INTERESTS

For the bulk of the past few years, a major interest of mine has been the computer. I would probably still be considered that of a computer illiterate, but compared to when I started out, I have come a LONG way in my depth of knowledge! (where IS that *any* key?!) The computer serves as practical and entertainment value in our family. Although I use it to assist me in my pastime of writing and email, I use it primary for FUN.

My introduction into computers came in the form of "chat." Because I was a stay-at-home mom, I got a lot of interaction with people via online moreso than for having chosen to stay home. The chat rooms I frequented most were on Yahoo! and branched out into other options such as Vplaces. I have since come to make many near and dear friends from online, also have gone on to meet quite a few in person (70'ish and counting! ). Guess what? They're not all killers and crazies! Perhaps I am one of the fortunate few in which I can say I have never come across a bad experience with anyone I have met. Granted, you shouldn't be too trusting, but I believe you attract those who are a reflection of yourself. If you are honest and forthright, you will generally receive the same in return. I've always considered myself an excellent judge of character, and I feel the people I have met have been nothing short of genuine. You all know who you are ~winks~ I thank you for the wonderful experiences. Just as all good things must come to an end, so has this phase of chatting. I no longer frequent the rooms, but those that I want to continue contact with, I keep near to me via ICQ.

Another extension of the entertainment value I get out of the computer is that of online gaming. In fact, I would venture a guess that many of you who have come to this page has been as a result of seeing me on Mplayer. With the Mplayer program, I am getting the best of both worlds in that I still get my *chat fix* right along with participating in an activity. Alot of my online time is spent playing Hearts or Backgammon, so when you are in the market for a challenge, feel free to look me up. I am certainly no "pro", barely qualify as a respectable "amateur" ( well okay, actually I do fairly well, provided the game gods are on my side ) but my rooms usually generate interesting conversation and fun. Overall, I don't think you'll find a more interactive gaming program offering live chat and a multitude of games and ongoing tournaments. IGames is another gaming program I haunt from time to time you may find worthwhile looking into.

Another interest of mine involving the computer would be my recent attempts at writing. I have always felt I was well versed and intellectual enough to produce something worthwhile for others to read ( one of which, I hope is this page! ). Presently my projects are personal and reflective in nature, taking my topics from what I have experienced. From time to time, something will inspire me and I will jot it down, whether it is an idea for a possible story or something as small as a one line inspirational quote. Who knows, perhaps one day, I could become published. For now, it is a "hobby."

Photography and music also play a part in my life. In time to come, I will be adding photos I have taken, giving you a chance to actually see some of the places I have mentioned, family, and general snapshots of things that have just caught my eye. I am amateur at best with a fairly decent 35mm, but I have had many tell me I should look into making photography a career. I seem to have a eye for things, perhaps approach things with a mental angle many might not see. I don't photograph as much as I used to, but my camera is always nearby and loaded at all times. ( gotcha!! )

As for music, I have an appreciation for it all. One taste may supercede over another for a time but in the end, music is a part of me. My walls vibrate to the rhythm 24 hours a day. My car can be heard coming down the street long before you can see me ( the locals aren't too pleased with that though ). I take notice of music in places some might overlook--commercials and movies. I just LOVE it! Most of the time the music that appeals most to me are songs absent of lyrics. I like to be able to hear each individual instrument, I'm a sucker for body throbbing BASS. The majority of my CD purchases are movie soundtracks...How Stella Got Her Groove Back and City of Angels topping my list presently.

TO BE CONTINUED

At this point, the majority of my free time normally spent engaging in the pursuit of personal pleasures is now occupied by studies. I'll add to this site as time permits. Fow now, I thank you for visiting my humble abode.