Stephen was showing me the Internet Movie Database's top 250 movie list. I find it very sad that I'd seen 111 of the top 250. And about 5 of the bottom 100! YIKE! Maybe I watch too many movies. Then again, movie collecting is a hobby of mine. I just like having all my favorite movies on hand so I can see them again, if I want. Problem is, I've seen most of them maybe twice and watch my real favorites over and over. Although, I have seen some really good movies lately. I've started taking recommendations from other people and have found that sometimes I really enjoy some movies I'd been critical of for a long time and refused to see. Here are some of my more recent movies:
Hellboy: Why would anyone want to see a movie by that name (the sequel comes out this summer, for those who want to know)? Jane saw it had 3 stars in the TV Guide and decided to sit down and watch this movie. I wasn't expecting a great movie since I figured it must be a 3 star movie out of 10 stars or some alternate scale. Seeing as I wasn't expecting much, I was pleasantly surprised. IMDB describes the plot as "A demon, raised from infancy after being conjured by and rescued from the Nazis, grows up to become a defender against the forces of darkness." It has a quirky sense of human and is enjoyable to watch just for the interaction between Ron Pearlman, John Hurt and Selma Blair, and Jeffrey Tambor. On a Kristin Scale of Movie watching (Thumb up, Thumb Down, Thumb in the Middle, or A Wenzel Elbow Salute *think flipping off someone*), I give Hellboy multiple thumbs up for entertainment, but a thumb in the middle for actually wanting to own it in my library. I think I'll stick to watching it on TV, thank you very much.
Little Miss Sunshine: I actually wanted to see this one in the theatre, but no one else in the house wanted to waste their $9 on this one. Then Jane decided she wanted to see it when it came on video, but was unwilling to spent the $17 on buying the DVD. So, we waited until it was on the Super-Duper-Closeout-Video-Store-Closing rack for $3. IMDB calls this one " A family determined to get their young daughter into the finals of a beauty pageant take a cross-country trip in their VW bus." Oh, but it is so much more than this! It is about a totally dysfunctional family who don't understand each other in the least trying to get a little girl to a pageant where she absolutely shows what being an individual is all about. Along the way, we learn more about how they became the way they are, how they become closer, learn more about death, color blindness, and depression/suicidal. I didn't think I would laugh so hard at the way they completely muddle through every situation... including keeping a dead body in the car ala the original Vacation movie. Nothing is going to stop this family and it keeps the viewer watching for the whole movie. Hey, I liked it enough to want my husband, the major movie critic, to see it. So, this one gets multiple Wenzel Thumbs UP (WAY UP!) for both viewing pleasure and for ownership.
My next movie was Night At the Museum. I expected this to be another campy Ben Stiller comedy like Zoolander. Ok, it was another campy Ben Stiller movie. But, it was campy in the way of Keeping the Faith and Heavyweights. Very enjoyable movie! And, to think they are working on the sequel (Night At the Museum 2: Escape From the Smithsonian). IMDB underexplains this one as "A newly recruited night security guard at the Museum of Natural History discovers that an ancient curse causes the animals and exhibits on display to come to life and wreak havoc." It is so much more! It is about a guy finding out who he is and that greatness isn't what we think of. Sometimes it is just having the courage to make things better or more controllable. I do not currently own this one... but my Father In Law owns it. So, although I give it a Thumb WAY up for enjoyableness, I won't purchase it until we move out. One copy per household is enough for this movie.
Maybe in my next blog entry, I'll post the three movies I've watched recently that I couldn't stand and wonder if I should have been paid to have to sit through this movie. Til then, blog readers. I'll see you... at the movies? Wait.... no, I'll see you when I see you! :)
Monday, March 31, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
More Book Choices and Foot In The Mouth
I guess I should start with the foot in mouth situation and get that out. Last night was the Catonsville branch of the Baltimore County Library Book Talk night. My father in law went and received a book as a door prize. He seemed so pleased with his choice as he showed me his new James Patterson book. I must admit it took me everything I had not to laugh. He had picked up Maximum Ride. For those of you who aren't familiar with the book, it branches out from two of Patterson's adult novels (When the Wind Blows and Lake House) and is about a young girl named Maximum Ride and her group of avian-humans (known as the Flock), who have been the subjects of experiments, leaving them only 98% human and 2% Avian (bird). There are currently 4 books in the series for young adults which explore the world that the two adult books began and there are at least two movies planned based on this world in the very near future. I can only say, on the movie idea, let us hope it is more true to a Pattersonian world than his attempt at placing the Woman's Murder Mystery Club into an hour weekly format OR his shot at the made for TV movie First To Die (The first Murder Mystery Club book).
Now that I've told you everything that any good blog reader might want to know about this book's background, let me tell you what I really think about this said book and why it took everything I had not to laugh at Bill. I received my copy of the book free of charge (Patterson donated over 1,000 copies of this book to NCTE (National Council of Teacher of English) to go to Middle School teacher members). I guess, in that view, I was lucky enough to have been one of the first people in the United States to read this book... we got it MONTHS before it came out to the public. And, was I ever excited! I loved the two adult novels and looked forward to plunging deeper into the world of Max and her avian buddies. Before I continue, have you ever read a book from an author who just blew your mind away in one book and wrote using a totally different style and it was a turn off? Well, James Patterson, as an adult fiction writer, could write the phone book and I'd buy it. James Patterson, the young adult author, might as well be producing toilet paper. It just wasn't anything to write home about. Yes, it had the action. Yes, it was interesting. But, he was holding himself back for his younger audience. It just wasn't what I had come to expect from Patterson. But, I found a student at school whom I thought would adore this book and allowed them to borrow it (they could have kept it, as far as I was concerned... it was meant to go into the classroom library). The student finished it in two nights and couldn't wait for the second one to come out. But, then, the same student read one of the adult novels... and hated it. It appears that young adult to adult Patterson doesn't translate either. The styles are both good... but you should never pick up a Young Adult Patterson book if you expect to read a book like the Adult Patterson novels. When it came time for me to write my review for NCTE, I said just as much. BOY was I surprised when the publishers actually used my review. The following was my review... and, as of last time I checked, is still accessible from the Little, Brown and Company website:
"I have come to expect greatness from Patterson. As in every Patterson book, it had action, suspense, mystery, and the power to create a world so full of imagery that you can become absorbed and lost in your imagination. But, unlike their adult counterparts, the young adult Patterson reader finds a totally different style that doesn't fit the form that you originally think of as being "Pure Pattersonesque". My students found the book to be exciting and full of mystery and could not wait for their to be another installment. But, I found that the book lacked that hook that keeps the adult counterpart the book I will go back and read again and again. To me, it was like two different individuals wrote these books. If just another had written this book, I would have no problems saying how much this book deserves to be a "must have" in every library. But, in this day and age of name recognition, the Patterson name is going to be what gets that book off library shelves. And, those who know that name are going to be disappointed because it does not live up to the Patterson sparkle. But, for those who are grabbing a book because it just seems like a good read, you are going to enjoy the web of mystery and intrigue woven like a well worn quilt. Put this book in the hands of your best readers. Just make sure they have never read another Patterson book.... it certainly colored my take on what is by no doubts an excellent young adult novel. K.A. Wenzel, Laurel, MD"
Bill is a Patterson fan. He picked up the book thinking he was getting the newest/latest Patterson book. I broke it to him that it was neither new nor the latest, but a young adult fiction. And, I also told him I would have loaned him my copy. His whole face dropped. I finished my spiel by telling him I reviewed the book... and frankly, it isn't that great of a book. I told him that it was a branch off two of his adult fiction novels (two of his most controversial, I may add) and, had he not read them, he could never quickly become lost. He got upset and said he guessed he would donate it then. I suddenly felt like a total heel. I should have been more supportive of his find. He didn't deserve my lack of forethought. Just because I didn't like it does not mean he shouldn't try it. Although, I believe it to be worth less than worthy of donation. I keep my copy (since I no longer have a classroom nor a classroom library) on my personal bookshelf. I've put it in the "TO GO" pile more times than I'd like to admit. But, I am a diehard Patterson fan. Can't do it. Must keep it. *SIGH* Midyear Resolution To Self: MUST BE NICER TO FATHER IN LAW!
Ok... more book choices. I'm not going to go into a lot of detail why I liked them or branch into categories. I'm just going to list books I've read and enjoyed. Make up your own mind whether they are worthy of reading.
Plitcher, R. - The Shell Seekers (I actually watched the movie first... the book was way better.)
Disch, T. - The M.D. - A Horror Story (I read this one after my mom gave up on it... made her feel sick. And yes, this is the guy who wrote the Brave Little Toaster series)
Grisham, J - The Last Juror (I read this one on the plane from Baltimore to Columbus during a trip to see my parents post marriage)
Hiaasen, Carl - Flush (Dave Barry and Carl Hiaasen rock.. what more can I say)
Alongi and Alongi-Davidson - The Jennifer Scales Series (Jennifer Scales and The Ancient Furnace/Jennifer Scales and The Messenger of Light/The Silver Moon Elm : A Jennifer Scales Novel)
Pullman, Philip- The Golden Compass
Setterfield, D - The Thirteenth Tale
Spinelli, J. - Wringer
Curtis, C. - Bud, Not Buddy and The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963.
Clements, A. - Frindle
Well... that is enough for today, I guess. Maybe if I make enough noise, Bill will take me with him to lunch! Nah... couldn't be that lucky that he'll notice me. Til next time!
Now that I've told you everything that any good blog reader might want to know about this book's background, let me tell you what I really think about this said book and why it took everything I had not to laugh at Bill. I received my copy of the book free of charge (Patterson donated over 1,000 copies of this book to NCTE (National Council of Teacher of English) to go to Middle School teacher members). I guess, in that view, I was lucky enough to have been one of the first people in the United States to read this book... we got it MONTHS before it came out to the public. And, was I ever excited! I loved the two adult novels and looked forward to plunging deeper into the world of Max and her avian buddies. Before I continue, have you ever read a book from an author who just blew your mind away in one book and wrote using a totally different style and it was a turn off? Well, James Patterson, as an adult fiction writer, could write the phone book and I'd buy it. James Patterson, the young adult author, might as well be producing toilet paper. It just wasn't anything to write home about. Yes, it had the action. Yes, it was interesting. But, he was holding himself back for his younger audience. It just wasn't what I had come to expect from Patterson. But, I found a student at school whom I thought would adore this book and allowed them to borrow it (they could have kept it, as far as I was concerned... it was meant to go into the classroom library). The student finished it in two nights and couldn't wait for the second one to come out. But, then, the same student read one of the adult novels... and hated it. It appears that young adult to adult Patterson doesn't translate either. The styles are both good... but you should never pick up a Young Adult Patterson book if you expect to read a book like the Adult Patterson novels. When it came time for me to write my review for NCTE, I said just as much. BOY was I surprised when the publishers actually used my review. The following was my review... and, as of last time I checked, is still accessible from the Little, Brown and Company website:
"I have come to expect greatness from Patterson. As in every Patterson book, it had action, suspense, mystery, and the power to create a world so full of imagery that you can become absorbed and lost in your imagination. But, unlike their adult counterparts, the young adult Patterson reader finds a totally different style that doesn't fit the form that you originally think of as being "Pure Pattersonesque". My students found the book to be exciting and full of mystery and could not wait for their to be another installment. But, I found that the book lacked that hook that keeps the adult counterpart the book I will go back and read again and again. To me, it was like two different individuals wrote these books. If just another had written this book, I would have no problems saying how much this book deserves to be a "must have" in every library. But, in this day and age of name recognition, the Patterson name is going to be what gets that book off library shelves. And, those who know that name are going to be disappointed because it does not live up to the Patterson sparkle. But, for those who are grabbing a book because it just seems like a good read, you are going to enjoy the web of mystery and intrigue woven like a well worn quilt. Put this book in the hands of your best readers. Just make sure they have never read another Patterson book.... it certainly colored my take on what is by no doubts an excellent young adult novel. K.A. Wenzel, Laurel, MD"
Bill is a Patterson fan. He picked up the book thinking he was getting the newest/latest Patterson book. I broke it to him that it was neither new nor the latest, but a young adult fiction. And, I also told him I would have loaned him my copy. His whole face dropped. I finished my spiel by telling him I reviewed the book... and frankly, it isn't that great of a book. I told him that it was a branch off two of his adult fiction novels (two of his most controversial, I may add) and, had he not read them, he could never quickly become lost. He got upset and said he guessed he would donate it then. I suddenly felt like a total heel. I should have been more supportive of his find. He didn't deserve my lack of forethought. Just because I didn't like it does not mean he shouldn't try it. Although, I believe it to be worth less than worthy of donation. I keep my copy (since I no longer have a classroom nor a classroom library) on my personal bookshelf. I've put it in the "TO GO" pile more times than I'd like to admit. But, I am a diehard Patterson fan. Can't do it. Must keep it. *SIGH* Midyear Resolution To Self: MUST BE NICER TO FATHER IN LAW!
Ok... more book choices. I'm not going to go into a lot of detail why I liked them or branch into categories. I'm just going to list books I've read and enjoyed. Make up your own mind whether they are worthy of reading.
Plitcher, R. - The Shell Seekers (I actually watched the movie first... the book was way better.)
Disch, T. - The M.D. - A Horror Story (I read this one after my mom gave up on it... made her feel sick. And yes, this is the guy who wrote the Brave Little Toaster series)
Grisham, J - The Last Juror (I read this one on the plane from Baltimore to Columbus during a trip to see my parents post marriage)
Hiaasen, Carl - Flush (Dave Barry and Carl Hiaasen rock.. what more can I say)
Alongi and Alongi-Davidson - The Jennifer Scales Series (Jennifer Scales and The Ancient Furnace/Jennifer Scales and The Messenger of Light/The Silver Moon Elm : A Jennifer Scales Novel)
Pullman, Philip- The Golden Compass
Setterfield, D - The Thirteenth Tale
Spinelli, J. - Wringer
Curtis, C. - Bud, Not Buddy and The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963.
Clements, A. - Frindle
Well... that is enough for today, I guess. Maybe if I make enough noise, Bill will take me with him to lunch! Nah... couldn't be that lucky that he'll notice me. Til next time!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Sometimes I Really Wonder
As most of you know, we (as a family) have been having problems with our phantom emailer. But, as a family, we have decided we won't drag the rest of you in the middle of what is so plainly a squabble between two parties when neither party is willing to communicate properly (ie: without taunts/threats/snide comments). Therefore, we will endeavor to remain free of personal taunts from now on.
Onto to the major topic of the blog for today.
Being an ex-teacher, I keep getting asked about really good books I've read. I mean, sure, I'm more likely than a lot of my friends to be able to rattle off some really good books I've read. But, darn! It isn't like being a teacher gives me the end all of end alls to book reviewing. It's just my option, after all. If you read my book choice and really hate it, please don't tell me what an idiot I am. I can like something you don't. I mean, my husband and I don't agree on good food all the time (I love Mongolian Grill... HE adores TGI Fridays). Why would everyone agree with my book choices. Anyways... I promised a couple of my friends (I'll get you all back for this... I PROMISE) that I would post my current books selections and explain why I have chosen these out of all the books I read. I will separate them by age range... since I read a lot of books. (I mean, what else do I have to do but waste my time reading books.)
Children's Books: I personally love anything that was up for or won the Caldecott - just something I get for being a Central Ohio native, I guess. My current favorites are Snowflake Bentley (Caldecott for 1999) and Lon PoPo (from 1990). Another one of my favorites was one I discovered while teaching 4th grade. Laura Simms, with the Illustrator David Catrow (whom was a guest speaker in my classroom), wrote a wonderful book called Rotten Teeth. I love how it shows that everyone has something special to share. In the book, the main character needs to find something for show and tell and "borrows" from her father (a dentist) a bottle of rotten teeth he's pulled out. Talk about demonstrating what happens if you don't take care of your teeth. And, it is also fun to watch her grow from shy to being an instant success. Plus, David's illustrations really are great. And, my last one in this category is called The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown (Yes... Goodnight Moon lady). The Important Book is that the book goes on long after it is closed. What is most important about many familiar things -- like rain and wind, apples and daisies -- is suggested in rhythmic words and vivid pictures. Like Goodnight Moon, it is a perfect book . . . the text establishes a word game which children will accept and can memorize.
Juv. Fiction: Right now, I only have a couple picks. For those who enjoyed Harry Potter, make sure you don't miss the Jenny Nimmo Charlie Bones books. I found these books while flying back and forth from Baltimore in 2004. And, I've been addicted to them since. Charlie is endowed with "special powers" and goes to a "special school". It is how he solves problems in his life and how he handles a family who much rather he not be who he really is. My next pick is Gossamer by Lois Lowry. I honestly recommended this to anyone who reads. I loved the idea of little people who affect our dream state. Although, as my mother in law found out, it is a bit of a tear jerker, too. What also suggest it is a decent book is it was named Blackeyed Susan choice for 2006-2007. It didn't win, but I still absolutely loved it.
Adult: I have read some pretty odd, yet cool books in the last year. Jeanette Walls (MSNBC commentator) wrote a book about her childhood called The Glass Castle. Both my mother in law and I read it... and all I can say is that she had one very messed up childhood. But, it is the kind of book that keeps you reading... kinda like Running With Scissor (Augusten Burroughs). I've also finished Wicked and Son of A Witch (Gregory Maguire). I liked the latter more than the former. But, the change of views makes me think a lot of the children's book The True Story of the Three Little Pigs (as told by the Big Bad Wolf) - from the man who brought us The Stinky Cheese Man (Jon Scieszka). Different perspectives change everything!
What are you all reading. Share!!! :)
Onto to the major topic of the blog for today.
Being an ex-teacher, I keep getting asked about really good books I've read. I mean, sure, I'm more likely than a lot of my friends to be able to rattle off some really good books I've read. But, darn! It isn't like being a teacher gives me the end all of end alls to book reviewing. It's just my option, after all. If you read my book choice and really hate it, please don't tell me what an idiot I am. I can like something you don't. I mean, my husband and I don't agree on good food all the time (I love Mongolian Grill... HE adores TGI Fridays). Why would everyone agree with my book choices. Anyways... I promised a couple of my friends (I'll get you all back for this... I PROMISE) that I would post my current books selections and explain why I have chosen these out of all the books I read. I will separate them by age range... since I read a lot of books. (I mean, what else do I have to do but waste my time reading books.)
Children's Books: I personally love anything that was up for or won the Caldecott - just something I get for being a Central Ohio native, I guess. My current favorites are Snowflake Bentley (Caldecott for 1999) and Lon PoPo (from 1990). Another one of my favorites was one I discovered while teaching 4th grade. Laura Simms, with the Illustrator David Catrow (whom was a guest speaker in my classroom), wrote a wonderful book called Rotten Teeth. I love how it shows that everyone has something special to share. In the book, the main character needs to find something for show and tell and "borrows" from her father (a dentist) a bottle of rotten teeth he's pulled out. Talk about demonstrating what happens if you don't take care of your teeth. And, it is also fun to watch her grow from shy to being an instant success. Plus, David's illustrations really are great. And, my last one in this category is called The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown (Yes... Goodnight Moon lady). The Important Book is that the book goes on long after it is closed. What is most important about many familiar things -- like rain and wind, apples and daisies -- is suggested in rhythmic words and vivid pictures. Like Goodnight Moon, it is a perfect book . . . the text establishes a word game which children will accept and can memorize.
Juv. Fiction: Right now, I only have a couple picks. For those who enjoyed Harry Potter, make sure you don't miss the Jenny Nimmo Charlie Bones books. I found these books while flying back and forth from Baltimore in 2004. And, I've been addicted to them since. Charlie is endowed with "special powers" and goes to a "special school". It is how he solves problems in his life and how he handles a family who much rather he not be who he really is. My next pick is Gossamer by Lois Lowry. I honestly recommended this to anyone who reads. I loved the idea of little people who affect our dream state. Although, as my mother in law found out, it is a bit of a tear jerker, too. What also suggest it is a decent book is it was named Blackeyed Susan choice for 2006-2007. It didn't win, but I still absolutely loved it.
Adult: I have read some pretty odd, yet cool books in the last year. Jeanette Walls (MSNBC commentator) wrote a book about her childhood called The Glass Castle. Both my mother in law and I read it... and all I can say is that she had one very messed up childhood. But, it is the kind of book that keeps you reading... kinda like Running With Scissor (Augusten Burroughs). I've also finished Wicked and Son of A Witch (Gregory Maguire). I liked the latter more than the former. But, the change of views makes me think a lot of the children's book The True Story of the Three Little Pigs (as told by the Big Bad Wolf) - from the man who brought us The Stinky Cheese Man (Jon Scieszka). Different perspectives change everything!
What are you all reading. Share!!! :)
Monday, March 24, 2008
When In Cambodia.... ( Another side note to anon.) and EASTER
In using Cambodian Etiquette, when walking in front of or passing an elder, a younger individual should bow to show respect. Hence, I bow to my elder. You did identify yourself as such. And, my parents would be totally ashamed should I failed to demonstrate proper respect. With this said, I go back to my post from a few days ago. I worry that your anger management issues are causing you unhealthy feelings concerning my mother in law and myself. I urge you to make use of the internet to make contact with the right organizations so that this anger does not cause you any unnecessary bodily harm. You also may want to think about discontinuing this back and forth banter. It doesn't seem to bother us... but seems to put you on edge. We worry about your safety. I'm sure your mother would agree your health is paramount... and far more important than whether or not a whelp like myself is showing you the respect and honor you are due.
Moving on to the others who read this blog, the family had a very nice dinner together yesterday. We enjoyed being in each others company and look forward to future family gatherings. I think that my husband will be on a slight sugar high for a few more days... but we are all recovering nicely from the great food and wonderful company.
Moving on to the others who read this blog, the family had a very nice dinner together yesterday. We enjoyed being in each others company and look forward to future family gatherings. I think that my husband will be on a slight sugar high for a few more days... but we are all recovering nicely from the great food and wonderful company.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Thanks to All
As the head blogger of the family, I thank all of you for your calls of concern about the past couple blog entries. This phantom emailer keeps sending us those odd comments. We promise, from now on, we will keep the Anon. msg to a minimum. Good to hear from some of you, though. Jane/Stephen/Bill/and I really enjoy knowing that we are in the thoughts of those who check up on us! :)
Friday, March 21, 2008
Replying to Anonymous Again
Well... this seems to be the day to reply to comments on the blog. In our last entry, we asked Anon. to "speak using his/her own words". Well, the reply used quotes from Am I Angry (www.amiangry.com). This is causing us to really worry about your well-being, Anon.! We cannot be of assistance to you in solving this disagreement with us if we don't what we are doing to you. Although, the use of tincture dates you. Please, Anon. Use your own voice and contact us. You could even call us collect... I have no doubt you have the number... hasn't changed in over 20 years. This anger is unbecoming a person of your linguistic and verbal abilities. You cannot wound us. We are a family.
Reply to anonymous - Part 2!
Dear Anonymous:
Once again, we are interested in your response. However, we feel that you may be misinformed about the "quotes" you are using. Both Micah and Luke were not speaking of families being against each other in times of normality. These were in times of strife, times of famine, and times of great civil unrest. And, it was not to be taken as literally as you use them to quote. These quotes are literally taken way out of context. The actual Micah and Luke passages are as follows:
Luke 12: 49-53
49"I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! 51Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law."
Micah 7: 1-7
7:1 Woe is me! For I have become
as when the summer fruit has been gathered,
as when the grapes have been gleaned:
there is no cluster to eat,
no first-ripe fig that my soul desires.
2 The godly has perished from the earth,
and there is no one upright among mankind;
they all lie in wait for blood,
and each hunts the other with a net.
3 Their hands are on what is evil, to do it well;
the prince and the judge ask for a bribe,
and the great man utters the evil desire of his soul;
thus they weave it together.
4 The best of them is like a brier,
the most upright of them a thorn hedge.
The day of your watchmen, of your punishment, has come;
now their confusion is at hand.
5 Put no trust in a neighbor;
have no confidence in a friend;
guard the doors of your mouth
from her who lies in your arms; [1]
6 for the son treats the father with contempt,
the daughter rises up against her mother,
the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;
a man's enemies are the men of his own house.
7 But as for me, I will look to the Lord;
I will wait for the God of my salvation;
my God will hear me.
Once again, we are interested in your response. However, we feel that you may be misinformed about the "quotes" you are using. Both Micah and Luke were not speaking of families being against each other in times of normality. These were in times of strife, times of famine, and times of great civil unrest. And, it was not to be taken as literally as you use them to quote. These quotes are literally taken way out of context. The actual Micah and Luke passages are as follows:
Luke 12: 49-53
49"I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! 51Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law."
Micah 7: 1-7
7:1 Woe is me! For I have become
as when the summer fruit has been gathered,
as when the grapes have been gleaned:
there is no cluster to eat,
no first-ripe fig that my soul desires.
2 The godly has perished from the earth,
and there is no one upright among mankind;
they all lie in wait for blood,
and each hunts the other with a net.
3 Their hands are on what is evil, to do it well;
the prince and the judge ask for a bribe,
and the great man utters the evil desire of his soul;
thus they weave it together.
4 The best of them is like a brier,
the most upright of them a thorn hedge.
The day of your watchmen, of your punishment, has come;
now their confusion is at hand.
5 Put no trust in a neighbor;
have no confidence in a friend;
guard the doors of your mouth
from her who lies in your arms; [1]
6 for the son treats the father with contempt,
the daughter rises up against her mother,
the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;
a man's enemies are the men of his own house.
7 But as for me, I will look to the Lord;
I will wait for the God of my salvation;
my God will hear me.
We would love to hear from you, in your own words, so that we may communicate without hiding behind quotes or hidden meanings. In order to heal this problem, as a family, we need to be able to communicate needs and wants. Your meaning is not clear and, without hearing you in your own words, we cannot help you until you allow us to. | |||||||||||||
Note: To Anonymous, From the Wenzel Family
Dear Anonymous:
Your message, dated March 20 at approximately 6:30 pm., gained our attention. We have been receiving your emails to us and we must say that we are glad to finally have a way to respond to your emails. As a family, we are very sorry that you are so angry with us. But, we have discovered that, as more emails appear, we grow more close knit as a family. You have to see, the more you show your anger, the more we support one another. That is what a family does... show support for those members in which it belongs. With that said, we, as a family, want to extend our forgiveness to you. We understand that, to try to hurt us (unsucessfully, I might add), you must be in a lot of pain and need some help in dealing with your anger. If you post again, we can direct you towards some really good self help sites. I personally, from experience, can tell you that the Samaritans really do write wonderful responses back and will listen to you and help you with all this anger. Family is family. You can threaten, cajole, or belittle us. You cannot break us, though. If we can help you... please stop pretending to be anonymous.
The Wenzel Family
Your message, dated March 20 at approximately 6:30 pm., gained our attention. We have been receiving your emails to us and we must say that we are glad to finally have a way to respond to your emails. As a family, we are very sorry that you are so angry with us. But, we have discovered that, as more emails appear, we grow more close knit as a family. You have to see, the more you show your anger, the more we support one another. That is what a family does... show support for those members in which it belongs. With that said, we, as a family, want to extend our forgiveness to you. We understand that, to try to hurt us (unsucessfully, I might add), you must be in a lot of pain and need some help in dealing with your anger. If you post again, we can direct you towards some really good self help sites. I personally, from experience, can tell you that the Samaritans really do write wonderful responses back and will listen to you and help you with all this anger. Family is family. You can threaten, cajole, or belittle us. You cannot break us, though. If we can help you... please stop pretending to be anonymous.
The Wenzel Family
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Ack! You Missed A Special Holiday!
When I woke up on Sunday morning, I realized it was the the second Sunday after the first full week in March (A-whatsit-in-the-whatnow?). For a lot of people, that wouldn't mean a thing. But, to me, it is a very special holiday. It is Substitute Parents Day. Think of Mother's Day/Father's Day for people that act in the In Loco Parentis - ie: Teachers, Caregivers, Special Neighbors, Family Friends.... YOU get the point. Well, in high school, I always honored those teachers who made a difference in my life. And, before I married my husband, I honored his mother on this day (since Mother's Day didn't seem like the right day and I didn't like the Mother In Law's Day cards in October). For the last 3 years, I have honored my MIL on this very special of days. But, you know what? I didn't this year. You want to know why, right? Well, sad as it may seem, it didn't seem special enough this year. I felt like she deserved better. I mean, yes, a plant and a card are a nice gift. But, she really deserved something nice. And, I didn't know how to do that. I could have made dinner... but she is on a diet that seems to consist of potatoes and soup. This seems to also be the case for trying to make a dessert... who wants to eat a dessert when they are on a diet?
I thought maybe a nice note would work. I sat down and wrote about 3 drafts. None of them seemed to say what I wanted them to say... which is thank you for being such a great person who I seem to learn new stuff from daily (GAG me... that even sounds lame now). So, no note. Well, cleaning up seemed like a good thing... but I do that weekly anyways. That isn't special to just this week. I figure that maybe the best way to demonstrate I care is to tackle this issue again in October. Maybe there will be better cards this year!
I thought maybe a nice note would work. I sat down and wrote about 3 drafts. None of them seemed to say what I wanted them to say... which is thank you for being such a great person who I seem to learn new stuff from daily (GAG me... that even sounds lame now). So, no note. Well, cleaning up seemed like a good thing... but I do that weekly anyways. That isn't special to just this week. I figure that maybe the best way to demonstrate I care is to tackle this issue again in October. Maybe there will be better cards this year!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
I Think That The Future Is Lookin' A Little Clearer
As I sit here awaiting my acceptance or rejection from law school, I have been noticing that it seems like things are starting to look a little clearer to me. No matter what the decision is *for law school*, I will be dropping the Worker's Comp. claim in late July. I now can see that they are never going to settle this case, I am never going to get the money I am owed from this case, and it isn't worth fighting for anymore. I am wasting my life away waiting for this case to be settled instead of continuing to live my life. That isn't fair to me, nor to my family. Therefore, it cannot continue. As far as I am concerned, I'd drop it today if I could get clearance. But, that cannot happen until June... and might as well wait until we get back from vacation to get back to work. It will be nice to feel useful again.
As I said in my topic, the future seems a lot clearer right now. In June, we are traveling to New Hampshire to see Stephen's cousin graduate from Dartmouth. It will be a really great trip... and I always love seeing The California Crew (Stephen's California family). Now, if only we get our side trip to see some others to work out. If we could do that, this trip will be near perfect.
In July, Jane, Bill, Stephen, and I will be doing a "family vacation". This year's destination? It appears that we are doing the Columbus, Ohio/Dayton, Ohio/Louisville, Kentucky trip. We have been invited to be in the Dayton area for the 4th celebration (I am hoping to watch the fireworks at Wright-Patterson listening to the Air Force Band of Flight). Then, we can see my Ohio family (most of whom I have not seen in well over a year). After seeing my family, we will swing down to Louisville and see my mother-in-law's aunt and sister. I look forward to seeing them, too. I also would love to spend more time getting to see Louisville. Seeing as I don't even remember our last trip (2 years ago) - I WAS SICK -, I really want to see more of the city that Jane holds so dear and claims as her childhood home.
Hopefully, we will also get to see Jane's mother this summer. Whether this means she comes to visit us for a week before she goes to stay with Jane's sister on Long Island or whether we make a trip up to Long Island in August, I really hope we do get to see more of her. She is a really special lady whom I really enjoy spending time with.
I expect that this summer will also bring several family dinners and family events in Maryland. Quite possibly will see my parents (the C&O convention hits around my birthday again... so I can expect to share with Staunton, VA). I am hoping that my family realizes sometime that they are always welcome to come visit. I mean, after all, we are only 15 miles from the city limits of DC (about a 10 minute drive to Metro/20 minute Metro ride into the city), 30 minutes from Baltimore (or a 45 minute MARC ride), and 40 minutes from Annapolis. Prime location, as long as you don't want to go to Southern Maryland (Chesapeake Bay) or Ocean City. Both are a little less than 2 hours away. Then again, so are many other things.
PLACES LESS THAN 3 hours away:
Lancaster, PA / Amish country
Harper's Ferry
Williamsburg
Charlottesville - Monticello is there
Philadelphia
Skyline Drive/Luray Caverns
See... a lot to do!
Come visit me... please, my family!! :)
As I said in my topic, the future seems a lot clearer right now. In June, we are traveling to New Hampshire to see Stephen's cousin graduate from Dartmouth. It will be a really great trip... and I always love seeing The California Crew (Stephen's California family). Now, if only we get our side trip to see some others to work out. If we could do that, this trip will be near perfect.
In July, Jane, Bill, Stephen, and I will be doing a "family vacation". This year's destination? It appears that we are doing the Columbus, Ohio/Dayton, Ohio/Louisville, Kentucky trip. We have been invited to be in the Dayton area for the 4th celebration (I am hoping to watch the fireworks at Wright-Patterson listening to the Air Force Band of Flight). Then, we can see my Ohio family (most of whom I have not seen in well over a year). After seeing my family, we will swing down to Louisville and see my mother-in-law's aunt and sister. I look forward to seeing them, too. I also would love to spend more time getting to see Louisville. Seeing as I don't even remember our last trip (2 years ago) - I WAS SICK -, I really want to see more of the city that Jane holds so dear and claims as her childhood home.
Hopefully, we will also get to see Jane's mother this summer. Whether this means she comes to visit us for a week before she goes to stay with Jane's sister on Long Island or whether we make a trip up to Long Island in August, I really hope we do get to see more of her. She is a really special lady whom I really enjoy spending time with.
I expect that this summer will also bring several family dinners and family events in Maryland. Quite possibly will see my parents (the C&O convention hits around my birthday again... so I can expect to share with Staunton, VA). I am hoping that my family realizes sometime that they are always welcome to come visit. I mean, after all, we are only 15 miles from the city limits of DC (about a 10 minute drive to Metro/20 minute Metro ride into the city), 30 minutes from Baltimore (or a 45 minute MARC ride), and 40 minutes from Annapolis. Prime location, as long as you don't want to go to Southern Maryland (Chesapeake Bay) or Ocean City. Both are a little less than 2 hours away. Then again, so are many other things.
PLACES LESS THAN 3 hours away:
Lancaster, PA / Amish country
Harper's Ferry
Williamsburg
Charlottesville - Monticello is there
Philadelphia
Skyline Drive/Luray Caverns
See... a lot to do!
Come visit me... please, my family!! :)
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Dreams: Divorce, Snakes, and House Painting!
I decided to sit down and blog tonight. I asked my mother in law for a topic of conversation. Her answer? "Tell them about your snake", says Jane. I really rather not write a whole blog on my cute corn snake. But, her suggestion made me think of the subject of dreams. How this relates, you may ask? Jane was telling me about her dream from last night. She was in her car and got to the store and suddenly was awarded a baby snake in a cute box. She decided to bring it home - the red headed snake - but it got loose on the way home. She kept picking it up and putting it back in the box. When she got home, she forgot to take it out of the car. My father in law then took said car somewhere. She thought she should have removed the snake *since my father in law doesn't like snakes*. When FIL got back, she sent my husband out to get the baby snake. Suddenly, there were 3 snakes instead of one. And my husband chickened out of getting the snakes out. The next thing she remembers was that she went to the car and got in and... suddenly the baby snake was on the floor between the door and the seat and she picked it up (again) - by the tail this time -and she doesn't know what happened after that. I wonder why snakes were on her mind last night. Blitz the corn snake (my real life snake) is quite happy in his aquarium. And, although he was once pencil sized, he is now about 4 1/2 feet long and the size of a small hose. I wish I knew why it was her dream last night.
I had a quick dream last night about these people I didn't even know getting a divorce and I was their attorney. Was really odd. And quick. The people really were rude and it made me regret getting my law degree (in the dream). I hope I really don't run into these people in my real life lawyer life.
My right before waking dream last night was about painting the hallway in the basement. I have been actually thinking about doing this when my Father in Law goes away on his Boston trip later this week. I will check with Jane tonight to see if she is really ok with me doing this... but I think the dream was telling me that I really should move forward with getting one more area of the house painted. The door I refurbished (entryway door) really looks nice, if I do say so myself. So, I need a new challenge. Dream Kristin says the downstairs hallway is next. Who am I to disagree with Dream Kristin??
One last thing for today... Have you ever tried to give a cat a pill when a cat doesn't want one? Hope you never have to... but if you do, buy Greenies pill pockets. Katie cat seems to think that these are the best treats in the world. So, after a week of force feeding pills to the cat, she now runs willingly to get this pill twice daily. HOW SAD!
I had a quick dream last night about these people I didn't even know getting a divorce and I was their attorney. Was really odd. And quick. The people really were rude and it made me regret getting my law degree (in the dream). I hope I really don't run into these people in my real life lawyer life.
My right before waking dream last night was about painting the hallway in the basement. I have been actually thinking about doing this when my Father in Law goes away on his Boston trip later this week. I will check with Jane tonight to see if she is really ok with me doing this... but I think the dream was telling me that I really should move forward with getting one more area of the house painted. The door I refurbished (entryway door) really looks nice, if I do say so myself. So, I need a new challenge. Dream Kristin says the downstairs hallway is next. Who am I to disagree with Dream Kristin??
One last thing for today... Have you ever tried to give a cat a pill when a cat doesn't want one? Hope you never have to... but if you do, buy Greenies pill pockets. Katie cat seems to think that these are the best treats in the world. So, after a week of force feeding pills to the cat, she now runs willingly to get this pill twice daily. HOW SAD!
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