30 Day Fast - Day 21 ? - Labor Day - The Great Escape - The Reveal

30 Day Fast - Day 21 ? - The Great Escape - The Reveal

Monday Sept 07, 2009


(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are done half conscience at midnight - fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL)


The Great Escape

Wherever you go, go with all your heart. ~Confucius


Well Gals and Guys Happy Labor Day to you all...It been a quite and amazing and slightly emotional weekend. See Blog Below after this Tribute and Quick History Lesson

The History of Labor Day : Canadian Encyclopedia


In a time when the news of labour "strife" is dominated by disputes between millionaire athletes and billionaire owners, history provides a useful perspective on a time when working people had to fight to work less than 12 hours a day. The "Nine-Hour Movement" began in Hamilton, Ontario, and then spread to Toronto where its demands were taken up by the Toronto Printer's Union.

In 1869 the union sent a petition to their employers requesting a weekly reduction in hours per week to 58, placing itself in the forefront of the industrialized world in the fight for shorter hours. Their request was refused outright by the owners of the printing shops, most vehemently by George Brown of the Globe.

By 1872 the union's stand had hardened from a request to a demand and a threat to strike. The employers called the demand for a shorter workweek "foolish", "absurd" and "unreasonable." As a result, on March 25, 1872 the printers went on strike.

On April 14 a demonstration was held to show solidarity among the workers of Toronto. A parade of some 2000 workers marched through the city, headed by two marching bands. By the time that the parade reached Queen's Park, the sympathetic crowd had grown to 10,000.

The employers fought the strikers by bringing in replacement workers from small towns. George Brown launched a counterattack by launching a legal action against the union for "conspiracy." Brown's action revealed the astonishing fact that according to the laws of Canada union activity was indeed considered a criminal offense. Under the law, which dated back to 1792, police arrested and jailed the 24 members of the strike committee.

On 15 May 1872, Hamilton's "nine-hour pioneers" defied opposition with a procession of 1500 workers (Canadian Illustrated News, courtesy NAC/C-58640).

As history tells it, however, Brown had overplayed his hand. Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald had been watching the Nine-Hour Movement with curious interest, "his big nose sensitively keen," wrote historian Donald Creighton, "like an animal's for any scent of profit or danger." The scent of profit came from the fact that Macdonald's old Liberal rival George Brown had made himself a hated man among the workers of Canada.

Macdonald was quick to capitalize. In Ottawa, he spoke to a crowd at city hall, promising to wipe the "barbarous laws" restricting labour from the books. Macdonald then came to the rescue of the imprisoned men and on June 14 passed a Trade Union Act, which legalized and protected union activity. Macdonald's move not only embarrassed his rival Brown but also earned him the enduring support of the working class.

For the strikers themselves, the short-term effects were very damaging. Many lost their jobs and were forced to leave Toronto. The long-term effects, however, were positive. After 1872 almost all union demands included the 54-hour week. Thus the Toronto printers were pioneers of the shorter workweek in North America. The movement did not reach places such as Chicago or New York until the turn of the century.

The fight of the Toronto printers had a second, lasting legacy. The parades held in support of the Nine-Hour Movement and the printers' strike led to an annual celebration. In 1882 American labour leader Peter J. McGuire witnessed one of these labour festivals in Toronto. Inspired, he returned to New York and organized the first American "labour day" on September 5 of the same year. Throughout the 1880s pressure built in Canada to declare a national labour holiday and on July 23, 1894 the government of Sir John Thompson passed a law making Labour Day official. A huge Labour Day parade took place in Winnipeg that year. It stretched some 5 kilometres. The tradition of a Labour Day celebration quickly spread across Canada and the continent. It had all begun in Toronto with the brave stand of the printers' union.

James Marsh is editor in chief of The Canadian Encyclopedia.

Labor Day History - History Channel (USA)

As the Industrial Revolution took hold of the nation, the average American in the late 1800s worked 12-hour days, seven days a week in order to make a basic living. Children were also working, as they provided cheap labor to employers and laws against child labor were not strongly enforced.

With the long hours and terrible working conditions, American unions became more prominent and voiced their demands for a better way of life. On Tuesday September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers marched from city hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first-ever Labor Day parade. Participants took an upaid day-off to honor the workers of America, as well as vocalize issues they had with employers. As years passed, more states began to hold these parades, but Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later.

On May 11, 1894, workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago struck to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. They sought support from their union led by Eugene V. Debs and on June 26 the American Railroad Union called a boycott of all Pullman railway cars. Within days, 50,000 rail workers complied and railroad traffic out of Chicago came to a halt. On July 4, President Grover Cleveland dispatched troops to Chicago. Much rioting and bloodshed ensued, but the government's actions broke the strike and the boycott soon collapsed. Debs and three other union officials were jailed for disobeying the injunction. The strike brought worker's rights to the public eye and Congress declared, in 1894, that the first Monday in September would be the holiday for workers, known as Labor Day.

The founder of Labor Day remains unclear, but some credit either Peter McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, or Matthew Maguire, a secretary of the Central Labor Union, for proposing the holiday.

Although Labor Day is meant as a celebration of the labor movement and its achievements, it has come to be celebrated as the last, long summer weekend before Autumn.

NOW BACK TO OUR RGULARLY SCHEDULED PROGRAMMNG


Had a heart to heart with and online virtual friend which was quite significant. It changed my perspective and mindset a bit. The act of of being emotionally vulnerable and revealing is scary but invigorating at times , but the thought and the ultimatum of losing a connection and a bond that has been made and formed.... Woke me up, and although I don't like ultimatums. I think they are a form of emotional blackmail 99% of the time. This time I am kinda glad I was in a state of openness to accept it.

I just want them to know I really appreciate them - you know who you are. I have grown quite fond of them.

The rest of the weekend was fun also... In my opinion anyway. And at the end of the day that all the really counts. Friday met up with a buddy who is in town but leaving for another work / travel tour. He lives quite a hard life he works for High End Cruiseline and travels the World for free. He has currently circumnavigated the globe 4 times. (Bastard LOL)

He consulted me as most people do in regards to career and or realtionship. So we took all the pros and cons and systematically went through them...He made a decision that was pratical and spirtitual benefitual to him. I was very happy.

I am trying to encourage him to go on a voluntary celibate fast...he laughs , rolls his eyes and tells me I am crazy. I support you. But I wouldn't last a week. Then I said then all the more you should do it.

Then I get a text message from a mutual friend ...and we end up doing this crazy scavenger hunt to meet up... We end up at DQ ..not my favorite place. I prefer going to a local non franchised establishments Mom & Pop places ..Support your local businesses and economy Eat Local & buy local first, country second, Continent third, World fourth...


I had a fantastic day yesterday went on a bit of a roadtrip with a best buddy of mine. Was gone for about 9 hrs ... we traveled all through the southern most portion of my region, saw some amazing sights and scenery...shared some food, music, stories and silence. I love comfortable silence...it really shows intimacy.

It is almost past the midway mark...I have to say...the not dating , the voluntary celibacy or no sex is not that hard...but the reprogramming of the brain...is a bastard. I am doing my best.


Well that is my random thought for today stay tuned another time for some more randonmess LOL.


RECIPE OF THE DAY : Follow Links

Labor-Free Recipes for Labor Day Grilling

by Sarah Kagan


GLUTEN FREE LABOR DAY RECIPES :

CORN

STEAKY VEGETARIAN PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS

SALAD

Wild Salmon Sausage & Burgers

Check out @gfveg on twitter and her site Wheatless & Meatless

Check Out @glutenfreegirl on twitter and at Gluten free Girl

30 Day Fast - Day 4 - pt 2 Battle Of The Mind & Stomach

30 Day Fast - Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.


(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are done half conscience at midnight - fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL)


I am annoyed how hard this is tonight and why I can't string a simple plain sentence together with a subtextual nuance to express my multi-layererd literary angst

It seems to have been a rough week for a lot of people.
People's emotional quotient is all over the map...Bio-Rhythms frantic. My mind reflects and recalls the the weeks lowlights.

Nathalie - Father is the hospital with some heart related abnormality.

Stacey - Dog was put down...and is still reeling from grief.

Kal - This ones a dozy and it happen all one day.

To say she got up on the wrong side of the bed - is sort of understatement.
She hit the floor with misfortune. Domestic Dilemmas , Confusion , Internal Family Politics, Time + Travel Miscalculations , and puppies.

It all started with her Mother. Doesn't always, seem to start with your Mother.
It had something to to with a combination of Child Rearing and then derogatory comments against her personal style. She has a couple of Tats and a lip piercing.

Then later having a communication misunderstanding with her hubby. Which lead to not focusing on the new puppy who took it upon himself against restrictions to marked out his territory by raining drown on Her husband Lap Top which was on Kal Mothers Bed ! Which in turn caused friction and issues with her Mother again.

Poor Girl. And to top it off is contemplating career opportunities, that could drastically change the dynamic of her family and friends perspective.(Career Advancement and Notoriety) vs Status Quo and Extended Family Unity !

Kal finally makes into town behind schedule drops her family off at her "Sister" (BFF) And heads over my way...She phones me twice once to say that she is on her way and once to ask direction. I find that last call odd , cause she used to live here.

17 minutes later I hear a tap at my window...I look out and there is she sheepishly smiling..asking what number am I again. I almost didn't recognized her she lost weight and cut her hair,it was restyled in a sort of preppy cut which is so cute.

I buzz her in. I open the door and gives me a huge mini bearhug for a minute smiles and races off to the washroom. Comes out and laughs and gives me another hug.

And then ask's me as she always does "tell me a story I love your stories.." This is a woman who has a degree in English and a minor in Journalism and writes several different well viewed properties. She Loves my stories....( I've just learnt to accept it and say thank you)

We are talking a mile a minute catching up on all the gossip here and there. I catch her in transition and jokingly remind her that I thought dinner was involved with date. Throw the shoes on and head up the street to on of my favorite Neighborhood Mom & Pop Restaurants.


She is on a vegetarian diet at the moment so to keep with the theme we go veggie extreme. I get a Curried Vegetable soup. Kal gets Stir Fried Tofu & Veggies on Steam Rice.

The food comes it is a beautiful sight to see, the presentation impressive.

A mixture of fresh organic veggie in a rainbow array of color. I was always taught the more vibrant the color of Fruit or Veggie the better it for you.

IE. White Potato Vs Sweet Potato.


We finish our food...and head out the door. I suggest a little stroll to digest our food. Kal agrees and off we go Wolfs Bluff which is 7 blocks away. It's a nice view it over looks the city and can see the foothills.

It was doubley delightful because the Sunset was quite spectacular that night. Oranges , Reds with a variety of dark blues very cool. It is always kinda hit and miss here. We sit there in silence for a few minutes and walk back to my place.

We embrace one more time. Say our meet agains. And she drives off into the night.

Until Next Time lets hope its not 7 months again.

I head home and give myself the illusion of getting to go to bed. Then stay up for 5 hrs writing and surfing and listening French Jazz.


Recipe Of The Day :


Veggie Curry Soup:

* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1 onion, coarsely chopped
* 2 shallots, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, chopped
* 2 inch piece fresh ginger root, thinly sliced
* 1 stalk lemon grass, cut into 2 inch pieces
* 4 tablespoons curry powder
* 1 green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and diagonally sliced
* 8 mushrooms, sliced
* 1 pound fried tofu, cut into bite-size pieces
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 4 cups water
* 2 tablespoons vegetarian fish sauce (optional)
* 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
* 1 bay leaf
* 2 kaffir lime leaves
* 8 small potatoes, quartered
* 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk
*
* 2 cups fresh bean sprouts, for garnish
* 8 sprigs fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish

* add to recipe box Add to Recipe Box
My folders:
* add to shopping list Add to Shopping List
* Customize Recipe
* add a personal note Add a Personal Note

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Saute onion and shallots until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic, ginger, lemon grass and curry powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, to release the flavors of the curry. Stir in green pepper, carrots, mushrooms and tofu. Pour in vegetable stock and water. Season with fish sauce and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then stir in potatoes and coconut milk. When soup returns to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 40 to 60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Garnish each bowl with a pile of bean sprouts and cilantro.

30 Day Fast - Day 4 - How Romantic Comedies Ruined Our Lives !! or I Blame it on the Moon !!

Thursday August 20th, 2009

30 Day Fast - Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.

Day 4 – Thursday August 20th , 2009

How Romantic Comedies Ruined Our Lives !!
or I Blame it on the Moon !!

(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are done half conscience at midnight - fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL)




ROB:
“ What came first? The music or the
misery? People worry about kids
playing with guns and watching
violent videos, we're scared that
some sort of culture of violence is
taking them over...

But nobody worries about kids
listening to thousands -- literally
thousands -- of songs about broken
hearts and rejection and pain and
misery and loss.

Did I listen to pop music because I
was miserable, or was I miserable
because I listened to pop music?”

The Opening scene “ High Fidelity “ 2000 Video Clip

The Crux of this Thesis could really mindscrew you if you let it. I know because for years - even though I consider my self fairly well adjusted, and an intelligent individual. Who considers them self a student of human behavior and interaction. Some how - has been socialized and lulled into this unrealistic “Pleasantville” mindset of fairy tale romance.

According to a few enterprising social scientists at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, romantic comedies can raise unrealistic romantic expectations among fans and may therefore set them up for personal failure and a lifetime of disappointment. Check out links in grey. Tv Report


I would consider myself a lay expert in the subject and have the DVD collection to prove it. LOL

I think it stems for me, from sort of reverse rebellion. I was raise as a government brat - by a single mother, who once was, a street kid / flower girl who turned her life around and became a very successful consultant.

The story goes that my father who was married to my mother at the time, went to work one day when I was 3 yrs old, and never came home again. I wouldn't recognize him, if he stood next me on a train. Strangely I've never had the urge to track him down.

I had very non-traditional upbringing it was a bit of a dichotomy very free and Liberal, mixed with spot washes of die hard Conservatism depending on subject or issue. It was the “ Everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial” Model.

We traveled considerably. I sometime changed schools 2 or 3 times in year.

I was raised with a brother, and to this day - there still is unspoken and unanswered legitimacy to my relation to him...is he or is he not a full blooded relative. I don't really care – I just want to know.

But my mother has avoided the subject since I can remember. Along that line. I didn't know I had a half sister till about 12 yrs ago.


So subconsciously I have craved a stereotypical traditional family and relationship. Which is very subjective and culturally ambiguous. I think that's the right word or idea, You're picking up what I laying down right...groovy !

So my soul has searched for love in all the wrong places. Until I realized there was a difference between a healthy + inter-dependent relationship and a dysfunctional co-dependent one. Which I must admit at times. I am still am sucked into. Old habits die hard. LOL. That almost sounds like a good title for an action romance. LOL. Is there such a genre ?

So after much navel gazing and really, really deep contemplation... sleep deprivation and study.
( I watched 6 meaningful Romantic Dramedies in a row ) and re – read sections of The Secret , Blink and Politics of Lust, (Which is a must read !!)

Plus examining the last 6 weeks of my love life - which has been pretty much a comedy of errors, I felt the Creator of All things leading me to get in touch with one my first and true spiritual love, and second to do a little over due internal cleaning of stale and toxic thought processes and relationships.

So on the cusp of a new moon. I threw caution and convention to the wind and embarked on this journey of self discovery.

So again I have weaved this circuitous mosaic stream of conscientious...to say.

Examine your own core beliefs and ask your self do they reflect a true healthy, realistic and attainable relationship model.

If not - join me and lets grow together.


High Fidelity – Pivotal pre-ending scene

ROB
When are you going back?

LAURA
I don't know. Sometime. Later.
Listen, Rob, would you have sex
with me?

ROB
What?

LAURA
I want to feel something else than
this. It's either that or I go
home and put my hand in the fire.
Unless you want to stub cigarettes
out on my arm.

ROB
I've only got a couple left. I'm
saving them for later.

LAURA
It'll have to be sex, then.

She pulls herself over him, staddling him in the passenger
seat and kissing his neck. She pauses and regards him from
above.

LAURA
Hello. It doesn't seem so long ago
that I looked at you from here.

ROB
Hi.

LAURA
I knew there was a reason I wore a
skirt today.

Laura reaches down and unzips his pants, as they keep kissing.

ROB
You know, with Ray...

LAURA
Oh, Rob, we're not going to go
through that again.

ROB
No, no. It's not... are you still
on the pill?

LAURA
Yes, of course. There's nothing to
worry about.

ROB
I didn't mean that. I mean... was
that all you used?

Laura looks at him, motionless, then begins to cry.

ROB (CONT'D)
Look, we can do other things.

LAURA
I lived with you. You were my
partner just a few weeks ago and
now you're worried I might kill
you, and you're entitled to worry.
Isn't that a terrible thing? Isn't
that sad?

She rolls off of him into her seat. They sit there in
silence, watching the rain run down the windshield.


10 Mainstream Realistic Romantic Comedies

1) Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (2004): Michel Gondry directs this beautiful film about a young couple (Jim Carrey and Kate winslet) who fall out of love and decide to erase the other from their memory. wonderfully shot and edited, this brilliant film leaves you guessing until the end.

2) Amelie (2001): This charming French film stars audrey tautou as amelie Poulin, a young Parisian waitress who falls for a boy and sends him a series of photographs
and riddles to make their first kiss the most romantic moment of her life.

3.Before Sunset (2004): in 1995's Before sunrise, Ethan Hawk is Jesse, an american who spends a day in Vienna with a Parisian named Celine (Julie delphy). nine years later they reunite in Paris and spend the day walking and talking, and nothing more. amazingly effective in its simplicity.

4. Wall-e (2008): It's almost sad that two animated robots can say more about love and romance than most real-life actors, but that's what Pixar man-ages with the amazing wall-e. destined to become an animation classic.

5. Once (2007): a dublin busker (Glen Hansard of the Frames) and a Czech immigrant (marketa iglova) meet on the street and soon start to make beautiful music together. little but flirtation happens, but it happens with such a gorgeous soundtrack that you're quickly swooned.

6. Slumdog Millionaire (2008): A young, uneducated boy from mumbai's slums appears on the indian version of who wants to Be a millionaire not to win money, but because he thinks the love of his life might be watching. a great movie alone or with a loved one.

7. Punch-Drunk Love (2002): Punch-drunk love finds an unlikely adam sandler playing Barry egan, a desperately lonely man prone to fits of rage. He finds the adorable lena leonard (emily watson)who somehow accepts him for who he is. P. t. anderson (there will Be Blood) directs.

8. Brokeback Mountain (2005): The most romantic movies are about the subtle gestures, the moments in between intimacy, and ang lee's Broke-back mountain captures them against a vibrant alberta landscape. Jake gyllenhaal and the late Heath ledger are amazing as ranch hands who fall in love.

9. The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005): Writer/director Judd Apatow could have easily taken the raunchy route with his tale of a middle-aged virgin looking to "deflower," but instead, this is a sweet, funny and insightful film. steve Carell is likable as always, and Catherine Keener plays his perfect match.

10. Love, Actually (2003): A predominantly British cast carries this richard Curtis film through a series of different stories showing the different aspects of love. despite the presence of both Hugh grant and Colin Firth, it's not as twee as you'd think.




Healthy Break Up Food

Comforting Main Courses

* Crisp Oven-"Fried" Chicken
* Buffalo Meat Loaf
* Bean Burrito Casserole
* Lighter Than Mom's Tuna-Noodle Casserole

Satisfying Sides

* Mac 'n' Cheese
* Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Caramelized Shallots
* Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic and Herbs
* Lima Bean, Potato, and Garlic Purée with Potato Crisps
* Italian Green Beans and Potatoes
* Salt and Pepper Oven Fries

Dreamy Desserts

* Chocolate-Banana Cake with Walnuts
* Oatmeal Chocolate-Chip (and Bean!) Cookies
* Apple Brown Betty
* Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries and Vanilla

30 Day Fast - Day 3 - You Cant Do That

Day 3 - Wednesday August 19th, 2009 – 1:03 am (Thurs)

30 Day Fast ...Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.

YOU CAN'T DO THAT

(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are written at midnight by a half conscience dyslexic - bar stool prophet foodie and are done fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL )

It's 1:12 am and just walked in the door. It's amazing how one word or one phone call can totally change our perspective or our night. I am reflecting on the day and trying to formulate the method in relaying my daily self journey of discovery to the mini masses. I really don't have the delusion that anyone really is reading this save a few sweet and encouraging souls. Thanks by the way you know who you are !!

My day was like I almost lived it in reverse. It is 1:25 am I am awake when I should be sleeping. I am writing instead of dreaming. I am sitting here at my kitchen table eating dried cranberries and drinking cranberry juice out of a home made ceramic mug that I crafted several yrs back. I love this mug it turned out superbad and the underglaze paint is abstract and unique – like me.

I used to work part- time in retail ceramics ….you know the paint your own concept. My speciality was Corporate Parties and Bridal Showers they loved me...What's not to Love...Seriously !

I was up early today despite the fact that I stayed up late last night... and suffered and slaved over my keyboard so you could get a mere glimpse into the psyche of this dyslexic philosophical perfectionist procrastinator. Now that a mouthful ...try saying that 3 times fast. I can't believe you tried. LOL

I worked from home today mostly …If I were brutally honest I worked in my PJ's snuggled up in my bed with my Computer on my lap Cell beside and Ipod on low cranking out some funky tunes.Reading and responding to Email,GoogleChat,
FacebookChat, Twitter - that were surprisingly all business oriented.

Then I got distracted as I always do and followed the mad hatter down the rabbit hole and got lost in a virtual worm hole. Which only seem like minutes and when I space jumped back to reality about 4 hours had went by. The Strange thing is I moved seamlessly between both dimension without knowing or spacelag.

You see for that is the danger of working from home for me.
It too easy to have distractions.

I was pretty wound up - and decided to draw a hot bath and chill for a few. Wouldn't you know I just started soaking when my phone goes off. I am startled. I am compelled to answer it. I jump up and get it almost trip out of the tub and get up to fast and gets dizzy I answer the phone and the person keeps say “hello hello” last thing I remember I passed out momentarily luckily I was sitting down.

I flash into an altered state I see a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes and muted faces all mumbling something. I don't know if they are talking to me or what? I don't understand. I am starting to suffer from sensory overload. Your asking your self what this kid on ( I don't do Drugs or Alcohol) I snap out of it when the phone rings again. I answer it.

My friend “S”(from yesterday post..the lady who thinks everyone is lying to her.)

She yells “ Are you ok ..what the hell is going on over there” I told that I fainted. She ask if I am ok...then a few moments later proceeds to laugh hysterically. The laughter is contagious and I startle to chuckle it was odd and kinda funny situation. If you think about it. A little disconcerted I was.
"s" jokingly says “ So you have an interesting day already haven't you”

Then the conversation becomes very cool and too the point.
She ask me “Is the concept we have been discussing over the past week - that I am supposed to get is it Love...” I am shocked and can't believe what I am hearing .I ask her to repeat herself...I internally almost blew a gasket of excitement - has she figure it out ...has she come to the realization that she has been lied too and she has lied too herself all these years. Sadly no...sorry gang.

Dear sweet “S” still lost in confusion - The Veil of Lies still impeding her vision of the Truth.

I ask her if I could talk to her later since technically I was naked and cold. That's what I told her. It was true , but really I just needed a break this issue is too emotionally draining for me. I don't want to talk about anymore.

Have I opened a pandoras box. It seems that there is cosmic riff and every one is searching for truth and meaning and so intense about discussing Love and Relationships.

As the tagline for X-files state The truth is out there you just find it ! I would say you have to see what is in front of you. Which is much harder said than done at times.

So I drain the tub and tidy up the Bathroom and head back into the Bedroom.

I got dressed and started to clean up when a text comes in from my friend “Kr” and “ShG” they just read my blog and twitter feed and curious as to the real reason behind my 30 Day Fast. I Proceed to tell them simultaneously on Twitter.

It's all about Reformatting and Rebooting my mind and soul from the toxic relationships and patterns that I have held on to recently and since I currently not in relationship. The full moon is Thursday. So the timing is perfect. After several sarcastic and teasing correspondence they offered there support and caring and said they were proud of me and wished me well.

I am exhausted again and decide to have a nap - it is another day of not accomplishing my list of to do around the house. I have to tomorrow I have guest coming over for Dinner. I am good under pressure If I put my mind to I have in down in 1 ½ hr.

Ok we went through the long laborious milk run of conscientious to get to the beginning which actually is the end today ...cause I say so. Don't argue.


Its 9:05 pm and my Sister Girlfriend “Is” (soul sister ) calls me up and invites me out for dinner and a walk....she says 5 minutes but in her world 5 minutes means 20 – 40 mins...so I wait patiently for her to show up. “Is” would be late for her own funeral ...LOL


We met up and head off to a little trendy neighborhood across the bridge for downtown...and stop off at this little mom and pop mexican / pizza joint...simple homemade fare but great.

Order our food sit out on the small patio and take in the beautiful night...Jump in the car and decided to go midtown mile and walk and do a night sightseeing.

We park and head off for a quick stroll down the mile - the sights and sounds are vibrant and amusing , ugly and annoying and some just dang peculiar.


We stop in Steep a trendy organic Teahouse and peruse through there vast assortment of teas. “Is” picks up some Rooibos. Rooibos ( chai , ginger or cinnamon) is my favorite.

We head back to the when we see a young woman casually dressed pushing a shopping cart down the sidewalk and every 15 seconds looking behind her. Just plain odd.

But the oddest was the man who ask us point blankly after seeing us make a comment on a t-shirt in a hemp store ...” do we know where he can get a couple of dime bags of weed”

“Is” and I head back to the car laughing but distressed at the same time. We're in the car when we remember that a friends of ours is having a Birthday music Jam Tonight. So excitedly we head to the Tropicana. You see I have worked in Music, Stage + Film for about 18 yrs and the majority of my friends are Musician and or Artist/Activist so I know everyone - they call the unofficial mayor. LOL

We pull up and literally before we even get out the car ...I recognize the singing and the distinctive guitar playing coming from within. They play Latin – Fusion and are simply are amazing fun and infectious entertainers they travel the world to rave reviews and when they are home they play small local pubs for free.

Tonight is no difference the who's who in that circle is in attendance from Grammy Award winners from Cuba , Chile,
to Entertainers from Dominican Republic, Miami , and Dancers and Musicians from Toronto, Montreal. All In town doing the Festival Circle.

In a transition between song “Is” and I are spotted to great joy...and are nodded and waved at whilst still playing.

The set break finally happens after an extended cover remix of Santana Oye Como Va... that brings the house into an ecstatic frenzy.

When things calm down we connect with friends and with many hugs and kisses on both cheeks and too many “It's beautiful too see you “ “Where you been” “ I missed you”...and “Tonight We Dance” seriously no joking 3 people said “ Tonight We Dance” and when the music started again we did about 45 minutes straight . Then said our good byes and headed home.


So here we are again another day done...another post finished and adventure to embrace. What a oddly wild and fantastic life I have sometimes. Lets see what today brings...


Just a word of thanks for the read and support. I would really appreciate your feed back please follow me here or at Twitter and comment if you desire.....Bless You


Recipe Of The Day

Cuban Beef Stew

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 1/2 pounds sirloin tips, cubed
* 2 bay leaves
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 cup dry sherry
* 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
* 1/4 cup pimento-stuffed green olives
* 1/4 cup raisins
* 2 tablespoons capers
* 4 potatoes, peeled and quartered
* salt and pepper to taste

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DIRECTIONS

1. In a large saute pan, heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion and garlic in oil, stirring frequently, until transparent. Stir in cubed meat, and cook until browned. Stir in red bell pepper, bay leaf, cumin, and oregano; cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Stir in sherry, tomato sauce, vinegar, olives, raisins, and capers. Pour in enough water to just cover meat. Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer until fork tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Add more water if the stew becomes too thick.
3. Stir potatoes into the stew. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, covered, until potatoes are almost tender. Uncover, and cook until done.

30 Day Fast .. DAY 2 - Spur Of The Moment

Day 2 - Tuesday August 18th, 2009 – 10:32 pm

30 Day Fast ...Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.

SPUR OF THE MOMENT

(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are written at midnight by a half conscience dyslexic - bar stool prophet foodie and are done fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL )

8:57 am I am awoken by the familiar self made ring tone of my cell phone I search for it. It seems to somehow ended up on the left hand side of my bed stuck inside my duvet and pillow so I fumble to activate the answer button and yell “one moment please” as I fish out my phone from it's nesting place.

On the other end is my friend “M” laughs and ask “ what was that all about..” “ you don't want to know...” Then asks what are you doing... I say “ I am flexible..have a few things planned - but flying by the seat of my pants...” I need to go do some errands want to hang out... “A” is at work till 3:30pm then were off to The Fringe Festival for a week. I ponder for a second – I was going to go the Human Rights forum this morning..but this spontaneous misadventure sounds fun.

We always have fun together... So I agree and we set a time to meet “M” will be at my place in an hour ...I hang up lay back down and lay there for 5 minutes ….and with all will power force myself up to get ready for the day.. I quickly scan my various social media accounts naked … then hop into the shower ..(I like the bath better ...but don't have the time.) Hop Out .

Towel off and lay down again for a quick 30 zzz's it is so comfortable my mind wanders into slumberland – a dreamscape half conscience. “I am floating a top of a busy market then above a beach with vibrant sand ...not just one color – rainbow exotic I would describe it an array of shades and tones Black White Red Violet. I land in a clearing and the wind stands me upright now my feet are touching the sand ...In front of me I see 3 small beams of light that seem to be chasing each other and they are weaving there countenance around me. I look down and 10 feet away a group of Turtles very systematically coming out of the water they stop in front of me look up smile and move on.”

I am snapped back into reality by the text alert on my phone I look at the message and the time and scream get dressed hurriedly brush teeth and head out the door just then “M” pulls up. I get in and were off.

Still reeling from that odd surreal, but not uncommon foray into the alternate reality. I center myself and - try to glean what nugget of truth I can extract from that allegory. We discuss the many interpretations and laugh and become silent...a powerful sense of peace washes over us ...and drive in silence for a 3 or 4 minutes we don't discuss what happened and go on with our day. After doing a little shopping for about 2 hours we end up at this Vietnamese Restaurant later this would become worst decision of the day.

After helping “M” with rigging a Bike Rack on the Trunk of the Car. I am at home killing time to my next Event at 5 pm Green Drinks and Ecocentric – Social minded group that meets once a month for fun, food and discussion.

After unpacking my contribution to the unnecessary mass consumption of goods that we all have been brainwashed to perpetuate. I momentarily feel ashamed and feel like a hypocrite. I forgive myself and ground myself by listening Delirium. I again am lulled into altered state. I think this quest this 30day fast - is playing havoc with my inners. I constantly daydream and struggle to replace pure thoughts with lustful ones... now let me tell you that is difficult... My mind is racing as we speak...I knew I had a high libido but for gawd sake...seriously control myself.

I'm back my mind can focus.

As I was saying ...what was I saying...

My mother had this adage if you can't remember what you were about to say it was probably a lie... Interesting... If we analyze what we really said and thought how much of it would be true and how much would be lies. We lie to others and sadly more to ourselves everyday, every hour and every minute. I need to stop doing this.... we need to stop doing this...STOP the world I wanna get off ...LOL this rollercoaster of emotional deceit.

I am progressively feeling ill it all started a few hrs back. I have a headache and my stomach cramps something fierce....Bastards I think it was lunch...I had Vietnamese …. I love Vietnamese... but we tried this new place Called “Quynh” and it was atrocious the service was inexistent the presentation un appetizing the temperature luke warm and the food taste odd. I think this may be from combination of a little old fashion Cross-Contamination. I have a few digestive related intolerances ...one of them is Gluten – technically more Wheat but better safe than sorry.

I asked the server several time what was in it and how it was prepared....bastards.... so I was sick for 1 ½ hr had a quick nap and decided that although I wanted to go to Green Drinks was it in my best interest tonight...

I wasn't feeling well and my mind is slightly hazy at times...(I think I know how the characters in The Time Travelers Wife felt.)

The temptation was great and I may stumble cause there are few regulars that I kinda have a crush on. I know every one say awwww...so sweet. OK snap out of it.

So I decided to stay home. My phone buzzes with a text alert...and I check it and realize that I missed 3 calls and 2 texts.

I look at the time stamp - I lost 2 hrs again and don't know where they went. Am I dreaming or is this the dream or am I dreaming that I am not dreaming ...whatever ...Where am I ...who am I ...LOL LOL I am delusional OK it 1:10 am in the morning and this funny to me ...so sue me !!

So text back a message then my recent new colleague “S” calls she has been calling a lot lately hardcore since Saturday Night ….This is a delusionally happy sad story if there is such a thing. “S” has been severely negatively programmed from birth to think that she is not physically worthy or beautiful as a person. To to the fact that anytime anyone says that she is pretty, good looking or looks nice she goes into a tirade of actions and expletives that would make the Devil Blush.

She doesn't grasp the concept of Self Love. The is so imprinted into her psyche and emotional DNA that she completely self sabotage the most meaningful relationship in her life which the effects still haunt her today !!

She dated a man “Mc” off and on for 3 yrs (23 yrs ago) had a complete soul connection...and a state of complete trust … The Twitter version short and to the point. One night the night the consummated there relationship after several yrs - he said he loved and thought she was the most beautiful woman he knew....She cursed him out - went home pack a bag got on a voguer bus traveled for 18 hrs crying feeling betrayed asking her self over and over why was and is he lying to me, she never looked back ….

He tried for 5 yrs to track her down and reconcile ...she refused.....she got into alcohol and promiscuous sex... got pregnant is now married for 21 yrs with 3 kids and still the biggest fight she has with her husband is when he compliments her on her looks. And threatens divorce seriously if he doesn't stop. How sad is that.




OK I am done...I have made it through another day...What doesn't kill you make you stronger.

Its been 2 days and although I am muddled I am coming out the fog...slowly lets see how tomorrow progressives.


Day 3 ----here I come.


Big Hugs – Peace – Love – Acceptance- Knowledge – Growth – Wholeness

Recipe4romance

30 Day Fast ...Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.

Day 1 – Mon August 17^th, 2009

30 Day Fast ...Reformat – Reboot and Rejuvenate in search of the truth about me.

(Attention Word Nazis - These blog post are written at midnight by a half conscience dyslexic - bar stool prophet foodie and are done fast and unedited to keep with the raw and pure truth of the intention of project...If the mosaic stream of conscientiousness and grammar offense you too bad...LOL )

Why Do we Lie To Ourselves : http://bit.ly/ilHq1

Day 1 technically started Sunday Night. I was restless again. I seemed to have been restless and slightly unmotivated quite frequently lately. All I did last week save 36 hrs my days consisted of sleeping and cybersurfing. I was having an internal battle between mind and body. It didn't really help that it was rainy and grey mixed with a little brisk weather...

I digress getting back to the point I was restless so was deciding something to do ...to trick my self into feeling productive so I decided maybe see a movie. Movies generally engaged and fire up my cerebral cortex and kicks start my imagination and passion and or zest for life ..or sometimes they can just lull me into a world escapism and virtual reality as defence mechanism.

The two movie choices were District 9 and The Time travellers wife..after little hmmm and haaa I head downtown … I am only 12 blocks from the Theatre . I realize that Sunday was the last night of Taste … a mini little food festival of restaurant and music at the open air community market park and retail entertainment district downtown...so arrive at my destination early.

I go to the cinema and quickly check what times the movie shows start and I head out back to do a quick walk through the booths of food and too intermingle with the throngs of lost souls feeding there pie holes with some of the cities best food offering at 75 cents a tix …

To my surprise but not really I run into a colleague / slash friend/ sort romance interest....who is volunteering there as a EMT they do that often...I am asked how I am doing and we discuss life liberty and the pursuit of happiness..sort of...We were so deep in conversation that I lost track of time...and missed 37 minutes of my movie...oh well ...we part ways and I head up to check things out anyway. I get to the top of the stairs and some random guy hands me a ticket and says I cant use it ...So I take thank him and head off to the theatre I walk in on the last hour of GI Joe... despite it being little rah rah oversaturated cgi for me - actually a fun little movie.

The movie is over and the timing is perfect for the late show ...a twinge goes up my neck and I decided to go watch another movie despite the fact that I have to go home and sleep cause I have a convention speech to attend on Monday.....But the only thing starting at the time was 500 days of Summer..so I watched and totally and thoroughly enjoyed and related to the movie....

That movie triggered my conscientious to that fact I was in a relationship like that...actually all my relationship to a certain extent were that....It was oddly painful and comforting the awareness....

I was inspired ...So I decided to go home a write..but my brain said if you go home you will fall a sleep ..watch movie or just randomly surf... So I decided to go to my local cybercafe give myself a deadline and go home get some rest and go to the conference forum in the morning.

I am sorry to say...I only did partially what I spoke of...I wasted 3 hrs in mindless stupor procrastinating writing instead surfing and updating my numerous social media accounts...

I went home .. defeated and deflated downloaded pictures off my phone set my alarm and checked twice...and meditated prayed and went to sleep. This was 5 Am

Monday 11 am – I awaken and refreshed look at my clock the alarm did not go off it was 11:05 am ...I shake my head and look again and several time pieces my cell phone my I touch and wall clock and swear to myself...feeling defeated that my mind and body betrayed me... I got up dressed and rushed out the door...I get to The Conference Theatre 15 minutes late and would miss the 1 and only hour of the Keynote speaker which is the main reason I wanted to go in the first place.

I resolve to the fact that it's not going to happened so I take a little stroll on the pedestrian mall and attend the afternoon Panel Discussion...Rush out of there and run 6 blocks to an organizing meeting for an event I am on the committee for...

It is now 5:30 I stop off next door to say a quick hi to some friends ...I ended up have this 3o min talk on food and social media and Foodbuzz,com ...my new internet addiction. LOL Excuse myself and Head home when the movie theatre is calling me again....you must go see Time Travellers Wife...So I fight a little but the Universe twist my rubber arm and I go see The movie and for free no less again 3 movies in two days for free odd...(I have an acquaintance who works for the company)

I watch the movie alone but in a packed theatre of mostly woman...and re-interate that the sexes are truly different and its a blooming miracle how any of us actually participate and engage in long term coupling....

BTW---- In response to my dear twitter friend @twochix 1 - I think I did pretty good for the first day...lots of temptation for opportunity and lustful thoughts...quite proud of myself...LOL

It is 1:17 am on Tuesday August 18....I have to do the same thing tomorrow wish me luck. :)