I am stunned. Absolutely shaking-my-head, unimaginably stunned. I have just seen Brian Williams' report on MSNBC. Everyone, it seems, has made their way to Alabama. They've shown us all the images of houses that once were, of acres of trees that once dotted the landscape, of peoples lives in ruins. The homes were torn from their foundations and reduced to mere splinters in a matter of seconds. Trees that were one or two feet in diameter were plucked from their roots, torn in half, and thrown across the horizon with unparalleled ease. It simply picked them up and threw them with no regard for what lay in their path. Cars were placed on top of other cars or thrown, haphazardly, where the wind chose to toss them. Most of all, if you look closely enough, you can actually see the winds picking up and plucking the soul of so many lives and scattering it across the landscape. Amazing. Horribly, terribly amazing. When the storm got to Birmingham, it had not weakened. The mountainous hill behind our home was the only thing between us and the storm. It dropped it's debris on us, but tore through the areas less than two miles away. The 'freight train' sound? Yeah, it happens.....and you do NOT want to hear it. Like I said, I am a thrill-seeker....and feel I was close enough to have the 'Been There, Done That' t-shirt. I don't want to do it again. I will admit, though, if you dig lightning, this was the storm for it.
My daughter asked me what people will do. How will they survive and how will they rebuild? How will they ever get their lives back. The only answer I could give, initially, was, "I don't know." Then, after a few seconds, I told her how it would be done. You see, these are a proud people. The people of Alabama, as I have come to realize, are Americans at heart and prouder, still, of their state. It is what I love about this place. I've made the trip south after years living in other locations - first in PA, then 20 years in VA. I have been in Alabama for 5 years and live here happily. Yes, I do (along with many of you) poke fun at times, I'll admit. In times like this, though, you realize what it means to be in the heart of the South. This, my friends, is Dixie. It's taken many years to understand but I now do. I watched as Brian Williams asked a man, Mr Shelly, what happened that day. Mr Shelly had gone to the Piggly Wiggly (see how easy it is to make fun?) grocery store. He was leaving and headed home when the local manager of a pharmacy (called Mr Shelly by his name, mind you) and told him to come inside his store where they immediately went to the basement. Five minutes later, the storm struck with all it's vengeance. It absolutely destroyed this college town. After recounting his story, Brian asked what he will do. "I'll keep praying and we'll take care of it." Quite simply, THAT is how it will be done. These working class people will get up, begin removing the rubble, help their neighbors, and keep moving and praying. They believe in God and know that they can and will help each other survive. It is a throwback to the days of small towns and neighborhoods where everyone looked out for, cared for, and helped each other. Sadly, in between rebuilding, they will hold funerals and wakes. They will honor and bury those whose lives were lost this day. They will vow to never forget....and they won't. Somehow, these proud Americans living in Alabama will vow to honor their lost neighbors....and they will. They will speak a bit more kindly, love a bit more gently, care a bit more less reservedly. They will not forget the day the largest, strongest tornadoes seen in any of their lives came rumbling and tearing through their town. They will remember.....but they will not let it change who they are. That's not who they are.
I have figured out that Alabamians do not want to be remembered nor defined by this storm. They would care to be remembered for many other things....but not this. When you think of Alabama, they want you to think of two universities, two NCAA Championships (back to back), with two Heisman Trophy winners. We want you to remember the Bear. Bear Bryant, whose teams in years past kept the state in the forefront while winning his 6 National Titles. The USS Alabama, George Wallace, fighting for Civil Rights, marching from Selma, Rosa Parks, and yes, even Forrest Gump. Remember Alabama for anything and everything....just not this storm. Believe me when I tell you, "The South Will Rise Again!" is not just a phrase. They live it...and mean it. We appreciate and will accept the help. We will, in times when needed, reciprocate as well. Please, though, do not remember us solely for this Storm It will not define us. We will define us.....and the storm will be a mere footnote by the time we are finished. I am proud to live here, want my daughter to go to college here (for the tickets....yes) and invite you all to come share the State with us. For now, though, please bring a shovel and some trash bags. We got us some cleanin' to do......but once we get it straight, I think you'll find you really like it here......
Until next time.....
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Tornadoes, Football.....and Great Friends
So there it is - 298 people dead (so far) and, of those, 210 (at least) in Alabama. All this from a natural disaster. I've spoken to several of you and you know what our situation was...and why it's taken me so long to write again. Two nights ago when I last posted, the storms were upon us and we were without power. I was working from my laptop with a wireless card and the blog had, for the most part, already been written. We had no idea of the devastation that was about to happen. Allow me to explain - this is how it played out: We were awakened Wednesday morning at 4:15 a.m. by the sound of blaring sirens. Being from PA originally, it has taken me some time to get accustomed to a siren that blares when there is the possibility of a tornado. I was clueless. The first time I ever heard these was the day that 8 students were killed in Enterprise, AL. I've learned to heed their warnings. It might not mean head for the basement immediately, but for God's sake, be prepared. Always. The sirens we heard at that hour were the first of several during the day. They had a brief reprieve during the midday hours, but that was because the Perfect Storm was already underway. The sun, as I have come to realize, is a bad thing on a day like this. The warmth only serves to help intensify the effect later. At about 3:00, the darker clouds returned and it was 'Game On'. Rain began to fall lightly and, as is typical with this situation, all local network channels broadcast nothing but weather. We were warned - everyone was. We knew it was coming - everyone did. As we watched and listened, they showed us (a first for me) a tornado with a dual vortex. Two actual funnels from the same cloud. Ten minutes later, the news came that it had struck a medical center in Cullman, AL, about twenty miles north. For the sake of discussion, here's the geography lesson - we are in a suburb of Birmingham, about 12 miles north of the city. Stay with me. Okay, so.....the next thing we heard was that a tornado was headed for Tuscaloosa, home of the beloved Crimson Tide. The news then showed it. THE 'IT'. The Monster 'IT'. A tornado headed for town that was a mile wide on the ground. Let that sink in, really. Go drive one mile. It seems like forever when you realize that was the part of the storm on the ground...and it was moving....fast. By the time we heard it had struck Tuscaloosa, they told us it would be in Birmingham in about 15 minutes. We're 50+ miles away. Fifteen minutes. As I walked outside, I realized there was debris falling. I posted pictures - a 4'x6' sheet of plywood, a 6'-8' long piece of metal siding ripped right from the house (double-wide, I presume), various pieces of insulation, papers, limbs with leaves. The only thing missing was frogs. I expected them. This was completely new. Then, as we waited, the lightning intensified, the rain was truly sideways, the sound was....well, really flippin' loud. Sorry, this was uncharted territory for me and I was learning how to respect Mother Nature in a minute. She was pissed, too. We later saw the devastation by night, I saw it again by day. The pictures, when I can download them, will be on FB. I've never seen anything like it. A hotel with the entire roof and one side.....gone. Like, not there. At all! A large metal billboard (with catwalk) lifted straight out of the ground. You could not imagine until you saw it. I....was....speechless. I am still in a bit of shock as we could not see the true damage in T-Town until today. Amazing. The reports are too much to go into, however when they were discussing the Tuscaloosa situation, we knew it was bad when they described people being extricated with an arm or leg missing. 'Heartbreaking' is an understatement. It was so bad, Bryant-Denny Stadium was converted into a makeshift Emergency Management Area. 800+ people hospitalized in a town of 83,000. Unreal.
Today, we are out of town. We have no electricity and do not know when it will return. It might be on now, it might be 4-5 days. Either way, a friend made a great comment asking when the aid from other countries would arrive. Nice. I get it. It ain't coming. We will do as we always do - fix it ourselves. After all, we are the US. Should we expect help from elsewhere? I'm sorry, but it's a give and take world when it comes to aid, isn't it? We give, they take. Sorry, perhaps being this close has made me cynical. Then again, I see that there are Donation Pages on Facebook...and THIS is where the 'football' portion comes to light. You see, being from PA I have always respected Penn State and Joe Paterno. He is a living legend. The one rivalry I always wanted to see again was the PSU-Alabama series. Two storied programs, two storied coaches (when the Bear was coaching and now Saban), two small towns representing the best of their respective states. When the series began anew last year, we welcomed it. You see, I am from PA but love the Crimson Tide. To have Joe and the boys come to T-Town for a game was the greatest. So much so that Nick Saban publicly spoke of his respect...and made us all 'come along for that very ride'. There best be no negative comments, boos, jeers, nothing.....when the Nittany Lions walk out of that tunnel. Ironically, no one wanted to. Bear Bryant and his legacy demanded more of these fans. Apparently, it was obvious. The ONLY thing that was said after the game was that the Crimson Tide fans were so incredibly nice. It was a friendly rivalry. A rivalry, yes, but neither teams' fans would act like idiots and be hateful. Think 'Auburn' if you are a Tide fan.....and, I believe, think 'Ohio State' if you are a PSU fan. Honestly, we cannot wait to get to State College in the second week of the upcoming season. We know the hospitality will be reciprocated. Without question or hesitation. The news from another friend today, our resident 'PSU Goddess' - Andrea - was incredible. You see, Penn State fans that write blogs have decided to alert their readers - we will help our friends in Alabama. We respect and admire them that much (and it IS mutual) that we want to help. They're good people. Ironically, knowing the people and fans from Penn State, this was almost expected that they would be that caring and thoughtful. It's who they are and what they represent. Pride, Integrity, Honor, Caring. It reflects on their school, their coach, their program. I am in awe of their willingness to make this happen so easily and readily. I know we would do the same...though we all hope we will never have to. Not like this.
This, of course, leads to 'Great Friends'. I have thanked, on FB, the countless people sending thoughts and prayers during this devastation, though I will never be able to fully put into words how that felt. Today, I am wearing a Crimson Tide t-shirt (I know, y'all find that hard to believe) and the people stopping me and asking about the state is incredible. The reactions are always the same - they ask, first, if I am from there and then, when I acknowleedge that I am, shake their heads slowly as they lower them, then comment softly, just above a whisper - "Absolutely terrible. I cannot imagine." No one can. I was there and I still cannot imagine. I tell them all the same thing...and will relate it now - Yes, it was terrible. We are without power, we lost all the food in our refrigerator, we were using candles rather than lights. Yet there are 300 plus people that cannot relate the story today. They lost their lives doing nothing more than, well, being there. We have the technology, we had the news reports, we had the sirens, yet it wasn't enough. It was just too damn big. Nothing would have helped. That storm was going to steal lives that day whether we fought it or not. The lives were destined to be lost as Mother Nature was relentless and unforgiving. I've personally heard the stories and know people that lost their family.....four of them found in the woods. Another couple that had twin daughters. Past tense - they lost them both. It was a bad day, not just in Alabama, but in several states. We aren't getting help from other countries, we have to help each other.....and we will. We always do. It's who we are and what we do. I love that about us. It makes us a great country, in both good times and bad...and for that I will always be a proud American. Thank you again and please forgive the somber tone tonight. I wanted to tell the story and say 'Thanks' once again.....
Until next time...........
Today, we are out of town. We have no electricity and do not know when it will return. It might be on now, it might be 4-5 days. Either way, a friend made a great comment asking when the aid from other countries would arrive. Nice. I get it. It ain't coming. We will do as we always do - fix it ourselves. After all, we are the US. Should we expect help from elsewhere? I'm sorry, but it's a give and take world when it comes to aid, isn't it? We give, they take. Sorry, perhaps being this close has made me cynical. Then again, I see that there are Donation Pages on Facebook...and THIS is where the 'football' portion comes to light. You see, being from PA I have always respected Penn State and Joe Paterno. He is a living legend. The one rivalry I always wanted to see again was the PSU-Alabama series. Two storied programs, two storied coaches (when the Bear was coaching and now Saban), two small towns representing the best of their respective states. When the series began anew last year, we welcomed it. You see, I am from PA but love the Crimson Tide. To have Joe and the boys come to T-Town for a game was the greatest. So much so that Nick Saban publicly spoke of his respect...and made us all 'come along for that very ride'. There best be no negative comments, boos, jeers, nothing.....when the Nittany Lions walk out of that tunnel. Ironically, no one wanted to. Bear Bryant and his legacy demanded more of these fans. Apparently, it was obvious. The ONLY thing that was said after the game was that the Crimson Tide fans were so incredibly nice. It was a friendly rivalry. A rivalry, yes, but neither teams' fans would act like idiots and be hateful. Think 'Auburn' if you are a Tide fan.....and, I believe, think 'Ohio State' if you are a PSU fan. Honestly, we cannot wait to get to State College in the second week of the upcoming season. We know the hospitality will be reciprocated. Without question or hesitation. The news from another friend today, our resident 'PSU Goddess' - Andrea - was incredible. You see, Penn State fans that write blogs have decided to alert their readers - we will help our friends in Alabama. We respect and admire them that much (and it IS mutual) that we want to help. They're good people. Ironically, knowing the people and fans from Penn State, this was almost expected that they would be that caring and thoughtful. It's who they are and what they represent. Pride, Integrity, Honor, Caring. It reflects on their school, their coach, their program. I am in awe of their willingness to make this happen so easily and readily. I know we would do the same...though we all hope we will never have to. Not like this.
This, of course, leads to 'Great Friends'. I have thanked, on FB, the countless people sending thoughts and prayers during this devastation, though I will never be able to fully put into words how that felt. Today, I am wearing a Crimson Tide t-shirt (I know, y'all find that hard to believe) and the people stopping me and asking about the state is incredible. The reactions are always the same - they ask, first, if I am from there and then, when I acknowleedge that I am, shake their heads slowly as they lower them, then comment softly, just above a whisper - "Absolutely terrible. I cannot imagine." No one can. I was there and I still cannot imagine. I tell them all the same thing...and will relate it now - Yes, it was terrible. We are without power, we lost all the food in our refrigerator, we were using candles rather than lights. Yet there are 300 plus people that cannot relate the story today. They lost their lives doing nothing more than, well, being there. We have the technology, we had the news reports, we had the sirens, yet it wasn't enough. It was just too damn big. Nothing would have helped. That storm was going to steal lives that day whether we fought it or not. The lives were destined to be lost as Mother Nature was relentless and unforgiving. I've personally heard the stories and know people that lost their family.....four of them found in the woods. Another couple that had twin daughters. Past tense - they lost them both. It was a bad day, not just in Alabama, but in several states. We aren't getting help from other countries, we have to help each other.....and we will. We always do. It's who we are and what we do. I love that about us. It makes us a great country, in both good times and bad...and for that I will always be a proud American. Thank you again and please forgive the somber tone tonight. I wanted to tell the story and say 'Thanks' once again.....
Until next time...........
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Idol, The Voice...and Ancestry.com
Dear American Idol: You've had a great run, but I think someone has finally figured out a way to put a better show on the tube. Don't get me wrong, you've found some amazing talent and great artists. We all enjoyed Simon calling it as he saw it. Randy's "Yo' Dog," was something we will all remember, too. We'd still appreciate it if you'd share what Paula was on. By 'share', I mean share. Don't tell us....literally, share. Now THAT was some good stuff. Then you added Ellen...and though I have nothing against her, I have to ask. Ellen? THAT Ellen? On American Idol? Sometimes, it's a little easier to spot the 'beginning of the end' than others. In case you're wondering.....again, Ellen. Don't make me draw a diagram. Anyway, you've given us some greats....and some not-so-greats. Anyone seen Taylor Hicks lately? Reuben Studdard? Right, my point exactly. On the other hand, Daughtry was a rockin' non-winner....who ended up winning anyway, right? Face it, it's been a great show. What I had a problem with, though, is that we always had to sit through the 'singers' that thought they were really good. The same ones that bitch-slapped the cameraman on the way outside, then dropped a few expletives. Typically, the ones beginning with 'F'. Yeah, I could say it....but I have more class than that. (BIG pause) Oh, alright, I really don't. This is a PG-rated page, though. Seriously, don't we remember the contestants that walked out screaming that neither Randy, Paula, or Simon had a clue? I think the conversations were generally, "Days sum dumbasses. Day doe no wassa good singa. And 'dat Pawwa? She'd a snide beyotch." Sound familiar? Well spoken, too, huh? The other issue I had was...did no one tell these people this was a SINGING competition? What's with the 'floor shows' we got to witness? Again, compelling television, but really? Which brings me to....The VOICE.
"The Voice" premiered on NBC last night and I dare say they rocked it. Yeah, it might have been a bit much with Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, and Adam Levine performing at the start of the show, but waiting to see how this worked was worth it. Each of the 4 judges, with their back to the singer, gets to pick up to 8 people to coach and mentor in this competition. If they like what they hear, they push their button, their chair turns 180 degrees toward the singer, and they get to see whom they chose. Here's the catch: if more than one judge picks a performer, that performer gets to choose the team they wish to join. The beauty of this show, in my opinion, is that all we heard were good performers. They had already auditioned and this was their final callback. We didn't have to endure someone dressed in an 'Uncle Sam' tophat, waving a flag, singing Yankee Doodle Dandy. These singers rocked it. All good music, interesting concept, and we got to watch Christina all but fall out of her dress every time she went for the button. Didn't matter who, toward the end, was singing. I was screaming, "Push it, Christina....plleeeaasssseee....." Not met with rave reviews here at home, but hey....she was leaning! The rest of the show might not be great, but this was a good start. I'm a little Idol-weary. Oh, and Carson Daly wasn't the show a la Ryan Seacrest. Not really a host as much as a 'hang with the family and watch the reactions' kind of guy. Again, it worked.
Final Tally ------The Voice - 1 American Idol - 0
The other pressing issue I needed to (or felt compelled to, anyway) share was a commercial. Yes, really...for none other than Ancestry.com. I know, right? So there we sat, watching the show, when a commercial begins with an elderly....okay 60-ish...black man dressed in khakis and a sweater. I think. Something close.....look, that's not important. Dressed nicely....okay? I'm watching, as I do with most commercials, with one ear. Hey, I can pull it off...relax. Seriously, though, the commercial starts and I get up to refill my coffee. As I stand, I hear, "I was a little afraid...I mean, as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up..." Wait. Say what? Did I just hear what I thought I heard? I pushed the 'pause' button ( to stop live-TV....cool gadget....you need one) and stared at the TV. I couldn't WAIT to hear where this was going...and didn't want to miss a word. I put my cup down and used BOTH ears this time, pushed the 'rewind' button and went back to the beginning. I let it play all the way through this time. The entire monologue was this: "I was a little afraid...I mean, as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up. But I went on ancestry.com anyway and I found out my great-great-grandfather was born a slave...(artistic pause for effect) but died as a businessman...and that was worth finding." Nice commercial, I get it. Find out cool things about your ancestors. Can we back up for a moment? Please? What EXACTLY was meant by saying "as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up?" I'm guessing, in hindsight, he meant as a slave? You think? My immediate thought was that he was worried it might end up back in Virginia with Sally Hemmings and Tom Jefferson. Yeah, as an African-American I guess that would scare you a bit.....and though we know this page is for fun, I'm not going to start citing stereotypes. I'm not going to say he was afraid he might finally like baked chicken....or cantaloupe. I will NOT go there. But I could. I just won't. Go ahead....you're already doing it in your mind. It's all good.
So, there is today's take on events. Oh, yeah, and the tornaodes. I'll post a few pics online. We found a piece of siding from a double-wide. It's about 6' long and mangled. You know it was from a double-wide, too. Pretty amazing watching this stuff fall from the skies...and I'm not sure I want to do it all that often, either.
Until next time.......
"The Voice" premiered on NBC last night and I dare say they rocked it. Yeah, it might have been a bit much with Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, and Adam Levine performing at the start of the show, but waiting to see how this worked was worth it. Each of the 4 judges, with their back to the singer, gets to pick up to 8 people to coach and mentor in this competition. If they like what they hear, they push their button, their chair turns 180 degrees toward the singer, and they get to see whom they chose. Here's the catch: if more than one judge picks a performer, that performer gets to choose the team they wish to join. The beauty of this show, in my opinion, is that all we heard were good performers. They had already auditioned and this was their final callback. We didn't have to endure someone dressed in an 'Uncle Sam' tophat, waving a flag, singing Yankee Doodle Dandy. These singers rocked it. All good music, interesting concept, and we got to watch Christina all but fall out of her dress every time she went for the button. Didn't matter who, toward the end, was singing. I was screaming, "Push it, Christina....plleeeaasssseee....." Not met with rave reviews here at home, but hey....she was leaning! The rest of the show might not be great, but this was a good start. I'm a little Idol-weary. Oh, and Carson Daly wasn't the show a la Ryan Seacrest. Not really a host as much as a 'hang with the family and watch the reactions' kind of guy. Again, it worked.
Final Tally ------The Voice - 1 American Idol - 0
The other pressing issue I needed to (or felt compelled to, anyway) share was a commercial. Yes, really...for none other than Ancestry.com. I know, right? So there we sat, watching the show, when a commercial begins with an elderly....okay 60-ish...black man dressed in khakis and a sweater. I think. Something close.....look, that's not important. Dressed nicely....okay? I'm watching, as I do with most commercials, with one ear. Hey, I can pull it off...relax. Seriously, though, the commercial starts and I get up to refill my coffee. As I stand, I hear, "I was a little afraid...I mean, as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up..." Wait. Say what? Did I just hear what I thought I heard? I pushed the 'pause' button ( to stop live-TV....cool gadget....you need one) and stared at the TV. I couldn't WAIT to hear where this was going...and didn't want to miss a word. I put my cup down and used BOTH ears this time, pushed the 'rewind' button and went back to the beginning. I let it play all the way through this time. The entire monologue was this: "I was a little afraid...I mean, as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up. But I went on ancestry.com anyway and I found out my great-great-grandfather was born a slave...(artistic pause for effect) but died as a businessman...and that was worth finding." Nice commercial, I get it. Find out cool things about your ancestors. Can we back up for a moment? Please? What EXACTLY was meant by saying "as an African-American, I knew where my family tree might end up?" I'm guessing, in hindsight, he meant as a slave? You think? My immediate thought was that he was worried it might end up back in Virginia with Sally Hemmings and Tom Jefferson. Yeah, as an African-American I guess that would scare you a bit.....and though we know this page is for fun, I'm not going to start citing stereotypes. I'm not going to say he was afraid he might finally like baked chicken....or cantaloupe. I will NOT go there. But I could. I just won't. Go ahead....you're already doing it in your mind. It's all good.
So, there is today's take on events. Oh, yeah, and the tornaodes. I'll post a few pics online. We found a piece of siding from a double-wide. It's about 6' long and mangled. You know it was from a double-wide, too. Pretty amazing watching this stuff fall from the skies...and I'm not sure I want to do it all that often, either.
Until next time.......
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Lindsey Lohan and a gay Federal Judge...but wait, there's more!
I know, I know. It sounds like a bad joke waiting for the punchline. "So Lindsey Lohan and a gay judge walk into a bar..." Actually, it might've been more accurate than joking.....if there were any truth to it. These stories, though, are seperate incidents. The Lindsey Lohan story caught my eye because, well, I'm trying to keep up with a judicial system gone mad. They tell me there's no difference in punishments for celebrities than regular citizens. Adding my two cents - I ain't buying it! This is like, what - her third or fourth probation violation? Here's the deal - she will be mopping floors, emptying trash cans, and cleaning windows and restrooms at the LA County Coroner's facility. She's also got to complete 360 hours of community service at a homeless shelter, too. Yes, I know she got 120 days behind bars as well. Sorry, but it is about time. You want to help this girl? The judge needs to appoint a guardian (I know she's 24) to help her 24/7. Yes, she's an adult...and we'll let her live her life like one when she is able to do so without hurting others or herself. Oh, and make sure the media-whore parents are not allowed near her or the money. The mother is delusional and thinks they are sisters. "Lindsey's fine. There's nothing wrong with her," were the words, I believe, when she was last in rehab. Yes, I had to point out that was more than a one-time thing, too. I have to admit, if this were my child we'd have had a 'Come To Jesus' meeting long ago. Seriously, how do you let your child get away with this or act like this and not be concerned they're going to end up like Belushi? Umm, I'm thinking that little heiress with too much time, too much money, and too little talent ought to be barred from being around her, too. Yes....Paris Hilton. Every time I see her I think.....wait, what? I mean, I....it...how do...really, it's....I just.....DON"T GET IT!!! An heir to the Hilton fortune? She doesn't have to take over the family business (I know, she owns it), but can't you at least pretend to be a little brighter than you are? Fake it 'til you make it, baby.....please. Enough with the child-wonders. My head hurts.
The next topic probably won't make it any better, but....supporters of a ban on gay marriage in CA are trying to have the federal judge that overturned said ban, disqualified from being on the case. Judge Vaughn Walker declared Proposition 8 to be an unconstitutional violation of the rights of gay Californians. They want him out, not because he is gay (so they say) but because he has been in a relationship with the same man for 10 years. They're afraid he, too, might want to get married. (2, 3, 4.....) Okay, my take on this? Please....LET IT GO! If he likes men, so be it. Can we please get over the straight/gay thing? Seriously, I know it bothers some, however I'm just saying live & let live. You want to be gay (no, I promise not going to get graphic), be gay. You want to be a boy with another boy, fine. Girl with girl.................umm, sorry, I'm back......that's fine, too. With that said, though, I'd also like to say to the gays - for us to let it go and stop arguing the point, you have to promise something too. NO MORE FLIPPIN' PARADES! No more pretty rainbows and no parades. It's that simple. It's like so many other issues you feel you MUST make us aware of. Gays think that parading will make us more accepting. Civil rights leaders think having the NAACP advances anything. You've arrived, damn it! Now LET IT GO already! We understand and accept it. You have to realize there will ALWAYS be someone, no matter what the topic, that will not agree. It's called America, folks. It's what we do, it's who we are, it's how we roll! Move on! And I feel the blood pressure rising. enough on that topic, too. Whew!
Today's other news? Phoebe Snow died - RIP. Katie Couric will step down from the Evening News - RIP. Let's see her bring her perky.....attitude....back to the Today Show. Lastly, in case you hadn't heard (because you're living in a cave somewhere) there's a wedding on Friday. Big one. In England. I have to admit, too....Diana was pretty but Kate Middleton beats her hands down. I would have picked Mary Ann over Ginger though, too. So there it is - today's take. Hope y'all are having a great week and......
Until next time......
The next topic probably won't make it any better, but....supporters of a ban on gay marriage in CA are trying to have the federal judge that overturned said ban, disqualified from being on the case. Judge Vaughn Walker declared Proposition 8 to be an unconstitutional violation of the rights of gay Californians. They want him out, not because he is gay (so they say) but because he has been in a relationship with the same man for 10 years. They're afraid he, too, might want to get married. (2, 3, 4.....) Okay, my take on this? Please....LET IT GO! If he likes men, so be it. Can we please get over the straight/gay thing? Seriously, I know it bothers some, however I'm just saying live & let live. You want to be gay (no, I promise not going to get graphic), be gay. You want to be a boy with another boy, fine. Girl with girl.................umm, sorry, I'm back......that's fine, too. With that said, though, I'd also like to say to the gays - for us to let it go and stop arguing the point, you have to promise something too. NO MORE FLIPPIN' PARADES! No more pretty rainbows and no parades. It's that simple. It's like so many other issues you feel you MUST make us aware of. Gays think that parading will make us more accepting. Civil rights leaders think having the NAACP advances anything. You've arrived, damn it! Now LET IT GO already! We understand and accept it. You have to realize there will ALWAYS be someone, no matter what the topic, that will not agree. It's called America, folks. It's what we do, it's who we are, it's how we roll! Move on! And I feel the blood pressure rising. enough on that topic, too. Whew!
Today's other news? Phoebe Snow died - RIP. Katie Couric will step down from the Evening News - RIP. Let's see her bring her perky.....attitude....back to the Today Show. Lastly, in case you hadn't heard (because you're living in a cave somewhere) there's a wedding on Friday. Big one. In England. I have to admit, too....Diana was pretty but Kate Middleton beats her hands down. I would have picked Mary Ann over Ginger though, too. So there it is - today's take. Hope y'all are having a great week and......
Until next time......
Monday, April 25, 2011
Toothaches, Jim Tressel, and Drawing The Heart.....and Friends.
....and we're back. Thank you for staying with us during that brief commercial break. Let's kick off tonight's headlines with all the news fit to print. First, toothaches. How do they fit in the news, you ask? I have one. Sorry, it might not matter to you, but my blog, my problems. I win....or lose if you could feel this thing. After all these years in the dental field, you think I'd know better. I should have been to the dentist a few days ago, but.....what? No, no...it's not that at all. I don't have an irrational fear of dentists. It's quite rational, in my opinion. Hey, I've worked as a dental hygienist, remember? If you don't, I did. Eww, the blood...and the plaque stuff...and the gums.....and the cavities. Just gross. Alright, it wasn't actually that bad. I do not have a fear of dentists, really. It's the pain I can't stand. I'm a wuss. That, and the fact that every time I go have any serious work done, I end up slobbering on myself for the two hours after the appointment. Seriously, don't most of us look like we have a slight case of Bells-Palsy before the novocain wears off? You don't? Umm, yeah...me neither. I was just kinda making it up. I think, though, this is endo-time. A root canal. I think it would be easier to pull it, yank it out, rip it free. Yes, the proper term is 'extract'. Ever known me to be proper? Does 'extract' sound as fun? I think not. The actual terminology for what happened is - "I broke the entire distal portion of # 29 in the entire interproximal area. Sadly, I still know these terms. What does it really mean? The back part of my lower right premolar broke in between the teeth and went into my gums. Laymen's terms - gotta love 'em. At least they are understandable, yes? Right...our next headline is...
Jim Tressel. Ohio State. Or, as they lovingly refer to it - THE Ohio State. This week, the rest of us can refer to it as, "THE Ohio State...that is going to get busted because Jim Tressel arrogantly lied to the NCAA. Bad boy, Jim....bad, bad boy. They tend to frown on that. Seriously, what kind of players are you working with, too, that trade their rings and other mementos of their college careers...for a TATTOO? Really? I like the way they treat their experience and (my opinion) their university so callously. THEN, we find out they are getting suspended, not before the Sugar Bowl, but for the first 5 games of the coming year. Oh, bullshit - they got caught, hang 'em now! Jim, you should know better. Come clean and run a respectable program. As I said earlier, have you learned nothing from being in a conference with Joe Paterno? Does anyone wonder why he is so revered? The man takes kids out of high school, molds them into men, has an extremely high graduation rate, and prepares them for life. I guess you could say Tressel does the same...but what does it say when you lie for them or falsify documents? Take a look at Penn State, Jim. Obviously, Joe is still making a difference. I'm guessing he wants to stay because he still has more to offer and it keeps him young-ish. Somewhere, deep in his heart, I think he might be afraid of the Bear Bryant-syndrome, too. Yeah, you knew I'd work a 'Bama reference in there, didn't you? Maybe Joe is a little afraid that, like Bryant, he might not last long after he retires. That's why I hope he roams the sidelines for, well, ever. Anyway, you lied, Jim - fix it. Do the right thing.....now.
Now, moving from sports to the weather, it's a.....what? No weather? Okay, then let's move on to the last subject. Thank you all for taking an idea that two young girls had and making it work. I have a heart on my wrist (in Sharpie, thank you) and will remember its' meaning as long as it is there...and then some. I cannot say thank you enough for the multiple reposts of her plan, the pictures of hearts on wrists, and the kind words you all expressed. I hope I let everyone know how much it is appreciated...and for the example WE have been able to show a younger generation. When Brittany asks about my friends, the talk invariably leads to friends I have known since elementary school, then high school, then in the working world. The fact that we can still connect, some after more than 40 years, is noticed by she and her friends. I've often heard her referring to them as "She'll be a friend like you and______." They see and admire the fact that people maintain these relationships...and respect that we can make new friends as well. The efforts of everyone last night and today simply helped reinforce that concept. Really, really cool.....just because people are friends.
So that's the take on today. More rambling on a blog because, well.....I can. It helps get the 'Monday' out of me. Now if only Two and A Half Men wasn't a rerun again tonight. Poor Charlie. I see he lost his hooke....I mean porn star goddess. He must be having a really bad day...especially because she burned him with a text message. Ooh, the ultimate 'Kiss My...' move. Nice. Again, as is typical, I digress. My apologies......and thanks for stopping by.
Until next time..........
Jim Tressel. Ohio State. Or, as they lovingly refer to it - THE Ohio State. This week, the rest of us can refer to it as, "THE Ohio State...that is going to get busted because Jim Tressel arrogantly lied to the NCAA. Bad boy, Jim....bad, bad boy. They tend to frown on that. Seriously, what kind of players are you working with, too, that trade their rings and other mementos of their college careers...for a TATTOO? Really? I like the way they treat their experience and (my opinion) their university so callously. THEN, we find out they are getting suspended, not before the Sugar Bowl, but for the first 5 games of the coming year. Oh, bullshit - they got caught, hang 'em now! Jim, you should know better. Come clean and run a respectable program. As I said earlier, have you learned nothing from being in a conference with Joe Paterno? Does anyone wonder why he is so revered? The man takes kids out of high school, molds them into men, has an extremely high graduation rate, and prepares them for life. I guess you could say Tressel does the same...but what does it say when you lie for them or falsify documents? Take a look at Penn State, Jim. Obviously, Joe is still making a difference. I'm guessing he wants to stay because he still has more to offer and it keeps him young-ish. Somewhere, deep in his heart, I think he might be afraid of the Bear Bryant-syndrome, too. Yeah, you knew I'd work a 'Bama reference in there, didn't you? Maybe Joe is a little afraid that, like Bryant, he might not last long after he retires. That's why I hope he roams the sidelines for, well, ever. Anyway, you lied, Jim - fix it. Do the right thing.....now.
Now, moving from sports to the weather, it's a.....what? No weather? Okay, then let's move on to the last subject. Thank you all for taking an idea that two young girls had and making it work. I have a heart on my wrist (in Sharpie, thank you) and will remember its' meaning as long as it is there...and then some. I cannot say thank you enough for the multiple reposts of her plan, the pictures of hearts on wrists, and the kind words you all expressed. I hope I let everyone know how much it is appreciated...and for the example WE have been able to show a younger generation. When Brittany asks about my friends, the talk invariably leads to friends I have known since elementary school, then high school, then in the working world. The fact that we can still connect, some after more than 40 years, is noticed by she and her friends. I've often heard her referring to them as "She'll be a friend like you and______." They see and admire the fact that people maintain these relationships...and respect that we can make new friends as well. The efforts of everyone last night and today simply helped reinforce that concept. Really, really cool.....just because people are friends.
So that's the take on today. More rambling on a blog because, well.....I can. It helps get the 'Monday' out of me. Now if only Two and A Half Men wasn't a rerun again tonight. Poor Charlie. I see he lost his hooke....I mean porn star goddess. He must be having a really bad day...especially because she burned him with a text message. Ooh, the ultimate 'Kiss My...' move. Nice. Again, as is typical, I digress. My apologies......and thanks for stopping by.
Until next time..........
Sunday, April 24, 2011
This Is How Action Starts...and We Make A Difference
I never post twice in a day....typically. This, however, was too good to let go. I am doing this for my daughter because THIS is how movements start and action begins. Brittany and a friend had an idea. We talked, at length, about how the two girls I wrote of last week committed suicide. She could not imagine, as most of us couldn't either. She decided to take action. This is what she posted on Facebook, how she wants to get people involved, and how she plans to make a difference. She wrote:
Easter and the end of Spring Break...and missing 'The Girl'.
First, let me say, "Happy Easter," to everyone. I hope it was a day filled with kids, family, and that awesome feast I remember from childhood. I realize there are times when I am reminiscing frequently. I'm getting old - sue me. I'm tucking these memories away for that time, which is sure to come, when I'll be looking into a mirror trying to figure out who's staring back at me. Probably offer him fifty bucks to tell me his name...then get into a fight because he keeps repeating everything I'm saying. Seems to know it before I say it, too....go figure.
I had a strange thought of Easter this morning. I mean, I remember coloring eggs. I hope parents are still spending time with their kids doing that. Seriously, y'all aren't just buying those plastic colored things, are you? I remember it was a bit of a treat for us and our 'artistic' abilities. Mom would always but the 4-pack of bottled dyes. The little glass containers with blue, green, yellow, and red dyes that we would open (okay, I would open - I couldn't wait) as she boiled the eggs on the stove. The table was covered with newspaper because, invariably, one of us would knock a bottle over and there'd be a colored splotch on the paper. I say it was my sister....mostly because I don't think she's reading this. She was a klutz. Really sloppy kid. Such a mess (I'm actually waiting for the phone to ring as we speak). Anyway, mom would bring the eggs to us, lay a pile of Q-tips on the table, and let us have at it. Color anything and anyway we'd like. Good memories. The 'strange' thought I had though was of my great-grandmother. Somehow, she would take eggs and boil them with onion shells. Turned the eggs a dark brown. They almost looked like farm-fresh brown eggs....but they weren't. She purposely made them brown. Me thinks Grandma might have been nippin' at the hooch, but I can't say for sure. Why else would you do that...unless (and this is a possibility) it was a Great Depression-era thing. Maybe that was how they colored eggs then. Seriously, our way was a bunch more fun...and artistic...but that was Grandma. No...I have NOT been nippin' at the hooch.....yet.
So the other portion of this entry is that....*sniff, sniff*...the girls are gone. We took Brittany and Erika home to Richmond after a great Spring Break. They loved the beach and being in Alabama. It's always hard, though, taking them home. After dealing with the 'Ex' again, I have to say to everyone reading - if you're divorced, please....PLEASE...think about being civil to each other for your kids. You owe it to them and **NEWS FLASH** - it isn't about the two of you anymore! I can imagine what divorce does to kids. I lived it. I can also say that I want to do everything and anything I can to make sure that isn't a feeling that gets passed down through time. My little soap-box issue today is - Dad's, don't be deadbeats. Pay your child support. I know it goes to the Ex, but it's for your child. Then, when possible, do more for your child. Just you. They will notice and recognize the effort, trust me. They will love and appreciate you for it, too. It's only money - you can make more. Nothing can make me understand how fathers can do that to their kids. Oh, and mothers? You don't get off the hook here, either. Make sure the money goes for its intended use - your child. I know it goes to clothes, food, and shelter...but when you can afford to buy a new car every 1 1/2 to 2 years...then complain that the child support doesn't go far enough, I have to use one of Brittany's lines - "Cry me a river, build a bridge, and GET OVER IT. Seriously. 'Nuff said.
So, for the 'full-circle' move of the day, I just want to say I hope everyone had a great holiday. Like I said, I remember Mom going overboard with the food on a holiday such as this. We'd have more than enough to eat and, frequently, had friends over whose families were either gone or spending it elsewhere. A house full of family and friends on a holiday is hard to beat, especially when she cooked like this. She'd have ham, turkey, corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, greenbeans, dressing, and brussel sprouts. Those were for my sister, the klutz. She was really good at dropping them all over herself and....what? Who's on the phone? Amy who? She knows I'm where? Looks like I have to run. Someone pretending to be my sister wants to kick my......
Happy Easter, All - I hope it was safe and fun-filled with the family!
Until next time.........
I had a strange thought of Easter this morning. I mean, I remember coloring eggs. I hope parents are still spending time with their kids doing that. Seriously, y'all aren't just buying those plastic colored things, are you? I remember it was a bit of a treat for us and our 'artistic' abilities. Mom would always but the 4-pack of bottled dyes. The little glass containers with blue, green, yellow, and red dyes that we would open (okay, I would open - I couldn't wait) as she boiled the eggs on the stove. The table was covered with newspaper because, invariably, one of us would knock a bottle over and there'd be a colored splotch on the paper. I say it was my sister....mostly because I don't think she's reading this. She was a klutz. Really sloppy kid. Such a mess (I'm actually waiting for the phone to ring as we speak). Anyway, mom would bring the eggs to us, lay a pile of Q-tips on the table, and let us have at it. Color anything and anyway we'd like. Good memories. The 'strange' thought I had though was of my great-grandmother. Somehow, she would take eggs and boil them with onion shells. Turned the eggs a dark brown. They almost looked like farm-fresh brown eggs....but they weren't. She purposely made them brown. Me thinks Grandma might have been nippin' at the hooch, but I can't say for sure. Why else would you do that...unless (and this is a possibility) it was a Great Depression-era thing. Maybe that was how they colored eggs then. Seriously, our way was a bunch more fun...and artistic...but that was Grandma. No...I have NOT been nippin' at the hooch.....yet.
So the other portion of this entry is that....*sniff, sniff*...the girls are gone. We took Brittany and Erika home to Richmond after a great Spring Break. They loved the beach and being in Alabama. It's always hard, though, taking them home. After dealing with the 'Ex' again, I have to say to everyone reading - if you're divorced, please....PLEASE...think about being civil to each other for your kids. You owe it to them and **NEWS FLASH** - it isn't about the two of you anymore! I can imagine what divorce does to kids. I lived it. I can also say that I want to do everything and anything I can to make sure that isn't a feeling that gets passed down through time. My little soap-box issue today is - Dad's, don't be deadbeats. Pay your child support. I know it goes to the Ex, but it's for your child. Then, when possible, do more for your child. Just you. They will notice and recognize the effort, trust me. They will love and appreciate you for it, too. It's only money - you can make more. Nothing can make me understand how fathers can do that to their kids. Oh, and mothers? You don't get off the hook here, either. Make sure the money goes for its intended use - your child. I know it goes to clothes, food, and shelter...but when you can afford to buy a new car every 1 1/2 to 2 years...then complain that the child support doesn't go far enough, I have to use one of Brittany's lines - "Cry me a river, build a bridge, and GET OVER IT. Seriously. 'Nuff said.
So, for the 'full-circle' move of the day, I just want to say I hope everyone had a great holiday. Like I said, I remember Mom going overboard with the food on a holiday such as this. We'd have more than enough to eat and, frequently, had friends over whose families were either gone or spending it elsewhere. A house full of family and friends on a holiday is hard to beat, especially when she cooked like this. She'd have ham, turkey, corn, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, greenbeans, dressing, and brussel sprouts. Those were for my sister, the klutz. She was really good at dropping them all over herself and....what? Who's on the phone? Amy who? She knows I'm where? Looks like I have to run. Someone pretending to be my sister wants to kick my......
Happy Easter, All - I hope it was safe and fun-filled with the family!
Until next time.........
Friday, April 22, 2011
Summer's Past...remember?
It actually hit 87 degrees here today. Sweat (actual beads of perspiration) appeared on my forehead. I haven't felt those since...I think October of last year. That's not counting, of course, when the thermostat in the house gets set to 78. As we walked down the street, the warm afternoon sent my mind back more than a few years. Back to when we were growing up in a small Pennsylvania town. Yeah, you guessed it - five miles to school each way, uphill both ways, no public transportation. Alright, I'm making that up for the kids' benefit. It was a small town and when we return now I find it difficult to imagine what we did to occupy our time. And that's what got me thinking....
I really want to understand why we didn't listen and appreciate the words of our parents and grandparents - "Enjoy these times while you can, they won't last forever." They didn't. That doesn't mean we didn't appreciate those times, it's just that it took another 30 years for the appreciation to make its appearance. It doesn't mean we didn't appreciate our friends - many of them are still in our lives today and, as we've grown older, others have gone from being classmates to real friends. That's the appreciation part...and knowing that, sadly, none of us will get out of here alive. That's why, when the weather turns warm, my thoughts go back to earlier days...say, high school. I think of my first car - a 1967 Austin-Healy Sprite. Sister car of the MG Midget. For everyone wanting to take that comment and run with it, have at it. I will certainly understand. Thing is, this car was a great ragtop with a roll-bar in the back and had no backseat. It had an area big enough to stash an overnight bag or two....or, well, a midget. I remember being careless and allowing two friends to 'hunker down' in the back until we were sure there were no cops around...and then...well, they pulled themselves up and sat on the trunk lid while holding on that bar as we made our way through town and back again. If I had taken off quickly and their grip hadn't been tight, we would have poured them off onto the road behind us. Trouble is, that car wouldn't take off quickly. Trust me, they were safe...and eventually we forgot to look for cops, Needless to say, they didn't forget to look for 'Idiot Teenagers'.
Seriously, close your eyes and remember with me....wait, don't. Keep reading and try it later. Do any of you remember how we'd steal the liquor we could find from our parent's stash? How we'd drink more than we should (some of us) and end up looking really, really bad at Scotto's Pizza? it was a little pizza joint in the mall that had the BEST pizza...when you were drinking. Same as most small town pizza joints - when you went in the light of day, it was pretty much cardboard with sauce and cheese. I say that, but their's was pretty good when we weren't drinking. Bad, bad kids. The other place you will all remember? Crabb's Tropical Treat. Oh, yeah, serious Friday night action. For those of you that weren't from this area, you had to have a drive-in. This was that place for us. The place where you order from your car over the original little speakers.....and they brought your food and hung the tray on your windows? Remember? The great news? The place is STILL THERE!!! It's one of the places I have to visit (yearly pilgrimage) when I am in town every summer. Yes, they used to have the smokin' cars, smokin' women (you're welcome, ladies), and great food. The food was, most likely, better because we were.....hungry. That's it, hungry. Remember, too, that the trays hanging on your windows were originally meant for cars that (dare I say it?) had manual window-roller-downer-thingys. I guess 'hand crank' would be an appropriate term. You had to "Roll the window down." Yes, we were amazing with the English language, too, but I digress. You could always tell, when watching folks in other cars (sometimes your own), what their state of intoxication might have been. We loved to watch people roll the window down to remove the tray from the window, only to have it hit the ground as the window disappeared from sight. Beautiful move.....and yes, we'd like you to share, thank you very much!
I remember the water reservoir off Impounding Dam Rd. It was our 'Lookout Point'. A great place to go 'parking'.....so I heard. If you went on a warm summer night when it was nice and dark, there'd be hundreds...nay, thousands of fireflies illuminating the lake and surrounding trees. It was a great conversation starter and reason to take a walk by the lake. DISCLAIMER: If any young men are reading this, the ladies kind of got wise to this. Pick a new spot, you little urchins.
So, for anyone from the area, I hope you'll remember and agree that these were spots that have become ingrained in our collective memories. If you aren't from the area, I hope you've got spots like this (I know you do) that you can remember fondly, too. Tonight, when it gets warm (Or if you're in the North WHEN it gets warm), take a cup of coffee, glass of tea, or your favorite adult beverage and make some time for the memories. Just sit outside when it's dark and let your mind wander back to those years, not so long ago, when we didn't have to worry about the mortgage, or the electric bill, or college tuition. Make the time...and, if you can, share the stories with the kids. Encourage them to 'enjoy these times' and to 'stop wishing your life away'. If only we had heeded that advice when we were younger. They may not, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't try, right? Have a great night and a great Easter holiday...and thanks for stopping by......
Until next time..........
I really want to understand why we didn't listen and appreciate the words of our parents and grandparents - "Enjoy these times while you can, they won't last forever." They didn't. That doesn't mean we didn't appreciate those times, it's just that it took another 30 years for the appreciation to make its appearance. It doesn't mean we didn't appreciate our friends - many of them are still in our lives today and, as we've grown older, others have gone from being classmates to real friends. That's the appreciation part...and knowing that, sadly, none of us will get out of here alive. That's why, when the weather turns warm, my thoughts go back to earlier days...say, high school. I think of my first car - a 1967 Austin-Healy Sprite. Sister car of the MG Midget. For everyone wanting to take that comment and run with it, have at it. I will certainly understand. Thing is, this car was a great ragtop with a roll-bar in the back and had no backseat. It had an area big enough to stash an overnight bag or two....or, well, a midget. I remember being careless and allowing two friends to 'hunker down' in the back until we were sure there were no cops around...and then...well, they pulled themselves up and sat on the trunk lid while holding on that bar as we made our way through town and back again. If I had taken off quickly and their grip hadn't been tight, we would have poured them off onto the road behind us. Trouble is, that car wouldn't take off quickly. Trust me, they were safe...and eventually we forgot to look for cops, Needless to say, they didn't forget to look for 'Idiot Teenagers'.
Seriously, close your eyes and remember with me....wait, don't. Keep reading and try it later. Do any of you remember how we'd steal the liquor we could find from our parent's stash? How we'd drink more than we should (some of us) and end up looking really, really bad at Scotto's Pizza? it was a little pizza joint in the mall that had the BEST pizza...when you were drinking. Same as most small town pizza joints - when you went in the light of day, it was pretty much cardboard with sauce and cheese. I say that, but their's was pretty good when we weren't drinking. Bad, bad kids. The other place you will all remember? Crabb's Tropical Treat. Oh, yeah, serious Friday night action. For those of you that weren't from this area, you had to have a drive-in. This was that place for us. The place where you order from your car over the original little speakers.....and they brought your food and hung the tray on your windows? Remember? The great news? The place is STILL THERE!!! It's one of the places I have to visit (yearly pilgrimage) when I am in town every summer. Yes, they used to have the smokin' cars, smokin' women (you're welcome, ladies), and great food. The food was, most likely, better because we were.....hungry. That's it, hungry. Remember, too, that the trays hanging on your windows were originally meant for cars that (dare I say it?) had manual window-roller-downer-thingys. I guess 'hand crank' would be an appropriate term. You had to "Roll the window down." Yes, we were amazing with the English language, too, but I digress. You could always tell, when watching folks in other cars (sometimes your own), what their state of intoxication might have been. We loved to watch people roll the window down to remove the tray from the window, only to have it hit the ground as the window disappeared from sight. Beautiful move.....and yes, we'd like you to share, thank you very much!
I remember the water reservoir off Impounding Dam Rd. It was our 'Lookout Point'. A great place to go 'parking'.....so I heard. If you went on a warm summer night when it was nice and dark, there'd be hundreds...nay, thousands of fireflies illuminating the lake and surrounding trees. It was a great conversation starter and reason to take a walk by the lake. DISCLAIMER: If any young men are reading this, the ladies kind of got wise to this. Pick a new spot, you little urchins.
So, for anyone from the area, I hope you'll remember and agree that these were spots that have become ingrained in our collective memories. If you aren't from the area, I hope you've got spots like this (I know you do) that you can remember fondly, too. Tonight, when it gets warm (Or if you're in the North WHEN it gets warm), take a cup of coffee, glass of tea, or your favorite adult beverage and make some time for the memories. Just sit outside when it's dark and let your mind wander back to those years, not so long ago, when we didn't have to worry about the mortgage, or the electric bill, or college tuition. Make the time...and, if you can, share the stories with the kids. Encourage them to 'enjoy these times' and to 'stop wishing your life away'. If only we had heeded that advice when we were younger. They may not, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't try, right? Have a great night and a great Easter holiday...and thanks for stopping by......
Until next time..........
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Parental 'Step Up' Time......Again.
There it is, folks. Right there in the title above. Time for parents to step up and perform. What should they perform? How about their parental duties. Their responsibilities. You had the momentary fun of procreating and producing them, I know. We all did. There comes a time, though, when you have to finish the job. Yes, we all know we have at least 18 years of responsibility when we bear kids. If you don't know it, then listen up...though I believe everyone reading this understands the rules. This is akin to a football game - you don't quit after the opening kickoff. You don't see a Nascar driver (Talladega last Sunday - you expected the reference!) walking back to the garage after firing the engines. So why am I jumping on this topic again today? Honestly, it's one of my 'Soap-Box' issues that I am always on, yet don't mention constantly. Again, you ask, why today?
As is typical of my mornings, I was watching the first hour of the Today Show before heading to my appointment in Memphis. Breakfast at a barbecue joint. (long pause) Okay, I made that up. The barbecue deal, not the Today Show. Again with the digression, huh? Maybe I am simply avoiding the topic. You see, this morning they broadcast the story of two 14-year old girls in Minnesota that were found dead after an apparent sleepover suicide pact. Go back and read that again....please. 14-years old. They were 8th graders. Show of hands, who's got kids that age? My daughter just turned 15 and this story made me almost physically ill. They showed their pictures and no parent could help think of their own child. How would anyone endure the pain of losing a child (I know some friends have experienced that unenviable grief), especially to suicide?? At that age, the thought of it is incomprehensible.
The new buzzword made its' appearance, too - were they victims of bullying? I have to admit (and you will all agree) that 'bullying' isn't anything new. There have always been larger, stronger, bigger, prettier classmates that felt it was their entitlement to treat others with complete disregard for their feelings or safety. Some used their powers for good, others for evil. Yeah, I kind of stole that analogy, but it keeps you reading, right? Anyway, I had a long drive today and tried to get my mind around this concept. I can't. The only explanation I can find is the same as the one I get when I ask why the students act the way they do in class...and in general. At some point (I've mentioned this before), a student got a spanking with a paddle and the parents complained. Actually, it was a kid's-rights group. They were acting in the best interest of the student...they said. At some point, we began giving 'time-outs' instead of 'knockouts' for horrible behavior. Parents were no longer allowed to discipline their children either. Sorry, I remember the paddle in school and the belt at home. I will tell you now that it hurt like a sonofabi......you know, bad. I can also, very honestly, say that the punishment fit the crime. I have to reiterate, too, that this IS NOT abuse. It is discipline. There's a difference - look it up. Now, before all you parents that are much younger than I start screaming that I am Satan's Helper for being an advocate of discipline, let me point out that the anniversary of Columbine is upon us once again. Any questions? Yeah, I thought the hands would be lowered. Can I say it was, indeed, bullying? No, but it's still an issue today and it needs to be addressed. Talk to your kids. If they are victims, deal with it and help them. If your kids are the bullys, beat their ass. Seriously, get them to treat people nicely and fairly and justly. Don't tell me it can't be done. I bear witness to a daughter and her friends that have befriended the handicapped children at school and for that, I am profoundly proud. She can slide with a few 'B's or even 'C's if she continues that behavior. I admit I was not always the person she is...and I am extremely proud of all of them that do the right thing.
The other part of this issue, and the hard part for these girls parents, is that they missed the signs on their social-networking pages. There were comments made that, in hindsight, should have tipped them off to at least have a conversation. They would have never known the real issue from the posts alone, however the talking needed to start then. I implore you to read what your kids are doing. read what people write to them. Read what people ask them. You have no idea the clues these pages can provide. Could it cause a fight between you and your child? Hell, Yes! Should you give up? Hell, NO! I can attest to the fact (and my friends remember) that it caused a 3-month long moratorium of conversation between Brittany and I. No speaking at all. I wanted access to her page and she would not. Things are different now. She and I speak regularly, see each other frequently, and brings her friends to stay with us because she loves coming to see us. She is the light of my life...yet I know I have many more years to be 'Daddy'. From what I hear, it never ends...unless. Unless you are unfortunate and miss the signs. Unfortunate and lose them....to drugs, to alcohol, or to death. Again, I am begging you. They are our youth (and the ones that will change your bedpans) and will lead this country at some point. Our parents got us here, it is our responsibility to get them to the same point. They want to be taught, disciplined, loved. We owe it to them. I've rambled enough for this post. Go hug your kids...or call them...or write them a note that says how much you love them. For God's sake, stay in their lives.....because they need and want us. Really.
Until next time.......
As is typical of my mornings, I was watching the first hour of the Today Show before heading to my appointment in Memphis. Breakfast at a barbecue joint. (long pause) Okay, I made that up. The barbecue deal, not the Today Show. Again with the digression, huh? Maybe I am simply avoiding the topic. You see, this morning they broadcast the story of two 14-year old girls in Minnesota that were found dead after an apparent sleepover suicide pact. Go back and read that again....please. 14-years old. They were 8th graders. Show of hands, who's got kids that age? My daughter just turned 15 and this story made me almost physically ill. They showed their pictures and no parent could help think of their own child. How would anyone endure the pain of losing a child (I know some friends have experienced that unenviable grief), especially to suicide?? At that age, the thought of it is incomprehensible.
The new buzzword made its' appearance, too - were they victims of bullying? I have to admit (and you will all agree) that 'bullying' isn't anything new. There have always been larger, stronger, bigger, prettier classmates that felt it was their entitlement to treat others with complete disregard for their feelings or safety. Some used their powers for good, others for evil. Yeah, I kind of stole that analogy, but it keeps you reading, right? Anyway, I had a long drive today and tried to get my mind around this concept. I can't. The only explanation I can find is the same as the one I get when I ask why the students act the way they do in class...and in general. At some point (I've mentioned this before), a student got a spanking with a paddle and the parents complained. Actually, it was a kid's-rights group. They were acting in the best interest of the student...they said. At some point, we began giving 'time-outs' instead of 'knockouts' for horrible behavior. Parents were no longer allowed to discipline their children either. Sorry, I remember the paddle in school and the belt at home. I will tell you now that it hurt like a sonofabi......you know, bad. I can also, very honestly, say that the punishment fit the crime. I have to reiterate, too, that this IS NOT abuse. It is discipline. There's a difference - look it up. Now, before all you parents that are much younger than I start screaming that I am Satan's Helper for being an advocate of discipline, let me point out that the anniversary of Columbine is upon us once again. Any questions? Yeah, I thought the hands would be lowered. Can I say it was, indeed, bullying? No, but it's still an issue today and it needs to be addressed. Talk to your kids. If they are victims, deal with it and help them. If your kids are the bullys, beat their ass. Seriously, get them to treat people nicely and fairly and justly. Don't tell me it can't be done. I bear witness to a daughter and her friends that have befriended the handicapped children at school and for that, I am profoundly proud. She can slide with a few 'B's or even 'C's if she continues that behavior. I admit I was not always the person she is...and I am extremely proud of all of them that do the right thing.
The other part of this issue, and the hard part for these girls parents, is that they missed the signs on their social-networking pages. There were comments made that, in hindsight, should have tipped them off to at least have a conversation. They would have never known the real issue from the posts alone, however the talking needed to start then. I implore you to read what your kids are doing. read what people write to them. Read what people ask them. You have no idea the clues these pages can provide. Could it cause a fight between you and your child? Hell, Yes! Should you give up? Hell, NO! I can attest to the fact (and my friends remember) that it caused a 3-month long moratorium of conversation between Brittany and I. No speaking at all. I wanted access to her page and she would not. Things are different now. She and I speak regularly, see each other frequently, and brings her friends to stay with us because she loves coming to see us. She is the light of my life...yet I know I have many more years to be 'Daddy'. From what I hear, it never ends...unless. Unless you are unfortunate and miss the signs. Unfortunate and lose them....to drugs, to alcohol, or to death. Again, I am begging you. They are our youth (and the ones that will change your bedpans) and will lead this country at some point. Our parents got us here, it is our responsibility to get them to the same point. They want to be taught, disciplined, loved. We owe it to them. I've rambled enough for this post. Go hug your kids...or call them...or write them a note that says how much you love them. For God's sake, stay in their lives.....because they need and want us. Really.
Until next time.......
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
4/20? Or is it 4:20 on 4/20?
Here it is, Gang - April 20th. A friend (thanks Andrea) posted on FB today the origins of this so-called 'holiday'. I thought it might be a good time to share. It seems 420 has become the cultural equivalent of tune-in, turn-on, get stoned. The ties go back to the Grateful Dead which, I'm certain, many will find hard to believe. Let's take a trip down Memory Lane, though, shall we?
The year was 1971 and the Waldos - a group of five San Rafael high school students - were in search of a lost field of weed in the Point Reyes, CA forest. There was a Coast Guard service member who could not tend to his field, so the Waldos decided to go pick a bit as their own. They were all athletes and decided to meet at 4:20 by the statue of Louis Pasteur. That's it - the origin of the term. Now, however, it has become the aforementioned icon of American glaucoma patients (and stoners) everywhere. Apparently, they all get together at 4:20 and 4/20, light up, then head off into the sunset. Yes, this is the abridged version. You can find the entire story on The Huffington Post. Interesting article if I do say so myself.
Today, I'm wondering where many of the marijuana references and staples have gone. Everyone remember 'High Times'? What about NORML? National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. They were big players when we were in high school and college. We always wondered if they would make an impact. If you're a glaucoma patient, you'd have to say 'yes', right? Let's face it, they're having all the fun...and doing it legally. I say 'all the fun', however I'm just referncing what I've heard from others. I'm sure you understand.
For my case in point, however, I would like to state for the record - I don't ever remember hearing of one DUIM recently...or ever. They're all driving too slow trying to back it down from their own personal warp speed of 35 mph. Honestly, have you ever seen a stoner speeding? Yeah, didn't think so. I've never seen anyone overdose on it, either. They're falling asleep before they can ingest that much. How many pounds (seriously) do we thing that would take, anwyay? We can say it leads to harder drugs, too, but is that realistic? Isn't that like saying wine and beer lead to scotch and bourbon? Sorry, I'm not buying it. Serious pot smokers are just that - serious about their pot. If someone wants to get wrecked on something stronger, it isn't the herb that causes it. As a matter of fact, the only thing that might hurt them is the Crackerjacks, Twinkies, or potato chips they ingest. I'm sorry, but I've never heard of anyone killing someone to get a dime bag. Junkies, however, are doing anything for a fix. Ever heard of a young girl prostituting herself to score a bag of weed? Again, neither have I.
Please don't misconstrue this as my support for either making it lawful or not. I am simply stating the case for those that think it is the most important part of the War on Drugs. You want to solve THAT problem, drop a few bombs in Columbia. You are never going to take out the coca fields one lab at a time. Won't happen. I believe the term I've heard is p*ssing in the wind. We are, quite frankly. It's the one war we cannot win. I just think making marijuana the scapegoat is out of line. Though I said I do not support it either way, I will say this - you want to bring down the deficit (see where this is headed?), make it legal. Tax it. Sell it like liquor. "Oh, our kids will get it and get hooked!" Hey, Grandma, the kids won't get 'hooked' on it. We sell cigarettes and liquor, but we won't consider marijuana? Who's stoned? Think about it. Come to think of it, perhaps I can run for office on the 'Make It Legal and Bring Down The Deficit' platform. Obviously, it won't be for either the Republicans or Democrats. They have far too many other pressing issues.....like repealing Roe v. Wade. We already have the Tea Party....so maybe it'll be The Leaf Party. Kinda catchy, no? Either way, I wanted to throw a little insight into the day....for better or worse. Hope you enjoyed.....
Until next time......
The year was 1971 and the Waldos - a group of five San Rafael high school students - were in search of a lost field of weed in the Point Reyes, CA forest. There was a Coast Guard service member who could not tend to his field, so the Waldos decided to go pick a bit as their own. They were all athletes and decided to meet at 4:20 by the statue of Louis Pasteur. That's it - the origin of the term. Now, however, it has become the aforementioned icon of American glaucoma patients (and stoners) everywhere. Apparently, they all get together at 4:20 and 4/20, light up, then head off into the sunset. Yes, this is the abridged version. You can find the entire story on The Huffington Post. Interesting article if I do say so myself.
Today, I'm wondering where many of the marijuana references and staples have gone. Everyone remember 'High Times'? What about NORML? National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. They were big players when we were in high school and college. We always wondered if they would make an impact. If you're a glaucoma patient, you'd have to say 'yes', right? Let's face it, they're having all the fun...and doing it legally. I say 'all the fun', however I'm just referncing what I've heard from others. I'm sure you understand.
For my case in point, however, I would like to state for the record - I don't ever remember hearing of one DUIM recently...or ever. They're all driving too slow trying to back it down from their own personal warp speed of 35 mph. Honestly, have you ever seen a stoner speeding? Yeah, didn't think so. I've never seen anyone overdose on it, either. They're falling asleep before they can ingest that much. How many pounds (seriously) do we thing that would take, anwyay? We can say it leads to harder drugs, too, but is that realistic? Isn't that like saying wine and beer lead to scotch and bourbon? Sorry, I'm not buying it. Serious pot smokers are just that - serious about their pot. If someone wants to get wrecked on something stronger, it isn't the herb that causes it. As a matter of fact, the only thing that might hurt them is the Crackerjacks, Twinkies, or potato chips they ingest. I'm sorry, but I've never heard of anyone killing someone to get a dime bag. Junkies, however, are doing anything for a fix. Ever heard of a young girl prostituting herself to score a bag of weed? Again, neither have I.
Please don't misconstrue this as my support for either making it lawful or not. I am simply stating the case for those that think it is the most important part of the War on Drugs. You want to solve THAT problem, drop a few bombs in Columbia. You are never going to take out the coca fields one lab at a time. Won't happen. I believe the term I've heard is p*ssing in the wind. We are, quite frankly. It's the one war we cannot win. I just think making marijuana the scapegoat is out of line. Though I said I do not support it either way, I will say this - you want to bring down the deficit (see where this is headed?), make it legal. Tax it. Sell it like liquor. "Oh, our kids will get it and get hooked!" Hey, Grandma, the kids won't get 'hooked' on it. We sell cigarettes and liquor, but we won't consider marijuana? Who's stoned? Think about it. Come to think of it, perhaps I can run for office on the 'Make It Legal and Bring Down The Deficit' platform. Obviously, it won't be for either the Republicans or Democrats. They have far too many other pressing issues.....like repealing Roe v. Wade. We already have the Tea Party....so maybe it'll be The Leaf Party. Kinda catchy, no? Either way, I wanted to throw a little insight into the day....for better or worse. Hope you enjoyed.....
Until next time......
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Tour Continues....
Tuesday, huh? April 19th. Stardate......well, it's.....I mean.....oh, hell, what's a 'Stardate'? Now, now....before you Star Trekkies hit me with a long explanation, I'd like to point out that I know the date! That's right, the actual True Trek Stardate is 64764.2 and the True Trek Year is 2387. Ha! Didn't think I knew it, did you? Well, now you know I am well aware, though I have never been a 'trekkie'. How did I know, you ask? (go ahead, ask) I'll tell you - Google. That's right, we can actually Google the true stardate...which leads to my next question. This is what you people do? Dress up like Spock or Kirk with your tazers or whatever they were....and checked the stardate? Impressive. Bet you're the gang that wears the pocket protectors by day, too, huh? Seriously, I won't make fun when you come to fix my computer, Mr IT Guy. For those of you wondering, yes, it has been a slow day.....
So the 'Tour' is continuing. Departure from Destin, FL this morning after an appointment. Captain in bad mood as appointment went south...as in 'it sucked. Crew remained in sunny Florida as Captain commandeered ship northward. Stopped for quick 'port-of-call' visit in Birmingham, only to be undocked and heading northwest shortly thereafter. Finally reached destination in state of panic...er, I mean State of Arkansas. Beautiful view across horizon as ship approached Little Rock. Well lit as the lightning strikes blistered the darkened sky....and the blistering continues. 40,052 people currently without power as the storms roll in and the sirens blare. Captain taking it in stride as he has heard the tornado sirens previously, along with the hail that is.....wait, what? Hail? From the sky? That would make it....Holy Hail? Yeah, I still slay me.
The good news is I haven't seen Jim Cantore yet. You all know him - The Weather Channel meteorologist that must go to the gym about 9 days a week with the clean-shaven head. Okay, bald. You tell him...'cause there is NO WAY I'm saying it. Anyway, if you don't know the drill, here's my advice - when Cantore shows up in your town...LEAVE! Immediately. Like, NOW! This is the guy that they drop in the middle of a hurricane...and he stands there in 80 mph winds broadcasting. He's a beast. Bordering on insane...in a good way, though (especially if he's reading this). I don't know if he drew the short straw or just likes being there, but he's always in the middle of the action. I suppose it is one way of ensuring camera time. I think I'd be good at that, too...as long as they could pry me from under the table, get me out of the fetal position, wrench my thumb from my mouth, and stop me from calling for Mommy. Okay, I made that up....but there is no way I am heading INTO the storm. Good ol' Jim, the Rockstar Weatherman.
So here's to hoping everyone's had a great day. Here's to hoping Sharon, Brittany, and Erika are having fun at the beach without me. Operative words? Without me. We had fun last night, though. Britt was determined to have Dad get more ink. On skin. Yes, another tattoo. I few more and I can join the circus with the bearded lady and the knife-swallowing cowboy. Alright, there aren't that many and you can't see them.....we'', you can, but you have to ask really nicely. Or not. I have been known to show them on a long Corona, scotch, tequila night. You might not even have to ask.....I usually offer. So go to bed, it's late. Stop reading, and close the lid of the lapto.....damn it, more sirens. I really have to go. Y'all can stay if you'd like but I'm heading offline. We'll talk. Soon. I promise.....
Until next time.......
So the 'Tour' is continuing. Departure from Destin, FL this morning after an appointment. Captain in bad mood as appointment went south...as in 'it sucked. Crew remained in sunny Florida as Captain commandeered ship northward. Stopped for quick 'port-of-call' visit in Birmingham, only to be undocked and heading northwest shortly thereafter. Finally reached destination in state of panic...er, I mean State of Arkansas. Beautiful view across horizon as ship approached Little Rock. Well lit as the lightning strikes blistered the darkened sky....and the blistering continues. 40,052 people currently without power as the storms roll in and the sirens blare. Captain taking it in stride as he has heard the tornado sirens previously, along with the hail that is.....wait, what? Hail? From the sky? That would make it....Holy Hail? Yeah, I still slay me.
The good news is I haven't seen Jim Cantore yet. You all know him - The Weather Channel meteorologist that must go to the gym about 9 days a week with the clean-shaven head. Okay, bald. You tell him...'cause there is NO WAY I'm saying it. Anyway, if you don't know the drill, here's my advice - when Cantore shows up in your town...LEAVE! Immediately. Like, NOW! This is the guy that they drop in the middle of a hurricane...and he stands there in 80 mph winds broadcasting. He's a beast. Bordering on insane...in a good way, though (especially if he's reading this). I don't know if he drew the short straw or just likes being there, but he's always in the middle of the action. I suppose it is one way of ensuring camera time. I think I'd be good at that, too...as long as they could pry me from under the table, get me out of the fetal position, wrench my thumb from my mouth, and stop me from calling for Mommy. Okay, I made that up....but there is no way I am heading INTO the storm. Good ol' Jim, the Rockstar Weatherman.
So here's to hoping everyone's had a great day. Here's to hoping Sharon, Brittany, and Erika are having fun at the beach without me. Operative words? Without me. We had fun last night, though. Britt was determined to have Dad get more ink. On skin. Yes, another tattoo. I few more and I can join the circus with the bearded lady and the knife-swallowing cowboy. Alright, there aren't that many and you can't see them.....we'', you can, but you have to ask really nicely. Or not. I have been known to show them on a long Corona, scotch, tequila night. You might not even have to ask.....I usually offer. So go to bed, it's late. Stop reading, and close the lid of the lapto.....damn it, more sirens. I really have to go. Y'all can stay if you'd like but I'm heading offline. We'll talk. Soon. I promise.....
Until next time.......
Monday, April 18, 2011
Hey, Dave....'Daily' means every day.....
Monday morning (actually late afternoon at this point) and I have not posted since Thursday. Allow me to explain. You see, as previously mentioned, we were attending our National Sales Meeting in sunny, friendly Florida. Sunny, yes....friendly, somewhat. Either way, when I give you the synopsis of the trip, you'll get it. That, coupled with my incredibly brilliant scheduling techniques, results in posts for a 'Daily View" that come days apart. It was hard to fit in the schedule, what can I say. Sadly, I missed it. I was, however, gathering material. Let's leave it at that.
So I posted Thursday about Disney World - smart man, cute mouse, tons of cash raked in. Why, if he weren't already *gone*, I'd have to consider selling my daughter to him. Think Anna Nicole. Brittany, though, would be marrying for love - she loves the mouse, loves Walt's money.....but I digress. We were sent on a mission Thursday evening to be spent with one of our manufacturing partners. They did NOT disappoint. They decided to drag us to a show. A show? I'm in Disney and going to a show? No way, no.....wait, what? Where? Ooh, Cirque de Soleil.....uh, yeah, I'm in. If you've never been, go. You owe it to yourself. Too much going on to fully comprehend it all. Four little Chinese girls (ever seen a tall one?) flipping, bouncing, swinging. I would have asked for their birth certificates but was sure they'd say they were only six-year olds. Then we had the bikers - on the stairs, jumping over people, off ramps, into pits. You just know they were doing this on a playground somewhere when someone asked if they wanted to make some real scratch. I tried it once, too. I had the real scratch(es). Head to toe. I don't recommend that part. Again, I digress......
For the ladies, the highlight of the show was when Mister 'Look At Me, I'm Ripped Head to Toe' came on stage with the red drapes. He and four women twirled, climbed and swung everywhere. I saw how limber they were, too. Drapes? Really? Never considered them in the same class as handcuffs, blindfolds, or feathers, but I'm game. Let's rock this thing. Wow...more digression. Long meeting, sorry.
Friday night, as I am bringing you up to speed, the company took us to China - the restaurant, not the country. Great food, great drink, and tall people this time. Shook me a bit. As did the tequila that we found in Mexico after letting everyone ride Mission Space or, as I like to refer to it, the 'Claustrophibic, Gut-wrenching Ride of Gastronomical Vision'. If you hadn't seen your food when it went down, you might get a good glimpse on the way back up. Sat that one out. Bus takes us back from Epcot, we get tucked in for the night (bar was closed - what else would we do?), then get ready to roll out the next morning. Have our last class, meet with the people from the Disney Institute (very cool, by the way), then jump in the car. Ah, time to relax.
The relaxation ended right after I got home Saturday night...for it was then that I realized it was off to sunny (isn't everywhere I go?) Talladega. 188 laps of adrenaline-pumping action. Then we got to the track. No, no....it was a fun-filled day of adventure as we got to watch the closest finish in Nascar history. It tied for the closest, anyway - .002 seconds. As a little perspective, traveling at 200 mph, that's about a foot. Seriously, 12 inches. Here, ladies - put your thumb and index finger as wide apart as you can. We've told you for years that's 12....never mind. Damn digression again. It was a great race followed by the 45 minute trip home, only to get back in the car to drive five hours back to Destin, FL. See what I mean about scheduling? Careful, don't try this at home....I'm a trained professional. Kinda makes you wonder what a novice could do, doesn't it? So now you're up to speed.....all in a few short paragraphs. Leaving here tomorrow heading to Arkansas, then Memphis. I will meet the ladies back home on Thursday before traveling back to Richmond on Saturday. If only someone would meet me half way.....BUT that's why they're called 'Ex's', I suppose. Wow, this took a bit out of me. Time for a nap until.....what? Already? Dinner? I'm guessing SOME people had too much fun while dad was working, so.....
Until next time.....
So I posted Thursday about Disney World - smart man, cute mouse, tons of cash raked in. Why, if he weren't already *gone*, I'd have to consider selling my daughter to him. Think Anna Nicole. Brittany, though, would be marrying for love - she loves the mouse, loves Walt's money.....but I digress. We were sent on a mission Thursday evening to be spent with one of our manufacturing partners. They did NOT disappoint. They decided to drag us to a show. A show? I'm in Disney and going to a show? No way, no.....wait, what? Where? Ooh, Cirque de Soleil.....uh, yeah, I'm in. If you've never been, go. You owe it to yourself. Too much going on to fully comprehend it all. Four little Chinese girls (ever seen a tall one?) flipping, bouncing, swinging. I would have asked for their birth certificates but was sure they'd say they were only six-year olds. Then we had the bikers - on the stairs, jumping over people, off ramps, into pits. You just know they were doing this on a playground somewhere when someone asked if they wanted to make some real scratch. I tried it once, too. I had the real scratch(es). Head to toe. I don't recommend that part. Again, I digress......
For the ladies, the highlight of the show was when Mister 'Look At Me, I'm Ripped Head to Toe' came on stage with the red drapes. He and four women twirled, climbed and swung everywhere. I saw how limber they were, too. Drapes? Really? Never considered them in the same class as handcuffs, blindfolds, or feathers, but I'm game. Let's rock this thing. Wow...more digression. Long meeting, sorry.
Friday night, as I am bringing you up to speed, the company took us to China - the restaurant, not the country. Great food, great drink, and tall people this time. Shook me a bit. As did the tequila that we found in Mexico after letting everyone ride Mission Space or, as I like to refer to it, the 'Claustrophibic, Gut-wrenching Ride of Gastronomical Vision'. If you hadn't seen your food when it went down, you might get a good glimpse on the way back up. Sat that one out. Bus takes us back from Epcot, we get tucked in for the night (bar was closed - what else would we do?), then get ready to roll out the next morning. Have our last class, meet with the people from the Disney Institute (very cool, by the way), then jump in the car. Ah, time to relax.
The relaxation ended right after I got home Saturday night...for it was then that I realized it was off to sunny (isn't everywhere I go?) Talladega. 188 laps of adrenaline-pumping action. Then we got to the track. No, no....it was a fun-filled day of adventure as we got to watch the closest finish in Nascar history. It tied for the closest, anyway - .002 seconds. As a little perspective, traveling at 200 mph, that's about a foot. Seriously, 12 inches. Here, ladies - put your thumb and index finger as wide apart as you can. We've told you for years that's 12....never mind. Damn digression again. It was a great race followed by the 45 minute trip home, only to get back in the car to drive five hours back to Destin, FL. See what I mean about scheduling? Careful, don't try this at home....I'm a trained professional. Kinda makes you wonder what a novice could do, doesn't it? So now you're up to speed.....all in a few short paragraphs. Leaving here tomorrow heading to Arkansas, then Memphis. I will meet the ladies back home on Thursday before traveling back to Richmond on Saturday. If only someone would meet me half way.....BUT that's why they're called 'Ex's', I suppose. Wow, this took a bit out of me. Time for a nap until.....what? Already? Dinner? I'm guessing SOME people had too much fun while dad was working, so.....
Until next time.....
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Mickey's Place
Finally - a few minutes to write. I realize (as previously mentioned) that this is titled the 'Daily View'. Yes, I also realize that means, well....daily. So I blew it yesterday...and maybe a few before that. Seriously, I'm trying to remedy that. I could've written last night but...well, scratch that. I wanted to write last night, tried to write last night and the only words that come to mind - epic fail. Why epic fail? How about, umm....let's just say we might have gotten together after dinner last night. We might have had a few adult beverages. We might have had a few more. I, then, might have tried to write and simply said, "Yeah, ain't happening." I wanted to but my body disagreed. Either way, here we are.....
We are, as I mentioned earlier, at Mickey's Place. Some call it Disney World but everywhere you look - mouse ears. What a visionary ol' Walt was, huh? Imagine. What if he had an idea using a different, say, animal? Like a giraffe. Sorry, long day. Not quite sure where that came from. I have to admit, I'm not sure how anyone brings a family here at these prices. Coke and a bottle of water - $6.50, thank you very much. I was ready to scream, "RAPE!" but then again it is a family place.....which leads to 'Disney language'.
Like I said on FB, we get 'fined' for infractions. Not wearing a name badge or phone ringing while in a meeting will cost you $5.00. No worries because it goes to charity. Because we are in Orlando, though...and it IS a family place...we were told to watch the language and remember to use the 'Disney language'. Infraction cost - another $5.00. Yes.......I might have been guilty a time or two. Maybe three. Okay, let's call it what it is - I gave them my ATM card. No way was I getting out of here without less than a cool hundred bucks or so. Damn it. See? Cha-ching. If I don't help cure a disease after this weekend I will be amazed. So it's off to dinner, then out for a surprise trip by one of our vendor partners. I'm in.....with NO alcoho......alright, maybe just one.
PS. Watching the news before heading out. FAA Chief gets fired because the Air Traffic Controllers are asleep in the towers again. In 5 airports. Sorry, folks, I'm going to continue driving. This, coupled with the charges for bags, rude treatment by flight attendants, and overall nightmare that IS flying will keep me heading to Avis. Besides, I can get a cup of coffee whenever I want without having to beg for a lukewarm cup of slightly brown water. Hope y'all are having a great day and, as always.....
'Til next time......
We are, as I mentioned earlier, at Mickey's Place. Some call it Disney World but everywhere you look - mouse ears. What a visionary ol' Walt was, huh? Imagine. What if he had an idea using a different, say, animal? Like a giraffe. Sorry, long day. Not quite sure where that came from. I have to admit, I'm not sure how anyone brings a family here at these prices. Coke and a bottle of water - $6.50, thank you very much. I was ready to scream, "RAPE!" but then again it is a family place.....which leads to 'Disney language'.
Like I said on FB, we get 'fined' for infractions. Not wearing a name badge or phone ringing while in a meeting will cost you $5.00. No worries because it goes to charity. Because we are in Orlando, though...and it IS a family place...we were told to watch the language and remember to use the 'Disney language'. Infraction cost - another $5.00. Yes.......I might have been guilty a time or two. Maybe three. Okay, let's call it what it is - I gave them my ATM card. No way was I getting out of here without less than a cool hundred bucks or so. Damn it. See? Cha-ching. If I don't help cure a disease after this weekend I will be amazed. So it's off to dinner, then out for a surprise trip by one of our vendor partners. I'm in.....with NO alcoho......alright, maybe just one.
PS. Watching the news before heading out. FAA Chief gets fired because the Air Traffic Controllers are asleep in the towers again. In 5 airports. Sorry, folks, I'm going to continue driving. This, coupled with the charges for bags, rude treatment by flight attendants, and overall nightmare that IS flying will keep me heading to Avis. Besides, I can get a cup of coffee whenever I want without having to beg for a lukewarm cup of slightly brown water. Hope y'all are having a great day and, as always.....
'Til next time......
Quick note....in case anyone wondered....or cared....the 'Daily' View hasn't been, has it? Yeah, I know. We're attending a meeting and I am trying to fulfill my obligation. Boss thinks it's necessary. I tend to disagree but he still makes sure the checks come. Anyway, it will return....hopefully, in a few hours, so.....
'till next time....
Monday, April 11, 2011
Muslin women in France no longer can wear veil. Uh-oh.....
I love when this kind of thing happens. I ask for a few suggestions for names for this blog, get great suggestions, then have a story like this crop up. Maybe the name "From Where I Sit and How I See It" is the best description. Here's the story: France has made it illegal for Muslim women to wear their veils and hide their faces. The women do it as a sign of respect to God...and they view this law as an attack on their religious freedom. Whew....okay. You sure we're ready to jump in on this one? Oh, yeah....I am, and here goes.
This is a French law. In France. Now, there are two ways to view this (as there are with ALL subjects), however I see it one way. I do not want to believe we should single out a particular race or religion for the troubles in the world. None are. If asked, however, who the majority of terrorists are in this world, what answer do you get? C'mon, be honest. We are all more concerned with terrorism from the Middle East than anywhere in the world. The unrest in that region has everyone on edge and wondering what will happen next. So, let me say again - this is a French law. They, as a country, have a right to pass any law they choose. We, as the rest of the world, can only hope that the people in the government are smart enough to pass only laws that make sense and are rational. If you don't agree with it, either don't go to France or don't wear a veil.
As I said, I watched as a few Muslim women protested that this was an attack on their religious freedom. They want to argue that the government has no right to pass such a law. I have to confess, I've thought (more than once) when foreigners in the US complain that things should be a certain way, "If you don't like it, go home." Classic example? I find it an insult that we have to 'Press 2'....for anything. I'm sorry, but every one of us has ancestors that came from a foreign country. Whether Irish, German, Italian, English.....everyone was a foreigner. The history of Ellis Island tells us that many of them came with a few meager dollars, hopes, and a dream. There they are - the key words: HOPE and DREAM.
Our ancestors came to this country, not asking for anything other than an opportunity. They asked that they could come to a land that offered them the chance to do what they do best whether it was mend shoes, bake bread, sell groceries, or offer protection. Those were the Italians....and Don Corleone could offer WAY good protection. Again, however I digress. Seriously, our ancestors wanted to start a life where they could make a better living for their families and be a productive part of a new society. Our Constitution was written for these people and they asked for nothing, other than that chance, in return.
Let's be honest, folks - the majority of people coming to this country now are still filled with hope. Unfortunately, the hope is that they can live in a place that, unlike their home countries, will allow them to act in almost any fashion they choose...then scream discrimination when any of us finds fault with it. They are filled with hope that we will support them or, when they support themselves they can do it in any manner they choose. Think drug problem.
I will admit, I am generalizing. I realize, too, that is patently unfair. I also realize the days of us walking down a dark street at 11:00 at night with no fear whatsoever is something that cannot be done in most any neighborhood anywhere. Yes, I am overstating things, overgeneralizing, and casting untoward aspersions at many. Some will say unfairly. I think we can all agree, though, that since 9/11/2001 our world has changed and our innocence has been taken. We, as a country, were raped that day and we will never be the same. The unrest in the Middle East and in many other parts of the world came home to us that day...and we will never be the same.
This was quite a long rambling, and for that I apologize. To oversimplify with my initial point - if you don't like it here, you can always go home. What's that? it's worse there? The quit bitchin' and deal with it. These are our laws and are designed for what is best for our country.
'Til next time.....
This is a French law. In France. Now, there are two ways to view this (as there are with ALL subjects), however I see it one way. I do not want to believe we should single out a particular race or religion for the troubles in the world. None are. If asked, however, who the majority of terrorists are in this world, what answer do you get? C'mon, be honest. We are all more concerned with terrorism from the Middle East than anywhere in the world. The unrest in that region has everyone on edge and wondering what will happen next. So, let me say again - this is a French law. They, as a country, have a right to pass any law they choose. We, as the rest of the world, can only hope that the people in the government are smart enough to pass only laws that make sense and are rational. If you don't agree with it, either don't go to France or don't wear a veil.
As I said, I watched as a few Muslim women protested that this was an attack on their religious freedom. They want to argue that the government has no right to pass such a law. I have to confess, I've thought (more than once) when foreigners in the US complain that things should be a certain way, "If you don't like it, go home." Classic example? I find it an insult that we have to 'Press 2'....for anything. I'm sorry, but every one of us has ancestors that came from a foreign country. Whether Irish, German, Italian, English.....everyone was a foreigner. The history of Ellis Island tells us that many of them came with a few meager dollars, hopes, and a dream. There they are - the key words: HOPE and DREAM.
Our ancestors came to this country, not asking for anything other than an opportunity. They asked that they could come to a land that offered them the chance to do what they do best whether it was mend shoes, bake bread, sell groceries, or offer protection. Those were the Italians....and Don Corleone could offer WAY good protection. Again, however I digress. Seriously, our ancestors wanted to start a life where they could make a better living for their families and be a productive part of a new society. Our Constitution was written for these people and they asked for nothing, other than that chance, in return.
Let's be honest, folks - the majority of people coming to this country now are still filled with hope. Unfortunately, the hope is that they can live in a place that, unlike their home countries, will allow them to act in almost any fashion they choose...then scream discrimination when any of us finds fault with it. They are filled with hope that we will support them or, when they support themselves they can do it in any manner they choose. Think drug problem.
I will admit, I am generalizing. I realize, too, that is patently unfair. I also realize the days of us walking down a dark street at 11:00 at night with no fear whatsoever is something that cannot be done in most any neighborhood anywhere. Yes, I am overstating things, overgeneralizing, and casting untoward aspersions at many. Some will say unfairly. I think we can all agree, though, that since 9/11/2001 our world has changed and our innocence has been taken. We, as a country, were raped that day and we will never be the same. The unrest in the Middle East and in many other parts of the world came home to us that day...and we will never be the same.
This was quite a long rambling, and for that I apologize. To oversimplify with my initial point - if you don't like it here, you can always go home. What's that? it's worse there? The quit bitchin' and deal with it. These are our laws and are designed for what is best for our country.
'Til next time.....
Friday, April 8, 2011
How to Become a Reality TV Star. Yes, for real.
So you want to become a Reality TV Star, eh? Well, here are a few lessons I've picked up and now offer as suggestions. It's not much, but hopefully can provide you with a bit of direction in your budding new career. Let's get started.
First, we need to decide what realm you are considering. Are you a desperate female looking for 'love'? Are you willing to compete against numerous others for the affection of one? Yes, I know...we do that very thing every day. This is different. Here you will have a camera crew with you constantly as you 'play the game' - undermining those other bitchy women, telling lies about them, picking fights with them, and making them look absolutely horrendous. In other words, be as catty as you've always wanted in the name of great TV. At the end of the show, Billy Bob will hand you a rose and a ring, hop in the limousine with you, and cart you off for the fairytale ending. Umm, yeah...because that's how 'true love' is supposed to work. Give me a break. Still, it IS an opportunity.
Maybe you're hardcore and want to work countless hours for a sadistic, self-aggrandizing, self-loving business man. In this show, you'll get to undermine people who become friends and, God forbid you screw up one iota, feel the burning rubber of tire treads as the bus they've thrown you under rolls carefree over your limp, lifeless body. These people play for keeps. If you're fortunate enough to get beyond the weekly, "You're Fired!" line at the end of the show and make it to finally wear the crown of (basically) 'The Helper' (I took artistic license), then you will get to work for the one person that actually DOES expect perfection...I think. Either way, it's not for me.
You could even start a show with a few of your friends (so far, solely women) and call it something like "The Actual Housewomen of (insert name of town here)". "Real Housewives" was taken - you get the gist. Here you can get a few friends (again, 'superficial' comes to mind) and spend your time shopping, lunching, partying, and spending money in general all while the world watches. It must be extremely liberating....and again, catty. You have to be 'kissy-kissy' with women that treat you like dirt, talk behind your back, and seriously have no clue as to how the real world lives. Real Housewives? Seriously...REAL? Sorry, saving that topic for another day. Catch an episode and you'll understand.
The one reality show that has me the most mesmerized is one any of us can start. Get pregnant, have 8 kids, shamelessly use them to sell a TV show so the world can watch them grow up. Really? I'm watching that...why, again? So here are Jon & Kate...Plus Eight. Kids. Like, small kids. Jon & Kate aren't even that anymore....they're just, well, Kate for now. How does the conversation even start? "Hey, Babe....I'm thinking we knock you up a good couple of times, dress the kids in cute outfits, and show 'em off to the world." Again, not something I would have thought of....nor any woman I know consider it. Did I mention that for this show, the husband has to be the typical philanderer - go out on the town with a floozie (isn't that a great word?) while the wifey and kids stay home? Jesus, could he have been more of a dick? Dude, listen....STAY AWAY FROM PAPARAZZI! Oh, wait....the trappings of a reality show. I'm with ya'. So they get divorced and now it's Kate & the Kids. Messy divorce, by the way. Personally, I think I have better stories of that scene but we're talking about you....or them....or....whatever.
Now we find out Kate is being sued by Creative Energy Options. This firm HAD been reported to be marriage counselors...but, nooooo. They're Jon's 'Life Coach'. Read it again, slowly. Life Coach. Creative Energy Options. Could they be anything but crystal-toting, robe-wearing, 'flowers in hair' New Age healers? LIFE COACH? What the hell is THAT??? Pardon me, but I have a problem with the image of a John Madden-type standing by my bed, watching as wifey and I crawl under the covers, only to hear him screaming, "Go for two! Go for two!!" (literally, my skin is crawling). I seriously missed the opportunities to become 'Healing Master Donay' with incense burning and sitar music playing. Damn it.
So, there you have it - my instructional guide to your own show. Good luck and don't forget the 15% I'm due. Small bills. Send 'em. Now go....
Until next time.........
First, we need to decide what realm you are considering. Are you a desperate female looking for 'love'? Are you willing to compete against numerous others for the affection of one? Yes, I know...we do that very thing every day. This is different. Here you will have a camera crew with you constantly as you 'play the game' - undermining those other bitchy women, telling lies about them, picking fights with them, and making them look absolutely horrendous. In other words, be as catty as you've always wanted in the name of great TV. At the end of the show, Billy Bob will hand you a rose and a ring, hop in the limousine with you, and cart you off for the fairytale ending. Umm, yeah...because that's how 'true love' is supposed to work. Give me a break. Still, it IS an opportunity.
Maybe you're hardcore and want to work countless hours for a sadistic, self-aggrandizing, self-loving business man. In this show, you'll get to undermine people who become friends and, God forbid you screw up one iota, feel the burning rubber of tire treads as the bus they've thrown you under rolls carefree over your limp, lifeless body. These people play for keeps. If you're fortunate enough to get beyond the weekly, "You're Fired!" line at the end of the show and make it to finally wear the crown of (basically) 'The Helper' (I took artistic license), then you will get to work for the one person that actually DOES expect perfection...I think. Either way, it's not for me.
You could even start a show with a few of your friends (so far, solely women) and call it something like "The Actual Housewomen of (insert name of town here)". "Real Housewives" was taken - you get the gist. Here you can get a few friends (again, 'superficial' comes to mind) and spend your time shopping, lunching, partying, and spending money in general all while the world watches. It must be extremely liberating....and again, catty. You have to be 'kissy-kissy' with women that treat you like dirt, talk behind your back, and seriously have no clue as to how the real world lives. Real Housewives? Seriously...REAL? Sorry, saving that topic for another day. Catch an episode and you'll understand.
The one reality show that has me the most mesmerized is one any of us can start. Get pregnant, have 8 kids, shamelessly use them to sell a TV show so the world can watch them grow up. Really? I'm watching that...why, again? So here are Jon & Kate...Plus Eight. Kids. Like, small kids. Jon & Kate aren't even that anymore....they're just, well, Kate for now. How does the conversation even start? "Hey, Babe....I'm thinking we knock you up a good couple of times, dress the kids in cute outfits, and show 'em off to the world." Again, not something I would have thought of....nor any woman I know consider it. Did I mention that for this show, the husband has to be the typical philanderer - go out on the town with a floozie (isn't that a great word?) while the wifey and kids stay home? Jesus, could he have been more of a dick? Dude, listen....STAY AWAY FROM PAPARAZZI! Oh, wait....the trappings of a reality show. I'm with ya'. So they get divorced and now it's Kate & the Kids. Messy divorce, by the way. Personally, I think I have better stories of that scene but we're talking about you....or them....or....whatever.
Now we find out Kate is being sued by Creative Energy Options. This firm HAD been reported to be marriage counselors...but, nooooo. They're Jon's 'Life Coach'. Read it again, slowly. Life Coach. Creative Energy Options. Could they be anything but crystal-toting, robe-wearing, 'flowers in hair' New Age healers? LIFE COACH? What the hell is THAT??? Pardon me, but I have a problem with the image of a John Madden-type standing by my bed, watching as wifey and I crawl under the covers, only to hear him screaming, "Go for two! Go for two!!" (literally, my skin is crawling). I seriously missed the opportunities to become 'Healing Master Donay' with incense burning and sitar music playing. Damn it.
So, there you have it - my instructional guide to your own show. Good luck and don't forget the 15% I'm due. Small bills. Send 'em. Now go....
Until next time.........
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Our Infuriating Government....and A Personal Note
Dr Mr President and Members of Congress,
I (and I think I speak for many other Americans) are really tired of your bullshit. Please stop playing partisan politics and get something done. I am tired of watching Administrations heading to Washington just for grins and giggles. You promised us change...and this time, we're not letting you blame US. It always comes down to the American people not doing enough on our end to help save this country. You're the leaders - LEAD! Come up with a new, novel idea and plan and we're there. All in. Every four years, we are forced to sit through 1 1/2 years fo asinine commercials where you all soil yourselves with the mud you sling. Once...JUST ONCE...I would like to see a clean campaign. Don't tell me Bob screwed his nanny, Ted hired an Illegal Immigrant (which, by the way has the word 'Illegal' in it), Nancy took bribes and voted with Big Oil.....I don't want to hear it. Know what? If you can tell me what you WILL do...and then DO IT...I don't really care who you screwed around with. Let me help you understand - no one, apparently, cared that Jefferson fathered children with a black servant. Why not? because he could LEAD! His personal life be damned, the man was one of the finest this country has ever seen. Jesus, are you that inhereently stupid...or is it just plain arrogance? We're tired of that, too, by the way. Little hint? You don't need brains to get elected, only money and a good story. There are people FAR wiser and smarter than all of you that are not in office. (Whew...this ranting takes it out of you. Think I'm breaking a sweat!)
So, you can't come to a happy 'middle ground' and the Governement will shut down tomorrow night. Our soldiers - men and women whose actual LIVES are on the line - will not get their full pay. I have an idea - unless you're being held at gunpoint, why not send them YOUR money? I'd have to look at statistics (73% of which are made up anyway), but I am guessing that many of our servicemen and women and their families are at or below the poverty level. Fine statement there. Yep, sure makes people want to sign up fast, huh? I find it more than mildly disturbing. At least the Air Traffic Control system will stay open. Thank goodness. The controllers have been dying to get some good sleep.
While we're at it - how about you Republicans get over trying to tack 'abortion' onto every piece of legislation that is written. We get it. You're against it. Fine...move on. There is NO WAY you can tell me abortion plays as big a part as you want us to believe. Roe v. Wade - read it. Right to choose. I'm not pushing the agenda, just stating fact. Now, can we get back to the issue of the governement closing? All I can say is don't get too comfy in those offices. You might not be there for more than this term.
TEA party? I get it. Understood. Now, let's all play nice in the sandbox and everyone stop being so goddamn radical. We need to pull together to make this country great again. Now is the time. We cannot wait for another generation. You know - the kids learning from us that it's okay to bicker and not be productive. Not good enough. You people (in the cushy government offices on Capitol Hill) are wearing me out. Enough said - I hear a wine bottle calling.
On a personal note, I would like to remember someone today. It was one year ago today that our family stood in a hospital room at Johns Hopkins University. We gathered around the hospital bed, held hands, said the Lord's Prayer one last time...and watched Bob gently let go. My mother's husband, my step-father, my kid's grandfather. I have to admit, though he was ornery at times, it was always with love. What I hated the most was watching mom have to say goodbye to a man with whom she shared a good life. I hated that my daughter, his pride and joy, won't have him around to see her graduate from high school or see her attend college....or even learn to drive. It affected them both greatly.....and, in turn, affected me. It's times like these that I implore everyone I know to hug their kids a little tighter, pick up the phone and call their parents, stay close with their friends. We've all experienced these losses.....and none of us likes it. I think we can all agree that I have done some really stupid things (hands down in back of the room, I get it), but I think we all ought to strive for one thing - dying with no regrets. Live like you're dying....every day. Seriously, do it. Now....go call a friend, write 'em a note on FB, send them a card. Whatever. Just do....hold on.....damn, the Masters is on......gotta go!
Here's to you, Bob - we miss you a bunch.
Until next time.......
I (and I think I speak for many other Americans) are really tired of your bullshit. Please stop playing partisan politics and get something done. I am tired of watching Administrations heading to Washington just for grins and giggles. You promised us change...and this time, we're not letting you blame US. It always comes down to the American people not doing enough on our end to help save this country. You're the leaders - LEAD! Come up with a new, novel idea and plan and we're there. All in. Every four years, we are forced to sit through 1 1/2 years fo asinine commercials where you all soil yourselves with the mud you sling. Once...JUST ONCE...I would like to see a clean campaign. Don't tell me Bob screwed his nanny, Ted hired an Illegal Immigrant (which, by the way has the word 'Illegal' in it), Nancy took bribes and voted with Big Oil.....I don't want to hear it. Know what? If you can tell me what you WILL do...and then DO IT...I don't really care who you screwed around with. Let me help you understand - no one, apparently, cared that Jefferson fathered children with a black servant. Why not? because he could LEAD! His personal life be damned, the man was one of the finest this country has ever seen. Jesus, are you that inhereently stupid...or is it just plain arrogance? We're tired of that, too, by the way. Little hint? You don't need brains to get elected, only money and a good story. There are people FAR wiser and smarter than all of you that are not in office. (Whew...this ranting takes it out of you. Think I'm breaking a sweat!)
So, you can't come to a happy 'middle ground' and the Governement will shut down tomorrow night. Our soldiers - men and women whose actual LIVES are on the line - will not get their full pay. I have an idea - unless you're being held at gunpoint, why not send them YOUR money? I'd have to look at statistics (73% of which are made up anyway), but I am guessing that many of our servicemen and women and their families are at or below the poverty level. Fine statement there. Yep, sure makes people want to sign up fast, huh? I find it more than mildly disturbing. At least the Air Traffic Control system will stay open. Thank goodness. The controllers have been dying to get some good sleep.
While we're at it - how about you Republicans get over trying to tack 'abortion' onto every piece of legislation that is written. We get it. You're against it. Fine...move on. There is NO WAY you can tell me abortion plays as big a part as you want us to believe. Roe v. Wade - read it. Right to choose. I'm not pushing the agenda, just stating fact. Now, can we get back to the issue of the governement closing? All I can say is don't get too comfy in those offices. You might not be there for more than this term.
TEA party? I get it. Understood. Now, let's all play nice in the sandbox and everyone stop being so goddamn radical. We need to pull together to make this country great again. Now is the time. We cannot wait for another generation. You know - the kids learning from us that it's okay to bicker and not be productive. Not good enough. You people (in the cushy government offices on Capitol Hill) are wearing me out. Enough said - I hear a wine bottle calling.
On a personal note, I would like to remember someone today. It was one year ago today that our family stood in a hospital room at Johns Hopkins University. We gathered around the hospital bed, held hands, said the Lord's Prayer one last time...and watched Bob gently let go. My mother's husband, my step-father, my kid's grandfather. I have to admit, though he was ornery at times, it was always with love. What I hated the most was watching mom have to say goodbye to a man with whom she shared a good life. I hated that my daughter, his pride and joy, won't have him around to see her graduate from high school or see her attend college....or even learn to drive. It affected them both greatly.....and, in turn, affected me. It's times like these that I implore everyone I know to hug their kids a little tighter, pick up the phone and call their parents, stay close with their friends. We've all experienced these losses.....and none of us likes it. I think we can all agree that I have done some really stupid things (hands down in back of the room, I get it), but I think we all ought to strive for one thing - dying with no regrets. Live like you're dying....every day. Seriously, do it. Now....go call a friend, write 'em a note on FB, send them a card. Whatever. Just do....hold on.....damn, the Masters is on......gotta go!
Here's to you, Bob - we miss you a bunch.
Until next time.......
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Pepper Spray? Who is this kid??
So I wake up this morning ( a fairly good sign and great way to start the day), stumble to the kitchen (not just a phrase...literally, I stumble), turn on the TV and get ready for another action-packed day slingin' e-mails. It ain't much, but it's mine. But, I digress. As the Today show finds its way on the screen, I hear the story of the second-grader that was pepper-sprayed by police in Colorado. Second grade? Seriously, pepper spray? First thing I did was check the level of the wine in the bottle. No way did I drink THAT much. What the hell did this kid do that the cops used spray? Knowing most of you understand the way my mind works, a mental image starts forming. I clearly see an eight-year old kid stumbling up the steps of the school in jeans, mini black work boots, black leather jacket and carrying an opened, half -empty bottle of Jack. He's already in an agitated, drunken stupor. Walks into the school, pushes some kid with a sweater vest face-first into his locker, slaps Mary Sue on the....well, slaps her, swigs off the bottle and throws it against the window of the principal's office where it smashes into a thousand pieces. Walks into class, looks at the teacher and asks, "What up, Teach? Hit?" as he rolls one on the desk. I figured he had to be packin', too. What drunken second-grader isn't? Yes, this was the image I got. Again, not much but it's mine.
Truth of this story is...this is the third time the police have been called to the school because of this child. He was acting out so much this time that the teachers were hiding in a closet. The kid's EIGHT! Sorry, I have to keep repeating that. I still find it unelieveable. The teachers are in the closet and the kid told them he would kill them if they came out. He was, if I recall correctly, trying to sharpen a stick so he could stab them. My, what a fine job these parents are doing with little Damien (name changed to protect the guilty...and I never really got his name). So he's going off (spitting, throwing chairs) and the cops are called. They get to the school and, when told to drop the sharp piece of wood, the kid ignores them. Did I mention...he's EIGHT?? The fine officers then did what any intelligent person, armed with pepper-spray and a gun, would do - they chose the spray. Not saying I would have made the same choice, but still....
Now the cops are under fire. This kid's mother (who would have guessed?) is filing a complaint. Did I mention this school is in the same district as Columbine? The mother, when asked, suggested the police officers should have tried to 'talk him down'. TALK HIM DOWN?? How 'bout knock him down? She wants them to get training to learn how to deal with a crisis situation for children. When asked why he acted this way, the kid replied, "I don't know...sometimes that's just the way my body goes." He has been to multiple doctors and shrinks and, by mom's admission, no one can find anything wrong with him. WHAT? You mean we couldn't even slide this under 'Old Faithful' - ADHD? Isn't, like, 75% of the juvenile population living on Ritalin right now? We got a quick whack along side the head and were told to "Pay attention," when we were kids. Sure as hell cured my ADHD! Now we have a kid that has no medical reason for acting this way, is on no medication, is already in a class for Special Needs students, and a mother who thinks we ought to all adapt to her son and his uncontrollable urges. This kid WILL be a serial-something-or-other when he grows up...and yes, that is my professional opinion...as a parent and former hell-raiser.
Question for the Day - Have we all realized now that we've taken this 'Don't Discipline' thing too far? I will say this one more time for the people in the Cheap Seats - THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ABUSE AND DISCIPLINE! I do not agree with abuse which is defined as "Cruel or inhumane treatment, excessive". Abuse is an ongoing thing whereas discipline is, when faced with a single situation where the kid screwed up royally (think 8-year old and teachers), you knock enough sense into the kid that he won't do it again. Beat his little ass so he can't sit for a week! Hey, we've ALL been there. We've all had the stinging sensation that hurt like hell....right? Here's something else, for all you parents that don't believe in discipline - I am fine with that, too, but I better never hear about your kid holding teachers at bay with a stick carved into a point. Figure out what works best for you, but for God's sake, do something! I don't want to hear, ten years from now, how we can't figure out what happened. Get involved in your kid's life...and STAY involved. They start going Goth after wearing khakis and sweater vest, you'd better be asking questions. Don't chalk it up to them 'finding their own little personality', either. Your kid and his screwed-up personality might hurt someone and we all know you won't accept anyone pointing the finger at you. It's never YOUR fault, is it? Freaks. Seriously, stop blaming other people and expecting us to change our 'normal' behavior so your kid can be a dick. It's not okay. Stop it.
So there is my take on the current events of the day. I like finding these patently absurd notions and sharing them. Even if I only get to tell a few people, this is liberating. I don't really want to book a flight to Colorado to beat the mother with the kid's stick anymore. I'm actually yearning to check the level of the wine bottle again....and, per chance, pour a glass, sipping slowly, as I ponder how some parents got so lost and think this is okay. It really isn't. We need to fix the laws so that, when a child is disciplned, they cannot call 911. In the old days, if we had made that call, the cops would show up, listen to our parents, then beat us a second time. People back then knew how to raise kids...and give a good ass-whipping without reproach. I'm longing for the old days.....
'Til next time......
Truth of this story is...this is the third time the police have been called to the school because of this child. He was acting out so much this time that the teachers were hiding in a closet. The kid's EIGHT! Sorry, I have to keep repeating that. I still find it unelieveable. The teachers are in the closet and the kid told them he would kill them if they came out. He was, if I recall correctly, trying to sharpen a stick so he could stab them. My, what a fine job these parents are doing with little Damien (name changed to protect the guilty...and I never really got his name). So he's going off (spitting, throwing chairs) and the cops are called. They get to the school and, when told to drop the sharp piece of wood, the kid ignores them. Did I mention...he's EIGHT?? The fine officers then did what any intelligent person, armed with pepper-spray and a gun, would do - they chose the spray. Not saying I would have made the same choice, but still....
Now the cops are under fire. This kid's mother (who would have guessed?) is filing a complaint. Did I mention this school is in the same district as Columbine? The mother, when asked, suggested the police officers should have tried to 'talk him down'. TALK HIM DOWN?? How 'bout knock him down? She wants them to get training to learn how to deal with a crisis situation for children. When asked why he acted this way, the kid replied, "I don't know...sometimes that's just the way my body goes." He has been to multiple doctors and shrinks and, by mom's admission, no one can find anything wrong with him. WHAT? You mean we couldn't even slide this under 'Old Faithful' - ADHD? Isn't, like, 75% of the juvenile population living on Ritalin right now? We got a quick whack along side the head and were told to "Pay attention," when we were kids. Sure as hell cured my ADHD! Now we have a kid that has no medical reason for acting this way, is on no medication, is already in a class for Special Needs students, and a mother who thinks we ought to all adapt to her son and his uncontrollable urges. This kid WILL be a serial-something-or-other when he grows up...and yes, that is my professional opinion...as a parent and former hell-raiser.
Question for the Day - Have we all realized now that we've taken this 'Don't Discipline' thing too far? I will say this one more time for the people in the Cheap Seats - THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ABUSE AND DISCIPLINE! I do not agree with abuse which is defined as "Cruel or inhumane treatment, excessive". Abuse is an ongoing thing whereas discipline is, when faced with a single situation where the kid screwed up royally (think 8-year old and teachers), you knock enough sense into the kid that he won't do it again. Beat his little ass so he can't sit for a week! Hey, we've ALL been there. We've all had the stinging sensation that hurt like hell....right? Here's something else, for all you parents that don't believe in discipline - I am fine with that, too, but I better never hear about your kid holding teachers at bay with a stick carved into a point. Figure out what works best for you, but for God's sake, do something! I don't want to hear, ten years from now, how we can't figure out what happened. Get involved in your kid's life...and STAY involved. They start going Goth after wearing khakis and sweater vest, you'd better be asking questions. Don't chalk it up to them 'finding their own little personality', either. Your kid and his screwed-up personality might hurt someone and we all know you won't accept anyone pointing the finger at you. It's never YOUR fault, is it? Freaks. Seriously, stop blaming other people and expecting us to change our 'normal' behavior so your kid can be a dick. It's not okay. Stop it.
So there is my take on the current events of the day. I like finding these patently absurd notions and sharing them. Even if I only get to tell a few people, this is liberating. I don't really want to book a flight to Colorado to beat the mother with the kid's stick anymore. I'm actually yearning to check the level of the wine bottle again....and, per chance, pour a glass, sipping slowly, as I ponder how some parents got so lost and think this is okay. It really isn't. We need to fix the laws so that, when a child is disciplned, they cannot call 911. In the old days, if we had made that call, the cops would show up, listen to our parents, then beat us a second time. People back then knew how to raise kids...and give a good ass-whipping without reproach. I'm longing for the old days.....
'Til next time......
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Kids today...and lessons learned.
So, after a few days off (riding the bike - the weather was incredible!), it's time to write. As I sat, thinking, about which topic I might delve into, I decided to check Facebook. There it was. In stunning clarity, the topic for the day. I say 'clarity' because it was in print. Sort of makes it kind of clear...even for me. This is what friends posted today:
So now, I think you can understand, especially if you are of 'my' generation, how it strikes a chord within us all. This was the way we were raised. I remember those simpler times...with incredible fondness, too. Ours was a small town where we knew each other...and our families. In fact (and I have corroborating evidence), this was a truth - if you went to a friend's house and acted inappropriately, you were disciplined. From your friend's parent. A lot. Harshly. The best part? They were not only allowed to do it, but also expected to do it! Hell, depending on said infraction, they had carte blanche to beat your....yeah, you get the idea. Because of that, we had a great respect for the adults, too. You tend to act respectfully when you know they can 'take you out'. Some of the worst discipline I got was from friend's parents...until I got home. it was usually worse there, yet we knew we deserved it. Respect. Look it up, kids. Study it. Practice it. Try.
I remember the day we got a computer, too. Commodore C64 from Radio Shack. 5 1/4" floppy disk drive. Some of you are asking, "What's a floppy drive?" Again, look it up. it's under 'Dinosaur of the Computer Age'. We even had to program in lines of computer code to play games. All this because we had graduated from 'Pong'. Yeah, see? You remember. Two paddles and a blip....blip.....blip.....blip. God, was it tiresome. We didn't have designer drugs, either, to make ANY of that remotely interesting. Sad? Well, yeah...but it was our life. Wait...I mean, no...not sad!
Food? Yes, I remember the, "You're going to clean your plate now or sit there until you do!" routines. There was many a night with Mom's Tuna-Noodle casserole that I expecxted to see the sun come up from my seat in the kitchen. Even she will admit her "Kay's Firehouse Special" was a mistake. Lo, these many years later she will finally say it sucked. Badly. They made us eat it. Obviously, it didn't kill me. Close, but not really. Truth is, we survived it all.
I had a 12" black and white TV in my room when I was a junior in high school. THAT was the big gift at Christmas, THE gift. I remember my daughter having a 13" color TV with VCR when she was 4. Yes...4. Not my idea, but I didn't stop it, either. I'm really longing for those earlier times right now.....
I wish we could take a trip back in time, not only for the little tadpoles we've brought into this world, but for ourselves. I'm not sure, as time has passed, that my memory is as good as it was. I believe the times we had were far better than any of us remember. Hey, I can still paint vivid pictures of my first concert (Orleans) or THE concert to end all shows - REO Speedwagon & America as the opening band. Oh, I know it doesn't sound like much...but we had a different attitude. It wasn't who was in concert so much as what you did with that.......and all the acoutrements that came with concert night. Yeah, you all know where I am going with that. Correct - even America and REO sound great at times.....but the vivid picture wasn't of the concert. It was my friends kindly leading my slouching body to my parent's front porch....and safely tucking me in on a lawn chair. Of course, I got my ass whipped for that. Someone might have been a bit disrespectful, so I earrned it....and you know what? I lived. I learned. As a parent, I'm trying to share....
Until next time.....
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