messages to batten:
(click here to add new message):

from emeraldtiger :
(Hugs). It has been many moons since I last logged in here and I came on very randomly to look around. I miss when this place would light up red even if that was so 2002 or even so 2008. Big changes as I left the east coast and moved west for personal reasons, taking big risks as I did so, but it was the right move. Best wishes always, and take care of yourself. xo,
from emeraldtiger :
I'm so sorry for your loss.
from emeraldtiger :
Wow I go for many many many months w/o logging in but today I did by chance and three people on my old "buddy list" have written. I miss the space and time and purpose D-land served for me and will always have a soft spot for it, and in intervening years, have thought about a lot of folks I used to read regularly. Also you've got it...thoughts, prayers, good vibes, strength, everything. I'm sorry this is happening. {hugs}
from emeraldtiger :
I agree! Your parents love is selfless and you never outgrow it. At least at 40, I know I haven't and never will!
from jaysthoughts :
Just checking to see how many diarylanders still actually check their notes and stay active.
from nixtress :
Jenn...I've lost the keys to your kingdom :( I stepped away from Dland for a long while. May I have them again? my email addy is nixtressAThotmailDOTcom, if you're willing. Thought I'd catch up. Regardless, hope you're well!! <3
from emeraldtiger :
I'm sorry to hear things are so bad! (hugs)
from emeraldtiger :
I'm so sorry to hear that. xoxo
from emeraldtiger :
glad you're safe and that it was definitely nothing like isabel!
from sixweasels :
I am soooo borrowing twat-waffle, babe. She sucks. And R ...? Grrrr. I'll leave it at that. Love you. Big hugs.
from emeraldtiger :
Thinking about you. Economy does suck right now. Best wishes with finding a lucrative career. Congrats on being smoke-free. And best of luck sorting everything out w/ the R situation...glad you wrote. Sometimes life kind of gets in the way, you know?
from emeraldtiger :
Happy New Year, J! I hope 2011 turns out to be a wonderful year, and that things work out and good things happen on all fronts for you. We will rock 2011, right? Yeah! xoxo,
from rachelliz :
Jen, I'm so sorry everything's been going wrong for you recently. I think you're due a good turn and I predict it will happen tomorrow at the appeal! Keeping my fingers crossed for you.
from emeraldtiger :
Thank you! That means a lot. xoxo. I'm sorry you're going through a tough time, and sorry to hear about R. Know that I'm definitely thinking of you and sending you positive vibes.
from zencelt :
Will the little bugger eat tuna? Can food stamps buy that? Big higs, and much career mojo.
from emeraldtiger :
keeping you in my thoughts. xo,
from emeraldtiger :
xoxoxo
from red-wine :
Love you too, girl.
from bathtubmary :
xoxox
from emeraldtiger :
Yeah, exactly what Red said. Keep us posted how you're doing/what happens. You know exactly what you need and want. Thinking about you!!
from red-wine :
**oof** That's tough. Really tough. But I'm glad that you know just what you need and are going to see that you get it. Walking away from something that big is compltely excruciating, but ... well, maybe it does need to happen. Doesn't mean I'm not feeling for you though, hon. Keep us posted.
from zencelt :
I wanted and expected everything you did as well. And I'm just not sure what to do about it. ((big hugs)))
from casa-rosie :
Many hugs, and I deffo understand where you are right now, been there myself far too recently for comfort. But there is hope, and a light at the end of the tunnel, and it's NOT an oncoming train! Sometimes, when we clear out what is already there, we make room for what is better for us. Also, it is important to be clear in our needs, and where we see our path going, so the other person knows in all honesty what is expected. I am no longer settling for might-have-beens, it's isn't easy, but in the end, it's the right path for me. Hope you have found me at my new place! Much love!
from zencelt :
Sorry to hear that he's being a douche bag... That's inexcusable.
from zencelt :
Big hugs...
from emeraldtiger :
Hey-hang in there...and also....that's so awesome your parents celebrated their 50th! It's definitely not everyone who gets to experience that, especially these days. My parents will have been married for 45 as of the coming winter!
from outfoxed :
8/9: There isn't one thing in life so enriching as someone who truly cares for you, and nothing so worthless as a job you don't want to wake up for. Bless you lass.
from zencelt :
Holy crap! I'd cry too. Take care of yourself. See you this weekend.
from emeraldtiger :
Oh my gosh, that's so scary! So glad you and everyone else are okay and weren't hurt in the fire. Hope you're doing okay.
from casa-rosie :
Personally, I LOVE the 1980's version of P&P, and the 1995 version of S&S. I like Mansfield Park, in fact, that reminds me that have another version of it to watch that I just got at the swap meet, and I like the 1998 version of Persuasion. However, I absolutely CRINGE when I watch the newest version of Persuasion. The gal who plays Anne is just horrible, and that next to last scene is simply painful to watch. The newest mini-series of S&S is good in places, and the gal who plays Elinor is great, but their Marianne is too biting, IMHO. I could go on for DAYS about Jane Austen, and I sometimes do!
from sixweasels :
Big hugs babe. Always here when you need a chat. Come hang at the pool with me and Shan soon.
from zencelt :
Another great movie. So sorry you're feeling low.
from zencelt :
That movie KILLED me...
from emeraldtiger :
I totally admire your honesty and support you sending out the raw, tell-it-like-it is emotions!!! It's not pathetic. The distance demands it 100%. xoxo,
from casa-rosie :
OK, a wee bit late here, but my daughter's computer wasn't cooperating last night. Good for you for finally telling it like it is. He DOES need to hear your raw emotions, sometimes we say what we think they want to hear, but perhaps he NEEDED to know how you truly feel. Hugs!
from red-wine :
Flying by with backup here ... I admire your honesty with your emotions, and only good things can come of that. (I've written similar things and blushed the entire time, and not because I'm a prude.) The distance between you two absolutely demands raw, to the bone outpourings like that. I applaud you for allowing yourself not only to experience the agony, but to put it down in writing and then get it off to the person who needs to see it. I salute you :)
from sixweasels :
I am glad you sent that note. So glad. Because dammit, he needs to hear it and take a walk in your shoes sometimes - you are always asking yourself to walk in his. And yes, he needs to know, REALLY know, exactly what he's missing <grin>. Love you.
from rachelliz :
I'm so glad R called and you're feeling better.
from sixweasels :
Big hugs babe. I wish I could go get him and bring him home to you.
from rachelliz :
I'm so impressed that you have made it work so far with R being so far away most of the time. I know it must be incredibly hard. Hopefully you can get more time with him soon.
from sixweasels :
Friday was so much fun, right down to the bad, bad, bad Mickey D's! And I'm still grinning about those balls you had flying at the end of this entry ... heh heh!
from sixweasels :
The biggest hugs I can possibly muster, babe. My heart hurts for you. Love you!
from rachelliz :
Caught up! Yay for Level 42 tickets!
from zencelt :
Beautifully said...
from bathtubmary :
i'm so sorry for your losses, dear. xoxo, d
from casa-rosie :
It just about kills me that I have about 4 surplus furry bastards, and you aren't close enough for me to share one of them with you...even for temporary. I hope the loss of Stinky grows less painful over time, though I can honestly say that even though Yaz has been gone for two years now, I still look for her amid the furry flurry on my bed. Hugs!
from nixtress :
I'm sorry about the loss of your furbaby. :(
from poolagirl :
So sorry to hear about your furry friend. It's so very painful. I am holding you in my heart. I also know how you feel about the journal business. I was ready to pack it up until I moved over to WordPress. Whole different community. Lots of support. Whichever road you choose, I bless you.
from emeraldtiger :
Same here...I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty. And, please do let me know and keep in touch if you do decide this is the end of your time here...9 years is a long time--I've been here nearly as long too, but not quite. I appreciate your support--the notes you have left me in the time I've known you here have meant a lot to me, and I've found your insights/views very valuable. I have your e-mail address now, but also, if you do end up deciding to go to another site, definitely let us know. As for copying, my best guess would be to cut & paste into word. I hope that good new things are, indeed, coming your way in 2010. xoxo,
from casa-rosie :
I'm so sorry about your baby! But I'm looking at it from the outside...and I'm feeling a really strong feeling that none of this is a coincidence, that there is something new coming your way, and you need to be open to doing some really heavy-duty thinking outside the box. As for the diary, it's a pain, but you can download everything...entry by entry. I just open a word doc, then cut 'n paste, cut 'n paste. With a library computer, and a memory stick, it shouldn't take all that long. I'd leave it up a while longer...and if you move elsewhere on the net, leave a forwarding address! Hugs!
from emeraldtiger :
I hope your dad is doing better! Thanks so much for your note--I really, really appreciate it. Yeah, it's a precursor to osteoporosis. Very puzzling but hopefully it all gets sorted out in the new year, and hopefully the solution is a simple one and not something too serious/complex. Hey-I'm sorry to hear about the job loss, but hope the new year brings good things on the employment front. I haven't been online as much either since I'm away for vacation/winter break, but wanted to stop in before year's end to wish you a happy 2010. Catch you in the new year! xoxo,
from zencelt :
I heard from H that your dad is doing well, so that's a relief! Happy not your birthday birthday. And a very Merry Christmas!
from casa-rosie :
Jeebus! Well, happy not-birthday anyway, and I am so happy for you that R is there right now...having finally gotten to be with my darling, I know how important it is to have time together! I hope your dad will be fine, and I have a feeling that something much better will come along job-wise after the first of the year. Big Hugs!
from poolagirl :
Holy fucking Christ! Are you okay? Sending you my best and highest thoughts as you get through all of this.
from emeraldtiger :
Also, to answer your question in your entry: I have physically met three people on my buddies list. One actually went to the same college as I did but we didn't really know each other then. I met all three (two at the same time, the other separately) during a trip to the West coast about six years ago. It was fun and nice and I've kept in touch in some form with two of them, the other eventually outgrew blogging. Mostly I've been strictly online friends w/ my blog/diary peeps, probably b/c of the context in which I started writing. I've kept my diary separate from real life, in that I'm not public about my blogging. But that doesn't make me consider my diary friends any less "real". I think it's just a different medium through which we interact and I laugh and cry with these friends as well, and get worried if they don't update for long periods of time. A few strictly online ones have ended up as contacts/friends on a certain social networking site I am on. I am choosy about who I accept as friends on that site, but when we found each other, although I felt a little bit weird about it, I also figured I had known them for almost as long as I've written online, so it wasn't weird. Which reminds me....I've been here 7 years, which is a LONG time in the blog world!
from emeraldtiger :
xoxo. Thanks for your note-it means a lot. And I always love hearing from you. Yeah, I have heard more and more stress really can cause weight gain independently of diet/exercise. And it probably contributes to everything else in some way. Which is rather scary and unfortunate, b/c it means that despite all the precautions I took to prevent a "grad school 15", like upping the cardio and being disciplined about calories/snacking, school was destined to make me fat anyway. :-( I am actually very interested to find out the results when the endo does a cortisol/adrenal functon test. That would be quantifiable proof of the stress-pounds connection right there! :-) I also recently read that caffeine consumption may be linked to weight gain b/c it increases the body's stress reaction. Not many people tend to link these two, but it's definitely plausible b/c a stimulant would evoke a fight or flight response and then the whole cortisol thing followed by the body holding onto fat stores. Hmmm...
from casa-rosie :
Well, it's well known that I've met and become close friends with a number of people here on D-land. Almost all of the meetings have been good, with one notable exception! And I really would love a chance to meet up with a bunch of the right-coasties some day...you, Zen, Six, LA, MOM, etc. It will happen...some day!
from sixweasels :
Big hugs. Lucy sounds so much like my parent's golden retriever Brady who passed away right after Chris and I separated. I'm sorry, babe. Funny how guardian angels don't always let us guard them back, isn't it?
from emeraldtiger :
thanks, sweetie! i am ok...but incredibly, incredibly stunned and speechless at learning last night that someone i used to read regularly here has lymphoma. she hadn't updated diaryland in several (at least 3) years, and then last night, i logged on here, and there was her update (which itself naturally had a shocked tone of disbelief). given last week's events, it's hard to read an announcement like that. and it's especially shocking to read it from someone who's the same age, and who is very into fitness and health. scary, too! i am just floored, and it completely took the words out of my mouth/fingertips. um. yeah. on another note, batten, i really do appreciate knowing that there are people out there who care. i am well, although dismayed and even a little panicked to know that my summer is waning and so much work needs to get done (i.e. comprehensive exams!). i'll survive, though...i hope!!
from poolagirl :
I have a really hard time with people like that.
from poolagirl :
Give 'em hell!
from emeraldtiger :
thanks for the note! ha, makes me want to go get a BLT right now...now maybe THAT is a craving to be listened to! xoxo,
from poolagirl :
I think reconnecting with that little sister is wise and kind.
from poolagirl :
That guy sounds like a total FOOK-WAD. And you can quote me on that!
from emeraldtiger :
to be blessed w/ self-awareness is a wonderful thing (well...i think MOSTLY, at any rate). some people lack it altogether, which is a shame. growth and change are all good!
from poolagirl :
Hey, we all change and grow. Good for you for seeing these things. Many are clueless.
from red-wine :
Oy, I second, third and fourth you on the "unanswered prayers" thoughts. I cannot imagine what state I'd be in if I'd gotten everything I was *so sure* I wanted in years past. Bit of a relief, innit? ;)
from red-wine :
THAT IS SO AWESOME! Wow, I am so, so happy for you - I cannot summon in my mind who deserves this more than you. Have a fabulous time and glory in every nanosecond of it. Oh, send me your Facebook link if you get a moment (shildebrand76ATyahooDOTcom). I wasn't able to find you. Dang you and your common name! ;)
from red-wine :
I just went and, against my better judgement, looked up Mafia Wars. That looks really, really fun. May have to join in :)
from casa-rosie :
Maybe Stinky just wanted to change his MO! Maybe he was getting bored with the same-old same-old. My cats are always surprising me with the new things they do, just when I think I've got them all sorted out!
from red-wine :
So just learned that the Volvo Ocean Race will be making its one North American stop in Boston, arriving next month, and staying for a few weeks. Some of the events are open to the public, and rumor is the boats will be pretty visible. I'm planning on heading over to check them out. I don't know if this is "your" type of sailing, but is there anything I should be on the lookout for? As it stands now, I'd arrive just be all like "wow, boats". Apparently it's a pretty big deal and I don't want to miss out due to my complete ignorance of all things sailing :) p.s. I'm so sorry you've been having a shitty time lately - I don't pop in much because I know a person can only handle so much cooing and pats on the hand, but for what it's worth, I'm reading, and feeling for you.
from cosmic :
I agree with your post of today (3/16) I have often said that reporters have no business going into combat with our troops. You would think they would have learned with Rivera's idiotic stunt. I would rather have no news of a loved on if, in giving me details would put them at further risk. It does us as citizens no good knowing the strategy of the war. We can't make any differences. There are certain things that government needs to keep silent about to keep us and our troops safe.
from emeraldtiger :
what can i say? ANTM just has a way of drawing you in. oh, the drama...and the makeover trauma-ramas! i hope you're doing well--spring is almost here, and hopefully it means you can get back to the water soon.
from casa-rosie :
On item one, There are no atheists in foxholes. I pray that you will never find yourself in a foxhole the likes of which I am in. I miss coffee a bit, but I don't miss it so much that I would go back to the previous levels of high BP and other ills associated with it. On the second, I agree with you. He is an utter slime, and he needs further punishment.
from red-wine :
"Get my lard on". That may be my newest favorite phrase and I am stealing it without further ado.
from cosmic :
They are blaming the airlines? OMG! I cannot believe that. Would it have been less emotional to have landed in downtown Manhatten? It pisses me off that I have to share my air with those idiots!
from emeraldtiger :
I agree with you!!! The lovely Bathtubmary put it more eloquently than I did but suffice it to say that while it is exciting that there is a new president, etc., and many people feel renewed optimism, etc., I have always been proud to be American. It really is--or shoud be--separate from who happens to be in the White House or which party happens to be the majority in Congress. I am proud of the red, white, and blue not just today (or yesterday), but everyday as a baseline. Being American is part of who I am, just as I am female, or am a daughter and sister, or have the ethnic heritage that I do! xoxo,
from wifemotherme :
Yes, stupid people suck, but what happen with the dinner downstairs?
from red-wine :
Hon, I feel ya about the "meeting the neighbors" thing. Not so social, bad with strangers, hate forced intimacy? Check, check and check. My stomach would be all tied up too. Good luck tonight, I'm sending vibes that all they want is to say hi and find out that you're not a crackwhore so you can go back to living your separate lives :)
from emeraldtiger :
Heh, I think a lot of people are probably cheating on their blogs w/ FB. ;-) I'm just now catching up on your latest...I hope '09 brings you much happiness!
from cosmic :
I clink your mimosa glass with my rem and eggnog glass and wish you a better new year.
from sixweasels :
There's a warm comfy couch to sleep on and a pub where you won't get stuck with someone else's tab and no drama (well, at least no drama in OUR set ... I certainly can't promise that for the local wildlife in attendance : )) if you want to get away. But I also get just wanting a quiet, warm, reflective night. Love you, babe.
from anaxferxsure :
hey ya! i love nora robert too. esp when shes writing as jd robb. her books are rad. xoxo
from marlen816 :
So sorry that you and your friends are going through so much. Prayers offered. ((Hugs))
from cosmic :
My prayers will be said for your friends tonight. And prayers for you too.
from sixweasels :
Sucktastic doesn't begin to describe it - I'm so sorry, babe. Lynn and hubby are in my prayers.
from emeraldtiger :
Happy B-day....I hope you had a good one, and that you have a wonderful holiday!
from casa-rosie :
Happy Birthday darling! Will be sending you a private note via e-mail sometime today, meanwhile, Big Huge Hugs!
from bathtubmary :
i can't imagine what you must be going through. hugs, darling. xoxo, d
from cosmic :
I rember my first catastrophe. I was very young and wanted to make a pie from scratch for my new husband. I bought the most beautiful large blueberries and proceeded to make it. Imagine mu surprise when I found out that the reason the berries were so big was because they were concord grapes!
from sixweasels :
Reading your previous entry (the one about R) and getting all teary-eyed at work. Love you babe. And faith and love just are, and are usually there for a reason. Big hugs.
from sixweasels :
<waving> Yep ... that would be me. Not the more verbally gifted part, but DEFINITELY the more profane in my blog part. That thing would probably just refuse to genderize mine and call it an a-hole's blog instead : )
from red-wine :
I can't imagine what relief you must be awash in right now. Enjoy him til he begs for mercy! :)
from poolagirl :
So glad you feel at peace right now. Blessings, dear one!
from casa-rosie :
Did you get the password in your e-mail? I sent them out last night. If not, send me an e-mail to wildwestrosie at yahoo and I will re-mail it!
from rachelliz :
Just reiterating what others have said. I know we're on different sides of things, but I also know that you are educated and have thought things out and for me, that wins my respect.
from sixweasels :
Sweetie, I couldn't have said it better than anyone here already did. At least half the people I love the most (including you) are not on the same page as me politically. And ultimately, every last one of them is more important in my little life than any politician will EVER be. And I'm right with you on the "if one more person reviles me they're going down bit." I'm getting it here too. By the way some of my buds round' here are acting, you'd think that my personal vote decided the damn deal. Doesn't matter that when I was heartbroken 4 years ago, I did my damndest, as you are doing now, to just hope for the best and not let political views come between me and friendships. There are so many reasons this election has been an emotional shitstorm for so many. Our times, our circumstances, our collective anger and frustration and hope and fear. But the bottom line will always be that when shit does or doesn't hit the fan, it will be our own small circles we ride out the storm with. Love you, babe.
from red-wine :
I was kind of wondering what you'd have to say about the whole thing. And you just proved what I've known all along: that you are a thoughful, intelligent and very caring person who weighed her options and chose the candidate she felt was the best. No American can ask for more than that. Don't be gone too long dear, we'll miss you!
from emeraldtiger :
i agree with bathtubmary! it's okay to agree to disagree, and i think it would be petty to let differing views--get in the way of friendship. there are closed minded, "my-views-are-better-than-yours" people on both sides, not just the one that is most often popularly portrayed as such. i find it very attractive and intelligent and refreshing when people on either side (both) of things can logically back up their rationales for choosing in the ways that they did, instead of doing it b/c everyone else was, or because it was a knee-jerk reaction that wasn't carefully thought out. i think you're smart and cool!
from bathtubmary :
what she said (below me) - yes, i am happy about the outcome, but i would never gloat about it. i don't think of it as a contest or a 'my guy's better than yours so nyah nyah nyah' playground game. we disagree on some things, but that's what makes the world go 'round. i think your smart and swell. xo, d
from casa-rosie :
Darling, you know that even if we don't agree on some things, I still love and respect you! I will just hope for all of us that the promise becomes a reality, and that your beloved will come home safe and sound, after having made our world a better place. Hugs!
from marlen816 :
Thanks for the info. I found the article!
from marlen816 :
Hey Jen - where did you find that article in the UK Spectator?
from sixweasels :
And I never thought I'd see the day that our Jenn was counting the days TO cooler weather ... see what love makes ya do : )?
from emeraldtiger :
{hugs}
from red-wine :
I feel like a broken record, but damn, I am SO sorry for your loss. I can't believe you've had to deal with so much in one scant year. You deserve medals.
from sixweasels :
Oh, babe, I am so sorry. You have had so much more than your share of heartache recently. Big hugs and much love.
from nacwolin :
I am not sure which is the best of two not-so-good choices myself. Bah. Despising politics here in VA...
from la-the-sage :
Hon, I am sorry you're in such a funk and feel so overwhelmed. That being said, McCain's excuse doesn't wash. Stephen Hawking can use a computer. Quadrapaligiacs can use computers. Yours truly who has days when my hands are so bad I can't get a tea bag out of its wrapper without fumbling can still use my mouse and keyboard. If McCain is too 'disabled' to point and click then he's too disabled to wipe his own butt. In fact stephen Hawking IS too disabled to wipe his own butt and yet he manages to use a computer very well. Not smacking you, hon, just asking you to think on things, okay? ~LA
from casa-rosie :
I was in the SCA for a lot of the last 30 years, and I exposed my kids to it too. I used to work Southern Ren Faire in Agoura, Ca. way back when too, and it was great then. Not very many whack jobs running around, just a lot of people honestly interested in costuming, performance art, and making a buck. (And getting laid by a Playgirl Playmate...but that's a story for another day!) More recently, I went to a local Ren Faire thing, and I was dismayed at all of the Gothettes, and the just generally strange people who were looking for some form of acceptance. I so totally understand what you were saying! It WAS different 10-20-30 years ago, and I'm getting old and opinionated, and I don't like the new direction!
from nacwolin :
How did you fare in the storm?
from sixweasels :
Be safe, babe!
from casa-rosie :
Remember back in the late 90's, when all of those kids straight out of college were landing 6 figure jobs? I remember thinking, "Yeah, the economy never holds, they'll be working at Micky D's one day!" Frank Gilbreath's (Cheaper by the Dozen) mom told him, "I don't care if you are a bricklayer's helper, just be the best bricklayer's helper you can be!" Little girl needs to put on her big girl panties and get on with life. I"m sure one day she'll figure it out.
from bunny828 :
{{{Hugs}}}
from poolagirl :
Glad you had a good time in Brooklyn. You deserve good times.
from sixweasels :
Hugs and prayers, babe.
from nacwolin :
(((Hugs))) and prayers for you and your baby.
from casa-rosie :
I hope your Stinky gets better soon, strangely enough, my Stinky wasn't feeling well last night either, and he pooped twice on my bedroom carpet. So maybe it's just that yesterday was bad for critters with the name of Stinky! Hugs darlin'!
from sixweasels :
I'm shedding a few tears for you and Free too, babe. Big hugs.
from rachelliz :
You know I'm on the other side, but honestly, I'm sorta ashamed to say I'm still voting for Obama after reading that. That's just disgusting. I knew that whole trip was a publicity stunt, but I woulda thought he'd make more effort than that. Thanks for spreading the word. Also, feel better!
from casa-rosie :
WOW! Thank you for the insight into Obama. You know, I want change, and I want the Republicans out (actually, I'm a registered Republican but when you lose 400K in the stock market in 1 month, well, you lose a bit of faith!) but all along, for whatever reason, my gut instinct says to NOT trust him. I don't know why, but maybe this is the answer. BTW, would you like a link to your comments, or a Haloscan comment section? I can say that it's a pain in the ass to leave notes when there is no link! Hugs!
from la-the-sage :
Mend, my dear one. Rest and acknowledge your body (and heart) are going through R withdrawal. Time and coming around to the bone-deep belief that while physically far apart, your spirits are still entwined will help. ~LA
from sixweasels :
I'm glad you're back safely and wishing you were still with him all at once. Love you.
from zencelt :
(((hugs)))
from nacwolin :
I am so glad you had such a beautiful time!
from nixtress :
Big hugs, ladyfriend. Sad you're so far from your heart now but glad you had the time together you did.
from la-the-sage :
Glad and sad you're back. I know you understand that sentence. Delighted you and your love were together body as well as spirit. Don't need to ask if the trip was wonderful, but when you are done savoring and feel it's okay to share I am very much looking forward to hearing about your trip! Love, ~LA
from nacwolin :
I am thinking you are away now, but I want you to know that I am praying for you and all your dear ones. I love ya.
from bunny828 :
{{{Hugs}}} I'm so sorry.
from casa-rosie :
When I got home from my travels this weekend, my computer connection was bolloxed, so i just finally got online. I am so sorry about your friends, what a terrible shock! But I was glad to see that you heard from your darling, and I hope your trip to see him goes really well. Hugs and more hugs to you!
from cosmic :
I am sad for you.
from la-the-sage :
Just another hug. ~LA
from nixtress :
I've been offline most of the weekend and just read about your friend. I'm so sorry. Biggest hugs and bestest thoughts. I'm glad you're going on your trip and I hope it gives you some much needed respite.
from nacwolin :
Just now reading about your friends. I am so, so sorry, dear heart. (((Jenn))) and prayer offered.
from red-wine :
Oh f'ing hell Jenn. I am so sorry about your friend - I hereby declare an immediate end to Things That Hurt You. You've been through too much lately and the unfairness is really starting to piss me off. Be strong dear.
from emeraldtiger :
oh no! i'm *sorry*. xo,
from cosmic :
I am so sorry for your loss. I know words can't really help, but you're in my thoughts.
from marlen816 :
Sorry to hear about your friend ((Hugs))
from la-the-sage :
Oh lord, honey, no. I am so so sorry. ~LA
from zencelt :
There's plenty of work in this world for those willing to do it. But, there are so few chances to really love. I'd choose love too. Safe travels!
from la-the-sage :
You go on that trip! Official 'accrued' time be damned! You work to live, not live to work! I guarantee they will be so slobberingly grateful to have you back there will be zero nonsense about you taking 'unearned' time. What kind of selfish idiots run that joint anyhow? Sheesh. Go be with your love, my darling. Just go. ~LA
from sixweasels :
I can't do it either - at least not without having full-on meltdowns weekly. And I am so pissed at them for the whole vacation thing. You HAVE to go see R!
from nixtress :
I found, the last time I really tied one on, that Dramamine worked wonders for the hangover I ended up with. How odd is that? Sounds like you had lots of upsies and downsies. I hope you have smoother sailing in your future :) big huggles!!!
from nixtress :
For now, I just know down deep that I did it because I love him. One day, maybe he'll see that too. I remind myself that I didn't choose the family I was born into but I can choose not to follow their example and I try like hell not to. I still love them, though. Sometimes that's just as hard. Thank you for being you and thank you for your words of support. You have no idea how much it means.
from nixtress :
If you guys come up with something, and if I can help in any way, let me know!!!
from la-the-sage :
I had no idea about the Outfoxes! Gosh that's terrible. Please pass along my condolences. Thanks. ~LA
from nacwolin :
What a lovely note about your daddy!
from duranfanatic :
*blinks at your entry about asshole drivers* That sounds like it didn't end well at all...you okay? *hugs*
from casa-rosie :
I think that's what both endears me to Josh, and then drives him up a wall; the fact that I can tell him what is at the heart of whatever nonsense he is spouting before he has even realized why he's doing what he's doing! Men. Can't live with 'em, can't shoot 'em.
from la-the-sage :
What would we do without you and your huge loving heart? You're a peach and all of us friends are lucky to have you. ~LA
from nixtress :
OH,YUCK! I was in a house like that once, helping clean up after someone's ex moved out and it was naaaaaassssssty! She let mold grow in her toilet!!! Enough to make one hork. If I can help in any way toward the "send Jenn to her love" movement, you let me know, k? Hugs, hugs and more hugs!!!
from nixtress :
Hey woman! For the record, I think your detailing of the condition of the house was very clear. I don't see much room to argue. Maybe taking pictures next time would help? Just a thought. Might help keep jerkoffs from trying to railroad. Hope you have a great Memorial Day weekend!
from emeraldtiger :
RE: your 5/13/08 vicarious lives entry, we (your readers here) may be an invisible presence, but we're here, and are glad you're here too, jenn. being genuine and authentic and sincere is more important than celebrity blogger status. xoxo,
from casa-rosie :
Oh, and just wanted to day that if I asked someone to meet me, I would assume that I would be paying the airfare. Also, having worked in the travel industry, I would check your Sunday travel section for companies who sell wholesale tickets. You can often save up to 50%, because they buy blocks of tickets to popular destinations, and they also have package deals that are cheaper than the flight alone! Though somehow I don't think Uganda is on the "must do" list for most folks!
from casa-rosie :
Well, here's the thing. If a man I loved asked me if I wanted to meet him somewhere, I would answer in the affirmative, but then I would let him know that it simply isn't financially possible. If he wants to see me badly enough, then HE can spring for my ticket! Otherwise, I'd say something like, "Wow! With the price of some of these tickets, I'm going to have to sell myself on the street, but I guess I can roust up the bucks somehow!" He wants to meet in some far-away place, then he can pay for the airfare! Just my humble opinion.
from la-the-sage :
Giving sailing lessons? Part-time bartending/waitressing for a catering hall/service now that it's wedding/grad season? Avon? Wait, I know! Shady lady and/or professional dominatrix! I don't have a good corset, but I'll loan you some excellent patent leather stilleto boots. Gads, this trip would be the coolest thing ever! ~LA
from nacwolin :
You know I love you! I am glad you write here - I'd have never met you otherwise.
from la-the-sage :
I love you too, sweetheart. ~LA
from red-wine :
Hi Jenn, nice to meet you too! *hug*
from sixweasels :
I'm so glad he's been in touch babe. And yes, I totally got that next-to-the-last life is tough post. Big hugs.
from emeraldtiger :
hey thanks for the note--i'm ok, but those really were some serious storms. as silly as it is, that kind of weather really does weird me out. then again, it could be b/c where i live is outside of where you typically see that kind of stuff--it's the unknown, plus maybe we're not as prepared. my midwestern cousins used to have tornado drills at school, but not us!
from poolagirl :
Congrats on the haircut! You are faboooo!
from la-the-sage :
Whoo! I love a good haircut! I'll bet you look GORGEOUS! ~LA
from emeraldtiger :
it's a great cause--a friend of mine did the same, and after chopping off 8 inches, STILL had hair that came to her shoulder! her boyfriend (who had long hair) also went with her and did the same, which was fun. how i envy you for having thick hair! hope you're holding up ok.
from nacwolin :
Just a quick note to say hi and send some hugs your way! Sorry I haven't been keeping up.
from sixweasels :
You are not horribly wrong, whatever may be going on. Big hugs, babe.
from emeraldtiger :
xoxo
from nixtress :
Big hugs, woman.
from casa-rosie :
OK, Just tell everyone you are an honorary Sagittarius, because we are the sun sign that can get away with saying terribly stupid things, but we get away with it because everyone loves us. And don't forget, those things which loom large in our minds, often aren't even a blip on someone else's radar. You will be fine, and just remember we all love you!
from la-the-sage :
That is very sad news. Having battled that 'black dog' myself all of my life I can say there have been times when the pain is so huge it distorts everything, you honestly get to a place where you believe they'll be better off without you. When you feel like you've failed your loved ones for so long and you feel as though all you do is cause them more pain and damage then taking your own life seems to make sense. You know you won't ever be better, you know you'll always be a disappointment and an anchor on them. Yeah, when it's that black that's really how it seems. Damn depression! Forgive her selfishness if you can. I've been to the edge of that bleak cliff and only the grace stroke of not having enough pills kept me from going over it. ~LA
from la-the-sage :
Back in fightin' form. YAY! I was hugging you hard. And yes, evil always returns to the perpetrators. Sometimes we are allowed to noodge it back their way. Mwah! ~LA
from zencelt :
So glad to hear you're feeling better after surgery. My doc is going to put me on some kind o' birth control after mine to help regulate things. So we'll see. I've had it done before, so I'm just planning to sleep all weekend and watch chick flicks. See ya!
from poolagirl :
Hoping for a fast and complete recovery, kiddo. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
from zencelt :
I'm right there with ya. My surgery date is May 2. So, we'll pray for eachother. Big hugs!
from emeraldtiger :
good luck! i hope everything goes smoothly and your recovery is speedy!
from la-the-sage :
Dearheart, you'll be traveling with me. Sending the well-making mojo right now! ~LA
from marlen816 :
Praying for you! ((Hugs))
from duranfanatic :
*hugs* I hope the surgery goes okay. Hang in there and get better soon. I'm thinking of you.
from nixtress :
I hope the surgery goes well, womanfriend. I'll be thinking of you and sending good thoughts and prayers your way! Thanks for the addresses, btw. Recover quick!
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your surgery and recovery.
from red-wine :
Best of luck with the SX, and I say "embrace the drugs!" XOXO, dear!
from nixtress :
Wanna email me some mil-blog addresses? I follow a few (my sons actually send care packages to a couple) but am always interested in showing whatever support I can. Thanks!
from nacwolin :
(((J)))!!!
from nacwolin :
(((J)))!!!
from red-wine :
Dear woman, my heart is shattering for you. I can't even imagine ...
from poolagirl :
Holding you in my thoughts and prayers. (((hugs)))
from nixtress :
Oh, honey :( Big hugs and I'm sorry for all your heartache.
from la-the-sage :
It's called comfort food for a reason, my dear one. Hugging you sooooo hard! ~LA
from sixweasels :
Lots of hugs and empathy tears, babe.
from la-the-sage :
I, too, love Mr Rogers. When he died I cried for 2 days. I shall most certainly wear a cardigan today. Mwah! ~LA
from emeraldtiger :
xoxoxo. also, i agree w/ what the two people below me said!
from nixtress :
I second Nacwolin!!
from nacwolin :
You deserve so much more than silence.
from casa-rosie :
Well done. Casual, "hey, ya wanna get away and have some fun" enough but also concerned. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you!
from nixtress :
If you've attempted all the other tried-n-true ways, I think an email such as that would be okay. It's not nasty and it is a gentle reminder that you're concerned about him.
from casa-rosie :
It is so hard to second guess what you should send...I am assuming that you have attempted contact with no success. In that case, an e-mail inquiring as to his health or continued existence on this planet is not a bad thing. Just keep in mind how you will feel if you send a nasty-gram and he really IS in the hospital or something! Otherwise, big hugs to you darling. Loving a man is NEVER an easy thing. *Sigh*
from sixweasels :
More big hugs, babe. You deserve a heck of a lot more than this. H does too. I'm feeling like I want to kick man-butt for both of you.
from nixtress :
Silence sucks. Big hugs, lady.
from nacwolin :
No words; just a (((hug))).
from roadiepig :
Many sad tales start with a man , hand tools, and poor judgment ;-)
from marlen816 :
You've got it bad ;) ((Hugs)) Have a good weekend!
from nixtress :
I hope they figure out what's going on. We women get the best end of the stick, don't we? Thank you for the birthday wishes :) I had a good day! It's nice to be remembered.
from zencelt :
Been bleeding for 3 months straight now. I had sonograms done a couple weeks ago, which came up normal. (Yay! No fibroids, no endometriosis.) I meet with my doc tomorrow for my yearly. I suspect its just an indication that I'm getting older and my hormones are changing. Not peri-menopause so much as bitchy hormones and stress. Good luck!
from la-the-sage :
Every 17 days here, this crap kicked in since hitting my 40's, this after a life of nice sane 35 day cycles. I am ALWAYS on the rag or PMSing these days and it sucks. I'm assuming this speeded up thing is like my repro organs' going-out-of-business sale. I'm 45, for Pete's sake! Enough, enough, enough already. Hope maybe your doc has an answer for you. As for me, I've invested in J&J stock, they're making a mint off me and my buying OB tampons by the forklift load. meh. Hugs to you and give one to Lyn. ~LA
from emeraldtiger :
i hope your friend is doing okay (as can be expected) after the surgery. also, i hope your doctor visit helps sort out what's going on with you. it's smart to check it out sooner than later, as my cousin had something similar happen and it did in fact turn out to be serious but solve-able (she's ok now!). thinking good thoughts!
from sixweasels :
Hope things are continuing to go well with Lyn and that you have a great week, babe. Talk to ya soon.
from sixweasels :
thinking of you, babe.
from nacwolin :
Glad to hear you are settled into the new digs!
from nixtress :
The handwriting thingamajig? Mine was the same. I tend to make it all half print, half cursive :P
from emeraldtiger :
hmm...i'd have to agree w/ red-wine about that decision. i made the same type of decision in the past. the most important things to weigh really are safety (which i'd put an asterisk by), followed by identity/details/freedom to write. the latter springboard off of the 1st.
from red-wine :
Hmm, to unlock or not. Well, personally I didn't want to but now feel more at-ease to say what I want to say. Would you feel safe, are there too many identifying details available, would you still feel free enough to write what you need to? If yes, no, yes are the answers, go for it!
from sixweasels :
I love you and I totally understand that world crashing down feeling. You're still brave, centered Jenn. Even brave centered people need a reprieve and a hand to hold when shit like this hits the fan in waves. Big hugs.
from emeraldtiger :
if only i had an extra bookcase, i'd totally love some more (NON-academic) books! i am always curious what other people like to read, and can recommend to me, so do e-mail me @d-land if you can recommend some good reading for my next break from school. i moved a couple of years ago and i've STILL got a bunch of stuff in boxes that i stashed into a closet & my guest bedroom, and never unpacked. crazy! moving is stressful, esp if you've acquired stuff over the years. good luck w/ your move! xo,
from emeraldtiger :
i'm so sorry to learn about both your work-mom friend, and your long-time diaryland friend being ill. i'll think good thoughts for them, and also for you. xo,
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for Lyn.
from bathtubmary :
i'm sorry about lyn, sweetie. xoxo, d
from nixtress :
Aw, honey. I'm so sorry.
from red-wine :
Oh god I am so sorry to hear about your friend! I ... can't even imagine. But you know what? My boss, for a holiday gift this year, made contributions in each of our names to Susan G. Komen Foundation - every little bit helps, and I'll try to will my share to go towards your WorkMom. Best of luck to all of you, dear.
from nacwolin :
Haven't been able to read much, but wanted you to know I am still around. (((Big hugs))) and prayer offered for Doug and his family.
from sixweasels :
you rock. Big hugs : ).
from emeraldtiger :
i'm all about cooking curries and soups this winter. there's something so comforting about it. stay warm!
from bathtubmary :
i never thanked you for directing me to that entry about grief. it really spoke to me. i appreciate it. xoxo, d
from la-the-sage :
I adore the me I get to be with Mick. It's me as I have never been allowed to be. Not a false face at all. I do know what you mean about turning into 'the sweet girlfriend' or 'the good wife', and I know that's not how it is with me now. I am sweet and good because it's safe to be sweet and good now, not because I HAVE to be that way. So you being you within the confines of your relationship is the best news I've heard about you two so far! YAY for being one's true self! ~LA
from poolagirl :
Sounds like soulmate material to me.
from poolagirl :
Your heart is so alive right now. I think the weather is telling your soul to dance - and you seem to be doing a grand job of dancing.
from rachelliz :
Re: death penalty...if anyone deserves it, child rapists would be the people. On the other hand, sending them to prison might be worse punishment...even criminals don't like child molesters. And yay for your earrings!
from nacwolin :
Good for you, getting yourself something special. You deserve it!
from poolagirl :
Love will see you through.
from hissandtell :
I've only just this minute woken up to the news and I'm still sitting here shaking. What an appalling, tragic waste. Love, R xxx
from nacwolin :
I haven't had time to read your blog lately, and I apologize. I did skim things a bit today - seems you've be sorting through some stuff. (((batten))), my friend. I will try to be more "present" this new year. Much love to you and yours.
from emeraldtiger :
just sneaking in here from vacation to wish you a happy birthday and also a very merry christmas! catch you on the flipside! xoxo,
from duranfanatic :
Hey...just wanted to drop you a note to say happy early birthday, because I won't be around to say it tomorrow. I hope that you have a fun on your birthday and have a great Christmas, and a wonderful new year as well. Take care of yourself and hang in there. *hugs*
from casa-rosie :
WEll, I don't know enough to weigh in on the R situation, but I have gone through a West-Pac, which is a 6 month tour of duty aboard ship for Navy guys. I can tell you that men are weird while they are overseas, and it takes some time to get back to "normal". As for 40 and above, I have to say that my best years were from 44 to now! I'm hotter than ever, I know what I want and mostly how to get it, and I don't let the world in general drag me down. So for you and your sis, just rock on, and enjoy your 40's! Happy Birthday to both of you...Oh, and I though my Mom pushed it when she had my brother just 1 year and 2 weeks after my sister! Jeez, didn't our parents have anything better to do? *lol*
from nixtress :
Hey you. I wanted to wish you a merry Christmas early, as I'm not going to be online again until after Christmas. Hope your holiday is wonderful!!!
from la-the-sage :
I've been here, but inadequate in offering company aloud. That is hard news about your dear friend. Hope she recovers. I know with you there to cheer and take care of things it will help enormously. I'm not Christmassy yet either. I felt it nibbling at the edges of my consciousness yesterday. Keeping my finbgers crossed it floods in today. Love you. ~LA
from sixweasels :
I had a lot to say but Nix said it better. I'm all sniffly for you at the moment, though, and sending out the biggest of hugs and quiet commiseration. Love you!
from nixtress :
Hey you. Sounds like your trip was bittersweet. Could be that you both had topsy-turvy feelings about this time together...that might have resulted in the feelings of "off-ness" that you sort of detailed. Could be, too, that you won't know for certain whether it'll work or not until he's home and in real life again for an extended time. Small breaks in between make it really rough not to try to put only your best self/happyhappy persona out there. Know what I mean? Could also be that it's a really hard situation for both of you and he's feeling much like you are now---vulnerable, a little sad, sort of tired and wishing that you had more time together to get down to the nitty gritty. Communicate with him and see how he handles it, would be my recommendation. Big hugs, lady friend. I was really hoping this trip would bring you clarity and peace and lots and lots of happiness :)
from wifemotherme :
Have a wonderful and blessed trip! Breath, relax and then breath somemore. Traveling is like a wedding. Something unexpected always pops up. When it does count it all as good and part of the adventure. Vagabonds to not waste time worrying.
from poolagirl :
What a beautiful entry!
from emeraldtiger :
thank you so much for the note! i appreciate your thoughts & prayers & hug more than you know. i hope your back is better. ouch! also, sorry to hear about your fall, i hope you're OK. and i hope you enjoy spending time w/ your man. that is so exciting that he's coming home! take care,
from nixtress :
I'm SO excited for you :) I hope you enjoy your time with your man!!!! Glad to hear the back is better, not-so-glad to hear about the fall!
from nixtress :
Trolls suck. In a big way. I hope things are okay for your friend.
from outfoxed :
Bless. You, darlin.
from nixtress :
I hope your Turkey Day went well :) I'm a little tardy with my good wishes but know that I send them your way often! Glad to hear your man is coming home soon. Enjoying the butterflies in your tummy?
from skibigsky :
for password, email me at gretaski at hotmail dot com and I'm more than happy to send it to you.
from outfoxed :
I haven't been reading much about you (mostly cause I can't:)) but want to wish you a good holiday weekend. Unlock that diary, wouldja darlin?
from nacwolin :
You have, and do, make a mark on people and their lives; you have in mine, and I am grateful to know you.
from wifemotherme :
Very well written! Did you send the letter to her or just post it here? I do hope you sent it. It's so easy to get a tangled up in our own self righteousness (speaking from EXPIRANCE!) when things are all just peachy and sometimes it's a true blessing to have others point it out. BTW I am so amazed that you could go from yesterday to such a well written tactful letter - YOU GO GIRL
from sixweasels :
Deep breath, babe. I deal with many who feel this way about marriage and divorce too. And they're even more sanctimonious and skeptical of my choices. I wasn't abused, I just wasn't loved and didn't love the way I should, and so therefore in their minds I should have hung in there and figured out how to get the love back. No matter that we tried pretty damn hard to do just that. So you know what? I say f'em. There's no one who can tell me that the love and happiness we both found in this lifetime by admitting our mistake and doing something about it are wrong in the eyes of God. If God had wanted perfection, he would have made us perfect. The best we humans can do is the right thing for all involved as we make amends for our errors. So there. Big hugs.
from sixweasels :
So glad the eyeball is on the mend, babe. I'd have been skipping out of there too. Big hugs!
from nacwolin :
I am glad they figured out what is wrong and that you are on the mend, my friend.
from duranfanatic :
Whew! Glad to hear that you will ultimately prevail in this new medical trial, even though you're in pain now. I was rather worried about you last night, but unfortunately I didn't have time to write as I was in the midst of frantic almost-last-minute preparations for my trip to VA. BTW, I'm sorry, but I don't think I'll have time to stop up there on this trip, and frankly I'm running a bit low on funds myself of late due to the expenses of being in this wedding. But I really wish I could stop in and see you all, and I promise I'll be back down that way under less hectic circumstances very very soon! *hugs* Here's to a speedy recovery!
from sixweasels :
Lots of prayers and good thoughts coming your way, babe! Please let me know how you're doing!
from nacwolin :
More prayer offered.
from emeraldtiger :
sending healing vibes your way!
from nacwolin :
Ouch! Hope it is better pronto!! Prayer offered.
from poolagirl :
Hope you feel better soon! Rest up.
from nixtress :
Ouchie! I hope that eye feels better quick. 20/20 is much preferred!
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered. ~Nicole
from emeraldtiger :
you should never feel like you have to apologize for what you write. it's your diary, after all! :-)
from nixtress :
It's your space to vent, sweetpea. Don't ever apologize for letting your feelings flow. I think it's awesome that you've found someone you connect with on that level and it's only natural you're going to worry/miss/think about him. Thank you for being so supportive. It means more than I can say.
from la-the-sage :
Wish I could scoop you up and bring you back here. At least for the weekend. We have drippy rain too. And fresh brownies and a snuggly couch and a zillion books and a zillion more movies. And I'd fuss over you and we'd have a little wine and watch weepies or comedies and laugh until we cried. You could watch the turkeys and the ground critters fight over the chestnuts. Oh, all sorts of things and maybe be comforted a little. ~LA
from sixweasels :
Hugs. Big, ginormous ones.
from bunny828 :
{{{hugs}}} It is what it is. Don't read more or less into it. Your relationship will work itself out.
from la-the-sage :
That's the way! ~LA
from sixweasels :
Hang in there, big hugs, and I'm so proud of you - for the quitting again and the way you're handling all of this.
from nacwolin :
Hang in there, my friend! ((((Hugs))))
from wifemotherme :
Please Please Please let me have the password. [email protected]
from sixweasels :
Oh hell yeah. Casual always brings out the best in all of us anyway. I've got a long-winded email coming your way sometime soon, when my brain emerges from the work-waves. Have fun at the reunion. Hugs!
from nacwolin :
Dittos to what la-the-sage said (did I remember the name right?). (((Big hugs)))
from la-the-sage :
Love is ALWAYS worth it. I am so very, very happy for you both. ~LA
from emeraldtiger :
hi there! if it's OK w/ you, could you send me your pw? (emeraldtigerATdiaryland). i can't get into your diary but would love to read you regularly. thanks! :-)
from emeraldtiger :
i'm sorry to hear about your friend. xoxo
from bathtubmary :
thank you for your kind words, ma'am. any chance you can shoot me your password? (bathtubmarygirl at gmail dot com). xo, d
from poolagirl :
Hugs and love for you!
from wifemotherme :
Please email me @ [email protected] with your Email address - Thanks
from poolagirl :
Awwwwwwww! You did the pirate name thing! Awwwwwwww!
from nacwolin :
I see a woman who feels everything deeply, be it love, passion, anger, joy...any and all emotions. I see a woman who is fiercely loyal, who will do anything for those she loves, sometimes even to her own peril. I see a woman who will go out of her way to encourage those she cares about and offer hugs or a shoulder or a glass of wine or a partner in an ass-whooping. I see a phenomenal woman who I am glad to call my friend.
from duranfanatic :
While I realize that I really have only "known" you for about three hours (and THAT was two years ago, damn it) I liked what I saw, and I've liked what I've read here since. I think you're smart, witty, and much tougher and wiser than you give yourself credit for being. You have dealt with some of the worst things life can throw at a person and survived. You got into some bad situations, but you made it through and you learned something valuable from every one of them. You have been to places and seen things and done things that most people only get to experience on the Travel channel. And as added bonuses, you even have excellent taste in film and literature, heehee. ;) If I could change any one thing about you, I'd make sure you weren't so damn hard on yourself, because you have little reason to be. Oh, and one more thing--in the two years that I've "known" you, I've thought several times that if I could find somebody half as good as you, I'd be doing just fine.
from nixtress :
YAY~!!!!! Did it feel like you had Mt. Vesuvius tucked away in your belly? I'm so glad you were able to talk to him and glad too that he's missing you just as much. Affirmation is a wonderful thing :)
from red-wine :
Amen, sister. A-freaking-MEN to that!
from nixtress :
Aw sweetie...I wish I had words that would help you to feel better. Every day is one day closer to his homecoming. I'm thinking of you.
from nacwolin :
(((Batten)))!!
from marlen816 :
Big hugs!! Sorry to hear about your uncle. Prayers for you and your family.
from nixtress :
Big, huge, tremendous, gigantous, enormous hugs to you, lady. Here's hoping the time flies quickly.
from sixweasels :
I'm almost having a good cry with you here at my desk. You're holding it together better than I would babe, and I'm proud of you, both for letting yourself care this much and doing what you gotta do for the next few months. Big, big, hugs. PS: *I* have a comfy couch now too. And you're always welcome to it, to escape hell-neighbors or just to talk about missing the boy.
from marlen816 :
Our computer crashed and I lost your password! Can you email it to me again? [email protected]
from boann7 :
thanks for thinking of me. i am trying to catch up on you.
from nixtress :
I'm so sorry. It sounds like you're having a rough time of it right now. Know that I'm thinking of you and if you need me, I'm here.
from duranfanatic :
I'm sorry to hear about your uncle, dear. I hope that the new guy gets back from the desert okay, too. And your neighbors can go jump in the damn lake. The hell with them. You hang in there and take care of yourself and hang in there. I'm thinking about you. *hugs*
from red-wine :
Oh girl ... take care of yourself, and if I were a praying person you'd be at the top of my list. Will some good vibes do?
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for you and your family.
from sixweasels :
Oh, babe, I just read this after responding to your email and asking how things were going. I shoulda looked first. I'm so sorry. Big hugs, and thoughts going out to your dad - heck, to all of you.
from poolagirl :
I am so sorry about your uncle. I wish there was something I could do or say. Please send me your snail mail. I have a housewarming giftie for you.
from bunny828 :
Sorry to hear about your uncle. {{{hugs}}} (and the hate mail ... who could hate you?)
from la-the-sage :
Oh my dear, I am so sorry for your loss. And the hits just keep on coming, don't they? Your man goes to join my pseudo-son in Iraq and I will add him to my love list. I know your new place is far, far from feeling like home yet, but if you'll email me the snail mail I shall send you a giftie to help it seem more so. Carrying you in my heart today (as always). ~LA
from nixtress :
Re: the Anne of Green Gables result--- I lovelovelovvvvve that series and even enjoyed the PBS version that had Megan Follows in it. Nothing wrong with bein' the Anne-girl :)
from cosmicrayola :
I know that I should know who you are, but I am brain dead. Were you always batten or did you have a different name before? We have been reading may of the same peeps for years and I feel like I should know you.
from july28 :
Hey, my youngest boy showed me a clip on Utube last night - folk in California (I think) taking part in a 'Zombie Walk' - it was set to MJ's 'Thriller' music and was real funny , all these folks pretending to be zombies. Anyhoo, enjoy being with THE MAN!!!
from la-the-sage :
Zoinks! What a sucktastic thing! Healing thoughts eyeward and a fervent wish for some man time. Love you! ~LA
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your injured eye.
from poolagirl :
It might not be considered "happy" news, but it is interesting. I spoke to the infamous "Michael Brennan" last week. I know where he is and how to contact him. Hissie, my sister, and I did some Nancy Drew work and located a number connected to the property he claims to own. I actually called the number and asked to speak with him. He came on the line and I gave him a song and dance about shooting a movie in San Diego. It was the same guy I spoke to almost 2 years ago. Interesting?
from poolagirl :
Awwwww....dang! Sorry about your eye! Good luck with your week, kiddo. I have some big news for when you are feeling better.
from boann7 :
hi there.. thanks for your note.. i see you are locked now... knock knock can i come in?
from la-the-sage :
Bliss! ~LA
from marlen816 :
Yea for a great weekend with Island Man!
from nixtress :
Aw sweetie, I'm so glad you enjoyed your Island-man time this weekend. It's great to hear such...hope in your writings.
from nixtress :
Just finished reading entry dated 8/10/07 and it made me cry. It's like reading myself in your writing. I keep telling myself that that's when it'll come, right when you're least expecting it to, right when you're prepared for it NOT to. And I'll think that for you too. I'm sorry to hear that IslandMan is going overseas. Think about the fun with snailmail you might have in your future :) Big hugs and keep your chin up, woman. I'm thinking 'bout you.
from sixweasels :
Keep taking those deep breaths. Something tells me you're going to be a very happy girl in your new home. Big hugs.
from poolagirl :
I'll be with you in spirit, kiddo. And I have a housewarming gift for you.
from la-the-sage :
Ye gods, what a butthead. If he truly TRULY cared he'd have known how much that tidbit would smack you down. You must feel pulled in a dozen directions right now. Scooping all the bits together and hugging the whole mess, ~LA
from poolagirl :
Once again, your word crafting amazes me. And so does your heart. And so does your soul.
from nacwolin :
"Whether or not I actually add any value to other�s lives is another matter entirely." Oh, but you do, my friend. Mucho! You have added much to my life, and I know I am not the only one who feels this way.
from july28 :
OMG, I LOVED the pic on the cat quiz!!! (and the result sounds a LOT like you)
from marlen816 :
Would love the pw - [email protected]. Thanks.
from poolagirl :
I got a weasel = 0% Nobility. Methinks I will just take to the sea and go pillage a village.
from july28 :
I would love to have your password (hope the fact that you've locked up isn't too ominous!) my email is [email protected]
from nacwolin :
Have a good time with your friend (is that even the right way to describe him?) - whatever the case may be you deserve to be happy! So (((hugs))) and good thoughts coming your way, my friend!
from poolagirl :
How's about these haunting lyrics from that great song, "Nature Boy." "The greatest thing you'll ever learn is to love and be loved in return....." You rock, woman!
from bunny828 :
mind if I ask for the Password? Bunny828 at Earthling.net
from poolagirl :
You are a magnificent writer - an absolute wordsmith. Keep going and knowing the truth!
from duranfanatic :
Ha! I can't believe it...Without Remorse was always my favorite TC novel too! That's another thing we have in common. I wonder if we're related... ;)
from captainron :
Seaduction.wordpress.com Please make a note of it :-)
from nixtress :
Hey you. I'm glad you're smiling :) If/when you start your lockdown, if you're willing to share one with me, I'd love a password. If you need my email, let me know. Big hugs and I hope you enjoy your time away!
from captainron :
Ditto what Pam said {{{hugs}}}
from sixweasels :
Just big old hugs, because sometimes they make more sense than a bunch o' words.
from nacwolin :
Welcome back, my friend!
from duranfanatic :
Hey you...I know I've been quiet for far too long, but I want you to know that I've been reading everything and I've been thinking about you. I just had to come out of hiding to tell you that I'm glad you made it through the race all right. And don't worry about feeling scared at a time like that--you'd have to be insane to be all grins after something like that. I'm sure that everybody else was just as scared as you, too. And the fact that you were able to hold it together long enough to get off the water in one piece is a testament to your training and experience. A lesser sailor might have come unglued after something like that and degenerated into a quivering lump right there on the deck, but you didn't do that. You hung in there and you got home alive, and any day you can say that is a good day, as you well know. :) *hugs*
from nixtress :
I'm sorry that you've got someone disturbing you :( that sucks, big time. I was glad to see that you enjoyed at least SOME of your time away :) Big hugs to you and here's hoping for some sunshine in your life.
from bunny828 :
{{{Hugs}}}
from captainron :
Well first of all, thanks for the kind words. The pleasure was all mine... So, how did the crash happen? Was there a lot of damage to the boat? Man I hate that part of racing...
from captainron :
A DSQ? OK spill it, what happened.... Sure looks like the wheels fell of your train. I hope the parties were at least good...
from nacwolin :
Just getting caught up here after being gone for a week myself. (((Big hugs))), my friend, and I hope your time away was just what the doctor ordered.
from rachelliz :
I'm sorry to hear about the boy. Making good, healthy decisions sorta sucks sometimes, huh?
from captainron :
11:20 Flight 843... See you then.
from red-wine :
Good! For! You! It sucks understanding that you may be an afterthought, but it sucks a lot more knowing it and still allowing it go on. Everytime I hear that song "You Were Always On My Mind" I just want to yell back "oh yeah? that just doesn't cut it, Elvis!" In my mind of course.
from wildrosie :
What an asswipe. But at least you aren't living a half-loved life, and you can find someone worth loving now.
from nixtress :
Cowards suck. I'm sorry he hurt you and I hope some time away racing helps you wash that away a bit. Big hugs.
from wildrosie :
I delivered a very similar speech a couple of days ago. I got the response I expected at first. Then I got surprised. I hope you get surprised. I hope he wakes up and smells the coffee. And if not, I hope it clears the way for someone who WILL be "there" for you. *Hugs*
from and-darling :
I always figured the best age ever would be twenty one. That way you're legal in every state, every province, country, etc, but you also have the ability to get away with being juvenile while still being graced with responsibility and position. When I turn twenty one I want to stay that way. "Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional".
from wildrosie :
Talk about dancing the same path darlin'! Quoting a Carole King song "Believe me, I would let you go if I could, But I don't know if it's worse being lonely, than having you here in body only". Is it harder to not have anyone there, and therefore have no expectations, but no hope of expectations either, or to have someone there who does not fill our needs? If you figure it out, let me know, 'cause I'm drowning here.
from la-the-sage :
For the first time EVER I know what it means to be #1 in someone's life. It's a feast of fat things beyond imagining. Stick to your hopes and wants, dear one. It's worth the search and the wait. I am so sorry that G cannot be there as is proper, but he's there. If LA the faithless cynic can say this, then you know it's true. Much love, ~LA
from la-the-sage :
For the first time EVER I know what it means to be #1 in someone's life. It's a feast of fat things beyond imagining. Stick to your hopes and wants, dear one. It's worth the search and the wait. I am so sorry that G cannot be there as is proper, but he's there. If LA the faithless cynic can say this, then you know it's true. Much love, ~LA
from wildrosie :
It isn't only you. They do say that the older souls often have problems dealing with the mundane things in life, simply because we think, "Hey, I've done this shit so many lifetimes, haven't we solved all of this yet? Why can't I just get on with learning the things I want to learn?" Ironically, the fact that we have to learn to deal with that frustration is all part of the life-cycle thingy too. *Sigh*
from sixweasels :
I'm waving my freak-flag at you : ). Our wants are different, but we both define them as freedom and crave them so bad it hurts. I want to be free to stay home and write, you want to be free to explore. I have never been able to be a real grown up. I simply can't, and one minute I'm proud of that fact because it makes life fun and the next I'm extremely jealous and humbled by all the people I see as real grownups who can and have and still seem happy. So you've not alone. Being a grown up is ... balls!
from poolagirl :
Everyone is desperate in their own way. Hugs to you, sailor.
from captainron :
The 9.1 is a good boat. I had a friend who had the smaller one with the centerboard and an offset companionway hatch. One time on a Spin reach, they forgot to put the board down, broached and water came in the hatch. Sank like a stone. They got some fishing boat to pull them up. His wife divorced him soon after (she was onboard at the time).
from sixweasels :
You offered me shelter when I needed it, and now I can do the same. Come anytime, babe. I have a home now. And you are loved. But I know exactly how you feel, or at least what my version of it felt like. Hugs.
from nacwolin :
I wish there was something I could say to make it all better. (((hugs)))
from augustdreams :
I love you. One day you need to come down here to the land of Palm trees and Sunsets and we'll hit Indian Rocks Beach, drink wine on the sand and laugh til we pee. Love you big sis.
from wildrosie :
Oh yeah. I understand it. In my case, it's clinging to the impossible so I can lie to myself and feel that I'm not really alone. But I am. And you are right, Tomorrow will be better. Hugs darlin'!
from nixtress :
Aw, Jen. I feel ya, girl. The prospect of living my life without someone who loves me unconditionally and just gets me (someone I didn't give birth to) is a sad and bleak thought. Big hugs and I hope there's sunshine on your horizon soon.
from captainron :
Sorry Jenn... I hope it all works out for you. You couldn't snag a ride up here to Newport? It's nice this time of year...
from nacwolin :
(((Hugs)))!
from sixweasels :
Hugs babe. Why does it seem so hard to get right sometimes? Thinking of you.
from rachelliz :
Feel better!
from july28 :
Big cyberhug from me. xx
from nacwolin :
Get better soon!!
from la-the-sage :
Ugh, I loathe spring colds. So unfair. At least in the winter a cold seems almost bearable because soup and snuggling under blankets is okay. But now that the good weather is here? Ugh. Ugh. Ugh. No advice, just lots of hugs and warm motherly chicken soup thoughts. ~LA
from hardsauce :
I wish you luck on your apartment search and all your adventures! xo ~Carolyn
from la-the-sage :
Twist X and G up together and you get Mick. So though your loves be bifurcated, I do hope you can go and play with your X half! ~LA
from nixtress :
I hope you share your new space's address with me :) I'd love to be able to continue following along. South of France sounds like fun to me! Keeping my fingers crossed that it all falls into place for you!!!!
from nixtress :
I hope you have a great weekend. :) It had been awhile since I stopped in to say hi and give hugs so there's both!
from nacwolin :
No advice, but felt like it's been so long since I said hi, so here it is: Hi!! :-)
from red-wine :
Well, were I you, I'd use something similar to your first one. Maybe not that "I'm not cooking or cleaning for you tonight" (that's implied) but making other plans might make him realize that there are things you'd rather being doing that mom-ing him. I never, ever bought into that "oh, men are just forgetful and kind of spazzy about stuff". Guess what? If we were *allowed* to be forgetful and spazzy we would be too! Caring about him is a great thing and certainly he's a good person, but the resentment will sneak in and soon all the caring in the world will be overshadowed by his lumpish thoughtless behavior. Don't let him get away with it!!
from poolagirl :
Huzzah!
from captainron :
Hmmm, can't be that rare, I got the same answer... I think it is the limited selection of questions they offer.
from nacwolin :
Have fun in Cali!! I am so jealous!!
from nixtress :
Happy Easter, strong lady. Hope you're doing well and the withdrawal is getting easier!
from bunny828 :
Sorry, never smoked. {{{Hugs}}} I hope it gets better sooner. (And just tell him you've got what you've got and if he doesn't like it, he can pick up something else. You aren't a resturant.)
from nixtress :
You can do it!!!! Snap, bite, chomp and growl all you like---kicking ANY addiction is hard and if that's what it takes, he'll understand (as much as he's able). Sending good vibes your way :)
from nacwolin :
Hang in there, friend - you can beat it! (((Jenn)))
from la-the-sage :
You are allowed to be as grumpy as you want to. This is an awesome good thing you're doing, but it's HARD. Not that you can't do hard, if anyone can it's you, but trying to be a saint while in withdrawal is beyond silly. Kvetch, gnaw, stomp and moan all you like, baby. ~LA
from bunny828 :
{{{Hugs}}}
from poolagirl :
So proud of you!
from skibigsky :
I'm a late-comer to my over-grown-once-quaint-now-touristy town. Even my husband who has been here for over 15 years is a late comer. And even we are despairing at the yuppification of our 'little' town. The people who have been here since back when it was JUST a mining town? They are shaking their heads all they way to the bank as their little mining shacks are being sold for millions and then torn down (*poof - that would be history disappearing before your eyes) to put in the McMansions. I love my new hometown, but I hate seeing it being destroyed. I can't even imagine what you must feel.
from sixweasels :
Right back atcha, babe. Love you too.
from sixweasels :
Yeah, it's strange. You don't mean to disappear or even realize that you might be. It's just all the sudden, you're content and at peace where you are, and home feels like where you find respite instead of just where you keep your shit and crash. At least, that's how its been for me. I hate to admit it, but I never really knew what a home was.
from rabbitwister :
I have been checking in on your writing when I can. So glad you have found someone who makes you feel "liked". Here is to smooth sailing for you and your future. Pet the furry bastards for me.
from la-the-sage :
I love you, sweetheart and have teary eyes of joy from reading that last. ~LA
from nacwolin :
You sound happy, and I am glad - you deserve it!
from nixtress :
Jen, thank you for being so supportive throughout the last few years. It's meant a lot to me, having your voice of reason in my notes :) I will be continuing to read you but wanted to say thanks for everything!! Big hugs.
from bunny828 :
I wondered if you knew about the recall too. I dearly hope that is not what made your cat or cats sick.
from nixtress :
Hey! Did you read about the cat food recall? It's been on the news and had me tossing the very few cans of canned cat food I had left in my pantry "just in case". Scary stuff for little fur people! Hope you're well and furbabies are too.
from la-the-sage :
This latest D-land freak out sucks ASS! I'll go yell at Andrew some more. Love you. ~LA
from nacwolin :
(((J))). Thought you could use a hug. Sounds like you've been through it with your babies.
from july28 :
hahaha!!! I know about Johnny 5! (don't beat me!) Love to you and the furries xx
from rachelliz :
Glad to hear the kitty is coming home. I hope he starts feeling better soon.
from duranfanatic :
And to help you unwind after the latest cat ordeal, don't forget to stop and grab a copy of Casino Royale--it comes out on DVD tonight! You can bet that's what I'm gonna go do tonight, after getting my much-needed haircut and some dinner, hehehe.
from la-the-sage :
I don't see the humor in praying for your kitty either. A boon companion is a boon companion whether furred, fanged or biped. It's just one facet of your huge heart that you love your kitties so well. Winging aloft some of my own healing vibe for a quick recovery. ~LA
from bunny828 :
{{{Hugs}}} Go visit him after work. It might make you both feel better. (Though I always hate the way they look after surgery.)
from red-wine :
Oh, ugh, *lumpinthroat*. I so feel for you, lady. But the dying would certainly take place if you were not to bring him in, yes? So you're doing everything in your power to make it not happen, no matter who's in the room. But still, it sucks.
from skibigsky :
It's always stressful to leave a sick child at the vet, but they will do everything they can. Hugs to you - I know what you're going through.
from poolagirl :
(((((hugs)))) Wish there was something I could do.
from skibigsky :
Sick beasties is the worst. Hugs to you and them. Take care!
from bunny828 :
OW! I hope things get better quick. If it's any consolulation, the antibotics always helped my cats. I've gone through that gum thing a couple of times. Sounds like my cats are better pill takers though.
from captainron :
No punching... They are basicly good people who mostly just don't know or think about stuff... They aren't sailors even if they think they might be.
from sixweasels :
Total idiot never. Best momma a kitty could hope for, absolutely. Love you.
from poolagirl :
Really got some giggles out of that name meme. And thanks for being such a sweet presence here on Diaryland. Mucho appreciated.
from la-the-sage :
Whew! I agree with Red, nothing crazy about your ferocious love at all. We should all be loved so well. ~LA
from red-wine :
Sick kitties are the stuff of nightmares for me. And I just don't see where the 'crazy' comes in. Cat Lady, sure, but crazy? That's just not the case.
from la-the-sage :
Oh Stinky, here's some kisses and witchy warm healing thoughts for you. And one squeezy hug with tons of love for you, dearheart. ~LA
from sixweasels :
Keep us posted on Stinky, babe. I'm sending him lots of love and good wishes!
from sixweasels :
"won't ever be enough ... ever again." I'm crying with you, babe, cause I still feel that way with Sh@rky every day and I know what a terrible feeling it is. I'm so sorry. Love you.
from hollisterman :
I lost my mother to cancer about three years ago, it was horrible. I miss her very much. I will pray for your friend.
from poolagirl :
Gosh! I hope you feel better soon so you can get out and enjoy the blush of spring.
from nixtress :
I hope that stomach bug is exterminated, quicklike!! Feel better soon :)
from nacwolin :
I agree with Six. I would also add that if G found that relationship threatening or upsetting, I would be taking a look at it, to see if it is "worth" keeping up if it could be hurting him. With that, you also have to weigh in where you want your relationship with G to go - if you are thinking the long haul, that may be the time to assess other relationships, know what I mean? But as it stands, I don't think you are "cheating" at all. Follow your heart, my friend.
from sixweasels :
Dude, I don't think you're cheating. In fact, I've come to the conclusion that we all have many kindred spirits in our lives, and they take the form of partners, friends, and email buddies. How lonely life would be if the only people we let see into our souls were our partners. Is the context of your emails something that would hurt or upset G? I honestly think it is only when we find an online, work or other relationship MORE important to us than the one we have with our partner that there are signs of a problem, babe.
from captainron :
Psst... Just because you have on line friends who you enjoy does not make you a cheat... For further detail, see, Ron (married) & Jenn...
from daisy-hit :
Your diary's pretty interesting.
from poolagirl :
You are an angel. Your entry made me cry.
from boann7 :
xxxooo
from wildrosie :
PHEW! Please tell me you feel better after that rant! I hope your friend gets her shit together! Hugs darling!
from nixtress :
Boys of Summer is just one of many for me too! I feel ya :)
from red-wine :
Boys of Summer! Me too! Me too! (Dear god WHY?)
from sixweasels :
That entry you said to skip? Its one of the many reasons I love you. There's a lot of wisdom and insight there, babe. And saying old wrinkly balls rocks! I've got a missive response to your last email in my head, it just isn't typed out yet : ). And I'd love to help T with a profile, should he need it. He sounds awesome.
from nacwolin :
"And if no one else can see what I see? It doesn�t matter. I am enough for me." I love that!!
from la-the-sage :
Good for you, hon. I'm glad you were able to offload the weight. I think I need one of those weep fests, but am waiting until tomorrow night. AFTER the make-or-break date with Brendan. Get some rest when you can and enjoy your friend. Love you lots, ~LA
from sixweasels :
Love you and big hugs. Laugh and leak away : ).
from red-wine :
Glad he came through okay! I know what you mean about the sneak-attack emotions ... ton o' bricks they are.
from sixweasels :
Glad the scary part is over. Its all uphill from here. Love you.
from la-the-sage :
Okay, you cry it all out so tomorrow when you see him you can smile. The surgery is over! And he's okay! YAY!!!!!!!! ~LA
from eastportgrrl :
go look at SA for happier stuff. Endorphin is doing well, as well as l'outrage, Rhumb pounch... etc... and ST is 4th(not far down enough for my taste)
from rachelliz :
No kidding with this Shrub plan. We need to be coming up with a plan to get OUT, not bring more in (do we have any more troops???). (And we can skip my rage that he's interrupting prime time again.) As far as worse than Nixon, definitely. At least Nixon's errors didn't kill so many people.
from sixweasels :
Lots of go-away-pain, quick-healing thoughts for G's surgery, and lots of calming, don't-worry vibes for you. Hugs and love.
from la-the-sage :
Healing thoughts, energy for safe passage, and some for you too. Laying hands long distance. ~LA
from la-the-sage :
You go get the sick bastard. RAWR! ~LA
from la-the-sage :
Silly! No worries on this end, I know what the $$ sitch is. Happy New Year, tootsela. ~LA
from nixtress :
Happy New Year :)
from poolagirl :
Aye, matey! Sometimes, it's a good thing when you don't understand the danger. I was sailing once in high winds and we had a knockdown. I was sitting backwards in the hatch with my feet on deck when it happened. Damn good thing I was able to hang on and not fall backwards into the galley!
from sixweasels :
Love you too. Happy New Year!
from poolagirl :
You go! Dang! What a marvelous story!
from marn :
Batten, she was a force of nature. I thought I knew how much I'd miss her. I thought wrong.
from bunny828 :
Happy Belated Birthday! Welcome to the 4-0 club.
from captainron :
Don't give up... Don't ever give up... How races have you ever been in when you were hopelessly behind and then caught that magic wind shift? The one that pushes you past all the fleet while they sit there stalled? Life is like that too sometimes. Wait... Your time will come. Love ya me
from poolagirl :
Nice tribute to President Ford. I liked him too.
from nixtress :
I went to Al-anon for awhile, trying to get a handle on everything and one of the things they teach is to disconnect with love. I thought, for the longest time, that it was great in theory but not so great in practice. I think maybe I just wasn't practicing it right. All in one's perspective. Sounds like you enjoyed a nice time home. :)
from nacwolin :
Belated birthday and Christmas wishes, my friend. Sorry for the delay - we are in CA and have all been sick (blech - we wait 3.5 years for a vacation and get hit with intestinal joys). ((Hugs))
from rachelliz :
Happy birthday and merry Christmas!
from nixtress :
Merry Christmas!!!
from duranfanatic :
Happy Birthday!! :) I hope that today was a great day for you, and that you have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year! *hugs*
from sixweasels :
Yes, Happy Birthday to you! Love you.
from marlen816 :
Happy Birthday!!
from nixtress :
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday deaaaar Jennnnnn... Hope it's a good one :) Big hugs.
from la-the-sage :
Happy Birthday, Sweetheart! ~LA
from rabbitwister :
Happy B-Day, Batten! May the wind fill your sails with happiness.
from sixweasels :
Me too babe, me too. Hugs.
from la-the-sage :
Happy Blogiversary! ~LA
from duranfanatic :
Don't feel bad about telling that idiot in the mall off. It's not as though you said, "Get the hell out of my way, you asshole," or anything like that to set her off. You're a nice person, and you were nice about trying to get by. What she did was unprovoked and uncalled for, and though you may feel that you sunk to her level with your response, I'd say that you responded in the only way she'd understand. And yeah, maybe you felt guilty afterward, but your good mood was ruined by the senseless act of an idiot, but the guilt you feel is only further proof that you're a better person than she is.
from sixweasels :
Common, maybe not. But I think it should be what we expect : ). We deserve no less.
from nixtress :
Funny how Life keeps you on your toes, hmm? I'm glad it went better than you were expecting :)
from poolagirl :
I'm stealing "doom on you" too. LA can't be the only one who takes it.
from la-the-sage :
I don't blame you a bit for being freaked and angry. But I'm still giggling over, 'Doom on you'. I am soooooo stealing that. ~LA
from nixtress :
I believe that we really do carry parts of those we've loved and lost with us and that's how they're never 100% gone. Sounds like you're having a good time keepin' yourself busy :)
from duranfanatic :
I'm glad you liked it! I think you're right, Daniel is a "man's man" kind of Bond, as it were. I already can't wait for the next one in two years. I hope he sticks around for awhile. I think I need to see Casino Royale again myself--too bad we don't live closer together, I'd totally go with you. :) Oh, and you should check out Die Another Day just for the hell of it. It's somewhat different too, and probably the best of Brosnan's films, such as they were.
from duranfanatic :
Whoa, you're a Bond fan? I never knew that! I hope my recent half-assed review of it didn't spoil anything for you. That said, I'll say again that it was REALLY good. I hope you like it--you must tell me what you thought! Hehe.
from nacwolin :
Yay! You deserve it!!
from la-the-sage :
YAY!!!!!!! I am so so so happy for you! You totally deserve to be paid a decent wage. I am delighted you can stay at a place where you feel accomplished and damn good at what you do. Man oh man this day just keeps getting better. Mwah! ~LA
from nixtress :
Yay!!!!! Congratulations :) I'm so glad for you.
from poolagirl :
Congratulations, sailor!
from duranfanatic :
Here's hoping it's a 70% raise! Not a measly 7%! ;) Good luck!
from nixtress :
I watched ANTM and have to say, it's true! I hate to see what she does next but that's why I tune in as well. Sending good luck thoughts your way and keeping fingers and toes crossed for you!
from sixweasels :
Keeping my fingers crossed for you, babe!
from captainron :
:::crosses fingers::: Good luck Jenn!!!
from bunny828 :
LOL! I don't watch that show and I'm glad I don't.
from bunny828 :
I don't have a clue what you ate, but I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for the sweet note over on my site. I have to admit that I've leaned heavily to not sending anything and haven't for a year now, but I keep getting notes from her and sis tells me she wants me to call. I think I have to do something.
from la-the-sage :
I feel the same way about Chinese. A good pig-out on real Chinese food (or even the cruddy American-style) will send me into foodie bliss. Sounds like I need to speak to Ibi Patel (neighbor) and suggest his son-in-law (the ONLY kid or kid-in-law who isn't a doctor) should move down souf and open a tandoori greasy spoon. I'll work on it for you, okay? Mwah! ~LA
from nixtress :
Have a great Thanksgiving!!
from poolagirl :
What an incredibly sensitive and lovely entry. Thank you.
from poolagirl :
I'm so glad you like your lid! Send me a picture now so you can be official and stuff.
from nacwolin :
I love that you cried watching that. Tough girl with a heart of gold. Don't change, and don't apologize; it's one of the best things about you.
from poolagirl :
You're not a dork - you are a sweetie!
from zencelt :
Hey! We need to plan a girly day in Annapolis soon! I miss my sailor girls!
from sixweasels :
Your T-Day plans sound awesome! Yum. I've never been one for the turkey and yams either, but I love me some stuffing and real mashed potatoes with gravy : ).
from captainron :
I'd love too, but all my extra cash and vacation will be spent in the BVIs in February :-)
from poolagirl :
I think you should take that fickle little Muse out for a beer.
from captainron :
Morning Lady... 13 days until haul... :-( I'm going to try and get out at least once more. Lets hope the weather cooperates. Happy Wednesday!
from duranfanatic :
First, let me begin by roundly cursing signmyguestbook. Damn signmyguestbook to hell! Ahem. Anyway. I guess I'll repeat myself here. You get no flames from me on your political views, just love. :) I think you're right on, even though you may be all over the political spectrum on different things. Hell, so am I, and in much the same ways as you are. And yeah, if Hillary runs and wins in 2008, I'll be right behind you on whatever mode of transport we use to get the hell out of here. The Caribbean does sound nice...I've never been there, you could show me around, hehe.
from la-the-sage :
Gracious, I hope you weren't worried about me! I adore you warty political stances and all. No, seriously, I don't see the point of frisking Granny in the name of 'fairness' either. That's just stupid. Hope your cold has gone away. ~LA
from la-the-sage :
Ugh! I loathe colds. I am loathing yours especially because it should NOT be in you causing its havoc. Hope you feel better and/or 'good' stoned real quick. ~LA
from poolagirl :
Feel better soon, sweetie!
from marlen816 :
Hope you feel better. I feel the same way actually. I hate colds and such.
from nacwolin :
((((my friend)))!
from la-the-sage :
Da nada. I love you. ~LA
from nixtress :
Sending you big ole hugs, lady. Keep that chin up and remember that it's only a squall.
from skibigsky :
Big hugs to you. I've been there, and know that feeling. And if the 'furry bastard' (heh!) has a health crisis, email me. Seriously. The spouse and I have a 'furry bastard' account, and there's always some flexibility there for furry bastards other than our own.
from outfoxed :
Come to Nags Head. You know you want to, kick these smorgasbored (sp?)(?) come-lately's aside and get thee hither. No reason to starve, darlin'.
from la-the-sage :
My turn to hold you tight and fight the meanies off. When you're not so gaspy and scared, let's you and I work out a plan for getting the raise you deserve. Okay? ~LA
from eastportgrrl :
WHAT? who when? A girl hangs out on her side of town and is out of town and is out of the loop? you better write me tomorrow... Pep Rally for the tug tomorrow at BY at 7PM
from sixweasels :
You are so very right. I couldn't have said any of this better. Hugs.
from nacwolin :
You said it so well (i.e., grief). It is good to know that there are folks out there that understand.
from boann7 :
what a nice note to leave me.. thanks. it really made me feel better.
from boann7 :
ok, that made me smile. i do think you found the cure for the worlds problems. everyone needs to own fuzzy slippers and fannels. what a lovely idea. who could do any horrible deed in fuzzy slippers. mine look like cats =)
from captainron :
Any skipper who goes out in this stuff is not one you want to sail with any way....
from la-the-sage :
Ah ha! Hanging out with the rock stars! A woman your age...tsk tsk. (SNORT) Actually your adventure sounds wonderful! And that's just lovely the guys were so nice and decent. I've always gone with the idea that if you make your living in the arts it behooves you to be a nice person and good to the fans. No like letting crazies into your house, but like last night. Sit, talk, interact. Though I cannot imagine anyone turning down a chance to hang with you. I wouldn't! ~LA
from rabbitwister :
Have a great weekend, Ms. B!!!
from nicim :
I continue my journey at http://cunhell.diaryland.com Kisses.. N
from rabbitwister :
The doc says surgery (fusing vertebas) will releive the pain, but I am in my early 40's and he guesses I would have to repeat the procedure in 10 years because of additional wear on the disks above and below. Not sure I am ready for that yet.
from captainron :
There may be 477 people with the same name, but there is most assuredly only one you :-) Happy Thursday!
from la-the-sage :
Don't ask why it took me so long to think of clicking through to your notes. Plainly I'm a dope. The name thing made me laugh, I know for absolute certain my name is one of a kind. I've pretty much met everyone with the exact form of my last name, there's only 40 or so of us. Variant spellings are much more common. So despite having a first name even more ubiquitous than yours, thanks to Mike's great-grandfather's trouble the law (thus the spelling change) I am unique. ~LA
from rabbitwister :
Another reference to hot chocolate. If I were a psychiatrist (which I am not but I do love words that end in "trist") I would have to speak to you about that subject. May your payday be abundant and full of porterhouse steaks.
from rabbitwister :
Life and love. It's a wonder how we all manage to get through it at times. You are a saint for not going to the wedding. A lesser person would go to hopes of making the bride feel uncomfortable.
from rabbitwister :
Is cold weather dredging up cold thoughts? Keep the hot chocolate close by.
from eastportgrrl :
hmm I think it is actually a better way of living for you and your sanity... :-) sorry I missed breakdown I just had had a long day and needed to go to Fedex and then I just was not in a crowd mode...
from rabbitwister :
Sorry to hear you are in the same boat as myself (notice the nautical theme?) I have two bad disks in my neck and have constant discomfort. Exercise helps, but I pass through lazy streaks at times and right now I am one lazy mofo. The result has been three weeks of me complaining and increasing the strength of the evening cocktails.
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your neck.
from poolagirl :
New job time for you - definitely.
from augustdreams :
I'm SO happy to hear Stinky's okay. Your fuzzies are always in my prayers. :)
from rabbitwister :
Good luck to your lap kitty.
from nixtress :
Poor kitty! Needs a ton of lovin' now and much spoilage! Glad to hear he's okay :)
from rachelliz :
I'm glad he's okay. My baby doesn't have so many teeth either, and she seems not to mind. (And I don't mind when she plays "bite Momma's fingers".)
from july28 :
I'm so glad he's through it. Sleep well tonight! (both of you!) xx
from sixweasels :
I'm glad Stinky is okay, babe. I know that fear is one of the worst feelings there is. Hugs.
from nixtress :
Thank you for the note. I'm sorry that work is being so cruddy. I've had jobs where it seemed like no matter what I did, it wasn't enough and after awhile, that really gets to you. Big hugs.
from rachelliz :
Grey's was really good...to the point where if it is that good every week, I'm gonna have to drop it. I can't take crying that often!!!
from rabbitwister :
Hang tough, Batten. Keep your eyes on those bastards. Five o'clock always comes.
from rabbitwister :
Greetings Batten, Yes, I do have a list of his stories from induction through the end of the war. Unfortunatly for him, the war never ended. He relived it every night. There is another list of stories detailing life after the war. The post stress disorder, electroshock therapy, over medication, etc. I suppose that is the price of freedom.
from boann7 :
porch sitting.. lovely
from poolagirl :
VERY clear personal ad! No questions!
from rabbitwister :
The personal ad was direct, to the point, and clear, except for one word. Licking? Care to expound? This has multiple scenarios springing to life in my inventive take on modern life.
from rabbitwister :
I just found you today, and I may be hooked. I don't sail. I grew up on a lake and have the desire, just not the time. I'll be back.
from poolagirl :
Magnificent entry about food and going hungry. You are one powerful woman!
from boann7 :
of all the things ive read and seen about today sept 11. yours rings the closest to how i feel.
from captainron :
You're nto alone. I still do the mental happy dance every time I think of mine :-) Enjoy the popcorn, but wash it down with some grapes. You deserve it.
from poolagirl :
Congratulations on your divorce anniversary! Enjoy your popcorn and hot chocolate!
from batten :
Testing
from zencelt :
(((Hugs))) A new phase begins. Why don't you do something special to make yourself feel good next Monday to fill in the space and celebrate the gifts that this relationship gave to you?
from captainron :
Jenn, All I can say is you'll know when you know... If I wasn't taken....
from captainron :
I guess it is true, all godd things come to she who waits....
from outfoxed :
Wow darlin'. For once I'm speechless. Thanks, and I owe ye a visit. We'll have coffee . . .
from augustdreams :
Even though its scary (and wish I could be there in person with hugs and red wine), I think you did the right and necessary thing in writing that email. It's not inflammatory or insulting, just honest. Let us know how everything goes, big sister. Love you.
from boann7 :
thanks for your nice comment. i like reading about your life and adventures too. =)
from poolagirl :
Oh, dear. He needs to go away NOW. Nice way or not nice way.
from poolagirl :
The message is perfect! Perfect! It's kind and to the point. YAAAARRR! Now release that jib and get sailing, woman! (sorry - that sailing talk just slips in and takes over)
from nixtress :
Your family-time sounded wonderful. I've always wanted a family like that, where you actually feel "home". The letter is clear, succinct and to the point. If it says everything you want it to, I'd send it.
from poolagirl :
You have made a very wise choice. It's fine to set a new course, captain. Our voyages through life should be pleasant and empowering. Sail away and let your dreams come true.
from nacwolin :
Loved your beach entries - glad you had such a fabulous time!
from captainron :
Sounds like fun? Happy Monday Jenn...
from poolagirl :
GOD! What a cool picture!
from poolagirl :
I thought the same things, but abuse is abuse - whether it can be explained or not. Just be careful, sweetie.
from poolagirl :
I worked for someone like that last year at the museum. I quit after a few months. They fired her and hired me back. I know that was like finding a snowball in hell, but these people really DO get their karma sooner or later. I suggest you start looking. She will only make you crazy.
from zencelt :
Thanks babe! Every day brings me closer to me. Hope you're enjoying some Batten time!
from serenaville :
Take as long as you need, to do what's best for you. Aren't you glad you have my permission?? Heh. Seriously though, I hope you're back to square soon. I'll be right here waiting for you. But SO not in a "Richard Marx" sort of way. Because. Cheesy. *HUGS!!!!*
from nicim :
7/10 I love you. I love you for caring. I love you for calling and worrying. Don't you believe it wasn't important or wanted, or desired. The world needs people like you. I need people like you. XXOO N
from nicim :
6/23 ah the exact reason one of my first purchases was both a wet suit (farmer john AND long sleeve jumper) AND a drysuit. now if they would just invent something to keep my feet an hands warm. (ps - we have GOT to get together soon girl) XXOO N
from july28 :
I'm getting such a good feeling about the new guy. Opposites attract!! xxxx
from zencelt :
Now I'm jealous. A race across Lake Michigan sounds so exciting!
from nacwolin :
Awwwww! I am glad you had fun - you deserve it!
from captainron :
Jenn, you'll like whatever crew you're on. That's just the way you are. Leave before you get hurt. A weapon like a Schock 35 can be VERY dangerous in the wrong hands and it sounds like this one is. If you could do it over again, you'd have never gotten in to the car with the drunk... Same situation. Don't wait until you have major regrets. You can't afford another major injury.
from serenaville :
Ack. Minus a redundant 'be' at the end. Heh.
from serenaville :
"In accordance with our more modern times, and reflecting rampant societal changes, The Mounties are pleased as punch to announce an overhaul of their image. Chiefly, their name, and their unofficial 'mascot'. In recognition of the force's first same sex marriage, let it be herewith known that: The Mounties will now be called "MountMes", and "Dudley Do-Right" shall be henceforth be known as "Dudley So-Tight." (Holy CRAP, I'm burning in hell for this. :D )
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your friends.
from captainron :
Lunch good, closed office doors bad. Enjoy the lunch and the raise...
from serenaville :
Good thoughts comin' atcha! Best luck!! *HUGS!!!*
from serenaville :
Oh my god, hon. I am SO SORRY to hear about H@ns. Just reading about it feels like a suckerpunch. I can't even imagine what YOU must be feeling. Such a terrible, rending tragedy. If you need me, please let me know... drop me an e-mail. Anything. *HUGS!!!!*
from poolagirl :
I don't know what to say. My thoughts are with you all.
from poolagirl :
That's a really incredible email. Very well-stated.
from serenaville :
Fervent prayers sent up for Phil, with more on the way. You know I've got your back, anytime. Hoping beyond hope he improves soon... *HUGS!!!*
from serenaville :
"... did you have to go all bunny-boiling on your entries?" HAHAHAHA! Love that! Please don't think twice about the frequency of commenting. The knowledge you are out there and reading is plenty enough. Half the time, I have no idea what to say about entries myself, so I just say nothing. Like you, I will always read religiously, despite. It's all good, chica! *HUGS*
from serenaville :
Much, much better! As The Divine Miss Poola said -- Show entitlement! You've laid out your case as compellingly as possible. I'll be watching for the results! *HUGS*
from poolagirl :
Focus solely on your accomplishments. Show no need whatsoever - show entitlement! You go!
from serenaville :
Boann7 makes good points. All I would add is, should you have no other avenue than to send the letter, I would omit the part about what specific costs of living have converged to spur you to ask for the raise. The request should be based on job performance alone, imnasho, with no mention made of not being able to live on your salary whatsoever. While such may be the absolute truth, it's the same all over, and therefore The Powers That Be may not be so much in the way of sympathy. In fact, they may more blame you for not being able to live within your means. If they can't/won't raise your pay based on proven track record, then you are free to make what you can live on by quitting, and asking for what you want/need at your next job. Best luck! *HUGS*
from boann7 :
you don't really know me but ive been reading your diary for a little while. in my opinion a request for a raise should only be done in person. using an email or letter should only be done if its not possible for a face to face meeting due to distance. meeting face to face gives you the opportunity to answer questions and present your case to your best advantage. you can also see their body language and determine the best avenue for pressing your points.
from zencelt :
PSA - Give your stuff to the Rescue Mission or the Salvation Army, or maybe CASA. I've seen Goodwill outprice Walmart on way too many items, including well used clothing, that I consider it out of reach for the truely poor.
from serenaville :
I'm not sure what feedback to give, other than are you sure the letter shouldn't be directed to those with authority to keep the guy off the boat in the first, rather than to 'friends' who may not be swayed to take action even after reading? Unless I'm missing something (Has he been reported already?). I don't know, in general something just isn't sitting right in my gut, after reading the letter...
from serenaville :
Gods, but I love the way you write, especially how beautifully descriptive you are. The imagery you evoke (Rubber balls, thudding bricks)... perfect. I enjoyed knowing the meaning behind your ink. Nice entry. *HUGS*
from captainron :
Just a bit of a note to say, Love ya, me
from poolagirl :
I am so so sorry about your friend. Holding you in my thoughts and prayers as you find your peace with all of this.
from serenaville :
Oh, hon. My heart goes out to you. To lose someone is bad enough, but to have such regret is like pouring salt and lemon juice in a fresh wound. Please try not to punish yourself too much. If I can be a "plumber" for you in any way, I'm as close as e-mail. *HUGS!!!*
from dangerspouse :
That's terrible about the loss of your friend. I hope you find a plumber soon. All the best, kiddo.
from nacwolin :
I agree with you about the TN PW...was the first thing I thought too (I haven't checked the news since this AM, so if anything new has come out, I don't know it yet).
from serenaville :
Many thanks, and deepest appreciation, for your thoughtful support of Erianne and her sister. You can't know how much it means. It truly does make a difference. *HUGS!!!!*
from erianne1 :
Thank you so much.
from nicim :
3/21 depends on what "exhaust leak" means. first, they are allowed to just solder a patch over it. if the tailpipe has to be replaced, get one from a junk yard. if it's into the engine, check around - repair shops that don't do inspections are always cheaper than ones that do!! (also look in the services part of the newspaper. folks that fix things in their back yard can still be good!) XXOO N
from nixtress :
Thank you. It's funny how unprepared you can feel about something you know is coming, once it's actually here. Ya know?
from zencelt :
At least it didn't call you a whore...
from eastportgrrl :
Reread my message from Friday... I had a great time last night...
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Sweetheart: I'm wondering if you are willing to give this a chance and see it through? He sounds like a nice guy and that the two of you are having a great time. And yes love can be a bit scary, but its also a wonderful thing. Nothing gets your heart a pumping or your lungs a breathing like love. Honeybunny Love is by far one of the greatest adventure of all, I'd hate to think you passed up a great adventure because of being a bit weak in the knees. There is a chance it might not work out, but like in sailing you don't win every race but isn't it worth it just to be out on the Ocean participating in some you love? My advice is to turn into the wind and enjoy yourself :-)
from eastportgrrl :
Take a couple of deep breaths...maybe 5 or 6....Just take it day to day.... Don't look too far ahead.. (YES, I know it's really hard, especially when other friends(and I'm not talking about me) are moving at the speed of light. He's a great guy and don't run just because you are letting yourself get spooked especially in a green week....
from nixtress :
Feel better soon! Sending healthy vibes.
from poolagirl :
Ibe soddy ewe have a code. Fug!
from sunshine0221 :
Feel better soon! And two words - NyQuil!!
from poolagirl :
Yes, some asshat is talking nasty. And we all believe (acaldwell, cosmicrayola, and chaosdaily) it's a female - a rather scary female. I will let you know in a few days if the banning works.
from arc-angel666 :
Nope, I meant a good looking Redhead :-)
from arc-angel666 :
Hey Batten: I just read the Bluemeany's latest entry and I came upon a mphoto of the Meany and a beautiful Redhead and a giant sparkley smile...looking good Sweetheart :-)
from hissandtell :
If you go to "Gold Member Resources" you can download a backup of your diary, including saving it to disk without any dramas. Just follow the instructions so you don't crash your computer! Love, R xxx
from nicim :
2/16/06 I have always believed that the true professional today IS a dabble, dabble, dabble kinda person that can yada, yada, yada about almost anything. Don't worry - you'll be fab! XXOO N
from hissandtell :
Oooh - Moulin Rouge and sapphire toenails and a rank hangover - sounds like a perfectly divine evening! So glad you had fun with the Meanmistress; I look forward to the photographs enormously. Love, R xxx
from captainron :
Thanks for the concern :-) Do you still have that string of code to keep you from getting googled? If you do can you please drop me a note? Have a great weekend, Ron
from nicim :
1/29/06 I understand ghosts. Ben has been with me for thirty years.... XXOO N
from nixtress :
Thank you. For just being there.
from hissandtell :
Oh, your injury list, um, cracks me up. Although I am about as far from a jock as one could be, I believe I almost could rival you for things like gashes, cracks and chips. (Falling out of car while travelling at speed over bumpy ground chasing wild bulls - horse standing on my foot and dancing - pet kangaroo getting fright from low-flying wedgetail eagle and ripping my thigh - cranky cow with bone stuck in throat knocking me down and attempting to smother me - cockatoo and geese bites x 5000 - usual hurty-stitchy injuries caused by waterskiing, iceskating, horseriding, falling off motorbikes, crashing cars, knife slippage during carving of large roast beeves, ad nauseum...) Please stay safe, darling! Love, R xxx
from serenaville :
Okay. That extensive list of injuries was just f'in frightening. I've never broken a blessed bone in my body. Holy geez, woman. Maybe you should change your diary ident to 'Timex'...
from nacwolin :
I love that you defend the ones you love without excuses. There aren't many like you out there, my friend!
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your daddy.
from marlen816 :
Glad to hear the news about your Dad. ((Hugs)) and prayers for you and your Dad's results.
from serenaville :
Thinking good thoughts for you and your dad, from one Chief Worrier to another. Hang tight, woman, and keep eating. Can't be there for others, unless you're there for yourself. Keep us posted, hey? *HUGS*
from marlen816 :
That was me last week. ((Hugs)) girl.
from nixtress :
Thanks for the thoughts :) I look back now and while I still remember why I tried it, I wouldn't change my life for anything. I wouldn't be me without it all and I'm not so bad, most days. I answered your tag :)
from july28 :
Thank-you for doing the weirdy quiz questions (love no.5!) BTW, you have never came across to me in your diary as being shy and/or introverted...you cover it well. Take care. xxx
from candoor :
wow, it always amazes me that someone can have more than a thousand entries and have some of my closest favorites on their favorites lists and still be new to me (egocentric, I know, but I take my amazement wherever I can get it :) ... Merry Happy New Year and may 2006 be by far your best year yet :)
from nixtress :
Happy New Year (early)!
from serenaville :
My! Most welcome, anytime! Thank YOU, that was incredibly sweet of you. Made my weekend. And... Syracuse, NY. ;)
from marlen816 :
What a neat plaque. Merry Christmas!
from july28 :
Aaaaw, that plaque from your Mum made me cry! Happy Xmas, Jen. xxxxx
from nacwolin :
Merry Christmas, my friend! Here's to having a calmer year - for both of us!
from captainron :
Jenn, I hope you and the critters have a very Merry Christmas and a super (and more stable) 2006. {{{{hugs}}}} Ron
from july28 :
Happy (belated) birthday J...and I SO agree with Serenaville!
from marlen816 :
God makes everything beautiful in His time. It's about time =) ((Hugs))
from nixtress :
Happy Birthday! And Merry Christmas, since I won't be online in the next several days!
from serenaville :
Happy birthday, dear Batten! How fitting, for one who brings light into the lives of others for sharing of herself here, to be born on the day the light returns. Best wishes! *HUGS* -Serena
from marlen816 :
Happy Birthday?!?!
from sixweasels :
Guesbook is being a wanker so I'll post this here. Your home feels like hope, comfort, warmth, acceptance and fun. And quality time with you - someone who radiates the message "hey, look, there's life out there and you'll find it," is probably exactly what your friend Lynn needed. Big hugs.
from marlen816 :
Glad the day went well. ((hugs))
from zencelt :
I'm so proud of you. This is going to be a wonderful start to a wonderful new year for you.
from nicim :
12/12/05 You're going to be fine. Jitters are natural. Just be your own fine self. XXOO N
from nixtress :
Good luck, good luck, good luck!!!
from july28 :
AWESOME news!!!!!!
from serenaville :
WOOOOO HOOOOO!!!! Happy congratulations on the new job!! Walking distance, no less... sounds meant to be. ;) Good on ya, woman! Best luck! *HUGS*
from marlen816 :
Yea for a job! Congrats, girl =)
from serenaville :
Nah, no flaming or dropping here. You have every right to your opinion, of course. My stand on the issue would likely make for spirited drunken debate (Ha, unintentional pun/redundancy there), were I to take you up on the kind invite to come get tanked with you and your crew. ;D Best luck on the phone interview! P.S. Dude, comments section. Totally. Eliminates long-ass notes like this. *Grin* Big hugs back to you, always!
from july28 :
Hey, never say never on the baby issue!
from zencelt :
I hear you in the 1000 dollar car bandaid thing. Here's hoping she keeps on keeping on till you can get it all taken care of. Good luck on the job front. There is a position out there just waiting for someone like you to fill it. Hey, you might get a job for Christmas this year!
from nacwolin :
Our boys LOVE Calvin and Hobbes. As a matter of fact, N has almost all of the books full of the cartoons. Ordered him what he says are the last two that he needs for Christmas. They can recite them, they've read them so much.
from serenaville :
I was mentally and emotionally abused by an ex, for a year and a half. The difference between you and me, is my abuser is now dead. Some called it a 'senseless tragedy', his dying so young. I called it the ultimate karmic bitchslap, and went out for margaritas. My point is, there is no way in hell I would ever acknowledge a known abuser. Contempt is too mild a word. Were that I knew you, I would have your back so closely, I'd be one with your spine. Hiss and Captainron said things very eloquently, all I would add is I am glad you get up every morning and bother again. You're on my buddy list for a reason. 'Nuff said. *HUGS*
from captainron :
I don't think it's intentional, People who are abusive are good at hiding it to others. It's a face nobody sees but the abused person. That's how they get away from it so long and why others think the abused is "over reacting". He's so nice to me, he couldn't possibly do that to her/him. There are a few people who cry wolf in this situation, but my inclination is to believe the person who says they were abused. By unlike you, most people don't say it and when they do it makes others uncomfortable to have to think about it, so they don't. And life goes on as normal for them while it is falling to pieces for you. Unfortunately I understand this all too well. Hang in there Jenn. In this case it is truely not your problem. {{{{hugs}}}} Ron
from hissandtell :
Of course it was wrong, darling, and I wish I could be there to stand up for you. I think it's just in people's natures to want to make things "right" and sweep things under the carpet. Over time, that means they can gradually re-write history and change it to, "Oh, you overreacted; it wasn't as bad as you made out" because it's far more comfortable that way than sticking one's neck out, or going out on a limb, or however "braveness" generally manifests itself. And when one gets too involved, of course, there's always the added risk that the "victim" might change her mind down the track and then resent whatever critical comments were made about the perpetrator. I, however, would not only cut him dead, I'd be there with bells on while you and I dressed in camouflage gear and slashed his tyres, stuffed pudding in his mailbox and made his life randomly miserable for ever and ever. (Oops - did I say that out loud?) My only general advice is to tell people who aren't being supportive that they're pissing you off and that you expect better from your friends. Don't go quietly, doll - complain, bitch, speak up and take action, and let everyone else sit around worrying about how badly they've behaved, while you go off somewhere nice for coffee and cakey. Love, R xxx
from nacwolin :
I wasn't around when all that crap happened to you - and that's just what it was: crap - AND you DID NOT deserve it. I am sorry that so many others hurt you in the process with their insensitivity. What goes around tends to come around, you know? Big {{hugs}}.
from nixtress :
Happy Belated Thanksgiving :)
from zencelt :
The new personal assistant thingy seems like just the thing for you at this time. It sounds fun, challenging, exciting and will meet with your need to be creative and autonomous. Congrats!
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for your continued job search, my friend.
from zencelt :
Aren't there any temp agencies that can get you up and running to make ends meet? I'd think that your area would be ripe with temp opportunities.
from youdunnome :
so, did you get your password in your email!? if not, let me know and i can resend it... ;-)
from marlen816 :
Glad you had a great visit.
from nicim :
11/10/05 Wonderful entry. I felt it too, looking up at that half moon. Delightful night for so late in the year. Sorry about the job thingy though. Just think of it as one more "no" on the way to the perfect "yes". XXOO N
from nacwolin :
{{Hugs}}, my friend.
from hissandtell :
Wow. That entry, my darling, ought to be published. It's too fabulous for us mere DL mortals. Love, R xxx
from hissandtell :
Everything's crossed for you, darling, and I'm doing a little piratey jig-of-luck for your success as we speak. Love, R xxx
from nacwolin :
hehe, I was Maximus too.
from july28 :
Hi Jenn, just catching up with diaryland, so much love and good wishes to your Mum. xxxxx
from marlen816 :
Prayers offered for your momma =)
from marlen816 :
I am starting to like the new guy, too =) So happy for you.
from marlen816 :
((Hugs))
from curiouoso :
Tell me what you think about my virtual f**k entry for six. http://curiouoso.diaryland.com/050526_60.html You need to volunteer too! Curiouoso*
from zencelt :
Yo Batten! I got your message from this weekend. As much as I would LOVE to see more men in kilts, I am on serious $ restriction until I get all my financial debaucles straightened away. I was able to keep my overdraft out of trouble, but 1200 a month in just credit card bills, and 1000 toward my car killed me. I have 60 dollars for food and gas the next two weeks, and not much more for the next two. So, I'll be home-bound for a bit. Which isn't a bad thing, because the mountains are my favorite place in the fall. I hope I get to see you before I start collecting Social Security!
from augustdreams :
Please DO keep entries like that. It was beautiful, and transporting. There's nothing like being 10 years old. I loved that peek at the little girl that you were. And she'd be very proud and happy to know the woman you are today. Love you.
from july28 :
I loved your last entry, especially the last paragraph. Please keep it!
from augustdreams :
I know exactly what you mean. It's the little sorrows that break my heart too. I'm sending good thoughts and hopes for Bella.
from zencelt :
You are a girl after my own heart sometimes. If I were there, I'd be looking for Bella too. Good luck!
from janie12975 :
I've really enjoyed your writing lately. And as for a stats tracker, you can get one free at sitemeter.com! I actually like it better than the one here on D-land.
from augustdreams :
My best writing advice: http://augustdreams.diaryland.com/whatyoulove.html :)
from bluemeany :
Hey Jenn, I thought it was really good, very passionate and very readable at the same time. There are just two tiny things I saw, and neither are a big deal, I don't think, but if you're interested: in the third paragraph from the bottom, the sentence that starts out "At which point ..." is a fragment; also a the end, I would make the last sentence sound a bit more conclusive. But overall, I thought it was fantastic. You're an amazing lady!
from youdunnome :
perhaps both are figments of our imagination - for what is pleasure for one, is pain for another... ;-) **Don?t talk of love, But I've heard the words before; It's sleeping in my memory. I won't disturb the slumber of feelings that have died. If I never loved I never would have cried.**
from nicim :
beautiful entry today. XXOO N
from curiouoso :
Check my page today for the sailing hookers! They are pretty cool! http://curiouoso.diaryland.com/ Bye, Curiouoso*
from serenaville :
I found you through LA's comment section. Very glad I did. (Your moving letter to Jim hooked me, and made me want to know more. Beautiful, that homage.) I've bookmarked your space for continued reading in future. Hope you won't mind my tiptoeing about your archives some. Take care!
from zencelt :
What? Men in kilts don't count? Seriously, the gym is a good thing, but its not something that will prevent compulsive/destructive behavior when I'm at work or away for the weekend. I need something I can do at my desk or away from home. If anything, avoiding the gym, or making myself too uncomfortable/sick to go are symptoms of the core problem I am trying to alleviate. I'm thinking some sort of puzzle, or toy I could play with that I could obsess over. Oooh! Thanks! I just thought of that while noting your page! YOU are the bomb!
from captainron :
Thanks lady. You are the best. How's the job search going? I keep praying for your sucess. You deserve it. You're on eof the best people I know. Love you too, Ron
from bluemeany :
Oh. I nearly cried.
from bluemeany :
Damn straight.
from missy-17 :
the potato looks more like a deformed peice of shit!
from missy-17 :
hi
from yeahimadork :
The situation with your friend is a tough one. On the one hand, she is your friend, and you want to help her out of a bad situation. But on the other hand, she won't take the help you're offering, and won't get herself out of what sounds like a harmful (and potentially very dangerous) situation. I understand your dilemma, as I've been in the same situation myself. I hope your friend realizes that you're offering up help because you've been there, and that you speak from experience. I hope it gets better. And, for what it's worth, I wouldn't take that sheisty sales job, either. Good luck with the job search. :)
from bluemeany :
Jenn, you know if you need anything; just ask me -- I have some extra cash from this gay-ass deployment; if there's anything I can do for you, you better let me do it! You ain't goin' hungry on MY watch.
from thekirks :
I agree with every word!
from bluemeany :
I hate him, too!
from sixweasels :
I'm pretty much assuming that like H you plan to be sailing this weekend, but if you're free on Sunday and want to come to Labor Day Assholefest at the Parental Abode, let me know! We'd love to have you.
from bluemeany :
Consider my fingers, toes, and any other available body parts completely CROSSED for you. Good luck!
from marlen816 :
Yea for interviews! Praying for ya! ((Hugs))
from youdunnome :
*crosses fingers* *smile*
from july28 :
good luck!
from zencelt :
Now that's some positive karma. I hope your prom date provides flowers, dinner AND a limo ride.
from bluemeany :
I love Katherine Hepburn! You are the Queen of classic dames. ;)
from sunshine0221 :
I took the BUffy test, and I'm SPIKE. Woohoo!! Sexy and amoral are the new black!
from wildrosie :
You know, the same thing happened to me, about getting an astronomical number of page reads. Twice now I've gotten over 300, and since I ain't Miss Hiss, and I usually get a fraction of that, I'm inclined to believe that it's a fluke! Then again, maybe two or three people figured they'd read the whole story from the start! Ya never know! Hugs~Rosie~
from thekirks :
I am thinking of you and hoping you can find something soon, so you can stay in your safe haven. I have a friend going through something similar, waiting for her dream job and she is scared to death. Just hang in there, hon. Everyone here who reads is thinking of you and pulling for you!
from zencelt :
I'll give you the same advice I've given Todd and my bookstore friend over and over. Having a passion and a dream is wonderful. But first and foremost is making enough money to live, and if you can manage it, live well. There's no such thing as substandard when you can't feed yourself and pay for the roof over your head at the same time. Even if you have to work two jobs for a bit, sacrifice the career search for basics if your ass is on fire. Once you're stabilized, make the time to continue the pursuit. It will happen. Just not immediately. Oh, and I don't think that two or even three years is enough of a hiatus from career world to consider yourself off the market. I see people come and go in similar positions, and really, experience and drive are enough. Give yourself credit my dear. (((HUGS)))
from sunshine0221 :
I just found your journal from nicim's comments, and I am so adding you to my favorites. Money problems suck, but it truly will get better. When money gets tight for me I threaten the cats and tell them they have to get jobs. They of course respond by licking their butts and yawning. Hang in there, and I am looking forward to reading more of your entries. :)Lauren
from nicim :
Deals do not necessarily include the exchange of greenbacks dear. Knowing they have a good home is better. We are spitting distance from one another, so let me know where you want me to send photos!
from nicim :
I must have a dozen salwar kameez I don't wear - some of them are brand new. I could take pictures if you want and we could make a very very good deal!! They were from a very fine store in Vizag and beautiful. (mostly summer weight) XXOO N
from zencelt :
Its just the way you wrote that entry. The use of slang. Its so funny.
from zencelt :
Have I ever told you that you remind me of Buffy the Vampyre Slayer? Too funny!
from poolagirl :
Thanks so much for making me a fave! Another sailor! WOOOOT! I look forward to reading your diary!
from bluemeany :
Nuh-uh! You are a 10.5 on the NON-suck scale. Don't feel guilty, regrets don't change a thing. Just focus on the present and youll be all right. Smooch!
from yeahimadork :
None of my RL friends now where my diary is, and I would prefer to keep it that way, only because this is where I talk crap about them (some friend I am). Also,your diary is really very well written. I keep coming back and I'm never bored. :)
from bluemeany :
I have to agree with Pam -- but writing a letter (afterward, maybe?) would be a good idea too, I think. That way you can get out everything that's on your mind, and she can absorb it at her own pace.
from sixweasels :
My advice? If any conversations come up that you don't want to get into when she's messed up, tell her flat out that you care about her and that's part of the reason you're not going to discuss whatever it is right now. Then walk away and join a group of friends who are having sane drunken fun. She'll be pissed, and she might even hate you for a while, but that's worth your peace of mind.
from bluemeany :
Still praying for ya, Jenn -- you're too less-than-temperate for education (cool for school).
from arc-angel666 :
I agree wholeheartedly....I filled up my Gas tank this evening at 3.19 a gallon. In california we are getting beat up some awful at the pumps.
from bluemeany :
Thank you, dearest, for the love! I don't remember if I told you, but I got your most recent literary offering the other day. I haven't started it yet (I'm still in the middle of "Till We Have Faces" -- so good!) but it's next on my list. You continue to play loud music for a multitude of screaming fans (rock)!
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Batten: You sould stop popping your testicles (busting your balls)with worry, you could end up in a Fecal seizure (shit fit). Try to keep yourself refrigerated (stay cool) because if you don't you'll end up Inhaling hard shelled Chicken Embrios (sucking Eggs). And should you continue on this course you could end up Copulating until the outer epidermus stops be oxygenated leaving a bluish tint to your outer skin, where upon others take to drawing pictures on your skin with needles dip in ink (Screwed Blue and tattooed) I love Meany speak lol. I have been very busy as of late and haven't had a chance to connect with you. I was thinking of writing an email to you in Meany-ese :-)
from bluemeany :
You picked up my Craze! You sit on the throne!
from hissandtell :
Oh, darling. That was deeply moving; oh, the power songs have over us to pull back the curtains and spotlight the memories. I spent five hours on the phone with my favourite ex the other night, and he sang "our" songs to me - and it was wonderful. ("She may be the love that cannot hope to last, may come to leap from shadows of the past that I'll remember till the day I die.." Gods, I was a sobbing snivelling wreck by the end of that one. We didn't make it, either, but the songs remain the same. Love, R xxx
from nicim :
*sigh* Neil Diamond. I got to see him on his last tour. My daughter took me. I'd forgotten I knew all his songs by heart - and was so surprised when she did too. We sang them together all the way home.
from zencelt :
You time with family sounded blissful. Good for the soul. I spent some time with The Neph yesterday, and he fell asleep in my arms. There's nothing like someone trusting you enough to sleep all draped over you and snore to boot. Best of luck on the job search this week. Its just another step to get you where you eventually want to be. Keep the faith sister!
from nacwolin :
So glad you had a good time with your family. Prayer offered for the job search this week. {{hugs}}
from bluemeany :
P.S. Why am I so obsessed with that danged winky-face? Grr.
from bluemeany :
Good luck, even though I'm sure you won't need it. ;)
from bluemeany :
I'm sorry you're sad, Jenn! I'm here for you, even if I can't supply chocolate and wine. Remember you are one of my very favorite people, and as such, you rule. Love and hugs!
from hissandtell :
Well, I'm not sure what you crazy Americans call chocolate pudding, but I would agree that there's not much in life that can't be improved by wine, chocolate and wonderful friends. Please just hold tight to the thought that the cosmos doesn't make fuckups, darling - well, almost never, anyway. Much love, R xxx
from nacwolin :
Nothing profound to say, but Pam is right. And I'll be praying for you and thinking of you. {{Hugs}}
from sixweasels :
Time with your family is exactly what you need. If you have to do something else for a while to make ends meet, I know you will, without letting it zap your dreams and ambitions. You'll know when it's time to make that decision, and how to do it and still move forward with your dreams, because you are that damn good. Hugs.
from zencelt :
Its just another step on the path of Jenn, isn't it? Good luck on the interview. You never know what you may find there...
from bluemeany :
Do I sense that you will be getting some ACTION to go along with that lovely tan? Or is that just my desert horniness speaking up? ;)
from hissandtell :
You think he's gorgeous, you want to kiss him, you want to date him... How wonderful, darling! Let's just say that I'm looking forward to the post-September entries... Love, R xxx
from zencelt :
Batten has a boyfriend, Batten has a boyfriend...
from yeahimadork :
Well, I certainly understand where you're coming from with the Rick Springfield thing. The domestic-abuse thing happened right after we saw him on that plane, and it totally changed the way I looked at him (though I still think he's super dreamy to look at).
from sixweasels :
Love you. Enjoy this getaway - no one deserves it more and I know you'll come back reenergized and ready to tackle the job thing fresh. I'm alive and kicking, and that's enough for now. Hugs.
from zencelt :
Hell, I'll trim the chute if someone pays me in fresh Mojitos!
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Honeybunny: Ahhhh the Green Flash. I had heard of it but never seen it. I thought for the longest time folks were pulling my leg. Then during one Transpac just before Sunset, we lost the Wind, everyone was just drifting and bummed! We were 268 Nautical Miles from Lahina and it was a close race we were 3d in our class. I love crewing on the big Sheets (71 Footers). We had come about to avoid a nasty rain Squal and then Nothing, no rain, no wind and lots of calm water. As the Sun began to set we looked aft and watched the pinks, purples and reds reflect off the Squall we had just avoided. Our Navigator yelled to me its going to happen at any moment now! I yell what's going to happened he yelled the Flash, everyone turn to the setting Sun. It was weird, although there were no clouds near the setting Sun the sky was a pale Orange/Yellow. As the Sun was sinking the sky changed from Yellow to almost clear and as the last bit of the Sun set it flashed Green, It was amazing! Everything flash green, everything. That was cool. Thanks for the heads up about Poor Meany. Damn my Heart hurts right now, I wish there was something I could do to ease the Pain in the Hearts of Princess Six and the Meany. They are both so wonderful and real Sweethearts, I guess we should massage their hearts with good thoughts and let them know we love them. I'm going to write an email to EJ tomorrow, I left her a note tonight as well as one to Six. Its just so sad when such nice people have to hurt. Oh by the way I was thinking of you today also :-)
from arc-angel666 :
After reading your last email, Honeybunny your my kind of Girl/Woman. Tonight we too are watching a wondrous light show in the sky with a full accompaniment of Bass Drums...Thunder. I am a big fan of the Rain. Love Lightening and Thunder, I have seen Saint Elmo's Fire twice, both times in the Gulf. I'm wishing sweet dreams for You and Your furry Creatures.
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Honeybunny: Gosh if my note caused you to blush and your face to turn red, I wonder? Maybe when we meet in person it might be a good idea for you to wear sunscreen, because some of things I have to say to you may cause a bit of a sunburn :-) Sweetie are you up for a little sweet talkin?
from bluemeany :
Hey Jenn, glad you had a good weekend! I just finished "Surprised By Joy" -- I'll e-mail you soon.
from arc-angel666 :
Yes darling, this Fallen Angel is so very looking forward to at least one slow dance with the lovely Princess Batten, a walk in the Moon Light, hours and hours of talking and getting to know you. I want to see the sparkle that I know lives in your eyes and see the breeze blow through your Strawberry Blond hair. I do so want to know you. I know this may be terribly forward of me, but I must confess to wondering what a sweet kiss from the lovely lips of Princess Batten might feel like? A Pirate and a Princess, sounds like the makings of a lovely story, don't you think?
from zencelt :
The knee is U.G.L.Y. I decided to hibernate this weekend as it aches to much to walk around downtown and I don't want it getting bumped in a crowded bar. Sucks because I really wanted to see the Dogs. Plus, smoke is not very healing. Anyway - I can't believe that you have the air down to 68! You who would be happy living in a toaster. Ha, ha. Good luck again on the interview! Put some ice of that sucker before you do your make-up.
from arc-angel666 :
Good luck Sweetheart. You and I have something in common. I too awoke to a happy bump on my nose. And here I thought Happy Bumps or pimples weren't allow in Paradise? Well the makeup folks are going to have quite a job on their hands...I swear its a Rhino Horn!
from zencelt :
Too late now, but next time, crush the powdery insides of an aspirin and mix with a drop or tow of peroxide to make a paste, and leave on overnight. Works like a charm.
from nixtress :
Sent you a password. Let me know if you don't get it.
from bluemeany :
Good luck on your interview! And with the pimple, of course. If you find something that gets rid of it, let me know.
from hissandtell :
I also must apologise for how stunningly boring that previous note was, darling. I shall try to do better next time. x
from hissandtell :
The day I got married, I woke up with a monstrous zit on my chin. As I do not get pimples, this made me somewhat displeased. Seriously, you could have landed the Concorde on it by the afternoon ceremony. However, as I'd spent the previous several months with eye-twitches and nose-twitches and every other stress-related symptom known to woman, I had to assume my body was simply having a big joke at my expense about this whole wedding-business. Anyway, I covered it with massive amounts of pancake and wore a great deal of smudgy black eye makeup in a futile attempt to distract my guests from the horrors of my lower face. Next morning, it was gone. (The pimple, not my lower face.) I wish I'd known to used Windex, like in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"! Love, R xxx
from zencelt :
Any update on the car?
from zencelt :
Don't forget to take care of yourself in the meantime. Pamper yourself and do things that soothe your soul. Surround yourself with people who take care of themselves instead of you giving, giving, giving. Lori needs you. She's been there for you. The others you watch over can take care of themselves. You are also in need of care, love and ease of mind. Gimme a call if you need talk. I will be happy to lend an empathetic ear. We girls have to look out for eachother. (((hugs)))
from nicim :
do you, by any chance, live in (or near) a town (or is that country) that starts with a D and ends with a K and where waitresses address you as "hon" and the 60's never went out of style? *xxooo*
from sixweasels :
I don't think we ever get that degree, hon. But know that there a lot of us who would be there to hold your hand. My prayers are with Lori.
from bluemeany :
Tell Lori my thoughts and prayers are with her. And I hope your car gets fixed soon -- I know how much of a drag it is to deal with stupid vehicles.
from nicim :
going to read more, just found you through someone else's faves links. I sail too - a Hobie16. It's wonderful!
from wildrosie :
Darlin', Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging note. I went back and read part of your saga, and though our circumstances were different, I am amazed at how many things we share. I agree that the judicial system should be more aware of what constitutes danger for people in fear of their tormentors. I think they should put judges (and perhaps police) through a little "training" that includes being stalked... nothing REALLY overt, just veiled threats and innuendo. Once you experience it, it is easy to understand what someone else is going through. But if the judge is someone who has never known fear of someone else, then they will never understand. As for restraining orders, I feel that nationwide, once a restraining order is in place, if someone breaks it, it should be an automatic 6 months in jail. No probation, no parole. AND there should be required counseling while they are in the clink. Police officers just do not take orders of protection seriously enough. There. I've had my rant. And I am delighted to add you to my favs! Hugs ~Rosie~
from nacwolin :
Prayer offered for Lori and your dad. Have a good weekend.
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Sweetheart: I am impressed. After being in the position of a victim of abuse and violence, you have turned the tables on violence itself. You intend to expose its ugliness, shine the light on it. More exposure the less places it has to hide. Spousal abuse and marital rape were accepted behavior not too many years ago in this country. Few knew of it and the ones that did usually did nothing. Police for the longest time turned away from it say it was a marital thing. But people like yourself who stood up and refused to let it be swept under the rug are making a change. Knowledge is a great weapon against crime and bad behavior. Now if a man rapes his wife he goes to jail. If a man beats his wife he goes to jail if the women do something about it. If more women can read and hear about experiences like yours and let them know they have a right to a life free of abuse, that this isn't something they have to accept the world will change. This problem is a world wide problem and in some place much worst. I recently read where a woman was held down and her feet traumatic amputated by her husband and his family members because she had left him, there are no charges pending. Rape of ones spouse and physical abuse is generally accepted in 85 % of countries around the world. If people stand up against this change will happen. You are doing a good thing and quite frankly I very proud of you. I am also proud of the fact you are there for a friend in need. You are a good person. I am sorry to hear of your friends problems, I believe you mentioned her name was Lori. Can she use a computer? Would she like some company? If so send me her address I always have room for one more friend.
from sixweasels :
Have I mentioned that I am incredibly proud of you? Because I am. I volunteer my writing and editing services as much as I can spare them, babe. And let's talk grant research, soon, because you're on to something good.
from hissandtell :
Hi - after reading your last few entries, it sounds shallow and inadequate and self-absorbed to say, "Thanks for reading me": but thanks anyway. Your writing is so powerful, I'm appreciating the intensity of your words and thoughts and I'm looking forward to reading more. Love, R xxx
from nacwolin :
Oh, don't worry - I don't think you said - or at least I didn't read it that way - that all kids, or even most, who witness DV will in turn become abusers. But it certainly does make them more at risk - to abuse or become victims themselves - so, was just trying to say that you are right-on about getting the kids help. But the catch is that often homes where DV is happening are shrouded in such silence and denial that often it isn't until they are adults that they can seek help. And at that point, sometimes they don't even know why they do the things they do, or how much the things they witnessed and/or experienced affected them. It took Rob YEARS to realize that he had a lot of anger over what his stepdad did, and then to eventually come to a place of forgiveness. But now he (Rob) can be a hope to others - he understands and he can sympathize. And above all, it is by the grace of God that he has been able to find healing and break that family curse. So there's the question - how can we help folks break this "family curse"?
from nacwolin :
I agree that a huge part of "fixing" this start with getting the children who are witnesses to this help. As one who is married to someone who saw domestic abuse of both his mother and step-mother, I do know that they don't always become an abuser themselves. Mine did not, and is not. But that doesn't mean that it did not affect him profoundly. Kudos to you for allowing your horrific experience to give you voice!
from bunny828 :
{{{{Hugs}}}} Sounds great. Did you hear about the woman who made the news recently because she sued the police department for not following through on a restraining order? Her husband took and murdered her/their children. Some amount of time (days or weeks) went by before they found the children. She lost her case. If the police don't have to act on the restraining order then what? It's just a damn piece of paper. There may have been more to it, but ... I wonder if the problem is society more than "the system". A lot of these physcos have family who think they walk on water. They ignore their anti-social behavior.
from zencelt :
On your thesis. You have a gift for enabling your reader to live the experience through your eyes. It is well written, approachable, accessible and educational. It is not inflamatory or dramatic. I really picked up on the idea of helping child witnesses process their expereinces, and providing an outlet for anger, fear, shame and sadness as a preventative measure. This is something I've been chewing on from another perspective for some months now. It was beautiful to see you write it out so eloquently. This is the beginning of something very positive not only for you, but those within your circle of influence - which is wide and becoming wider. I hope the writing of it brought you some peace and hope. I'm so proud of you!
from bluemeany :
Very well written! And I must say I agree completely with your ideas. I won't go into it here, but I'll try to e-mail you later about the other things I have to say about all that.
from zencelt :
Wonderful. We have you back online. Now, we have to get you back in employment. Lemme know if you need anything besides well wishes and luck : )
from sixweasels :
Welcome back, honey! So glad you're reconnected!
from arc-angel666 :
Your worried about me? How much? Enough to brush my long hair and tell me I'm pretty? LOL. I was going to call you, but I must know if the number is a land line or not? If its your cell phone I don't want it to cost you money and you lose minutes, if it is, allow me to pay for it. We got wet, actually really wet soaked but Dennis miss us. I was telling a friend for the last couple of days that feeling has returned (electrical current thingy). Every time I look to the southeast I see that dark mass on the horizon. Today we were informed a new storm is brewing...apparently my storm forecaster who lives in the middle of my brain is working just fine :-). So exactly how much did you miss me? :-)
from bluemeany :
Welcome back!
from bluemeany :
Hi! I'm a retard and forgot to add you to my favorites before now, so I was wondering why you never updated ... until DUH, I realized you weren't on my list. But now you're there, and you will be hearing from me much more often! (P.S. I just finished The Problem With Pain; it was great!)
from nixtress :
Happy Fourth of July weekend! Celebrate your independence, girlie. You've earned it in spades.
from bunny828 :
So Jenn, I guess you tried all the spybot stuff? I'm somewhat familiar with computers. I regularly run Ad-aware and SpyBot. I know that sometimes the slowness can depend on how much memory she has and what she is running. I'm not sure what tricks you already know, so let me know if I can throw any ideas your way.
from arc-angel666 :
I believe there are Gods and they have a sick sense of humor AND their messin with me! I typed out a War and Peace size Missive to you. After you wrote to me and opened with the line I think I love you already...well, considering you have tickled my Heart as well I responded in kind. Apparently the Computer God is a Woman and became jealous of my over zealous homage paid to you and not her......SHE JACKED MY NOTE TO YOU! Poof Gone in the blink of an eye. Apparently Women Gods are not to be mess with lol. Damn what's so aggravating is it flowed, it wasn't contriverd, there was no master plan it was how I felt, it seemed as though the words spilled out of my heart traveled my arms and sparked out of my fingertips. It was heart felt and playful and as always I was charming lol. I guess the thing is I am indeed looking forward to meeting you and from what I know of you it seems I've fallen in deep Like :-) Please, you have nothing to worry about, Don't pack your bags and take off running just yet lol. I am always a Gentleman (24 hours a day) and always respectful of all Women. I am playful and a big tease and okay I'll admit to being a bit of a bad boy but in a good way :-) I would like to get to know you better...if nothing else I sure you could always make room for one more friend? Alrighty then! That was a good move addressing it to the both of them, and nothing brings the message across like you helping her fix something she couldn't on your last day...Bravo Princess Batten
from zencelt :
I fotgot to tell you before. Ask Duranfanatic your question. He's the computer KING.
from zencelt :
I'm trying to figure out if I can be good enough to buy a Honda CRV. I should have enough money, but I'm such a fundage asshole. Gimme some hints on how to be poor properly when you get through this tight spot.
from zencelt :
OK, I just have to say, DAYAM! I like Michael's style! You letter is heartfelt, professional, and hopefully will offer this guy a clue. Probably not, but at least you gave him an offer.
from arc-angel666 :
Good Afternoon Ms Batten: I just read your letter and think it works. Not many people offer insight to their bosses ( especially ex boss) on why the position didn't work out. You came across as kind, thoughtful and humble. Not many admit to mistakes, it showed your true professionalism, you express your concern in the hopes this type thing doesn't happen again and it was sincere. I believe through this letter you may indeed reach your boss and he may in fact do something about it. The letter was a true representation of your business sense and showed you are a good person. With that being said I must point out you did indeed skip over (possibly on purpose) something important. If you'd allow me I would have added one other paragraph concerning the work place and it running as a well oil machine//////////Please kind Sir do not take this the wrong way. It is my humble opinion if you could have kept your Bitch Ho out of my face for just one extra hour a day I believe I could have made a difference. In fact if your girlfriend (the Bitch Ho) who by the way is not suited for her position in management although she does a great job as a professional Girlfriend, she is not management material.... had she came to grips with her insecurities and be-haved like a human being and a professional in the work place.....I believe the others as well as myself could have been enormously productive thus rendering the company more successful. It was painfully obvious she (the Bitch Ho) believed all working there realized she was a professional girlfriend and as a reward for her night time activities was bestowed the position of making the rest of us miserable. Kind Sir although her Oral skills maybe top shelve at home they have much to be desired here at work. Her blow jobs at home maybe the greatest but her blow jobs at work were just that a lot of sucking. I understand for your need for peace and a piece at home but Sir for the sake of the company and its success I would have thought possibly you could have procured a position through friends at another company for the Bitch Ho. I believe that scenario would have relieved the two of you a lot of undue stress....without extra stress and pressure who knows she may succeed in the work place, if she maintained and provides the same qualities that she did here I suggest she apply as a Prison Guard. I believe within a year or two she could become the Warden. Please feel free to discuss my suggestions with the Bitch Ho after all I want her to know I'm just as concerned for her welfare as she is for mine. Might I suggest you bring her flowers and something a little frilly tonight and maybe just maybe she won't put on the handcuffs so tight and your nightly spanking won't be so brutal. Sincerely Me (not a Bitch Ho)////Okay okay maybe the handcuffs was a bit much....okay maybe you shouldn't add my paragraph...what about toilet papering his and her's house? :-)
from zencelt :
I DREAM of working at Home Despot! I am a decorator extrordinaire AND I can construct anything if I have a hammer and some screws. But, until I unload this debt monster that's biting my freakin heals at every turn, I'll have to settle for Corporate America. You have great instincts, honed by experience. Abuse is abuse, no matter what the level or the source. Good going recognizing it quickly, and taking action! No, go land on your feet!
from bunny828 :
{{{{Hugs}}}} Off to Home Depot for you? Lowes is the big thing around here. Have you checked Monster.com and Yahoo Jobs?
from zencelt :
Well, I was going to leave some encouragement on your doorstep, but Michael did a brilliant job already down there. The man speaks wisdom. Its the job that sucks. Not you. Not your brain. Not your talent. You are simply mismatched for eachother. The good thing is that you are flexible and able to move freely onto another challenge. The area is ripe with opportunity. Just let your's find you. I feel for you on the $ issue. We're slapping that bitch together. Hang in there!
from arc-angel666 :
Good Morning Honeybunny: Yeah sometimes the world is a giant vacuum cleaner...it sucks. But honestly it is just a setup for the next scene. At this very moment, there is a company looking for you. You have just what they need and they can offer a position that will satisfy your needs. It is the scheme of things, how the world works. The trick is to indentify what your looking for and for them to spot you.. Everytime I have been at my lowest and thought it was for all intend and purpose over something happens. It always seems to present itself as a challenge, and I'm always in fear its another disappointment but much to my surprise it was just what I needed. Over the years I have heard and said myself this is it its over it can get any worse, yet a year later the world is wonderful and I have everything I needed. Hang in there Sweetheart its just around the corner. The job you wanted should arrive soon and as far as the new Man in your life well, maybe he'll show up in September :-)
from augustdreams :
GOOD GOOD GOOD GOOD LUCK! :) If they know what's good for them, they'll hire my big sis!
from bunny828 :
Good Luck!
from sixweasels :
I'm back, and I got your email and will let you know what comes up at the uni and forward it along. Hang in there, babe. Hugs.
from eastportgrrl :
get the f out of there. Call todays staffing, something..... Talk to ya soon......
from bunny828 :
I guess we shouldn't ask what happened at work? Get up early! I wake up 2 to 3 times a night ... I could call. lol
from skibigsky :
Sorry I didn't respond sooner (I've been a flake lately...). Anyway, ma'am. I'm just outside of Salt Lake these days (and I work in Salt Lake, at the U.) - email me if you ever find yourself in this part of the country. Aside from everything else, you list 'Journey' and 'Styx' as favorite bands. I just got a bunch of 80s songs on CDs, but I put Styx greatest hits on the iPod a few months ago, and have been a happy camper ever since!!! Anyway, I may be a zillion miles away, but you've got a friend out here.
from augustdreams :
If you need to dispose of the body after the beating... I happen to know some Alligators. Y'know. I'm just sayin'. ;) FUCK that job. I'm saying prayers that you'll find something better ASAP. I'll see what I can find online about getting into help victims of domestic violence as a career. I'll send you a link to anything that looks good. Love you!
from arc-angel666 :
He's Gone? Good! Move Over Rover, Mikey's comin over :-) Now I need to make plans. How shall I woo You, Ms Batten? Being a Princess are you looking for a Prince Charming, a Knight in shining Armor upon a White Steed, if so I maybe in a bit of trouble. Is there a chance you might settle for a Rogue Knight in battle worn Black Armor, who rides a Black Horse? My Shield is creased and dented, my Sword cleaved and nicked but I would use them to my last breath in protecting you. Now Ms Batten shall I be your Knight?
from july28 :
That was such a nice note you left for me...you know if I win the lottery this weekend I will be over as soon as to visit, so - get the soup on!!!!! xxxxxx
from july28 :
You need to be with someone who CHALLENGES archaic crap like that, not rolls with it. I'm sad with you, but you know it's best to see how it's gonna be early on. xxxxx
from sixweasels :
I'm sorry this guy didn't work out, babe. But you know what? You're right. About not wasting time. About you being about 110, well ... not even close, honey. Hugs.
from zencelt :
Yeah, sounds like a red flag ready to go off. Good instincts my girl!
from arc-angel666 :
GOOD GOD YOUR NOT A CATHOLIC? NO ANULLMENT? ADULTRY? MAMBO-ING WITHOUT THE BLESSING OF THE POPE? Batten is this all true? Perfect! Honeybunny all I need is for you to brush my long hair and tell me I'm pretty....I'm all yours :-)
from bluemeany :
Oh, I'd love to read those! Thank you so much! Send me your e-mail address and I'll give you my snail mail address. And thanks also for the vote of confidence :)
from zencelt :
Go read crazy4muffin. She's in my buddy list for a quick link.
from bluemeany :
Thanks for fave-ritizing me. I agree with your God-words. I noticed you're a CS Lewis fan ... I'd love to know your thoughts on "The Great Divorce."
from golfwidow :
I don't know if an entry containing the sentiment that you'd rather be a pagan than believe in an unmerciful God ought to elicit a response of, "Amen, sister!" but I wanted to let you know that it did.
from zencelt :
I just tried to leave a messg and she picked up. I told her I was stopping by to check on the dog and do her nails, and she informed me that my brother and his crew of in-laws were going to be over for dinner with the kid, and would I like a place setting. I said no, thanks. I think it did not go over well.
from sixweasels :
The Dark Side will always welcome you, hon. Seriously, politics suck, but on this one we are sooo in agreement.
from zencelt :
So that explains why the two women are so gorgeous and so unspeakably talented. BTW - on changing types, yes, I need to dump the big, ugly and challenged. I'm keeping the big and ugly though... That's essential, fundamental and a core requirement. Yeah, even for just lunch, a real man to slobber over would be such a treat. I wonder if he would wear a kilt for me if the moment ever struck?
from zencelt :
OK, I'll try it. The trouble is the cable box. It adds a whole new dimension of confusion. Eeeeek!
from zencelt :
Don't kick his ass. Just join me from a high building and pelt him with rocks. He is so the stupid man.
from sixweasels :
Hey babe - it's been a preoccupied kind of week but I wanted to let you know I've read all your thoughts here over the past several days and you are on fire - you've found your calling and I can see it in every word. Go you, and big hugs.
from zencelt :
Wow! Me again. Thanks for the call this AM. You caught me in the shower. I had hot water for a change and spent an extra 5 drowning under the stream. I'm feeling pretty good, actually. Just hungary. I can't eat this morning till its over. I'l giv eyou a call after the MRI is over. Thanks
from zencelt :
No, I'm not coming down till Saturday. I think Six and I are going to arrange dinner out then some time with Sully and my H. You know, one of us has to rename our H before somebody thinks I'm sleeping with eastportgrl!!! LOL
from zencelt :
Never have you and I been on the same page this much before. Well done!
from zencelt :
Here's to benign tumors and normal paps! BTW -From what I hear, an ab pap can range from a slight overgrowth of bacteria, the onset of your period, to the big "C". I'm leaning toward the non scary for you, but I know what its like to wait.
from july28 :
Thinking of you and beautiful Zen...hope it's something and nothing for both of you xxxxx
from arc-angel666 :
Christ! What with the Princesses of Assholia? Go to the Doctor! I lost my sweet Alayna Kate to Ovarian Cancer, had they caught it earlier She might still be here. If you would please read my entry "September 19th it still hurts". Since you never write back to me or respond to my notes I guess its safe to say this to you and Zen.....if you don't want someone to write an entry like the one I did, then go to the damn Doctors...please.
from july28 :
Good luck with it Jen, I think it would be SO good for your soul do be doing something along that lines.xxxxx
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Batten: If you'd like you can give your young friend my email address ([email protected]). Sometimes it helps to hear from others that have been through the same stuff. I spent 10 years in the military (Army) as a Infantry Officer in an Airborne Ranger Company. I doubt there has ever been a soldier who as been in combat that doesn't know what your friend is going through. Speaking personally it never goes away, but it does easy up when you come to grips with it. He should know doing what soldiers do comes with a price, He should know that the mere fact he feels the way he does proves he's a good human being. No one hates war more than the soldier who fights in it. Everyday I look in the mirror and see the scar on my left of my face, the scars on my stomach and chest and I remember. He will feel better but there will be reminders each and every day, your friend went through a physical, mental, emotional hell, but the fact he made it through it, helped his fellow soldiers, and feels a moral pain that comes with taking another's life proves once again he's a good man. He is not alone. For those of us that have had the holes in our souls sown up each and everyone of us should reach out to those who's souls still bleed. If he'd like he can email me, I'll then give him my phone number and we can talk by phone.
from zencelt :
What Six said, very eloquently.
from forty-plus :
Thank you.
from sixweasels :
My advice. Be you. Let him weave his way to his own conclusions. Let him know what an honor it is that he wants to share with you. Let him know that you know "things will get better" doesn't mean not without a road of hurt first. He chose you to talk with for a reason, so you already know all this anyway. Hugs.
from sixweasels :
I'm thinking good thoughts and hoping your day at work goes soooo much better than last week. Big hugs.
from zencelt :
Alright miss smarty pants. Give it one week and you'll be running the place in true type-A fashion.
from july28 :
In a month's time , you'll feel like you've doing the job FOREVER!
from marlen816 :
Yea a job! Congrats!
from arc-angel666 :
Hi Batten: opphs! Batten do you read, this is Arc-angel3/6 over: I noticed you know how to speak on a radio or boat to shore. I would love to exchange emails with you. But I should warn you, should you unfurl your sail in the midst of one of my stories, being that I'm long winded you could find yourself in Cape Town South Africa by nights end :-) A Diplomats Daughter you say? Hmmmmm. I wonder, would your Parents like you speaking with a Pirate? Well, your safe now, I only play Pirates lol. Have you been to the Grenadines? Becquia? In the late 80's I sailed all through there, St Luica actually the port of Castries was one of my favorites, but my absolute fav is Becqui or Becquia. It was the best time and my first Jump Up! I don't have your email addy so heres mine [email protected]/6 out. Respectfully Michael
from july28 :
Welcome back!
from arc-angel666 :
Good Evening Ms Batten: Thanks for adding me to your fav's list. I love your description of me, Crazy? A descriptive adjective or Noun lol? A beautiful surfer....where should I send your check :-) by the way you did a much better job describing me than my agent lol. I have begun my quest to get to know you. I have read your last 10 entries but decided if I am to get to know you I must start at the beginning.....and I started at your entry THE BEGINNING see I are smart I is lol. It did my heart good and made me remember where my love of the water started. Growing up in New Orleans I had plenty of water, two Rivers, several Lakes, Ponds, Streams, Bayous or Swamps if you perfer, puddles from constant rain and the Gulf. My folks swear I was some sort of fish, I was swimming and reading at 3, if I saw water I was in it within seconds. Apparently at 4 or 5 my Dad put me in a Bucket (a tiny skiff that looked like a teacup with sail) it had a centerboard and a spritsail, but it was so light and tiny I could row it if I got in trouble. I moved on to a 14th ft Sunfish and at 10 my Dad took me aboard his friends 110ft racing schooner, and for 5 days we sailed the Gulf. My Dad, his friend Dr. Laverock and his crew showed me the Ropes all 7 of them. I memorized all the Sails and I have never forgotten them..Forward to Aft...fly jib, jib, forestaysail, foresail,fore gaft-topsail, main-topmast staysail, mainsail, main gaft-topsail. Since then I have sailed all over the world, raced in a number of Transpacs, Sidney-Hobart races and hundreds of Regattas, but like you, I find there is nothing finer than to be alone under sail. I guess I should stop, I'm sure you have already fallen a sleep by now...I have a tendency of becoming the Energizer Bunny I go on and on and on :-)
from rachelliz :
NOOOOOOOOOO!!! You sound okay, so I'll be frustrated for you. You don't deserve this!
from nixtress :
I'm sorry about the job. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
from arc-angel666 :
Damn it! I just am able to get into your Diary for the first time today and now your leaving...What a huge bummer! I am truly sorry to hear of your employment status, but for me anyways, that has always meant better things are about to happen. What is it that you do? I know some folks in New York I could always put in a GOOD WORD FOR YOU :-) Come to think of it...what part of the country do you live in? I thought I heard you lived in New York or do you live in Assholia with the rest of the Princesses? If that's the case i guess NYC might be a bit of a drive to work for you?
from captainron :
Grrrrr... Guestbook is acting wonky.... Jenn, I am so sorry. I know the feeling. Do you want to start a charter company? Option two is a hug. I think I'm better at #2 than one, but you never know. If there is ever anything I can do... Well, you know.... Love you me
from july28 :
Thinking of ya! Enjoy your enforced rest xxxxx
from wonderchai :
wonderchai/omegahue (that should do it!) :)
from wonderchai :
541 680 4175 and it's my mobile. don't be scared by the threatening voicemail message. ;) also - spritopias reports that the nickster is alive, well, and just not updating. yay! :) alive = good. :)
from wonderchai :
willdo. my phone's always on.
from wonderchai :
i noted you and mer, but that's it. willdo. thank you! loves for you.
from wonderchai :
have you seen nicky-d? i can't get ahold of her. i'm a bit worried.
from sixweasels :
What's going on with the stats checker, exactly? Hopefully it is just wanking out momentarily. I just checked mine and it appears to be working.
from july28 :
LOL! Robbie is MASSIVE over here....for the last couple of years he has been trying to break America, but no success...is this the beginning???!!! He did a week's outdoor concerts last year, the last one was billed as 'Britains biggest and longest mass orgasm.' Sweet dreams! xxx
from zencelt :
Now you understand why I sit in a puddle o' drool watching King Arthur.
from zencelt :
The soups sound amazing. We'll call it a cooking lesson! Let's shoot for the first weekend in May.
from zencelt :
Welcome home Batten! I'll be having you up to the apt soon. You can make soup for me (haw, haw, haw!) I want you three to come up asap!
from sixweasels :
So glad you girls had fun! Big hugs and welcome home!
from july28 :
Yeah, my Mum and sister are all about how she's going to cope re the pregnancy till he *comes back* , but she's a lot stonger than they think . Big hugs for your support ,Jen. xx
from july28 :
Yeah, her last husband tried to STRANGLE her so she's been through counselling re abusive relationships...I just can't get why she can't see through this guy. My Mum (her grandma) apparently asked my husband TWICE at the weekend what we thought of him and he said 'time will tell'. I'm guessing before Mum's doing so much asking ,she's feeling the same vibes about him. Previously Lou's been a real glam girl as well, but this visit no jewellery , no make up, hair not done...this is really niggling me.Anyway, he still hasn't been in contact with her since Sunday so I'm kind of hoping it stays that way...I think she had intended to ask me to take her wedding photos later on in the year but I just couldn't do that feeling the way I do...when she asks it will be the best opportunity for me to talk with her plainly about this guy (no holding back!) Nice to have you back xxx
from golfwidow :
Let me 'splain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up. No news. Busy as fuck-all. Lots of haikus and stupidity. Cute cat pictures. Need beer. Got free tea by putting a link on my page. That's about it.
from tara10573 :
I tried to leave you a message too, but can't unless you pay the $1.99 setup charge - that stinks :-(
from golfwidow :
Know what sucks worse? That I can't sign the new book unless I pay $2.00. I think you should stick to notes.
from myexodus :
Yay!!!Glad you had a great time and coming in 2nd even sweetens the time. You ought to think about coming up to my neck of the woods and having some inland fun with the Amish and me. =] Grab the Bmore crowd on the way up.
from golfwidow :
Were you in "signmyguestbook.com?" If you know your guestbook name, go to the members area at signmyguestbook.com and click the "forgot password" link.
from sixweasels :
If you're free - come on down! Zen is heading down this way and we were thinking about doing dinner at this little place nearby sevenish, and then going to babysit for a while. Let's touch base on Saturday. Hugs.
from sixweasels :
Don't let the flamers get you down, babe. Those who know you know you and H know what kind of people and friends you are, and that's all that matters. The rest can go shit in a hat. This weekend probably won't work out for me - the parentals are thinking about cabining it so I'll probably be bar-babysitting. They desperately need to get away, so I don't mind. Big hugs.
from nacwolin :
Hey doll, email me at nacwolin@hotmail dot com. (I sent you one to batten@diaryland, but not sure you will get it).
from nixtress :
Happy Easter!
from augustdreams :
I love you. We must do that grand get-together one day. But no matter how many miles are between us, you're always in my heart.
from nacwolin :
Hey there. I forgot to tell you that I will be up your way briefly on Friday night/Sat. morn. Probably not enough time to try to say hey, but I have to come back up the very next weekend and may be there longer. I will let you know. And hey, I'm not on your buddy list anymore...I'm so sad!! :( {{Hugs}} - hope you are feeling better this AM.
from arc-angel666 :
Hello Again Ms Batten: I have been trying to read your diary, but to no avail. It seems every time I click in I get a blue screen that ask me to sign your guest book. I am however able to bring up your archives, but once again if I click on a specific entry I get the blue screen and guest book....is there a secret code a magical incantation? Is there a ban on west coast guys entering into the world of Batten? I promise to behave, well kinda ;-)
from arc-angel666 :
Good Evening Ms Batten: My name is Michael, I am a new Citizen of Assholia and have recently been bestowed the title of His Assholiness Spiritual Advisor to Assholia by Princess 6 Weasels. I am a man of Honor and principle and vow to spend the rest of my life in the pursuit of Assholery and to destroy any and all Asshats. I have opened the doors of my Malibu Ca home as an Embassy of Assholia. It is my understanding that You too are of Royal Assholian Blood and a Princess as is Zencelt, Lotabug, Eastportgurl and of course the lovely Princess 6 Weasels. I am honored and pleased to meet you. :-) On a more personal note.....I see you have a love of the Ocean and Sailing as do I. I have been playing on the Ocean from the time I was 9, my home is located on the Beach in Malibu Ca, I surf and sail at every opportunity. My Father introduced us to the pleasure and satisfaction of a Vessel under sail at a very early age and for that I am very grateful. I started out on a 14ft Sunfish and have crewed on Ocean Class Racing Vessels. I have crewed on Old Roller,High Roller and Kialoa in the Trans Pac(California to Maui)Race, Old Roller in the San Fran Perpetual Cup Race and on North Star in the Sidney Hobart Race(Australia/New Zealand/Tasmania). I have also sail aboard a two masted square rigger, a Brig and a Brigantine due to the fact that I'm an actor who portrayed a Pirate and will again on ther 28th of this March in Hawaii. Sailing a Square rigger is an unbelieve amount of hard work but incredibly thrilling. Well, nice to meet you Princess :-)
from myexodus :
I sensed that about you the night we met. Such a deep soul and sorrow. J, your a wonderful, beautiful woman...soon you'll have the salt air blowing all those nasty thoughts away. Yesterday I did the same as you. I have a horrible habit of not keeping my bedroom clean. Like you the kitchen has to be clean in order to cook anything, the bathroom starts getting cleaned as I first enter it in the morning...but jeez, the bedroom looks like it could be placed in the set of 'The Munsters' with all the cobwebs and crap.
from captainron :
When you have so many of us who love you, you'll never be lonely, ever....
from augustdreams :
I've no doubt that there is chair-sharing in your future. You're far too wonderful, beautiful and amazing for anything else. You are more than enough on your own, but I think you'll meet someone you'll want to share your chair with, and who is worthy of opening your heart to - in the meantime, you can come on down here to the sunshine state and the fuzzy ones and I will let you sit in our chair and leap on you in a pile of hugs and fuzz.
from sixweasels :
Honey, it isn't that you aren't meant to be a chair-sharer. It is that your chair-sharing time isn't here and now. When you are ready, it will come. I firmly believe that. You've got healing to do and things to accomplish, and when the time is right you'll know - maybe it will be someone new, maybe he's been there all along, but you'll know. I am probably going to have wifey obligations Saturday (a rescheduled birthday thing for Chris' Dad). But Zen is going to head down your way, and I'm hoping to see all of you at Sullyfest the following weekend. Hugs and love, babe.
from myexodus :
Go with your instincts. I know nothing about sailing other than to stay out of everyone else's way.
from myexodus :
I can not tell you enough what a delight it was to meet you. Your soul is as deep as the deepest ocean and full of as many mysteries. I will be looking forward to meeting again and welcome you and everyone one else up my way. Do you still have my email?
from myexodus :
I feel so honored, that your still willing to make the trip up considering all your pain. But I'm so eager to meet you!!!!
from marlen816 :
Ouch! It is so hard to hear about all the pain you are in right now. Continued ((hugs)) and prayers for you.
from myexodus :
OOOOOO!!!!!!I hope you join us!!!! Silly me, I just assumed you'd be there. I have already told Tim not to mention diaryland and he knows about you and Pam...what little he listens of my ramblings. See you Saturday!
from nacwolin :
You're the best; thanks for the "shout-out". {{Hugs}}.
from marlen816 :
((Hugs)) and prayers for feeling better!
from marlen816 :
Have a great time in St. Pete =)
from nixtress :
Happy Monday and Happy Valentine's Day.
from zencelt :
Hey baby! If you need to take a break on Saturday, I won't be offended ; )) But I'd definately take a raincheck on SOUP!!!
from july28 :
How wonderful is that? Big hugs to both of you ! xxxxx
from zencelt :
Woohoo!!!!
from augustdreams :
You're in my thoughts and prayers. (Did my e-card arrive? I know sometimes Hallmark's a bitch.) I'm thinking good thoughts. Love you!
from zencelt :
Oh god, a pissy office mate on top of it all. I'm still praying for your mom and the rest of your family. Crossing my fingers for tomorrow!!!
from myexodus :
Prayers and cleansing thoughts going out for your mom. Take care
from july28 :
Your Mum sounds like a real fighter J ...thinking of you both xx
from zencelt :
Prayers/thoughts/etc. going out for your mom.
from myexodus :
I was watching James Dobson on Fox News tonight. He tried poo pooing the Sponge Bob, but continued on how wrong it is to be respectful of the Gays. What a buttwink he is! He said we should be respectful to everyone else, but not homosexuals...pfffft.
from myexodus :
I'm so excited over all the snow we'll be getting over the week-end! I think God is being very very nice to me, because my birthday is on Sunday!!! ~~~Most people, you realize, stock up on milk, bread and toilet paper...you go for the kitty litter and cocoa...I go for the tide and cleaning products. Damn, the only time I get down right perky is when the snow comes.
from myexodus :
LOL...not a good morning, eh? Hope it gets better and WARMER.
from zencelt :
Oh Jesis! The Don King comment made me snarf up my low carb yogurt!!!
from myexodus :
woo 900 entries worth! Oh yeah, having an online diary really does help.
from zencelt :
It might be time to abstain from the news for a while. When I get angry or depressed by world/local events, I take a break from being a model informed citizen. Things will happen whether or not you know about them. I find it soothing.
from myexodus :
..."33. Who was the best new person you met? Me. And the me I�m becoming." ~~~The great thing about being a woman and getting older is that we become more comfortable with ourselves. When you hit your 40's, you take on the attitude of "We are who we are and it doesn't really matter what you may or think". I for one, find it a wonderful feeling!
from myexodus :
I liked this entry. It was plain and simple. Gratitude for the simple things. I always worry to ask for too much and am extremely grateful for the small wonders that touch my life.
from nixtress :
I wasn't horrified by the post involving the children. I think that in some ways it's a natural way to think. Children SHOULD be spared the pains that adults have to deal with. Perhaps it's more merciful that they don't have to grow up more quickly than I'm sure they'd already been made to. I think it's a catch 22, in some ways. I can't imagine living without my sons, especially in those circumstances. There's no closure for some of those people. And yet, I can't imagine my sons having to live without me. Even in the cushy world (in comparison to those hit by the tsunamis) we live in, I'm their protector, their healer, their voice, their provider. I think the whole situation is tragic and I'm sure you're not the only person to feel those children may be better off for not having to fend for themselves. Lord knows, there isn't anyone going to step in and pick up the pieces as they need to there.
from marlen816 :
Happy New Year to you, too!
from nixtress :
Best of New Year wishes to you!
from myexodus :
I'm giving myself something new to do in life. I have applied to become a prison guard...oh how the family laughed. But I figure it's a natural progress of what I have been doing. The pay is horrid, but I'm feeling very drawn towards it. Tim isn't laughing now that I have submitted the application....but I think it will be wonderfully interesting.
from myexodus :
I wishing you the very best New Year possible! Think algae and the fish may still in there swimming their little fins off =]
from july28 :
Happy holidays - and I did not ever imagine you would be so TALL!!! All the best, Fran x
from nixtress :
Merry Christmas, Jen.
from captainron :
Have a wonderful Christmas Jenn. I Ihope you get lots of love and hugs for Chritmas this year. With everything that has happened, it seems like the perfect gift. Love ya Ron
from july28 :
Congrats on three years blogging.... I've been reading your diary for about a year now and it's clear you've come a long way! xx
from augustdreams :
I'm so sorry, big sister. I'm really proud of you for taking action. I'm here anytime you need me, anything you need. *Hug* Love you.
from nixtress :
I hope you have a wonderful holiday and stuff yourself silly :)
from augustdreams :
I'm really sorry you saw the sociopath. :( You're always welcome here if you ever need to de-stress under the Palm trees. Love you!
from rachelliz :
I'm glad to hear the job stuff is going so well! You deserve good job karma.
from augustdreams :
Yaaay! I'm very glad to see they know how lucky they are to have you, big sister. Aph says you should take your first post-raise paycheck and buy yourself your favorite kind of donuts and some really good mixed drinks. (You know how dogs are...) ;) Love you.
from zencelt :
Yay! You survived the first day, and maybe the second... Huge hugs and a huge imaginary glass of wine to go with them.
from marlen816 :
Congrats on the new job! Answered prayer, that's for sure =)
from nixtress :
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Yay!!
from augustdreams :
I love you too, big sister. I just updated. I've been working much lately, and fitting in some play around it. Right now, the flu is kicking my ass. But I'm okay. Please feel free to send some hot national guardsman anyhow... ;D Maybe they'd be good *cough* medicine for this flu. heh. heh. heh. I think I need mouth-to-mouth.
from janie12975 :
So good to hear you have been released from the fear. Oh, and I think I need to come to your house to watch Survivor. Mmmmmm, brownies and wine!
from nixtress :
Just F.Y.I., your last entry, about wanting to be involved in the justice field, posted 8 times. You must really want to get those bad guys :)
from nixtress :
Thank you so much for your words of support. Your thoughts helped me so much, in ways that I can't explain. Not only did I feel a little less alone, but it gave me a direction to work in instead of just wallowing. Thank you.
from zencelt :
Hey babe! All I need are healing thoughts and tons of sympathy. My doctor is phenomenal. You'll see in my entry. I just want it over with and on the road to being more comfortable.
from augustdreams :
Can you swing by Florida and get me for the Halloween party? ;D I have sympathy for everyone who was abused as a child. But I have no sympathy or tolerance for people who allow it to dictate the adults they become. That's taking the coward's way out. One you grow up, YOU are responsible for your actions. Suffering pain is no excuse for causing it. Love you, big sister!
from augustdreams :
If there's ever anything I can do to help you weather the storms, just say the word. Life is a bumpy road. Sometimes it feels like you have to be torn by a thousand thorns for every rose you receive. But the roses make it worth it. You will survive. No question. And the people who love you will always be here to cheer you on. And you'll always have my hand to hold anytime you need it. Love you.
from augustdreams :
I'm so glad things are looking good right now. I wish I could come up there with lots of hot cocoa and hug you in person.
from zencelt :
Holy shit girl, that's some deep seeded rage!!! You exorcise those demons! I truely believe that one day, and it may not be because of you, he will reach the breaking point in his own soul, lose the mask and come to terms with his own demons. People aren't born to victimize, they do it to cover shame, fear and pain. His must be great to have come to this. Be kind to yourself. Love ya!
from marlen816 :
Sorry to hear you have to leave your boat. Seems unfair that you have to leave when it sounds like mr.knowitall should be the one walking the plank. ((Hugs))
from zencelt :
If I'm a very good girl, and we find a very cheap trip, then yes, absolutely, I will go!!!
from zencelt :
Hey! You've just had a day in the life of Shannon with eating disorder. For me, that's every day. But I am getting better... I'm so sorry you feel so distant from your mountain home. I know the feeling. Hang in there. Recognize your feelings for what they are, an dtreat yourself kindly.
from augustdreams :
I just sent an email. I'm praying for your fuzzy baby. I think a lot of thoughts and prayer's are going out to Stinky. Loving animals is always setting yourself up for heartache, but that doesn't mean we don't get the right to rage at the unfairness of it! I put my cell phone # in my email and I'm here if you need me, big sis. I love you. *gentle hugs for Stinky*
from zencelt :
My pup has to eat Fiber One every other day for constipation and anal gland issues. Can your cat eat it, or some other fiber supplement?
from zencelt :
Congratulations Auntie Batten! And take it easy over there. Breathe! Good luck with the J.O.B. search.
from augustdreams :
I'm saying extra prayers for you. If he makes you feel even a *little* scared or uncomfortable dump his ass like a load of crap from an Elephant's ass even if it's his BIRTHday! There is somone out there who will be worthy of all the amazing things that you are, my beautiful adopted big sis. You kick plenty of ass on your own, but I think when you find him, he'll add more joy to your life, not lessen it. *hug*
from zencelt :
Anti-psycho and good job vibes coming your way! Happy sailing.
from augustdreams :
He's the poster child for condom use. You ARE a miracle. You've got amazing strength. Fuck him. And fuck everyone else in the world who hurts people that way. I love what you wrote and you're right. How dare ANYONE EVER lay a hand on us or the things we treasure without permission? If I ran the world, he'd be strung up. Love you. Give me a call sometime.
from augustdreams :
Trust your instincts. The fuzzies and I are always here if you need us. I love you, big sis.
from zencelt :
You know I am here for you. I can't make it all go away, but I can listen. Fight it off girl. Use all your resources.
from marlen816 :
Sorry to hear about Willie. I'll be praying for you! ((hugs))
from zencelt :
You gave a giggle with the diamonds comment. Hope all goes well. If only...
from augustdreams :
I think that rising Phoenix would be absolutely perfect. Wish I could go with you when you have it done! Love you.
from zencelt :
Hey there! I just got a note from Six, and her Mom has the bar alone this weekend and wants us to hang with her so the crazies don't carry her away. Its just as well. I'm in an unsociable mood anyway. Can you still get together the weekend of the fourth?
from zencelt :
Oh my that sounds wonderful. I'll get in touch with Six and see what's up. Thanks babe!
from nixtress :
Popped on to read your newest entry and found you locked up tight. Hope you're well and if you're ever of a mind to give a password, I'd love one.
from trishtastic :
Knock, knock. Have you gone private private? Or may I have the password? [email protected]
from eastportgrrl :
hey what's up? sorry I did not make it over tonight. what are you up to the rest of the week. Jot me a quick email or give me a ring at work or on the cell
from augustdreams :
You should have a package arriving sometime between the 7 and the 14. I couldn't include a note (dammit!) but I think you'll know it's from me when you see it. :) Love you, big sister.
from augustdreams :
There's nothign wrong with wanting to be quiet, or with NEEDING quiet time to yourself. It's not selfish. Love you!
from myexodus :
LOL...I'm Barb from Neurotic-One. The Barb that Nicole met, the Barb that posted the pics of the catamaran sinking!!! You know me. =]
from myexodus :
May the Wind be with you! haha, that was corny! I added you to my list but I had you there before, I just changed diaries. ~Barbara....Ps. Enjoy St.Michaels, wished I was doing some sailing. =]
from dangerspouse :
Ooo! Ooo! I wanna have 3 girls on the smae night too! I don't even care about the wine. Damn, I'm so jealous. So listen: your circus monkey kicked my poor sea monkey's ass, huh? Jesus, I'm so pathetic. I haven't had this much of a losing streak since my dating days. Ah well, enjoy your hard earned victory, babe!
from eastportgrrl :
Well anybody who is still talking shit about you especially to the boy is and was never a friend of yours. Nuff said, see you in the am.
from dangerspouse :
Hey J! Thanks for leaving the note at my place - sorry it took me so long to get back to you. Oooh, a new guy! Good for you, you filthy ho! Hey listen, if this Jamey character gives you any more trouble, you just give this Eye-talian here the word and I'll take care of it. A 225 lb. sweaty oaf holding a baseball bat and showing up on someone's doorstep at 3am gets amazingly good results, I've found. Ciao, Bella! :)
from zencelt :
Oh what a wicked life we lead... Enjoy the boy. Every bit of him. Have fun sailing!
from zencelt :
Hi! Just checking in. My diary has been all doom and gloom for weeks now and I feel disconnected from the real world. I'm glad that racing has been good. You seem to be kicking some ass at the gym too. Way to go! See you soon babe.
from eastportgrrl :
Hey Chica! Sorry I did not make it to the gym with you this a.m. I did go but an hour later... Was wrestling 6'1" rambling octopus for 1 1/2 hours last night. Glad you are having fun.....
from captainron :
Now that truely made me smile :-)
from augustdreams :
Yeah, you do deserve it. Very much so. Twitterpation is lovely indeed. He's very lucky, and sounds wonderful. Love you!
from augustdreams :
Happy Mother's Day to the mama of some furry bastards who love her a whole lot.
from augustdreams :
Hey, big sister! Glad to see you update. Many hugs to you. When would be a good night to call? I get free nights (after 9pm) and weekends on my cell. Love you!
from eastportgrrl :
Ugggh I know the feeling... I think the prescription is to sail more! I think the blahs are going around......
from augustdreams :
I've been a bit wiped out from work, but reading steadily! Quotes from your post-cruise entries are most definitely going to be going in my 'favorite entries' list. I'm so glad you had such a wonderful time despite those nasty flu-germs partying down at your expense. You're more than welcome to come to Florida and dance among the waves of the Pacific with me anytime you crave a tropical climate. I love you! :)
from virginmary :
twitterpated IS fun! putting out cigarettes in abusive ex's noses? that's fun too. (good thing i wasn't drinking anything when i read that, because i'd have horfed it through my nose!)
from zencelt :
No I do not hate you for "sharing" your cold cooties. In fact, I doubt if it was your's since we drenched the room with Lysol several times daily. I probably got it from someone else with less than fantastic sanitary habits. Eeew! Hope your car is happier now!
from nixtress :
Hope your trip is going well. Just wanted to pop in and wish you a wonderful Easter.
from augustdreams :
I'll bet you're gorgeous with that curly, auburn hair! :) Have a wonderful time on your curise, big sister. I hope I can join you for the next one. Can't wait to hear all about it!
from captainron :
Yes, I'm still alive I think... have a fun and safe trip, and congrats on the hair.
from marlen816 :
Have a safe and fun trip!
from neurotic-one :
Thank you.
from virginmary :
oh, do we EVER have to dish! actually, i love it here - the work is great and the students are a blast. :)
from virginmary :
tee hee hee... 's me!
from zencelt :
Yay! Fru fru drinks coming me way! I'm glad you had a kick butt trip to NY. I'd love to go with some time. I can't stay with my relatives anymore because they are either crazy to in old folk homes.
from augustdreams :
I'm so sorry about your friend's mom. Glad to hear he's hanging in. Have a wonderful weekend! Can I give you a call maybe on Sunday night? Let me know. Aph and Woodstock send you big, fuzzy hugs. Oh. And Aph loves Pig ears. They're her favorite treat, even though they gross the heck outta me. Love you!
from nixtress :
My sympathies to your friend.
from zencelt :
Funeral Blues is my all time favorite poem. Ever since it was read on Four Weddings and a Funeral. I've kept it close to my heart. Bless you for sharing it. Along with a bungle of laughs today. Sully's big party is this Saturday if you'd like to come up. Let us know!
from dangerspouse :
Hey babe, thanks for the nice note, and bitchin' mention in your diary!! I'm honored to see you've added me to your Buddy List also. I can't wait to check out your adventures with those Furry Bastards, and your sailing yarns. I'll be back - thanks again! :)
from eastportgrrl :
Are we doing survivor tonight? My house?
from eastportgrrl :
You never have to tell me you are fine if you are not. Everyone has the right to a public (or semi-public) melt down every once in a while. Having it in fron of your friends let's everyone know that you are still human and you do hurt and are angry. As long as your not melting down at the Boatyard every week (like some people we've known), it's not a terrible thing.
from zencelt :
Actually, lots of people write to me, but I keep my notes compulsively clean. I do housekeeping once a week or so and delete the old ones.
from zencelt :
I have to tell you, your Lobster entry cracked me up. I'm not sure if that was intended, but... I'd really like to chop up and eat a lobster myself, come to think of it. With melted butter. You'll have to give me the background on the lobster as mate imagery sometime.
from zencelt :
Congratulations sailor-girl! May you choose the best one, and be very happy with it!
from zencelt :
Good interview vibes coming your way...
from rachelliz :
I definitely understand about the need to be alone from time to time; it's also how I keep my sanity. And I think it's possible to have a relationship with someone who respects and appreciates that.
from eastportgrrl :
GOOD LUCK!!!! woowooo! get out of there.... Sorry I left you to the Counselor.
from augustdreams :
{{{J}}} I don't know why we torture ourselves with past regrets. I guess it's just human nature. But that sure as hell doesn't make it any less craptacular. Love you. And thanks for the ecard. :)
from zencelt :
Oh, honey. The snogging of guy friends in public my specialty. What are they for, anyway, if not to make out with when there is nothing better to do?
from zencelt :
Arthritis is definately a 24x7, excruciating experience. I've got it almost everywhere, from my spine to every broken bone I've ever had. I wouldn't worry about cancer so much. Just concentrate on pain relief methods. Your doctor should be able to help.
from eastportgrrl :
go to sylvan.net
from eastportgrrl :
my neighbor, my volunteer and Kathi's boyfriend. Yuck, I will be over after Kick boxing
from eastportgrrl :
Thanks for last night! it was a blast.
from eastportgrrl :
Chester would love the post it's. hee hee Naah it's not worth it.... she will probably end up moving out of this town if she doesn't find something to do sometime soon... Glad I was planning to go out tonight anyway. I need it.
from eastportgrrl :
Jo is moving out as of April 1, she is moving to Kathy's unit. If you know of anyone who would like a great place to live. I wish Zen was in the position to mave to Naptown.
from nixtress :
Hope you're enjoying that sunshine :)
from augustdreams :
*giggles* I loved your kitty poop puns! And I'm so glad Stinky's feeling better. I wish I could get down to Tampa while you're here. But we'll have a visit one of these days. Have a fantastic time and enjoy our Florida sunshine. :)
from zencelt :
Have a lovely time in Tampa darlin'!
from augustdreams :
Thanks, big sister. Your note really made me smile. :) Maybe Evil Manager Woman and her ilk with their major craniorectal disorders make more money and has more quote-unquote "power" than I do - but they'll never be blessed with the kind of friendship and love that I have, because they treat people badly. I wouldn't trade my life for hers even if the offer came with a million dollars. I'm rich in all the ways that really count. I'm thinking about Stinky. Let me know how he's doing. Poor kitty. Sometimes a little vegetable oil added to dry food can help constipation. I've had to give Aph an enema twice and it's about as much fun as it sounds - but it most definitely works! Here's to the furry bastard feeling better VERY soon.
from zencelt :
My vet suggested a half cup of Fiber One cereal with the pooches breakfast. Works wonders. Maybe your vet will suggest the same for poor stinky. Poor thing can't live up to his name if he can't poop!
from sixweasels :
Hey woman ... I'm actually not hibernating tonight. I'm staying local in hopes of actually getting up early tomorrow and doing the lingering work stuff that's due Monday before I get the little beastlet (J) for the afternoon, but I do need to get out a bit, so I'm heading to Assholia. You're probably already off enjoying the evening, though, so big hugs and happiness and I'll see you soon.
from zencelt :
A good rant on murderers is never out of place. Let's plan on getting together in the next couple of weekends. Yay!
from zencelt :
Amen sister. Death by torture is justifiable and right. I also believe in chain gangs.
from captainron :
I haven't done a NOOD in a zillion years but they use to be loads of fun. Try not to break anything (this does include you).
from eastportgrrl :
Yo I am most likely headed to NYC tomorrow for the day. MY train gets in at 7:21 so we should meet at my house at 7:45-8 pm
from eastportgrrl :
Thursday night my house. I'll be packing and you can do laundry. yeah you can hang with me on the wagon. I'm going on the bad food wagon. Too much bad for you but good tasting food.
from eastportgrrl :
Hope you got some decent sleep on the couch. Big Hug! I know it wasn't easy this weekend.
from augustdreams :
Sounds like money well spent to me. Can't put a price on anything that makes you smile and gives you a laugh when you really need one. I truly believe that valuble lessons and strength come from even the worst, most dark and painful experiences. But we're not offered a choice, or asked if we're willing to pay that high price for them. Which means we've got every right to rail against the injustice of that and the pain it causes. Stupid universe. I love you.
from zencelt :
There are some pretty dark and bleak moments in most of our diaries, because we express all of our thoughts and feelings without censure. AND our asses have been kicked repeatedly. As much as we enjoy reading eachothers' entries and having ours read, they are not for entertainment value only. It helps when some of the emotional vomit can be released in this forum, and left here.
from eastportgrrl :
Dark and Bleak? No. Real yes. If they think it is dark and bleak why are they reading it? What are you supposed to shower flowers from every orifice when you are not feeling that way? I appreciate you writing down your true feelings.
from sixweasels :
Welcome home! I hate to think of you having to come home to this shitty weather ... just keep hanging on for the next vacation!
from eastportgrrl :
We will mainline Tropical punch next time... It all started with American Idol and Keith's Chili.....
from eastportgrrl :
Have a great time in Cali! Well at least we solved the problems of those stashed bottles of wine. WHEW!
from zencelt :
I agree with your assessment of Cold Mountain completely and without reserve. Jude Law was also fantastic in Enemy at the Gates. If you haven't seen it, I have it on VHS...
from sixweasels :
I'm saying tons of prayers for Lori, babe. Anything you need, let me know. And I'm thinking of K, too. Have a wonderful time in California, and think warm thoughts for us assholes stuck here : ).
from zencelt :
I just sent a big prayer your way. It should get there soon.
from augustdreams :
Aph's doing great today! Thank you for keeping us both, and my dear friend, in your prayers. I'm sorry about the R sighting. I think you're doing tremendously well! And don't blame yourself for not realizing what a soul-less bastard he is - it's not a flaw to see the good in people. He was very lucky to have had someone like you in his life. He's just too empty, vicious and self-serving to have appreciated it. I love you! I hope 2004 brings you many long days on the ocean. :)
from neurotic-one :
I forgot to say how it sunk....it had a leak in one of the pontoons
from augustdreams :
Sorry about that, big sister. I spent the evening on the phone with my friend Kevin - we watched our favorite movies together over the phone, since I didn't want him coming over and winding up with Bronchitis. I'd love a phone call anytime. And when I've got a phone card again, I'll give you a call. You're in my thoughts. Love you!
from augustdreams :
Online journalling has taught me that same lesson. I don't think of you as any less "real" than the friends I see every day. True friendship is so precious, and our hearts and souls don't care anything about physical distance.
from neurotic-one :
I met Nicole this summer with her children and husband. They are sooo sweet. Nicole is her diary. I've met 3 people so far from Dland and they are who they write, amazing. Also, my brother use to live in Baltimore and has since moved to St.Michael's. He does much sailing of his own and is also hired by others to sail and race their yachts.
from augustdreams :
I'm so glad you had such a wonderful weekend! I LOVED X2 - that movie alone turned me into a huge X-Men geek. Now I want to read all the comic books! I liked the first movie, but the sceond one was even better, IMHO. Believe me, if I ever saw R walking down the street, I wouldn't hesitate to run his ass over repeatedly. On an entirely unrelated note, have I mentioned I have access to large, predatory animals? Of a sort that could reduce a human being to just so much excrement? Yes, indeed. Love ya, big sis. It's my New Year's resolution to visit you this year! :)
from zencelt :
Hey there! What a great weekend. I slept so beautifully after our girls' night adventures. I giggled at your reference to The Soap. I figure, all the $ I've spent to get balanced skin is astronomical in comparison to $37 every few months. So, The Soap wins. Let's chat about this weekend. Saturday looks good.
from augustdreams :
There's nothing at all wrong with wanting/needing space. Gah! Why are so many men such idiots? I've got one from work who won't stop calling. Take care of YOU, babe. Don't worry about anyone else's heart right now - adults are responsible for their own happiness and feelings. Anyone who hasn't learned that yet needs to do so PDQ. I love you, big sis.
from rachelliz :
Thanks for your comments. You may have read that I'm about to lock up. Username Rachel, pword locked
from augustdreams :
I just got a notice from hotmail that your B-day ecard and email were undelivered. I must've gotten your new email addy wrong. Could you send it to me again when you get a chance? Then I can re-send them. :) Merry Christmas!
from nixtress :
Have a wonderful holiday :) Merry Christmas.
from nixtress :
It DOES get better. Have you seen Finding Nemo? Dory has this little ditty she sings..."Just keep swimming, swimming.." and Ally McBealish as it sounds, that's what I hear in my head now when things get rough. Hopefully the tree helps :)
from augustdreams :
There's no reason why you *should* stop writing about it. Writing helps. I haven't been where you are, but I love you and I'm right here holding your hand. If there's ever anything I can do, just say the word. *Hugs* I know it will get better. Time does heal - but emotional wounds take so much longer than the physical ones. Take comfort knowing how loved you are, and that we're all here not just to enjoy the sunshine with you, although that is wonderful, but also to stand by your side when it's raining.
from rachelliz :
I just left you a very fantastically nice guestbook message, but it disappeared, so you'll just have to believe me on that. 8) Anyway, I got here via zencelt, who mentioned you so I thought I'd see what she was talking about and then started reading more. I don't know about your marriage, but I do know that it took me a long time after my almost-marriage to stop asking "Why didn't he love me enough?" even though I knew that if he had loved me more and tried harder, I would be married to him which really would have been a terrible mistake on a number of levels. Still, it hurt terribly to know that I was not that important to him. It's been a year and a half now and I have been able to let that go, but it hasn't been easy. It will happen though. Take care of yourself.
from zencelt :
I think that losing a loved one who didn't love you back due to whatever reasons must be more profound and injurious by far than losing one who loved you to death. Love carries on beyond death, and mourning becomes somehow less painful day by day. It comes back in waves, which become further and further apart. But what you have experienced is a different kind of mourning, because you are not only mourning your loss of the people you loved, but your heart itself because you gave it away and it was not cared for gently. It will find its way home, and the healing will begin. But for now, none of us mind if you cry and feel dark. We may not truely understand, but are with you no matter what.
from sixweasels :
Thank you so much. Love you, and can't wait to play on Friday. As I said in Ron's guestbook, I am highly prone to moments of darkness, but I'm blessed in that they don't stay long. Logic, stubborness, or general asshole tenacity take the reigns again soon enough.
from augustdreams :
Damn email. I'll just have to put these thoughts in your notes. I think you'd be a wonderful advocate. I guess the best way to find out what's involved is to call a shelter in your area. I think knowing that someone has been where you are, and come out on the other side, is immesurably more comforting than talking to someone who sees you as the living embodiment of textbooks and case histories they've read. Which isn't to denigrate anyone - I just think women would be more willing to believe you that they don't deserve to be treated that way, and that life doesn't have to be like that. I spoke to a rape counselor once, and while she was genuinely warm and caring, it didn't help as much as talking to a dear friend who had been through it herself. I think someone who is standing in the light at the end of the tunnel you feel so trapped in is the best source of comfort and courage. Love you, big sis!
from cleanstart :
Thanks for adding me to your fav's. I look forward to checking your diary as well!
from zencelt :
You are a born advocate. You write extremely well. You are an eloquent and inspiring speaker. I could go on and on, but if you want an straight forward opinion. Yes. You fit the role of advocate/spokeswoman quite well.
from augustdreams :
You're not a whackjob. Life's just crazy. Sometimes it's wonderful, wind-in-your-hair, laugh-until-you-cry crazy, and sometimes it's scream-and-pound-your-fists crazy. But whatever kind of crazy is going on at the moment, I'm always glad and grateful to have a friend like you by my side. I love you. And whenever you're up for a visit, just say the word and my ass is on a train... along with the rest of me, of course. I don't let my ass wander off since the incident that got it banned from Winn Dixie. Love you.
from nixtress :
Thank you, for your words and thoughts. It's been one hell of a year, eh? Rage all you like, sweetie, you've earned that right. As for commitment? You're one hell of a committed girl, not only the Dland but to your family and also to friends. His loss is your gain...freedom of body and spirit. Take care J.
from augustdreams :
Thank you, big sister. And our schedule is only done 2 weeks in advance, so right now I can put in for any weekend I want for next month. Just let me know when is good for you. **hugs** I'm thinking of you, and I love you.
from sixweasels :
Guestbook is PMSing tonight. Anyway, just a bit more than a week till Zen and I are there in reality instead of just in spirit - living it up A-town style for your birthday. And we'll get together with Nicole over the holidays, and then it will be just months till we get to sit on a deck and watch the ocean turn bluer before our eyes. Hang in there. Love you bunches.
from nacwolin :
Tried to leave this in your g-b... I will be in touch with P and get something set up as soon as I am in town. We should get there sometime between the 20th-21st and should be in town through the 28th or so (depends on if Rob finds a house there this week!). You can also email me at [email protected]. Looking forward to meeting you!!
from augustdreams :
I know how easy it is to feel that way, but you're not alone. If you need me, I'll find a way to get to you, my precious big sister. Maybe I can come sometime when you'll be at home in January. It'll be income tax return time then and I can't think of anything I'd rather do than take a train to visit you. I love you.
from zencelt :
I read your first entry today and wondered who you wrote it for. Your spoke from my yet unwritten heart. You courageous girl.
from augustdreams :
I hope you know how much we all love you too, J. I think this is the perfect time to wrap yourself up in the love of everyone who cares about you. I'd give anything to be able to heal your pain. Just know you've got oceans of love from me and the fuzzy ones. *Hugs*
from zencelt :
Hey there. Thanks for leaving the note. I am sorry to hear about your grandfather passing away. Its like getting to the last page of the favorite chapter of your life. You can re-read it anytime, but its never the same as the first read. I'm sure he is celebrating his reunion with his beloved wife in heaven. But its hard for those left behind on earth to find the will to celebrate along with them. I'm sending healing heart thoughts your way. See you soon!
from augustdreams :
Yet another reason why I love you, big sis. Paris Hilton is the biggest waste of oxygen I've ever seen. The only way I'd watch that show would be if they dipped her in superglue, rolled her in fish heads and tossed her to a half dozen Great White Sharks. Yes. And you know, Michael Jackson now looks more like Latoya than frigging Latoya does! Personally, I don't see why child abuse isn't a capital crime. I think the death penalty is more than justified. There is no lower, or more reprehensible crime. *ahem* Well, I'm just a little bit of sunshine in your notes, aren't I? :D In cheerier news, I just mailed your Christmas card!
from zencelt :
Ha, ha! I got to read the bOOook! But I'm not going to Florida to watch a damn movie (making faces at you, take your pick).
from augustdreams :
If you ever need to be away, you're always welcome to come here. Anytime. I love you. Hug the furry bastards and ask them to give you a very big, warm hug from me. Do you want your Christmas package early? If it would make you smile, I'd be glad to send it soon.
from augustdreams :
Hotmail's acting up and won't let me email you for some reason. So I'm just going to send you my love here. I'm so sorry about your grandfather, and all the pain you're going through. I wish I could soothe it with words alone. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, big sister. I love you.
from zencelt :
Happy Thanksgiving! See you soon.
from nixtress :
Have a good Thanksgiving.
from nixtress :
Having felt this same pain, I'm with you. I have tears streaming and your entry is an echo of my same thoughts this year. Cherish this time and your place. You're a bigger piece of the puzzle than you know and the memories you hold are so golden...I'm thinking about you. Know that you're in my prayers.
from zencelt :
Don't worry about praying for yourself. We've got your back.
from augustdreams :
I'm so sorry about your grandpa. I know words can't take away the pain and worry, but please know you're not alone with it. I'm here anytime you need me. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Our phones are back in service so call if you need to talk, okay? Take care of yourself, and know that you WILL be back there. There are more days of saltwater and sunsets in your future. I love you.
from zencelt :
God bless your grandfather with whatever comfort is possible. Keep us posted. Take care.
from augustdreams :
Formerly broken is a beautiful way to phrase it. Just keep on healing and the places where you broke will grow even stronger than they were before. Did you get my email? Hotmail's been eating my outgoing mail lately. (Dagnabbit!) Huge hugs to you and the furry bastards.
from zencelt :
I am so very entranced by your account of your days at sea. I had a dream about it last night, only I was on the boat too! I think the skipper made me swab the deck. But dreaming about sleeping on the boat made my real sleep the deepest in a long time.
from nicky-d :
Hey, woman... sounds like you've got some ranting to do. I got your note too late to call you this evening, but if you're free tonight (Wednesday), I'll give you a call so we can rant and rave and come up with lots of fun hexes to put on all of the jerks in our lives. How's that sound? Let me know. Hope to talk to you later! :) (Sorry if this posts in your guestbook as well; it's being tempermental again.)
from zencelt :
Keep the wind in your hair. He can't touch you. You're way out of his league.
from augustdreams :
You updated! Hooray! :D I'm enchanted by Day 1, and can't wait to hear more of your adventure. Your happiness shines through your words, big sis. I picture the ocean cradling you as you sleep. I love you. **hugs**
from sixweasels :
Guestbook is being bad again ... but I just had had to stop in and thank you and tell you I love you. I'll be okay - I'm focusing on making sure that Bilbo adjusts to this okay. He was awful attached to Stew. Thank you so much for what you were willing to do for him - talk to you later this weekend. I have my niece tomorrow but will be home for part of the day. Hugs.
from augustdreams :
Woo-Hoo! I'm so proud of you, big sis. :) I can't wait to hear all about it. I'll be thinking about you, out on those waves. Aph and I will be with you in spirit. I love you!
from zencelt :
Stay warm and dry out there on the ICW! I can't wait to hear about this one. Crazy girl!
from augustdreams :
Lousy insurance companies! Those places always smell of brimstone for a REASON. Greedy bastards. I'm sending all my love and prayers for you. Let me know how the test goes. There are SO many new drugs and treatments. Even in a worst case scenerio, you wouldn't be doomed to lose your sight. I love you, big sister. And thank you.
from sixweasels :
Hey woman. I've been quiet lately, but I'm still here. Thanks so much for your thoughts for little Stewie, and big hugs. Thinking of you - we will have to get together soon (a girl's night in or The Bar, cuz I be poor now :)!)
from zencelt :
We're here. Waiting in the wings. Ready to pick up where we left off. Or make a new beginning. Life has been harsh to a lot of dear friends. But we are the strong ones who come through in the end the victors. Loneliness is a fleeting thing for women like us. We are never truely alone.
from augustdreams :
If it would help, I'd be more than happy to come up there and carve "Go away" into their asses with my fillet knife. It's a little extreme but guaranteed to leave an...IMPRESSION...probably around 3/4 of an inch.
from captainron :
You have no idea how much "he" pisses me off for making you feel like you do these days. At least with the car crash, you wait for the bones to heal and move on. With an emotional train wreck like you were put through it isn't as simple. You can't see the scars healing or remove the cast, you just have to wait until someday it all just fades into gray. That being said, I don;t think your heart is damaged at all. You are still the wonderful and caring Jenn that we all know and love. It's just that you gave your heart out and it got run over so you are justifiably protective of it happening again. That too will fade when you least expect it. In the mean time, being just Jenn is good enough for all of us who really care. And we do you know... Good hearts are hard to find, your true friends will never let go.
from augustdreams :
Yes! Please come and rearrange Evil Manager Woman's attitude for me. Or run her over with a cement mixer. Y'know, whichever's more convenient. *grin* Love you, big sis. Glad to hear you weathered the storm okay. (Ha! Get it? Weather? Storm? Ah-haha! Okay. I need to get more sleep.) Check out what our potions created when mixed in my update for today. **hugs**
from zencelt :
Good luck with race on Sunday!
from jane-does :
Thank you for saying that I am brave. :) I feel small, really.
from augustdreams :
SOUTH, did you say? Well, if you're going to be in the sunny south...you know I'd love to give you a big, in-person hug and the grand tour of all my critters. I hope it'll be a more uplifting week for you. You're dearly loved. And for the record, just the thought that he continues to suck up perfectly good oxygen really pisses me off. I love you! And I'm back online, so write anytime. I'm here if you need me, (but the phones are still out).
from zencelt :
Nothin' like a beating from all angles. Thanks for your message. Friends mean everything in the world right now. I'll call you guys if I need you. Right now, I've got things under control. Just taking care of Mom and pup. Next time I see you we can both cry together and get some of this shite out ;)
from captainron :
Oh Jenn.... {{{hugs}}} Hang in there sailorette. Fairer winds are coming.
from trishtastic :
Thank you so much. You're super, do you know that?
from augustdreams :
I like the way you write, too! Did you get my email? Hotmail has been up and down lately. Dangit. I need to spring for a paid email account. Can you give me a call, big sis? Anytime. Love you!
from zencelt :
My dear, you have been Sully'd. Congratulations. I feel like I should get you a christening gift or something. I hope you have a great sail this weekend!
from sixweasels :
Take care of that knee, woman, or I'll have to have Sully carry you around B-More on Friday! We had a blast, and it was so good to see you and your crew again. Sharing our "assholes" makes all of our lives more fun. Glad things worked out with J, and glad we could help. Can't wait to have you and K down on Friday!
from zencelt :
Laughing mine own arse off at your last entry! See ya tomorrow!
from captainron :
All the guy racers know never to even consider divorce in the summer because the potential ex could say she was beaten and the boat bruises would sure give amunition to make a good case to support the accusation. :-)
from augustdreams :
My hotmail is being cranky so I can't email you. Grrrr. You don't *have* to meet with him. If it makes you physically sick just to think about it, then don't feel as if you have to force yourself to do it. Fuck him and his guilt-inspired machinations. If you do decide to meet, believe me the counselor and mediator will see him for what he really is - all you have to do is mention the cell phone incident to them and they'll know what they're dealing with. :( I think they'd be able to tell either way. After you've dealt with a lot of alcoholics/abusers you get pretty familiar with their personalities. I love you, my beautiful big sis. I wish I could go with you. If you ever need me there, just say the word. I'll be on a train ASAP. {{{{J}}}} Love always, Nic
from augustdreams :
You know I'm always here anytime you need to talk. The fuzzy pets and I are just an email away. :) Ugh! I know what you mean about Book 5. I finished it in a sitting, like you. (And when I got out of my chair my butt had gone numb!) I had the feeling that's who it was going to be, but it still made me angry. Harry's been through enough without that. And darn it, I loved that character! JK is so excellent at bringing her characters to life. They're perfect 15 year olds. With all the drama and angst that age seems to bring. How long until book 6? *sigh* Love you!
from augustdreams :
You're allowed to miss the person that you thought he was, there's nothing wrong with that. Better days are coming, I promise. And you're loved, my beautiful adopted big sis. You've got people who will always love and support you, which is something darn special. :) **hugs**
from zencelt :
You kick sailor ass my girl! I am so proud of the decisions you have made. You should be proud of yourself. See ya!
from outfoxed :
6/1: Hey girl, wishing better days for you and missing your words. Never give up.
from invisibledon :
just randomly ended up here -thought I would leave a note
from zencelt :
OK, OK. I feel better though. I tend go get a bit emotional sometimes. ; ) Godspeed sailor-girl!
from mrweasel :
Sorry to hear things are a little rocky right now, but hang tight as they always work out for the best. BTW, Wind is one of my fav movies too. :)
from augustdreams :
I don't have any experience of my own to share, but all of my married friends went through a period where it was *really* hard for them to adjust to being married. It really does get better, my beautiful J. I love you! Hugs, ~Nicole
from captainron :
I'm sorry things have been so unsettled Jenn... Hopefully things will eb looking up soon.
from zencelt :
Welcome back sailor-girl! I'm basking in your happiness, and its starting to wear off. I've been a funky sort of Shannon lately -- off kilter. Let's get together super soon so I can see pictures and hear the long, happyweepy tales of the wedding, the honemoon and the bash.
from zencelt :
Thanks for the encouragement. You're the greatest!!! I feel like such a sissy. See you soon!
from augustdreams :
Have I mentioned what an incredibly sweet, thoughtful and cool Christmas package you sent me? Thank you again! It just sparkled with love. Does that make sense? :) It was the next best thing to a hug from you. I can't wait until you get your package from me and Aph! Love always, Nic
from captainron :
Have boat will travel.... Happy Friday!
from augustdreams :
Guess what! I've just mailed your Christmas package! *doing a dance of joy* Let me know when it arrives. I just love the holiday season. Lots of love and holiday hugs, ~Nicole
from theotherchad :
Hi. Since I'm pretty new, thanks very much for adding me to your favorites list. I'm enjoying reading in your archives. I know nothing about sailing, so the window into your world is fascinating. The life and the thoughts are welcome too. I like your sense of humor and tendency to rant. Who does that remind me of? Oh, yeah, me. Rants-R-Us. I'll be stopping by regularly. Peace out, ya'll.
from nudeplatypus :
So, basically what you are saying regarding "ain't" is that I did get bested mentally by a five year old. Ouch. I'm going to have to go and think about the adequacy of my education thus far.
from augustdreams :
Why, thank you. You are quite nifty, yourself! I empathize completely with you on the miserable winter feelings. I always felt like the cold, gray days froze my optimism and dreams from around January 1st until that first drippy, muddy day of Srping. If you need a break, c'mon down to Florida, I'll set you up right beside a Palm tree for some Sunshine therapy. Also...my bookcase shelves runneth over, too! Woo-Hoo for Bibliophiles! We rock. Give those cool cats of yours a tummy rub from me. Take care, ~Nicole
from outfoxed :
3/05: Sailing. Sailing is the thing for you. Get a length of natural cotton rope and practice your knots. Sheepshank vs. clovehitch. All gang a-glay, matey. Because. We're only 45 days offshore of the righteous wind. Loving your entry's, btw.
from widower :
Having managed an apartment complex when I was first married, the place your currently living is pretty good. The place I worked for had a $450 pet deposit, one month as a deposit, and the first months� rent in advance. We were also one of the few places in town that would accept pets. After the renter moved out, they were lucky to get half of their deposit back due to carpet cleaning and other cleaning fees. I�ve found a lot of it depends on how new the place is and what kind of renters they�re looking for.
from angelbutt :
and crap, that didn't work becaue the note turned it into a link. :P okay, exchange the ( ) below with < and > marks: (a href="http://angelbutt.signmyguestbook.com/" TARGET="_blank")(b)Angelbutt's Guestbook(/b)(/a href)
from angelbutt :
if you want to link to someone and have that link open a new window so they don't have to click backward to your diary, use this: Angelbutt's Guestbook replace your link with the one I gave (remember to place the link between the quote marks), and then between the bold code rename the link. Hope that helps.
from angelbutt :
I found your diary through Stef (Splorch) and already I worship you. :) This is good news because I worship you in an admire sense and not in a psycho crazy dangerous stalker sort of way.
from splorch :
Ah, you have seen the glory that is angelbutt! I heart her. (Hee! And "funny"! Thank you!)
from rev-elation :
i stumbled across your diary and decided to give it a read because my mom's maiden name is batten... and while it appears that you are not a long lost relative (lol!) your diary is a very interesting read and i am glad to have found it! :)
from be-zen :
I am poping your notes cherry. My father is the same as you with water, he has to carry a vial of sand around with him when he travels anywhere inland and we have always lived overlooking water. It is the most marvellous of all the elements. I know what it is like to love reading with passion, and I bet you know what it is like to curl up at midnight on a cold winter's night with some oreos, a cup of tea, a book in your hand and a smile on your face.

back to batten's profile
recommend this diary to a pal?

Other diaries starting with the letter:
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Back to Diaryland

Recently updated
News
update April 6, 2020: Sorry, we just had 8+ hours downtime due to a server problem. Restoring from backups took soooo long, but everything is back and no data was lost. Ay yay yay! Anyhow, hope everyone is well with the virus stuff.

Sign up for paid membership if you want!

Users online