tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35501988038110853152024-03-19T09:12:28.124-05:00LambastedLambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-68615510564541806272023-12-27T17:05:00.000-06:002023-12-27T17:05:00.875-06:00W.S.B.He occupied a ramshackle place<div>on the east side of town</div><div>with an entourage of cats, an arsenal of guns,</div><div>revolving celebrity guests.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rumor circulated 'round the English Department</div><div>that he frequented The Bottleneck bar.</div><div><br /></div><div>One November afternoon, I spotted him there,</div><div>crouched alone in a corner, pressed herringbone suit,</div><div>hickory-sword cane tap-tap-tapping to the music.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our bartender whispered that he took tequila,</div><div>so I purchased two shots and approached.</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div>"Pardon me, Mr. Burroughs.</div><div>I am just a B-I-G admirer</div><div>of your writing ...</div><div>May I offer you a tequila, Sir?"</div><div><br /></div><div>"Why, certainly, young man."</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>We tossed back our shots.</div><div>I retrieved the glasses, and he eyeballed me</div><div>with his steely, cobalt eyes.</div><div><br /></div><div>I fell into a trance waiting for him to blink:</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><i>These are the eyes that starred down</i></div><div><i>the barrel of a revolver</i></div><div><i>pointed at his wife's cranium (pow!),</i></div><div><i>eyes that peered unflinchingly</i></div><div><i>into a drug-crazed abyss,</i></div><div><i>eyes that crawled like an insect over</i></div><div><i>countless young male bodies.</i></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>The band lurched into a new song</div><div>and a curiosity sparked in my groin,</div><div>rocketed up my spine and burst into a dull haze</div><div>that rendered me speechless:</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Is this old queen expecting a come-on?!</i></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>I'd have liked to impress the Godfather of the Beats</div><div>with tales of imagined literary exploits,</div><div>or regale him with a deliciously irreverent anecdote,</div><div>at least praise his influence on a moral code</div><div>skeptical of monotonous conformity.</div><div><br /></div><div>Instead, I stood before the man an imbecile,</div><div>barely mustering an oafish smile,</div><div>which he met<span style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">—</span>bless him<span style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">—</span>with a kindly grin</div><div>that pierced my anxious fever.</div><div><br /></div><div>I retreated to the bar.</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div>"How did it go?" the bartender asked.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Oh, brilliant ... Yeah ...</div><div>One for the memoires."</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>And some say it was William Burroughs,</div><div>not Thomas Lambert,</div><div>who brought the literary bona fides</div><div>to Lawrence, Kansas.</div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-81988192760806940652023-11-12T04:00:00.005-06:002023-11-12T08:21:02.787-06:00Iyla Grace 11.0<p> Iyla Grace 11.0 arrives with some delightful upgrades, including a command of language and reading beyond her years. This release is more independent and engaged with peers. She talks on the phone with her "besties" every day who collaborate on short-film projects written and directed by You-Know-Who.</p><p> Like her Papa, Iyla is most comfortable alone with her thoughts. Daily, she walks the property carrying on conversations with herself, often experimenting with narrative and characters that will comprise her next film script. To an outsider, this behavior may seem peculiar -- girl alone, talking aloud; to me, it is a showcase for immense, creative imagination.</p><p> Happy Birthday, my Darling Iyla Grace!</p><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><p></p><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qxFHr-OU-Wey8cWfOSPTr9d9KefrGMPy1_KNQP5vsLhtEL811jpC0rNdsioYY02ZMFG6ZZjY0jaR_hNsXuU6nesCZFkt2QNlRz1Ge8SfHxZrp74oKI8sZ7DSWhF_anYImO0vPqnxrJGiAWuNxrro-lgOKahyj2hlcqLlkyWQAks-F_vwvoepb7T-/s2560/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-61946306145995104882023-10-21T12:23:00.003-05:002024-03-19T09:11:55.803-05:00Green LightI reach for my daughters' hands<div>at the crosswalk.</div><div><br /></div><div>Their miniature fingers orbit mine</div><div>in concentric circles,</div><div>landing with the force of a neutron star.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Look, Papa," the youngest says,</div><div>"Our hands are hugging!"</div><div><br /></div><div>You might not be drawn into her gravitational pull.</div><div>Her blood does not flow from your blood.</div><div><br /></div><div>But, perhaps you have a child</div><div>or held the future in your palm</div><div>and felt the sting of her breaking away</div><div>before you reach the safety of the sidewalk.</div><div><br /></div><div>Traffic rushes headlong like a meteor shower,</div><div>awakening the acute vulnerability</div><div>to which you are eternally enjoined.</div><div><br /></div><div>These are your co-creations,</div><div>and you are bound to them</div><div><br /></div><div>like atoms in a molecular waltz,</div><div><br /></div><div>like light waves captured in the event horizon,</div><div><br /></div><div>like comets on a collision course,</div><div><br /></div><div>like galaxies hurling toward</div><div>the void.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-81012699073994627992023-08-05T09:44:00.006-05:002023-08-05T10:36:13.449-05:00Port Aransas, Texas (2023)<p> <span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> The girls wanted a beach holiday before returning to school ... I found a cheap motel suite near the ocean in Port Aransas, Texas, rented a motor cart to kick around the island, and off we went for six days of sun, sand, and surf on the Gulf Coast.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"> These little ladies are becoming great travel companions: funny and intelligent, polite and conscientious, playful and observant ... My heart is full!</span></p><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><p></p><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMkoV0ojS-dxm8pDYi1z89-u6IEGrxCUkhlAS3ht3cnHuux-mHwtXe8EMZq47F6YRqE1lsuxnxlO3rlW2qFYNakQTIyguYIBqIA2fE8ofcFf1i75DQC5FTGWQlRvd8mO5nIAfn337o8HXsUAqyriwrdDr1T20noMAOCMHgaIk7NVRUT1AG4nD70hO/s4032/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMkoV0ojS-dxm8pDYi1z89-u6IEGrxCUkhlAS3ht3cnHuux-mHwtXe8EMZq47F6YRqE1lsuxnxlO3rlW2qFYNakQTIyguYIBqIA2fE8ofcFf1i75DQC5FTGWQlRvd8mO5nIAfn337o8HXsUAqyriwrdDr1T20noMAOCMHgaIk7NVRUT1AG4nD70hO/w400-h300/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6xo6NsNwLajngYMBPqZfFMUsycDT9GtOi3UAdeQaievcXdNIscPRXL-ihEvz7m20Owi9yQ-BDQoENxDhe-MvrjUFvykQayY-knRLg3LHRFD2xpgjhfZ_okrAQL2eNkREjwvR0jppEwDcoVZC2_kGRAyetOcxmaNoziYI7eaIV4E5utBpVhL-peRn/w400-h300/69.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-52583273688271055632023-07-22T07:31:00.012-05:002023-08-05T10:34:13.712-05:00Eloise Jane 7.0<p> <span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> Eloise Jane version 7.0 drops today. This release comes with a host of technology upgrades, including her own apple account (so she can text Mama and Papa from her iPad), a talent for finding and sharing silly online memes, </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;">and her very first selfie </span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">(see photo below - melt!). 7.0 also comes with an optional animal companion, the Husky dog for which Eloise will not stop begging me to acquire ... I'm opting out of that feature.</span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> </span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> For her special day, Eloise asked for a party at Urban Air Indoor Park with a few of her friends. Iyla is not allowed to invite friends, I suspect because Eloise wants to ensure her big sister plays with her 😊. Later, we are having presents and "cat cake with its claws out" at Mama's house, followed by a swim in Papa's pool and dinner menu of her choosing ... She will likely choose mac and cheese with roasted broccoli -- one of her favorites.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"> Happy Birthday, Miss Eloise Jane Lambert. You make my heart oh so very happy!</span></p><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><p></p><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2ZuJasKJss3g9TuxzCXkKyBhfDfCgZWanYIvOyX2cpx7IiWnsog7czNFqXoYPLLE_0Ho_G7dpGiwsnBPNf_m2hqFHyxIK8gR7sm4P-On_4758fJu6k_z9CcIvWEo0MOhhI8ay3KbICfLY2coLJBPdMXlBNMTvFP21zNR7FGcut5-5D-Ek1stprA_/s3503/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3503" data-original-width="2716" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2ZuJasKJss3g9TuxzCXkKyBhfDfCgZWanYIvOyX2cpx7IiWnsog7czNFqXoYPLLE_0Ho_G7dpGiwsnBPNf_m2hqFHyxIK8gR7sm4P-On_4758fJu6k_z9CcIvWEo0MOhhI8ay3KbICfLY2coLJBPdMXlBNMTvFP21zNR7FGcut5-5D-Ek1stprA_/s320/1.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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font-family: georgia, serif;">when </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">you illuminated the morning glories </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">with your rapturous charm</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">and old men </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">at the chess board arose in chorus </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">to praise your brightly-colored ensembles.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">Now, some hostile years </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">have marched </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">over your allure, </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">scarring a landscape marked </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">by </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">husband's infidelities,</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">an ectopic pregnancy, </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">Lyme disease,</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">a breast cancer scare.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">The hand-woven sweater which seasons ago </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">adorned a vibrant figure </span><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">struggles </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">to obscure a shy, defeated form.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">Your daughters flutter beside you, </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">nimble as a fireflies.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">The promise of the day </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">is alight in their eyes.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">You smile when their </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">eyes meet yours, </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">but not often besides.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">Your husband </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">pulls the water hose to his pickup truck, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">eyeing the buxom sweater across the way. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">You were once a splendid bride, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">full of laughter and unbounded esteem. </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">When we danced on your wedding day</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">you declared you never knew such euphoria.</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">"He's the One," you said,</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">and I spied in your lavender-painted eyes</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">the hypnotic state that bends lovers</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">toward forever promises.</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">I blessed you, and I blessed your marriage,</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">because there is only </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>this</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>moment </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">before </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">the curtain drops </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">and one is heard no more. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">Your daughters wave hello, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">exalted </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">in their matching, floral-print dress.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">You conceal </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">your fractured spirit from them,</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">yet when they are</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"> old enough for shopping malls, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">push-up bras, and boy's lusty stares, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">when they learn of father's affairs, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">will you </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">commend them to hold sacred their</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;"> precious </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">pearls, </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">to value what is divine </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">in them </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif;">and what should never </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">be surrendered?</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">Or, will they suffer the contamination</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif;">of mother's soured milk.<br /></span>
<br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-69822556254487131662022-12-26T15:35:00.004-06:002023-09-01T08:49:48.592-05:00Child's SongA child falls<br />then bleeds,<br />stumbles and bleeds.<br />She bleeds and bleeds.<div><br /><i>What do we do</i><div><i>when we fall?</i><br /><div><br /></div><div>"Get back up, Papa!"</div><div><br /></div><div>
A thousand cuts<br />follow her<br />into adulthood.</div><div><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>
<br />A child farts<br />then laughs,<br />belches and laughs.</div><div>She laughs and laughs.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Where do you </i></div><div><i>feel it?</i></div><div><br /></div><div>"In my belly, Papa!"<br /><br /></div><div>
Laughter is an anecdote</div><div>to life's callous<br />encroachments.<br />
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>A child mourns</div><div>then cries,</div><div>questions and cries.</div><div>She cries and cries.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Why the ambulance,</i></div><div><i>Papa?</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>"For the neighbor, Buddy."</div><div><br /></div><div>Death and mourning</div><div>usher the cycle<br />of renewal.</div><div><p style="margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(254, 253, 250); color: #333333; font-size: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;">♦</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>
So play the song<br />that she may sing,<br />play it 'til<br />the fingers bleed.</div><div><br />
Strike up the band.<br />
She sings and sings.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Play it again, Papa!"<br /><br /></div><div>
A child's song<br />celebrates<br />the living thing.<br />
<br /></div></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-55422791160340156532022-11-12T10:54:00.005-06:002022-11-12T11:00:35.837-06:00Iyla Grace 10.0<p> Iyla Grace is double digits! This release comes with a passion for illustrated books: The Babysitter's Club (her favorite), Amulet, Primer, Diary of a Sixth-Grade Ninja. She can't get enough, and it fills my heart with joy to experience her love of the written word. </p><p> Iyla Grace Productions has three, new feature films set to release in time for Oscar consideration: Space Dude, Thunder Cloud & The Wolf Clan, and Myth / Haze are all written, directed, and produced by Miss Iyla Grace Lambert. Look for them this holiday season at a theater near you.</p><p> Happy Birthday, Little Buddy!</p><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLh6ZuWlqEx1krIPbwizUDzvpDOYANP2Q4KI8CGz8VcFTVeV8eVw4ZZgQdpVLOty32zzUHYbwXJ3OdyGADjOi93xdNjdTKAy_p7pXL-iFJCF0y7Vdnjw6xMcaxJHiTZMQGl5sIR2b9t9mhYtup-4YrnRefsuLyoeKnaf-Wwl9PlC7e00mn_KiPQ/s1456/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1456" data-original-width="1169" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLh6ZuWlqEx1krIPbwizUDzvpDOYANP2Q4KI8CGz8VcFTVeV8eVw4ZZgQdpVLOty32zzUHYbwXJ3OdyGADjOi93xdNjdTKAy_p7pXL-iFJCF0y7Vdnjw6xMcaxJHiTZMQGl5sIR2b9t9mhYtup-4YrnRefsuLyoeKnaf-Wwl9PlC7e00mn_KiPQ/w321-h400/1.jpg" width="321" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwX4lRMrG1nigzI_6WMlArBPF3Q4O7kOomuW-CWghpOU3UdwiLGOVqnQFrucjAuzrhnibTh2XVxSPyq6Ymtr6qNzylhrv4UOK6Xl77ZNC82J40TOpYqHI4lN5ZVET2cT2XsZtKYlfELWvRDwZckmIDWGvS7kPnI9uyfGN3GDaPcD6GdL7L27_t7A/s4032/13.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwX4lRMrG1nigzI_6WMlArBPF3Q4O7kOomuW-CWghpOU3UdwiLGOVqnQFrucjAuzrhnibTh2XVxSPyq6Ymtr6qNzylhrv4UOK6Xl77ZNC82J40TOpYqHI4lN5ZVET2cT2XsZtKYlfELWvRDwZckmIDWGvS7kPnI9uyfGN3GDaPcD6GdL7L27_t7A/w300-h400/13.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJdjn5X-ndP0JNsabcPEObSecx9Hy7i5GZhxs84JKH6F0dZ2cvzu2uO00C2v7XkORNf8GoKsyOmm95rs8Gz0T9gCLQju4dcAuiDL5XhCuFWMzI1AfuX4XKLMJOH3jnYCKb4iahYUiqHB7Na7jFrUg83D9JKkXeVdarIq_XeOL77rFl__Y8KeBWw/s4032/15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJdjn5X-ndP0JNsabcPEObSecx9Hy7i5GZhxs84JKH6F0dZ2cvzu2uO00C2v7XkORNf8GoKsyOmm95rs8Gz0T9gCLQju4dcAuiDL5XhCuFWMzI1AfuX4XKLMJOH3jnYCKb4iahYUiqHB7Na7jFrUg83D9JKkXeVdarIq_XeOL77rFl__Y8KeBWw/w300-h400/15.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-61889545348792832532022-08-28T09:47:00.018-05:002022-09-04T10:11:05.319-05:00Creamy Coconut Corn Soup with Chili Crisp<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <i> Light and quick to assemble, this summer soup makes a nice companion to your grilled sandwich. I prefer to consume it in a coffee mug ... The chili crisp adds a spark of heat to the sweet, summer corn ... Delicious!</i><i> </i></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QO8U1i6aPg89AqDBkhSL-ioNiocRyPx4DPVEUBOxBrdKHY_6lfsXjHXY6JElvIKk6VYnin21L48p9PC5A3q639ugwRxikmDt-pBOc-eu8walxXRArKLnh7ZA_LaE-kGc0oW8yM2A2JBW2tc06Yksl__u0WRZ9EvUNG55whZ659jKXTKMhL3hxA/s3530/Coconut%20Corn%20Soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3022" data-original-width="3530" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QO8U1i6aPg89AqDBkhSL-ioNiocRyPx4DPVEUBOxBrdKHY_6lfsXjHXY6JElvIKk6VYnin21L48p9PC5A3q639ugwRxikmDt-pBOc-eu8walxXRArKLnh7ZA_LaE-kGc0oW8yM2A2JBW2tc06Yksl__u0WRZ9EvUNG55whZ659jKXTKMhL3hxA/w400-h343/Coconut%20Corn%20Soup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;">INGREDIENTS </div></div><ul><li>4 tbsps. extra virgin olive oil</li><li>2 medium yellow onions (about two cups), diced</li><li>4 (12 oz.) bags frozen sweet corn</li><li>4 (32 oz.) cups low-sodium vegetable broth</li><li>2 (12.5 oz.) cans unsweetend coconut milk</li><li>1 tbsp. ground coriander</li><li>1 tbsp. fine salt</li><li>1 tsp. garlic powder</li><li>1 tsp. smoked paprika</li><li>1 tsp. group black pepper</li></ul><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> GARNISH</div></div><ul><li>Chili crisp</li></ul><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> 1).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Warm the <u>olive oil</u> in a large stock pot over medium-high heat.</span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">2).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">Add the <u>onion</u>, <u>coriander</u>, <u>salt</u>, <u>garlic powder</u>, <u>smoked paprika</u>, and <u>black pepper</u>, then sauté for until the onion softens and turns translucent.</span></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">3).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">Add the <u>corn</u>, <u>broth</u>, and <u>coconut milk</u>, bring to a simmer and cook until the corn is tender (about 10-15 minutes), then remove from the heat.</span></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">4).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Taste and season to your liking.</span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">5).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Serve garnished with a drizzle of <u>chili crisp</u>.</span></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin: 0px;">SERVES 8 </div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-47960961836524133762022-07-22T17:31:00.004-05:002022-07-22T17:36:15.391-05:00Eloise Jane 6.0<p> <span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> Eloise Jane version 6.0 went live today. This release comes with an upgraded sense of humor </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">– </span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">now slightly elevated above pee and poop jokes </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–, </span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">an abiding love of animals and insects </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">– </span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">she scolds me for killing wasps in the house </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">–</span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">, and a tender heart that craves human connection ... She is the best snuggler! </span></p><p><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> I asked our girl how she wants her special day to go: "Papa, I want to stay home from school cause birthday girls get to skip school, and I want Iyla to stay home from school and play with me. I want to open presents from you and Mama, then have cake with frosting, then pizza with frosting ... Then I want to have a party</span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">."</span></p><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><p> Happy Birthday to Miss Eloise Jane. My heart is full!</p><p></p><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjBbkmsaalZRs2I-yBvjtXDkaNAS2YWdTijQ-SBbF3pwi5WZayVrqivWYxCQwoRaNLtV3oS4Jss9v9MwBQWfkMqt99opauOoEoYQ5Red44GJ0586sqKUDBiEridv0lOwpVA6Dd_BYmz7ED348sux22B3EVJxkh2KndBem_2m_saZXCk9C0hVxog/s1169/30.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="1169" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjBbkmsaalZRs2I-yBvjtXDkaNAS2YWdTijQ-SBbF3pwi5WZayVrqivWYxCQwoRaNLtV3oS4Jss9v9MwBQWfkMqt99opauOoEoYQ5Red44GJ0586sqKUDBiEridv0lOwpVA6Dd_BYmz7ED348sux22B3EVJxkh2KndBem_2m_saZXCk9C0hVxog/s320/30.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1398" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaY_WFuyKB3p7sEKQEMjpctLWZY503lOILVdAQFWnvcnjG0oLic3Zdbt25GO8NzFUNUk3M5SEaji4_CdlADnFVfgS1BWWjd1ukOI4GONXQgG9a4ZTiTzej9-JAuhjeyb_UhjEw34eJ3Kq1GMNbL9D3YoPDdzXyM-emXaIOneUHn-ZO9XhG1XmlQ/s320/41.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-17077868009415417462022-06-30T10:32:00.005-05:002023-11-29T11:40:02.014-06:00Guide To Amsterdam (For Visiting Americans)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafZqsenmTT5KynQISQhjwP92i8ESHs2mR545BXtuxDIxrwxpI2aAOzqi3Rbwo4PIaM3LlyY0RC4j4zLGiry6d_vMCyYamaIaFjmO50clqr5RNyOhfoW9Kc3inuFzpeWt0dQaEPUEuXxsLz_bABWhWvsMpoknEhJJKfnTjkRGcKfbxMxSRO6Upvg/s1368/Guide%20to%20Amsterdam%202.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1368" data-original-width="1224" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafZqsenmTT5KynQISQhjwP92i8ESHs2mR545BXtuxDIxrwxpI2aAOzqi3Rbwo4PIaM3LlyY0RC4j4zLGiry6d_vMCyYamaIaFjmO50clqr5RNyOhfoW9Kc3inuFzpeWt0dQaEPUEuXxsLz_bABWhWvsMpoknEhJJKfnTjkRGcKfbxMxSRO6Upvg/w454-h508/Guide%20to%20Amsterdam%202.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;">Follow the mother holding her child’s hand</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="background-color: #fefdfa;"><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">through the Red Light District.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Smile at the working girls </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">dressing </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;">rose-colored windows.</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Spend an afternoon in a coffeeshop </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">with an Englishman named Bob and a joint called ‘Cheese’.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Order a genever; remember to bend and sip</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">before picking it up.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Stand aside for an army of bicyclists;</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">they have the right-of-way.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Observe ancient church rituals</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">older than the promise of the New World.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Tour the Anne Frank House and marvel</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">at the unbeatable tenacity of creation.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Drop by The Book Exchange: donate one well-read;</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">leave with a promising companion.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Traverse the canals at dusk</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">with fellow travelers you have never met.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Break the provincial bread; indulge the chocolates, frites,</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">beers, cheeses. Try the soused herring.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Tell a self-deprecating joke about American tourists ──</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">ask me if you need one.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Everybody speaks English, but you curry favor</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">with your fumbling attempts at Dutch.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Wander without a destination through</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">the cobble-stoned City Centrum district.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Languish at midnight in your third-story bedroom window</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">and behold a city that has exorcised </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">the demons of puritan austerity, suffered and bled for it,</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">and emerged a wise and mischievous soul.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif;"><i style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">**First published in Beyond Words Literary Magazine</span></i></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">**Illustration by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morgane_xenos/" style="color: #d52a33; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Morgane Xenos</a></span></i></div></div></div><br />Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-81774230815102768602022-05-26T14:59:00.003-05:002023-12-02T10:28:06.774-06:00Pvt. Lindsay<div>She made a show of liberating her breasts</div><div>every time we went to the field.</div><div>Some pimple-faced private would retrieve her bra</div><div>for display in the berthing tent.</div><div><br /></div><div>Marines quietly jerked off in their sleeping bags</div><div>to visions of her bouncing like a go-go dancer</div><div>beneath regulation camouflage.</div><div><br /></div><div>At the club she wore combat boots, vinyl leggings,</div><div>and tube tops that thrust her</div><div>front-and-center of every conversation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Guys took shots from between her thighs</div><div>while you imagined her naked and sweaty</div><div>pouring tequila over lickerish nipples.</div><div><br /></div><div>Half the platoon claimed to have slept with her,</div><div>which you suspected was half-true.</div><div><br /></div><div>And when she approached in the Company office,</div><div>slid her manicured nails into your crotch and declared,</div><div><br /></div><div><span> </span><span> "Tonight,"</span><br /></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>all you could muster was a timid,</span></div><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span> </span><span> "No, Thanks,"</span><br /></span></div><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span>not because you didn't want her,</span></span></div><div><span><span>but for the over-riding impulse you discovered</span></span></div><div><span><span>in that moment</span></span></div><div><span><span><span> </span><span> to resist</span><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> being owned</span><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> or compromised</span><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span>except on your terms.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span>And when she filed grievance with the Master Sergeant</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span>accusing</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span> <i>you</i><br /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span>of sexually assaulting</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span> <i>her</i><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>you learned that some women will slit a man's throat</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>and carve his round edges straight</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>in order to sculpt an image hardened</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>by the terrible parade of embittered step-mothers,</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>predatory uncles, and beguiling boyfriends</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>who taught her the only power</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>a woman wields in this world</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span> </span><span> is with her body.</span><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-91401183696709548352022-04-11T11:31:00.001-05:002022-04-11T12:04:17.375-05:00West African Chicken & Peanut Stew<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<i> The people's stew will have peanut butter (natural peanut butter). Flavorful and delicious, this recipe is great for stormy days when the body craves warm comfort. One of my favorites!</i><i> </i></div>
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INGREDIENTS </div>
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<li>3 tbsps. peanut oil</li>
<li>1 large yellow onion, chopped</li>
<li>2 large carrots, peeled and diced</li>
<li>1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped</li><li>1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped</li>
<li>4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed, peeled and chopped</li>
<li>1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes</li><li>1 (15oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed</li><li>2 tbsps. tomato paste</li>
<li>4 garlic cloves, minced</li>
<li>4 tbsps. peeled, grated ginger root</li>
<li>4 (32 oz.) cups chicken stock</li>
<li>12 oz. crunchy organic peanut butter</li><li>1.5 1bs. cooked chicken, shredded </li><li>4 cups kale, chopped</li><li>2 limes, juiced</li>
<li>2 tbsp. curry powder</li>
<li>2 tbsps. coriander</li>
<li>1 tbsp. cumin</li>
<li>1 tsp. cayenne pepper</li><li>1 tsp. cinnamon</li>
<li>1 tsp. ground cloves</li>
<li>1 tsp. sea salt</li>
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GARNISH</div>
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<li>crushed peanuts</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 1).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Warm the <u>peanut oil</u> in a large stock pot over medium-high heat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">Sauté the <u>onion</u> (with a pinch of salt) 10 - 12 minutes, until begin to brown</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"> Mix in the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"><u>garlic</u>, <u>ginger</u>, <u>cumin</u>, <u>coriander</u>, <u>cinnamon</u> and <u>cloves</u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">. Sauté another 1 - 3 minutes, ensuring the onions are well coated with spice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Mix in the <u>sweet potatoes</u>, <u>bell pepper</u>, <u>jalapeno</u>, <u>carrots</u>, and <u>tomato paste</u>. Stir another 5 - 7 minutes (or until the sweet potatoes begin to stick to the bottom of the pot).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Pour <u>crushed tomatoes</u>, <u>chicken stock</u>, and <u>chickpeas</u> into the pot and season with <u>cayenne</u>, <u>curry powder</u>, and <u>salt</u>. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes (or until the sweet potatoes are tender).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Add <u>peanut butter</u> and puree the contents </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">with a hand blender producing a smooth texture.</span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">7).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Stir in the <u>chicken</u> and <u>kale</u> and simmer another 5 - 10 minutes</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Stir in fresh <u>lime</u> juice, then season to taste.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">9).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Serve garnished with chopped <u>peanuts</u>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>A</i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>ccompany with jasmine rice, or works great on its own.</i></span></div>
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SERVES 6</div>
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Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-82213876922325158212022-03-15T16:02:00.008-05:002024-01-18T14:37:02.185-06:00Bartending The V.F.W.<p><i> </i><i>Lawrence, Kansas (1995)</i></p><div><br /></div><div>There's not much to it:</div><div>pour the drafts,</div><div>clear the ashtrays,</div><div>mix well-drinks.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Vietnam vets</div><div>favor Jack-n-Coke.</div><div>The WWII crowd,</div><div>Scotch-and-Soda.</div><div>Our only Korean War vet</div><div>takes his brandy neat.</div><div>We keep a bottle of St. George</div><div>behind the bar for him.</div><div><br /></div><div>An occasional floor sweep</div><div>exceeds expectations.</div><div>Christmas décor is tacked up</div><div>year 'round.</div><div>Campaign insignias</div><div>and service ballcaps</div><div>line a smoke-filled perimeter</div><div>that obscures all </div><div>but the exit signs.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's Memorial Day,</div><div>and the Colonel delivers</div><div>his annual speech</div><div>honoring the sacrifice</div><div>of our fallen brothers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Manny offers a solemn toast,</div><div>"To the lost."</div><div><br /></div><div>Jason buys another round</div><div>of shots.</div><div><br /></div><div>To remember them,</div><div>they drink.</div><div><br /></div><div>They drink</div><div>and beat their chests</div><div>in solidarity.</div><div><br /></div><div>They drink</div><div>with the awareness</div><div>that all</div><div>are at the mercy</div><div>of the universe.</div><div><br /></div><div>They drink</div><div>to animate themselves</div><div>and tell the stories</div><div>that otherwise</div><div>remain buried</div><div>in the footlocker of experiences</div><div>for which they do not</div><div>posses the tools</div><div>to relate</div><div>to one another,</div><div>let alone</div><div>civilians outside</div><div>eager to thank us</div><div>for our service. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif;"><i style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">**First published in G.I. Days, an anthology by Milltown Press</span></i></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-72690276336636980012022-02-28T08:42:00.000-06:002022-03-15T15:53:26.330-05:00Mulligatawny<p> <span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><i style="text-align: justify;"> Perhaps you recall the Seinfeld episode, The Soup Nazi, where Kramer mentions mulligatawny: "It's an Indian soup. It's simmered to perfection by one of the great soup artisans in the modern era." "Who, the Soup Nazi?" Elaine replies.</i></p><p><i style="text-align: justify;"> This is not the Soup Nazi's recipe, but a confection of ingredients drawn from mixed versions I have explored over the years ... Light and flavorful, it makes for a great Springtime meal. Note: I like to double the recipe and keep the pot in the refrigerator all week long.</i><i style="text-align: justify;"> </i></p><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpgC97CZ0fUyCWYBj2EnzVr-TPtRIi8XFMF9BvAGvTZkkiEKWCsGZU4-mwL4g8L3BvSQ7_S4QDBfHFbB6P9A_YhwSMaXLAHetD4ZvtGNdRpydJ4ZSYF6POcq5CE0BrftkdJg00v_4teJdY1dHWAajf7C6N1Sc-rhKAzHk3J_NMZ26zFVkCBd50lw=s4030" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2621" data-original-width="4030" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpgC97CZ0fUyCWYBj2EnzVr-TPtRIi8XFMF9BvAGvTZkkiEKWCsGZU4-mwL4g8L3BvSQ7_S4QDBfHFbB6P9A_YhwSMaXLAHetD4ZvtGNdRpydJ4ZSYF6POcq5CE0BrftkdJg00v_4teJdY1dHWAajf7C6N1Sc-rhKAzHk3J_NMZ26zFVkCBd50lw=w400-h260" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><i><br /></i></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;">INGREDIENTS </div></div><ul><li>1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter</li><li>1 yellow onion, chopped</li><li>2 celery stalks, chopped</li><li>2 carrots, diced</li><li>1 red jalapeno, seeded and diced</li><li>5 garlic cloves, minced</li><li>2 tablespoons ginger root, minced</li><li>1 apple, cored and diced (I use Granny Smith)</li><li>1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes</li><li>2 tablespoons curry powder</li><li>1 tablespoon dried thyme</li><li>1 teaspoon ground cumin</li><li>1/2 teaspoon paprika</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric</li><li>1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper</li><li>1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom</li><li>1 cup red lentils</li><li>1/3 cup white jasmine rice</li><li>5 cups chicken stock</li><li>1 (14 oz) can unsweetened coconut milk</li><li>1 lime, juiced</li><li>1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (I only use the breast)</li></ul><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> GARNISH</div></div><ul><li>Cilantro, chopped</li><li>Raisins, golden</li><li>Cashews</li></ul><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> 1).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Melt the <u>butter</u> in a large stock pot over medium-high heat.</span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">2).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">Sauté the <u>onion,</u> <u>carrot,</u> and<u> jalapeno</u> 6-8 minutes until onions have softened</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">.</span></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">3).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"> Add <u>garlic</u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">, <u>ginger</u>, <u>apples</u>, <u>celery</u>, and diced <u>tomatoes</u><u>;</u> saut</span><span style="font-family: georgia, utopia, "palatino linotype", palatino, serif;">é</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"> another 3-5 minutes</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;">.</span></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">4).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Add all the <u>spices</u> and toss until fully coated</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">.</span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px;"> <span style="font-size: large;">5).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Add the <u>lentils</u>, <u>rice,</u> and <u>stock</u>; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 30-40 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"> </span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /> <span style="font-size: large;">6).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Immersion blend about 75% of ingredients.</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-size: large;">7).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Add the <u>chicken</u>, stir in the coconut <u>milk</u>, and squeeze in the <u>lime</u> juice; let simmer another 10-15 minutes. Salt and spice to your liking.</span><br /><br /> <span style="font-size: large;">8).</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Serve with a garnish of <u>cilantro</u>, <u>raisins</u>, and <u>cashews</u>.</span><br /><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>A</i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>ccompany with warm naan bread.</i></span></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;">SERVES 8</div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-49948983362178622482022-01-03T11:05:00.006-06:002023-11-29T16:45:30.570-06:00Corpses<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTwqCx4sJFamYmg6ct-2ehqf4AdppgzR8_jCnaaxYHCoFxixRvELy6c1nWk_Hma2n6kzVyqvyxq6AmB3mwvy39Rd8LKUBqaiS8AGvQl1OvaFa20R9CXvAwM3A7tuFNRBx6XPhfeGHnydRlRkOgNKYPtiEQ3w9YDN3iVNDUi5QyQj7PIzH5QYyiEQ=s4000" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTwqCx4sJFamYmg6ct-2ehqf4AdppgzR8_jCnaaxYHCoFxixRvELy6c1nWk_Hma2n6kzVyqvyxq6AmB3mwvy39Rd8LKUBqaiS8AGvQl1OvaFa20R9CXvAwM3A7tuFNRBx6XPhfeGHnydRlRkOgNKYPtiEQ3w9YDN3iVNDUi5QyQj7PIzH5QYyiEQ=w480-h640" width="480" /></a></p><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><i> Outside Kuwait City (1991)</i></div><p></p><div><i><br /></i></div><div>We came upon them mid-day</div><div>in a rush for shelter from the petrol rain,</div><div>three corpses upright in an armored personnel carrier</div><div>as crisp as dime-store cigars.</div><div><br /></div><div>Oil fires illuminated a blast zone surrounding the vehicle,</div><div>casting a perverse half-light</div><div>over the living and dead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Some Marines took photos with the corpses,</div><div>souvenirs for the living back home.</div><div>I kept watch through the scorched, steel turret</div><div>and thought of my Grandfather lying embalmed</div><div>in a casket in Enid, Oklahoma.</div><div><br />♦ ♦ ♦ ♦<br /><br />I was sixteen when Grandpa died</div><div>and recalled him displayed like some wax mannequin</div><div>stuffed with ice and vinegar.</div><div><br /></div><div>The mortician overdid Grandpa's makeup</div><div>which cracked like desert topsoil around his hairline.</div><div>I half-expected him to rise up</div><div>and scold the adults in the room</div><div>for displaying him that way.</div><div><br /></div><div>The preacher's pontificating ran on for eternity,</div><div>and I experienced a skepticism swelling in me</div><div>toward claims that the dead reanimate</div><div>in a celestial paradise</div><div>surrounded by childhood pets</div><div>and deceased loved ones.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>♦ ♦ ♦ ♦<br /><br />Staring back at those unfortunate soldiers</div><div>trapped in a fiery death-box of American military might,</div><div>the poison rain hammered away</div><div>at our fragile notion of youth's invincibility.</div><div><br /></div><div>The thunder of approaching artillery</div><div>rattled our momentary reprieve.</div><div><br /></div><div>An offhanded sentiment offered </div><div>by our most-junior squad member,</div><div>a boot private from Encinitas, California,</div><div>proved a more convincing eulogy</div><div>than Grandpa received.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Sucks to be them," he said. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>**First published in As You Were literary magazine</i></div><div><i>and second-place winner of the 2023 Col. Darren L. Wright Memorial Writing Awards.</i></div><div><i>**Illustration by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morgane_xenos/" target="_blank">Morgane Xenos</a></i></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-40511339341310686212021-12-09T14:43:00.006-06:002022-11-14T12:12:56.602-06:00In Between<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXjH8F4Gs058pXpNUCdtl_nUkJkO4hQrosCK445JKjLyQDVxPzutvuudSxGlXVAMBayCowrid1sb-2YLDQxxfHNZuL43KdS1rOyTtibTXU4riN8BoHaI7eCu-9w138JBhdDHPerf2bWkNARdLdlGfcz1AN7_qLNdRgJ5RMmK34bxQJEOO1H-dsQ/s4585/In%20Between%202.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4547" data-original-width="4585" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXjH8F4Gs058pXpNUCdtl_nUkJkO4hQrosCK445JKjLyQDVxPzutvuudSxGlXVAMBayCowrid1sb-2YLDQxxfHNZuL43KdS1rOyTtibTXU4riN8BoHaI7eCu-9w138JBhdDHPerf2bWkNARdLdlGfcz1AN7_qLNdRgJ5RMmK34bxQJEOO1H-dsQ/w526-h522/In%20Between%202.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, the pillows are crumpled, </div><div>sheets crushed at the foot of the bed, </div><div>clothes scattered across the room; </div><div>the mattress rests over the side of the frame, </div><div>and we lay entwined in glorious silence<br />
as she dreams of something else to do.</div><div> <br />Her checkered flannel and denim</div><div>will soon be on again, </div><div>and she will be off somewhere:</div><div>the salon, the supermarket, a girlfriend's sofa.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Do you want to come?" she will ask, </div><div>and I will decline without the sting of guilt<br />
so present in the early days of our courtship<br />
when she wore the shame of her father's absence<br />
and I carried the burden of her self-reproach. <br /><br /></div><div>
Then I was arrogant enough to believe </div><div>my love could heal her wounds, </div><div>that form can be shaped from raw desire,</div><div>like willing a volcano not to erupt. </div><div>
Even when she bloodied my face, </div><div>daring me to leave, the tremor in her eyes </div><div>could not pierce my resolve.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Wait for the eyes to soften</i>, I told myself,</div><div>and sure as the earth's crust heats and cools again,</div><div>they would. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hours, days later, after much shouting </div><div>and tearful apology, the good times would return</div><div>and we would collide again on that old mattress.</div><div>We poured ourselves down through</div><div>the synthetic fibers and failing box springs,</div><div>then abandoned them with all we hoped to unmake</div><div>for another foolhardy revolt against</div><div>the mighty forces that divide man and woman.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, we operate in this in-between state.</div><div>The relationship is transactional, uncomplicated.</div><div>We don't make a mess of things.</div><div><br /></div><div>While we wait for what's next</div><div>there is time for other pursuits.</div><div><br /></div><div>There's time for silence.</div><div><br /></div><div>For this.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic;">**Illustration by </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/morgane_xenos/" style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #d52a33; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Morgane Xenos</a></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-75786921234373055172021-11-12T10:56:00.004-06:002021-11-12T11:13:14.607-06:00Iyla Grace 9.0<p> Iyla Grace 9.0 maintains the abundant joy we so appreciate and introduces her brand new production company. <b>Iyla Grace Productions</b> will release its first feature-length film this Fall, just in time for Oscar consideration. The film is titled, "A Whisker Away", and tells the story of two feline friends who get lost in the big city then find their way back to each other by following their distinctive fart scents ... Bidding is now open for a distributor. If interested, call Iyla's secretary, Eloise Jane.</p><p> Happy Birthday, Miss Iyla Grace!</p><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApkOuVXHxeQL0d9NmqslxsxeF7q_Wk0SpetDoJ5d7BVYZXI1fxJRODTDYc-j3z1RwrELs25IXBE1wyGAVjJ6HMzWAu2T403CAW6PUg0eNp4sjr6GcRSXsyzyE-PCFj7hDYzGFEWUw8Q/s2048/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApkOuVXHxeQL0d9NmqslxsxeF7q_Wk0SpetDoJ5d7BVYZXI1fxJRODTDYc-j3z1RwrELs25IXBE1wyGAVjJ6HMzWAu2T403CAW6PUg0eNp4sjr6GcRSXsyzyE-PCFj7hDYzGFEWUw8Q/w300-h400/1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZE936jZG35S-Vjeu5G1PnXgt2T_apHFlK66bZunNXfqbVMJY6Zu49y230KwlFiPYAc55zwguy_sln6vbrne7NuivZw4MQCx-Wui9lmNIyMCg6OkRUr6EmDzVzuTEMbQrH71mFg10Zog/s900/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-16870496013899861202021-09-16T08:47:00.007-05:002022-01-18T08:49:58.556-06:00Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia<p><i> noun</i></p><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;">1. The fear of long words.</p></blockquote><p></p>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-70610523789588716562021-08-12T15:50:00.003-05:002023-03-20T11:55:01.834-05:00Some Nights Are Lonely Nights<div>You ache for companionship.</div><div>No champion will emerge.</div><div><br /></div><div>Your spouse is in bed with a migraine.</div><div>Friends will not pick up the phone.</div><div>Neighbors are away on holiday.</div><div>The bartender cannot be bothered</div><div>with your cry for attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>Even the moon, the big-hearted</div><div>benevolent moon, behaves</div><div>like a coveted woman unconcerned</div><div>with your existence.</div><div><br /></div><div>You find yourself at last call</div><div>surrounded by insufferable strangers,</div><div>wrestling a poem about </div><div>longing and self-pity.</div><div><br /></div><div>Too fatigued to labor for creation,</div><div>you scratch out a few, restless lines</div><div>and wander into the twilight</div><div>chasing streetlamps until you can</div><div>no longer bear the shuffle</div><div>of your footsteps.</div><div><br /></div><div>You scurry home and crawl into bed next to her.</div><div><br /></div><div>She cradles you with her naked form.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gentle fingers navigate the stories</div><div>written upon your bodies:</div><div>adolescent scars, a child's birth,</div><div>unwanted surgeries, beloved tattoos.</div><div><br /></div><div>Every anxious vibration stands still.</div><div><br /></div><div>Even the best lines of Whitman</div><div>or Shakespeare are wanting beside her.</div><div>Leave them in the dresser drawer</div><div>and bid goodnight.</div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-5959232419325505112021-07-22T09:07:00.003-05:002021-07-22T09:17:43.058-05:00Eloise Jane 5.0<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: justify;"> We are celebrating the release of Eloise Jane version 5.0 in Mexico. I asked our girl this morning how she wants her special day to go: "Papa, first I want to snuggle with you, then open presents, then have cake for breakfast; then I want to ride a horse on the beach with Mama, then play with my presents, then swim at the pool, then snorkel in the ocean ... Then I want to have a party, Papa<span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">– </span>then more cake."<br /></p><p>Alright, Mexico, let's make this happen ... Happy Birthday to our little buddy!</p><p></p><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb8ctz5YA5QbkSyEK1oE6-f3HCAV3O2r5XLP58I1if6OdLsOmviulMJNcJhGFfa02MiE2tcZoLTEbYB5yN-a6Fk3cdUiXBJ6lZi5BqMZ3EydCkEneqBJRtYRC1Vb0Vkwhg8lLVdS7rw/s2048/1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb8ctz5YA5QbkSyEK1oE6-f3HCAV3O2r5XLP58I1if6OdLsOmviulMJNcJhGFfa02MiE2tcZoLTEbYB5yN-a6Fk3cdUiXBJ6lZi5BqMZ3EydCkEneqBJRtYRC1Vb0Vkwhg8lLVdS7rw/w400-h266/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaunNLqNUDwA5gZ2iFG7apZYlXx1MuRnjbcU16PaV4lVOMoFYvhu2Cam8EgYsJQd4PU0TE2IVWoS53B6xLGotSYV58-SEjjd8upTxbeJtWP2hOkbXYXIm-y0nH25UWf2g0XlU2qNSOw/s2048/2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GdxDek5y45XOb6J2YjGBR2H6Wu5xuOJ3OkNjBL5Eqw2yWJqAtL1nHeF0nXb6iDET_JZZL5C-5AnfVHXOr2Ijn0dCIke3NQ3jVuixaDkmGlDWVGaMBsjtwB3QhQ5kxjcCWQEbMEOaqg/s2048/12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GdxDek5y45XOb6J2YjGBR2H6Wu5xuOJ3OkNjBL5Eqw2yWJqAtL1nHeF0nXb6iDET_JZZL5C-5AnfVHXOr2Ijn0dCIke3NQ3jVuixaDkmGlDWVGaMBsjtwB3QhQ5kxjcCWQEbMEOaqg/w400-h400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-78259445969551173132021-05-31T12:43:00.007-05:002024-01-17T11:37:16.582-06:00Taurus Turns Thirty (Libra Relents)Seated alone on the couch, weary from the day's labor,<div>full of hard drink and a heavy meal, he was content that this<br />
birthday affair may pass without incident.<br />
<br />
A bottle of twenty-five-year Scotch adorned his lap. </div><div>He made certain she saw him swallow the sleeping pill she</div><div>instructed him to hold until after the party.</div><div><br /></div><div>He told her he did not want a party, yet she persisted</div><div>on account of the supermoon conjoining with Venus that evening</div><div>and Mercury being no longer in retrograde.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Nonsense</i>, he muttered, as a tranquil haze washed over him.</div><div>The band was warming up out back and guests were arriving</div><div>when the initial assault was launched.</div><div>
<br />
He advance was clumsy and ill-planned.<br />
He stirred upon approach, stiff-arming her to the ground. </div><div>A subsequent charge succeeded with a flanking maneuver</div><div><br /></div><div>that sent his bottle to the hardwood floor.<br />
"Don't break that bottle!" she shouted. "That's my favorite bottle!" </div><div>He swept her shins and they tumbled about the room,<br />
<br />
laughing and cursing each other. They tumbled into some guests, </div><div>spilling their drinks. The guests did not approve.<br />
She retreated to the kitchen. He meandered into the yard </div><div><br /></div><div>with a fresh glass of whiskey. "Thanks for coming," he said to</div><div>the new arrivals, then stretched onto the cool lawn grass</div><div>and gazed upward to the heavens.</div><div><br /></div><div>He spied the constellation Taurus in the north sky,</div><div>invited a blessing of good health and a sign of his longevity.</div><div>He awaited the sign as the whiskey-sleeping-pill cocktail took hold.</div><div><br /></div><div>His eyes grew heavy as coins when a shout was heard </div><div>from the house: "Don't break that glass! That's my favorite glass!".</div><div>Taurus leapt to his feet and smashed the glass against the sidewalk.</div><div><br /></div><div>An anxious silence befell the partygoers as Libra emerged</div><div>onto the patio. She declared she would bust his head,</div><div>then pounced like a wildcat, kicking and clawing at him.</div><div><br /></div><div>She bit his ear. He yanked her hair. She pushed him into the dirt,</div><div>him pulling her down and working her into a chokehold</div><div>until she relented.</div><div><br /></div><div>Taurus relaxed his grip and they sank into the earth gasping for air.</div><div>A passerby stopped to inquire if there was a fight.</div><div>"It's hard to tell sometimes," he heard someone say.</div><div><br /></div><div>She heard it too, then climbed atop him, cheerful and triumphant,</div><div>glowing like a banshee in the April moonlight.</div><div>"You obstinate son of a bitch," she exhaled, then collapsed in a heap.</div><div><br /></div><div>And he held her awhile like that, until the cicadas quieted their</div><div>evening symphony, the earth rotated eastward to Gemini,</div><div>and their breathing fell once again into synchronous rhythm.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-22377091313793145272021-04-01T20:49:00.002-05:002021-04-15T15:26:00.496-05:00Thomas Gregory Lambert (1942 - 2021)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUz0ydoCAGf3MQaOWUuPbfQTaVS0VuE2PeNh3V5ybkLkyTzqBzr_TbcHbr8cLSXeEtWK6mINmXtjOFlg_pbzXOw3cgyuLz0SdCTwtQQkdsagbxPjDi4TL4lPIATdWf3QKOlC9P95R8g/s2048/Greg+Lambert.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUz0ydoCAGf3MQaOWUuPbfQTaVS0VuE2PeNh3V5ybkLkyTzqBzr_TbcHbr8cLSXeEtWK6mINmXtjOFlg_pbzXOw3cgyuLz0SdCTwtQQkdsagbxPjDi4TL4lPIATdWf3QKOlC9P95R8g/w300-h400/Greg+Lambert.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p>Thomas Gregory (Greg) Lambert, 78, passed away on March 22, 2021 surrounded by family at his home in Shawnee, Kansas.</p><p>Greg was born December 10, 1942 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the second of three sons to Clifford and Estelle Lambert. As a youth, Greg was an accomplished student and amateur golfer, graduating valedictorian from Northeast High School and winning numerous golf titles including Oklahoma State Junior Champion.</p><p>Greg attended Oklahoma State University on academic and golf scholarships where he graduated a member of the Dean’s Honor Roll with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.</p><p>Upon completing his formal education, Greg secured a Professional Golfers Association card and worked many years as both a tour and club professional. He moved to Kansas City, Kansas in 1965 and took an Assistant Pro position at Milburn Country Club where he met Linda Sue Dillman while she attended an office picnic on the club grounds.</p><p>Greg and Linda were married fifty-two years and raised seven children together. In 1975, Greg left the golf profession to start a family-run merchandising business, Kings Kid Company. He and Linda, often with the help of their children, maintained Kings Kid Co. until Greg’s death.</p><p>Greg was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, a kind man with a generous heart and love of laughter. His devotion to his family was rooted in his passion for the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Greg’s spare time, he enjoyed working with church groups, leading homegroup fellowships, and preaching the gospel to anyone who would listen. He participated in prison ministry programs for many years counseling the incarcerated on matters of life, love and faith.</p><p>Greg will be missed by all of us who knew him and recall fondly his favorite parting words: “Walk with the King and be a blessing”.</p><p>He was preceded in death by his father and mother and is survived by his brothers, Doug (79) and Roger (75), his wife, Linda (73), and their seven children, Lance (50), Chad (49), Julie (48), Amy (46), Christie (45), Anna (40), and Poss (37).</p><p>A celebration of Greg’s life will be held on April 30th at LifeMission Church chapel, 16111 South Lone Elm Road in Olathe, Kansas. Visitation will begin at 10:30AM with a memorial service immediately following at 11:30. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, masks and social distancing are required.</p><p>The family greatly appreciates your well wishes and gestures of support. In lieu of flowers and donations, we invite contributions to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: <a href="https://alzfdn.org/">https://alzfdn.org/</a>. </p><div><br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-26987665425726648632021-03-26T11:43:00.003-05:002023-07-21T08:29:39.868-05:00Doomsday (1982)<div>Stacks of burlap in the basement seven bags high:</div><div>soybean, rice, corn seed;</div><div>cans of peaches, peas, carrots and green beans,</div><div>enough to feed Gideon’s army.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gideon, we learned in Sunday School,</div><div>gathered a ragtag crew of three-hundred Israelites</div><div>on God’s instruction to slay the Mideonite army.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mother grimaces. “Talk to your father,” she says.</div><div>At supper we eat boiled soybeans</div><div>with Ezekiel bread and butter.</div><div>The old man opines on the health benefits of soy</div><div>and its utility as a righteous food source.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>The meat of the field</i>, did you know,</div><div>is a supernatural antioxidant blessed with protein,</div><div>vitamins and minerals?</div><div><br /></div><div>We are told that dried soybean, stored properly,</div><div>will retain its nutritional value long enough</div><div>to survive an apocalypse.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am twelve-years-old in ’82 </div><div>and the end of the world sounds like a video-game ending</div><div>where the protagonist expires </div><div>in a whirling puff of smoke only to discover himself</div><div>reborn into a dazzling, unspoiled universe.</div><div><br /></div><div>In father’s game, global war seizes planet earth</div><div>followed by a return of the angry, Old Testament god</div><div>hurling fire and brimstone down upon </div><div>an ungrateful creation.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Do not fear,” the old man says, drawing us to him. </div><div>“God’s chosen will be spared his wrath</div><div>and rewarded with riches in heaven.”</div><div><br /></div><div>Gideon was also chosen,</div><div>and for his subservience rewarded as a hero of faith; </div><div>seventy sons were bestowed upon him</div><div>from the many women he took as wives.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet, Gideon petitioned divine intervention</div><div>before signing on to the plan <span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt;">─</span> three miracles</div><div>he required as proof of God’s intent.</div><div><br /></div><div>I required only one:</div><div><br /></div><div><i> Dear Heavenly Father, hear my prayer.</i></div><div><i>Your holy scripture declares that to those </i></div><div><i>who ask it will be given … I humbly ask </i></div><div><i>that you demonstrate the truth of your power </i></div><div><i>by turning these boiled soybeans into </i></div><div><i>macaroni and cheese. Amen.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>~ Thomas</i></div><div><br style="text-align: justify;" /><br style="text-align: justify;" /><i>**First published in Hole In The Head Review</i></div><div><br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3550198803811085315.post-62042067983325327632021-02-27T08:12:00.008-06:002024-01-18T14:38:35.158-06:00Drunk Driving Incident<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFYleoNSlF_cQASuEvvb3_H9JZsNZCOs-H9CH_OHTYxDkfKxMps-jZT2SJVikSLv5dXIUDYNOrLqkgjcvNfkxHAx-oQwgkclD0hGs_TYSHoH1x2sLwTb8SwDvrwHc8An4xzqMSWMp3_2xzSrPebu4J-qW2qypnaxAX_-xGiqBHmuec-brYLmx0Aw=s4800" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3600" data-original-width="4800" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFYleoNSlF_cQASuEvvb3_H9JZsNZCOs-H9CH_OHTYxDkfKxMps-jZT2SJVikSLv5dXIUDYNOrLqkgjcvNfkxHAx-oQwgkclD0hGs_TYSHoH1x2sLwTb8SwDvrwHc8An4xzqMSWMp3_2xzSrPebu4J-qW2qypnaxAX_-xGiqBHmuec-brYLmx0Aw=w425-h319" width="425" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFYleoNSlF_cQASuEvvb3_H9JZsNZCOs-H9CH_OHTYxDkfKxMps-jZT2SJVikSLv5dXIUDYNOrLqkgjcvNfkxHAx-oQwgkclD0hGs_TYSHoH1x2sLwTb8SwDvrwHc8An4xzqMSWMp3_2xzSrPebu4J-qW2qypnaxAX_-xGiqBHmuec-brYLmx0Aw=s4800" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFYleoNSlF_cQASuEvvb3_H9JZsNZCOs-H9CH_OHTYxDkfKxMps-jZT2SJVikSLv5dXIUDYNOrLqkgjcvNfkxHAx-oQwgkclD0hGs_TYSHoH1x2sLwTb8SwDvrwHc8An4xzqMSWMp3_2xzSrPebu4J-qW2qypnaxAX_-xGiqBHmuec-brYLmx0Aw=s4800" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i></div><i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div> </i><i>Corpus Christie, Texas (2005)</i><br />
<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Once, after a night of Scotch whiskey and port wine </div><div>when the moon was a White-Russian mistress </div><div><span style="background-color: white;">and the stars </span><span style="background-color: white;">aligned </span><span style="background-color: white;">in regiments </span><span style="background-color: white;">of sparkling gin</span><span style="background-color: white;"> shots, </span><br />
she insisted he drive them to a motel <span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 11pt;">—</span></div><div><i>
them </i>meaning she and her feral, one-eyed </div><div>girlfriend closing the tavern.<br />
<br />
"We'll party if you pay for the room," said the girlfriend.<br />
<br />
He promptly escorted the ladies to his car<br />
and proceeded in the wrong direction<br />
down a one-way thoroughfare.<br />
<br />
"Hey, Sport, you trying to get us killed?" the ladies protested, </div><div>triggering an abrupt maneuver onto </div><div>a stranger's lawn and through the neighbor's </div><div>meticulously groomed azalea bushes.</div><div>
<br />
He was not so far gone to dismiss the sarcasm </div><div>betraying their praise of his <i>excellent driving</i>.<br />
<br />
"We'll pull over here for one more," he countered, </div><div>and one became three, four, then a round for the bar.<br />
<br />
It ended badly when patrons confronted<br />their one-eyed companion with a discernable note</div><div>of condescension.<br />
<br />
"Are you a pirate?" one asked, signaling to her eye-patch.<br />
<br />
"Are you a rectal lobotomy?!" her friend replied.<br />
<br />
"I think I'm in love with you," he said,</div><div>then declared a plague upon their antagonist's houses </div><div>as they hustled into the sapphire night.</div><div><br /></div><div>He cursed the tyranny of traffic laws </div><div>while racing past bicycle cops, crowded boardwalks,<br />
and escalating appeals for steady passage,<br />
finally coming to a screeching halt on the freeway </div><div>to inquire WHY in the HELL </div><div>they were nagging him about his driving?!<br />
<br />
"Let us out!" the ladies screamed.</div><div><br /></div><div>He pulled onto the shoulder</div><div>and summoned an incoherent plea for solidarity,</div><div>but it was too late for speech-making.</div><div>He saw it in their frantic eyes</div><div>as they spilled barefoot onto the concrete,</div><div>straightening their skirts</div><div>and bouncing into their high heels.</div><div><br /></div><div>He marveled at their ability to hail a ride.</div><div>Within minutes his companions vanished</div><div>and he stumbled into the wild grass</div><div>above the freeway offramp.</div><div><br /></div><div>The radio shouted Green Day's</div><div>"Boulevard of Broken Dreams" at him</div><div>as the car sputtered its dying gasps.</div><div>He wished he had turned off the engine</div><div>before reaching a state of no return.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>There's never enough gas to get where you're going</i>,</div><div>he thought, before passing out beneath</div><div>the warm, neon glow of a Motel 6 sign.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif;"><i style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">**First published in Barbar Literary Magazine</span></i></div></div><div><div><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">**Illustration by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morgane_xenos/" target="_blank">Morgane Xenos</a></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>Lambastedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12357628452518713003noreply@blogger.com0