tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2009-11-11:/"And this above all unto thine own self be true and it shall follow as the day the night - thou can'st not then be false to any man. - William ShakespeareMokoFeed2009-11-11T15:00:09+01:00tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-12-24:/2008/12/24/dumbing-down-5267360/LaReineAndrea2008-12-24T03:33:28+01:002008-12-24T03:33:28+01:00 <p><span><span><span>During my years at school, I was a quiet, very shy, learned and sensitive girl. By the time I had finished elementary school, I had read most of Shakespeare's works, some Jane Austen and many other classical works of literature. I learned great amounts of vocabulary and would sit at home or in the library looking up definitions to words in English and Spanish. I never wanted to be thought of as an ignorant person, I wouldn't let that happen. Unfortunately, my education developed alongside individuals who cared little about their own education, who were lazy and spoke unintelligibly and I had to communicate with them on a regular basis. I was picked on by them about my appearance and my shyness. I was perpetually saddened by the state of things because I thought it would always be thus. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>And so, through no fault of my own, was I thrust into the company of those who were not my equals and who I had to lower myself intellectually to converse with. I looked back recently at some personal writing from my teenage years and an instant message log that I kept and the former was full of eloquence and well-written prose, yet the latter was a jumble of slang and ill-constructed sentences. In other words, I was dumbing myself down to be able to be accepted by my peers. I was even doing this during my Junior year of university, a time in which one can be quiet lonesome, and I befriended some less than savoury characters who treated me poorly and with little to no respect. I should not have done so, I should not have thought so little of myself and am now ashamed of having degraded myself with such company. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>During my last year of university, however, I (with encouragement from my then-boyfriend, Gavin) decided that I would not take any of that anymore  - and I developed good friendships with some of my fellow students in Anthropology, who were studious, good-natured ladies. Little by little, I have been breaking free of the metaphorical ropes that had been tying me down, which were repressing my true intellect, my knowledge. Now, as an adult, I can socialize with those who have more in common with myself than I could have in my younger days. We should never feel bad about our knowledge, for we've worked hard to obtain it. My years have been spent in study and thought and not in idleness as many of my peers. I want to make something of my life, and I shan't dumb myself down to appeal to others again. </span></span></span></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/12/24/dumbing-down-5267360/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-12-24:/2008/12/24/even-shakespeare-knew-what-was-right-5267178/LaReineAndrea2008-12-24T02:52:40+01:002008-12-24T02:53:23+01:00 <p><span><strong><span><span><em>Some glory in their birth, some in their skill,<br>Some in their wealth, some in their bodies' force.<br>Some in their garments, though new-fangled ill,<br>Some in their hawks and hounds, some in their horse,<br>And every humour hath his adjunct pleasure,<br>Wherein it finds a joy above the rest;<br>All these I better in one general best.<br>Thy LOVE is BETTER than high birth to me,<br>Richer than wealth, prouder than garment's cost,<br>Of more delight than hawks or hounds be;<br>And having thee, of all men's pride I boast -<br>      Wretched in this alone, that thou mayst take<br>      All this away, and me most wretched make.</em></span></span></strong></span></p> <p><span><span>The wise Bard explains here in Sonnet 91 how nothing in life is more important, or better, than love. It is an interesting and heartening sonnet to read, because it smacks down all the nonsense espoused by today's ridiculous society. If we remember what truly makes us happy, instead of what other people tell us will make us happy, we will all be a better people as a result. </span></span></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/12/24/even-shakespeare-knew-what-was-right-5267178/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-12-22:/2008/12/22/what-a-beautiful-dress-5257817/LaReineAndrea2008-12-22T05:26:14+01:002008-12-22T05:26:14+01:00 <p><img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bc/Empress_Elisabeth_of_Austria_with_diamond_stars_on_her_hair.jpg" alt="Sissi" title="EmpressElisabeth"></p> <p>The famous portrait of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/12/22/what-a-beautiful-dress-5257817/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-10-27:/2008/10/27/moral-atheists-4942112/LaReineAndrea2008-10-27T21:56:09+01:002008-10-28T19:53:10+01:00 <p>As Atheists and Humanists, it is our duty to be kind, rational and moral people. Some religious persons would say that Atheists and Non-Believers are immoral. This is false. It is true, however, that morals and respect have declined substantially since the 1960s and our decaying societies are rife with disrespect, crime and apathy. I attribute this to the cultural self-hatred and upheaval of values that took place during the '60s. We must stop this and we must stop it now before it completely spirals out of control. </p> <p>The religious are correct in their analysis of our crumbling cultures - we no longer have a national identity, nor do we collectively value what is right and good and true.</p> <p>I have never smoked, been drunk, partied, "hooked-up,"physically hurt another, used drugs, gotten a tattoo, and have seldom used profane language in my life. I am neither a prude nor a wanton woman and I wish with all my being that other "liberated" women would truly just respect themselves and not be so careless with their bodies nor with their time. I am a deeply moral individual and I am a non-believer. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/10/27/moral-atheists-4942112/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-09-14:/2008/09/14/the-good-wives-guide-4727020/LaReineAndrea2008-09-14T18:29:21+02:002008-09-14T18:29:21+02:00 <p>The following is an exact copy from a 1950s Home Economics Textbook.</p> <p><em><br>Have dinner ready:<br>Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospects of a good meal (especially his favourite dish) is part of the warm welcome needed.</p> <p>Prepare yourself:<br>Take 15 minutes to rest so you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting for him. His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.</p> <p>Clear away the clutter:<br>Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives. Gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper etc. then run a dustcloth over the tables.</p> <p>Over the cooler months of the year you should prepare and light a fire for him to unwind to. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too. After all, catering for his comfort will provide you with immense personal satisfaction.</p> <p>Prepare the children:<br>Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.</p> <p>Minimise all noise:<br>At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and show sincerity in your desire to please him.</p> <p>Listen to him:<br>You may have a dozen important things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first - remember, his topics of conversation are more important than yours.</p> <p>Make the evening his:<br>Never complain if he comes home late or goes out to dinner or other places of entertainment without you. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, and his very real need to be at home and relax.</p> <p>Your goal: Try to make sure your home is a place of peace, order and tranquility where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.</p> <p>Don't greet him with complaints and problems. Don't complain if he's late home for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through that day.<br>Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair. or have him lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low soothing and pleasant voice.</p> <p>Don't ask him questions about his actions or question his judgement or integrity. Remember, he is the master of the house and as such will always exercise his fairness and truthfulness. You have no right to question him. A good wife always knows her place.</em> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/09/14/the-good-wives-guide-4727020/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-08-10:/2008/08/10/back-in-london-4566223/LaReineAndrea2008-08-10T11:23:26+02:002008-08-10T11:23:26+02:00 <p>I am back in London and am very much enjoying being again in the company of my beloved. I arrived and it was a beautiful, sunny day and then it became gray and rainy later on in the day. My great boyfriend brought up the fact that two years ago, I never would have thought about staying in England for a time. I had previously visited twice - once on my own and once with my family, but I never thought I'd be staying here for a few months. It's amazing really. How much your life can change in so short a time. But, I welcome the change. I have also graduated from the University of Central Florida and will receive both degrees within six weeks or so. Who knows what will happen in the future? All I know is I am happy at this moment. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/08/10/back-in-london-4566223/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-08-03:/2008/08/03/le-nozze-di-figaro-by-mozart-4538985/LaReineAndrea2008-08-03T23:43:08+02:002008-08-03T23:43:08+02:00 <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/08/03/le-nozze-di-figaro-by-mozart-4538985/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-08-01:/2008/08/01/an-affair-to-remember-4527452/LaReineAndrea2008-08-01T04:38:04+02:002008-08-01T04:39:41+02:00 <p><strong><em>This part gets me every time!</em></strong></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/08/01/an-affair-to-remember-4527452/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-29:/2008/07/29/poem-by-emily-dickinson-4515349/LaReineAndrea2008-07-29T13:04:28+02:002008-07-29T13:06:42+02:00 <p>I went through an Emily Dickinson phase during my first year in college and this is one of my favourite poems that she wrote.</p> <blockquote><p><em>If I can stop one heart from breaking,<br> I shall not live in vain;<br> If I can ease one life the aching,<br> Or cool one pain,<br> Or help one fainting robin<br> Unto his nest again,<br> I shall not live in vain.     <br> </em></p></blockquote> <p>Now, if you wait until the song starts, it is truly moving and beautiful. This makes me wish my flute still worked so I could keep playing it. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/29/poem-by-emily-dickinson-4515349/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-25:/2008/07/25/interesting-thought-4498525/LaReineAndrea2008-07-25T19:07:55+02:002008-07-25T19:07:55+02:00 <blockquote><p>"Bachelors live like Kings, but die like beggars."<br>                                                                                                            - L.S. Lowry</p></blockquote> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/25/interesting-thought-4498525/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-21:/2008/07/21/join-me-4481140/LaReineAndrea2008-07-21T23:31:57+02:002008-07-21T23:31:57+02:00 <br><br>What a beautiful, tragic song. This is Gregorian and Amelia Brightman (the latter I shall see in concert in November with her sister, Sarah) in a cover of H.I.M's classic. I've been a fan of Gregorian since 2004 and wished more people knew of their cool sound.<br><br> <img src="http://pixhost.eu/avaxhome/avaxhome/2008-04-01/gregorian_572.jpg" alt="Gregorian" title="Gregorian"> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/21/join-me-4481140/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-21:/2008/07/21/possible-cannibalism-in-the-ancient-sout-4476343/LaReineAndrea2008-07-21T04:53:22+02:002008-07-21T04:56:57+02:00 For our course, Archaeology of the Natives of the Southwestern United States, my fellow wannabe anthropologists and archaeologists are debating over new research which points to cannibalistic activities in the Southwest during the Anasazi dominated period between 900 and 750 C.E. (Common Era). <a href="http://www.usnews.com/usnews/doubleissue/mysteries/anasazi.htm">In this article by Rachel Hartigan</a>, archaeologists have found burned human bones which also have signs of cutting from defleshing tools. We are currently able to tell whether or not an animal has been eaten by the marks present on the bone. Just a rudimentary study of osteology and forensic anthropology can educate you on this matter. But the problem, as it happens, comes from native tribes being opposed to having their ancestors deemed cannibals due to the reinforcement of the negative stereotype which has long persisted. But as scientists, we have to uncover the truth. Here is my own contribution to the debate.</p> <p><br> <blockquote>My opinion of the matter is that is seems that only the most politically-correct persons would argue this theory is racist. We are supposed to be scientists here, and when we are faced with evidence to support another claim, we must change our hypothesis. If some people were cannibals in this region, it follows that they did this for specific reasons.</p> <p>Many of us have called cannibalism "barbaric." Sure, it is barbaric from our modern, Western viewpoint, but you have got to take this information in its context. Spirituality was very important among these peoples and in many cultures throughout the world a great person must be consumed in order for that greatness to continue existing in the world.</p> <p>Even among the Greeks, known in the West for their wisdom and modernity, had greatly respected Queen Artemisia of Caria who drank the ashes of her brother-husband Mausolus every day out of love veneration for him. Instances of cannibalism such as this are seen throughout history and around the world.</p> <p>Why should archaeologists then ignore historical fact and archaeological evidence of cannibalism simply because it may offend modern day peoples? This would be a gross violation to not only scientific truth but also historic truth.</p> <p>Modern puebloan beliefs are certainly against cannibalistic practices, but we would do well to remember that in the past practices were different to those seen today. We do not have an Inquisition which burns people at the stake, though we definitely had that in the past. All of us have had less desirable cultural aspects in our ancestry, we understand this but our goal is to seek the truth as much as possible.</blockquote> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/21/possible-cannibalism-in-the-ancient-sout-4476343/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-18:/2008/07/18/one-year-ago-4466559/LaReineAndrea2008-07-18T21:21:19+02:002008-07-18T21:31:09+02:00 <p>One year ago today I received a message on Facebook from a wonderful man on the topic of reason. We started off with a good friendship, and when we finally met a couple of months later, we hit it off, began dating and are still together to this day. I don't like to think about the time before my Gavin came into my life, because I always felt as though I was missing something. And now I can only hope for more happy memories with him to come. I am always exceedingly flattered and honoured by his attention and love. He is what all men should be if they knew what was best for them. He is thoughtful, kind, manly, gentlemanlike, brilliant, handsome, loving, talented, and intelligent. He is the sun which brightens every day of my life and every day I am grateful and happy to have him in my life. I am what I am today because of him. </p> <p>So, my darling, here's to more time in your excellent company. Happy Anniversary of our first contact. You are the best and my one and only. x<br> <br> <img src="http://www.theelegantpen.com/images/Penmanship/Florid%20heart%20with%20I%20love%20you%20500.jpg" alt="heart" title="Love"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/18/one-year-ago-4466559/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-18:/2008/07/18/incest-4463062/LaReineAndrea2008-07-18T03:26:56+02:002008-07-18T03:26:56+02:00 <p>A question was asked on a forum which read:<br> <strong>"Is it wrong to get pregnant by your own brother or father?"</strong><br><br>I answered as follows:</p> <p>"I shan't delve into the obvious cultural problems arising from such a circumstance; therefore, I shall stick to the biological.</p> <p>Your brother and father share your DNA if they are your biological brother and father (which I can only assume). Your genetic data requires a completely different set of genes to produce a viable offspring. Viable offspring means a child that has more of a probability of being mentally and physically healthy.</p> <p>Children born of incestuous unions are more than likely to be deformed or mentally impaired. Some outwardly do not have any signs of problems, but the genetic issue remains. That's why it is a very bad idea to have sexual relations with, and produce offspring with one's family.</p> <p>If you or anyone you know has become impregnated by a member of your immediate family, you must contact your local authorities. For, especially if pregnancy occurred while the person was underage, this is sexual and child abuse not to mention other criminal offences.</p> <p>Good luck." </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/18/incest-4463062/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-18:/2008/07/18/a-great-31-07-minute-clip-4463032/LaReineAndrea2008-07-18T02:45:44+02:002008-07-18T02:45:44+02:00 <p>This man knows his stuff. If only the power in the world was had by those who are best able to wield it.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/18/a-great-31-07-minute-clip-4463032/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-16:/2008/07/16/why-men-don-t-iron-4457549/LaReineAndrea2008-07-16T20:45:17+02:002008-07-16T20:45:17+02:00 <p>The following information was taken from an 1998 anthropological survey which sought to answer what emotional differences exist between men and women.</p> <p>Men are neurologically primed to find the household routine difficult. The reasons are partly cultural but there is more to it than that. The male brain and neurochemistry make running a home and minding the children more difficult for men. Women, on the other hand, are hormonally primed for maternal behaviour, finding it less stressful than men do.</p> <p>According to new research the brains of men and women differ in terms of organization as follows:<br>Male brains are more focused.<br>Female brains are more integrated.</p> <p>Females are much better at multi-tasking than men are. They can do two or more things at a time.</p> <p>Men have a lower boredom threshold due to levels of Seratonin which act like brakes in behaviour. Biologically, females are much more mentally and physically sensitive than men.</p> <p>On average, men spend 5 minutes a day with their children. The correlation between mother and child is due to the levels of oxytocin in the body immediately after birth. This hormone reinforces the mother-child bond and the results are deeply-rooted in female biology.</p> <p>85% of the washing and ironing is done by women and 82% of the household repairs are done by the men.</p> <p>My point being that life and any relationship for that matter is a team effort. Man and woman are different because we need each other. <br> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/why-men-don-t-iron-4457549/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-16:/2008/07/16/chrysler-building-4455901/LaReineAndrea2008-07-16T14:18:02+02:002008-07-16T14:21:02+02:00 <p>It's official. Abu Dhabi has BOUGHT the American landmark this week. What next? Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and others are considering buying the Empire State building, too. O woe...How the vultures begin to encircle and feed...</p> <p><img src="http://www.destination360.com/north-america/us/new-york/images/s/chrysler-building.jpg" alt="CB" title="Chrysler Building, NYC, USA"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/chrysler-building-4455901/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-16:/2008/07/16/import-mexico-boycott-china-4455839/LaReineAndrea2008-07-16T14:06:35+02:002008-07-16T14:06:35+02:00 <p>I live in the United States and pretty much everything that is sold in stores comes from China. The products, for the most part, are extraordinarily mediocre in quality, yet are (unsurprisingly) inexpensive to obtain. Our children have been exposed to dangerous amounts of lead from Chinese toys and other household items have been found to be just as dangerous to adults. I've bought a few things from Mexico, which were by far of better quality to the products I have from China. </p> <p>Many people here in U.S. have a problem with illegal immigrants crossing the border from Mexico. We need to stop and think about why they do this? They have no work opportunities in their country - and if they do have work, it is usually too little to survive on. And the idea that "the United States is paved in gold" sounds very appealing when you are on the brink of starvation!</p> <p>The most obvious best solution to all of this would be to stop importing so much from China and instead build factories in Mexico where poor Mexicans can have an incentive to staying in their country. They will then have good paying work and will not risk themselves by the dangerous crossing of the border and life in a country hostile to them. We will be making our nations more prosperous as a result. Our nation was once powerful because it didn't rely on outside economic forces. It is high time we strengthen our neighbours and ourselves and take back what once was ours. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/16/import-mexico-boycott-china-4455839/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-07:/2008/07/07/the-good-life-4416622/LaReineAndrea2008-07-07T19:43:47+02:002008-07-07T19:43:47+02:00 <p>The show about the self-sufficient couple. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/07/the-good-life-4416622/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-07:/2008/07/07/beauty-4415594/LaReineAndrea2008-07-07T16:20:21+02:002008-07-07T16:20:21+02:00 <p>Physical beauty has always been important for mate selection, as we wish to continue to see certain physical traits in our offspring. This biological trait is hard-wired into our nature. However, as many learn (sometimes too late), outward beauty does not necessarily correlate to having an inner beauty as well. By "inner beauty" I mean personality, among other things. Far too many externally beautiful men and women have terrible, vicious personalities and little to no intellect. There are some, however, that have some external beauty but have many qualities of character (but are unfortunately overlooked due to their less pleasing physical appearance).</p> <p>What people must realize is that in time beauty fades; but the qualities of character in the person remains steady. I know full well what is like to be overlooked by the opposite sex for not being attractive enough outwardly, whilst having important qualities and a good temperament. As I age, I feel I am becoming more attractive physically, but that is all relative, really. Less worthy men in the past were incapable of seeing my worth and that is why I am so glad that I have my <a href="http://www.gavinorland.com/">wonderful boyfriend</a>, who understands me well and appreciates my qualities (and whose qualities of character I immediately noticed and admired). He is very handsome, the most handsome man I've ever known; but I'm not with him for his looks, I'm with him for the man he is inside. </p> <p><br> <blockquote><em>"A Rose will bloom<br>It then will fade;<br>So does a youth,<br>So does the fairest maid."</p> <p> - Nino Rota</em></blockquote> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/07/beauty-4415594/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-04:/2008/07/04/life-4400538/LaReineAndrea2008-07-04T01:45:28+02:002008-07-04T04:37:49+02:00 <p>We often ask ourselves the ever-popular question, "what is the meaning of life?" But, as I stared into the face of my little newborn nephew earlier today, a torrent of emotions and thoughts ran through me. It was quite a moving experience. What sorrows will he have to experience, what joys shall he delight in? </p> <p>I thought of myself and all people as once having been that small and innocent and vulnerable, and how much one has to change in order to strengthen oneself against the many troubles that come along in life. </p> <p>Childhood, as my mother so wisely says, is like placing two supports on the sides of a sapling, in order for it to grow healthy and firmly. Children need a good, solid foundation in order to be good, responsible adults. Without a proper foundation to a building, it shall deteriorate and crumble, as will the life of human.</p> <p>We none of us know what our lives will be like. Things change so quickly at times, and ever so slowly at other times. Time is the most important thing in life. I say this because there are some of us who spend their fleeting youth engaged in meaningless encounters and moments of excitement without fully understanding or appreciating the "big picture."</p> <p>My brother-in-law today told me that he has never been so fulfilled as he is now with his family and his life. I hardly ever hear that because of the mass apathy that plagues our societies. Many people are in a constant state of confusion and tend to avoid planning for the future out of intense fear of it. I am proud that my sister has this wonderful man in her life. He is very hard-working, devoted and loving to her and the children, and is supportive enough to let her pursue her own interests. But he also takes care of the practical- my sister wants for nothing.</p> <p>Nevertheless,I hope I'll be able to see my nephew grow up, and thus see him become a man. I'll admit that as I held him in my arms, that primal yearning to be a mother arose within me (it's only natural!). Realistically, however, I know that I am still too young for such an important and life-changing event such as that, though I know I am far more able than many a modern mother. I also would not want to be a single mother - which is a horrible state for a woman to be in; and thus, would only actively try to have children if married (as my sisters have done)for that is the best way to do things. </p> <p>Ultimately, I know not whether I will have any children, but I can at least try to be a great aunt for the time being to all seven of my sisters' children.<br> <img src="/img/smilies/icon_wink.gif" alt=";)" class="middle" border="0"><br> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/04/life-4400538/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-02:/2008/07/03/baby-names-4396109/LaReineAndrea2008-07-03T00:29:51+02:002008-07-03T00:29:51+02:00 <p>I just had a conversation with my sister (who's baby is due tonight) and her husband about what names they will give their son. They have chosen Tyler, a name which has historically been given as a surname. Many last names came up, and I thought about what names would be more appropriate for children. </p> <p>BOYS:<br>Arthur, George, Henry, Gawain, William, Richard, Edward, Corin, Uther, Jolyon, Roland, Merton, Colin, Maurice, Damian, Aragorn, Lancelot, Ralph, Armand, Rupert, Alexei, Victor, Rodolphe, Hugh, Alistair. </p> <p>GIRLS:<br>Anabel, Chloe, Ifigenia, Arwen, Virginia, Guenevere, Artemisia, May, Helene, Irene, June, Fleur, Eowyn, Viola, Imogen, Daphne, Emma, Hermia, Marianne, Isabel, Selene, Elena. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/03/baby-names-4396109/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-02:/2008/07/02/horrific-news-4392063/LaReineAndrea2008-07-02T04:43:46+02:002008-07-02T04:43:46+02:00 <p>I was watching the news while working out this morning when a very disturbing news report was shown. A woman in Washington was found tied up and stabbed to death and her unborn child was cut out of her womb and taken by the murderess. This was unbelieveably sick. I understand that some women desperately want to have a child, but to kill another woman and to steal her child is abominable. If you are unable to have children, you must accept it or adopt. Stealing and murdering for a child is wrong on so many levels. This murderer,Phiengchai Synhavong,has destroyed not only the life of the female victim, but also the victim's other children, her family, her baby (who is now on life support) and not to mention herself - for she will no doubt be given a life sentence. I truly wish people would think before doing things. No sane person would even contemplate so heinous an act. For more on this story, <a href="http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article4250140.ece">click here</a>. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/02/horrific-news-4392063/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-07-01:/2008/07/01/a-more-family-oriented-time-4389173/LaReineAndrea2008-07-01T13:44:06+02:002008-07-01T13:44:06+02:00 <p>Here are some clips from some great American television shows and commercials which promoted good values, family unity, and just plain human decency. Watch and learn!</p> <p>The Donna Reed Show. How Important it is to be a Gentleman:</p> <p>Mr. Clean - I still use this stuff!</p> <p>Leave it to Beaver.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/07/01/a-more-family-oriented-time-4389173/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-30:/2008/06/30/smoking-the-negative-consequences-of-a-n-4277123/LaReineAndrea2008-06-30T04:33:40+02:002008-06-30T04:33:40+02:00 <p>I've been researching this topic for some time now and I must say, some smokers are good people. Ok, this we know. But by now, we should all also know that use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, snuff, chewing tobacco) is disgusting and harmful for the human body. Yet many people let themselves become slaves to these products like the mindwashed consumers the tobacco companies want you to be.</p> <p>The use of snuff (which is popular with young white men) has been found to cause nasal cancer and increases hypertension. Chewing tobacco is highly associated with mouth and throat cancer. </p> <p>Smoking is particularly bad, not only for the smoker, but for every living thing around him. Those who continue this harmful habit are greatly increasing their chances of dying slow painful deaths due to the high amount of carcinogens present in tobacco products. </p> <p>A parent or guardian or babysitter who smokes in the presence of children should be thrown in prison for child abuse. Plain and simple. Your self-destructive behaviour has an even more damaging effect on others (second-hand smoke). No good parent could smoke inside the house nor around children at any time. To do so is abominable and destructive to the future well-being of the children and their future offspring as well. Ignorance is no excuse now! You have the facts and must therefore act accordingly.</p> <p>People who smoke while walking down the street (and mindlessly blowing smoke into other people's faces) and those who huddle together and smoke outside pubs or shops are disgusting and inconsiderate. Some smokers stand in the doorway while smoking; failing to realize that all the smoke is coming into the building anyway and thus harming others in the process.</p> <p>Smoking is also highly unattractive. I cannot tell you how off-putting it is to see someone smoking. We are creatures of biology and we want a mate who has the best genes. If a man smoked even a little bit, he has permanently damaged his genes and his own future health. Smoking, as we should all know by now, makes people look far older than they are. It rots your teeth, makes your skin grey and gives a general unhealthy look because, low and behold! It is making you unhealthy!</p> <p>I am thankful I was never thoughtless enough to try any of this garbage nor any other drug. Just because a few of my acquaintances were stupid enough to try this stuff, never for one moment tempted me to try it. I urge you, fellow young people, to have more backbone with your "friends" and refuse to try any substances which you know can create problems for you in the future. Your life is too precious to be wasted on such utter nonsense as these products are.</p> <p>All of the above was written out of concern for tobacco users, not out of any kind of malice. I have worked in a nursing home for three years and have seen the complete agony and destruction these products produce in people. I know it is very difficult to stop once a vice such as this has taken a hold of you, but for the sake of your own quality of life, that of your children and that of those around you, stop indirectly murdering other people and killing yourself...stop using tobacco products now! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/30/smoking-the-negative-consequences-of-a-n-4277123/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-29:/2008/06/29/beautiful-song-4381679/LaReineAndrea2008-06-29T20:25:16+02:002008-06-29T20:25:16+02:00 <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/29/beautiful-song-4381679/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-28:/2008/06/28/the-painted-veil-4374179/LaReineAndrea2008-06-28T04:43:53+02:002008-06-28T04:50:46+02:00 <p>I just finished watching this film and I was deeply moved by it. I must say I am easily moved, but this was a good film and the two leads, Edward Norton and Naomi Watts were highly impressive. It wasn't as Hollywood-esque as the original film starring Greta Garbo was, but was more realistic and grand in cinematography.</p> <p>This film just reminds me yet again of how fragile life is and how we must never take it for granted. Love can come into our lives, and some of us are too blind to see it until it is too late. I think there are many women in the world like Kitty (Watts), who are beautiful, frivolous and oftentimes bored. There are not many men like Walter (Norton), who was self-effacing and gentlemanlike and whose worth shone through immediately (well, to me at least!).</p> <p>As for the costume design, it was nice to see good English tailoring, though I must admit I think my wonderful boyfriend looks much better in that period gentlemen's attire than Norton did; but it was still nice to see him and the other characters thus apparelled.</p> <p>I really did like Naomi's hair in the film, though it was probably a wig. Nevertheless, I might just do something like that with mine someday.</p> <p>I am glad I saw this film (thanks to my honey) and I will recommend it to my friends. </p> <p><br> <img src="http://www.brooklandsvideo.com/painted%20veil.jpg" alt="PV" title="The Painted Veil"></p> <em><strong>"Lift not the painted veil"</strong> <br>by Percy Bysshe Shelley</p> <p>Lift not the painted veil which those who live<br>Call Life: though unreal shapes be pictured there,<br>And it but mimic all we would believe<br>With colours idly spread,--behind, lurk Fear<br>And Hope, twin Destinies; who ever weave<br>Their shadows, o'er the chasm, sightless and drear.<br>I knew one who had lifted it--he sought,<br>For his lost heart was tender, things to love,<br>But found them not, alas! nor was there aught<br>The world contains, the which he could approve.<br>Through the unheeding many he did move,<br>A splendour among shadows, a bright blot<br>Upon this gloomy scene, a Spirit that strove<br>For truth, and like the Preacher found it not.</em> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/28/the-painted-veil-4374179/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-27:/2008/06/27/aquot-e-strano-aquot-di-la-traviata-4372764/LaReineAndrea2008-06-27T18:06:09+02:002008-06-27T18:06:09+02:00 <p>Avec la chanteuse Anna Netrebko. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/27/aquot-e-strano-aquot-di-la-traviata-4372764/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-27:/2008/06/27/the-problem-with-affirmative-action-4372235/LaReineAndrea2008-06-27T15:51:27+02:002008-06-27T15:51:27+02:00 <p>This law is a plague upon society here in the United States, and to see a twin version of it being proposed in the United Kingdom is extremely disheartening. </p> <p>I am a white, educated woman in my early twenties. I have applied for countless positions throughout my area lately and have not been accepted.</p> <p>1) I have too much education - and they don't want to pay me accordingly.<br>2) I am white, and they have the racial quota to fill.</p> <p>One example of this is how I went to apply as a librarian at my local library. This is a very good-paying job and I had all the qualifications for it(high school diploma, Associate's degree, two Bachelor's degrees). I applied, but so did a high-school dropout black woman. Guess who got the job? </p> <p>This black woman had few of the skills I have and yet she was picked because it is a government position and being a minority, she was preferred. I could, of course, have stated my ethnicity as Hispanic, which it is, but I thought this a cheap shot.</p> <p>I want to be hired for my merits, not my ethnicity. I would be absolutely ashamed to be hired for my race and not for my skills. </p> <p>(I probably have just ruffled a few feathers by labeling her "black." Give me a break, this political correctness has gone far enough).</p> <p>This doesn't only apply to careers, but to education as well. I have spoken with many professors about how I, who studied so much for a particular course, have a B and some minorities consistently failed their exams received a B grade as well. The answer was that they are forced by the law to pass these persons. What do you think that does to the state of society? People will be promoted from one grade to another, without having learned the necessary skills involved in each grade level. Once they hit college, the same applies (as they are required by law to be accepted into college, regardless of their skills) and they end up with Masters and Doctorates, but without the skills associated with such high degrees. This can and will harm people, and this devastating social law must come to an end. </p> <p>Don't people realize that reverse-discrimination is *still* discrimination? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/27/the-problem-with-affirmative-action-4372235/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:lareineandrea.blog.co.uk,2008-06-24:/2008/06/24/very-true-indeed-4356428/LaReineAndrea2008-06-24T13:08:22+02:002008-06-24T13:13:09+02:00 <p><em>Great minds discuss ideas;<br> Average minds discuss events;<br> Small minds discuss people.</em> </p> <p><strong>- Eleanor Roosevelt</strong></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://lareineandrea.blog.co.uk/2008/06/24/very-true-indeed-4356428/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>