BS: What did you learn this year?

Subject: What did you learn this year?
From: Morticia
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 08:10 AM

You don't need me to tell you it's been a momentous year in terms of world events....a year that will live in history, a date schoolchildren will memorise.In personal terms, it's been quite a year for many of us too, so, what will you take from it, what did you learn? A new song, a new attitude , maybe a whole new outlook on life?

I'm still chewing over the gristly bits of the lessons from this year....I hope that if I only take one thing from it, it will be to never take things for granted; not people, not places,not safety.Carpe Diem, that's what I hope I have learned.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: MudGuard
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 08:21 AM

I learned that all the Mudcatters I met in person this year are very nice people!

And I learned that learning the tin whistle is hard work.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Willa
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 08:43 AM

Mudguard; I'll second both your comments! I've been learning to play the whistle by ear, rather than from the music; it's been a challenge, but I'm making progrees.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Tweed
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:05 AM

I learned that the simplest things, like dangling chads can be instrumental in the collapse of tall buildings and change the world forever.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: CapriUni
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:21 AM

I learned that even Big, Bad Things can't shake my belief that the world is basically good, as are the people who live within it.

I started a workshop to discuss traditional folktales this year, and I learned that there are more stories inside me than I realized, and that it's okay to tell them at the spur of the moment, and that I do that pretty well.

But the first lesson is the one that makes me feel best.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Celtic Soul
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:32 AM

Lots and lots!

I learned that having a few really close friends is worth a hundred casual acquaintances.

I learned that music is not only what you make of it, but what it makes of you.

I learned that being a continent apart does not diminish real friendship.

I learned that functional romantic relationships should begin with good friends, and that they are worth any amount of BS one has to suffer from the outside world.

I learned that homeownership has a lot of rules I didn't know about before I bought a home, but that it has a hundred rewards that renting does not offer.

I learned that, being miserable at a job that pays well is not worth the money.

I learned that time is one of my most precious commodities, and that spending copious amounts of it with my man and my kid is priceless.

I learned that, though things are constantly changing, and sometimes it may seem to be for the worst, that change is an amazing thing, and that there is always at least something valuable to be learned from it, if not something good that comes of it.

I learned that age is a relative thing...the more time you spend around your relatives, the older you feel! ;D (Just kidding, CarolC!!)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Allan C.
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:37 AM

I have learned again what I have always known deep in my soul: Love is the most important thing.

One of my favorite quotations comes from a very unlikely source, a book from the '70's called "The Harrad Experiment": "The trouble is that people believe if they give love and do not receive love in return; somehow their supply dwindles." I have devoted my life to being someone to whom this does not apply. Love comes in a myriad of forms. All of them have this in common - they have their greatest value when given away.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:39 AM

I've learned that even in times of great tragedy, old things may be transformed into something new and better. Old friendships can be renewed, wounds can be healed, and blessings can come when you least expect them. I have gained many new friends this year, Many Mudcatters, especially Sian, Ian and Jean, and those Not Of The Pond, like Mary. Like the Phoenix, powerful things can grow out of the ashes.

Jerry

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: CarolC
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 10:41 AM

Way too much to put in a post to a thread.

(I'm taking that as a compliment about my calendar picture, Ms. Soul.)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 10:51 AM

That pleasure is found in the strangest of places. And when you find it, grab it with both hands, because you never know when or where it will turn up again.

And that I'm never too old or fat to do something I enjoy.

And that sometimes, but only very rarely, you can go back.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:00 AM

OK, here is a nice one from today.

One of my nieces had her 4th birthday today and that part of the family are with us at the moment. There were various presents and mine was an incredibly simple one and a cheap one. Just a set of 10 foam mats wich join together and have numbers in. So far, I have seen a box made, hop-scotch started, last I saw was a "path" being made along the hall...

Lesson: Simple things and an imaginative child are a great recipe.

Jon

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Cappuccino
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:04 AM

Never going back to 2001, Liz - I've never known a year which hurt so many people in so many ways. If my time-machine ever lands with the dial reading '2001', I ain't getting out!

But what I've learned from this appalling year is... that if next year is to be better for people, then I have to do my bit in making it so. I'm sorry if that sounds pious - but that's the way it's got to be.

Right. Come on, 2002 - I'm ready for ya!

Good luck, everyone.

- Ian B

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:11 AM

IanB - it wasn't 2001 that I was going back to, but something much, MUCH deeper in the past....

However, there was something that got started this year, was rudely interrupted, lots of pain and anguish on the part of many, but we persevered, and now it's better than before... so yes, there have been a couple of good things this year. That's what I'm focusing on, not the worst. That doesn't mean that the worst has no place. If it hadn't happened that way, it might not be so good now. And yes, it involves a motorbike!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: alanww
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:14 AM

Wow! What a year! And what a lot I have learned, both about myself and about many of the other people who are important to me!

First, I have learned just how much of a romantic I am.
Also, I have learned that making music and singing are an absolutely core activity in my life.
On the practical side, I have learned that you really do improve the quality of your playing (a concertina) and singing if you put your head down and practice hard.
But, most of all, I have had it reaffirmed to me just how essential it is for me to have a soulmate ...!
And I have learned (again!) to just go for it - to go, go, go for the things that are vital in one's life!

Dear thoughts are in my mind and my soul soars enchanted ...!
Alan

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: WyoWoman
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:44 AM

I have learned that playing the guitar is much more complicated than I ever imagined.
I learned that I'm as persistent as I ever was.
I learned that 53 is not too late to get your dream job, completely unpredictably and at a time of great personal despair. Suddenly, the wheel turns and there you are. Viola!
I learned that friendship is not a matter of time and space, but that sometimes you get lonesome for each other and for that, Sky Guy created airplanes.
I learned that many people are exceedingly easily led by the most emphatic and worst among us.
I learned that alcoholism is a terrible disease and I way overestimated my ability to make a dent in it. I learned that loving someone can't necessarily save them and sometimes you just have to march on.
I learned that great sex doesn't equal great love, but it certainly relieves the tension for a while.
I learned that some younger men really dig older women, and vice versa.
I learned that I love living in the country and am maybe forever spoiled on being a city girl.
I learned that musicians can be generous and open to newcomers, in opposition to my stereotype, which actually only applies to the butthead few.
I've learned to stay away from the butthead few.
I've learned to be concise.

ww

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: kendall
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 12:10 PM

I've learned not to take my voice for granted. I've also learned that as long as there are people like my fellow mudcatters in the world, we will overcome.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: heric
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 01:26 PM

It doesn't sound pious IanB, I want to be on your team.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: heric
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 01:36 PM

We could structure it with "cells," acting autonomously.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Amos
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 01:41 PM

I think I learned that I already know everything, I think. But I could be wrong :>).

A

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: heric
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 01:52 PM

Yeah, I learned that about Amos, too. (Deda told me.) :)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: DougR
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 02:19 PM

I learned that Kendall likes Llamas.

DougR

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Cappuccino
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 02:19 PM

You're very welcome, Dan - the battle starts here.

Oh, Wyo, what a phrase - 'the butthead few'. That is wonderful!!!! May I borrow it?

- Ian B

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Micca
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 02:42 PM

I learned a lot about friendship,and how much it means, for without it, what are we??? and how a simple act like making tea for a couple of friends, in slightly odd circumstances, enhanced the friendship and raised the awareness of how precious such a friendship is to a higher level. thank you,
I do not count the time
For who knows where the time goes?
Who knows where the time goes?

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: kendall
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 03:29 PM

Last October, I was invited to visit some catters in England. I had considerable concern about flying into a foreign country, knowing no one, and being stuck there for 10 days. Well, in the end, I took my own advice ("Get out on that limb, that's where the fruit is.") And I'm glad I did. I learned to trust my intuition instead of my logic.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 03:35 PM

On the music front, I learned a lot of spirituals and a lot about them. I learned how to to go out to do a gig all by myself if need be, tho I am as wired for partnership as ever, and maybe moreso now that I know it consciously. I learned that I need to get the key of B onto all my autoharps for this voice I have so I can quit abusing my voice.

On the personal front, I learned how to stick to my guns-- squirt guns, of course, since I would never wish to be lethal! I learned how to get well, and that I can actually set my life up to survive it. Maybe even flourish.

And as I hope each and every year, I hope I also grew in grace and graciousness. Really, if you'd known me ten years ago.... *G*

~Susan

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: skarpi
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 05:31 PM

Halló all, What did I learn this year? I learn that I can control my self better then I used to do, that Is I have lost 30kg In five months, I learned how to control my foot happit and stay away from all cola drinks, junkfood and how to drink three liter of waters on a day and I am learning The Body for Life. Good for me. Yeh..... A little ego ha,ha... I also learned how hard the life can be all around us and even In our back jard, so the life Is a School the hardest school that we can get so learn well and use everything that we learn In the best way that we can. And I have gol to catch- this coming year I am gonna try to meet some Mudcatters. May god be with you , where ever you are , what ever faith you have. From Iceland all the best skarpi Iceland.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 06:09 PM

Well, I've lately been thinking that I'd check to see how long my average post is since some are only a few words and others run to a thousand or more. I took a random sample of my posts over the past year and found that a reasonable average would be between 80-120 depending on the sample group. Now in the past three years I have made over 15,000 posts to the 'Cat, so figuring 100 words per post, that means I've written 1,500,000 words here, or enough to fill a dozen or more long novels.

What I have learned is that my typing still sucks and isn't too fast either, so practice does not make perfect.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Amos
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 06:16 PM

And furthermore, Pat, you were funnier last year. :>)

BTW, I have learned that Spaw is not only remarkably broad, he's also pretty deep. Kinda like one of those subsea volcanos with the fumaroles at the end.

And I have also learned that when you know everything, the Big Thing is not to let on...

A

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Morticia
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 06:17 PM

Yeah, Pat but quality is what counts and you have added a LOT of quality *BG*

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Helen
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 06:24 PM

I learned that there are some people in the world who deliberately set out to hurt other people - and I am not talking about September 11, I'm talking about adult bullies, especially the ones in positions of power. I also learned that I am strong enough to fight back.

I was also forcibly reminded that I can survive even the most devastating emotional trauma and still come out of it laughing - it just took a year or two to get to that stage.

I learned that loving relationships & friendships are the rock on which survivors of post traumatic stress syndrome can rebuild their lives. And those relationships and friendships are as real on the 'net as they are in my own backyard. Thanks, Mudcatters, for everything.

I also learned that I have made certain personal & ethical choices which draw bullies to me like a magnet, and now I am building stronger walls against them while keeping those walls just as flexible and open for people who try to do the right thing by other people. A juggling act.

(This one was the hardest lesson to learn - that I do and say things which attract them to me. Complete reevaluation of my life from a new perspective.)

I have learned that if I am to enjoy my music I have to learn the theory and make it all make sense - take it to a higher level, and start practising in earnest, and not just dabbling. Still working on this one.

Helen

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: 53
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 06:46 PM

I have learned that I can LEARN to play guitar! It takes a lot of practice, but I have made a pretty good start on it in 2001.

I CAN do whatever it takes to go forward with a positive attitude in spite of hardships and circumstances. Being able to 'roll with the punches' of life and maintain sanity is a very important lesson we should all learn.

I have learned that we never get too old to learn.

But most of all I have learned that LOVE is the most important thing we do, whether we receive all the love we want, we can keep giving our love to others, whether they receive it is up to the individual.

Best wishes for the new year to all my friends at Mudcat.

Glenda

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Blackcatter
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 07:16 PM

Boy! I nominate Skarpi as Mudcat's Life Changer of the Year!:

"I learn that I can control my self better then I used to do, that Is I have lost 30kg In five months, I learned how to control my foot happit and stay away from all cola drinks, junkfood and how to drink three liter of waters on a day and I am learning The Body for Life." Way to go Skarpi! Congratulations and good luck continuing on your journey. ____________

I learned that a "real" 8 to 5 job isn't for me, though knowing that hasn't solved money issues.

I learned that I still hate to practice (still struggling with the tin whistle).

I learned that people seem to like me better if I occasionally shut up.

I learned that my problems are important and I need to take care of them intead of ignoring them and trying to help everyone else.

I learned that I have Asperger's Syndrome and that most people still don't believe it exists.

pax & happy legal new year yall

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: skarpi
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 07:26 PM

Thank you Blackcatter, I was 120kg and I am 90kg and I am going dow for at least 5 to 10kg and rebuild my mussels... did I wrote that right?... hmmmm well I think so . all the best skarpi Iceland.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: 53
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 07:46 PM

i've learned a little bit about a computor, i;ve learned how proud i am to be an american and how proud i am of my country,but most of all i have learned to always try and tell your loved ones that you love them cause you never know that it might be your last. happy new year BOB

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Noreen
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 07:54 PM

That depends on whether you farm bivalves, skarpi... I think you meant muscles! Well done, you!

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Amos
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 07:55 PM

Skarp --

We have two similar words in this silly language: "muscles" and "mussels". The first one is what you use to lift weights with. The second are those little black-shelled bivalves you find on the posts that hold up docks, when the tide is out, or stuck to rocks by the beach below the water line... So I think you have been building up your muscles -- maybe in order to hunt for mussels?

Warm regards,

A.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: kendall
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 08:29 PM

Skarpi does much better with English than any of us do with Icelandic.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: GUEST,Butch at work
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 09:25 PM

I learned that some of the most "opened minded" among us are the most destructive, negative and shallow people that exist.

I learned that life is very short and I am just as fragile as others ( I learned this while sitting on 8 Harpoon Missles that were wrecked along with their transport truck in rural Maryland). I also learned that death just isn't as scarry as I have been told.

I learned that I would rather be right and compasonate than politically correct.

I learned that being a firefighter , paid or volunteer, is the greatest job God could give and human.

I learned that I am not the center of evfen my own little universe anymore and I never will be again!

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: CarolC
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:00 PM

Well, just a little one...

I learned what an absolute delight it is to wake up to beautiful poetry that's been recited into my answering machine by a dear person in a far away land. What a charming way to start the day. (You know who you are.)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: DougR
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:16 PM

Wonderful! Romance blooms! :>)

DougR

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Robin2
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:18 PM

I've learned to accept that my children grow up and away
that, in the end, it's just me and and the hubby
as he said, "I'm all you started with, and I'm what you end with"
Robin, with new grandbaby on the way :)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: CarolC
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:21 PM

I don't know about that, DougR. But it's good to have friends.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Peg
Date: 30 Dec 01 - 11:51 PM

Life is too short not to give, and get, love anywhere and any time you can find it.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Philibuster
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 12:13 AM

Music is about learning the rules, then finding ways to bend, twist, and break them.

So is life.

Teenagers so often choose to define their lives by "Group" rather than "Self".

Cynicism and negativity do nothing to make you seem intelligent.

Stereotypes are always easier to deal with than their alternatives, which is why so many people choose to live stereotypical lives and wish to have stereotypical relationships. Even if the alternatives are better.

Those that do not care cannot be made to care.

Summer vacations grow shorter in proportion to age.

Algebra is easy, math is hard.

Gross and cool are, on occasion, the same thing. (See "Spaw")

30 minutes of pain and sweat a night are better than a lifetime of weakness.

Worthwhile compositions come only with inspiration, though hours of work help.

Cadences are not required, and are untrue and often distateful. Nothing else ever raps up neatly. Why should music? =P

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Blackcatter
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 01:36 AM

You're welcome Skarpi.

I'd much rather use the work mussels than the other. It's easier to spell!

I was just telling someone about Iceland the other day - now she wants to visit. I wish I could go back one of these days. I guess for now I'll just have to look at my black sand from the beach near Vik and my treasured horseshoe that is protecting the entrance to my home. It's hard for me to believe that I spent 5 days on horseback there.

Take care all

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Amos
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 01:41 AM

Blackatter:

I'm really curious to know what you were doing that found you spending five days on horseback -- was it a vacation excursion, or was this some trek you took for work, or a project?

If you don't mind telling, of course! :>)

A

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Blackcatter
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 01:55 AM

Hi Amos

I an a group of friends went to spend a couple weeks in Iceland. We figured the best way to see the land was by horseback because there are few good roads and with a couple guides we had a great time. We camped each night and wandered around the sounthern end of the island passing by volcanoes, black sand beaches, geysers, glaciers and waterfalls. It was February and we were fortified with "Black Death," salmon, whale blubber and Icelandic trail mix.

My ass has never been so cold, numb and sore.

pax yall

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Cappuccino
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 07:39 AM

Skarpi will put me right on this, I'm sure, but I think the Iceland Tourist Board once came up with the wonderful slogan:

'Iceland - your last stop before Mars!'

- ian B

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: skarpi
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 08:37 AM

Halló all and good day, Ian B (a training camp before tavel to Mars? ) I think not. Some say when they first arive to Iceland that they landed on the moon. You can travel on a horse and by bus or a car around iceland and go to Vestmann Island but to be with the nearest tuch with the land travel by horse I think that is a great way to travel around Iceland but In February no way , travel in June, july and Agust. And if you come Have a conntact to me, All the best and HAPPY NEW YEAR with many fireworks oh there are many folks from England and others Country to watch the fireworks on midnight. All the best skarpi Iceland.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: gnu
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 08:52 AM

I've never travelled much ouside Atlantic Canada, but, after joining Mudcat and interacting with many people far away, I have learned that, no matter where you go in the "Western World", most people enjoy Irish Traditional music and will come together to trash your Bodhran.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Mr Red
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 09:09 AM

I too learned the world wide comunity of Mudcat.

gnu try painting your bodhran red, it works for me.
anyone telling Bodhran jokes usually gets the response that mine are stained with the blood of people who tell bodhran jokes. and that puts paid to all but the most persistant naysayers.
which only leaves Mick Brooks - bless him.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: alanww
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 04:33 PM

Yes, God bless Mick Brookes!

Alan

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: GUEST,Desdemona
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 04:38 PM

All wonderful comments! I suppose I'd have to say that I've been REMINDED of something we've all really known all along: that we need to appreciate the people we love RIGHT NOW, and grapple those friends & family to us with hoops of steel; that the circle never closes and there's always room for one more at the table; and that it's never too late to start something new.

God bless & a happy 2002!

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Deda
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 05:02 PM

I learned (I'm still working on it) that my grandson is my daughter's son, not mine, and she has to make the parent decisions. I can spoil him and be crazy about him but I can't decide where he's going to live.

I learned that there are groups of people I'm fond of and connected to from each and every phase of my life, and I can revisit most of them pretty much any time I can work it out logistically and the basic fondness will all come rushing back.

I learned that the people who cut me out of their lives actually did me a favor.

I learned that sometimes being sad, even feeling grief, is the appropriate and right response and it does not need to be cured or healed or fixed or resolved, it just needs to be felt and respected and survived. I don't get to be thrilled and delighted and happy every day no matter what herbs I take or what mantras I chant.

OTOH, I learned that I can be happy and GRATEFUL about a lot of things a lot of the time, because I've been extremely lucky in this life, and music helps me feel happy.

I learned that being smart enough to do something doesn't mean I necessarily have to or want to do it. (Took the LSAT, decided not to do anything with it even though I did reasonably well with virtually no studying. Don't want to go to/through law school.)

Label this year AFLE -- Another F***ing Learning Experience.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Morticia
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 09:24 PM

Love that, another F****ng learning experience.I cried bitter tears tonight.. that I was facing another year without someone important in my life.., I also learnt who my friends were, and that they aren't all just a phone call away but they matter anyway.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: kendall
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 10:46 PM

I'm sending a PM Morty.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: DonMeixner
Date: 31 Dec 01 - 11:49 PM

I learned that there is always one more thing you can do. I learned that there is a big difference between just plain good luck good luck and miracles. I learned that the real friends are the ones who come through when you expect it the least. And I learned how hard and how easy it is to love someone.

Happy New Year to you all, I expect mine will be grand.

Don

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Áine
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 02:39 AM

Well, I guess this'll count as 'what I learned last year', but -- I learned that I could let go of the past without giving up on the present and the future. I learned that new(ish) friends can be just as 'golden' as old ones. I learned that I love my husband more than I ever thought I could love anyone. I learned that my oldest son really does think that I did a decent job as a mother. I learned that I can love more ways than I ever thought possible. And dang it, I learned that I can still learn something new every day.

All the best, Áine

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Maxine
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 03:16 AM

I learned that people we love are not immortal and that shit happens. I've also began learning to play the guitar, which brings me endless joy. I have 2 wonderful kids and a wonderful husband, who sits patiently with me while I pick my way round "Scarborough Fair for the 600th time! Christmas morning, I listened as my 7yr old daughter described her new 'reversible' coat as "look mummy, it's a coat that can never be inside out"! I learned to treasure every second you have with friends and loved ones, you never quite know what lies ahead.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Art Thieme
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 01:35 PM

In the U.S. we have a minimum wage level that most oeople must get or exceed. This year I fell below that. (I'd rather not be specific though.)

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: MAG
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 02:15 PM

I learned that I could put together one hell of a four page resume, and still not get a new job.

I learned that I don't WANT a new job in a recession.

I learned that having a new computer doesn't necessarily make me better at my journalling.

I learned that the people I've truly loved in my life didn't go away, and that a phone call away is truly a lifesaver on occasion.

I've been reminded that hands are for petting the cat.

I've been reminded that yardwork is to get done.

I've learned that even with the toughest callouses, playing for 3 1/2 hours without a break on New Year's Eve can raise blisters UNDER the callouses. (But my HAND didn't give out.)

MAG blessings and a better year than 2001 to you all.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: GUEST
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 02:16 PM

I learned which Mudcatters were cewl and decent, and which Mudcatters were cruel and rude.

I learned quickly that I need not be a member to win.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: WyoWoman
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 06:19 PM

Yes, Ian B. You may appropriate my phrase as your very own.

The proud, the cewl, the butthead few ...

ww

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 08:27 PM

I learned that if you save everything, you can't find anything.

Jerry

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: gnu
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 09:16 PM

Have the yard sale BEFORE you move. Procrastination is the thief of time AND space, I always say.

Don't tell the officer that traffic lights with no other traffic are just wasting fuel and you "ran the red" because you are concerned about the environment. He may ask to see the registration for the 4WD Extended Cab and the ATV in the box. He might even ask to have a peek in the ATV scabbard. Further arguing that traffic control signals cannot control traffic that doesn't exist can be considered an insult in some jurisdictions and punishable by having you wait while he writes up his shift report.

When a warden asks if you have a rifle with you during small game season, do not ask, "What do you need a rifle for ?" It is presumptuous to assume the warden has a sense of humour, or intelligence. He might even ask to have a peek in the ATV scabbard.

Never answer a troll or flamer. Fuck with them, but don't answer them.

Never post to the forum after three beers, never before three teas.... oops, time for bed.

Catch ya on the flip side.

gnightgnu

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: katlaughing
Date: 01 Jan 02 - 10:30 PM

I found that sometimes those we may think are our enemies can, in truth, become some of our dearest friends. And, for that I am most grateful.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: heric
Date: 02 Jan 02 - 11:05 AM

I learned that true friends, great friends, strong friends who will dig in and help shore up the foundation when everything turns to shit, are likely to be people who you wouldn't have guessed in advance.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Jan 02 - 04:51 PM

Dan - and they are usually not the ones who have spent all year saying "if there is ever anything we can do for you" but when you ask them, it goes mysteriously quiet....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Jan 02 - 04:54 PM

Don't know if this counts but I learned today that I am one of someones "best things this year".... and I learned that I can still blush instantly!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: DougR
Date: 02 Jan 02 - 09:42 PM

I just noted that this thread is stuck, or has been for sometime, at 69 posts. I just learned today that that number is associated by some people with something that I daresay might even cause Kendall to blush, were he to hear what that association might be.

Therefore, as a public service, and in the interest of any children that might be reading this thread, I'm posting this message so that it will move to number 70. That is my good deed for 2002.

DougR

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Jim Krause
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 01:59 PM

I learned that the fife is a more difficult instrument to play than I at first thought. Second thing I learned is that if I don't practice every day, I lose my lip--both in muscle development, and sass.
Jim

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Jim Krause
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 02:23 PM

In the U.S. we have a minimum wage level that most oeople must get or exceed. This year I fell below that. (I'd rather not be specific though.)

Art Thieme

Art, you ain't the only one.
Jim

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Steve in Idaho
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 03:10 PM

Hmmmmm - War still sucks.

Peace is still elusive

I love Uncle Dave and his music

I don't have enough vacation to do all I want

I don't have enough money to do all the vacation I have

2002 is likely to be a replication of 2001 - the best and the worst of times.

Peace be with you all

Steve

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 04:35 PM

I learned my own worth - a remarkable discovery. Thank you to all who participated.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 05:45 PM

I learned not to drink Captain Morgan spiced rum in a cold wet caravan with Morticia...;-)

I also learned that virtual friends can become real and that real friends are hard to find. I'm glad I found them.

Cheers

Dave the Gnome
Now then this year (2002) I have discovered the delights of Vodka and Dandedelion and Burdock but that's a different story...

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: SharonA
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 05:51 PM

I learned that being alone is healthier than being with a significant other who is not one's soul mate.

(But I haven't yet learned what would characterize a soul mate of mine!)

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: bflat
Date: 03 Jan 02 - 07:32 PM

Being a foolish dreamer is a waist of my time and energy. Being a friend and creating is not. This was a hard thing for me to learn although it sounds simple enough.

Ellen

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: CapriUni
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 01:43 AM

Ellen --

Seems to me that you could sum up your two lessons of the year as learning the difference between being a "foolish dreamer" and a wise dreamer -- no?

For being a good friend is having faith in the worth of others, and backing that faith up with action, and creating is giving your own dreams tangible form...

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: bflat
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 04:48 PM

CapriUni

Nicely said. Thank you for your comments.

Ellen

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Morticia
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 10:34 PM

Dave, dearest, I resemble that remark! And as I recall, it wasn't the caravan that was cold and wet, it was me and Gomez.

Subject: RE: BS: What did you learn this year?
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 04:36 AM

You bastards had spiced rum and you never asked me?!

I hereby terminate our freindship for the space of oo, let's see....

Oh that'll do..... Just you make sure there's some for me next time I see either of you! And Morty - that may be sooner than you think!!!

LTS