Hobbit-Sense at OneFreeGarden.com

I admit it, I was going to skip this week – I just felt kind of uninspired somehow.  Maybe it’s because I’m a bit tired (from doing things like staying up a bit late to begin with, and then realising that I never actually put the clothes into the washing machine that I need to dry for tomorrow).  But then I figured, hey, it’ll be good practice.  So far, I’ve basically spent WAY too much time on each individual blog post, and I need to get into kind of a short column mode, so let’s see how quickly I can quick-take!

1.  So, I never got to the other post, which was going to be about abortion.  Oops.  I think it was a good thing, though, because within a couple hours after losing it, I saw Jen F.’s post about an article she had written about responses to pro-choice statements.  I really am glad I did, and that I’ve encountered a few other pro-life posts and articles in the intervening time, because it helped me realise how unhappy I would’ve been with the post in the long run.  On the other hand, it seems like I haven’t learned my lesson about typing in a word processor rather than my browser, lol, but hopefully no server hiccups will occur.

2.  One of my “core issues” (or “pet causes” if that not-so-flattering term makes more sense to you) is genocide.  I don’t consider myself a particularly articulate person (in speech – I’m better in writing I think), but because it’s so close to my heart, I can speak well about it.  Today, I came across a documentary film about the reconciliation process in Rwanda.  I hope to see it soon and I hope you all will consider doing the same.  Here is the trailer (~2min):

3.  I can’t believe I forgot how much I love to read history, esp. when it’s written by Stephen Ambrose.  The guy is masterful.  I’ve been reading Americans at War, which I’ve had for probably 5 years and never opened, and it’s amazing.  Despite being very much a fan of peace, I’m fascinated by war history, and I have to say, Ambrose brings it to life and offers really unique perspective.  How unique can be evidenced by the fact that this near-pacifist actually agrees with his explanation of how dropping the bomb on Japan actually was the least-worst choice.

4.  I think soon I will have to do a post on surprise endings and what “redeems” cinematic experiences after having the disparate viewing experiences of Last Chance Harvey and The Last Templar (made for TV movie).  I am exceedingly good at finding ways that things are “okay” but I’ve been trying to make sure that I don’t excuse things that really shouldn’t get a pass.  I can say, however, that while definitely a “grown up” movie, Last Chance Harvey is a great film, mostly clean language and no scenes better kept private, plus some interesting parts where pain caused by a couple of actions that are more modern (atleast in their frequency).  

5.  I feel a sort of pull between arts (included: creativity/imagination) and reason.. not a conflict between them, but in me over which to prefer or focus more on, atleast in this blog (as they relate to faith, mainly).  So, I think talking about these two areas of society are kind of the direction this blog is going, although I can’t keep my mouth shut so causes and the occasional political commentary will probably besmirch these pages, lol.  

6.  Older small appliances are totally the best ever.  I say small because in my last apartment, I swear the oven was lethal, but I can unequivocably say that the old hand mixer and the old clothes irons I grew up with beat the pants off the new (admittedly) cheap ones I bought for myself in college.  Old sewing machines are cooler, too.  (On that note, I didn’t get to those pants yet – I just keep rewashing the ones I successfully hemmed, lol.  I guess I’m a chicken, or lazy – maybe Sunday will be my next try.)

7.  I’ve come to realise I have a really hard time committing to things for myself.  I am a super-star at committing to things for causes, other people, etc., but when it comes to doing things I know I should do for myself (exercise, healthier eating), frankly, I suck.  On the bright side, I think realising this may help.  Also the idea for a book to write while trying to be in shape for the first time in the latter half of my life (sad, because I’m only early 20s) may help motivate me…  I’m also thinking prayer should definitely come first.

Well, huzzah!  That actually was about half and hour, amazing.  Yay!  Hope you have a great weekend.

-the Rosy Gardener