This song spoke to me just now....thought I'd post it here. The words are great. Jack Johnson is a true poet.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
A thought
I am an avid music fan. I love a plethora of music. I try to share what I think more people than not would appreciate and enjoy. I saw this performed on Austin City Limits the other night, and we just stopped talking and sat in awe. Simplicity and truth; not a pie-in-the-sky love song with words that you would never hear someone say in real life or even think about saying. The words of this song are awesome. It seems that most great music is rarely heard by that many people these days. But when a song has this kind of an instantaneous impact, I think deserves some recognition, even if it's just by a nobody like me. I'm not really one to get all mushy and TMI, but it blows my mind sometimes how a song or a sight can make you and yours both stop in your tracks and share a moment like that. No matter what's going bad in your life or stressing you out, if you can have something like that, you know there's always a reason to keep at it. You have all you need.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
My Pity Party
I had this epiphany one night right before bed that I probably have enough classes from my no-longer-used degree in court reporting to have a huge head start in getting a Business Administration degree, Associate degree of course. That would be good enough for me to be able to make a better living. It's obviously not something prestigious, but a lot better than what I am now. Not that I am greedy and after a lot, I'm just thinking about the future.
After beginning the necessary steps to figure out what I'm supposed to be doing next, including applying for FAFSA, I felt this great sense of hope that isn't normal for me. Not that I'm mean or bitter really, just more hopefulness than normal. I was ready, full force.
After finding out this afternoon that I do not qualify for Federal financial aid, I became more upset than I have in quite some time. I have used it before. According to their little page, I still qualified to apply for it again. No reason given, nothing that made any sense whatsoever. If I could afford to pay for the entire 10 or 12 classes I need, I wouldn't have applied...but the Government feels otherwise. So here we are. I have been so angry I could hardly speak for most of the evening.
And I don't mean in any way to demean or diminish the fact that other people are hoping for WAY more important things, like being rid of a disease, to have a child, to hope a loved one can kick an addiction. My pity party is only nanoscopic compared to the seriousness of those things.
So I laid on the couch and mired in my self-pity. I should just be thankful I got to use it the first time. Wallowing and wallowing. Not even the ultra-cuteness of Bo and Lucy could make me feel better. Jonathan had to run out for a bit, so I decided to watch TV and mire there...I turned on an episode of Joel Osteen that we had recorded a few weeks ago but still hadn't watched. He told his usual joke, which was hilarious; and then started talking about when something you were hoping for so much is taken away without clear rhyme or reason, do not give up hope. It's just not time yet. And he followed it with this:
Hebrews 13:5-6
Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
I just sat there with my mouth hanging open. I immediately felt the pity party becoming smaller and smaller. It was amazing. I could go on and on about the injustices of what's going on in this world today, but I won't give up.
After beginning the necessary steps to figure out what I'm supposed to be doing next, including applying for FAFSA, I felt this great sense of hope that isn't normal for me. Not that I'm mean or bitter really, just more hopefulness than normal. I was ready, full force.
After finding out this afternoon that I do not qualify for Federal financial aid, I became more upset than I have in quite some time. I have used it before. According to their little page, I still qualified to apply for it again. No reason given, nothing that made any sense whatsoever. If I could afford to pay for the entire 10 or 12 classes I need, I wouldn't have applied...but the Government feels otherwise. So here we are. I have been so angry I could hardly speak for most of the evening.
And I don't mean in any way to demean or diminish the fact that other people are hoping for WAY more important things, like being rid of a disease, to have a child, to hope a loved one can kick an addiction. My pity party is only nanoscopic compared to the seriousness of those things.
So I laid on the couch and mired in my self-pity. I should just be thankful I got to use it the first time. Wallowing and wallowing. Not even the ultra-cuteness of Bo and Lucy could make me feel better. Jonathan had to run out for a bit, so I decided to watch TV and mire there...I turned on an episode of Joel Osteen that we had recorded a few weeks ago but still hadn't watched. He told his usual joke, which was hilarious; and then started talking about when something you were hoping for so much is taken away without clear rhyme or reason, do not give up hope. It's just not time yet. And he followed it with this:
Hebrews 13:5-6
Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
I just sat there with my mouth hanging open. I immediately felt the pity party becoming smaller and smaller. It was amazing. I could go on and on about the injustices of what's going on in this world today, but I won't give up.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Oh....to be a bulldog
It would be nice if all I had to worry about was how many squirrels are in the yard or when I got to go outside or run through the house with a rubber pig in my mouth....and beg for rawhides on top of the refrigerator...that dog has it made. Wish we could switch places on busy, tired days like this.
 |
| the face of quiet begging |
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Perseids Meteor Shower Peak - August 12 and 13, 2010
This Thursday night is a great night for gazing at the sky (as long as the clouds stay away). After the sun goes down, turn your attention to the west and there will be an alignment of Venus, Saturn, Mars, and a crescent Moon. Venus will be the brightest object, except for the sliver of moon obviously. Should be an awesome sight.
Around 10:00 p.m. Thursday night, look to the northeast, grab a blanket and hang out in the yard or on a boat in the river and you should be pleasantly surprised. Lay back and don't try to focus on one specific spot. No need for a telescope or binoculars.
Here's a cool article about viewing this year's Perseid Meteor Shower along with SKY MAPS to let you know where to look;)
How to See the Best Meteor Showers of the Year: Tools, Tips and 'Save the Dates' - NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Around 10:00 p.m. Thursday night, look to the northeast, grab a blanket and hang out in the yard or on a boat in the river and you should be pleasantly surprised. Lay back and don't try to focus on one specific spot. No need for a telescope or binoculars.
Here's a cool article about viewing this year's Perseid Meteor Shower along with SKY MAPS to let you know where to look;)
How to See the Best Meteor Showers of the Year: Tools, Tips and 'Save the Dates' - NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Bon Iver - Skinny Love Live on Jools Holland
Thank you Grey's Anatomy for playing Bon Iver a long time ago. I fell in love. The band is called Bon Iver. That's pronounced 'bon-eevair.' The guy in this video is named Justin Vernon. He started the band in 2007 and made a solo appearance on Live with Jools Holland, which has quickly become one of my favorite shows. It comes on Ovation TV a few times a day. Each show has 5 or 6 different musical acts of all different types. This is one of my favorites from what I've seen so far. The song is called Skinny Love.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Angie's Song of the Moment: Brandi Carlile "The Story" Acoustic
This song and the way it's performed is one of those that grabs you by your heartstrings and yanks the hell out of them. Awesomeness...
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
My PaPa (pronounced Paw-Paw) Fred R. Hyatt 1924-2010: A Man of Honor
I felt the need to post this for anyone who couldn't attend to hear it in person last Thursday. If any of you didn't know my grandfather, this is a great description of what a wonderful person he was and is.
Our father was a man from “The Greatest Generation." No truer words have ever been spoken than to refer to these men in this manner. They were but mere children when they were sent to defend our country. There wasn’t any hiding or running from their responsibilities…nor did they want to shirk their duty. They faced it head-on, and Daddy was no exception. He was a POW in Germany with many heart-wrenching stories to tell as well as a few humorous ones thrown in for good measure. He was very proud to have served his country and continued to be proud all of his life.
If any of you are familiar with Steele, then no doubt you have seen the flag flying in the center of town. Up until a few years ago, Daddy raised and lowered that flag every day without fail; but only if the weather was appropriate. Many times he could be seen walking through pouring rain to take that flag down. When he was no longer able to take care of, what was to him the most important aspect of his day, the mayor and council had the flagpole moved to the center of the park and lighted so the flag could remain flying. He will always be our hero….
There are many adjectives that could be used when remembering or speaking of our father…stern, humorous, talented, generous, opinionated, hard-nosed, soft-hearted, loyal, stubborn, Republican, patriot, complicated & the list could be endless. But above all else we would describe him as a Man of honor. He was a complex man on some levels but lived his life in simplicity. Most people are not aware that he only had a 7th grade education or that he was an artist in addition to playing banjo & piano. But if you ever had a discussion with him, you were acutely aware that he was a man of great intelligence. He was introduced to the world of computers in his late seventies. He continued to play games on the internet, without assistance, until his death. Yes, most likely, you would disagree with a lot of his views; but he dearly loved to argue his points...almost as much as he loved his country…
By no means was he a saint. Growing up in his household was very complicated to say the least. On one hand, you would cringe when he walked in the door angry; but on the other he could be as gentle as a child. He had four children…each two years apart. So I am sure it was quite the challenge for him.
One of many fond memories is the story about the M & M’s. We did not have many luxuries, such as store-bought candy, growing up. But on Fridays when he got paid, he would buy two packs. Keep in mind, he had four children. You can imagine what a fight this brought on every Friday. We would pour the candy out in a pile so we could divide them equally. But usually there was only one or two red ones. So the fighting would begin. Later in life, we came to the opinion that he did this on purpose just to see us argue over the red ones or who got more, etc. Or maybe he just didn’t have the money for four packs. But either way, we survived. We never went hungry; although I suspect he and mother did at times. They would do whatever was necessary to provide for us. When there was no work, she would take in ironing; and he would mow grass at the cemetery. The same one where Mom was laid to rest in 1983 and where he will be laid to rest today…
He grew up in a blended family of thirteen children on a farm in St. Clair County. His uncle offered him what is today “Horse Pens 40” if he would come and help him with his farm. He declined….we never let him forget that one. But possessions and wealth were never his goal in life. He wanted enough to be comfortable and have enough to share with his children.
During the years that he owned H & H Supply in Steele, it was not unusual for him to bring someone in the store that needed gas or food but had no means to pay. He would give them what they needed and send them on their way. He was also known to have gone to the school when the weather turned cold and find out which children did not have warm coats and proceed to buy what was needed. He did not do this to put on a show or for praise. He did this because he remembered being hungry and cold, both in childhood and during the war. As was stated earlier, he was definitely a puzzle because he could be generous to a fault and at the same time want to hold onto a rusty nail if he thought he would use it one day down the line.
Growing up, animals were always a part of our household. He could never turn away a stray or an injured animal. We’ve had everything from a flying squirrel to a robin named “Ruffles.” I’ve heard him say many times that he should have been a veterinarian, and he was probably right. Over the past 15 years or so, he has had parakeets. And I don’t mean a pair! There are roughly 40-45 at last count. He would never entertain selling any of them because he did not want them caged. He had built a special “house” just for them. Many times it was difficult for him to even walk across the room, but somehow he always managed to feed his birds most everyday and the two stray dogs that he had adopted, Prissy & Hercules.
As you leave today, take with you the memories that you have of our father with you. Tell your children and your grandchildren about the grumpy little old man that you knew that just happened to be from “The Greatest Generation.” The man that was a POW, a Purple Heart Recipient, a father, a grandfather but above all else…a Man of Honor.
Written by Debra Hyatt
Our father was a man from “The Greatest Generation." No truer words have ever been spoken than to refer to these men in this manner. They were but mere children when they were sent to defend our country. There wasn’t any hiding or running from their responsibilities…nor did they want to shirk their duty. They faced it head-on, and Daddy was no exception. He was a POW in Germany with many heart-wrenching stories to tell as well as a few humorous ones thrown in for good measure. He was very proud to have served his country and continued to be proud all of his life.
If any of you are familiar with Steele, then no doubt you have seen the flag flying in the center of town. Up until a few years ago, Daddy raised and lowered that flag every day without fail; but only if the weather was appropriate. Many times he could be seen walking through pouring rain to take that flag down. When he was no longer able to take care of, what was to him the most important aspect of his day, the mayor and council had the flagpole moved to the center of the park and lighted so the flag could remain flying. He will always be our hero….
There are many adjectives that could be used when remembering or speaking of our father…stern, humorous, talented, generous, opinionated, hard-nosed, soft-hearted, loyal, stubborn, Republican, patriot, complicated & the list could be endless. But above all else we would describe him as a Man of honor. He was a complex man on some levels but lived his life in simplicity. Most people are not aware that he only had a 7th grade education or that he was an artist in addition to playing banjo & piano. But if you ever had a discussion with him, you were acutely aware that he was a man of great intelligence. He was introduced to the world of computers in his late seventies. He continued to play games on the internet, without assistance, until his death. Yes, most likely, you would disagree with a lot of his views; but he dearly loved to argue his points...almost as much as he loved his country…
By no means was he a saint. Growing up in his household was very complicated to say the least. On one hand, you would cringe when he walked in the door angry; but on the other he could be as gentle as a child. He had four children…each two years apart. So I am sure it was quite the challenge for him.
One of many fond memories is the story about the M & M’s. We did not have many luxuries, such as store-bought candy, growing up. But on Fridays when he got paid, he would buy two packs. Keep in mind, he had four children. You can imagine what a fight this brought on every Friday. We would pour the candy out in a pile so we could divide them equally. But usually there was only one or two red ones. So the fighting would begin. Later in life, we came to the opinion that he did this on purpose just to see us argue over the red ones or who got more, etc. Or maybe he just didn’t have the money for four packs. But either way, we survived. We never went hungry; although I suspect he and mother did at times. They would do whatever was necessary to provide for us. When there was no work, she would take in ironing; and he would mow grass at the cemetery. The same one where Mom was laid to rest in 1983 and where he will be laid to rest today…
He grew up in a blended family of thirteen children on a farm in St. Clair County. His uncle offered him what is today “Horse Pens 40” if he would come and help him with his farm. He declined….we never let him forget that one. But possessions and wealth were never his goal in life. He wanted enough to be comfortable and have enough to share with his children.
During the years that he owned H & H Supply in Steele, it was not unusual for him to bring someone in the store that needed gas or food but had no means to pay. He would give them what they needed and send them on their way. He was also known to have gone to the school when the weather turned cold and find out which children did not have warm coats and proceed to buy what was needed. He did not do this to put on a show or for praise. He did this because he remembered being hungry and cold, both in childhood and during the war. As was stated earlier, he was definitely a puzzle because he could be generous to a fault and at the same time want to hold onto a rusty nail if he thought he would use it one day down the line.
Growing up, animals were always a part of our household. He could never turn away a stray or an injured animal. We’ve had everything from a flying squirrel to a robin named “Ruffles.” I’ve heard him say many times that he should have been a veterinarian, and he was probably right. Over the past 15 years or so, he has had parakeets. And I don’t mean a pair! There are roughly 40-45 at last count. He would never entertain selling any of them because he did not want them caged. He had built a special “house” just for them. Many times it was difficult for him to even walk across the room, but somehow he always managed to feed his birds most everyday and the two stray dogs that he had adopted, Prissy & Hercules.
As you leave today, take with you the memories that you have of our father with you. Tell your children and your grandchildren about the grumpy little old man that you knew that just happened to be from “The Greatest Generation.” The man that was a POW, a Purple Heart Recipient, a father, a grandfather but above all else…a Man of Honor.
Written by Debra Hyatt
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Angie's Song of the Moment: River of Deceit - Mad Season
This was an awesome group....so sad that two of its members are now dead to the scourge of addiction...at least Alice in Chains is back. I won't say better than ever because that's impossible....
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Monday, March 8, 2010
FOXNews.com - ACORN Registration Workers Charged With Felony Voter Fraud
Had some pretty good articles on my old blog about this back when it was actually happening....too bad I deleted that account. I really wanted to say "I told you so."
FOXNews.com - ACORN Registration Workers Charged With Felony Voter Fraud
Posted using ShareThis
FOXNews.com - ACORN Registration Workers Charged With Felony Voter Fraud
Posted using ShareThis
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Senate Trio Hopes to Hit Pay Dirt With Carbon 'Fee' on Fuels - Topix
Read this story and tell me if this is not the biggest pile of manure you've ever seen. They refer to the "carbon problem." I am so disappointed in Joe Lieberman and Lindsey Graham...not very surprised about John Kerry being involved though. You'd think any policy change that's supported by Big Oil would probably not benefit the public. Cap and trade is a scam, but there seems to be no way of stopping it. They will not force me to buy an SUV or a hybrid car. I'll keep the Mustang, the Jeep, and definitely the Chevelle. Thanks.
If scientists are at odds over whether the emissions are actually harming the environment or not, how in the world can they do this? Same way they do everything else....
I'm going to do all I can, which is vote out every single incumbent possible.
Senate Trio Hopes to Hit Pay Dirt With Carbon 'Fee' on Fuels - Topix
If scientists are at odds over whether the emissions are actually harming the environment or not, how in the world can they do this? Same way they do everything else....
I'm going to do all I can, which is vote out every single incumbent possible.
Senate Trio Hopes to Hit Pay Dirt With Carbon 'Fee' on Fuels - Topix
Monday, March 1, 2010
One quarter of Germans fine with microchip skin implant - The Local
Anyone down for some microchip implants?
One quarter of Germans fine with microchip skin implant - The Local
One quarter of Germans fine with microchip skin implant - The Local
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