Merry Christmas!

While I normally have weekends ( sat/sun ) off at work, I switched schedules to hang out with Ruth this Wednesday and help out a co-worker. So, it has worked out well.

I have been listening to Buddhist podcasts after returning home from work. They have allowed me newer perspectives regarding everything. With Christians asking me if I celebrate Christmas or am even a Christian, it can be a little overwhelming.

I don't want to ruin anyone's holiday, but make it my own. There are wonderful things about Christmas one can take in without idolizing what appears a mythology. There is nothing wrong with the mythology either, Buddhism has its own stories. They teach us what is important about our faiths.

I have been meditating on what to do regarding my relationship with Brandy. And I have been recommended to see the relationship as it is, and see if certain aspects color my perspective including: desire, ill-will, stupidity, & fear. As the Buddha taught, all things are impermanent. But instead of looking at the situation with only two possible solutions, I must work to find the multiple solutions and the best within that. Hopefully Brandy can assist me, because she always says she is overwhelmed with everything.

Nother day with Siah/Kelly

It seems that Carie was unable to find her boyfriend today. Sometimes people disappear, but I don't know what I would do if Brandy were unable to watch Josiah for long periods of time. ( she has threatened to, even made me stay home a day from work last January because she was stressed out over watching him)

Well, things went fine. Overall, another slow day for me. Just cleaning around the house and organizing. As well as catch-up time blogging/writing - when they are getting along.

Anywho, Brandy was home for dinner which was bean/potato soup with cornbread. Twas very good!

Apart from that, found some CDs with photos from Iraq. I looked up the PMOI and they are still involved in their form of activism as usual. Anywho, nobody cares about Maryam Rajavi or the PMOI, but their own nations in relation to Iran.

I also did a google of Brandy's name and found that the state of Minnesota owes her a little over $100! Crazy, but at least we in Minnesota keep track of such things.

Holidazzle with Kelly and Siah

We stayed home most of the day. Carie Krogen needed someone to watch Kelly, so I had no problem helping out. Kelly and Josiah get along great!

They were able to play with many neighbor children outside as it was very warm! Then when everyone went inside, so did Siah and Kelly. Brandy returned home with faraway friends Ruth Sherman and Derrick. Josiah was acting awful with two visitors, so I was unable to stay chatting with them because I had to discipline.

I usually discipline Josiah by using time-outs. These can vary depending on the severity of what he has done. But most the time sitting/standing in the corner suffices. But in some cases I have to take him to his room and sit in front of the door or other times hold him in the corner until he settles down.

Eventually, when our visitors left, we left for downtown via Hiawatha LRT. Brandy opted to stay home and take a bath. Kelly had never seen the train before, and was quite excited. I never get bored of LRT, because it is the future of transportation in America. But with so many going downtown for the same purpose, the trains were all packed! Luckily I am only one person and have 2 little guys who can squeeze between anyone!

We went to the Holidazzle and found a spot by Target Corporate HQ. This was convenient because afterwards we went to Chipotle. Their outdoor sign was unlit, but it was obvious by the line that they were still open. Kelly said she had never been there, but enjoyed her burrito nonetheless.

We then went home and Josiah could not act decent with her on the train. So we had to get off early at Cedar/Riverside and walk home from there. Josiah was very upset we had to walk, but Kelly was just fine. So it was a very good lesson for Siah in having to listen/act decent on the train

After Josiah and Kelly went to sleep, I read Persopolis by Marjane Satrapi. I LOVED it! Quite an excellent manga about her childhood in Iran in the late 70's and early 80's.

I am SO fortunate to live in a land where I can express myself and not face authoritarian persecution to such severity. Yes, the corporate world check up on applicants ousing MySpace/Google. I wouldn't want to work for someone who fired me over these blogs. I am also harassed in South Minneapolis by missionaries, who tell me I will go to hell by being Buddhist. The so-called homeless batter me with ridiculous stories ( which usually contain a part about being saved by Jesus ) and then refuse free food. Yes, it's annoying at times - but it's a lot easier living here than in Iran.

Brandy came home and explained how she brough the remainder of my injera & red lentils to a party. She also gave an album by the Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars to the birthday girl: Anjelica. It seemed to be quite popular at the party, of course this is another band I have found through my various resources. ( Paste magazine and 89.3 the Current )


[ note: I would have more photos, but our Kodak camera is broken. Josiah most likely tried using it and broke it. Coincidentally, there is a sale on digital cameras this week. I can get a 7MP camera for a lower price than Brandy bought the 6MP camera for - same brand: Kodak.]

Rohatsu and Chuck-E-Cheese

1)Rohatsu

Josiah and I started out our day going to the Clouds in Water Zen Center. It was the final day of children's practice for the winter seshin.

Josiah made candles for the Rohatsu ceremony. Rohatsu is the Zen Buddhist holiday celebrating the enlightenment of the Buddha on Decmber 8th. It was a lovely celebration that included a discussion of what enlightenment is, chanting, then chanting while walking in a circle and tossing flowers. Josiah really enjoyed tossing the thin-paper flowers - and picking them up!

What I found most fascinating was that the myth-like stories of Buddha I had read about were just that - myths. Latest historical information regarding Siddhartha is that he was never a Prince. The time he had come from and family he was in was not royal at all, though fairly well off. Also the story of him sitting down under a Bodhi tree and finding enlightenment in a week also leaves out his 7 years of trying ascetic methods to attain truth. He found the Dharma though creating the Karmic conditions to do so, and the ascetic teachings had been of some value. But attaining enlightenment, the Buddha made the path much more attainable and am grateful that he has done so.

I am truly glad that there is a Sangha here in the Twin Cities! And Clouds in Water has surpassed my expectations already - and I have only gone there since October!

2) Chuck-E-Cheese

Afterwards Josiah and I stayed for a little bit. I was upset that he never listens to me and wants to leave. We had to catch an express bus from downtown Saint Paul to the Mall of America, and had to leave soon. I wanted to be early so I could buy some presents for the birthday party we would be attending. Josiah always wants to stay and play with his friends. If we weren't on a tight schedule I would have had no problem staying later.

We did leave, but already missed our bus. In fact, we had to wait around 25 minutes for the next one to arrive. But we hopped on the 54 and went to the MOA on a fairly packed bus. Josiah fell asleep. We got to the mall and went directly to Barnes and Nobles. I knew what books to get : Marsupial Sue and Kitten's First Full Moon. ( I do hate BN asking for an extra $25 to get a member card, when I shop Amazon a billion times more often. ) Then off to the 444, which would take us to the Burnsville Mall.

Growing up in Scott County, the only mall anyone ever went to was the Burnsville Mall. Prior to the MOA, it was the largest mall in Minnesota. It has been upgraded a bit since I was last in town, and think it has improved a bit. Though I think the southern suburbs could do with more efficient transit - our bus seemed to wind through the city in a chaotic fashion, yet where transit users hopped on and off. The culdesacs and stores of importance to transit users were of priority.

When we got to Burnsville Center, I found the food court and an empty table. While Josiah munched on some Cheezits, I wrapped the two books using the comics section of the Sunday Star Tribune. Perfect wrapping paper for lil kids! ( and cheaper) Then off to Chuck-E-Cheese!

My friend Shewalem ( Mekedes ) Tesema had invited me to the birthday party of her two daughters: Buruktawit [4] and Rebeka [2]. I thought it was for only one daughter, but luckily bought two books that would be quite age appropriate anyways. Shewalem had only told me the previous Thursday and I must have not heard it correctly.

I met Mekedes husband Asfine and many other relatives. My friend Likelesh was also there with her husband and daughter Yamrote. I Like's sister Tegest ( patience) , who works with Shewalem's sister, whose name escapes me. I wish I could remember names better than I do.

Anyways, it was fun. We enjoyed pizza and pop. Josiah enjoyed playing with the birthday girls. Chuck-E-Cheese came when the birthday cakes were to be lit for all the birthday celebrants, as there were 4 different parties occurring in our room. Josiah loved Chuch-E and talked to him, gave him hugs. Before Chuck-E left, he came over to give me a personal high-five - perhaps because he really liked Josiah! He does have a charismatic and outgoing personality, which everyone seems to love.

Asfine bought us all tokens and Siah went to play games. He collected tickets for me and went about playing games. He especially liked the racing games, though he couldn't reach the gas pedal or understand how to properly play them! He could enjoy them without actually inserting a token!

After the tokens were out we put the tickets in a machine to add our points and get a receipt. We took the receipt to a counter to get our winnings - toys of course. Josiah could only afford two things: a small wand and a grasshoppper ring. After he had finished he wanted a prize worth 10 times what we originally had - a plastic toy that he could hold on his hand and was a pirate hook! I said " Siah, we don't have enough tickets and we can't get it today" but cute Asian girl at the counter thought he should get one - so he did! I was so happy that he could get one, because after that he played pirate. :)

3) Skytubes ( and lost shoes )

Siah most enjoyed the sky-tubes, the hamster-like-plastic-tunnels attached to the ceilings. When we had to leave I collected all our things and went to a table near the playplace. That was when I couldn't find Siah's shoes. He claimed they were in the sky-tubes and kept going up to put them down the slide like I had asked. I eventually searched the entire place to find them and inquired in their lost-and-found.

Josiah also got into trouble in the sky-tubes. He was playing a tiger, but other kids thought him too aggressive. At some points I saw him crying from up above. Kind've upsetting because I felt helpless being underneath and the whole toy-thing was made for children. But after one parent went up to talk to him, and came back down I talked to her. Then Siah came down and we discussed how to act up there. He apologised to the boy he had called names and had pushed/hit. ( though Siah claimed he had hit him first, and was never apologised to. It is better he learn to take responsibility for his actions, irregardless others reciprocate.

Looking for his shoes again, and after searching every inch of Chuck-E-Cheese, I entered the sky-tubes. I hadn't been up there since being a little kid. It was fun, but don't think I could do this for long. Other parents were up there with lil guys, and commented on Josiah's speed up there, even after being up there for hours! I covered the entire tube system and could find no shoes. I assume some kid accidentally took them home thinking they were his shoes on his feet. Either way, Josiah had to only wear socks on the way home.

Two hours after our party had left for home, we were leaving Chuck-E-Cheese around 7 P.M. Our party had started at 2PM, and we had been there since quarter to.

Some other memorable events at the party were shooting basketball hoops, Likelesh's daughter scared of the rides - crying while riding them, and enjoying being in their company. I rarely get out and love it when I can with such friendly people who are understanding of children.

We took the last MVT bus home from Burnsville Center to the MOA. I talked to a woman while waiting who worked two full-time jobs: Bath & Bodyworks and Payless Shoes. 70 hours a week is too much for me, but for her she said it more than paid the bills. While talking to her and waiting for the bus, Josiah alternated between kiddie rides near the entrance. ( he doesn't need quarters to keep entertained on them, he has such an active imagination! )

Josiah fell asleep on the bus, again on the train, and stayed asleep until we got home. Either way it was a lovely day, though packed with busyness! And now I just need to get Siah new shoes - he can wear his snow boots or cowboy boots until then.

Watching Kelly - DVD archiving

1) Kelly Krogen (age 4 & 11/12)

I watched my friend's daugher Carie today. Kelly is a wonderful 4 year old and about to turn 5 soon. Mayhaps Josiah can go to her party! Carie is moving all of her possessions to her new Saint Louis Park apartment, and Kelly isn't exactly assisting. I was okay watching her because she is very calm and listens well - unlike Josiah. But they really enjoy playing with each other, so it works well.

Anywho, that is how the day went. I did some cleaning while they played. They didn't like the rice and stir-fry I cooked up. Of course I didn't like the Chinese Cheese preserved hot bean curd that my acquaintance Hang gave me! Ickiness! This vegetarian loves tofu - just not this particular Asian style! I plan to make tofu with berbere and eat it with Injera. That sounds yummilicious!


2) DVD copying

On a Mac, I am unfamiliar with how to copy DVDs or make MP4s. So I found awesome software that can do both.

Handbrake can make industry standard MP4s , H.264 , wonderfully!

And MacTheRipper will allow you to copy even copyrighted material to your hard-drive. The US Supreme Court has authorized the use of copying DVDs if they are already owned by you - so archiving is okay. Hopefully this isn't abused by Netflix and library users - though it probably is -I doubt Hollywood will go belly-up. But the music industry has been hurting lately. Or is it just the major labels?

Selling Club Mystic

Today many Mystic Lake employees had to go to work early to attend was stated as a class. The title was "Selling Club Mystic" but instead they had some consultant from Las Vegas speak about guest service and marketing. How marketing entailed all aspects of a business and that was our true mission.

Anyways, it won't truly change the Mystic Lake culture overnight, but it could improve the atmosphere to a more guest-centric environment.

Running of the Santas

The Mid-Minnesota Legal Assistance created the annual "Running of the Santas" in Minneapolis this year as a fundraiser. I took Josiah, and he thought it was very fun! We watched hundreds of men and women, young and old, fast and not so fast, dressed as Santa run down Nicollet Mall today. It was quite an opening event for the Holiday Season in our fine city.

There are some who think that Santa should have no place in the Holiday season. Churches are asking followers of Christianity to wear buttons. Description of this grassroot movement as follows:

--- s n i p --

Celebrate Christmas Button

I celebrate Christmas is a campaign designed to encourage Christians nationwide and around the world to proudly proclaim the Christ Child as the center of the Christmas Season once again.
--- s n i p --

I saw someone wearing one of these buttons and asked her about it. She gave me a button if I promised to wear it. I will find a way to wear it - perhaps on Christmas? But the roots of Christmas are still the pagan Solstice celebration.

Either way I am not that concerned over holiday cultural wars. Instead am thankful for each day and will try to be mindful in all that I do.

Mindful Parenting

The Clouds in Water Zen Center has started a Mindful Parenting group. With many types of advice out there for parents, it is great there is some effort locally at the Zen center.

There are a few books out that help parents who are adherents of the Buddhist path.

Buddhism for Mothers, Everyday blessings, and Mindful Parenting. By far the first two are more popular. Jon and Myla Kabat-Zinn wrote Everday Blessings. Jon is well known for his books on mindfulness. In fact I read his "Wherever you go, there you are" prior to choosing the Buddhist path. A co-worker , Nate (my mentor when hired), told me the book changed his life.

While not writing a full-length review, I highly recommend parents read these books. I also invite all parents of any faith to join our mindful parenting group.

Incident with a few neighbors

I had an incident with some people at a town-home behind my residence. I do not know the details of how the town-home association resolves this situation, but I was assured that it would be resolved. But I am aware that they had some people living there that should not have been, and hope that the more responsible elements of the family were not punished for trying to help relatives out.

I am thankful that I do not have to leave my home in fear of some sort of physical attack. I have never felt that until this incident during my entire residency in Minneapolis. There are times when I may see an individual that I am wary of ( especially when I lived in Stevens Square ) but this rarely happens.

I think the best way to learn about an area that you live, especially one with a negative stigma like Phillips, you have to actually be engaged in it. You spend time outside at the park just sitting or reading a book. You go to neighborhood events, and you walk to the corner stores. You start to get a sense of "normal" in where you live and notice when something seems out of the ordinary.

I would like to thank the town-home association and the City of Lakes Community Land Trust for their work on this.

Joined Phillips Community Energy Cooperative

I recently decided to join the Phillips Community Energy Cooperative. This is because I keep getting mail for Tara Grieco, who used to live where I do, from them. I read that new members get a free tote bag - I was sold already. In addition one gets some complact flourescent light-bulbs and 5 plastic window covers. The kicker is membership costs $1. But one must live in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis, which is about 10,000 people ( our 25,000 squirrels are currently excluded) .

I talked to the program coordinator Jeff Cook-Coyle about how they get their funding. Basically Xcel donates money to the project. The coop also offers refrigerators and air conditioners at half of cost to members.

I asked whether there were any plans to get solar water heaters into the neighborhood, and Jeff seemed almost lit up about the subject. It is still in the planning stages, but very much a possibility in the next few years.

The coop is very new, starting in 2003. I wish it success and hope that it can reduce fossil fuel dependency locally. Through conservation and renewable initiatives, is is very possible.

Go-To Card

Today I got my Go-to card. I am quite happy to get one finally, they are quite convenient. I don't have to dig in my wallet, just know where my plastic sleeve is. I wish one could add money to the card online.

One feature I wished the card had was the ability to switch into a monthly pass or not. Once you go over the dollar threshold for a $1.50 monthly pass ( $50) - you automatically get it. Then if you surpass the $2 point ($76), you save a little more. It would be smart, and make transit riders happy to know these cards can save them money too.

It is rather interesting that Barbara Lickness was the 10 millionth rider on the Hiawatha Line in 2005. Barbara is an ardent DFLer, believing that one party rule over Minneapolis isn't bad for its citizens. She also volunteers with the Whittier Alliance, and am glad she is active in the community. (It is rather annoying that she always ends e-mails with the overplayed Margaret Mead quote - quite inspiring the first 87 times.)

More Minneapolitans should support light-rail and other transit. We do not need cars as much in our city. And when we do need cars - we can always car-share instead of own. Transit is seeing an uptick in ridership, and that trend should persisit as oil moves in the same direction.

Why support transit? It prevents Global Warming, while preserving non-renewable resources, and supporting a local economy. Transit will be a great economic and social ally for Minnesotans in the 21st century.

Josiah's lizard?

This morning Josiah woke up and immediately ran outside. I have no clue why, I got dressed and went downstairs. He came back inside bawling - his lizard had run away and buried himself in the mud. I think Josiah has an overactive imagination because we have no lizard.

He said he caught a lizard and that it then ran away later on. He was very upset that it had left him.

He also said that he found mice in our house, which there are, and that he was able to pet them. He said they were not wild mice but nice mice. Then he started searching for the mice, and found a hole underneath or sink. Behind our sink on the living room side is our bookshelf. The bottom of the bookshelf is our reference books, including yellow pages. Josiah though he would find the mice by moving these books out of the way. No such luck, but he was very sure he would find them back there.

Either way, Josiah has become more intelligent about many things, and has an imagination that is very humorous. Just have to teach him a few things, or perhaps just read him more stories and see what happens?

A good day overall. A bit chilly, but it could be worse.

Cloud in Water Zen

Josiah and I have been going to the Clouds in Water Zen Center in Saint Paul since mid October. We go every other weekend, as those are the days that the Children's Practice is.

Josiah is a very active boy, and I am always concerned about his behavior. The previous weekend I was asked what to do about him, as he was good until the last 15 minutes or so. He got rather rough with other kids, wanting to wrestle. ( he is very physically motivated, and I think should be in gymnastics and karate ) I gave the volunteers permission to put him in time-out if necessary.

But this weekend, I was stopped by 4 people telling me how wonderful Josiah was in class. They all love him, as he motivated other children and ensured they did things correct.

I stayed afterward for a discussion with other parents. We decided it would be good to meet once a month and discuss parenting skills and Buddhism. It was mentioned we could use a book about mindful parenting to assist in our talks. I hope much comes out of this idea.

Josiah was difficult to leave the center. He hid under tables and wouldn't listen to me or get dressed. I had to drag him out without his coat or shoes on - eventually outside where it was chilly. I gave him many chances and once outside he took less than 3 minutes to change his tune. He wanted to get dressed.

I wouldn't leave until we talked, and he said he didn't want to leave because the center had food and he was hungry. I had 2 bananas, and told him he would be able to eat them at the bus stop, which he did. I also said that when we go to his Sunday School at the Zen Center, I would pack more snacks for him to eat. He was satisfied with this solution, and I hope we can resolve his bad hehavior through this as well.

The rest of the day Josiah acted okay, but he was in time-out more than he usually is - three times! But the next few days he would act better.
-
Shellay called today. She still hasn't had her baby yet, and is a few days late now. But all of her children have been so far, so she isn't that worried. She will let everyone know when. We also had a fun chat. :)

Are there more who care?

I was able to talk to Phanice early this morning. She is doing well in Nairobi, and is glad that myself and her sister Ruth can visit her soon. Our chat didn't go as smoothly as it has in the past, and I wasn't sure why. But after we talked, a huge storm hit and Phanny wasn't able to take a bus to the downtown cybercafe to e-mail me.

I got a letter from CARE stating that the Horn of Africa had just gone through months of drought and was now being hit by seasonal storms. The storms are very excessive causing massive floods. Phanice told me about this in her letter:
...was to write you a mail yesterday but i got messed by the rains,they are too much here,all the plans i had aborted,its that bad.At the coast its flooded n a number of people havelost there lives.All we can do is just to pray and hope that it ends soon coz if it goes on like this,several people are going to get messed.

While many I know are cynical about donating money, I am not. I gave money to Sarvodaya when the tsunami hit Sri Lanka. That was while I was in Kuwait leaving soon for Iraq. I always wish I could help more, but know that my current economic constraints will not always be so. I also pray that more people would care.

For all the giant big screen plasma tvs, Playstations, and SUVs people buy - I wish more could live ligher and donate more to effective causes. I pray that more become conscious of the suffering in our world and compassionately work to improve our world.

Crazy day

Fridays are always a bit crazy, as work is busier. I barely made it to the bus today, running to catch it. Brandy got home later than usual, and I was late getting ready while preparing lunch. It was SO busy at work that my co-workers weren't prepared for me to replace them when I got there - too busy! Then, when I left to go home, the office was backed up as well. I would be late for my bus home.

Dan knew this, and offered a ride. He gave me a ride along with another coworker Dian to Bloomington. I was dropped off at the Mall of America, and took the light rail home.

On the train, I sat next to two young ( 18 and 19) . They were followed by a drunken guy who claimed he was 27. He was trying to make it to some club downtown, yet wasn't wearing a jacket on a rather chilly night. He had no money for the train either(!), asking the girls for $1.50, which they never gave him.We told him about how transit cops would catch him if he didn't pay, but he didn't seem bothered.

The girls pretty much giggled and laughed at how insane this drunk guy was. He attempted flirting, but it was so pointless. " You girls are so beautiful. How about you go out with me tonight to the club." Also asking them out for dinner, which I then asked how he would pay without any money. Of course he considered me an obstructionist towards his goal, but didn't consider me a threat. Except at one point he did think that I was talking about his mom, even though I said the word mall.

The girls and I departed the train at the Franklin Avenue Station, and said goodnight, after the hilarious discussion with a drunk heading to downtown. I got home 30 minutes later than usual, but was thankful to be home rather than stranded at work. I cannot wait until light-rail is built to Eden Prairie. That will greatly improve my mobility to Scott County. I do plan on enrolling in HourCar soon, but that doesn't help when my employers live so far out.

Brandy's Birthday

Today was Brandy's birthday, but I did not take it off from work. She and I hadn't discussed it and she was adamant that I take Halloween off. I had to call in on Halloween because there were too many who got put in before my schedule changed.

I got her two books: John by Cynthia Lennon and It's my Pleasure by Maria and Maya Rodale.. She is already enjoying them! :)

I came home that night only to find Josiah and her gone. Siah at his Uncle's and Brandy out with friends. Shouldn't be surprised, because Brandy had wanted to go out and celebrate.

Personally, I do not like the parties she goes to: I drink little if any, and do no other drugs nor smoke. She called me "boring" and much worse on my birthday for such a consistent stance.

Anywho, I have been getting more upset with things at home lately. Perhaps I shouldn't because Brandy is so busy with schoolwork. But I get home and there is a can in the kitchen half the time that appears to have been used for smoking or something - with pieces of burnt substances on top. I always tell her my disapproval of smoking indoors, but she doesn't seem to care.

The porch is another issue. She leaves it a mess with papers, candy wrappers, and cigerette ashstrays overflowing. I have to clean it up, because our landlady Lynne wants it upkept nice. I don't disagree with her, but don't get as much help from Brandy as I hope for. So I must clean this each day, in addition to other household chores.

My main chore appears to be dishes. I can't complain about doing household chores - we all have to do them. But why do I have to do both laundry, dishes, and keeping all rooms/porch cleaned? Somehow I feel shorted, but perhaps Brandy does because she must watch Josiah and still get her college work done.

It's definetely not easy for her, and also why I feel I can't really complain. Once she is done, she will be working also. By then Josiah will also be in school, and we will also find childcare more affordable with two incomes.

Schools for Josiah

I have been trying to decide what school to have Josiah go to next September, as he will start Kindergarten.

My friend Ruth Omete has told me about one: LoveWorks, a charter school in Golden Valley. Had I known about it last year, I would have tried to enroll already. They allow 4 year olds to attend! (if they pass certain tests, which I think Josiah can)

Either way, it seems very intelligent as I have seen her son Brat's homework. Quite a lot, but they focus on teaching many things at once. They also believe that arts should be taught to children, rather than passed up like in public schools. They believe in a postive mentality, and have a gifted students program.

At first I was concerned about Loveworks, because it was promoted by Christian organizations and publications ( and I believe Ruth mentioned it was once). I am always skeptical of religion in our schools, but feel morals are important also. But after viewing their website, my fears have been allayed. So far I like them the most.

Brandy has recommended the Community of Peace charter school in Saint Paul, and the Anne Sullivan Communication Center which I think is for deaf/hard of hearing students but I could be wrong.

I always was interested in a private school that just opened a charter: Southside Family School, over where we used to live in Whittier. They believe in creating both intelligent and socially conscious citizens. So civics and activism will be a part of his teaching, though I would like to do these things with what I already am involved with. He currently can't understand the peace marches and anti-torture protests.

Does McDonald's really want you to "get active?"

McDonald's could care less about anything except money. Of course, this entails making the public think it cares about their well-being and money, well everyone makes that right? McDonald's provides a service we all need.

Overall, they have figured out the American culture pretty well. If people make a big deal about something, issue big press releases saying things will change immediately. Then do nothing.

McDonald's has a history of doing this. Let's start with vegetarians complaining about beef flavor in its french fries. McDonald's stopped using beef tallow to cook them in 1990.. Vegetarians assumed the fries are safe, but aren't leading to a lawsuit. ( one can petition McDonald's to change this )

Of course the carnivorous public also thinks the fries are good for them. Except that they are fried in trans-fats. McDonald's had vowed in 2002 to stop using them. But they haven't, even as New York City bans them. Pressed to update the public on their advancements in this area, and we are told they are looking for a "viable alternative" to trans-fats. Let's just say, they don't want to pay a half-penny more for healthier fries. ( already doing so in Australia, where it will remove more than 415tonnes of trans fats from the Australian food supply ) 237-33

Then there is there whole "go active" program. They leased their logo and name to makers of skateboards and bicycles. Of course, don't bother going to a McDonald's after the lobby is closed - only motorized vehicles apply to drive-thru. ( Another Minneapolitan discusses his incident at a BK drive-through )

Wanting to know more about why one cannot use a bike or walk in a drive-through, I did some research. It seems that insurance companies consider car-drivers to be a risk too high for pedestrians and bicyclists. So the insurance companies are keeping us safe from ourselves, or so they say. Does that mean they are also culpable in Global Warming, supporting car-culture to such an extent?

Amina moves on

This photo was taken several weeks ago, but it is of my friend Amina. We had just gotten off the bus, and she was walking with her supervisor Geleto for a ride back home. She used to live near where I used to at the corner of Franklin and Clinton Avenue in public housing. When I lived at 2011 3rd Avenue, we would walk home together. Another local resident, Mustafa, who used to work at with her also would.

As many non-Muslims do not know, Ramadan just ended. The celebration that is a giant feast is known as Eid Al-Fitr. Most celebrated this weekend. In Kenya, I hear they celebrated it today. Either way, Amina was supposed to work this last weekend, up until today. She never called in, and two days in a row is grounds for firing. She did request time off next weekend, which means she could have gotten things confused - but she didn't answer her phone. I have her number and sent her a text message.

My friend Likelesh said she talked to Amina, and that she quit after working there for eight years. I also heard from a Somali man named Mohamed, that she got married and moved to London - never to speak to non-family again. That seems extreme, and I hope its just a lie. I wish her the best, wherever it may take her.

231 Anno Libertatis

One interesting concept I think would be interesting our nation took up is changing our dating system. Take the current year , subtract 1775, and you get the current AL or Anno Libertatis - when freedom first began for humanity. Or at least the longest experiment in a theoretically nonviolent, democratic society known as America. While it is not perfect, it is still a nation created on secular values, where no religion should gain sole dominion over society. That is why changing our dating system would be a good thing.

You think Anno Domini is good enough? Sorry, but America is not solely a Christian nation. We have plenty of Muslims, Buddhists, Hindu,and don't forget - the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. Does America really need to identify with Christianity or...Freedom? I'd guess Conservatives would have a hard time deciding. But Freedom should be the primary value America cherishes above any single religion.

This idea was first mentioned in a book known as The Probability Broach by Neil Smith. The book is a Libertarian sci-fi in an alternate America, one where people live "freely" and everyone owns a gun. ( or at least can if they want one)

Personally, I disagree greatly with the notion of "free" capital. There is a lot a government is needed to do to rein in chaos. After non-human entities created for capitalistic purposes, AKA Corporations, go bust - who pays for their environmental damages? In a free market, the poorest who cannot afford to live anywhere would get stuck living next to arsenic manufacturers and homes with lead paint. But I do agree that we need innovations and improved technological discoveries in society. Is money the sole impetus and catalyst for this, or is human goodwill and imagination enough? For many, it can be a combination of both - sometimes one before the other.

Would any other dating system make sense for the US?

Josiah at crisis nursery

Just days before the worst date of my life with Brandy, I came home to find him gone. She was stressed out by him. It wouldn't be until January 2009 that he could be diagnosed with ADHD ( until then doctors said he was too young to really tell ). Still, I had a few days of relative calm. But I wasn't calm. I did not like him being gone, and stayed at the Crisis Nursery for two days.

Brandy did not pick him up before I went to work that day. The counselor there was very nice, and gave me some information to give to Brandy to help her out.

As of March 2009, he has not gone back there. But I am thankful they exist for parents in a tough spot. I am thankful for this organization and to have family, friends, and neighbors who have helped me with Josiah in times of need.

Piñata party time!

Josiah had his birthday party - and it was quite fun!

We had some food - shishkabobs, which I found out originated in Persia ( now Iran). We also grilled some veggies and put them on rice, in addition to corn-on-the-cob. We had MUCH more food than we truly needed!

Then we took out the piñata for all the kids to beat at until they got their beloved candy! It was a lot of fun, more than I had thought. Mate was still hitting it afterward, and Josiah even put on the piñata head and "roared" at people. :)

All the kids just ended up playing either in the house or at the park behind where we live. It was very surreal, and kept me quite busy!

But in the end I was able to relax - well after Laura Kipka had me get the booze! Honestly, I am not much of a drinker. Nor had I thought it appropriate at a kid's birthday party. But with the kids busy, the adults have to do something - right? I ended up getting some Heineken, Mike's Hard Berry, and Smirnoff Ice. Did I have any? One, but thas pretty much ALL I ended up having. Which is fine, not drinking often makes it more worthwhile when I do. ( moderation in all things is a virtue )

But in getting the drinks I was also able to drive my old car - my Daewoo Lanos( you can see it in the background while Hibak is swinging!) . So...twas nice. Miss my car, but only because it conjures up memories. ;)

Peace and Justice Gardeners

Josiah's Birthday today!

But the day started out with us going to the Fifth Annual Parade of Gardens at the East Phillips Community Garden ( which we have a plot, that Brandy and I have been unable to adequately maintain. Brandy couldn't find the key to use the garden tools, which I found a few weeks later )

Lynne Mayo is founder of the Peace and Justice Organic Gardeners group, and had her own table at the garden. I rent from Lynne, but also am a part of her group. Her table was set apart from the rest of the East Phillips ( maybe Organic ) Gardeners, and she strived to inform visitors about her vision for permaculture in the community.

There seems to be some major issues between Lynne Mayo and Linda Pass( of the East Phillips Improvement Coalition). I won't detail the Fiskars grant , but a couple days prior Lynne's burdock was torn down.


Therefore Lynne, was rather ecstatic that I could volunteer with Josiah and ended up having some fun with the neighbor kids while there. Twas a fun time, though few truly showed up to the garden itself. That is okay, as I am sure we will find other community outreach opportunities in the future.

My So-called Lazy Day

I could have done a million things today. I probably should have called my ex-coworker Sadia, or even Darwin. I didn't - just goes to show how much I need to get away from everything. But I could use someone to chat with, so I thought my newfound friend Sarah might - but wasn't going to bet anything on that [she has a hot new boyfriend :P ]

It all turned out perfect anyways. I first stopped by Taco Bell and wished a few of my acquaintances ( Hashu, Meron , Daniel, Getu) a good day - in Oromifaan for Hashu. ;)

Meron has promised a couple days back to show me the Ethiopian way of making coffee. It is said to be much stronger than how we make it. She has also invited me to go with her to Ethiopia - so has Fatuma and Dureti! I am not sure how serious they truly are, but they have at least mentioned it in the last few weeks. It would be an amazing vacation!

After they went to work, I glanced to see Sarah - who was working hard as always - but twas the lunch rush. NOT the time to bother her.

So...I went to the library downtown via light rail. Each time I go there with Josiah, he just gets wild. He won't allow me to go anywhere but the children's section. So I finally was able to see all the periodicals and search the library stacks! It's AMAZING what selection they have! I am astounded by the depth of our libraries collection! Okay, maybe I am a diehard bookworm - but at least I was in heaven! ;)

I found a book on Oromo sayings and wisdom, in addition to a dictionary ( which was meant to teach English to those who could read Afaan Oromo and not vice-versa). I also found their sex advice section(titles I was looking for checked out,but still browsed) and Buddhist section.

I then perused periodicals finding a few ( GiantRobot and SciAm) of interest. Then I decided it time to head back to Taco Bell - after going to Chipotle first! After paying for my vegetarian burrito at Chipotle, I informed them I would be purchasing Pepsi at the nearest Taco Bell. They looked like I had just cussed out their mother - oh well. They don't carry Pepsi!

Arriving at Taco Bell after a few blocks bus ride, I was able to actually chat with Sarah. She was still rather bummed about her boyfriend, though I don't think she has anything to worry about. But I can understand, it's like knowing someone is upset with you and you can't even do anything about it, or even talk to them! Worse than annoying - it's downright torture! I thought mayhaps we could chat or go somewhere after she was done with work....

But she had made plans for after work( i.e. not with me), so I would be off to the Minnehaha Falls. It's a great place for a snack, and to relax reading The Dhammapada. Yeah it rained for a bit, but they have this bandstand area where I found it nice to wait it out. And it wasn't really hard rain, and prior to and afterward I was able to read near the falls. I love the place.

Maybe few will agree with me, but I think the Minnehaha Falls area is full of radiant and amazing energy. I don't think Minneapolis would be here if not for the falls, I think it is one of the anchors for this area. It may just be a waterfall in appearance, but it seems so much more.

Anywho, I made it back to Franklin Avenue by 7:30 or so and went to Seward Coop to pickup a foodlist Brandy made me ( to pickup the next day). There I met my friend Lori Yakle - twas nice as she offered to bring us some veggie kebab skewers, as her employers were out!

I scurried home with $50 in Certified Organic groceries to find Zion and Josiah running around. Brandy was busy cleaning up the place for Siah's birthday party. (I did wakeup today at 7:30AM with Josiah showing me candy he had stolen from his piñata - which I promptly moved above our closet. ) Anywho, I had the pleasure of asssisting her until the went to bed.

Now I truly am being lazy - I just did dishes and am browsing the digital realm. ( posting this)
I AM enjoying the weather tonight - though it is 60 degrees it feels like Fall already! It did the last few mornings/nights as well. Though I like wearing my shorts, to put on jeans and sweatshirts and enjoy this weather is priceless!

Checked out Midtown Exchange

Today was a fun day. Brandy took off going to school and instead we went to the Midtown Global Exchange - previously known as Sears - at Chicago and Lake Street. Previously the only purpose I had to come to this part of town was to visit Uncle Hugo's Book store to pickup Doctor Who stuff or interesting fantasy books.

We bought some Green tea at what seemed to be a Japanese-centric store. We bought organic veggies and fruits at another store that exclusively sold these items, and then we ate at the newest Holy Land restaurant. I really like having this restaurant on the south side of Minneapolis, but also didn't mind seeing the Central avenue area on northside. ( It was always an excuse to shop at East Side Food Coop also)

Last year for his Josiah's birthday, we went to the Holy Land buffet. Josiah LOVES their pitas and hummus!

Anywho, after this and during Brandy's shopping time, Josiah was able to enjoy the mall's play area. Afterwards we crossed the street and went to a store I thoroughly dislike: Family Dollar Store. I really find the place full of junk and ripoffs. Everything is prepackaged and in the smallest sizes possible. But Brandy wanted to get some of Josiah's birthday plates and stuff there - so we did. I encouraged her to buy more things at Target, especially candy in bulk sizes. So we ended up saving a bit through using fewer packaging, but Josiah's birthday will still be spendy!

Anywho, after all this shopping I simply wanted to go home. So I did, and Brandy went to do a few errands. Once getting home, Siah played with the many neighbors children in our backyard.

I could not stay home, as I had decided to involve myself more in state politics. I had joined a progressive organization known as Take Action Minnesota, to promote progressive candidates and causes throughout our amazing state. My political blog will go into more detail about today's endorsement event, but I was thoroughly surprised that a Green Party member had the ability to get endorsed for a statewide race! Of course her opponent wasn't that impressive, and Dr. Julie Risser surely was!

[ photo credits : surlygrrrl ]

Como Park Zoo day!

We went to the Como Park Zoo today! Attached to it is Como Town, where children can ride small amusement park rides - like a mini-roller coaster. Josiah got to go on 3 rides.

Brandy took photos of flowers, but we were unable to check out the many gardens - just the zoo. And we didn't take any photos, but I really loved going.

I was able to see all sorts of amazing primates, as well as tigers, lions, and flamingos. Though Como is smaller than the Minnesota Zoo - it is simple and even cozier. ( but I do wish the animals had more spacelike they do at the Minnesota Zoo! )

One interesting note is that I wore a pink t-shirt, with the Planned Parenthood label on the back and the words "It's in your power VOTE" on the front. While my Father may have been upset about my stance on reproductive health, three women felt they had to commend my wearing of this shirt. As this was the first day I wore it, I was rather surprised at the positive feedback received. Only my Doctor Who and Ghost in the Shell shirts have gotten close to this attention!

So, those who wish to make their social/political thought known - wear them! ;)

Josiah goes to a puppet show

I know, one does not think highly of puppet shows - but I now do! The Open Eye Theatre does some AMAZING work here in Minneapolis!

Josiah was able to see the The Adventures of Katie Tomatie at the Fair Oaks Park ( near our old place) with Anne and Matt. I unfortunately, had to go to work at that time to catch my bus to work. But Josiah really loved the show, and so did Anne and Matt. So I am glad that he was able to go, and that the theatre group has many sponsors ensuring their work meets the public.

They will also perform two of their shows ( including this one) at the Powderhorn Art Fair the first weekend in August.

The story line according to their website:

Little Katie is looking forward to a ‘do-nothing’ first day of summer vacation. Her plans take a 180 when she accidentally digs up Mr. Boo Boo, a wacky skeleton ready for adventure. Their hijinks turn Katie’s ‘do-nothing’ day into the best summer day ever.

Credits:

Written, Directed and Designed by Michael Sommers
Composer - Michael Koerner
Tour Manager - Kyle Loven
Puppeteers - Joanne Jongsma, Kyle Loven, Michael Sommers and Nancy Seward McLean
Accordion - Susan Haas

From train hopping to Co-chair

Well, today was a fun day.

I haven't done a good job keeping up with my life since late May. ( twill eventually )

But today I was busy. Siah and I hopped on a train to deliver a letter to my dentist. The Nicollet Station Dental Clinic forgot to fill out forms to the VA. Once they do, I get aroudn $2300 in dental work!!

Then we dropped some more things off at Savers that we no longer need. Then off to Cub Foods, more to pick up paper bags than groceries. It seems that recycling in Minneapolis requires these things. ( previously recycled through private trash co ) Weird how I use canvas bags to carry my groceries!

Anywho, at 7 I metup with the 5th Congressional District Green Party Steering Committee, which I am a member, at the Riverview Cafe. The meeting went very well, and I have some minor work to do individually - but we all do! Interestingly I have become Co-Chair for the steering committee - but am not worried about such a title. But being new to an organization and finding oneself in such a situation makes one wonder. We will all find out how capable I truly am in fulfilling my obligations - I have had much more demanding positions in the past! ( just in Iraq I had to fill leadership vacuums! )

I got home, put Josiah to sleep and found Brandy nearly so herself. I wanted to watch a movie with her the previous night - but she returned home at 2 A.M. Tonight she was too tired. But I am paying the Minneapolis Library $1 a day in overdue fees. I wasn't going to wait another day.

So, I did what I wanted - instead of waiting or just returning the movie unwatched which is all too typical. I went to SA and picked up a Pepsi One. I then made popcorn and tossed in the DVD for Nobody Knows.

It is both a beautiful and dark movie following the lives of 4 abandoned children. The eldest of 12 years old, tending to the younger. The children start out with their less than stellar mother, who stays out late and comes home drunk. Then she disappears for a week. She returns for a bit, then leaves again for a month. She's back for a day, then disappears never to return. The children start out okay for a while, then start to fall apart once they realize Mother isn't returning. Their water, power, and gas is shut off. They are very near starvation several times, but manage through incidences. I cannot reveil the ending, but their plight is sadly true.

In 1988, the Japanese media ran stories about the "Affair of the Four Abandoned Children of Nishi-Sugamo." And it seems their lives were far more gruesome than this wonderfully cinematic movie could portray. But nonetheless the movie is amazing and is more than worth looking for.

I am finishing my day by writing this blog. Mayhaps I will update more often ;)

Block patrol, racism, and Dominionism

Today from 9:45 to 11:45 I volunteered with the SSCO Block Patrol. Before I even got to the substation on 19th Street, I saw a man curled up in the fetal position on the sidewalk. This would appear to be our first issue of the day, which I announced to Arlene and Dave while putting on my yellow vest. We called for a squad to deliver our man to detox. He got up when he noticed us and walked to Nicollet Avenue and to the Franklin Avenue bus stop. Two African American men appeared to be discussing something with him - patting him on the shoulders and showing money. It is common for drunks to be robbed, as they are incapacited to the point of indefensibility and incoherent though.

We then had the most active African American cross Nicollet Avenue and confront us in front of Acadia for apparent racism. It seems that our initial call to the police was due to him being black, and not lying on the sidewalk a couple blocks away. He told us he intended to get drunk and did not care if the cops questioned him about it. He told us these things repeatedly in the same and synonymous manner until the police arrived. Then he brought up the race issue again, causing the police to defend our position in getting a man into detox.

It is sad that the race issue is brought up too often. While it is definetely an issue in America, it is not on Block Patrol. I recently heard from a non-member that she heard it was a racist organization. They must not have met Nadine or Mustafa - both are African Americans on the block patrol. Nor have they volunteered with us to see how we operate - it is a nonviolent community effort to curb crime. Ignoring those initiating crimes based solely on color means those committing the crimes are treated different. We as a community, city, nation decide our values and as a community we should enforce them upholding and improving our quality of life.

We also went to an open house at the Artists Lofts on 19th and 3rd Avenue. It was quite a lovely loft, and I am amazed at how well they used the space. It may not be family friendly, but it is couple and single friendly - and quite cozy. The place was two levels, had HUGE windows, and had very high ceilings. I personally would want something less art-like and more practical - more efficient basically.

Then I went to the park for a picnic with Brandy and Josiah - they were enjoying a music festival at Fair Oaks Park. It was some NORML type event, that would top things off with a Marijuana March ( which we did not stay for). But it was fun. Josiah tends to be a flirt and go up to any cute girls he can find and chat with. ;) As we were leaving, we heard a speaker state that the couple who would create marijuana prohibition were married at Fair Oaks Park. Quite an ironic bit of history, as few now are quite so anti-pot in the neighborhood. ;)

Anywho, I went off to work as usual. I had a fun Saturday night. And as usual I am always chatting with people about various things. Politics, social behavior, norms, etcetera get brought up frequently with me. :) Anywho, I found a co-worker who was a Dominionist. She homeschools her kids, votes pro-life, volunteers at her church, and believes we live in the End Times and should have a Government preparing us for such a time. ( you know - to counter the Anti-Christ ) I decided to chat with Brenda about a particularly touchy subject: abortion.

After reading How The Pro-choice Movement Saved America by Cristina Page, I decided to test her hypothesis. Would pro-lifers really move not only to ban abortion, but contraception as well? I cannot remember actually how we got onto the subject - I know we discussed how her sister married a Muslim and could not raise a child without it being "her" Christian religion - so divorced him. Either way, she stated she no longer used birth control. She 'found out' a few years ago that it was an abortificant - because they think that it stops a fertilized egg from imlanting in the whom.

I informed her of how making abortion would make contraception illegal in 30 states and probably many more. She understood that women who have a miscarriage could be seen as having had an abortion and her doctor may have to report it or refuse to assist her. The birth defects like anencephaly to her were simply "mankinds imperfection" manifesting itself in physical reality. Basically, anything bad that happens to us is because we are not in Heaven. We can only take it as a sign to submit to Jesus. It reminds me of the Muslim inshallah - God willing.

It is interesting how Christians see humans as evil, while Buddhists see all humans as potential Buddhas. I prefer the half-full mentality any day.

Unfortunately, the pro-lifers have lied to millions of Americans - contraceptives are proven safe. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The mechanism of action of hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine contraceptive devices.
American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. 181(5, Part 1):1263-1269, November 1999.
Rivera, Roberto MD; Yacobson, Irene MD; Grimes, David MD

Abstract:
Modern hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine contraceptive devices have multiple biologic effects. Some of them may be the primary mechanism of contraceptive action, whereas others are secondary. For combined oral contraceptives and progestin-only methods, the main mechanisms are ovulation inhibition and changes in the cervical mucus that inhibit sperm penetration. The hormonal methods, particularly the low-dose progestin-only products and emergency contraceptive pills, have effects on the endometrium that, theoretically, could affect implantation. However, no scientific evidence indicates that prevention of implantation actually results from the use of these methods. Once pregnancy begins, none of these methods has an abortifacient action. The precise mechanism of intrauterine contraceptive devices is unclear. Current evidence indicates they exert their primary effect before fertilization, reducing the opportunity of sperm to fertilize an ovum.

More information on the true pro-life movement on my political blog.

Are humans really omnivores?

This is rather interesting. I was looking for images to toss on my blog at some future point and found this:

Humans lack both the physical characteristics of carnivores and the instinct that drives them to kill animals and devour their raw carcasses. Ask yourself: When you see dead animals on the side of the road, are you tempted to stop for a snack? Does the sight of a dead bird make you salivate? Do you daydream about killing cows with your bare hands and eating them raw? If you answered "no" to all of these questions, congratulations—you're a normal human herbivore—like it or not. Humans were simply not designed to eat meat.

It really gave me another perspective on my thoughts. But most Americans do not spend much time contemplatings most things they do on a daily basis - unless it involves relationships or money.

--

My friend Angel told me that one cannot eat yeast if they are a true vegetarian as it is an animal. I was always confused by this comment, though I mainly have been vegetarian for health and environmental reasons. But I found an answer today on a vegan website:

Do vegans consume yeast?

from a reader in Spain:
Yes they do. Yeasts belong to the same group of organisms as mushrooms. Here's a dictionary defintion:
fun·gus (fnggs) n., pl. fun·gi (fnj, fngg) or fun·gus·es. Any of numerous eukaryotic organisms of the kingdom Fungi, which lack chlorophyll and vascular tissue and range in form from a single cell to a body mass of branched filamentous hyphae that often produce specialized fruiting bodies. The kingdom includes the yeasts, molds, smuts, and mushrooms.

Perhaps if this is an untrue statement, it will have to be revised. Otherwise Angel's comment may be unjustified. And I have not found any further similiar anti-vegeterian comments out there.

Oldest person in the world is a .....Vegetarian!

I randomly had a short conversation the other day with a rather tall man - at least 6 feet, 2 inches. He told me that he would have been 8 inches taller had he not switched to a vegetarian diet at the age of 13. ( making him the shortest in his family) His doctor allegedly told him this. I asked him if his parents truly accommodated him for such a diet change(many assume you need more protein and ignore ensuring a balanced diet), and he was appalled I had asked. My own vegetarian diet was never brought up, nor would this guest have much a clue that I was. But it irks me that he believes a lie thought up by himself or his doctor. I do not know where his comments came from as I was nearby and had not even noticed him until he spoke to me, yet he said it out of the blue and I had to comment.

Now that the oldest person in the world today is a Chinese vegetarian. It only goes to show a healthy diet can improve longevity.

I have shamelessly copied the article:

China's happy vegetarian turns 120

(UPI Quirks in the News Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)Listed in the Guinness World Records as the oldest living person, a Chinese woman has marked her 120th birthday.

Celebrating her birthday Saturday with dozens of relatives and locals in the city of Leshan, Sichuan province, Du Pinhua said she has been vegetarian for her whole life, China Daily reported Wednesday.

Locals describe Du as a tolerant and happy lady who never argues with others

Brandy Back! ( Day 1)

Well, Brandy just got back from Costa Rica last night!

It was nice, as she went through all the things she did there - at least some of it. She no longer has her camera as it was stolen( she forgot it somewhere for a few minutes), but she still has the memory card from it - and her photos. I will post them when load them on the computer.

Today, Brandy let me sleep in until 8AM and I was able to take a shower - by myself! It was amazing! ;) She made breakfast as well - hash browns and eggs with Orange juice.

Spent a few hours at the park - it was fun. But Josiah still is adjusting to playings games like "tag" with other children. He doesn't like to be 'it'

We then went to a Supermercado Central on Lake Street. On the way there we ran into some Christian proselytizers. They gave Brandy a tract and attempted to give myself one. I understand Billy Graham and his crusade, and I do not buy their version of Christianity. They however felt it their duty to convert a Buddhist. They went through a list of reasons I should convert, including how it would upset God and my own punishment. I informed them that I respected their faith, but believed in reincarnation. They had no further comments. You cannot disprove a belief so radical to fundamentalists. ( yet 15% of U.S. Christians DO believe in reincarnation ) All this occurred while transferring at a bus stop.

Brandy knew the foods that she wanted such as: plantains, guanábana juice, jalapeños, lime, and an m&m cookie. We then took our goodies home and cooked up plaintains and made tostadas. It was fantastic! :)

Of course, I had to go to work - but my day had been made by hanging out with them both.

Minneapolis a top Vegetarian city

SURVEY RANKS MINNEAPOLIS AMONG THE MOST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY CITIES IN AMERICA

Minneapolis — Pizza Lucé, Ecopolitan, Triple Rock, and Café Brenda—these popular, vegetarian-friendly Minneapolis-area eateries have helped to establish Minneapolis as one of the most vegetarian-friendly cities in the United States. PETA’s national survey of vegetarian-friendly cities took into account the number of vegetarian restaurants, nonvegetarian restaurants with vegetarian selections, top vegetarian and vegan product sales, and extensive retail selections, and Minneapolis got high scores in each category.

A good place to start is Pizza Lucé, which has three locations in the Twin Cities and offers vegan cheese, sausage, and pepperoni as well as an awesome variety of vegetarian sandwiches, including its Special Spicy Mock Sausage Hoagie. The all-vegan Ecopolitan sells upscale raw and organic foods and cruelty-free, nontoxic home and body products. For something with a bit more edge, visit Triple Rock, a grungy, greasy-spoon punk bar that welcomes everyone while offering vegan White Russians, sloppy joes, and chili fries, plus fantastic vegan pancakes and French toast on weekend mornings. Café Brenda serves up the unique taste of mock duck in the Southwestern Mock Duck Taco and Ginger-Glazed Mock Duck Salad. Loaf around at the French Meadow Bakery and Café, where the bread is completely vegan and fresh-baked daily. And for some amazing Indian food, head to the all-vegetarian, award-winning Udupi Café in Columbia Heights.

Vegetarian food sales have doubled since 1998, hitting $1.6 billion in 2003, and the market is expected to grow another 61 percent by 2008. Twenty-four percent of college students ask for vegan options in school cafeterias, an indication that vegetarian diets are growing in popularity among young people. The American Dietetic Association has endorsed vegetarian diets, noting that vegetarians have lower rates of heart attacks, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.

PETA took population into account and determined a per capita ratio of vegetarian restaurants. Cities with vegetarian organizations and food fairs received bonus points. Portland, Ore., was voted number one, Seattle was the first runner-up, and San Francisco captured third place. Rounding out the top 10 were New York; Atlanta; Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia; Austin, Texas; and Chicago.

"Minneapolis is a mecca for people seeking healthy and delicious vegetarian food," says PETA Director of Vegan Campaigns Bruce Friedrich. "More and more people are making the switch to a vegetarian diet, and Minneapolis restaurants and other businesses are responding by offering more delicious vegetarian fare that appeals to everyone."

For more detailed information about the survey, please visit GoVeg.com
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Of course, I would add places like Galactic Pizza, Sawatdee , and several Vietnamese restaurants to the list of pro-veggie restaurants. But then the article might seem a bit long. All major grocery stores also include many veggie products and meat-alternatives in the Twin Cities. ( In the Uptown Rainbow the vegeterian Bush's Baked beans takes up twice the space of regular Bush's beans!)

But this is a slow evolution to a very vegetarian friendly city. But if prices for meats goes up dramatically , due to grain competition and lack of immigrant workers , this could be a catalyst for swifter change.

Find out about anyone

I thought this was an interesting site. Type in someone's name. There are 92 entries for my name: "Kevin Chavis" and some are duplicative. But there are others with my name throughout America. For $40 I can get a background check and $10 additional gets a background check. Awesome stuff, yet is there too much information about me or you out there? Maybe I should spend some money sometime and find out. Today...I will just ponder what it could mean. ;)

Eckankar and Vegetarianism

I was searching for local Vegetarian organizations and oddly enough ran into a religion: Eckankar. I went to their temple in Chanhassen during their Global gathering in the Fall of 2003. I was disappointed that they did not have any vegetarian foods. A spiritual organization is not making progress unless it developes a pro-vegetarian attitude, in my perspective.

Maybe this is odd, but the world cannot survive a meat eating diet for much longer. Nor can anyone truly interested in protecting the environment stick with a meat based diet.

And those who disagree with a vegetarian diet, that is their choice after all. It may not be a requirement to be one to learn lessons in this world, but through reincarnation we will have future opportunities. Is it a requirement though? I am not one to say, I just find it a wiser choice than remaining ignorant on the positive aspects of a meat-free diet.

I will be writing Eckankar to find out if they have changed their beliefs in the last 3 years, or if they are just advertising on Vegetarian sites.

Their address(no e-mail yet):

ECKANKAR
PO Box 2000
Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 USA

1st Double Library Day

Today was our typical Tuesday. We went to the Franklin Library for storytime ( 10:15 am). As yesterday was the first day of spring - the season was the focus. A pre-school class joined us and ensured a VERY full room. Siah loved it.

Earlier in the morning I had called Way to Grow and found that they were having a meetup at the Sumner Library just north of downtown. They would begin (noon) with playtime, then cleanup, followed by an arts activity, wash hands then have a snack. It would end with another playtime and end at around 2pm.

I signed up to have someone visit our home to assess Josiah's preparations for kindergarten. Way to Grow specialty is in their tagline: "Promoting school readiness." Since I cannot get Josiah into a preschool, I want to ensure he has as much socialization as possible prior to kindergarten. This used to mean only going to parks ( in the winter he is the sole kid and most of the summer as well) . Then I found the library storytimes and now WTG. I found a Way to Grow sticker at Sabathani Community Center when I attended the Green Party Caucus earlier this month. And now I feel quite fortunate to have found them. =)

Their programs are free. They even tried to give me free bus tokens to get to their weekly event. But I have a bus pass, and truly do not mind using it. ( it is very cheap and even convenient)

Since I did not expect a snack or anything Josiah and I went to Subway ( or "Eat Fresh" as Siah calls it ) at the corner of Franklin and Chicago Avenue. Then it was a short hop on 2 buses to the Hosmer Library. Siah enjoys the intermission between buses, as it is his snow stomping time.

After this we went home, and Siah was able to stomp more snow walking from Nicollet Avenue. He watched "Dark Crystal" while I tidied up our apt. and he was very much entertained. We stayed at home for the rest of the night, as it is cold outside and I didn't much want to go out again.

I watched a video I received today that was in Paste Magazine, and just lent the DVD to our neighbors. It was chockful of vids from the likes of: Kraftwerk, the Decemberists, Bloc Party, KT Tunstall, and Johny Cash. It had some award winning shorts as well. I couldn't pass up sharing this lovely find of a magazine with those who would appreciate them.

I called Lori Yakle tonight and had a short convo as her cordless phone died on us. :( Oh well, she should really visit me sometime to give me back my CDs and let me lend her more! :)

Anywho, tried to get in touch with others, but to no avail. =(
Mayhaps tomorrow, though I plan to help make pasta at Dan's across the hall. ( Josiah will most likely wrestle with Dewey ) Twill see what happens! ;)

SNOW RETURNS!

Just a few days ago I was contemplating wearing my sandals instead of shoes. Seeing the first official day of spring less than 2 weeks away had given me such hope. Our snowstorm of the year changed that. Not cool.

Anyways, I was SO BORED at work the other day I kept track of how many guests were in my small section of the casino. Usually there are hundreds per section - as I work evenings.



Here is my list:

3PM - 41 ; 4:30PM - 55 ; 5PM - 53 ; 6:45PM - 55 ; 7:40PM - 66 ; 9PM - 82 ; 10PM - 62 ; 11:15PM - 55

It was exceedingly boring but I occupied myself on this and other things.

That was Monday - TODAY was typical for Tuesday. Went to the Franklin Library for pre-school storytime. Then went home for lunch and Siah's naptime. Then when Siah got up we had a pre-dinner snack then off to sledding. After sledding we went home had dinner , playtime, cleanup then bedtime for Siah. Again, not fascinating but typical. :)