* The Blender Board
From: deevaa
Date: 1 January 2002

I'm here I'm here.... (late to the party...)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Things have been hectic here, I've spent the time between Christmas and New Year packing boxes and sorting out my stuff (stuff = junk) ... I move in exactly 2 weeks, this time in two weeks TK and I will be on the plane - I plan to take some painting gear on to the plane as hand luggage so I should be able to do some painting in the 8 weeks it takes for my boxes to arrive in Melbourne by ship. *fingers crossed*

Take care of your heart and play nice in 2002!

dee


From: Angel
Date: 1 January 2002

*HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL* May all the horror of 2001 give way to love, hope and happiness in the New year:)


From: Ali
Date: 1 January 2002

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!! LARGE CHEER!!!! *SMILE*

Love and big smiles, Ali


From: Star of David
Date: 1 January 2002

Happy new year and love to all...!!!


From: courtney
Date: 1 January 2002

Happy New Year guys! Hope this new year will give us more reason to write about pleasant stuff(but the sad stuff does make you feel wonderful) :)


From: angelcharlebois
Date: 1 January 2002

lISTEN. CAN YOU HEAR THAT NEW BABY CRYING?


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 1 January 2002

~*~Everyone~*~
*pries covers off, sleepy eyed yawn, drags self to computer*...Happy New Yeaaaawwwwwneeer...*crawls back to bed*


From: B.K.
Date: 1 January 2002

Laurel: It's like 15 degrees here this morning. I took down the tree and now I have to take it out..burr I'm with you time to climb back in the warm bed again and watch TV, read and write. Good resolution, more warm bed and more writing paper. So write something for us, ha!

SCQueen; I envy you California weather today. I loved your great grandmothers writing. Mom has the family bible with lots of letters, one love letter from my great grandfather to my great grandmother. They had nine children together. E-gads I did good to have one much less nine, but then with the right man I would have wanted a dozen..sigh Happy New Year to you and Joe.

Hey Violet, woman come write for us, we miss you on the page.

Break times over. back to dragging out the fir tree. HA

bk


From: scqueen
Date: 1 January 2002

Ha! Misti, loved your take on the 'Nic knows' ordeal. I'm so tired of the goon answering every question with that line. Personally, I think Nic knows that he swings both ways and he's using Penelope as a diversion from the male porn star who said they had sex. Why do you think Rosie goes on about him? Pu-lease.


From: Misti
Date: 1 January 2002

Scqueen~
LOL! I've never been too impressed with Rosie OR the illustrious Mr. Cruise. And I don't get the Penelope Cruz hype at all. People are actually comparing her to Audrey Hepburn. Uh...not quite. I think Nicole Kidman is gorgeous. I still need to rent "Moulin Rouge." She kicked ass in "To Die For."
...There's probably a lot of truth to your theory. Funny, 'cause every guy I've ever dated has idolized Tom Cruise. Like he's Mr. America or some such crap. Val Kilmer put him to shame in "Top Gun."
I'm off to see "Ocean's 11" now. Brad Pitt and George Clooney get my mojo goin'!;-)


From: Ali
Date: 1 January 2002

Misti~

I thought "Ocean's 11" was great...The cast was yummy...*smile*

Love and luck, Ali


From: scqueen
Date: 1 January 2002

Misti ~ I haven't seen many Nicole movies but I've always liked her. She gained my respect in 'Practical Magic'. I thought she was great in that movie. Penelope makes me want to puke. I think she's a big flirt who would use any guy to get ahead in her career. Besides I think a Southern accent is much more effective then hers :-)
...(Like we KNOW these people!)


From: Ali
Date: 1 January 2002

scqueen~

I LOVE 'Practical Magic'...That is a great movie...*smile*

Love and luck, Ali


From: Rhetoric
Date: 1 January 2001

Now Arwen,
Since you popped up a few months back, all this Lord of the Rings hooplah has happened, and each time I see a trailer for that movie I think of your name. Why on earth have you gone away? I promise to finally bring you those Cali rolls inside out! Idaho in repose is amazing!! You must continue here.

Speaking of lost souls - Violet: where art thou? The semester is over, the Beavers lost, and we need more flying lessons for boys in Birks! Come on back.

Just Some Girl,
I assume your newest is not autobiographical. I think that with each year, not only do you become more aware of your beauty, but you allow others to see what's behind all that hair and glisten.

Rhetoric (scooting back to work tomorrow after 11 days straight glued to my couch).


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 2 January 2002

Well, Rhet, I guess EVERYTHING is autobiographical, in a certain sense... Thank you for your comment!!!!


From: kevin urenda
Date: 2 January 2002

I agree with the previous comment. Since we are all writing from our own experience (or our conception of what that experience should be, or the experiences we have fond memories of), everything we write tells a tale about ourselves...

BTW, new survey question (the first of '02) is up...

k


From: Angel
Date: 2 January 2002

uh oh, my petticoat slipped and now all my tags are showing on survey :0 . I guess no html needed there, sorry Kirk.


From: Angel
Date: 2 January 2002

Kevin~ I found your selection to be more sad than romantic, something wrong with me?


From: Kirk, Blender-Keeper
Date: 2 January 2002

Angel, sorry about that, I should've warned people HTML would be escaped out, since I don't have enough brains to make a proper HTML cleaner, and I've seen really bad situations on "collaborative HTML pages" so to speak.

And Kevin, sorry about *that*, I didn't put in the link code or url fixerupers there either.


From: Ali
Date: 2 January 2002

Madison~
the last thing in the world was so well written...The imagery was very excellent...*smile* Great poem...=)

Love and turquiose whispers, Ali


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 2 January 2002

~*~B.K.~*~ Oh, you poor thing! That makes this 20 degree weather seem a little more bearable!! I wish you luck in finding all those lovely pine needles. Funny how you notice the ones that were looked over when company or a neurotic family member is visiting! I do like the resolution to sleep and write more, but with Footloose rehearsals starting today, it looks I'll have to focus on the latter! Hope your days are merry and bright!!
love always,
Laurel


From: sweetness
Date: 2 January 2002

Nothing: wow, something less for... was incredible....I like the imagery of the "knives.... of rust whose edge have fled/to rip and shred instead of cut..." Great...
Sage: Ink and Bubble Jetmade me really stop and think...and I think you are right!
Madison: the last thing in the world brilliant....you have the best knack for vivid description and imagery.
Courtney: black and bluehit me in the gut, and made me want to cry in recognition. This is so shattering, it does just what poetry is supposed to do, it made me FEEL. I can't seem to say enough how much I love your work.


From: B.K.
Date: 2 January 2002

One of my resolutions was to try and keep up with the comments here.

Wistful; Glad to see you back on the page woman, how's San Fransisco? Never More is way cool, may we have more please?

Angel; Rain Nice one, rain is so cleansing and sometimes tears are as well...sigh

Distant Moon; Sometimes love can be as unnerving/earth shattering as your title l / o / v / e I like this one.

Laurel; Reboot and very nice morsels, more please

Rhet Darlin; The first two lines of New Year's Promise just kept you reading. Very nice work.

Realtree_Poet; SometimeThis was very heartfelf, I would bet that she would love to see your eyes as the eyes say everything and more as they are the windows of the soul. You should take the chance!

bk


From: B.K.
Date: 2 January 2002

Laurel; It's even colder tonight but at least the snow missed us and went further south. So you are a hoofer are you. I did a bit of dancing once myself ha. Sounds like fun. I just had to go unlodge the dog from my neighbors deck all caught up on his chain that came loose and he drug to be caught there. He smells bad so hes been rolling in something ha. DOGS UGH! These Corgis drive me crazy! HA HA.

bk


From: B.K.
Date: 2 January 2002

Courtney;"black and blue," I just caught your last three woman, this one has impact and I hope any woman that ever has to endure this gets out and never looks or goes back to it. The men that do it are sick cowards that deserve to live like the rats they are, in a hole. No woman should live like this EVER!

bk


From: wistful
Date: 2 January 2001

Hi BK! Thanks for the welcome back; you're so sweet to notice my absence! San Francisco is wet and wild and wonderful.

I had to take a couple months off . . . to fall madly in love! I was hanging onto a relationship that never should have been more than a friendship, but in mid-November, I finally let it go and opened myself up to something new (see Contemplating a Plunge). And wow: love hit me like a MAC truck!

It's funny; I've been afraid that my poems will not have the power they once had; I feel more "artistic" when angst-ridden, I guess. I've been so obnoxiously happy lately that sometimes only inane burbles are all I can muster. But I'll keep plugging away; your wish, dearheart, is my command!


From: redFoxPuppy
Date: 3 January 2002

A Test Of Fate

Listen to my words,
for they come from my heart.
I will never give up on you,
I have loved you from the start.
We have overcome so many trials,
and it has been a test of fate.
I know exactly where I belong.
and it is with you my Soulmate.
God has seperated us now,
but only for a while.
Until we can conquer this
one last test and trial.
We truly belong together,
and this I am sure.
We have had so many ups and downs
that only our love could endure.
I love you so much sweetheart,
and I offer you my life.
one day we will unite,
as we become husband and wife.
Our souls have intertwined
to become as one,
and we will be together
when all is said and done.
So my love keep these words
right next to your heart.
For if you truly believe in us,
we will never be apart.
Close your eyes and invision
the biggest and brightest star,
and know in your heart
I will always love you,
even from afar.


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 3 January 2002

Rhet, How passionate, how beautiful, how sad was your "Standing, in a Moment!" I loved it!! Sometimes, I just shake my head and smile, thinking to myself, "Ain't she smart?" Hee-hee!!


From: Ali
Date: 3 January 2002

Rhet~
Standing, in a Moment was breath-taking...Each line was so beautifully constructed...Damn good job...*smile*

Love and jaded thunder, Ali


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 3 January 2002

Red Fox Puppy:

I really enjoyed the power of your "A Test Of Fate," but your name distracts me. Are you a red-fox puppy, or, "Red Foxx, a new beginning??"

(Please...no eyes rolling...I'm NOT trying to be funny!)


From: courtney
Date: 3 January 2002

BK and sweetness~posting black and blue was kinda hard, its almost like walking naked through a crowd. Baring your ASSests, no pun intended. I just hope if anyone here relates to it, they do something quicker than i did


From: Rhetoric
Date: 3 January 2002

Wow...do I need to proofread before I push that little button! I am terrible at typo's - and it doesn't help that I don't read before I submit. Sorry if it didn't flow because I missed some mistakes. To be honest, I haven't been satisfied with a post of mine in over a month. Oh, well, I never said I was any good.

Thank you anyways, Just Some Girl. I know you are just saying all them purty words to make me feel less like a big dork. We watched Almost Famous (for about the 6th time) tonight. What an awesome movie. I was born, just when I should have been 18 years old! I am too much a 70's personality to have been born in '75. All those drugs (I may not have survived puberty if I really had been around)...all that great music - I was just born too late. Woe is me.
Rhetoric -


From: prize
Date: 4 January 2002

deni...are you a man or a woman, poem reflects masculinity, email reads denise...I'm wondering, is this really dennis...I sure hope so...


From: Patricia
Date: 4 January 2002

Just wondering what happens to our poem after we submit? Am I missing something, as to where to find it? It'a alittle unclear if you are not familiar with this format.


Patricia


From: B.K.
Date: 4 January 2002

Well Patricia, if you wrote the poem before May first then you have to go digging back in the archives. But anything after May first should be right there under the name it has the account under.

bk


From: Madison
Date: 4 January 2002

If you look at the bottom of your screen you should find the link "read latest" - click to open to this month's new submissions. If you're on the Blender of Love homepage, just click "New Submissions"


From: danica
Date: 4 January 2002

Um.... yeah, I can't spell. The title of poem Prodical... should have been Prodigal.. which has a different meaning than the non-existant word first used. -feelin' dumb


From: TJ Holland
Date: 5 January 2002

You know what, Misti? I'm Never Gonna Write Another Poem 'Cause Penny Arcade Kicks My Puny Asswas good. Real good.

-Teej


From: Rhetoric
Date: 5 January 2002

TJ and Misti -
Both of you have given some good stuff this week. My interest in your work has gone beyond individual pieces: I ADMIRE both your talents. That speaks to consistancy AND thematic variations. Well Done.

Just Some Girl -
Having gotten to know you gives me a fresh look at the intent of certain pieces (whether I am right, is not the point). The Jeep Story, Finis is remarkable. I think it completes a story line you have been telling. There is definate continuity in your work - I find it gives your work much more stability than mine. Bravo. Are you Rocky Horroring tonight?

Jen


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 5 January 2002

Thank you, Rhet!!

Yes, you are correct. This last submission is an ending.


From: the guppy
Date: 6 January 2002

crap...e...always miss the e...breathe...typos...grrrr


From: deni
Date: 6 January 2002

Prize, I am all female. Wonder how you read masculinity when to me it sounds too needy?


From: Courtney
Date: 6 January 2002

Misti~Matt hale was great. I have to say you were the reason I came to this site, I got an e-mail from you once from reading my diary on diaryland! Quite awhile ago. One of my favorites by you ever had to be from depraved to CRAVED. Good stuff chicka


From: Misti
Date: 6 January 2002

Thanks, Teej. I wrote that poem after reading Penny Arcade's poems in the *Verses That Hurt* PoemFone collection. Between reading that and the unauthorized Patti Smith bio, I'm goin' crazeeeee! Mediocrity! Uggghhhh...
Rhet, thanks to you, too. Compliments from you mean a lot 'cause you were born in the Year of the Rabbit. ;-)I'm being dumb. Really, I admire your writing as well. So thank you!
Courtney...diaryland! I forgot all about that place! I wonder if my diary is still up? I've forgotten my username and password. Thanks, chica. Glad you like.


From: distant moon
Date: 6 January 2002

Misti - I'm Never Gonna Write Another Poem 'Cause Penny Arcade Kicks My Puny Ass was absolutely amazing

BK - I think you commented on one of my poems about a week ago or something, and I thank you...I've been spending so much time with her I don't get on here that often

if it wasn't you, thank you whomever you were who said what I wrote was alright lol ;-)


From: prize
Date: 6 January 2002

Deni, thanks. BTW most of the men I have known were needy. The others had bondage basements. What ya gonna do?


From: Kirk, Blender-Keeper
Date: 6 January 2002

First Blender Digest of the New Year is up...


From: TJ Holland
Date: 6 January 2002

Rhet, all thanks to you. You know, if I wasn't so busy being a mom to two kids and a slave to two jobs I'd post more comments about the greatness here. As it stands I barely have time to dream up a poem while I'm alseep in the shower.

-Teej


From: TJ Holland
Date: 6 January 2002

Oooh! Rhet! Each of our latest submissions are kind of tied together. Weird, as I hadn't read yours before I submitted mine. They are different, of course, but they share a thing or two.

Hey! It's like an English Lit assignment..."Discuss the similarities and differences between these two writer's works using Bitter Rant after a Night in a Bar and Bitter Rant after a Night in a Bar. Extra credit for finding similarities or differences not outlined in the text book."

LOL!
-Teej


From: TJ Holland
Date: 6 January 2002

Oooops! CORRECTION:


Oooh! Rhet! Each of our latest submissions are kind of tied together. Weird, as I hadn't read yours before I submitted mine. They are different, of course, but they share a thing or two.

Hey! It's like an English Lit assignment..."Discuss the similarities and differences between these two writer's works using Bitter Rant after a Night in a Bar and First and Last Date #17. Extra credit for finding similarities or differences not outlined in the text book."

LOL!
-Teej


From: TJ Holland
Date: 6 January 2002

Excellent selection of January Picks, Kirk.

Hey, Mediocre Misti...uh, I guess no one's gonna puke on you, huh? No pretender. You don't suck. TWO picks! Yah SEE THAT?! TWO! And didn't that happen LAST month too, or the month BEFORE that??? "I'm never gonna write another...." HA! You'd BETTER! :-)

To all the Front Page Picks: Just as I thought, You are greatness.

And Kirk, thanks for choosing me with them.

-Teej


From: realtree poet
Date: 6 January 2002

I'm sorry I haven't returned anyone's messages on here, I'm kinda new at posting my poems, so tell me if you think they suck.
Thanks,

Realtree


From: Ali
Date: 6 January 2002

Congrats to all the front pagers!!! *smile* Great job everybody!!!!

Love and silver sighs, Ali


From: TJ Holland
Date: 7 January 2002

Real Tree- no poem really sucks. What do YOU think of yours? That's what matters. The more you read poetry, the more you mature in it.


From: where is your heaven
Date: 7 January 2002

Congrats all front pagers!!!! Keep up the good work. My place of sancution is always in well order :)
xoxo
elaina


From: VelvetGoldmine
Date: 7 January 2002

I'm telling you guys about the 2nd "work" I have submitted CURING HOMOSEXUALITY. The title my be shocking but let me say now it is a satire, I'm not trying to be condensing but here is the definition of satire –
1 The use of sarcasm, irony, or keen wit in denouncing abuses or follies; ridicule. 2 A written composition in which vice, folly, or incapacity is held up to ridicule. Just for those that maybe didn't have a clear picture of what a satire. I hope I get more people responding to it, then I did on my 1st submission Ryan. If you did take the time to read it the first I wish you would now, along with CURING HOMOSEXUALITY and tell me what you think.

Oh, one more thing I would like to thank Jon for the kind words (the only words)....Thank You


From: Kirk
Date: 7 January 2002

VelvetGoldmine, we get a lot of submissions here, so even good and comment worthy works may not get attention on the board...

...anyway, CURING HOMOSEXUALITY is kind of interesting. It's a bit more political than romantic in some ways, but I guess romance and politics tend to be entwined in any wider cultutral view.

I just wanted to mention that it reminded me of my friend, a lesbian, who grew up trying to be a "good" girl in her very conservative church. They suggested that she put a rubberband around her wrist, and snap it every time she had an impure thought about a woman. Instead of a "cured" lesbian, they got a lesbian with a finely developed taste for SM/BD play... I think that's really funny.


From: Rhetoric
Date: 7 January 2002

Velvetgoldmine:
I, too, liked Curing Homosexuality. I really enjoyed the quote at the beginning: “There are no homosexuals,
Only fallen heterosexuals.” It does seem like lots of great writing falls through the notable cracks at times - but when you really like a piece, does it matter if anyone else does?

Kirk - a - rific:
Thanks for the front page pick this month.
Congrats to all the rest who were displayed so graciously by our Blender-Master.

Teej -
Wow, we did seem to be right on target with our dating rants. One significant difference is that I actually took mine home and did the nasty! You prevented your date from going to that level of crapiness! Bitter Rant isn't based on one particular night (it depicts a 3-year span in my early adulthood), but for several years I did feel the need to replace love with sex. Poor me, huh? He…he.

And Misti Velvet Rainwater...
YEAH...what TJ said. You suck - only if sucking means that most of the time you words reach a broad audience and are widely regarded as magnificent! Are you a rabbit by the Chinese Zodiac too?

Jennifer


From: Rhetoric
Date: 7 January 2002

Mark McNabb,
I gotta say that your latest ee cummings is one of my faves. Great post for this mood we all share: the excitement and the newness of a new year.
Rhet


From: TJ Holland
Date: 7 January 2002

Velvet Goldmine - I'm not sure, but I think that you got a fair amount of comments on "Ryan". I remember someone (Rhet? Ali?) say that they just coudn't stop reading it. And obviously Jon must have commented. Perhaps you didn't think that was enough, but as mentioned, there's A LOT of submissions here. I think getting ANY comment should satisfy us, IF that is why we are posting to the Blender. Now, thinking back, I'm not sure I saw you comment on anyone else's work. Did you not think any of it was noteworthy?

I did read "Ryan". Read the whole thing, too. Which, for someone with my type of schedule, was a HUGE concession. It was an interesting story. As far as this next submission goes, I took one look at the length of it and closed the window. I don't have time to read it, and homosexuality is not an issue for me. (Meaning I'm fine with it and feel no need to immerse myself in backing up my opinions about it.)

Hope you keep posting here, and that you find what you're looking for.

-Teej


From: Ali
Date: 7 January 2002

TJ~

'Twas not me that commented on "Ryan"...I think that it might have been Rhet...But maybe I'm wrong...

Love and silver sighs, Ali


From: Rhetoric
Date: 7 January 2002

Courtney:
with all the excitement of our first real snow around these parts, I forgot to tell you how much I loved (reading) bulima. Very descriptive and far too honest! I see a romantic angle to that disease. Bulimics are obsessed with their bodies (among other control issues) and it is not too far from romance and love in a twisted way. I fear that it is too common to even mention - but thanks for giving me a different perspective.


From: nothing
Date: 7 January 2002

congrats to all front pagers, fine work kirk and to pick one from one nut kinda shows that its the worth of the words and not the writer thats important . good choices one and all and heh well i feel time fer a change again ...jack


From: Lhamric3
Date: 7 January 2002

I was wondering if I could get some feed back on the poem I submitted called "The Ark". You should see it in the new submissions page. I 've been working on it for some time now. Thanks, Louis. And if you do like it come check out my website at http://expage.com/paradiso . It think any poet will like it. And of course all submissions are welcome.


From: courtney
Date: 7 January 2002

Rhet~thanks bulimia I guess could be looked at from different angles..hmmm made me think!


From: TJ Holland
Date: 8 January 2002

Hamric - The Ark was simply stunning.
Perhaps my most favorite part was, oh hell...I had MANY favorite parts. Not the least of which were:

"That moment you stand and leave the questions where you sat."

"Before the chasing became the leave."

"For I have seen that land with sunken footprints.
I have heard those seagulls trapped on shore."

"And I have had enemies with spiked spines,
Backs so brittle they walked bent over."

"And with all the silent calm I cannot bear to shut my eyes,
But as she sleeps I'm watching"

"After open opinions cease to seek the throat"

"As hope prevents love from committing suicide"

Oh, to know a man with thoughts like yours! Then all my endlessly dreary dinners with men unwelcome would cease and I should simply float in his words!

-Teej


From: Arwen
Date: 8 January 2002

Hey all, long time no see... I am always reading and have been floored by a few of the works lately. Rhet, You never do dissaspoint love and it is so nice to be reading the Guppy again. If I can drag myself out of the winter Blahs... I will write something new and try not to embarrass myself to badly.
Heh,
Arwen


From: B.K.
Date: 8 January 2002

Congratulations to the Front Pagers for the New Year! Way to go you all!

I am behind as usual in reading. Promise to catch up soon. Two funerals was just too much for Xmas and even with time off I haven't caught up. But I love you guys anyway, so keep it going and I shall try and get back soon.

bk


From: Ali
Date: 8 January 2002

B.K.~

I didn't know that you had two funerals over Christmas...(((HUGS)))

Love and forgetful starlight, Ali


From:
Date: 8 January 2002

I can't remember the last time I wrote a poem ... it is getting a bit depressing really!

I'm moving in 6 more sleeps, does anyone want to come to NZ and pack my house up for me? Please?


From: Rhetoric
Date: 9 January 2002

Yeah!!!
Arwen and Violet are back. I hope everything is well with you both.

Violet:
/And You, my dear, are very overqualified for the job./
Pepper sounds wonderful. I wish you great joy.

Jon:
I LOVE Daft Punk! They have a way with music that puts you in a romantic mood - melodic and up beat. Barry White is great, but how can anyone maintain energy with him soothing you to sleep?

Louis Hamric:
The Ark is wonderful. It is clear that you spent time crafting the dialogue.

Just Some Girl:
Duty is a fabulous poem by Sarah Teasdale. I am not too familiar with her work and if Duty represents her well, I need to pay more attention to her.

TJ:
I am sure I have already told you how much I enjoy your work - but No Reply Necessary is one of the most tender quotes I have ever read.
/undeniably beautiful/
So passionate!

Ta ta...Rhet




From: Just Some Girl
Date: 9 January 2002

NZ Goddess:

Interesting submission. "Power Play and Soul Mates" reminds me of the film, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch." Take a look at it, paying particular attention to the song wherein s/he tells a story of a time when human creatures came in three sexes, and all had two bodies within one. It is beautiful. And I enjoyed your prose.


From: haight_n_ashbury
Date: 9 January 2002

...i can dig any kind of criticism anyone would like to deliver, i appreciate across the board intellectual matches, and if anyone can surface any original philosophy, i'm always open to just about anything...


From: haight_n_ashbury
Date: 9 January 2002

Ali:.....excellent compaction of physical and mental components placed on a single act of affection...


From: nzgoddess
Date: 9 January 2002

Hi there - my first time on the board and just wanted to say I'm blown away by the work on here :)

Vixen - your poem is very deep and touching. I was thinking about being at a choice point/point of no return just before I read your poem. Scary huh... Thank you - it was very timely :)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 9 January 2002

Oh, God!! Laughing my pompous ass off!!


From: Violet
Date: 9 January 2002

Rhet~ Thanks. You're always so sweet. I've been on vacation... and I'm having a hard time with my poetry lately. Hopefully my pen will start to flow again. :-) It's good to be back, and I look foward to reading your poems.


From: deevaa
Date: 9 January 2002

*cough* for anyone wishing to send fan mail, I now know my address in Melbourne, email me if you want/need it.

*doing a little dance*

Sorry I've not been about much, I'll be back once I'm settled.


From: Ali
Date: 9 January 2002

haight_n_ashbury~

Thank you very much for the compliment...*smile*
I took the liberty of reading the poem you submitted...Playgrounds......I must say that it was amazing...Very cleverlly written...More please?

Love and forgotten starlight, Ali


From: nzgoddess
Date: 9 January 2002

Just Some Girl

Hey thanks - i've just seen your message (doh was looking at the top of the board for new messages lol)

Thanks for that, can't say I've heard of that film - is it American? Sounds really interesting.

This site is pretty cool huh? *grins*


From: nzgoddess
Date: 9 January 2002

Diva - nice writing - was just thinking looking out my window thinking - I'm so blessed - this country is so beautiful huh ;)


From: nzgoddess
Date: 9 January 2002

Sorry about this guys - my enthusiasm overtakes me :) Last message today *grins*

Jon

Was just reading your views on marriage Life, Love, Marriage, and Washing Cars - thought perhaps you might like this link :) http://www.wizard.gen.nz/

There's some really interesting articles on role playing/relationships etc. Enjoy :)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 9 January 2002

Rhet - I love you.


From: Rhetoric
Date: 9 January 2002

Why TJ Holland,
You are either in a fan-freakin-tastic mood today (judging by your 2 comments this afternoon) OR you came too close to the barrel of industrial strength glue and are high of the fumes!!

Teej, there are a few (more than a few...but hey) people that clearly floor me with their posts here (you are one of 'em), but I am sincere when I drown people in praise. If I tell ya I like something - I really like it and it moves me. You FREQUENTLY grab me. I just don't want to be viewed as the constant sugar-coater. You know? I feel as if I say too much at times and should just keep my fingers to myself when I get the urge to ramble on about the work of another.

But, thank you for the kind words and the not forgotten advice about margaritas!

Rhet


From: courtney
Date: 10 January 2002

Misti~I have a request. I would love for you to write a poem for me on a certain topic. I know it sounds strange, but I love your work, and I think seeing someone elses words on this subject would make me feel less shitty. My ex and I have been up and down for 2 yrs, he has a drug problem, been in and out of rehabs, all that. We broke up about a month ago, he started using again, but since then "apparently" has been staying clean. Tonight he was nowhere to be found. Im guessing that he was out using, and I think this time is the end. I am a little drunk, if i come off as strange thats why. :) but anyway I'd really like you to try to do this for me, you too rhetoric. you're stuff has always been touching to me, just like to see what you guys could do with this


From: Misti
Date: 10 January 2002

Courtney,
I am honored. Thank you. Right now I have to go to work. Unfortunately, they don't let me do Internet stuff at work. The bastards. But I'll work on a poem tonight. I just watched "Traffic" and "Blow" last week. "Blow" made me cry. I hope things work out for you. Take care of yourself!!!


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 10 January 2002

Echolocation:

I simply loved Storm Chaser. Very beautiful.


From: Jon
Date: 10 January 2002

nzgoddess

Thanks for the link...interesting. Hehe.


Take care and all that good stuff

-Jon


From: Smiling Kat
Date: 10 January 2002

Du'Doll

My dear, please tell me you're ok! I don't like to read things that make my heart hurt for you. Remember that I'm still here if you need to talk. Just give me a ring! And remember that I love ya!!!
:)


From: haight_n_ashbury
Date: 10 January 2002

SaLt......such a bleak outlook?....it was portrayed well though..i can dig it...


From: haight_n_ashbury
Date: 10 January 2002

Violet....that was an excellent clear cut view of feeling...well written...i appreciate that...


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 10 January 2002

~*~B.K.~*~ HEY!!!*gasps for air* I didn't mean to ignore your post like...eight days ago! That's sooo bad. Thank you sooo much for the compliments. You really inspire me through your works, words, and actions. I'll have to think of you when I'm getting ready to smack someone in a rehearsal! The dancing part is the worst. It's literally a room full of dancers and then there's me who's only there because my part calls for it. GAHH!!!! I'll try to take a time out and write something soon! Hope your dog and you are doing well! Make a great day!

~*~Everyone~*~ I just had time to skim over todays poems and things are looking good! Keep up the amazing work!

love always,
Laurel


From: Ali
Date: 10 January 2002

Misti~
Waste is so good.
Very biting...After I read it, I just went, "Damn." *smile* Excellent writing girl...

Love and springtime breezes, Ali


From: courtney
Date: 11 January 2002

Misti~!!!! Loved it. Thanks babes, it was exactly what I expected it to be-perfect! Men are scabs, it's just shitty I know how to pick em' no pun intended


From: Jon
Date: 11 January 2002

Rhethoric

Yes I love Daft Punk as well. I love their song "Digital Love" it sounds so 80ish, but its very cute in a very korny way. =)

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: Rhetoric
Date: 11 January 2002

courtney~
Hang in there. I am flattered that you felt ME spirited enough to capture YOUR thoughts. Being grouped with Misti is quite a compliment. Waste is so great in conceptualizing your expressed fears and pain that I doubt I could say it better with different English. I am there with you - been there, done that. Don't EVER let anyone make you feel less than yourself - it's not worth it. Good Luck.

tainted one ~
salt takes the words right out of my mouth. Damn, that is powerful stuff.

Rhetoric


From: hollymccormick
Date: 11 January 2002

Violet, I really enjoyed reading
I know that feeling so well!!!
Thank's for sharing with us.
Holly


From: hollymccormick
Date: 11 January 2002

OOps Violet it was the one titled ???

HM


From: Violet
Date: 11 January 2002

Jon~ I read a few of your poems... and I am impressed. You write beautifully. How did I miss you before? Are you a new comer? I am looking foward to reading more!


From: Violet
Date: 11 January 2002

Height_N_Ashbury & HollyMcCormick~ Thank you both so much for your sweet words! Holly~ I forgot to title it! Oops. :-P


From: B.K.
Date: 11 January 2002

I'm way behind in comments as usual, so here goes. I scribbled a lot of codes fast so forgive my left handed dyslexic numbers if they don't come out right, ha

Rhet Darlin; Bitter Rant after a Night in a Bar Brings to mind the old Paul Simon song "50 Ways to Leave your Lover!"

Courtney; bulimia You are picking some very serious topics lately. Your words pack power and they need to be heard. Bravo young lady!

Wistful; So happiness writes well with you. We need more please.

gup; glad to see you on the page again

distant moon; This is quite romantic. Very nice one.

prize; Tweak away, Detonation This is excellent and I have to tell you I like your writing very much. May we have more please?

TJ; I really enjoyed "First and Last Date #17" Way cool and I bet true too.

Violet; Glad to see you back woman, we missed your work is my favorite of yours this far.

HiPPiEcHiC; I like your unique style. Keep em coming.

Ali; Very romantic and I love the term, moonstone glow. I wear moonstones all the time.

deevaa; So glad you are excited about your move. Too bad we can't all come and have a packing party with you. It would be fun with this wild bunch of women to talk to.

Echo; Storm Chaser this is just excellent. One of my favorites of your lately. Bravo!

holly; True Romance I love rhyming poems when they flow like this one does. Very nice.

TaintedOne; Just throw a pinch of SALT over your shoulder and never look back.

Madison; ricky Wow, this one sets a mood of deepest longing, it's just wonderful to read.

There was too much to comment on, it's all been quite good lately you guys are all great, and I rave about you endlessly to anyone who will listen. ha

Kirk; I still want a t-shirt, but I hate those rubbery kind. Will he make one of better quality reckon?

bk


From: B.K.
Date: 11 January 2002

Ok lets try it ONE more time. HA

gup; ny res

distant moon; Rose

violet;

Ali; Holding Her Hand

Wistful; My Ten

I type numbers backwards, which is why I never work in banks. Ha! Sorry guys.

bk


From: B.K.
Date: 11 January 2002

Laurel; Woman I have been so disconnected lately, I just saw what you wrote too. I once danced in an opening act for an old rock and roll show with Chuck Berry and a lot of the famous 50's guys, in front of a crowd of about 5,000 people. It was a jitter-bug-swing-bop kind of dancing where he threw me through his legs, over his shoulder and across his back. Ha It was such fun and as shy as I was I would have never believed it was me, except, dear god, there are pictures. Have fun with it! You said it was Footloose right? Sounds like lots of fun.

bk


From: Ali
Date: 11 January 2002

BK~

Thank you very much...I'm glad that you liked...And I love moonstones...I wear them all the time, too...*smile*

Love and springtime breezes, Ali


From: Violet
Date: 11 January 2002

BK~ Thank you kindly chica! :-P


From: hollymccormick
Date: 11 January 2002

B.K.
Thank you for your sweet comment. I can always depend on you to have something nice to say. You are a diamond!!!!

Holly


From:
Date: 11 January 2002

Violet

If anyone were to be impressed by anothers work it would be me. I am constantly impressed by your writings and I look forward to reading them each time. Thank you for the kind words though. :)

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: courtney
Date: 12 January 2002

Rhet~I needed those words of encouragement. Really. Sometimes it feels better coming from people you don't know. As weird as it sounds. I never thought of myself as have zero respect for me until this firecracker lol. I don't know. Patience is not my virtue, i can't stand around while someone pretends to wanna kick a drug habit. But anyway thanks.
BK~the bulimia poem was one nobody understood why i wrote, cause many didnt know that was me. I think all the hard stuff is hitting me after my numbness went away


From: Echolocation
Date: 12 January 2002

Jon -- astonishingly well done pieces -- glad you've found us and look forward to seeing more!


From: Echolocation
Date: 12 January 2002

Oh, BTW -- Rhet -- Bitter Rant after a Night in a Bar was almost frightening in its accuracy. Been there, done that. Nice job!


From: B.K.
Date: 12 January 2002

Jon; I always scribble my comments as I go along and somehow I missed a whole page about your poems. I think your work is wonderful and the line in Suburbia is one that will go along in my head for a while. "I like me better when I'm with you." I wanted to bump your poem about jealousy but got sidetracked. Another good topic of late to deal with here in the ways that men and women are so different with it. Anyway keep them coming, nice to have you here at the blender.

bk


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 12 January 2002

Congratulations to all the January Front Pagers...great stuff.

Rhetoric - your BITTER RANT was quite nice and sad. Fortunately, I (for one) ditched the bar scene years ago and your piece really galvanized my own convictions...so thanks for the reminder. Alcohol is an insult to the soul...

To whom it may concern, RUN don't walk to see AMELIE - easily one of the best films of the year or decade. Also, IN THE BEDROOM and MEMENTO still rocks, VANILLA SKY is a decent remake of a better foreign film, LORD OF THE RINGS is a good reminder of why things like the STARS WARS or the STAR TREKS sucks so mightily, MULHOLLAND DRIVE proves David Lynch's genius. Also, try and catch a superb interview with Tilda Swinton on The Charlie Rose Show (PBS) from earlier this week...maybe it'll repeat soon. And before I forget, A BEAUTIFUL MIND is great and proof why Jennifer Connelly is the most beautiful woman on the planet. Amen.


From: scqueen
Date: 12 January 2002

Rhetoric ~ I also liked 'Bitter Rant' a lot. This being my favorite line...'I simply did not see that your light was
just the reflection of a hundred vodka bottles dancing.'

And Jon, I have enjoyed your submissions this week too. Especially the one about 'Love, Marriage and Washing Cars.' That used to be me...SO stubborn...and then one day, this guy walked by me at the copy machine at work. And I married him.


From:
Date: 12 January 2002

Echolation:

Thank you for the kind words, but I must say I really do enjoy your work as well. Alpha Male is a piece of yours that I absoultely love. Brilliant.

BK:

Yes that line "I like me better around you" is something that struck me as well. I have always admired your work and the love you are blessed with is something I really do admire. One of my favorites from you has to be How To Woo A Rocket Scientist. I loved it.

squeen

I've been reading the poems on this site for awhile and I always awe struck by a few of your pieces. "Reminiscing" is one of my many favorite pieces from you, it just put me "there". Thanks for the kind words as well.

Anyway just wanted to thank all of you here at the Loveblender for being such a great, well balanced, and very influential and inspirational group of poets.


From: Jon
Date: 12 January 2002

Opps...In case you are all wondering who that phantom messanger above is...that's me.

Sorry about that.

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: dev0n
Date: 12 January 2002

my life has been so crazy lately.. haven't checked the board or the blender itself for weeks.. so.. thanks for the pick, kirk.. as always, i'm thourougly tickled at being on the front page :)

i'm going to go read the latest submissions now... i expect to be humbled, as always, by the incredible words that the blenderers come up with to describe all the joys and woes of this crazy thing we call life and love. :)


From: Rhetoric
Date: 12 January 2002

Echolocation and scqueen...
danke for the thumbs up on bitter rant. I appreciated it.

BK...
Deepak? Wow, I don't know if my feeble brain can absorb him tonight.

Mark...
Thank you kindly, sir. You are SO right about the bar scene. I just go now to listen to tunes. Bitter Rant was compilation, if you will, of a few happenings to me and my close pals. I do disagree about your perception of alcohol, though. Alcohol (and all drugs for that matter) is just a method to escape/chill/liven up/act wild for the most part. I don't see the use as negative - but the intent of the participant is the key.

My little town isn't showing Amélie of Montmarte - so I must wait until video. Brilliant Mind is fabulous (Jennifer does take you to a beautiful place with her amazing poise and charm) and The Royal Tenanbaums is so cruel and sad you can't stop laughing! Gene Hackman makes me want to propose marriage!

Rhet...ready to enjoy my sushi.


From: violet
Date: 13 January 2002

MaxRom~ your newest one made me smile. :-)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 13 January 2002

LoVeLoRnGrRl aka MandyMoore - I think I liked sTuPiD CuPiD and it's sophomoric 'feel', but I can't be sure because the font distracted me and detracted from the poem in a big way. Pity.

-Teej


From: violet
Date: 13 January 2002

Rhet~ When you're bitter... you're good. Very good. ;-)


From: Max-Rom
Date: 13 January 2002

violet- glad you liked my "thought". It just really came to me last night. I miss having someone to permeate their aroma onto my clothes. Thanks for reading by the way!! ;)@}--~

Max(trying to restrain my eroticism):)


From: distant moon
Date: 13 January 2002

B.K. - thank you so much...you're a very kind person, and even giving that extra effort to go back and re-comment to add in the links ;-) thanks bunches


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 13 January 2002

Rhetoric -

I'm not inclined to post much on this site, and I certainly don't wish to engage in debates here (since this is a site dedicated to romance POETRY). I simply enjoyed your work and chose to make a comment (or assertion, if you will) about alcohol as it relates to romance, which clearly weaves in and out of the piece. But fear not, the comment "Alcohol is an insult to the Soul" is certainly not an original thought or opinion of mine, but rather one borne out of much study, from the great philosophers, and most importantly from the great medical minds of the world.

"Alcohol is an insult to the Soul" actually has it's roots in centuries old Buddhist teachings...so you need not feel that you are disagreeing with ME. As a writer, I would have hoped that, if anything, you would have commented that you were going to take a hard fresh look at that as it relates to your writing (and maybe even your LIFE), rather than a quick and simple disagreement. Or not even comment, just do it. So, it seems my benign comment really pushed a button. And if you were a friend or someone I was counseling, the quick disagreement without examination to the notion would show up for me like a HUGE red flag. There are a few natural, non-man-made "drugs" in our world, such as cannibis or pysilocibin mushrooms and these have particular natural effects on the mind and body. Wine/beer/liquors/cocaine/ecstacy/etc are man-made atrocities that have been romaticised and legalized and abused over the centuries. Actually, all the "drugs" you list were originally used as religious/tribal sacraments and were treated as such...even wines and liquors. And sadly, people tend to mix their poisons these days all for the sake of "escape/chill/liven up/act wild" and the short-term buzz masks deeper, longer term damage. Primarily in one's actions and opinions and the way we relates to other humans. THAT is what made me so sad in your piece. I hope that readers of the LOVEBLENDER can learn from the writings here, not just be entertained or moved. That is why I thank you for the BITTER RANT piece - not only is it good writing, but it serves to deepen my own resolve (and hopefully that of others) to choose our poisons well and to be more disciplined and focused in how we act... particularly with other humans.

Don't get me wrong, readers. I am not some prude or whatever...I personally think cannibis is far better for MOST people than the depressant alcohol, if you HAVE to engage in messing with your mind and body (moreso than that which the world already does to us all)...although I guess it does give a writer great material to work with. And thankfully, I have arrived at a point in my own life where I need not hit the bars just for tunes. My own soundsystem at home is far better than any bar I've ever been in, so if I need tunes I have all I need here. And at the end of the evening, my clothes aren't filled with nicotene stench and sweat. Bars are for losers, but to party in your home with friends you love...well, that is bliss. And usually leads to better sex, frankly. Sadly, most people begin their search for romance in bars, and many more rely on bars as a last ditch effort to find love. Too bad! How sad!

We live in a society of junkies - just drive by any building on a cold day and watch the shivering nicotene addicts getting their chilly fix! But don't get me started on tobacco!

Love your poetry/prose, Rhet. And thank you to all the Blenderites that help us learn about ROMANCE from others successes and mistakes through powerful writing!


From: Rhetoric
Date: 13 January 2002

Whoa...
Hold up, Mark. I was not challenging your statement. I read your comment and paused...then I chose to offer my own thought. No button of mine was pushed. I do think alcohol, bars, drunken fools, sex, energy, and thoughtless actions equal stupidity and pain for me personally. When I made that statement ("escape/chill/liven up/act wild") I was refering to Bitter Rant, not my life story. I DID agree with you after all, sir. Self-depreciation is a national past-time in this society and I am no different than others. Bars for tunes...I too, have a speaker or two that sound far better than in any bar I have ever been. However, I choose to enjoy live music for many reasons. No CD can recreate the jam of a great live performance.

Please comment and offer your thoughts...the conversation between individuals of like and unlike minds will always enrich my life with thoughtful introspection. Personal choice is an amazing thing. It is good that we all don't agree on everything. Variety is the spice of life, they say - don't they?

Jennifer


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 13 January 2002

Rhet-Jen,

Well, I'm glad we can have this dialogue. I appreciate your comments. Most of what I read on the Blender appears to be a cross between creative writing and personal lamentations, so while I appreciate the BITTER RANT piece as writing, the backdrop simply saddens me because so much of our society lives out of a life shaped by bad barroom behavior and a preponderance of other creative works (while well-intended) which seem to glorify or sanctify the same bad behavior (movies, TV, etc). Comfortably numb. I've never met a drunk that I liked, and I know far too many of them to have anything but a bad opinion of them. And drunken writers sell their souls for clever words, and they usually end up dead too soon. Take Charles Bukowski (please!)...he is referenced here occassionally. Great writer, but a sad drunken bum otherwise (not to mention...DEAD). More of a novelty really, let's go watch the witty drunk babbling onstage for some laughs. Not a good writer to LEARN from, certainly not with respect to how to live. But I digress...

Last time I went to see live music in a club was when I saw Elvis Costello at an intimate outdoor venue in Austin, TX a few years back. I suppose if someone of that level of talent came to my town to perform in a bar, I might go...but the odds of that happening are slim to none. A pure religious experience in a great setting, with little residue from bar scum (smoke, sweat, stupidity)...the exception to the rule. Imagine surrounding yourself with friends that are cool yet that abhor the bar scene, discovering love and romance without taking the low road. That is the source of creativity that I dig. Health yields happiness, creativity trumps destructiveness, good inevitably wins over the bad - the high road always yields a better view than the low road. Think the unthinkable. Do what you believe you cannot do. Might I suggest an ontological approach to your writing? Best thing I EVER did to get a grasp on the ability to communicate was through a cool course called The Forum, as well as through O.C. training I got from a guy named Fernando Flores. Lots of information available on the internet...

http://www.landmarkeducation.com/
http://www.newfieldnetwork.com/

Absence Reveals Presence
Absinthe Reveals Pretense

I Think, therefore I AM
vs.
I Drink, Therefore I AM

I'm done.


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 13 January 2002

~*~B.K.~*~ Get out!! Chuck Berry?!?! You lucky gal!! That must've been one heck of an experience! If you've got any more stories, I'd looove to hear them! And if you leave out the bruised knees and pulled muscles, Footloose is a blast!

~*~TJ Holland~*~ How right you are! The font made it difficult to read. However, I would recommend you download the song, because it's a cute little gem. I would recommend finding the Connie Francis version over Mandy Moore though. The oldies will forever be the goodies.

love always,
Laurel


From: Misti
Date: 13 January 2002

devOn~
I just wanted to thank you for putting my name on your dinner party list. Made me smile. Could be another misti. But I instantly thought it was me, of course.


From: lunaa
Date: 14 January 2002

Hello all!

I have been working on my poetry in the last weeks and the greatest thing happened to me. Last week I opened my mail and found that my poem "fallin" has been selected in a poetry contest for the semi-final! I was so proud as I saw that this message of love was selected under 10.000 other creative works!!!!
I just wanted to say, keep on working!!! We’ll here have a lot of creativity and power!

Thank you to the Blender's who supported me and encourages me to continue writing!


From: lunaa
Date: 14 January 2002

Hello all!

I have been working on my poetry in the last weeks and the greatest thing happened to me. Last week I opened my mail and found that my poem "fallin" has been selected in a poetry contest for the semi-final! I was so proud as I saw that this message of love was selected under 10.000 other creative works!!!!
I just wanted to say, keep on working!!! We’ll here have a lot of creativity and power!

Thank you to the Blender's who supported me and encourages me to continue writing!


From:
Date: 14 January 2002

BK~
Apart Art in Blues is great. Cleverly turned phrases! Wild Eyed Wonder is a very sweet tribute. Don't our older family members get hilarious? Maybe I just never wanted to see the humor before.

kev~
I Love You I,II,and III are wonderful secrets.
the language of us...
very cool metaphor.

jack~
of you swells like a storm of words. Well done as usual.

violet~
thanks, doll. Very glad to see you posting again. We missed you.

Bye Bye, Monday Blenders
Rhetoric Daahling


From: Rhetoric
Date: 14 January 2002

Hey...
how did my name disappear on that last post?

mark...
just a quick thought about an "ontological" (I am assuming you were not referring to cancer) approach to my writing. I am fundamentally juxtaposed to having that "nature of being" outlook. I am wound tighter than a snare drum. My personality feeds off my ability (desire and obsession, maybe) to pick apart the slightest of details. If I were to commune in unity with my surroundings, it would implicate me in a sense of tranquility that I am not sure I could deal with. Some can harness the powers of "chill" at will - I, sadly, operate at a higher frequency. I see the nature of being, for me, as a frenetic and surreal dissection of all that is around me.


Rhetoric


From: KareBear
Date: 14 January 2002

Anyone

I just submitted two poems and they didn't show up on the New Submissions Page. I found them with the link code but the only place I saw them. Can anybody help?

KareBear


From: Ali
Date: 14 January 2002

KareBear~

Hey...I just read your poems...They are there...Maybe try reloading the page...
Love and reason, Ali


From: Jon
Date: 14 January 2002

I'm bored and I can't think of what else to write. So, due to my boredom and maybe a little bit of kindness. I just wanted to wish all of you a pleasant day.

Take care and all that good stuff

-Jon (Sitting in the library of UCLA...almost wishing he had something to study up on.)


From: Echolocation
Date: 14 January 2002

Jon:

Write a 500-word essay on the history of Valentine's Day, then share it with the rest of the class.

There. Now you have something to do.


From: deevaa
Date: 14 January 2002

... this is my last message from New Zealand.

My flight leaves in a few hours, all of my boxes were loaded onto a truck yesterday and have headed off to the ship.

Wish me luck, I need to find a job in the next two weeks!!!!

Take care of your hearts,

dee


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 14 January 2002


Dear Rhetorical One:

www.drexel.net FYI

Love,

Mark

PS - Don't drive in the snow! lololololololol!


From: Rhetoric
Date: 14 January 2002

deevaa - Best Of Luck.
I have seen your webpage - so if that is a good example of your work, I am sure will be in a job shortly. Good Luck with cohabitation.

Wow, I just re-read my post to you, Mark, this morning and it made little sense to me (and made me laugh). What was I thinking? The thought process is true, but my vocab sounds way too structured. Oh, well. Thanks for the reminder about The Drexel. I haven't been to Columbus in a while - I could take a trip this weekend. Do you live Columbus? Maybe we could meet up and terrorize some old ladies!

You are a friendly sort, aren't you? I got a kick out of that Love, Mark signature. If I didn't know better, I would think that you are funnin me, son.

The Rhetorical One


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 14 January 2002

I think I'm gonna be sick...


From: Ali
Date: 14 January 2002

Just Some Girl~

Why are you gonna be sick?
Love and reason, Ali


From: scqueen
Date: 14 January 2002

I just have to say that Dee is one romantic, adventuresome lady... Good luck to you, girl, you're going to have a blast!


From: Violet
Date: 14 January 2002

MichaelT~ Your latest was humorous and sweet. Nicely executed ;-)


From: Misti
Date: 14 January 2002

Jon~
One of my many dreams, filed away under "too much $$$", was to attend film school at UCLA. I can't imagine being bored at UCLA!!!


From: Rhetoric
Date: 14 January 2002

Just a sad FYI...
Those of you into movies: Ted Demme died today of a heart attack. He was playing basketball in a charity game and died shortly after being ambulanced to the hospital. He is probably most famous for directing the movie Blow.

38 years old...how scary is that?

Jennifer


From: Misti
Date: 14 January 2002

Rhet~
That is sad. I was just discussing Demme last night with my husband, coincidentally. We were talking about "Silence of the Lambs," which I hate and my husband loves, and he told me that Demme directed that as well as "Blow." I saw "Blow" for the first time last week and was impressed. It reminded me of "Boogie Nights" but it's sadder 'cause it's based on a true story. I'm very sorry to hear that...


From: Misti
Date: 14 January 2002

P.S. I wasn't sure about Demme directing "Silence of the Lambs" so I just looked on the back of the box. Jonathan Demme directed it. That's what I thought. Bye.


From: scqueen
Date: 14 January 2002

Michael T ~ In the soft light Am I your biggest fan?


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 15 January 2002

And all those years of my childhood spent wondering what was being said in that song...No wonder my parents trashed the ole 45.


From: Jon
Date: 15 January 2002

Echolation:

I would almost consider doing that, if it wasn't for the fact that I have a 3000-word essay due by next week (assigned yesterday!). It's an argumentive essay and I have to find some topic, that I can somehow write for that long, to argue about. Sounds like fun no? :-)

Misti:

If you really wanted to go to UCLA there are about a thousand scholarship programs. You can get a scholarship for pretty much anything these days. As for being bored in UCLA, it's a very tough thing to do, but it is possible. ;-)


From: Madison
Date: 15 January 2002

Jon - had a small party last night and we argued for 3,000 words plus infinity, let's say it was a high energy/laid back debate re: "are we who we are based strictly on genetic predisposition/patterning - versus - life choices, learned behavior, path less traveled, etc." It was incredible to me how many thought it had to be either one way or the other. Echolation, I caught up on reading the subs page and saw that we'd written on the same theme the same day, wanted to make sure you knew I hadn't stolen your 'thunder' - we must have had the same [emotional] storm front pass through the same week?

~ Madi


From: Jon
Date: 15 January 2002

Madi

Funny thing is, I was going to write about what you were arguing about at your small party. Problem is, I think it's a mixture of both and in my essay I have to choose a single side, and I couldn't come up with enough positive and negative pathos and ethos to support myself on that argument. But it is a good one, so, I think I'm just going to give it a try. If I can't get past 2000 words then pray for me. :-)

I really don't have any time for other comments about current works (considering I haven't read that many) but Micheal T's In a soft light was simply sweet. I'll comment on more later, when I have the time and when my fingers heal from typing so much today. :-)

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: TJ Holland
Date: 15 January 2002

Mark McNabb ~ I thought I THINK I'M GONNA BE SICK was pretty slick. (pun intended) Wonder who you were talking to, hmmmm?

-Teej


From: Rhetoric
Date: 15 January 2002

Golly Teej,
I myself was just wondering WHO Mark was getting sick over. I was so pleasured with all his ee cummings posts -then, a deviation (you like that word, don't you Mark) to spewing from a pick-em-up truck.

Why do all the good men have to be so damned bitter?

Mark, Baby...don't be angry with me. I'm not bad - I'm just drawn that way.

Yours in a Night's Passion,
Jennifer


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 15 January 2002

TJ, Rhet, et cet...

That wasn't written to/for you, Rhet. Just an old hillbilly folk song ("Trad." hahahaha ...what a maroon). Not bitter, either. Just words...

:)


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 15 January 2002


Gosh, where do you get all that "bitter" stuff? Pure coincidence that they came one after another...really. And you two (Teej and Rhetoric) are MY two fave writers here. Gee, I kinda hoped that TJ would have dinner with me when I go to SXSW this March in Austin (maybe a little French bistro off 6th Street?). And who knows Rhetorical One, you may very well bump into me at the moobees this weekend.

Can't we all just get along?

MMc


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 15 January 2002


Just cause I write GONNA BE SICK don't make me no prick.

All mine in a night's passion?

You must be a funnin' me too....baby.


From: Rhetoric
Date: 15 January 2002

TJ Holland...You betta watch out. Mark McNabb is coming your way and he sounds HOT! Let me guess...salt and pepper hair, strong build, luscious lips and piercing eyes?

Am I close?

TJ...if I were you, I would take him up on that French Bistro. I am sure going to Columbus this Monday to see if I can catch me some of that McNabb.

Have a good night all
The Ever-Comical Rhetorical One


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 15 January 2002

I'm having a bad case of Deja vu, but the characters were all different...somehow.

Those multiple personality post-ers should mind that they stay in character from one "identity" to the other.


From: B.K.
Date: 15 January 2002

First we have Madi with her dinner party of environment vrs heredity and or free will vrs predestination then what of just plain old luck there? Heavy talk, what did you serve for dinner with it?

Then we have who's doing multi personalitys now? Looks like the major ones have gone and well I gave it up long ago. ha ha. I always like the ones you can never guess. Clever so and so's

Then it's TJ and McNabb sitting in a tree or is it Rhet and McNab out to din din? Or is this a bru ha ha?

Oh Yes Deevaa, congratulations and great luck to you woman!

Kev; Glad to see you back again Love123 hope it goes to the millionth before you are done.

MichaelT; Your poetry gets better with every word you write. More please

dev0n; How are you woman? Hope you are holding on tight and write some more for us.

Rhet; Thanks for the comments. True, you can always get material from family gatherings..ha

Laurel; I got lots of stories, it's been a rollercoaster and it's gonna roll on and on if I have any say..ha.

Write on wonderful blender poets!

bk


From: TJ Holland
Date: 15 January 2002

Mmmm...I'm all for lunch in a French bistro! You'd have to fly me in from Washington state though!

Anyway, I'm confused about all this bru ha ha ha. (what the heck IS that anyway??) All I meant was that Just Some Girl had posted a comment that said "I think I'm gonna be sick." And then Mark McNabb wrote (or submitted) the poem. Figured it was connected. (Just like Some Girl's last comment may be as well.)

Oh, ya, also......I, for one, don't care who has multiple personalities. As I told a new friend recently, I, myself, am a million different people from one day to the next. Feel free to be whom ever you'd like! (FYI: TJ Holland is the ONLY name I use here, if you are wondering)


From: Kirk
Date: 15 January 2002

re: free-will vs nature vs nurture: eh, like in almost any debate of importance, the answer's probably somewhere in the mushy middle. I personally seem to have landed in, over all, a pretty amazingly good spot, in terms of where I am on a global fiscal scale, who I got married to, and with a fair dollop of booksmarts. I can't really answer how much of that is good decisions on my part, good genes, good upbringing, or just being frickin' lucky. Big chunks of each I think.

You know, "linkcodes" are really kind of funny. It didn't occur to me when I was setting up the system, but it's kind of like some wacky prison parody: so, 1210112042, what do *you* think of the warden? oh, he's the best one since we had 098703-23 running the place!

Or something.


From: Misti
Date: 15 January 2002

"starring" at her grave should be "staring" at her grave
two Tylenol PMs later...goin'to bed
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz


From: Madison
Date: 15 January 2002

There was no dinner at the party B.K. - strictly Shiner Bock, Fat Tire, major margaritas, German Chocolate Shots (have to try these things to believe them) and Coffee layered in Baileys, Khalua & chocolate whipped cream with a cherry on top! Must've been the chocolate.


From: B.K.
Date: 16 January 2002

TJ; Bru ha ha is just me funnin ya Darlin. I think it's all cute, cute, cute, beats the heck out of the fights before.

Kirk; You as the warden huh? Humm never looked at it that way, but I guess you are right. You do hold the keys. ha

Madison; Wow, no wonder, sounds just marvy-cool as all get out. German Choc shots? whats in em?

bk


From: TJ Holland
Date: 16 January 2002

Nononononono, B.K. what does Bru ha ha MEAN?? :-)


From: Jon
Date: 16 January 2002

Misti

"Marching" was wonderful. Can't wait to read more.

Ali

"Who Can Tell" was very touching. I loved it.

BK

"Connection" just flowed off my tongue. I love when writers do that, and you do it oh so well.

Violet

"For you, anything." was sooo cute. Everyone in my dorm room loved it, it was so sweet.

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: Ali
Date: 16 January 2002

Jon~

*smile* Thank you...I am glad that you liked it...=)

Love and sweet reminders, Ali


From: Ali
Date: 16 January 2002

Hey Madi~

Did somebody say margaritas? I'll bring the salt! *smile*

Love and sweet reminders, Ali


From: Madison
Date: 16 January 2002

B.K. - German Chocolate shots: 1/2 top shelf vodka. 1/2 Frangelico hazelnut liqueur. Bite down on a sugar-coated wedge of lemon right after the shot (I have to do it in twosies) and the science of it all makes your brain think you've just swallowed hot German Chocolate Cake from your mother's oven. This has failed to insult my soul as to date. (Bring on the lime, Ali)


From: Violet
Date: 16 January 2002

Jon~ Thank you! I was just feelin' silly and in love. It is strange to think about people in a dorm far away reading my silly gushy poems. Ah the wonders of internet! The last one you wrote... I forgot the title, but about gravity... it was wonderful!


From: Rhetoric
Date: 16 January 2002

Jon ~Peanut Butter is SO delicious!

Violet ~ For You, Anything! is darling. You are such a devoted fiancee.

MichaelT ~ In the soft light is fabulous. You are every girl's dreams. The last 6 lines get me.

TJ...
You and me must be drinking the same water these days. Cuz I was thinking it was all related as well!! Some times things just jump out at ya. Chris Lake schooled me to some things the other night in an email - I feel like the drugs are wearing off and I can breathe again.

Rhetoric - full on yummy Sam's Hot Dogs


From: Misti
Date: 16 January 2002

Rhet~
I love your Andy Warhol poem. Does that place really exist? I'll have to go there someday if it does.
Jon~
Thanks! I'll have to think up some new scenes tonight. What's it like, livin' in L.A.? I'm curious. I've just visited L.A. a few times.


From: Misti
Date: 16 January 2002

Rhet~
I love your Andy Warhol poem. Does that place really exist? I'll have to go there someday if it does.
Jon~
Thanks! I'll have to think up some new scenes tonight. What's it like, livin' in L.A.? I'm curious. I've just visited L.A. a few times.


From: Rhetoric
Date: 16 January 2002

Misti...
Marching is looking like a great piece. I can't wait until you are finished.

Yes...Pittsburgh has an Andy Warhol Museum. I was there in Feb of 1997 and "The Balloon Room" is fantastic. The room is blue all over with silver pillow sized mylar balloons floating around ALL over. You can see your reflection in them - it is surreal and oh, so dreamy. I was on a trip with a bunch of girls (Art Students) and my, now current, beau who is a photographer. That trip began the adoration I have for him. I wouldn't trade that day for anything. You and Chris (AND ALL YOU BLENDERS) should try and check it out if you are a Warhol fan. I am not a huge fan, but he does have an interesting collection. Might I suggest "Urine on Acrylic" - yes, he did piss on painted canvas and call it art!

Rhet


From: Violet
Date: 16 January 2002

Rhet~ Your poem My Day At The Andy Warhol Museum was awesome... It's so fun reflecting, isn't it? *sigh* :-)


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 16 January 2002

~*~Jon~*~ Your words always remind me of someone who was very dear to me, and it makes me smile every time!

love always,
Laurel


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 17 January 2002

~*~lunaa~*~ Congratulations!! Just wondering, what organization? I'm going to attend the Poetry.com festival in March to claim a prize of my own if the timing works out, and I'm wondering if perhaps I'll see you there?

love always,
Laurel


From: Jon
Date: 17 January 2002

Misti

I've only been here in LA for the past year, I just started to attend UCLA, but living in LA is kind of like living in a big melting pot. There is just so much to do and so many cultures to experience, it's a great place to be.

Rhet

Thank you for your comments on Peanut Butter, and I have to say I really enjoyed Bitter Rant and your latest one I forgot to the title too.

Laura

Thank you so much for your comments on my work. And if I'm style reminds you of anyone I'm glad it could do so, hoping that it brings up fond memories rather than bad ones. Thank you again.

Well I'm awfully tired, and I'll probably re-read my comments later and think to myself that I should have added more, but right now my brain hurts from studying all day. I swear, I wish they had cliff notes for everything.


From: KareBear
Date: 17 January 2002

Smiling Kat

I just want to ask you if you remember this,

"I'm a blond haired, brown eyed girl."

People aren't who we think they are
just be careful. You fall alot harder then some of us do. I don't want to see you get hurt. There are things that you don't know and that people won't tell you. Ok. I miss you so much, but I am doing fine. I am strong and willing to make things work. Things have never been perfect for me and they won't ever be. I've accepted that now. So now I am just trying to live from day to day, trusting the person that I love. He may hurt me, but he always comes home to me. That is what matters. I haven't been able to transfer my account up here yet so write me at kgodshall@mymail.indstate.edu Ok? I love you, you are my sister.

KareBear
The burnette half!


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 17 January 2002


Blenderites...

Whatever you do, be sure that you see David Lynch's MULHOLLAND DRIVE...I drove three hours to see it (again) in Pittsburgh last night. Sheer brilliance, this is Lynch's masterpiece. The greatest film of the year, easily near the top of my 10 ALL-TIME FAVERS. Superb. Magnifique. Boffo. Lynch's SUNSET BOULEVARD... __________ (fill in your 3 most descriptive adjectives OF praise here). Do NOT wait for the video...

And to Lila, Mook used to think you was a "Marion," but you are every bit a "Betty."


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 17 January 2002

What's with all this movie stuff, McNabb??

To quote everyone's favorite one-nutter, "...this is a POETRY SITE, isn't it?"


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 17 January 2002

I'm not sure I get your comment, so here goes...

The Love Blender is about romance, yes?

AND poetry...No? Poetry, prose, and so much more...

And Lynch's film is SHEER poetry and has everything to do with romance and romanticising one's own demons

To paraphrase another genius, J. G. Ballard...

"The ultimate dystopia is the inside of one's own head."

Highly Recommended 4 Stars Check It Out

...I think that I shall never see, a poem as tragically romantically perfect as MULHOLLAND DRIVE. Thats all...do I not have a right to post my thoughts here too?

MMc


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 17 January 2002


http://www.rebekahdelrio.com/mulholland_drive.htm

ASAP!


From: hollymccormick
Date: 17 January 2002

LAUREL AHFIELD AND LUNNA!!!!!!!!!!!

Please, please you guys listen. Poetry.com and Internation poetry are the same thing, Itis all a BIG scam. Please, please follow this link before you do anything with them.
http://windpub.org/literary.scams/ilp.htm

Holly


From: hollymccormick
Date: 17 January 2002

If that link doesn't work try this one:
http://windpub.org/literary.scams/ripoffs.htm

Holly


From: hollymccormick
Date: 17 January 2002

And if all else fails go to :

windpub.org and click on the "See this information before entering amateur poetry contest" link at the bottom right of the page.

Holly

Sorry Kirk for taking up so much room on these three posts.


From: Madison
Date: 17 January 2002

I'd have to say I'm with you, Holly. I entered online years ago and right after I submitted a friend told me I needed to be very careful where [they] were concerned. I immediately emailed and asked them to remove my poem from the contest. I won anyway (yeah-right), and received a horde of mail anyway . I think everyone who enters probably wins. _Then_ they want you to buy the book. Have you seen the book? The print is miniscule, the more poems they can cram in, the more $$$ they receive.


From: B.K.
Date: 17 January 2002

Yeah, everyone that tells me they have won I have to tell that it's a scam too. Anyone that submits there wins I think, they try to get more money that way. Really scummy thing to do. Never tried it myself.

TJ; A Bru ha ha is something brewing thats funny but usually turns into a word fight or a brawl.

Jon; 'Flesh Wounds,' is well done. Thanks for sharing.

achoo-bk


From: Echolocation
Date: 17 January 2002

Jon -- yes, the "shit fable" is a well-known tale, but still pretty funny! More good stuff you've posted, BTW -- keep it up, I'm enjoying them all :)

Mark -- I too thought Mulholland was incredibly fascinating. Have you read any Jorge Luis Borges? He was a writer of highly original and imaginative short stories in the 40s and 50s. In particular, he has a story called "A Survey of the Works of Herbert Quain" (there is no Quain, it's all Borges) wherein he reviews one of "Quain"'s works which sounds just like MD. It's in a collection called _The Garden of Forking Paths_, which you would probably also enjoy. Very unusual.

Also, for those of you who are classic sci-fi AND poetry fans, I just found out that Lord Dunsany and Havelock Ellis both wrote poetry as well. Go figure.


From: Echolocation
Date: 17 January 2002

Whoops. Was thinking of Harlan Ellison, NOT Havelock Ellis. Havelock Ellis was in fact a gay British sex researcher. My bad...


From: deevaa
Date: 18 January 2002

deevaa's coming to you live from Australia!

.. and things are going pretty damn well, I haven't found a job yet, but I've got some interviews!!

All is happy and filled with love.

My computer is 6-8 weeks from here on a boat, so I don't have access to my address book or anything, so if you wanna email me, do it....

SCQueen, Gala, BK, Kev... get to it... and Gala, can you either mail me Ken's addy or ask him to mail me... I want my iMac back!!!!

Take care of your hearts,

dee


From: TJ Holland
Date: 18 January 2002

Gala! HEY GAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!! Where aaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrre yoooouuuuuuuuuuuu???

-Teej

Oh, Rhet darling, is it Rhetorical One or is it Rhetoric Alone or both? I've ALWAYS wondered.


From: B.K.
Date: 18 January 2002

Notice that all the bru ha ha from the 17th disappeared? Guess Kirk has to sort thru it first huh?

Gup; Stick around and write more often Darlin, we miss you and that last one 'styx and why the river flows,' is just incredible.

deevaa; It makes me smile brightly to know what an adventure you and TJ are on. The job will come, they won't be able to resist your charm.

bk


From: hollymccormick
Date: 18 January 2002

Kirk,

I had posted some warnings on here yesterday for Laurel about Poetry.com being a scam. They were some links that she could follow before she got suckered. Do you still have that somewhere or do I need to look them back up and repost them?

Holly


From: B.K.
Date: 18 January 2002

deevaa; TK, NOT TJ, BK ha, thats what I get for trying to post at 5am on my day off when I should be sound asleep. ha

bk


From: Misti
Date: 18 January 2002

seven hours...from stars to sunrise


From: Misti
Date: 18 January 2002

oops! that last post was submitted to the wrong place!


From: Kirk, blender-keeper
Date: 18 January 2002

Sigh, everything always happens all at once.

They updated the OS for the server, and that's changed how the quota is measured (I think there's now a larger minimum # of disk sectors taken even by a small file, and this site uses a lot of small files) Last night I did go to remove some inappropriate comments made, but it had the side effect of at least temporarily removing the days comments (as well as locking people from making new ones that day) I'll see if I can retrieve the day's work, esp. w/ the scam warning.


From: hollymccormick
Date: 18 January 2002

Thank's Kirk!!

Holly


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 18 January 2002

Randy:

I thoroughly enjoyed "Whispered." It was purdy!!!


From: Violet
Date: 18 January 2002

Misti~ I love your screenplay so far... I am always anxiously awaiting the next scene. :-)


From: Jon
Date: 18 January 2002

Echolation

I knew I heard that somewhere before, and I just re-read it somewhere and, yes, it is pretty funny. You may enjoy my works, but I really enjoy yours, and I would love to see more from you, so...start writing please. ;)

Misti

I loved the latest part to your play. Heh it was funny and very well written. Thank you, write more please.

Randy

I really enjoyed Whispers. Excellent.

BK

Your latest was sensual as always. ;)

Holly

I forgot the name, but I think its When You Are With Me Something Something, heh, but I really enjoyed it.

Anyway I'm off to class!

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 18 January 2002

~*~several persons(Holly, B.K., Madison, etc.)~*~
Thank you mucho for looking out for me! B.K., I agree, posting here does make one feel more successful than titles. I did do some research. My counselors said do it for the title, and that it'd look good on job applications, and blah blah blah. My bank account didn't agree with that though, and you guys' comments have helped a lot. Thanks again! Wish there was more time to spend here, but I have a 5 page character report due at 10:00 tomorrow morning. Wheee! All for the love of the art, I suppose!

Love always,
(and happy snowfalls for some)
Laurel

Ps. ~*~B.K.~*~ What do you recomend for sore leg muscles that won't go away with hot baths, Icey Hot, or Tylenol?


From: Misti
Date: 19 January 2002

Violet and Jon~
Thanks! I'm enjoying writing the scenes. It'll be fun seeing where this winds up...


From: B.K.
Date: 19 January 2002

Laurel; Bless your heart woman, elavate your legs either at the knees or at your feet so they are higher or as high as your head when you lay down. Prop em up with a pillow or two that always worked for me. Not too sure about the drugs tylenol would be about all I could take I think. Lots of water or maybe gatorade or some kind of sports drink to keep your water and salts going. I just woke up (its 2am) and have the head cold from hell..ha. My dogs want to go out and rampage the neighborhood at 2am and make me more dog popular than I already am and my head feels like its about to explode ha ha. I woke up with the great Durante thats (Jimmy) singing make someone happy, make just someone happy and you will be happy too, playing over and over in my head.(From the old Sleepless in Seatle CD HA) I have a friend that I am worried about that just lost a major job and I can't get him to talk to me. It's nuts if you let it be..ha ha. Just take it one thing at a time and take care of your legs first. The rest will come ha maybe in dreams..ha ha Good Luck with the paper! Go for anything you can get on a resume..ha and young lady most of all go for the grades and making yourself happy too. (Back to bed with me, NITE)

Love,
BK


From: MichaelT()
Date: 19 January 2002

Misti ~ I love your scenes..They're good.

Michael T (catching up)


From: Misti
Date: 19 January 2002

Thanks, Michael. I was wonderin' what you thought about them. I value your opinion.
Courtney~
backstab is briLLiant!


From: sweetness
Date: 19 January 2002

B.K. His Kisses must be absolutely amazing to inspire such an evocative poem!

Courtney....I've been away from the Blender for a couple of weeks, but made sure to read all of your recent posts first....you have such an amazing voice. [[2002.01.19.17.57.4727] is so simple, compact with an impact, the way poetry is meant to be. I take my hat off to you!

SO many good works...I plan to spend a good couple hours cathing up on the posts, and maybe getting my inspiration back!


From: sweetness
Date: 19 January 2002

Oh crud, the link code is for Courtney's "Severed"...must've copied it wrong!


From: courtney
Date: 19 January 2002

Sweetness~Jake almost made me cry! Wow. Thats all I can say. WOW. I too, feel like I've hit a dry spell. Everything I write seems crappy to me. I guess theres too much going on in my head to connect to my fingers


From: B.K.
Date: 20 January 2002

Sweetness and Courtney; Both of your works this day are just excellent. Thanks for sharing them. Keep em coming please.

Jon; You make me laugh with your 'Good Morning' With this cold lately I was thinking if someone showed up here it would look like someone died here..ha ha

TJ; Cohens words are excellent as usual, he's just too sad for me at times.

LoVeLoRnGrRl; First with stupid cupid and now When I see you smile. Both fun writings with a twist.

I have been reading old poems written in 2000 and 2001 by me. I am going to be posting some old favorites for him again. Like How to Woo A Rocket Scientist for one. ha I'll try to remember to put repost on them.

back to bed BK

bk


From: scqueen
Date: 20 January 2002

Kev ~ Loved private reserve!!

...and Jon? The first rule in THE RULE BOOK is to never, ever surprise a woman in the morning! We just can't 'wash and go' like men :-)


From: Jon
Date: 20 January 2002

BK

I'm sure you look as beautiful as your poetry. And yes reposting some of your old works is a good idea. Espcially How To Woo A Rocket Scientist. I love that one.

squeen

I always knew about that rule, but I always thought it was exagerrated or wasn't true. How wrong I was. ;-)


From: Violet
Date: 20 January 2002

Chris~ I really liked cougars. :-)


From: Jon
Date: 20 January 2002

Courtney

innocence was truly touching. Almost made me want to cry. :-)

Jackrhyme

I digged Dared too?. That was goooooood.

-Jon (Catching up on recent works I'll have more comments later)


From: distant moon
Date: 21 January 2002

Jon: Ignorance Is Truly Bliss was really true. I've felt that way from time to time, but then I realize that I couldn't really let myself get to a point of "not feeling" because I'd go insane. But either way, it's an awesome poem.

chris: cougars was great...loved it.

Ali, sweetheart: Just Like Me was beautiful and I really need to talk to you...things are weird right now and you're not online :-(


From: jackryhme
Date: 21 January 2002

lol thanks Jon... heh, i think you might be one of very few but heck i keep plodding along anyways.
thanks for reading and enjoying
jack


From: MichaelT()
Date: 21 January 2002

Violet ~ For You, Anything! - > He'll be a lucky guy.

bk ~ Pagan Offerings . You're a witchy woman aren't ya? In a good way.

Rhet ~ I liked Winter Love. Who was Robyn Hitchcock?

scqueen ~ yes, you're my biggest fan. :D Thanks for keeping my ego inflated. :-)

kevin ~ private reserve and particle physics . Thanks. I hope she's reading/hearing.

TJ ~ I like Hallelujah and Burning Bridges I don't understand either of them but I like them somehow.

guppy ~ styx and why the river flows Nice to see you back.


From: Ali
Date: 21 January 2002

Distant Moon~

*smile* Thank you! I'm sorry that things are weird...Write me an email if we don't get to talk...OK? (((HUGS)))

Love and silent winters, Ali


From: Violet
Date: 21 January 2002

MichaelT~ thank you! ;-)

and hey, BK! I really liked your latest! Very nicely written. :-)


From: Violet
Date: 21 January 2002

Misti~ I was wondering if you knew of any way I could find out about auditions in my area via a website or something?? I know you write screenplays and didn't know if you had any info... I am chasing the notion of "making it big" and was wondering if you (or anyone else on here) knows how I could get to some auditions/open mic nights or anything along those lines... if not, thank you kindly for reading my psycho babble. (I know I sound pathetic and weird) :-) thanks ~*Violet*~


From: Misti
Date: 21 January 2002

Violet~
When I lived in Austin I got the free arts rag every week...the Chronicle. I scanned the back pages for casting calls and such. I got up early one morning to go on an audition. Bought donuts and everything. But I couldn't find the damn place. I'm sure you have a better sense of direction than I do, so you'll do fine.;-)
Every city has one, I think. I know Houston and San Antonio have weeklies. You can usually find them in record stores.
Then there's community theatre. And college campuses and coffe houses are where you'll find slams. I'm itchin' to get back into all of that stuff again when I move to Albuquerque. The Internet can only take you so far. There's definitely a vital component missing. Have fun! Take lotsa risks. Oh, and watch "American Movie" and go to Mark's website. He's at http://www.americanmovie.com.


From: Violet
Date: 21 January 2002

Misti~ thank's :-)


From: Echolocation
Date: 21 January 2002

I've been remiss in commenting, trying to catch up tonight...

Jon -- Ignorance Is Truly Bliss is lovely. Not too long ago (last month?) someone posted a quote from... Ezra Pound, I think? on a similar theme, about poets having more pain that most other people but being able to transmute it into beauty.

Tanq -- where are you?! I'm missing my weekly dose of your work!!

TJ -- Hallelujah -- well, thanks, now I have to go find this :)

Mark -- THE LOVE PROBLEM -- excellent! And you like cummings, too, wow. What good taste you have!

Isabella -- Funny, you must have left that part out... -- VERY funny, and since I was there I can vouch for the accuracy of the characterization!!

Just Some Girl -- Duty -- I missed this one somehow until just today. Sarah Teasdale is amazing, isn't she?

Rhet -- Time does not bring relief; you all have lied -- Millay is another classic that never grows old or stale, this has always been one of my favorites

Kevin -- I love I, II, and III -- great triptych!


From: Du'Doll
Date: 22 January 2002

Hey everybody,

Well it is my time to leave the Blender. I can't say how much this place has meant to me. I have made it through alot of hard times because I could come here and write it all down. Now I have to make a new way. Thank you so much for letting me come here and vent. This place is like a group of strangers that just happen to the the darkest and most personal secrets of on another. Don't ever change, don't ever let someone tell you that you aren't good writers, don't ever let people shut you up, don't ever stop writing!!!!!! I guess all good things end or at least change. It is my turn. I need to grow up, I need to change. Thank you all for just being you.

Peace and love,
KareBear
and
Du'Doll


From: violet
Date: 22 January 2002

No offense to Du'Doll... your poetry will be missed.... but why do people always refer to the blender as a phase, or something to grow out of? There are all different ages of people here... all different reasons for posting... I just don't see poetry sharing as an immature pastime. It's just always irked me when people post that they are leaving the blender because they've "grown out of it" what does that mean?? *sigh* I hope this site is here until I am a 94 year old woman.


From: Jon
Date: 22 January 2002

distant moon

Glad you enjoyed my poem. Yeah, I tried to "not feel" either but I ended up just feeling...nothing. I guess that's what you get for trying to not feel anything, and well, it sucked simply put. But anyway, thanks for enjoying the poem.

Echolation

Yes sometimes I wonder as well if I had never written poetry would I still be the same emotional mess that I am sometimes inside? I guess I'll never know. Anywho, thanks for liking the poem...I really don't know where it came from, but I had just had to write it down.

Violet

Yes, I too hope that this site stays around until I am a 96 year old woman as well. ;-)


From: B.K.
Date: 22 January 2002

Hells Bells, I am a 96 year old woman, but not for another ninety years. HA HA! There is no age here, it's timeless and I think writing is ssssoooooooooooo healthy and you don't have to take a pill or let someone else tell you anything. FREEDOM to BE YOU AND For Me to be ME! YES YES YES!! Sorry I got carried away there. I too love this place and will probably be still writing here when I am 96. No offense to anyone who feels the need to move on.

E-gads I thought I was dying with this latest sore throat and ear ache. Havent had one of those in so long I forgot how painful they were. Boy was I spoiled, anyway, I promise to make some comments later today and get back to the boards now that I am not in my bed writing my death poems ha hahaha. Later you all

BK


From: Ali
Date: 22 January 2002

Twinkle~

smogged out stars . . . was excellent...I know how you feel, I've been there myself...*smile* Great writing...
Thank you for posting it...=)

Love and quiet faith, Ali


From: Ali
Date: 22 January 2002

BK~

That was a book I had when I was little..."Free to Be You and Me"...It's still on my bookself...I love it...*smile*

Love and quiet faith, Ali

....Off to get more coffee....


From: Du'Doll
Date: 22 January 2002

I am leaveing because my poetry hurts the one man I love. I have let this cite take higher place in my life then him. I wrote poetry instead of talking to him and expressing to him how I felt. I will be back, but right now there is someone else that uses this page. And it hurts me to read what she writes. So for now I can't write here anymore, because it hurts too many people. Writing isn't a phase it is a part of life. A part that will never die. Wether you write in you notebook, on a napkin, on your hand, or only in your head. You can't ever stop, writing is breathing.

Du'Doll


From: TJ Holland
Date: 22 January 2002

MichaelT()~ Thank you. I don't completely understand all of my stuff either. Ha!


From: Misti
Date: 22 January 2002

twinkle~
*Smogged out Stars* is some seriously sensational writin'! Lots of good lines in that one.
Du'Doll~
So true. Writing is essential for some of us. We'll always write, god help us. Take care and I hope things work out for you.


From: twinkle
Date: 22 January 2002

Misti and Ali -

Thanks for your kind comments. It is good to be writing again =).


From: Violet
Date: 22 January 2002

Michael~ Your latest, "everybody's everything" was great! I loved the words...they read like song lyrics and I automatically wanted to sing them. Very cool. ;-)


From: Ali
Date: 22 January 2002

Savannah~

Your latest poem made me cry...It was beautiful...And I am at a loss for adequate words...

Love and charming faith, Ali


From: Jon
Date: 23 January 2002

Micheal T

Everybody's everything was amazing. As Violet pointed out it read like a song, it just flowed off my tongue and it just hit the "spot". Another one of your pieces that I absolutely love is "Heather" and "She's Short".


From: the guppy
Date: 23 January 2002

Michael(...)- were you inspired by Santana's Everybody's Everything lyrics? That's one of my fav songs by him.


From: MichaelT()
Date: 23 January 2002

Guppy ~ I guess you could say I was inspired by that carlos santana song. Two layers of indirection. Pointer to a pointer. See, I was actually feeling like this guy felt in a piece called "flap and purge" (25 September 2000). Some regular here inspired me. I had a nice girl bothering me and I'm stuck on someone else and not looking for anything at the moment and did the pushing her away thing.

That and I have had both a friend and another friend's girlfriend call me and try to get me involved in the details of their relationships and I just don't want to know. So I took my own twist on the same feeling.

Anyway, I think it's hilarious, because the phrase you said a year and a half ago on the board stuck with me and came out in one of mine over a year later without me thinking about it...."but her hips are swaying slowly to the latin rhythm....popularized by carlos santana in the 60's..70's..80's..90's..00's..so i tell her i'm everybody's everything..she doesn't catch on.."

In other words, I didn't know it when I wrote it, but that was a bump to "flap and purge". With my own twist.

btw, I checked out the song. It's good! :-P

MichaelT (happily surprised)


From: kevin urenda
Date: 23 January 2002

scqueen (HI!), Michael, Echolocation-

Many thanks for your kind words. Life has been very hectic of late... So any kindness takes on greater significance.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 23 January 2002

You know, when I read the latest "Survey Question" (above) I can't help but envision the character Will Ferrell does on SNL...the bearded paunchy winesoaked college professor guy with his lady..his "LaaayDEE." And they keep going on about each other as "my Lover this and my Luhhhvahh that." And there is usually another couple in the scene, looking uncomfortably funny. "How many different ways do you pleasure your LU-VAH, Mister MacNab? Tell him dear how many years we've BEEEN 'lovvahs'." And I realize that I simply don't use the term "Lover" or "my Luvah," lots of other generally appropriately romantic ones...just not that one. Interesting. Good questions up 'til now. I would have thought the survey question might have been better termed, framed or focused something akin to "How long have you been connected with your LOVE THING on the phone, and more importantly, what was accomplished?" Not to be critical or anything. By the way, have I mentioned that David Lynch's MULHOLLAND DRIVE is perhaps the most stunningly beautiful film of the new millenium? Definetly a film for romantics, lovers of Hollyweird, and Well, if I haven't...


From: hollymccormick
Date: 23 January 2002

Savannah - Waiting Room was really terrific!! I too teared up when I read it. Glad everyhting turned out o.k.

Holly


From: Ali
Date: 23 January 2002

Guppy~

solid confused and how dare they snorewere wonderful...how dare they snore's imagery was very good...Excellent writing...*smile*

TJ~
Still Waterswas so amazing...A masterpiece, indeed...He is a lucky guy...*smile* Beautiful writing...=)

Love and charming faith, Ali


From: Ali
Date: 23 January 2002

Kendral143~

In a Stitch was very good...It reminded me of how I feel...I've been there, and my heart couldn't take the joke, either...*smile* Excellent writing...Keep posting...

Love and charming faith, Ali


From: Kendra143
Date: 23 January 2002

Ali -

Thanks for the comment...the whole poem was just something I had been turning around in my head for awhile. It's actually more like two years now, but that's how I felt about the situation back then...now it hurts less, and makes for excellent emotional fodder...


From: Violet
Date: 23 January 2002

Kendra143~ I like your style. ;-)


From: Kendra143
Date: 23 January 2002

Violet -

Thanks, I like yours too! In fact, I have a confession...I think I have read almost every poem written on the site, all in the past 2 months....I started reading the front page picks, and then when I'd read a work I liked, ie. your "breathing room", and then I'd click on the submitter's name & read everything they'd done to date....Jon, TJ_Holland, the guppy, Rhetoric, Ali, scqueen, sinneD, Michael_T(), Misti...just about everyone....and there's a lot of talent here, so I thought I might start adding fuel to the fire...


From: Violet
Date: 23 January 2002

Kendra~ Thank you! And welcome! I can see that you will be a great addition. :-)


From: Kendra143
Date: 23 January 2002

The fact that I misspelled some of your names in my last post doesn't make my claim any less true :)

kevin urenda, Mark McNabb, B.K., Just Some Girl, Echolocation - I've read you too......it would take me days to tell everybody the different works I love, but something from each of you has touched a sore spot, thereby inspiring me in the best way possible!


From: scqueen
Date: 23 January 2002

Kendra143 ~ Glad you enjoyed reading mine, I need to get back to it. Haven't bee inspired in awhile.

Kev ~ A big hug to you!

Guppy ~ One day, I want you to post some really bad writing just to prove that you're normal :-)

Oh no! Michael T's getting other fans...

and BK? Feeling better yet? Hope so.


From: scqueen
Date: 23 January 2002

Haven't 'bee' inspired? That's kind of silly but you know what I meant.


From: TJ Holland
Date: 23 January 2002

Kendra ~ I'm looking forward to all your posts. And I'm flattered that you've spent time perusing mine! Thank you. And welcome!


From: MichaelT()
Date: 23 January 2002

scqueen ~ that's ok. You'll always be a special fan. <wink>
Now post something so I can be a fanboy in return! :-P


From: Kendra143
Date: 23 January 2002

Hmmm....every=ever in 'Number Two'...


From: Misti
Date: 24 January 2002

I'm gonna stop submittin' stuff under the influence of Tylenol P.M.
wich should be WHICH
goodnight


From: BlueDenim
Date: 24 January 2002

I know this comment is a bit late, but Kevin, you're "I Love You" series was beautiful, as well as "no more dodging" and "private reserve". But then again, I love everything you write.
~Bob


From: Misti
Date: 24 January 2002

Jon~
*Experience* is beautiful. I love the "four degrees" of love theory. My ex-boyfriend was always telling me that he loved me but wasn't IN love with me. That really sucked...


From: Misti
Date: 24 January 2002

Michael (hit the nail on the head)~
You don't know how right you are. This morning I dreamed that I found a gorgeous pair of silver Nikes and I had enough money to buy them. It was SUBLIME. Then I woke up. I don't think I've ever had a pair of Nikes.
...I'm allergic to horses but the analogy is true enough. Your ending was strong. Muy bueno.


From: hollymccormick
Date: 24 January 2002

Well, here are my latest comments about the wonderful work I see on here everdya. Sorry I haven't been around much (going through a bit of a dry spell.....) but anyway,
Jon - Why? Was very sweet, I really liked it (and it kinda made me think about my son, always asking why to everything)

Michael T - What does a woman want? I think you came pretty damn close to hitting the nail on the head. Really enjoyed reading this. Brought more than a few smiles to my face.

Sweetness - Hurricane. If you find a man to write this to you hold on for dear life. This was wonderful! I really, really liked it. If only....

There were so many more than I loved but time is short... keep up the great work EVERYONE!!!

Holly


From: Kendra143
Date: 24 January 2002

dragonfleyes ~~

I really loved "faded"...made me very sad and wistful. I like the idea of 'remembering' the independant you, and 'quiet strength' is a very fitting term...


From: courtney
Date: 24 January 2002

Sweetness~I loved Hurricane. Damn, I wish somebody would write something even close to that about me! Hmmm...closest I came was a poem about my curly hair by a 5 yr old. oh well, he was still a male :)


From: sweetness
Date: 24 January 2002

Courtney and Hollymccormick, thanks so much for the comments...it means a lot coming from the two of you! Courtney...my son once wrote a poem about my hair, which is hung in my office at work....I guess I had gone a little too long between touch ups on my hair color, because he wrote a lovely Mother's Day poem about how his mom has "black and yellow hair". I bet your curly hair poem wsa sweet! Kids see things in the most amazing ways....


From: Misti
Date: 24 January 2002

Ha! I didn't mean to submit that last piece as "yumyumyum." That was my password. So now I'll have to think up a new one. Buh bye.


From: courtney
Date: 25 January 2002

HAHAHA! Sweetness, that is funny as hell. I love kids. They are something else. I am in a funk.I can't write all thats coming out is 5th grade poetry. Im in a jam


From: kevin urenda
Date: 25 January 2002

thank you everyone for your kind words... right now I could really really use them. My heart is black and blue right now.

The last question from the original list is up (of the ones we'll ask)... If there is a question you would like to see posed to the group at large, E-mail me!


From: Misti
Date: 25 January 2002

when he tickles my butt


From: Misti
Date: 25 January 2002

I meant to submit "when he tickles my butt" to the survey.
sorry for the confusion.


From: kevin urenda
Date: 25 January 2002

:-)

@ Misti...


From: scqueen
Date: 25 January 2002

Butt tickles are the best


From: Kirk
Date: 26 January 2002

"Tickle your ass with a feather?"
"What did you just say??"
"I said 'how about this weather'."

Movin' day for Me -n- Mo... hopefully the last one for a number of years.


From: Jon
Date: 26 January 2002

Misti

I'm glad you liked "Experience" that means a lot coming from you.

Holly

Why? was actually inspired by my nephew who was constantly asking me "why" to anything and everything I said.

Kirk

So you're moving eh? I have about three friends that are moving out of their place this week (ah the joys of college) and guess who has to help them? Heh, I guess that's what's good about friends...you help them move and they have to do the same for you one day.

Kendra

I enjoyed a few of your poems as well. Nice to see you posting. :-)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 26 January 2002

Kirk, Kendra, remember......

A friend will help you move.
A really good friend will help you move a body.


From: B.K.
Date: 26 January 2002

Don't say that too loudly TJ, the FBI looks in on us regularly..ha ha ha By the way how many bodies did you say you have moved lately..ha

You guys between moving bodies and butt tickling you tickle me. I want to know why guys can't keep their hands off womens butts in public places. Is it some great joy to make us jump or embarass us to death. Or is it that we can't go around sniffing each others bums (tho they did the other night in Ali McBeal) so the goose and the pat and tickle took its place...anybody got any idea?

Doing a hit and run, on my way to go play sequence. Later guys

bk


From: Misti
Date: 26 January 2002

What can I say, nothin' says lovin' like a butt tickle and a twisted fairy tale. It's a ritual at night...Chris gives me "tickle" and tells me fairy tales with a spin on 'em. He tries to teach me morals with his stories but other than that I enjoy them.

We're movin' out on February 28th. Look out, Albuquerque. I'm crossin' off the days on my Elvis calendar.

I am feeling very bitter and ugly right now. Just got a bad haircut. I look like that guy who sings "Missing You." That video where he goes,"I ain't missin' you at all!" in a rebellious way. And then he's laying there on the bed listening to his headphones and his model ex-girlfriend knocks but he doesn't hear her so he misses out.

I am not sexy!!! But Chris thinks I am so that's cool.


From: TJ Holland
Date: 26 January 2002

B.K. ~ I have really, really GREAT friends. So, I don't have to move the bodies. The FBI knows all about that already.

Misti ~ On feeling ugly... (and I was told you are soooo NOT ugly) A few years ago I was working for a Naturopathic doctor. I was a single mom, working my butt off, and trying to stay fit and attractive. I asked him what would make my post-pregnancy stretchmarks dissapear, to which he replied simply, "Love."


From: sweetness
Date: 27 January 2002

TJ....the words from your doctor are almost poetic in themselves....and it gave me a warm rush reading them. I do know from experience that if someone loves you, those little imperfections (stretch marks, a bad haircut) become cute and sweet to them. Lets all embrace our imperfections, and hold out for lovers who can embrace them, too!


From: Kendra143
Date: 27 January 2002

Jon ~~

Thanks! I really liked "Give Up On You" (though I hope you don't).

TJ ~~

I think your doctor was right...I can't seem to find the ones on my thigh lately, though they seemed 10 inches wide after my last heartbreak. Hopefully they've disappeared forever!


From: Kendra143
Date: 27 January 2002

*ahem* "Giving Up On You"

(swearing to reread everything before clicking submit)


From: MichaelT()
Date: 27 January 2002

Jon ~ I've been enjoying your work. I know how you feel man. Too well. Don't be so down on yourself though. "Experience" is really good.

TJ ~ "Mistaken" = wonderful.


From: Misti
Date: 27 January 2002

Thanks, Teej.:-) Now I'm wondering who told you I'm not ugly...ha!
This morning Chris jokingly told me that he feels like he's my "first." Like I'm a woman who has recently denounced her homosexuality or whatever. He compared me to Camille Paglia and Ani DiFranco. Chris refuses to come to terms with my "Southern" beauty misconceptions. Like not going out without my makeup on and feeling like my hair has to be long and straight in order for me to be sexy. Love is a luscious thing, that's for sure.


From: MichaelT()
Date: 27 January 2002

TJ ~ I've seen the pictures. Misti is pretty. But she'll never believe it. It's ok though, it's just the typical woman thing. "I'm fat". "You're not fat. You look just as good as the first time I saw you." ...etc...Just fishing for attention and compliments. :-) Seems like women need a steady diet of air, food, water, and compliments. And she prolly grew up thinking she had to be pale, blonde, blue eyed, busty, vacuous, and barbie girl, sugar-free bubble gum dumb. That's the ideal southern belle. She's not the "ideal".


From: scqueen
Date: 27 January 2002

Uh, I am so staying out of this one, hence the name "sc-queen"...


From: Violet
Date: 27 January 2002

Jon~ I think it is hard to be yourself... regardless of gender. But I think that those who disregard the stuffy expectations of society are the ones that are truly happy.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 27 January 2002

...and ALONE. As "stuffy" as society's expectations may be, Jon, NEVER disregard them. Strive to be yourself, but don't be so cavalier as to presuppose that "society" is wrong or "stuffy" or whatever. Your only true strength (and happiness) will come when you allow this so-called "society" to have it's expectations...and be yourself in spite of them. Actually, I'm not entirely hip to the whole issue, just happened to see these latest postings and felt the need to contribute. Blaming society (so-called) for having expectations is false wisdom...the easy way. Actually, it is virtually impossible to say that "society" has "expectations." Rather, PEOPLE (likely, very specific ones) have standards and expectations, but it is far too easy to just operate like you have a chip on your shoulder regarding this whole "society" notion. So, just be yourself AND embrace what the world (and people around you) NEEDS you to be. People live far too much in their heads and not nearly enough out in the world taking risks at every opportunity...particularly writers.


From: TJ Holland
Date: 27 January 2002

Ya, it's hard to just be comfortable as yourself sometimes. I've learned a lesson or two about true beauty in my 32 years on Earth.

I remember being on the beach and wishing I was a long, tall, cool drink of water. I'm not, I'm 5'4" , dark haired/eyed, and I've been called lusciously sensual...never model poised and svelte. But there was this girl who was built just like me. Had dark hair like me too. She was playing volleyball wearing a pair of cut off jeans and a bikini top. She was very sexy. And she was not at all conscious about not being Twiggy. She had the eyes of many admirers trained on her. She knew she was attractive in her own right.

Then I saw a girl near the water, sitting on a towel. She WAS tall and svelte. She had a body anyone would have felt lucky to posses. But she was SO self conscious! She wanted to lie down on her towel and sun bathe but she was trying to figure out a way to lie down before removing the towel she was wrapped in, so that no one would see the (invisible) rolls of fat (or whatever she thought was there) as she layed down. It was painful to watch. And I found myself inspecting her body, trying to see what it was that she was so ashamed of.

I learned a good lesson that day. And I have seen the premise work in my life time after time. When I know I look good and am confident with who I am, I exude attractiveness. Everyone is forced to accept me the way I accept me. When I think I look like crap, my countenance reflects that and I APPEAR less attractive.

(Wish I could ALWAYS remember that lesson!)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 27 January 2002

Mark McNabb ~ To you I say HUZZAH! I've admired your works and now I enjoy the luxury of admiring your thoughts as expressed here. Your last two posts by various wise individuals, ADVICE TO AN ARTIST DESPERATENESS OF LOSING and DESIRES AND ASPIRATIONS are all exceptionally profound and appropriate. Thank you.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 27 January 2002


Thank you, TJ...your words always rock MY world.


From: Violet
Date: 27 January 2002

I just want to clarify my comment a little... I think it is important to be yourself... and not worry so much about what "society" or "specific people" want you to be. The people who really care about you will want you to be as you are, regardless of what the norm is. I simply meant that following peoples' ideas... when it's okay to cry, how strong a man should be, how feminist a woman should be... isn't all it's cracked up to be. The people you care about should, of course, be taken into consideration (I am not saying anyone should disregard their loved ones) but ultimately, live for yourself.
Mark, I think you have some good thoughts, and generally I agree with you, but I think you jumped to conclusions about me and my "writer-like" opinions. I don't want to start World War 7 on the blender board, but I don't feel my comments signify a chip on my shoulder. How fulfilling is a life of living up to what you're "supposed" to be?


From: B.K.
Date: 27 January 2002

Uh Oh, Full Moon Time Again..ha

bk


From: Echolocation
Date: 28 January 2002

Perhaps the point is that there's very little difference in going through life flouting all society's opinions/values/what-have-you, and going through life slavishly devoted to them. In both instances, it's an unhealthy attention being paid to the opinions of others, and either way you're defining yourself in terms of society instead of in terms of your own spirit. Remember the 60's? For some people, _everything_ "Establishment" was verboten, even the good stuff like being gainfully employed!

I believe that the best one can do is to try not to define oneself in terms of society's pre-existing expectations AT ALL, neither by being a rebel who denies them at every turn nor by being a mindless lemming. Recognize what societal conventions have to offer, take the good, leave the bad, and add it to the mix as you form your own character.


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 28 January 2002

~*~B.K.~*~ Thanks for the advice about taking care of sore muscles about a week back! It really helped. I look like such a mess with heat pads, icey hot, elevated legs and a couple bottles of advil next to me. Ha! How goes life?? I've been enjoying all of your recent works! You inspire me so! And the dogs?? I've got a new one coming to live with me. I already have three. Peanut and Buster showed up at my doorstep around the same time probably seven years ago. I was hoping a small female would come along next so I could name her Parfait and have a cute joke. Unfortunately a big, stupid, male, yellow lab named Wickit was my next arrival. But fortune has finally smiled down in the strangest of ways. My mother is a vet and found a tiny female dog a few weeks ago with a pole rammed nearly through her. She's healing nicely and is scheduled to come to live with me in three days. Peanut Buster Parfait is finally complete(with a little Wickit on the side).

~*~Violet~*~ Your words are very wise! Like you, my feelings are that the only person you'll have in the end, no matter what, is yourself. And while it's important to value your loved ones and establish give and take with them, putting yourself out shouldn't be an option. Society is imaginary and mirage-like to me. I know that sounds ridiculous, but I'll explain. What is real or right to me may not be to someone else, say Mark for instance. He believes in society because he wants to. He's comfortable with looking at humans as a group. I, on the other hand, prefer to examine each person that comes into my life on an individual basis. "Society" is just a shortcut to summing up a set of beliefs that have been shoe-horned into our heads as "common." These beliefs aren't true to me and therefore will never be real to me either. You needn't defend your thoughts, because they are real and true to you. You've got a good grip on things. And to repeat your own advice, who cares what others think?


From: Echolocation
Date: 28 January 2002

So much for the opinion portion of our show. Now for the comments...

Jon -- It's Hard Being A Man -- beautiful! The Economist (British magazine) had an article last month on "The Downsized Male" which said some of these things (though less lyrically!), and bemoaning that men are forced now to be "all things to all people," which they never had to do before. One gets the distinct impression that in the sexual revolution men have gotten the short end of the stick...

Mark -- ADVICE TO AN ARTIST -- this one got printed out and stuck on my wall above my computer. Love it! And the two Rilke pieces; he's one of my favorite poets of all time, I only wish I could read German so I could read it in the original...

Lydia -- 1/24/02 -- impressive. "I walk to change position/you walk to keep from standing still" is a succinct evocation of two very different approaches to life

Kendra -- The Married Lover -- now you've started me on a quest to find out more about this Mr Patmore!

MichaelT(educated-guessing) -- What does a woman want? -- well said, but I do think you're basing this on an awfully small segment of the population! There are in fact plenty of straightforward women out there who aren't at all interested in forcing a guy to play Karnak the Magnificent (uh, that's "be a mind-reader" to you younger folks...) Perhaps (though I don't know how old you are) it has something to do with the age group you're looking in?


From: Echolocation
Date: 28 January 2002

Oops -- my intro ("so much for the opinion...") referred, of course to MY previous post and not to Laurel's, which beat mine onto the board by a split-second... Didn't want you to think I was knocking your comments, Laurel :)


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 28 January 2002

~*~Echolocation~*~ Ha! Isn't timing a funny thing? I'll try to retract my claws...j/k Don't worry! No problems here :)


From: Jon
Date: 28 January 2002

About this whole "I don't care what people think about me" thing. It reminds of this conversation I had with my little brother who is just entering high school this year. I asked him if he cared what the kids at school thought about him.

This was his answer;

"If I didn't care what people thought about me then I wouldn't need to point out or say that I don't care what people think about me then now would I?"

So...

The piece I wrote "It's Hard Being A Man" was merely a sarcastic observation on what I consider to be typical expectations of the male species and not something based on myself really. It was just something that was fun to write. Though I'm glad it sparked up something to talk about in here.


From: MichaelT()
Date: 28 January 2002

Quickly...
SCQueen ~ Madame, it is obvious that there is a difference between a queen and a princess. The southern belle stereotype was a princess. Queens have strength, character, and responsibilities. Belle's were helpless without a man. I can't stand helpless women. I'll help them. But I can't stand them.

Echolocation ~ Ah...well, I am only 25..That may have something to do with it as I meet women between 23 and 27...when I'm 30 I'm sure I'll meet plenty of sensible women. :-) And I'll probably have grown up plenty in the meantime....



From: Mark McNabb
Date: 28 January 2002

So, there's this guy named Jon who writes good stuff and submits it...then he gets a bunch of "feedback" about "not being so down on himself" or "not to succumb to society's expectations," mostly based on his poetry without any knowledge of his real life.

So, then I add a few comments attacking the whole notion of "society's expectations" and then I get a bunch of posts that clearly reveal that SOME people don't READ very well. They may WRITE extremely well, they just don't read well. Or they get too easily plugged in to other's opinions or something. Anyway...

All I was pointing out was that there are no TRUTHS to this notion that society has expectations. Society does not have expectations - it is all fabricated and marketed and manipulated, but not real. The only human truths are those which have broad agreement amongst other humans, and even THAT is fabricated...blah blah blah. My ONLY point was for poor old Jon to BE HIMSELF in spite of these so-called "societal-expectations." AND to never DISREGARD these expectations...but I never said anything about giving in to them. I'm just bothered by people who rail on and on about "society's expectations." As for me personally, Laurel, I don't "believe" in society (except to the degree that it gets me an A in sociology) but I do accept and embrace that it exists in all it's myriad forms and versions...to do otherwise would be just plain foolish. Go break a bunch of "society's" traffic laws (a.k.a. expectations) and see how far you get. Simple example, but you can apply it to so much. People who rail on about society's expectations are the very ones who perpetuate the myth. Society is simply an easy way to describe sharing this planet with other humans. I believe in mySELF first and foremost, and I believe in PEOPLE when they prove themselves to be believeable. And I try to believe the unbelieveable every chance I get, just to f*ck with the universe. So to the reading challenged, pardon me but you missed my point (one that ain't even personal, Violet).


Here is a good one for extra credit:

When you visit the Blender, where do you go first? The Board or the New Submissions?

The Board is about opinions, the rest is about art. We need more art and less opinion. Mine included.

Have a nice Monday!


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 28 January 2002

PS -

"The biggest liar in the world is THEY SAY."
DOUGLAS MALLOCH

"Its name is Public Opinion. It is held in reverence. It settles everything. Some think it is the voice of God. Loyalty to petrified opinion never yet broke a chain or freed a human soul."
MARK TWAIN


From: scqueen
Date: 28 January 2002

Oh Michael T ~ You are wise beyond your years.


From: Kendra143
Date: 28 January 2002

I've got to say I really love the subtle way the Board and the New Submissions intertwine with one another...when I started coming to the site and reading different peoples' works, I would read some of the comments on the board, and found that they added a great new dimension, offering a little insight sometimes into people's personality/opinions, which can explain why people write what they do...

Therefore, reading this discussion on society between a few people has been enlightening and a little amusing. It's not like the Love Blender Board is some teen chat room - everyone on here is heavily opinionated and in touch with their emotions and the inner workings of their heart. I guess the occasional "clash of the titans" is to be expected!


From: Kendra143
Date: 28 January 2002

In response to Jon's "It's Hard Being a Man" ~~

I think a lot of what you said is very true. For instance, I am continually surprised to discover how young some of the guys writing on here are (I expected Michael T to be much older than 25 somehow). Not that I'm old - younger than 25 to be sure...but I guess I just never thought of guys in their early/mid twenties as being the kind that could express emotion and love the exquisite way people like Michael T, Jon, Mark McNabb, kevin urenda, the guppy and countless others do. Obviously I have been carrying around some very flawed opinons, and I'd like to thank everyone I've mentioned for proving me wrong, and making me want to find someone just like one of you.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 28 January 2002

Great poem, Lydia.

All the references here re: INTEGRITY reminded me of three things that make for satisfying romantic relationships.

LOVE is...

VISION - having an acute sense of the possible. It is seeing what others don't see.

COMMITMENT - what transforms a promise into reality. It is the words that speak boldly of your intentions. And the actions which speak louder than the words. It is making the time when there is none. Coming through time after time after time, year after year after year. Commitment is the stuff character is made of; the power to change the face of things. It is the daily triumph of integrity over skepticism.

ACCOUNTABILITY - taking responsibility before the fact, rather than after the fact. It is taking a stand, and standing by it. When those who are accountable are right, they take the credit. When they're wrong, they take the heat. It's a fair exchange. Accountability is a way of living. Those who practice it have an unspoken respect for each other. And a visible disdain for the absentminded apologizers, mumbling excuse-makers, and trembling fence-sitters who run from INTEGRITY as if it were the plague.


From: Violet
Date: 28 January 2002

Mark~ Though I took what appeared to be a direct response to what I wrote personally, I didn't take much offense. I simply thought that you (and likely others, too) didn't quite grasp what I was getting at. That's why I clarified. You seem so very intelligent and you have a gift for poetic words. It's great fun to converse/debate/share ideas with you. Thanks. :-)
oh yeah, I read the new subs first. ;-)


From: Lydia
Date: 28 January 2002

Thanks Mark M. I agree with your three points - and for me love is so much more (but including) those three. I guess you could say that I was 'damaged goods'. I was reading the link and saw your entry and my past just caught up to me before I could stop.

Echolocation - thank you for your interest in 1/24. It is part of a journal I keep. Never make the same mistakes...never forget your history.

Lydia


From: Jon
Date: 28 January 2002

Micheal T

Thanks. I'm glad you liked Experience, that mean's a lot coming from you. I really admire your work. Espcially Deep Fried Chicken.

Echolation

Yes, being a man is tough...but lets not get into that :-). Anyway, I'd like to see more works from you. Pretty please?

Kendra

Me? Mature? LOL thanks, I'm glad you think so. I think I just think too much thats all. :-)

Violet and Mark

Thanks for your views on society, self, etc etc. I enjoy reading both of your views and well they are both very interesting. I'm thankful for the fact that if I ever wish to have a serious discussion in here about something I can rely on some to tackle it along with me.


From: Violet
Date: 28 January 2002

Hey Laurel~ You're sweet, thank you. :-)


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 28 January 2002

Lydia - Those three items were just part of the 762 things needed for a satisfying relationship, they just happen to be in MY top 10. But - damaged goods? Aren't we all, to some degree? We're either expanding or contracting, healing or hurting...but never static or inert. I just hope you are healing more than you are hurting.

Laurel - Your "Beautiful" is wonderful!

Jon - "What Hath JON Wrought?" ("Wrote?") Thanks for fueling the conversation. And for the Steve Martin piece from THE JERK - hilarious!

Violet - I am an avid fan and reader of your work, and I thoroughly enjoyed our "debate" - can't wait until the next one!

Kendra - Thanks for the compliment.

I would like to invite each of you over this weekend for dinner and a lively game of Intellectual Twister!


From: Ali
Date: 28 January 2002

Mark~

I love that "Alice in Wonderland" quote you submitted...
That actually is one of my favorites couple of lines from the book...*smile*

Love and hidden mysteries, Ali


From: Lydia
Date: 28 January 2002

Yes, Mark, I do think that by the very fact that we are products of our environments, we are all damaged goods to some extent. I just felt that my recent issues made me more sensitive to your entry. I am healing, however, I will never be whole again.

Lydia


From: TJ Holland
Date: 28 January 2002

CAgirl ~ Coffee or Not reminded very much of a poem on here a while back. It was good! Funny how almost meeting someone can evoke a multitude of emotions and thoughts, huh?

McNabb ~ Your mind is a wonder! 'sa pleasure too.

-Teej


From: CAgirl
Date: 28 January 2002

I am so embarrassed! My sincerest apologies to Twinkle:
picking him is her poem, not mine (Coffee or Not) as it was posted today. [TJ - all praise belongs to Twinkle, not me!] I copied her poem as it reminded me of something that happened to me and sparked inspiration. When submitting my poem, I accidentally cut and pasted her poem instead of mine.

My poem Near Miss should have appeared instead. Again, my apologies (and a promise to watch my cutting and pasting!) Thank you all for sharing your heartfelt words and emotions.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 28 January 2002


Society

Bravo, Bacardi! (or is it "Brava, Bacardi?")


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 28 January 2002

~*~Mark McNabb~*~ Well, I suppose I should have clarified more. I wasn't trying to "attack" you. I merely found the discussion interesting and wanted to throw my own opinion out there for others to chew on. I highly admire your writing and opinions. It's nice to take a look at the flip side sometimes! Oh, and thank you for your kind words about "Beautiful!"

make a great day!
Laurel


From: TJ Holland
Date: 28 January 2002

Oh me, oh my!
I lost myself and I'm not sure why.
There's a cameL got a hump or two.
Are you he, or is he you?
He's just arrived here recently
You've been here a while, I can see.
Are you maybe more than THREE?
A bright misfit in society.
A question, a query, an answer back,
So many you's it's hard to keep track.
It's fine to play if just for a lark
When I shoot will I hit the Mark?
Go on and have a bit o' fun
Call me up, we can down together a shot o' rum.


(Yes, this was meant for the Board! how fun!)

-Teej


From: Ali
Date: 28 January 2002

BK~
A Woman's Worth was fantastic...Great writing!!

And I love that Alicia Keys song, by the way...Not to mention Mae West...*smile*

Love and hidden mysteries, Ali


From: twinkle
Date: 28 January 2002

CAgirl - don't worry about it! i liked "near miss" ;). And - coincidence - I am a CAlifornia girl too!


From: Jon
Date: 29 January 2002

BK

You go girl! No matter how hard I try I will never sound right saying or even attempting to type that phrase lol. But I loved "A Womans Worth." And the song from Alcia Keys (she is so beautiful) at the end made it all the better. Great writing.

One more try...

You go girl!

Okay I'll stop. :-)

Take care and all that good stuff.

-Jon


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Mark My Words

Gosh, thanks for going to all the trouble of writing a piece for little old me! Imagine that? Is "Lemac" a nifty alter ego of another Blenderhead? The disembodied poetic TJ Holland wrote a piece above on the Board that is either accusing ME of being lemac or god knows what. I am only aware of one umbilical cord that I could be connected to, so what is the deal? Are you saying my mother is a whore? This may be one of those moments that are better suited to a personal phone call or something (after all, I'm in the book), rather than calling my mother a whore on the internet. See what troubles disembodied poetics cause when they use art to deliver dissonant dissing? Well, I can vouch for my poor old ma and say that I've known a few whores in my day and my mother is no whore.

Having said that, let's talk about whores for a moment, shall we? First off, dear readers, don't get plugged in...I've known far more male whores than female, so my comments are directed to a broad non-discriminatory roster of men and women. One hallmark of whores seems to be that people are seldom JUST a whore. One immediately thinks of the "whore with a heart of gold" we seen so often in the movies, or the family man who needs to get drunk in order to BE somebody...you know, the nice fella witha good job and handsome family, the same guy that can't keep his peepee in his pants in a small town. Drunk and disorderly treatment of committed hearts. People with no values, only immediate gratification in a world where nothing is special.

But you REALLY don't want to get me started on THAT now, do you?

So lemac or lemur or loser or whatever, thank you so much for your kind words. What a talent! As for me, a few more posts and I'll be done.

Some whores like to call their dysfunction "debauchery," but we all know that is just another word for "nothing left to lose." A whore is seldom "just a whore," but so much more. Usually an angry bitter bee-otch.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Golly, thanks Teej!

"Oh me, oh my!
I lost myself and I'm not sure why.
There's a cameL got a hump or two.
Are you he, or is he you?
He's just arrived here recently
You've been here a while, I can see.
Are you maybe more than THREE?
A bright misfit in society.
A question, a query, an answer back,
So many you's it's hard to keep track.
It's fine to play if just for a lark
When I shoot will I hit the Mark?
Go on and have a bit o' fun
Call me up, we can down together a shot o' rum."

I AM NOT WHAT I WAS YESTERDAY AND TOMORROW I WILL NOT BE WHO I AM TODAY


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

Well whoever this Lemac is, the man can write...


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

(even if he does have a thing about whores!)


From: TJ Holland
Date: 29 January 2002

Yes, McNabb, I figured you were at least Lemac and Bacardi. I didn't care if you were. My cheesy rhyme was done in aboout 97 seconds... I figured someone would make some sense of it and comment. I think everyone is entitled to be whom/what they wish. Personally, I think you're very interesting. Dramatic, yes, but interesting. Here's hoping your issues get resolved. One way or another. Peace to you!

-Teej


From: Jon
Date: 29 January 2002

Voice Broken

Welcome to the blender, I love your latest pieces espcially Triangle. You can tell they were written with such conviction and emotion...nicely written. Hope to see more from you.


From: Jon
Date: 29 January 2002

Sorry Kirk for double posting, I should save my comments for one really big comment heh...but the poetry here is just too good.

Violet

Waiting for you was very touching. I think we might have all been there at one time or another.

CAgirl

Near Miss was great. So, did you ever end up talking to that guy? Hope to see more from you.

faithful

Pick me up Buttercup was cute. I loved it and I saved it if you don't mind.

kevin

no compromise was nicely written. I read it over and over again.

Take care and all that good stuff

-Jon


From: CAgirl
Date: 29 January 2002

Twinkle~ Thanks! Somehow I knew reading of palm trees and smog that we're neighbors.

B.K.~ I loved A Woman's Worth - and the more I read it the more I like it! Especially 'Whose word is strong/Standing stainless steel/Against worldly storms'.

Jon~ Thanks for the encouragement. I've always been a reader, never a writer. And now that I've started, nothing seems to stop the flood of words! So don't worry - you'll see more. The only questions is, will it be too much?


From: Violet
Date: 29 January 2002

Thank's Jon. :-)


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

TJ Holland - How disappointing! You should do better homework before you go attacking some anonymous dude on the internet. Thanks for your wishes..if I ever have any serious "issues" to sort out, you can bet your sweet boopie that I will. You'd think that when a person on this dastardly roller coaster of a website chooses to post only under their real name that might be some indicator of a commitment to be real and not f*ck with people under assumed "rhetorical" names. But thanks for another grand supposition by a fellow faceless forlorn disembodied poetic. I forget that the worst damage done via this site is all the mischevious (ouch! SP?) fabricated personality emails that get circulated by enfatuated readers off site...your biggest mistake is to be so swayed and smitten by words from the foolhardy and frustrated that you would actually even CARE at all. And I thought YOUR Board post was some hint to go a looking (cameL = Lemac)...and YOU even missed "lemac's" Survey Question answer...which was clearly some spoof or commentary on MINE (which also reveals lemac to be a lady, er well you know). At any rate, you'll find the majority of my post's to be an effort to contribute here...but the whole thing is just too damn pointless now.

So "lemac" or "rhetoric" or "just some girl" wants me to admit my LOVE for "her" but it sadly died long LONG ago. Check that - "happily" died long ago, given the world I live in NOW. So, all in all, seems a good time to ditch this two-bit dive and move on.

Final bit of advice - most of you should be copyrighting your works and NOT wasting them for free on the internet. If I could afford it, Kirk...I'd buy this site and shut it down. And sweet little Misti, stop "sharing" your screenplays via the internet. You do not own those words now, and some sly-er, hungrier Hollywood wannabee is probably already pitching YOUR words to some mogul as if they were his/her own. Really. Take more care with your words...they are ultimately all that you are, if you are a writer.

But then most of the writers here are just exhibitionists with an AOL account, right?




From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

Ok, after fianlly figuring out what I think is going on with the whole "Lemac" postings, I have to say I'm really disappointed to see someone using the site to sling mud at a former partner/romantic interest. That's pretty low, and the Survey Question answer posted was indeed a very thinly disguised verbal smack.

Mark~~

While you certainly have every reason to feel now is the time to move on, I hope you don't - yours is some of the best work to appear on here, and honest & up front people should not be the ones that have to sacrifice or back down in a situation.

Remind me to keep my knowledge of this site a happy secret from any partners, past present or future. Too messy.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Hi Kendra...

...thanks for the comment. It gets worse than that. My former lust interest made the mistake of sharing it with another of her entanglements, so now I get all manner of postings from "just some girl" and her gal pal "Rhet"...and I had to get Kirk to delete a bunch of crap a week or so ago that was attempting to attack me or direct people via this website to my place of employment or whatever. Originally, I had shared the "Poems & Sonnets" page with my ex...because the choices are all (mostly) so damn good...sort of a romatic e-link to share with a lover, that ultimately gets used to torment me after the fall. Little did she know (or maybe she DID know) that I love visiting here to read, now her entanglements (which are palpable and innumerable) sort of metasticize into cheapening what could otherwise be a great powerful website.

Too bad, I'll miss a lot of y'all save but for one...and if she was a bet, I wouldn't take her.

Bye.


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

I have decided to amend my previous statement (and I've been double posting a lot I know, sorry!!)...

I think it would be really interesting to share this site with someone I love, and I'm certainly not an advocate for the idea of only one half of a poetically-gifted couple posting on here in order to avoid messiness - that would be a big loss.

But with romance, as I know all too well, comes a lot of mind games, conscious and unconscious. No matter how intune a person is with their emotions, they can still fall prey to the occasional manipulation, even a well-meaning one, and this place should be somewhere where everyone strives to avoid that. Pour you heart out, share it with everyone here, and if that includes people with whom you share/have shared an intimate relationship, all the better. But don't wreck the atmosphere and (to sound very corny) the purity of poetry as an art form by writing (under disguise) to purposely retort, wound or insult.

At the very least save that for the Board :-)


From: throckmorton
Date: 29 January 2002

Hi new to the board - just submitted a song to this page - you can see it at River True - thanks!

Throckmorton


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 29 January 2002

I'll only say this once...I am not Lemac.
It doesn't take a genius to see the threaded interconnections that occur on this site and to comment upon them. Lemac could be anyone amongst this delightful community.

True...I once loved Mr. McNabb...with every ounce of energy I had. And yes, many of my posting were about him.

But...that has past. And so too shall I, from further digression on this subject.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Damn Kendra, did you just write that? A Proposal

Okay, so I'll probably still READ here...I'll just bust the "L" on my keyboard...and hope OTHERS here will carry on the good fight.

Laugh out loud!


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

*pleased Mark will still be here in spirit, yet still determined to win him over with more off-the-cuff poetry at a later date*


From: Misti
Date: 29 January 2002

Mark McNabb (OneNutJim)...
I'm not sweet and I'm not little but thanks so much for the advice. I'm not too worried about some sleazy Hollywood wannabe player stealin' my scenes, however. They all hang out at projectgreenlight.com.

Regarding the whole Just Some Girl/Rhetoric/Lemac thing, I think you've set yourself up by using multiple identities (Mark/One Nut, et al)to deride this community and the people who contribute to it. Now you're throwin' compliments left and right but I doubt your sincerity. You're very good at submitting quotes and other people's works. That doesn't impress me, nor does your whinin' about how your ex "done you wrong." Put it in poetry, if you must. Save the Board from your egomania. I implore you.


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Misti?

I'll only say this ONCE...I AM NOT LEMAC!

(sound of everyone waving hands in front of mouth creating stadium cheers "aaaahhhhgggrrrraaahhh!" while SPARTACUS soundtrack swells)

Friends, Romans, Blenderites!

I am not Lemac! Nor am I!

I, too, am not Lemac!

I am not Lemac! Not I!

Everybody write in and declare your selves NOT Lemac!


From: scqueen
Date: 29 January 2002

Misti ~ Well said.


From: TJ Holland
Date: 29 January 2002

HiYa Mark,

Sounds like you got really ganged up on. That sucks. I actually wasn't trying to upset you or be a part of that. I guess I didn't realize the full depth of the entanglements with you and Rhet and Just Some Girl (didn't realize it was 'they' who were tormenting YOU). I feel for you. I just thought what I was commenting on was innocent fun. Friendly fire, if you will. I'm sorry this site has been used against you. That's not fair.

And actually, I DID notice the survey response that mimicked your own. I thought it was you poking fun at yourself. I was even seeing the similarities between you and OneNutJim.

Thank goodness I don't have MY e-mail address posted here. My life is pretty drama free, so being involved in cyberdrama would be...a useless passtime.(?) Involvement like that is too draining. I often think that the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. I've learned to let go of negative feelings posthaste for my own well being. I suppose the women who are netstalking you have failed to see the value in that.

And your contibutions here ARE wonderful. You've presented me, many times, with the seed of a thought, from which I have continued to explore and enjoy.

I admit that I am an exibhitionist (and words are only a portion of my display). The only reason I post my stuff here is to see my name in print. (Definately an EGO issue, but not necessarily EGOCENTRIC) And maybe my lame-assed words might do what YOUR posts have done for me and inspire some sad or searching soul. Of course, I don't give a rat's ass if anyone LIKES it or not. If I thought it was any good I might consider having it published, but I don't consider myself much good at poetry.

Sooooooooo.......here's hoping you stay (don't let 'them' win), and all sincere apologies for being an unwitting participant in the rude and obsessive attack on you, Mr. McNabb.

-Teej


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

TEEJ and all the Mouseketeers...

"Just when I think it is over, they keep dragging me back in!" (you've got to read that line out loud(ly) like Kevin Spacey doing an over the top Al Pachino imitation...)

I'll readily admit that I can go pretty medieval when my well-being is threatened, or when my soul is soiled by some chic du soleil...and I have thrown down some righteous riffs of outrage when I feel a sacred space (yes Kirk, your Blender) is being jacked around by someone with creey intent. And because the cyber-incestuousness of the Board allows for you to "hook up" with your fave scribe, you can even have personal entanglements HERE and maybe even get somebody to email you some nekkid pictures...like pooping in your OWN neighborhood isn't good enough so dump a little onto the weirdworldweb...

(a Pinter-esque pause)


See, I thought Rhet was just some gal way way back, cause just a gal weren't just one at all but a whole bunch and then I use my 2+2 to figure a wild and wacky pattern...and now there are world wide webpals all over, some unwitting e-tanglements that are suddenly jumping MY ass while I'm just trying to post some shit about deep love and society and the rest of MY mental di-a-ree-uh which I'm sure you've all really really enjoyed.

And my only peace offering to Misti (who I fully realize isn't eentsy or weensty or cutesy or wutes) and her cool spouse Chad or Carl or whatever...ditch those e-pals and take this whole story line and write yourself an indie edgey dark comedy about some freaking website for romance poetry and the stories of 6-8 onlinelovelornwriters and the tragi-comic antics that ensue, the chat room dramas, the stalking, the "Sight-Keeper," have 8 1/2 Souvenirs do a slick Fellini-esque sndtrk - kick "You've Got Mail's" ASS and make the film it NEVER could be. Hook up with Sandra Bullock's company...hell, make it in Austin (4 of your other locations will be virtually anywhere ELSE online on the planet. No offense, but ditch the
www.projectflashingbluelight.com and DO your local Writers Conf...whew! Send me a $50k check when you make your first million off that ideer)

No, no REALLY...I'm not coming back here. I mean it.


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

Ok, I have officially contributed TOO much to the site/Board today. I forget that I don't know everyone's histories as well as some people do on here. It's too bad to find out you've been sporting multiple identities too Mark! I shouldn't be so quick to jump to defend without all of the facts. I still stand by what I said, but maybe we should ALL take note of what I tried to say in "A Proposal", and realize it can apply to everyone at some point.

And I think I am going to restrict my posting licence on the Board, and only speak when I have something good to say about a new artistic development (Misti speaks wise words above)...


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Misti -

In case you DO take the filmmaker's path in life, remember the words from a fine example of a human destroyed by alcohol and an insane woman...

"Isn't Hollywood a dump? A hideous town, pointed up by the insulting gardens of the rich, full of the human spirit at a new low of debasement." F. Scott Fitzgerald

My fingers is gettin' tard...


From: Violet
Date: 29 January 2002

It sure gets confusing trying to keep track of who's who and what's what on here... I think I'll just stick to readin' the poems. :-)


From: Mark McNabb
Date: 29 January 2002

Design is 90% of anything, and this site lets you be anyone you wanna be...which of course breeds all kinds of mischief (Thanks, Kirk!) But then, we live in a world where you can easily use multiple hotmail addresses and cheat on your spouse/partner on the very same computer! God, would I LOVE to see the inside of some people's hard drives! I defend my actions as sad tired RESPONSES and REACTIONS to torment and basic human disrespect. But it appears there have been all manner of multiple identity feuding here over the past so many years. Not an original idea (too bad Misti, Kirk has already storyboarded and signed Spike Jonze to direct). I've even heard (read) proposals to The Man about restricting abuse opportunties or dropping the Board or whatever...even a month OFF to give it all a rest. But NOOOOOOO...

Blender Grade

Concept A+

Design (inc)

I say cure it or kill it. man, there was even some kids posting each other's personal correspondences here. So, by design it breeds mischief (how unfortunate for a site allegedly dedicated to romance POETRY..I can hear old Gomer now...

"...shame, shame, shame."


From: Violet
Date: 29 January 2002

I don't think there is anything wrong with the blender. So what if people use multiple names? What's the problem with a few people slinging mud once in a while? It keeps things interesting. I like this site because though it is themed with romantic love, it does not close any doors to creativity. I say bravo to Kirk for creating such an awesome site, and hurray to those who speak their minds.


From: TJ Holland
Date: 29 January 2002

Although I've only found reason to use ONE name here, I don't think there's anything wrong with using more than that. Hell, that's the glory and the gory of the Web.

And seriously, Judge not, lest ye be judged. Live and let live. And all that other rot.

Use the Blender for what you need. We all have different agendas. Just 'do unto others'...bla bla bla. (Oh, I'm plumb full of cheezy quotes today!)

I want Mark's brain to stay here. Good entertainment/intellect is hard to find and I don't have enough money to pay for such talent elsewhere.


From: Kendra143
Date: 29 January 2002

(I never follow my own advice when it concerns me keeping quiet)

Violet~~

While I still think the idea of multiple names just never seems to work out positively, I agree with the rest of your points wholeheartedly (especially the commendation to Kirk, way to go this place is great!)...and slinging mud makes things VERY interesting indeed. I only objected because in this particular case it was obviously hurting someone's feelings.

And the best part about this place is the creativity it inspires. Somehow or other it has inspired me to write far better than I knew I could. So I guess what I'm saying is, while I'd like to think this place could exist without the occasional misuse, inappropriate rant, malicious writing or what have you, maybe this site needs to be left just the way it is, because who knows what might be inadvertantly lost by making changes to how the site (and the people who love it) work.


From: B.K.
Date: 29 January 2002

Bacardi; Glad to see you here, I love your poems, they are breathtaking. May we have more please?

Laurel; Glad to hear you're feeling better. The hounds sound wonderful. Dogs are such characters, I think in all my years with three Huskeys/two Corgis I could write a book of really funny dog stories. Bet you know a bunch too.

Thank you Ali, Jon, CAgal for comments on A Womans Worth. I do love the Alicia Keys CD. That was fun to write.

As for the Bru-ha ha going on now. Until the full moon is gone I refuse to comment.

I promise I will comment on poems soon. I do hit and runs on this place and love what I am reading tho I would rather see original poems rather than quotes so much.

bk


From: deevaa
Date: 29 January 2002

man looks like you guys are having too much fun without me!

Oh well!

*sigh*

The search for a job hasn't yet ended, but Australia still has happiness for me.

We brought our very first joint purchase over the weekend, a way too expensive sofa, can't wait until it arrives!

Yippeee....

*doing the deevaa dance*

take care of your hearts.

dee


From: TJ Holland
Date: 29 January 2002

Oh! Oh! Oh! BK BK BK!!!!!!!! Hey!! I found out what a Brouhaha is!!

brouhaha ('bru:ha:ha:) n. a loud confused noise; commotion; uproar. [F, imit.]

I always like to use new words in a practical, real life application!! Ergo the shmaltz you read here recently!
:-) <------ smiley face (that means NO offense to ANYONE intended WHATSOEVER!!)

Funnin'
-Teej


From: B.K.
Date: 29 January 2002

I REST MY CASE! HA

(don't get me started)

bk


From: jackryhme
Date: 30 January 2002

thought bruhaha was a size thirty AAA er somethin ah well..


From: jackryhme
Date: 30 January 2002

thought bruhaha was a size thirty AAA er somethin ah well..


From: jackryhme
Date: 30 January 2002

hmmmm oops well better'n half a page of increminations i guess lol


From: Jon
Date: 30 January 2002

BK

I loved A Groovy Kind Of Love, it reminds of the Phil Collins with the same name. I swear I heard the song playing in the background. Nice.


From: sweetness
Date: 30 January 2002

My only problem with poets who post under more than one name is that when I really like someone's work, I become greedy and want to read ALL of it. And it is so much easier to read it all in one place....and while the antics on the board are certainly entertaining, I almost feel disappointed when I find out someone is really just someone else I've read before.....don't know if that makes sense, it is 5 in the morning after all, but I thought I would share......


From: B.K.
Date: 30 January 2002

Jon; Phil Collins did the re=do. The original was done (its too early to get this right) I think by John Sebastian and The Loving Spoonful. I would have to do research and I don't have the time. If anyone else knows differently tell us please. The song has been around since at least the 60's. I love it too. Thanks Jon.

bk


From: B.K.
Date: 30 January 2002

Jon; Took a quick look thru google. Great source! The Mindbenders (check it out) did it first. It's a Carole Bayer Sayers song. Great Oldie!

bk


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 30 January 2002

~*~kevin urenda~*~ no compromise ...so amazing! Truly wonderful.

~*~Lemac~*~ You completely captured my attention with Floating Out! And I just loved Look.

~*~Kendra143~*~ A Proposal really made me think...and I thank you for that.

~*~Bacardi~*~ Your words really intrigue me...

~*~Max-Rom~*~ Along The Shoreline was so elegantly tender. I live for mornings when I can wake up to find something that beautiful.

~*~B.K.~*~ You never cease to amaze me! Groovy Kind of Love, Between My Toes, and Rainbow Jewels were all such wonderful reads!

love always,
Laurel


From: Laurel Ahlfeld
Date: 30 January 2002

~*~general comment~*~
Taking a day off from the board makes it soooo much more amusing to read...isn't that sick? Okay...well, on with the drama! lol, someday I'll write a musical about these traumas.

make a great day and
love always,
Laurel


From: Just Some Girl
Date: 30 January 2002

Ohhh, SlickDick, you sound so sexy..and so very familiar!!! Beans and Franks...YUM!


From: Kendra143
Date: 30 January 2002

Max_Rom~~

Never got around to telling you, but I absolutely *loved* your work "Secrets"...fabulous stuff!

(and your new one's not too shabby either) :-)


From: Voice...broken
Date: 30 January 2002

Jon,

Thanks for your comment. Love, it has ups and downs. I just perfer to write about the downs. The hard times are supposed to make you stronger right? Like the saying, "what doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger." I guess we will see.

Voice...broken


From: sweetness
Date: 30 January 2002

I am so far behind on reading the poetry posted, so I will try to catch up....Jon...I felt every line of Too Bad , and yes, it is too bad when that happens!

Kevin: wanting mute is so achingly beautiful..I have to confess, the first time I stumbled upon the Blender, several months ago, I read everything you posted, and I even shared some of it with friends, because you are GIFTED. In a way, it was your poems that got me hooked in the first place.

Voice...broken: I read To Be A Bitch and suddenly felt like I had been slapped in the face. I have been someone's mistress for awhile now, and you know what? You SHOULD make your voice heard to her. Because for as long as I have known this man, I have heard only what he wants me to know about his wife. The same old cliches, she doesn't love me, I don't love her, it's for the kids.....but if I had even once laid eyes on the woman, heard her voice, seen her face, it would have been so much harder for me to continue. I can pretend she doesn't exist. And I like to think she doesn't know that I do.

Bacardi: your work, all of it to date, is very intriguing.

Dragonfleyes: I loved metallic the imagery is perfect, and somehow fits my life currently.

Courtney: where are you???????


From: Voice...broken
Date: 30 January 2002

Sweetness,

The misstress, she doesn't respect anything about us, or me. She believes that he is going to leave me for her. Not going to happen. What makes it hard is that she found out about this cite and now rights poetry about him here too. It hurts. But I keep living, keep breathing, keep loving him. God give me strength!?! Thank you though for your encouragement.

Voice...broken


From: Kirk, Blender-Keeper
Date: 30 January 2002

Posting as "Marc McNabb" (as opposed to Mark) is a bit too close to "pseudofraud". That particular account has been shutdown. Please avoid that behavior in the future. I haven't had time to read all through the latest board back and forth on similar issues.


From: twinkle
Date: 31 January 2002

lemac - i like your work, esp. "beckon". I'm a sucker for the short and simple poems ;).


From: kevin urenda
Date: 31 January 2002

Kendra, jon, Laurel, sweetness-
Thank you for your kind words.

I try to avoid the histrionics and stick strictly to poetry. Well, and survey questions (if ANYONE has a question they want to see, please email me)...

K


From: Kendra143
Date: 31 January 2002

Lemac~~

You write very beautifully...and sound a little heartbroken. If your writing is coming from your current life situation, I feel for you! I've been there before, and am probably heading there again...

I love the way some of your works show concern fo your own wellbeing, and some express concern for him...and they all hit a bitter note in some way or other...


From: Violet
Date: 31 January 2002

Twinkle~ Though I like both, the 2nd one is better. :-) I LOVE the "blessed sips" part, by the way. Have a sunshiny day. (Not hard to do in CA is it?)


From: Kendra143
Date: 31 January 2002

Jon~~

Simply put, "More Than Words" was great. Interesting way of expressing that feeling.


From: Lydia
Date: 31 January 2002

Lemac ~
I am enjoying your writing.

However, what is the significance of yawp?
Each entry has a theme...
I am trying to crack you code...

Lydia


From: Kendra143
Date: 31 January 2002

I was just catching up on old Blender stuff, and wandered across the answers to the first Survey Question...it'ks kind of odd how only guys named "When Harry Met Sally" as one of their fav...

It is by far my favoirte movie of ALL time...I have this great old-school 'taped off the TV' copy which I've almost worn out....


From: Ali
Date: 31 January 2002

Kendral~

I read your response to the survey question...And I agree with you, it is a little funny...It's good to be light about things that hurt, because it makes them hurt less, you know?

And I've strained my neck more then a few times...Seeing people that look like him can be annoying to...It's like I've gotta do a double take, just to make sure...

Sharing aquintances can be hard...To have that constant(even though it's indirect)contact is tough...((HUGS))

Love and past wisdoms, Ali


From: Echolocation
Date: 31 January 2002

Kevin -- loved personal terror -- made me think of how the resonance of a voice can shatter crystal... (remember the old "is it live or is it memorex" ads?). Sometimes it seems incredible that intangible things can have such a devastating effect on the "real", i.e. physical, world...


From: Echolocation
Date: 31 January 2002

Quick question -- Mark's comment about Misti's work being "stolen" made me wonder: anyone know what the copyright laws are for items posted on the internet? I've noticed a few people include copyright notices at the end of their posts -- is that sufficient? Any information would be appreciated... Thanks!


From: Echolocation
Date: 31 January 2002

Whoops, one last item -- have to say I LOVE this new word that we seem to have coined -- "e-tanglements". Much more amusing than all those silly words like e-commerce and e-mail that just stuck "e" in front of the original word. Well done, whoever thunk it up!!


From: Ophelia
Date: 31 January 2002

I, too, enjoyed the new term "e-tanglements" and have already caught myself using it around my friends. I first read it 10 or 12 comments above, in one of those wild monologues. Those made me want to start submitting my work and comments. Pretty funny characters.

I, too, am curious about the various rules of this website. Regarding copyrights, attributions, and so on. Also, I read pretty good quotes and excerpts from non-poetic works. Is that okay? Is there a section I'm missing here about rules and such?

I look forward to sharing my works here. Everyone talks like they all know each other personally. Is this site mostly populated by people from a certain college community or some place where you all live?

Ophelia


From: B.K.
Date: 31 January 2002

Hi Ophelia,
Actually we are scattered all over the United States and other countries as well. We just post our work and comment. We get all kinds of wierd happenings on the boards and one never knows whats going to happen next which keeps it interesting I guess. I don't know anything about copyright of poems though I think its kind of hard and expensive if you have to pay fees for each poem the way you have to songs. I think there is the poor mans copyright and thats when you write it then mail it to yourself and seal it tightly and then the postmark and seal proves the date you wrote it. But I know nothing of the legalities of any of it. Anyone know?
Anyway welcome to the Blender and just jump in and post and comment. Nice to have you here.

bk


From: Lydia
Date: 31 January 2002

BARBARIC YAWP???


From: Lydia
Date: 31 January 2002

Lemac...
YAWP....why yawp? I love it! You are too clever. I just couldn't let you think I wasn't paying attention.

Bravo - more please.
The meter and rhyme are as interesting as the topic and word choice.

Lydia


From: Ophelia
Date: 31 January 2002

Walt Whitman...

"I sound my barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world."

(see also DEAD POETS SOCIETY)

Nice.


Ophelia

: )