non cogito ergo non sum!

Prayer Request (part 2)

2009-06-17T04:13:00.000-05:00

Dear friends,

After promising so many of you personally that I would keep you updated, I am far overdue for giving you such an update on my medical life.

Since coming home from college, I had appointments with a couple of scoliosis specialists. We found a good doctor at Hershey Medical Center, Dr. Armstrong, who usually specializes in pediatric scoliosis but agreed anyways to take on my case. After a thorough examination and discussion with Dr. Armstrong, he told my that I should not suffer the kind of pain I have from normal scoliosis, so he sent me to have more nervous system focus MRI sequences done and see a neurosurgeon.

The neurosurgeon, Dr. Iantosca, gave me the news that I do have another issue, what he referred to as a tethered spinal cord. Meaning, the ligament at the tail end of my spinal cord is actually pulling it taut. This in turn means I am having this surgically corrected before I can have anything done to correct the curve of my spine.

Here is where my putting off E-mail matters, and I apologize for it again. Many of you may not read this E-mail before the event, but I am having the surgery this morning, after which I will spend a night or two in the hospital.

I should be home again Friday afternoon at the latest and will send out a short E-mail then to let all my friends know that the surgery went perfectly and I am now pain free.

As before, I am very grateful for the prayers, thoughts, and care from all of you.

Thank you.

--Aaron N

2009-06-13T05:16:00.002-05:00

Because you all are so concerned about my personal library --

Current total tally: a depressingly low 360.

Literary classics: 52-ish.
Compilation and collection volumes: 49.
Religion, theology, Bibles: approx. 35.
Music (theory or books of music score): 17.
Latin, ancient history, myth: 15.
Travel books: only 1, huh.
History and politics: 14.
English and writing: 13.
Comics: 11.
Plays: 10.
Biographies: 10.
Math and science: 9.
Arts and architecture: 8.
Behavioral sciences: 5.
Economics: 4.
Philosophy: 3.

Have a nice night.
pax Christi.

How every girl should be treated.

2009-05-12T10:20:00.002-05:00

To every guy who...
-- believes every girl is beautiful.
-- prefers to say she is beautiful, not "hot" or "sexy".
-- says sex can wait.
-- would never push her.
-- is never too busy to drive across town to see her.
-- gives her flowers and a card when she was sick or down.
-- gives her flowers just because.
-- says he would die for her.
-- really would.
-- does what SHE wants to do.
-- cries in front of her.
-- she cries in front of.
-- holds hands with her.
-- kisses her with meaning.
-- hugs her when she's sad.
-- hugs her for no reason at all.
-- gives their jacket up for her.
-- calls to make sure she got home safe.
-- sits and waits hours just to see her a few minutes.
-- would give his seat up.
-- just wants to cuddle.
-- reassures her that she is beautiful no matter what.
-- tells his secrets to her.
-- tries to show how much he cares with every word and breath.
-- thinks, "Maybe this could be the one."
-- never laughs when she tells them.
-- believes in her dreams.
-- would do anything so she could achieve them.
-- escorts her back home.
-- doesn't push curfew.
-- walks her to her car.
-- holds the door.
-- gives his heart.
-- prays she is happy even if you aren't with her.

Less and less people, girls and the rest of our culture, appreciate real men anymore. Because of this, there are not enough nice guys left out there. Girls fall for the bad boys, and men care about their image.

If you are a nice guy, repost this titled: "This is how every girl should be treated." If you are the girl who thinks every guy should treat a girl this way, repost this as: "To Every Guy".

How did you get away from me? (lyrics)

2009-04-28T14:20:00.002-05:00

HOW DID YOU GET AWAY FROM ME?
by June Carter Cash (and Johnny Cash)

Oh, I hate it, but you made it.
You're runnin', jumpin', laughin', filled with glee.
Oh, I told you that I'd hold you.
Just how did you get away from me?

I had bars on the windows,
Had you chained to the floor,
And a moss covered monster at the door,
(JOHNNY: 12 feet tall. That ain't all.)
Had a bottemless moat
With a hole in the boat
And a big rattlesnake
If you tried to make the break,
Had a swarm of bees,
A gorilla in the tress.
Just how did you get away from me?
(JOHNNY: You said I'd die if I tried.)

[KEY CHANGE (G to A)]
[DOBRO SOLO; JAZZ FLUTE SOLO]

Aw, where'd you get the sense
To get through the electric fence?
Your handcuffs are gone.
You're runnin' free.
What happened to my sniper
With his high powered rifle?
Just how did you get away from me?

Is it true that it's you?
Did you really did make it through?
How about the tiger in the car?
(JOHNNY: And the dynamite you planted)
(In the jar in the car.)
Did you go like a mole through a hole?
Or did you sail like a quail on a pole?
Give it to the news on TV (JOHNNY: So I can see)
Oh, how did you get away from me?
(JOHNNY: You said I die if I try.)
Oh, how did you get away from me?

Prayer Request

2009-04-27T23:01:00.000-05:00

Dear friends,

I would appreciate it if you all could pray for me and keep me in you prayers. Some of you know what is bothering me already, some of you I promised the explanation, some of you have not even heard from me in a long time but.. ..well, as my friends, I would just like the rest of you to know..for your care and prayers. As I address you, I consider you all friends and hope I can count on that.

I have had back problems for a long time now. The past year, though, I succumbed to seeing doctors over it. I was told last summer that I had significant scoliosis. This spring semester I went to see a specialist at the local Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic. There they did a number of X-rays series and MRI scans. The final result was that I was told I have a nearly 59 degree curve in my spine and, being past all my growth spurts, need major surgery.

We are now working out the final plans. I will find a scoliosis specialist back home in Pennsylvania and have the surgery some time this summer. Full healing from the surgery will take three to five months, so I am taking off the coming semester of college. Full recuperation may take a full year.

Meanwhile, my back pain is getting worse. I spend an even half of my days out of classes because of back seizes up.

Again, please pray for me and remember me. I don't mean to whine or beg for any pity, but I need my friends' prayers. Thank you for your time, all.

pax Christi,
--Aaron Nemoyer

Personality Quiz

2009-04-27T20:13:00.001-05:00

Well, it looks like they pegged my personality well:

Linkage: http://www.quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx

Your view on yourself:

Other people find you very interesting, but you are really hiding your true self. Your friends love you because you are a good listener. They'll probably still love you if you learn to be yourself with them.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You are not looking merely for a girl/boyfriend - you are looking for your life partner. Perhaps you should be more open-minded about who you spend time with. The person you are looking for might hide their charm under their exterior.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.

The seriousness of your love:

Your have very sensible tactics when approaching the opposite sex. In many ways people find your straightforwardness attractive, so you will find yourself with plenty of dates.

Your views on education

Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:

You have plenty of dream jobs but have little chance of doing any of them if you don't focus on something in particular. You need to choose something and go for it to be happy and achieve success.

How do you view success:

You are afraid of failure and scared to have a go at the career you would like to have in case you don't succeed. Don't give up when you haven't yet even started! Be courageous.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of things that you cannot control. Sometimes you show your anger to cover up how you feel.

Who is your true self:

You are full of energy and confidence. You are unpredictable, with moods changing as quickly as an ocean. You might occasionally be calm and still, but never for long.

To the drawing board!

2009-04-09T01:50:00.005-05:00

Do you like getting packages in the mail?
Brown paper packages, tied up with string?

If so, it would be my pleasure to send you something, in the realm of material reality, that I have made for you and for you alone!

This is a crafty scheme. The first five people to respond to this note will get something made by me. However, this offer does have restrictions, conditions, and limitations so please read carefully:

I : There is absolutely no guarantee made that you will like what I make.
(Aaron Note: I have to receive a honest complaint, though.)

II : What I create will be new, just for you, not something made previously or just laying around.

III : It will be sent this calendar year.

IV : You have no clue what it is going to be. It will be something made in the real world, not just from the internets.

V : It may be jam. It may be a necklace. It may be original artwork or a cake or a chocolate mousse or ambiguous knitted goods. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
(Aaron Note: With no promise that they will be heeded, requests *are* more than welcome.)

VI : I reserve the right to do something extremely strange or cheap.

VII : I may well do more than five random creative acts if more than five people want random creative parcels. We shall see.
(Aaron Note: I will definitely send "somethings" to as many people as ask for them and fulfill the note's requirements! I have been given most of a year to send the stuff. Please, ask away!)

So, are there any obscured but no-the-less binding strings attached? Where is the fine print, figurative or not? There are no strings attached. Rather, I use thick anything-but-subtle hempen cords. Here is the fine print:

VIII : In return, in a public note of your own, you have to post the offer to make at leas five things for at least five other people.

IX : You have to tag me so I know you did it.

X : I will see you taking those first steps of your own before I make and send you anything.

(Aaron Note: Either put your preferred mailing address in your comment or E-mail it to me [Aaron.D.Nemoyer@gmail.com] so I know where to send your something.)

Pax.

PS. If you really want, you don't have to post the note yourself. It is more fun if I can convince you to, but I enjoy sending mail to anyone. :-)

The Drawing Board

2009-04-09T01:50:00.004-05:00

Craft-y Scheme

2009-04-09T01:49:00.001-05:00

A Crafty Scheme

2009-04-05T03:51:00.006-05:00

Music

2009-02-24T21:45:00.001-05:00

"The vibrations on the air are the breath of God speaking to man's soul. Music is the language of God. We musicians are as close to God as man can be. We hear his voice, we read his lips, we give birth to the children of God, who sing his praise. That's what musicians are." --Ludwig van Beethoven

"Without music, life would be an error." --Friedrich Nietzsche

"I have no pleasure in any man who despises music. It is no invention of ours: it is a gift of God. I place it next to theology. Satan hates music: he knows how it drives the evil spirit out of us." --Martin Luther

"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." (Acts 16:25)

"So that the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to your name." (Romans 15:9)

"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and sing praises to him, all you peoples." (Romans 15:11)

"So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind." (1 Corinthians 14:15)

"Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise." (James 5:13)

"Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD: 'I will sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. [...] The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.'" (Exodus 15:1-2)

"Hear this, you kings! Listen, you rulers! I will sing to the LORD, I will sing; I will make music to the LORD, the God of Israel." (Judges 5:3)

"Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name." (2 Samuel 22:50)

"They ministered with music before the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, until Solomon built the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem. [...]" (1 Chronicles 6:32)

"David told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments: lyres, harps and cymbals." (1 Chronicles 15:16)

"Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts." (1 Chronicles 16:9)

"Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day." (1 Chronicles 16:23)

"After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: 'Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.'" (2 Chronicles 20:21)

"Men cry out under a load of oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the powerful. But no one says, 'Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night?'" (Job 35:9-10)

"Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land." (Song of Solomon 2:12)

"Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." (Isaiah 12:2)

"Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; you have put all my sins behind your back. For the grave cannot praise you, death cannot sing your praise; those who go down to the pit cannot hope for your faithfulness. The living, the living—they praise you, as I am doing today; fathers tell their children about your faithfulness. The LORD will save me, and we will sing with stringed instruments all the days of our lives in the temple of the LORD." (Isaiah 38:17-21)

"Sing for joy, O heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, O earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel." (Isaiah 44:23)

"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." (Psalm 5:11)

"Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD." (Psalm 27:6)

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." (Psalm 28:7)

"Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name." (Psalm 30:4)

"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." (Psalm 32:7)

"[The LORD] put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD." (Psalm 40:3)

"By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life." (Psalm 42:8)

"Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises." (Psalm 47:6)

"For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise." (Psalm 47:7)

"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God." (Psalm 59:16-17)

"Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings" (Psalm 63:7)

"Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy." (Psalm 65:8)

"The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing." (Psalm 65:13)

"I remembered my songs in the night" (Psalm 77:6)

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." (Psalm 90:14)

"Let the rivers clap their hands, Let the mountains sing together for joy." (Psalm 98:8)

"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." (Psalm 118:14)

"Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge." (Psalm 119:54)

"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." (Psalm 126:5)

"Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds." (Psalm 149:5)

Another Issues, Etc. Petition

2009-02-19T21:39:00.004-05:00

Last spring, the Missouri Synod fired Jeff Schwartz and Rev. Todd Wilken and ended the well-followed radio show Issues, Etc all without explanation. Now the LC-MS seems to be again getting its hands dirty and threatening Mr. Schwartz and Rev. Todd Wilken, despite already having kicked the show off KFUO airwaves and out of the synod. Please sign this petition for Synod leave them alone and discontinue illegitimate pressure over the Issues, Etc. trademark.

The petition is at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/trademark/

It reads as follows:
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

To President Gerald Kieschnick and the Board of Directors of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod:

The mistreatment of Pastor Todd Wilken and Mr. Jeff Schwarz at the hands of the LCMS is an untenable and un-Christian situation which this petition seeks to address.

Regarding the matter of the pending trademark application for the Issues, Etc. name:

- The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod allowed the trademark of the Lutheran talk radio program Issues, Etc. to lapse in 1999. After the cancellation of Issues, Etc. by the Synod in March of 2008, the Synod's Board for Communication Services recommended that ownership of the Issues, Etc. name be transferred to Host Todd Wilken and Producer Jeff Schwarz. The Director of the Board stated that he had no future plans to use the Issues, Etc. name, and hoped that the show would "continue to be heard through other communication channels." As requested, Pastor Wilken submitted a formal letter to the Synod requesting that they transfer the trademark, though the trademark had lapsed. After being informed by Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz that they planned to resume the show using the Issues, Etc. name, and that a trademark application for that name had been filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by Mr. Harry Madsen, a supporter of the show, the Synod voiced no opposition to their plan.

- The Synod has now inexplicably reversed its position and filed a letter opposing the trademark application, and has indirectly threatened Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz via LCMS lawyers with a personal lawsuit, statements to the contrary notwithstanding.

While Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz have always discussed matters that in any way reflect on the Synod in an exemplary, measured, and Christian fashion, both before and after the cancellation of the show, the same cannot be said of the behavior of the Synod. The threat of a lawsuit initiated by the LCMS against fellow Christians, whether by the leaders themselves or attorneys hired by the LCMS, is a shameful act, and is in fact a sin, as taught by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:1-8. This action causes the Synod to appear vindictive, dishonors our Lord, and hinders the ministry being carried out by the Issues, Etc. team.

Therefore, we, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod immediately drop its opposition to the trademark application for the Issues, Etc. name, cease all consideration of bringing a personal lawsuit against Pastor Wilken and Mr. Schwarz, and offer to them the Synod's blessing on their endeavors.

Survey 2009

2009-01-02T05:23:00.002-05:00

1. Last regret: Sin.
2. Last person you messaged over Facebook: Ellen Hough.
3. Last person you messaged over MSN: Ellen Hubenthal
4. Last sleepover was with: My cousins.
5. Last movie seen in theater: Twilight.
6. Last movie watched at home: The Shawshank Redemption.
7. Last time you went to the beach: September 2007.
8. Last time you cried: A couple tears last week when I was feeling nostalgic and missing Heidi.
9. Last time you went to McDonalds: Yesterday on our way home from visiting extended family.
10. Last time you drank alcohol: Two sips of wine Monday night.
11. Last time you used a lighter: The world will be relieved to know I have not handled a lighter since the middle of last summer.
12. Last wall post: Either one to Karen last night or one from Jacob the 28th. (I've been mostly without internet for a week.)
13. Last test wrote in school: My Music Theory final on the 15th.
14. Last person you saw: My dad.
15. Last physical fight: A sword duel with Ethan just before Christmas break.
16. Last person you rode a roller coaster with: I don't remember. It has been a few years since I rode a roller coaster. Sad.
17. Last thing you ordered at a restaurant: A mushroom and swiss burger (medium-rare), curly fries, two tall sweet teas, and a lemon slice.
18. Last time you went swimming: Last summer.
19. Last people who were in your house (aside from siblings/parents): I have no idea. We have had no one over the few days I've been home recently.

1. Do you shave your legs? No.
2. Do you drink? Nothing alcoholic beyond an occasional sip of wine.
3. Do you smoke cigarettes? No.
4. Do you swear? Besides solemnly swearing I am up to no good to try and make maps appear on blank paper, no.
5. Do you do your homework? Yes, but I need to work on doing it in a more timely manner.
6. Do you have a good relationship with your parents? Usually, yes.
7. Do you drink coffee? About as rarely as those ocassional sips of wine and beer.
8. Do you talk too much? Sometimes I talk too much, but sometimes also it would be good if I would talk more.

DO YOU KNOW...

1. ...anyone who has died from cancer? Yes.
2. ...that black and white are shades not colours? Yes, though I am tempted to argue with that on some weak technicalities.
3. ...anyone who's sniffed cocaine before? Not that I am aware.
4. ...anyone who is gay/bi/lesbian? Yes.
5. ...the square root of 16? I am acquainted with him, yes.
6. ...anyone who drives a minivan? Lots of people.
7. ...anyone who gets straight As? Yes.

1. If you could live the rest of your life with three people, who would they be? A wife and two kids.
2. What is your hotmail address? pntbrshkid@hotmail.com, but I almost never use it.
3. If you could change two things about your appearance, what would they be? My back and my eyes.
5. Who can you tell ANYTHING to? Heidi Mae.

RANDOM:

1. Have you kissed somebody over 18 years of age? Yes.
2. What are you planning on doing this summer? Working a good summer job and hopefully going to a Higher Things conference.
3. Is your life complete? No.
4. Last time you drank? A glass of water last night.
5. Favourite smells? Baking, the scents along a certain stretch of the Appalachian Trail, fresh baked cookies, old books, and Heidi.
6. What type of cell phone do you have? LG Muziq
7. Pick one; Green or Gold? Gold.
8. Would you do anything for a million dollars? No.
9. True or False; I am very excited about Saturday? False.
10. What school do you go to? Bethany Lutheran College.
11. Do you like anyone? Having a wonderful girlfriend of 27 months, I definitely "like" someone.
12. Ever fallen for your ex's best friend? No, I have never had an ex.
13. What was the funniest night of your life? Haha. Either every single night this past semester rooming with Ethan or one of the numerous nocturnal adventures Chris and I have had.
14. Is there anyone special on your mind at this very minute? Yes! My Heidi Mae!
15. What are you planning on doing tomorrow? Sleeping in.
16. Is music your thing? Definitely.
17. Favorite song? I don't pick favourites among such close friends.
18. If you were a Sharpie, what color would you be? Brown.
19. Do you like taking pictures? Yes, but I haven't done much photographing recently.
20. Do you like heights? Yes!
21. Why did you take this survey? Emily tagged me.
22. What's your cell phone ring tone? Vibrate. :P
23. Are you grounded? Actually, funny story.. You see, after my court-martial, they not only took away my halo but also my wings. This is not standard practice of the Heavenly Host, but it was decided that leaving me with the ability to fly would be too likely to upset the balance and The Plan.
24. Do you want to go to college? Yeah! Oh, right, I already do. :P
25. Do you cheat on tests? No.
26. Do you know how to keep a convo going? When I really try, I can keep a conversation going with anyone who doesn't call it a "convo".
27. Can you listen to songs over and over again? Yes, and I do when others aren't around to be annoyed by it.
28. Do you have a celebrity dream wife/husband? No.
29. Do you like the rain? Yes, especially in the form of pounding summer thunderstorms.
30. Have you ever been to a concert? Not many, but yes.
31. Have you ever cried yourself to sleep? Yes.

MORE...

-- Could you forgive your best friend for sleeping with your boyfriend/girlfriend? I *could*, but it would be very unlikely.
-- How old will you be on your 21st birthday? I will be approximately three-quarters of the way through my 22nd year of life.
-- Have you ever seen a bat? Yes.
-- Is there anything/anyone you hate? Nothing particular comes to mind.
-- Do you like the color orange? Yes! I like orange to the extent that my bedroom at home is heavily sponge painted orange.
-- Have you ever seen a real redneck? I have *been* a real redneck.
-- Do tattoos and piercings excite you? No.
-- What is the meaning of life?
-- What size shoes do you wear? Men's 12.
-- What is your favorite season? I have no favourite among the seasons.
-- Do you care if people talk smack about you? Yes, but it doesn't bother me lots.
-- At what age do you want to get married? 23.
-- How much are you on the phone daily? My phone time can be anywhere from five minutes to a few hours, mostly depending on my ability to see and talk to Heidi in person.
-- Are you in a good mood? Not particularly just now.. I'm grumpy because I'm sick and haven't been able to sleep.
-- Do you think people will always exist? About until the Earth ends, yes.
-- Do you believe in luck? No.
-- Everything happens for a reason, right? Yes.
-- Would you rather skydive or bungee jump? I would definitely rather skydive.
-- Do you like snakes? Oh yes.
-- Where is one place that you'd like to visit? Rome.
-- Anything you're looking forward to? Yes. Most immediately: flying back to Minnesota and being with my Heidi Mae again on the 6th.
-- Does the number 23 has any significance to you? Umm.. It is the age that I gave just a minute ago as a good one to marry at, but otherwise, no.
-- Be honest, do you like people in general? I do like people. (Shouldn't it presumed that we're being honest on all of these questions?)
-- Big or small dogs? Big dogs, usually.
-- Do you like Big Macs? They're food.
-- Did someone bother you today? Yes.
-- What do you think about death? I don't think about it much. When I do, though, my thoughts tend to be good Christian and orthodox Lutheran opinions of death and the resurrection.
-- Does someone love you? Yes! :D
-- Do you know anyone named Dave? Haha. Yes, I know a bunch of Daves.
-- Have you kissed anyone whose name starts with R? No.
-- Has anyone ever mistaken you for a family member? Yes, once.
-- If you were given a drug test right now would you pass or fail? I would pass.
-- Have you cried today? No.
-- Who last made you laugh? My Heidi Mae.
-- What do your best friends call you? "Aaron", "Nemoyer", "silly", and ocassionally "bastard".
-- Thunderstorms or snow? Ooh, I feel terribly torn on this one. It depends. What kind of thunderstorm are we talking about? If it is a good, long, and heavy one and in relatively warm weather, I pick the thunderstorm.
-- Laptop or Desktop? Laptop.
-- What is your pet's name? Snickers.
-- What were you doing 4 hours ago? Sleeping.
-- Where did you go to today? Nowhere yet, but I have both dentist and doctor appointments later today.
-- What friend do you get along with the best? My Heidi Mae.
-- Have you ever fought over the opposite sex? Haha. Only once, but yes, I have.
-- Are you good at math? Yes.
-- Do you listen to your parents? Usually.
-- At what age did you learn to ride a bike without training wheels? I think it was when I was six.
-- Have you ever dyed your hair? No.
-- Do you kiss with your eyes open or shut? Both.
-- Do you act more silly or serious? Silly.
-- Are you good at keeping secrets? Yes.
-- Do you prefer drinking sodas or juices more? Juices, actually.
-- What was the first thing you thought about when you woke up? "Oh, I left the Audiobook playing when I fell asleep... It's going to take me awhile to find my place again.."
-- What did you do last night? Talked to my Heidi Mae.
-- What is the most important part of your life? Faith, family, and friends -in that order.
-- What would you rather be doing right now? Sleeping.
-- What did you last cry over? Accidentally emotionally hurting someone close.
-- What always makes you feel better when your sad? Talking to friends (especially Heidi), music, or readingmy Bible.
-- What is the most important thing you look for in a significant other? Mm.. I looked for a number of things: a Christian and Lutheran, someone who was kind, and caring for friends and family.
-- What are you worried about? School.
-- Have you ever had your heart broken? A little bit, but not terribly.
-- Who was the last person you called? I think it was my cousin Chris, but he didn't pick up so that might not count. :P
-- Who is the last person you freaked out on? I don't really "freak out"..
-- When did you last see your mom? About eight hours ago, just before everyone headed to bed.

RELATIONSHIPS

1. Would you date someone who smokes? I wouldn't not date someone solely because they smoked, but probably not.
2. Would you date someone who was addicted to drugs? No.
3. Would you date someone who lived in another province? (Haha! This question must have been made in Canada, just like my Heidi!) Yes, I would, have, and am.
4. Whats your biggest turn off? Someone who speaks poorly of friends behind their back.
5. Whats your biggest turn on physically? Eyes and smile.
6. Most hurtful relationship? I haven't been in any romantic relationship I could describe as hurtful.
7. Have you ever regretted breaking up with someone? I haven't ever broken up with someone, so no.
8. Have you ever dated someone who you knew didn't like you for who you were? No, and I never would.
9. What's your relationship status? I am dating a wonderful girl and have been since the first day of September 2006.
10. What's the sweetest thing someone you dated did for you? I could never pick between all the wonderful things Heidi Mae has done for me.
11. Last time you got flowers? I give the flowers; I don't get them.
12. Are you ready to get into a relationship right now? No, because I already am in one.
13. Do you like cuddling? Hehe. Yes.
14. Do you hold grudges? Not much.
15. Do you regret dating anyone? No.
16. Hugger or kisser? I love both, but if I could only have one, hugs.
17. Missing someone? Yes.
18. Most important lesson you've learned from your ex? I don't have any proper exes, so.. nope.
19. Are you happier single or in a relationship? In a relationship.
20. Whats the most important thing in a relationship? Trust or communication, though I think they are tied together.
21. Have you ever loved someone who didn't love you back? Yes.
22. Would you date someone who was broke all the time? Yes.
23. How important are looks? Looks are..nice, but they're not really important.
24. How do you know when you are in love? "In love" is when I am infatuated with someone and want to know them romantically and care for them because of that, but I don't think of "in love" as real sincere love.
25. Do you consider yourself shy? Definitely a little shy, yes.
26. Would you rather date someone who was super hot or someone who was super nice? Super nice, hands down.
27. Have you ever been turned down or turned someone down? Yes.
28. Have you ever been ashamed of anyone you were dating? No.
29. Do you currently want to date anyone? Yes, the girl I am dating.
30. Thing that made you the happiest today? Talking to my Heidi Mae.
31. Would you ever date anyone your parents disapproved of? No, never.
32. Do you stay friends with the people you date? Having no exgirlfriends, I don't know. I know it would be much harder to be just friends with a girl after dating her, which makes me even less sure whether I would or not. I would hope to.
33. Would you fight over someone you wanted to be with? If they were already with someone else, no.
34. Do you kiss on the first date? No, and I never would.
35. Would you date someone a *LOT* older or younger than you? No.
36. Does the person you currently like know you like them? Haha. Yes, she does.
37. Do you think the word 'love' is overused? I think it is more misused than overused.
38. Ever been called a whore? A couple times, yes.
39. If someone cheated on you, would you take them back if you really loved them? I might, but probably not.

-- Do you tend to rip the paper off water bottles? Sometimes.
-- Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Danielle.
-- What was the last advice you gave someone? I give out lots of insignifcant advice, so I don't remember.
-- Is it easier to forgive or to forget? Independently of each other, it is decidedly easier to forgive. Forgetting is nearly impossible without forgiving first.
-- Do you give out second chances easily? Yes.
-- Have you ever had a dream about people you love dying? Yes. It is one of the few things that really scares me.
-- Who was the last person you cried in front of? Heidi.
-- Have you ever had a panic attack? No.
-- Is it awkward when you run into your enemies? I have no particularly strong enemies, so no.
-- What is your current mood? Apathetic and drowsy.
-- Have a crazy side? Anyone who knows me knows better than to inquire after that. ;-) Yes.
-- Ever had a near death experience? Mm, no.
-- Angry at anyone? No.
-- Do you wanna see somebody right now? Yes!
-- Where is your ex? I have none.
-- Have you ever kissed in the rain? Um, I don't think so, but I'm not 100% sure.

FIRST THING THOUGHT

1. Your mom and you = friendly
2. I am listening to = myself breathing
3. maybe i should = try to sleep more
4. I love = Heidi Mae.
5. Chocolate is = Tasty and a good gift for a girlfriend.
6. I don't understand = myself
7. I've lost respect for = politicians
8. I last ate = enchiladas
9. The meaning of my display name is = Um.. it is my given name?
10. God = the all-powerful creator, King, Lord, and Savior of the universe.
11. Someday = over the rainbow
12. I will always remember = THE ALAMO!
13. Love seems to be = Horribly convulated and misunderstood in contemporary society.
14. I never want to lose = Heidi.
15. Tomorrow I'll be with = family.
16. My myspace is = stupid.
17. I always get annoyed when = ..er.. I never get annoyed?..
18. Parties = would rock my world if I ever went to any. :P
19. What happened to #19? = your face
20. Simple kisses = Contentment.
21. Today I = begin the rest of my life.
22. I wish = I were with my Heidi Mae.
23. Randy = Travis

YOU ARE....

01. Is your hair wet? I feel vaguely stalked. Yes. I just took a shower.
02. Is your cellphone by you? Near enough, yes.
03. Do you miss someone? Yes.
04. Are you wearing chapstick? No.
05. Are you wearing pajamas? No.
06. Are you tired? Yes.
08. Are you mad? No.
09. Are you upset? No.

HAVE YOU...

01. ...recently done anything you regret? Yes.
02. ...ever stuck gum under a desk? No.
03. ...ever kicked someone a few times? Probably.
04. ...ever tripped over your own feet? A few times

TODAY HAVE YOU...

01. ...cursed? No.
02. ...gotten mad at someone? No.
03. ...laughed really hard? Not yet, but I probably will.

RANDOM...

-- Is there anybody mad at you right now? Not that I know, no.
-- Do you have any siblings? I have two younger brothers, Nathan and Joel.
-- Do you want children? Yes, very much.
-- Do you smile often? I try to.
-- Do you untie your shoes every time you take them off? About half the time.
-- Do you like your handwriting? Sometimes.
-- Are your toenails painted? No, and they never have been.
-- Are you a friendly person? I try to be.
-- Whose bed other than yours have you slept in? Chris', Ellen's, Ethan's, Heidi's, Kyle's, the Maunula guest bed, Zeke's... lots of people's.
-- What colour of shirt are you wearing? I am a SEXY SHIRTLESS GOD OF WAR! *cough* [Order of the Stick webcomic reference for all you people who look so scared.]
-- What were you doing at 2pm yesturday? Napping.
-- What can you hardly wait for? School to start up again.

Reading Challenge (2009)

2009-01-01T06:17:00.034-05:00

So, the story is that arch-nemesis Stormfield as well as other minor nemeses have signed up for this reading challenge. A certain J. Kaye Oldner seems to host an annual challenge for individuals to make sure they read at least 100 books during the year. Well, I can't rightly allow my nemeses to participate in, not to mention potentially complete, more challenges than I!

As Stormfield noted, pulling a full time college load might make trying to keep up with this reading and recording crazy, but crazy is what room #416 is all about, so try it I will. My list of books read will appear below.

Books Read 2009:

1. The Battle of the Labyrinth: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 4 by Rick Riordan 2. Nation by Terry Pratchett
3. Dubliners by James Joyce
4. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants by Ann Brashares

5. Jam Jar Sonnets by Pete Bloedel

6. The Shadow of the Torturer by Gene Wolfe

7. The Claw of the Conciliator by Gene Wolfe

8. Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead by Tom Stoppard

9. "Are We There Yet?" by Harry Turtledove

10. The Sword of the Lictor by Gene Wolfe

11. The Man Without a Country by Edward Everett Hale

12. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

13. Dracula by Bram Stoker
14. The Last Olympian: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 5 by Rick Riordan

15. The Demigod Files: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, Book 6 (A collection of short stories and notes) by Rick Riordan

16. A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

17. The Sea-Wolf and Other Stories by Jack London

18. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

19. The Missing Piece by Shel Silverstein

20. The Last Days of Krypton by Kevin J. Anderson

21. Casino Royale: James Bond Series, Book 1 by Ian Fleming

22. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

23. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

24. Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

25. Beat the Story-Drum, Pum-Pum by Ashley Bryan

26. The Citadel of the Autarch by Gene Wolfe

27. Urth of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe

28. "The Cat Who Walked a Thousand Miles" by Kij Johnson

29. Jim Smiley and his Jumping Frog by Mark Twain

30. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

31. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

32. The Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy

33. The Halfling and other stories by Leigh Brackett

34. Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
35. A Drowned Maiden's Hair: A Melodrama by Laura Amy Schlitz
36. Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
37. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupéry
38. The Door Within by Wayne Thomas Batson
39. Think Thinner, Snoopy: Selected Cartoons from Don't Hassle Me with Your Sighs, Chuck, vol. 2 by Charles M. Schulz
40. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Inverse blog taggage squared.

2008-08-14T12:06:00.003-05:00

The time has come to seperate the sheep from the people who just happen to look a lot like sheep.

I highly appreciate response from all mine friend--and in a way, consider everyone a friend--so please respond whether I tagged you or not. As with Nat, I am just feeling too lazy to tag everyone.

1. Who are you?
2. Are we friends?
3. When and how did we meet?
4. Do you or have you ever had a crush on me?
5. Give me a nickname and explain why you picked it.
6. Describe me in one word. (NB: Multiple words without spaces between them are still multiple words.)
7. What were your first impressions of me?
8. Do you still think that way about me now?
9. What reminds you of me?
10. If you could give me anything what would it be?
11. How well do you know me?
12. When was the last time you saw me?
13. Ever wanted to tell me something but couldn't?
14. Are you going to post this in your notes and see what I say about you?
15. Contribute a memory regarding me.

Double take.

2008-08-07T16:14:00.001-05:00

Two names you go by:
1. Aaron
2. Nemoyer

The two people you talked to last:
1. Danielle the Thoughful
2. Jacob the SMUGling

Two things you are wearing right now:
1. White with black basketball shorts
2. A black Harley Davidson T-shirt

Two of your favorite things to do:
1. Give my Heidi Mae attention
2. Draw

Two things you want very badly at the moment:
1. To be with my Heidi.
2. A good night's sleep

Two pets that you have or have had:
1. Snickers the chocolate lab
2. Goldfish

Two people who will fill this out:
1. Your face.
2. My face.

Two things you did last night:
1. IMed my newest sister
2. Made more plans for the cloak I am sewing.

Last two things you ate:
1. Pepperidge Farm wheat bread with blackberry pie filling
2. Turkey mozzerella wraps.

Two things you are doing tomorrow:
1. Working 11-8.
2. Sleeping.

Two longest trips taken:
1. Driving to DC --> plane to Atlanta --> plane to Seattle --> plane to Atlanta --> plane to DC --> drive to Ohio --> drive home to PA
2. Our best Western loop vacation around the 2005 Higher Things conference in St. Louis.

Your two favourite holidays:
1. Christmas
2. Easter

Two of your favourite beverages:
1. Tea
2. Milkshakes

Two lists of people you're tagging:
1. Ethan, Zeke, Jacob, Danielle
2. Maria, Zach, Emily, Emma

Names

2008-07-26T16:53:00.001-05:00

1. YOUR REAL NAME:
Aaron David Nemoyer

2. YOUR GANGSTA' NAME, [the first 4 letters of your real name plus "-izzle"]:
Nemoizzle

3. YOUR SPY NAME, [favourite color and favourite animal]:
Orange Okapi
(or Crimson Capybara)

4. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME, [your middle name and the street you live on]:
David Fieldstone

5. YOUR STAR WARS NAME, [the first 3 letters of your last name and first 2 letters of your first name]:
Nema'a

6. YOUR SUPERHERO NAME, [your 2nd favourite color and favourite drink]:
Blue Lemon

7. YOUR IRAQI NAME, [the 2nd letter of your first name, 3rd letter of your last name, 1st letter of your middle name, 2nd letter of your mom's maiden name, 3rd letter of you dad's middle name, 1st letter of a siblings first name, and last letter of your mom's first name]:
Amdi Yny

8. YOUR WITNESS PROTECTION NAME, [parents middle names]:
Jay Eileen

9. YOUR GOTH NAME, ["bloody" and the name of one of your pets]:
Bloody Snickers

The Secret to Skyrocketing Oil Prices

2008-07-08T08:48:00.002-05:00

Somehow, I don't find this a good argument for pulling out of the Middle East:

--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Chavez to US: Stop your Iran threats

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez advises Washington to stop making threats against Iran and Venezuela in hopes of seeing lower oil prices.

Chavez suggested that wealthy nations, including the United States, can end the surge in oil prices by refraining from blaming crude exporting nations and by pulling their troops out of Iraq.

"They want to blame us: the Arabs and Venezuela. We are not to blame. Withdraw the troops from Iraq and you'll see how oil prices will drop," he said Thursday.

"Stop the threats against Iran and Venezuela, oil-producing countries, and you'll see prices will tend to decline," Chavez said in an address to visiting delegates from Non-Aligned Movement countries.

Oil prices surged to an all-time high of over $146 a barrel on Thursday. Brent peaked at $146.69 before falling back to $146.08; US crude jumped $1.72 to $145.29 after having hit $145.85.

Crude skyrocketed to nearly $144 on Monday over speculation that Israel plans to launch a military strike on Iran, the world's fourth-largest oil exporter.

The New York Times recently quoted Pentagon officials as saying that over 100 Israeli F-16s and F-15s staged a maneuver over the eastern Mediterranean and Greece in early June.

As part of the maneuver, Israeli aircraft flew over 900 miles, roughly the distance from their airfields to a nuclear enrichment facility in the central Iranian city of Natanz.

Asked whether Iran would close the Strait of Hormuz if Israel launches a military strike on the country, Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Major General Mohammad-Ali Jafari suggested June 28 that Tehran would consider all options.

"When a country comes under attack, it naturally uses all its capacities to confront the enemy," said the Iranian commander.

The strategic 21-mile Strait of Hormuz waterway between Iran and Oman is a vital conduit for energy supplies. As much as 40 percent of the world's sea-transited crude oil passes through the narrow Persian Gulf chokepoint.

Chavez warned last month that crude prices would hit $200 a barrel if the US continued to threaten Iran.

Walther on: Doctrine vs. Missons

2008-06-27T12:43:00.002-05:00

I hate to just steal posts, but Susan was pointing people to this Walther quote posted by Elephant's Child. It is a great simple explanation of why purity of doctrine should be foremost concern.

--- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---

"It is true, brethren, as you well know, that in our day it is common for people to say, 'Emphasizing doctrine so much only harms and hinders the kingdom of God, yes, even destroys it.' Many say, 'Instead of disputing over doctrine so much, we should much rather be concerned with souls and with leading them to Christ.' But all who speak in this way do not really know what they are saying or what they are doing. As foolish as it would be to scold a farmer for being concerned about sowing good seed and to demand of him simply to be concerned about a good harvest, so foolish it is to scold those who are concerned first and foremost with the doctrine, and to demand of them that they should rather seek to rescue souls. For just as the farmer who wants a good crop must first of all be concerned about good seed, so the church must above all be concerned about right doctrine if it would save souls."

(C. F. W. Walther, “Our Common Task: The Saving of Souls” [1872], Essays for the Church [Saint Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1992], Vol. I)

Disciplining Kids Is Just Too Mean!

2008-06-24T20:10:00.001-05:00

This story might not be very good news:

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

OTTAWA (AFP) - A Canadian court has lifted a 12-year-old girl's grounding, overturning her father's punishment for disobeying his orders to stay off the Internet, his lawyer said Wednesday.
ADVERTISEMENT

The girl had taken her father to Quebec Superior Court after he refused to allow her to go on a school trip for chatting on websites he tried to block, and then posting "inappropriate" pictures of herself online using a friend's computer.

The father's lawyer Kim Beaudoin said the disciplinary measures were for the girl's "own protection" and is appealing the ruling.

"She's a child," Beaudoin told AFP. "At her age, children test their limits and it's up to their parents to set boundaries."

"I started an appeal of the decision today to reestablish parental authority, and to ensure that this case doesn't set a precedent," she said. Otherwise, said Beaudoin, "parents are going to be walking on egg shells from now on."

"I think most children respect their parents and would never go so far as to take them to court, but it's clear that some would and we have to ask ourselves how far this will go."

According to court documents, the girl's Internet transgression was just the latest in a string of broken house rules. Even so, Justice Suzanne Tessier found her punishment too severe.

Beaudoin noted the girl used a court-appointed lawyer in her parents' 10-year custody dispute to launch her landmark case against dear old dad.

Time Changes Everything

2008-06-23T07:19:00.001-05:00

RULES
1. Put your music player (iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc.) on SHUFFLE.
2. For each question, press the NEXT button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.
4. Put any comments in brackets after the song name.
5. Post it.
6. Tag people as many people as you wish. It's a rule; you have to.

1. If someone says, "Is this okay?", you say?
Quando, Quando, Quando -- Michael Buble
["When, When, When"? Curses, Sarah! I don't even know how this song got in my library, but I blame you since it's Michael Buble! I've never seen or heard it before as far as I'm aware!]

2. How would you describe yourself?
A Beautiful Life -- Chuck Wagon Gang
[Haha. That works. I try to be that optimistic about it. :D But given my own choice, I probably would have picked something like Gary Allen's "Life Ain't Always Beautiful".]

3. What do you like in a member of the opposite sex?
Wishmaster -- Nightwish
[O_o Okay, that is really dark and creepy and not at all what I would have picked..]

4. How do you feel today?
A Foggy Day (In London Town) -- Michael Buble
[I don't think I've ever had Michael Buble show up when I did shuffle before. Usually my complete Johnny Cash collection dominates. This is a song I know and like, though, and it is oddly fitting for how I've been. How have I been feeling? A bit foggy and down, but Heidi keeps things brightened up for me. :D]

5. What is your life's purpose?
You Can't Beat Jesus Christ -- Johnny Cash
[And here's Johnny! You Can't Beat This Answer.]

6. What is your motto?
Old Time Feeling -- Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash
[That works.]

7. What do your friends think of you?
Another One Rides The Bus -- Weird Al Yankovic
[Weird Al's parody of "Another On Bites The Dust"... That probably fits my a lot of friends' impression of me fantastically.]

8. What do you think of your parents?
Busted -- Johnny Cash
[Haha. "Busted". Sure, that works.]

9. What do you think about very often?
Solitary Man -- Johnny Cash
[Heh. This could apply. I do worry some about doing something stupid and Heidi breaking up with me.]

10. What is 2 + 2?
One And One Makes Two -- Johnny Cash
[I swear I didn't rig that! I'm pretty close, but it looks like I didn't quite get the question. ;-) 2+2=5, btw.]

11. What do you think of your best friend?
Me And You -- Kenny Chesney
[It's perfect. :-) My Heidi Mae is definitely my best friend too... "Ordinary? No, I really don't think so, / Not a love this true. / Common destiny, we were meant to be, me and you. / Like a perfect scene from a movie screen, / We're a dream come true. / Suited perfectly, for eternity, me and you. / Everyday, well, I need you even more, / And the nighttime too. / There's no way, I could ever let you go, / Even if I wanted to. / Everyday I live, / I try my best to give / All I have to you. / Thank the stars above, that we share this love, me and you."]

12. What do you think of the person you like?
Mahna, Mahna
[Umm.. What does this mean? :P]

13. What is your life story?
The Night Santa Went Crazy -- Weird Al Yankovic
[Definitely. So maybe I would have picked something more serious, but I love this. "Well, the workshop is gone now. He decided to bomb it."]

14. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Processional And Maria (THe Wedding) -- The Sound of Music Soundtrack
[I want to grow up to be, among other things, a husband and father. It's true. :D]

15. What will you dance at your wedding?
Beautiful Again -- Martina McBride
[The lyrics aren't great, but the song title would work.]

16. What will they play at your funeral?
You're Gonna Miss This -- Trace Adkins
[I won't be the one missing this, but I have some great friends that would miss me, I know. :-)]

17. What is your hobby/interest?
Make 'Em Laugh -- Singing' In The Rain
[Making my friends smile and laugh. My favourite pastime. Perfect.]

18. What is your biggest fear?
How Far -- Martina McBride
["I wanna make this work so much it hurts, but I just can't keep on giving, go on living, with the way things are. So, I'm gonna walk away, and it's up to you how far." My greatest fear.]

19. What is your biggest secret?
The Wall -- Johnny Cash
[Apparently my biggest secret is that I've already died trying to escape from prison.]

20. What do you think of your friends?
The Walking Dead -- Dropkick Murphys
["The greats come alive. The water's on fire. Have I been to this place before? Yeah, we danced through the night as the flames burned bright, and the patrons passed out on the floor. ... Yeah, the story you're telling is from the book I wrote. I've forgotten more then you'll ever know! 'Cause at the end of the day when the hope fades away, it was an outlook you could never afford. You're on one last stand, with the boys and the band, before the demon strikes the final chord. ... You've got tons of fans in hell. Boy, that much I know. ... What's so new about what you're saying? It's a new generation with the same sad song." Yep, this song is Ethan's fault, so you'll have to ask him to explain what any of it means. It'll have to do, though.

21. What will you post this as?
Time Changes Everything -- Johnny Cash

22. What's your favorite song?
The Crane Wife 1 & 2 -- The Decemberists
[No, not my favourite song, but it is pretty cool.]

I tag... Heidi, Ethan, Nat, Zach, Rachels, and Jacob.

vale!

Study: Most Children Strongly Opposed To Children's Healthcare

2008-06-23T06:18:00.002-05:00

http://www.theonion.com/content/video/study_most_children_strongly

It's true.

vale!

It would have suited better ten months ago.

2008-06-20T08:04:00.001-05:00

I am reading Anne of Avonlea, and this passage struck me. I think it left a bit of a welt right on top of my head, too.

-~- ~-~ -~- ~-~ -~- ~-~ -~- ~-~

"I feel . . . as if . . . somebody . . . had handed me . . . the moon . . . and I didn't know . . . exactly . . . what to do . . . with it," Anne said dazedly...

Anne had a long meditation at her window that night. Joy and regret struggled together in her heart. She had come at last . . . suddenly and unexpectedly . . . to the bend in the road, and college was around it, with a hundred rainbow hopes and visions. But Anne realized as well that when she rounded that curve she must leave many sweet things behind . . . all the little simple duties and interests, which had grown so dear to her in the last two years and which she had glorified into beauty and delight by the enthusiam she had put into them. ... The mere thought...made her wonder if Redmond were such a name to conjure with after all.

"I've put out a lot of little roots there two years," Anne told the moon, "and when I'm pulled up they're going to hurt a great deal. But it's best to go, I think, and, as Marilla says, there's no good reason why I shouldn't. I must get out all my ambitions and dust them."

The Flyer Song

2008-06-14T23:33:00.002-05:00

Well, thanks to Kennedy, I came across a new song this evening. It is The Flyer Song, by little known Nashville artist Leslie Ellis. It is an excellent song in honour of US servicemen, especially pilots, from the perspective of a girl back home worry about her man every time he gets in his jet and takes to the skies.

This song moved me particularly, for a few reasons. First thing and primarily, I loved it because I know a fair number of people serving in the armed forces and families of servicemen. Second, I have been missing Heidi and felt it there. And finally, I have always been fond of the air and of flight. I used to have dreams of being a jet pilot and might have followed that if I were physically more up to it.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

THE FLYER SONG -- Leslie Ellis
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHs1K79ZF20

I don't like it when my baby flies at night.
And in the day, I close my eyes.
I count the seconds 'til he's safe home from that flight,
But I won't ask my baby not to fly.

He loves to shoot that airplane straight up in the air,
Circle 'round and 'round the sky.
Isn't like he's even going anywhere,
But I won't ask my baby not to fly.

I could make demands and try to clip his wings.
I could forbid him from his sky.
And he might let me,
'Cause he loves me and he'd give me anything,
But I know he'd surely die.

Yeah,
I could make demands and try to clip his wings.
I could forbid him from his sky.
And he might let me,
'Cause he loves me and he'd give me anything,
But I know he'd surely die.

So, every weekend, for about a half a day,
I get low, and he gets high.
I pray to God that He won't take my man away,
But that's not up to me, no matter what or how many tear I cry.
I'll never ask him not to fly.
I won't ask my baby,
I won't ask my baby,
No, I won't ask my baby not to fly,
Fly,
Fly.

Rainy days

2008-05-20T07:24:00.003-05:00

O dreary PA days, I did not miss you at all.