Okay, I've had enough of the mess in Oregon. It is such utter and absolute crap that I'm simply fed up with the BS and misdirection.

( Here's a novel idea: let's look at some facts. )

A question from a fellow instructor made me start thinking again about what it means to become a black belt. Not to have one, not to be awarded one, not to wear one, but to become one and to BE one.

( clicky )

This weekend, I was privileged to attend the wedding of a lovely, highly intelligent young lady that I've known since she was a little girl. It was absolutely wonderful to get to see her, to share her special day, and to catch up with her and with with several old friends and to meet several new ones ( Read more... )

A poem that was written for me after my fall last year.

Thank you. This is... something special.

( The Day You Didn't Die )

Wow... I didn't realize I've been away from DW so long. Going to have to do better about that!

And now, on to the post at hand...

( Will you join me in a celebration? )

Yay, the doctors have removed all medical restrictions and said I can resume normal activities -- and yes, I told them what "normal" is for me.

More thoughts to follow on this, but for now? Yay!

2014 is almost gone, and I can't say I'm sorry to see it go. Still, for all of the dark spots of this year, taken as a whole I will call it a good year. I've lost too damned many people this year, and I was almost one of them, but I'm too stubborn to "go gently into that good night ( Read more... )

( Well, I went back to 'the scene of the crime' this week. )

What am I thankful for ( Read more... )

( An update on the state of the me: )