Posts from Stiletto

2009 ❥ A Year Of Mirrors

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:55:14 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

"Good day to you all.

2009 is going to be much the same of a challenging year for most.

However, 2009 is going to be the year of ‘mirrors'.

2009 being the year of mirrors, many Souls will see much of themselves being reflected back throughout that year. That is to say that much of what you feel deep within you will be reflected in your outer world, both positively and negatively. More inner stuff will be brought to the surface.

People will see themselves in ways that they have not seen themselves for a long time or ever, perhaps. They will have to reflect inwardly and see what lies there and what their ‘self' does.

People will see much of themselves in others, as they walk the earth plane. For some this will be enlightenment and for others this will be a dark window or mirror of self reflection.

In some ways people will be shown how they can perhaps rely upon themselves or trust in themselves. It is unfortunately for the earth plane going to be pretty much of a year of false prophecies, of many corners to turn, and it will be pretty well a seesaw ride with lots of

ups and downs.

There will be one or two influential Souls in the redevelopment of how the countries of the earth interact with each other. There will be obviously a certain amount of unrest as you already know. It is important to not buy into false promises. Each person must look into their own affairs, their own circumstances and see it for what it is. However it will be a year where one can make major gains because it is of course a Master year, the year of 2009. There will be situations and opportunities where one can have major gains. You see 2009 will be either a year of major gain or a major loss for most. But there will be much compassion laid and much love expressed as nations are taken

down or experience loss.

You see, the world is coming together like never before. Resources have to be joined. Principals of countries have to talk to each other that haven't spoken before or very rarely. Through your own

indiscretions, and through your own accidental way, you will be starting to create harmony in certain areas. But through your past greed you're having to pull together as a world forum, and this has to also be good for mankind.

What keeps control is FEAR. And fear is being brought to the surface. You will have your people on street corners, so to speak, blazing fear into all those around them. This is why it will be more important for each Soul to look into their own life through the mirror they see. To not be looking outside of themselves. To be trusting in what attributes they have.

There will be more water created in the planet which will effect one or two nations. And that will create a new set of experiences for the world.

For those people that are single; the next 2009 forth coming year of earth time will be very good for love and romance, even though it may seem an impossibility because of the negativity that is around. But all the negativity is coming to the surface because much LOVE is being poured at this time into the earth plane.

And where there is love you cannot have imperfection. Because people will be reflecting more of their inner self, their inner truth, their inner soul reflection, if you like, and as they release fears and

anxieties, they will touch more on the love that is within them. When you are facing humility or you are facing a massive change in your life then you tend to look through your eyes at the world from within, because the world seems so different to you.

Much can be created for Souls if they allow themselves to create.

Towards the later part of the year there will be much cause for harmony. There will be a balancing of that energy.

There will also be a prominent female force throughout the world.

You see in general, in many ways people will be starting again and this will take the earth into the new vibration and into the next dimension. It is the start of the world seeing itself from a different

perspective.

“The Tower will not fall”; as it might be expected.

There will be many situations where people can create in their life through the turmoil and through the peace. Some will gain, some will stay the same, and some will lose. But there is always an abundance of life. There is always an abundance of Prana. There is always abundance

of Love to go around all those that inhibit the earth plane.

The world is coming together as one, and in fact perhaps many countries will mirror for themselves the other. At times it will create harmony, and at times it will create conflict. Conflict will especially be created if two opposing countries refuse to see each other's side.

It is merely just a rebalancing of the energies of the earth plane at this time. And I feel for many it is not going to be as hard as your media is predicting.

For you all personally; the types of energies that will be influencing your lives will be that there could be situations where you will be facing trials or deceit from someone close to you. You may

experience interference from outside friendships, 3 rd parties or forces which you will need to overcome. These 3 rd parties may act as a mirror for you. If you do not like what you see then you will need to go deep within and reflect upon your inner feelings to help change the situation. Be careful not to oppose any inspirational ideas that you may come up with. Look into the mirror and see all sides of the concept or idea.

Like a diamond, 2009 year will come with many reflecting facets which are both beautiful and perhaps confusing because like a diamond when you closely look into it you can easily see any imperfections, but you can also see its magnificent beauty. Also when you look at a Diamond

under a microscope you can see if it is a fake. When you look into your mirror or diamond will you see the reflection of inner beauty? This mirror that you see will occasionally also highlight many

conflicting desires. The challenge will be to find harmony in those desires.

If you find yourself in a conflicting situation with another, then you must remain true to your inner higher self and inner truths and remain individual, but allow yourself to see what is being reflected to you in the mirror so that you can accept the reflection, and find harmony in the situation.

Personally for many it will be a very sensitive year but a year where you will be able to allow yourself to dream a little.

If you have been planning a family then 2009 will be a good year to consider trying to conceive. We are wanting to bring through from the spiritual realms to the earth plane many new Souls of Light and Balance so generally the earth plane in 2009 could see a dramatic increase in births.

Because of the increased sensitivity people will be more able to tap in to their intuitive or psychic nature.

Any deep fears you have will be mirrored for you and brought out in the open for you throughout 2009, so you will need to face them and let them truly and finally go. Do not allow yourself to get too wrapped up (involved) in the affairs of others as it will be a year of inner reflection.

Many of you may come up with spontaneous ideas, which could consequently manifest and therefore fulfilling your dreams.

Take life one step at a time. Look to yourself - look to your inner self and see life through your own eyes and not the eyes of others. Do not be too quick to judge or condemn. Embrace the journey – feel the light that exists in your life and follow your intuitive hearts.

At this time we give you the love, the light and the blessing of the Cosmos.

You will be assisted by the Ascended Realms. Be at peace and go with love.

I bid you all farewell for now."

Master Hilarion through Chris Ten-Wold

http://www.4souls.org.nz/channelling.htm

Found on: http://spiritualharmonics.blogspot.com/2009/01/2009-year-of-mirrors.html

February 14th ~ Part II

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 22:11:11 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

The Aquarian alignment 14th February 2009

We measure our global sense of both space (latitude and longitude) and time (universal time - UT or GMT) from the prime meridian located at Greenwich, England. So we can perceive the collective influence of this momentous astrological event by looking at the alignment from this globally ‘centered' perspective.

When we do something extraordinary and exquisite emerges

At dawn on 14^th February the day dedicated to St Valentine, the patron saint of Love, the Moon in Libra enters the seventh house of relationships. And Jupiter and Mars are aligned in Aquarius in the twelfth house of spiritual transformation.

Forty years ago, the intuitive words of a song called Aquarius, brought the dawning of the new age into our collective awareness:

When the Moon is in the seventh house

and Jupiter aligns with Mars.

Then peace will guide the planets

and love will steer the stars

At dawn on 14^th February the Cosmos actually embodies this perfect alignment to support our collective manifestation of love and peace and dawning of the Age of Aquarius.

The Aquarian chart of 14^th February reveals an incredible concentration of cosmic influences blending with the energies of Aquarius in the twelfth house. Expansive Jupiter and energetic Mars are aligned with the higher purpose of the North Node. The presence of Chiron the wounded healer offers us the opportunity to heal the schisms that have separated us for so long. Neptune emphasizes collective humanitarian movements and the co-creation of social justice. And the presence of the radiant Sun enlightens the entire alignment.

Mercury also in the twelfth house but just beyond the cusp in Capricorn, allies with transformational Pluto to communicate and anchor the Shift throughout our global structures and institutions.

The Moon in Libra in the seventh house emphasizes harmonious real -ationships.

Venus in Aries in the first house energizes and empowers dynamic co-creativity.

And whilst Saturn the great task master in opposition to Uranus the unexpected awakener is suggesting an ongoing confrontation as the dregs of the unsustainable old paradigm reluctantly give way to the untested hope of the new, their placements in Virgo and Pisces brings practical altruism and visionary inspiration to the transition.

Article and chart copied with kind permission from Jude Currivan PhD

_________________________________________________________

Further Reading

The Age of Aquarius Aligns Completely on Feb 14th

Contains a similar message (to the above) with different imagery.

The Grand Ages and the Coming of Aquarius

Detailed article including the different Ages, without a date bias for the Aquarian Age.

The Age of Aquarius

In depth study spanning the Ages, possible dates and “some of the characteristics of the Aquarian Age as they may be exhibited through the person in command” from a perspective that includes Jungian thinking and Personality Types.

You can do your own search or see more results: Google

___________________________________________________________

Whenever.. the start

I embrace in the NOW

the Age of Aquarius

with love and hope

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Odic Force

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:01:45 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

link to photo OM + T

Dear Odin,

Things have changed quite a lot since you’ve been gone.

You’ll be glad to know, for the better; it has been quite a ride!

You know I can’t say I’ve missed you. I don’t really miss people, not that you can tell them that, but I can tell you. I could tell you anything. Your brother misses you, a lot. Your son is doing great, he is living up to his name and yours and takes good care of me. He protects me, like you did, and licks away my tears. We have a new family member, Sekhmet, and you’ll be amused to know that Marduk has had some “adjusting” to do, as indeed you did when he arrived. Bast is doing well, she’s softening and the four of us are together a lot of the time now.

I started traveling again after you left and enjoyed a few trips and adventures. Remember how you’d get when there was a bitch on heat? I always had a lot of empathy for you when that happened and I’m sure you can understand how I felt when I embarked on my Chemistry Experiment. I learned quite a lot from that as well as other experiences that came along the way. I am thankful for the lessons I have received, many in the form of soft knocks, some of them at doors which have opened up new portals for further discoveries.

Since Sekhmet arrived I’ve stayed put at home and have continued on the spiral path. Finally I’m getting to where I am, which is what matters. I feel liberated, free and happy! I started last year determined to remain single so that I could be *myself* and I have done so. Your being continues to motivate and inspire me; I started keeping a Diary on the 28th of December. You were so present in my thoughts and heart those days and I remember last year so well... no regrets.

I wish to be as you always saw me and your love and loyalty continues to inspire me. Thank you for being there for me when I have needed you. I love you so much, you were my dream come true. I treasure my dreams but when they become real... well, that is infinitely precious.

Always...

Tanya

xXx*

P.S. I've chucked the chain choke collars.

Discover Karaoke!

T for Thanks

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 07:16:08 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

...to extend a huge THANK YOU to all the sweet souls

who have made my Trip such a special and memorable one.

Some of them may never see this but I hope they know my

appreciation anyway.

The list is not quite exhaustive, as always there were others

who helped along the way.

Everyone mentioned below was honest and true

and made a difference…

Thank you...

New York

... to the Haitian cab driver who picked me up at JFK; for sharing his customs and knowledge in such an open way. The ride was too short!

... to the warm waiter at the Palace; for La Macarena and + which meant so much to me. I'm so glad you made an exception and shared those gems with me =-) I'll be getting that book.

...to the threesome from Colombia; for writing down the title and extending their warmth. Your photo is on my priority list.

...to the two little sisters; for making me smile with their spontaneous curiosity and conversation which I hope was satisfied ;-)

...to Eric the "Orange" ;-) For all your help in sorting stuff out and with such a great smile!

San Francisco

…to Sherry-Rebujito’s family; for responding so quickly and warmly, for being in touch and offering to meet up with me. I’m sorry I didn’t manage it this time – we will do it the next. :-)

...to the concierge gal with the super smile and attitude; for squeezing me into the tour and sorting out my transport, which rocked!

…to the great tour guide for having me up front and recommending two super restaurants. Yummy! … to the bunch on the tour who were such a friendly lot, pointing out shots and all! …to the lady from the Hannover at the tour office; I wish I could have stayed a little longer to chat.

…to Sophie; for delivering the boots and making the purchase possible for me, for the warm note and wishes (they came true) :-)

…to the marvellous Guacamole-maker from Mexico at Colibri; for introducing me to habanero chile – that’s the way I like it - hot!

...to the two lovely Leos; for befriending and entertaining me, for outshining a hot ‘n’ happening nightspot with their easy and open charm - and sooo easy on the eyes too! ;-)

…to M for Mmm-mmm! It’s not just California girls who deserve songs to be written about them… ♥ …and for seeing me off with XOX and directions over the right bridge and scenic route…

Sacramento

…to the pixies at Amber House; as well as their lovely human helpers ;-) Ooh… the hummingbirds, the home-fresh-baked cookies and the advice to take route 49!

…to AB; what can I say that we didn’t feel? The gifts are precious, the Dreamcatcher hangs above my bed – and I am finally dreaming and remembering… *beams* …the Medicine Wheel also, which I take down and raise to the four directions and then re-hang with reverence. The portrait, so precious, the ♥ - opened at sunset at an auspicious place and moment. I love you, sweet soul… Merry meet and merry part and merry meet again. ((((((( AB )))))))

…to the blue-eyed twins with placards and principles; for showing me how only-children and twins have some strong traits in common! I could have swayed and chatted with you all day! There should be more men like you – and in unique pairs too! I hope our paths cross again.

…to all the warm waiters at The Waterboy; for the attention, conversation and spontaneous photo taking – I dined alone and with great company! ;-)

Route 49 (and detours)

…to the fantastic folk at BearValley; for coming to the door in the dark and being helpful hoots! For actually letting me in a couple of days later; what a fucking riot!!! *LMAO* Birds of a funny old feather, eh?

…to the sweet lady with the Synchronicity sign; for sharing her family story, for the very meaningful and synchronous gift and for the synchronous ((( hug )))

…to the very pretty and friendly girlie at the saloon in Jamestown; for lending me her cellphone so I could make a much needed call and to all the guys there – wish I could have stayed for that drink ;-)

Yosemite

…to the kindly lady who let me in when I arrived late; for feeding me when I was hungry and the main kitchen was shut; for looking for a converter plug and letting me rummage through the drawers to look for one (!) while she called up the store in the village and successfully zeroed in on where I could find one close to 11pm – phew!

…to the exceedingly helpful young man at the pharmacy; for really persevering and managing to locate the aforementioned adaptor, despite it having been relocated recently so even though it seemed that there were none left – he found them! Also for sharing his bear story. :-)

…to the gracious lady on the night shift who greeted me when I returned; for the meaningful conversation that we shared, for offering me a glass of red wine (yes please!) and making me a second super sandwich. Yum!

…to the Indian with the dot (!); for being a great guide, for a gregarious Ganesh day, for prolonging it till the last golden rays hit the rocks and the crescent moon rose in the pink sky, for taking so many super photos (not to mention video!), for sharing the perfect picnic, for the laughter, for the honesty… I’ll be back so we can explore more – you know I’m up for doing it with a pair of guides! *LOL*

…to R; for telling me about the bobcats!! Wow! Dream come true stuff for me - I must return with time!

…to the charming gentleman who saw me on my way; for encouraging me to take a walk in the gardens (which proved to be a unique experience), for offering and taking my photo, for seeing me off me with provisions and a-cute detour suggestion.

San Francisco

…to the Colombian waiter at Scoma’s; for sharing his story and philosophy with candour. I hope you enjoy your retirement in that your house soon!

…to the concierge guy; another fine native Californian, for all his work to try and get me on the earlier flight, taking care of with the rental car return for me and dispatching me ever-so-swiftly so I could make it - I did! =-D

…to the taxi driver from El Salvador; for getting me to the airport in good time and for the animated and informative conversation on route. So much in common…

…to the lovely Canadian lady at the AA desk; for sorting me out and ensuring I didn’t have to pay excess luggage (!) and the gentleman from the Philippines, who explained how AA were different, and relaxed and assured me I’d make the flight with them - and was quite right!

In transit

…to H & J; for the great exchange on the plane and introducing me to your lovely family when we landed – it was great seeing four generations of strong and vibrant females together – Wow!!! …and to their lovely daughters H & J for their sweet hugs… =-)

…to N on the train to NY; for the non-stop conversation and education! Vegas is now on my list as is she for my next trip to the Big Apple! Here’s to a classy and cultured Lady with a capital L :-)

New York

…to the Haitian taxi driver with the natural elixir of youth!; for such a fun and upbeat exchange, for sharing his values and attitude. Where have I put your card?!?

…to the driver from Casablanca; for doing his utmost to get us to the station in time and dropping us off exactly where he did. Mā šā Allāh.

…to the dark man who praised my pants; for then going out of his way and leading me to where I needed to go.

…to the exceedingly helpful man at the Church of St Francis of Assisi; for his assistance, for stopping the right person who crossed his path and had the answers that he didn’t, so that he could help me find what I didn’t know I was looking for.

Omega

…to everyone I met and those I didn’t who made it a wonderful experience and make a difference.

…to the four speakers; for all that they give and generate, for being and doing +

…to M the Musician with the sweetest of souls; for sharing his experiences and thoughts, for being better than a Zagat Guide on (fine, fine) legs, for giving us an entertaining and personalised tour of his neighbourhood in New York and taking us to a such fabulous restaurant… yummiee!!! We will do it again!

…to A the first lady we met; for telling us all about those fascinating wasps (a lesson indeed) and for your wonderful offer – to answer my questions – wow!!! Music to mine ears; it means so very much to me…

…”David” and V; for (again) proving that coincidences don’t just happen and that they do for a variety of reasons, all valid.

…M the psychologist, beautiful, blonde, brainy and such bone structure(!) and with a heart and soul to match; for sharing, for educating, for being and for showing how I needn’t be fearful of her sort… and for the ride! You are a fine card up my sleeve! *Tee hee* ;-)

…to A from Toronto with those amazing light clear eyes; for sharing her experience(s) and vision – I wish I could have given you more in return.

…to the girlie in the woods; for exchanging smiles and a sodden experience in passing ;-)

…to Soulfège; for the marvellous music and lyrics with + meaning. I hope you make it to Granada and to see and hear you there.

….to PW with the long lone earring; for the knowledge and amazing experiences that you shared with us that night, for being such a special and brave lady. I feel honoured to have met you and hope we can ((( hug ))) again :-)

…to J & J; for great questions and answers, for being such precious examples of soul-mates… Oooh! ♥ What a wonderful couple!

…to the twin with liquid eyes and his lovely lady; for what I learned through his experience and words and for pointing me in the right direction at the right time… :-)

…to YH, Ph.D from Manhattan; for (again) showing how chance conversations can be meaningful and giving me your card – I now have an option to explore personally if I wish :-)

…to CB who I kept "following" and bumping into; for delivering a cute message from the Universe! ;-)

…to SC and her mother; for making contact at the end which brings more meaning and depth to what we witnessed.

…to S the Sceptic; for being yourself and asking questions in the queue – I’m looking forward to mutual learning! *grins*

…to Inma; for a wonderful introduction that set the pace and vibe for what was to come, my favourite way – the best for last. =-) Yes to the dogs!!! ♥ I hope to hear from you…

Rhinecliff

…to the girlie with the sparkling eyes at the train station; for being so helpful in sorting out our tickets and refund, for keeping our suitcases and recommending such a fine restaurant!

…to her man K at GiGi’s; for superb recommendations and service with such friendliness and smiles. Wishing you both happiness together – I love Internet romances that come true like yours! ♥

…to C for the cab ride there; for engaging me in conversation that kept me in the car way longer than I should have stayed!

…to A; for managing to squeeze us in and take us into town and for picking us up and delivering us on time.

New York

…to J from Sacramento at GPH; for the charming chat and taking me up to the terrace at night (which I’d really wanted to do) despite it being closed off for an event – yippee! – and for introducing me to the bulb room! Happy travels… :-)

…to the ever-so-efficient, friendly and helpful Swiss young lady at reception; for ensuring we could enjoy our complimentary lunch late and on the terrace (against the odds) and the gorgeous Slovenian waitress (with matching smile) who saw it through.

…to the cultured young man from Turkey and England for the travel tips and courteous welcome

…to their colleagues upstairs for letting me play upstairs in the bulb room! *giggles*

…to George, Ben & family at Empire Shoe Repair; for a truly wonderful job (as usual) and in within a matter of hours to avoid having to send them by mail. They are the best – and it was lovely to meet their Dad! :-)

Last and far from least

...to HW; for joining me on the SS part of the trip. You know you made and make a difference. *I love you*

... *AA* ++ ... ;-)

xXx*

An August Month

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:20:42 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

Summer at home when home is a holiday resort brings a varied bag of delights. Ferias, concerts, and all sorts of colourful and cultural events ripple out from each town or village over the spring and summer months.

I love June; lengthy days temperate enough to luxuriate out in the countryside or at the beach, with a golden glow of light teasing the long shadows of the late sunsets. July is my favourite full-on summer month, there are more people around; an animated atmosphere for going out, hot days to be spent by the sea and balmy nights that tempt you to linger on till dawn.

In August the tourists descend en mass, plague-like in some forms but less disciplined and orderly than most insects. The sun sets sooner and there is humidity in the night air not discernable a fortnight before; strains of the scent of autumn remind us that summer days are shortening. I prefer spending time home alone or entertaining and visiting with like-minded friends, away from the maddening masses stressing to enjoy their leisure.

This year the month got off to a start worthy of its name… I had been looking forward to my trip to Berlin for months, keen to meet a very special person. People often talk about deceptiveness on the net, but it is true that one can encounter the total opposite. I had a warm and wonderful image of a loving, laughing soul… the vibrant person who embraced me with reflected enthusiasm is all this and much +

Unconditional love is true *bliss* =-)

I’m looking forward to rounding off August with another treat. I’m flying to New York, then California the next day – with just enough time to check out the camera store in NY! Ah, the delights of the dollar exchange as opposed to the Euro for a Sterling person… ;-)

These are the dates for those who have an interest:

29-31 ~ San Francisco

31-1 ~ Sacramento

1-3 ~ Yosemite National Park

3-4 ~ San Francisco

Then it's back to New York to meet up with another very special soul and attend a conference in Rhineback over the weekend, my reason for travelling around these dates.

So I'm looking forward to what this trip brings and open to whatever that may be. I hope for a learning experience of adventure and discovery, scenic sights and curious creatures, punctuated with smiles and flavoured with feelings of joyful freedom.

=-)

Quema de San Juan 2008

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:20:51 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

Last night I found myself walking down to the beach alone, bearing a large bag and an anticipatory smile.

I wanted to see the fireworks, bonfire and go for a post midnight swim in the sea; I had determined that this year would be a skinny-dip! The friends who'd been planning to come with me had gradually dropped out and I was happy to be able to enjoy the witching hour in my own way. Reaching the edge of the milling people, I found myself a spot on the sand, spread my towel and lay down to enjoy the fireworks, camera at the ready. After the fireworks, the bonfire was lit. I lay gazing through the lens at the fire through the gaps in the crowd and peoples limbs as the flames leaped high above them - when suddenly a pair of legs appeared out of nowhere and straddled me. Opening my left eye I focused and familiar crotch came into view...

Two of my friends had been walking through the beach and wondering whether I'd be there and if they'd see me. We'd been in touch by text earlier but hadn't arranged anything. It was more crowded than other years and visibility was limited to silhouettes.

"Look for a flash," said one of them, "She'll be behind the camera..." Just then they looked down and there I was, lying on the sand in front of them, lens stuck to eye and in another world…

Coincidences happen often for those who believe in them.

My two friends were the only ones from their family who had made it down and the three of us stalwarts had converging ideas about enjoying the night. Knowing that I always go into the sea, they asked if I was going swimming and I explained that this year I wanted to go in nekkid and I'd been thinking of going to another beach as there were so many people around.

“Let’s walk a way down,” X said as he hoisted my big bag. The three of us walked along the shore until there were only a few stragglers, “That's far enough,” X asserted. I looked around as untied my bikini and folded it into my bag, taking my towel and considering my options.

“I'll go down to the shore with you, you take off the robe and give it to me and I'll be waiting for you with the towel when you come out - so long as I don't get wet!”

*perfect*

Midsummer Mediterranean night

wading into the water

I went from skyclad to seaclad

in the whisper of a wave

immersing myself and feeling the flow

loosening my tresses

tasting salt and freedom

Bonfire figures glowed in the distance

with my back to them I gazed out

watched by the waning moon

at the endless horizon and stars in the sky

*precious*

As I returned to my entry point I saw that there were over a dozen people, filling bottles of water, milling around and taking pictures. I saw the dark outline of my friend pointing further down the shore as he started walking.

I swam down on a parallel route, relishing the extra minutes in the Mare Nostrum.

When I emerged I didn’t feel cold at all. I wrapped the towel round me and we made our way to the bonfire to get dry and dressed. Upon seeing me, X had commented on my garb saying that the best thing about djellabas were the hand-holes through which you can scratch your balls. Not having testicles myself, I find the faux-pockets are useful for performing an inverse striptease within the realms of decency. To each their own… ;-)

Here's to enjoying Midsummer nights and more...!

Today I celebrate with my tribe =D

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Sat, 10 May 2008 10:10:09 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

Today I am having an open house gathering - a pre-Birthday celebration!

My friends and their children will be arriving as from one o'clock, and there will be an all day dinner ~ from lunch through to tea-time then a barbecue in the evening ~ by which time the toddlers will have mostly gone off with their respective parents and other friends sans smallies will have migrated in for the hard stuff... ;-)

I'm expecting around 40, just over a quarter children. My friends are an eclectic bunch. I'm looking forward to enjoying them all - while everyone can help themselves to whatever they want... I'll be mingling! If the weather is fine we can play in the garden and go for a swim (bring your cossie, swim nekkid - or don't swim, of course!). In any case I've made the whole of downstairs toddler-friendly, peppered the room with cuddly toys and moved all the breakables out of reach. So everyone can just relax, do their own thing and have a good time... =)

I've got colourful balloons, jelly and cakes and all sorts of yummy stuff to eat (the menu is looong and my friends have contributed wonderfully) with jugs of Sangria and Mojitos in the evening. Lashings of Moroccan mint tea too!

*Wooo-hooooo*

Here's to family, friends, food & fun!

T is for Trips

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 05 May 2008 11:28:35 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

On Sunday I returned from my latest trip, to Morocco. I've been travelling quite a bit since December.

A friend of mine sent me this quote a few months ago:

‘Travelling outgrows its motives. It soon proves sufficient in itself. You

think you are making a trip, but soon it is making you – or unmaking you.’

N. Bouvier – The Way of the World – 1963.

Indeed.

I have exchanged many smiles that start with the eyes and reach deeper

Shared some special moments

Enjoyed enlightening conversations

Found new friends

I am thankful to and for the people (and creatures) that I've met, who have made me feel welcome with their warmth

Precious moments give life meaning.

Sherry-Rebujito - now you know where I've been! Your parcel's in the post... ;-)

Dany - "trip" comes from "trippen ‘to skip, hop’." *grins* I am keeping hoppy most of the time and striving for it the whole time!

Rafal & MacGuffin - Thank you for asking, I am very well and working on improving! ;-)

Busy catching up and planning but soon I hope to be back to uploading... because (inter alia) I have been taking photos!

((((((((((((((((( ♥ )))))))))))))))))

Trickle back

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 20:13:55 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

After various trips ~ or maybe taking a breather in the eye of the hurricane ~ I'm back to regroup and am in the process of settling some of my affairs (if not myself) and attending to practical and mundane matters... Inter alia, I need to organise my photos, but want to reply to comments and Ipermails I have outstanding before uploading any new photos and I'll need some time for that.

So, this is just a quickie to say that I'm trickling back now and to thank you for your interest and well wishes which I'll reply to before generating any more here, which is why I've disabled the comment function. You can add your tag if you'd like. :-)

Ciao for now,

Tanya

An Ode to

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 03:32:12 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

Since I have been away so many things have happened... and the freedom I enjoy here is that since nobody knows me, I don't even have to explain myself here... I can just be me, parts of me anyway. In "real life" of course I have to take the time to explain myself, to those around me as I try to understand myself; and so in the maelstrom of so much change some things get lost by those around me, however close they might be, however much we might share. So, what I share here is the bit of my "holidays" that will hold some *real meaning* to some of you who read this, whatever you believe or in, and if it doesn't; well, I can understand that too.

Anyway, for those of you who know bits of me that really matter to me you will know how much I love creatures and animals in general and others in particular. Odin, seen on the left, means more to me than I could ever put into words. He was 11 years old on the 17th November 2007 and had started slowing down more significantly since the summer, getting progressively worse but not seeming to be unhappy. It was a question of adapting to what he could do or understand and make sure he felt loved, safe and no pain. So, to skip the story and get to the facts, on Saturday the 29th I buried Odin at the top of the garden, in the company of people who cared about me and about him. It was the right time and he was in the perfect spot by the window in the sun and he was in my arms and Marduk was snuffling around us. And the best friend I could ever wish for the occasion, to care for both Odin and me. So I give thanks for that and the meaning that he brought to my life. I give thanks for Odin, for having the most loyal and loving friend who never let me down; he gave me so much and took so very little. I am so happy that he had such a long life after being operated on for dermoid sinus in 2000; everything I read on-line assured me death or paralysis was pretty much inevitable. The vet, my friend, said; forget about that, trust me, we'll operate. So he did and we cared for him and I didn't leave him alone for months till he was healed. That's another long story, but he recovered fully, the scar barely visible, not that it matters. The some years later the vet diagnosed he had leishmaniasis, quite common in this region unfortunately. Treat it with tablets and trust me, was what I got from the vet basically and this time I didn't turn to the Internet. I knew enough from what people had told me about their own experiences that it wasn't pleasant, not at all. I didn't want to define that further. Everyone always spoke so horribly; about pets "having to live outside" but not explaining either, but everyone I met who mentioned it (I never did, studiously avoided talking about the subject or that Odin had it) was very negative... my vet can be very vague and I never pressed... So the fact that he reached the age of 11 with such relatively few physical problems, when it could have been so much worse so much sooner, and that he enjoyed his life and didn't suffer or feel fear. I give thanks for that; it is a great gift.

So, I rein myself back and get back to being succinct, or trying to. Minimalism is not my forte. I'll be returning slowly as I'd like to get a bit more balance in my daily life now, though realistically I don't see that happening straight away, so I'll probably be present in unforeseeable dribs and drabs as and when circumstances allow.

I had an idea about a photo - the similarities between humans and their canine companions; was trying to show the "ridgebacks". Had some other ideas, but Odin can no longer be in them. So I cherish this photo because of what it means to me on its own, at the time and now in context; juxtaposed with the flip side I took more recently. I'll upload that one when I've got round to doing some sorting and tagging (much neglected tasks of late). This one I had ready to upload; I had been playing with different frames some months back when I had been experimenting with some effects and looking through them this thick black one, which is not something I'd usually opt for, seemed eerily fitting.

[Edit: I published the above post by mistake; I'd meant to save it as a draft. There are some blogs I write that I write and keep private, this one was work in progress and it was late when I left it, hence the mistake. I don't know what I would have ended up editing out or writing or what photo(s) I'd have included or not, if I had decided to make it public at some point, but since what's done is done and already been commented on, I'll take it as a sign, gulp and leave it as is - just rounding off a vague sentence and fixing a few typos.]

Hello :-)

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 14:39:28 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

I've been absent from interacting on Ipernity this last week or so... I'm sorry but there were some *big* things going on in my life which... just took up all of me.

Anyway, I'll continue to be away until next week because I'm fucking off on a holiday - a HOLIDAY!!!!

Not just travel, not a "trip" - though I have a feeling it's going to be one too... ;-)

*Tee hee*

So, I'm driving off in my little car, with my phallic shooter easily grabbable on the passanger seat next to me and the music blasting ~ when the sun shines I'll put the roof down and think of my frend Sherry-Rebujito as I'm cruisin'... you'll be proud of me, girl! ;-)

So, all positives thoughts for all sorts of yumminess are more than welcome! *I* will be doing *exactly* what I want to be doing. =)

I will get back to all the comments I've not yet replied to, on all streams - thanks to Ipernity's recent upgrades I'll be able to catch up on every single one when I return ~ thanks Team Ipernity!

Thank you for bothering to read this - it's either care, curiosity or a combination; all to be encouraged! =D

Love and kisses,

Tanya

xXx*

Good morning starshine :-)

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 02:29:03 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

gliddy glub gloopy nibby nabby noopy

la la la - lo lo

sabba sibbi sabba nooby aba naba

lee lee - lo lo

tooby ooby wala

nooby aba naba

early morning singing song

Thank you for sharing the :-)

*precious little life-forms*

Good Morning Starshine (Radio Mix) - Serena Ryder

Here today, gone tomorrow

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:17:58 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

I haven't been active here over the last few days; I'm a tad disgruntled.

The way whole streams are deleted just like that bewilders me.

It seems to happen quite regularly. In some instances people return, but not necessarily in the same way, which is not always positive.

It all seems very ephemeral.

I don't like it.

I shall continue to ruminate.

Ipernity v F****r

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 18:25:15 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

When the Censorship row exploded on F****r, I didn't like the way they (mis)handled things so I stopped uploading photos and participating, out of protest. That was when I joined Ipernity to suck it and see; I immediately found it quite different, though more appealing in certain ways. I was rapidly and increasingly impressed with Ipernity and within a month got a Pro account, though I’d planned on waiting a little longer - they just convinced me sooner!

I only joined F****r two months before the row, so I have no idea what it was like “in the good old days”, only what others have referred to so positively in their comments. Maybe I wasn’t there long enough to get into it properly, I was enjoying discovering F****r enormously, but the censorship debacle popped my bubble. When I’d return to check the protest Groups I became increasingly disillusioned and after I resumed uploading my involvement there has been pretty much perfunctory.

I find it is easier and more fluid to strike a rapport with others on Ipernity, as well as follow conversations or streams – and be more connected, generally. At F****r I find it time-consuming and mostly futile to check the comments I’ve made – so many people prefer to collect accolades and don’t even bother with a reply. I’ve gathered from others here on Ipernity that they feel the opposite; maybe there’s an essential plug-in I’m missing or maybe it’s just me. I’d like to know, out of curiosity, though at this stage I’m not willing to invest much time there to find out.

Ipernity has also been a better learning tool for me than F****r, which is not what I’d expected. In this context, as well as others, the blog and video features on Ipernity are a great plus. I also like the layout of the front page and the member tags - the whole feel of things, in general. Ipernity Team’s response to people’s requests and wishes has been fantastic; the new improvements over the last weeks and months have been great and auger well for the future.

Which is really the most salient difference between them; Ipernity respond to their customers/community whereas F****r’s attitude is markedly contrasted and cavalier; they respond to a market (share). I understand that they prefer certain “trouble-makers” slip away, over one issue or another, as their focus and emphasis is on the many thousands signing up daily to join the many millions. I understand they have their priorities… but I don’t share them and their attitude is as off-putting to me as the environment they are creating.

But as a mass photo-sharing / storage site F****r is great, I subscribe to it. I use my account there mainly to share full resolution photos with friends and family; those from events and outings where we’ve been together are mostly private, though I also have many photos of the Hounds and other such that are there for all to view. The unlimited upload is useful as I can upload batches at will; I don’t like the result on my photostream but the way you can organise Sets and Collections makes it easy for my friends to locate the photos they’re interested in. Though there is overlap, at Ipernity I’m more selective about the photos I upload, at F****r I have more quantity, maybe a whole album as opposed to a few photos. You’re welcome to visit and I’ll be happy to import anything upon request. ;-)

So for the moment I have both, horses for courses. Even if Ipernity were to increase their upload allowance I would not change my dual system, now that I have stumbled into it by default I find it serves me well.

F****r is a very convenient tool, but quite frankly I’d rather be browsing through photos and spending my online time here at Ipernity. Ipernity is more fruitful and fun!

Battling against Bigoode

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 17:26:37 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

As Biogoode's first huge seagull is launched on its evil course,

my communications network follows and relays his progress,

passing it along to Stiletto via a complex web of flight and aerial systems...

Feathered beings rally to the call and pass on the battle cry;

an attack has been launched against Stiletto – all with wings fly to her defence!

The news swiftly spreads;

Bigoode’s evil clouds are forming,

the super seagull has been sent to destroy Stiletto and a great army is gathering around her!

The birds get into a flap! But there is more!

He is using his mind powers to weaken Stiletto!!

How can this be fought against?!?

What avian champion could possibly break Bigoode’s hypnotic hold…???

Bigoode is dazzled by the green lights of this rare-breasted bird…!!!

Meanwhile, on the beaches huge flocks of gulls have amassed, with more arriving all the time.

As Biogoode sends more stormy clouds my way the troops are readied for action…

The teeming mass of seagulls extends for miles, snaking its way up the coast.

Birds have flocked to Stiletto’s defence from as far as can be flown!

Squadron after squadron of finely trained, fighter formation birds are sent to dispatch

Bigoode’s clumsy little arrowheads -those little birdies are no match for my Black Death Dive Squads!!

A total contrast to Bigoode’s sparse disorderly rabble,

the elite White Gull Corps stand to attention, alert for the signal to launch their attack.

As Marduk gives the signal with his magic tail, the birds rise and take off across the sea.

A huge volley of gulls sets out across water to decimate Bigoode’s puny rabble...

more wait on the shores for their turn, as wave after wave of birds take wing…

the skies fill with feathered clouds…

Back on the beach the powerful Marduk, in tune with the forces of nature,

continues to wield his marvellous magic…

With the gulls providing air cover, bovine beings gallop in to stamp out the remaining bits of Bigoode’s birds.

“Ah…”, Bigoode thinks, “I have seen this before! Cows and gulls – I know of your unholy alliances!”

With Bigoode’s clouds hiding the super-seagull drawing ever closer I assure you Bigoode,

my defence is not just a load of bull…!!!

...because you haven’t seen what’s coming now!!!

You have no idea what forces you have awakened!! Ha ha!!!

*mweh mweh mweh*

With a flutter of dark wings a shape takes form and starts to rise….

Up… up into the skies…

The winged silhouette rises in a brilliant flash of light!

Please click on the - photo below - it's worth seeing a little larger! ;-)

Bigoode’s clouds are broken up by the powerful beams...!!!

The super seagull is no match for this winged wonder!!!

The End

Bye bye bikini - hello buoys!

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 14:06:24 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

I headed for the beach with the Hounds yesterday afternoon to take advantage of the warm and sunny weather and went for a glorious walk along the beach. To be doing this mid October is a treat I don't take for granted. I suppose my bikini days are seriously numbered now, I've been taking my time saying goodbye to the summer and the farewells aren't quite over for me!

Beachcoming is quite boring during the summer, but now the shoreline is different and the rougher seas cough up all sorts of objects, Yesterday there were loads of canes and branches, a selection of sodden shoes and a profusion of buoys of all shapes, colours and sizes. Marduk gleefuly spotted a shiny new red one which he had great fun playing with on the way out - and didn't get bored of, which is a first! He ended up carrying or playing with it most of the way back, though I eventually felt sorry for him and his jaw and carried it the final bit myself - but he didn't manage to get me to do it earlier! ;-p

One of the few people we came across was a jogger who made a yapping hand signal and asked as he approached on at a lope, "Do they bite?"

Now this is a silly question. Why, what are you going to do?! Stop and pat them? Hit me over the head?

Of course they bite! How else are they going to eat their food - or deal with anyone who tries to take it from them, for that matter?!

Now, if you mean - "Will they turn around and bite me as I'm jogging past, like frenzied savage beasts?" the answer to that would be, "No... See, I have one under control on a bright red leash and the other is visibly calm and I can trust him to walk to heel and behave like a gent; you have nothing to worry about!"

But in seconds as a chap is running by, one can't really get into all of this.

So I just answered, "No", which is what he was expecting to hear.

I'd prefer it if joggers or walkers cried out, "Keep them away from me!" - "I'm frightened of dogs!"

Then I'd know where they're coming from. But I've noticed, many people ask, "Do they bite?" either because they want to touch them (in which case, why not ask that question, it comes with a different reply) or just for the heck of it, from a distance as I walk by. Bizarre.

On the way back the jogger smiled at me. Both Hounds were lying down as I was taking some shots, looking the epitome of well trained and impeccably behaved canines. Of course, they had lain in a way so as to give shade to what I was trying to photograph but this is typical. Looks can be very deceptive, but he seemed to approve.

A joke...

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:59:43 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

In the French Countryside

An elderly man was walking through the French countryside, admiring the beautiful spring day, when over a hedgerow he spotted a young couple making love in a field. Getting over his initial shock he said to himself, "Ah, young love... ze spring time, ze air, ze flowers... C'est magnifique!" and continued to watch, remembering good times.

Suddenly he drew in a gasp and said, "Mais... Sacre bleu! Ze woman - she is dead!" and he hurried along as fast as he could to the town to tell Jean, the police chief. He came, out of breath, to the police station and shouted, "Jean...Jean zere is zis man, zis woman... naked in farmer Gaston's field making love."

The police chief smiled and said; "Come, come, Henri you are not so old; remember ze young love, ze spring time, ze air, ze flowers? Ah, L'amour! Zis is okay."

"Mais non! You do not understand; ze woman, she is dead!"

Hearing this, Jean leapt up from his seat, rushed out of the station, jumped on his bike, pedalled down to the field, confirmed Henri's story, and pedalled all the way back non-stop to call the doctor. "Pierre, Pierre... this is Jean, I was in Gaston's field; zere is a young couple naked 'aving sex "

To which Pierre replied,"Jean, I am a man of science. You must remember, it is spring, ze air, ze flowers, Ah, L'amour! Zis is very natural."

Jean, still out of breath, grasped in reply, "NON, you do not understand; ze woman, she is dead!"

Hearing this, Pierre exclaimed, "Mon dieu!" grabbed his black medicine bag; stuffed in his thermometer, stethoscope, and other tools; jumped in the car; and drove like a madman down to Gaston's field.

After carefully examining the participants he drove calmly back to Henri and Jean, who were waiting at the station.

He got there, went inside, smiled patiently, and said,

"Ah, mes amis, do not worry. Ze woman, she is not dead, she is English!"

The Blue Dragonfly

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 22:56:04 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

Two Saturdays ago I was perusing my pages at Ipernity as I waited for friends to arrive; it was a fine afternoon and we were going to take the dogs for a walk on the beach. It was with much amusement that I read bigoode in the clouds comment on my Yellow Dragonfly:

"miss the blue one to make a triptic !

Shine on"

Ha ha! Chance would be a fine thing! Well, I'd never even seen a blue one! Yellow, orange and red dragonflies were the ones I'd got excited about in my somewhat limited (but growing) dragonfly encounters; there were blue ones too?!?

Soon after we set off on our walk. We stopped by the little lagoon, where there were some dragonflies but mostly muted camouflage colours - nothing bright and shiny! Then we cut across to the beach and continued our walk along the shore.

Imagine my surprise, when only a short while later, I came across this!!!

I couldn't believe my eyes - what an uncanny coincidence!!! :-D

Wow!!! Shine on indeed!!! *LOL*

I edged nearer to try and take a closer shot...

Sand on the wing seemed not a good thing... Unfortunately, the dragonfly appeared incapacitated,

it was moving a bit but not too happily. Maybe it had got wet? Couldn't fly away? It didn't look damaged...

I crouched down to take another shot before deciding what to do about it when suddenly -

* SPLAT *

Marduk rushed right up to me and - well, my quandary was resolved and my photo session abruptly ended.

Bye-bye brilliant blue dragonfly... :-(

It was suggested to me that Marduk knew the dragonfly was injured and had acted to end its suffering.

Hmm... so his conclusion was:

Step on!?!?

Back and bummed out

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 11:36:49 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

I got back on Sunday evening to a rapturous welcome by the Hounds and it took me till Monday morning to realise the damage that had been done to the plants by a heavy hailstorm last week. So many have been ruined by the hail, their leaves torn and ruined.

My immediate area was the worst hit, and I'm told the damage is the most severe anyone can remember around here, few times in long lifetimes. I'm relieved the hail wasn't so bad elsewhere nearby as there are orange trees and other crops and they suffered terribly a few years ago already with uncommon freezing; that would have been trluy awful. Still, it was shocking to see the way the plants have been bombarded, such a shame. Severe pruning of the whole lot is in short order, but some will take years to recover and others just won't really. :-(

I'm off again!

nobody@ipernity.com (Stiletto) — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 01:42:26 +0000

Stiletto has added a post:

I'm flying to Frankfurt tomorrow where I'll spend a few days and then a few more somewhere outside Stuttgart - by train, which is fun for me as I don't often travel by train. :-) I'm looking forward to the motor show and doing a bit of sightseeing which I haven't been able to do when I was there previously, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the weather will be kindly!

The Hounds were happy and relaxed the last time I was away, and they have a variety of carers plus canines; Leo lab was over three times for bouts of spirited cavorting and two small female pups were also brought as playmates for Marduk on another day. My friends were joking that the dogs were looking forward to me leaving so they could have their friends over and party! *LOL*

Anyway, it means I can go away for a week with peace of mind... I'll be wanting to build it up to two!

I'll catch up with you when I'm back. :-)

Ciao for now,