are closed in. My hands hurt.
FDL has become my lifeline to the outside world—outside of my work where I cannot have friends because of the nature of it. So being able to make friends with people of like minds and spirits has been truly a lifeline. Between Zennurse and her caring, selise and her focus and compassion, KathrynMA and her boyancy, and my good friend, Scarecrow I was truly blessed in MA to be able to spend time with them off line. And the friends made at YKos over 2 years, well the list grows.
Then there’s Tommy Yum and Esten, Jane and her late mother, QuakerGirl, and all of those whom the community has held up in time of need. I have often postulated that for many here who don’t have a church or synagogue community, this is it. It certainly serves the communal needs in that respect.
And then there’s the actual work we are doing to try to make this a better place for the generations to follow.
My gratitude to FDL is beyond what can easily be expressed.
Blessings to all.
my heart is very full. ((( egregious ))) thank you for stirring memories and letting us all share how much the Lake means to us all.
((( FirePups and all the Headliners ))) i came for Plame and stayed for LateNite with TRex, where i found laughter, sanity, compassion, and love in many guises.
((( QuakerGirl ))) you have touched many with your gentle spirit, myself included.
((( Pach ))) i lost my father last year. Know that i and all the others here surround you and your family with much love.
Thanks to all for congratulations and good wishes … this is the real reason i haven’t been in the threads much the last half year or so. Too much time consumed emailing, IM’ing, and phone calls with da spook *g* We started corresponding separately from the threads because i agreed to help with art for some technical books … the commonality we’ve all mentioned today certainly showed up between da spook and ndfg. It is unbelievable and wonderful how much we share and we discovered all this before meeting in person. And now that i’ve met some of the Central Texas FirePups *ndfg hugs betsy, gnome, and wangdang* i can say that the bonds i’ve felt online with folk have proved truer and deeper in person than i ever anticipated.
darn. awful early in the day to be getting all choked up. I love this place, and i look forward to giving many of you hugs in person at Netroots Nation. <3 ndfg
So good to hear from you! Best wishes for love and happiness.
(((((((((((Pach)))))))))) and (((((((((((QuakerGirl))))))))))))))
Sending deeply felt hugs and blessings.
Pach, I know how hard it is losing a parent. As egregious said above, it changes your world while the world continues on it’s own pace.
QuakerGirl, may you be held with loving, gentle hands.