Tides of Change

Along my shoreline, the tides of time rush towards me.
I cannot breathe in salt air that directs my soul to sing
a song of hope, a song of love...a cry of sorrow.
There is a heart somewhere, in the flight of pelicans,
drifting over the foamy caps of waves; the whisper of hope.
I lift a conch shell to my hear, praying that my muse will
sing to me the sky electric in hues of pink, blue and sonnets.
There is no sound but the white noise of lost words.
Within the waters of my veins, the salt and blood of me,
are wisps of phrases caught in the nets of yesterday.
To free them, I shall climb on the rocks of today,
letting my hair become a mass of seaweed and foam.
The songs of sirens will awaken the muse that longs to sing
within crashing waves the promise of tomorrow.

Loser

Loser
Current mood: crazy


Last night I was writing in my black notebook. It's one of those composition type school books...but on the cover it says "I'm my evil twin." Suits me I think...anyway...

I was writing down ideas for a brochure I'm designing.... suddenly the first lines of a poem appeared:

"Along my shoreline, I see the tide of change rushing to me."

So I flipped over to a blank page to write it down...and on the way, I found a scribbled note in William's rough handwriting:

"Sherrie is a loser."

I laughed... lately when I make him "furious", he's taken to leaving notes that say "You are a loser." He did it the other week.

We were playing some game of his. He won the first time and shouted, 'you lost...loser Sherrie.".. I let it ride. Then I won the next game and jumped up shouting "William is a loser. I'm a winner. L..l...loser." I made a letter L with my hand/fingers and put it on his forehead... still started a 'loser' war.

He ran...got some paper and wrote "You are a loser." Told me to read it. I said, "You are a loser."

"No.. You're a loser," said William.

"That's what I said," I replied.

"I mean you are a loser," said William, getting confused.

"But that's what you wrote. That's what I said."

He scribbles a few words under the "You are a loser" line. "Read this."

I pretended I couldn't read the line. "I can't read it. What does it say?"

"I am a loser," read William.

"I know you are," said I.

"GGGGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRR, stop tricking me," cried William.

Yes I won that battle...and finding the 'Sherrie is a loser" note made me realize...the war's far from over.

June 19

Another month is almost over and... I can't believe I haven't finished the magazine issue... guess it will be a June/July issue instead of just a June.

Had a great weekend. Dad enjoyed Sunday--we grilled steaks at my house. He and Ben had a Light Sabre fight. Was very funny to watch. I took a photo and will have to post it once I get some fresh batteries for the camera.

Al and I goofed off last night...watched "Signs" on cable. I find it funny how I have to explain things to most men I date when we're watching a movie. Did it with Charles...did it with loser Doug and do it now with Al...if I haven't it before hand, Al still asks questions. I think I'll start making up answers like I do when the boys ask me silly questions.

Had a girls' ...I mean Hens' night out this weekend...and you'll just have to guess at what we did because I can't break the code of silence or I'll be a dead chick.
But I will say this.. "no animals, children or male strippers were harmed."

Here I am...

free at last...to blog.

It's been a busy month and there's still several weeks left. I really thought I would slow down with my work enough to have moments during the day to blog but that thought's been proven wrong.

There's a lot going on at work. A lot of things at home and especially with Al. Even if I'm so busy I have to stop once in a while and smile because I'm happy.

Is it possible to be so happy? Is it possible to stay this way?

Wedding

I got married this weekend...

lmao...

just kidding!

Al's cousing Dennis married his long-time love, Christine at one of the VFW's outside of F-ville this Sat.

Was a nice wedding...very small--and the funny thing about it was that the preacher was an hour late....while we waited, the DJ played 'cheatin' country songs.. I lost it a few times.

And Al... He's such a clown. Told the Bride's mom that he paid $100 for me for the evening. Then once took a sip of my soda and pretended to choke on it, saying "I thought you said you quit drinking." Everyone looked at me and my face went bright red. Luckily everyone knew him well enough to laugh.

Luck was on my side...Didn't catch the bouquet. ..I strategically placed myself behind a buxom woman... and never saw the bouquet coming , which was smart...she would have crushed me, I think.

When the garter belt was tossed, Al pushed a guy in front of him, so he wouldn't catch it.... but that didn't stop a few people from asking "So when are you two going to tie the knot?" Funny how people think if you date more than 3 months, you should rush into marriage. Al and I...we're content for now...to go as we are going.

I wore a short strapless dress that had sequins and beads on the bust and around the hem... the DJ (a huge bald guy) played Tom Jones "She's a Lady" and decided the song to "The sparkle lady."

But yes...I survived another wedding.

Family Feud Laugh

Family Feud host Richard Karn: Name something you wouldn't want the police to find in the trunk of your car.

Contestant: Pickles

06-06-06

First thing Dad said to me today was "Today is 666." It's not. And so what...it doesn't mean anything. At least not to me.

Things have been busy as usual. School ends June 9 but I'll still be a little busy until after Father's day. Hopefully I'll manage to stay ahead of work and have time to blog and email like I used too.

Funny how easy it is to get out of a habit. I don't think about blogging until I'm getting ready for bed and I think :"Oh Gee, I forgot to blog today."

Maybe June will be a new day in blogging...at least for me.

Hot Time in the City

It's 96 F outside. Very hot... luckily, I've found a spot to park the truck where the shade of the old Scottish Bank (two floors) offers comfort from the heat. I'm waiting for someone to figure it out and steal my spot in the mornings before I get to work.

I had a great weekend. Al and I cooked some delicious food and we watched a really good movie "The Last Castle" with Robert Redford. He's one of my favorite actors...and Al's too. Another thing in common.

On my way in from Fayetteville yesterday, I stopped at a bookstore and got some groovy books. A Chinese Brush Painting book, a Massage book and a Bruce Springsteen book...all were 99 cents each. How can you beat that? You can't.


Bad new when I got home...some thief or thieves cut the lock on my storage barn door and stole my $1000 riding lawn mower. They left the two push mowers, the nephews' bikes and other important stuff...so I guess I got off lucky. I found out yesterday that the land behind the house has been sold in 'lots'...which means mobile homes are going to be place there. One of my neighbors has to move a wooden fence, which sits on one of the lots. It was offered to her for a $1000 and she declined. The owners of the land sold it to someone for $5000. I think she's a dummy for letting it slip through her fingers... but what do I know?

I have some other stuff to blog about...guess I'll get around to it later.

Another Wednesday...

I'm checking out the calendar and am realizng that another month is almost over. And I haven't begun on the June issue...oh well, it ususally takes care of itself.

Had a family reunion this past Sunday. Fun fun..fun... I didn't have to babysit the kids outside, either. They're getting old enough to play organized games like tag and hide-seek. I got a chance to spend more time talking to relatives I like who live out of town... and got a few photos of my great-grand parents. I'm sure I'll plaster them here once I get them copied.

Didn't get to see Al much... only Sunday afternoon and evening, but we made the most of it. (wink wink)

Was suppose to go on a beach trip with Ben's class yesterday. But I ended up keeping William who's been sick with a stomach bug. Watched Disney shows and some Nick Jr stuff. I learned my ABC's. So that's another thing off my New Year's Resolution list.

Today..it's mild out. But tomorrow...summer's hitting us at full strength.

What? I can blog today??

Finally a moment to breathe...Dad's gone to do a shoot of some softball teams and I'm here goofing off between customers.

Last night Al called... 3 times and I hung up on him. Why? Because when I said, "Hello." He said, "Hold it..Hold it." In a really weird voice. I thought he was the obscene phone caller that's called several times in the last few weeks.

I decided to do the call return thing (*69) and see if the phone number was given, thinking if it was, I would turn him in to the phone authorities...it gave me Al's number.

So I called it. He said, "You hung up on me..3 times."

I said, "Well, you sounded like the obscene phonecall guy. He says, 'Oh, baby...hold it...hold it... hold it... oh yea, you're on it now."

Al said, "I didn't know that."

I said, "Why were you acting goofy?"

He said, "Because I was holding my breath."

I said, "Ahhhhhhh.... you were in the bathroom."

He said, "Yeah..."

............

This morning, like every morning while I'm doing my morning stuff, I wear those little velcro rollers in my hair until it's time for work...and on occasion, I do drive to work wearing them. This morning I could have sworn I had all of them out. I stopped at the office supply store a few blocks away before hitting work. A guy in truck pulled up at the same time, parked beside me but I was out of my truck quicker. He smiled at me and as I walked ahead, I heard him say, "Excuse me."

I turned to him, wondering what he needed, and he said, "Hmmm, did you know you had a curler in your hair? I know some women wear them out in public but you don't look like the type."

I didn't and was mortified to feel one hiding at the back of my head. I said, "Oh man! Thanks." He smiled and said, "Not a problem."

While I was in the store, he kept smiling at me. I hurried and got my stuff and while I waited at the check-out for one of the associates to ring me up, I noticed a really handsome man standing close by. He must have been waiting for something, because he stood off to the side. I'm talking GQ handsome--expertly cut suit and tie, expensive shoes and manicured fingernails--probably a salesman. He kept smiling at me and I smiled back a few times and then tried to ignore him while thinking, "Stop undressing him in my mind, Sherrie."

He said, "Excuse Miss "Cherry." (I'm wearing a black T-shirt that has two cherries on it and some white shorts with sandals).

I looked at him, sort of smiling and wondering, "What can he want?"

He asked, "Do you know of a place around here that's cozy and intimate but serves delicous food? I'm starving."

I said, "Sure...the B W Grille on 3rd street. It's sort of pricey but worth it."

He said, "Great. When shall I pick you up and where?"

Oh I laughed at that. I declined...mainly due to the wedding ring I saw. Can't have some wild woman going "Jerry Springer" on me at the Grille.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Earlier this afternoon, I gave a future Bride a lecture on men and football time. I'm not talking game. More like how some men figure time. Like Al... Sunday, he told me that we would be through with an errand in 20 minutes--it took 2 hours. Later, he said he would be home in 5 mins--it took 45 minutes. My dad's the same way...when he says he'll be back in a minute--I figure it will be 2 hours. But like I told the bride--it's a great loop hole. Like, when I'm getting dressed and beautified and Al is impatient, dressed and ready to go...I hold my hand up when he complains and I say, "Football time...you guys invented it so that 2 minutes equals 30 or more. Now go watch TV until I'm ready." And I usually call out that I'm ready a few minutes before I am, because I know he's on football time and will need a few minutes before we rush out the door.

!!!!!!!!!

My friend Jeff--a dj in Greenville wrote that a Chiropractor from Lumberton was at his station doing spots for advertisements of his new practice. It was weird because I knew some of his family. Funny how small the world can be.

~~~~~~~
The courthouse was closed and blocked off for a few hours today due to a bomb threat. Someone found a box on the stairs in the back and they called the police, who called the bomb squad. Now that's a really bad idea...using a fake bomb threat as a way to get out of going to traffic court. Hey... remember this...they reschedule these things!

~~~~~
Tonight, I have to keep William for a few hours, while Lisa and Mom's work has their art show. I guess we'll play computer games or watch a movie--depends on what he wants to do. Afterwards is the CSI finale. Can't miss that one.

a Retouch order I completed

A local African American Church asked that I change a painting of a 'white' Jesus into a 'black' Jesus. I did...and asked myself, "Does this mean I'm a Deity?"

If so... Next Week, I'm parting the Lumber River and turning it into wine.

Tuesday Update...

................................sorta....

I'm covered in work... it seems this isn't going to end until after June 13...or when schools out, what ever date that is.

Our digital system has made it easier on our pocketbook strings while it's put extra work on me. Not only am I restoring and printing old photos and copy orders, I'm having to deal with correcting dad's digital errors. Talk about a pain in the ass. It would be a lot easier on me if he took creative critism well. He thinks I'm attacking his photo skills when I tell him that he's framing too tightly or that he's getting flashbacks on his copies... it's like dealing with an ego bigger than the state of Texas. I don't have time to treat him with kid gloves (handle him delicately).

Sat night we took Prom photos at the studio until almost 10. I was worn out. Teens today aren't like the teens of my era...some of these teens today have little respect for adults. One girl's name was Kevita. But when she said it, I thought she said "Aviva." That's how I spelled it...and she went off on me. By this time, I had been at it for 9 hours and I said, "honey, If you would speak clearly and without gum in your mouth and put down that cell phone, maybe I would have gotten it right the first time." Her mom was standing behind her and said, "You heard the lady. Get off that cell phone and act like you've got sense."

I would prefer if she acted like she had 'cents.' lol

Got to Al's at 11:30 pm Sat night...about the same time he got in from work. He looked so exhausted. His pressure washing and cleaning business is taking off. Before work and on his days off, he's been extremely busy, putting in as much as 16 to 18 hours a day of working at both. When we went in the house, I told him to strip to his underwear and to lie down--that I would give him a massage...it lasted 3 hours! I covered his whole body--even though I was exhausted, I knew he would rest better once the kinks were out of his muscles...and it worked. He took a shower and got his second wind... though I was tired, I found the energy for an hour and half of smothering sex. Yes, that massage was well worth it.

Except he had me up at 8 am... I thought I wouldn't be able to make it up...after only 3 hours of sleep. We went to one of his job sites to remove some trash out of a storage building. Took a few hours to do, because there was more than what the owner told Al. After dropping the stuff off at the dump, I went to the grocery store that Al works at and prompty got lost going back to his place. It was raining and I took the wrong turn. Found my way back after an hour--he's only 15 mins from his work place.

We had some friends over for dinner. It was fun but I was so tired. Both Al and I went to bed really early.

Yesterday at work, I was almost overwhelmed by the amount of work I had sitting on my desk. Dad had piled some orders that needed cropping and color balancing. They are rush jobs and I spent all day messing with them.

I haven't had time to email a few of my daily email pals. I should... but I knew if I did, I wouldn't be getting around to blogging. There's always cut and paste for those that don't read here or even know about this place... it's not that I have secrets...there are times I want to post my private thoughts without worrying about what those close to me think. We all need a dumping ground and I would be horrified and embarrassed if a few of my close online friends read here.

Pheeeeeewwwwww

I can't believe I have a moment to blog. Been covered in work for the last few weeks and I'm stressed over it. Looks like we won't be slowing down until June.

Things are going ok. I have to say thank you to that special person who makes me smile when I don't think I can...and who also makes me feel like the most desired woman on the planet... ;)... you know who you are.

I miss my friend Jo. We dont' get to chat much because neither of us are on Messenger. She brightens my life and I thank God daily for her friendship.

This weekend, Al gave me the royal 'romance' treatment. He can amaze me sometimes because he really takes time to make sure I know he loves me. He said "I might not say it with every breath but I feel it in every breath." Now, how romantic is that?

Even though I love him and we have a great time together ...there are still moments when I want to jump the UPS guy and make him show me 'what brown can do for me?'

Ah lust... it can brighten a day.

Love Quote of the Day

"We waste time looking for the perfect lover, instead of creating the perfect love."

Tom Robbins

May's Issue is up

...................and running


http://www.opalrose.com/magazine/May06.html

Your Deadly Sins

Lust: 80%

Envy: 20%

Greed: 20%

Pride: 20%

Wrath: 20%

Gluttony: 0%

Sloth: 0%

Chance Sherrie will Go to Hell: 23%

Sherrie will die while in the throws of passion - the best way to go.

How Sinful Are You?

Here I am...

..........finally blogging.

I'm sorry I haven't been here. I must confess, I've missed blogging. Feel as if a part of me has been lost..and I know it's the part that pours everything out here.

Easter weekend was fun. I've got some Easter pictures of the nephews. I'll have to post them when I pull them off the camera.

Work has been so stressful. I keep thinking I just might run away but I know if I did someone would find me...and drag me back kicking and screaming. If it were due to an excess amount of work, I wouldn't mind the stress...it would be productive. But this isn't. I'm having to deal with Dad who has a digital learning curve...and he believes nothing I say. And keeps doing the same mistakes over. I finally called one of his photographer friends today...asked if he could come by tomorrow while it's quiet and talk to dad about his digital problems. I explained them in advance, because I know how Dad is...he'll pretend he has none. Maybe hearing things froma colleage will help him understand. I'm at my wit's end and if something doesn't improve, I'm running away to an exotic island somewhere.

Things with Al are mostly ok. There's a situation that really has been bothering me. It's to complex to go on about in this blog...but we're working on the situation. Hopefully it will be resolved. I do know this...I love him deeply. And will admit...the love has never died. He drives me nuts sometimes...but mostly, he makes me laugh. I'm happier than I've been in a long time...even if minor problems crop up. I know that I'm mature...he's mature and somewhere in the midst of the problems, we'll find a happy medium...one where we both can meet with arms open.

Damn...I got poetic.

I kept the nephews Monday night...we played on the computer doing games on yahoo. Ben sat in my lap and had the worse case of gas..I'm talking the invisible deadly type. I said, "BEN...where did you get that gas? It smells horrible!?

He said, "DOD...DOD gave it to me."

I echoed, "Dod? Dod?...oh you mean GOD." (He's still got a bit of a speech problem on some sounds)

He said, "Yes...Aunt Sherrie...Dod gave it to me."

I said, "Let's pray to God and ask him to take it back."

Happy Cinco de Mayo

Body shot?...anyone?

My apologies

...to my readers...

life's been hectic at work, mainly. I believe aliens have taken over my father's digital camera and are sucking the life out of me.

My hope for today is that I'll find time to blog and catch up on news...and on reading blogs I've been neglecting, but love to read.

I miss that...the reading more so than the writing.

Understanding a Woman's language

"Fine" - This is the word we use at the end of any argument that we feel we are right about but need to shut you up. NEVER use fine to describe how a woman looks. This will cause you to have one of those arguments.

"Five minutes" - This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the trash, so it's an even trade.

"Nothing" - This means something and you should be on your toes. "Nothing" is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. "Nothing" usually signifies an argument that will last "Five Minutes" and end with the word "Fine".

"Go Ahead" (with raised eyebrows) - This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over "Nothing" and will end with the word "Fine".

"Go Ahead" (normal eyebrows) - This means "I give up" or "do what you want because I don't care". You will get a raised eyebrow "Go ahead" in just a few minutes, followed by "Nothing" and "Fine" and she will talk to you in about "Five Minutes" when she cools off.

From The Classifieds

FREE YORKSHIRE TERRIER: 8 years old. Hateful little dog. Bites.

FREE PUPPIES: 1/2 Cocker Spaniel, 1/2 sneaky neighbor's dog.

FREE PUPPIES: Mother, AKC German Shepherd. Father, Super Dog - able to leap tall fences in a single bound.

FOUND DIRTY WHITE DOG: Looks like a rat ... been out a while. Better be a reward.

COWS, CALVES: NEVER BRED: Also 1 gay bull for sale.

NORDIC TRACK: $300 Hardly used, call Chubby.

GEORGIA PEACHES: California grown - 89 cents lb.

JOINING NUDIST COLONY: Must sell washer and dryer $300.

WEDDING DRESS FOR SALE - WORN ONCE BY MISTAKE: Call Stephanie.

FOR SALE BY OWNER: Complete set of Encyclopedia Britannica, 45 volumes. Excellent condition. $1,000 or best offer. No longer needed, got married last month. Wife knows everything.

The Things We Learn from Porn (thanks NLM)

1. Women wear high heels to bed.

2. Men are never impotent.

3. When going down on a woman 10 seconds is more than satisfactory.

4. If a woman gets busted masturbating by a strange man, she will not
scream with embarrassment, but rather insist he have sex with her.

5. Women smile appreciatively when men splat them in the face with sperm.

6. Women enjoy having sex with ugly middle-aged men.

7. Women moan uncontrollably when giving a blow job.

8. Women always orgasm when men do.

9. A blow job will always get a woman off a speeding ticket.

10. All women are noisy fucks.

11. People in the 70's couldn't fuck unless there was a wild guitar
solo in the background.

12. Those tits are real.

13. A common and enjoyable sexual practice for a man is to take his
half-erect penis and slap it repeatedly on a woman's butt.

14. Men always groan 'OH YEAH' when they cum.

15. If there is two of them they 'high five' each other. (and the
girl isn't disgusted!)

16. Double penetration makes women smile.

17. Asian men don't exist.

18. If you come across a guy and his girlfriend having sex in the
bushes the boyfriend won't bash seven shades of shit out of you if you shove
your cock in his girlfriend's mouth.

19. There's a plot.

20. When taking a woman from behind, a man can really excite a woman
by giving her a gentle slap on the ass.

21. Nurses suck patients cocks.

22. Men always pull out.

23. When your girlfriend busts you getting head from her best friend,
she'll only be momentarily pissed off before fucking both of you.

24. Women never have headaches.

25. When a woman is sucking a man's cock, it's important for him to
remind her to 'suck it'

26. Assholes are clean.

27. A man ejaculating on a woman's butt is a satisfying result for
all parties concerned.

28. Women always look pleasantly surprised when they open a man's
pants and find a cock there.

29. Men don't have to beg.

30. When standing during a blow job, a man will always place one hand
firmly on the back of the kneeling woman's head and the other proudly
on his hip.

31. Pigtails = handlebars

Under a Dim Light

From under the dim light of a faltering moon,
I embrace the chill of a spring night;
its evening eyes hidden under new sprouts
of tender grass.

Winter past froze time in crystal tears,
each night an agony that tore my soul.
I do not regret its passing into the ides
of windy March.

Soon summer will play upon the oceans of us;
our passions a war of foam and sea,
churning up the sands of time and eternal lust
of things we can't have.

Like the faltering moon of spring's new birth,
we'll know the after taste of winter frost,
even as we frolic among the white-capped
waters of summer.

some cinquains

hi guys...thanks to all of you who are posting. My muse seems to be a butterfly and won't stay for long.


April
buds opening
flowers dancing on green
under my toes, blossoms tickle
my soul

~*~

kisses
upon my lips
your minty breath of spring
helps me to forget winter's cold
embrace

April...

6 days into the month and I just realized that I haven't blogged in over a week.

I really thought I had and was surprised to see I haven't bored anyone lately!

Things around here have been ok. Just working hard and enjoying the nice weather when I get home at night. My yard is looking good. The azaleas and dogwoods are blooming. My pussywillow had fuzzies all over it.

The nephews are doing great. William made all 3's on his report card. Excellent for a kid with autism. I hope by the time he's in the 8th grade that he won't carry that label. We work hard every day so that he knows his homework. Last night we spelled all sorts of words. I'm very proud of him. Poor Ben...he's not the academic type at all. I've been working with him on his spelling and trying to coax him to play educational games on the computer but all he's interested in is...playing ball or power rangers. I'm afraid he's not going to be the 'geek' type like William is. As long as he passes his classes, I guess that's all that matters.

Spent a nice weekend at Al's. He had to work but we managed to find some time for adventures. One of my friends made a comment that heaven in a relationship doesn't last long. Maybe it doesn't. But I'm not striving for a perfect relationship--if it were that, then it would be boring I think. Al and I have our differences. We get angry but we talk it out and do what we can to compromise. Then we laugh about it later. I'll settle for pieces of heaven.

April Issue of Mag

is...


Up

***I am 96% Happy and Happy about it***


It's unlikely that you know anyone happier than you.
You know how to be happy, no matter what life throws at you.


How Happy Are You?
http://www.blogthings.com/howhappyareyouquiz/

Still am Artist

Earlier this morning, the Alzheimer's Care Director at the nursing home I worked at from 81-82 came by to see if I would donate some of my original art--framed of course--to a silent auction benefit for the Alzheimer's Care Unit. It's to raise money for research. I said yes. I have many pieces that just need a good frame.

I asked the lady how did she hear about me. She said that one of the nurses that several of the nurses and a few of the children of some of the patients told her about me. I'm used to being known as a photographic restoration artist, but the "painter lady" side of me isn't very well known. Or so I thought. I guess because I haven't been active in the painting world since the early 00's, I thought people who were familiar with me back then would have forgotten the fact that I do paint and sketch.

Now that Granny has Alzheimers, it will be added to small list of charities that I support: Cerebral Palsy, Austism and now, Alzheimers.

Fishing

The weekend was pretty decent. Was suppose to see Male Strippers on Friday, but one of the 'hens' couldn't make it--the Designated Driver. I had agreed to go but only if I could drive separately from them. Since Al lives a mile for the club, I had made up my mind to go and jump his bone after the show... and in doing so, the hens would have to see themselves home. Since Cricket couldn't go, they cancelled the trip. I didn't mind. It's always nice to see oiled toned young men in thongs, but the idea of not being able to sample the goods...and having to stuff money down their 'panties' to get a dry hump from them..sort of kills the romance of it all. Al was sort of disappointed though...he wanted me to rock his world. I reminded him Saturday night that I don't need unfullfilled fantasies of male strippers to rock his world.

So... I stayed home Friday night. Worked for a while Sat and went to Al's around 3pm. We hung around and did different things around the house. Went to the grocery store. Al was supposed to work Sunday, so we hit the bed early. Fell asleep two hours later. ;)

Al thinks that I should get up if he's up. So at 6 am Sunday, he pulls the covers off me and tells me something. With one eye open, I stumble to the kitchen and stand there for about five minutes. He's in the shower, so I stumble to the bathroom and say, "What did you tell me to do?" He laughs and tells me again. I stumble back to the kitchen with one eye open and still can't remember.

After 3 turns of this back and forth, it finally soaked into my brain...Al wants BREAKFAST. BLT sandwich! He had started the bacon, so I didn't have to worry about that part. But it took me forever to get it together. He kept coming into the kitchen to laugh at my hair, which had a mind of its own and was standing straight up. I reminded him that "he" helped create the bedroom hair look.

After he hustled out the door, I went back to bed thinking that I had 6 hours to do whatever I wanted. Since I was partly awake, I knew I needed to relax, so I got out my little vibrating egg and set to work...'relaxing'. When I get in the 'relaxing' mood, I tend to drag it out. No immediate need to climax. Just enjoy the feel good that only a vibrating egg to the clit can produce. I mapped out my plans for the morning.

1-vibe with my egg
2-nap for a few hours
3-make eggs, bacon and toast with almond swiss chocolate coffee.
4-do some laundry
5-watch a movie, while working on the class reunion contact list.
6-sweep the floor
7-make lunch for when Al gets home

I was almost almost asleep, when I heard a noise. It was Al, standing at the foot of the bed with a pair of my panties on his head. He was laughing at me, because I was vibing. "Didn't you get enough last night???"

"Define enough!"

He laughed and said, "Get a shower, we're going to Wrightsville Beach." I looked at the clock and it was just 7:50 am.

It seems that the night time cleaning crew had spilled a bunch of chemicals in the are Al was working in and fumes were too strong, so they sent everyone in that department home.

So at 9 am, we were on the way to Wrightsville Beach. One of Al's friends (Darryl) lives there. He isn't one of my favorite people but I tolerate him. I was interested in meeting his new wife, because I wondered what kind of woman would marry him. She seemed nice enough--sort of dizzy but nice. Darryl is the kind of guy who is always telling you about all the people who are trying to undermind him or who's taking advantage of him, etc. He's the biggest crybaby I know. And heaven help it if a woman out fishes him...which I did.... when we went fishing yesterday. Caught 2 skates and some sort of puffy fish. I was the only person who caught something worth mentioning...lol.. what's up with fishermen when a woman catches more than they do? They called it luck when I caught a skate... but said it was skill when they got something as small as bait fish. I'm sure Jeff Foxworthy knows that anwser.

So I was pretty happy that I got to try out my new fishing rod. We left at 4:30 and got home around 7. Al's one of those people who have to make a lot of pitstops.

I really enjoyed the ride there and back. It was just Al and me. We talked some. Sang to the radio. Played some trivia pursuit (20 questions that were in the entertainment part of the newspaper). We told jokes and laughed a lot. Put my favorite part was how we could be silent together. During those times, one of us would look at the other and smile or touch. Comfortable silence. Those are the best kinds.

Man, I was exhausted from the drive when we finally got home. We had stopped at a Ma and Pa type deli for a sandwich on the way home and that helped with supper. All we wanted was a slice of cherry pie and some ice cream. We watched a movie that someone had given Al for Xmas.. "Evolution." It was ok. Had some funny parts in it. I finally couldn't keep my eyes open, so I went to bed around 10 pm. Al's diverticulitis acted up most of the night and he slept on the couch so he wouldn't disturb me, which made me feel guilty because I slept like a baby while he was in pain.

He felt better this morning and sent me home with a smile on my face. ;)

Psycho Test

This is not a trick question. It is as it reads.

A woman, while at the funeral of her own mother, met a man she didn't
know. She thought this guy was amazing, so much her dream guy, that she
believed him to be just that! She fell in love with him right there, but never
asked for his number and couldn't find him. A few days later she killed her
sister.


Question: What is her motive in killing her sister? (Give this some
thought before you answer).

click on the comment to see the answer...only after you've given this your best shot.

Rainy Day

We've getting some nice rain. It wouldn't be so bad if it was a warm day. But with the chill in the air, you feel as if you're damp down to your bones.

Had a decent weekend. Worked Saturday until 4. Then drove up to see Al. We cooked some delicious fish dishes and watched the NCAA games. He was called into work Sunday morning at 7 am. We had a round of wild sex in the den before he left. I told him that the grin he had on his face was a dead giveaway that he just got laid. He laughed and said, "Go look in the mirror." Then he kissed me deeply and left for work.

I did...and saw I had the same goofy grin.

I drove back home that morning at 9 am and picked up my brother. We drove to meet the rest of the family at Holden Beach--that's where Granny lives. My uncle Jerry and his wife Ann, their daughther Lynn and her hubbie Mark were already there. Lisa and the nephews showed up a few mins after we did. The last to get there was Mom and her boyfriend John. Granny looked good. She seemed to be having a good day, but I could tell at times that she looked distressed. I'm sure with all the people in her small house that it seemed overwhelming. I did my best to keep the nephews occupied.

Jewel--granny's husband, let me drive his golf cart with the boys hanging out of it. I was careful until I got the hang of it. I used to be Al's driver when he played golf in Rock Hill, SC. So it wasn't hard to acclimate to driving a cart again. We had fun. I think I'm ready for a turn around a golf course now.

Walked out to the pier that lead to the intracostal waterway. There were a bunch of broken shells on it. Sea Gulls drop clams and mussels from the air ..when they land on hard spots, they break open and the birds eat the occupants. William, Ben and I had a shell tossing contest. I cut my finger on one...nothing serious..just a small scratch. After that I pretended to pick up shells and throw them. I'm thinking in another year or two, it will be tough to fool the boys.

We left at around 3:30. William rode back with me. I turned the radio to the groovy 70's and 80's station and we tried to sing along with the songs. He also read any billboard we passed. He's amazed me before but when he got some really hard words right (he sounds them out), I almost drove off the road.

Once we were back at home, I put up the food we brought back with us. William played on the PC for a while and then I took him home. I was in bed really early. All that driving took a lot out of me

Al called last night. He got an approval letter for the condo. Now he has to come up with a down payment and it's his. He thinks he doesn't deserve all this good luck. It breaks my heart to hear him talk like that. Everyone makes mistakes...and we shouldn't have to pay for them for an eternity. I told Al that if he thinks he isn't worthy, then he won't have good things come his way. He needs to get over the idea that he's Karma's bitch. (yes John...I'm stealing from Earl).

You've Been invited... to ...get LAID

get your attention? lmao.. love the subject lines of spam email... thought I would give catchy subject headers a try...

On the way to my brother's work place, we stopped at a small gas station for a soda for him to take with him inside work. I have never been inside that store, even though it's been there forever. And I was still in my jammies but with a coat over them. My hair wasn't too bad...sort of smoothed it down. Added some bright lipstick...figured that would be a great distraction. Focus on the lips and ignore the rest of me.... I procured his soda--a can of Orange Crush and marched to the front.

Couldn't figure out where the cash register was because they had everything under the sun on the counter... big jars of pickled eggs, pickles, some funky voodoo heads, it was weird... I asked the lady that was unpacking cigarettes "Where do I check out?"

She said, "That young man will help you," pointing at a guy I swear was *Fast Eddie's twin if it were the mid 80's and this was the Greenville area. But I couldn't get to his area because a black guy was unloading some boxes.

The lady said, "The ice cream man's in the way. Go around him."

I did and he said, "Come on up. I'll clear a spot off."

The FET (Fast Eddie Twin) said, "Honey, is this all?"

I said, "Yes." Then to the Ice Cream guy, "This is my first time inside."

He said, "You need to come more often. Are you from Lumberton?" (The store is off of I-95 at exit 19.

"Yes. Out in the country."

The EFT said, "Yes. Come by during the morning shift. That's when I'm here." (Ha...the lipstick trick was working)

The lady said, "Next time you come in and the ice cream guys in the way, make him move."

The ice cream guy and the FET laughed.

I said, "I'll bring my whipping stick. That always gets 'em out of the way."

(An elderly woman had come in and was standing behind me. She made a disgruntle sound, as if she disapproved.)

Everyone laughed and the lady said, "I don't know, honey. I think the guys around this area like that sort of thing."

I said, as I got my change back from FET and picked up the cold soda can, "Then I'll make sure to wear some leather."

I left amid the very loud grunt of disapproval from the woman behind me and the even louder laughter of the others.


*patent pending...

Sherrie
&
Allen

89% Compatible

♥ Sherrie and Allen have been romantically-together for a long time. That alone demonstrates a degree of compatibility. The religious faith they share may help to form a bond. They both abstain from drinking, so that helps compatibility. The fact that Allen is a big sports fan could be divisive, in terms of how the couple spends their time. The two share similar political beliefs, though. Both are brainy, and that is a good thing. However, their astrological signs are not in harmony. Their common love of animals is good thing. And their views on children are similar. Overall, Sherrie and Allen are highly compatible. They are capable of having a beautiful relationship together. ♥

The Dating Compatibility Test by Dating Diversions

Finally.... again

I apologize for not being around or making rounds to the blogs I read and whose owners read here...but.... (always a big but but luckily for me not a big butt)...Work's been hectic lately. I've taken in so much work--all referrals. I don't know if I can continue at this pace without hiring someone to answer the phone...wait...that's one way to get Dad to do more...threaten to hire a secretary. The only reason I'm blogging now is because I ran out of supplies for the printer. They're due in at noon tomorrow. So I thought I would take a moment to write.

The magazine issue is up and so far I've gotten good reviews from people who take the time to email me. My DJ friend Jeff wrote that even if it's late, it's always worth the wait. That made me feel better about not having it up sooner. Knowing he liked it...well that added a bonus to my day. I noticed on the hidden counters I have on the magazine that most guys are heading for the NCAA page...right John?

William's little poem/essay seems to be popular. He cracked me up Friday night, because he wanted to stay up late and play. I told him that if he went to sleep I would meet him in his dreams and we would play baseball. He said, "No...in our dreams let's look at the Number 5 and then shave the hair off of some clowns' backs."

I said, "Shave the hair off of some clowns' backs???"

He said, "Ok, just one clown." lol

Where he got that from...I have no idea! Ok.. probably from me.

I don't know why I thought Granny's birthday was last Sunday. It's the 19...this coming Sunday. My Uncle and his family are going too. Mom wants to cook a lot of food and take it. I say let everyone take something. I know Mom...she'll put it all on me and I don't want to spend Sat night and early Sunday morning doing all the cooking. Granny will be surprised and I plan to take a lot of pictures.

Went to Al's this weekend. It was great as usual. Though he wasn't feeling great so we canceled a dinner party whe had planned. Instead we watched th ACC tourney. He was very upset that a 'Yankee' team (Boston college) beat UNC. And on Sunday's game ..Duke Vs Boston, he pulled for Duke ONLY because he didn't want a "Yankee" team to win the ACC championship. I laughed. Talk about Southern prejudice! So the Big Dance begins tonight and I guess I'll keep up with it, because I know he'll want to discuss the games he's watching.

I pampered him quite a bit. He kept calling me over to where he sat on the couch Saturday night, so I could give him little kisses. At times I am so afraid I'll wake up and this will have been a dream. I love him so much. It feels good to know that love's given back with the same intensity. How people settle for a lukewarm relationship...it amazes me. I guess when you don't know what you're missing... you don't miss it.

We caught a great show on the Discovery channel Sunday night--it was about Blackbeard. I guess we're both a bit obsessed about him, since he had a home in Bath and raided the Outerbank's water's during the early 1700's. The guy who played Mark Anthony on the HBO series Rome, played Blackbeard. He did a great job.

I'm going tonight to get my new first rate fishing pole. My plan is to fish this summer. Mainly at the beach...and in the surf. I don't care much for pier fishing. I believe aliens live there.

To those of you who are wondering why I haven't emailed or IMed...I promise to do so tonight or tomorrow morning.

I love you, guys...

March Issue

....

is ready... well mostly ready...

go see for yourself!

Yipppppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

I am back in business. This printer has slots for memory cards, ipods, camera usb's, etc.. it has a screen on top of the printer that guides you if you get lost... it's wonderful... I should have gotten a new one ages ago...so far, it's being 'sherrie friendly'... (knock on wood)... I can print straight from memory cards or the camera without going through the PC...I don't have to use the razor thin photo paper..I can use whatever I want...no images cropped off...oh baby...

Do you hear that sound? Listen... it's me...running barefoot through the clover field of happiness...

The Devil, Flat Stanley and Diverticulitis

Phew...what a mouthful!

I knew I would said NEVER but well, hell's frozen over and I'm sleeping with the Devil again. Damn, I hope he calls the next morning...OH... In layman terms...I bought another HP printer ... it's temporary. Once we get the digital bugs ironed out, we'll invest in a more professional one.

Drove to Fayetteville to get it. I had planned to leave early but didn't get out of here until 6. Got the printer and decided to stay with Al for the evening. Much to his delight. Got here close to 8 and he had just got in from leaving a deposit on the condo. If his application is approved (he thinks there won't be a problem), he'll be the owner of a quaint condo.

He looked very pale when he got in. I knew something was wrong. His diverticulitis was acting up. He developed it a few years ago. I had him lie down and made him a light supper. In between bouts of pain, I rubbed his back. The pain would come in waves and stay away for as long as 30 mins, but when it returned it made him double over in pain. Poor guy. I fell asleep rubbing his back. He kept getting up all night. So I didn't sleep well. I hated to leave him this morning. He kept hugging me tight. Al's been on his own for so long...no one to show him love until I returned.

William's 1st grade class is doing a project called "Flat Stanley"...its a paper doll that they mail out of town to a friend or relative who mails it back with a story about Stanley's adventures. Will sent his to Al and it was there last night. Al and I had some fun with the camera, goofing off with Stanley. Most of them can't be used but I did get some for the project. I'll write up a story tonight and tomorrow print the photos that we can use and mail them back to William's first grade teacher. I'm sure once the project is done, it will appear in the magazine.

Speaking of that...I'm sufferring from a horrible bout of writer's block. I'm struggling to write even the simplest of articles. Maybe my muse will grace me tonight.

And guess what I heard at the lumber yard???? Barry Bonds...and steroids?? Oh my!

weekend update continues

...

Sunday morning, we juiced, something Al's recently introduced me to. Back when we were breaking up, he got into the 'juice' rage. Bought a Juiceman Jr and began juicing. I never did. Now that we're back, he's convinced me to try it and I find it's better than I thought. I've even purchased my own juiceman.

We use a bit of spinach or parsley (I like parsley best..it makes your breath smell so good), a stalk of celery, a bunch of carrots (carrot juice is sweet) and an apple. We put a glass under the spout to catch the juice that's squeezed from the various fruits and vegetables. I like to drink it fast. It's frothy and slightly sweet. So that's what we did Sunday for breakfast.


We did some various errands around town and came back home for a while. I decided to call Granny. She's on a new med and I wanted to see how it's affecting her. So I went outside to talk since it was a nice day. First thing she said was "It's about time you called." I knew she wouldnt' remember that I've been calling often. Then she said, "I'm not doing good at all." She sounded so tired. I really think old age has caught up with her. I once told Mom that when it does, she'll be hit hard by it. We talked for about 20 mins. It breaks my heart to talk to her. I try not to cry and I usually succeed but I didn't yesterday. I guess we all have great hopes that the medicines will help her and so far they aren't doing much to make her feel better. When we hung up, I noticed that Al was in the back yard, moving tree branches. I went inside and cried for a minute. Trying to get myself under control. I had done a great job of it until he came into the room. He said, "What's wrong with your eyes?" (I forget they turned really red when I cry). I put my hand out and tried to walk away, because tears were returning. He grabbed me and pulled me into a big hug and wouldn't let me go until I cried it out. Al kept stroking my hair, saying "It's ok. I'm here for you. Go ahead and cry." I did...and realized that it was what I needed. Someone's shoulder to cry on.

That's one thing I don't do often. Is let someone see me cry. I'm the one who lets others cry on my shoulder. I rarely cry on someone else's. Maybe this is why Al's been sent back to me...to be my rock to cling too. This is a side of Al that I've never known. And it warms my heart to know its there.

We went to look at some property that's for sale and found a really cool condo. It's a one bedroom, one bath ground floor condo, facing the pool. It's at a really nice area of town and the asking price is $48,000. I thought it would be all ratty inside but there was new carpet down and the rest of the place was in almost mint condition. I think Al really wants it. He's suppose to talk to the owner today.

Afer that we drove around the area, since both of us weren't use to it. And found a nice wildlife reserve. I'll write about it in the Magazine, most likely. I took some neat photos of the lake at dusk. They're really pretty.

After our lake venture, we hit Walmart. Got a few things he needed and suddendly he said, "Let's go have fun." He guided me to the sporting department. I said, "Fun? There's fun in Walmart."

I will say this...the next time a guy says something about women and shopping, I will say..."Oh yea...what about guys and shopping for sporting goods! You take longer to pick out a golf club or a fishing rod than we do to pick out a shade of nail polish!"

I know we spent about 30 minutes, looking at rods. Finally he settled on one. I pointed out that one fishing kit (meaning it has the pole, rigging, line and lures in it) and said, "That's for salt water." He was impressed that I knew the difference. I guess he's forgotten I'm a 'fisherwoman' at heart. I'll have to go fishing with him this summer and show him I can catch more fish.

We got home and had a light supper. Watched a bit of TV. Suddenly, he got up..and got out his fishing tackle box. Then we messed with the line on his new pole, etc. I thought he was sorting his tackle box so that he could fish sometime this week, but he wasn't. He called me over and said, "When you go visit your Grandmother this coming weekend, take my tackle box. I remember how much she loves to fish. Take her to the pier, take a chair and let her relax. The box is ready and I've got the lines fixed. You know how to salt water fish. Remember...if you don't catch a fish, it's ok. Just enjoy your time together." He took the tackle box out to my truck and when he came back inside, all I could do was hug him...and kiss him tenderly.

That man has won back my heart...and there's no going back.

bad Sherrie

Just realized I forgot to post the rest of my weekend news.

Will try to do that tomorrow...its been a hectic day and night.

Off to have sweet dreams... hope you do the same.

My Al

Here's my Al. We found a wildlife reserve--Lake Rim-- that neither of us knew about. I took this photo in the parking lot. Course he had to be goofy...it's funny but the way he posed reminded me of the nephews...they have to strike silly poses when I take their photos. We hit the reserve at dusk. I took some lovely photos of the sunset over the lake.

Al's hair is dirty blonde...in the winter it's dark and in the summer, it turns a nice shade of blonde.

Rainy Days and Monday

..today they're both. Though the sun is trying to smile at me. It's in the upper 50's and not too bad out. Yesterday's weather was lovely.

Let's see...so much to write about.

Friday night, the nephews and I hung out. I taught Ben how to make his own ham sandwich. He was so proud of it. He didn't want to eat it. Said, "I want to show mommy." So we took a photo of it. After supper and baths, we played on the computer. William and I sat in a chair together while Ben played "Operation." Suddenly William said, "Will you miss your broken heart?" That question struck me funny... will I miss it? No... I don't think so.

Saturday morning, we made pancakes and drew pictures. I didn't want to go to work but... had too. The Rumba on the River was going on. The crowd was huge. I had to park 3 blocks away and walk, which is a rare. I watched the run and walked over to the Chilli/Beach music festival. The band was really good.

We were really busy Saturday at the studio. I didn't get out of here until after 4. But I was packed and ready to go. one of Al's friend's ...his name is Grant, lives close by and was supposed to go up with me. He broke his rotator cup in his right shoulder and hasn't been able to drive much. After flip-flopping on whether to go or to stay home, he finally said he wasn't going. I hate to say this, but a lot of Al's old friend's aren't true friends. They come around when they need something. I've gotten rid of friends I had who did the same thing to me. Al needs to clean house. I asked him "How do they contribute to your life?" and he couldn't give me an answer. If someone or something takes away from your life, it's time to cut it loose.

I got to Al's house at 5:45. Was in the kitchen, getting my marinate ready for the fish steaks when he called to say he would be home in 40 minutes. But actually got in earlier than that...and I was so glad to see him...because I can't get his stupid can opener to work. Those crazy can openers that actually go around by themselves do not like me. I have one at home that I cannot for the life of me get to work. Now Al's got one... is this a conspiracy?

Told Al to sit down and relax... he got a shower instead and by the time he was done, I had dinner ready. It was a success...especially the apron and panties.

We watched Carolina kick Duke's butt and Al was a happy guy. We retired early and ...celebrated in a special way. (wink)

We fell asleep not long after the celebrating. Al has this habit--something he's always done and that's using his legs to 'trap' me. I tend to sleep in one spot, usually on one of my sides. When I do move around, it's due to being restless or my right arm aching. Al throws one of his legs over mine and hooks me with it. Then he puts his arm around my hips and that's how we sleep. I don't mind that we sleep that way...what I mind is that somehow I end up on the edge of the bed and the only thing that's keeping me on it...is Al's 'hook.' I woke up before daybreak and I had a small triangle of the bed. I woke Al up and told him I was falling off. He removed his leg and I moved over. Not ten minutes into sleep, he woke me up when he hooked his legs around mine. I smiled and fell asleep. He apologized the next morning for 'trapping' me. I said, "If the Al-trap keeps me from falling off the bed, I'm all for it."

Your Values Profile

Loyalty: You value loyalty highly. You're completely devoted to your friends and family. Even if they totally screw up, you're still there for them. Just make sure they're equally loyal to you! Honesty: You value honesty highly. You're unflinchingly honest, even when it's not easy. For you, integrity is very important - in yourself and others. People may not always like what you say, but they know they can trust it. Generosity: You value generosity a fair amount. You are all about giving, as long as there's some give and take. Supportive and kind, you don't mind helping out a friend in need. But you know when you've given too much. You have no problem saying "no"! Humility: You value humility highly. You have the self-confidence to be happy with who you are. And you don't need to seek praise to make yourself feel better. You're very modest, and you're keep the drama factor low. Tolerance: You value tolerance highly. Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you... You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends. You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them.

The Five Factor Values Test

Seattle Seahawks...Sean Locklear

Super Bowl stardom?
zackly.... and from Lumberton, too.

You Are 60% Open Minded

You are a very open minded person, but you're also well grounded. Tolerant and flexible, you appreciate most lifestyles and viewpoints. But you also know where you stand firm, and you can draw that line. You're open to considering every possibility - but in the end, you stand true to yourself.

How Open Minded Are You?

Guys named Bruce, Fair-Weather Friends and.... Salmon

For it to be such a pretty day, I'm totally stressed. Where are those slave boys? I need a massage ...NOW!

I slept pretty good last night. But had a crazy dream about a guy named Bruce. I never saw him. I was doing stuff ...can't remember what kind of stuff, but where ever I went, I left Bruce notes...with lipstick prints on them. I wonder who he is...this Bruce. Could it be Bruce Springsteen? OR Bruce Willis? Bruce...if you're out there and you know it's you... email me or comment. This is really on my mind today!

Since it's the first of the month, the One-week-a-month drivers are out. While trying to Parallel park, an old guy hit the back of my truck yesterday. Just a bump. He backed up and almost hit it again. I opened the studio door and said, "Mister, hit it again and you'll be buying me another one." He drove off and parked around the corner. I thought all old folks could parallel park! But I've been fooled all these years. So if you're out and you see a car driving at 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, be patient...this could be YOU one day.


My fair-weather friend called today to whine about the whether our High School class of 81 is having a class reunion this year. It's our 25th. We missed the 20th due to poor planning and I have a feeling we will miss this one if someone...like me, doesn't jump on board. The people chosen to be on the committee weren't good choices at all. Bon wants me to help her plan one and we'll get in touch with people...but I know what that really means...It means "Sherrie" will plan it and get in touch with everyone. I gave her some names of a few people who are stay-at-home moms and who would love to plan something like that. She hasnt' called back and I'm sort of relieved to be off the list of 'planners.' I get frustrated with people from around here, because they don't have their act together when it comes to planning things as important as reunions. The one in '96 was tossed together. I don't even want to go into it... or I'll be fuming made. Flames will pour from my ears and lasers will shoot out of my eyes.

Bon told me that she ran into an old high school flame of mine who was now divorced and asking about me. She thinks he wants my body. I think he probably asked about other people too but she's chosen to center on me. Bon said, "Wait til he sees you know. He'll really flip out." (She's referring to my toned lean look due to belly dance class). I broke the news that Al and I were back together and she went off on me. I wish this didn't happen during a phone conversation...because the flames shooting out of my ears has damaged my phone. I let her say her piece. And made my excuses to hang up. I could have spent an hour, pointing out her past and present mistakes, but I chose not too. Life's too short to play with 'little' minds. I know how things are now with Al...and it's not her business. She probably won't call for a while. That is...unless she needs my help with the class reunion.

It's really nice out today. Close to 80 degrees. Yesterday I went home and did some yard work. I have splinters in my fingers. I should get a needle and get them out.

Al has his mortgage lending class Sat. I'm going up after work and wait for him to get home. It's in Raleigh and lasts all day. My plan is to surprise him with supper... broiled salmon with sage, lemon and garlic. Roasted Brussel sprouts with garlic, and some other stuff (still planning the meal) and for dessert...a home-baked key lime pie.... An apron and a pair of silk panties is all I'm going to wear I think. (wink)

In Love with A Wild Man

After I broke up with Al in 99... we still kept in contact for a long time..even having a few sexual-capades. We've never gone long without one of us calling the other to see how they're doing...except last year...

He's always been funny. Someone who loves to tease. When I jumped back on the dating scene, I got used to sedated type guys. I think back ...over these dates and the short relationships and realize that I thought of them as boring. Even if they're fun to talk to or even get my jokes (some didn't), I still kept waiting for something from them..something that never happened.

Then in walks Al...back into my life and the wildness begins...and I love it. I'm never bored, even if I predict what he's going to do..I still love it.

I got to his house fairly early Saturday. I wasn't inside for long when he said, "Let's go." We took the Al-mobile (my nickname for his car) and went to look at houses. His house is very large...and too much for him. He's going to rent his house and find a smaller place to buy--good investment. We're looking for a fixer-upper. He likes to do handywork and has a eye for detail.

As we were driving through one neighborhood, we came to a traffic light and had to wait for it to turn green. Al said, "Where does this road go?" (He was referring to the road that was perpendular to us.

I had no idea. "I don't know."

"But you said you knew Fayetteville." He sat staring at me, eyebrows raised. He expected an answer. I knew he was semi-teasing me...

so I said, "It goes that way (pointing left with my right fore-finger) and that way (pointing right with my left fore-finger)."

He stayed silent...staring at me. I stared back and suddenly started laughing. He continued to stare. I saw him pull in his upper lip to keep from laughing. There was a guy standing on the corner with his dog. Al rolls down his car window and says, "Hey Bud, do you need a girlfriend? I've sell you mine...cheap."

We burst into laughter and I looked at him and said, "You have to admit it, Al. That was funny."

"Oh yea. It was a "Sherrie" answer." He grinned at me and we continued our journey when the light changed to green.

After we did our errands... we went back to his place. I was in the process of cleaning his kitchen when he annoucned that he needed to go to the grocery store because his cousin Dennis and Dennis' girlfriend Christine (who works with Al) were coming over later. Al wanted to cook something. I gave him my cell phone, told him to take it with him. I know Al. He'll forget what he needs and will have to make 3 trips. But if he has a phone handy, he can call and ask me...because he told me what he needed to get...and I secretly wrote it down.

He was surprised I handed it over. I guess he thinks I have stuff to hide. I don't. There are numbers in the address book that are unfamiliar to him, but they're my business and if he questions me about them, I'll answer truly. Just because we're together doesn't mean that our life before stopped. It didn't. I have friends, just like he does...and it doesn't mean I don't love him. It just means I have a life outside of him.

Al called about 4 times... like I knew he would. I didn't mind. He tried to fool me by disguising his voice. It didn't work. But when his cousin Dennis called...on his cell phone. I was fooled for a moment. Thought it was Al at first, but when he didn't start laughing, I knew it was his cousin.

When Al got in, he called Dennis and they set up a time. I finished tidying the house and rushed to change into something nice and fuss over my hair and face a bit. Al cooked up blackened catfish and some Octopus fritters. I made cole slaw with a hint of blue cheese in it. Plus some honey and bacon baked beans. It was all so yummy.

I did the prep work, Al did the cooking. So when our guests arrived, they went in and I was left to entertain them. Al stepped in and said, "Sherrie and her father own a photography studio. She does photographic restorations." Then he disappeared.
This opened up a topic and they asked questions. Christine said, "Allen told us at work that you are an artist. That 99 % of the art on his walls was done by you. Which ones are they?" I showed her some. Too modest to show all of them. Don't know why the knowledge that Al bragged on my talents humbled me.

Then Dennis asked, "Did you meet Allen in school?"

I told him no. Christine pressed the issue. "So how did you meet him?"

"I met Allen in early March of 95 at a sports pub. We noticed each other for a few weeks. Once I was playing pool at a table beside the one he was playing at. I was standing beside him, watching my friend take a shot when I noticed that Allen was staring at me out the corner of his eye. His face was towards his table but his eyes weren't. I turned and smiled at him and he quickly turned back to his table... caught and not wanting to admit it. About a week later, I was in area close to the bar and trying to get someone to dance with me. Allen walks in and I held out my hadn and said,'Care to Dance?' He took it and we danced...for a long time...the rest is history."

Christine said, "How romantic!"

But I couldn't let the illusion continue. "But we did break up for a long time. For many reasons. Right before Christmas, he walked into the studio. The moment I saw him, I realized we still had the old chemistry. He called in Jan and asked me over for dinner. Since then, I've been coming on the weekends ever since. We found each other again."

She smiled. "He's happy. All he does is talk about his 'Sherrie.'"

That made me happy. We ate soon after and then I cleaned up while she talked to me. We made jokes about men and love. After I finished the dishes, we joined the guys and watched Pirates of the Carribean. Al was telling a story from his youth and he said something but I can't remember what, which caused me and Christine to give the 'exchange of looks.' Al caught us. He said, "Ah...ha! Did you see that Dennis? Sherrie and Christine just exchanged the 'look.' You know...that universal eye contact that women know from all over. They've just met and yet they pass the 'look.'"

She and I laughed. Because we had. Dennis said, "They were plotting in the kitchen earlier."

We laughed some more. And they left around 11 or so. Al and I finished tidying the den and he disappeared soon after. I sat watching some TV, thinking he would come back but he didn't. I turned out the lights, blew out the candles we had lit and turned off the TV. It was quiet in the back of the house. I walked softly, thinking he was already asleep.

In the bedroom, there was only a candle burning. The bedcovers weren't turned down...and there was no Al. I stood, trying to figure out where he could be. Then...out the corner of my eye, I saw a naked man, crounching in the closet. He jumped out...and I screamed. It was Allen. Waiting to scare me to death. I fell over laughing at him, saying stuff like "So you've finally surrendered to your paranoia...by huddling naked and afraid in the closet. Or is this YOU coming out of the closet at last? Brokeback Al..." That's when he began to tickle me.

After a long bout of kissing and other things, I broke free and put on my night gown. It was a long deep pink Grecian type gown with a matching robe. I left the robe on the bed and ran to the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash the makeup off. When I came back, there was Al...in the middle of the bed, wearing the robe and doing 'Vogue' poses. I fell over laughing.

This is the way we are together. We have our moments of disagreement and we work through them. He's stubborn and so am I. He makes his point. I make mine and we find some ground in between to work through it. We aren't perfect and never will be, nor is our relationship perfect but at times... I feel it's close to being perfect.

My heart sings and I am thankful for God allowing us to be together again.

A Haibun style poem

Still behind rose-colored glasses, I sit, waiting for words to move
me. In the quietness of time, I find none. There is little hope for
a rose petal pressed tightly between the pages of Neruda poetry. The
moment the book was opened, the petal lost all beauty. For who can
compete with verses such as his?

I ask of myself, only this...to write from the heart. I struggle to
pen emotions, hiding behind the images I create with words...hoping
above all else to find a way to show the depth of my ocean. Yet at
times, I drown in the deepness of myself.

Once I was told that gold tints the edges of my lashes and if mined,
it would bring wealth beyond the riches of the universe. I see only
fool's gold. So many mistakes mar the surface of my glasses. If I
look closely, I can almost see through the rose tint, but the
brilliance from the fool's gold blinds me.

How temporary a soul can be? It is frail as a rose petal and easily
bruised by touch. I should warn you...in the depth of my ocean swims
my soul and if you seek it, you might drown. The gold that lives on
my lashes can't save you.

red rose petals
floating on waves...
waiting to die


~ ~ ~ ~
A Haibun is a bit of prose that ends with a haiku or you can insert haiku between each verse... it's usually about a travel/journey.. I like the form, especially if I want to meander in prose, yet keep it poetic.

It's been a busy day! Had a nice weekend away from the studio. Al and I enjoyed two solid days together. We had dinner with his cousin (whom he's recently met that lives in Fayetteville too) and his cousin's girlfriend. It was fun. I was surprised at how much Allen ahd told them about me. After dinner, we all hung out watching the Pirates of the Carribean. Christine and I got along great. We'll probably BBQ soon as the weather is nice.

Today hasn't been so bad. Got a lot done. Went to the post office to check the mail and found that my key wouldn't fit! So I went to the inside window and Ted, the clerk told me that some of the boxes were vandalized--that a group of guys had broken into them during the weekend. Sure enough...our box was on the list. I had to fill out a vandalism report and get new keys. Luckily no one mailed payments in this weekend. IT's a sad world when the post office gets pillaged.

Hanging out with the nephews tonight.. and I need to work on the magazine...once again I am really behind.

Yesterday was....

Hell... to quote the Rolling Stones:


"And look at me, I'm in tatters, yeah
I've been battered, what does it matter
Does it matter, uh-huh
Does it matter, uh-huh, I'm a shattered"

(humming is optional, Shadoobie)

Today is better...maybe due to me scheduling a rare 2 day weekend away from the studio.

It's been crazy here. No scanner...and I need one. Dad's been on my ass about going to the Offfice Depot and getting whatever. I said "NO". I'm getting a quality one, even if I have to do trekking. On top of this, my printer (Hewlett Packard is the Devil) is chopping off images when it prints. Only when I use razor thin paper does it print right. SO I need a new printer tooo... this is added to Dad's "Have you found (insert item name) yet?" Between the pressure from him and the pressure to get my work printed and out on time, I'm going into brain death before 2 pm every day.

Wednesday evening we found out that Granny is in the early stages of Alzheimers. We figured she might, because she's been getting lost going to places she goes to daily, forgetting things... walking around disoriented. She's upset and feels like a failure. I've been rallying close family members, so that we all can be upbeat and optimistic and ease some of her distress. She's on new meds and they seem to be helping. I talked to her this morning and she sounded more like Granny than she has in over 6 months. Say some prayers for her, please.

The stress of having to keep family members calm is telling on me too. I get calls daily with questions about Alzheimers. Today I plan to print out some information and make a 'guidebook' for those who can't grasp things, like my silly cousin who likes to make things worse than they are. Someone gets a paper cut and she spreads it around that they lost a finger.

The nephews are doing great. They're the bright spots in my life during the week. When I walk in the door and they're there, they both yell "Aunt Sherrie's HERE. Hey AUNT SHERRIE...COME LOOK AT THIS...or COME PLAY." They run and hug me and give me kisses. I was playing a video game with William Wed night and he was beating me badly...

I said, "Wow, you're killing me."
He said, "It's all for the Love of God."

Where he gets these funny comments...I don't know.

Allen passed a huge test, which suprised me. I was really upset Wednesday night. He called late and I sat in bed, listening to him rattle on about his day. I thought,"I want to talk about Granny, but I know he won't listen." That's how it was in the past...he was very self-absorbed. But I decided to try.

I said, "I have something important to talk about."
He grew quiet and waited. So I told him about Granny's Alzheimer and Al was so tender and full of concern. We talked about it until I felt better. He soothed my soul and that's a first. He's rarely been able to comfort me in the past. I have to confess, this made me fall more in love with him.

After yesterday's craziness at the studio, I went in search of batteries and candles. On the way home with my treasure trove, I called a close friend in Cali. Haven't had much time to talk of late. We chatted for a long time..catching up on things between his customers at the comic shop he works for part-time. I told him about Granny and he was very supportive. He told me about the birthdays that his son and wife just had. When I got home, I sat in the truck and took a deep breath. I could hear a lot of people in the background and knew he was getting busy. So I said, "Sam, I'm home and need to go inside and see what's up."

He said, "Take a deep breath. Relax and then face whatever's waiting, Painter lady." (his nickname for me and the name of this blog..lol)

I laughed shakily and said, "Thanks. I will. Have a great evening. I'll catch you soon."

Before I could hang up, he said, "Wait...there's something important I want to say to you..."

I said, "Ok." Waiting and wondering what it could be...figuring it had to do with his job or family or about the poetry book he's got in production."

Instead he said, "For 5 years now, you've been here for me...a strong and supportive friend. I don't think I say this enough...fuck, I know I don't...but I love you. And I'm glad you're in my life."

That started the tears... you know... it's good to hear that people love you and I realize I don't say it enough...so to my blog friends and my online friends.. I want to say this:

Jo... I love you and I miss our talks. Your insight on life has saved me many times.
King John... I love you and how you make me laugh with your wit.
Sarah HB... I love you like the daughter I've always wanted. You have so much to offer this world. Don't ever forget that."
Sandra...I love you and your crazy single life...it reminds me of myself when I was your age.
Lorraine... I love you. You're my blood sister and that says it all.
DJ JD...I love you. You've put up with my silly emails and sent me funny ones in return that make me fall off my seat laughing. Thanks for that.

It's good to have friends...now I'm off to call a few real life ones and tell them how much I love them.

One of my recent Photographic Restoration Projects

Shadow Dancer

In silence, shadows reach for me;
the soft light of moon watching.
The fabric of my soul stretches
like silk across my full breasts,
as the shadows claim their reward.
I should run from the carnal pleasure
that night covertly delivers to me.
Instead I embrace the decadence,
like a sultry shadow dancer,
locking the world outside her music box.

You are

What Rejected Crayon Are You?

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who are unbridled, untrammeled, and free. In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved. You'd like to your lover to think you are optimistic and happy. You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please. Your ideal relationship is open. Both of you can talk about everything... no secrets. Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment. You think of marriage as something precious. You'll treasure marriage and treat it as sacred. In this moment, you think of love as something you thirst for. You'll do anything for love, but you won't fall for it easily.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Your Brain's Pattern

Your brain is always looking for the connections in life. You always amaze your friends by figuring out things first. You're also good at connecting people - and often play match maker. You see the world in fluid, flexible terms. Nothing is black or white.

What Pattern Is Your Brain?

Your Birthdate: October 23

You're not good at any one thing, and that's the problem. You're good at so much - you never know what to do. Change is in your blood, and you don't stick to much for long. You are destined for a life of travel and fun. Your strength: Your likeability Your weakness: You never feel satisfied Your power color: Bright yellow Your power symbol: Asterisk Your power month: May

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Your Birth Month is October

You are a natural leader who is able to stand up when no one else can. Strong and powerful, you tend to overshadow those around you. Your soul reflects: Gratitude, comfort, and true love Your gemstone: Tourmaline Your flower: Cosmos Your colors: White and yellow

What Does Your Birth Month Mean?

There ya go... facts are facts

How You Are In Love

You take a while to fall in love with someone. Trust takes time. You give and take equally in relationships. You need your space and privacy. You don't like to be smothered. You love your partner unconditionally and don't try to make them change. You stay in love for a long time, even if you aren't loved back. When you fall, you fall hard.

How Are You In Love?

Tonight on PBS

The Ministry of Silly Walks




Monty Python's Personal Best.

It's a new series where the cast members share their personal favorites. Eric Idle kicks it off with his...the Silly Olympics, Bruces, Lumberjacks and the Hairdressers' Expedition to Mount Everest. This is British humor at its best.

It's one of those...

Nobody listens to "Turtlette" days!

I spent 10 mins explaining to a photographic colleague what I wanted him to do for me, regarding the scanning of a collage and then burning it to CD...

in 5 seconds, Dad confuses him by telling him what to do... which was all wrong...

and I have to spend 2 minutes telling Dad to be quiet and let me talk...then spend another 8 minutes going over what I required...again.

Dad hates it when I appear more knowledged than him...regarding anything. Then has to do stupid 'power plays' like the one today. But this one left egg on his face. I am the digital artist, not him. I know what I require to get the work done. He has no earthly idea how to scan, retouch or even print. That's his fault. We've had the digital system since 1998. All he's done has been to surf the net and play games on it.

I bit my tongue today. Next time... I might not.

Finally ... winter

It's very cold today. More so than yesterday...and gray.
I can deal with the cold... not with the rain that might come in.

Had a great weekend.
Drove up to see Allen.

I was in the kitchen last night, putting chocolate icing on a cake I baked for him. For no real reason, I glanced up and saw that he was watching me. His expression made my knees buckle. I was thankful to have the kitchen counter to lean against. Al's face had a softness to it, his eyes... that said all that my heart wanted to say... that I love him, as deeply as I did all those years ago...and I thought, "This love has never really left us."

I didn't say anything. I smiled at him and he smiled back. I know my answering look spoke to him, because his smile was a dopey and wide as mine.

We'll say those words soon. When the moment is perfect.

Saturday, we did some errands that he needed to do and then spent the evening, talking and watching porn. lol... it's so goofy--porn... he's not seen much due to being a prude for 45 years, so this is like candy to him. I sit and dissect it. Make commentary remarks that crack him up. After he got tired of the porn, he said, "Ok, it's time to hide the salami." That cracked me up...

Sex... well, it's been animalistic and wild...and the afterglow has been loving and tender... that's all I'm going to say about it.

Sunday, I cooked breakfast. We watched the Carolina game. Then I did some stuff...like clean his refridge. Why don't most men living alone, think to clean stuff like...the tile in the shower, wipe up spills in the fridge, sweep under things, etc... I haven't been doing much cleaning while I'm there because I don't want him to think I'm trying to be his mom. But I couldn't stand it any longer and did some work around the house. He went out and trimmed his azalea bushes. It was cold out... after I was done with the other cleaning, Al came in and said, "Get your coat, your gloves, your scarf and a hat." I did. Went out and he had a bonfire going. We hung out around it. Dancing...no music, just the crackle of the fire.

When we turned in for the night, in Al's arms I fell asleep...to the memory of us laughing and dancing under the stars and not feeling the cold.

Spitting nails

Yesterday afternoon was a bitch. My printer kept cropping off parts of the picture I was printing. One of my digital imaging programs kept freezing and when I tried to save my work, the program would close itself. I had one really damaged photo fixed and lost the whole file.

Then on top of it all, a customer came in to pick up an order that she needed by Friday...and tells me I got the wrong photo ready (She brought in 3)...instead of the photo I had prepared and printed, she needed the other two--both required some light retouching. I showed her the work order, because I wrote it down like she said. Instead of saying, "Oh you're right." She said, "Well, you musta not been listening."

I told her I would have the photos ready by 11 this morn and she left. I haven't seen her yet. She'll probably appear right when I'm leaving.

A few other things happened and I came to the conclusion that even with a new PC system, HP Printers still are the devil.

When I left work...I was so frustrated and irritated that I could have spit nails...enough to build a condo. The drive home usually is only 5 minutes. I get behind Grandma Bluehair and her sister Silver Puff who are talking and sightseeing, while driving 35 mph. Behind me is a prick... we all know it's better to have an asshole in front of you than a prick behind you. He's a young dud in a pimped up car, driving on my bumper. The traffic coming was so solid that I couldn't pass Granny and her Sister. So instead of 5 mins it took almost 10.

I pull into my drive and my sister is there, blocking the path I drive to the shelter I usually park under. I couldn't squeeze by her without running over my azeala bushes. So I had to drive around the block and come in via the path behind the house.

As I walked to the house, I could hear the nephews--loudly. They were either playing or having a fight. Mom and Lisa's voices were just as loud and I thought, "Give me patience to swallow these nails I want to spit out."

In an outdoor chair by the back door was a single red rose surrounded by greenery and baby's breath flowers. It was wrapped in white tissue paper with red roses printed on it. A red ribbon secured the paper. The card simply read "Sherrie" in Al's handwriting. He had left a rose for me.... to find when I got home.

Every irritation, every frustration, every ounce of anger and impatience dissolved into nothingness, as I reached for the rose. I opened the card and it said, "Happy VD. Love, Allen." My heart sang and I stepped inside the kitchen smiling.

Expect nothing and you receive rewards.

I talked to Al later. He laughed at me and said, "I put the rose outside your door last night (Tuesday-V day), to see if you would see it. I was shocked you didn't because, you went outside several times."

"You didn't have to do this, you know. Your visit meant just as much as getting flowers or candy."

He laughed, "I know, baby. Can't believe it took you so long to find it."

"I had a horrible afternoon. When I saw the rose, it evaporated. So I think I found it at the perfect time, sweetie."

Day after Valentine's Day Sale

Now's the time to buy the expensive boxes of chocolate for half-price!

My dad used to do that...lol

I had a nice day yesterday. Got some roses...not from Al. I don't think he's ever gotten me roses on Valentine's day. He's sent flowers in the past but ususally for my birthday or just because. I didn't expect any from him. These roses came from a guy who won't give up on me. He thinks that one day, I'll come around and see the light--that he's my soulmate and we'll live in the eternal bliss of true love. Wrong... he's a nice guy but there are no sparks. This year the card read, "Maybe one day my dreams will come true."

I try to be polite and kind to him...like most of us, I know what unrequited love feels like.

I left work at 5:15...stopped for gas at one of my ususal places. The guy who works there is from the middle east and a handsome young guy. He's got a crush on me. After I paid for the gas, he stammered out "Hoppy Volentine." I gave him a wink and said, "Same to you, dear."

Got home around 6:30, after doing some errands and cooked dinner for my brother. He couldn't believe Al wasn't coming down to visit on Valentine's Day. I told him I didn't expect it, because of his schedule.

Guess what...at 8 pm, Al calls and says he's in town and can he come over. I was so shocked, standing there in my jammies. I was watching Napoleon Dynamite...after all he's my Valentine this year. I said "But I thought you couldn't make it tonight." He replied in purr, "I have to see my 'fuckbunny' on Valentine's Day."

I changed clothes before he got there and we had a great night together.

Guess who called... the guy who sent the roses. I didn't bring them home...not because I didn't want Al to see them... I just plain ole forgot about them.
I thanked the guy and then told him I had company and said goodbye. Al noticed my flushed face and gave me an inquiring look. All I said was "That was a guy who has had a huge crush on me...for the last 3 years. He doesn't believe in giving up."

Al laughed but I saw him studying me closely later, as if seeing me differently--maybe as the object of desire for other men. I think it's good to know that the person you love is desireable. I'm very aware of his sex appeal.

My brother went to bed early because he had to work this morning. So once things were quiet, Al and I had a romping sex-capade in the den. Every piece of furniture was molested. He mentioned something very decadent last weekend but it never crept up last night...and I'm glad because last night was all about us... and I loved that.

This morning I dropped my brother off at work and came back home to wake Al up 'Sherrie style.' Talk about the morning glow...we both had it.

And I can truly say...this was the best Valentine's holiday ever.

This quiz result is very on target!!!

You Were A Lion

You have a lethal combination of strength and energy. You have strong family ties, and close friends are like family to you.

What Animal Were You In a Past Life?

Give me chocolate... Like this:

Need I say more?