JC's Blog

StoryRhyme After Dark: A Divorce Story for Parents and Children

StoryRhyme.com — 2009-01-05T23:07:05-08:00

Corinna doesn’t like to listen when her father says mean things to her mother, and when her mother cries and tells her father to stop and yells at him when he doesn’t stop. ...She’s sorry that they don’t go on family day trips any more when they all get in the car and drive somewhere, and then find a place to walk around, and then discover a place to eat, and finally, when everyone is tired, drive back home, with her sleeping and holding her car pillow. She’s also sorry that because her parents fight they don’t talk about her to each other, like they used to do all of the time about Amanda. ...Or she goes out for hours and hours and when she calls her to see when she is coming home, her mother always says that she’ll be back in a little while. ...Corinna wished she could tell her mother that she is sad because of the fighting and that she wants to live with Megan and her parents.

Inching Into The New Year

StoryRhyme.com — 2009-01-04T23:21:57-08:00

The days surrounding New Year's have been gray; days where it feels much better to lounge around the house in layers than to venture outside; of course, for the Rose Parade, the weather was warm, clear and bright, with our local mountains covered in snow as the “White Christmas” backdrop for our palms and ready-to-harvest orange trees. ...This week, I'm serving jury duty, and since my group wasn't called for Monday, we'll be heading off to the observatory where we'll gain some perspective on our place in the universe and relative unimportance (mere specs). ... (An up side to his new school: an extra week of vacation to make up for starting a week earlier than the rest of his friends). ...Husband's been going through his vast shoe collection (vast because it never gets culled), and my trunk is full with the second round of bags to take to Goodwill. If I were the resolution-making type (which I'm not), one resolution I'd make would be to try to live in the here and now instead of always looking around the corner for what's coming next.

Our New Year Poll; And Some Things I've Learned in 2008

StoryRhyme.com — 2009-01-01T18:28:54-08:00

This month's poll asks the burning question: New Year's Resolutions -- do you or don't you (make them, that is)? ...As I looked back, taking stock of the year 2008, here are some things I learned: ...(This realization came as I was in the midst of dismantling a jacuzzi frame with the claw end of a hammer.) ...Sometimes when Husband says everything's "fine," it really is and it's not his attempt to flee from me. ...If a blog falls over in the forest, it still makes a sound, it's just that nobody's reading it.

The Recycled Tacky Gift Exchange

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-28T19:39:55-08:00

At one point, when it looked like the gingerbread panels had gained the upper hand in their refusal to be joined together, he considered breaking out the hot glue gun. ...The highlight of the party was the much-anticipated Recycled Tacky Gift Exchange (which is actually a gift swap. ...The gift must possess that certain quality which renders it so unique in its absurdity as to place it in a category all by itself. One year I inexplicably won for my entry: the chemical-resistant apron I'd ordered from the Science Surplus catalog. ...Honorable mentions went to Bob for his roll of police caution tape (in Spanish and English) and his creepy clown statue.

Volunteering: A Tale From The Trenches

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-21T16:05:31-08:00

For the last three years, I've done volunteer work at a retirement facility which provides graduated levels of care to its residents: independent living, assisted, then the center for those in need of round-the-clock care. ...Her problem right now is having to listen to the jangly, mechanical (like one of those annoying musical cards) rendering of "Jingle Bells" at 7 a.m., a time when she's just not in the mood for "jingling all the way" but would rather be enjoying a quiet, contemplative breakfast. ...During our visit, I had the somewhat-depressing realization that she's really not made much progress from my first telephone call with her so many months ago. ... Bianca wants to be, in her words, sitting under a tree with a book but has found herself instead in this communal situation where everyone is in everyone else's pockets. ...I told her that she's providing way too much entertainment for Him here on Earth (and, really, He probably hasn't figured out what to do with her just yet).

An Appreciation of Dorothy Sterling

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-15T14:23:13-08:00

Yesterday, our friend Ira (I guess you're officially a contributor now) sent a link to a Los Angeles Times article on the passing of author Dorothy Sterling at the age of 95; he thought her story would be worth noting on StoryRhyme.com. At first unfamiliar with the name, I learned that she'd written a book that had made a big impact on me as a child, "Freedom Train: The Story of Harriet Tubman" (published in 1954 and still in print). Dorothy opened my eyes to the story of this amazing woman, born into slavery, who escaped, then selflessly worked to help other slaves gain their freedom through the Underground Railroad. ...Dorothy Sterling not only brought Harriet Tubman's story to life for young readers, but she also wrote about other lesser-known African American historical figures and was instrumental in bringing their stories to mainstream American society of the 20th century. In her personal life, she was involved in the Civil Rights movement, worked to rid textbooks of racial bias, and also to improve the way minorities were depicted in children's literature.

Behind the Story: "Lighting The Chanukah Lights With Emily"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-13T21:36:56-08:00

StoryRhyme.com is delighted to share our first outside submission, "Lighting The Chanukah Lights With Emily," by our friend Laura (a writer of the highest caliber and independent thinker) who writes her blog about this adventure we call life over at RebelliousThoughtsOfAWoman.com. When she's not writing, Laura finds herself in a classroom full of enthusiastic, well-groomed, and always polite high school freshman eagerly waiting for her to teach them the proper way to diagram a sentence. ... In her dreams they also all turn in their homework and actually read "The Gift of the Magi" when she assigns it to them, and they don't have to Google it to figure out why Jim and Della's gifts to each other are ironic.) ...We hope you all enjoy this wonderful holiday story. ...Read Laura G.’s original story "Lighting The Chanukah Lights With Emily."

Bye, Bye, Bettie

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-12T16:04:19-08:00

I'd never heard of her, but my interest was piqued when I read an article written by one of her (many) fans... ...She'd vanished from the limelight years earlier after a congressional investigation led by Senator Estes Kefauver and years of hounding by federal agents who believed her work to be indecent. ... In 2005, a bio-pic was released about her (which Husband took me to see on my birthday a few years ago). ...The woman next to me had a cool Bettie purse and these really tall black leather platform boots (not that I'd ever wear them, but they're fun to look at on other people). Bettie was fun, and we have our memento of her -- a Bettie Page lunch box depicting her in a bathing suit on the beach; the sides of the lunch box have a leopard print.

Behind the Story: Emily's Handmade Christmas

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-08T17:42:08-08:00

Our houses are full of stuff, and the solution is often to move up to a larger house so we can fill it with more stuff (George Carlin had a whole routine about this). This year especially, at least for me, it's not about acquiring more, it's about sustaining and helping those in need. Charlie gave up his December allowance to adopt a little owl named Yoda from the Moonridge Zoo in Big Bear, California (where they rehabilitate injured wild animals and provide for their food and shelter). In the spirit of giving, and realizing the need to use creativity when wallets are thin, I wrote an "Emily" story in which she finds herself with very little in her piggy bank but wants to give to the most special people in her life. ...Be well, and remember, it's the love we share with one another that is the best gift.n

StoryRhyme.com's December Poll

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-02T20:51:09-08:00

Will it be a lovely fresh-cut Douglas Fir, traditional Spruce, or sad little Charlie Brown tree? ...Growing up, part of our family tradition was going out every year to pick out a tree with Dad. I've kept up the tradition of fresh-cut trees until two years ago. ...(I can remember one year when one of the cats decided to run up the tree and knocked the whole thing over. ... Then there was the year when one of the cats sprayed on the presents.

Truth & Quakers

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-02T16:16:33-08:00

It was a gift given long ago (can't remember by whom, probably my mother-in-law), so I picked it up on a whim. ...A strategy I've employed recently is to keep quiet as opposed to saying something I don't mean but at the same time don't wish to do harm. What good does it do when someone asks you how you liked the church's chorale performance when you thought it was spotty at best, downright painful in places? ...The Quakers believe that truth is the key to everything; it is only when we can tell ourselves the truth that we really know the answers in life. Shakespeare's quote from "Hamlet" says it all: "To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man."

Everything You Wanted to Know About Leif Ericcson Day But Were Afraid to Ask

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-28T22:42:13-08:00

After being authorized and requested by Congress, Lyndon Johnson became the first President to issue a proclamation declaring October 9th as the day to celebrate Leif Ericcson, those of Nordic descent, and the spirit of discovery. ...What retailers have dubbed Black Friday, that day-after-Thanksgiving shopper's dream/nightmare, Charlie has proclaimed to be Leif Ericcson Day. ... Charlie thinks he's gotten the shaft and can't understand why Columbus (boo, hiss) has gotten all the glory. Well, history is often simply what gets written down (by the prevailing side); or a matter of perspective. ...Then you and your friends can take turns wrestling the dog while watching old episodes of "Beakman's World" on VHS.

That Thanksgiving Cat: Updated!

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-28T15:26:18-08:00

We're standing in the rain and this poor thing is huddled under the bushes in our front yard, with obvious broken legs and who knows what other injuries. We stand there getting wetter as Husband, with heavy gloves, tries to entice Kitty into our pet carrier (and accomplishes this task without ever coming into direct contact with injured angry claw-filled cat (clever Husband). ...Spruill's diploma on the wall showed that he'd graduated vet school in 1951 (and his prices date back to that era). ...Spruill leaves and comes back with a long pole with noose (the kind that dog catchers use), fits loop around Kitty's head, and administers tranquilizer. ...Mary would have neutered this stray Tom as a public service, but the old doc thinks he'll be better off intact (survival-wise).

Why Was Jim's Gift to Della Ironic in "The Gift of the Magi"? Updated

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-18T18:23:23-08:00

Okay, since it's the season of giving and since I don't want to feel like I've got spiders in my soul like The Grinch, I'm directing this post to the many of you who are seeking the answer to the question: What is ironic about the gifts Jim and Della gave to each other. ...My first impulse was to make something up like, "It was ironic that Jim spent his entire savings on a bag of premium sheep chow when Della had already sold their prize pet to buy Jim that merino wool sweater he'd had his eye on." ... When Lexus tells the men in our lives to "Give her a December to remember" and they've got nothing in their pockets but a little lint and a maxed-out credit card, that's got to hurt a little. ...After a few years of working hard, they'd probably find themselves moving up in the world, their circumstances no doubt improving, but I'd bet no gifts would ever be as precious as the ones they gave each other that Christmas. ...I don't ever want to be that ridiculously wealthy that Husband has no idea what to give me other than a luxury car wrapped in a bow (which is about as subtle as a herd of stampeding elephants).

Some Helpful Thanksgiving Tips

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-19T02:14:26-08:00

The grocery stores and magazines are giving out their Thanksgiving menu planning guides, and I know some of you out there are starting to get a little freaked out in anticipation. ...So this holiday, take a deep breath and relax with some of our very own StoryRhyme.com helpful hints... ...If they're imaginative, they can put on an impromptu re-enactment of the first Thanksgiving. ...If you have a little one in the house, put them in charge of place cards. ...Remember to have fun, reflect on those things you're thankful for, and have an extra piece of pie.

Thoughts on Wildfires

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-16T15:05:10-08:00

There are fires all around us, the air is thick and as I look outside, the sky has cast an ominous orange glow over the backyard. ... Year after year, the beautiful homes are sought after; those with the spectacular hillside views. ... It's a strange feeling to go about one's business, doing the Saturday shopping, while people are rounding up their pets and valuables, evacuating their homes. In a few days, we'll wash those homes off of our cars, hose them from our patio furniture... My thoughts go out to those who have lost everything; I especially feel for the residents of the mobile home park in Sylmar that have been displaced, knowing that they will probably feel the pinch even more than those with more means.

The Allure of Cheap Hair Products: Hair Diary Part 3. Hens Are Not the Same as Roosters

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-12T14:07:38-08:00

It's like the vow I made not to buy a dozen donuts again because Charlie and Husband will each eat one and forget about them (and it was their idea to buy them in the first place) while the rest of the box sits there first tempting, then tantalizing, then downright mocking me. I eat all but the last one and a half donuts (because they're stale at this point and even I have my limits). Anyway, four months later, Husband gently suggests that my hair's looking a little less than fab; encourages me to give it another go. ...He'd lovingly part sections of my hair, paint the section, then wrap it with foil; pop me under a dryer to bake for a while, give me a lovely wash with scalp massage, then cut my artifically sun-kissed locks. ...Charlie had spent the night with his cousins (his uncle had bravely taken on the task of taking a tween and three teens to Disneyland for the school holiday), so today we drove out to the country (well, country for these parts) to pick him up.

15 Strange Things I Saw in the Harriet Carter Catalog

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-08T22:32:07-08:00

First of all, we're way too cool for this catalog (or so I thought), yet it comes anyway. ...(I'm going to get this for my brother in-law.) ...You put them on the bottom of your foot and the pad extracts all of your impurities through the sole of your foot. (I'm going to get this for my brother in-law.) ...For those of us who like to travel from room to room with our collection of pants.

Who am I..? 51 Things about Me

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-07T13:08:29-08:00

Received a ticket for making an illegal left turn on my 21st birthday (while sick with a cold). ...Have a husband who automatically takes the opposite side in an argument just for fun. ...I once did a T.V. show taping for a court show - as the court reporter. ...Have three great sisters and a sometimes sweet brother who's the oldest (who has a very large CD collection). ...Love the Kids in the Hall (favorite Kids' song "These are the Daves I know, I know).

May God Bless These United States of America

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-11-04T21:29:27-08:00

"To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not rich; to study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly; to listen to the stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart; to bear on cheerfully, do all bravely, awaiting occasions, worry never; in a word to, like the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common." ...Tonight, children everywhere will realize their potential to maybe one day become the President of the United States. We are living witnesses to history: our country has elected Barack Obama, an African-American, as President. ...Though we usually take him with us to vote, this time it was different. ..."I've got to admit, it's getting better, a little better all the time ..."

Domo Arigato, Target

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-29T17:11:54-07:00

Finding ourselves captivated by a mysterious little brown monster who's been showing up in the Target Halloween ads as of late, Charlie and I drove over to Target (our favorite place to shop) to see if we could get our hands on a Domo gift card. ... From the tag on our newly-acquired Domo pillow case, "Hatched from a mysterious egg in an underground cave, he first made the scene in Japan -- where his TV-fueled imagination and wide-eyed exuberance led him into tricky situations." ...The deal: I'd buy Charlie a $5 Domo gift card so he could purchase the alien action figure he's been coveting, then he'd get to keep his Domo gift card/costume character. We saw the Domo pillow case (marked at $4.99) which became an instant must-have (and his alien action figure was out of stock), so I gave him the choice: gift card or pillow case. ...

17 Kids and Counting and the Tater Tot Casserole: Updated

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-12-19T18:35:00-08:00

I guess I like to put on my amateur cultural anthropologist's hat and study this group -- a family the size of a small classroom -- the interpersonal dynamics of this little society; how they accomplish necessary daily tasks such as food acquisition/preparation, education, etc. ...They play well with others (one wonders if this is true away from the cameras) and live in harmony; pretty impressive for a group of that size. ...When one of the small children (a boy of maybe 8 or 9) actually talked about their "live shot" during their Today Show appearance, I knew these children were media savvy (although they do live in their own sheltered environment by design). ...Oh, and for those of you who are just dying to try-out that Tater Tot casserole, here's a four-to-six serving version on a handy 3 1/2 by 5" index card... ...Here's a recipe for Tater Tot Casserole from someone who says they personally got it from Michelle Duggar (though in the episode in which she and her boys prepare their Tater Tot casserole lunch, they don’t appear to be using the name brands listed below, hmmm)...

The Harry Potter Party

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-25T13:38:34-07:00

Last year, in the midst of Harry Potter fever (yes, we waited with the crowds for the midnight book release of the final Harry Potter book), Charlie asked for a Harry Potter-themed birthday party. ...Charlie made decorations and signs for everything including a "Chamber of Secrets" sign that he put on the toilet tank; a "Leaky Cauldron" sign for the kitchen; and a "Platform 9 3/4" sign that we hung at the front door to welcome guests. ...Once the guest was sorted, they were then given their Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry entrance examination in which we asked them various questions (many of the answers were contained in the front room or they were about Charlie. ...In addition to the entrance exam, the guests were given a list of required items to bring to Hogwarts School on their first day of classes: ...The guests picked out their wand and hilt and chose the stain they wanted for their wand, chose a charm to put in the hilt -- down of Phoenix feather, Unicorn Maine Coarse Hair, or Dragon Heartstring (feathers, red and white dental floss), then used their Elvin's wand glue to glue the hilt to the wand, and waxed their wand with their "Serf's Up" wand wax.

Road Trip: Remembering Grandma

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-21T14:14:31-07:00

We made the trip in a large pickup truck (Jenny drove), to my grandmother's memorial, with a side trip to pick up an antique secretary cabinet and various mementos of my grandma's. ...My own mother was brought up in the same small town and couldn't wait to leave it for the big city (where she later met my dad while the two were in radio broadcasting school), although a part of her belongs to the desert. ...At the service, I was able to see my grandmother as a fully-formed person in the memories of those who worked with her and learned from her. ...We visited with relatives we hadn't seen in years, had a great little restaurant reunion, then picked up the next day and headed off to the storage unit with my Uncle Lynne. ... She'd divested herself of her belongings as much as possible and this was what was left; the remains of a life in one small storage space.

Interesting Times

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-17T14:19:30-07:00

It seems innocuous enough, not harsh like the traditional "May your cattle die and your crops wither" type curse. ...When my mother-in-law says a gift we've given her is "interesting," I know that really means we'll be getting it back one day soon. When Charlie says something for dinner is "interesting," that tells me he's less than enthusiastic about it. ...With our roller coaster stock market and the campaign these last few weeks (which has been more interesting than I'd ever imagined), I feel that we are certainly living in interesting times. My hope for everyone (and personal goal): May we be fascinating people living in boring times.

New! JC's Blog's Monthly Poll

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-13T21:39:21-07:00

You can be the first to vote in our monthly poll. This month, in honor of the upcoming election, we pose the question: Whom would you vote for..? You'll find the poll in the sidebar of JC's Blog's main page. Vote often... Next month's poll: Cranberry sauce with whole cranberries or the kind you slide out of the can (complete with ridges).

17% Cooler. More Hamsters.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-10T14:39:49-07:00

In an effort to bring more joy to the world at a time when things are looking a little bleak, StoryRhyme's resident webmaster and head gargoyle (Husband) has given StoryRhyme.com a new snappy hamster layout. It's 17% cooler, with 4% improved readability, and don't forget the new (drumroll please) hamster features. ...Husband almost changed my avatar to that of Anne Francis wearing a very funky dress with plastic overlay and vintage Ferragamo elf shoes while standing next to Robby the Robot. Hey, what's the point of having your own website if you can't have fun? ...Oh, and don't forget to find the hidden Easter eggs on the front page.

Of Halloween Costumes

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-06T15:25:48-07:00

Also, it was a little challenging coming up with this list from memory as Charlie likes to wear costumes even when it isn't Halloween. ...So great, in fact, that when he wanted to be a kitty the next year, we told him that it was a kitty costume. ...We spray-painted cardboard boxes metallic grey (one for the body and one for the head), used dryer vents for the arms, and battery-powered bicycle reflectors on the front of the costume. ...Dad again (he's much more clever than I) wrapped a torn-up sheet around him from head to toe (and used a bunch of safety pins). ...A sight to behold in green, with spiders sewn all over, Charlie looked great, but it was a bit hard to maneuver in (he waddled).

LightSpeed Update

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-10-02T13:49:11-07:00

I reread my post "New Tricks..." and what I really meant to say is that I'm not a fan of change, and, if given the choice, would rather take a nap than have to learn something new (when it comes to technology. ... I'm thankful for my reporting career in that it's forced me to actually use a computer and not be a complete Luddite. ...It is really different and I had visions of holding this thing on my lap and just kind of forgetting that I was taking a depo, getting distracted and, all of a sudden, I'm not writing anything. ...I had an untran rate of almost 4 percent (which is huge) and will be adding a lot of slop to my dictionary. ...So I think I'll survive this change, but the only other change I want (at least for a while) will be in my pocket.

Dictionary for Dads

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-30T15:00:31-07:00

The other day, we received a letter in our info@storyrhyme.com inbox from Robert Livingstone, founder of Dictionaryfordads.com. ...I've written before about getting ready to take our little bundle home from the hospital and Husband jokingly asking the nurse for the owner's manual. ... Robert's site is an owner's manual of sorts; a reference guide designed specially for fathers. He's got all sorts of handy tips and how-to's on a wide variety of topics such as water safety, chores for children, and much more. ...We're happy to offer this resource and thank Robert for doing what he's doing.

Behind the Story: "The Andrew Mason Illustrated Field Guide to Unknown Dragons"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-26T20:51:03-07:00

StoryRhyme.com is delighted to present our newest addition, "The Andrew Mason Illustrated Field Guide to Unknown Dragons." ...Scanning, building linking, and coding pages for Mason and Andrew's guide is a bit of an undertaking (Husband has the dark circles under his eyes to prove it). So much so that if it weren't for the persistence on the part of one of our young friends (frequent phone calls to the house), this undertaking may not have taken place so, um, quickly. (11-year-olds are not known for their patience and forbearance.) ...We especially liked their postscript, which is very good advice: "Don't approach a dragon without adult supervision." I don't know about you, but I'm not sure I'd approach one with adult supervision.

Behind the Story: "Hiccup The Burping Dog's Birthday Party"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-24T21:50:40-07:00

Tonight we took him out for a romp at the school and gave him gifts from the 99 Cent Store -- a giant tennis ball, bag of treats, and rawhides. ...One year, when Charlie was two and Eli The Super Dog turned ten, we had an all-time record attendence of five dogs. Eric (neighbor and dog-wizard-hat-provider) brought Casey and Mickey; my sister Jenny brought Hokey Wolf and K.C., and then of course there was Eli. ... We attempted to put party hats on them (except for K.C. who was a nasty little thing), and took pictures. ...So in honor of Chance The Dog's birthday, I wrote a very short little story, "Hiccup The Burping Dog's Birthday Party."

The Federation for Relevance Presents Free Slogans - Limited Time Only...

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-23T16:04:58-07:00

He was watching one of those Proposition ads that have been so ubiquitous the past few months. The ad had been sponsored by the "Union of Concerned Scientists." ... So he offered his own counter group, the "Union of Disorganized Bystanders." ...(They're copyrights of StoryRhyme.com, but you can use them in your ad if you give us credit.) ...I just saw a particularly nasty ad sponsored by "Citizens for Jobs and Safe Neighborhoods."

New Tricks for a Somewhat Older Dog

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-20T16:49:46-07:00

Intuitively I know that change can be a good thing, but for me, change often falls into the category of it's good for you, like eating your vegetables or cutting donuts out of your diet. ... I guess I feel like my brain can only hold so much at one time, so I prefer or choose what I want to cram in there (because once I push something in, something has got to come out. ...So not being one to jump on the bandwagon of whatever the latest hi-tech device is, I did something really cutting-edge. ... Anyway, the salesman that I spoke with, Carmen, assured me that my new LightSpeed steno machine "Is going to freak you out." ...So sometimes change is good, but I really don't like cutting out the donuts.

"HFCS is Good..!"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-15T12:44:28-07:00

When he and his colleagues were looking into the subject of pesticides and food for a Frontline documentary, his producer Marty Koughan learned that somehow a script for the show had gotten out and that "industry was attempting behind closed doors to dilute the findings of a National Academy of Sciences study on the effects of pesticide residues on children." ...A few months ago though, Husband was reading on the web and found some articles about high-fructose corn syrup and its possible link to childhood obesity/diabetes. ...I say HFCS is not natural like sugar (who would have ever though I'd actually advocate sugar) and apparently is hard for the human body to process, especially kids. ... Its use is so prevalent in this country with our massive corn production, while other countries such as Canada and Australia don't use it in their products and use sugar instead. ...We as parents have to advocate and fight for our children (and this is one of those things where it feels like you're a voice crying out in the wilderness), but that's what we have to do.

Uncredible Sources

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-08T19:26:24-07:00

Every now and then (and it happens way too often for my taste) we receive an email (usually a forward) that claims to uphold some truth, expose corruption, injustice; whatever the cause. Some of them are get-rich-quick schemes and some oddly-banal school projects that require one to do something innocuous like affix their name to the end and type in another name to continue the chain... ...So, here's my shout out to (aptly named after that most pernicious family of characters who appear throughout the works of William Faulkner) Snopes.com, those experts whose goal in life is the debunking of urban legends, scam emails and the like (which on occasion they prove to be true). We're bombarded with media today (I know because I'm taking a mass media class and the book just told me that), and much of the information we get is wrong, false; urban mythology. ...Give Snopes.com a try (and don't send unreliable emails or I'll write a blog post about you).

Life is Random and You Can Too

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-05T14:49:40-07:00

As I look at the rest, I recognize the name of an actress (popular back when I was paying attention to such things), and names I don't recognize but find out (by Googling them) that one is Tiger Woods' wife, some town’s soon-to-be ex-mayor, and a sports guy or two. There's also a car, some must be critical-to-have Sony thingy, an infamous biker gang, and a virus (not a computer virus, but, you know, a real one). ... If it weren't for Google, I wouldn't know anything about half these things or folk (except for Sarah, oh, and Christina Ricci). So I decided to take a look at my own recent searches and found them to be surprisingly boring, mostly work-related searches: Prescription drug spellings, authors of asbestos studies, book reviews (I wanted to know what all the fuss was on Oprah about "A New Earth"), and song lyrics; you know, important stuff... ...Oh and if anyone out there wants to know the origin of orcs and the theory behind whether Sauron had an actual physical body and whether the eye was simply a "metaphysical reflection of Sauron's piercing will," let me know.

The Groovy Birthday Party

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-09-01T16:22:00-07:00

Since his birthday falls at the end of August, the hottest time of year, we planned an early evening soiree to beat some of the heat, with projects to keep the kids and adults busy. ...The very clever folks from Kid Concoctions came up with an ingenious method of mixing sand, salt, used coffee grounds, flour, and water to come up with a "rock" that you can put a prize inside (hence the name "treasure stone"). ... The end product looks surprisingly like a granite rock, and after it dries for a day or two, the kids can break it open to get the prize inside. ...Husband found a great link to an easy, minimally-messy method of tie-dyeing (though Husband's hands are still tie-dyed) involving a simple twisting of the shirt and squirting dye on both sides. ... A couple of Charlie's friends came over in their new far-out tie-dyed shirts today and they looked, well, groovy.

Ubuntu

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-26T14:17:09-07:00

Our visiting priest brought up this somewhat difficult-to-describe concept in explaining how we should strive to be; the ideal for us as people living together in society. Ubuntu is the idea that we look out for each other, take care of each other. ... Nelson Mandela describes this concept as a visitor travelling to a village would be given food and water without asking. ..."A person with Ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able and good, for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed." Ubuntu is comforting, and we wanted to share this concept with others through StoryRhyme.com, our oasis on the internet.

Gravity: Friend or Foe?

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-22T21:17:04-07:00

Instead of sleeping, I kept running through the list like a hamster on a wheel. ...It was "fun" this morning when I arrived downtown for my deposition, only to find that the location was, in reality, in a different city. ...He's overdue for a bath and a brush-out but is very forgiving and more than happy to postpone his bath. While gravity wasn't so kind to my face today, I did come home to a wonderful barbecued dinner prepared by 10 year-old Charlie, who went out and bought the ingredients, prepared it and cleaned the kitchen (um, I'm pretty sure Husband had a hand in it). Life is good and gravity is what keeps us from spinning out of control (I just have to remind myself to do the same).

Ch-Ch-Changes (updated)

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-18T16:08:24-07:00

As I've written before, Husband and I had concerns about sending him to the middle school up the street (big, scary place), and had him on the list for the highly-rated charter school just a bit farther away. ... When we got the call that they had a space for him, we were excited, but torn that he'd be leaving his friends. So we talked it over with him and he agreed that it would be best for "future Charlie" (and he'd be happier in the long run, right?). ...Today he's blazing a new trail on his own (not a single other kid from his elementary is going to his new school). ...But even the kids who were new to the upper grades (but had carried over from the lower grades) were walking around with that deer-caught-in-the-headlights look.

My Worst Songs of the '70s List

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-08T01:48:14-07:00

So, after coming up with My '80s Mix Tape and My '80s Mix Tape: Revisited, I started thinking about my favorite music from other decades, but then decided that I have too many favorites from the '60s and '70s. ...It took me no time at all to come up with my "Worst of" list; music that would set my teeth on edge. ...Number 5: I found "The Bertha Butt Boogie" on YouTube and, I have to admit, I kind of love it (but it's staying on the list). ...While I am an Eric Clapton fan (have even seen him in concert), I've never been a fan of his version of Number 7. ... Although this list was already written, on my way into the city this morning, the deejays were talking about a list that just came out of the worst songs of all time.

Fossil Hunters

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-04T17:49:44-07:00

But first, a hike up the hill to break a large, heavy aggregate rock (that might possibly be filled with prehistoric shark teeth). The day before, when Husband casually mentioned that he had a 20-pound sledgehammer at home, Keith got very excited about the prospect of breaking this large rock into manageable pieces that could be carried back down the hill. So the first part of the dig: Husband carried sledgehammer up the steep hill (with the rest of us following); whaled on rock; broke rock open; broke sledgehammer. ...In upper 90s weather, with full sun, no shade in sight, we grab pieces of rock and break them open with our little hammers looking for anything interesting. ...Today our adventures will take us to IKEA where we'll hike for sure, but with the comfort of air conditioning (my kind of adventure).

How "Elf" Saved Me From Despair

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-08-03T01:52:08-07:00

We're allfeeling much better now, but this is my opportunity to give "Elf" a little plug.) The past three and a half weeks, during what should have been a fun-filled summer, has been dominated by the biggest bear of a cold ever. ... So last night, even though I'm on the mend, I was still feeling sorry for myself until, inexplicably (the end of July?) ...My favorite (well, one of them) lines from "Elf" is when Buddy's just finished putting maple syrup on his spaghetti and tells his new mom: "We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: Candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup." ... (In our house we've always considered the four main food groups to include coffee, chocolate, salts and fats.)

My '80s Mix Tape Revisited & I'm So Easily Entertained

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-29T13:11:16-07:00

So last night, out of the blue, my neighbor Eric (plant lover and dog wizard hat provider) came over and placed into my hands my '80s mix tape as wished for on this very blog. ...I thought of the movie "Valley Girl," mods on Vespas, girls with geometric hair, and my own questionable fashion choices. ...All I know is at my next party, I'm playing my '80s mix tape and you're all invited. ...The other day, an interesting person out there found StoryRhyme.com using this search query: "How to Make an Elephant Trunk for a Dog." ...Whoever you are out there, to the person who performed said search, I implore you, please send us a picture of your dog with elephant trunk attached (and we'll post it on StoryRhyme.com.)

Getting Happy

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-24T14:12:47-07:00

In our house, The Happy Crowd concerts have been a tradition for the past seven years. ... I've been humming their birthday song all morning (and it's not even my birthday). Hai, Professor Smartie Martie, and Kenny were in fine form, performing their hits "Happy Socks," "Say Something Nice About Someone," "Pop," and other swingin' tunes. ... It was, um, "fun" to see how close he could get to us without crashing into us. Hai had some great new hats (at least new to us) as part of his repertoire.

Behind the Story: Charlie and Ted The Space Guy

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-19T18:04:09-07:00

After our recent trip to the Griffith Park Observatory and watching the planetarium show, I was inspired to write a story about Charlie's encounter with an inhabitant of one of those worlds within a world. When you think about it, there are tiny microscopic worlds all around us. Just because we can't see them with the naked eye doesn't mean they aren't there. ...One day Charlie asked me about the sound that bacteria make as they're whooshing around doing bacteria things. ...The Universe is infinite, and really, when you think about it, so is our world when you break it down to its molecular and atomic forms.

A Tribute to Our Coffee Maker

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-16T14:24:10-07:00

When I woke up this morning and staggered out to the kitchen to make the day's first pot of coffee, I noticed that Husband had, the night before, lovingly cleaned and polished our little coffee maker. This is an elaborate process involves sending a pots of water and vinegar through the system, thoroughly cleaning the basket and the carafe, removing any slight coffee liquor buildup, followed by a polish of the whole thing. ...We first swore by Brauns, then went to Krups, and found after a while that the more expensive machines couldn't withstand our required daily use. For years now, our run-to-the-store-in-the-middle-of-the-night "emergency replacement" $15 black Proctor-Silex "Easy Morning" has given faithful service. ... Our "Easy Morning" doesn't have a clock or a timer, doesn't have various buttons or filters, doesn't beep or talk.

We Love "WALL-E" (And Why You Should Too)

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-08T18:19:04-07:00

So July 4th, feeling reasonably well, coughing kept to a minimum, we ventured out of our cave to the theater to see this movie, and a nicer July 4th treat we couldn't have had. ...I guess I should thank our son for this (I may not have the same appreciation for their films if we hadn't had him). ...It's also a morality tale of what can happen when mankind relies on technology for everything, forgetting how to do anything for themselves anymore; living virtual lives, never touching soil or venturing out into the daylight. (I couldn't help but think of the animators and CGI people chained to their computers, working, most likely, 18-plus hours a day making this film. ...With little nods to "2001: A Space Odyssey," and various pop culture references like the Rubik's Cube and VCRs, "WALL-E" pays homage to Americana while reminding us that we're maybe getting a little too far away from the garden.

My 80s Mix Tape

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-07-01T22:32:15-07:00

Also read: My '80 Mix Tape Revisited and My Worst Songs of the '70s. Since there are no rules to blogging (at least none that I've heard of), I've decided to throw out something completely random for your collective consideration. So here's my list of picks for my Ultimate 80s Mix Tape, in no particular order. (If anyone out there wants to make one for me, I'd be totally down with that.) ...Every Day I Write the Book - Elvis Costello

Embracing My Dork Side

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-23T17:03:49-07:00

I figured, being naturally optimistic, that we'd be able to get through "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy by the end of summer. ...According to one of the fan sites, Tom Bombadil was a doll that was owned by one of Tolkien's children, and he threw in the character just because he could. ...If the Internet is any indication, with its endless variety of websites devoted to the most miniscule LOTR minutia, this series has had an enormous impact on pop culture, spawning at least a couple of generations of cybergeeks (similar to the Star Wars folks out there. ... I remember back in the 4th grade, my older sister, and fellow LOTR fan, had painted a huge map of Middle Earth. I can still see the confused expressions on the kids' faces as I took them on a guided tour of Middle Earth, explaining the differences between dwarves, elven folk and

The Toxic Eye Roll...

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-20T17:46:26-07:00

The psychologist who wrote the item suggested that the rolling of one's eyes is a hostile act; and that eye rolling can be a predicter of divorce. ...Over the time I've known my husband, I've rolled my eyes at him at least 5 million times. ... I roll my eyes when I hear something that I think is ridiculous or don't agree with but don't feel like: (a) Honoring with a response. (b) Just don't want to say something I'll regret later. ... Many times the object of the eye roll doesn't even know I'm doing it (or so I’ve convinced myself). ...I'm not saying I ignore him, but when you live together, it doesn't pay to be hyper-sensitive to every little thing.

Play With Dog; Do Homework

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-12T21:39:16-07:00

A while back, my mother-in-law gave Charlie a dry erase board (complete with AARP logo) -- magnetic -- so, of course, it ended up on the fridge, which is almost covered, but there are still a few inches of white space left. ... My favorite piece of fridge art right now is Charlie's picture of a monster Hello Kitty drawn in the style of King Kong or Godzilla, towering over skyscrapers and swatting at airplanes, using his heat ray eyes to destroy a passing helicopter. ...For weeks now it's had two simple tasks written on it with check boxes next to them: Play with dog; Do homework. ...Yes, it's brief, but in its brevity it includes not only fun but responsibility, the yin and yang of life. I smile when I read it and it makes me think of a simpler time when to-do lists could really consist of a couple of items.

Happy Father's Day

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-15T21:26:03-07:00

If we're to believe Madison Avenue, it's electronic gadgets (this encompasses Ipods, Iphones, I-anything, computers, big screen T.V.s, and any handheld portable device), or a new grill with accompanying tools, or a tie. ...I think my contribution will be: No demands; a casual day where we do whatever he wants. I'll try my best not to nag him about anything (that's going to be really hard), and hopefully we'll have a lovely day. When I think back to my own dad, the overriding feeling I have is how much he loved us (and we weren't always the most loveable bunch, let me tell you). ... I have vivid memories of him mowing the front lawn in the following get-up: Cowboy boots with black socks, green and blue bermuda shorts, sleeveless T, and cowboy hat.

Anniversary and Cosmos

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-06T17:13:44-07:00

Sunday was my wedding anniversary and what could be better than taking in an actual grown-up movie? ...Our country is on the brink of deciding whether to strike out in a brave new direction or keep with more of the same old. ...Samantha had all the best lines and talked of "coloring" and, um, much-needed bikini waxes; Charlotte, still wide eyed; Miranda still Miranda; and Carrie still playing dress-up. ...Wilson Observatory by a woman with important (and, well, weird) information she wanted to pass on lest it be forgotten. ...So the girls still just wanna have fun, but they also want what we all want: Someone to love and make a meaningful connection with.

The Last Field Trip (Sigh)

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-06-03T15:37:10-07:00

It was a hastily-arranged last-minute trip designed really to get the kids out of the classroom and just let them experience the beauty of nature. ...The parents were given groups of ten kids to mind and not lose or break in any way, shape or form. ...The difference from last year's group: The first bathroom stop was not to use the facilities but to check their hair. ... Some day when Charlie actually bothers to care what he looks like, I'll know it's happening for him. ...I'm not a hiker (it's so unnatural for me), but the payoff view from the top made it worthwhile.

Clean My House. Please.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-29T16:19:24-07:00

The challenge: Husband has kept everything he's ever owned since he was a baby, and my son has vowed to do the same. When I moved out, I was able to fill my Dodge Colt (economy car), and make a trip back for the mattress. ...It's home for our fish (Salem) and our compost pail (to be taken out to the bin); whatever little thing Charlie's in the process of gluing back together; any insects that have been brought home for observation that day; whatever flora was found on the walk home; assorted odds-and-ends; and the aforementioned refrigerator covered with pictures, drawings and tchotkes. ...The ladies love them, and they're very polite, but around the house, they really regress back to the ol' cave. ... His shedding has been in overdrive lately and I could fill at least one pillow each day with his cast-off cave dog hair.

"Lost" & Found..? New! Now 30% More Lost...

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-24T20:35:47-07:00

When I tuned in to the very first episode of LOST, I tuned out as soon as they started talking about a mysterious monster on the island. ...To say LOST is convoluted is a bit of an understatement, and with its irregular schedule -- on two weeks, off four; on three weeks, off two; on nine weeks, off three -- you really have to want to watch it. I'm convinced that the mental gymnastics required to keep track of the plot intricacies will help to stave off age-related brain function declination, or ARBFD, which I just now this minute made up. ...Does she want to do the sensible thing and be with Jack (who turns out in a flash forward to be addicted to pills and a general mess)? ...At the conclusion of the last episode, the bad guys from the ship closing in, Locke tells the others when they ask him what the mysterious Jacob has instructed, "We move the island."

If I Knew Then What I Know Now; My Sister-in-Law

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-21T13:25:06-07:00

The reason: As a consequence of No Child Left Behind and the state-mandated testing, if a school is under 800, as my son's has been this whole time, the bulk of the effort is put into test prep; teaching to the test. ...She's suggested in the past that because her school has hit the 800 mark, they have a bit more breathing room and can make time for the "extras" such as the arts. ...Two: If it was so easy, then perhaps some of the time devoted to test prep could have been spent doing other things like -- oh, I don't know -- maybe something besides the three R's? ...Now, some may see this as nitpicking, but I think it would be nice if the kids could have a broader experience instead of being hit over the head repeatedly in preparation for the required testing. ...My hat's off to my sister-in-law (and her school) for providing her students with memories they'll cherish when they're older and for realizing what's really important -- being a tiger and building your own shelter for your campout.

Adult No Talk Good

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-17T19:51:14-07:00

Any time he has an opportunity to be around medical or dental professionals, he seizes it by asking questions about the process and any other science-related questions he has time to squeeze in. ... The doctors are typically very patient and answer his questions as completely as they can (and his doctor was). So for the very first time in his life, he had to give a blood sample. ...At this point she raises her eyebrows, not expecting to hear this coming from the mouth of a 10-year-old. ... She seemed like a nice person, but why do adults feel it necessary to talk down to children?

Chào Bạn

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-14T16:54:58-07:00

One of the fun things about this website is receiving a visit from a far-off land. Today, I noticed we had a reader from Ho Chi Mihn City, Vietnam. So far this month, we've had visitors from Yemen, Chile, France, Italy, Canada, England, Ireland, Australia, China, the Netherlands, Belgium, Japan, Russia, Israel, Germany, and New Zealand. It's a kick to watch our world map filling in as we connect with the rest of the globe. "Zdravstvui" and welcome to StoryRhyme.com.

Mother's Day; Reflections on Motherhood

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-10T18:55:54-07:00

I've reflected on this experience we call motherhood, and when I think of how much I love my son, it takes my breath away. Being a mom has been so much more than I could have ever expected and I thank God for him every single day. ...Before we had our son, Husband and I would think nothing of a spontaneous trip into the city for a midnight dinner at our favorite 24-hour dive. ... Our neighbors, who toiled all week at their jobs and then arose with the birds on the weekends to tend to their little ones, felt sorry for us (which amused me) for not being really complete. ...and to my mother-in-law: Thank you for doing such a great job with your son and always being there for us.

Behind the Story: "Charlie and Ruby (the brave)"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-05-02T21:53:41-07:00

That being said, my sister was convinced she had just the right dog for us, so we cooked up the idea of surprising Husband for his birthday. While celebrating Husband's birthday with the family, Husband received a mysterious call from the airline cargo people telling him that his dog had arrived and was ready to be picked up. ...A few years later, when we brought Charlie home from the hospital, he took on the role of baby minder, and he really did have red blood-shot eyes from watching and guarding his pup; every night, all night. ...He was an extremely headstrong and stubborn pup and gave us a real run for our money (Husband lost all illusions that he was the world's greatest dog trainer; and he does not admit defeat easily). ...While Eli would patrol the yard constantly, Chance merely pokes his head out the dog door to see if it's worth his trouble to go out (and apparently, it's rarely worth the trouble).

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books: A Review (and the Discovery of the Weebeasts)

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-28T23:28:22-07:00

Over the weekend, Charlie and I braved the heat and traffic (arghh) to make the scene at the 13th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at UCLA (University of California at Los Angeles). ...The mass-merchandising was a bit of a let-down, but at the same time, there were lots of people buying books for their children, so that was great. ...A great guy at the Children's Museum of Los Angeles' booth spent time with Charlie and I, giving Charlie much praise for his art project and information on the long-awaited opening of the new Museum. ...Gathered from all over the web: Free, fun and easy (and quick) stuff to make inspired by and linked to various stories on StoryRhyme.com. ...You'll want to check out the StoryRhyme.com Unexpected Classic "Uncle James, or the Purple Stranger" where people ride about on gigantic guinea pigs and keep tiny lap-dog-sized elephants as pets.

So Long, Swingset: An Earth Day Update

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-27T16:42:13-07:00

One was for Charlie and his good friend George to pick up trash in the wilderness areas adjacent to the library, and the other was to release Charlie's Painted Lady caterpillar (now a big grown-up butterfly) that he'd "adopted" from the kids' museum a few weeks ago. ...We chose the library to release "Swingset" the butterfly because we've seen so many butterflies there in the past; we figured it must be a hospitable place offering an array of flora that butterflies like to eat. ... He let the boys get just inches away from him as he stuck his little proboscis into the flowers. ... The boys were able to spend some time with him, and then when he was ready, we were able to track him for a while. ...Charlie and George then took up their trash bags and filled them (only about halfway though, because there wasn't as much trash as they'd thought, and Husband drew the line when it came to hubcaps).

Spread the Joy, Spread the Compost!

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-21T14:15:47-07:00

Charlie's plans include picking up trash in the wilderness area that adjoins the library and releasing his butterfly "Swingset" (raised from a caterpillar) into the newly-cleaned wilderness. ...Last year, Charlie and Husband created their own "hot" composter (of course, Charlie lost interest in about a week, so for the past year it's been, well, Husband's toy). ...Start throwing in your bio waste, water every once in a while (it shouldn't get too dry), and stir once-a-week or so to aerate. The compost bin shouldn't be too high since you need to get in there and stir it up. ...The same effect can be created, albeit slower, in a corner of your yard by just throwing your leaves, clippings, etc. in a pile.

Behind the Story: "Camping with Charlie"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-19T21:07:26-07:00

When our son was about five, we bought a little pop-up tent for the backyard and would sit in it and play games and read stories. ...Typically we'd find the ground to be a bit too hard and would end up finishing the night back in the comfort of our bedrooms. One night, a few years ago, my son and I decided to "rough it" and camp in our little pop-up tent. ... Alas, the ground was just too hard, so after a while, we gave up and packed it in, trudging our way back to the house. This summer, I'm going to invest in an air mattress, and maybe, just maybe, we'll make it through till morning.

Negative Pregnant?

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-13T20:32:07-07:00

I've been court reporting for more than a few years now and have been overexposed to every manner of technical jargon and unique and inventive word usage. ...The objection that the attorney usually makes in this circumstance is to say, "That's like asking, 'When did you stop beating your wife?'" ...For those of you who would like to know just what a "negative pregnant" is, below is the definition according to Law.com. I'm sure the court reporters out there (if they don't know it already) will be interested in this, because we're kind of, um, "special" that way. ...Defendant denies the amount was more than a hundred thousand, and denies it was given to him in 1994.

Behind the Story: "Hiccup, the Burping Dog"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-09T12:52:44-07:00

He walks up to us as if he's about to deliver some important pronouncement and burps. The funny thing (besides the actual behavior itself) is that I've never known another dog to do this, at least not with as much regularity. There may be some of you out there who've known burping dogs or currently own them. ... Chance is a very quirky dog, as already referenced in my post "The Dog Who Looks Up." My mom theorizes that he continues to share with us because we give him a reaction.

New at the StoryStore... Dust Bunnies!

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-04-02T01:43:04-07:00

The dust bunnies have invaded. "Dust bunny" apparel is now at our StoryStore! An original design from our StoryRhyme Original Story "Dust Bunnies." Beware the ninja dust bunny.

No Reading Aloud (Allowed) in the Classroom? Fido Update.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-30T14:52:28-07:00

Now, as anyone who's spent any amount of time on StoryRhyme.com knows (especially if you've read our manifesto), we strongly advocate reading aloud to your children, and vice versa. ...One of the classics he's read to the class in the past, and we've subesequently gone out and gotten a copy of, is "Tom Sawyer." ...I defy anyone to find an adult out there who can't instantly call to memory a recollection of a classic book that was read to them by a teacher. ...I've taken enough online courses to know that proper word usage, grammar, and sentence structure are not what they should be (and this is from college students). ...Our little friend is destined to one day, in a few short weeks, complete the metamorphosis process and become a beautiful butterfly, at which time we'll set him free in a happy butterfly-friendly zone.

Fido, the Butterfly

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-25T15:03:06-07:00

Unable to render assistance, (and feeling perfectly awful about it) we advised him to maneuver his tooth back in place until we could have it taken care of by professionals. ...No one knew what happened to the poor thing, but Charlie, who has a reputation for being an animal saver, was sought out for his expertise. Charlie ran to the cafeteria, where the kind lunch ladies emptied out a box full of taco sauce packets (as I mentioned, they're very kind). ... His somewhat jaded teacher admonished him that he was depriving birds of their food, but Charlie was resolutely determined to nurse his new friend back to health. So we now have a flightless butterfly living in Charlie's large butterfly keeper (his wing is intact on one side but he only has a remnant on the other).

Behind the Story: "Emily's Very Own Bedtime Story"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-21T14:46:15-07:00

This is the first story I wrote, just to see if I could. I purposefully made it very silly, and in the story that Mr. ... This part I put in especially for our son as he had just gotten back from the dentist that day and had his rubber bands put on for the first time. He was a little nervous about going to school the next day and wondered about the reaction he'd get from his schoolmates. ... They came surprisingly easy, but, then again, I have the most inspiring muse a mom could ask for.

Behind the Story: "Charlie's Hats"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-19T21:22:50-07:00

Husband and I gave my mother-in-law a digital photo frame last Christmas and Husband loaded about 1,200 pictures of us onto it. ... Anyway, we had the photo frame sitting on the kitchen table for a few days before giving it to her, and we noticed that there were a lot of pictures of our son wearing different hats with accompanying pieces of clothing he'd cobble together to create whatever character he was playing. ... Then there was the picture of him in his pirate hat and kerchief burying his treasure chest in a corner of the backyard. ...He sometimes puts on a special baseball cap onto which he's taped his "Bug Busters" logo, then he dons his bug-busting gear (the kind one needs when catching grasshoppers in the neighbor's yard). ... He's recruited the kids across the street to join his team, and last summer they caught and relocated a great many grasshoppers (who were destined to meet an untimely end at the hands of our plant-obsessed neighbor).

A Must-Have Dragon For Everyone. The Marriage of Melinda.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-16T23:34:16-07:00

On the base the little dragon's sitting on you'll find the enigmatic words "Gathering for Gardner 3." The following quote appears on the actual dragon diagram sheet: "This desk top creature was inspired by the work of Jerry Andrus to celebrate Gathering for Gardner 3. ...So we looked up Martin Gardner and found out that he is, "... a popular American mathematics and science writer specializing in recreational mathematics." ...Now, you might ask what recreational mathematics is (like me), but those of you who are really keen about math will know that recreational mathematics is the "fun" side of math. ...We then looked up Jerry Andrus and found out that he was a "... visionary magician, skeptic, and created illusions and special effects."

Help Me Not to be a Bad Blogger

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-14T21:42:32-07:00

So, I know nothing about blogs, hadn't read them and wasn't really familiar with them, but one day Husband suggested I write a blog for our little site. ...For those patient readers out there, you can help me by giving me feedback (but please be kind). If you think an entry is a real lame clunker, let me know. If we get a consensus (more than just one or two of you, because we all know that you can't please everybody), then we'll retire that entry so as to spare those unwitting readers who may stumble upon it in the future. What, you mean you don't want to read about my bad haircut?

Kathy, The Bunny Queen

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-14T21:40:45-07:00

Now, this isn't something she'd planned, like when you ask a child what they want to be when they grow up. ...But they show up, somehow finding her with their little bunny radar (so that's why their ears are so large!) ...Here is a chime I wrote about Kathy, the Queen of the Bun-Buns, for the littlest readers out there. ...Every night when the moon is out, Kathy the Bunny Queen takes her basket and goes outside. ...All the little bunnies go to their holes, say their prayers, and go to sleep.

A New Mother Freaks Out

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-06T20:18:26-08:00

I can remember starting to panic (just a little) when it was time for Husband and I to take our little bundle home from the hospital. ...Since one of my strategies for coping in life is to take the path of least resistance (I'm very Zen), I quickly learned to adapt. Grocery shopping was always better alone, or all three of us, so one of us could deal with angel baby crying over nothing in particular. ...We didn't go to church for the first three years (Easter and his baptism only) because I just didn't want to have to carry him out, disrupt the service, and so on. ...Won't even try to give advice as I am in awe of anyone out there with more than one child.

The Dog Who Looks Up

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-04T20:10:45-08:00

As much as I implore him to come in, he refuses, holding his ground. ... One can only imagine what goes on in the mind of Dog. ...(We have quite a few, um, store-bought -- but not from any stores around here -- fireworks in the neighborhood, so there's a big local show for the 4th each year.) When he saw skydivers diving from their plane for the city's 4th celebration, he went absolutely nuts. ...Dog thought process: I see the skyrocket, I bark, it disappears (thus giving Dog the rationalization needed to continue his work).

StoryRhyme After Dark: Sister Kathy's "Empty Nest"

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-03-01T21:22:53-08:00

If we do our job correctly, we will one day send them out into the world, our hearts heavy, to seek their fortunes. ... I am not looking forward to this day at all, but this is something every parent must deal with, some sooner than others. Here are the reflections of my sister Kathy, mother to three sublimely-wonderful daughters: One married with a baby on the way; one engaged; and the youngest getting ready to spread her wings. ..."When they first came to me, I knew I would be championing them through life, conveying them one day to that point of departure. ...Strength, will and love was the army I brought to this all or nothing, epic battle of the ages, which is never conquered.

Happy Birthday, Mary..!

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-24T01:57:48-08:00

Happy Birthday, Mary!!! My super sister. A humble country veterinarian who runs her practice with her husband veterinarian (and quite possibly the most unique, interesting person I've had the pleasure to know) Steve. Mother to dogs, cats, horses, and a mule or two, my sister is brilliant, wonderful and special, and I only regret that we live so far away from each other. ▼ Comment on this post...

Charlie's Ants

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-21T14:33:40-08:00

At last, Charlie received his ants in the mail today for his Uncle Milton's Ant Farm which was given to him for Christmas by his cousin and her husband. ... It's taken so long (and the good folks at Uncle Milton's sent us a postcard a few weeks ago explaining the delay) because of the cold weather and Uncle Milton wanting to make sure the ants arrived safely. ...So while I was out reporting a depo, Charlie and Husband, with the able assistance of Charlie's friend George, attempted to get the ants out of the tube from whence they came into the very small opening at the top of the ant farm. Now, the directions say to put ants in fridge for 15 minutes to make them sleepy and more compliant. ... The first two go in just fine, then all of a sudden, a whole glop of them came out at once (they were all clinging to this log-like food stick).

Ratty

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-20T14:31:25-08:00

For reasons unbeknownst to us, every now and then a brown rat (rattus rattus - seriously) decides to take refuge in our attic and gnaw on our meager insulation (and whatever else they can get their teeth into). ... So we bought a live trap at our favorite hardware store and baited it with peanut butter (as everyone knows, rats love peanut butter) and set it up in the attic. ...A few hours later, after having gone back to bed, we drive the rat to a local wilderness area (well, it had trees anyway) and let our rat go. ...He'd look at us and poke his little hands out of the cage, sniff the air as if to say, "Do you have anything for me?" He'd actually reach his little hands out and grab whatever we'd give him and then hold onto it and eat it, very carefully, one row at a time.

Bad Haircut, Part 2

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-19T14:25:37-08:00

I have natural blond hair that has gotten darker over time (as many of you can relate) so Michael has been giving me blond highlights (a weave) for years. ... People really seem to like Sun-In for quick highlights, just spray it on, sit out in the sun for a while and you're good to go. ...This is a new world for me, the world of home hair dyeing. ... Very wisely, I pick a color that looks sort of like what I had before, but I really have no idea. ...And if you happen to see me around, please don't mention my copper hair.

Wanted: Raincoat and rainboots for a dachshund

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-18T14:23:46-08:00

Since this website is brand new and we're not finished putting it together yet (and when I say "we," I mean Husband) we've told very few people about it. ...While looking at the site stats a few days ago, Husband found that someone found us using the search parameter "raincoat, boots for dachshund." ... The search led them to my story "Charlie's Rainy Day," in which Charlie gets to try out his new-to-him raincoat and rainboots that just happen to be covered with dachshunds. ...Now, we at StoryRhyme are fully in favor of clothes for animals, especially dogs, as long as they don't mind. ...Here is a picture of our dog Chance wearing a wizard hat that our neighbors and fellow dogparents, Eric and Violet, brought over.

Subscription Unfulfillment

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-17T14:21:44-08:00

Until a few weeks later, out of the blue, we start receiving "Stuff," "Maxim" and another magazine whose name escapes me right now, all aimed at a target demographic, seemingly, of frat boys 18 to 22 years old. ... When Husband checked the date code on front, it read that we'd be receiving these for about 2 1/2 more years! ...In other words, when a magazine fails to meet its stated circulation numbers through declining subscriptions, they send out free issues to people (presumably on a list with information like the one Husband filled out for "Time") and they do this so they can charge the same rates to their advertisers. Now, for those of you out there who think Husband was foolish for signing up for the free magazine, he's the most unfoolhardy person I know; never, ever does anything like that. ...Out of the blue again, we are now receiving "Popular Mechanics," "Popular Science," "Entertainment Weekly," something called "Country Living" and just started receiving "Better Homes and Gardens," which is the only one I read.

Prospect of middle school.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-16T16:18:49-08:00

Am constantly freaking out over the prospect of middle school and am (probably) driving Husband, family members and patient neighbors a little crazy with my angst. Recently found out that Charlie's elementary school is adding sixth grade next year, so we've bought ourselves a little time, but am bracing myself for what comes next. ... Now, my junior high was no picnic, and I had quite the potty mouth, but I was much more jaded than my son is at his age. ...Do I turn him loose in an environment that is most certainly more socially advanced or find a place where he can be sheltered a bit? ... And even if one of these fantasy schools were nearby, we'd have no way to pay to send him there (short of charging the whole amount on credit cards and trying not to look at the statements).

Lord of the Rings? Politics.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-14T16:15:55-08:00

Just finished reading a long, very boring article on the religious symbology in the "Lord of the Rings" movies (and books) in an online literary journal. ... We identify with these stories because, for one, Tolkien created a unique world in Middle Earth, and the stories deal with archetypes ("an inherited pattern of thought or imagery based on collective past experience and present in the collective subconcious") that are universal. With themes of good and evil, white and black, the heroes rise above their circumstances and do that which is possible within us (which is God-given). ...They'll write books about their experience and how they're learning to get along with the villagers, none of whom speak English. ... So they write their books (something akin to Peter Mayle's "Year in Provence" series) and find themselves so deliriously happy in their adopted home that when at last we hear from them, they'll share their experience of how they've adopted three ethnically-diverse orphans and live a happy, idyllic life.

The Lake

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-13T16:14:11-08:00

To backtrack, when he was just a little guy, about four years old, we went to the same lake and he found a freshwater clam (didn't know there was such a thing) and a water snail. ...These little things live in the water, come up for air, then take an air bubble back down into the water with them so they can breathe underwater for a while. ... So now we have four water boatmen and two little clams living in a container on the kitchen counter. ...We didn't put these in the Salem's tank this time; didn't want to introduce micro organisms that would make our little fish sick. We took a very small sample of the lake water and looked at it under Charlie's EyeClops (a gadget that magnifies objects up to 200 times).

Painting. The bad haircut.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-15T16:11:22-08:00

Couldn't take looking at the gray walls one more day, so since work has been slow (and when it gets slow, I sometimes paint), decided to seize the day. Now, some people would do something sensible with their time off like shopping (God knows I could use some clothes) or take a little trip, but that just won't do for me. ... And the benefit is having a bedroom with a wall color that doesn't make me sigh. ...I even brought a picture with me of a cute hairstyle that should have been very do-able with the way my hair had grown out. ... Husband thinks it's ridiculous to drive out all that way for a haircut (especially with the price of gas), but I'm thinking...

Court Reporting = biting my nails. The House Wine.

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-12T16:05:51-08:00

I'm thinking it's the economy and I know that things always pick up, but this slowdown has been ridiculous. ... Am sensitive to the fact they may not think this is endearing behavior, but so far they've been really cool about it. The house wine is not bad, gives 2-buck Chuck a run for the money (and we love 2-buck Chuck). ... I've managed to avoid shopping at Vons since we started shopping there two months ago (and that is a very good thing). ... And if you don't want to use them, one of the workers will check out for you.

Why StoryRhyme and why this blog?

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-11T16:02:40-08:00

We believe that a child's imagination can take them anywhere they want to go, and while you may not have the physical means to travel the world, you can get there through books. ... StoryRhyme, with its original stories and classics you may not have heard of, provides a resource for parents, along with our recommendations for different books, movies, web sites, etc., that we really like. An example of an absolutely wonderful resource that my husband came across when our son was young is Kidsurplus which sells children's clothing, supplies and shoes at great prices. ...I don't say this to brag (well, maybe a little), but when I thought about why his scores were so high (he goes to an average public school), aside from the daily reading program at school, the one really important factor I could come up with is nightly reading at home. ...StoryRhyme is not a faceless corporation, but people (like me and Husband whose pen name is William Stevens - a play on his name) who want to do something positive in the world.

To use a pen name or not?

StoryRhyme.com — 2008-02-10T15:56:52-08:00

As those of you who know me know already, I'm using a pen name for my stories, which has been a bit of an internal struggle for me. ...Although, technically, my pen name is actually two of my four names, they're just not the names I'm known by. It's as if Helena Bonham Carter's middle name was Regina, so she goes by the pen name Regina Carter. My pen name doesn't feel like me, but it is undeniably a part of me. ... And those of you who don't, it's still me, it's just not my official name.