Incommunicado
A recent series of events has shaken my world. According to a very good friend, I am most likely making mountains out of molehills and I should just "chill the f@(% out" (my words, not hers). But this series of events has left me with a question - probably better answered by a guy.
Some brief background:
I have been in some sort of relationship with a very sweet guy for over two years now, and, although I've used certain terms of endearment, I've never used the "L" word in any way, until very recently. Now, bear in mind, I haven't used the 143 formula, I've simply ended a couple of communications with "love ya," which, to me, and my very good friend, seems very informal and friendly. But I'm not a guy, and although I do have some idea how the mind of man works, I guess I'm not as intuitive as I think I am.
So, the question is, "how and when is it okay to use the "L" word in a relationship?"
Some brief background:
I have been in some sort of relationship with a very sweet guy for over two years now, and, although I've used certain terms of endearment, I've never used the "L" word in any way, until very recently. Now, bear in mind, I haven't used the 143 formula, I've simply ended a couple of communications with "love ya," which, to me, and my very good friend, seems very informal and friendly. But I'm not a guy, and although I do have some idea how the mind of man works, I guess I'm not as intuitive as I think I am.
So, the question is, "how and when is it okay to use the "L" word in a relationship?"
Dinner Finally
So, I don't make dinner for myself like I should since I started this job because I am usually very tired by the time I get home. But this last week I've made an effort to make dinner, even when I am tired. And tonight, I felt like having some chicken.
But what to do, what to do? And what to have with it? I ended up having spicy rosemary chicken with curried rice and baked (okay, nuked) potato. Because it was so good and so easy I'm going to share it with you (but I don't do the cheesy photoshoot thing with my food...sorry).
I was making this for myself so the ingredients I give are necessarily vague so you can alter the recipe to suit the number of people you are feeding (I usually make enough to have over two nights, so if the amount sounds like I should be contacting Overeaters Anonymous, you can stop worrying).
Spicy Rosemary Chicken
3 Chicken tenders (or breasts; I used tenders because that's what I had)
3 stalks Celery
1/2 an Onion
abt 1/2 tsp of fresh Ginger
1 clove Garlic
3 tbs Asian chili paste
Rosemary mix*
*Rosemary mix
Olive oil (enough to coat)
2 parts Rosemary
2 parts Season Salt
1 part Thyme
Thaw the chicken. Mix two parts each, rosemary and season salt, to one part thyme, and then rub chicken with oil, and rosemary mix. Chop veggies.
Heat skillet with olive oil and saute veggies until slightly soft. Add chicken. At midpoint of cooking, spoon chili paste onto one side of each piece of chicken (NOTE: I like my food hot. Not just spicy, but burn-your-nose-hair, breathe-fire hot. So I used about a spoonful on each piece of chicken...if you can't handle that, then obviously, only use what you can handle, or exclude the chili paste altogether. Be sensible about this).
Continue cooking, covered, until chicken is done, turning/stirring regularly.
Curried Rice
1 cup Cal-Rose rice (or whatever rice you prefer)
2 cups water
abt 2 tbs Curry Powder (basically, until the water turns curry-color)
Rinse rice until the water runs clear (or near enough). Put all ingredients in pot or cooker, stir to mix the curry into the rice, and cook until done. (NOTE: if you are using a rice cooker and you find that your rice tends to stick to the pot and/or burn on the bottom, spray some Pam or other non-stick vegetable spray in the pot before putting the rice and water in. Works every time!)
When rice and chicken are done, serve and enjoy!
But what to do, what to do? And what to have with it? I ended up having spicy rosemary chicken with curried rice and baked (okay, nuked) potato. Because it was so good and so easy I'm going to share it with you (but I don't do the cheesy photoshoot thing with my food...sorry).
I was making this for myself so the ingredients I give are necessarily vague so you can alter the recipe to suit the number of people you are feeding (I usually make enough to have over two nights, so if the amount sounds like I should be contacting Overeaters Anonymous, you can stop worrying).
Spicy Rosemary Chicken
3 Chicken tenders (or breasts; I used tenders because that's what I had)
3 stalks Celery
1/2 an Onion
abt 1/2 tsp of fresh Ginger
1 clove Garlic
3 tbs Asian chili paste
Rosemary mix*
*Rosemary mix
Olive oil (enough to coat)
2 parts Rosemary
2 parts Season Salt
1 part Thyme
Thaw the chicken. Mix two parts each, rosemary and season salt, to one part thyme, and then rub chicken with oil, and rosemary mix. Chop veggies.
Heat skillet with olive oil and saute veggies until slightly soft. Add chicken. At midpoint of cooking, spoon chili paste onto one side of each piece of chicken (NOTE: I like my food hot. Not just spicy, but burn-your-nose-hair, breathe-fire hot. So I used about a spoonful on each piece of chicken...if you can't handle that, then obviously, only use what you can handle, or exclude the chili paste altogether. Be sensible about this).
Continue cooking, covered, until chicken is done, turning/stirring regularly.
Curried Rice
1 cup Cal-Rose rice (or whatever rice you prefer)
2 cups water
abt 2 tbs Curry Powder (basically, until the water turns curry-color)
Rinse rice until the water runs clear (or near enough). Put all ingredients in pot or cooker, stir to mix the curry into the rice, and cook until done. (NOTE: if you are using a rice cooker and you find that your rice tends to stick to the pot and/or burn on the bottom, spray some Pam or other non-stick vegetable spray in the pot before putting the rice and water in. Works every time!)
When rice and chicken are done, serve and enjoy!
Risky Business
On Friday, a friend and I got onto the topic of what she wants to do with her life. I had learned a week or so before, that the one thing she really wants desperately to do, is be a hunting guide. This is her dream job and what she wants to spend the rest of her life doing. Unfortunately, it's a bit of an "old boys club," and this has kept her from really making an effort to get into it. Well, we had our little chat on Friday and I told her that sometimes you just have to take a leap because if you never try then you will definitely never succeed.
After some nudging, she sent the company she wants to work for an email asking if they have any jobs available...and after receiving a message from the company owners wife indicating there were no available positions, she heard from the owner directly; and now it looks like her dream might come true!
Even if she doesn't get a job with the company right now, she is on their radar, and will be thought of in the future, especially if she keeps bugging them. But she wouldn't be so close to her dream had she not taken a risk and sent that email.
I have another friend who is going through some difficulties right now, and having a hard time reaching his dream. In his case, his fear is the result of his great responsibility to his family. I can understand that, it's not easy to take risks when you have so many relying on you. It can get depressingly stressful.
Mathematics tells us that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line...but sometimes it's actually shorter to take the roundabout and the side roads. I've tried to encourage him to take a risk but he's stuck in the helpless void of doubt. He has thoughts about what he can do (the roundabouts to take) to get there, even if it's not the most direct route, and I told him that if he's thought about it that much then maybe he should stop and listen, because someone is trying to tell him something.
In my own life, I know that if I hadn't taken some risks then I wouldn't be where I am now...so close to my dreams that I can almost taste them. I may not be taking the most direct route, but the road I'm on is getting me there. I simply have to keep taking those chances, putting myself out there (even when it's super scary), if I want to achieve my goals. Being patient is killing me, but at the same time I've never been happier and felt more alive!
In the immortal words of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: "Only in a leap from the lion's head shall he prove his worth." Life is full of leaps of faith, but if you're not willing to take a leap when it matters, then what have you really gained? If you have a dream then don't let the shadow of doubt cloud your path, because the promised land may lie just outside your vision.
After some nudging, she sent the company she wants to work for an email asking if they have any jobs available...and after receiving a message from the company owners wife indicating there were no available positions, she heard from the owner directly; and now it looks like her dream might come true!
Even if she doesn't get a job with the company right now, she is on their radar, and will be thought of in the future, especially if she keeps bugging them. But she wouldn't be so close to her dream had she not taken a risk and sent that email.
I have another friend who is going through some difficulties right now, and having a hard time reaching his dream. In his case, his fear is the result of his great responsibility to his family. I can understand that, it's not easy to take risks when you have so many relying on you. It can get depressingly stressful.
Mathematics tells us that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line...but sometimes it's actually shorter to take the roundabout and the side roads. I've tried to encourage him to take a risk but he's stuck in the helpless void of doubt. He has thoughts about what he can do (the roundabouts to take) to get there, even if it's not the most direct route, and I told him that if he's thought about it that much then maybe he should stop and listen, because someone is trying to tell him something.
In my own life, I know that if I hadn't taken some risks then I wouldn't be where I am now...so close to my dreams that I can almost taste them. I may not be taking the most direct route, but the road I'm on is getting me there. I simply have to keep taking those chances, putting myself out there (even when it's super scary), if I want to achieve my goals. Being patient is killing me, but at the same time I've never been happier and felt more alive!
In the immortal words of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: "Only in a leap from the lion's head shall he prove his worth." Life is full of leaps of faith, but if you're not willing to take a leap when it matters, then what have you really gained? If you have a dream then don't let the shadow of doubt cloud your path, because the promised land may lie just outside your vision.
The Tooth About Me
A couple of days ago I apparently broke a tooth. It didn't start hurting until the night before last, but I wasn't able to get in to the dentist yesterday because, for some reason, my dentist doesn't do business on Friday (this confuses me because dental emergencies don't just happen Monday through Thursday, but I understand, everyone likes time off when they can get it...it's just super inconvenient for me right now).
Anyway, as I've known for some time (but had brought home to me this weekend), I'm quite an unpleasant person to be around when I'm in pain. I mean, I won't attack you, or anything, but my patience (which isn't good at the best of times) evaporates when I'm not feeling well.
A friend of mine is also not feeling well right now and I realize that I've been a bit obnoxious trying to draw this person out...Although I feel like I'm being amenable and friendly trying to commiserate or whatever, I have to realize that I'm not the only one who gets more introverted when I'm "under the weather." Sometimes I just want to be alone in my misery, and the idea of communicating extensively makes me even more cranky. Although I don't know this to be the case with my friend, I suspect it's true.
As a true friend I must respect the space of those that I care about, or I can't expect the same in return.
Anyway, as I've known for some time (but had brought home to me this weekend), I'm quite an unpleasant person to be around when I'm in pain. I mean, I won't attack you, or anything, but my patience (which isn't good at the best of times) evaporates when I'm not feeling well.
A friend of mine is also not feeling well right now and I realize that I've been a bit obnoxious trying to draw this person out...Although I feel like I'm being amenable and friendly trying to commiserate or whatever, I have to realize that I'm not the only one who gets more introverted when I'm "under the weather." Sometimes I just want to be alone in my misery, and the idea of communicating extensively makes me even more cranky. Although I don't know this to be the case with my friend, I suspect it's true.
As a true friend I must respect the space of those that I care about, or I can't expect the same in return.
Intermission
I am currently obsessed with this song, Set Fire To The Rain, by Adele. Listen to it! [No, I'm not aggressive, just do what I tell you and nobody gets hurt. :-) ]
Sweet Little Angels Straight From Heaven!
Some of you know that I recently got a second job; I am working for an antique/collectible mall in the north end of the valley (if you live in this area you should come by and see it) doing research and, when necessary, running the register.
This is very nearly my dream job -- the only thing that would make this job dreamier is if it somehow incorporated genealogy and cemeteries. Part of what makes this job so great, is the fact that I get to see the awesome stuff before it gets out on the floor and someone else has a chance to buy it first. Of course, knowing me, that could also be a draw-back (it's that whole limited budget thing...I really need for Publishers Clearing House to stop pussy-footing around and just pick my name already).
But so far I've been very good and am only picking things that I a) can afford, and b) really, really want. See, I believe that if you see something and it speaks to you, you should probably buy it because, if you don't, it will haunt you for ages (have had this happen to me before). Well, on the first day of work, I came across a few things that spoke to me, and today, I brought two of them home.
They are a pair of gold cherubs. My boss, and pretty much everyone else I work with, think they are the ugliest things, but to me they are sweet little angels straight from heaven! :-) No, seriously, I love these things. I haven't figured out where I'm going to put them (I'd like to put them on a mantle, but I don't have one), but we'll work on that once they've had a bath ('cause they're a little bit dirty).
This is very nearly my dream job -- the only thing that would make this job dreamier is if it somehow incorporated genealogy and cemeteries. Part of what makes this job so great, is the fact that I get to see the awesome stuff before it gets out on the floor and someone else has a chance to buy it first. Of course, knowing me, that could also be a draw-back (it's that whole limited budget thing...I really need for Publishers Clearing House to stop pussy-footing around and just pick my name already).
But so far I've been very good and am only picking things that I a) can afford, and b) really, really want. See, I believe that if you see something and it speaks to you, you should probably buy it because, if you don't, it will haunt you for ages (have had this happen to me before). Well, on the first day of work, I came across a few things that spoke to me, and today, I brought two of them home.
They are a pair of gold cherubs. My boss, and pretty much everyone else I work with, think they are the ugliest things, but to me they are sweet little angels straight from heaven! :-) No, seriously, I love these things. I haven't figured out where I'm going to put them (I'd like to put them on a mantle, but I don't have one), but we'll work on that once they've had a bath ('cause they're a little bit dirty).
BELOW: My new cherubs! My boss thought they were hideous until she put them together like this. Now she is convinced that they are supposed to be holding something up (I've always thought they were supposed to be holding something, now I've just got to find them something to hold). The one on the left is a girl, the one on the right is a boy.
You're Going To Eat That??
Been a while since I've posted anything...sorry about that, I know you're all waiting with baited breath for my musings. *wry smile*
Anyway, my dad recently sent pictures of a Christmas party my parents went to, and one of them was of some of the food that was available at the party. One of the deserts looks like this:
Anyway, my dad recently sent pictures of a Christmas party my parents went to, and one of them was of some of the food that was available at the party. One of the deserts looks like this:
Ehm...that looks like kitty litter. And the scoop...*gag*
So, yeah, that's Kitty Litter Cake...he sent a link to the recipe, which can be found here, so I won't duplicate it, but some of the "props" for this just make me a bit nauseous. But according to my dad, it's really yummy. So maybe I'll try it some time, but skip the gag-inducing "props."
Something Else To Tide You Over
Yeah, I'm still thinking about working on trashing a raging torrent of dumb broads in that "feminist stupidity" diatribe...but it's not as enjoyable as you might think.
While you're waiting, here's something way cooler than daft chicks who think power and influence come from wearing skanky clothes: deer! Yup, these critters were snacking on fallen fruit in the neighbor's yard this morning. Have to admit they're pretty cute, what with them big ol' Dumbo ears (is it wrong of me to think, "mmmm, oven roast!" when I see these animals??).
While you're waiting, here's something way cooler than daft chicks who think power and influence come from wearing skanky clothes: deer! Yup, these critters were snacking on fallen fruit in the neighbor's yard this morning. Have to admit they're pretty cute, what with them big ol' Dumbo ears (is it wrong of me to think, "mmmm, oven roast!" when I see these animals??).
BELOW: Very curious critters. They could see me and were ready to take off should I get any closer...which was impossible, of course, what with the window between us.
BELOW: They're not usually quite so active during daylight hours; I was a little surprised to see so many.
BELOW: They kept moving around so it wasn't real easy to get an accurate count, but I'm positive that there were at least 7 of them; all female except for this little guy checking me out. He's a good looking buck -- just needs a few more years to make those antlers a bit more impressive.
Hunt-For-Red-October-Reference
I am actually working on something else but have lost a bit of steam with it. So, while I'm trying to re-motivate myself to tackle the subject of feminist stupidity, here is some Arkona for you to listen to. Arkona is a Russian Folk Metal band, but don't let that discourage you from listening to this (no, seriously, this is some truly moving music and you'd be a fool not to listen). The song, "Небо хмурое, тучи мрачные" (loosly translates to "Sullen Sky, Lurid Clouds"), is about a woman who finds out her husband has been killed in battle and, as a result of her sorrow, she kills herself...I know, depressing subject, but it's really a beautiful song.
Unfortunately, That's Not How Volvo
I have wanted a Volvo since I was 17 years old. Kinda surprising really, since aesthetically speaking a Volvo is a box on wheels and I don't normally find that interesting; but I was always attracted to their safety record and for some reason the boxiness of it appealed to me.
I had one virtually in my grasp; it was just two doors down and had been for sale since I moved back up here. So, for nearly 3 1/2 years I have been coveting that little blue box-on-wheels and in just a couple more months I could've scraped together the money to buy it...but no more. Just a short time ago I saw it drive out of my life.
I'm devastated. I never took a picture of it (cuz I didn't think I'd need to) but I found it's mate online. I keep looking over at it's former home, hoping that I was wrong and they are bringing it back; but alas...
I had one virtually in my grasp; it was just two doors down and had been for sale since I moved back up here. So, for nearly 3 1/2 years I have been coveting that little blue box-on-wheels and in just a couple more months I could've scraped together the money to buy it...but no more. Just a short time ago I saw it drive out of my life.
I'm devastated. I never took a picture of it (cuz I didn't think I'd need to) but I found it's mate online. I keep looking over at it's former home, hoping that I was wrong and they are bringing it back; but alas...
P.S. If you bought my Volvo then you suck and I hate you. But if you bring it back then all will be forgiven.
(If you are confused by the title, "Volvo" is Latin for "I roll.")'S'no Problem
I have often said that I hate snow. This is the third winter that I am delivering newspapers in this town and, up until this morning, that opening statement has been 100% true. Whether you're walking, biking, or driving, delivering papers in snowy conditions is not fun and can even be quite dangerous. Basically, my job and snow are not compatible; my job and rain aren't really compatible, either -- it costs me a lot of money to bag all those papers. But as I was driving home this morning I have to admit that snow is really quite beautiful (especially new-fallen, before humans have had an opportunity to mess it up).
So, is that statement still true? To be honest, I don't think it's ever really been true. I just don't like delivering papers in it (or shoveling it, either...oh how happy I would be if I had a snow blower....). If that's the case, you say, then why don't I just pack it in and find a less harrowing, less under-appreciated job? Because of what happened this morning that makes it all worth it.
As I was walking up to one house to leave the paper, the resident, a little old lady, came to the door to meet me and she thanked me profusely. And folks, that's what makes this job worth it. The rare, but heartfelt thanks that I do get. So, for at least a short time more, I will put up with knee-high snow, unplowed and icy roads, and I will try to appreciate the snow for it's beauty.
So, is that statement still true? To be honest, I don't think it's ever really been true. I just don't like delivering papers in it (or shoveling it, either...oh how happy I would be if I had a snow blower....). If that's the case, you say, then why don't I just pack it in and find a less harrowing, less under-appreciated job? Because of what happened this morning that makes it all worth it.
As I was walking up to one house to leave the paper, the resident, a little old lady, came to the door to meet me and she thanked me profusely. And folks, that's what makes this job worth it. The rare, but heartfelt thanks that I do get. So, for at least a short time more, I will put up with knee-high snow, unplowed and icy roads, and I will try to appreciate the snow for it's beauty.
Dressing The Part
According to experts, when you dress in business attire you behave more business-like. And that's why many businesses require their employees to dress accordingly. I've always wanted to argue about this, because I feel that when you are comfortable in your clothes then you will be more productive, and not everyone is comfortable in business clothes.
This last week has put my argument to the test. Last Thursday, I was minding my own business doing my job, when I was viciously attacked by a section of pavement. The resulting list of injuries included bruises, abrasions, and swelling on both knees and my left arm. As a result of the damage to my knees I didn't feel much like wearing jeans, so I wore my flaming skull lounge pants instead (and spent a lot of time with my feet up, on the couch).
A week later, my knees are not causing me excruciating pain when trouser fabric touches them, so today I wore jeans. And, interestingly enough, I actually managed to get some things done; things that had been piling up while I was wearing my lounge pants.
Now, I can't guarantee that the change was due entirely to the change in clothes, because, frankly, being in pain isn't really conducive to productivity, but I will say that while I was wearing the lounge pants I really didn't feel like doing anything. It felt a bit like an extended weekend, really. But today, after putting on the jeans, I actually felt like I could get some things done -- and I did. In fact, I actually felt my attitude adjust; it was a perceptible change.
So, while I don't agree that business attire is the only clothing that will make you more productive, I do have to agree that what you wear can have an effect on your ability to get things done.
This last week has put my argument to the test. Last Thursday, I was minding my own business doing my job, when I was viciously attacked by a section of pavement. The resulting list of injuries included bruises, abrasions, and swelling on both knees and my left arm. As a result of the damage to my knees I didn't feel much like wearing jeans, so I wore my flaming skull lounge pants instead (and spent a lot of time with my feet up, on the couch).
A week later, my knees are not causing me excruciating pain when trouser fabric touches them, so today I wore jeans. And, interestingly enough, I actually managed to get some things done; things that had been piling up while I was wearing my lounge pants.
Now, I can't guarantee that the change was due entirely to the change in clothes, because, frankly, being in pain isn't really conducive to productivity, but I will say that while I was wearing the lounge pants I really didn't feel like doing anything. It felt a bit like an extended weekend, really. But today, after putting on the jeans, I actually felt like I could get some things done -- and I did. In fact, I actually felt my attitude adjust; it was a perceptible change.
So, while I don't agree that business attire is the only clothing that will make you more productive, I do have to agree that what you wear can have an effect on your ability to get things done.
Facebook Shenanigans
A curious thing has happened over the last little while over on Facebook. Since the most recent round of Facebook changes there has been an explosion of image sharing that has reached epic proportions. With the new ease of sharing, it's now possible to share material from people you never even knew existed. This seems to have resulted in some sort of impromptu, unspoken competition to see who can share the most, and the funniest images and stories.
But since this explosion I've noticed a certain dearth of substantive postings. Not that posts were particularly substantive before, but now it just seems like the image sharing has allowed people to get a little lazy. Don't get me wrong, I like a good laugh just as much as the next person, but seriously, when the only things you post are funny image after funny news story...gets a bit old.
If the story or image is particularly thought provoking then, okay, post it; but I have Feed Demon that brings me the news from sources that I actually care about, so, I'm not really interested in yours. And all the funny images -- just clog my news feed. Just sayin.'
But since this explosion I've noticed a certain dearth of substantive postings. Not that posts were particularly substantive before, but now it just seems like the image sharing has allowed people to get a little lazy. Don't get me wrong, I like a good laugh just as much as the next person, but seriously, when the only things you post are funny image after funny news story...gets a bit old.
If the story or image is particularly thought provoking then, okay, post it; but I have Feed Demon that brings me the news from sources that I actually care about, so, I'm not really interested in yours. And all the funny images -- just clog my news feed. Just sayin.'
Danish Invasion...Again. But Less Bloody This Time.
I was reading a post on...I don't remember, either Metal Sucks or Metal Injection...(frankly I don't care which one and I'm not going to waste time looking for it) about the new DAD album. If you've never heard of or listened to, or if it's been a while and you just don't remember, DAD (originally an acronym for Disneyland After Dark...they had to drop that when Disney Corp threatened to sue) is a heavy rock band from Denmark. They formed in the late 80's and I first heard about them when their first single from their first album played on RAGE.
Rage was a weekend music show and they would play heavy music in the middle of the night. As a result, I spent a lot of Friday and Saturday nights in the living room waiting, hoping, that they would play the good stuff (when they did, it was usually after midnight). I was introduced to loads of Metal bands that way. Thanks Australia!
Anyway, this post got me thinking about how underrated DAD are and how few people in the US even know they exist. But that also reminded me of an interview I heard years ago with some record exec who happened to be Danish. He was asked about the music scene in Denmark, and his response was that it was rather poor. Most people don't know much about the Danish music scene and, while Sweden is lucky, they have Abba, poor little Denmark has...Aqua. (Up until then I didn't even know Aqua was Danish...way to go record exec.) And that's just sad. I can hear my Danish ancestors freaking out, "We used to be a force to be reckoned with. People actually feared us!" Well, yeah, I'm thinking they still do...
So, thinking about that got me to thinking about all the great music that's come/is coming out of my little ancestral homeland (well, one of them anyway) and I felt the need to redeem Denmark musically. So, here's a smattering of the best that Denmark has/has had to offer, musically.
We'll begin with the obvious.
Credited with being one of the creators of the Black Metal sub-genre, Mercyful Fate was founded in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1981 and contains one of the most well-known figures in the Metal world, King Diamond (Kim Bendix Petersen). I first came across the band in the late 80's thanks to the old Metal rag, Rip, when they did an article comparing the beliefs of King Diamond (self-professed Satanist) with those of the Sweet brothers from Stryper (self-professed Christians).
BELOW: DAD. "I'm Sleeping My Day Away," from No Fuel Left For The Pilgrims.
Rage was a weekend music show and they would play heavy music in the middle of the night. As a result, I spent a lot of Friday and Saturday nights in the living room waiting, hoping, that they would play the good stuff (when they did, it was usually after midnight). I was introduced to loads of Metal bands that way. Thanks Australia!
Anyway, this post got me thinking about how underrated DAD are and how few people in the US even know they exist. But that also reminded me of an interview I heard years ago with some record exec who happened to be Danish. He was asked about the music scene in Denmark, and his response was that it was rather poor. Most people don't know much about the Danish music scene and, while Sweden is lucky, they have Abba, poor little Denmark has...Aqua. (Up until then I didn't even know Aqua was Danish...way to go record exec.) And that's just sad. I can hear my Danish ancestors freaking out, "We used to be a force to be reckoned with. People actually feared us!" Well, yeah, I'm thinking they still do...
BELOW: Aqua. "Barbie Girl," from Aquarium (in the interest of full disclosure...I have to admit, this song is disgustingly catchy and I listened to it a good dozen times before writing this post. Also, there's a parody called, "Bimbo Girl," that is fantastic. If anyone has or knows where I can get that...).
So, thinking about that got me to thinking about all the great music that's come/is coming out of my little ancestral homeland (well, one of them anyway) and I felt the need to redeem Denmark musically. So, here's a smattering of the best that Denmark has/has had to offer, musically.
We'll begin with the obvious.
Credited with being one of the creators of the Black Metal sub-genre, Mercyful Fate was founded in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1981 and contains one of the most well-known figures in the Metal world, King Diamond (Kim Bendix Petersen). I first came across the band in the late 80's thanks to the old Metal rag, Rip, when they did an article comparing the beliefs of King Diamond (self-professed Satanist) with those of the Sweet brothers from Stryper (self-professed Christians).
BELOW: My all-time favorite Mercyful Fate song, "A Dangerous Meeting," from the album Don't Break The Oath.
Moving along chronologically...
Pretty Maids is not a chick band. There are no females in it. They are also not wimpy. But they are epic. Also formed in 1981, in Horsens, Denmark, Pretty Maids is a bit Hair Metal, but not entirely. Some of their early stuff invokes images of Ratt and Dokken, but they are an entity unto themselves. I don't remember exactly when I first heard of them, but I remember where I was...my parents living room. I've been racking my brain to remember the exact song that made me an instant fan, but there are so many epic songs that it doesn't really matter which one it was. I'm posting here the one that I think it was.
BELOW: Epic, epic, EPIC! Pretty Maids. "Hell On High Heels," from Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Overdoing. Did I mention that Pretty Maids is epic?
Formed in Copenhagen in 2001, Volbeat is a bit hard to classify...I first heard of them about 3 years ago from a former Finnish acquaintance who was constantly talking about them. I'm glad he did, otherwise I would've missed out! Another criminally underrated Danish band...
BELOW: Volbeat. "Maybelenne I Hofteholder," from Guitar Gangsters & Cadillac Blood. I could have posted the official video...but it's a bit risqué and I want more people to listen.
Also formed in Copenhagen in 2001, the Raveonettes are an indie rock duo. I used to think I didn't like them, but as I'm listening to postable options I find myself reevaluating my original opinion. Maybe I'm mixing them up with some other band...
BELOW: Raveonettes. "Heart of Stone," from In And Out Of Control.
Obviously these aren't the only great bands from Denmark; if you're at all into Metal then you already know this; but this is a nice primer. So, if you heard anything you find interesting, that you've never heard before or had just forgotten about (or, like me and the Raveonettes, you notice you no longer find annoying) then check them out!
It's okay Denmark, you don't suck musically.
Morality
A question was raised on one of my other posts, if you didn't read it then you can find it here. That question was whether morality can exist without religion. My answer was yes, it can. But I'd like to explain that answer for those who might not understand how that could work.
A moral, as defined by the 1940 edition of Webster's Universities Dictionary Unabridged, is: 1. Relating to the practice, manners, or conduct of men, as social beings, in relation to each other, and with reference to right and wrong; ethical.
Morality then, is defined as: 1. The doctrine of the moral duties of life or of men in their social character; morals; ethics. 2. The practice of moral duties; course of life as regards moral duties; observance of right and wrong. 3. The quality or character of an action, or principle, as estimated by a standard of right and wrong; the conformity of an action, or principle, to the true moral standard or law.
I chose this venerable tome (it's ginormous!) for the express purpose of showing that, even in the early 20th Century, "moral" and "morality," as defined by learned men, had absolutely nothing to do with religion. Morality is, as shown above, the "standard of right and wrong" and "the conformity of an action, or principle, to the true moral standard or law." Ergo, morality is a set of rules designed to dictate the actions of men as regarding what is considered right and wrong for each individual society.
Since the dawn of time, societies have made rules regarding the conduct of it's members in order to protect them. Perhaps it's mere coincidence that "religion," in one form or another, has also existed since the dawn of time.
But not all society's laws are the same and that's because different people view actions differently. In the Mayan civilization, human sacrifice was a common-place occurrence, because the Maya didn't view sacrifice as immoral; far from it. But in many societies today, human sacrifice would be regarded as highly immoral. Therefore, "morality," or what is considered right and wrong, changes depending on the society you are in.
Whether you agree with the morals of your society is irrelevant, as a member of any society you are expected, nay, required, to follow the morals of that society. It is up to you, as to whether you actually do that or not. But you cannot blame "religion" for the rules of your society unless your society is based on a religion (for example the Islamic countries whose laws are specifically based on religious laws).
The question, then, is not: can morality exist without religion (because it obviously can). But rather: do your societies laws protect it's members? If you believe they do, then it shouldn't matter where those laws originated. What matters is that they exist and they do what they are meant to do.
A moral, as defined by the 1940 edition of Webster's Universities Dictionary Unabridged, is: 1. Relating to the practice, manners, or conduct of men, as social beings, in relation to each other, and with reference to right and wrong; ethical.
Morality then, is defined as: 1. The doctrine of the moral duties of life or of men in their social character; morals; ethics. 2. The practice of moral duties; course of life as regards moral duties; observance of right and wrong. 3. The quality or character of an action, or principle, as estimated by a standard of right and wrong; the conformity of an action, or principle, to the true moral standard or law.
I chose this venerable tome (it's ginormous!) for the express purpose of showing that, even in the early 20th Century, "moral" and "morality," as defined by learned men, had absolutely nothing to do with religion. Morality is, as shown above, the "standard of right and wrong" and "the conformity of an action, or principle, to the true moral standard or law." Ergo, morality is a set of rules designed to dictate the actions of men as regarding what is considered right and wrong for each individual society.
Since the dawn of time, societies have made rules regarding the conduct of it's members in order to protect them. Perhaps it's mere coincidence that "religion," in one form or another, has also existed since the dawn of time.
But not all society's laws are the same and that's because different people view actions differently. In the Mayan civilization, human sacrifice was a common-place occurrence, because the Maya didn't view sacrifice as immoral; far from it. But in many societies today, human sacrifice would be regarded as highly immoral. Therefore, "morality," or what is considered right and wrong, changes depending on the society you are in.
Whether you agree with the morals of your society is irrelevant, as a member of any society you are expected, nay, required, to follow the morals of that society. It is up to you, as to whether you actually do that or not. But you cannot blame "religion" for the rules of your society unless your society is based on a religion (for example the Islamic countries whose laws are specifically based on religious laws).
The question, then, is not: can morality exist without religion (because it obviously can). But rather: do your societies laws protect it's members? If you believe they do, then it shouldn't matter where those laws originated. What matters is that they exist and they do what they are meant to do.
The Alpha Wolf
Although it came out months ago, I only just got the Death Wolf self-titled album (I could only find it as an import so it took me a minute to locate a source that wouldn't result in the forfeiture of several internal organs as payment)...and, while it was definitely worth the wait, I wish I had gotten it sooner!
For those who don't know, Death Wolf (hereafter referred to as DW in order to conserve space and avoid confusion) is the side project of Marduk mastermind Morgan Håkansson. It originally went by a different name, Devil's Whorehouse, but with this new release came a new name...and well it should. While the previous DW releases were almost entirely Danzig/Misfits/Samhain covers, this new album is all original material.
Previous DW albums (being what they were) did include some songs that were fairly cheesy (and while I love the song, I have to admit that the lyrics to the DW original song, Bondage Goddess, are pretty cheesy). Well, there is no cheddar on this album! There are no cheesy lyrics, the guitar solos are well crafted, and the vocals fit the songs like a glove. It's 12 songs of Doomy cohesion. While all the songs are recognizable as being created by the previous incarnations of DW, and there are a couple songs that are reminiscent of past DW albums, they all have a new feel.
Interestingly enough though, the chorus of the first song on the album, Circle of Abomination, sounds somewhat Slayer-esque (back when Slayer were actually worth listening to) and the guitar solo at the end of that song sounds a bit like Arch Enemy. But that's not to say that the songs are derivative, because, regardless of what comparisons they may invoke, you know you are listening to DW. In fact, while the vocals on past records have sounded a lot like Glenn Danzig (intentionally, I'm sure), the vocals on this album are much more individual. Sure Maelstrom still has that Danzig quality to his voice, but that's just the way his voice sounds, it's not like he's doing it just to sound like Danzig.
As befitting a Doomy "horror-rock" album there is a good selection of mid-range and slow tempo songs with only one fast one (and if you know Morgan's work then this might surprise you; as you know, he is obsessed with speed). In fact, the fastest song on the whole album is the one that ends it...and when I say ends, I mean ends. Dawn Of Flesh ends very abruptly; almost jarringly so. But it was clearly intentional, and not just some bizarre accident.
I do love all the songs on the album, but my favorites are Circle of Abomination (Track 1), Wolfs Pallid Sister (Track 7), and Coming Forth By Night (Track 11).
Overall I have to give it a perfect 10, and yeeeeesssss, despite my love affair with Morgan's music I was being objective. I just couldn't honestly find anything wrong with this album. The only thing I did have a problem with, was the lack of lyrics in the booklet...
For those who don't know, Death Wolf (hereafter referred to as DW in order to conserve space and avoid confusion) is the side project of Marduk mastermind Morgan Håkansson. It originally went by a different name, Devil's Whorehouse, but with this new release came a new name...and well it should. While the previous DW releases were almost entirely Danzig/Misfits/Samhain covers, this new album is all original material.
Previous DW albums (being what they were) did include some songs that were fairly cheesy (and while I love the song, I have to admit that the lyrics to the DW original song, Bondage Goddess, are pretty cheesy). Well, there is no cheddar on this album! There are no cheesy lyrics, the guitar solos are well crafted, and the vocals fit the songs like a glove. It's 12 songs of Doomy cohesion. While all the songs are recognizable as being created by the previous incarnations of DW, and there are a couple songs that are reminiscent of past DW albums, they all have a new feel.
Interestingly enough though, the chorus of the first song on the album, Circle of Abomination, sounds somewhat Slayer-esque (back when Slayer were actually worth listening to) and the guitar solo at the end of that song sounds a bit like Arch Enemy. But that's not to say that the songs are derivative, because, regardless of what comparisons they may invoke, you know you are listening to DW. In fact, while the vocals on past records have sounded a lot like Glenn Danzig (intentionally, I'm sure), the vocals on this album are much more individual. Sure Maelstrom still has that Danzig quality to his voice, but that's just the way his voice sounds, it's not like he's doing it just to sound like Danzig.
As befitting a Doomy "horror-rock" album there is a good selection of mid-range and slow tempo songs with only one fast one (and if you know Morgan's work then this might surprise you; as you know, he is obsessed with speed). In fact, the fastest song on the whole album is the one that ends it...and when I say ends, I mean ends. Dawn Of Flesh ends very abruptly; almost jarringly so. But it was clearly intentional, and not just some bizarre accident.
I do love all the songs on the album, but my favorites are Circle of Abomination (Track 1), Wolfs Pallid Sister (Track 7), and Coming Forth By Night (Track 11).
Overall I have to give it a perfect 10, and yeeeeesssss, despite my love affair with Morgan's music I was being objective. I just couldn't honestly find anything wrong with this album. The only thing I did have a problem with, was the lack of lyrics in the booklet...
The Original Night Stalker
Did you know that there was a Night Stalker before the Night Stalker? Yes, it's true; there was a murdering rapist operating in California from June 18, 1976–May 4, 1986 who became known as the Original Night Stalker. I was not aware of this until I saw an episode of Cold Case Files today.
The Original Night Stalker was first identified in Orange County, California but later connected with a spate of rapes in the Sacramento area, where he was known as the East Area Rapist. All told, this man can be linked, by either DNA or MO, to nearly 200 crimes, making him one of the (if not the) most prolific serial criminals in California history.
His earliest crimes, in Northern California, were almost exclusively rapes, but after gaining notoriety in the press, the EAR began to escalate his violence, which resulted in a homicide on February 2, 1978. Investigators believe the media attention directly encouraged the EAR to take greater risks, seeing the press coverage as a challenge. In December of 1979, the first Original Night Stalker murder occurred in Southern California, and a total of 10 murders were perpetrated in the Orange County area before the ONS disappeared from the radar.
Like the Zodiac, the EAR/ONS has never been caught, and, like the Zodiac, he may never be caught. Composite portraits of the alleged killer exist, as, of course, does DNA evidence, but no logical links to suspects have thus far panned out.
But this man's criminal activity apparently didn't begin with the Northern California rapes. Between April 1974 and December 1975, a spate of "burglaries" (roughly 125) occurred in Visalia, California. The perpetrator of these "burglaries" became known as the Visalia Ransacker as his primary goal seemed to be property destruction, not theft. Through witness descriptions and modus operandi the Ransacker was linked to the EAR/ONS.
As of 2011, no firm suspect has been identified and the investigation is ongoing. The suspect was described as being in his 20's at the time of these crimes, which would put him in his 50's or 60's now. There is also speculation that he may no longer be alive. If you have an interest in learning more, or you happen to be the EAR/ONS/Ransacker, you can visit the EAR/ONS victim memorial site here.
The Original Night Stalker was first identified in Orange County, California but later connected with a spate of rapes in the Sacramento area, where he was known as the East Area Rapist. All told, this man can be linked, by either DNA or MO, to nearly 200 crimes, making him one of the (if not the) most prolific serial criminals in California history.
His earliest crimes, in Northern California, were almost exclusively rapes, but after gaining notoriety in the press, the EAR began to escalate his violence, which resulted in a homicide on February 2, 1978. Investigators believe the media attention directly encouraged the EAR to take greater risks, seeing the press coverage as a challenge. In December of 1979, the first Original Night Stalker murder occurred in Southern California, and a total of 10 murders were perpetrated in the Orange County area before the ONS disappeared from the radar.
Like the Zodiac, the EAR/ONS has never been caught, and, like the Zodiac, he may never be caught. Composite portraits of the alleged killer exist, as, of course, does DNA evidence, but no logical links to suspects have thus far panned out.
But this man's criminal activity apparently didn't begin with the Northern California rapes. Between April 1974 and December 1975, a spate of "burglaries" (roughly 125) occurred in Visalia, California. The perpetrator of these "burglaries" became known as the Visalia Ransacker as his primary goal seemed to be property destruction, not theft. Through witness descriptions and modus operandi the Ransacker was linked to the EAR/ONS.
As of 2011, no firm suspect has been identified and the investigation is ongoing. The suspect was described as being in his 20's at the time of these crimes, which would put him in his 50's or 60's now. There is also speculation that he may no longer be alive. If you have an interest in learning more, or you happen to be the EAR/ONS/Ransacker, you can visit the EAR/ONS victim memorial site here.
The Eye Of The Tigress
Okay, so I recognize that I've been a tad cranky the last couple of days (for reasons I won't go into). In an effort to cheer myself up I'm posting some videos that never fail to make me smile.
BELOW: Mouse Trap. Note: this is not actually a mouse -- it's a rat. I love rats, I used to have a mating pair, but this video is inspirational; watch it to the end.
BELOW: Chicken Little. The song is part of Dragostea Din Tei, by O-Zone.
BELOW: You Sexy Thing. It's a bit creepy, actually, now that I think about it...
Mummy Dearest
I'm always on the lookout for fun and educational games and I found the following one while rummaging around on Facebook.
It's from the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago and it's a game (I use the term loosely) about mummification. Yes, that's right, you can embalm your own mummy! To be sure, it's a very simplistic approach (but it's designed for kids, alright, cut 'em some slack) to the process of mummification, but it's instructive none-the-less. It's a pretty quick little adventure, so click the picture to try it out.
It's from the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago and it's a game (I use the term loosely) about mummification. Yes, that's right, you can embalm your own mummy! To be sure, it's a very simplistic approach (but it's designed for kids, alright, cut 'em some slack) to the process of mummification, but it's instructive none-the-less. It's a pretty quick little adventure, so click the picture to try it out.
Pilgrimage
While I was in San Antonio I had the opportunity to travel most of the Spanish Mission Trail. I hadn't know there was one until I went there. I have known about the California Mission Trail for years and wanted to do it. Some day I will. But today I was looking for something to watch on TV and came across Rick Steves' Europe (I like watching this program because I love to travel and he almost always goes somewhere that I have wanted to go for years).
In this episode he was talking about Galicia and the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. I have never heard of this before. It's a pilgrimage trail in the north of Spain. According to Rick Steves, the trail (which is dirt) is 500 miles long and takes about 5 weeks at 15 miles per day with days off. According to the website Camino de Santiago de Compostela, there are numerous starting points for the Camino all over Europe, but the main starting point is St Jean Pied de Port in Frances. As you can see by the map below (taken from a Camino passport), there are multiple routes.
Along the route are some of Spain's best known cities; for example, Pamplona where crazy people run ahead of horned bulls every year. There are also towns between each major city with hostels that cater to the pilgrims. Before going it is important to acquire a "passport" which allows you to stay in an Albergue (pilgrims only hostel). These can be acquired via The Confraternity of St. James or any of the local confraternities (if you're in North America you can go here) or at some of the larger Albergues, but St. Jean de Pied de Port is where the majority of passports are issued. Be aware, that to take advantage of the confraternities, you are likely going to have to join (you can get non-member passports, but seriously, if you're willing to put in the effort to do this, you should consider helping the conservation effort).
Although the trail can be driven (well, not the actual trail, but you can travel by vehicle from town to town), the traditional way (and the only way to get into a pilgrim hostel) is by foot on the dirt track (although you could go by bicycle or even horse if you're a pansy). Therefore, it's important that you pack accordingly -- good footwear is obviously essential. There is a great packing list on the Camino website.
So, if the idea of walking over 1 million steps doesn't dissuade you from trying this...I'm planning for next year -- who's with me?!
In this episode he was talking about Galicia and the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. I have never heard of this before. It's a pilgrimage trail in the north of Spain. According to Rick Steves, the trail (which is dirt) is 500 miles long and takes about 5 weeks at 15 miles per day with days off. According to the website Camino de Santiago de Compostela, there are numerous starting points for the Camino all over Europe, but the main starting point is St Jean Pied de Port in Frances. As you can see by the map below (taken from a Camino passport), there are multiple routes.
Along the route are some of Spain's best known cities; for example, Pamplona where crazy people run ahead of horned bulls every year. There are also towns between each major city with hostels that cater to the pilgrims. Before going it is important to acquire a "passport" which allows you to stay in an Albergue (pilgrims only hostel). These can be acquired via The Confraternity of St. James or any of the local confraternities (if you're in North America you can go here) or at some of the larger Albergues, but St. Jean de Pied de Port is where the majority of passports are issued. Be aware, that to take advantage of the confraternities, you are likely going to have to join (you can get non-member passports, but seriously, if you're willing to put in the effort to do this, you should consider helping the conservation effort).
Although the trail can be driven (well, not the actual trail, but you can travel by vehicle from town to town), the traditional way (and the only way to get into a pilgrim hostel) is by foot on the dirt track (although you could go by bicycle or even horse if you're a pansy). Therefore, it's important that you pack accordingly -- good footwear is obviously essential. There is a great packing list on the Camino website.
So, if the idea of walking over 1 million steps doesn't dissuade you from trying this...I'm planning for next year -- who's with me?!
