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  <channel>
    <title>Yada, Yada, Blah, Blah, Blah</title>
    <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog</link>
    <description>Tribe.net. Local Connections</description>
    <item>
      <title>Happy 90th Birthday Madiba!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/d349e80e-a3b3-41f5-bb84-354c1cf9c698</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/d349e80e-a3b3-41f5-bb84-354c1cf9c698"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/c34/e54/c34e548c-82bf-406e-9b41-a2dd12972fd9.thumb" width="63" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:37:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/d349e80e-a3b3-41f5-bb84-354c1cf9c698</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2008-07-18T18:37:24Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Senator Ted Kennedy</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/ec47e6ac-1888-4d99-962a-2a4927f64084</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/ec47e6ac-1888-4d99-962a-2a4927f64084"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/0d1/fe2/0d1fe240-424e-4793-be48-d8a9313e6ad7.thumb" width="65" height="45" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;By DAVID ESPO, AP Special Correspondent&#xD;
&#xD;
WASHINGTON - Massachusetts Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, battling a brain tumor, walked through a wall of applause and into the Senate on Wednesday and cast a dramatic, decisive vote on long-stalled Medicare legislation.&#xD;
&#xD;
"Aye," the 76-year-old Kennedy said in a loud voice, smiling broadly and making a thumbs-up gesture as he registered his vote.&#xD;
&#xD;
Spectators in the galleries that overhang the chamber burst into cheers — a violation of decorum that drew no complaints.&#xD;
&#xD;
"It's great to be back. I love this place," he said after his brief visit.&#xD;
&#xD;
Kennedy made his way into the Senate on his own power, appearing little the worse for his illness. A patch of scalp was clearly visible through his familiar white hair, although it was not clear whether that was a result of surgery he underwent or the effects of chemotherapy or radiation that are part of his treatment.&#xD;
&#xD;
He walked into chamber accompanied by Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois, his party's presidential nominee-in-waiting, as well as fellow Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry, Sen. Christopher Dodd of Connecticut and Kennedy's son, Rep. Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island.&#xD;
&#xD;
Democratic senators, who had been tipped to his presence, burst into applause when he entered. Some Republicans looked around quizzically, then quickly joined in the applause when they saw Kennedy.&#xD;
&#xD;
"I return to the Senate today to keep a promise to our senior citizens, and that's to protect Medicare," the senator said in a statement issued by his office as the vote was unfolding.&#xD;
&#xD;
"Win, lose or draw, I wanted to be here. I wasn't going to take the chance that my vote could make the difference."&#xD;
&#xD;
Kennedy's dramatic return gave Democrats the impetus they needed to free Medicare legislation from gridlock. It had received 59 votes on an earlier test, one short of the 60 needed to advance. Kennedy made 60, and when Republicans saw the outcome was sealed, several of them joined Democrats to pad the margin. The House already has overwhelmingly approved the measure.&#xD;
&#xD;
Lawmakers are under pressure from doctors and the elderly patients they serve to void a 10.6 percent pay cut for doctors treating Medicare patients. It kicked in July 1 because of a funding formula that establishes lower reimbursement rates when Medicare spending levels exceed established targets. Some doctors say they'll quit taking new patients if the cuts stand.&#xD;
&#xD;
Officials said Kennedy left Boston immediately after his daily cancer treatment for a flight to Washington. He was returning home immediately, in time for Thursday's treatment.&#xD;
&#xD;
One official said Kennedy has been in regular contact with Majority Leader Harry Reid, and had asked his doctors earlier this week whether he could make a quick trip to Washington. He told Reid on Tuesday he would be there.&#xD;
&#xD;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NWE-YEdZXY&#xD;
&#xD;
Kennedy was last in the Senate in mid-May. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor this spring after suffering unexplained symptoms that resulted in his being taken to a hospital on Cape Cod, Mass., and then flown to Boston.&#xD;
&#xD;
He later underwent surgery at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C.,&#xD;
&#xD;
Seated in the Senate gallery were Kennedy's wife, Vicki, and Caroline, his niece. As the tourists and senators alike rose in a standing ovation, Vicki Kennedy wiped away tears.&#xD;
&#xD;
So did many of Kennedy's colleagues and several Senate clerks.&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:46:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/ec47e6ac-1888-4d99-962a-2a4927f64084</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2008-07-10T00:46:50Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>46664</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/cf6c0e45-b1df-4763-915e-38515188e275</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/cf6c0e45-b1df-4763-915e-38515188e275"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/f82/75b/f8275b5a-7593-4642-a070-d302396d64f9.thumb" width="55" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;46664 is an African response to the global HIV AIDS epidemic that invites the whole world to take the fight in hand. It's our aim to raise awareness overall and educate the younger generations in particular. By gaining global backing for the cause, we will also raise funds to directly assist the many HIV AIDS projects we support. We intend to do this by using our international ambassadors to spread our messages of hope, our calls to action, our pleas for compassion and our requests for assistance and support for those living with HIV AIDS.&#xD;
&#xD;
46664 (we say four, double six, six four) was Nelson Mandela's prison number when he was imprisoned on Robben Island, off Cape Town in South Africa. He was jailed in 1964 for 27 years for leading the liberation movement against apartheid and for his impassioned stance on the rights of everyone to live in freedom. He was prisoner number 466, imprisoned in 1964. The Robben Island prisoners were never referred to by their names, but rather by their numbers and year of imprisonment - hence 46664 was Nelson Mandela's number.&#xD;
&#xD;
This was very much the strategy of the apartheid regime, to reduce those people fighting for the right to freedom to nameless numbers.&#xD;
&#xD;
It was for precisely this reason that Mr. Mandela decided to use this powerful, symbolic number in the fight against HIV AIDS. Through this simple, poignant means he has demonstrated and communicated to the world that people must never be reduced to simple numbers - we are human beings, all equal, and those infected and living with HIV AIDS have the same right to live and to be treated as equals.&#xD;
&#xD;
This is how the number 46664 became the icon for promoting Nelson Mandela's global HIV AIDS awareness campaign.&#xD;
&#xD;
The 46664 campaign began in 2003 when Mr Mandela realised that to reach the youth of the world he needed to engage the support of the people who most appeal to them. Using the power of music, sport and celebrity to educate and empower, supported by Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen and Bono. Together they managed to persuade over thirty of the world's top artists to come together to perform at a global awareness concert for HIV AIDS, held in Cape Town in November 2003 and broadcast worldwide via TV, radio and the internet.&#xD;
&#xD;
Performing with them at the concert were Annie Lennox, Peter Gabriel, Youssou N'Dour, Johnny Clegg, Baba Maal, Anastacia, Beyonce, Bob Geldof, The Edge, Jimmy Cliff, The Corrs, Danny K, Yusuf Islam (aka Cat Stevens); Paul Oakenfold, Watershed; Angelique Kidjo, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Miss Dynamite, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Zucchero, Abdel Wright and Bongo Maffin&#xD;
&#xD;
Other concerts followed - in George, South Africa (2005), Madrid, Spain (2005) and Tromso, Norway (2005) and these will be followed by further international concerts aimed at raising awareness and funds to support the 46664 campaign and the collective projects we support.&#xD;
&#xD;
(Taken from the website)&#xD;
&#xD;
http://www.46664.com/2&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 23:21:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/cf6c0e45-b1df-4763-915e-38515188e275</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2008-07-07T23:21:48Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SO CUTE!!!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0fed34ac-4673-4396-adec-fe077e2ad148</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0fed34ac-4673-4396-adec-fe077e2ad148"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/bb8/dcc/bb8dcc18-8a0b-4a7f-bce0-44b3dc317b61.thumb" width="65" height="43" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;...and oh so true.  LOL&#xD;
&#xD;
&#xD;
http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=5790774&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sat, 05 Jan 2008 21:32:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0fed34ac-4673-4396-adec-fe077e2ad148</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2008-01-05T21:32:59Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Is it me...</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/9810887f-455b-4d97-91f5-83a97239fc25</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/9810887f-455b-4d97-91f5-83a97239fc25"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/e32/aaa/e32aaaeb-f057-4365-9f71-ffec273c0cbe.thumb" width="65" height="48" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;..or does Rudy look a little gaunt and very pale...like death warmed over?&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jan 2008 06:17:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/9810887f-455b-4d97-91f5-83a97239fc25</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2008-01-02T06:17:09Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Traditional Visit to Santa on Christmas Eve</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0a3e976e-a95d-4a24-ad5f-7e8b5ccd6f62</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0a3e976e-a95d-4a24-ad5f-7e8b5ccd6f62"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/b98/c39/b98c3959-3b03-4b06-8cb0-780605aeb3a8.thumb" width="65" height="50" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Conversation while standing in line waiting to be called over to Santa.&#xD;
&#xD;
Moon Z:  "I'm not sitting on that pedophile's lap!!"&#xD;
Me: "Moon, sit on the arm of the chair!"&#xD;
Da boy:  "I'm not sitting on his lap!"&#xD;
Me:  "Sit on the other arm!"&#xD;
Belle gives me a look, afraid to say anything.&#xD;
Me:  "Sit down!"&#xD;
&#xD;
We approached Santa and everyone ran to their designated spots.  Belle doesn't run.  She's resigned herself to be seated on the furry man's lap.&#xD;
&#xD;
Santa to me:  "You can sit on my other leg."&#xD;
Me:  "That's ok.  I'll sit on the box!" &#xD;
&#xD;
LOL!!!&#xD;
&#xD;
As we waited for the camera guy to get the shot setup, Santa asked us what we wanted for Christmas.  I think Belle said books, Da Boy asked for video games, I said a trip to Jamaica and then, knowing Moon Z was the troublemaker of the group, he asked her the question of the day last.  Everyone held their breath and I glared at her with a look that shouted, "Watch it!"&#xD;
&#xD;
A mischievous smile formed.  Moon's answer?&#xD;
&#xD;
"World peace!"  Whew!!&#xD;
&#xD;
After we paid for the photo and walked about the mall, I asked Moon what she would have said if she had not already been grounded.  She laughed, and admitted that something else came to mind when asked the question, but she thought she'd better keep it to herself.   I told her "Good girl!  Maybe you'll find something other than coal in your stocking tomorrow morning!"&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 Dec 2007 03:12:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/0a3e976e-a95d-4a24-ad5f-7e8b5ccd6f62</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-12-25T03:12:30Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Santa Died for Your Mastercard!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6136a23a-a832-4bd8-863a-c5e435a38637</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6136a23a-a832-4bd8-863a-c5e435a38637"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/573/baf/573bafd2-89ff-4c2e-b5e9-c758c45b6a7b.thumb" width="47" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Larry Steagall | Kitsap Sun&#xD;
&#xD;
Art Conrad hung a Santa doll from a cross in front of his West Bremerton home, making a statement about political correctness as well as the commercialization of Christmas.&#xD;
&#xD;
**************************************************&#xD;
&#xD;
I'm sorry....this is just too darn funny!!  LOL&#xD;
&#xD;
Merry Giftmas!!&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 23 Dec 2007 23:48:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6136a23a-a832-4bd8-863a-c5e435a38637</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-12-23T23:48:32Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>My Reason To Give Thanks Everyday...</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/137bc2b6-31df-4731-ac49-abc9c1e42847</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/137bc2b6-31df-4731-ac49-abc9c1e42847"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/efd/dbd/efddbd3f-10cc-4afb-9f61-14c2e7b35211.thumb" width="65" height="48" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Dear Mommy,&#xD;
     First of all, you've probably noticed that something fell out of the letter when you opened it (I made it myself).  Second of all, I would like to thank you for loving me and taking care of me all these years.  I thank you for feeding, clothing me, grounding me when I needed to be grounded, helping me make a water tornado, keeping a roof over my head, and putting me in the best schools you can.  You've probably risked a lot of thing for me and Moon Z and The Boy.  I know I'm being redundant, but I thank you for all of that.  I REALLY appriciate it.  I Love You.&#xD;
&#xD;
XOXO,&#xD;
Belle&#xD;
***************************&#xD;
&#xD;
The "something" wrapped in the envelope was a keychain Belle crafted in her Industrial Arts class.  This letter came today while the kids are out of town visiting their other grandma.  I had to fight back tears....&#xD;
&#xD;
I miss my not so little babies!!&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sat, 24 Nov 2007 05:57:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/137bc2b6-31df-4731-ac49-abc9c1e42847</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-11-24T05:57:02Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Teenage Antics - WARNING!!  Not for the weak of heart.  Teenagers are often times inappropriate.</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/dda589f4-9827-41e2-8acf-e6ffddd18113</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/dda589f4-9827-41e2-8acf-e6ffddd18113"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/75e/7ae/75e7ae7b-9743-40dd-bae3-9d7d99e5bd60.thumb" width="65" height="65" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;I love my children.  I really do.  Really.&#xD;
&#xD;
Really, I do.&#xD;
&#xD;
A few weeks ago as we were shopping in Target, my 16 yr old daughter began to lag behind.  I never took notice of the condoms on display.  Allowing us to get 15-20 feet ahead of her, she announced "Mom, I need a new box of Trojans!"  Some people within hearing range gasped.  Luckily my back was turned and she didn't see my jaw hit the floor.  I quickly recovered, turning to call back, "Ok Helen!"  Those quick-witted souls who witnessed her shenanigans began to laugh; most looked puzzled or disgusted at the thought.  "Drat!!  Mom didn't freak out!"&#xD;
&#xD;
When I thought it was safe to go in the water, she pulled another stunt.  Again, she waited until we were in a crowd and stated, "Mom, I haven't gotten pregnant in three months!  Aren't you proud of me?"  A bit weary because this is apparently her new game, I replied, "Yes, counseling has done a lot to help your self-esteem."  GAH!!  I blew the wind right out of her sail!  LOL  I chuckled to myself....&#xD;
&#xD;
Mom - 2&#xD;
Bratty teenage daughter - 0&#xD;
&#xD;
Tonight, my 13 yr old son suddenly appeared from beneath the table where I now type with a tampon stuck up his nose.  "Mom, my nose is bleeding!"   If only you could have seen the look on his face!!  ROFLMAO!! &#xD;
&#xD;
OY VEY!!!!!  They leave me in stitches...most of the time.  Other times they could be had for a few pieces of kuchi or cowry shells.  &lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Oct 2007 03:33:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/dda589f4-9827-41e2-8acf-e6ffddd18113</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-10-23T03:33:36Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>The Dancer - Circa 2004</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/df3de11d-3b7f-4976-8b77-fe6c8215f023</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/df3de11d-3b7f-4976-8b77-fe6c8215f023"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/944/d66/944d66da-3510-41e1-827f-f16c3b3bab5e.thumb" width="46" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;This was my first stab at creating an image depicting how I felt about bellydance.  Yes, I was all about ATS!  Even though my style of costuming and the dance form have been constantly evolving over the years, I have not lost my love of ATS.  &#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sat, 13 Oct 2007 03:55:02 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/df3de11d-3b7f-4976-8b77-fe6c8215f023</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-10-13T03:55:02Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Bella is Back!!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93c1302c-79ed-4ed1-87d4-ecdd5700e1bc</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93c1302c-79ed-4ed1-87d4-ecdd5700e1bc"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/35c/12e/35c12e1b-36d2-423a-a773-17b1fd242166.thumb" width="40" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Today, my troupe mates and I participated in a parade....the St. Louis Gateway Classic.  It was SO MUCH FUN!!  The best part of the day is the fact is that my Bella joined us!  She hasn't danced with me in YEARS!!!!&#xD;
&#xD;
The theme of today's parade was "The 70's".  Some of us went out full-blown while others were more traditional.  Bella and I, of course, went the 70's route because we like to play dressup.  Oh.....it was just like the good ol' days.  &#xD;
&#xD;
Bella is back!!!  However, she's not that cute little kid anymore....she's a gorgeous young lady.  Freshman in middle school, 12 yrs old, and very mature for her age.&#xD;
&#xD;
I hope today is the beginning...again.  We use to dance together all the time and I loved it! &lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 30 Sep 2007 03:02:11 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93c1302c-79ed-4ed1-87d4-ecdd5700e1bc</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-09-30T03:02:11Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Prolific Tenor Pavarotti Dies</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93ff30b1-6860-4545-9b00-453011d48688</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93ff30b1-6860-4545-9b00-453011d48688"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/8f7/8ad/8f78ad36-acff-419f-8088-0db243ab57a3.thumb" width="65" height="39" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;09/05/2007 4:53 PM, E! Online&#xD;
Joal Ryan&#xD;
&#xD;
Opera was not the 20th century's surest route to superstardom. But it was if you sang like Luciano Pavarotti.&#xD;
&#xD;
Pavarotti, the literally and figuratively larger-than-life tenor whose recordings sold more than 100 million albums, and whose voice boomed everywhere from the Metropolitan Opera to Johnny Carson's Tonight Show, died in Italy Wednesday after a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 71.&#xD;
&#xD;
Dubbed the King of High C's, for the showiest chandelier-shaking note in his repertoire, Pavarotti was hospitalized last month. Earlier Wednesday it was reported that his condition had taken a turn for the worse.&#xD;
&#xD;
The singer underwent cancer surgery last year. It was the latest in a series of health setbacks that plagued the enduring performer in recent years.&#xD;
&#xD;
Even during his most recent hospitalization, Pavarotti's wife insisted the singer would sing again. It was a message that Pavarotti himself likely approved.&#xD;
&#xD;
"I think the important thing is to sing very well until you sing, and have the fresh voice like my father did," Pavarotti told the BBC in 2005. "My father was a great tenor. Beautiful voice. And he was fresh until two weeks before he died at the age of 90."&#xD;
&#xD;
Pavarotti's father, Fernando, was a member of the local choir in Modena, Italy, where the future opera star was born on Oct. 12, 1935. Pavarotti would follow in his father's footsteps--and then forge a whole new path.&#xD;
&#xD;
The turning point for Pavarotti came when he was 25--and had a day job.&#xD;
&#xD;
"Let's say, [in] the beginning, I am an elementary school teacher," Pavarotti told the BBC. "And on 21 April 1961, I became a tenor."&#xD;
&#xD;
That's when Pavarotti, fresh from winning a key competition, made his professional debut on the Italian stage in a production of La Boheme.&#xD;
&#xD;
From there, Pavarotti embarked on a career that made him the world's most famous opera singer, able to command the attention of 500,000 in New York's Central Park, as he did in 1993, or recruit stars such as James Brown, Sting and Bono for his annual "Pavarotti &amp;amp; Friends" benefit concert.&#xD;
&#xD;
"He knows the public loves him for himself, not only for his voice. If he lost his voice tomorrow, they would still love him," the late Terry McEwen, a record executive and opera director, said of Pavarotti to Time in 1979. "He could go on performing, he could be a different kind of star."&#xD;
&#xD;
A different kind of star is exactly what Pavarotti was. He was overweight, lived in a tux and sang in tongues foreign to most casual Saturday Night Live viewers, and, yet, his fame transcended the opera house, making him right at home before, yes, most casual SNL viewers. (He dueted with Vanessa Williams in a 1998 episode of the sketch-comedy show.)&#xD;
&#xD;
Pavarotti won five Grammys, earned a night at the Kennedy Center Honors alongside the likes of Jack Nicholson, Julie Andrews and Quincy Jones, starred in his own Hollywood movie, the 1982 romantic-comedy Yes, Giorgio, a flop, and fronted who knows how many local PBS pledge drives thanks to his popular concert videos with Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras, known jointly as "The Three Tenors."&#xD;
&#xD;
*****************************                  **************************************             ***************************************&#xD;
&#xD;
Two of my favorites:  Luciano Pavarotti and Barry White&#xD;
&#xD;
http://youtube.com/watch?v=kL0WFcygdWY&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 06 Sep 2007 06:03:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/93ff30b1-6860-4545-9b00-453011d48688</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-09-06T06:03:56Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Madea Time!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06e22e12-880a-49f4-a62b-506a379eb7e0</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06e22e12-880a-49f4-a62b-506a379eb7e0"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/7ee/b53/7eeb532c-3e38-4a33-bd53-a1bfab1a8a91.thumb" width="65" height="42" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;The ex is a sheer, unadulterated ass and I've had it!!  I owned a BEAUTIFUL antique oak chest that I didn't have room for when we separated.  It was always understood I would retrieve it when the time was right.  He owns a huge house with a basement so the chest wasn't in the way.  Anyway, I went to retrieve my beautiful antique yesterday to find the bastard PAINTED MY TRI-COLORED OAK CHEST WHITE!!  &#xD;
&#xD;
"WHY DID YOU PAINT AN ANTIQUE?!  MY CEDAR CHEST!!"  &#xD;
&#xD;
"It looks better."  (Used cheap paint not intended to be used on wood - can see every brush stroke...idiot!)&#xD;
&#xD;
"This chest is mine....you had NO right to touch it.  Should I paint your new car?  I think it will look better white!"&#xD;
&#xD;
"Don't come here starting trouble..."&#xD;
&#xD;
"How am I starting trouble when YOU painted something that did not belong to you?  I'll send you the estimate to have the chest restored.  Yes, you will restore it or I'll drag your sorry ass back to court!"  Keep in mind he's an attorney and this would prove very embarrassing for him, letting everyone know he's an idiotic  jerk.  However, I think this fact has already been established throughout the courthouse.  &#xD;
&#xD;
I was SO angry I wanted to cry but the kids were with me so I struggled to maintain control.  I am not materialistic, but I do have a few pieces I truly adore, and this is...ahh...was one of them.  I had to tell myself to breathe where as not to rearrange the ex's face...The kids watched me as I drove home in silence.  "Mom, you look tired."  Yes, self restraint takes a boat-load of energy.&#xD;
&#xD;
Time to round up my sistah's and my mama while leaving the kids here at home!!  Oh, the fantasy!!&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 02 Sep 2007 15:15:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06e22e12-880a-49f4-a62b-506a379eb7e0</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-09-02T15:15:13Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Dancing Tree</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06153442-f53c-4c7a-830f-7ce8f09d6986</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06153442-f53c-4c7a-830f-7ce8f09d6986"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/d68/256/d6825658-a840-4bd1-9753-83bab05035b8.thumb" width="65" height="72" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Is this totally cool or what?&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 06 Aug 2007 21:49:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/06153442-f53c-4c7a-830f-7ce8f09d6986</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-08-06T21:49:44Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Show Me Your Shimmy and Other Oddities in Kansas City, Missouri</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/16b124a3-b339-4356-9209-a86613b40425</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/16b124a3-b339-4356-9209-a86613b40425"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/92a/4d6/92a4d660-85a5-4f63-88a0-f2a02479d5d0.thumb" width="40" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Somra and I attended "Show Me Your Shimmy" featuring John Compton as the guest instructor this weekend in Kansas City.  It was a fun weekend all around.  Good food....Good friends...Great performances....&#xD;
&#xD;
I haven't blogged about a workshop in quite a while because they were becoming redundant.  Very few of the workshops I've attended have not been worthy of my hard earned cash.  I must say John Compton was funny, very knowledgeable of the art and just a sweetie!  He and I sat and chatted for a while after the Sunday workshop.  He's just a terrific guy!  I'm very happy I made the trek to KC.  Being my first male instructor, he deserves a blog!  : )&#xD;
&#xD;
Another reason why this workshop is worthy of a blog...The past month or so have been rough on me.  The job is stressing me and I'm once again attempting to purchase my first home.  (The title cleared this time around, so the sale SHOULD close.  *Crossing fingers!!)  I fell ill to a sinus infection that left me quite ill for a week.  The second week I just felt blah with little energy.  "I have a week to cram choreography in my waterlogged brain!"...or so I thought.  Just when I began to bounce back, my oldest child was scheduled for a tonsillectomy.  I'm a pro at being a nurse maid for this procedure since my son had one several years ago.  Even so, I felt very stressed.  The last thing on my mind was dancing.  No cram sessions.  &#xD;
&#xD;
I danced at two events over the Memorial Day weekend, both performances different from what I had planned for John Compton's show.  I suppose relieving stress, I unconsciously went all out, leaving my already tenuous knees very sore.  During the week, I attended three BD classes hoping to regain stamina.  I felt if I didn't have a good handle on my knees and had not finished the choreography planned, I'd just sit and enjoy the performance.  &#xD;
&#xD;
Well, things didn't go my way.  I was....let's say, "gently" encouraged to dance at the show Saturday evening.  In spite of the fact I had money in my hand ready to pay for admission, it was taken away from me when I wasn't prepared to defend myself nor my cash.  "You mustn't allow this to stop you.  You HAVE TO learn to perform even when things aren't the way you want them to be!"  I thought about what was said.  I remembered a blog Rachel Brice wrote explaining how she performed with the BDSS when she was very ill due to side effects from injections received when she attempted a visit to Africa to draw attention to starving children there.  OK....Somra was right; I wasn't happy, but I agreed to perform.  &#xD;
&#xD;
Seventh in the lineup, I sat along the side of the room trying to make myself invisible.  Breathing deeply, I reached down deep within myself to find a sense of calm.  It didn't work.  I was announced as the next performer. I did my best, but it wasn't.  I'm usually crushed when I don't perform well, but this time I wasn't affected that way.  Maybe I'm growing up?  Thinking back, I actually giggled!&#xD;
&#xD;
There was a fantastic photographer hired to capture terrific images of all who performed.  Some of my shots are just down right funny!!  LOL  This is what happens when I improv.  Life may not be choreographed, by my performances should be!!  I totally suck at improvisation!&#xD;
&#xD;
I'll place a few shots in my album that made me laugh.  There will be little captions explaining how I felt looking at the photos the first time.  I swear I had this Elvis thing going on!!  My youngest daughter disagrees.  "No Mom...That's more like Michael Jackson!"  Eeeeeeek!  LOL&#xD;
&#xD;
Have a good laugh at my expense.  We already have!!  &#xD;
&#xD;
Thankyuvermuuch!!  Hee-hee-heee........     &#xD;
&#xD;
***Sorry...I can't seem to manage to post the photo of myself captured in the perfect Viva Las Vegas-Elvis stance.  It's hysterical but too embarrassing.  Yeep.....     : s  &#xD;
&#xD;
Allow me to say that this was actually a liberating experience.  I wish I were better prepared, but I'm not complaining at all.  Life had a death grip on me for a while so when the time came, I did the best I could given the circumstances.  I'm actually rejoicing.  Albeit forced, I think I danced for all the right reasons.  I feel GREAT!!  It was a super learning experience!  &lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:49:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/16b124a3-b339-4356-9209-a86613b40425</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-06-06T01:49:01Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>The Ex</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/7c610932-8815-44d5-bb56-1665d3fd6678</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/7c610932-8815-44d5-bb56-1665d3fd6678"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/084/b77/084b7726-0d3d-4829-abe1-98a2fbe48739.thumb" width="56" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;...Need I say more?&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2007 17:03:53 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/7c610932-8815-44d5-bb56-1665d3fd6678</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-05-13T17:03:53Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Piercings</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/de6d1925-e211-433d-b2e5-9b53afde887e</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/de6d1925-e211-433d-b2e5-9b53afde887e"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/6f0/634/6f0634b6-ecd0-4a52-b2a4-b931d17e2185.thumb" width="65" height="67" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;As some of you know, the Office Administrator had issues with my nose piercing.  (tiny black stud - hardly noticeable with my complexion)  Anyway, what do you think she'd say if I showed up like THIS?!?!?!?!?!?&#xD;
&#xD;
Yes, I love body art, but in moderation.  (And if you look closely, you'll see that her finger is poking though a hole in her tongue!  YIKES!!!)&#xD;
&#xD;
I'm off to design my new tatt!!  : )&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 22 Apr 2007 19:56:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/de6d1925-e211-433d-b2e5-9b53afde887e</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-04-22T19:56:45Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>What Did I Find Staring Back At Me This Morning When I Looked In The Mirror?</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/32fbea30-6499-42bb-b120-2a70efccbee0</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/32fbea30-6499-42bb-b120-2a70efccbee0"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/918/b88/918b881f-33d8-4996-a954-4fab2bb361c9.thumb" width="65" height="65" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Much worse than the usual; I can cover that with makeup.  &#xD;
&#xD;
I HAVE PINK EYE!!!  AND THERE'S SWELLING!!!  Why now?????   ARGH!!!!!!!!!  Damn you springtime allergies!!!!&#xD;
&#xD;
*Scurries to the phone to call her doctor.  Her doctor only has hospital hours on Fridays.  This phone call will be classified as an EMERGENCY!!&#xD;
&#xD;
(There's more to this than meets the eye.  Hehehehehe     ; )  There will be more as this story develops.....)&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2007 13:07:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/32fbea30-6499-42bb-b120-2a70efccbee0</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-03-30T13:07:17Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>My very first bellygram!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/a54d66c3-aab3-4fa6-97cd-a10af37b98ea</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/a54d66c3-aab3-4fa6-97cd-a10af37b98ea"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/0e1/770/0e1770ac-1b9f-4fa4-bdad-777150a7fa17.thumb" width="65" height="48" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;I performed my first bellygram this weekend!!  Given all the negative comments I've heard about bellygrams, I didn't know what to expect.  You see, I took the gig for a friend who couldn't make the event.  I trust her completely and didn't doubt the gig would be a good one.  Still....??? &#xD;
&#xD;
As I approached the venue, I went into total panic mode when I arrived to see a full parking lot!  "There must be two ballrooms inside.  Yeah, that's it!"  WRONG!!  There were easily more than 150 people seated in the room!!  I didn't fret for very long because I was soon swept onto the dance floor, ready or not.  The music began and I somehow found the goddess warrior within, leaving fear behind.  I can't tell you what I did exactly, remembering only glimpses here and there.  As I've written before, I develop performance amnesia.  When the first song ended, the audience exploded with applause as did the birthday boy.  I was SO relieved and excited!!  The rest was easy...doing what I love.  I only hope we performed well.  Given the audience's response, I think we may have done OK.  What really struck me as totally awesome is that as we walked through the audience making our way to the exit, everyone along our path stood, applauded and cheered, telling us that we did a great job.  Gosh, I felt like Moses, only better!  I walked on clouds!!  What an incredible feeling!!&#xD;
&#xD;
Thank you dear friend for the opportunity to perform on your behalf.  I pray we did a good job.&#xD;
&#xD;
Namaste&#xD;
&#xD;
Ve&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jan 2007 05:15:55 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/a54d66c3-aab3-4fa6-97cd-a10af37b98ea</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2007-01-29T05:15:55Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Christmas 2006</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/c9fc2279-b166-473e-b66e-288ef7da99f8</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/c9fc2279-b166-473e-b66e-288ef7da99f8"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/514/f5b/514f5b40-d2fa-4776-a0fc-3fd0e27fe51b.thumb" width="65" height="48" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 Dec 2006 03:44:39 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/c9fc2279-b166-473e-b66e-288ef7da99f8</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-12-27T03:44:39Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Have You Ever Felt Like Throwing Up Your Hands Crying?</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e1347bbd-95c9-4de0-b785-2486b5ca80e7</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e1347bbd-95c9-4de0-b785-2486b5ca80e7"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/e08/561/e08561c2-32a3-4b5b-938a-b4634013169b.thumb" width="65" height="75" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;Ever work really hard just to feel under-appreciated?  Ever feel like your needs aren't important?  "Whatevah Ve, as long as you fulfill my needs.  You can do what you need to do later as long as you do my bidding now!  And do take care of yourself...as long as it's convenient for me!"&#xD;
&#xD;
Ever feel like saying, "Damn it all!", longing to runaway?&#xD;
&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 2006 19:32:44 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e1347bbd-95c9-4de0-b785-2486b5ca80e7</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-12-24T19:32:44Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>My young friend has returned home to the US from Iraq!!!!!</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e542ec67-0e5f-41a3-9639-57e215846a40</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e542ec67-0e5f-41a3-9639-57e215846a40"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/bb2/07f/bb207fd5-9f95-4853-bfa4-4a4f05f112f9.thumb" width="65" height="60" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;WOOOOOHOOOOOO!!!&#xD;
&#xD;
I was just about to send off a Christmas gift when I learned he's HOME!!  He has to fulfill his obligation with the Guard, but should not be deployed again.  *crossing fingers&#xD;
&#xD;
Whew!!!  What a huge relief!  Now if we can only get them all home to their families...&#xD;
&#xD;
Happy camper, that's me!&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Dec 2006 12:12:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/e542ec67-0e5f-41a3-9639-57e215846a40</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-12-19T12:12:22Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>...and on the fifth day, the Supreme Being said, "Let there be light..."</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/f792961a-00be-4875-b8dc-91de865b8c50</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/f792961a-00be-4875-b8dc-91de865b8c50"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/0bf/f01/0bff0192-80eb-4af4-ae3c-bfeb35c8f679.thumb" width="50" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;I HAVE POWER!!  I have my pooter back!  I have heat!!  (Well, the house is still chilly, but the furnace is kicking out warm air.)&#xD;
&#xD;
The last five days have been very stressful and trying.  I have often asked myself during this time, "What would you do if you had to go through a Katrina?"  I would persevere, that's what.  It wouldn't be easy nor enjoyable, but I WOULD make it through the darkness!!&#xD;
&#xD;
Thank you all for your concern.  *smooches&#xD;
&#xD;
Namaste&#xD;
&#xD;
Ve&#xD;
&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 06 Dec 2006 05:53:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/f792961a-00be-4875-b8dc-91de865b8c50</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-12-06T05:53:26Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>There's no room at the inn...</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/80b0df2e-8d91-417a-9acd-91bba855ef2c</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/80b0df2e-8d91-417a-9acd-91bba855ef2c"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/b4f/a36/b4fa3694-a50c-4719-ae4f-68d89f7932ec.thumb" width="58" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;This ice storm SUCKS!!  Power outages are everywhere around me and I'm prepared to leave the house if we should lose power.  Hopefully, we can hang on until sunrise, but I know I'm on borrowed time.  The lights are flickering as if to warn me.&#xD;
&#xD;
I have things set out on the kitchen table if the house should become too uncomfortable during the night and we have to vacate.  Coats, candles, flashlight, and cell phones are close at hand.  I don't know about road conditions.  Looking out of the windows, they appear clear, but this is something I will have to investigate.  I'll weigh my options then.  I may be better off remaining here at the house.&#xD;
&#xD;
I've phoned hotels in the area and of course everywhere is filled to capacity.  I phoned a friend and as we conversed, his portable phone went dead.  Yep, he lost power as we chatted.  Ironic, huh?  I may have a guest tonight!  LOL&#xD;
&#xD;
I phoned mom and as of 10:30pm, all was well.  However, the tree in my backyard isn't.  As I type, I can hear it crack.  Bits of branches fell as I stood outside with my skittish dog a while ago.  She hasn't fetched in years, but she did tonight.  A small branch landed close to her and she scooped it up and ran to the door as if she did her job; "Now it's time to go back inside, Mom!"  &#xD;
&#xD;
So, if the ice doesn't get us, the 6-10 inches of snow forecast will.  I believe there is no escaping the repercussion of this weather.  It wouldn't be terribly awful if I had a fireplace.  I'm going to have to invest in a generator of some sort. &#xD;
&#xD;
I hear trucks outside now.  Maybe that's a positive sign?  Nope.  I just spoke to my oldest daughter.  She said the truck is stuck!  OY VEY!  &#xD;
&#xD;
You want to know what's really eating at me?  I have a vacation day and if we lose power, I won't have the opportunity to play with my new serger!  I've been drooling over this thing for more than a year and just finally broke down and bought it for my Christmas gift to me.  (I take good care of myself!  Hehehehe)  &#xD;
&#xD;
I wonder....If the office doesn't open at all, is this really a vacation day?  Hmmmmm...something to ponder.  &#xD;
&#xD;
I'm off to bed while it's still comfortable to sleep.  Four, possibly five people to a bed does not make for a good night's rest.&#xD;
&#xD;
I wish everyone well.  It's inconvenient, but we'll get through this.&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Dec 2006 06:25:15 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/80b0df2e-8d91-417a-9acd-91bba855ef2c</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-12-01T06:25:15Z</dc:date>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ed Bradley (1941 - 2006)</title>
      <link>http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6e651aa0-aff0-4585-80c6-e6957b604583</link>
      <description>&lt;a href="http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6e651aa0-aff0-4585-80c6-e6957b604583"&gt;  						          &lt;img class=" picThumb" src="http://images.tribe.net/tribe/upload/photo/5b4/cf6/5b4cf611-2008-4bd0-87a5-3b177d82dd6c.thumb" width="54" height="78" alt="" /&gt;
    &lt;/a&gt;
										&lt;div&gt;What an incredible individual.  He was one of my heroes. &#xD;
&#xD;
Ed, I'll miss you, babe.&lt;/div&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 14 Nov 2006 03:52:09 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">http://people.tribe.net/tribal_by_nature/blog/6e651aa0-aff0-4585-80c6-e6957b604583</guid>
      <dc:creator>tribal_by_nature</dc:creator>
      <dc:date>2006-11-14T03:52:09Z</dc:date>
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