Rivana's Musings

Summer's Beginning,Something's End.

2009-05-24T19:54:00.002+02:00

Summer is finally upon us. In a month and some change I'm leaving my old workplace. Feelings are a bit mixed, but mostly I'm just relieved. I feel like I need to focus on career opportunities and trying to find a position where I can use my talents in a more satisfying way. I need challenge - simple as that.

Short Good Night Poem X

2009-02-25T23:47:00.005+01:00

Would you close your eyes
and feel the stars
sing serenades above your window?
Would you lean into
whatever comfort
is around you; the ground, the bed?
Would you let me take you
out on adventures
that do not wear and tear your heart?
Would you welcome
the end of day
had it ever the most splendid start?
We need night to redefine morning.
In the lightest slumber there is rest.
For you let your spritit
come that much closer to peace
once you lay your head down
and sleep.

A Poem on Inspiration

2009-02-24T21:34:00.002+01:00

Some people wonder what inspires the artist to create. This is my answer.

~*~

A word brings a thought, brings a beckoning.
A sound lets a memory play with time.
A sight, which is most splendid
lures the focused mind astray.
Drifting with the summer rain,
the autumn leaf, the wind of spring,
the frozen flake remains, always within.
Without expression I would drown,
my hard won crown, would melt away.
When I close away the world outside,
the one within begins to rhyme.

~*~

Amazing people + Hungry poetry

2009-02-04T21:48:00.002+01:00

I still get hits every day even when I haven't updated in forever. You have faith guys, I love you.
Oh, and I'm back. Here's some more poetry.
Enjoy this poem on love and life.

Hunger

Some say petals
taste sweet with sugar.
I carry roses in my arms.
Beneath my skin
that silky feeling
of love that lingers
pricks my charms.
Some say the hunger
will be satiated
once the petals
are on the ground.
I carry thorns
of love and loving,
braiding sugar
for my crown.

Summer Requiem

2008-09-02T20:36:00.006+02:00

A poem and some flowers, for the end of summer. Fall comes swiftly.

~*~

He found a passage
behind the lilies
to a world
so far from ours.
There he sits
and guards the flowers
as summer's lost
and turns to fall.

~*~

Of Parting Ways

2008-08-02T19:20:00.004+02:00

To the friends we leave and those who leave us. To the people we find and those who find us.

~*~

Meeting is the sweetest sorrow,
for what we have we may lose tomorrow.
Humans have such complicated hearts -
our love is fondest when we part.
Still as this parting's drawing near
I ask you that you do not fear.
If quick we grow to be the fastest friends
it will not matter if it ends.
We'll always have the memories -
the anecdotes and stories.
Come hurry now so we can start
our journey to the day we part.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem IX

2008-07-29T22:02:00.005+02:00

Another rhyming one. Reminds me of the ones I used to hear when I was a child. Enjoy and sleep tight.

~*~

Lazily gazing down
the moon with her crown
laughs joyfully and free
while she's playing with the sea.
Sighing deep in slumber
the birds don't mind the thunder
just beyond the shore
they dream of myth and lore.
Buried deep in summer grass
lies a gleaming pearl of glass.
Go to sleep and you will find
that beauty deep within your mind.

~*~

Solemn Evening Poem

2008-07-21T23:10:00.003+02:00

This poem was inspired by a trip to the Mediterranean I took a few years ago. 'Vincero' comes from the opera song Nessun Dorma. Sometimes I ponder on war and victory, struggle and grace, and that otherwise elusive calm that comes the moments before sleep whisks you away. Goodnight everyone, sweet dreams.

~*~

I play opera
when the sun
is about to set outside.
Vincero it sings
and I think
of victory.
The last rays
give in to the night
like a sovereign
bows to another.
Gracefully.
Do we bow with grace
as we fall
from the same?
Are we with grace
as we stand
victors before the fallen?
Are we vindicated
as victors
or did the winning
make a mockery
of all?
My, but the thoughts
do take twisting turns
as darkness falls
and twilight comes
on dancing feet
that trip with gladness,
float with sadness
that invites
to sing the blues.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem IIX

2008-07-16T19:18:00.005+02:00

Another rhyming one. Sort of self-comfort really. Been one of those days. Enjoy.

~*~

The hour is late and waning yet,

the future looks blurry -nothing is set.

The day has passed in its willful way,

the sun grows uncertain, the shadows stay.

Take comfort in knowing you tried to do good,

things will fall how they should.

Just trust in the light, you can sleep safe and tight

there is nothing to do here tonight.

~*~

Lament of the Wizened Child

2008-07-13T21:56:00.002+02:00

A poem on war.

~*~

Who will care for the children
when your war, when the fighting -is done?
Who will protect and deliver
when the mothers and fathers are gone?

Who ever cares about the children
when there’s call for blood in the air?
What good god would ever consider
a sacrificed child as a prayer?

Can you say that you care about innocence
while laughing at forgive and forget?
Is there not enough pity in those souls
to neglect the price of old dept?

Is there not enough room here for all of us?
Do we need so much power and space?
If you trust in your faith, let it be -warrior,
for your enemy mirrors your face

Who will care for the children
when the last loving person is gone?
Then there will be no more children;
even your petty wars will be done

~*~

Short Poem of the Night

2008-06-25T23:34:00.003+02:00

Bedtime for weary souls I think. Been a hard day.
Enjoy and goodnight...

~*~

Too tired to sleep
and the fire burns.
In days to pass
much will happen, still
I wonder -
will it be worth the while?
My eyes see roads expand
and burn.
Too tired to compute.
this is heaven -
a comfy bed and a cover
for my weariness.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem VII

2008-06-11T20:41:00.003+02:00

~*~

It's okay to be small,
you'll grow up in a while.
It's all right to be scared,
but you don't have to worry.
I will be here, when shadows close.
I will be here, even if you don't see me.
I will be here, so you can sleep tight.
Nothing will hurt you tonight.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem VI

2008-06-07T23:19:00.004+02:00

~*~

Simmer down little one,
the heat is fleeting.
Take your bow,
like the sun
as it shimmers
into night.

Let the puffs
of angels breaths
cool your sweaty brow.
Simmer down and go to sleep,
like the crimson heavens.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem V

2008-05-30T23:37:00.003+02:00

~*~

Flickering lights of softness,
flushed roses in a bed of down.
Troubles forgotten,
left behind.
Now we go to sleep.

~*~

A Short Poem for Graduation

2008-05-29T14:30:00.003+02:00

Well, not my graduation obviously, but while I was working the shouts from the trucks full of happy students lured me away from analysis and numbers. Here's a poem on time. Bittersweetness and all.

~*~

Time trickles like rain behind the pane.
Bleary eyes measure each gain
and each loss on a rusty scale.
Cheery voices fill the distance
with memories of youth.
Old eyes wither, but first they glitter
with a smile for summer.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem IV

2008-05-19T20:03:00.003+02:00

~*~

Snuggle deep beneath the cover,
feel the warmth surrounding you.
Soon you will go safe in slumber
to meet fellow journeyers
and have the merriest adventures.
Feel the salt of weary sleep,
like drops of ocean you may keep,
singing lullabies of joy
and whispering of peace.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem III

2008-05-18T22:39:00.005+02:00

Seems these goodnight poems are quite popular so I thought I'd publish another one. I know it's quite similar to the latest one, but maybe this will tickle your fancy more, who knows. Either way, enjoy and sleep tight.

~*~

Close your eyes and listen
to the silent sounds of night.
Hear the stars twinkle
and the innocent breaths of sleep.
There is only harmony
within the halls of your mind.
There we will dance in moonlight,
you my darling, and I.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem II

2008-05-12T23:15:00.003+02:00

~*~

Outside the brazen moon
is dancing limbo with the stars.
Inside it's warm and you and I
will dance with dreams tonight.
All that's good will come to you
for you are strong and true.
Tonight is all about the sleep
so rest, the moon will keep
you safe from any harm.

~*~

Late Evening Poem

2008-05-07T20:05:00.002+02:00

Of grace, love and goodbyes.

~*~

Today the sun set beautifully.
Bright colors of pink
and hues of calm purple
painted my world serene.
There isn’t much I can say anymore;
no words left, no need.
The way the light
reflects in my memories
that is all I need to know.
Tells me everything
in its utter simplicity.
You’ve earned your rest,
like the sun earns the night.
Do you see?
You have nothing to prove to me,
no obligations left to the world.
When it’s time to leave,
just leave.
As I said –it’s what you’ve earned.

~*~

Came to thinking about pride.

2008-04-05T19:36:00.004+02:00

Here's a vector image to support the GBLT community. Don't know why it wanted to be made today, but the muses are fickle creatures. Oh well, nothing wrong with spreading the love.

Gratitude

2008-03-17T14:00:00.002+01:00

Just a simply poem about gratitude, being granted respite, perhaps by life itself -deserving or undeserving.

~*~

Gratitude

Thank you,
maybe I don't
deserve the kindness,
but I am
ever so grateful.
Respite, again
the cards
didn't lie
and I
know in time
I will reward
your patience.

~*~

Short Goodnight Poem

2008-03-05T23:09:00.002+01:00

~*~

Temper the stardust
floating right by,
measuring time by the swirl
of a magical cane.
Siphon the hope
of dragons you’ve slain.
Spin it to thread
and pull.

~*~

Snippet from Heart of Atirien

2008-02-16T12:47:00.004+01:00

Just a short something, rough and unedited, but at least it's a piece of that ever elusive fantasy novel I've been banging my head against for years.

***

Nick went to watch the snow fall. The deep windows of the keep made for convenient resting places and vantage points. The fluffy whites promised a time of calm as they spread over the war ravaged Sevenara plains. He reached out a hand and caught a few small flakes. The icy flowers melted quickly in his hand, but one lasted a bit longer where it lay on his index finger. He brought the delicate crystal to his face and gazed at it solemnly.

"My lord?"
The shout from within the keep had Nick scrambling down from the ledge, the snow forgotten.
"What happened?" he called while striding quickly down the hall. Jaro came into view from a side corridor with a frown on his face. The once quite jovial woodsman had become more and more dour the longer they spent cooped up in the fortress of stone. Nick figured he missed the freedom of running with the wolves in the forest, but there was nothing he could do about that right now. At least the interior gardens provided some greenery if not the space wanted.

Being that as it may, finding nothing else to focus his energy on Jaro had appointed himself Nick's chief adviser and nurse maid. It was good to have someone to fill in the obvious gaps in his education when it came to the cultures and geographies of the land they traversed, but Nick was afraid he would snap one day at Jaro's constant presence by his side. He didn't need a babysitter, he didn't need a bodyguard. Or, well, maybe he did that last. His sword skills were improving, but they were not enough to protect from a sniper or an ambush. Something that had become painfully obvious that day in Evril.

Just a winter photo

2008-01-02T23:47:00.000+01:00

Feeling tired? This is for the long road to night.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T01:48:00.000+01:00

I hope it's a good one for you all. I have just returned from this year's New Year's Eve party and am feeling decidedly mellow and content. I thought I'd share a New Year's poem, but I'm not sure if it's any good because I haven't written it yet.

So, here we go. Enjoy, and absolutely do have a good one!

~*~

For the longest time
we thought we were alone.
The moon spent its hours
away from the light.
Then there was hope,
something went right.
We were happy
as only the oblivious
can truly be.
Between these times,
were the mellows,
the half-struggles,
and the bored-now-routines.
Looking back, was it worth it?
Of course it was.
So go on now to the future!
With brave steps
make the change
from year to golden year
and life, to charmed existence.

~*~

After Midnight Ramblings

2007-12-30T01:05:00.000+01:00

Well sometimes poets write stuff they just gotta get out even though it's probably shite. This is one of those times. It itches inside if I don't publish my scribblings somewhere and this time the blog gets to bear the brunt of that onslaught.

~*~

If the rain falls hard
and the demons cry,
let the wolves be there
and run with winter.
If the thunder of
the dangers of youth's inclined
to remind us yet again -
then hold your ground.
Can tomorrow be salvation?
Doesn't matter -life is now
and all you have to do
to soar this time,
is to let yourself fly.

~*~

Long Night till Dawn

2007-12-26T22:51:00.000+01:00

I should be sleeping soon, I really should. Unfortunately I'm a night owl and always have been. Doesn't matter when I get up in the morning, nine times out of ten I still have to force myself to head for the sack before dawn. There's always something I want to do whether it's tinkering with my art or if it's reading or writing.

Speaking of those elusive words -I was so happy the other day when I finally managed to write a bit for Memoirs de Mort, but since then the muses have gone quiet again. All I have on my page is a half encounter with an M-16, and that's not even for said novel. I suck at writing with hope. I need a mission, a reason, an incentive. Knowing I might get published once I finish the damn thing just doesn't cut it with me. I want to know that the work is not in vain. Stupid, but that's me.

Black and White Photo Series

2007-12-24T00:47:00.000+01:00

If you like black and white photography you may consider this an early Christmas present -what do I know. Anyway, I felt like putting together a few pieces of b&w for your visual enjoyment. The photos are all taken in Abisko, which is in the Northern most part of Sweden, except for the last one that I just wanted to include, that's from Gothenburg.

Have a good one and enjoy!

Winter Passing

2007-12-23T17:40:00.000+01:00

A Holiday Card of Light and Warmth

2007-12-22T19:03:00.001+01:00

And to all a Merry Christmas

2007-12-22T00:12:00.000+01:00

Or whatever you people celebrate. :-) I celebrate the chance to be up in the North and with my family. Here is a small Christmas offering for you. You can send it to someone or just look at the pretty. It's icy and snowy up here above the polar circle. It's been raining and snowing and thawing and freezing, all in a merry Christmas game. I've been working my ass off for the last two days and night, but now it's time for solace and peace. Have a good holiday!

Free css Christmas winter layout.

2007-12-19T13:18:00.000+01:00

Yup. -Here it is. If you want it, you can use it. Take it from the working sample site in usual order or send me a message and I'll help you out. Please leave the copyright image intact.
Happy holidays!

Beautiful North!

2007-12-18T13:32:00.000+01:00

I'm back in Kiruna for the holidays. Last week I spent at my new job, working as an AD at a children's wares supplier in Gothenburg. Great place and very fulfilling assignment.

Anyway -I arrived just in time to watch the sunset yesterday. My fingers itched to reach for my camera, but alas I lent it to my sister for her impromptu visit to the US.

Otherwise my writing is working again and I'm also doing a last minute Christmas/winter layout for my blog. I thought maybe I'd let you guys use this one as well, if anyone is interested. More info in my next post.

Leaving, parting ways, saying goodbye

2007-12-07T16:05:00.000+01:00

I have a flair for the dramatic and my poems often reflect that. Poetry lends itself well to sad and serious subjects and who am I to defy the muses? Many of my poems are about parting ways. Either bittersweet goodbyes or spiteful divorces seems to be par for the course. It's not the only stuff I write about, but it does seem to get more than its fair share of attention. Might have something to do with my reading material... Anyway, here's another old poem for your perusal. Think I wrote it in '05, if I'm not mistaken and I can't for the life of me remember the title, but here it is anyway. Enjoy!

~*~

The times of gold and light
when we were in one mind -
I treasure them darling,
believe nothing else,
but we need to leave them behind.

The nights we spent just talking
and the days in excited bliss -
I remember them clearly,
believe nothing else,
they are something I will miss.

But nothing can last forever
and I have a drifter’s soul -
the winds in my heart are shifting,
I can do nothing else,
but leave to make me whole.

Maybe tomorrow will be
a different story for you and me,
but today is the day
when I’ll start to drift away.

In a year you won’t know my touch
like you used to know it.
In a day I won’t speak as I once spoke.
But when you think I’ve abandoned you,
believe nothing else -
I love you and I’ve loved you
and I will love you constantly,
even when we’re drifting apart.

~*~

Details for another css blog layout

2007-12-04T16:52:00.000+01:00

Click for a bit larger version (not original). I like making these css layout designs for blogs. It's very fun and relaxing. This one exists in one pink and one purple version. The pink one I like especially because it's such a fun and girly layout.

Elements of CSS

2007-11-26T16:26:00.000+01:00

These are the elements of a flowery, autumn and winter feel blog layout I'm tinkering with. Click the image for a slightly larger version. Not the original size of course, I'm keeping that one, for now. As usual the layout would be in Xhtml and CSS, because that's the way I like it.

And She's Back Ladies and Gentlemen

2007-11-22T16:22:00.001+01:00

Yup. Feels pretty good to be back in Gothenburg despite the weather being nowhere near the bliss of this photo. I think it's started to feel a bit like home. Just good at adapting to new circumstances I guess. Even the rain is feeling more familiar than anything else. :-)

Ad Astra Per Aspera

2007-11-21T16:39:00.000+01:00

These are some old favorites from the archives.

Ad Astra Per Aspera

~*~

Don't go crying all your sorrows

in the arms of dungeons deep.

Empty walls will fall asunder,

but shredded souls are naught to keep.

Fighting stone will blooden you.

Blood will wash you, clean you, heal you.

Blood is flowing, life -renewing.

Soul be fighting, walls are falling.

Time for tears when all is done.

Time for rest -when life is gone.

~*~

Masquerade and packing

2007-11-20T00:06:00.000+01:00

The last masquerade pic I posted really wasn't very good at all, so here's another try. Bear in mind that I'm kind of stressed out over my trip tomorrow. My packing is almost done and I'm bringing too much stuff by far. I'm not even sure if I'll be able to bring it all on the plane, and getting from the airport will be a merry experience indeed. I'll have to get from the baggage claim to the bus, on the bus, from the bus to the train station, on the train, from the train to our apartment. All veritable joyrides, I'm sure.

Last of Autumn

2007-11-16T13:59:00.001+01:00

Just a quick photo post. Was in the marina a few weeks ago. Or well, the inner docks at least, weren't too many boats around but this is an old ship turned restaurant. Lovely weather btw, I was really pleased with how the water turned out.

A Poem of Winter Peace

2007-11-15T14:09:00.000+01:00

A Poem of Winter Peace

~*~

Witnessing the birds go by,
lonely heart gives up a sigh
humming soft -a lullaby.

Little does this spirit know;
watching sweetly from the snow
fairies on their small feet go
dance to lullaby.

Last of sunrays flee in fright,
twilight goes to darkened night,
lonely heart lights candle light,
gaze on falling snow.

Candle flickers, build to flame,
whispers out a hidden name
lonely city calls the same,
such a pretty sight.

Listen close and you can hear
voices singing every year -
you don’t have to live in fear
just light up the flame.

~*~

Update from Under the Weather

2007-11-13T15:44:00.000+01:00

The sky is an oppressing gray-ish white that spins down and around all things like threads of cotton. Saturday night found me with this winter's first real disease. Fortunately I managed to get through the party all right before the worst of it started.

The party went remarkably well. I'm still a bit unaccustomed to doing the hostess thing instead of just letting my mother do all the work, but all things considered I made a half decent job of assisting. Dad seemed pretty pleased with the evening, though a bit tired since the first guests came in at around two in the afternoon and the last left sometime after one in the morning.

It was a bit unfortunate that my throat really wasn't up to par when it came to singing, but I soldiered through and fortunately I'm pretty good at wheedling out of solos when I want to. I just don't feel very comfortable singing alone in small crowds, even if asked to perform I'm afraid I'm being a nuisance. Being on stage is entirely different in that regard.

But anyway -didn't manage to get the tune I'd planned for dad just right so I decided to skip it all together. We'll see if I manage something out of that song at a later date. I did put together a great collection that we could all sing during the evening and we made it through most of them.

Otherwise I'm not doing much right now since the www has been down yesterday and most of today. And of course me having this cold or whatever isn't really conducive to creative splurges. I found an old plot bunny that I'm starting to revise though. A Sci Fi story, might lead to something.

On a Gray Note

2007-11-08T12:55:00.000+01:00

Well no, I'm not in the mountains right now, more like rainy Gothenburg, but the image fits the weather if nothing else. Did I say I was going to do NaNoWriMo? I do believe I did. Pity the muses aren't interested in that particular story right now. Must beat them into submission somehow. Right now it's about the music. I'm trying to compose something for my father. He turns the big 5-Oh this weekend.

So far I've got a refrain and the start of a verse. For his 40th me and sis re-wrote three classics, but I was going to be a bit more ambitious this time and actually make a song from start to finish. In lieu of a too expensive gift that I know he'd frown upon, because he does that. Hope he doesn't read this before Saturday though. You never know with dad and timing. But this was what I had to write and so I'm writing it. -Dad, if you're reading -forget the last minute or so, ok?

I'm wondering if maybe I should take the time to finish my photography/poetry book some time this year. I'd work in InDesign which means I'd have to get it done at the library, but I do feel it's important that I get it done soon. Northern Heart, my poetry book, has yet to see print more than once for my proofing. Revising is a bitch and all that. But Northern Inspiration, which would be the title of the photo/poetry book, feels somewhat more viable as a self-print than the poetry book. Despite earlier thoughts I'm now leaning more towards sending the finished all-poetry script to a few agents instead.

Feeling the Love on Youtube

2007-11-06T15:02:00.000+01:00

I don't spend a terrible amount of time at youtube anymore, though it's long been a guilty pleasure of mine to watch tv-series and other fun stuff that I can't get in a simple affordable way otherwise. I'm something of a period visitor with all my fave sites. One gets loved and cherished and visited every day for months and then I kind of forget about it for a long time.

Youtube has a way of never being completely forgotten though. Mainly because of the love I get in some of the comments over there. It's not easy getting comments on youtube if you've actually posted a private music vid instead of a tv-show or the like so it warms just a little bit more than the average compliment. And the honesty. I couldn't get this honesty in real life if I tried, and maybe I couldn't stand it either, but that's beside the point.

Of course it stings just a bit that not all videos get to feel the love of youtube, most of mine are hardly noticed at all (and maybe that's not completely unfair since they're earlier works), but there is one that continues to get hits and comments. That's my karaoke performance of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, from Phantom of the Opera.

I'm not really classically trained, usually I do pop and the like when I sing, but I do love musicals so sometimes I try my hand at them. This rendition isn't perfect in any way, but it's the best I've managed to get recorded so far and damnit I'm proud of it. I wasn't going to embed the video here, but now that I've talked your ear off, why not let it bleed some more.

Here you go, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.

Enjoy!

Baby Needs Kissies Damnit!

2007-11-02T14:34:00.000+01:00

What? Was I suppose to write something as well? I'm doing NaNoWriMo this year. I'm in the middle of deciding which story to give my all. I think Memories of Death will probably win out. I have no plot whatsoever really, but I'm sure it'll come to me. :-)

Claiming and other fun activities

2007-10-31T18:41:00.000+01:00

Yeah, no vampire sex sorry. I'm staking a claim on my blog over at my Technorati Profile.
Otherwise life is going kinda slow right now. I'm writing more in Swedish lately which is good for my trying to get published nationally, but doesn't really help my international score right now. But that's how it goes. I'm also planning to go out shooting some more pics in my new city. Gothenburg has lots of beaches that I'm determined to explore come hell or high water -which may very well be the case considering the amount of rain here. I'm thinking hell will probably freeze, then flood and then come visit for the holidays. Happy Halloween!!

Perfectly Serene

2007-10-30T18:36:00.001+01:00

A Little Something for My Friends

2007-10-17T16:34:00.000+02:00

~*~

This is for my friends,
the ones who care.
No need to name names.

You're the people who say
-love, you're all kinds of ok,
and I believe you.

You few, you brave who give
that bit of special attention
that means you heard.

This is for you, my friends,
all around the world,
it's nothing special much.

I don't have money or gold,
but my writing is true -
so this is my thanks,
my I Love You.

~*~

Göteborg Streets -poem and photo

2007-10-09T15:39:00.000+02:00

*

On the streets
people, are all equals.
Feet are placed
one at a time.
Breaths are taken,
looks avoided
or exchanged.
They may wear
expensive
or tread bare cloth.
But what they've got
is no reflection
upon their souls.
On the street
everyone shows everything
in the corner of their eyes.
Don't need to trade lives
or see smiles.
It's all about the feet
pounding the pavement
every day.
Here we are equal
and everyone
goes on their way.

*

Nectar of Life -photo

2007-09-03T19:40:00.001+02:00

Web - photo

2007-08-28T19:03:00.000+02:00

Summer is almost over for us up in the North. But for now there are still plants growing, still life.

Spare Parts? Are you Kidding Me?!

2007-08-27T15:00:00.000+02:00

My computer decided enough was enough the other day. Well, not my computer -rather the adapter that lets me power up the thing. It's been struggling for a while, but it finally gave out completely. No opening, prodding, shaking and beating, worked this time. It's not too dead to still shock me with electricity, even unplugged, when I start poking around its insides, but it's definitely deceased enough to be of no use to me whatsoever.

The beauty of the matter? It's a HP product, and like many of the major players they don't like it when people can substitute their spare parts with generic models. Meaning -the original parts for the computer can only be substituted with spare parts from the same maker. Nothing else will fit. So instead of just going out to buy a generic adapter for a humane price, I'm stuck with having to order a spare part for a rather silly amount of money. Expensive doesn't even begin to cover it. It's a freaking adapter for pity's sake!

Even better though -it's been just about two years since I bought the computer, new from the store. In that time it's become an obsolete model, the spare parts are not available from HP through ordinary ways. I'll have to go through a supplier and see if they can scrounge up a part from somewhere. Price-y, I kid you not. Considering the amount of time I need on my laptop computer each day having to substitute it with a desktop that does not carry any of my software in the mean time really sucks too much to be believed.

The people who design in this manner should be shot. There is no excuse for the shittiness that is HP. None.

Funny Thing About Compliments

2007-08-26T14:04:00.000+02:00

I usually put my writing up for peer review at some point. Of course good feedback is always hard to come by, but there are places and persons willing to lend a hand. This time I wasn't too pleased with the writing, but it was at least a finished vignette which was more than I'd been able to accomplish for a while. It was really a pice I wanted to convert into using in one of my other stories, but I wasn't too sure about the style of writing I'd chosen and wanted input.

That's maybe a bit more background than you need, but I'm getting to the point I swear. Long story short - I put the piece up for shredding and got some responses. One thing that really made me pause was the words "not quite up to [your] usual standards". Now you may think that this was a negative remark and indeed it was, but it brought me genuine joy just the same. Why?

Because for something not to be up to its usual standards means that there are actually standards to be (and usually are) met. You with me? Being up to ones standards means being good, great, excellent. So this person had expected a standard quality for me that I didn't produce this time. And because this was actually a negative remark and not praise I can be pretty sure they meant it. Which means I'm a good writer! Yay!

Ok, so obviously it's not the first time I've had that particular notion reaffirmed, but there is just something about this sort of backhanded compliment that makes me feel all gushy and gooey inside. Praise is so hard to take. We look for it, but once we get it we rarely put much credence to it since we all know that -you're supposed to be nice. Comments like this confirm the praise however, because they're brutally honest while still implying that they think we're good at whatever it is we do.

I like being good at what I do. Makes me happy.
^^

There, I'm done.
Have a great day!

Keeping It Together

2007-08-25T12:58:00.000+02:00

~*~

I think the gods
made a little,
small mistake.
But that's ok -
human imagination
will always be
our saving grace.

~*~

I'd say this cannot be happening...

2007-08-24T18:20:00.000+02:00

...but I'm not that naive. Yes, my computer is dead, again. I wasn't going to write about it since I'm afraid people will think I'm cursed or something, but the frustration got to be too much. The gods must truly hate me, which yeah is understandable since I don't worship any of them, but still... Did the techno stuff really have to give up on me completely? I'm sitting by another computer right now, but it's not mine, doesn't have my stuff on it. This is pain people, you have no idea.

Wanderer

2007-08-20T17:31:00.000+02:00

When the memories of dewdrops
are so short as to be overlooked
between a fallen tear
and an autumn leaf,
how do we judge time?
My old ways have changed,
but the new still go as newly born
and gentle fairies,
striking gold in the oddest
of circumstance and time.
Happy to be here though the Mara
still and always laughs joyfully
in offering reprieves.
It is the nature of night to be contrary.
It is the blessing of life and of time.
When the dark droplets fall unguarded
the ways of thunder feel more like home
again, I am leaving with the shifting tide.
Again I am tickled with the promise
of time.

//So yeah, I'm moving to Gothenburg in a few weeks.

New layout for Rivana Creations

2007-08-19T15:44:00.000+02:00

The English portfolio really needs a good update. I've just finished up the screendump version of the css layout. Very happy about that. Now we'll see if the programming leaves me with a smile as well. Will get to it soon.

Crystal -photo and mountain trip

2007-08-15T23:16:00.001+02:00

Spent a wonderful day up in the mountains shooting pics in Abisko National Park. Didn't get nearly all the photos I wanted, but one or two nice things came out of it. Very peaceful and thoroughly enjoyable experience all in all. I definitely recommend going if you ever take a trip up north.

Troubled Dreams, Love -poem

2007-08-13T23:09:00.000+02:00

This is a poem of regret, of bittersweet peace and the haunting memories of war.

Troubled Dreams, Love

~*~

I'm falling much too deep my love.
Can see no end, no morrow.
Everything I live for love,
is turned to sweetest sorrow.

When all you have and all you hold
is turned to dust for dead men's gold,
the truth is furthest from your mind.
You try to leave all things behind.

Been falling for a while my love.
Can't seem to get to flying.
They say the light is there my love,
but still -it feels like dying.

When all you have and all you hold
's been twisted, warped, and then resold,
the lies they tell are laying bare,
but you don't mind, no you don't care.

Can see this journey's end my love.
I've kept my coin for paying.
They don't deal in faith my love.
There is no use in praying.

But pray you may and pray you might
and maybe things can be made right,
and I'll open weary eyes once more
to even out the players' score.

There you are my life, my love.
Please go back to sleep.
There are no demons here my love.
If you don't look, too deep.

~*~

Black & White Photography

2007-08-12T11:04:00.000+02:00

More of my black & white photos:
Black and White Photo Series
Ad Astra Per Aspera

There is something about black and white photography that just screams ART. Some of it might be due to expectancies, but I also think it has to do with the technique itself. Black and white photos often look more collected and focused because there aren't a myriad of different colors clamoring for our attention. There is black and white and different shades thereof. Thus harmony in black and white photography is much easier to achieve.

10 Things I Will Never Do Again

2007-08-07T21:29:00.000+02:00

Prompt from YaNowWhatIMean

Dive in the shallow end of the pool. It's just not worth the headache.
Go backpacking with my parents, I don't care how cheap it is.
Believe anyone who says you can just grab a cab out of the harbor. If the harbor is abandoned and you have no phone number to call, there will not be a taxi magically waiting for you as you disembark.
Ever, ever, ever live in a hotel room numbered 13 again. There is not believing in superstition and then there's sheer stupidity.
Walk alone in a city I know is full of horny southerners who have no decorum whatsoever. Liberation of women or not, some things are just bound to cause more trouble than they're worth. All right, so I may not be able to keep that one, but it's a good thought.
Walk through the junky section of town alone, in the dead of night, just cause it's the most direct route to my friend. Brave or not; dead is still dead.
Fall for the "I'm so helpless and scared, please help me" routine, I really should know better.
Tell someone I love them and expect them to understand I mean it in a general sense, not a romantic one.
Spend hours in excruciating pain without going to the hospital, just because I don't want to waste the doctors' time. The doctors are there to alleviate pain, I should learn to just let them do their freakin' job already.
Say yes to shallow acquaintances without knowing all the details of what they want me to do. People who look nice, aren't necessarily so.

Kiss Me - flower photo

2007-08-06T16:41:00.000+02:00

So Many Ways to Say It - poem

2007-08-03T23:34:00.000+02:00

Old poem, but dear. A poem about love and eternal loving.

~*~

Beloved, did you know that you’re my beloved?
The sun and moon may shine or be hidden in darkness,
but as long as there is you; the light will always be near.
To chase away the shadows,
to block the way for monsters.
How very strange really, don’t you think?
-That life can be dependent on such a small thing,
like the smile of a friend…a word or two
about the love and joy you find in each other.
The wisdom that your soul carries, it amazes me constantly.
And if I travel the world or to the other side of the universe,
or if I stay right here -it’s all the same.
Because you’re with me in every move I make,
are there in every breath I take,
like a guardian angel.
And no matter what happens, I know
that you are here and you are mine.
As surely as I am yours,
now and forever.

~*~

Sunny River - photo

2007-08-01T12:59:00.000+02:00

Just because, it's been raining for days. ^^

More Layouts

2007-07-31T16:20:00.000+02:00

Redid the layout for my Swedish blog :

But, I'm a bit ponderous if maybe I should use these graphics instead:

Not that I'm a perfectionist or control freak or anything, I just want to be 100% pleased. ^^

Layout Done

2007-07-30T00:02:00.000+02:00

Had to jump through some hoops, but the CSS is solid now. The stupid layout system won't let me add javascript that's recognizable to Internet Explorer though. I'm not surprised; IE always messes up something and working in this manner reminded me again why I always try do most of my coding the old fashioned way; I like having control, it's a good thing. But all in all; I have to say I'm happy with my new and shiny layout. It's pretty. ^^

Warning for Layout Fluctuations

2007-07-29T12:28:00.001+02:00

I'll be doing a bit of re-decorating; among other things I'm changing from the old blog layout system to the new and [improved?] with widgets and stuff. Might take a day or two to get it all working properly. Sorry about any inconvenience this may cause.

Edit// Just so you know -I hate Internet Explorer with something quickly approaching a fiery passion.

Left -short short story

2007-07-28T11:25:00.000+02:00

They write notes to each other on post its, until they run out of paper one day and they start to scrawl on the fridge instead. Black and red and blue all mingled together till the white is all but a memory. He doesn't remember who started it, might have been him. Probably wasn't. Two cups stand on the sink, side by side; one large for coffee, one gigantic for tea. The cups migrated out of the cupboards months ago, it was just too much work; opening and closing and reaching. His hands itch to break them both, but he doesn't. Instead he plucks out an ordinary glass and fills it with water. He takes one sip, then two, before throwing the rest away. Right now there would be a gentle reprimand concerning water conservation. The quiet screams in his ears and he flees the kitchen.

The living room is also much too quiet for comfort. His hands automatically go to the stereo and put the records on shuffle. Too late he remembers when they last listened to this particular mix. He can't bring himself to push the stop button though, not when the music starts with the soft gentleness of Adagio. His thoughts stutter to a halt and he listens with horror at the much too familiar words. The door bell chiming saves him from any more reminiscing and he takes money to pay for the pizza. The tip is plentiful, he just can't concentrate on something as petty as counting money right now. Five hours till the plane ride home, this isn't his place anymore. With a look at the empty hangers by the door he wonders if it ever was.

Flower Header for Layout

2007-07-26T13:05:00.000+02:00

What layout, you may ask? Well, I don't know yet, we'll see.

Layout / CSS / Graphics / Fun

2007-07-25T15:48:00.000+02:00

Was working on a layout and got inspired to use the sidebar for something else as well. This is the result, sort of a badge type thingy. I know I should make it a transparent background, but the background for the css layout is black and this is just play. ^^

New journal layout

2007-07-24T17:14:00.000+02:00

So I'm thinking about swapping out my "Artist Without License" layout on dA.

Thinking on adapting it to this site instead. Err, or maybe I'm just really into webdesign right now and want change. Anyway, so I did a new layout for dA, not done yet, but I figured something like this might be nice:

Of course the "Princess Is Complicated" layout could just as easily be used for this site instead, either way is good really. Not that I don't love my "Fairyland" layout, because I do. But I did mention I'm really into webdesign right now and besides which -I'm wondering if Fairyland isn't just a tad bit too sweet for my blog.

Masquerade -photo and poem

2007-07-20T22:25:00.000+02:00

~*~

Play the show to its end,
it’s all we have to do.
Keep the masks on to hide
what we’re feeling inside.
It’s not me that is playing, it’s not you.

The audience is waiting
for another drama play.
They like the blood to flow
and teary eyes to glow.
It’s their world my love, it’s their way.

So play for me a murderer
and I will be your fool.
Let’s show them how it’s done
until their need is gone.
To gain we must suffer, it’s the rule.

For they live through the theatre
and need to know it’s real,
so play this well and get a boon.
Oh hush love it’s over soon.
Death’s our final pay, that’s the deal.

~*~

Weightless -poem

2007-07-18T13:15:00.000+02:00

~*~

While we’re falling there is peace,
that utter rapture of knowing
that nothing can hurt you,
until you land.
When you leap, you’re safe.
There’s nothing to understand;
you know everything.
The air is like the breath of gods,
loving your fortitude.
You know it’s not the time
for anything but dreaming.
The dreams are real;
it’s all the same.
Your name a whisper
on the lips of the weaver.
You spread your arms
and you soar on time.

~*~

The Dark Is Rising Travesty

2007-07-13T14:23:00.000+02:00

Well, the trailers are up for this next fantasy blockbuster movie. The Dark Is Rising indeed, Susan Cooper's wonderful series of books have been raped and pillaged and twisted into American commercialism at its worst. My heart aches for one of the brightest memories of my childhood having been violated in this manner.

1) Everyone but two of the cast are American, now that wouldn't necessarily be a problem, but they also sound American. The set even looks American for pity's sake.
2) Will is an angsty teenager with girl troubles instead of a pure and goodhearted 11 year old.
3) Arthurian myth and legend? Arthur who?
4) Seventh son of a seventh son, err.... where are the rest of the siblings?

And just, no.

No, no, no.

But don't take my word for it, look at the trailers.
The American one almost made me cry.
The international one is slightly better, but that will only bring you a false sense of security.

Don't trust the Dark!

The American Trailer for the Dark Is Rising

The International Trailer for The Dark Is Rising

I'm not saying you shouldn't see the movie. I'm going to watch it myself. I'm just going to [pretend] it's a completely different story that has absolutely nothing to do with the original. Which, won't be that far a strentch of the imagination really.

Fun Enneagram Test

2007-07-12T16:59:00.000+02:00

Yeah, sounds about right, I guess. Though mind you that when it comes to tests -you will most likely always find ways in which the answers might apply to you.

Change Html to BB Code

2007-07-10T00:29:00.000+02:00

Are you sick of forums that don't allow Html? Just don't feel like dealing with the BB Code hassle? Then this Site might just save your sanity. This wonderful person has made a straight forward script for converting Html code to BB. It won't let you build a mini site in you sig, but should still be pretty useful if you're as lazy about your coding as I am. ^^

Cheers! - photo and poem

2007-07-09T01:04:00.000+02:00

Yeah, I don't drink. Used to be a Good Templar and everything, but when inspiration strikes, what are you going to do?

A toast to us;
for health, and sorrow.
Today, tomorrow -
long will we reign.
Hey friend, remember -
if the glass is half empty,
it means you can fill it
again.

Imperfect Dreamer -photo manip / graphic

2007-07-06T22:21:00.000+02:00

Compassion - Fiction Drabble - 100 words.

2007-07-04T14:30:00.000+02:00

Hospital smell, shoes on rubber floor. He hardly knows the woman in the other room and the man walking out is a stranger. A blank face greets him. So it's over now. Empty words lie heavy in the pit of his stomach. He is not a friend, or a lover, or family. He is no one to this desolate soul. But he is the only one here. Glimmer of a moment. He hesitates. The man takes a seat. Hands clasped, head lowered. This is grief then, hesitations are through. He places his hand on a shaking shoulder, and holds on.

Doctor Terrorist. Is it really that shocking?

2007-07-03T19:59:00.000+02:00

They say that eight of the terrorists in the latest London debacle were doctors. Many people are shocked and dismayed at these news. I am not shocked. Dismayed, yes. Shocked, no. Though it's easy to think that all terrorists are cut from the same block, things are rarely that simply. Both history and literature teaches us that being a doctor does not necessarily equate being a healer. Hippocratic oath? More like hypocrisy. Just goes to show that intelligence and book learning does not replace wisdom and some good old fashioned common sense.

Rainy Day -photo

2007-07-02T16:06:00.000+02:00

Being that as it may -I quite enjoy a good storm now and again. I actually thought the rain ended much too soon. It was the first real pounding-into-the-ground rain we've gotten this summer. Had I been a few years younger I would have pouted over the fact that we got no thunder, but I like my computer not getting zapped or fried, so I guess I'm ok with that.

True Beauty -photo / graphic

2007-06-29T15:57:00.000+02:00

Prima Ballerina -photo

2007-06-28T14:02:00.000+02:00

A still picture of my new shoes. I ordered them online and lo and behold -they fit. This is quite sensational you understand because normally finding shoes for my feet is like trying to find water in the Sahara.

Untitled Snippet

2007-06-27T12:42:00.000+02:00

She ends up somewhere between there and not quite yet. The storm calls to something primal inside; the same thing that had her dancing under lightning filled skies until she was old enough to be afraid. It’s strange, she thinks, how you get more afraid as the years go by. If anything you should be less fearful because you’ve already lived so much. The older you get the less there is to miss out on. She knows that’s just part of the story and neither here nor there, but a spot of fancy is needed right now. The wind has turned to whisper, low and seductive. If she goes out, she will be right in the eye of the storm. That is her stronghold, but what’s the fun in being safe? The moment passes, the eye is gone and fire crosses the sky. She smiles at the dancing flashes; they seem to her a mixture between game and a mating dance. Or perhaps they are the same. She knows the moment before she decides to move; it is marked by a heavy feeling in her head and warmth swiftly followed by cooling sweat. As the rain sets in she runs outside, raising her arms and dancing underneath the tumultuous skies. The rain kisses her lips and she kisses back. She is not safe, speaks the rumbling thunder, but at last -she feels alive.

Parting Ways -poem

2007-06-26T12:41:00.000+02:00

Old poem from my may-yet-be-published poetry book Northern Heart.
More of my poems about parting ways:
Leaving
No More Talking

Parting Ways

~*~

So we’re standing here again then,
not knowing what to say.
Has anything really changed at all?
We age a year and live a day.

Blinded by my unshed tears,
but at last this time I see.
And I guess I did wrong to you,
and I know you did wrong to me.

No longer are we starcrossed,
but still we carry on prentending;
thinking the morrow will be better,
thinking love is neverending.

Wonder what it’s all about,
why the happiness must die.
You could never turn your back,
so I need to say Goodbye.

Guess we weren’t a fairytale after all.

~*~

Why You Should Not Try to Reason With Religious Nuts

2007-06-25T13:03:00.000+02:00

Me: How do you know that this almighty God exists?

Other: The Holy Book tells us so.

Me: I understand that, but that was written ages ago. How do you know it's even based on fact?

Other: The Holy Book tells us so.

Me: Yes, yes, I know. But ponder for a moment the possibility of the Book just being a story, nothing more. I mean how can you base your evidence of the truth of the scriptures, on the same scriptures? Maybe they're lying, how would you know?

Other: It is the truth. The Holy Book tells us so. *starts quoting and speaking in tongues*

Me: *bangs head against wall and counts to a zillion*

Mountain Hike and Photo

2007-06-25T00:09:00.000+02:00

So I've been good today. Went hiking with my dad, up in the mountains. Well, further up in the mountains; we live on one after all. 23 degrees Celsius in the shade, blazing sun and nary a cloud in the sky.

Dad offered me two choices of trail. Of course being stupid I decided that we should take the more challenging one since it would give more photo ops all in all. So off we went, a few miles by car, then hiking up a mountain. 3-5 kilometers with an incline of about 45-50 degrees 90 per cent of the way. Through forest and some marshland I might add, since our goal was a lake just above the tree line.

To be honest I had hoped to do a few extra kilometers and get to the next lake as well, but... seriously; that was it for me. People, if you don't already know this -hiking in blistering heat is not a good idea. Yes cloudless skies are good for photos, but it's not good hiking conditions. You'll get overheated, overexerted, and low on fluids. Best weather for hiking is semi-cloudy with a slight breeze.

But anyway; though it wasn't what I had hoped, I did manage to get some photos out of the deal. Here's one:

I'll be going on another tour to one of my fave locations next week, hopefully. Looking forward to that; it's an easier, much easier climb and lots of good photo ops.

Twilight -photo

2007-06-23T21:28:00.000+02:00

Been out shooting pics for the first time in what feels like ages.

Snuggle in, the twilight comes.
Tomorrow is soon enough
to worry about the morrows.

Life -photo

2007-06-21T16:52:00.000+02:00

Speaking of Dangers and Things Going Wrong I

2007-06-20T16:41:00.000+02:00

Let's talk about Spain. My freshman year in college I decided I needed a change in scenery. I decided to spend the summer taking some kind of language course. After some agonizing I finally settled on 13 weeks studying Spanish in sunny Malaga on Costa del Sol. Of course I was going by myself and it was my first time abroad without my parents as well.

I had never studied Spanish before and my vocabulary was limited to Buneos Dias, Hola and Gracias. Oh, and I could say 'Donde esta' but didn't know any word to follow that except a name,
and didn't know enough Spanish to follow directions either way. None of this was going to stop me though, so off I went.

The journey came off to a great start when I couldn't find my check-in desk at the Swedish(!) airport and almost missed my flight. It continued beautifully in Madrid where the monitors had all decided to malfunction at the same time. Of course it was late in the evening and only a few personnel on site. I had no idea where to go or when my flight left and when I finally found the information desk for my airline, there was no one there.

After some serious walking around and trying to make myself understood and to understand what people were saying I finally found out were I was going to board, presumably. Of course the plane was late and they had changed the gate so that made things complicated and lovely. I wasn't completely sure I was at the right place in the end either, but there was nothing else to do but wait for the plane at that gate and hope it was the right one. Fortunately for me, it was.

We landed in Malaga only about 20 minutes behind on schedule. Everything looked different and I had no idea where to go for my bag. I trotted around for a while and finally I realized that I wasn't going to get my bag from any of the bands. Some nice, older Spanish people had lost their luggage as well so we all went to Information for help. They found their bags I think, unfortunately I didn't.

So then I had to fill in a form, which required me to know my address and phone number. Did I know these things? No, of course not. What little info I had was in my missing bag and the rest I was going to get from my driver, I hoped. This meant I had to find my driver and of course between him and me there was a do-not-cross tape, gates and guards. Fortunately he wasn't too far away, but managed to make his way over to me and hand over the info papers.

My driver had a talk with the guards and was allowed to enter, thank the gods. He helped me with the paper work and got my computer bag, which by the way I had left with the information desk while going to look for him. In my defense it was the middle of the night, I had been up since 3am or something, and I had meningitis.

Did I forget to mention that part? True to my luck I had managed to contract this disease and had't yet fully recovered by the time I was scheduled to head off for another country. I was running a fever and had medicated myself heavily so as to manage the trip. It just figures that things would go downhill from there. This is me we're talking about after all.

The Dangers of Life Online

2007-06-19T23:08:00.000+02:00

So I was scouring the net looking for interesting blogs. Stumbled upon HorsePigCow and read this post on Internet Safety for Women. Just read those last words I wrote. They're so typical. Internet Safety for Women, like we somehow need some kind of special security, separate from the standard.

Now don't get me wrong -I'm not saying there aren't any dangers with leading a life online. There are plenty of dangers and reasons to be cautious, but sex doesn't factor into that. Anyone can have their identity nicked online if they're not careful, anyone can have their accounts hacked into or something equally unpleasant.

The Internet is the great equalizer. The usual methods for distinguishing people from each other, like their sex, race, religion, socio-economic status etc that you have used before are pretty useless online. Obsolete if you so will. Because online we can be pretty much anyone we want to be.

So why should women be more fearful of putting themselves out there? I mean -yes giving out your real name might be risky for those with less than usual ones, but at the end of the day it's no more risky than being listed in the phone book.

I have this friend who's a semi-hacker-ish type. He warned me about how easy it was to find information about me online. He got my home phone number and address in about 30 seconds. At first that kind of freaked me out, but then I got to thinking and I came to this conclusion -so what?

So what if anyone can trace my name to my address and phone number? They can trace billions of other people in the same way. People do that all the time; the most popular methods used to be the public phone book and calling an information service. What makes me being listed online more dangerous than anything else?

It's true that more people can get a hold of you if you spend a lot of time being un-anonymous online, but at the end of the day it doesn't really matter. So you get an online stalker? You might have gotten one while being out in a club just as easily. So some creep got your phone number; creeps will always get someone's phone number and harass, it's what they do.

At the end of the day it all just comes down to common sense and taking your licks when and if they come. Though it's never advisable to simply give out your personal details to all and sundry unless you want irritating phone calls in the middle of the night and so on, that does not mean you have to be more paranoid than Machiavelli.

People who want to get a hold of you badly enough will find a way. Why live your life in dread of that moment. I mean, I'm as paranoid as the next girl, but I do have limits and going through life being scared of online predators just isn't in my repertoire of things to do. If someone actually comes haunting your homestead? Then you can start worrying.

New Dawn -graphic

2007-06-18T02:04:00.000+02:00

Working with Terragen, been some time since last.

~*~

Good morning, did you know
that you are beautiful?

Drink in Blue Summer

2007-06-16T15:25:00.000+02:00

I'm not much for alcohol, but I did take two classes in Bar tending and Waitering in High School and I like working bars and mixing drinks. This is is a real simple one I came up with.

3 frozen strawberries
A splash of Fun Light Tropical Fruits
Fill up with Sprite

It tastes like summer. ^o^

Playing with webdesign

2007-06-15T13:25:00.000+02:00

As you know most of my work disappeared in the great computer crash, but I have been working a bit beyond my pages and here's one of the ideas (wip):

Click on the picture to enlarge.

Snippet

2007-06-14T18:14:00.000+02:00

A/n: Just an exercise in action oriented writing. Unfinished piece, but a beginning of something, maybe.

~*~

10 am and she’s so-very-late. Coldness burns with each breath of morning air. The backpack is heavy; straps forcing her shoulders back, cutting through her too-thin-jacket. Legs cramp and her feet scream murder on the cobblestones. The cell phone in her pocket beeps. Her stress levels go up anther notch. She resists the phone, but not for long. Two more steps and it’s in her hand.

“Where are you?”

A misstep, as she tries to answer the message while running. She falls to one knee and one hand. The pain travels like lightning trough her leg. Nasty, nasty bruise tomorrow, but she just doesn’t have the time. A grimace flashes over her face. Her eyes tear, but she’s up in a flash. The first few steps are halting on her stiff leg. Determination proves the greater force and she’s off again.

The traffic on the South Boulevard is in a stand still. She zigzags between cars and motorcycles, seeing the concert hall beckoning in the distance.

Fire

2007-06-13T16:27:00.000+02:00

A picture to keep the cold at bay. At least there is beauty to keep you warm. And dreams, and passion. I went to dance class for the first time in a week yesterday, it was a bit more exhausting than normal, but great fun. I learned 4 new dances. ^o^ I love it when we get to do new stuff. Sure I have some old favorites as well, but it's always nice with surprises. We did a mambo dance that was wonderful. A bit too easy, but I figure I can always build on it myself and it did give me an opportunity to shake my booty. ;-)

It Snowed!

2007-06-12T23:06:00.000+02:00

Seriously, this morning -snowy rain, on the green grass. No wonder my pillows felt cold when I woke, I've been sleeping with two of my three windows open after all. Not the time for that, but last week was so hot. How can it change from 25 degrees Celsius one week to snow the next? It's June for pity's sake...

But all right, we usually do get so last minute snow around this time of year. Odd but it happens. Just gotta grin and bear it I suppose.

I finally watched Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End yesterday. I was hooked from the start; the singing in the beginning gave me shivers and goose-bumps and I almost never get that, ever. Liked the ending as well, and the middle. And...well, I liked it. Definitely better than number 2. Watch it if you haven't; it needs to be seen.

Clarity

2007-06-11T09:36:00.000+02:00

That's It -Lyrics

2007-06-10T19:26:00.000+02:00

Lyrics for a song I've finished/am working on. Not really sure if it's done or not. The melody is one that doesn't lend itself well to multiple verses added after the fact. I'm currently thinking about what exactly I'm going to do with all my lyrics. Of course I always dreamed of doing the singer/songwriter thing, but I'm definitely on the wrong side of the country for that and besides which -I can't play the guitar and I've been a long time gone from the piano. I've spent some time working with Finale though, but it takes a lot of time and that, is a precious commodity. I wish I were a Time Lord, that would be good for all that ails me.

Anyway, remember that you can always check out some of my singing (horrible, very bad recordings I'm sorry) at either my youtube account (check sidebar) or soundclick

Here are the lyrics, enjoy!

That's It

That's all it for the road,
all it for the night,
all it for the glorious fight.
That's all it for the snow,
all it for the rain,
all it for the pain
and hurtful sorrow.

That's all it for the past,
silly games -they can't last,
all it for the lies
of love forever.
That's all it for the crying,
it for the dying.
Human beings
-come dance with me!
You will see
that happiness is free,
trust me.

This much sun is freaky.

2007-06-07T23:29:00.000+02:00

Seriously. I know I'm born and mostly raised up here above the Arctic circle, but ever since I moved south after High School I just can't quite get used to the light in summer time. Or the darkness in winter. Don't get me wrong -I love the sunlit nights, but it wreaks havoc with my internal clock at first. Speaking of sun though; I actually did a few sun salutations today. Almost killed me. Brings home just how much I've let myself go again since quitting yoga. I've managed to miss all my dance classes this week as well. It's because I'm so relieved to be spending the week alone in the apartment for once. I'm fully occupied with re-charging my batteries. Can't concentrate on much else except creating, watching videos, hunting down job leads and apartments, oh, and eating fresh strawberries. Yummy ^o^