Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Headache: Day Two.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Brain won't stop braining.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... When chilly, put on a Tervie blanket... He always knows when I'm not feeling good and gets extra cuddly...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Rainy day headache. Also, rain, STAPH! My yard is a mud pit and if I lean over to wipe dog paws my vertigo kicks in. Added to to-do list: teach dogs to wipe their own paws.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "There comes a time in a man's life when to get where he has to -- if there are no doors or windows -- he walks through a wall." -Bernard Malamud

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Okay, I've done at least three majorly productive things today. That's enough, yes? I can nap off the food coma from yesterday (Thank again, Melanie and Dan!) and generally be lazy?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @SpokesGay "There is no moral authority to "pardon" someone FOR HAVING BEEN A PERSON VICTIMIZED BY YOUR GOVERNMENT."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "It is difficult to free fools from the chains they revere." -Voltaire

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Tonight Misha gets cuddles, and defends her turf :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Chores done or in progress. Fallout: New Vegas break :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today: Got dog food cooking, and am soaking the bits of the humidifier to defunk it. Animals are resting after breakfasts and romps...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Looking back on my day...cleaned my bathroom, and also shoved Steve's stuff into a corner under the sink. MOAR ROOM! Also, the pile of magazines he had put aside "to be read"? Gone. And then...this might sound painful, be warned...I put away the coffee pot. I really did. The electric tea kettle sits there, now.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I was going to go be productive, but Misha is all curled up on my belly, so I guess I need to stay here for a bit!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Congested. Nauseous. Headache. Chills then sweaty than chilled. Luckily The Teen went and did grocery shopping. I'm alternately wrapped up or sprawled on the couch watching Blue Planet. Occasional 5 minute nap. Timber ate my tissues. Misha sleeps on my legs.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Just got off the phone with Spousal Unit, everything good there. On this side of the world I seem to have a head cold. Phooey.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I have received verbal confirmation....the spousal unit has landed in his new home. He is tired. He will communicate when next awake. Project Camel Man has begun...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My week, by Timber. I am learning all kinds of new skills! I showed Soft Lady that I can hop RIGHT OVER a 56" gate that's between me and some kitty goodies. BOING! And I can open a cabinet door by pulling the handle when it's between me and some yummy smelling garbage. AND I can also leap right over the couch when cat-chasing. I can push gates that aren't secured to walls aside, or just knock them down. And I can climb on top of the bench to get to the top of the (unused) fireplace where the cat thinks it's safe. I'm still working on how to open the front door...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Ah, Christmas traditions! Growing up, we never had a tree, but we did have the Christmas Tripod. Dad would wrap the telescope in wrapping paper, string it with lights and tinsel and hang ornaments on it. Every night we could pick a different star to top the tree :D It really was awesome.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Trying to sleep. Every been so tired that you are too tired to be able to relax enough to fall asleep? Yup, that's me. Okay brain, you can power of anytime! See, when it needs to be charged it doesn't stop, it just gets weird...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Steve is snuggled up in business class, flying to Amsterdam on his second leg of the trip--after a six hour layover. He texted me a picture of the wine list. I thing he's just showing off...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... AND.... (insert dramatic drum roll here) .... Just in time to help me celebrate my husbandless holidays.... I have a tooth that just up and went bad and the next available appointment to yank it out my head is January 10.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Last night with the spousal unit. At least it isn't an early flight tomorrow ;)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Miss Floofypants defends her lap nest from wandering pirate noses...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Miss Floofypants defends her lap nest from wandering pirate noses...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... WHEW! Spousal Unit's visa arrives at the metaphorical and almost literal last minute, giving us a day of staring at the door waiting for FedEx...and now relief...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Okay NetFlix, thank you for suggesting Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries! An Australian series, apparently, and utterly delightful!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The Teen and The Spousal Unit are out having a farewell lunch. Tomorrow Spousal Unit flies far, far away... And I get all the bed and closet and bathroom counter space! And I get to play with his kitchen stuff :D *silver linings*

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Best part of Steve moving? The closet is mine, ALL MINE! HANG ALL THE THINGS!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I am cold. That bone deep cold. So I am achy. And so I am grumpy. I've got a thermal robe and three blankets and I can't get warm :( I'm in a blanket fort with Misha. I may not come out at all today. Timber occasionally jumps on top of us, nibbled some hair, then goes off to bother a cat. He is not interested in blanket forts.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Night night....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Oh, Netflix, you've given me Dark Shadows!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My Week, by Timber I'm in BIG trouble! Apparently Soft Lady brushed me and she now has A WHOLE OTHER DOG! I don't want another dog! Soft Lady keeps saying "And here's your new brother, I guess I better let Kathy know!" and then Big Man starts giggling. So I ate his underwear. That'll show him! Also I found my way around yet another gate. I'm so smart! Now there are two gates that are zip-tied and hooked to protect the delicacy in the kitty boxes. But I feel this Pirate is up to the challenge! I shall plunder that gold! Soft Lady got all these great toys to put my food in! Now she glares at me because it took like 4 seconds to figure them out. Soft Lady says I have a career in burglary and safe cracking...which is only proper for a pirate! I'm busy training Soft Lady on jumps and weaves. She really needs help and learns so slow. When she doesn't hit her mark just exactly right I stop so she can try again. I don't yell at her, I'm trying to just focus on the positive behaviors I see...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Oh, okay. You look so pretty in your gold foil wrapper...OMNOMNOM!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Oh, hello there, box of Godiva chocolates that were a birthday gift. I am so *Omnomnom* pleased to see you again. I hope *nom nom* that you weren't feeling *nom* neglected in any way. *nom ICK* And there's the coconut one... That's okay...it just makes the others more precious... *OMNOMNOM*

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I do not have patience. Training or learning is different, you get constant feedback, albeit incremental. But waiting for Steve to start his job is like being bitten by a hundred fire ants. It's like having nothing to watch but reruns of Barney. It's like having to eat without seasonings...for three weeks straight! Patience may be a virtue, but I've never claimed to be virtuous ;)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Soft Lady said her back hurt, so I became Timber the Heating Pad/Neck Massager! Also I got to nibble on some hair. Win-win.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sleep. Hopefully.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Know what's fun? When someone tries to explain how teh gayz are evil because Jesus, and they insist that they know their bible, and you ask them exactly what Jesus said about teh gayz.... And they storm off in a huff because WWJD? Apparently not argue with me. Also, when you tell someone that you've taught your kid to just love people, and the sex and gender are secondary and rather arbitrary societal norms that I hope my kid will never feel compelled to follow? That apparently really pisses people off. Just call me sunshine!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A Very Difficult Night. My dear friend came over, and made me (I had been spared until now) listen to what the fox says...And now that song is TRAPPED IN MY BRAIN. But even worse, we started singing "What does the Timber Say?" and Timber LOVED his song and...and...and.... He nibbled the hair of another. Now, we had made no promises, but I am hurt. He kept nibbling and nibbling right in front of me... Apparently the Timber says "nom nom nom nom nom nom" and "hump hump hump hump hump hump hump" That's what the Timber says....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Indoor bathroom for dogs...I think I need one. Especially if pooping needs to happen at 2:30 am. In the cold. Ideas, people, ideas.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Headache. From spending two days in gluttony? Nah, couldn't be...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Fell asleep early. Now I'm awake. Also, tummy a bit hurty. Also a bit achy in the joints. It's a two cat, two dog kinda night :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Cold this morning! I'm wearing my pink owl onesie. I look delightful!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Breakfast in bed, and then The Teen comes in to say, "Happy 15th anniversary of your 29th birthday!"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My brother brought home donuts. I just ate the last one. Omnomnom....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Made it to the couch Back pain is less but not gone Time to snuggle with dogs

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Bwahaha! This is so ridiculous. And this guy--who wants to help other men be manly--hasn't a clue. I would pick it apart, but that would require taking it seriously, and I just can't. Have at it... http://www.returnofkings.com/21177/20-things-women-do-that-should-be-shamed-not-celebrated

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In bed. With my dogs. Back muscles twitch and throb and Hurt. Hope meds kick in.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I think if I'm awake at this hour I should celebrate by having a hunk of the lemon-rosemary cake that is just sitting in the kitchen. All lonely. It'll be my good deed. I don't want to do this, but the cake NEEDS me to do this....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Every time I read about BatKid I get all weepy and smiley again. What an amazing story.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I think I need a nap. The dogs are sleeping, only fair to join them...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Awake. At this time and outside temperature that requires going back to sleep. Immediately if not sooner. If I can only get the cat to stop snoring....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Is it still insomnia if you're enjoying your time awake? Although here come the yawns, won't be long now...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So eight. Eight things about me you probably would be surprised to know, or don't know. Not sure which. 1. When Steve used to travel in the Cost Guard, and later for his job, I couldn't erase any voice messages he left until he was physically back in my arms. 2. I will re-read Little Women, A Little Princess, and Anne of Green Gables at least once a year. And if I ever had a daughter her name was going to be Sarah Anne, from the last two. And I knew that name, and started the reading, when I was about eight. 3. Year-to-date I have read about 83 books. It's been a slow year, I'm usually in the 130s. 4. I performed at the New York School of Performing arts. Tap and ballet. I was four, and that is where my dance school did the recital. I wonder if I can put that on a resume? 5. In London, while in Speaker's Corner, I got up on a box and gave a talk about the benefits of oral sex, specifically that the guys needed to do more of it. I had several kind gentleman offer to give it a go, if I would help them out. I hadn't even checked into my hotel yet! 6. My animals are in my will, along with money to help rehome, train, pay for medical costs and food, transportation. 7. I went to college as a biology major, on a full scholarship from the debate team. I discovered parties and finished my first semester with a 1.875. I, with great trepidation, told my father. He sighed and said I learned more from my time in dorms and away from home than my grade could show. And that this was a bump, and bumps were for showing down, evaluating, and then moving forward. Not a single recrimination. That was the moment my dad became a person. And some who had all the love and respect I could give. 8. Nuts on brownies are a desecration.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... New York friends, I have an emergency kindness needed. A friend's child--along with mom and her two other kids--were rushed to the ER because the kid had a very high fever. Now she is in the hospital in a strange area with no money on her and she doesn't know how to get her and the kids home. Anyone up and willing to do some driving? Or would be okay with stopping by and making sure she has can fare?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Timber cuddles with The Big Man.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today's agenda: 1. Cuddle with dogs 2. Fallout: New Vegas 3. Take dogs out 4. Run back inside because it's COLD OUTSIDE! 5. Cuddle with dogs to get warm 6. With dogs, learn a new trick 7. Fallout: New Vegas 8. Lunch 9. Outside with dogs 10. Inside with dogs, try to get warm again. 11. Work on tricks to keep Timber from climbing the walls or learning to open the refrigerator. 12. Fallout: New Vegas 13. Dinner That's as far as my agenda has gotten. So far it seems like a good plan.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Skittles. Because I want to taste the rainbow!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... We have snowflakes!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Holy Doggy Tail Wags, is this the season for lost dogs? ANOTHER loose dog by our house. Ran off behind the yards, hopefully will show up again this way... I'm going to put together a "dog catcher" kit to just grab as we fly out the door--slip lead, treats, a bottle of water...anything else?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Dog is home, back in his yard... My dogs are ANGRY because they saw me WALKING ANOTHER DOG, plus petting him. But I'm glad someone's dog is home...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Dog rescue in progress! Chocolate lab wandered onto our yard...with the zap collar from an invisible fence but no tags. WHY I HATE INVISIBLE FENCES!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Facebook being exceedingly weird today.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sleep. Hopefully.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Timber was upset that Misha was next to me on the couch, so he climbed up the back, over the cushions, and is now draped over my shoulder... I have A Boneless, Mountain-climbing, Goober-headed Pirate Terv.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My weekend, by Timber... I was cruelly abandoned by Soft Lady who left me with The Big Man and Big Puppy. They didn't cuddle me properly, and never even fed me or threw the ball AT ALL. And if they say different they are liars. And Soft Lady came home, FINALLY, and you know what? SHE SMELLED LIKE PUPPY! And then, today, just because I climbed up the couch, she said I was a Goober-Headed Mountain Dog. She did do hups and weaves with me, and threw the ball elebenty million times, and gave me a thousand kisses since yesterday, so I'm not ready to trade her in, but she needs a stern talking to....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I have decided to be productive today. I will become one with the dogs. So when they go out, I'll go outside, too, and play. And when they come back instead, get a treat and some water, and then nap for a few hours, I'll do likewise. This plan cannot fail.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Awake. Doglight Savings Time changes for no one. But back in bed, warm and cozy and covered in cats and dogs. Life is good.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In bed. Four days of driving and hotel mattresses and sitting in a car have worn me out! Need some cuddle time with my puppies...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... HOME! The dogs are happy to see me, not happy to smell puppy on me, but really happy I didn't bring said puppy home :) Had a wonderful time traveling to get Aja! I think she will have a wonderful life in her new home...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... On the road home. Puppy likes yogurt :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Annnnnnd...the puppy went to potty and is now AWAKE! PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAY!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In the hotel for the night. Lovely Delaware! Puppy Aja is so sweet! Bonding with Priscilla in the back seat and slept most of the ride up. Not sure about cement and cars driving by, but does love cookies! Ate her dinner right up! I remember my first night with Timber, so fun to share that with someone else! Especially when I'm not the one who had to wake in the middle of the night for potty :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Hotel in Massachusetts. So. So. Damn. Tired. Tomorrow my friend picks up her puppy. Puppy! Don't worry, I'll post pictures :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In New York! Ahh...home.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In New Jersey. Driving with a friend up to MA to get.... A PUPPY! A DOBERMAN PUPPY! Kettle Cove Boston Strong, call name Aja. Ten weeks old. Ahh...puppy breath!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So...apparently a sprained thumb/hand takes more than 2 weeks to heal. And unwrapping it and then picking up something heavy with an unhealed sprained thumb/hand it really, really painful.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "What we hope ever to do with ease, we must learn first to do with diligence." -Samuel Johnson

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sleepy pill starting to kick in. I may or may not get the munchies. But I'm yawning so much I may not stay awake long enough to find out. Off to sleepy I go. Well maybe a wee bit of pintrest first. Good night!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In one of my running groups a woman named Melissa ran her first half marathon yesterday. If you've ever run a race you know how incredibly wonderful that feeling is, like conquering a mountain. She came home and was killed by her partner. Please support laws and programs that help domestic violence victims get help and get to safety. Damn it.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... What I did on my second birthday, by Timber First I nose bopped Soft Lady awake EXTRA EARLY! She had to put on her fake floof....poor humans all nekkid, and do you know what? They actually shave off the little floof they have. I swear, I saw them! Poor humans.... Anyway, then we went outside for the First Patrolling Of The Yard and you know what? THERE WAS FROST! Soft Lady muttered something about also not feeding them after midnight, but my feets touched that frost and BLAMO! I got the Chilly Willy Zoomies! WHEEEEEEEEE! Now, always stretch and do your morning doga...Downward Dog...Upward Dog....And then ZOOMIES! Raced around the yard, reset the perimeter, and accidentally crashed into Soft Lady who recovered well and didn't even fall! Although she did hop around holding her knee and mumbling but I didn't pay attention because ZOOMIES! Oh, and back inside I managed a perfect combination of moves: a Tervie Headstand directly into a Floofernutter (that's when you belly up to show floof and, well, you know) AND the Tervie Drape & Blanket. Soft Lady was cold so I figured she needed some extra floof :) And that's the start of my BIRTHDAY! Later I get to carve a pumpkin and eat treats and stuff, but now is time for First Nap and Pirate Dreams. Happy Birthday to my Pirate Clan, and if course the Pirate Queen Kathy, and special nose kisses to my mum, Rhian....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Happy birthday Pirate Pups! I'm pretty sure you're all legal for grog and a wee bit of plunder...enjoy your day of tasty treats and pillaging mayhem!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I waddled, I ate, now I'm tired and hungry. Need more food, then first nap.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The Teen: "If you get dressed and go for a waddle with me we can stop for lunch on the way back. My treat." Bribing me to run with food. The kid is alright!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The best breakdown of the GOP's antics, from my friend Kalen: "So.... let me see if I understand this correctly... I don't think pizza is good for our society and is the worst thing since... oh I don't know the holocaust. I voice my uneducated opinion as loud as I can because FUCK pizza. No one listens to me. I intentionally stop all traffic in my local community, because a new pizza place is scheduled to open there, so that the people see how bad pizza really is. I should point out once again FUCK pizza. The new pizza place opens up in town anyways. Damn it were you people not listening I said FUCK pizza. Now that the place is open, and seems to be serving pizza, they aren't serving it fast enough for me. DAMN IT I SAID THIS WAS GONNA BE BAD AND NOW LOOK AT YOU. Screwing up our lives with your pizza.... WHERE IS THE PIZZA I ORDERED 15 minutes ago? We should fire everyone who works there, when I order pizza it should be here when I want it to be here."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The stupid is like an ocean: it comes in waves, and it can kill you." - Brian Pineda

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... An I actually hungry? Or is it my insom-nom-nomia?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I need to not be still awake. But knowing that really doesn't help. In fact, knowing I need to sleep makes sleep less likely, yet how do I not know I need to sleep? I could try not remembering I've got something to do? Pretend I've got all morning to sleep in? It's hard to placebo yourself.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Pirate Terv Handbook, by Timber. Chapter 3, Signature Moves The Tervie Headstand. When you jam your forehead into your human and SLOWLY plop on top of them. The Tervie Kidney Punch. When you need to get your human's attention so you jump up and place your paws on their back. With some authority. The Tervie Silly Grin. Guaranteed to make your human immediately give you cuddles. The Pirate Plunder. Quickly sneaking and grabbing an item beloved by your human (socks and shoes especially) so as to have a game of chase AND get a treat for giving it back. The Pirate Pillage. Sneaking to the counter-top, bathroom, or anywhere else there is something tasty (kitty kibbles are yummy) and having yourself a snack. Bonus points of it is a people food. The Paper Shredder. Bills make humans sad, so it is up to us to grab that paper and shred it into itty bitty bits. All over the floor. Picking it up is good exercise for the humans, so really it's a win-win. Bonus: fiber when consumed helps keep you regular. The Tervie Lean. Self-explanatory. The Snout Jab. Applied to belly, the aforementioned kidneys, arms, legs, and buttocks of humans. When the Kidney Punch fails or your need is urgent. The Herding Nibble. To help humans move faster.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Okay, couch is prepped, cozy blanket ready, sleepy dogs properly positioned...IT'S NAP TIME!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A 2.5 miles run/walk/limp/crawl :) Felt good to be out there again! Melanie kicked my butt though...time for a nap!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Also... It's almost 4 am, WHY AM I NOT SLEEP! Stupid brain doing the thinking.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The problem with touch screens: A twitchy cat tail can and will change a page or close/open an app. An ear can forever lose your place in a book. And a face rub...you don't even want to know about face rubs....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Dear fellow Pirate Minions... Halp! I cannot seem to find a pirate-proof gate to keep a certain Timber apart from the kitty kibble! I have hooks and latches and he managed to squeeze himself UNDERNEATH and pry it open enough to get in! I need help to....HEY GET OFF OF ME.... Ahem. Timber here. Please ignore Soft Lady's ranting, she isn't feeling well and seems to be suffering from delusions. Of course I am innocent of all charges. The only reason she found me in the bathroom with the kibble was because a CAT had eaten it so fast he started choking, and I broke in to help. Instead of thanks I get The Look. Unfair! Please go about your business, nothing to see here... Yours, Timber

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Eating nachos and cheeses. I may or may not have taken a sleeping pill. I may or may not have had a wonderful and deep political discussion with Timber. He says (during a hypothetical discussion which may or may not have happen) every puppy should have kibble, and a collar with a name and address. It's hard to argue with that. He is a bit upset that, after going through all the trouble of placing a poo in the EXACT SPECIAL SPOT I come along and keep it for myself. He says it messes up the dog-shui. He said if the poo was so important he deserved a cut of the action. He could skip the middle Soft Lady. I've decided that certain treats are "good poo" tests so he feel like he's getting paid. Don't know how long that will ask! I'm waiting for the "get sleepy" part, but until then I'll keep taking to Timber. Andy questions for him?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Great Neptune's salty nipples, I just realized I AM HOME UNATTENDED! MUAHAHAHA!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... This I hate: when I stay awake I'm exhausted but as soon as I try to sleep I'm wide awake. Bah.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Mine baby is out signing up for selective service and getting his passport. All by himself! Because when you turn 18 you're an adult and stuff and don't need a parent for such things. YAY! I mean...*sniff sniff* (No, I'm pretty full of YAY! He's an awesome and amazing young man and on days when he isn't driving me mad I'm very proud of him. Actually, I'm pretty proud that he can drive me mad. Sarcasm is a gift and a skill, and The Teen wields it well for one so young.)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The surest way to corrupt a youth is to instruct him to hold in higher esteem those who think alike than those who think differently." -Friedrich Nietzsche

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today in Why Darlene Is Not A Ballerina.... I tripped taking off my pants and sprained my thumb and wrist. Left hand, luckily. So I have one working hand and one flipper. (And Brian, don't you dare tell the other ballerina story!)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I just had a horrible realization: I may not have insomnia, I may just like staying up all night. It's quiet. No one bothers me. I can read without interruption. Even the dogs are asleep...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Things I've Been Doing, by Timber ...not playing outside. I do not like the wet grass on my paws or the soggy tennis balls. Pffft. Instead I am practicing Extreme Cat Chasing. It really should be an event... ...grooming George Cat. His ears need cleaning, and I found a spot that makes his little cat leg twitch! Soft Lady giggles... ...protecting the house from the evil ChubacabraYetiRabbit that comes into the yard. Sometimes I have to wake up Soft Lady at 2am so I can go and mark over where the evil has been. I am very brave! ...getting ready for Big Man to leave. Soft Lady is staying here with me, she says it's too hot in Saudi for me, plus Pirates don't do well in cargo--I might decide to plunder! But without Big Man around I get to have Soft Lady ALL TO MYSELF!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Well, Steve has accepted an offer with Saudi Aramco! He will be moving to Saudi, but I'll be staying here. (If I went you'd all be hearing news stories about some heretical American woman starting riots and protests!) Plus, I could never subject my animals to such an arduous journey, and Timber would never fit under the seat. And I don't think pirates do well in cargo! :) We are very excited! This gives us an excuse for trips overseas, and we are thinking of doing Thanksgiving next year in Paris... Not a bad plan :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Yay! Got my flu and tdap jabs, so I am all sorts of protected! And safer to be around :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I think I need chocolate.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Grumpy. Raining and cold, so my hips are aching something fierce. Makes me grumpy. I have shelves of books I don't want to read, food I don't want to eat, a closet of clothes I don't want to wear. Grumpy. Prescription? Take two dogs and cuddle until morning :) It's a good plan!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "No, no, you're not thinking, you're just being logical." -Niels Bohr

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Ow! Reading cramp in my shoulder! Three books today. And two were book four and five in a series, which has me itching to read one, two, and three again. Sustenance needed. This is a workout.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Conversation with The Teen: Me: and while you're at the grocery store pick up some enchilada sauce, it will be in the Spanish foods aisle. The Teen: really? I figured it would be with Italian food... Sarcasm, it's generational :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I took a nap. Actually, I took a sleep, because almost 5 hours is not a nap. So I might be here for awhile!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sciatica really acting up today. Gets on my nerve...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The corporate grip on opinion in the United States is one of the wonders of the Western world. No First World country has ever managed to eliminate so entirely from its media all objectivity --much less dissent." -Gore Vidal,

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... It's dark in the house, quiet. Everyone has settled down and a stillness slides across the rooms.... TIME FOR KITTY FIGHT CLUB! In this corner we have Manji, marmalade, and his missing tail just make him more ornery.... In that corner we have the elegant Lord Stanley, in his usual tuxedo... ARE YOU READY TO RUMBLE!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Went for a trail ride. First time in over a year! It felt good to be back in the saddle. Not so good now that I'm off :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "A strong nation, like a strong person, can afford to be gentle, firm, thoughtful, and restrained. It can afford to extend a helping hand to others. It is a weak nation, like a weak person, that must behave with bluster and boasting and rashness and other signs of insecurity." -Jimmy Carter

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Timber just went to window, stared into the yard for a solid five minutes, came to tell me he needed to go out... ...sniffed around, found one new spot to mark, and came right back in. I don't know what was in the yard, but Timber feels better now that he's peed over it.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Now I'm hungry. But I don't want anything we have in the house. No, not even chocolate.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Also....I hate pumpkin. And I don't mean I think it's yucky, I mean I hate it with a white-hot hate I reserve for very few foods. I hate the flavor, the pies, the spiced, the lattes, the way it pushes itself into otherwise wonderful things. Pumpkin beer? WHY! Pumpkin coffee? EVIL! It is a deep betrayal. I can never forgive pumpkin for its invasion all things otherwise yummy.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So apparently some show ended tonight and it's a big deal?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Watching a show called Black Books...book store comedy :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Home, in bed, hoping to sleep. Was at a bonfire at a friend's. I was in BIG trouble when I got home...I had been with another dog. TWO other dogs! Bandit the Bassett Hound and Beau the Rat Terrier. I submitted to the sniff-over with my usual grace. I also owe Timber an extra two hundred kisses, and Misha needed additional snuggles. Then I climbed into bed without giving the dogs their bedtime cookie. Timber had to remind me...he said he'd discuss it in the morning...I think I'm in BIGGER trouble now!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Two things: I finished Fallout: New Vegas. It was amazing and awesome and I really need something light to play for a bit. Watching Sleepy Hollow....very happy so far!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I am awake. Begrudgingly. Zoo needs the feeding or else they will start the meowing and the barking and the splashing (yes, the turtles get in on it, too!). Then: nap time!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Done, going to try and get some sleep. Throat scratchy, hope it isn't a harbinger. Time to cuddle with cats and dogs....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Misha and Timber both get early morning snuggles

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I'm never going to sleep again. Can you forget how to sleep? Is that possible? I think I forgot how. At least for tonight. Stupid Sleepy Tea...never again! I totally blame the tea.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Just brewed some tea in my brand new electric kettle! Setting up a little area in the bedroom so I don't have as much nocturnal wandering to get the dogs all awake...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Officially addicted to Call the Midwife.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I be awake. Day 4 o' t' Serious Ick. Feelin' like washed out poo. I'll go outside t' bask in t' day with me pirate dog...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The dogs woke me at 5 o'something too-damn-early o'clock. Indoor toilets for dogs. Seems like something that needs inventing. So I can sleep!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Coloring book and crayons. I'm hiding in my blanket fort for a little while...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Update: day 3 of The Serious Ick. I am so congested I am pretty sure that--if I could work out the mechanics--I could blow my ears along with my nose.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Stupid kindle just slipped and hit my lip. There was blood. Now my face hurts. A liar sleepy tea and a violent device.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sleepy Time Tea? LIAR!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So.... How many cups of sleepy time tea before the "I need to use the loo" negates the "sleepy time"?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Day 2 of The Serious Ick. The congestion. The being very cold and then sweating. The itchy eyes. The head hurting from the pressure. The congestion. Le Poop.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations." -Iroquois Nation Maxim

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My brother Brian, who loves me (or had a craving after I mentioned it), went and got his sick sister ice cream and cookies. Happy now!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Chocolate is good when you aren't feeling well...right? Or should have soup? And don't even go there...I can't do chocolate soup. That is just wrong. Fever makes my brain go wiggly. Just warning you.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So a friend gave me a recipe for a tomato tea that helps with The Serious Ick... V8, lemon juice, hot sauce... A Bloody Mary without the vodka! Granted, it's supposed to be heated, but still, for some reason that makes me very happy...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My headache yesterday was foreshadowing of a greater doom... The Serious Ick. The fever. The stomach upset. The scratchy throat.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So...if you have anything to say about Miss America that starts with "I'm not racist, but..." or you in anyway think that she isn't American.... Congratulations, you are a racist! The stupid bigotry in this country just freaking kills me.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I had forgotten just how funny The Vicar of Dibley is!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Crawled under the covers. Head seems to have gotten trapped in a vice grip made of flaming hurtiness. Small monsters with drills are trying to get through my temples. Emergency Animal Cuddle Therapy has been activated.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today seems like a great day to crawl back under the covers. With dogs, cats, and a few books. It's a big cover :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Timber crawled right up and settled in for some serious snuggles.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I remember the days when I could stay up until 5 or 6 am and be up at 9, ready to start the day. I remember them because I can no longer experience them.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I have many 9/11 stories. In Dulles airport Wednesday. With the National Guard and FBI all over. We were removing dangerous objects from the stores. You know--sewing kits. Tweezers. This is when I learned that the FBI does not have a sense of humor. I knew, even then, with everything fresh and open and painful, that sewing kits was not the threat. So I picked up a little Washington Monument plastic thing, and I said "OOOOH, this has a pointy tip! Should we put these away, too?" And so they went away. You were saved from death by cheap Washington Monument because of my sarcasm. You are welcome.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Tonight sucks. In one group I'm trying to explain that having a difficult child is not an excuse to try and murder that child. And blaming that attempted murder on the child's disability is especially heinous. Filed under: Things I Thought Were Self Freaking Evident. Then...9/11. I was working in Dulles Airport for that. And all the memory posts just being it all back. Filed under: There Is Not Enough Room In My Heart For The Pain. On a lighter note, we installed a bidet fitting in the matter bathroom. Filed under: Two shall be the setting of the spray, and the number of the setting shall be two. Three is not the number of the setting, and four is right out! Trust me. Do not...ever...go to four.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... For those who need a laugh...a piece on the importance of proofreading... http://youtu.be/OonDPGwAyfQ

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I haz a need for cheering up. Please to share cute, funny, or Squee items. Thanks.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... DID YOU KNOW...by Timber Did you know...that dogs also like peanut butter/banana/strawberry smoothies? That Big Man really should put some in a bowl to share. Since he didn't, we just drank some out of his glass. It was yummy! Did you know...that fresh cut grass is WONDERFUL to roll in. Also, it sticks to pre-moistened snoots. Also, Soft Lady screamed "The Monster from The Green Lagoon!" I don't know why. Did you know...that Senior Tervs On Staff hoard ALL THE TOYS! It is unfair. But I'm in love with Misha, so I just circle her nest of toys and give her sad eyes. Did you know...that sometimes Big Man forgets to double-lock the gate into the bathroom, and I can open it and nom on the kitty kibble. Did you know...humans are hard to train. But Soft Lady will give me cheese every time a dog passes by and I bark at it! She rewards my alert, and I reward her cheese-giving by not barking more. Win-win. That is all. Hope my other Pirate sibs are also learning great and important things.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... New slogans for North Carolina: Race to the Bottom. NC: making Texas look good. Any others?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A thought that struck me--I have never cared about 'having it all'. I have no interest in 'leaning in'. I do care that women are able to have jobs that pay a living wage. I do care that women have access to healthcare. I can't have it all if others have nothing.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My ears are so stuffed I contemplated squirting my nasal spray into them. I didn't, but I thought about it.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Things I Was Called In The Past 24 Hours, by Timber. They called me a Fuzzy Butthead. At 2 am, when I bounced off Soft Lady's stomach to chase evil from the yard I was called "@$#%, @$#^& %#&&$&, and @#^%#^". I don't think that is very nice. They keep saying "Why do you say you are Tervie when you have fuzzy tail like rabbit?" (Bonus points if you get the reference) The said my p-mail was "Return to Sender". Sometimes it gets on my feet, no need to tease a dog! They called me a Humpasaurus. Hey, a teenage Pirate has needs! But best is when Soft Lady gives me my kisses and cuddles and calls me "My lovekins". That sounds very nice :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Vertigo. So stuffed with decongestants and such. Going to play Civilization: Revolution. Which is an awesome game. With breaks for dog training. But I'll let Timber tell you about that.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My insom-nom-nomia is kicking in. Also, Sudafed crushes sleeping pills. Thus my awakens.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Stupid vertigo coming back :( Allergies, I am really sick of you now. Go away. Shoo.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So, in the "I'm so taking that as a compliment" file, a friend said to me the other day, "You're HOW old? I thought you were ten years younger!" *pause* "No wonder you are so secure and confident!" That is my second favorite, after a friend said "Wow, you are actually much cooler than you look!"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Yup! Nerdy Wonka @NerdyWonka 30m Pres. Obama to Congress: Welcome to the adult's table. You want to weigh in on Syria, I want every American to see your vote. The end.

Advice for my teen.

I have seen these floating around, and decided to make my own...

I preface it by my overall wish for my child:

I hope you have a career that challenges and engages you; that provides for all your needs and some of your wants.

I hope you are healthy.

I hope you find love and passion with the person(s) of your choice, who feel the same in return. And if you want children, I hope you can have them through whatever means work for you.

Now, for stuff I need my teenager to know:
_____________________________________

1. Don't worry about grades, they are arbitrary and once you leave high school no one will care that you stayed in to get an A--but you will care about the real experiences you may have missed. 

2. Yes means yes. Enthusiastic consent, every step of the way.

3. Don't waste you time with clubs that you aren't interested in, and never think being good at sports make you important. Instead, find the few things you are really passionately interested in and immerse yourself in those.

4. Drive safely. I have taught you how and modeled that behavior for you. You will get into an accident--hope it's a small one, stay calm, and know I always love you more than the car.

5. Drugs and drinking are a part of life. I trust you to make your own decisions, and I've raised you to be your own person. You know the risks, you know the benefits. Be safe, and call me if you need me. You won't be in trouble, but I may spend a few years imitating your drunken attempts to get the key in the door. Be prepared for consequences.

6. I have taught you about finance. Get a credit card and use it wisely, to build up your credit. You will need debt to pay for school, buy a house, buy a car...and the better your credit, the better interest rates you will get. So use your card, pay it down, and don't get silly with buying power. But if you do go on a last-minute trip to Europe, remember to buy your mother something.

7. If I yell at you, yell back. You deserve to be treated with respect, and if I forget you are free to remind me.

8. Don't be afraid of being an adult. Every decade gets more and more awesome, more and more wonderful. What you are doing now is training for life.

9. Bucket lists are for people who forget to live now, and think that there will be a magical time in the future when they will finally be able to do all the things they wanted. Most people will die before that happens. Don't be one of them. Do it now, do it soon, make those things a reality instead of a distant fantasy.

10. "Them as can do has to do for them as can't. And someone has to speak up for them A's has no voices." 
— Terry Pratchett 

11. Vote. Serve jury duty with pride. These are your civic duties, and rights that we lose if we do not use.

12. Protest. March. Write and call your representatives. Demonstrate. Be vocal about things that matter. Write letters to the editor and opinion pieces.

13. Being a follower isn't all bad. You can't be a leader in everything, and you may not be a leader in anything. But chose who follow wisely. Remember when we marched on Washington? We were following people. Remember when we protested for voting rights? We were following people. And to be a good ally to those who are oppressed you MUST follow them, it is never your job to lead them--they know how to lead themselves, thank you very much. Ask what they need you to do, and then do it.

14. Family and friends are important. Always be there for them. However, you have no obligation to anyone--including me--if they can't treat you with respect and dignity. I never have a right to control you, and when you are an adult my role is to advise when asked, and support when needed. You do not have to prove anything to me, or make me happy, or live up to my standards--you need to be accountable to yourself, not me. It's your life, live it.

15. Be happy.

16. Some things aren't worth doing well. Some things are better when you half-ass them, so you can spend time on those things that you want to do well. This is why I don't make my bed or fold my underwear, by the way. Everything doesn't have to be perfect.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today my kid pre-registered to vote! Proud of you, R.j.!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... YAY! High Point, N.C. — "High Point police canceled an Amber Alert just before 9:30 a.m. Friday, saying only that Shylin Olanda Neal, 1, was found and is SAFE."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Benson being adorable!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Morning Pirate snuggles. With added bonus facial! The secret to clear skin :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... And insomnia ninja sneaks up once again...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Goodnight!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today I joined the NAACP, unit 5430. #forwardtogether #moralmonday

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Heading to Museum of the Albemarle to remember the March on Washington, and to move us forward...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So I was posting with someone about voter ID. She said "Sorry, people can only vote once" which has actually nothing to do with how people vote in this state... And after I pointed that out all she can say is "Typical liberal". Because that is an argument? Can you not even google something relevant and at least pretend you know something about this?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So, for tonight's gathering/protest...do I wear my Planned Parenthood shirt OR my March on Washington 50th Anniversary shirt?

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... NC is now ranked 50 in teacher's pay and education funding. #ncga #MoralMonday

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... But first, take the dogs out...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... There is ice cream. I am pretty sure I need some before bed. Almost positive.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Okay, I'm going to watch Miley's 'performance'...if I'm not back in five, call the Coast Guard for a rescue... #VMA

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Getting major morning cuddles from Timber and Misha!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Last night I slept well, so now I'm tired but can't sleep. When I try to sleep I'm wide awake, but when awake I want to sleep. #insomnia

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Was home by 10:20. This ending a 19.5 hour day which included 4.5 hours of standing, followed by 2.5 hours of marching. Followed by a painful metro, car ride, car ride to home.the sitting was good, it was the getting up to change transportation modes that hurt! A 19 and half hour day. Plus fifty years. Today my teen and I marched on Washington, for jobs and freedom. For voting rights. Economic justice. Women's rights. Immigration reform. We marched to stop racism profiling. Stop & Frisk. We marched for more. We marched for everyone. Speak up, speak out. Stand up, get up, and walk forward. Forward together NOT ONE STEP BACK! To sleep now. To dream of a world that doesn't need March and protests...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Last leg of the journey home. ETA one hour. #mow50 was amazing, powerful, emotional...so glad we went.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Among the luminaries who spoke today: Ms. Evers Cory Booker Eric Holder Congressman John Lewis Minority House Whip Nancy Pelosi The families of Emmet Till and Trayvon Martin Martin Luther King III Al Sharpton But my favorite? Also the youngest speaker, Asean Johnson, a 9 yo student from Chicago who has been protesting the school closings there, and who have a fierce and fiery speech about education.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Passing the Lincoln Memorial http://ow.ly/i/2XVRE #mow50

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Resting a bit before trekking to the metro. Will post pictures later. #mow50

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... At the Lincoln Memorial! Packed with wonderful people...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Mall we are here! #mow50

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... On the metro! #mow50

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... On 95, heading to DC!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... On our way, at o' darkthirty, leg one to DC for #mow50

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... This is me, still awake. I tried the "write stuff down so you won't forget it" except I keep thinking of new things to write down.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... This is me not sleeping. Worried I am forgetting something. Made pb & j sandwiches with extras for others. Water and Gatorade. Snacks. Sunscreen. Clothes laid out. Charger. GPS. I need to sleep! Although I will have plenty of time in the car to snooze. There is that. I just need to wake up, dress, and grab everything that is already packed.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Going to be signing off early...need to leave by 3 am to get to DC for the March on Washington! Whoohoo!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Dear Kathy, Timber has informed me that instead of 300 kisses a day he needs 400 kisses a day. When I told him that seemed excessive, he insisted that--instead of fine print--the contract I signed has fine smells which he says requires 400 kisses a day. Now, obviously, I can't smell the 'fine smells', but I can smell a rat, and I just wanted to double check if this is accurate... Thank you, Soft Lady

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The bitterest tears shed over graves are for words left unsaid and deeds left undone." -Harriet Beecher Stowe

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... http://ow.ly/i/2X2Pr I touched Rachel Maddow! @maddow

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Watch Rachel Maddow, @maddow is live in #elizabethcity

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... #gilbert challenging black student voters...#elizabethcity #ecsu #suppressingvotes

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... #ArtPope bought the #ncga. #Maddow

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... http://ow.ly/i/2X1Bg Rachel Maddow!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Rachel Maddow!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Here with R.j., Steve, Courtney, and Sara...so excited!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Just met Congressman G. K. Butterfield, shook his hand...waiting for The Rachel Maddow Show to start.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... There is one piece of chocolate pudding pie in the refrigerator. One lonely piece.... What's that you say? You want me to get you out of the ice box? Are you sure, little pie? Well, it is warmer in my belly! Okay, just this one.... On nom nom

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Vertigo is GONE! and I had a full nights sleep.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Heading to a party with a Doberman club! Always great to see puppies :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A Little Fry and Laurie to put me to sleep :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Propped up on pillows to keep my head upright and still. Watching Sherlock. Eating chocolate pudding pie. Surrounded by dogs and a cat on my feet. Small breaks for naps, Facebook, rests, and more Sherlock. If I'm too be in a spinning world, it may as well be cozy and full of comfort foods and cuddles

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury." -John Stuart Mill

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Day 3 of the vertigo. Tried to do some yard work, almost face-planted. Avoided poo--yay! Back inside, keeping head very straight. This sucks! Also, dogs are really handy as stabilizers.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A Love Poem, by Timber Oh I'm in love Misha, She of soft reddish fur, But she glares when I try to get closer, And treats me like a no-good cur. Yes I'm in love with Misha, I drool when I sniff where she marks, And should a bike come by that threatens I protect her with fierce Tervie barks. Oh yes I'm in live with Misha But she'll never let me have that, So I share all my toys and treats from afar And run off to go hump the cat...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Also, my husband made chocolate pudding pie. With whipped cream on top. Not that said pie will be eaten. It lives in the fridge. For now

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Also, my husband Steve made chocolate pudding pie. With whipped cream on top. Not that said pie will be eaten. Not that it won't. I'm just letting you know it currently resides in the fridge.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I have discovered the Netflix. Starting Sherlock. If I'm not back in a few days have the power turned off and break the spell!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Note to self: when you have vertigo do NOT toss head back when taking meds. Seriously. A Very Bad Idea.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "They defend their errors as if they were defending their inheritance." -Edmund Burke

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Holy wibbly-wobbly room, Batman. The vertigo has struck! Like being seasick on land. Ug.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Almost midnight....time for some chocolate :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... UG! Allergies. I can feel the pressure in my ears. Stupid plant sex.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Fallout: New Vegas. DLC. I left the Sierra Nevada with all 37 bars of gold, oh yes I did! Who's got two sore thumbs and a safe full of treasure? This girl :)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Today's agenda: Throw ball for Timber. Cuddle with dogs. Play Fallout: New Vegas. Repeat as necessary.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "There is a loftier ambition than merely to stand high in the world. It is to stoop down and lift mankind a little higher." -Henry van Dyke

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "IKEA’s New Catalog Lets You Try It Before You Buy It" http://feedly.com/k/1bfO4Pl YAY!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @exileinflyville "#noALEC mood changed quickly: "just like NATO, took 10 mins to turn from peaceful protest w. unions to cops attacking people" - @samwiseeyes"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @K9Psychologist "Mix a Newfoundland with a Bassett Hound, you get the Newfound Asset Hound. A dog for financial advisors."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @quotepage ""Indifference and neglect often do much more damage than outright dislike." - J. K. Rowling"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @jesseltaylor "If the GOP only wants their debates carried on Fox News and AEI live streams, who are we to stop them?"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Most institutions demand unqualified faith; but the institution of science makes skepticism a virtue." -Robert King Merton

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... In a mood. It was implied that I am not capable of educating a teen into adulthood. However, since I already did it, kind of a more point.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Groan! edgarwright @edgarwright 13m Can't wait to see 'Thor' in November if only to air my premiere joke one more time: "Thor was great, afterparty was a bit Loki."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... There is a cat sleeping on my left foot, and a dog using my right foot as a pillow. Meaning I'm trapped until they move.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Mosquitos dined on my ankles, now I am one huge itch. I need more toads, spiders, bats, and wasps to kill the mosquitos. #enemyofmyenemy

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Seeing your state (North Carolina) featured on the Daily Show is painful. Thanks #ncga for making out state a nation laughingstock. We have out-regressed every other state.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A friend of a friend has a Dogo Argentino that was having a few behavior issues. Barking at the fence, not coming in from the yard without a chase...she was frustrated and a 'trainer' had recommended a bark collar and some other interventions... I sent her a few links to positive sites to teach a basic recall and to interrupt barking, offered a bit of advice, and today I got this message: "Who is this wonderful, awesome dog!?! He has done a complete 180! He comes when he's called, and listens right away! Very little barking and stops when asked! THANK YOU!" I cried. I love when a dog can stay in his home, and when people find an effective way to communicate with their pet. <3 this!

Closing clinics

 "Spurred By Anti-Choice Lawmakers, North Carolina’s Health Department Cracks Down On Abortion Clinics" http://feedly.com/k/12UDnl5  

Bad enough that SB353 threatens to close all but one clinic, they are working to keep that one shut, too.

Damn them.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Five Egregious Ways Police Are Seizing Property From Those Never Accused Of A Crime" http://feedly.com/k/194T2B7

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Have you heard of a vodka called Firefly? It is a sweet tea flavored vodka. When mixed with lemonade it is yummy. Around a bonfire, more so.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... NOES! My brother has joined me on the couch. Getting crowded now...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @cerebus19 "LEGO Monty Python & the Holy Grail. Zoom in for awesome detail. pic.twitter.com/NDtDvXDheD"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @cerebus19 "LEGO Monty Python & the Holy Grail. Zoom in for awesome detail. pic.twitter.com/NDtDvXDheD"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A couch that converts to a bed is the best place to lounge on a rainy Sunday. Two dogs fit easily, plus room for a cat or three. Plus a me.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I am awake. My brain seems to still be sleeping. Need MOAR PUPPY CUDDLES. And first nap.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Twenty Years Of In-Tents Treatment: How Sheriff Joe Arpaio Put Racism On Display" http://feedly.com/k/16OtJNN

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Pakistan's 'Burka Avenger' Cartoon Stirs Controversy" http://feedly.com/k/16SDQBj

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Bill Moyers: 50 Million Go Hungry Each Day" http://feedly.com/k/1b3zXfY

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Too many crappy sleep nights catching up. Hoping for a solid 8 or 9....Good night!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... How can I hurt thee? Let me count the ways... Close a door on my foot... Which makes me stumble and catch my leg against the corner of the counter. Punching myself in the face when my hand slipped while struggling with the fitted sheets. My kindle falling forward off the pillow it's propped on and thwacking my lip. I'm going to bed. It's safe there. Except for the kindle thing. Also, chocolate will happen. Milky Way understands me. Milky Way accepts me as I am.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @MissRavenSymone "I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... The proper way to peruse an Ikea catalog: Step one: go through, page by page, and use small post-its to mark those items you will come back to.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then rest afterward." -Spanish proverb

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... 2014 Ikea catalog has arrived! I know how I'm spending the day...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "STUDY: Mexican Men Are More Likely To Cross The Border If They Think Immigration Law Is Unjust" http://feedly.com/k/11xK21K

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Federal Court Strikes Blow For NCAA Player Rights" http://feedly.com/k/14nGNOd

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Illinois Becomes 20th State With Medical Marijuana Law" http://feedly.com/k/1bPOyzo

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @BreakingNews "Ariel Castro sentenced to life sentence without possibility of parole on aggravated murder charge - live video"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @GottaLaff "Castro: "Thank you everyone. Thank you victims." <-- He seriously just said that."

Justice

"Justice is what love looks like in public"

An alert pops up on my computer...It's July 2, and the NC House has just attached an anti-choice bill to an anti-sharia bill. My 17 yo stepson sits next to me on the couch, patting my arm and listening to me rant.

"I'll go put gas in the car," he says, "What time do you want to leave?"

We start the three hour drive the next morning. Among the way we discuss being arrested. To ask for a lawyer, say nothing else. Don't fight or resist. Call your Dad, he's waiting by the phone...we don't know what we are heading into.

We were heading into the most amazing experience of a lifetime.

"Tell me what you want, what you really want...JUSTICE!"

Moral Monday had become a driving force in North Carolina, and was moving into national awareness. Gathering up those from every walk of life, it served to contrast with the decided immoral actions of the legislature. Voter suppression laws, some of the worst in the country. Cutting unemployment in half. Education cuts that demolishes any illusion of caring for the children. Bringing back fracking. Allowing guns on playgrounds...the list is long.

And here we were, two atheists from hours away. And we belonged.

Our first Witness Wednesday

"Tell me what democracy looks like...THIS IS WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE"

We walked around the crowds of thousands, gathering signatures on a petition. We passed out buttons and signs. We stood in the sun and the heat, and when Rev. Barber, the leader of the NC NAACP, asked us to turn to our neighbor and thank them and make sure they were okay in the heat, we did.

My baby. "Do they realize that I'll get to vote in October when I turn 18?" he asks me, "Do they realize I won't vote for them?"

NC Legislature hurting thousands

"A people united can never be defeated"

We are standing a vigil in front of the governor's mansion. Cars honk and people wave as they drive by. Tomorrow McCrory will actually talk to us--after signing the anti-abortion bill--by walking across the street with a plate of chocolate chip cookies, and say, over and over, "God bless."

But today we standing vigil, my teen and I. A reporter comes by, does her interviews...she asks my kid "So, has being here changed anything for you?"

His eyes flash. "Yes, my goals have changed."

"Oh? How so?"

His head turns, and he gives the mansion a hard stare. "One day I'm going to live in there," he says, then turns back to the reporter, "and I'm going to help change the world."

"Forward together"

The crowd was well over 5000 strong. Pride flags waved next to Veterans for Peace flags. The red shirts were the teachers. Pink and purple was Planned Parenthood. The ACLU was there, so was Greenpeace. The NAACP was organizing everything. Religious leaders of all stripes were there. So many causes, so many people...united for justice.

We march through Raleigh. Ten across. It took 20 minutes for us to get to the street. Before us, behind us...people. We pass the legislative building...

"Tell me what hypocrisy looks like? THAT is what hypocrisy looks like!"

The March was lead by many of the over 900 people who had been arrested for civil disobedience in the previous weeks. Standing with them were those legislators that had fought against the bills being pushed through.

Moral Mondays in Review

"Read the end of the story..."

"I'm part of history." says my teen. "Look at all these people. I've gotten fired up at sporting events, but this..." He takes a breath, "this is amazing."

The march ends in front of the Capitol building. "Do we have to go home yet? I want to go back to the vigil in front of the mansion."

I am tired. Sore. My kid is asking to spend another few hours in front of the governor's mansion with a bunch of strangers. To speak up for women's rights.

"Of course we can go back!"

There are those who think religion is the only basis for morality. Who think a person without beliefs can have no moral compass.

"FORWARD TOGETHER"

Justice is the basis of morality. Speaking out against injustice is a moral duty. Holding your government accountability is how we protect our rights.

"NOT ONE STEP BACK"

What did we do on our summer vacation? This atheist, homeschooling family did civics in a big way. We marched. We protested. Signed petitions. As part of a larger community. For all our human rights. This summer a child became a man--because he understood human dignity. Because he stood up when others back away. He exercised his constitutional rights on behalf of others. Civics 101? Been there, have the t-shirt. Seriously, he has the t-shirt.

"FORWARD TOGETHER, NOT ONE STEP BACK"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... How I am so brave, by Timber... This morning The Big Dog in the Sky started barking! He was loud, and right in our backyard! Misha got nervous and crawled over Soft Lady's head, because that is the safest place in the world... But I went to the window and I BARKED and I BARKED and I BARKED! And you know what? The Big Dog in the Sky MOVED AWAY! Pirate Dogs are so fierce even Sky Dogs tremble in fear. Misha asked me what the bright flashes of light were from, I think it's the Big Dog in the Sky's name tag reflecting... Grrrr...I'll keep the skies clear over my yard! Also, we went and marked high up along the fence line, as an additional warning. I'm going to need to drink more water...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Tried to sleep. Failed miserably. I shall pin crafts I will never craft and recipes I will never cook...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Should you boycott Russian vodka?" http://feedly.com/k/16CCiv0

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My head aches so much my hair is painful.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Funny how gender never came up during Bernanke's nomination. Or Greenspan's. Or Volcker's." http://feedly.com/k/1aX8f4m

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "‘Fallen Fruit’ and the concept of sharing abundance" http://feedly.com/k/15vrksc

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "American Samoa Delegate: Redskins Name Is A 'Moral Issue,' 'Not A Popularity Contest' | ThinkProgress" http://feedly.com/k/16GcbU6

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Florida Schools Chief Cheated to Keep Large Donor Happy | Crooks and Liars" http://feedly.com/k/18NhLWU

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The Contradiction At The Heart Of The Latest Movement To Save The GOP" http://feedly.com/k/14j8OXd

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... New word for today: upstander. Instead of being a bystander, be an upstander. Always.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My tired and achy self is going to sleep now...see you tomorrow!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Quote of the Day" http://feedly.com/k/1aVcHRc Aniston on happiness being a "choice", and a take down.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I've recovered from yesterday. Ish. Feet hurt, calves hurt, back hurts. My heart hurts. My head, from trying to process it all. Damn #ncgop

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Because he didn't want to go in the ambulance. "95-Year-Old Nursing Home Resident Dead After Police Confrontation http://feedly.com/k/1c6mbMx

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Florida Cops Shoot Unarmed Black Man In His Mother’s Driveway" http://feedly.com/k/1chleQ4

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Blood sacrifice: The wages of white supremacy - Al Jazeera English" http://feedly.com/k/14dfmGZ

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Inadequate Diaper Supply Linked To Child Abuse, Depression" http://feedly.com/k/16zdVyi

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "How The Social Safety Net Failed The 105 Child Prostitutes Rescued By The FBI" http://feedly.com/k/18PEAwL

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Virginia’s Shockingly High Suicide Rate Points to a National Problem" http://feedly.com/k/1cbxdA3

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So much wrong here | "Court Clerk Fired For Helping Secure DNA Test That Proved A Man’s Innocence" http://feedly.com/k/1cbxZNt

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The First State That Tried To Defund Planned Parenthood Is Officially Giving Up" http://feedly.com/k/16AAUJr

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Sally Kohn Gives Hannity Humanity Lessons http://feedly.com/k/17gf6Sp

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @PPCNCPPact "#LetThemEatCookies MT @PPact Thanks but no thanks, @PatMcCroryNC U can keep ur cookies—women want actual health care pic.twitter.com/MoP64GAGqf"

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Marchers to the front of me, protesters to the back...here I am stuck in the middle! #moralmonday

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Timber missed me, extra cuddles this morning.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Marching through Raleigh

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Back home, twelve+ hours later. Time to cuddle with the pups and try to straighten out my back. #moralmonday #sb353 No justice, no peace

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Heading home...a long, exhausting, wonderful day. #moralmonday

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Lobbyist Tammy Fitzgerald just told us to get off her sidewalk...her sidewalk? Whose sidewalk? OUR SIDEWALK!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... This week's #MoralMonday brought to you by my dear friend Courtney, who gifted me with a card to pay for gas...thank you!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Woke up from really bad dream involving serial killers, motorcycles, and hair spray used in self-defense. Nightmares suck :(

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Waiting for sleep. Tomorrow The Teen and I travel to Raleigh for the last #MoralMonday there. From 2 until 4 we will be standing a vigil by the capitol with Planned Parenthood. At 5 we go to Halifax Mall, and then march with others. It's going to be a looooong day/night! Anyone in our near Raleigh, stop by! Might be nice to have dinner with someone before heading back home.... (Hint hint)

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "California Inmate Dies In Solitary Confinement During Hunger Strike" http://feedly.com/k/13mZbjX

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "The Charitable-Industrial Complex - NYTimes.com" http://feedly.com/k/1aRKWcn

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Fallout: New Vegas. Because post-apocalyptic deserts still look better than NC right now.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Okay, to sleep. For real this time. ZZZZZzzzzzz

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Oh no! I'm late for Midnight Snack! Don't want chocolate, I must be ill.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A damn good reason to say NO! "Study: KXL Pipeline Would Raise U.S. Gas Prices" http://feedly.com/k/13btvBO

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... That whole go-to-sleep-early thing? Yeah, that's not going to happen. But the dogs are sound asleep. And the cat is snoring.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "Emergency Contraception Comes With A Brand-Name Price" http://feedly.com/k/13MJOEM

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... "WSJ Poll: Republicans Will Get Blamed If Immigration Bill Fails" http://feedly.com/k/13MJ4Q9

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So tired, going to try and get some actual sleep tonight.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... RT @Bflo2LKN "Sen Tarte addresses crowd while @patmccrorync sneaks out the front - that's our principled leader #ncgov pic.twitter.com/V3StBAxWh0"

Angry and Frustrated in NC

I am so angry. So frustrated. I'm sitting in bed, crying in rage and fury.

NC just passed the most suppressive voting restrictions in the country. Restrictive rules on women's health. On the poor.

This is not what my country is about. Not what we should settle for. The GOP sold itself to it's corporate.masters and to hell with the people they are supposed to represent.

It's about power. Shaming. Punishing. Control. They don't care a damn about women's health, about helping people, about making it easy to exercise constitutional rights like voting. But I have a feeling they see the end coming and are desperately trying to cheat their way into keeping power. 

But know what I'm going to do? I'm going to spend the next year getting people registered to vote. And I'm going to volunteer to drive people to the polls. I'm going to donate money to the ACLU so they can take you to court. I'm going to support Planned Parenthood and help women get health care. 

I'm going to watch you sink yourselves. I'm going to watch justice win in the end. And my kid will see that he has power, too. And there will be another generation getting ready to vote...And they will know the power of that vote.

I will not leave for my kid a world less free than the one I was born in. Will. Not.

You have struck a rock.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... I am so angry. So frustrated. I'm sitting in bed, crying in rage and fury. NC just passed the most suppressive voting restrictions in the country. Restrictive rules on women's health. On the poor. This is not what my country is about. Not what we should settle for. The GOP sold itself to it's corporate.masters and to hell with the people they are supposed to represent. It's about power. Shaming. Punishing. Control. They don't care a damn about women's health, about helping people, about making it easy to exercise constitutional rights like voting. But I have a feeling they see the end coming and are desperately trying to cheat their way into keeping power. But know what I'm going to do? I'm going to spend the next year getting people registered to vote. And I'm going to volunteer to drive people to the polls. I'm going to donate money to the ACLU so they can take you to court. I'm going to support Planned Parenthood and help women get health care. I'm going to watch you sink yourselves. I'm going to watch justice win in the end. And my kid will see that he has power, too. And there will be another generation getting ready to vote...And they will know the power of that vote. I will not leave for my kid a world less free than the one I was born in. Will. Not. You have struck a rock.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Homemade sweet tea. Brewed with mint tea. Yummy. Very yummy. Also, even though I'm on elebenty hundred medications for my sinus-slash-tension headache, guess what I can't take? Anything that would make me sleepy. However I can breathe AND I don't feel like drilling a hole in my head to relieve the pressure, so I am totally calling this a win. Plus I get to hang out with all you awesome people. My friends in insomnia and night-owlness.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Headache results: severe sinus issues with a wicked bad tension headache.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Off to the doctor for my headache...

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Headache...getting worse. Applied ice packs. Now I have a cold, achy head. Usually I get just tension headaches, but this on has moved to one side, my teeth hurt along with my neck, and cue the nausea. Time to snuggle with the dogs. Maybe go to the doctor tomorrow, if it hasn't gone away.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... A Plea for Help, by Timber... ...The humans are PICKING ON ME! Soft Lady said I was her snuggle bunny. I ARE NOT A BUNNY! Bunnies have floofy tails and jump high and eat carrots, I...Oh, NOES! I ARE A BUNNY!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... ARGH! My head!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Midnight snack: bowl of cereal. Two dogs and a cat helped get the bowl clean. Just so you all know, I don't eat breakfast. I eat lunch, dinner, and midnight snack. Or I have dinner at midnight. Or breakfast at midnight. Second dinner? Also, now I have to hold the antler for Timber until he gnaws himself back to sleep.

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Exhausted, but don't want to sleep. Protest in Raleigh, come home to discover #sb353 went back to the rules committee and is delayed, and watched #JurorB37 lose her book deal on Twitter, in real time. Plus I found a mini Snickers bar in my desk. I'm feeling pretty positive!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Midnight hungries. I really need to plan better.... *tiptoes past sleeping dogs*

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... News on Twitter: juror B37 just had her book deal squashed. Looks like she needs to find another way to exploit her role in this tragedy....

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... My umbrella and me, All pink and protesty

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... So I have a pink umbrella, and I will use it to offer myself shade AND be all protesty! So...what do I write on it? I'd love to draw something but my drawing skills are limited to using a ruler to make a stick figure. And I suppose I could have several messages on it, really. TOO MANY CHOICES! HALP!

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Midnight munchies. Sadly, no more chocolate bars hiding in the desk :( I could eat chips, but then I'd need a soda. And to get a soda I need to go to the garage. Which means finding the slippers I hid so Timber wouldn't eat them. Then I'd need a glass of ice, which means going to the kitchen. Timber would come with me, and since we'd only be a few feet away, he'd go to the sliding glass doors and give me That Look. And since I did wake him I'd feel bad so we'd go outside. Misha will have noticed I'm gone and will now come outside, too. Which means waiting for her to do the perimeter sniff. Which would give me time to throw the ball for Timber. Finally we'd get inside, I'd grab my chips and soda and head to bed. Where every bite would include eyes. Eyes, staring. Following every crumb. This sounds like a book. "If you give Darlene a chip, she'll want a soda..."

Darlene Pineda

via Facebook... Pink protest clothes washed and ready for tomorrow's #MoralMonday.