Finally Blogging Again... Please Follow Me

Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde now has a permanent, new home at Wordpress.

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Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

Thanks,

Lindsey

Book Reviews

Since I began utilizing Library Thing back in July, I have written several book reviews and have snagged several advanced reading copies of books that have yet to be published (or have just recently been published). I'm debating whether or not to start another blog dedicated to book reviews. Until then, I will post them here. Below is a link to my reviews thus far:

My Library Thing Reviews

Lindsey

Sweetness & Light

Another great political blog. Brian brought it to my attention. He really does have a good eye.

Sweetness & Light

Lindsey

Ms. Meghan McCain!

McCain Blogette

This blog is great. Even though it is written and maintained by John McCain's daughter Meghan (with the help of her brothers and sisters), it really isn't all that political. It does document her time on the campaign trail and the promotion of her children's book about her dad. It is a lot of fun. Check it out!

Lindsey

Unsettling Traffic and Posts

A few days ago I read a blog post about Dearborn, Michigan that really upset me. It brought up a few things that I had forgotten, overlooked. I made a couple of comments on the article (more on it later, much more) and e-mailed the contributor. Well, ever since then, I've noticed a strange blog daily traffic pattern. I'm not exactly sure what to think.

Lindsey

Third Year Anniversary of Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

I still can't believe that I've been blogging for three years now. So much has happened in my life in those three years, it is unbelievable. There have been many struggles, but I'm beginning to think that life is finally going to be getting better soon. It is hard to believe that I didn't know much about blogs at all before I started writing. I've come across some great blogs in the last three years, and I'm amazed at what insightful dialog can develop on a blog. There is so much more I need to do with this particular blog, blogging in general, and Internet writing that I'll be here for years and years to come.

Lindsey

Another Great Political Blog...

I just quickly wanted to highlight this blog I discovered this evening. There are already two pieces that I plan on highlighting very soon. You can expect to hear much more from Joshua Rocks.

Order Vs Disorder

Lindsey Russell

Final Update on Michy

The title might be cryptic, but Michy is doing much, much better. She's been home for some time now. I can't tell you how happy I am for her! She has battled this infection for so long; it is amazing that it might actually be gone now. I'm looking forward to reading Michy's new work.

Please note that this will be the last medical update I do on Michy (unless, of course, she ends up in the hospital again). You can read previous posts here. If you want to keep up Michy, you can do so here. I recommend that you do. She is quite funny (just look at some of her older posts).

That's about it!

Lindsey

Myspace.com Blogs - Infection Free? - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Myspace.com Blogs - Work? - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Myspace.com Blogs - Life Outside - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

On A Personal Note... The Profile of a Writer Series and Much More

Many readers may have noticed the change in tone of this blog over the last few weeks. There is no doubt that it has become more political and less about the art of writing. As a result, the Profile of a Writer feature has been put on hold for now.

While I do hope to highlight other authors soon, as well as conduct interviews with a few of my favorites, I'm not sure exactly when that will be. At this point, I'm truly concerned about the state of Michigan, as well as the country. As a result, I'm slowly finding my voice in the political sphere. In addition, I finding it easier and easier to write about Turner Syndrome and other gender issues. As much as I don't like to admit it, Turner Syndrome affects me in a profoundly personal way each and every day. It is a part of who I am as a woman. There is little out there with regards to writing for Turner Syndrome girls and women written by women and girls who have Turner Syndrome. There may be a lot of information on the clinical features, but there is little regarding what it is actually like to live with the disorder. As a result, I feel as though I'm fulfilling a need.

There are so many issues to discuss and so little time. Please know that even though you may disagree with my viewpoint, my perspectives on world events, politics, gender issues, Turner Syndrome, and more are shared with the utmost conviction. In other words, when I share my perspective with readers, it is almost always due to the fact that I have very definite thoughts and/or beliefs on the subject matter.

Now that I have all of that out of the way, I also want to state that I do want (and need) to have fun with this blog! There are good things happening in the world, and they need to be acknowledged.

Lindsey

Michy Hospitalized - UPDATE 1

The latest two updates on Michy are included below. You'll find the original post further down. It looks as though Michy will be in the hospital for quite some time.

Lindsey

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day Three - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day Four - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog


There has been a lot going on in my life recently. The father of a family friend passed away (I didn't really know him, but I knew one of his daughters and her family well), I found out that two teachers from my childhood have cancer (one is terminal), and the son-in-law of dear family friends (my parent's neighbors, who are essentially like adopted grandparents to me) passed away too. Then, last night a couple of things happened. First, I found out that a house down the street was robbed close to a week ago. Not only that, but some neighbors saw four men trying to break into another house last night. It was a little disconcerting to say the least (our neighborhood is normally very quiet). After making sure that all the doors were locked (twice) and making myself something to eat (I couldn't sleep), I learned that one of my oldest and dearest online friends is in the hospital.

She is a wonderful writer and has inspired me more than she'll ever know. You can read all of what I've written about Michy here. She is doing well enough (at least at this point) to write from her hospital room. She's already blogged her first two days. I will be adding to this post as she continues to write about her ordeal. I encourage everyone to read her writing. It is funny, pertinent, witty, and informative. She is the most prolific writer I know.

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day One - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day Two - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

Lindsey

If I Had $1,000,000 - BNL Flashback

small dead animals: Y2Kyoto: If I Had Some Global Warming

I just wanted to give kudos to Kate at Small Dead Animals. She's the reason I came across the priceless video I posted earlier. I watched it a couple of times; it was that funny. For your viewing and listening pleasure, I've included the Barenaked Ladies If I Had a Million Dollars video and lyrics below. They've always been a favorite of mine. Thanks Emily!



If I Had $1,000,000...

Words and Music by Steven Page & Ed Robertson

If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you a house (I would buy you a house)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you furniture for your house
(Maybe a nice chesterfield or an ottoman)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you a K-Car (a nice Reliant automobile)
If I Had $1000000 I'd buy your love.

If I Had $1000000 I'd build a tree fort in our yard.
If I Had $1000000 You could help, it wouldn't be that hard.
If I Had $1000000 Maybe we could put a refrigerator in there.
[Wouldn't that be fabulous]

If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you a fur coat (but not a real fur coat that's cruel)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you an exotic pet (Like a llama or an emu)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you John Merrick's remains (All them crazy elephant bones)
If I Had $1000000 I'd buy your love

If I Had $1000000 We wouldn't have to walk to the store
If I Had $1000000 We'd take a limousine 'cause it costs more
If I Had $1000000 We wouldn't have to eat Kraft Dinner.
(But we would!)

If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you a green dress (but not a real green dress, that's cruel)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you some art (a Picasso or a Garfunkel)
If I Had $1000000 (If I Had $1000000)
I'd buy you a monkey (haven't you always wanted a monkey?!)
If I Had $1000000 I'd buy your love

If I Had $1000000, If I Had $1000000
If I Had $1000000, If I Had $1000000
I'd be rich.

[If I Had $1000000 Lyrics on http://www.lyricsmania.com/]

Michy Hospitalized

There has been a lot going on in my life recently. The father of a family friend passed away (I didn't really know him, but I knew one of his daughters and her family well), I found out that two teachers from my childhood have cancer (one is terminal), and the son-in-law of dear family friends (my parent's neighbors, who are essentially like adopted grandparents to me) passed away too. Then, last night a couple of things happened. First, I found out that a house down the street was robbed close to a week ago. Not only that, but some neighbors saw four men trying to break into another house last night. It was a little disconcerting to say the least (our neighborhood is normally very quiet). After making sure that all the doors were locked (twice) and making myself something to eat (I couldn't sleep), I learned that one of my oldest and dearest online friends is in the hospital.

She is a wonderful writer and has inspired me more than she'll ever know. You can read all of what I've written about Michy here. She is doing well enough (at least at this point) to write from her hospital room. She's already blogged her first two days. I will be adding to this post as she continues to write about her ordeal. I encourage everyone to read her writing. It is funny, pertinent, witty, and informative. She is the most prolific writer I know.

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day One - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Myspace.com Blogs - Michy @ the Hospital - Day Two - Michelle L Devon (Michy)™ MySpace Blog

Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

Lindsey

I Am Bossy

I came across this very snarky website thanks to my cousin. It is a great read! Enjoy.

i am bossy

Lindsey

Profile of a Writer - Bob Younce

There are many reasons why this installment of Profile of a Writer was delayed for two weeks. First and foremost, I just don't know exactly where to begin with Mr. Bob Younce. I stumbled across his work by happenstance some time ago, and I was surprised to learn that he is from Mid-Michigan too. He is a full-time writer who has worn many, many hats over the years (you can read all about it on his website The Writing Journey).

Bob Younce is what I'd like to call a Writer's Writer. He loves to write about the art of writing, especially online. Those wishing to make a living writing online need to wear many hats, and Bob explains the intricate nature of his profession well. In fact, I personally need to spend more time over at his flagship blog, The Writing Journey. If you have ever had the writing bug, Mr. Younce has some wonderful advice.

This small introduction is just the beginning. I will be interviewing Mr. Younce soon, and I will be sharing it with you over the next couple of weeks.

What is the Writing Journey? : The Writing Journey (All About Bob)

Blogger: User Profile: Bob Younce

The Writing Journey

Bob Younce: Helium – Where Knowledge Rules (Profile)

Bob Younce: Helium – Where Knowledge Rules (Articles)

Wild About Words: Guest Blogger -- Bob Younce

The Writing Journey Blog - Information, Comments, Reviews // BlogCatalog

Lindsey Russell

Yet Another Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

Many of you may well be aware of some of the issues with Blogger. As I grew in my blogging efforts, I've run right into them. Thus far, I've come up with a solution. I've created a shadow-blog on WordPress. Essentially, I'm just importing posts from here to the WordPress version. Within the next couple of days, I'm going to be adding several static pages on WordPress. They will then appear as links here. This is the reason why I created the WordPress version. I tried creating separate pages using my main blog on Blogger as a template. It just didn't work. This was much easier to set up. There is no need to change links or anything. Just be aware that the other blog is there. I just did it to have the functionality of creating static pages.

Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde

Lindsey

Living Life to the Fullest

I came across this article as I read the newspaper this evening. If my Mom happened to read it, I'm sure that she'd be calling me up to tell me that I need to read it. A lot of her advice can be found in the article (and my Dad's too; he's always known how to get what he wanted out of life). Anyway, it is a great read for anyone. I just need to take some of its lessons to heart, specifically asking for what you want. It is becoming clearer and clearer what I truly want. I need to get up the strength to simply ask. There are even a couple of different people and institutions I can ask. I really need to come up with a concise plan.

My Last Lecture | PARADE Magazine

Lindsey

UPDATE: After a little research, I found an interview with Professor Randy Pausch. You can read it here. This may make me a geek, but I love Reader's Digest due to interviews like this. Professor Paush's story makes me think of my Grandpa Russell's story. He died at 46 (colon cancer), leaving two kids. I never knew him. It also made me better understand what my Aunt and Uncle recently went through. After Christmas, their family went on a vacation to Florida. My Uncle, who is a professor (late 40s), had a seizure in a pool and almost died. They have three kids. He is very lucky to be here, and recently, my Aunt and Uncle went on a vacation alone. I can't imagine facing mortality at that age, knowing what I had to lose.

Living Life to the Fullest

I came across this article as I read the newspaper this evening. If my Mom happened to read it, I'm sure that she'd be calling me up to tell me that I need to read it. A lot of her advice can be found in the article (and my Dad's too; he's always known how to get what he wanted out of life). Anyway, it is a great read for anyone. I just need to take some of its lessons to heart, specifically asking for what you want. It is becoming clearer and clearer what I truly want. I need to get up the strength to simply ask. There are even a couple of different people and institutions I can ask. I really need to come up with a concise plan.

My Last Lecture | PARADE Magazine

Lindsey

A Little More Introspection...

Over the last few days, I've read some great materials regarding politics, the War on Terror (or as it is now being called, The Long War), Jihad, the increasing Muslim threat in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, racism, and much more. It is deeply disconcerting to me that we in the United States don't pay more attention to what it is really going on in the wider world. We may be at War, but one would never know it. We are supposedly the great bastion of democracy in the world (and have been since World War II), yet now we have a large portion of our population actively working to hinder our efforts to defend our very existence.

Long-time readers will know how I've struggled with the direction of this blog. I don't want it to become overly political. There is a need for more art, literature, and music in the world right now. I enjoy all three immensely, and I enjoy sharing things I love with other readers. At the same time, I can't stand back, observe, and not share what I find concerning the most important political questions of our time.

In my opinion, we are rapidly sacrificing our Freedom of Speech on the alter of extreme Political Correctness. If you think that I'm being paranoid, you need to familiarize yourself with the plight of Lionheart in the United Kingdom. You can read much more about his plight here. RADARSITE does a great job of explaining the situation (read it here). The Midnight Sun takes it a bit further. You can read Aurora's take on things here and here. It simply amazes me that such things could be going on the United Kingdom, Canada, etc., even if only half of what is written is true (especially regarding the United Kingdom).

I think that it is best that people educate themselves on what is going on. It isn't pretty, it won't be easy, but I do have hope. I still hope that the U.S. will wake up and actually fight. If we are to once again be the hope of Europe, not to mention protect ourselves at home, we have to quit worrying about "offending" the enemy.

Lindsey

Update on Profile of a Writer Series

While there will be no "Profile of a Writer" this week, there will certainly be one on Monday. I was waiting for an e-mail from the author I'm going to profile. If all goes well, I will have an interview along with a profile of his work. I'm looking forward to the finished product!

Also, the launch of JamsBio should be on Tuesday. I can't wait to share that body of work with everyone. It was a lot of fun to write. I'm just frustrated that I can't share it just yet.

Lindsey

A Little Introspection...

Introspection is badly needed on the blogosphere. All too often bloggers regurgitate stories that were previously thoroughly dissected by prominent bloggers such as Michelle Malkin. I am the first to admit that I'm horribly guilty of this. I feel the need to comment on a variety of prominent articles and make my views known. In that process, I forget that I need to delve a little deeper and discuss things that are on my mind.

My mind has been quite unsettled lately as I've been dealing with some fundamental issues in my life. For example, at age 27, I'm trying to determine what I want to do with the rest of it. That is a big question. As I've mentioned several times since the inception of this blog nearly three years ago, everything is in place in my life the way I would like with the exception of my career (incidentally I have a weight issue that I need to resolve too, but having confidence in a career would go a long to rectify that issue). Frankly, I have an educational background that doesn't mesh well with the current economic climate of where I want to spend the rest of my life. When I made my decisions concerning my career, I didn't plan on having the opportunity to move to Bay City, Michigan so soon. While I've wanted to live in Bay City since childhood, it was more of a long range plan.

So what did compel me to move back so soon? It is certainly my family and other personal relationships. Brian is from Bay City and his entire family is here. My Grandpa Buttrick was very sick at the time, and I couldn't stand the thought of him passing away while I lived so far away. The last two years of his life provided me with the opportunity to get to know him better (the silver lining of being unemployed during that time), and for that, I'll always be grateful. My Grandmas are still very much vibrant women whom I love dearly. I've had the opportunity to get to know them better during this time too.

Right now, I'm right back where I started from. I need to carve out a space for myself here. As I've become reacquainted with the area, my childhood friends, etc., it has become painfully clear to me that I need to work to find myself a niche here. I tried once and failed, but I still know that I'm needed somewhere in this community. Sometimes it just feels as though I'm up against insurmountable odds. I truly love and care about this community and the state of Michigan.

Am I crazy to face such hardship just to live in this area? Sometimes it feels like it, but then I spend a nice evening at home with Brian and Sparty or a nice day with my Grandmas. At those times, it all seems worth it. People and relationships are so much more important to me than money. I'm not out to make a lot of money; I simply want to take care of my own expenses.

You can read the article that inspired this introspection (by Bob Younce) here.

Lindsey