Bear Aware!

For all of you folks who worry about meeting up with a bear on the trail....

This footage was taken in a small town in Northern British Columbia where my Aunt and Uncle live!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3JdlFJ9d7I

(I love the way the news people call it a "GIANT" bear when in fact it is just a wee little yearling.)

Misery Loves Company

It has been a rough week....so Halle and I have decided to stay in bed and be grumpy today. If you have time to bring us some tea, we would sure appreciate it!

Astrology

I have never been one to read my horoscope and hadn't much belief or understanding of astrology until a few years ago when I found myself with an hour to kill in Chapters. Wandering the aisle I was randomly picking up titles and thumbing through pages when I spotted a large white book with a bold astrological chart across the front. I had always been slightly embarrassed at the idea of reading "new age" or "self help" type books in public so as inconspicuously as possible, I picked up the book and quickly found the section for my sign (Cancer). I skim read the first paragraph and closed the book with a thud. It was as though the author had just skim read my deepest, darkest secrets and printed them for everyone to see! Tucking the book, cover side against my stomach, I causally sauntered off to find a private place to indulge. You'd think I was reading about the treatment of hemorrhoids, or "how to come out to you parents" or something. I cant say why I would feel shy about reading a book on Astrology, but I did. For the next half hour I was totally absorbed with the discription of my personality, likes, dislikes, insecurities, relationships, love, sex, booze, drugs and rock n' roll. Well, maybe not the last three, but you get my point. More than just pointing out the obvious, this book actually helped me address some of the issues I had struggled with most of my life and actually did help me better understand myself. How "new age" is that?!

My sister and DB are both Virgos. I would have said that they were totally different people with very different personalities but when I actually read the qualities of a Virgo, I realized that each of the traits applied, in different ways, to both of them. It made me wonder if perhaps the reason why I can understand my DB, live with him and relate to him so well is because I spent such a large part of my life living with another Virgo. While I appreciate that we are all individuals, astrology has left me wondering what aspects of our personality are related to nature vs. nurture and/or the date of our birth. Having so many of my close friends and family's astrological signs be a true discription of their personality, it makes me wonder why people wound not try to have children born to a certain sign. I wonder if you could "select" for certain qualities as we do in horses, dogs, etc.. There seems to be something "wrong" or against nature in doing so but it does make you wonder, doesn't it?

So, Did I buy that Astrology book? No. Why? I was too embarrassed. Having already read about myself, I at least understood why I was being so ridiculous, as that particular quality was listed as a trait of my "sign". I was not looking for excuses. As Mugwamp has stated on a number of occasions, it is important to understand why, but a mistake to use it an excuse. I don't believe that you can, to a certain extent, control what you feel. I do think it is your responsibility to control the way you let those emotions dictate your actions. As a Cancer, I am all about how "I feel". I struggle with separating my feelings from my actions. Other people have the opposite problem.

For those of you that don't follow astrology, I have written out a very basic description of the qualities of specific signs below. For those of you who don't, for religious reasons or otherwise, I would welcome your comments as to why as well.

******
Click the Sign or date for a link to the site where I found these descriptions....
*****

Aquarius "I know" Jan. 20- Feb.18

Aquarians are interesting and attractive people. They can be shy, sensitive, gentle and patient or enthusiastic and lively with a tendency to be exhibitionists. Both types are strong willed and forceful in their own way. Very opinionated with strong convictions, they fight for what they believe in. They will argue vehemently for what they believe to be true.

These are farsighted people and innovative. They are generally without prejudice and quite tolerant of the point of view of others. They have an interesting side to their nature that allows them to see a valid argument even when they disagree with it. They are quite objective folk and never get waylaid by being too close to an issue or person.

Aquarius is truly a humane, human being. Known to be frank and outspoken, Aquarius makes for a serious and genial companion. Refined and idealistic, romantic but practical, they are personable and likable people.
Quick in mind and quick to respond, Aquarians love activity and are quite reasonable, though difficult to get close to. They cherish and guard their independence, and are a strange mixture of caring concern and cool detachment. They will go out of their way to help when needed, but never get involved emotionally.

******

Pisces "I believe" Feb. 19- Mar. 20

Pisceans are the most malleable of the twelve signs. They possess a gentle, patient nature, but one that is in want of molding. They can be impressed by and completely absorbed into their environment.

Pisces adapts to their surroundings, good or bad. They are generous, friendly, good natured people with a true sense of kindness and compassion. They are sensitive to everything around them including the feelings of others. They are popular folk because of their easygoing and likable manner.They have an uncanny sense of perceiving what a person is in need of, and delivering it. They are not initiators, but rather allow circumstances and events to motivate them, and then they respond.

Pisceans are not practical people. They are too ephemeral for normal day to day living in the world. They are sensitive and instinctual rather than intellectual or mechanical.When, however, they do find the right container, they are capable of some incredible deeds. They will become completely absorbed in a chosen path, to the exclusion of everything else.

******

Aries "I am" March 21- April 19

Openness, enthusiasm and individualism are the main traits of the Arians. They are outspoken, alert, quick to act and speak. They prefer to speak than to listen. Arians are ambitious, with lots of drive and a strong will to lead. They are poor followers. Fiercely independent, they usually take the side of the underdog in any controversy. They are champions of lost causes and losing battles. This trait is due to a strong belief in their own abilities to turn any situation around.

Arian values are more intellectual than spiritual. Primarily people of action, they demonstrate little subtlety or cunningness. Frank and amiable, they make quick decisions, and grasp ideas very quickly. They are also quick to anger, Arians are known for their impatience, and are prone to be arrogant.

Arians have a strong self image, the ability to think fast and size up most situations in an instant. Arians calculate risks with lightning speed and make decisions accordingly. An adage that fits the Arian well is 'A straight line is the shortest distance between two points'. Arians don't waste time and energy beating around the bush, they come straight to the point, and leave the bodies where they fall.

*****
Taurus "I have" April 20- May 20

Taurus is the direct opposite of the Aries character. Taureans tend to be slow, methodical, practical and reserved. They are also stolid, tenacious and determined. Possessing tremendous willpower and self-discipline, they are inclined to stick to tried and traditional methods. Their greatest satisfaction derives from results produced directly by their own personal efforts rather than by others.

Roots are very important to the Taurean. A sense of permanence, a feeling of security is essential. Generally an easygoing person, slow to anger, but once roused is known for a ferocious temper. Very difficult to deal with when angry. Usually set off by jealousy due to a possessive nature. Loyalty is important to a Taurus, and a true friend of a Taurean will speak well of their great generosity.

Honesty, integrity and dependability are notable Taurean characteristics. The calm, pleasant, and well intentioned Taurus exterior belies the volcanic temper that can erupt when sufficiently aroused. The bright side of the stubborn bull's nature is, they are incredibly and uncompromisingly loyal to their friends. Established slowly, a Taurus friendship can, and often lasts a lifetime.

*****

Gemini "I think" May 21- June 21

The Geminis Interact with the environment, investigate, learn, know and exchang ideas. The intellect dominates Gemini, and all things intellectual are valued greatly by them. As communication is also of importance to Geminis, knowledge is never a thing to be hoarded. Rarely is a Gemini more entertained than in the midst of exchanging ideas with others of an intellectual nature.

Being the most versatile of the signs, Geminis are seldom what they seem to be. Chameleon like, they will take a stand, voice an opinion, decide on an option and then completely change their mind tomorrow. Nothing is ever written in stone by the Gemini. They are truly a free soul, driven by curiosity and a desire to know . They usually have several things going at once, and within such chaos, they thrive.
Geminis are bright, witty, entertaining and rarely get deeply absorbed in any one task. They prefer to skim the surface of many things, than to get deeply involved in any one particular interest.Even if they do become drawn into something, they always feel they are missing out something. Anything they haven't touched intrigue them the most.

*****
Cancer "I feel" June 22- July 22

The Cancerian character is the most perplexing of the signs. Cancerians can range from the timid, shy, dull and withdrawn to the brilliant, friendly and famous. Cancerians run the entire gamut of human emotion.

Cancerians possess strong paternal and maternal instincts. Fundamentally conservative and home-loving by nature, they appreciate the security of a home-base in which to retire when the stresses of life become too much to bear.

Cancerians have an unemotional demeanor, appearing uncompromising and obstinate. This is the facade they use to mask an insecure nature. Their intimates, however, may see a different character, one with sympathy and sensitivity to others.In their personal relationships they are a mixture of toughness and tenderness. Emotional, romantic and sentimental on one side, and tenaciously possessive and loyal on the other side. Even when they have affairs, their first loyalty is to their partner and family.

They are rather close minded and opinionated. They have a retentive memory, and rarely forgive slights and hurts. With a tendency toward chronic complaining, a Cancerian will never let you forget an error. They are driven by their emotional nature, and, in this respect, can be the best and the worst of friends.
The overall nature of Cancerians is deeply emotional. Although private and reserved, they possess sensitivity and sympathy. Rarely will a Cancer stand on pretense. What appears to be a front is nothing more than a protective shell. Within this tough armor often resides an intuitively compassionate individual yearning for a deep exchange of love and understanding.

*****

Leo "I will" July 23 - Aug. 22

The Leo is a dominant, spontaneous, creative and extroverted character. They possess grace, dignity and an expansive personality. The lion is king of the animal kingdom, and an appropriate symbol for Leo who tends to dominate his environment. Ambitious, courageous, strong willed, positive, independent, self-confident are all words that describe the Leo traits.

Leos were born to lead and are most effective when in a position of command. Leos are straightforward and uncomplicated individuals who know what they want and pursue it with enthusiasm and a creative spirit.

They are not easily daunted, and will persist through the most formidable of circumstances.They tend to be stubborn, and will hold onto a belief, or stick to a course of action through thick or thin.

Because of their positive nature, they tend to expect the best, and when things don't turn out as they had expected, they react immediately and badly. Although, they may suffer from short bouts of depression when life doesn't meet their expectations, they bounce back quickly and move on with their normal cheerful and demonstrative nature. Leos walks forward always, head held proudly and face turned towards the sun.
*****

Virgo "I analize" Aug. 23- Sept 22

Quietly reserved, Virgos are polite and soft spoken people. Unassuming, outwardly cheerful and agreeable, they can be sensible, discreet, wise and witty, with an understanding of other people's problems which they tackle with deftness. Virgos find their friends among those who can help them move up the social strata. They like to associate with achievers.

Both sexes have considerable charm and dignity. In marriage they can be genuinely affectionate, and make good partners and parents. They are meticulous planners, considering every detail and its effect.

There is seldom much room for emotional involvement because the mind is always engaged and dominant. What they lack in passion they make up for in preciseness.When confronted with obstacles, they stay calm and rational and work on finding a solution rather than loosing their cool. This calmness is sometimes seen as being cold and calculating. In spite of this, Virgos are friendly and outgoing people.

Virgoans are essentially tacticians, admirable in the attainment of limited objectives. They have a basic distrust in their nature, not only of other people but themselves as well. They project this mistrust to others and therefore make exacting employers. Although, they will never ask anyone to do what they won't do, it is still asking a lot, because most people will not go to the pains a Virgo will.

*****

Libra "I balance" Sept. 23 - Oct. 22

The basic Libran nature is diplomatic and charming. Libras have an idealistic and generally peace loving nature. They are easygoing and sociable. Librans are considered by many astrologers to be among the most civilized of the twelve signs. Often good looking, they exude certain elegance, charm and fine taste.

As lovers of beauty and harmony, both in art and life, their nature is gentle and kind. Pleasure oriented people, Libras are intuitive and very aware of the power of image. They are happiest when socializing, and at the top of their social strata. You will find many Librans in local organizations volunteering their time and services and rising to a position of prominence. They are fence sitters and will not take a stand on an issue, but prefer the middle of the road, until they are forced to choose. They make good diplomats .

They are known to be objective and impartial in making judgment calls. They are more interested in making friends than enemies, and are willing to go along with others and do whatever it takes to maintain a relationship.

Very sociable, they abhor cruel or vicious actions, and shy away from vulgar and offensive behavior. They prefer to cooperate and compromise, and will give up, even when they feel they are in the right, rather than put up with the ordeal of an argument. Discord makes them totally insecure, and uncomfortable. They need and want harmony in their lives, and will do whatever it takes to have it.

*****

Scorpio "I desire" Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

Scorpions are known for their intense and powerful natures. They are willful, proud and calm with an electrifying undercurrent of seething intensity. Purposeful and animated with force, they project a magnetic personality.Scorpio does nothing in half measures. An all or nothing attitude permeates their entire life. When fixed on something or someone, the scorpion perseveres. Scorpio never settles. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest or not at all. Scorpio will rarely be found in the center of activity, but will always know just what is going on of concern to him.

Their tenacity and willpower are enviable, their depth of character and passionate conviction admirable, but it is their deep sensitivity that makes them the best and most loyal friend. This same quality makes them the most treacherous of enemies.

When they harness their abundant energy constructively, their self-confidence tempered with shrewdness, and their ambition coupled with generosity toward others, they excel at whatever they undertake. Scorpios are demanding of others, but never ask someone to do what they would not do themselves. They can be fanatically focused and work till they drop.

*****

Saigitarrias "I see" Nov. 22- Dec. 21

Sagittarians are positive people.They have a bright outlook on life, are enterprising, full of energy and vitality. Versatile, adventurous and eager to expand their range beyond the comfortable and familiar. They enjoy travel and exploring, and their minds are continually searching for new experiences. They are ambitious, optimistic folk, and nothing seems to get them down.

They are idealists, and this seems to keep them going even when thereare disappointments which smash their plans. They have a tendency to get over zealous when they are interested in something. They are believers, and what they believe in, they are willing to fight for. They are both loyal and independent at the same time. They manage to balance both traits.

Sagittarians are usually modest and often spiritual, with strong values. They like rituals. They are profound thinkers, and are gifted with foresight and good judgment. They are avid learners, love to initiate new projects and make great researchers.

They study quickly with keen minds. They have an expectant attitude and a penchant for new experiences, which may account for the fact that Sagittarians are noted for their longevity. They are often intuitive and original thinkers. Better at adapting than inventing, they work well in collaboration with others. A strong-will and good organization ability combined with their other talents usually bring any project they undertake to a successful conclusion.

*****

Capricorn "I use" Dec. 22- Jan. 19

The Capricornian is generally a serious character possessing a wry sense of humor. Independent, steady as a rock, Capricorn reflects earthy qualities that range from clever to vacuous. Mostly cautious, confident, strong willed, reasonable and hard working, Capricorns are a rock upon which to build. They are often aloof, shrewd, practical, responsible and persevering. They are capable of great endurance Reliable in any profession they undertake, but lacking in originality, they usually excel in following up on what someone else has started.

Within prescribed areas, Capricorn is a resourceful, practical manager. These folks set high standards for themselves and others. They are self critical, and work well in a disciplined environment, demanding equal measure from their subordinates.

A careful, ambitious planner, Capricorn moves forward with quiet, deliberate persistence. They can be frugal, possessing the ability to achieve results with minimum effort and expense. Highly organized, they excel in managing several projects simultaneously.

Capricorn will often vie for a position of authority. Once attaining control, they are demanding and exacting in leadership. Although firm, they are usually fair to people they deal with. They value tradition.

Old Actresses- Guest Post by Mom!

******Note from Horse Crazed Mind. I am posting My darling mother's comments from yesterday's post "Hotties of Old". I had a feeling that my Mom might post something politically related to my topic. She has always been one to stray off the beaten path, a trait I admire and hope to have inherited! I thought she might say something about the double standard of my post, that I would be considered chauvinistic, were I a male picking "hottie" females. Or maybe something about the homosexual tendencies of some of Hollywoods greatest male hearthrobs! Its true! But no! She pulled through with something even better. The discrimination that woman over "a certain age" face in Hollywood today. The information she provided was interesting, and provocative, and certainly worthy of being a topic in its right. So, Mom, you are invited to add on to your very first blog post! Take it away!! *******

Old Actresses (whoops, Actors!)

"Okay, so being that most of my favourite older men are taken already and the ones that really hit home with me don't make the hit list because they are too young, although in my dreams age isn't an issue, lol....Without a hesitation my favourite's are George Clooney, Johnny Depp, Bruce Willis, Colin Firth, Patrick Swayzee, Kurt Russell, need I go on? These are all just a smidgen younger then what we are talking about but worthy of mentioning as they are on the cusp.

I am going to take this opportunity to give tribute to the likes of Helen Murrin, Sophia Loren, Candice Burgen, Diane Keaton, etc etc.... Older women only make up 8% of the available roles in movies where 1/2 of the roles for men are made up of men over 35! What does that tell us? I find it ironic how we have advanced so far in so many areas yet the so so called "eye" candy for men at the movies does not include a women in her 40's, 50's or older and if they do it usually is related to movies like "Somethings Got to Give", with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton.

Most often the romances are between "much" older men and "much" younger women! Grrrrr...The Graduate was one of the few earlier movies that was the opposite, a very young graduate played by (Dustin Hoffman) and Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) if any of you younger people out there haven't seen it, it was a movie that really was a legend in it's time! 1967

To be continued....

The Hotties of Old!

To continue with my love of old things. How about the Hotties of Old?


As a twenty-six-year-old woman, I have to admit that I never understood what all the fuss was about with respect to Marlin Brando, Robert Redford and Paul Newman. I grew up with...

Leonardo DiCaprio, (with his baby face good looks)

Mathew McCanaughey,

(who does yoga for Petes sake!...mind you that is kinda hot...)


and Brad Pitt (even if has become a bit of a pu$$y, as of late, sorry, but he has!) Lets remember him for the way he was...

Each are hotties in their own right but of a different generation.

I have never been one to watch old movies, so hadn't the opportunity to see the hotties of old "in the flesh" or "in their prime" (so to speak) until....

A few years ago I was flipping channels when I stumbled upon the movie, "The Great Gatsby". I don't think I had ever seen a man so gorgeous (other than my DB of course), in my entire life, as Robert Redford in that white suit. Now, when I see his weather worn skin, chiseled lines and ruddy completion, all I can see is the dazzling blue of his eyes and rugged sex appeal. I have to give the man credit for the way he looks today. Did you know that he is 72 years old?

(well, not in that picture he isn't but, damn, that man is fine!)

I had also not had the opportunity to see the Marlin Brando as anything but a balding, very heavy, lisping, old guy. A Street Car named desire changed that perspective in a hurry. He had the looks, no doubt, but his energy! Oh my! He was one slick cat. I have to say, Marlin baby, you left me a little breathless!

This week, we lost the great Paul Newman, another "unknown hottie" of my generation.

So I thought that in the spirit of "Ol' things" and as a tribute to Ol' Newman (not the Seinfeld, or Young and the Restless variety...but then, hey! if they "do it for you", who am I to argue?) I would put this question to you....

Who is your hottie from times past?

*****


If you comment with a name, I will find a picture (or you can post a link to one.) and I will add it to the post. Only one rule. They can not be any less than 60 years old today!

*****
Cndcowgirls: Gene Kelly (Such a gentleman! Yup, hez got the moves!)



****
Melanie's: Cary Grant and Rock Hudson (Helllooo! how hot of a name is Rock? ) other picks include Clint Eastwood and Robert Redford. OFF her list, Sean Connery! Sorry Sean, what can I say....the woman has picky taste!

*****
Leah Fry- had to sneek this one in for you girly! Mark Harmon is a just a baby at 57! But here shares my DB's birthday so we will forgive him (Sept. 2nd not 1951!)

*****
Big Guys Mom: Gregory Peck (To Kill a Mockingbird) (to me, he looks like the kinda guy you marry! Did I just say that!!!)

*****

Stephanie: I am SO sorry! I had to post this pic of Harrison Ford! It came up on the first page of Google images and just jumped out at me! Pick me! Pick me! I'm naked, hairy and pale! Pick me! LOL I loved Indiana Jones but never liked Harrison Ford as an actor outside of that film.

To make ammends. I'll think of him as Indiana. *grin* He turns 70 this year!

****

Laura's pick: Colin Firth (at 48 he really misses the cut off but as he really was such a cutie as Mr. Darcy, he is worth the honorable mention.) Give me something older darlin'.

****

Mrs. Mom's: She pulled out the stops and gave me quite the list. Sean Connery (78), Harrison Ford (70), Tom Beringer (59) and Bruce Willis (53) but settled with Tommy Lee Jones (62) and Robert Duval (77).

F.Y.I. No one has actually picked poor Sean Connery yet...Melanie passed him up for Cary Grant and Rock Hudson.

***** BrownEyed Cowgirls: Antonio Benderas (48) was too young to make the list. I loved him in that boxing movie, Play It To the Bone with Woody Harrelson.

*****
Aunt Krissy: came through for me with Clint Eastwood! Oh yah!

Train Wreck: Now I am wondering if something did happen to this post! Melanie picked him too. Either way, here he is, the one and only Cary Grant!

Speaking of old things...

I don't know about you, but I love old things. I love that they have seen things beyond my own time. I like to think of the people that have handled them over the years, of when they were used and the lives that were touched by them. I love old worn books for their character, their rips and tears, their stains and missing pages.

My favorites are my grandmothers old cookbooks, the ones that have been used and loved the most. Their pages are speckled with batter and singed at the edges but carry their battle scars with the pride.

My Granny's beautiful handwriting, her notes and recipes, line their pages. Stray cards and papers, buried treasure pressed thin, come loose and fall like feathers to floor as I finger my way through them.

I love them for what they are, not just what they contain. I know that she touched them and read them and took pride in feeding her family their delicious recipes. I think about the stories she shared while standing over their pages; or the occasions that took place while they lay, quietly on the counter; Weddings, Christmas, birthdays.

I love them for what they have seen. I think of these things when I use them, to cook for the people that I love.

Western Horseman 1960's Style!

A few years back a good friend of mine was cleaning out her basement when she came across an old box of old Western Horseman magazines. I happened to be visiting at the time and so we spent a good hour or so flipping through all the pages and admiring how much styles, techniques and products have changed over the years. She had been packing these old magazines around since she was a kid and though she would have liked to keep them, she knew that it was time for them to go in the garbage. I couldn't stand the thought, so offered to take them (knowing the flack I would catch when I came home with more "junk").

Over the next few months I worked my way through the box. Many of the magazines were damaged so that it was impossible to open them without tearing the pages. Others looked like they could have come straight off the news stand, if it were not for the faded yellow and outdated dress on the covers. The dates ranged from the early '70's to the late '80's. I found the articles, styles, and pictures fascinating. I found old stallion advertisements for Doc Bar, Poco Bueno, Impressive and other legendary sires. The oldest of the magazines were from 1963, '64, '67 and '68. I put these aside to give back to my friend, as I felt that the were worth keeping. Yesterday, while cleaning my book shelves, I realized that I still had them tucked away. I flipped through them and decided to take some pictures so that I could share them with you all today!

So here it goes.... Western Horseman, 1960's style!

Check out the fashion of the day!! Now that is "hot"!

Or how about a brand spankin' new trailer for $1295! Cutting saddles have changed shape over the years! I bet they didn't even hang on to the horn!

The saddles were not the only thing to change...look behind the judges and check out the head set and style of these top Western Pleasure horses (taken at the Quarter Horse Congress)

I picked a moderate headset in comparison!

I think it is safe to say that reining has evolved over the past 44 years! Then....

and now...

The original Halter horse back when "form to function" actually applied....

What exactly is it that this horse is suppose to be conformed to do?....

My personal favorite....people smoking in clothing advertisements....

Wouldn't you love to hear what Fugly would have to say about "Junior Horseman"! I love that they actually printed the addresses of these young riders below the pictures!

How about the stallion advertisements.... (Joe Cody and Pacific Bailey)

And I just about died when I saw.... Peppy San!!! (Leo Bar on Right)