KAFKA'S SISTER

Last Minute Valentine Gifts: French Candy Bar Covers

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:53:00 +0000

Heather Bullard's Lifestyle Blog offers one of the most elegant and romantic freebies for your Valentine this year: French Chocolate Labels for Candy Bars.

Simply download the template here. They are custom made to fit a standard size {3.5oz} Ghirardelli Chocolate Bar. You can find the Ghiraradelli bars at most grocery stores and chains. I love that they still use pretty gold foil.

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Valentine's Day Cocktails: Love Potion #9

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 02:34:00 +0000

Pomegranates are so sexy---no wonder they are mentioned as an aphrodisiac in the Bible. This cocktail will not only have you singing the song "Love Potion #9" but after imbibing in a few of them, you may even be convinced to watch the movie by the same name.

Love Potion #9
Makes 2

4 oz Citron Vodka
1 1/2 oz Cointreau
4 oz Pomegranate Juice
2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
Pomegranate seeds

Put all ingredients in a cocktail shaker half filled with ice. Shake vigorously and then strain into chilled martini glasses. Garnish with pomegranate seeds.

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Unique Valentine's Gifts: Love is Art

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 15:03:00 +0000

This is one of my favorite Valentine finds this year! Art, lovemaking and romance---what could make a better gift?

Simply put, LOVE IS ART is a kit that comes with everything a couple needs to safely make a tangible piece of abstract expressionistic art while being intimate with each other. What is left is a one-of-a-kind abstract painting that represents that special moment, that can then be stretched, framed and hung on the wall -- a reminder of the love that was shared. The kit also provides a unique bonding experience for the couples involved, as they work together as a team to craft their own unique masterpeice.

LOVE IS ART was founded by South African-born Jeremy Brown. As an abstract artist, Brown has been making paintings during intimacy for over a decade, inspired by the 1960's French artist Yves Klein and various performance art pieces by Andy Warhol. One day, a close friend complimented him on a painting that was hung inside his house. After discovering how the painting was made, she asked him to provide her with everything she needed to make a painting with her husband on their anniversary. Jeremy put together a small package with all of the materials needed and wrote a little directional note for them to follow. They absolutely loved it, and the idea was born. Jeremy then spent 6 months researching and developing materials to ensure a safe project, including a treated non-allergenic cotton canvas, as well as, a specially-fomulated non-toxic, washable paint. He packaged the kit under the name Love Is Art. According to Brown, "Art takes patience, dedication, practice, creativity, open mind, and an open heart...so does love. Love is art."

Click here to go to the LOVE IS ART site and order a kit for your Valentine!

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Valentine's Day Inspirations: Send a Love Letter Daily

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:46:00 +0000

During my single days, I dated a man who to me was the epitome of wonderful. He was handsome, intelligent, successful and charming. I won't spoil this lovely remembrance with the reason we're not together anymore. One year, he sent me a Valentine's Card or love letter every day in February. EVERY DAY! Some were sweet, some were simplistic, some were naughty and many held shiny heart confetti that spilled all over my office each time I opened a letter.

It was quite romantic. Take a cue from him and court your loved one the old-fashioned way: with handwritten cards or notes or even postcards. Handmade ones are the best, but just sending them is even better. You can even find them for free. Check the sites below for inspiration.

Stylist

20 Free printable cards ranging from sweet to sexy. Great ideas, great graphics, your sweetie will love getting one of these!

Mintprintables

Generic cards for Valentine's Day complete with instructions. Children's cards included too.

Better Homes and Gardens

Here you'll find labels for personalized candy, valentine accents and lots of other inspiration for handmade Valentine goodies!

If you want to go the extra mile and add confetti, you can find it in the card or gift wrap department of any drugstore, Walmart, or crafting store. Happy Valentine's Day!
Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Valentine's Day Music: Slacker Love Songs

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:34:00 +0000

The next few blog posts will be about "setting the mood". To get your right brain to seduce the left, start with listening to love songs. Don't know where to begin? Slacker has done it for you!

Click the link here and come back tomorrow for more Valentine's Day inspirations.

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Babycakes

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:41:00 +0000

I adore chocolate covered strawberries! Imagine my delight when I found this wonderful recipe for making one of my favorite flavor combos into a sweet Valentine's Day dessert. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

From the kitchens of Better Homes & Gardens:
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Babycakes
Makes 12 cupcakes

1/2 cup butter

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/8 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup half and half

1/4 cup strawberry jam

1 recipe Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache

12 medium strawberries

3 ounces bittersweet and/or milk chocolate curls

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour or line with paper bake cups twelve 2-1/2-inch muffin cups; set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Remove from heat. Let cool for 5 minutes. Stir in sugar and cocoa powder until combined. Add egg and vanilla. Using a wooden spoon, beat lightly just until combined.

3. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Alternately add flour mixture and milk to chocolate mixture, beating by hand after each addition. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each two-thirds full.

4. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean. Cool in muffin cups on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Using a knife, loosen the edges; carefully remove cupcakes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

5. If cupcakes don't have paper liners, trim a thin slice from top of each cupcake so they will sit flat. Turn bottom side up. Place cupcakes 2 inches apart on wire rack set over waxed paper. (For cupcakes in liners, peel liners down but do not remove.) Spread 1 teaspoon of the strawberry jam over each cupcake.

6. Prepare Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache. (below) Spoon ganache over cupcakes, making sure to coat all sides. Place a strawberry on top of each cake. Drizzle each strawberry lightly with ganache, letting the strawberry show through. Top cupcakes with chocolate curls. Makes 12 cupcakes.

From the Test Kitchen

Make Ahead Tip To Bake Ahead:Prepare as directed through step 4. Place cooled cupcakes in an airtight container; cover. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw cupcakes, if frozen. Continue as directed in step 5.

Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache

Start to Finish: 8 mins

Ingredients

1 cup whipping cream
10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
3 tablespoons butter

Directions

In a medium saucepan, bring the whipping cream just to boiling over medium-high heat. Remove from heat. Add the bittersweet chocolate, chopped (do not stir). Let stand for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth. Whisk in the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until ganache is smooth

How yummy is that? Happy Valentine's Day!
Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Online Valentine's Love: Via a Heineken Facebook Serenade

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:02:00 +0000

This just in from Stagnito Media:

Heineken is expanding its Millennial-targeted “The Date” ad campaign with a Valentine’s Day promotion powered by a fun, new Facebook application called “The Serenade.”
“The Serenade” is part of Heineken’s “Open Your World” global campaign that celebrates and encourages aspirational behaviors among adult consumers. It builds upon the recent launch of “The Date,” which depicts a man taking a woman on a legendary date, set to the catchy 1960s Bollywood track “Jaan Pehechaan Ho” by Mohammed Rafi.

Through the new app, the same band that appeared in the ad will create songs for Heineken fans. Co-developed with advertising agency Wieden+Kennedy Amsterdam, the campaign enables consumers to create their own fully personalized serenade for a date in just four clicks. Once shared via Heineken's Facebook page, serenaders can then wait and see whether they’ll receive a “yes” or “no” from their date.

‘The Serenade’ Facebook application gives users the chance to make their own serenade song and takes just four clicks to complete, offering a variety of 640 different combinations.

This campaign will continue on to the YouTube platform where ‘The Serenade Live’ will take place, which will give people an 8-hour slot in which they can share a serenade live online. The Serenade Live will take place on the 9th February between 6pm and 3am GMT.

“‘The Serenade’ is designed to take some of the stress out of asking a partner to go on a date. It’s fun, interactive and guaranteed to make an impression,” said Cyril Charzat, senior director, global Heineken brand at White Plains, N.Y.-based Heineken USA. “We are committed to connecting with our adult consumers both on and offline. ‘The Serenade’ is one more positive example of how we are doing this.”

A total of 640 serenades in 20 languages are offered through the app.

“In a way, we want people to be in the films we make. The idea of giving Heineken drinkers the band from the spot to help them ask someone out is our way to make that happen for real,” said Mark Bernath, executive creative director from W+K Amsterdam. “Let's hope we make a load of offers that can't be refused.”

On Feb. 9, Heineken will host “Serenade Live,” an eight-hour YouTube event, during which individuals around the world will get the chance to serenade the object of their heart’s desire live online, which Heineken hopes will lead to a host of many successful dates.
“Through ‘The Serenade,’ we continue to ignite the conversation by providing an opportunity to ask someone out in a witty and legendary way,” Charzat concluded

Nota Bene: I don't do Facebook, I'm politically, legalistically and ethically opposed to it. But I am recommending this fun for those of you who choose to make Mark Zuckerberg rich :)

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Unique Valentine's Gifts: Help a Band, Send Your Love a Song by Meeting of Important People

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 07:16:00 +0000

Here's a Valentine's gift that gives twice: One for your love, one to help an up and coming band out. For $50.00, you can have the band, Meeting of Important People, record a song using your loved one's name. They will send it to you on Valentine's Day and you can send it to the one you love. This $50.00 will not only show your loved one how much you care, but help the band raise funds for their upcoming new release. How cool is that? There's only one caveat....the last day to order is February9, 2012.

Go to Kickstart by clicking this link and send your Valentine the sweetest gift ever!

Wanna know more about the band? Click here.

And here's a sample of this awesome band's work:
<p><p><a href="http://meetingofimportantpeople.bandcamp.com/track/they-love-me-in-the-city-from-quit-music-ep">They Love Me In The City (from "Quit Music" EP) by Meeting of Important People</a></p></p>

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

14 Ways to Show Your Love Without Spending a Penny

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 15:25:00 +0000

As you can tell by my daily February blogging, Valentine's Day is one of my favorite Holidays. I don't look at it as a day for me, but as a day for the ones I love. If your budget is tight or you're still trying to pay for Christmas, these ideas say "I love you" without spending a dime. Besides, actions speak louder than words!

Sleep in his T-shirt
Write him a love note then spritz it with your signature fragrance
Make heart shaped pancakes with Strawberry syrup and whipped cream.
If you have a good voice, tape a song she loves then text it to her during the day.
Run his bath, fill it with sandalwood oil then surprise him by joining him after he's languished in it for a few minutes.
Write a lipstick love note on the bathroom mirror that he will see as he readies himself for the day.
Make his favorite things to eat for one dinner even if they don't go together.
Make slow, passionate, "God I love you" love.
Brag about him where he can hear to other women.
Indulge in PDA
Be her personal hairdresser for the evening. Wash her hair, comb it out, then blow dry it.
Paint her toenails or give him a manicure.
Spoil her.
Just say "I love you" with sincerity in your eyes.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas-Dedicate a Song on NPR

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:44:00 +0000

Remember when there were Radio stations that dedicated songs to your boyfriend or girlfriend? Remember how you used to wish that you would hear your name and a romantic song from the guy you had a crush on played for the whole world to hear? Okay, I confess, that was probably just my dream. You're so in love. So very in love that you want the world to know. Touch your love's heart by sharing with the NPR world. Dedicate a song to him or her. Don't you love this idea?

Find out how to make your Valentine feel special here:

Dedicate a Song for Valentine's Day

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas-Nipples of Venus Truffles

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:16:00 +0000

Yes, it's Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil says there's 6 more weeks of winter. What better way to warm up than getting into the mood for Valentine's Day! Here's a sexy, decadent truffle to make for your true love: Italian Capezzoli di Venere

Prep Time:
1 Hr 30 Min

Ready In:
2 Hrs

Makes about 60

Ingredients

12 ounces high quality dark chocolate, chopped
16 ounces canned whole chestnuts, drained
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brandy
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

12 ounces high quality white chocolate, chopped - divided
1 dash powdered red food coloring

Directions

Place the dark chocolate into the top part of a double boiler over simmering water, and let the chocolate melt. Turn off the heat and let the chocolate cool.
Place the chestnuts into the work bowl of a food processor, and process until the chestnuts are smoothly pureed, about 1 minute.
Beat together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chestnuts, brandy, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the chocolate, and pinch off about 1 tablespoon of filling per truffle. Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too soft to hold its shape, chill for several minutes in refrigerator.
Reserve about 1 ounce of white chocolate for tempering, and about 1 ounce for coloring. Melt the remaining 10 ounces of white chocolate over simmering water in a double boiler until the chocolate is melted and warm but not hot (about 105 degrees F (40 degrees C)). Remove the pan containing the melted chocolate from the double boiler, and add about 1 ounce of chopped, unmelted white chocolate. Stir the chocolate until the unmelted pieces of chocolate melt, and the temperature drops to 80 to 82 degrees F (27 to 28 degrees C)).
Carefully dip each center in the melted white chocolate, and gently place the truffle onto a piece of parchment paper or waxed paper to cool and harden, about 15 minutes.
Melt the remaining 1 ounce of chopped white chocolate over simmering water in a double boiler until the chocolate is melted and warm but not hot. Stir in a very small amount of powdered red food coloring until you get a desired shade of pink. Dip a little colored chocolate out with a spoon, dot each truffle with a pink dot, and allow the pink chocolate dots to set, about 15 minutes. Place the truffles into paper candy cups to serve.

Nota Bene: Amadeus is one of my very favorite movies. In it, Salieri offers Mozart's wife "Nipples of Venus" as she begs for work for her husband.

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Since The New Year.....

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:16:00 +0000

The year has started off a bit shakily. I keep thinking each new year will bring about change for the good but the only good change so far is in the furniture. That's why I don't do resolutions. I set day to day goals.

The newest goal is to wind back down into myself again. I have spread myself too thin as of late and I no longer feel like an imported butter. I feel like hydrogenated oil.

Of course I have had lots of processors (other than myself) churning me. My brother thinks I'm a snipy, snippety bitter woman. That one made me cry and made my laugh. There are so many things wrong about that observation.

Then he said my sister agreed with him. Those of you who know my family well aren't surprised.

Why is it that we should be forced to care about things our relatives say? Because they love us? If so, why are they so judgemental and wrong and superficial? Do they feel that since they knew us as children they know as us adults?

Should we care because we share the same DNA? Are we hedging our bets in case we need a kidney or bone marrow transplant in the future?

My friends say to hell with my brother and sister. My friends have known me since I was a kid too.

They don't think I'm old snipy, snippety and bitter.

Which leads me to my next thought. My Mother was the glue that held this family together. She put up with my Dad's boisterous behavior. She let us know when our thinking was questionable; when we were being selfish; and forced us to give of ourselves when we didn't want to. She also taught us one of the major tenets I want my kids to learn:

ACTIONS speak louder than words ever could.

My siblings' actions speak volumes. My brother and sister were not there when my marriage tanked. Not there when I had my son. Not there when I needed help moving from East Texas. Not there to see my children's accomplishments academicallly and socially. They weren't there when my Dad went to the hospital with a bad infection in his leg due to the diabetes. They didn't visit my husband in the hospital during his back surgery or stay for 2 extensive leg reconstruction surgeries. Their actions speak loudly don't they?

They WERE able to find us when they needed help with their kids. Or money. Or a shoulder to cry on between 5 husbands leaving.
What has wrought all this animosity?

I don't know because I have never gotten a straight answer, but I think its because my Father lives with us.

Why?
Because on my mother's deathbed she asked me to promise to let him live with us and to not let him become a hermit.

Do my brother and sister ask him to come visit them? My sister does from time to time. My brother never does.

They don't understand the heartache that having an aging yet still functional parent can be. They also don't understand the joy. They don't know how hard it has been on my husband to have to share "man of the house" duties with his father-in-law. They haven't had to cook separate dinners 6 out of 7 days a week because my Dad is diabetic. I think they're worried that he, I or my family could be spending their inheritance. (which is a joke, my father is a consummate gambler)

They don't have to care, share, be aware or bare their fears, frustrations and flaws as an adult child with children in a mixed family household living with an aging parent.

All they do is judge.

So the good side of this is..
I've cried alot, which is good...crying is cathartic. AND!!!!!..I have been writing an outline of sorts about our lives since my Mother died in 2001. Not to be published, but to set the record straight for the future.

I'll share parts here. Please comment good or bad okay?

And pray for me.

<3

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:24:00 +0000

Several years ago while living in East Texas, we became very close friends with the owners of a Chinese Restaurant in Tyler. I helped the wife with her English and she taught me about the Chinese Culture. They have since opened many more restaurants all over Texas and Lousiana and we moved back to the DFW area. I met her during the Year of the Dragon. She invited us to each Chinese New Year Celebration they had and those times were memorable and honorable for us each year. Though we don't share their beliefs, learning how they celebrate and what is sacred to them was an enlightening experience that I think of often. I miss my friend Jenny and today's blog is inspired by her friendship. May your year be prosperous and lucky Jenny and Tommy and may your newest restaurant be a hit!

Facts about the Year of the Dragon From the Will and Guy Website:

Chinese around the world, proudly proclaim themselves "Lung Tik Chuan Ren" which may be translated as Descendents of the Dragon. Unlike the negative energies associated with Western Dragons, most Eastern Dragons are beautiful, friendly, and wise. They are the angels of the Orient. Instead of being hated, they are loved and worshipped.

Chinese dragons have a horse's head and a snake's body. Often they have four jaws. Chinese dragons are divided into Heavenly Dragons, Earthly Dragons and Dragons in water. The most well-known dragons are the Four Sea Dragon Kings governing the east, south, west, north side of the sea. These Four Sea Dragon Kings are in charge of creating clouds and rains for human world. Chinese people do not call a water faucet a tap, but a "Water Dragon Head".

The dragon is regarded as the symbol of the Chinese nation and can be seen everywhere in its culture: including literature, architecture, art, furniture and even clothing.

Happy Chinese New Year Phrases:

新年快乐 Xīnnián kuàilà Happy New Year
过年好 Guò nián hăo Happy New Year
恭喜发财 Gōngxĭ fācái I wish You Great Prosperity
龙年吉祥 Lóng nián jíxiáng Good Luck in the Year of the Dragon

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

YU CAN DO IT!

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Welcome YU! Can't wait to see you in a Texas Rangers Uniform

I watched Moneyball. I liked it. I now have a new appreciation for nerdy stats. Check our newest pitcher's stats here. Can't wait for the season to begin!

But You Knew This Already Didn't You?

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:37:00 +0000

I don't make New Year's Resolutions, I just don't. In my opinionated world, resolutions should be made daily. How else do we get better?

So this year I'm going to try and work daily on my neuroticism. I know I know. How do you fix something that has been a mainstay of your personality for ahem ~~50, 40~~ many years?

The first step is to ensure you're truly neurotic. As if I haven't heard it a million times from those who love me and those who don't. I went to Psychologist World to find out. It turns out that I'm neurotic. But we both knew that already didn't we? Here's the diagnosis:

Neuroticism

Your Score: 97.5%

Neuroticism, also known inversely as Emotional Stability, refers to the tendency to experience negative emotions. Those who score high on Neuroticism may experience primarily one specific negative feeling such as anxiety, anger, or depression, but are likely to experience several of these emotions. People high in Neuroticism are emotionally reactive. They respond emotionally to events that would not affect most people, and their reactions tend to be more intense than normal. They are more likely to interpret ordinary situations as threatening, and minor frustrations as hopelessly difficult. Their negative emotional reactions tend to persist for unusually long periods of time, which means they are often in a bad mood. These problems in emotional regulation can diminish a neurotic's ability to think clearly, make decisions, and cope effectively with stress.

Okay, so....I'm neurotic. At least I was right. But I must say, I don't think I find things hopelessly difficult or I wouldn't have stayed married as long as I have. Also, I'm rarely in a bad mood. So...those two things I won't have to work on. How about you? Want to find out if you're neurotic? Click here and take the test.

And if you comment, be kind. Now we all know that I'm truly neurotic :)

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Politicians and Drug Dealers

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:31:00 +0000

The candidates running for the Republican Presidential Nominee are much akin to the snake oil salesmen of old. But why shouldn't they be? It worked for Obama four years ago, why not them?

It makes me sad to be a one time Republican. It makes me sad to be an American. It just F*&^&*ing makes me sad.

Why do we the voters not just say, "I've had enough and I'm not going to take it anymore?" Are we that apathetic? Are we all resigned to the fact that a politician is a politician, no matter the party?

Seriously, politicians are like legal drug dealers. They burrow their way into office on the checkbooks of Big Pharm, lobbyists and PAC groups, then must appease those that paid their way. Then they're there for life. They aren't representing their constituents, they're respecting their lobbyist pimps. Look how many ways they're no better than drug dealers, or NFL/NBA players, or worse:

Politicians, like drug dealers, know the best way to pander a vote is to "Hook 'em and then fleece 'em". Tell the ignorant voter anything they want to hear: "change" "less taxes" "tax the rich" "commit to social security". The typical American doesn't think of anyone but himself and how the politican will help "HIM"
Prohibition leads to violence which begets addiction which promises profits. Doesn't matter if its social security or heroin. Both ensure the politican/dealer's nests are lined with cash.
When politicans raise debt ceilings, its like giving the addict a "hit". The problem is, sooner or later the country's we're borrowing from will call the loan. Then those Americans who are addicted to government "care" will have to go Cold Turkey and find some other way to get money. Maybe by selling drugs.

How do we stop this? Is it too late? As an hopeful idealist, I don't think so.

Here's an idea. Let's remember that politicians are public servants. To choose a career in politics should mean serving the people, not yourself. They don't teach that in school anymore.

Maybe we should look at education not just as a means to an end, (by that I mean, getting a degree), but about changing the world, making history, and leaving a legacy of a remarkable life; thereby ensuring each generation is better than the one before. You don't have to be rich to make a difference.

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

T-Minus and Counting

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:55:00 +0000

First Spring Game just 2 months from today.....!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Transparency and Truth and Vulnerability

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:09:00 +0000

In this techno-world that allows us to be so connected, how is it that many of our virtual relationships are disconnected? Is it because we deem them "virtual" as in "unreal"? I mean really, how can you have a real relationship if you aren't trading spit or touching each other? (that was meant to be facetious) It's like having a relationship with a Kardashian because we watch their shows religiously.

It's true, virtual connotes an "almost real" aspect to our understanding and acceptance of each other. It also allows us to avoid depth. It also allows us to disconnect. It also allows us to lie to one another. Wow, maybe we are becoming Kardashians...<snicker>

But why would we do that?

Because being who we really are is scary. We might not be accepted. We might be deemed unworthy. Or worse? We might expose our vulnerability. I've written many blog posts on online relationships. Not just the kinds that involve cyber sex, no, the other kinds as well. The relationships we have with other women who like the same books we do. The relationships we have with people on Blip or Last.fm who share our taste in music. The relationships we have with people who live far away from us. To be true in these relationships we must be honest. We must expose vulnerabilities. We must be transparent. Without those characteristics we are but another of the many bytes and pixels that electronically paint us.

But we're not electrodes. Email, text and tweets shouldn't bind us. They should set us free. They should be an outlet for our feelings, dreams and vulnerabilities.

We are human.

Our humanity is what frames us. If we can do it in real life relationships why can we not do it in online relationships? And why can online relationships not be as real or as important as offline ones? It worked for Elizabeth and Robert Browning. Why not us?

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

New Year's Traditions ~2012

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 06:30:00 +0000

New Year's Traditions are commonplace in my family. While some people are partying, reveling and looking for the elusive New Year's Kiss they have missed for many years, my family and I celebrate with our own traditions. Traditions are a nice thing. They bring memories for the future and represent Auld Lang Syne for the past. Here are some we practice:

Black eyed peas for New Year's Dinner

The beans are soaking and tomorrow they will be cooked with a honey glazed hambone, several spices, tomatoes, onions, garlic and chicken broth. We will hope they bring good fortune for

he New Year as we listen to our teens complain that they hate them.

12 grapes.

No, we're not of Latin American descent, but we eat 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight to ensure

12 months of sweetness. If by chance one of the grapes is sour, that month may not be as sweet

as the others. Nostradamus has nothing on us.

Cabbage.

In the South, it or collard greens (um, NO) represents money. We eat it fried with bacon, a little

vinegar and a bit of sugar to ensure 2012 is profitable. Does it work? Again, um , not always! But

some traditions die hard.

Watching the Times Square Ball Drop

Yep, we do it, while missing Dick Clark and honestly, we laugh at the tourists/NY'ers anytime

we get the chance. Call it Texas snobbery, call it jealousy, call it whatever, but Lady Gaga and

Justin Beiber? hahahhaha

Kissing and toasting

Nice chilled champagne, berry flavored lips....warm skin...warm bodies... Is there a better way to ring in a New Year? 'nuf said

It's Over

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 06:26:00 +0000

2011 is almost over. It's taking its last breaths as I write. I've been thinking about "over". And Auld Lang Syne. And relationships. And diagnoses. It's over. Why does over have to be such a bad thing? It's good when you're told by your Dr, "your treatments are over." It's good when you realize the relationship you thought was lifelong isn't before you marry or live together or move to Scotland with him. Over is good in that regard.

So in that spirit, here's my list of things that include "over" and are good or at least hopeful:

“Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Albert Einstein I think this one is for those that keep getting married.

Over Easy Eggs

Thinking things over.

Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible be found in us...It was all about letting go of everything.

To be fully alive, fully human, and completely awake is to be continually thrown out of the nest. To live fully is to be always in no-man's-land, to experience each moment as completely new and fresh. To live is to be willing to die over and over again. ”
― Pema Chödrön, When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times

And my favorite (just don't call me a cougar)

Age is mind over matter: If you don't mind it doesn't matter. Mark Twain.

May your 2012 be filled with good "overs" and if they aren't good, may they be memorable.

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:41:00 +0000

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect."
~ Oren Arnold

Christmas Lights In Alliance, Texas

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:26:00 +0000

Oh how I love Christmas lights! Since I was a little girl, one of the most exciting events during the Holidays for me is viewing Christmas Light displays. Each night on my Christmas shopping trips I pass this unique display and finally pulled over to take a picture. It's so stereotypical Texan and normally I would hate the insinuation, but for Christmas it's fun! Enjoy!

What I Want for Christmas: Guy Garvey

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:45:00 +0000

He's not a Mr. Universe. He's not "fit and muscular". He's more than those things could ever wish to be. He's sensitive, intelligent, soulful and writes words that could keep me next to him the rest of my life. See for yourself! From Elbow's "Starlings":

Sit with me a while and let me listen to you talk about your, dreams and your obsessions I'll be quiet and confessional, the violets explode inside me when I meet your eyes, and I'm spinning and I'm diving like a cloud of starlings-

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Random Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

I don't know if you're beautiful because I love you too much.

I think that's a line from a Magnetic Fields song. How wonderful is it to see couples that are older loving and adoring each other as if they could see no other person but themselves. Which leads me to another thought. Do you think couples stay together for years and years because they really see no one else but their spouses? Is there something to be said for couple isolation? All the therapists, psychologists, hipsters in the know say that social networking and being with other people is where its at. Is it? Really?

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.

Obstacles

noreply@blogger.com (Gayle Jackson) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:12:00 +0000

I have been thinking lately what my obstacles to happiness or shall I say contentment are. There are many, and that makes me very sad. But on the bright side, these thoughts are like internal alarms waking me to the things that are keeping me from being who I am meant to be. Without sounding too vapid or self-absorbed, let me just share this quote with you. Someone very dear to me cannot stand quotes, but I find the better ones like great works of art: They make you stop, consider and reflect. This one is for any of you who are writers:

“An inveterate and incurable itch for writing besets many, and grows old in their sick hearts.” Juvenal

Email me with suggestions or to talk more: ninejacks@gmail.com All original written material on www.kafkassister.blogspot.com is copyrighted © and may not be used without permission by respective owners.