Vashti Quiroz-Vega's Blog, page 58

Spooky Nights in October

Halloween

Hello, one and all! Welcome! The month of October is associated, at least in the USA, with Halloween. Many people love this holiday and count down to the 31st. All across America, there will be parties and costume contests as the official date approaches. Even Universal Studios dedicates a portion of its theme park to “Halloween Horror Nights” —an event I’ll be attending this year (and posting pictures ;D)

I’m scared already!

There are many people who do not celebrate Halloween. Some people claim that it’s an ungodly event marked by devil worship. Well, I hate to inform them that every night, there’s probably devil worship going on somewhere in the world. Anyway, this has always made me wonder about the origins of Halloween. I looked into it and in today’s post, I will share with you what I’ve found.

Halloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Samhain is a Gaelic (Irish, Scottish) festival marking the end of the harvest season (summer) and the beginning of the cold winter, or the “darker half” of the year often associated with human death.

Celts believed that on the night before the new season (what we now know as Halloween), the boundary between the worlds of the living and dead became indistinct, unclear. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed the ghosts of the dead returned to Earth.

Celtic Samhain Celebration

The Celts believed the spirits caused trouble and damaged their crops, but they also thought the presence of the phantoms helped the Druids, (Celtic priests), to make predictions about the future. Celts were entirely dependent on the natural world, so these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.

During the celebration, the Druids built huge sacred bonfires where the people gathered to burn crops and sacrifice animals as offerings to the Celtic deities. To honor the gods Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes.

When Christianity spread throughout the Celtic lands, the church changed the festival of Samhain to All Saints Day, which was a day to honor the dead. The celebration was similar to how the Celtics used to celebrate Samhain. Later, All Saints Day was changed to All Hallows Eve and, eventually, to Halloween.

All Saints Day

So there you have it. A little insight into how Halloween came about. In the spirit of Halloween (no pun intended), I will be posting scary stories and all things spooky, as well as Halloween recipes, decorations, costumes, make-up and more. So hold on to your butts! Here we go…

I will start you off easy today with a few Halloween cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy!

PHOTO BY: Kraft
Yummy! Sludgy Chocolate Martini

Sludgy Chocolate Martini

 

What you need





1
Tbsp.  chocolate syrup






3
 Halloween OREO Cookies, finely crushed (about 1/4 cup)






1/2
cup  chilled brewed strong MAXWELL HOUSE Coffee, any variety






1/4
cup  vodka






1/4
cup  chocolate-flavored liqueur






1
cup   light vanilla ice cream






2
Tbsp.  PLANTERS Creamy Peanut Butter








make it

 POUR syrup onto small plate; place crushed cookies on separate small plate. Dip rims of 2 martini glasses in syrup, then in cookie crumbs.

SPOON any remaining cookie crumbs into prepared glasses.

BLEND remaining ingredients in blender until smooth; pour into prepared glasses.

kraft kitchens tips



DEEPER-CHOCOLATE MARTINI
Prepare using light chocolate ice cream.
VARIATION
Omit the peanut butter for an equally delicious martini.
NON-ALCOHOLIC VARIATION
Substitute 1/2 cup chocolate milk for the vodka and liqueur.

Spooky drink – Midnight Mary

Midnight Mary

Original ingredients for the Midnight Mary #3:

1 1/2 oz North Shore Aquavit

1/2 oz Benedictine (not B&B)

3/4 oz lime juice

1/4 oz galangal syrup

1/4 oz simple syrup

1 1/4 oz clarified tomato water

Fresno chile bitters

Nitrogen frozen basil foam

Garnished with heirloom tomato and pigmy basil

An easy at-home version that has proven delicious:

1 1/2 oz North Shore Aquavit (or sub other brand of aquavit, gin, or tequila — all work very nicely)

3/4 oz lime juice (fresh-squeezed)

1/2 oz simple syrup, or to taste (1:1 sugar to water)

3 cherry tomatoes, halved

3 basil leaves (or other fresh herbs of choice)

Pinch of salt

* Place halved tomatoes in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add lime and simple syrup. Muddle well to extract liquid from tomatoes. Add remainder of ingredients. Add ice, shake well, and pour through mesh strainer (to collect solids) into a chilled coupe.

Hot Dog Mummies

Breadstick Mummy Dogs

1 roll/pkg Pillsbury Breadstick dough (12 count)

12 hot dogs (I think it should work with sausages too)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Unroll all 12 breadsticks from package. Cut each into 3 equal strips. Take 3 strips, one at a time and wrap around 1 hot dog starting from the top of the hot dog. (Each hot dog has 3 thin breadstick strips around it). Leave a small space towards the top of the hotdog to make mustard eyes. Continue wrapping all dogs then place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

2. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes. Use mustard or ketchup for the eyes.

Bat Bites
Aren’t they cute?

Bat Bites

 

Recipe Time

Prep Time: 50 Minutes

Nutritional Information
Amount per serving

Calories: 130
Fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 4g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrate: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 154mg






Ingredients

1 (4 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
8 ounces soft, mild goat cheese, at room temperature
1/4 cup pesto
2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
8 pitted olives, sliced
32 peppercorns
32 triangular blue corn chips or free-form wing shapes made from leftover tortillas from Ghost Chips $

Preparation

Mash together cream cheese, goat cheese and pesto. Chill for 40 minutes.
Shape mixture into 16 2-inch balls, about 1 heaping tsp. each. Roll in black pepper and poppy seeds to cover. Press two olive slices into balls for eyes and place peppercorns in centers for pupils.
Insert chip on either side of ball for wings; serve.

Candid Talk with Yolanda Isabel Regueira Marin

Hello everyone! Thank you for visiting my blog. It is my great pleasure to introduce to you today the lovely, talented writer and blogger Yolanda Isabel Regueira Marin. I met Yolanda on Google+ and it didn’t take me long to discover that she is a wonderful person. I visited her blog Love, Pain and Other Catastrophes and quickly became a fan. Read on and you’ll see why.

 

 

In her words…

I was born in Madrid Spain and immigrated to Australia with my parents when I was four years old  I speak and write Spanish fluently and dabble in Italian.  I have grown up surrounded by Spanish culture and traditions and have integrated them into my life in the land downunder.  I guess you could call me a Spanaussie.

I live in beautiful Sydney, Australia and am a Licensed Conveyancer.  For those of you who don’t know what that is … I practice Property Law and all that it involves.

I have many interests one of them being the theatre both performing and attending.  I am a member of a community theatre at which I perform.

I enjoy photography, trying capture the place … the moment, through the lens of a camera.  Hand in hand with this is my love for travel.  I  feel I have learnt so much through experiencing the different cultures and the colours of the many countries I have been lucky enough to have visited.

My greatest passion is writing.  Life is my inspiration with all its beauty and its ugliness.  I have always enjoyed writing, but started my blog as a way of externalising my thoughts and emotions. Whilst I enjoy writing prose, poetry is my first love.  I love the freedom of expression it allows.  Writing allows me to immerse myself in another character or travel to another world.  It feeds my soul and lets my imagination take flight.  It is as essential as breathing.

I live, I love, I breathe …. a mixture of unique and ordinary.  A little bit mad, but sometimes very sane.  Life has brought moments of overwhelming joy and dark despair …. I travel through this journey that is life, with one eye open and the other closed to unnecessary reality.

“We are all in the gutter but some of us are looking at the stars.” Oscar Wilde

Take my hand and join me in this journey that is life.

Yolanda has aways had a flair for the dramatic.

 

 

Okay, lets start the Q & A…

1) If you win the lottery what would be the first thing you would do with the money? (no mushy answer, haha!)

Really, no mush damn … lol It would depend on how much money I won. If I won an outrageous amount I would definitely leave work and dedicate my time to my writing and other things that I enjoy doing. I’m sorry, I have to get a little mushy … Please don’t stop the interview!! I would help my daughters out financially and as I have intentions of doing some work with charities once I retire, I would start that a little earlier. I have always wanted to contribute to and work with ill and/or abused children.

 Okay, that’s it! I’m writing a long letter to pope Francis requesting you be canonized as a saint.

 

2) Do you speak Spanish?

Yes, I do. I read and write in Spanish as well. My father in particular was adamant that my brothers and I would learn the language. He would make us sit down in front of a small blackboard every day after school and give us lessons. He was not quite as diligent with my younger brothers. Of course, I hated it at the time, but I am now very grateful that he took the time to teach us. I also went to Spanish lessons when I got older and speaking Spanish at home obviously helped. Although I speak Spanish well, my English vocabulary is more extensive and I would consider English to be my first language.

I believe it’s great to have a second language.

 

3) What is the most demeaning thing said about you as a writer?

I have been very lucky, I have not had too much criticism of my writing and the little that I have had has been constructive and I have learnt from it. The only incident I can recall happened about two months ago, when I was told that my writing was ‘dribble’, that my poems were ‘a pandering bunch of crap’ and that I ‘had only published one technically good poem’. It hit me in the gut and it hurt at the time, but everyone is entitled to their opinion and you cannot please or cater to everyone.

     I, like you, believe that everyone’s entitled to their opinion and I understand that not everyone is going to like every piece you write, but there’s a right and wrong way to give a critique. There’s no reason for someone to be rude or mean. Of course it hurts.

 

4) What are you passionate about? (in addition to writing)

My two daughters, they are my greatest achievement and my greatest love. Ooops, sorry I forgot about the ‘no mush’ rule ☺

I’ll let it go this time. ;D

 

I am passionate about the theatre, both attending and performing. It takes me away from reality and transposes me to another place and sometimes another time. Come on, who wouldn’t love it? You get to dress up and pretend to be someone else just like most of us did when we were kids. I will let you in on a secret, I have never really grown u, ha ha. On a more serious note, it has taught me discipline, expression and articulation when speaking.

Yolanda with her niece in a performance of Jayne Eyre

I also love to travel … Another great teacher from which I have learnt about different cultures, traditions and experienced the beauty of different landscapes and architecture. Hand in hand with travelling is my love for photography which allows me to capture the experience, the moment, the place and share these with others.

 

5) Where do you get inspiration for your blog posts? Do your experiences, songs, other writers, or dreams inspire you?

All of the above. Inspiration can be found everywhere if you leave yourself open to it. In Life, Love, Death, Nature and so much more … a newborn’s cry, a lover’s touch, a sound, a memory, an experience. I will leave it there, I am rambling. ☺

 

6) Have you ever hated (or regretted) something you wrote on your blog?

No, I don’t think so. Those of you who have read my blog know that it is personal. I am very honest and open when I write. I write from the heart and gut. My blog may not be for everyone, it was started for me and along the way, I have been told, it has touched other’s lives. There is no greater compliment than this. So no, there are no regrets. Whatever I have written was ‘right’ at the time.

I hear you. Well, actually I read you. You know what I mean. :/

 

7) Do you consider yourself a writer, blogger or both? Why?

This is the most difficult question because of what my definition of a writer has always been. I have always considered a writer to be someone who writes for a living, however meagre that living may be. What I have learnt from the writing communities that I am involved in, who are full of talented writers and some who are passionate about writing, is that if you write regularly you are a writer. If you have had your work published, you are an author. It makes sense, don’t you think? I am a poet and a blogger. A writer? I am still trying to get my head around being a writer. I have been called a writer by others and I have started delving into writing flash fiction and short stories. Maybe, I am a writer, I will leave that to the readers ☺

You are a writer, poet and blogger.

 

8) What is your favorite theme/genre to write about? Why?

I enjoy writing about life, the good, the bad and the ugly, and romance. The same three descriptions apply to romance too, lol. Whilst I have a vivid imagination the words flow more easily when I have lived it or have had exposure to something. Upon saying this, any form of writing irrespective of what theme/genre you write in, this would apply to. When writing, you have to dig deep and draw from inside. The more we get out there, live, experience and feel, the more we have to draw from.

     I absolutely agree. You do have to get out there and LIVE life. Experiment, take risks (calculated, don’t go nuts) and have fun.

 

9) If you got an offer to be a travel writer for a popular magazine making lots of money, would you leave your current job and go for it? Why/why not?

Is this a serious question? I am typing my resignation as we speak , lol … To combine my love of travel, with my love of writing and throw in some photography would be the ultimate career. To then be able to share these experiences with others, how exciting and satisfying. So, if there are any travel publishers out there … Hell, any publishers I’m your gal!! ☺

 You go girrrl! Ha,ha!

 

10) What do your loved ones think about your blogging/writing? Do they read it?

My family have always been aware that I write poetry, but some were surprised when they found out I had started writing a blog. Mainly because of how personal it is and how much of me it exposes. When I have written particularly raw pieces, my daughter used to ring and asked if I was ok. She is better now as I have explained to her that it is not always about me. They are all very supportive and all follow my blog. They have told me that they enjoy it and many posts have touched them. If they really hated it, I would hear it … We are very open in my family, lol.

That’s awesome Yolanda! 

 

11) What makes you laugh?

Myself, I can laugh at myself very easily, lol See, he he. Children, a good comedy, life … I laugh a lot and it has gotten me through some tough times. Laughing is the key to wellbeing and so much more fun than giving in to sadness.

So true! Sometimes I’m asked why I’m always smiling and laughing. Well, it keeps you young. It is the best medicine.

 

12) What makes you so sad you could cry?

Ok, here we go … mush again. The plight of so many people in war torn countries, living in extreme conditions. The poverty, famine … With so much wealth in the world, why does it still exist? Especially the children that never get a chance to reach their full potential. Abused and terminally ill children. When I feel like crying about my pain, I try to think about how great my life is, compared to others. This does not invalidate my own pain, we all experience sadness in our lives. I have gone off on a bit of a tangent, he he. I am pretty emotional, a sad movie or book will have me sobbing.

     I’m writing the letter to pope Francis as we speak. Ha,ha. But seriously, the things you mentioned are heart-wrenching and the       answer to your first question is GREED.

 

13) What character from a novel (protagonist/antagonist or other) do you see yourself in? Why?

Can I say two? Elizabeth Bennett in ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and Scarlett O’Hara in ‘Gone with the Wind’. They have always stood out for me. Elizabeth Bennett because she is independent and outspoken for her time, but still feminine and caring of the people she loves. Scarlett O’Hara because whilst she comes from a life of privilege and some would say is spoilt, once thrown into chaos … She is passionate, strong and a survivor. She does what needs to be done for herself and her family. I admire strong women.

     I could see you in both these characters. Great choices.

 

14) What is your guilty pleasure?

Not too guilty, I don’t believe you should feel guilty about pleasure. Every morning I have a cup of coffee in bed. I get up a little earlier to be able to start the morning with this little bit of pampering and relaxation.

 Hmmm. This makes me wonder…who prepares this cup of coffee? (Re-thinking the letter to pope Francis)

 

15) Do you think your life would make an interesting memoir? If so, who would play you in a film of your life?

My life has been pretty average with all the usual ups and downs. There are some parts that others may consider interesting, but at this point I don’t feel I have led an extraordinary life. Maybe that is still to come ☺ If a film were made I would want Cate Blanchett to play me. She is such a talented and versatile actress and could even make my life seem interesting, ha ha.

     Why did I know Cate Blanchett would be your choice? Ha,ha! By the way, your life is very interesting, which brings me to my next question.

 

16) Tell us briefly about your recent vacation in Hawaii.

Aaaah Hawaii … back at work two weeks and it already feels like a dream ☺ It was a fun vacation. I did a 7 day cruise of the Hawaiian Islands, which was great and allowed me to see Maui, Hawaii – The Big Island and Kauai. The landscape of these islands is breathtaking and though I took many photographs it was difficult to capture the grandeur of Haleakala Crater or Waimea Canyon. I met some lovely people on the cruise and had a few party nights, he he. Waikiki was vibrant and busy with lots to do. In Waikiki, Pearl Harbour was the highlight. It was interesting, emotional and a must if you’re visiting. Hanauma Bay is great for snorkelling. Last, but certainly not least, I did some major retail therapy, lol.

 

 So much for not having an interesting life. 

Yolanda Isabel Regueira Marin in Hawaii

Okay, officially tore up the letter to pope Francis! Ha,ha!

 

 

Check out the links below to contact this very interesting lady.

http://lovepainandothercatastrophes.blogspot.com

http://about.me/yolreg

http://yolreg.tumblr.com

https://twitter.com/yolreg

Yolanda I. Regueira Marin
performing in Murdered To Death

Lyrical

Hello wonderful people! Welcome to my blog. Today I would like to share one of my favorite songs by the singer/songwriter Bruno Mars. It’s called “When I Was Your Man” and it’s one of those songs that grip your heart, not just with its melody,  but with the lyrics as well. It’s a romantic and dulcet soul/pop piano ballad about a pre-fame heartbreak. Most of us have that one man or woman we let get away. He regrets the way he treated her and sincerely wishes that her new man treat her the way she deserves to be treated. Well, read the lyrics, which is poetry set to music (my opinion), and then listen and watch Bruno’s performance. If you’re not sitting dreamy thinking of a lost love by the end of this, then I don’t know what to tell you. ;D  Enjoy!

“When I Was Your Man”

Same bed but it feels just a little bit bigger now

Our song on the radio but it don’t sound the same

When our friends talk about you, all it does is just tear me down

‘Cause my heart breaks a little when I hear your name

It all just sounds like oooooh…

Mmm, too young, too dumb to realize

That I should’ve bought you flowers

And held your hand

Should’ve gave you all my hours

When I had the chance

Take you to every party

‘Cause all you wanted to do was dance

Now my baby’s dancing

But she’s dancing with another man

My pride, my ego, my needs, and my selfish ways

Caused a good strong woman like you to walk out my life

Now I never, never get to clean up the mess I made, ohh…

And it haunts me every time I close my eyes

It all just sounds like oooooh…

Mmm, too young, too dumb to realize

That I should’ve have bought you flowers

And held your hand

Should’ve gave you all my hours

When I had the chance

Take you to every party

‘Cause all you wanted to do was dance

Now my baby’s dancing

But she’s dancing with another man

Although it hurts

I’ll be the first to say that I was wrong

Oh, I know I’m probably much too late

To try and apologize for my mistakes

But I just want you to know

I hope he buys you flowers

I hope he holds your hand

Give you all his hours

When he has the chance

Take you to every party

‘Cause I remember how much you loved to dance

Do all the things I should have done

When I was your man

Do all the things I should have done

When I was your man

Do you regret someone you let get away?

Why So Sad?

Looking around on Tumblr recently, I noticed a great deal of gloom in many of the posts left by teenagers. I know teens are supposed to be moody and occasionally melancholy, but some of these kids seemed depressed, and it concerned me. Teen depression is a serious problem that affects every facet of a teen’s life. Teen depression can lead to drug and alcohol abuse, self-mutilation, violence and even suicide.

According to suicide.org, a teen takes his or her life every hour and a half. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24. Approximately 20 percent of teens experience depression before they reach adulthood, and between 10 to 15 percent suffer from symptoms at any given time. Why is there more despair and hopelessness among teens today? I wish I knew the answer.

One thing that surprised me is that only 30 percent of depressed teens are being treated for it. Are parents, teachers and friends not realizing that these kids are depressed?

Important things to know:

➢ A teenage girl is twice as likely to suffer from depression than a boy.

➢ Teens that are abused, neglected or bullied are at risk.

➢ Young people who experienced trauma or disruptions at home, including divorce and deaths of loved ones, are also more likely to develop depression.

If a teen you know shows signs of sadness and hopelessness, he or she may be depressed.

Here are some red flags, visible warning signs that can help you detect if a teen in your life is depressed.

If a young person…

➢ has unexplained aches and pains

➢ is sluggish

➢ doesn’t care about their appearance

➢ cries easily

➢ is very angry, irritable and frustrates easily

➢ talks about death and suicide (even jokingly)

…it’s time to wake up! You have a problem on your hands.

Depression can be easily treated, but first you have to understand that there’s a problem, and sometimes teens don’t know how to let you know. They’re counting on you to notice. So if you interact with teenagers, please pay attention. You could save a life.

Below are posts written by teens on Tumblr:

“My whole life is falling apart and no one cares about it.”

“It’s not fair! Instead of crying when I start to panic I get angry now. So freaking angry, and the stupidest shit triggers it. So now I’m the bad guy and I messed everything up again.”

“I’m so fucking done with looking like this! I’m going to fast 2 or 3 days a week and on the other days I’m going to eat 600 calories or less and do the 30 Day Challenge and the 30 Day Ab Challenge, and I’m going to start running 4 miles. I will lose this weight before Christmas. I don’t care what it takes as long as I won’t be called fat anymore.”

“I’m literally so shitty someone could easily replace me. Anyway, who gives a fuck?”

“Yesssss! I hate school. Life sucks! One more day of humiliating myself.”

“When you can only calm yourself by forcing yourself to think of the absolute worst thing that can happen to you, over and over, you know something is wrong with you.”

“Can I live inside Tumblr? : ( My real life sucks and I hate it.”

“I hate being alive so much. It’s one problem after the next and no one has any sympathy for me.”

“I’m a mountain that has been moved.

I’m a river that is all dried up.

I’m an ocean nothing floats on.

I’m sky that nothing wants to fly in.

I’m a sun that doesn’t burn hot.

I’m a moon that never shows it’s face.

I’m a mouth that doesn’t smile.

I’m a word that no one wants to say.”

“Me: You wanna hear a joke?

 Me: my life.

 Me: *laughs at my shitty life until I breakdown crying.”

If there is a teen in your life suffering from depression get medical help immediately. Click here for a helpful link.

Man Without A Name

A very warm welcome to my blog. I hope everyone is having a great week so far. Today I’m featuring the interesting, talented and mysterious poet: Kay Leez. I read her poem Man Without A Name on Google+ and it touched me deeply. Her words haunted me for days. I decided I had to share it.

Kay Leez

In her words…

I write only as a means of self-expression – my inspirations coming from both personal and empathetic sources – with the hope that my words resonate and evoke emotions, or become the voice of those who are silent.

I am a Forensic Psychiatric Nurse going for my Masters degree in Psychiatric Nursing, and I also graduated with degrees in English and Biochemistry.

Kay Leez

Man Without A Name

A busy train station, Monday morning rush

Straphangers’ party, hot sweaty crush

I note with hesitation, the lone empty car

Excitement yet dread, I push the doors apart

Glorious sweet warmth, blast at my skin

But the fetid smell envelops me, soon as I step in

Oblivious to the world, asleep on the bench

Tattered and filthy, he exudes the stench

I grimace in disgust, pinching my nose

Swears on my lips, dusting my clothes

My mood turns blue, I take the furthest seat

Impatience begins to rise; I don’t try to be discrete

He’s wakened by the conductor, told he must leave

I sigh with gratitude, exhale with relief

He looks my way, I turn from embarrassment

I try to maintain distance, my look yet arrogant

But there’s something in his face, that catches my eye

The blank stare of defeat, as one ready to die

Don’t know what possesses me, but I follow him out the door

An inexplicable feeling, I don’t care to explore

His gait is unsteady, I am afraid he may fall

Instinctively from behind, I reach out then recall

He wanders along the platform, as though in a daze

From time to time he turns back, and catches my gaze

He probably wonders like I do, why I follow him

Words cannot explain; I am propelled by a whim

Suddenly he collapses, crumples to the ground

I rush forward and grab him; he falls without sound

I cradle him in my lap; he reaches for my face

Not sure what to expect, I stay my place

A gentle soft touch, for such a worn hand

Barely grazing my cheek; a move unplanned

The look in his eyes, brings me to tears

The look of wide wonder, that someone does care

The light of life gradually, begins to fade away

Fear surges over, as I start to pray

His body grows heavy; I hold him on my lap

A blank stare takes over; I know it’s not a nap

My heart is broken, by a stranger I just met

I hold him even closer, as he takes his last breath

Deep sobs rack my body, with disgrace and shame

How could I have been so heartless, to this man without a name?

by Kay Leez

_______________________

12/2/04

Copyright © 2013 Kay Leez (Whispers). All Rights Reserved.

Read more of Kay Leez’ work here:

http://whispersofthedove.blogspot.com

Connect with Kay Leez on Google+

What’s Happening In Syria?

Hello! Welcome to my blog.

We’re living in tough times, what with impending war and the economy being what it is. I’m sure most of you are aware that the United States and its allies are preparing for a possible strike against Syria. I understand that what’s happening there is important and affects all of us. I also know that this subject is complex and may be confusing for some people.

I’m not a journalist or even a very political person for that matter, but I’ve been following this story. In today’s blog post, I am going to share my thoughts and opinions on this subject. The entire issue is confusing, and my hope is that in the process of sharing my thoughts, I will help at least one person to better understand what’s going on. However, I encourage you to do your own reading and research and develop your own views on the matter.

Syria is a country in the Middle East. It’s about the size of Washington State. The country is currently in the middle of an intense and bloody civil war. So far, the fighting between government and rebel forces has resulted in the death of over one hundred thousand people, as well as two million refugees, half of them children.

The question of why the people of Syria are killing each other is quite complicated and confusing, especially for citizens of the United States, since we are used to being able to speak our minds freely.

The killing started in April of 2011, when peaceful protestors emerged to confront Syria’s monstrous dictator, Bashar al-Assad, who first responded by secretly ordering the deaths of certain activists. When the protests continued, government forces began kidnapping, raping, torturing and killing anyone suspected of being an activist, along with their family members, including many children. Mutilated bodies were dumped on roadsides as a warning to those who would oppose the government, presumably with the intention of instilling fear in any future protestors. Soon troops began to open fire on protestors, killing people at random. Eventually, civilians began to retaliate, and the fighting escalated into a civil war.

Syria’s Dictator Assad

So you’re probably asking yourself why are we butting our nose into the affairs of another country? Syria’s dictator Assad used chemical warfare against civilians in his own country. This is a no-no when it comes to the laws that govern the world, and this is where our involvement began. If President Obama and the USA were to allow Assad to get away with using chemical warfare in his own country, what’s to say he or some other dictator would not use chemical warfare on one of our allies—or against us, for that matter?

Chemical Weapon Mask

Then there’s the issue of Russia.

Russia is Syria’s greatest ally. Moscow impedes the United Nations Security Council from imposing any sanctions that might go against the Assad regime. The United States might have to bypass the United Nations in order to take any action against Syria and the Assad regime. Meanwhile, Russia sends many weapons to Syria, which facilitates more killing of civilians.

Why would Russia want to protect a fiend like Assad? According to the Washington Post, there are a couple of substantial reasons. Russia has a naval installation in Syria, and any “international intervention” against countries like Syria is seen as a threat to Russia. In addition, Syria buys many Russian military exports, and Russia needs the money.

Although the United States wants to help the rebels, our country is in a complicated position. For instance, if we offer assistance by shipping arms, the weapons could fall into the hands of jihadists and lead to major chaos.

What if we were to send in Navy Seals to take out Assad? Again, that would only empower jihadists and possibly cause a second civil war. How about air strikes? Yeah, that worked real well in Iraq (hint of sarcasm). A ground invasion would only cost more lives—both American soldiers and Syrian civilians—and our list of enemies would increase significantly around the world.

Navy Seals – Badass

The solution advocated by the Obama administration is for the Assad regime and the rebels to develop a peace treaty. However, there has been too much rancor between the dictator and the rebels, and there hasn’t been any indication that either party wants to resolve this peacefully. I believe this will not happen, and I think the US government also knows it will not happen, but they have to at least try for a peaceful political solution before they use a military one.

However, and this is where it gets perplexing for me, the Obama administration has not sugar-coated the fact they want to launch cruise missiles at Syria to teach Assad a lesson for using chemical warfare against the rebels and civilians in his country. Maybe someone can clarify this for me, but wouldn’t firing missiles at Syria cause more harm to civilians? I mean, Assad would probably be well-protected in some bunker along with his minions. Civilians would be the ones getting killed and maimed out in the open. Now, if you were to tell me that those missiles would be directed at Assad’s house when he was least expecting them, then I would agree that it’s a great idea, but otherwise what’s the point?

I understand that something needs to be done about this ruthless dictator, but I truly hope the Obama administration thinks of something that doesn’t involve sidestepping the United Nations, making enemies with Russia, increasing anti-Americanism around the world, and killing civilians in Syria.

I wouldn’t want to be in President Obama’s shoes at this time.

President Barack Obama

SUPERSTITIONS

Hello and welcome to my blog! Today is Friday the 13th. Burrr. What was that chill? Must have been a draft. Anyway, like I was saying, it is Friday the 13th and for some people this is an unlucky day. For me it’s a day like any other. I’m one of those people who claim not to have any superstitions. Of course I avoid scheduling anything significant on this day, not for my sake, but simply because I know there are others who may not attend a social event planned on this day. For instance, my first book signing event was scheduled by my publisher’s publicist for today, but I promptly changed it to tomorrow.

 

Oh! Who am I kidding? I purposely changed the date of my book signing, not because I thought a Saturday would be better, and not because I thought less people would show, but because I was afraid. There I said it! The number 13 is unlucky enough, but add Friday and it spells disaster. However, I want to make it clear that I’m not a superstitious person, I simply respect the unknown (clearing throat).

 

So what is the origin of Friday the 13th?

There are different theories, but according to folklorists, there is no written evidence for a “Friday the 13th” superstition before the 19th century. One theory states that it is simply the putting together of two older superstitions: that 13 is an unlucky number and that Friday is an unlucky day.

 

Why is the number 13 considered unlucky?

In numerology the number twelve is considered the number of completeness, as indicated in the twelve months of the year, twelve hours of the clock, twelve tribes of Israel, twelve apostles of Jesus, twelve signs of the Zodiac, etc., in contrast the number thirteen was considered odd and uneven, infringing on this completeness.

 

Why is Friday considered an unlucky day?

Friday was the day Jesus Christ was crucified.  According to some, Friday the 13th of October 1307, hundreds of Knights Templar were arrested and killed in France, an action apparently motivated financially. On August 13th, 1821, the Aztec Empire comes to an end. On July 13, 1821 notorious Confederate general and Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard Nathan Bedford Forrest is born in Tennessee. On October 13, 1989, the Dow Jones experienced the second largest drop that it had ever experienced. Need I say more?

 

Do you know what the fear of Friday the 13th is called?

Friggatriskaidekaphobia  (try using this word in a game of “Hang man”)

So, are you a superstitious person? Before you say no, answer the following questions:

Do you wish upon a star?

Do you hesitate to open an umbrella indoors?

Do you carry a “Lucky” rabbit’s foot?

Do you say, “God bless you” when someone sneezes?

Do you knock on wood?

Do you feel a sudden chill when you break a mirror?

What are some of your superstitions?

Collaborating with a 4-year Old

Reblogged from the busy mockingbird:

One day, while my daughter was happily distracted in her own marker drawings, I decided to risk pulling out a new sketchbook I had special ordered.  It had dark paper, and was perfect for adding highlights to.  I had only drawn a little in it, and was anxious to try it again, but knowing our daughter's love of art supplies, it meant that if I wasn't sly enough, I might have to share. 

Read more… 1,002 more words

This is a must see! Illustrator Mica Angela Hendricks Showcases her and her 4 year old daughter's unique series of whimsical sketches. It is an awesome collaboration and I truly believe you will enjoy it.

How Will The World End?

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Q & A With Non-fiction Writer Jasveena Prabhagaran

Jasveena Prabhagaran

A very very warm and affectionate welcome to all visiting my blog. Thank you for stopping by. I am so delighted to introduce the caring and passionate writer Jasveena Prabhagaran. She has a blog called Thoughts And Views That Matter where she discusses relevant issues about women, politics and other important affairs. Her posts are quite interesting, and she writes with fervor. I recommend you visit her site and see for yourself.  I do a little victory dance (in my head) whenever I meet someone truly worth knowing.  Jasveena is certainly one of those people, and I feel honored she has accepted to be interviewed by me today.

Jasveena, looking lovely in red.

In her words…

Hey guys!!! It is a wonderful opportunity to be featured on Vashti Quiroz-Vega’s Blog, our very own author friend, and the creator of Robbie the adorable main character from her novel The Basement. Thank you very much Vashti for considering me to be your interviewee, for coming up with a personalised interview questionnaire, and thank you viewers for reading about me.

Let me introduce myself to all of you since some of you may not know me. I’m Jasveena from Malaysia. I have recently graduated from an engineering school and currently looking for a job. I love to blog and write about human rights, women’s issues and just about anything that crosses my mind. My request to be an official contributor for Global Voices has been accepted and now I’m an author for Global Voices for Malaysia. My passion for writing was greatly encouraged by an author friend. She asked me if I could do her a favour, I said yes, and she instantly told me to write a book. I was overwhelmed by her request. I hesitated about the entire idea, but eventually I started to write my book, which features women and their lives all around the world. It is a non-fiction book. I hope to complete it someday soon.

1- What are you working on at the moment?

I’m freelancing at the moment, and I am actively looking for a job too. In between that, I write for my blogs on current issues and started to draft out my posts for Global Voices too. On top of that, I also research on issues related to women, and write my thoughts out for the non-fiction book I’m working on right now. My book requires valid sources to refer to especially when I’m talking about real life issues. I’m a big fan of Jean Sasson. I learnt that non-fiction books will have issues like people attempting to sue you for your writing. That’s a challenge I need to face and be prepared for legally.

Phew! You’re a very busy lady. 

2- What is the most important lack in your life?

My blessings are uncountable! I won’t say lack, but it is something I wish I had done when I was younger. I wish I had taken sports seriously while I was at school, but I think it is never late to start. I love sports now. It makes you feel so good about your body and health.

I agree, exercise is very important for your health and self image.

3- If you were a man in power what laws would you enforce or establish in your country?

I would make efforts to have cleaner politics (if not transparent political system)! I feel it is going really ugly now with our dirty politics, and back in May we had the dirtiest election ever!

I guess when it comes to politics things are pretty much the same everywhere. Dirt, dirt and more dirt!

4- What did you want to be when you grow up?

I am aiming at being a good employee at work and a good homemaker! I might do my own business later when I have some working experience. Apart from that, I want to do something for people and create awareness on issues I feel matter the most.

You are already creating awareness on issues that matter on your blog.

5- Name three people throughout history that you greatly admire.

I admire Newton for his persistence, Nelson Mandela for his fight for international justice and peace, Lady Diana for being so compassionate towards the poor and less-fortunate.

Wonderful choices!

6- Do you research your blog posts?

Most of my blog posts have some level of research before I write it out. What I mean by research is by referring to external websites or what people are saying about the issues I write about. Posts that reflect my own thoughts and views basically have fewer researches.

7- What do you believe books are for?

Books are the most powerful tools to convey ideas. It can be fictional stories or facts, but if you have something to offer the world, you should definitely write it, as writing preserves your thoughts best!

I couldn’t agree more. When you write a book, you leave a piece of you behind for others to enjoy, and remember you by when you’re gone.

8- Do you believe in complete honesty or is it okay to tell a little white lie to spare someone’s feelings?

I feel it is best to convey your thoughts honestly without hurting others. Honesty doesn’t have anything to do with being rude. It all depends on how we choose to say it.

If only some people knew the difference. : /

9- Are you a brave woman or does fear sometimes stop you from doing what you want?

I take calculated risks when I attempt to do something new. If I find it worth going for, I will just do it. ☺

Bravo!

10- Why do you think what you do matters?

I feel my thoughts and views matter because it concerns a large part of the society I live in and the world in general. I think it is important to be a part in a struggle for justice to make the world we live in a better place. I think I’m just doing my part. ☺

I believe you are doing your part.

11- Is there someone special in your life right now?

I’m so glad that the answer is no. LOL. Not at the moment.

Jassie, I’m sure many hearts leaped with joy just now at the thought of you being single. ;D

12- Do you see yourself as a writer?

I am certainly a writer. I used to doubt myself very much when it comes to writing, but at this point in my life, I can safely say I am a writer.

Good for you. If you don’t believe no one else will.

13- Where do your best ideas come from?

My best ideas come when something crosses my mind and I realise that my subconscious mind is discussing it with me so much that the issue pre-occupies my mind. That’s when I know I need to write it down and share it with my readers.

14- What are you addicted to?

The internet. ☺

15- What’s your weakest character trait?

I take a lot of time to get things done the perfect way. I can’t write when I’m sleepy. I can’t do anything else when I need sleep. I require an ideal situation to get something done. That’s why when I’m into it I will make sure I get it done before I lose my mood. That’s how I carry forward work to the next day. (Not a good thing at all)

     Thank you Jasveena for your honest and insightful answers. I enjoyed interviewing you.

Writer and Blogger
Jasveena Prabhagaran

*Please visit Jasveena’s blogs by clicking on the links below. Learn more about this sweet and passionate writer and read her interesting and informative blog posts.

http://about.me/jasveena_prabhagaran

http://thoughtsandviewsthatmatter.wordpress.com/

http://thoughtsandviewsthatmatter.blogspot.com/

Author Interview – Lois Lane