PHOTO SHOOT

The Plastics, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

ZZZZZZ...I'm spending my Friday night photographing little plastic people. What's wrong with this picture? Did I mention that I'm a 31 year old man? Oh, the things I do for eBay!

IT'S ALMOST MAY...

I , originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

We know what that means, don't we, Pauline?

MAGIC iPOD

Are you ready for the next Magic 8 Ball? Wish you had a fortune cookie, but all you’ve got is an iPod? If you haven’t heard of it yet (Where have you been?), Shuffle Fortune-Telling is asking questions and letting iTunes' shuffle function give you the answers. (This is a joke, btw. It’s forced creativity and your brain making connections between random things - It reveals what's in your head, not what's in the cards for you. I don’t actually believe my new iPod is omniscient. Now my toaster on the other hand…)

Simple to follow instructions: Go to the music player of your choice and put it on shuffle. Say the following questions aloud and press play. Use the songs as your answers. NO CHEATING! (Unless you get instrumental music; but even then, at least try to make a connection. )

How does the world see me?
Song: Don’t You Forget About Me
Artist: Simple Minds
Comment: I guess I remind the world of Anthony Michael Hall

Will I have a happy life?
Song: Somehow
Artist: Taylor Hicks
Comment: Like the song says, "I’ll get by, somehow…look at the people around you, stabbing at your heart, but you still smile in kindness…"

What do my friends really think of me?
Song: Trust
Artist: Jason Upton
Comment: The song’s refrain is "I can trust in you."

Does anyone secretly have a crush on me?
Song: Fur Elise
Artist: Vince Guaraldi
Comments: Lucy and Schroeder! Oh, but Lucy’s crush was no secret!

How can I make myself happy?
Song: Too Young
Artist: Nat King Cole
Comments: Marry too young? Well, it’s too late for that! Maybe just marry, then?

What should I do with my life?
Song: Why Doesn’t Andy
Artist: The Whitlams
Comments: Oh, goody. I’m supposed to talk on stage, then? Must I act my age?

Why should life be full of so much pain?
Song: She’s Got a Way
Artist: Billy Joel
Comments: It doesn’t matter as long as you are loved.

Will I ever have children?
Song: Sh-Boom
Artist: The Crew-Cuts
Comments: If I do, it will be a dream come true.

Will I die happy?
Song: My Doorbell
Artist: The White Stripes
Comments: Death is just the doorway to a happier eternity.

What is some good advice for me?
Song: Love You Madly
Artist: Cake
Comments: Love courageously. Trust. Don’t hold back.

What is happiness?
Song: White Christmas
Artist: Bing Crosby
Comments: Yes, it is! Merry Birthday to Jesus and me!

How will I be remembered?
Song: Son of a Carpenter
Artist: Taylor Hicks
Comments: Cool.

What kind of person will I marry?
Song: Soulful Christmas
Artist: James Brown
Comments: A star: I’ll be her biggest fan! Jump back! Owww!

Where will I live when I'm married?
Song: Yellow Rose of Texas
Artist: The Hi-Lo’s with Billy May
Comments: Hmmmm…Big D. here I come? Doubtful, but who knows?

What will be the hardest thing I ever have to do?
Song: Enth E Nd
Artist: Linkin Park
Comments: Letting go.

What will my first child be like?
Song: Welcome Home
Artist: Shaun Groves
Comments: I’ll be happy to make room in my heart for him.

Will I have a happy marriage?
Song: Surely Goodness and Mercy
Artist: Vineyard (The Burn Service)
Comments: 8-)

What will become of my brother?
Song: Time in a Bottle
Artist: Jim Croce
Comments: He’ll always be with those he loves.

What will become of my mother?
Song: Tell Her About It
Artist: Billy Joel
Comments: She’ll find out how much she’s loved.

What will become of my father?
Song: Take Me Home, Country Roads
Artist: Taylor Hicks
Comments: He’ll stay a country boy.

What will my biggest regret be?
Song: One I Love
Artist: Coldplay
Comments: Running after Harpies when I should’ve tied myself to the mast – not embracing the cross.

What's something that will help me through tough times?
Song: Gonna Move
Artist: Taylor Hicks
Comments: Road trip! Or maybe the Witness Relocation Program?

What does love mean to me?
Song: Mockingbird
Artist: Derek Webb
Comments: I’m just giving what’s been given to me.

Does anyone love me right now?
Song: Rich Young Ruler
Artist: Derek Webb
Comments: Yes. The question is how do I love others? When it’s easy? When it costs nothing?

PSALM 93

The summer before my freshman year of college, I spent a week in a condo in Gulf Shores, AL. My first night there, I woke up in the middle of the night. I felt like God wanted me to go out on the balcony and that I should bring my Bible with me. When I opened the sliding door, I noticed that the waves seemed unusually loud. I stood admiring the waves, and again I felt prompted by the Holy Spirit. This time he told me to turn to Psalm 93. As I read the words, my faith in God grew stronger. I wasn't just reading poetry. The book was describing what I was experiencing at that moment. There was the power of the ocean right in front of me, and the whole experience illustrated God's power in my life.

Yesterday morning, I opened up the Bible and found myself reading the same Psalm. After living through the destruction of hurricane Katrina, the Psalmist's words once again took on a personal meaning for me. Yes, the ocean's waves are powerful. But God is even more powerful.

Psalm 93

The LORD is king! He is robed in majesty.
Indeed, the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength.
The world is firmly established; it cannot be shaken.
Your throne, O LORD, has been established from time immemorial.
You yourself are from the everlasting past.
The mighty oceans have roared, O LORD.
The mighty oceans roar like thunder;
the mighty oceans roar as they pound the shore.
But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,
mightier than the breakers on the shore--
the LORD above is mightier than these!
Your royal decrees cannot be changed.
The nature of your reign, O LORD, is holiness forever.

iPOD

iPod family, originally uploaded by Zengame.

Pauline sent me an iPod. I was so surprised when I opened the box. Oh, happiness! Now I can drown out the senseless chatter at the gym while I'm running. Thank you, Pauline!

Speaking of noise. I found out I'm not a big fan of Ben Folds after all. He is both the most talented pianist and the most profane man I've ever seen onstage. My nephew Ben and I have started calling him "Ben's Folds." LOL

NOW ENTERING OLD-AGEVILLE

Dr Pepper, Texas, originally uploaded by glitz.

Theme of the week: I'm an old guy. Evidence is piling up. Here's a sampling:

Adult swim is featuring episodes of "Saved by the Bell" this week. My neice and nephew didn't believe me when I told them that I'm the same age as the actors. They thought I was much OLDER!

I saw posters advertising a Ben Folds concert at the university. I was so excited! I had no trouble picking up tickets at the last minute because NONE of the college-age kids want to attend - they'd prefer a younger, cooler singer!

I spend Tuesday nights glued to the television cheering my favorite American Idol...who is a prematurely gray 30-something!

I've always loved the theme song for Dr. Pepper, but recently I've acquired a taste for the soda. Today I think I found out the reason why: it gets its distinct flavor from PRUNE JUICE!

What's next for me...a passion for shuffleboard?!

POP CULTURE SWAP

MAD HATTER'S SWAP 8, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I just put my package in the mail for the Pop Culture swap I signed up for on flickr. The theme of this month's swap is "Mad Hatter's Tea Party." The picture above is the front of the card I made for my swap partner. I hope she likes the package. I should know in a few days as I sent it Priority Mail (God bless the Post Office).

I'm doing one other swap this month with another flickr group - Color-ific Swap-O-Rama. Their theme of the month is yellow/orange.

It was fun to put together the little packages of gifts, and I'm sure it will be fun to receive my packages when they arrive in the mail. I think the whole swap-a-gift-box-with-a-random-person idea is a good one. If you are interested in learning more, just go to flickr and search the groups for the word "swap."

SOUL PATROL

SOUL PATROL, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Taylor makes me happy. Catherine and Paris were great, too. I would like a CD of tonight's performances. WOW!

CELEBRITY FACEOFF

61% Jason Biggs, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

If you haven't seen this fad, you have missed a good laugh. Just visit My Heritage and upload a photo of yourself. Within moments they'll scan their database of celebrities and retrieve those they feel most resemble your photo. After you have your chuckle, you can post a screen capture of your favorite matches at the new flickr group I formed for them: My Heritage Face Recognition

HE IS RISEN

Row of Crosses 2, originally uploaded by Gani.

Imagine dying and then being alive again. Think about that. You die only to find that the grave can't hold you. What would life be like after such a fantastic discovery? Imagine that. Or maybe you don't have to imagine.

Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!"

Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Then the other disciple also went in, and he saw and believed-- for until then they hadn't realized that the Scriptures said he would rise from the dead. Then they went home.

Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. She saw two white-robed angels sitting at the head and foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. "Why are you crying?" the angels asked her.
"Because they have taken away my Lord," she replied, "and I don't know where they have put him."
She glanced over her shoulder and saw someone standing behind her. It was Jesus, but she didn't recognize him. "Why are you crying?" Jesus asked her. "Who are you looking for?"
She thought he was the gardener. "Sir," she said, "if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him."
"Mary!" Jesus said.
She turned toward him and exclaimed, "Teacher!"
"Don't cling to me," Jesus said, "for I haven't yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them that I am ascending to my Father and your Father, my God and your God."
Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, "I have seen the Lord!" Then she gave them his message.

That evening, on the first day of the week, the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! "Peace be with you," he said. As he spoke, he held out his hands for them to see, and he showed them his side. They were filled with joy when they saw their Lord! He spoke to them again and said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." Then he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone's sins, they are forgiven. If you refuse to forgive them, they are unforgiven."

One of the disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. They told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he replied, "I won't believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side."
Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. He said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don't be faithless any longer. Believe!"
"My Lord and my God!" Thomas exclaimed.
Then Jesus told him, "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven't seen me and believe anyway."
Jesus' disciples saw him do many other miraculous signs besides the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life.

John 20

123 MEMORY LANE

Many people drive home for the holidays. What does home look like for you? I'm staying with my parents, not just for Easter, but for the next few months. What I'm finding is that you can never really go home again. Not relationally, and not even physically, to a certain degree. The home of my childhood only exists in my dreams.

I'm selling a 1960's design book on eBay this week, so I've scanned in a few of the photos to give potential buyers an idea of what I'm selling. What do you think of these photos? Did you ever live in a home like any of these? Pretty fantastic stuff, eh?

My folks' last home was built in '59, so we had bathroom tile identical to the tile featured in the dining room shown here. And we also had Danish Modern chairs and an upright piano like the ones shown in the book-filled living room. Strange to see familiar things in unfamiliar places. Know what I mean?

MORK'S GREAT GRANDMOTHER?

Happy Easter 3, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

As you are dying eggs and biting the ears from chocolate rabbits, don't forget to pause for a moment to ponder the reason behind all the holiday traditions...ALIEN CHICKS HATCHING FROM GIANT EGGS!

DILBERT

update, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Not sure what I'd do without my daily dose of Dilbert.

Today's comic ties in with the eBay woes I've experienced this past week. (Like you want to hear about them, but I'll document it for posterity.)

It all started when I tried to log in to my account one night and couldn't. Was I worried? A little...I tried logging into Paypal, too; same problem. OK, so maybe I was a bit afraid at that point.

So I checked my email account, and sure enough, I'd received an email from eBay; my eBay identity had been compromised. The letter gave no explanation. It did instruct me to change all the passwords on any important accounts. I did. It took forever.

Any good news? Well, it looks like nobody actually did any buying, selling, or withdrawals. I don't want this mess to repeat itself, so I made my passwords really difficult this time. I dislike long passwords because they are a hassle to input, but I guess I have no choice since htey are ultimately safer.

How about you? Are you a simple password user who likes to live dangerously? Or do you spend an hour typing in a mega password that makes your account as secure than the safes at Fort Knox?

GO TAY TAY!

GO TAY TAY!, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Be a good couch tater: Vote for Taylor Hicks tonight on FOX's American Idol!

I'M NOT A SUGAR COOKIE?

I haven't done one of these blogthings in a while, so I decided to do the cookie one. Looks like I'm chocolate chip. What kind of cookie are you?

You Are a Chocolate Chip Cookie

Traditional and conservative, most people find you comforting. You're friendly and easy to get to know. This makes you very popular - without even trying!

What Kind of Cookie Are You?

I'M A PEPPER

That cookie one got me in the mood for one more. Turns out I'm Dr. Pepper. Are you a Pepper, too?

You Are Dr. Pepper

You're very unique and funky, yet you still have a bit of traditionalism to you. People who like you think they have great taste... and they usually do. Your best soda match: Root Beer Stay away from: 7 Up

What Kind of Soda Are You?

THE WEEKEND

At Ryan's House, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I had a fun weekend! Friday night I drove down to the Coast to meet with Ryan again. (He gave me a CD with this photo on it; he took this picture the last time I was down there. It think it turned out pretty well.) I came down so that we could review the set up of the big lights and all the particulars of the camera I'd use on Saturday. I got it all down quicker than I expected, leaving me with a free evening.

Ryan invited me to stay, but I thought I'd head home to work on eBay stuff. On the way out of town, I called Terry to say hello and decided to stop by his apartment to see Jo and him, since they had a free evening. On the drive to their apartment, I stopped at a light right by a small carnival, set up in a shopping center parking lot. As usual, I was singing along with a CD (I'm sure looking really stupid) when my cell rang. I stopped singing and answered it. Rick said, "Hey, look next to you." So I turned and saw Rick and Erinne sitting in the adjacent car. Embarrased, I asked what they were up to. They were also free. We all decided to go to the fair together. So much for working on a Friday night.

The rides and the atmosphere at the fair were great! But I kept getting a strange feeling like I had never moved, unable to shake the thought that I would have been at the fair with the 4 of them if Katrina had never happened. Some things are just meant to be, I guess. I also had the crazy thought that maybe I would die on one of the rides - no escaping your destiny ala "Final Destination 3." But, somehow I survived the evening with nothing more than a slightly upset tummy from being turned upside down one too many times. The only real bummer of the evening was that I missed Pauline, especially when I was solo on the Ferris Wheel. I was glad to have the cell so that I could call her.

Saturday was a whirlwind day, as Ryan, Amanda & I photographed two wedding ceremonies- one in Mobile and the second in Gulfport. I am happy to report that I did OK - I wasn't stressed out and I felt confident. Ryan's a good teacher. The big moment of my day was taking all the preceremony photos at the second wedding. Amanda was there for support, but Ryan was still finishing up the reception photos in Mobile. It was my first experience, relatively on my own, with professional photography. I had the demeaner & the lingo down. I just treated it like a theatrical role and drew from all my memories of the wedding photographers I've observed. Thankfully, I've been in a lot of weddings. I'm eager, no...anxious, to see how the photos turned out. I wasn't shooting digital, so I'll have to wait until Ryan develops the prints to see how I did. But I'm looking at the experience this way. I know I can handle the stress and that I have the right demeanor for wedding photography. I can always brush up on my photography skills, but I'd be sunk if I couldn't cut it in the personality department. So Saturday was a relief.

The last reception let out around 11 p.m. The family knew how to party! And they included Ryan and myself (Amanda left early) in the festivities. Ryan even did the electric slide with them. The crowd ate it up. I'm sure he'll get some referrals from this wedding. I was glad I got to be a part of it.

I can't wait for Ryan & Amanda's wedding this summer. From the sound of their plans, it will be the party of the decade :)

ATC #2

ATC #2, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Here's my second ATC; it was a quick one I made while trying out my new art supplies - I couldn't be bothered with straight lines.

Hope you are having a day as delightfully messy and joyfully colorful as this spontaneous creation of mine.

FIRST ATC & SOME CLICHÉS

First ATC, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Pauline and I are making & exchanging ATC's (Artist Trading Cards). She already gave me her first one. This is my first one created for her - a collage. I combined 4 vintage valentines and an Ace of Hearts for this; I'm happy with the result. I hope Pauline likes it, too. I'm excited to start making things again. I haven't done anything creative, other than the Lego houses, since I taught elementary school.

Speaking of creative pursuits, I'm leaving in a half hour for my second photography lesson with Ryan. I'm hoping it goes well. I feel very inept when it comes to learning the ins and outs of manual photography. But practice makes perfect, right?

Some sad news today - Dad's dog was hit by a car. He was 12 years old. Losing this dog marks the end of an era for our family; the dog is the last puppy we kept from a line of dogs we've had since 1987 - nearly 20 years of the same dog family living with our family. Like they say, all good things must come to an end. Dad is taking the loss pretty hard. I wasn't as attached to this dog as he was, but when this dog's parents died (within days of each other) I was overcome with grief. Dad said that the dog had been a good companion for him; I'm sad to see him lost this way. My hamster died this week, too. Bummer of a month in the pet department.

AS EASY AS 1,2,3...

Playskool Mr. Potato Head, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Hi. I'm Patrick, and I'm a blog slacker.

I've been a busy beaver this week, trying to get some more auctions up on eBay - like this Mr. Potato Head, for instance. Photographing everything I own might sound overwhelming, but I'm making it, with the help of my handy dandy pad and pencil. Whenever I have a large task to complete, I get a funny feeling in my stomach that doesn't go away until I make a list, breaking the job down into manageable units. Anybody else ever feel that way? I remember my elementary school teacher showing me how to make a list. I'm eternally grateful!

Speaking of grattitude, I had the nicest surprise waiting for me at the Post Office today. Julie, one of my internet friends, sent me a box of art supplies! I am overwhelmed with her generosity, and I will thank her personally. But I wanted to acknowledge her gift here, too; I think thanking Julie here is most appropriate since we met through this blog. So, Julie, I receive your gift as a blessing from God. THANK YOU! Your kindness meant a lot!

HELLO, OLD FRIEND

azalea blooms, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

After all the waiting, Spring has sprung. Goodbye, winter (maybe). I'm wondering about the usual "cold snap" that sweeps in and kills the blooms. The azaleas look rough this year - as do all of the plants and trees on the farm; Katrina did an number on them. But even without its usual glory, it's refreshing to see Spring again.

Speaking of seeing old friends, I'm having a hurried day today, rushing to get my errands and chores done so I can leave on time to visit Terry and JoEllen tonight. I can't wait to see them; it's been too long! But we are finally back in touch, and I'm headed south tonight. I'm glad we have a friendship that can pick right back up where we left off. It really is true that Life, like the weather, is seasonal. Don't you think?

LEGO® MOC PAGE, ETC

Lego® MOC Page, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I signed up for a page at this website today. Maybe it will increase my eBay sales. The layout looks professional; I'll give it that. I found some inspiring photos there, too. I saw photos of one guy's work (a mini version of a NY neighborhood) that was featured at a banquet honoring the WTC designer, Minoru Yamasaki. He is a professional Lego builder and even had his own business page.

I went to the gym today and, boy, are my legs tired. I did my five miles on the tread, but I only ran one of them. When I stretched out before the run, I knew all too well that I hadn't run since Katrina. I'm so stiff! I'll be glad to get past this stage.

I voted for Taylor last night (Soul Patrol!). He was awesome, as usual. I'm wondering if Lisa, Ace, or Bucky will be voted off. It's narrowing down; who do you think will win? Wouldn't it be better if we could vote people OFF rather than voting to save them?!

A RESTFUL MONDAY

the back pasture, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Today was a productive day. I closed some auction on eBay ($$-Yay!) and mailed a package to a teacher in Alaska(some DK books she bought). I signed up for the gym. I can't believe my hometown has one; it's owned by a guy who went to highschool with me. I'll start running again tomorrow. Goodbye belly! I went out to the farm and took some pictures for Pauline, at Dad's suggestion. Spring is starting to bloom. Hope a cold snap doesn't nip it in the bud, literally. All, in all, it was a restful Monday.

I did have one moment of excitement. I found a possum hiding in the pump house. Have you ever seen a live possum? They have big yellow pointy teeth. He really did "play possum" when I found him. I'll post a photo so that you can see him, too.

POSSUM IN THE PUMP HOUSE!

Possum in the Pump House!, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Here's the critter that I found lurking behind the wagon wheel. He was out to eat the dog food. What a surprise that he was foraging in the daylight. Usually he would have been there at night. In all the years growing up in the country, I never saw a possum. So, it was a surprise to meet him face to face today!

PHOTOGRAPHY & FORGETFULNESS

Ben Seibel impromptu Iroquois Bridal White Mosaic, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I'm getting the hang of this new camera and putting it to good use auctioning things on eBay. I got a bidder on my old camera. Hooray!

I went down to visit Ryan for the day on Tuesday. He gave me a photography lesson and showed me how to use his cameras and lights. He also took a nice photo of me. It's amazing what good lighting will do for you.

I'm going to help out with the next wedding that Ryan works. I'm excited about it. It will be a good experience for me and will let me know what kind of aptitude I have for that kind of work. I hope I do a good job; I'd hate to be responsible for messing up somebody's wedding photos.

It was good to see Ryan and Amanda - and just to get out of town for the day. The Coast is still a mess, so it was a little emotional to be down there. My practice on the camera consisted of taking pictures of blue tarps and piles of trash and tree limbs. Ugh! I did take some funny shots of Ryan making faces, but I accidentally left the CD with them on his table. I'll have to get them later. Don't you hate that when you forget your stuff somewhere?

GOODBYE, CAMERA

I'm selling my 1st camera on eBay!, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I remember ordering my first digital camera: a Sony Cybershot DSC-P50. And I remember my excitement when it finally arrived. No more developing costs! No more wasted film! What a treasure it became! Almost all of the photos in my flickr stream were taken with it. Since I bought it, it's been in hand at every milestone along the way and can sometimes feel like an extension of myself. It's hard to let it go on eBay (I'm not making a mistake, right?), but I'm excited to have a higher resolution camera now, and I'll be equally excited to have a little extra cash in the bank to help pay for that new camera.

MEMORIES

1993 PHS Yearbook, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Going through the crates of stuff in my room, I ran across my senior yearbook. It's been 13 years! I can't believe how quickly time has passed during that span.

This week I've been visiting with my brother. He works at a university, so we spent some time on campus. I met some of the students and realized how young they are. I didn't feel that way when I was in their shoes.

Isn't the passing of time a crazy phenomenon? I'm reading I was just wondering by Philip Yancy. The author argues that one of the best proofs of God and Heaven's existance is our surprise at earthly phenomenon like death and the passage of time. Even though they are the epitome of natural, we perceive them with shock and amazement. I see what he means. I'm looking forward to the end of time.

THE GOVERNOR'S NEW DIET PLAN?

Mississippi governor's mansion, originally uploaded by lordsutch.

The MS Governor just vetoed a bill in the state legislature that would have raised taxes on cigarettes and eliminated them on groceries. I can't understand that decision. How could he possibly justify his actions? What frame of mind would lead him to believe he was acting in the people's best interests? It's one of the most unbelievable things I've ever heard! Later, when I make the time, I'm going to read his justification. But my first impression on hearing the announcement is that it's a bad decision. What do you think?

STORY STARTER

How to Develop a More Successful Personality, originally uploaded by Paula Wirth.

Like to write? Here's a short story starter for you: Write the story from a "How To" approach, but in REVERSE. Tell the story of, "How to burn a cake" or "How to fail a driving test." Failure can be fun. Give it a try! (Diagrams & charts are optional.)

MY LIFE FOR SALE

eBay 1st lot of educational books, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I'm putting the first lot of books up today on eBay. It's an emotional experience. That "Cowboy" book in this stack was the first educational book I ever bought for my classroom, way back in 2000. But (thankfully) I get to keep the memories and the photographs after the auctions end. AND...even better, I won't have to box up and move these books ever again! It's a bittersweet goodbye, but I can't justify keeping things "just in case I'll need them later" when selling things means greater mobility and financial freedom. (Just a bit of preaching to myself, there). I hope these sell for a lot of cash :)

i500

i500, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Created with fd's Flickr Toys.

1. Purple Lit Edifice Luneberg Germany, 2. FENCED, 3.(according to flickr, my "Most Interesting" but not in i500 ICKS?, 4. Holy Threads, 5. nerdy glasses mosaic, 6. TINTED, 7. 1953 Dance Party, 8. Hiding to eat big bro's lunch?, 9. Oxford, MS circa. 1940, 10. Bobby and Betty, circa 1953, 11. The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer, 12. Mom in a Convertible, May, 1953, 13. FRECKLES, 14. SWEETHEART, 15. BULL IN A CHINA SHOP, 16. (a personal favorite, but not in i500)cameo 19

Flickr has a group of photos that it's labelled the most "interesting." These are all photos that I either took or scanned that have made it into the top 500 "most interesting" on flickr (with the exception of two of them, included for filler).

I think it's cool that 3 of my most popular photos were taken in Spokane. One of them was taken at Pauline's direct request. So, thank you, Pauline. You inpsire me!

There's a big debate amongst flickrites about whether or not the photos that flickr puts in the "interestingness" pool are actually, well, interesting! I think worrying over it is silly (though I see their point, for sure.) Regardless, it's fun to see which of my photos make it in...and which ones don't.

If you'd like to see more of my photos, click on the flickr link in the right sidebar, or select one of the links above.

CLUTTER

What's on my desk 6, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Why is it that work generates clutter? The more I work the more my desk goes into "mess" mode. But I must confess that I love it! I've had a tidy desk for too long.

ZZZ

Avant Browser, originally uploaded by Eugenio Palisi.

I was surfing around, looking for something interesting, when I ran across this.

so...not that interesting

PHARMACEUTICALS

nerdy glasses, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Here's a fun idea for you. Totally free. No charge.

Next time you are bored, drive to the mall. Get out of your car and go inside. Wander around the common areas quietly spelling aloud the word, "pharmaceuticals."

P...H...A...R...M...A...

GO GRAY CHARLES!

AMERICAN IDOL

AMERICAN IDOL SHAMELESS ENDORSEMENT, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

I hope he wins. Don't forget to vote.

COMICS

comics, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

www.readwritethink.org/materials/comic/index.html

Make your own comics at this site. I grew tired of fooling with it at the moment, but I'm reminding myself to come back to it later by posting this one...

#1

Oxford, MS circa. 1940, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

So, if flickr is the most popular photo sharing site in America, and this is the most interesting photo on that site, then does that make this the most interesting photo in America? :)

CIRCUMSTANCES GOT YOU DOWN?

generally unhappy, originally uploaded by sheryltwoshoes.

I had a totally bad morning this morning. I realized I was interpreting it as God being mad at me. Why do I always do that?

Then I caught myself and remembered that circumstances are no reflection of His feelings for me. His Word says that He loves me and is pleased with me. Cirmumstances (from my view point) sure don't line up with that Good Word. So I had to ask myself, "Whose report will you believe?" and I answered, "I will believe the report of the Lord!"

Whew! Glad that's settled. I certainly was miserable thinking I was isolated from the only One who can get me out of this mess.

How is your day going? Good or bad, remember that Jesus and I are on your side!

CRAFT MANIFESTO: A RESPONSE

morncol-10, originally uploaded by keri.

A day late and a dollar short, as my Dad always says...here's my response to the Craft Manifesto.

I am in particular agreement with point six. Here's an personal example: Every time I browse flickr I'm inspired to start new graphic design projects.

I've also noticed how so many crafters post their work on flickr, beautifully illustrating point 4.

I wish #7 weren't so painfully true. My current lack of tools makes me sad. Interested parties may donate to my personal Katrina relief fund via my Paypal account (just kidding). But I wish I had more tools of the trade, and I miss the ones I've lost. [There's a ND "skills" joke mentally forming here, that I don't feel like finishing. Any takers?]

I have an issue with point 10. Techniques bring people together - but they also create jargon - which separates people into two groups: those who speak it and those who don't.

So, anybody have any other thoughts to add?

CRAFT MANIFESTO

http://ullamaaria.typepad.com/hobbyprincess/2005/03/draft_craft_man.html

Copied this from the web address above. What do you think? Tomorrow I'll post my own thoughts on the manifesto.

1. People get satisfaction for being able to create/craft things because they can see themselves in the objects they make. This is not possible in purchased products.

2. The things that people have made themselves have magic powers. They have hidden meanings that other people can’t see.

3. The things people make they usually want to keep and update. Crafting is not against consumption. It is against throwing things away.

4. People seek recognition for the things they have made. Primarily it comes from their friends and family. This manifests as an economy of gifts.

5. People who believe they are producing genuinely cool things seek broader exposure for their products. This creates opportunities for alternative publishing channels.

6. Work inspires work. Seeing what other people have made generates new ideas and designs.

7. Essential for crafting are tools, which are accessible, portable, and easy to learn.

8. Materials become important. Knowledge of what they are made of and where to get them becomes essential.

9. Recipes become important. The ability to create and distribute interesting recipes becomes valuable.

10. Learning techniques brings people together. This creates online and offline communities of practice.

11. Craft-oriented people seek opportunities to discover interesting things and meet their makers. This creates marketplaces.

12. At the bottom, crafting is a form of play.

WHAT'S COOKIN? TRY AND GUESS!

what's cookin'? try and guess!, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Click on the photo and leave your guess as a comment on the pic's flickr page. Who will be the first to guess the right answer? So far, it's anyone's game! (Dan & fam: No fair guessing since you already know. Shhhh!)

PERSONALITY TEST

PERSONALITY TEST, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

In the Minn/St Paul airport, I nestled on the floor by an electrical outlet with my laptop and a tea. I was pretty absorbed in my computations (LOL) for a few good minutes, but when I finally glanced up I was startled to see the picture above.

The two guys were so engrossed in their respective ways that I had enough time to pull out my Cybershot and snap this one. Doesn't it make such a great commentary about the world?

Both guys are fixated on a form of technology, one more than the other. Are you more like the guy on the left who is aware of his surroundings? Or, are you like Mr. Guy-on-the-Right, with his gaze so firmly locked onto his handheld gadget that he missed seeing something big even though it was right in front of him?

I watched him for a long time; he never saw the biplane. I want to learn from him; I nearly did the same thing.

NORWEGIAN BACHELOR FARMERS AGREE

"It's been a quiet week in Lake Wobegon, Minnesota, my hometown, out on the edge of the prairie."

I'm always shocked to learn that someone doesn't know about Prairie Home Companion. What would Saturday afternoons be without Guy Noir or Powder Milk Biscuits?

Beginning in 1974, the radio show has, literally, been around my entire life. I've decided on a new dream job: I'd take Garrison Keillor's place as host when he retires.

So, Sarah, LISTEN TO THE SHOW ALREADY! What've I gotta do...put the radio to your ear?

Garrison Keillor

Garrison Keillor, originally uploaded by kosts.

UPDATE

Been wondering what's become of me? When I returned from WA, I found myself in a bit of a family crisis. Dad will be out of the hospital today; thanks to all who lovingly prayed for his heart health. What a relief to have him coming home tonight!

xaust.com

GO, HICKS, GO!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day!, originally uploaded by peggy..

Hope you had a good one...

ON MY WAY

British Airways 777 G-YMMA, originally uploaded by caribb.

I'm on my way to Washington state to meet Pauline and her family. Thanks to everyone who is praying for me to have a safe flight. I'll let you know when I arrive and how the trip is going. Just in case I don't get to tell you later, HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

OLD SKOOL

OLD SKOOL, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

Here's my desktop. Like my vintage lego figure? I think he's confused; is he teaching geography or addition? My workspace is pretty sparse: count the icons. How many icons do you have? What kind of wallpaper? How often do you change it? What do the answers to these questions say about you as a person?

COUNTRIES I'VE VISITED/LIVED IN

create your own visited countries map
or vertaling Duits Nederlands

STATES I'VE VISITED

create your own visited states map
or check out these Google Hacks.

Well, I haven't technically visited Washington state yet, but I thought I'd go ahead and check it. Try this out. It's fun to see a map of where you have been. (Gasp! Did I just say that maps were fun? Dad would be so proud!)

MY FLICKR BADGE

MY FLICKR BADGE, originally uploaded by Patrick Q.

at least I have a fun hobby to fall back on...

MESS

I can't function in this mess anymore! I'm tired of living in piles of crates and boxes. Everything I own is stored in the room where I am sleeping and I can't take it anymore! [It is a very big room but the boxes are piled to the ceiling.] When I moved back in with my folks after Katrina, we just piled everything up helter skelter. But the haphazard mess makes me feel like a mess, myself.

So this week I'm moving out of the grief stage and into the anger stage. And I'm channeling that energy into unpacking and organizing. After the storm, I wished that there was nothing to salvage. I just didn't wan't to deal with stuff at that moment. Isn't that terrible; I felt a little guilty about wishing I had lost everything and gotten an insurance check. Oh, well; can't deny my failings.

So I'm getting it organized so that I can sell all of it; I don't want to see any of it ever again. When I start to auction it off on eBay, I'll put a link here so you can bid on it. LOL. Just think, someday you might own my lamp or spatula... You could say, "Hey, this used to belong to Patrick before he pulled a Dave Chappelle and ran away from his mess of a life; I got it for next to nothing at auction."

I'm not trying to be negative in this; just honest about where I am right now. I read back over the last entries I've made since returning to America and realized that I have been talking about pop culture because I didn't want to face the real issues I need to deal with. But here they are in black and white. That's as good of a first step as I can make.

ARTIST TRADING CARDS

resolution-atcs, originally uploaded by kaleidoscopic-kris.

Have you ever heard of Artists' Trading Cards? I hadn't until today, but I'm hooked. I can't wait to find an old deck of cards and start making my own. If you designed one, what would you put on it?

WHO WILL BE THE NEXT IDOL?

Well, so far I've narrowed it down to my top four. Here they are for your viewing pleasure. Let me know which you think should win the title. By the way, I used to make fun of people who watched this show, but I really think these 4 have talent, so they've won me over...

HOPEFUL #4

HOPEFUL #3

HOPEFUL #2

HOPEFUL #1

CRYIN'

cryin', originally uploaded by goodbyepisces.

GRIEF

Mourning with you...sorry Washington about your Super Bowl loss...