Black Cherries by W. S. Merwin
Apr. 27th, 2025 04:13 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
conulyLate in May as the light lengthens
toward summer the young goldfinches
flutter down through the day for the first time
to find themselves among fallen petals
cradling their day's colors in the day's shadows
of the garden beside the old house
after a cold spring with no rain
not a sound comes from the empty village
as I stand eating the black cherries
from the loaded branches above me
saying to myself Remember this
*******
Link
toward summer the young goldfinches
flutter down through the day for the first time
to find themselves among fallen petals
cradling their day's colors in the day's shadows
of the garden beside the old house
after a cold spring with no rain
not a sound comes from the empty village
as I stand eating the black cherries
from the loaded branches above me
saying to myself Remember this
Link
World Book Day
Apr. 23rd, 2025 12:10 amysabetwordsmithThe official theme for World Book Day 2025 is:
"Read Your Way: Diverse Books for Every Mind"
This theme emphasizes the importance of inclusion and diversity in reading. It encourages readers to explore different voices, perspectives, and cultures through literature, promoting empathy and global understanding.
( Read more... )
"Read Your Way: Diverse Books for Every Mind"
This theme emphasizes the importance of inclusion and diversity in reading. It encourages readers to explore different voices, perspectives, and cultures through literature, promoting empathy and global understanding.
( Read more... )
Good News
Apr. 23rd, 2025 12:09 amysabetwordsmithGood news includes all the things which make us happy or otherwise feel good. It can be personal or public. We never know when something wonderful will happen, and when it does, most people want to share it with someone. It's disappointing when nobody is there to appreciate it. Happily, blogging allows us to share our joys and pat each other on the back.
What good news have you had recently? Are you anticipating any more? Have you found a cute picture or a video that makes you smile? Is there anything your online friends could do to make your life a little happier?
What good news have you had recently? Are you anticipating any more? Have you found a cute picture or a video that makes you smile? Is there anything your online friends could do to make your life a little happier?
Quote & Fact...
Apr. 23rd, 2025 12:03 amfairyniamhQuote:
"Be brave and clear. Follow your heart and don't be overly influenced by outside factors. Be true to yourself."
"If you hear someone scream, you shouldn't close the drapes. You should help. You've got to try."
~ Shirley Temple
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Wisconsin :
No person shall throw or shoot any object, arrow, stone, snowball, other missile or projectiles, by hand or by any other means, at any other person or at, in or into any building, street, sidewalk, alley, highway, park, playground, or other public place within the city of Wausau. (Okay, do I agree with most of this... Minus snowballs and projectiles is too vague. I, now, openly admit to using spitballs against my bullies. Most teachers knew it was done in retaliation.)
According to state Statute 944.16, adultery is a Class I Felony punishable by $10,000 and three years in jail. (They take adultery seriously. Not as serious as I do. I warned my husband that if ye cheats, I will make Lorena Bobbitt look like a newborn kitten. He may look all he likes, as long as there is no touching.)
"Be brave and clear. Follow your heart and don't be overly influenced by outside factors. Be true to yourself."
"If you hear someone scream, you shouldn't close the drapes. You should help. You've got to try."
~ Shirley Temple
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Wisconsin :
No person shall throw or shoot any object, arrow, stone, snowball, other missile or projectiles, by hand or by any other means, at any other person or at, in or into any building, street, sidewalk, alley, highway, park, playground, or other public place within the city of Wausau. (Okay, do I agree with most of this... Minus snowballs and projectiles is too vague. I, now, openly admit to using spitballs against my bullies. Most teachers knew it was done in retaliation.)
According to state Statute 944.16, adultery is a Class I Felony punishable by $10,000 and three years in jail. (They take adultery seriously. Not as serious as I do. I warned my husband that if ye cheats, I will make Lorena Bobbitt look like a newborn kitten. He may look all he likes, as long as there is no touching.)
Insect Apocalypse
Apr. 22nd, 2025 10:29 pmysabetwordsmithInsects are disappearing due to agriculture -- and many other drivers, new research reveals
New paper highlights 500+ interconnected drivers behind global insect decline.
Insects are disappearing at an alarming rate worldwide, but why? Agricultural intensification tops the list of proposed reasons, but there are many other, interconnected drivers that have an impact, according to new research.
( Read more... )
New paper highlights 500+ interconnected drivers behind global insect decline.
Insects are disappearing at an alarming rate worldwide, but why? Agricultural intensification tops the list of proposed reasons, but there are many other, interconnected drivers that have an impact, according to new research.
( Read more... )
Poet's Corner: Leaving the Psychologist: An Abecedarian Ekphrastic by Grisel Y. Acosta
Apr. 22nd, 2025 10:51 pmstonepicnicking_okapiI love an ekphrastic and this is proof that poetic forms we might think of as nothing but wordplay or for children (e.g., abecedarians or acrostics) can be very sophisticated and serious.
Leaving the Psychologist: An Abecedarian Ekphrastic by Grisel Y. Acosta
after Remedios Varo’s Mujer saliendo del psicoanalista
another face has sprouted in my chest
beastly, that’s me, a super freak
cavorting with your skull in my grasp
displaced personalities cannot be cloaked
ever, they will grow like a haunted
fever of wispy hair
gathered in a basket, along with time, a
half-filled vial of poison &
illusions of tick-tock-clocking syringe
just let me explain:
killing myself is not an option
let me try to live with my
multiple personas and their infinite masks, why
not weave them into a poncho
of chartreuse green, grow them,
pouch them, wear them like horns
question my memories, befriend
radical thoughts and nightmares
solemn my specters behind
tenuous doors with intimidating bells
understand the unexplainable, develop
venom as Tilda Swinton couture
when dreams become a snail shell planted
X, marks the spot of this treasure I shall reveal,
yell on a mountain, YES, this is mine, I will
zap my fears—I can face all the faces, darling, of course I can
--
This is the work of art which inspired the piece:
Leaving the Psychologist: An Abecedarian Ekphrastic by Grisel Y. Acosta
after Remedios Varo’s Mujer saliendo del psicoanalista
another face has sprouted in my chest
beastly, that’s me, a super freak
cavorting with your skull in my grasp
displaced personalities cannot be cloaked
ever, they will grow like a haunted
fever of wispy hair
gathered in a basket, along with time, a
half-filled vial of poison &
illusions of tick-tock-clocking syringe
just let me explain:
killing myself is not an option
let me try to live with my
multiple personas and their infinite masks, why
not weave them into a poncho
of chartreuse green, grow them,
pouch them, wear them like horns
question my memories, befriend
radical thoughts and nightmares
solemn my specters behind
tenuous doors with intimidating bells
understand the unexplainable, develop
venom as Tilda Swinton couture
when dreams become a snail shell planted
X, marks the spot of this treasure I shall reveal,
yell on a mountain, YES, this is mine, I will
zap my fears—I can face all the faces, darling, of course I can
--
This is the work of art which inspired the piece:
Drabble: Comfortable (Scorpius/Rose)
Apr. 22nd, 2025 10:38 pmlightofdayeTitle: Comfortable
Rating: G
Characters & Pairing: Scorpius Malfoy/Rose Weasley
Word Count: Fluff
Content: 1 x 100
Disclaimer: The characters, settings and HP Franchise as a whole are owned by JKR and not by me. I make no profit from writing this piece of fanfiction.
Summary: A first for Scorpius.
A/n: Unbeta'd. Written for![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
hp_nextgen100's Prompt #324: "Comfort"
( Comfortable )
Rating: G
Characters & Pairing: Scorpius Malfoy/Rose Weasley
Word Count: Fluff
Content: 1 x 100
Disclaimer: The characters, settings and HP Franchise as a whole are owned by JKR and not by me. I make no profit from writing this piece of fanfiction.
Summary: A first for Scorpius.
A/n: Unbeta'd. Written for
hp_nextgen100's Prompt #324: "Comfort"( Comfortable )
2025 Yahtzee Roll #3: Fill #5
Apr. 22nd, 2025 04:52 pmstonepicnicking_okapiTitle: Pernickety Poisoner
Fandom: Original
Poetic form: Abecedarian
Rating: Gen
No. of lines: 28
Prompt: Persnickety
Summary: An abecedarian about how nothing in the persnickety's poisoner's cabinet is of any use! So vexing!
( Read more... )
Fandom: Original
Poetic form: Abecedarian
Rating: Gen
No. of lines: 28
Prompt: Persnickety
Summary: An abecedarian about how nothing in the persnickety's poisoner's cabinet is of any use! So vexing!
( Read more... )
2025 Yahtzee Roll #3: Fill #4
Apr. 22nd, 2025 03:42 pmstonepicnicking_okapiTitle: Gandhi
Fandom: Original
Poetic form: kyrielle (a variation on)
No. of Lines: 28
Prompt: Ambitious
Rating: Gen
Summary: a variation on a kyrielle about the life of Gandhi
( Read more... )
Fandom: Original
Poetic form: kyrielle (a variation on)
No. of Lines: 28
Prompt: Ambitious
Rating: Gen
Summary: a variation on a kyrielle about the life of Gandhi
( Read more... )
Birdfeeding
Apr. 22nd, 2025 02:17 pmysabetwordsmithToday is mostly sunny and warm with a light breeze, a beautiful spring day. :D
I fed the birds. I've seen several sparrows and house finches, two brown-headed cowbirds, a mourning dove, and two fox squirrels.
I put out water for the birds.
EDIT 4/22/25 -- We went out shopping. I picked out roughly 5 flats of plants at DeBuhr's. We found a garden hose, nozzle, and reel plus a gas can at Home Depot. Also at Home Depot I spotted a modular garage storage system that looks very promising. It has mounting rails for shelves and a wide variety of hooks. That ought to combine well with a pegboard.
EDIT 4/22/25 -- I planted a 'Sugar Snack' cherry tomato and a 'Yellow Pear' tomato in the large pots by the septic garden, each with 4 marigolds around it.
As it is getting dark, I am done for the night.
I fed the birds. I've seen several sparrows and house finches, two brown-headed cowbirds, a mourning dove, and two fox squirrels.
I put out water for the birds.
EDIT 4/22/25 -- We went out shopping. I picked out roughly 5 flats of plants at DeBuhr's. We found a garden hose, nozzle, and reel plus a gas can at Home Depot. Also at Home Depot I spotted a modular garage storage system that looks very promising. It has mounting rails for shelves and a wide variety of hooks. That ought to combine well with a pegboard.
EDIT 4/22/25 -- I planted a 'Sugar Snack' cherry tomato and a 'Yellow Pear' tomato in the large pots by the septic garden, each with 4 marigolds around it.
As it is getting dark, I am done for the night.
The Way Spring Arrives and Other Stories, ed. Yu Chen & Regina Kanyu Wang (2022) [part 2]
Apr. 22nd, 2025 11:32 ampauraqueThis is part 2 of my book club notes on The Way Spring Arrives and Other Stories. [Part 1.]
"The Restaurant at the End of the Universe: Tai Chi Mashed Taro" by Anna Wu (2016), tr. Carmen Yiling Yan
( A time-traveling meditation on the rise and fall of people and societies. )
"The Futures of Genders in Chinese Science Fiction" by Jing Tsu (2022) [essay]
( Discussion of the depiction and participation of people of marginalized genders in Chinese SF. )
"Baby, I Love You" by Zhao Haihong (2002), tr. Elizabeth Hanlon
( In the not-too-distant future, a programmer works on a holographic virtual baby while his real family life falls apart. )
"A Saccharophilic Earthworm" by BaiFanRuShang (2005), tr. Ru-Ping Chen
( After a disabling accident, a theater director believes she can teach flowers to dance. )
"The Alchemist of Lantian" by BaiFanRuShang (2005), tr. Ru-Ping Chen
( Every time a godlike being helps a human, their own exile in the mortal world is extended. )
"The Restaurant at the End of the Universe: Tai Chi Mashed Taro" by Anna Wu (2016), tr. Carmen Yiling Yan
( A time-traveling meditation on the rise and fall of people and societies. )
"The Futures of Genders in Chinese Science Fiction" by Jing Tsu (2022) [essay]
( Discussion of the depiction and participation of people of marginalized genders in Chinese SF. )
"Baby, I Love You" by Zhao Haihong (2002), tr. Elizabeth Hanlon
( In the not-too-distant future, a programmer works on a holographic virtual baby while his real family life falls apart. )
"A Saccharophilic Earthworm" by BaiFanRuShang (2005), tr. Ru-Ping Chen
( After a disabling accident, a theater director believes she can teach flowers to dance. )
"The Alchemist of Lantian" by BaiFanRuShang (2005), tr. Ru-Ping Chen
( Every time a godlike being helps a human, their own exile in the mortal world is extended. )
Tags:
- book club,
- books,
- books: author: anna wu,
- books: author: baifanrushang,
- books: author: jing tsu,
- books: author: zhao haihong,
- books: editor: regina kanyu wang,
- books: editor: yu chen,
- books: genre: fantasy,
- books: genre: science fiction,
- books: genre: speculative fiction,
- books: theme: androids/ai,
- books: theme: feminism,
- books: theme: time travel,
- books: translator: carmen yiling yan,
- books: translator: elizabeth hanlon,
- books: translator: ru-ping chen,
- books: type: essays,
- books: type: short stories,
- books: year: 2002,
- books: year: 2005,
- books: year: 2016,
- books: year: 2022
Palestinian Speculative Fiction Reading List
Apr. 22nd, 2025 12:49 amysabetwordsmithThe following is a growing reading list for the ReadPalestinianSpecFic challenge. This is a work in progress to create a list of all available Palestinian speculative fiction.
Quote & Fact...
Apr. 22nd, 2025 12:21 amfairyniamhQuote:
"The perfect family doesn't exist, nor is there a perfect husband or a perfect wife, and let's not talk about the perfect mother-in-law! It's just us sinners. A healthy family life requires frequent use of three phrases: "May I? Thank you, and I'm sorry" and "never, never, never end the day without making peace.""
"Just as we need the courage to be happy, we also need the courage to live simply."
~ Pope Francis (R.I.P. 1936–2025)
Facts: (Weird Laws)
West Virginia :
You are prohibited to bring Leopards to church. (This law extends to tigers, lions and snakes. Why is anyone bringing dangerous animals to church?)
It's illegal to tell a miner when they can sleep. (I understand this. This is an extremely taxing job, both mentally and physically job and they grab sleep when and where they can.)
"The perfect family doesn't exist, nor is there a perfect husband or a perfect wife, and let's not talk about the perfect mother-in-law! It's just us sinners. A healthy family life requires frequent use of three phrases: "May I? Thank you, and I'm sorry" and "never, never, never end the day without making peace.""
"Just as we need the courage to be happy, we also need the courage to live simply."
~ Pope Francis (R.I.P. 1936–2025)
Facts: (Weird Laws)
West Virginia :
You are prohibited to bring Leopards to church. (This law extends to tigers, lions and snakes. Why is anyone bringing dangerous animals to church?)
It's illegal to tell a miner when they can sleep. (I understand this. This is an extremely taxing job, both mentally and physically job and they grab sleep when and where they can.)
Photos: Cookie Jar Terrarium Part 1: Setup
Apr. 21st, 2025 10:35 pmysabetwordsmithRecently I bought a little fern, so I'm making a new terrarium. You can also see the previous Antique Jar Terrarium.
( Read more... )
( Read more... )
Monday Update 4-21-25
Apr. 21st, 2025 01:36 pmysabetwordsmithThese are some posts from the later part of last week in case you missed them:
Birdfeeding
Spring Friending Meme
Intro to the Web Revival #1: What is the Web Revival?
Books with Queer Autistic Characters for Autism Awareness Month
Today's Adventures
Birdfeeding
Philosophical Questions: Immigrants
Creative Jam
Vocabulary: Ladramhaiola
Join the Fictionfolk Webring
Safety
Read "The Greater Good"
Birdfeeding
Safety
Food
Where are the trans people toilets?
Jug Crafts for Gardening
Frugal Friday
Never Forget
Follow Friday 4-18-25: Graphics
Reality Imitating Art
Navajo Peaches
Birdfeeding
Anosognosia
Hobbies: Creative Writing
Gilda and Meek and the Un-Iverse
Success!
Transgender
Birdfeeding
Cuddle Party
"Not a Destination, But a Process" has 127 comments. "The Democratic Armada of the Caribbean" has 75 comments. Joann Fabrics going out of business has 56 comments.
Watch for Three Weeks for Dreamwidth coming April 25-May 15. People will celebrate the anniversary of the platform by posting things only on Dreamwidth and doing other blog activities. Think ahead about what you'll want to post while the traffic is higher.
"Babes in the Pineywoods" belongs to the Big One. It belongs to the Big One thread of Polychrome Heroics. Bo-Art and Creamjeans talk with the Black Doctor.
The weather has been variable and wet here. It rained last night Seen at the birdfeeders this week: a mixed flock of sparrows and house finches, a flock of grackles, a flock of brown-headed cowbirds, several blue jays, several starlings, two mourning doves, a male cardinal, a brown thrasher, a robin, and Nipple Squirrel. I've heard red-winged blackbirds and woodpeckers. Squills, pear, forsythia, and serviceberry are done. Currently blooming: daffodils, violets, blue grape hyacinths, tulips, dandelions, trilliums, snowbells, crabapples, lilacs, bleeding heart, redbud, columbine. Peonies have flower buds.
Birdfeeding
Spring Friending Meme
Intro to the Web Revival #1: What is the Web Revival?
Books with Queer Autistic Characters for Autism Awareness Month
Today's Adventures
Birdfeeding
Philosophical Questions: Immigrants
Creative Jam
Vocabulary: Ladramhaiola
Join the Fictionfolk Webring
Safety
Read "The Greater Good"
Birdfeeding
Safety
Food
Where are the trans people toilets?
Jug Crafts for Gardening
Frugal Friday
Never Forget
Follow Friday 4-18-25: Graphics
Reality Imitating Art
Navajo Peaches
Birdfeeding
Anosognosia
Hobbies: Creative Writing
Gilda and Meek and the Un-Iverse
Success!
Transgender
Birdfeeding
Cuddle Party
"Not a Destination, But a Process" has 127 comments. "The Democratic Armada of the Caribbean" has 75 comments. Joann Fabrics going out of business has 56 comments.
Watch for Three Weeks for Dreamwidth coming April 25-May 15. People will celebrate the anniversary of the platform by posting things only on Dreamwidth and doing other blog activities. Think ahead about what you'll want to post while the traffic is higher.
"Babes in the Pineywoods" belongs to the Big One. It belongs to the Big One thread of Polychrome Heroics. Bo-Art and Creamjeans talk with the Black Doctor.
The weather has been variable and wet here. It rained last night Seen at the birdfeeders this week: a mixed flock of sparrows and house finches, a flock of grackles, a flock of brown-headed cowbirds, several blue jays, several starlings, two mourning doves, a male cardinal, a brown thrasher, a robin, and Nipple Squirrel. I've heard red-winged blackbirds and woodpeckers. Squills, pear, forsythia, and serviceberry are done. Currently blooming: daffodils, violets, blue grape hyacinths, tulips, dandelions, trilliums, snowbells, crabapples, lilacs, bleeding heart, redbud, columbine. Peonies have flower buds.
I did the second most terrifying thing
Apr. 24th, 2025 02:00 pmconulyand applied for a shitton of jobs. The worst they can do is call me a dipshit, and they probably wouldn't do that to my face. I think? Seems like a waste of time to call somebody up and say "You're terrible, how could you think we'd consider you?"
*****************
( Read more... )
( Read more... )
Birdfeeding
Apr. 21st, 2025 01:32 pmysabetwordsmithToday is cloudy, breezy, and cool. It rained for hours last night.
I fed the birds. I've seen a few sparrows and house finches, plus a brown-headed cowbird.
I put out water for the birds.
The single yellow violet (which might be a hairy yellow violet) that I planted in the forest garden has seeded a whole new plant! :D 3q3q3q!!!! I am so excited.
We measured from the spigot to the old picnic table and the new picnic table. We'll need to acquire a 75-foot hose.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- The plumbers have come and gone. We have a working outside spigot! \o/ It has low water pressure for reasons that are not feasible to fix, but at least water comes out of it.
We dug up the old hoses. The yellow ones were in pieces so we threw those away. The green is still attached to a different spigot that it won't come off. But at least the yellows are gone. Progress.
I started working on a new cookie jar terrarium for the potted fern, but other things intervened so I haven't gotten very far yet.
I've seen the tufted titmouse! :D I haven't seen him in weeks, so I'm glad he's still around.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- I did a bit of work around the patio.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- I picked up more sticks for the firepit.
As it is now dark, I am done for the night.
I fed the birds. I've seen a few sparrows and house finches, plus a brown-headed cowbird.
I put out water for the birds.
The single yellow violet (which might be a hairy yellow violet) that I planted in the forest garden has seeded a whole new plant! :D 3q3q3q!!!! I am so excited.
We measured from the spigot to the old picnic table and the new picnic table. We'll need to acquire a 75-foot hose.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- The plumbers have come and gone. We have a working outside spigot! \o/ It has low water pressure for reasons that are not feasible to fix, but at least water comes out of it.
We dug up the old hoses. The yellow ones were in pieces so we threw those away. The green is still attached to a different spigot that it won't come off. But at least the yellows are gone. Progress.
I started working on a new cookie jar terrarium for the potted fern, but other things intervened so I haven't gotten very far yet.
I've seen the tufted titmouse! :D I haven't seen him in weeks, so I'm glad he's still around.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- I did a bit of work around the patio.
EDIT 4/21/25 -- I picked up more sticks for the firepit.
As it is now dark, I am done for the night.
Voter Suppression
Apr. 21st, 2025 01:28 pmysabetwordsmithIndivisible reports that these Democratic senators in particular need to hear from their constituents right now to oppose HR22, a bill which would disinfranchise millions of people, mostly women, from voting.
Ode to a Yellow Onion by C. Dale Young
Apr. 23rd, 2025 03:51 amconulyAnd what if I had simply passed you by,
your false skins gathering light in a basket,
those skins of unpolished copper,
would you have lived more greatly?
Now you are free of that metallic coating,
a broken hull of parchment,
the dried petals of a lily—
those who have not loved you
will not know differently.
But you are green fading into yellow—
how deceptive you have been.
Once I played the cithara,
fingers chafing against each note.
Once I worked the loom,
cast the shuttle through the warp.
Once I scrubbed the tiles
deep in the tub of Alejandro.
Now I try to deciper you.
Beyond the village, within a cloud
of wild cacao and tamarind,
they chant your tale, how you,
most common of your kind,
make the great warrior-men cry
but a woman can unravel you.
****
Link
your false skins gathering light in a basket,
those skins of unpolished copper,
would you have lived more greatly?
Now you are free of that metallic coating,
a broken hull of parchment,
the dried petals of a lily—
those who have not loved you
will not know differently.
But you are green fading into yellow—
how deceptive you have been.
Once I played the cithara,
fingers chafing against each note.
Once I worked the loom,
cast the shuttle through the warp.
Once I scrubbed the tiles
deep in the tub of Alejandro.
Now I try to deciper you.
Beyond the village, within a cloud
of wild cacao and tamarind,
they chant your tale, how you,
most common of your kind,
make the great warrior-men cry
but a woman can unravel you.
Link
Quote & Fact...
Apr. 21st, 2025 12:24 amfairyniamhQuote:
"There is no happiness like that of being loved by your fellow creatures, and feeling that your presence is an addition to their comfort."
"To you I am neither man nor woman. I come before you as an author only."
~ Charlotte Bronte
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Washington :
It’s Illegal to Attach a “Leash” to a Human. (I have no shame in admitting that I leashed both of my daughters around their waist... And they enjoyed pulling me around.)
It’s illegal to pick flowers from public spaces or protected areas without permission. (Yes, flowers are pretty, but leave them alone.)
"There is no happiness like that of being loved by your fellow creatures, and feeling that your presence is an addition to their comfort."
"To you I am neither man nor woman. I come before you as an author only."
~ Charlotte Bronte
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Washington :
It’s Illegal to Attach a “Leash” to a Human. (I have no shame in admitting that I leashed both of my daughters around their waist... And they enjoyed pulling me around.)
It’s illegal to pick flowers from public spaces or protected areas without permission. (Yes, flowers are pretty, but leave them alone.)
conulyJenn's plan to self-set-up her own balanced billing + a random screwup with autopay that she didn't realize until we were in the hole + having to help a friend get out of an abusive relationship = omg.
I'm pretty sure that they legally can't actually shut us off until May 15th, and once we get the tax refund we can pay the entire past due bills... but there's no promise we will get that refund by that date, and I would be surprised if we do. I don't want to go a week without lights and hot water, or a fridge and stove.
I'm reasonably certain that if we pay even half the past due now, we can talk them into waiting for that refund. The entire total is something like $6k... I'm a little scared to look again, honestly. I just sorta glanced at the bills in horror.
I've got paypal and venmo, which is posted here, or if you can't see that and can and want to help out you can PM me. We can absolutely pay back (or forward!) as soon as that refund comes in. I know how much the refund is, it will cover these bills.
(I've also been sitting on posting this for a few days, so I better get it out before I chicken out again!)
I'm pretty sure that they legally can't actually shut us off until May 15th, and once we get the tax refund we can pay the entire past due bills... but there's no promise we will get that refund by that date, and I would be surprised if we do. I don't want to go a week without lights and hot water, or a fridge and stove.
I'm reasonably certain that if we pay even half the past due now, we can talk them into waiting for that refund. The entire total is something like $6k... I'm a little scared to look again, honestly. I just sorta glanced at the bills in horror.
I've got paypal and venmo, which is posted here, or if you can't see that and can and want to help out you can PM me. We can absolutely pay back (or forward!) as soon as that refund comes in. I know how much the refund is, it will cover these bills.
(I've also been sitting on posting this for a few days, so I better get it out before I chicken out again!)
Collage Journaling: easter blue
Apr. 20th, 2025 08:22 pmstonepicnicking_okapiLast year I did an Easter blue collage, too. This is using the last of my egg nest stickers and the booklet that came with my chocolate bunny!
Sherlock Sunday: The Stockbroker's Clerk & The Resident Patient
Apr. 20th, 2025 03:51 pmstonepicnicking_okapiToday we are looking at two stories.
"The Adventure of the Stockbroker's Clerk" was published in The Strand in March 1893.
The plot of this story is very near to that of "The Red-Headed League."
A person is lured from their designated place in order to further a financial crime. The poor victim is named...Hall Pycroft! He's lured from a new job so that someone else can take his place and rob his new employer and blame him.
"The Adventure of the Resident Patient" appeared in The Strand in August 1893.
Here we get a struggling doctor Percy Trevelyan who accepts a patient (a patient who lives with him in the practice offices) with A Past and two curious characters show up and take revenge on their former associate. This is very similar to the story of Victor Trevor's father and (in a way) to Mary Morstan's father.
I can't say either story is remarkable in my mind.
I found I had a horse sticker, so I did a collage of Silver Blaze.
"The Adventure of the Stockbroker's Clerk" was published in The Strand in March 1893.
The plot of this story is very near to that of "The Red-Headed League."
A person is lured from their designated place in order to further a financial crime. The poor victim is named...Hall Pycroft! He's lured from a new job so that someone else can take his place and rob his new employer and blame him.
"The Adventure of the Resident Patient" appeared in The Strand in August 1893.
Here we get a struggling doctor Percy Trevelyan who accepts a patient (a patient who lives with him in the practice offices) with A Past and two curious characters show up and take revenge on their former associate. This is very similar to the story of Victor Trevor's father and (in a way) to Mary Morstan's father.
I can't say either story is remarkable in my mind.
I found I had a horse sticker, so I did a collage of Silver Blaze.
Birdfeeding
Apr. 20th, 2025 02:12 pmysabetwordsmithToday is mostly sunny, humid, and warm. It rained off and on yesterday and last night.
I fed the birds. I've seen a few sparrows and house finches, plus a fox squirrel.
I put out water for the birds.
EDIT 4/20/25 -- I walked around the yard taking pictures.
EDIT 4/20/25 -- We had a friend over to help with yardening and picked up sticks from the house yard.
I am done for the night.
I fed the birds. I've seen a few sparrows and house finches, plus a fox squirrel.
I put out water for the birds.
EDIT 4/20/25 -- I walked around the yard taking pictures.
EDIT 4/20/25 -- We had a friend over to help with yardening and picked up sticks from the house yard.
I am done for the night.
Goals 2025/26
Apr. 20th, 2025 05:18 pmsmallhobbitEvery year it becomes harder to set goals, and yet again, particularly since I'm doing 25 Things in 2025, I wondered whether to bother, but 25 Things are short term, generally one-offs, and I don't think it hurts to look ahead and think about what I'd like to achieve in twelve months time.
So, lets go for a variety of goals:-
Goal No 1: Do a Themed Monthly Post
I've done this in the past, quite often with photos. If anyone would like to suggest a theme, please do so, as I haven't yet decided on one.
Goal No 2: Accept the Unexpected
Now, I know the saying is usually, 'Expect the unexpected', but this is more working with the unexpected when it happens. It's said that a battle plan never survives first contact with the enemy, but that's no reason to give up at that point.
Goal No 3: To Embrace My Personal Interests
Over the past few weeks I've been wondering why my daily To Do lists have had so much in the way of courses, crafting and writing, not to mention reading. But it suddenly occurred to me, why worry about it - if I really didn't want to do as much, then I could cut back. And if I do want to do all the courses/crafting/writing/reading&listening to books, then why not just enjoy it. If it were impinging on other things then it would be a problem (I don't count dusting within that!), but it's not. So what if I'm taking four online courses, stitching three or four different items, writing for three different challenges and have three books out of the library as well as the shelf and a bit of my own unread books - It's My Life!
So, lets go for a variety of goals:-
Goal No 1: Do a Themed Monthly Post
I've done this in the past, quite often with photos. If anyone would like to suggest a theme, please do so, as I haven't yet decided on one.
Goal No 2: Accept the Unexpected
Now, I know the saying is usually, 'Expect the unexpected', but this is more working with the unexpected when it happens. It's said that a battle plan never survives first contact with the enemy, but that's no reason to give up at that point.
Goal No 3: To Embrace My Personal Interests
Over the past few weeks I've been wondering why my daily To Do lists have had so much in the way of courses, crafting and writing, not to mention reading. But it suddenly occurred to me, why worry about it - if I really didn't want to do as much, then I could cut back. And if I do want to do all the courses/crafting/writing/reading&listening to books, then why not just enjoy it. If it were impinging on other things then it would be a problem (I don't count dusting within that!), but it's not. So what if I'm taking four online courses, stitching three or four different items, writing for three different challenges and have three books out of the library as well as the shelf and a bit of my own unread books - It's My Life!
Spring Friending Meme
Apr. 20th, 2025 01:30 pmysabetwordsmithicons is hosting a Spring Friending Meme. Fill out the form and/or read other people's entries to find new friends.Intro to the Web Revival #1: What is the Web Revival?
Apr. 20th, 2025 12:21 pmysabetwordsmithIntro to the Web Revival #1: What is the Web Revival?
The Web Revival is about reclaiming the technology in our lives and asking what we really want from the tools we use, and the digital experiences we share. The Web Revival often references the early Internet, but it's not about recreating a bygone web; the Web Revival is about reviving the spirit of openness and fresh excitement that surrounded the Web in its earliest days. The Web Revival is not one single movement, but a loose collection of ideas and groups that fall under many names.
I heartily approve of this movement. I can't code, but I can boost the signal. So if you're involved in Web Revival, feel free to share your favorite links or other resources. Because we deserve better than enshittification.
Do you want to code your own website, or support others who do? Check out the FujoGuide.
The Web Revival is about reclaiming the technology in our lives and asking what we really want from the tools we use, and the digital experiences we share. The Web Revival often references the early Internet, but it's not about recreating a bygone web; the Web Revival is about reviving the spirit of openness and fresh excitement that surrounded the Web in its earliest days. The Web Revival is not one single movement, but a loose collection of ideas and groups that fall under many names.
I heartily approve of this movement. I can't code, but I can boost the signal. So if you're involved in Web Revival, feel free to share your favorite links or other resources. Because we deserve better than enshittification.
Do you want to code your own website, or support others who do? Check out the FujoGuide.
Books with Queer Autistic Characters for Autism Awareness Month
Apr. 20th, 2025 12:10 pmysabetwordsmithApril is Autism Awareness month, and we’re here to share (more) of our favorite queer autistic or autistic-coded characters! Last year we shared six books; three of those are back this year, and we’ve got 5 more.
Weekly proof of life: media, adulting, food
Apr. 20th, 2025 01:59 pmumadoshiReading: Still working my way through The Spear Cuts Through Water--somewhere past the halfway point now.
Watching: I finished my Guardian rewatch!
scruloose and I finished season 1 of Kingdom and did indeed opt to hold off on season 2 until after we finish season 2 of The Last of Us. (Is Kingdom complete at two seasons? Anyone know offhand? Fear of spoilers makes me not want to search up the info.) We also saw the season premiere of TLoU and the first episode of The Pitt.
Playing: Because the evil 368chickens game keeps track and springs the number on you when you beat it, I know that when I finally rescued 368 chickens a few days ago it was after 454 tries. And for reasons that are not clear to me, the victory screen (at least in the browser version) also informs you that you can't play anymore and is all that shows if you reload. (There are ways around it, of course--incognito tabs, simply using a different browser, whatever--but it just seems weird to me. I have thus far avoided going back to it, but that just means returning to my default couple of games that I play endlessly when my brain is completely incapable of focus but needs to be doing something. >.<)
Adulting: Mid-week,scruloose and I took the day off for my birthday and both dropped off our tax documents with our tax guy (bless our tax guy) and voted in the federal election at the Elections Canada office. I'm glad we got the voting taken care of so early--sounds like lineups for advance polls have been unusually lengthy this weekend (and here's hoping that's a good sign for the outcome!).
( under the cut: fruit and meat consumption (separately) )
Watching: I finished my Guardian rewatch!
scruloose and I finished season 1 of Kingdom and did indeed opt to hold off on season 2 until after we finish season 2 of The Last of Us. (Is Kingdom complete at two seasons? Anyone know offhand? Fear of spoilers makes me not want to search up the info.) We also saw the season premiere of TLoU and the first episode of The Pitt.Playing: Because the evil 368chickens game keeps track and springs the number on you when you beat it, I know that when I finally rescued 368 chickens a few days ago it was after 454 tries. And for reasons that are not clear to me, the victory screen (at least in the browser version) also informs you that you can't play anymore and is all that shows if you reload. (There are ways around it, of course--incognito tabs, simply using a different browser, whatever--but it just seems weird to me. I have thus far avoided going back to it, but that just means returning to my default couple of games that I play endlessly when my brain is completely incapable of focus but needs to be doing something. >.<)
Adulting: Mid-week,
scruloose and I took the day off for my birthday and both dropped off our tax documents with our tax guy (bless our tax guy) and voted in the federal election at the Elections Canada office. I'm glad we got the voting taken care of so early--sounds like lineups for advance polls have been unusually lengthy this weekend (and here's hoping that's a good sign for the outcome!).( under the cut: fruit and meat consumption (separately) )
Quote & Fact...
Apr. 20th, 2025 12:02 amfairyniamhQuote:
"The biggest killer on the planet is stress and I still think the best medicine is and always has been cannabis."
"I take it not only a day at a time, but a moment at a time, and keep it at that pace. If you can be happy right now, then you’ll always be happy, because it’s always in the now"
~ Willie Nelson
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Virginia :
In some towns it is illegal to walk a lion on a leash. (I don't think that anyone should own a large cat. I know how temperamental domestic cats are, I wouldn't risk a large cat.)
Until 2020 it was illegal to have premarital sex. (Yeah, I know many of people who would have been in trouble if they tried to enforce it... Even in the 1980s. *I wasn't even a teen, but I knew unmarried adults!*)
"The biggest killer on the planet is stress and I still think the best medicine is and always has been cannabis."
"I take it not only a day at a time, but a moment at a time, and keep it at that pace. If you can be happy right now, then you’ll always be happy, because it’s always in the now"
~ Willie Nelson
Facts: (Weird Laws)
Virginia :
In some towns it is illegal to walk a lion on a leash. (I don't think that anyone should own a large cat. I know how temperamental domestic cats are, I wouldn't risk a large cat.)
Until 2020 it was illegal to have premarital sex. (Yeah, I know many of people who would have been in trouble if they tried to enforce it... Even in the 1980s. *I wasn't even a teen, but I knew unmarried adults!*)