Hi, all you nightowls. I missed some of your posts, so here I am again.

Heather,
You are a lovely, lovely woman.
Maybe some twilight writing would do us all some good. Except for my son--he probably wouldn't really appreciate it. (sigh)
Enjoy your night-time ramblings. I know I will think of you tonight, out on your new deck stargazing and plunking away on your novel one sentence at a time. Go to it, girl!

Hey Rhoda,
I wondered if Gladiator was any good or if it was all about special effects. I still kind of have my doubts about the story being very good. How many stars would you give it, out of five? I have a hard time justifying plopping fifteen and-a-half dollars down for anything less than perfection. Know what I mean?

Jerry,
It's great to see you again. I think you've got a pretty good idea there, but whenever I write spooky stuff, I scare myself!

Jack,
Oh, if only Sequim were closer to cities of employment for us! The weather is perfect for a desert rat like myself, but alas, it is quite far from Seattle and Tacoma. :( I've been thinking of Port Orchard--know anything about it?
Ah Starbucks, the land where the coffee-buzz was born. Seattle has got to be cool.

Jon,
First of all, I would be so honored to accept the position as Minister of Love Affairs. This is the most interesting, awe-inspiring job I have ever been offered. I'm intriqued. So is my husband. ;) This means you really MUST win the presidency, so I give you the forty-millions votes I have collected from around the world--votes of the feline persuasion. These furry felines were purr-fectly (sorry, that just came out) happy to further your cause and told me they were thrilled that there was a chance one of their own might win the presidency. It seems they have felt in the minority for many a moon now. They did try to make me promise that there would be stricter dog leash laws, and halibut steaks for supper at least once a week. I told them you'd think about it.

Teekay,
Er, story? I hadn't gotten up enough nerve to send the thing as is, but I'll lock away my pride long enough to send it to you, I promise. Just remember, you asked for it!
And as the Minister of Love Affairs, I bequeath to you a lovely evening alone (wink, wink) with your husband, free of kitties (sorry, Jon) and kiddies. I'm feeling very generous since I had such a lovely time last week with MY hubby on our anniversary.
In fact, I send a lovely romantic evening for everyone to enjoy with their significant others--their husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, lovers, and/or sheep. Oops, strike that last bit.

Hallee,
I forgive you for being so bloody prolific, only because you're so bleeping nice! ;)

Howard,
It was Heather who was trying to figure out the name for that particular poetic form, but thanks for the update. Unfortunately, now that I know the answer, I can't even remember the question!

Candice,
You could never intrude--not with a name like Candice! Something about that name just makes me want to like you right away. And I promise to never call you Candy. Cross my heart.


G'nightol, and happy romantic evening. *smooch*

Christi

Americo, I am so glad you decided to stick around, it is great just talking to you from time to time.

My suggestion for the next project would be maybe, a collection of ghost stories, I think we could have great fun with it. Of course we would need our great task-master Americo to keep it going. I know I would never have written most of the stories I contributed to SM**, had it not been for his suggestions and guidance.

To all the new additions to our little notebook welcome, so glad you could join us.

Jerry

My husband and I saw GLADIATOR tonight. It was great! I was impressed with the sets of ancient Rome. They were so life-like. Ah, the wonder of modern technology. The story was excellent also. This was the best historical movie since BRAVEHEART. I recommend it highly.

Americo,

I did not surmise from your posts that you were leaving. I only picked up on it from the posts that came after you. I thought these ladies knew something I did not. I cannot read your mind, not in a thousand years. You are and always will be a mystery to me. Anyway, I am glad you are not going anyway. Life would be too boring without you to challenge and vex me. You are definitely one of a kind.

THE SCARLETT PIMPERNEL was a fun book. I don't remember much about it, but now I feel the urge to pull it out of my bookcase, dust it off and read it again. The ZORRO story was based loosely on that theme--the popinjay who in reality is a masked hero.

Heather,

A greeting to you this evening to ease your lonliness. I am all wound up with too much Diet Coke. It is 12:20 am and I cannot possibly go to sleep yet. I plan to spend this energy writing. May the muse be with you, and may your creative talents come to life in a great way on such an evening.

Happy Writing,

Rhoda

I'm not supposed to feel pompous.
Isn't the feeling of pompocity really a 'looking down the nose at others?'
Then I don't feel pompous.
No.
I feel lonely.

Writing into the night tears something of me away in sunlight hours.

I'm different now than ever I have been.

Warmer.

Just no one to reflect it back right now.

I think I will go out onto my newly constructed deck and gaze at the moon. She is just under a quarter, struggling towards fullness, towards a birth of a kind.
What will the next child be named? July.

I hope the moon has a labour coach. Who will step up and be midwife?

July. I should be halfway done my novel by then.

The race isn't on yet. Haven't my pen in hand at the moment.

Wait. Wait! Ok. Now I'm prepared. Alright, you can continue. Yes, I meant set. I'm set now. Trust me.

[On your mark...]

Heather
(sorry, I'm suffering serious delusions tonight. Fresh air beckons.)

Americo, my addition to SM** (if we are indeed including all six senses as perfectly acceptable submissions)
will be "TEMPLE", a short shortie I wrote in the NB
on Tuesday May 2.
I will come up with another. Now that it doesn't have to revolve around food - although so much of living revolves around that.

Perhaps we could dream up a new collaborative project to be launched July 8th.
That would stir new excitement into the pheonixine writers who loan us their time and wit.
I say loan, because of the dedication.
There are many loyal, devoted Notebookers here.
Jack, we thank you from deep down. You have created a Divine community of souls here.

Family (I reiterate words that were not mine, but possibly Teekay or Rachel's?)
It is all about family. And family are not necessarily blood relatives.

There are more than several things thicker than blood.
Blood is the vehicle, but purity and genius pump the Life.

Dream forever in the Vast Universe that is you.
Write it down.

Say it well.

My heart pours as milk from a vase.

Goodnight.
Heather

TINA: I can't even think as fast as HALLEE writes!

ROWRAHD: Are you still at work? Wake up to your self. Am waiting for a post operative post. Took me 16 months to think of that one. heh heh.

Me again.

Left some thoughts for Clayton and Hallee on the crit page.

Reading Hallee's post and knowing that she writes so quickly made me think of the times when ideas just come so fast I can barely get them down on paper. Then when I read it afterwards there's little editing because it just came out RIGHT. I love that feeling.

T.J.

Hello!

Hallee, I just started reading your post. More on that later. But HOW did you get it to show up as actually proper paragraphs? Jack, what'd she do? It's hard to read the posts that carry on without breaks. What's the secret?

T.J.

Yes - Robespierre was a character in the Scarlet Pimpernel - a bad guy. The SP was always watching out for him not to get caught. The REAL Robespierre - that's to say not the fake one - was a guy looking out for the little people - just had a unique way about him - the Reign of Terror
Off with their heads! Off with their heads! Not mine - [plop]

MARY - I meant to tell you that I followed your link to Evanovich (probably spelled wrong, but I'd never find it if I scrolled up). I will definitely have to find her books. She just gives you a quick taste of the books, and leaves you wanting more! Thanks for the tip.

TEEKAY & CLAYTON: Thank you. I have never had anything open to critique before, and I will admit, I've been incredibly nervous all day. So much that my headache from this morning still lingers. Perhaps now I can relax some and quit chewing on my lip. Though I did read it after I posted it and noticed a few typos...I apologize for you having to bumble through them. I meant it when I said it was a draft.

CHARLES & CANDICE: Did I at least get the Scarlett Pimpernell thing right? It seems as if he was mentioned in the book, or maybe it was the movie? haha...names and history..my two biggest weaknesses. (Bye the way, I'm still green myself, but welcome, Candice)

CHRISTI: Please ignore my last post. Hubby informs me that I have emails that have come in on his computer!

CANDICE: Hello and welcome. That sounds so official. Hiya, c'mon in. Ah, there, that's better. :)

Hi All,
I finally found my notebook. It was under a great big pile of clothes. Maybe I did not hide it afterall, maybe I am just quite messy.

MARY/Tina: What is woolies? I wasn't quite sure what you were talking about, so I had to go back and check. Woolies is what we call Woolworths, you know, the supermarket. BTW: It wasn't in the bicky section. See above post. :)

AMERICO: Oh VERY promising. Sorry, I missed the very part. I guess that is better than just promising. Still sounds like a way off though *sigh*. I'm not a real good gardener either, I like instant results.

JON: About the SM** stories, does that mean you want the ones that we really like from the lot we have already sent in? Or does that mean you want totally new ones?
As a VERY promising writer I am taking it upon myself that I was included in the invite.

HALLEE: I left something for you in the critique section.

CHRISTI: I am still waiting for you to send me your story. As a minister of love affairs? I imagine that you are very busy, but please send me your story.
Sorry, I thought AMERICO said HEATHER and CHRISTI. Where are my eyes??

RHODA: Sorry. Where is my brain. I've sent you back the synopsis really this time, only there's no synopsis attatched.

I'm going now, before the baby really destroys this room. I am promising to write today.

First, I have been "eavesdropping" on all your lovely conversations hoping to find a way into your melange of talents. I hope you do not feel I am intruding - I am as of yet unpublished, but working hard at my craft.

Arik - I also happen to be a historian - Early American, but the term implies I must know of European history - at least a bit - Maximillian de Robespierre was a leader of the Jacobins, a group attacking the Girondist during the French Revolution. He was a bachelor in his mid-thirties and lawyer, who had been an ardent supporter for the democratic(small d)position. They (and he) came to believe the Revolution's survival impinged on the sans-culottes support. The Girondists and Jacobins each each suspected and denounced the other group. Robespierre guided the sans-culottes and served their interests but foremost was the survival of la Revolution! If you need more - let me know.

Americo - Did you get my e-mail?
Let me know,
Rach

Jon - I would work with you any day of the week. You are a great kitty! A publisher... Hey, anything's possible!
Take care you,
Rachel

Americo,
Dearest co-corespondent,
Not being one to waste my precious time in idle gossip or petty provarication for more any more than the politicaly correct period of time, I take now just a little time out to enquire just what terrible dilema haunts your troubled conscience these past days.
You act just a trifle out of character - though some would say not! - Do you suffer still from the effects of our last encounter?
In my humble opinion, it is unlike you to bring such a personal foible to a forum as public as this.
Can it be that you find yourself in need of my services once more?
Have no fear, I will come if called.

For now.....Please recite three Hail Marys' and four Our Fathers.
And God keep your soul safe from further harm until I tend it!
Be well.

Forgot to say that the deadline for the stories is the 7th July. Year 2000.

Christi,

After consultation with my best advisors, I decided to appoint you my Minister for Love Affairs.
(No hyphen. That's a new Ministry in the History of the World. Something very very good for the gallaxy.)

I have now... Pussy, how many votes have I got? 13! (Plus the 3 million Teekay gave me of course — but she cannot vote, being only a VERY promising writer — I said VERY... that's not too bad for starters!

PS. I think it would be a good idea if the best talents on the block would send me by e-mail their greatest short-stories for SM** — on food and drinks, plus everything associated with the six senses. Who knows if we'll get a publisher? What do you think, Rachel? On second thoughts, send them to Rachel and keep a copy for you. Only the best will be accepted. No misspellings. You see, we are professionals. (NO kidding).

Oh, Jack, that's very kind of you. Thank you, milord. How's the diving going? And our beloved Fran?

Actually I think I have extremely exciting news for you. Good news, of course. I'm just waiting for an e-mail.

People: where did you read that I was leaving the NB? Yes, where did you...
(Gosh! you can read my thoughts! Clever girls...)

Christi: The other possibility to look into, though I have heard it too is somewhat expensive, is Sequim over on the Olympic peninsula. It happens that this little community is noted for being in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains. So, while everywhere else in the northwest US and western British Columbia gets dumped on with drizzle or rain, this little plot of ground sits blissfully in blue skies and sun tans. Oh, and, yes, I forgot to mentioin that Seattle is the original home of Starbucks. A double short mocha with raspberry nonfat and no whip, please.

Americo: let me chime in with an invitation to come back in all your curmudgeony and always intellectually exemplary best. We miss you. Oh, Jon is welcome as well. Take care all.

Christi - Mmmmm...coffee. *drool*

Arik,
First, there is Jacques Robespierre who owns a deli down the street from me. Probably not the dude you had in mind. Then there was Maximilien François Marie Isidore de Robespierre (1758-1794) who was a French revolutionary. He was a leader of the Jacobins and architect of the "Reign of Terror", -he was known as an austere and incorruptible man. His laws permitting the confiscation of property and arrest of suspected traitors, many of whom were guillotined, led to his own arrest and execution without trial. Then he opened the deli! (snort!)
You pick which one you want.
Regards, Charles

TEEKAY - If I can figure out what how to do it, I'll post something this morning, since I'm in the middle of writing a love scene and I have a headache, so I'm leaving them where they are for now. I'd hate to spoil their mood. I don't know what I'll post. Let me think about it some. Hmmm.

CHRISTI - When I finished my first book, my mom and I were worried that it was a fluke. It wasn't like I had been struggling for years trying to write a novel. I just started it one day and finished it six weeks later. I was as surprised as everyone else. So we all kind of sat back, nervous, that it was just that one thing inspired by the dream I'd had. Then I got the idea for the next book, and we all realized it wasn't a fluke. The ideas just kind of come out of thin air. I remember going the wrong way down a street to meet my inlaws for dinner and had to turn around. Somehow, we turned around in this parking lot of this really worn down motel that had this big dumpster sitting on the edge of the lot. I had this flash of this body lying behind the dumpster, and the whole plot of a book flashed through my head. I've been carrying around a notebook ever since then. (Please don't cry. I'm also incredibly lazy. Unless I find a really hard working, devoted agent, chances are good I'll never get published.)

HOWARD - I'd love for you to send me the whole thing, no holds barred (Is that the proper phrase? No "holes" or "holds"?). I love stuff like that. I have a hard time articulating what I'm thinking. Now, ask me the worldviews of any one of my characters, and I could expand for pages. But me? I've tried and usually blunder.

All of you talking about rain..::sigh:: I live in northern Florida..supposed to be a tropical climate, and I think we've had 8 inches of rain in 6 months. We're used to getting 8 inches in a single day. All this on top of weather in the high nineties. The only grass in my yard that is green surrounds my husband's garden, and I'm seeing news stories about fires in other parts of the state. They're saying this is the driest spring in history. I believe them. Everyone up there, face south and blow on the clouds really hard. Maybe they'll make their way down.

ARIK - If you remember that I'm bad enough with names that I keep a list of the characters in my book next to my computer, I'll tell you that I think I remember Robspiere, however that's spelled, in conjunction with the Scarlett Pimprenell (however that's spelled). But, it's highly likely that I'm wrong, so don't trust me.

Okay, TEEKAY, I think I've decided, and now it's time to figure out how to post something, that is, if my daughter didn't find my piece of paper with my login name and password. She's learning shapes now, and is taking great delight in the fact that she now knows how to cut out triangles. Unfortunately, there are little triangular pieces cut out of every piece of paper that is below the five foot elevation of things we keep out of her reach. I'm about to "accidentally" break the safety scissors.
I'm a little nervous about doing this, so if you don't like it, pretend you didn't see it. (grinning with clenched teeth...no, seriously, I'm curious to know what you think.)

Bye for all now.
Hallee

Hey people.... can someone help me? I need some stuff about a guy called Robespierre... If someone can send me a link I will be very thanksfull :-).

Thank you. Arik

Hi everyone! What a wealth of information on Washington--I'm thrilled down to my short shorties! hah hah.

Thank you, Jack. You really helped me; I know very little about what things are like in your state and (blush) I'd completely spaced the fact that you live there. I've been looking into the real estate and whew! We're looking into Kitsap County--it sounds darling and it's not so expensive. Sounds like it's got great small-town atmosphere, while the big city waits right across the Sound.
What you said about the huge thunder and lightening storms struck a chord with me. I would definitely miss our Monsoon season, where in one minute the day is sunny and beautiful and the next, you're in gale force winds with a lightening streaked, grey-black sky. There's something so powerful about it, even just witnessing it.

Hey Rachel! I'm still here, just not as often. Thanks for the info about B.C. too. If we get to move to Washington (I hope, I hope!) I want to visit B.C.--I've heard it's gorgeous. I'm just so sick of this damnable sun I could just loose my lunch. It's soooo hot in the summer (107 today), and it seems to last forever (about 5 months). I adore rain, but I'm sure that with enough of it, I could certainly grow tired of it. But maybe not; I am a pale-skinned girl who doesn't quite seem to fit in to this hot, dry climate. See how I'm going back and forth? I'm so freaked out about even thinking of moving. I've lived here since I was four years old! Okay, I'm shutting up now. Coffee anyone?

Teekay,
Hello good buddy! I loved your poem! Instead of saying that I left you a note on the crit. page, I thought I'd just yell it out for all the world to see. Great poem!
Have I ever got a smokin' deal for you. Just send me some of that cold weather and I'll send you some heat. Deal?
BTW, Americo said that Heather and Rachel were special cases. I wasn't even mentioned. *sniff* (How's that for a guilt trip, A*? :)

Americo,
Where are you? I think you already know this, but just in case you don't--we really do love you!
I don't want to list out all of my personal political and religious views for many reasons--one being that they change so often. And I'm a pretty private person about that stuff.
One of the great things about this place is how different we all are. We come from different backgrounds and different countries even. It's so wonderful to see everyone's point of view; it opens my eyes and makes my world bigger. We would miss you very much if you were to leave.

On the flip side, I was wondering where Pussy has been as of late. Have you been keeping the poor dear tied up in the kitchen again? I send her tea and cakes so that she can get out of that dratted place and enjoy her afternoon. We women have much more to offer than pure household drudgery. Cheers, Pussy!

Hallee,
Welcome! You will like it here, I guarantee it. I was wondering how you get so many writing ideas flowing for you. Is it discipline--did you force yourself to write everyday and eventually things began to flow, or was it natural and easy? Please don't say it was natural and easy or I might cry.

A big HELLO! and warm, no, make that HOT hugs for everyone. Don't worry, I wore my antipersperant. That's a funny word--antipersperant. That's got to be spelled wrong. Where's my dictionary! And where's my inner dialogue? Did I say that outloud?

Sweltering in Arizona,

Christi

Tina - My husband and I just read your post. We had a laugh. Yes, it is the wineries (grins). Gray Monk makes one of our FAV wines "Latitude 50" Yah there should be a degree sign there, but I don't know where it is on my keyboard. Wish I were kidding about that...
We used to camp at the base of a winery in Westbank. That was pretty fun. Our favorite beer comes from Penticton. Tin Kettle Brewery made it. I loved the one called "Killer Bea" YUM! It is no longer avaliable. Now I have moved on to Kootney Black Lager. Its not quite the same, but it will do.
We travel the Okanogan often, maybe we could hook up some time. Or when you come down for the airshow, we live close.
Honest, we're real nice. I only have one, okay, two, okay, okay, three. All right I have four children. But really, its safe to visit. Their quiet (NOT)!
Take care you
Rachel

Jack - Yes, Washington is beautiful. We have about everything here - desert, mountains, rainforst (lots of rain). I hate rain, but I grew up here, so at least I'm used to it. I live right near Bangor military base and there are several kids at my school who have lived in places like Guam, Hawaii and the Phillipines all their lives.

Rachel - Don't worry, I like BC too, but it is pretty close to Washington.
Allein

Rachel, I've gone through Maple Ridge many times! Never stopped, just gone through, but I get to the Abbotsford Airshow regularly so I've been close by! Uhmmm, you get 'thirsty' thinking of the OkanAgan? Let me guess... wineries! Do the words 'Grey Monk' make you thirstier? Or Calona Wines?
No, I haven't rafted the Thompson. Always say I will but haven't got to it yet. Kayaked the Shuswap and hiked the Monashee's though.
The best thing about B.C. is being within a half hour drive of everything! World class ski hills, beautiful lakes, rugged mountains... oh yeah I love B.C.! I'm in Vernon, not Kelowna, but I'm there often 'cause that's where the dojo I train at is.

Teekay.... woolies?

T.J.

BTW, what are woolies?

TEEKAY: I didn't leave a note for you on the poetry critique page. ;-)

'Zat better?

RHODA: I've sent your synopsis back. I know, about time.

Well *burp*, the notepad wasn't in the fridge or the pantry, so now I'm going to see if it's in the biscuit section and woolies. heh heh.

Here's a thought

Oh, sorry, false alarm.

Tina - I live in Maple Ridge, We are tucked up along the river, by the mountains (Garabaldi area) We get the rain, rain and the rain. I have a girlfriend from the Island who lives here now and she swears up and down that it rains much more in Maple Ridge (grins).
Okanogan eh? I get thirsty just thinking of my trips to the Okanogan... I used to live in Grand Forks. You might know where that is. I love it, but missed the coast. I'm a coastal gal.
I don't believe it! At last! Somebody from my very own area!!! This is exciting. I have relatives in Kelowna. I had a friend who lived in summerland. We spent a lot of time up there a coupl of years ago.
No place is quite as beauitful as B.C. I love it here. Have you ever gone rafting on the Thompson? That is a total RIOT! Mind you, kicking on a tube with a six pack is alos pretty dang fine (grins).
As for rain, we have plenty of our own right now. We have the bounce back thing going on. Just yesterday it was gorgeous sun, sun, sun. I still have my burn and here the rain is again. People will think I'm rusting...
Take care you
Rachel

Americo,

I hope you are not planning to go, espacially on my account. Such was never my intent to drive you off or belittle you in any way. I wish you would stay because you are clever and interesting.

As far as myself and my lack of humanity and goodness, what can I say? I cannot promise to change, but I will always look as fairly as I can at the other side.

Rhoda

TINA: Sounds really cosy. I love a good storm. The weather here is bitterly cold. There are grey snow clouds in the sky, most of the trees have lost their leaves and just looking outside makes one glad to be warm and toasty in front of the fire.

RHODA: Am half way throught the book practically. Can't put the darn thing down.

HEATHER: Have just remembered that I have not yet sent HOWARD'S book onto you, I shall get around to it as soon as possible. Sorry.

AMERICO: By HEATHER & CHRISTI being special, do you mean the white coat type of special or just your everyday type of special? heh heh.
I am not jealous. I am already the white coat type of special.

I'm going to find my notepad now. I wonder where I should look first? Perhaps in the fridge, if it's not there I shall just console myself with some cold pizza, before moving onto the pantry to see if it's there.

Okay, really am going now.

RACHEL: Whoops, looks like you beat me to it while I was blabbing on. heh heh.

CHRISTI: How is it going?

HOWARD: First day back at work hmmm. Do you wish you were still back in hospital getting enemas instead? heh heh.

RACHEL: Read your story. I left something in the critiques.
I hate it when someone says that to me, it feels really doomy. Sounds a bit like, I left a doggy doo doo in the critiques. I didn't, but that's what that expression sounds like to me. :)

MARY: Thanks girly for the critique, but I'm a bit sick of that one now. It's movin' on time. Hmmm, now what shall I move on to? What are you working on at the moment? I know that if I just pick up a pen and paper it will come to me, but danged if I can find where I hid the note pad from my kids.

AMERICO: It does sound like your tying up loose ends, if you are then you can just stop it right there young man!
Any way, I don't think you will go, I think you're made of much stronger stuff than to walk out because of a difference of opinion.
Besides, too many people would miss you, and I'm not saying this because you said I was a promising writer, because frankly I think that sucks. Promising sounds like I have such a long way to go and I get carsick on long trips. I'm saying it cos it's true. If it's votes that you are after then I give you 3000 000 of them, here, take them, just stay.

HALLEE: Are you going to let us take a lookee at what you write? Hmmm? I am soooo jealous. I thought about getting up at 4 o'clock this morning. However, nothing happened and now I'm inclined to disbelieve that saying that it's the thought that counts. You are truly inspiring. I think, next to DOT, I shall make you my other idaol.

To the pleasant chorus of thunder and mood lighting of lightning I bid you all hello! My dog is cowering against my legs, wimp that she is.

Rachel, where do you live? If it's the rainiest part of B.C. I'd guess Vancouver Island or the Sunshine Coast. They're both wonderful. I call the Okanagan home. We get a bit wet, but in the winter we get white and especially nice we get HOT! Okay, not right now. But USUALLY. If you like the rain, my vote is to send our weather to you...

About northern Washington, the word that always springs to my mind is floods. I don't trust the news to get the facts right or accurate or in proportion to the truth, but it seems I'm always hearing about flash floods in Puget Sound. I've been through the state and always love it, and I always enjoy Seattle. Washington is beautiful! Almost as lovely as British Columbia..... ;-)

T.J.

Teekay - Thank you.
Take care,
Rachel

HEATHERRACHELTEEKAYCHRISTI (whoever it was who wondered about the poetic device S* was using)I think I may have found it! One word used to describe that sort of poetic form is ANADIPLOSIS. I'm not sure it's an exact match, but it's close. I'll keep looking.
howard

Jack - Hey! Are you going to open a new slate for SM*? I have a piece I would like to drop in. I have till July 7, 2000.

Take care you,

Rachel

p.p.s.

Also, I will leave things up here for a day or so, but it past time that I should be archiving the Notebook as well. At 360k, some of you may be having trouble loading and/or leaving a message. But thought I would give it a little while more. Take care all.

p.s.

Just noticed the comment by Americo about archiving and retiring the Strawberries and Moon. I have done so. In fact, since there has been little or no activity with regard to the collaborative fiction, I retired everything and now open things up for suggestions whether we want to start something up at this time.

Just got a chance to check back in. Washington State. Well, I will speak specifically about Seattle. It is a beautiful city with a vast array of wonderful restaurants, parks, unusual landmarks such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market and more. In the immediate area of western Washington you have old growth rain forest such as the Ho River Rain Forest over on the Olympic Peninsula. Those are some of the up sides. The down sides are that this is indeed a possible setting for relocating. That means that traffic is terrible. But I am used to it. Also, yes there is rain, or, rather, drizzle. Out right rip roaring thunder and lightning rain storms like I remember from my Montana days are absent. Still, I have been here long enough that when I get a vast impact of blue skies with that strange yellow orb up there radiating all kinds of heat down on me I sometime find myself waxing nostalgic for grey skies and rain. If you like science fiction, this is a popular setting for conventions. Note the URL above. It is also noted for a wide variety of other artistic aspects. However, the other downside about the area is also one that is sabotaging some of the more unique artistic mini communities with their cheap studios. This is an expensive place to find housing in. We personally lucked out by buying twelve years ago, before everything sailed out of sight. If you looking at Seattle proper you will want to check out the price tags and make sure you do not have sticker shock. As you get farther away from Seattle downtown things tend to get a bit more reasonable.

But I will close on one element that may sway you back. This is a very beautiful part of the country. Not in the arid high desert way that you are used to in Arizona, but in the lusch beauty of trees, plants, flowers and more. Despite the cold, the San Juan Islands are reputed to be some of the best diving in the United States. Not having done any there, I can only say they are among the best in the Northwest at least. Having lived in several parts of the country, including Montana and California and Iowa, I will have to say this is truly home. I would never ever want to leave this part of the US except to tourist. Hope this gives you something of a balanced description. Allein might want to throw her comments in here as well.

Americo - let us bury the hatchet - left you a short in SM**

Christi - How are yah? You asked about living in Washington State. I can't answer for Washington State, I live in British Columbia, Canada. I love my Province with a passion. It has its drawbacks, but I still LOVE it.
The rain... Hum, okay, maybe I don't love the rain, but I do like it. At least I like it for the first four or five weeks. After that it can get to be a little much.
I think that where I live we get more rain than any other place in my Province (I'm not kidding). I like the rain most of the time.
HEY WASHINGTON PEOPLE!!!!! What can yah tell Christi about your luscious state? C'mon, c'mon give up the goods (grins).

Mary - I send yah some smiles. I am glad that all is well with us.

Take care all

Rachel

RACHEL:

Whew, I am so glad you aren't mad at me. I have always respected your diplomacy. See how easy it is to jump to someone's defense?

TINA:

Have copies of both of those already (they aren't mine though). Haven't started them yet. I would be very open to an inter-notebook book exchange. Anybody interested in some Jeffery Deaver? My Evanovich books are all signed so they don't leave, but anything else can go. I also have shelves and shelves of writing books. Everything from The Fiction Writer's Silent Partner to Modus Operandi-The writer's guide to how criminals work. Willing to share those too.

C-ya.

Rhoda, I'd love to get in on the Great Literary Exchange. Any takers on 'Skystone'? I could also be talked into a temporary parting with my copy of Contact by Carl Sagan. I don't know everyone's taste in reading, but Sagan is brilliant, even if you don't like light sci-fi. It is NOT like the movie. It is IMMENSELY better. Let me know.

T.J.

Mary - It wasn't any one post that made me respond to you. It was all of it stacked up, okay? Just so you know. Now I am going to zip it up, put a stone in it, clap both hands over my mouth if needs be. I will hush up and let those of you who wish to continue to debate do so to your hearts content.

Take care you

Rachel

Mary - I didn't intend to snap at you.

I view Americo as a very dear friend. I guess my friend-o-meter just hit tilt.

Do NOT feel responsible for the debate that has been going on here. It is not your fault. We have been over this before. If you read back over the archives you will see that this is not a new conversation. Sure, it has a new twist, but we have seen this one before. The archives are full of little flare ups. Don't worry, it wasn't you.

People can all get a little hot headed from time to time. In particular about things that they feel strongly about. It is so hard to bite back the words, so hard to stop the fingers from typing them onto the screen. So hard to find words that can get across the intensity of feeling and not be offensive. I hope that nobody leaves, if they do I doubt that it would really have much to do with the debate that has happened here.

TEEKAY: I left a note for you on the poetry critique page.

Rachel:

You are absolutely right--Americo did not make any personal attacks on me. I never came out and said that he did. I said that he made personal attacks on some of the posters here--which he did. I thought my last post to Americo was honest, forthright and totally fair. I guess I had disillusioned myself about Americo and was disappointed with the fact that he could be so mean to Rhoda, and so intolerant of anyone who disagrees with him. I thought he was more open minded than that. (Americo--sorry to talk about you like you aren't even here.) However, this argument was not only between two people. Jerry and I were the two who started this whole shebang while talking about a criminal case that we were both interested in. Therefore I felt a little bit responsible and, yes, a little guilty for the abuse Rhoda took. That is why I came to her defense. I certainly didn't mean to offend you, and am quite surprised that the first ill thing you said to me was in response to the nicest post to Americo that I have made as yet. He did, after all, throw the first stone. I reiterate: Can't we all just get along?

Mary - I just want to mention a little thing. Americo did not make any attacks on you. I have looked back over the posts and you have again and again posted what appear rather provoking words to him. It is you who would seem to be attacking. Ah, if you want to post me a note feel free to do that. I would prefer English. Portuguese is not fluid for me.

Rhoda - I hate to see fights. You know that. I also know that you have a good deal of passion in regards to your God and your values. There is nothing wrong with that. I don't want you to think I am taking sides. I don't like to see everyone rush to you as if you were some sort of swooning maiden. You're not. You are a strong women with strong opinons.

Allein - You, YOu, YOU!!!! I love yah kid:D I wish I could be there, but things are hectic in my life right now. Four children with many activities will tend to keep you on your toes. I know you will have a great time at Grad. Dan, the children and I will stop by in August. If it is okay with your parents to have a whole family fall on them like that. We won't stay over, we'll just stay for a visit. You can meet my family and then I could have them go explore the city or something. Check with your parents. I would love for you to get to meet my husband and children. My dog would not be with us, but I could bring a picture. I also have pictures of my fish (grins). I'm not kidding. I love my fish.

Teekay - Let me know what you think of the story.

Americo -

Tina,

I would not pass around such a copy either. I sent QUO VADIS to Teekay, but I bought a new copy because I have two old hardback copies that are old and very fragile. I enjoyed exchanging books. It was a great idea. I just brought that up as an invitation to you. Go back to the archives and find Teekay's post on March 23, 2000 and that will describe what we have been doing with our favorite books.

Have fun, all and Happy Writing,

Rhoda

TINA:
I don't blame you for not wanting to pass around your autographed Outlander. I wouldn't do it either, if for no other reason than the notorious reputation of the Postal service. No offense to anyone here affiliated with the post office.

AMERICO:
Please, please keep in mind that you are the one who luanched personal attacks on some of the people in the Notebook. You can't piss in someone's shoe and then expect them to walk around happily sloshing and saying things like, "Americo insulted me and everything I believe in but that's ok because I really don't mind." You sound like a person who is tying up loose ends before they ease on down the road, but I personally hope that you do not leave. I am sure that if I was brought up in your society my views would be much different and likewise for you if you had been born and raised in America. But that is not to be seen. Can't we all just get along? You need to measure the people here by their merits as writers. That is what we are here for.You say you have the right to know who you are dealing with, but I really don't see how it matters whether Jerry supports the death penalty or not when you say he has great potential as a writer. One should not affect the other--at least not in this forum. You say that Heather and Rachel are friends--these are the people that you should care about their belief systems. You deal more closely with them and therefore should no more. This post is turning out to be a lot windier than I wanted, so I am just going to stop here by saying-I hope I read your last post wrong and you are not leaving.-Mary

Jack,

Will you kindly archive "Strawberries and a Moon"? It's been a long time since anyone has posted there. The project has run out of steam, and I hate seing my ideas rottening, mainly when I have my name in them. As I am one of the few people I know that honors and has always honored his word, and sticks till the end to his promises and commitments, you can keep SM** open until the 7th July, but not after that. As the author and animator of the project, I think I have the right to ask you this. Thank you.

The contributors may publish their stories where and when they like. I would be very pleased if, in case of publication, I would have a word from them, so that I can rejoyce with them. Some may even want to thank me for the idea, though I do not expect feelings of gratitude from anyone. I just reserve the title for myself as a souvenir.

It was a useful project. I see much talent in Jerry Ericsson and in Eddie French. I think that they deserve to be published. Howard only posted a little thing, insufficent to draw any conclusion. He does not need my encouragement, but I would like to see more of him before we go. Teekay is a very promising talent and I believe in her future as a writer. Rachel and Heather are special cases. As friends, we'll certainly have better places and chances to discuss literature.

All the other collaborators showed qualities and, in some cases, real talent. Those who know me also know that I believe in honesty as a better service to authors than just conventional praise. What I said was what I thought. I also made a distinction between the writings and their authors, which means that I tried to take literature as the only thing to critique.

-----
Jerry and Howard,

I'm appaled to be informed that 75 % of the North Americans defend death penalty. As I said or suggested before, I'm living in a society in which such an attitude to Man is shocking and considered immoral. We consider jail for life also an absurd, and our Constitution forbids the extradition of outlaws to countries where thay can be given penalties superior to 29 years in jail. The principal behind this is that of Redemption — meaning that any person must be given a chance to repent and change his/her ways, and Hope is an inalianable right which cannot be denied to anyone. We understand criminality as the outcome of an injust society, and the criminal a person who needs justice, not death. Only God can give and take life. I am not a believer, but those teachings and that policy seem good to me.

As for possessing guns, that is supposed to be as dangerous as letting a child play with poison. Only in some circumstances can a licence be granted for one to buy, sell or possess a gun. No one believes here that this restriction limits the fundamental rights of any democracy. On the contrary — we used to be sorry for the countries where gun carrying was allowed. Now the tendency is for indifference, unfortunately.

HALLEE -- Welcome! Thanks for the comments (thanks to *all* for the comments) Sure, you can print anything you like that I've written. I'll send you a copy of it that includes a part that I left out - probably more important than what I posted.

TEEKAY -- I'll check the workbook as soon as I get caught up here at work. First day back, don'tchaknow.

SASQUATCH -- Thanks for the laugh! Abominable-Abdominal indeed! It hurt to laugh when I read it, but I laughed just the same!

EVERYONE -- Thanks again for all those poems and short stories! I did read and appreciate all of them. Except the part about the moose and the avocado...

howard

Jon - Thank you.

Americana - He he. I sure will :-).

Haward - I"m on page 130 and its a very nice book... did you like it?

I will post the sentances at the evening...

Rachel - I read portuguese too, I just don't understand any of it. :) So, since you're coming down in August, does that mean you won't be here for graduation? I didn't think so. Oh well, I'll see you then anyway. :)
Allein

HEATHER: Thanks for the welcome. Actually, to pronounce it, it rhymes with "sally". And, no, I don't edit as I go. I actually don't edit until the book has been finished for several weeks. (Right now, sitting next to my desk, is my trilogy. I finished it 8 weeks ago and still haven't edited it yet. Well, that one isn't getting sent out this week like I wanted. ::sigh::) There have been times I've read what I've written so far, if I'm stuck or not positive if I'm going in the right direction. I'll spend the morning reading, and by the time I get to my stopping point, I'm itching to get on with it. But then, I don't write with an outline, and often start a book without even knowing who the characters are. A lot of times, I don't know how the next paragraph is going to end, much less a chapter. So I don't really write conventionally. My characters seem to guide the book for me, rather than the other way around.

HOWARD: Thank you so much for what you said. Wow! It was as if I was reading a reflection of my thoughts. I would like to print it out, but I won't do so without your permission.

Well, I guess it's time to finish the chapter I'm working on. I've used up half of my writing time this morning because I'm avoiding it. The last 4 chapters are always the hardest for me to write, and I'm afraid I procrastinate when it comes to them. (Which is how I ended up here in the first place ::chuckle:: )

Happy Monday everyone.

I am home YAAAAAY.
HOWARD: I've posted that poeM IN THE POetry seCTion. WellDUH! I read it over and thought URGH, BUIT i POSTED IT ANYWAY. tHE POINT IS STILL VALID, EVEN THOUGH IT'S A BIT RHYMY. tHE BAby is HelPING me tYPE. wELL HE` SAY`S IT`'S HE`LPI`NG.``````

`ra~ch~el: i'M Off to look at your story now.

Hello!

Rhoda and Mary, I'd be willing to pass around almost any other book. My copy of Diana Gabaldon's first book - Outlander - is signed by the author and not going anywhere. Sorry.

Just 'cause everyone is on the subject of authors, another of my favourites is Jack Whyte. Among other things he writes Arthurian legend, the history not the magic. His first book is called The Skystone, although I think maybe it has a different title in the States. He's extremely talented.

To tired to think any more.
T.J.

Heather - Hi you:D I'm feeling mighty fine (grins).

Harlee - Hi, nice to meet yah! Welcome, welcome. C'mon in and pull up a chair. Honest it's nice here. Don't mind the clatter, crash, bash of it all. It isn't always this way.

Mary - I read Portuguese. Just so yah know (smiles). It might take me some time, but I do read it.

Arik - I read some more of DragonLance. I am trying to get used to all of these strange creatures. I think that I could develop a fondness for the characters. Rastalin and Tas have endearing qualities.

Litter - I will not forget about Tolkin. I have the books on hand. They are waiting for me. I will be to them soon. I just want to read one, two and three of the set I have begun.

Take care all

Rachel

TEEKAY:
Well, that's good news.

HEATHER:

You're welcome and thank you.

Answer on paper the following questions about a story you are working on: Who is having the problem? What is the problem? Where and when does it take place? What excites you about the problem? How is the problem resolved?
An exercise in plotting. Conflict is vital for an effective story, and understanding the conflict is a central part of telling the story successfully. Adapted from Roberta Allen's Fast Fiction. Another way to think of conflict comes from Robert Olen Butler, who encourages writers to ask what the main character "yearns" for; what he or she wants or needs.

Mary, did I forget to say THANK YOU? For your compliment...
It means a lot.

And might I say, as well, you lend a certain shine and style to the NB yourself!

Jade is a beautiful colour, and possesses a truly lusterous sheen.

(Those completely unaware of where that last bit came from, don't worry (pat pat) you will remember it someday.

Stay connected, not merely online.

Heather

MARY: I came across that site ages ago, I never really posted there regularly, just read all the good bits and left. This is about the only site I visit on the net and sometimes I find it hard to find the time to even do that.
It was so long ago, I can't even remember what name I posted under.

HOWARD: I am afraid I don't have a passionate feeling either way. As it hasn't affected me personally (and I pray to God it never does) I have not had any inclination to come to any decisions about how I feel about it, and if I were personally involved my views may then be totally different to any hypothetical ones I may have.
This may sound like a cop out and maybe it is. Sometimes when one hears of a particularly heinous crime one thinks 'why don't they just get given an injection like they give cats and dogs and put them out of their misery. This is the non religious view. Then on the other hand one thinks.'Well, I'm not God. It's up to God when and where he pays for his crime.
Sometimes it makes me wonder about this life thing and the hypocrisy of it all. A soul is a soul. I believe animals have souls. I believe all living things have souls, but why is it, when it comes to humans, that only then does the soul take on any great importance. Some people don't think twice about going out and killing animals. Some people don't think twice about going out and killing people. Sometimes it's all just a great big bunch of hypocrisy. It reminds me of a poem I wrote ages ago. I'll post it in the poetry workshop when I get home.
BTW: Have been hanging out for your post for ages. :)
Talk about jumping in at the deep end.

Testing the water... testing testing...
Yup, it's no longer at the boiling point around here!

But I have a few bandaids handy and some Poly-Sporin (tm)
to dab onto any infernal sores still lingering.

Hallee, nice to meet you - my daughter's name is Hailey. I think they are pronounced the same (like Halley Mills)?

You wrote 6 books in 18 months? I thought I was a fast typist too -- but I'm still wading about in chapter 4.
I did have a few real glitches with computer viruses and so forth that really did a number on my novel a while back - but it is also slow going - possibly because I edit too much and take too much time doing so. (No, it's not just possible, it's definite)

Then again, my word count is almost 35,000 and chapter 4 is only twelve pages into it so far. I see ten chapters in my mind for this one.

Question for you Hallee: Do you edit your own work as you go? Or do you complete a chapter or even the whole thing before sitting back to dissect it?

I must truly dissect mine and get into every motivation of each character, think out every reason behind their actions and words, and carve the story into the oak so carefully that the end result is a cohesive picture, a sculpture in many dimensions, so to speak.

But I have had advice to just let my creativity flow and then edit and rewrite the stale phrasing later. I'm trying to do that more and more...

We'll see where that takes me.

Finely crafted, in polished oak, laquered in honey and pure thought. That is how I imagine the novel to seem, sitting in my hand, the day it is run on the press.
If you're going to make a dream come true, at least make it sweet.

Howard, thank you for what you said. Glad you found the words. Welcome back!

Rachel, big hugs to you! (((HUGS))))
I hope you are feeling better about the content of the NB today. And tell me about your new family member!
Congratulations!

AND ANOTHER CONGRATULATIONS GOES TO ALLEIN!
HAPPY GRADUATION!
Sigh, to be your age again...
I can still say I'm perky after all these years.
Perky in spirit!

No, no, no waistband jokes tonight. That will be in about 40 years anyway.

Have to get some writing done.(period!)
Heather

Rhoda

Missed your post because I was busy typing mine. I too had heard the Gabaldon story. What amazes me even more than her publishing experiences is the way she puts a book together. She writes scenes that are not all connected. When she thinks she has enough interesting scenes, she lays them all out and puts them in order until she builds a story out of them. Then she just writes the bridges to connect the scenes. Crazy stuff. I'd go nuts trying to do that.

Good Luck to you with whatever process you use to get it done.

TEEKAY:

Hey you, your BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA girly thing sounds awfully familiar. Lord knows this isn't the only site where I have pissed people off-hope I never did you wrong over there. Just between me and you, who did you post as? Or did you just post as TEEKAY and I missed it? I just started checking things out over there about 6 weeks ago. At the time a bunch of 'regulars' quit posting because of some snit everybody was having for reasons that I never found out about. You aren't one of the people who left are you? The newness is wearing off of that for me now, I check it once a week or so for updates on the book signings and things, or excerpts from the next novel. OK, enough about that.

HOWARD:

Eloquent as always.

I'm off to the workbook to check out the traffic. C-ya

Mary,

I have Diana Gabaldon's first three books in her Outlander series. I am personally not a great fan, but I do respect her work very much. I also have much admiration for Diana Gabaldon as a writer.

My mother-in-law gave me the books one Christmas. I got about one hundred pages into the first one and then did not finish. It could be that there was much going on at the time, and I was not in a good frame of mind. I do intend to give the books one more try, for so many people including my mother-in-law and sister-in-law are great fans.

Diana Gabaldon's personal story of publication is remarkable. She set out to write a book set in Scotland during the 18th century. It was originally meant to be a time travel. As she wrote, her heroine became so spunky and outspoken that Ms. Gabaldon concluded the character did not fit the setting, for she was too modern. The only way she could get the heroine to fit was to make it a time travel. Ms. Gabaldon wrote a book that according to all the experts on publication would never sell. It was too long and too detailed, and she was virtually unknown. She did, however, have a loyal following on the Internet. When she did find an interested publisher, she supposedly sold them her idea by assuring them that she had hundreds of people ready to buy the book when it came out. The publishing house went out on a limb, so to speak, and published her book which became an instant best-seller.

Ms. Gabaldon's career is an inspiration to me. She set out and wrote a book which she enjoyed writing. She stuck to her guns and actively marketed the book even before she found a publisher. What would have happened if she had listened to the doom-sayers which we all hear from today? Look at what she would have missed if she had taken to much to heart all the advice she got from conferences and all the professionals.

I don't think what happened to her could happen to just anyone. Perhaps she just happened to show up at the right place at the right time. But I do think that persistence can bring us a long way. Though we writers have to be wise to the reality of the publishing market, there is some room to follow our hearts.

Perhaps Mary and Tina might want to pass the first Diana Gabaldon book around. Teekay, Christi, Howard, some other folks and I have been sending out our favorites.

Ms. Gabaldon has a good web-site and I have given the web address above.

Jerry,

I am glad you had a nice break. It sounded really heavenly to be away from the noise of the world.

Teekay,

Take your time on the synopsis. There is no hurry. I appreciate your willingness to look it over. Hopefully I can finish the rest of TRB this week. Anyway that is my goal. I need to get these last pages to you before you forget what the story was all about.

Happy writing, everyone!

Rhoda

AMERICO -- Since you asked, I will, after much consideration, make this one statement.
First the easy part -- I own guns, and have done so for many years. I consider them to be tools, plain and simple. Used properly they are not a threat to anyone. I enjoy target shooting, and used to enjoy hunting, although I must admit that the accidental shooting death of a very close friend of mine a few years ago (he was shot by another very close friend) has dampened my enthusiasm a bit. I still may hunt again, but not now.

Now the difficult one --

It's good to have deep feelings about a subject as volatile as the death penalty, or even life imrisonment without the possibility of parole -- indeed, it's the person who has no passion at all about it that makes me wonder.

The person who believes that "an eye for an eye" is still the way to go, and who reads in the books of Moses that "he who sheds man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed" needs also to remember what Jesus said about His fulfilling the law, and about loving and forgiving the enemy who has done the wrong -- even this Abu, or Hitler, or the Roman who drove the spikes.

His fulfillment of the law, however, in no way removes the responsibility of the person who committed murder. He -- or she -- is still (according to scripture) to forfeit his life. But it is not to be done with an attitude of vengeance, but one of humility.

Those who believe that God had no right to make such a pronouncement must remember that as Creator and Sustainer of life, He has *every* right to do so. His holiness demands perfect justice, just as His love demands perfect grace. That perfect justice will one day be seen in this world, and there will be those who have not cried out for His grace, who will "cry out to the rocks to hide them from His wrath." In the end, *every* knee shall bow to Him.

For those who subscribe to the Darwinist/Humanist theory of origin and evolution,and deny the existence of a creator, what's the problem with another death? Is it not just an extension of natural selection to want to get rid of an organism that has proved to be dangerous to life? Then again, perhaps it is the sadistic killer that was meant to survive in a world of coincidences that has no purpose, full of beings that just happened, having no predictable end, and depending on nothing but chance. But in that setting it makes no sense at all to embrace the agent of one's death -- to allow it to go free. Survival is the all-important thing. The mindless struggle to exist mandates the removal of the cancer that threatens that existence. Kill it, cut it out, or die under it.

In the end, it is not a political thing. Nor is it a religious thing. Politics and religion are both creations of mankind, and have no real control over the soul. Both will fail to meet the standard set by the one who would rather have a relationship with us.

Only that relationship will survive.

MARY: Been there, done that BWAH HAH HAHH HAH AAHAHAHA HSAHAHHA thanks anyway girly.

HALLEE: I think I hate you. :)(a very difficult smile, more of a grimace really.)

Americo - Just got back from a wonderful relaxing weekend camping by Shadehill Lake. The weather did not cooperate as well as I would have liked, in fact last night the park ranger came by our camper and told us to batten down the hatches, as the weather bureau issued a severe thunderstorm warning - the bureau predicted we would be hit by 80 mph winds and 2 inch hail. We were thankful when all that happened was a light breeze accompanied by a nice rain. I had a chance to get away from the computer, television, newspapers and the rest. It was wonderful to relax, and finish a great book I have been wanting to finish. I see the topic of guns and death have yet to leave our happy home. I think we could go on for ever arguing the pros and cons of the issues. In reality, we can never agree because we come from different peoples, and different worlds. When you speak of your homeland, I can see the love you have for your world, for the peace that is there and the happyness of your peoples. I do from time to time envy your feelings and your home. Where I live, we too can go out in the night on any street, in any alley and be perfectly safe. I can drive for a hundred miles in any direction, and stop in any small town on the way and feel the same. The only exceptions being on the reservations, where the native americans frown on whites encroaching on their homes. Yet you see us as barbarians. Years ago when I was forced to live in the cities in the east, I can assure you this was not true, but you see our nation is so large that when one tires of these feelings of fear, they can move to better places. Many choose to live in the cities to be near what you see as civilization, the theater, fine foods, fine wines. Where I live, the theater is a place where we go on weekends to see the movie. A fine wine is one that does not cost to much, and has a lable from California. But as I say we can and do walk our streets safely at night. I do not carry a firearm with me when I venture out, and have not since I hung up my badge back in '93. Yes I still have them, as a rememberance of days gone by. I would not readily give them up though, if my government did as your did back 150 years ago, it is simply something in our blood as free Americans, we do not wish to begin giving up our rights, just because the liberals amongst us want us to. Many of us feel that if we begin giving up rights, such as those to own firearms, then we will have to give up more, such as those of speach, religion, the press, and the rest. I heard on the radio today that a recent poll in the US shows that over 75 percent of Americans support the death penalty. I think this too goes back to our history, and the way this great nation came to being. We don't think of the death penalty as a device to stop crime, we think of it in terms of justice. The only person the death penalty stops from being a criminal is the person who is in the end executed. Studies have shown that it is indeed more expensive to execute a person then to keep him in prison for the rest of his life. I know you feel this too is barbarisim, but would you want Charles Manson to live next door to you, despite the fact he has been in prison since 1972? I think we should agree to disagree. We are frinds, and have been for over a year. Our feelings on these issues run very deeply, but this should not make us enemys, we must learn to understan each other, and except each other for who we are.

Write ON!
Jerry

Hello all. Just got back from an overnight trip to a hot spring (ooh, ahh, much hot wonderful water and sun) and have discovered that my muse stayed there for another night. Oh well, I needed to catch up on the yardwork. Just as long as she shows up by tomorrow.

Hello Hallee!
6 or 7 books? Prodigious! Do stay here awhile and have fun!

Mary,
Read Diana Gabaldon. She is very good. I recommend her to everyone who likes romance / historical fiction / drama / action / etc. type books. She's an author whose books I BUY instead of borrow.

Time to take my revenge on the evil Weed Hordes.... hahahahahahahaha!
T.J.

AMERICO

I didn't apologize about anything other than the fact that I didn't see your email link on the Strawberries and - Moon page of the Workbook. Don't make out like I am sorry for disagreeing with you.

Mary,

Do not blush for having called me the Anti-Christ yesterday and Dictator today. Everyday is a new word, as Arik would put it. You also said that I had no Testicules. But others called me Arrogant, Disrespectful and The Most Intolerant Person ever known. You are in good company, Mary! No need to have e-mailed me, apologizing privately. I hate leaving people without a personal, caring answer, but this time my hands are really full, sorry and kisses.

I would not even mention the testicules again (let alone the topic that made you invoke them in your post) if I were not worried about the people who read what was written here yesterday and remained silent. Must I conclude that most of the denizens of this notebook are in favour of the death penaly? Carrying guns? Jail for life?

You see, I have been contributing to this notebook for sixteen months and suddenly I became frightened. Who are you, people? I have a right to know who I am writing to and dealing with. Just a yes or no on the topics in question will do nicely.

And to show that I have forgiven any comments on my personality and body attributes, do not refrain, if you are so inclined, from using again the adjectives that have so adequately and elegantly characterized my awful self. The illustrious and highly sensitive people that got so much offended by my indignation against what I feel is a living contradiction between any decent religious thought and practice — will certainly let such adjectives and ornaments pass in very just silence again — I know a little about human incongruencies. So, be brave and honest, no cats or dogs outside.

Howard, now you can come in, if you are already healthy enough for strong statistics.

Cassandra - I always envision Pussy as herself being a fluffy white persian sitting on a silk pillow.

Now for a haiku:

Graduation soon,
Never dreamed it would come,
Bring box of Kleen-ex.

Thank you, yes, very dumb.
Au revoir,
Allein

Teekay - My story is in the short story section of the workbook.

All - My story once again contains some words/phrases that are on the strong side and could be considered offensive. Read at your own risk...

Take care all

Rachel

MARY: I am one of those people who are in line the day the J.D. Robb books come out. Then I read it in a day and come out of my Nora inflicted trance and realize I have a family who is probably hungry. (hahaha)

HALLEE
Have you read any of the JD Robb aka Nora Roberts 'Death' series? Loyalty in Death, Ceremony in Death...?
They are futuristic crime novels with a romantic twist. They are really good.

jon
You didn't really give me whole lot of choice in the matter. DICTATORS usually don't. And I warned you about my sucky portugese.(I still can't figure out how I got to be minister of translations-I'm assuming it is a mockery) And just so everyone here doesn't think that I called you the Anti-Christ-what I said was that I thought the Anti-Christ was the one who was supposed to want all countries to band together in a new world order. (The same comment you made.) Please take note that just because I have different views from you, I don't hate you.

I actually think that the resident evil overlord here would be a much better leader. He doesn't take any crap.

HOWARD: I am so sorry for the comments of the past few days and anything I did to contribute to the furor. You shoud be feeling respect and 'love?' coming from this notebook, not the disrespect and hate that reared it's ugly head.

EVERYBODY ELSE: Good morning, afternoon, evening...

TEEKAY: hahahaha Nope, I have a 3 yr old little girl (what a jewel), a husband, a dog, a cat, a full time job, church, all the normal stuff. But, I type really fast, and I get up at 4:30, allowing me 2 full hours to write without interruption. And, I don't plot out my books, I just have the basic premise, and the rest flows, so I've never been stuck with writer's block. And, lastly, only one of my books is a full 100,000 word book. Two more are 75,000, and I have a trilogy that are basic love stories, without the suspense, that are all 50,000 words. The one I'm working on now would have to end in 4 chapters to be 75,000 words, but I don't see that happening. I think this one is going to be novel lenghth.

MARY: I have never read Janet Evanovich, though I will definitely check her out. May favorite is Nora Roberts. A lot of her books don't have the suspense, but the ones that do, she is the master.

RHODA - Thanks for the tip. I will definitely try to find that book. I have discovered that my books are really good. But I have also discovered that my synopses all suck. I think that a lot of romance authors incorporate elements of suspense into their stories for added plot; however, I'm not quite sure where the line is drawn. I have books where the suspense factor takes forefront, and I have books where the romance takes the forefront. That's something that I'll have to do some thinking on. (Hmmm...what do I write?) :)

Thanks for the welcome, you all!

Mary,

Glad you accept being my minister for Internet links and tranlations. Incidentally, you can find Americo's e-address in the Workbook (SM** section) and also his full and true name, but he is unfortunatelly very busy and is unable to answer for the moment (which he regrets).
And do not be afraid. Contrary to what you called him in your Portuguese post (I helped him understand it), he is not the Anti-Christ!
(Not the true one at least...)

Howard — do not say anything. That's the wisest and fairest thing to do, really.

What do you know, the damn link worked.

Go ahead TEEKAY, it takes you right to the home page. I took it for a test drive.

TEEKAY:
Janet Evanovich has an awesome website. You really should check it out. www.evanovich.com . They accept fan fiction there. Stephanie Plum stories written by fans. I have never written one, but some of them can be very entertaining, and help pass the time between books.

Since I am going to be the new minister of internet links, I will start making an ass out of myself now and probably put a link here that doesn't work. If it doesn't take you where you need to go, just type in the address above.

Mary

ps- It is soooo cool that you love Janet too. I post on the message boards there as MCL, maybe we can bounce some Plum stuff off of each other there sometime!

MARY: SSSSHHHHHRRRIIIIIEEEEEKKKKKKKK.
I love Janet Evanovich's books!!!!!! That's the one I was going to send to CHRISTI. The first one that is. Me and the kids just devour her books. I tried to make the last one high five last. Tried rationing it out, because I knew it would be ages before we got hot 6 over here.
Have you read any of Fiona Walker's books?

HEATHER: (Teekay waves feebly from her position in the cold, wet, dirty gutter, but is knocked off balance as another muck truck knocks her to the ground) (It's so easy to see where she gets her sense of humour from isn't it?)
HAR HAR HAR HAR HAR HAR HAR HAR HA..ARGHHCLUNK.

JON: But will there be ice cream and chippies and pizza hot and cold?? And what about the Queen Mum? Is she coming?

RACHEL: Am really looking forward to your story. I can feel another creative surge coming on myself.
How old is the newest member of your family? Male or Female?

HALLEE: 6-7 books? 6-7 books? I'm sorry, I just can't get my head around that one. You have written 6-7 books in 18 months. Now where'd I put that darn noose?
lET ME SEE HOW MY PSYCHIC ABILITIES ARE KEEPING UP. oooooohhhhmmmmmmmmmyouaresinglewithnochildrenpetsorpotplantswhichneedtendingtoyourlifeiscompletelyyourownandyoudoyourshoppingviatheinternetandyoualsohaveacookandacleaninglady.
How'd I do?

CASSANDRA: I'd rather imagined PUSSY to look like Dame Edna Everage rather than Jackie O.

HOWARD: Don't worry HOWARD, that's just something you picked up in hospital. It usually first begins when the Nurse shoves a thermometer under your tongue and it slowly progresses from there. Good news though, you'll be over it shortly.

RHODA: That synopsis will be back to you within the week and maybe even sooner, maybe today, but I am not going to commit myself because I have children and cats and a hubby and you never can tell what may happen next to destroy any plans made. I'm sorry it's taking so long.

I'm off all before my daughter turns ugly.

Hallee,

Welcome! (Hope I spelled your name right, but I am clear down here on the bottom of the board and you are way up at the top)

Have you ever read any Janet Evanovich? I love her books. A nice fun read and break from reality. Give her a try, she has her latest coming out on the 20th of June. "Hot Six"

Rhoda,
Have you read any Diana Gabaldon? My Mom reads romance, although Diana Gabaldon is now considered mainstream. The Outlander series, I have heard, is awesome. Haven't read any of it myself, but thought if you had you could give me your opinion.

C-ya.

Hi -- I've just caught up on the posts of the past few days, and for once in my life I just don't know what to say.

Hey Sqrl!

I see your bored sitting home probably just as I am right now... well I'm not actually home but you know my usual weekend activities. ;) ;)

Arg! I've still got Notebook writer's block... hmmm what to say. I'm zipping through Anything Box rather quickly. I may pass it off to Sqrl or another friend of mine who's curious about the website (don't worry she's far more entertaining than I. :)

Jon-
Any need for an intern in your presidental bid?? hmm? I'm kiddding of course, not that young women won't faun all over you in your newfound position of power. Power is an aphrodesiac you know. Pussy had better watch you carefully. She would make a very good first lady, you know. She's got a very Jackie O. quality about her. I bet she'd be thrilled knowing that the nation would look to her as a fashion "example".


Well, off to do the dishes (yes, Sqrl, again, aren't I nice?? :D )

Good luck everyone!

Cassandra

Actually I do not know if it is accurate to say I read a lot of romance thrillers. Joan Wolf, Catherine Coulter and Mary Jo Putney use a lot of suspense elements in their novels, but I do not think they write thrillers per se. I am reading a book by Elizabeth Thronton. It is pretty good. Would Stella Cameron be a writer who writes thrillers?

Rhoda

Hallee,

As far as I am concerned there is always room for one more here on the Notebook. I read a lot of romantic thrillers. I too would rather work on my novels than write synopses. I hate the things. Have you ever heard of a book called WRITING THE FICTION SYNOPSIS by Pam McCuthcheon? I have found it helpful.

You sound like a busy and profilic writer. That quality will take you far. I too am searching for a home for my completed novels. I write historical fiction (it is actually romance, but not technically).

Hop aboard and join in on our conversations.

All the best,

Rhoda

Hello, all. My Name is Hallee, and I've been enjoying your posts for the past few days. You seem like a tight group, though I hope that there might be room for one more. I would be nice to have a fellowship with others who have also been struck by this bug they call the muse.

I have been writing for about 18 months now, and have completed 6, almost 7, books. I'm still trying to learn the intricacies of securing an agent and/or publisher, though I'm afraid I spend a lot more time writing my novels than trying to perfect my synopses.

I write romances with a thriller/mystery twist, and I'm thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. Who knew the kind of things I'd think up until I started writing. Now I look at the parking lot of a seedy motel and ten plots whirl through my mind. It's scary, facinating, and exciting all at the same time.

So for now, I will go back to trying to make this next chapter as intense as I want it to be. I look forward to coming back and reading more of your posts.

List of my future ministers:

Allein — minister of charm and public relations
Arik — minister of culture
Heather — minister of education
Rachel — minister of transports and travelling
Mary — minister of the Internet links and translations
Rhoda — minister for religious affairs and other stuff
Jerry — minister for the abolishion of the dead penalty and guns

I'm thinking of people for other ministries. So behave yourselves accordingly.

PS. Any attempt to corrupt me will be severely punished. Just act naturaly while I'm taking your pictures. I will not tolerate any refusals to my offerings.

Jon, President (or better, just candidate for the moment).

I have now 11 (eleven) votes. I need 300 million.

Little-old-ladyyyyy-hooooooh! Hello, is it safe to come out? Man, this really it a family, isn't it? I can remember many an argument just like the one that's been raging here for the past couple-a days. The thing about family is that no matter how mad they make you--how nuts they make you, they are still your family; you still have to get past your differences and find ways to get along.

Don't make me tell my mom on you guys--she's a real hardass when it comes to arguments. Her answer was to throw the offending parties in the pool with their clothes and shoes on, leaving us sputtering with anger as we drip-dried outside--having to make-up before we were allowed back in the house. Now I don't have a pool, but I do have a hose with a power sprayer on it.

On a completely unralated topic, I seem to remember Allein, and possibly Rachel living in the Seattle area; is that right? My husband and I are thinking of relocating to that area and are wondering how it is to live there. We're from Arizona, born and raised, used to the hot, arrid climate and don't know what we'd do with so many rainy days and all that greenery. I tend to think it would be wonderful, but that could be the romantic in me talking. It could be that I would go batty without my wide open spaces and surrounding mountains. Can any of you guys tell me what it's really like in Washington? How the people are? How much the cost of living is? You can go around the internet forever, but never get a true picture of what it's like to live in a place. Help! My email's above; please give me some input if you can. I'm begging now, on my knees, and it's really hard to type when you're on your knees. :0)

Allein,
Congratulations! You made it!! We knew you could do it. Graduating is one of the scariest things in the world, no? Don't worry, your life will fall into place afterwards--it just takes a little time. And if you're already sure of what comes next, disregard my reassurances. But I think reassurances are nice when you can get them.

Clayton,
I'm glad you're back. How was your trip?

Heather,
I'm still here, and I thank you for your blessing. It felt great!

Teekay,
Thanks for the mail! I ate 'em up, but I only got two of them. Are you SURE there were three? I'll send you the beginnings of my silly story but please don't expect much. It's just driving me crazy!

Now I'm off to work on the short story that's been plaguing me for a month now. Must finish the dadblasted thing soon.

Love to all,

Christi (still dripping and cooling off)

Sqrl - Thanks for the colorful message. :)

Thanks to everyone else who has wished me good luck as well. :)

Tina - Grad nite is a party sponsored by the school in order to prevent people from drinking. I should be fine. We'll be taken to Planet Hollywood in Seattle right after graduation to party and then we get to go for a cruise on the Spirit of Puget Sound. I'm happy about this.
Allein

Of all the days to win an award.
Thanks Arik.

okey people.... the sentances are back!!!!

the dumbest sentance of the day is defenatly belong's to Mary:

"
Meu poder portugese seja um pouco oxidado, mas eu sou certo que você começará a idéia de o que eu estou tentando dizer. Eu serei amaldiçoado
se eu o deixar ter a última palavra nesta edição e em ver como como você não afixará um email address para yourself(probably uma idéia boa que
considera seu attitude)I terá que retort no caderno: Eu acredito que o anti-Christ é esse quem tenta unir todos os países em uma ordem nova do
mundo, não é ele? Se aquele for seu jogo do que você revelou-se demasiado logo. Também, eu não v como você pensa que você é direito sobre o
que você fêz a Rhoda. Completamente frankly tresanda e eu perdi todo o respeito para você. Including todo seu altere-egos esse sustento você de ter
que sentir accountable para o que você diz. Eu suponho em um nutshell, eu estou tentando dizer vou ELE você mesmo. (que não deve ser demasiado
duro para que você figure para fora de ver como como você se gosta de assim muito.) AGORA nós podemos começar para trás ao negócio na mão
e escrever histórias. Não que eu submeterei sempre a história mim estava escrevendo para a manutenção programada **, que eu não quero ter
qualquer coisa fazer com esse projeto mais longo. - Mary"

-----------------------------------------------------------

The best sentance goes to Ashling:

"The Morning Pages process is a sort of mental enema, allowing me to write
more creatively and productively, because it's cleaned out all the crap --"

-----------------------------------------------------------

the funniest sentance of the day goes to Rachel:

"The Morning Pages process is a sort of mental enema, allowing me to write
more creatively and productively, because it's cleaned out all the crap --"

-----------------------------------------------------------

good luck :-).

Teekay - Hi you:D Yes, the trip we take is a fun one. Thank you for the congrats on the new child in my home. He is doing well. Then again this is only day three (smiles). Hope all is well with you.
Take care,
Rachel

The post below this one is a very special one devoted just to Americo. I wrote it in Portugese so that no one has to be subjected to any more discussion of the topics of the last two days. I would gladly have emailed it to him, but he doesn't link to his email here, which is probably a good idea. I would be thrilled to leave this issue rest, but I wasn't going to let him have the last word.
-Mary

Meu poder portugese seja um pouco oxidado, mas eu sou certo que você começará a idéia de o que eu estou tentando dizer. Eu serei amaldiçoado se eu o deixar ter a última palavra nesta edição e em ver como como você não afixará um email address para yourself(probably uma idéia boa que considera seu attitude)I terá que retort no caderno: Eu acredito que o anti-Christ é esse quem tenta unir todos os países em uma ordem nova do mundo, não é ele? Se aquele for seu jogo do que você revelou-se demasiado logo. Também, eu não v como você pensa que você é direito sobre o que você fêz a Rhoda. Completamente frankly tresanda e eu perdi todo o respeito para você. Including todo seu altere-egos esse sustento você de ter que sentir accountable para o que você diz. Eu suponho em um nutshell, eu estou tentando dizer vou ELE você mesmo. (que não deve ser demasiado duro para que você figure para fora de ver como como você se gosta de assim muito.) AGORA nós podemos começar para trás ao negócio na mão e escrever histórias. Não que eu submeterei sempre a história mim estava escrevendo para a manutenção programada **, que eu não quero ter qualquer coisa fazer com esse projeto mais longo. - Mary

Good morning, everybody!

The Wahlpurgis night is over. Now back to work, all. The Workbook needs stories. And SM** more than any other place.

This weekend is short-story weekend. You can publish those stories in the Workbook, not necessarily here.

And pray for those who are going to die, but more importantly think if you are not responsible for any of the deaths.

Hello all. Hope your muses are being kind and bringing lots of goodies to your keyboards. My writing is going well, just started a new chapter.

I'm reading Julie Cameron's Vein of Gold. I no longer need to try all the writing exercises in these inspirational type books, but savor them for the warm glow they surround my Muse with. I am utilizing one suggestion--Morning Pages.

Cameron insists on the details being followed to the letter ... handwritten first thing every morning, always 3 pages, in an 8" x 11" hardback notebook. I couldn't find such an animal, but duplicated as closely as possible, because the reasons Cameron gives for following this ritual are very valid. It might remind some of automatic writing, but it's totally different from that for me. The Morning Pages process is a sort of mental enema, allowing me to write more creatively and productively, because it's cleaned out all the crap --

Go-wash-the-dishes-first, These-chararacters-are-boring, Better-check-my-e-mail, I'm-tired-need-to-take-a-nap, I'll-never-get-published, Did-I-return-Mary's-phone-call,
What-shall-I-get-my-mother-in-law-for-Christmas? I'll-write-later-after-running-errands ............

All that stuff flows onto the pages and gets flushed right down the drain and then--at whatever point in the day that I sit down at the keyboard ... The story I'm currently telling flows onto the pages.

So Rhoda, flush Americo down the drain, and keep on writing the gold. I love ya.

Ashling

My campaign for the Presidency of USA&CAN.

Frequently asked asquestions (FAQ, sorry, ID).

1. How many votes do you need?
A: 300 million.
2. How many promised votes do you already have?
A: 10 — which means TEN TIMES more than on the eve!
3. CAN has not a President. The head of the State is a Queen. How can you be the President of CAN in such circumstances?
A: I'll create the new job of President in CAN. Just an honorary thing, no work involved. My wife Pussy will be the Queen, sparing poor Elizabeth a lot of headaches.
4. Will you have to raise the taxes to create these two new jobs?
A: I'll abolish taxes and other alibis for people to allow themselves saying nonsense, kind of "As a tax-payer I do not want my money to be spent with outlaws or cats— just kill them".
5. What's your attitude towards death penalty, guns and the Bible?
A: Since the Bible seems to be the book of all excuses, I'll recommend my peoples (Statesians and Nadians) to read "PlayCat" instead. Or my "CatsDictionary" if they do not like Iting. What do YOU think of the Bible?
6. Why do you want to be the President of both USA&CAN?
A: I'm against political divisions. Countries are the source of one of the greatest diseases in the world: patriotism. I intend to unify all the world in a single confederation, but that will take some time — months at least.
7. Do you intend to be the President of such a world confederation?
A: Who else? Yes, who else? A*, who "hates" Rhoda? R*, who thinks A* capable of feelings? Jerry, a man understandingly traumatized by the brutal death of a colleague but forgetting that the guy who killed him had a gun which should not exist but which he defends selling and possessing?
8. How about Allein, Christi, Heather, Rachel?
A: They'll be appointed ministers.
9. How about the others?
A: They are probably asleep now, poor darlings. Let them dream of my better world.
10. What do you think of Jesus Christ?
A: Like A*, a "liberal" (Jerry's funny definition of A*). Crucifixion is the historical medicine for such trouble-makers. So be it.

ALL I REALLY DO MEAN ALL - You have been sitting and watching all of this happen. My heart has pounded in my chest. There are no grins for me to give. I do not like this. Let me say that sometimes a thing needs to be between two people. That all others should bow out. There are things that we can not know. Do not know. Things we think we do know do not count. I say in a very soft voice to one and all to let this be a difference of opinion that has happened between two people who know one another.
Not one of you has drawn a breath in either of their lives. Not any of you can assume to know either of the people involved. What I say is to quietly step back and let the two of them speak to one another if they so choose. Do not come to be involved in things you do not understand.
I will not make this request again.
Take care one and all
Rachel

Rhoda, Americo, may I with the greatest respect ask that the both of you conduct any and all further dispute with one another via e-mail? You both know where to reach me if you would care to speak to me about this.


PS - I'm about to post a bit in the workbook that could earn me an ass kicking. I'm okay with that. Line up one and all. I will defend what I say with all my heart. I'm the sort who does not walk away. I think that all that we have talked about here. All of the passions and feelings have little or nothing to do with god, guns or the death penalty.

PPS - Heather I wish I could grin, but I really can not. I am not pleased with the direction of this conversation. I knew from the start that it would not end well. Honestly look at the passions of the people on this site!

CHARLES - Don't go away. It is not always like this. I admit that there have been times. If you read over the archives you will see that every few months this sort of thing happens. It is because we are a community here. Like it or lump it that is what we have become. We care for love and offend the living shit out of each other. Jack calls this place freedom hall. That is exactly what it is. The catch is that only the brave can really ever be free. In our aspirations to reach personal freedom we do so flail... I hope you stick it out. It may not always be pretty, but know what? It's family.

Take care all

Hugs all around. Even if you shove me off I will have embraced you.

Rachel

Now LISTNE UP. ENOUGH AND ENOUGH AND ENOUGH. I'm about to get me into a temper and yah all jes d'na wana see such a thin.

Can we all be friends? Can we agree that all sides really do see the very same thing? That injustice is what we all rage against? It is not the guns, not the courts, it is not any one thing. It is the all mighty grey that encompases injustice.

Heather,

You have added some salient points to this most edifying conversation--and you did so with class and style.

The rest of this post is not aimed directly at you Heather, your name just came at the top because of my response to your post.

In defense of my beloved country, I will say that we don't sell guns to just anybody. Granted there are loopholes as there are with any law in this country, but ideally only law abiding citizens can purchase guns. There is a registration thingie you have to go through, and a waiting period bruhaha, a pain in the neck background check or if you are a criminal you can just buy one off the street for a couple bills. One argument made quite often here is that if you outlaw guns, the only people who have them would be the criminals that don't care that it is illegal to have them. The mentality of this country is the mentality of this country. If someone wants to kill you, they are going to kill you whether they have guns or not. I am for stricter gun control--not banning them altogether.

A lot of the morality issues of this country, ok-most, are lacking miserably. I don't know exactly what caused it or how to fix it. I do know that our President has not helped at all. He sleeps with anything that walks, cowtows to celebrities, I could go on and on. It feels good to be able to say these things without worrying whether or not I will be arrested for treason or other such non-patriot type crimes. I can do that because this is a Free Country. I'm free to cross state lines if I want to, I'm free to bitch about the President, I'm free to quote the Bible, I'm even free to carry a gun if I was so inclined. I have freedoms I don't even want and will never use. But if you are in for a penny you are in for a pound, I would take this country crime and all before I gave up the freedoms people have died to give me and my family. That is what makes me an American.

I guess I am not civilized enough to be able to imagine someone raping and killing my little girl without my wanting to electrocute the rapist-murderer pig that did it. If that makes me a barbarian then so be it. God can sort me out later and see if my motivations were false.

Charles and Tina and everyone else, I apologize for doing exactly what I complained about when I started posting here. Airing my whatevers. This isn't the place.

And here I am again.

Wanted to leave Tina a note!
I'm sorry if I seemed negative in my critique. I think this happens a lot. So many suggestions leap to mind I forgot to say I was interested in your work and that I found much talent in your style and choice of wording. I also find a lot of talent in YOU.

I'm also sorry I don't really enjoy sci-fi or fantasy much.
I am certain that your story is of very good calibre according to that genre. I have little means to measure, however, being that I rarely read it! I went with literary mind to a space launch. SHRUG!

I would love to read more, by the way.

Americo, one final note on today's explosion -
Apology time is now yours. Rhoda didn't deserve the smoting you bequeathed.

Night, all,
and here's to a smilier tomorrow.
Rachel, we need all the grins we can muster!
Teekay, Litter, so refreshing to hear from you.

Teekay, always with a funny quip to tickle our frowning brows! Love to you and all of us here. You never know when one of us will need all the positive blessings we can collectively send.

Howard, you there? Fran, Jack, Christi, Litter?
Another blessing, just for safe measure. And another for the rest of us!

Heather

Couldn't beat me away from this here computer with a danged sledgehammer at the moment.

Right below this post (I hope) is my last post,
wherein I am the Hypocrit in flesh form.
I said that Biblical quotes can be taken and slanted by the quoter, therefore 'proving' whatever point they want.
And I went ahead and 'proved IT', by using a quote! (alright, I paraphrased - red-handed again!)

But that WAS my point.

Think about it.

I sure am.

Heather

I don't mean to be rude, but I would like to shed some light upon quoting Biblical passages:

They are often taken way out of context and so, like statistics, can be slanted towards whatever it is you wish to 'prove'.

Rhoda, the passages you have quoted from the Bible did NOT necessarily mean for US to take the 'He shall be put to death' part into OUR OWN HANDS. The Bible never specifies that we, as humans, 'Shall take it upon ourselves to judge any other and punish them for their crimes'. In fact, it does the opposite: it encourages people to adopt or cultivate the attitude that God will serve Justice in His own good time and by His own means. We are asked not to judge, lest we ourselves be so judged. That's why I would not live where there is the death penalty.

I interpret those passages to mean that a more Universal justice shall come for the crime committed. He shall not have eternal Life...but the Hand of Justice is God's, not mine.

Not saying I think we should let convicted criminals run rampant in the country. I don't have the solution all wrapped up in waxed paper to fit in my palm, like easy lunch for chucking into the microwave and done in two minutes.

But I agree with Jerry, on his ideas about Morality. If it is now left up to the parents to teach it - as it always should be for starters at least - then look where our lack has surfaced. We haven't taught our children anything but vice. And sometimes we haven't even taught them simple good taste.

All you have to do is look at popluar America: The Springer Show. WWF Wrestling. Itchy and Scratchy. I could go on.

And I don't think reinstating 1950's attitudes would work, in fact I think it may have repressed a few too many people. What happens when repression becomes too great?
Rebellion!

So let's not push this debate too far.

Relax. Mellow. Shhhhhh. You are now calm, accepting of other's opinions and views; the physical and emotional stress has leaked from every limb so like the oil from the pan in your car. Nice and constant, until the well of stress is simply empty!
No big spurty lumps of oil, no burning odours, no blue smoke.

Let's all just shake hands and have a cracker. Put some nice cheddar on that. A glass of your favourite wine, and presto!

We're still friends.

(Ok, so trying to smooth it all over is hopeless, I do not deny it)

Rhoda, you were right about politics. And the guns don't shoot by themselves. But with guns not available, shooting would be harder to accomplish. It does make sense.

In Canada, we are not allowed to possess firearms unless we have an F.A.C., and we certainly are not allowed to carry them on our person just anywhere. We hunt with them. Or we are an on-duty cop.

Or a' nutbar American', (hypothetically speaking) who somehow smuggled a piece in under his shirt when driving through customs. Great tourist attractions, those Americans...

Whooops!

That was very rude of me, and politically incorrect to boot, and right after I declared, "PEACE, MAN!"

So now I will cower in the corner designated for hypocrits and the undecided.

I'll shut up now.

Heather

I am deeply bothered.
For a month now I've been impressed by the international community on this site, by the good humour and tolerance evidenced in the conversations. I look forward to reading reasonably intelligent discourse, creative thoughts and engaging conversations. (I do NOT refer to the IT conversation). Here today I find mud slinging and abuse of the pixels in my screen.
I'd hoped to find literary support here. Now I'm considering withdrawing that hope. What meaningful critique can I expect from the pit of disrespect I've just read?

Hmmm. I just tried to be neutral. I can't. Americo, please don't bother reading anything I post in the workbook, because I cannot be bothered to care about your arrogant comments. Ditto for Jon.

Heather, I say again Thank you thank you thank you! I'd love to hear your thoughts after you've read more than the first few pages. You're critique did come across fairly negative, but that's okay. Three years of art school made me immune to negativity about my work, made me see that everybody looks at things in different ways. You don't need to like what I do to give me meaningful insight into making it better.

Allien, enjoy your grad! It's never the same again. Also, be wise as you celebrate. I live in a small town with yearly graduation nightmares and deaths, and I always hold my breath on grad night, until everyone is safe and sound the next morning. Congratulations! :-D

'Nuf said for one night.
T.J.

It is a terrible shame that this argument has resulted in the personal attack of Rhoda at the hands of someone who doesn't even have the testiculos to post their email link so she could respond privately.
I think it would be best if Jack archived the Notebook and this was never mentioned again. Ridiculous.

Allein: {{{{{BIG HUGS}}}}CONGRADULATIONS CHICA!
I hope you have a wonderful summer and enjoy the freedom . . . before you have to ship off to college ;-D hope to hear from you soon.

Everyone else: {{{{{{{BIG HUGS TO YOU ALL TOOO}}}}}}} I know I've been away for a while, and I'll be slipping in and out, again. Things are hectic here, as usual, and finding time to visit all my favorite places on-line is a tad bit difficult. I just wanted to say hi, and let you all know that I am doing well. And a BIG HELLO to all these new faces/names on here!

thanks for your time you all,

Sqrl

WHOOO HOOOOOO ROWHARD IS BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GOOD!!

RACHEL: What a fantastic sounding holiday. When I was a kid we used to go camping a lot, but since I've been married we haven't gone even once. Hubby's a bit of a wooz I guess. I think I'll just take matters into my own hands and buy the tent and sleeping bags etc. etc.
BTW: Congratulations on your new arrival.

EDDIE: What are you doing? Come out of there and be yourself again.

AMERICO: Geez!! Do you always get so personally offensive when somebody has an opposing view to your own? Hey man, just askin', just askin' no disrespect intended.
(ducks and shuffles out of the line of fire.)
Whoops, no pun intended, honest.
You are however forgiven for this if you are deemed to have just cause in slashing somebody's character and self esteem in the name of getting your point across. Let's just hope RHODA doesn't become violent now, after all, it is the majority of these children who have been brought up to have their spirits broken, their character annhialated who grow up to be the ones who have no respect for others, no hope for themselves and very little appreciation for a life.
Viscious circle really isn't it.
Now, you can either both be friends and do your little bit for making the world a nicer place, or you can hate each other and continue to add to the muck pile we already have.

THERE, BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD GO I. I think there's a little something in that for all of us, don't you?

CHRISTI: I've finally braved it into the (home) office, though my feet are very, very cold and I am too lazy to put sox on. I have sent you three emails, they've been lined up and waiting for me to connect for a little while now.

Well PILLARS OF THE EARTH sounds really interesting. I must read it again, because I have forgotten practically all the details. I did remember however that it was very memorable.

Hey all, enough already! I came to this group because I write and wanted to associate with others of like mind. If you feel strongly about an issue, any issue, may I suggest you pretend this is a forum of writers and write an essay on your agenda. Then others can critique it or ignore it. I have no time for this personal stuff. And if you insist on gossiping...come and sit over here, beside me.

Dear all,

What a sad day this has been for the notebook. Not the pro's and cons of the death penalty, which I am being careful to avoid as it is such an emotive subject, but the blatant disrespect shown to one of our number in a scurrilous attack on her character. Disagree about any subject or stance taken but please leave personal attacks out of this forum - they do nothing but cause hurt, resentment and ill feeling. I don't think there is anyone here who has a right to assassinate the character of anyone else?

How about disagreeing without the personal baggage and vociferous attacks???

Litter

Rachel - I am going to grad nite. YAY!! I love going into the little shops at tourist towns. We went to Ripleys Believe it or Not in Newport, Oregon and it's pretty cool. A little expensive for a big family but cool. I hope to see you then - maybe sooner.

Americo - I am in agreement with you on the death penalty issue. If you kill a man because he murdered someone then you are guilty of the same crime. I think a better punishment would be to lock him away and let him live with his guilt. But, on the subject of school shootings, I don't believe that owning a gun is the problem - many families own guns, mine does. My brother and I know where it is in case we have to use it against an intruder, but we would never go into a school and purposely kill people. I think that is attributed to mental status, how a person was brought up, who they are friends with and the media recently that has put lots of attention on that sort of thing. Anyway, that's all I have to say about that.
Allein

Just as extra information (hopefully the last post on this subject):

In my country, perpetual prison was abolished a very long time ago. It still exists in other European countries, but our Constitution forbids the expatriation of any foreign criminal if the country where he will be judged has penalties superior to 29 years. The struggle now is to abolish perpetual prison in any civilized country we have relations with.

This may seem too lenient to some people who, instead of trying to help solve the problem of criminality by eliminating its roots, reason about life in terms of revenge, taxes and money (this is really INDECENT!). But I have a friend (he's Scottish and Quaker by persuasion) that is against prison AT ALL. I am not sufficently developed to understand him entirely, helas, but at least I understand that he knows what true Christianism — of which he is an expert, with books on religious matters published — should be about: education of the animal in us and forgiveness.

We cannot forget that each society has the criminals that it deserves. Some people are so tired of hearing about children being killed in schools by mad gunmen, by people not daring go out in some cities after 6 o'clock pm, by so many signs of avoidable violence in a country supposedly developed, that they say: "They are really stupid by allowing guns in the hands of anybody, aren't they?"

I would not like to be one of the indifferent. Please do not insulate the USA from the world and be humble enough to recognize and correct your errors, at least the most horrendous, those which have been self-evident to many countries ages ago — like death penalty, selling guns indiscriminately, or even jail for life. These are inhuman and, yes, very very stupid!

Americo,

I accept your disrespect, Thank you. I do not have nearly as negative opinions of yourself. But now that you have strewn me upon the trash heap of humanity, I suppose I must face the realization that I am lower than low in your eyes and all because I either chose not to ignore you and your misguided opinions or that I defend a well-thought out position however different it is from yours.

But true discussion can not proceed on the basis of disrespect. So I bow out of it. I am truly sorry that you hate me.

What else can I say? I am only saddened that there is so much intolerence in this world and that you are one of the most intolerent people I have ever encountered.

Rhoda

Ah well it is nice to start these arguments then leave, which is exactly what I am doing. In about an hour I will be towing our new used camper down to the local lake, where we will enjoy a couple of days of fresh air and family togetherness. Sorry about starting World War III over such issues as gun control and the death penalty. But they are fair issues, and have to be delt with from time to time. I have written a couple of articles that are published on themestreme which outline my feelings about gun control. I will do one on the death penalty when I finish the research on the case I started this all over. I have read the first three days transcript of the trial, and intend to finish the case which goes on for several more days in the transcript before I write my article about it. I guess you all know by now where my sentaments are with that issue anyhow.

Be kind to each other and have a great weekend, I know I will.

Write on!

Jerry

Rhoda,

I am and will always be disrespectful to anyone with criminal attitudes towards Man. You mentioned Jerry, but that was a dirty trick to pretend to be out of the issue. If I was disrespectful at all (which I do not think I was) it was towards YOU!

You know what I think about you as a person and a writer — I told you that in an e-mail and I am not going to make it public here. I want you to sleep without nightmares. I also think that you are a discredit to any decent religion, Christian or pseudo-Christian.

As for your interpretation of the Bible, using it to defend death penalty, it is shameful or ignorant — unless your Bible is really the absurd book I think it is (the one I read was not that bad).

PS. I wanted to drop the subject and I told that on the previous post. Please people, drop the subject.

Americo,

I realize that you did not bring the subject of the death penalty up. I have no problem with your views that are very different from mine; I only take exception to your attitude that those who do not fall in are morally bankrupt and are lacking in intelligence. I thought your attitude and your statement entirely disrespectful to Jerry and others.

The death penalty was never meant to be a deterrent to crime. Its purpose is justice, a life for a life. People who can cold-bloodedly kill their fellow human beings have no place in society, and certainly no right to the public till and tax-payer's money. In your country I am sure that such people are imprisoned and never let out. That is good and maybe is one reason you have a lower crime rate. I might be able to accept such a solution, but here in this country violent criminals are routeinly given parol. Murderers do not stay locked up. The United States has always been a violent country. I don't know if that is because of our history or because our population density or because of our mentality, or because we have a very open society. Whatever the reason, that is the fact, and to disarm citizens and have them rely on the scant law-enforcement personel for safety would be disasterous. The main r