Lightning Indicator
I was just watching the weather and some heavy storms are blowing through northern Orlando and Seminole county. The lightning indicator shows a dot, supposedly, where there is a lightning strike. In this case it showed a huge county sized blotch in the Seminole county area, which makes me wonder how accurate that technology is and what is it really showing. The dots were all the same color (color being the time indicator) so they were all very recent. Is it really possible that lightning struck every spot that is covered by the size of the dot?
Anyway, the news said there was extensive lightning in the area. I guess.
Thursday, July 31, 2003
Wednesday, July 30, 2003
The Car
Irma took the day off Tuesday to go to the doctor and shop for a car. We kept coming back to the Cadillac Seville SLS I looked at Sunday. We took it for a test drive and I checked it inside and out, it looked good. Irma took one more look at a pickup she liked but admitted the Seville was a much better deal. The price was right so we bought it and took it home. So that's it, no more auto shopping!
I was thinking back on this whole thing, when I first heard about the accident I felt really bad. Irma was fine but this was the worst time to have to buy a new car. I couldn't believe the adjuster wanted to total the car. Why couldn't we just fix it? I kept teasing (half-teasing) Irma that we would have to buy a cheap POS car to replace the van. I didn't think we could ever get anything decent without taking on payments. I hate this whole process of dealing with the insurance company and buying a new car. I thought we were gonna get ripped coming and going. I didn't let it bother me too much though, I figured let God sort it out, whatever happens we'll deal with it. Then the insurance company said they would give us twice what I thought we would get, I couldn't believe it. A little sunshine! I saw the Seville less than a mile from my house a couple days later and it looked great. The price was perfect, even a little low. I researched the car on the internet to see what kind of problems to expect. Everyone that owned one seemed to be in love with it, no horror stories. I got a CarFax report and it looked good, no problems there. I went on eBay to compare prices and condition. I looked up prices for parts that might need replacing some day. I looked at a bunch of other cars too, but I was still drawn to the Seville. Tuesday we went to really inspect it. When I first started it the radio was on and it just started playing Shine On You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd. That's been my favorite song since I first heard it, I think I was in 7th grade, and they never play it on the radio anymore. That was wierd. Now I had to buy the car! Just kidding, that's not why we bought the car, but now that we did I like that it happened like that. So now we have a car better than we had before and a few hundred bucks more. And based on the same factors the insurance company used to price the Eurovan, if we total the Seville now we would actually make a couple thousand. But that will not happen.
The Eurovan is still sitting in the driveway. Acually we pushed it off to the side because it was in the way. I think we made it mad. When I was inspecting the damage, little plastic parts showered the ground every time I moved something in the engine compartment. I swept them up but must have missed some under the van. Irma told me to take the new car to work and after a few miles the left rear tire went flat. I pulled into a hotel next to some lights and took out the spare, which looks like it was never used. (The whole trunk looks brand new) The spare was flat. Wonderful. I called Irma to come and bring my car, I would use my spare since both are GM products. My spare didn't fit. I found 50 cents and went to a gas station to fill the spare. Imagine my surprise to find the air was free. I didn't think free air existed anymore. I changed the tire and found a piece of plastic sticking through the tread, damn Eurovan. I let Irma take her car home and I'll fix it in the morning and sweep the driveway. I hope they take the van by tomorrow. I drove my car to work and enjoyed a major lightning show on the way, just glad it wasn't raining when I was changing the tire.
Here's a picture of the poor van.
Irma took the day off Tuesday to go to the doctor and shop for a car. We kept coming back to the Cadillac Seville SLS I looked at Sunday. We took it for a test drive and I checked it inside and out, it looked good. Irma took one more look at a pickup she liked but admitted the Seville was a much better deal. The price was right so we bought it and took it home. So that's it, no more auto shopping!
I was thinking back on this whole thing, when I first heard about the accident I felt really bad. Irma was fine but this was the worst time to have to buy a new car. I couldn't believe the adjuster wanted to total the car. Why couldn't we just fix it? I kept teasing (half-teasing) Irma that we would have to buy a cheap POS car to replace the van. I didn't think we could ever get anything decent without taking on payments. I hate this whole process of dealing with the insurance company and buying a new car. I thought we were gonna get ripped coming and going. I didn't let it bother me too much though, I figured let God sort it out, whatever happens we'll deal with it. Then the insurance company said they would give us twice what I thought we would get, I couldn't believe it. A little sunshine! I saw the Seville less than a mile from my house a couple days later and it looked great. The price was perfect, even a little low. I researched the car on the internet to see what kind of problems to expect. Everyone that owned one seemed to be in love with it, no horror stories. I got a CarFax report and it looked good, no problems there. I went on eBay to compare prices and condition. I looked up prices for parts that might need replacing some day. I looked at a bunch of other cars too, but I was still drawn to the Seville. Tuesday we went to really inspect it. When I first started it the radio was on and it just started playing Shine On You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd. That's been my favorite song since I first heard it, I think I was in 7th grade, and they never play it on the radio anymore. That was wierd. Now I had to buy the car! Just kidding, that's not why we bought the car, but now that we did I like that it happened like that. So now we have a car better than we had before and a few hundred bucks more. And based on the same factors the insurance company used to price the Eurovan, if we total the Seville now we would actually make a couple thousand. But that will not happen.
The Eurovan is still sitting in the driveway. Acually we pushed it off to the side because it was in the way. I think we made it mad. When I was inspecting the damage, little plastic parts showered the ground every time I moved something in the engine compartment. I swept them up but must have missed some under the van. Irma told me to take the new car to work and after a few miles the left rear tire went flat. I pulled into a hotel next to some lights and took out the spare, which looks like it was never used. (The whole trunk looks brand new) The spare was flat. Wonderful. I called Irma to come and bring my car, I would use my spare since both are GM products. My spare didn't fit. I found 50 cents and went to a gas station to fill the spare. Imagine my surprise to find the air was free. I didn't think free air existed anymore. I changed the tire and found a piece of plastic sticking through the tread, damn Eurovan. I let Irma take her car home and I'll fix it in the morning and sweep the driveway. I hope they take the van by tomorrow. I drove my car to work and enjoyed a major lightning show on the way, just glad it wasn't raining when I was changing the tire.
Here's a picture of the poor van.
Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Auto Shopping
The insurance company says Irma's car is totaled so we will not be getting it repaired. I had my doubts but after taking some of the damaged sections off I saw the distributer got creamed and the valve cover is smashed, and who knows what else under that. When I heard how much they were going to pay for the car I was pleasantly surprised so all reservations are gone. And so is the Eurovan.
Now it's time to go shopping. There is not alot I hate more than buying a car. Starting with what kind. We need something that can handle 2 growing kids comfortably and safely. We don't want another van. Irma loves pickups and wants a double cab but I don't see anything big enough in our price range and it would be OK if it was only her car but it has to be the family vehicle...comfortable and roomy. The trucks she has shown me do not fit that category, not much more than a 2+2. I have a Firebird and its rear seating is roomier. I like some station wagons but none in our price range, mostly expensive European models. I've been giving a long look at a mid 90's Cadillac Seville SLS or STS, similar to this. I don't know yet, maybe something newer but less comfortable. I'm just happy to have a reliable car to get me around but given the choice I would much rather have a car I'm passionate about, something I really like. When I bought the Firebird I really wanted a Porsche 944 and tried desperately to find a good one in my price range but couldn't. I've had the Firebird for about 9 or 10 years now, unbelievably, and it's been good to me, I can't complain. But, if I had found a 944 and had it all this time it would have been more than just a car to get me back and forth to work. I would have taken better care of it, kept it looking good. I wouldn't feel (secretly) a little disappointed that I didn't get a 944 whenever I see one now. If we could I'd get a STS for myself and let Irma get whatever pickup she wanted, but that's not in the cards. I think we'll be looking around again Tuesday. I hate shopping for a car.
New Eyes
I finally went to the optometrist. My prescription changed slightly, he said the astigmatism changed. James has bent my current glasses so many times I can't possibly get them straight again and I've had them about 3 years now anyway. I'm partial to titanium frames but I found a nice pair made from magnesium that can take some abuse and are super lightweight. They will take about a week or a little more to get them, I didn't go to Lenscrafters. Well, I did, but they had less styles to choose from and many of them were very expensive.
The insurance company says Irma's car is totaled so we will not be getting it repaired. I had my doubts but after taking some of the damaged sections off I saw the distributer got creamed and the valve cover is smashed, and who knows what else under that. When I heard how much they were going to pay for the car I was pleasantly surprised so all reservations are gone. And so is the Eurovan.
Now it's time to go shopping. There is not alot I hate more than buying a car. Starting with what kind. We need something that can handle 2 growing kids comfortably and safely. We don't want another van. Irma loves pickups and wants a double cab but I don't see anything big enough in our price range and it would be OK if it was only her car but it has to be the family vehicle...comfortable and roomy. The trucks she has shown me do not fit that category, not much more than a 2+2. I have a Firebird and its rear seating is roomier. I like some station wagons but none in our price range, mostly expensive European models. I've been giving a long look at a mid 90's Cadillac Seville SLS or STS, similar to this. I don't know yet, maybe something newer but less comfortable. I'm just happy to have a reliable car to get me around but given the choice I would much rather have a car I'm passionate about, something I really like. When I bought the Firebird I really wanted a Porsche 944 and tried desperately to find a good one in my price range but couldn't. I've had the Firebird for about 9 or 10 years now, unbelievably, and it's been good to me, I can't complain. But, if I had found a 944 and had it all this time it would have been more than just a car to get me back and forth to work. I would have taken better care of it, kept it looking good. I wouldn't feel (secretly) a little disappointed that I didn't get a 944 whenever I see one now. If we could I'd get a STS for myself and let Irma get whatever pickup she wanted, but that's not in the cards. I think we'll be looking around again Tuesday. I hate shopping for a car.
New Eyes
I finally went to the optometrist. My prescription changed slightly, he said the astigmatism changed. James has bent my current glasses so many times I can't possibly get them straight again and I've had them about 3 years now anyway. I'm partial to titanium frames but I found a nice pair made from magnesium that can take some abuse and are super lightweight. They will take about a week or a little more to get them, I didn't go to Lenscrafters. Well, I did, but they had less styles to choose from and many of them were very expensive.
Monday, July 28, 2003
Power Lines
Saturday I was on my way to Melbourne on Hwy 192 and about half way there got stuck waiting for the police to clear an accident scene. It was 1 pm. Traffic was stopped in both directions and since I had to go to Melbourne, I waited. And waited. It was a little cooler than usual because there was rain in the area. Lightning was flashing in the distance and the thunder rumbled after about 15 or 20 seconds. I thought I heard a weird buzzing sound so I turned off the radio and sure enough there was a constant buzzing coming from the high voltage power lines that lined the road. I've never heard wires make that sound before unless there was a problem and they were shorting or arcing. They were on the other side of the road and I didn't see anything wrong with them so maybe it's normal for those lines. I waited some more and debated turning back but I was supposed to be there by 2 pm. Before long it was 2 and there was no sign of getting this accident cleared. I thought to wait some more and get there late. My attention went back to the power lines. They were making me a little nervous. I noticed everytime lightning flashed the buzzing stopped. It was kind of bizarre standing in the middle of the road where you would never stop in a million years, lightning flashing, thunder rumbling. People had been getting out of their cars and walking back and forth from the scene of the accident, I resisted the urge, but I could see it from the car. I wondered where the power lines came from and where they went. What was happening to cut the power flow for those split seconds and what was the effect at the end of the line. And how fast the electricity went through the lines, I suppose nearly the speed of light. At 2:30 I turned around and went home. There was still no sign of the road clearing and by the time I got to Melbourne the meeting would be over. Thought for the day: Electricity is awesome and beautiful, power lines are ugly.
Saturday I was on my way to Melbourne on Hwy 192 and about half way there got stuck waiting for the police to clear an accident scene. It was 1 pm. Traffic was stopped in both directions and since I had to go to Melbourne, I waited. And waited. It was a little cooler than usual because there was rain in the area. Lightning was flashing in the distance and the thunder rumbled after about 15 or 20 seconds. I thought I heard a weird buzzing sound so I turned off the radio and sure enough there was a constant buzzing coming from the high voltage power lines that lined the road. I've never heard wires make that sound before unless there was a problem and they were shorting or arcing. They were on the other side of the road and I didn't see anything wrong with them so maybe it's normal for those lines. I waited some more and debated turning back but I was supposed to be there by 2 pm. Before long it was 2 and there was no sign of getting this accident cleared. I thought to wait some more and get there late. My attention went back to the power lines. They were making me a little nervous. I noticed everytime lightning flashed the buzzing stopped. It was kind of bizarre standing in the middle of the road where you would never stop in a million years, lightning flashing, thunder rumbling. People had been getting out of their cars and walking back and forth from the scene of the accident, I resisted the urge, but I could see it from the car. I wondered where the power lines came from and where they went. What was happening to cut the power flow for those split seconds and what was the effect at the end of the line. And how fast the electricity went through the lines, I suppose nearly the speed of light. At 2:30 I turned around and went home. There was still no sign of the road clearing and by the time I got to Melbourne the meeting would be over. Thought for the day: Electricity is awesome and beautiful, power lines are ugly.
Friday, July 25, 2003
Dixie Stampede
We went to the Dixie Stampede tonight. I wouldn't normally go to a dinner show but I had a letter offering complimentary admission for 2 from work (it's $43.99 for adults & $28.99 for children). We took James with us because I knew he would love it. As it turns out they gave us comp admission for all 3 of us (Thank you!). For those wondering, Joshua is staying with his father this month.
I have to say I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. James absolutely loved it. He got to touch the horses and he saw Bison for the first time. The food is good, nothing fancy and you have to eat with your hands - no utensils. It's alot of food too. They gave James the same amount as us and we ended up bringing most of it home.
The show was patriotic and funny. They do emphasize the North/South thing through the middle of it and you sit on the North side or the South side. I'm not a North/South kind of guy, I couldn't care less. When I lived in Texas I would cringe every time I heard the term "yankee", to me a yankee wears a baseball uniform and gets paid a lot for than I do. I've never lived anywhere that didn't have something good about it, even the brown dustbowl that is Abilene, Texas, and I've never seen the perfect place, although I fall in love with Virginia every time I go. Whatever, it was still a good show. When it ended James said he wanted to see it again. I guess it lasted about one and a half hours.
We went to the Dixie Stampede tonight. I wouldn't normally go to a dinner show but I had a letter offering complimentary admission for 2 from work (it's $43.99 for adults & $28.99 for children). We took James with us because I knew he would love it. As it turns out they gave us comp admission for all 3 of us (Thank you!). For those wondering, Joshua is staying with his father this month.
I have to say I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. James absolutely loved it. He got to touch the horses and he saw Bison for the first time. The food is good, nothing fancy and you have to eat with your hands - no utensils. It's alot of food too. They gave James the same amount as us and we ended up bringing most of it home.
The show was patriotic and funny. They do emphasize the North/South thing through the middle of it and you sit on the North side or the South side. I'm not a North/South kind of guy, I couldn't care less. When I lived in Texas I would cringe every time I heard the term "yankee", to me a yankee wears a baseball uniform and gets paid a lot for than I do. I've never lived anywhere that didn't have something good about it, even the brown dustbowl that is Abilene, Texas, and I've never seen the perfect place, although I fall in love with Virginia every time I go. Whatever, it was still a good show. When it ended James said he wanted to see it again. I guess it lasted about one and a half hours.
Thursday, July 24, 2003
Monster Boat
It looks like they have fans of Monster Garage in Cuba too. I wonder if they modified the driveshaft and hooked up a prop or if it's just a raft? I like it. They should get the coolest boat from Cuba award and get to stay in America as a prize.
It looks like they have fans of Monster Garage in Cuba too. I wonder if they modified the driveshaft and hooked up a prop or if it's just a raft? I like it. They should get the coolest boat from Cuba award and get to stay in America as a prize.
Do No Harm
This is just unbelievable: Hospital Accidentally Cuts Off Newborn's Toe.
Way to take responsibility: Hospital Insists Newborn's Toe Only 'Nipped'.
A different hospital surgically reattached the toe.
Lightning
Sometimes during a storm I look out at the cows and horses and wonder if they ever get hit by lightning. I've never seen it happen, but I guess it does: Lightning kills giraffe at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
One Way Street
She went the wrong way: J-Lo plays a lesbian in her new movie but...
"And gay rights groups are incensed that J-Lo’s character starts off as a lesbian but goes straight — thanks to Affleck."
Things I'll Never Understand
Keeping it wheel with rims: Spending as much for rims as you did for the car.
And those silly looking super-wide 12 inch diameter go-cart looking tires. What is that all about? Some kind of lowrider thing? I see them alot in Florida but I'm sure they're illegal in most states.
This is just unbelievable: Hospital Accidentally Cuts Off Newborn's Toe.
Way to take responsibility: Hospital Insists Newborn's Toe Only 'Nipped'.
A different hospital surgically reattached the toe.
Lightning
Sometimes during a storm I look out at the cows and horses and wonder if they ever get hit by lightning. I've never seen it happen, but I guess it does: Lightning kills giraffe at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
One Way Street
She went the wrong way: J-Lo plays a lesbian in her new movie but...
"And gay rights groups are incensed that J-Lo’s character starts off as a lesbian but goes straight — thanks to Affleck."
Things I'll Never Understand
Keeping it wheel with rims: Spending as much for rims as you did for the car.
And those silly looking super-wide 12 inch diameter go-cart looking tires. What is that all about? Some kind of lowrider thing? I see them alot in Florida but I'm sure they're illegal in most states.
Wednesday, July 23, 2003
Coincidence?
Usually James naps for maybe an hour or sometimes not at all. I sleep when he naps, usually not for long because I wait for him to fall asleep before I sleep myself. Today he slept longer. I had a very vivid and detailed dream, very unusual for me. I don't remember ever dreaming during these naps. I woke up when I heard James waking up and was amazed how long we slept, about 3 hours. But things happen for a reason. On her way home, Irma was in an accident. Not bad, no one was hurt, but the other car was high enough to just go over the front bumper of the van and it bent the radiator. It took out some coolant hoses and I believe a gas line because I could smell gas. It wouldn't start and isn't drivable anyway because of the radiator. She called me to come to the scene. When I got there the police were not there yet. We waited. And waited. Finally the Kissimmee police stopped by to tell us we had to wait for the Florida Highway Patrol. The accident happened at 5:30pm. As it turns out, FHP didn't show up until 10:00pm! An hour earlier we had decided, after talking to the Kissimme police, to leave the scene and go to the station and fill out an accident form. Somehow this is OK but the police can't do a report on the scene. We called AAA for a tow and they wouldn't do anything until FHP had been there. Finally they agreed but said it would be awhile.
It was so unbearably hot I had to take James home so he could cool off, refill drinks and take a bath. Irma got to talking to the people in the house she was parked in front of and they had a tow truck and would to it for $25.00. I got some money and went back. That's when FHP showed up (10:00pm) and they gave her the same report she would have had to fill out at the station...and that's all! We waited for absolutely no reason whatsoever except we were told to wait by the Kissimmee Police. I don't have alot of respect for any of them right now. As they were loading the van on the flatbed somehow a spark started a fire in the engine compartment and they had to use a fire extinguisher on it. I don't know the damage that caused yet. On the way home I saw the AAA tow truck just pulling up. Screw them! I don't like AAA very much right now either.
I don't know what's going to happen now. I've bought enough parts for that van to know it's gonna be expensive to fix. I even have a feeling the insurance company won't think it's worth the expense. We'll see. Maybe I'm wrong. The damage is mostly cosmetic except the radiator. It's a good thing I got some sleep earlier because my main sleeping time is 7 -10pm and I got none at all. That's really got me thinking, was it just a coincidence that James slept so long today?
Usually James naps for maybe an hour or sometimes not at all. I sleep when he naps, usually not for long because I wait for him to fall asleep before I sleep myself. Today he slept longer. I had a very vivid and detailed dream, very unusual for me. I don't remember ever dreaming during these naps. I woke up when I heard James waking up and was amazed how long we slept, about 3 hours. But things happen for a reason. On her way home, Irma was in an accident. Not bad, no one was hurt, but the other car was high enough to just go over the front bumper of the van and it bent the radiator. It took out some coolant hoses and I believe a gas line because I could smell gas. It wouldn't start and isn't drivable anyway because of the radiator. She called me to come to the scene. When I got there the police were not there yet. We waited. And waited. Finally the Kissimmee police stopped by to tell us we had to wait for the Florida Highway Patrol. The accident happened at 5:30pm. As it turns out, FHP didn't show up until 10:00pm! An hour earlier we had decided, after talking to the Kissimme police, to leave the scene and go to the station and fill out an accident form. Somehow this is OK but the police can't do a report on the scene. We called AAA for a tow and they wouldn't do anything until FHP had been there. Finally they agreed but said it would be awhile.
It was so unbearably hot I had to take James home so he could cool off, refill drinks and take a bath. Irma got to talking to the people in the house she was parked in front of and they had a tow truck and would to it for $25.00. I got some money and went back. That's when FHP showed up (10:00pm) and they gave her the same report she would have had to fill out at the station...and that's all! We waited for absolutely no reason whatsoever except we were told to wait by the Kissimmee Police. I don't have alot of respect for any of them right now. As they were loading the van on the flatbed somehow a spark started a fire in the engine compartment and they had to use a fire extinguisher on it. I don't know the damage that caused yet. On the way home I saw the AAA tow truck just pulling up. Screw them! I don't like AAA very much right now either.
I don't know what's going to happen now. I've bought enough parts for that van to know it's gonna be expensive to fix. I even have a feeling the insurance company won't think it's worth the expense. We'll see. Maybe I'm wrong. The damage is mostly cosmetic except the radiator. It's a good thing I got some sleep earlier because my main sleeping time is 7 -10pm and I got none at all. That's really got me thinking, was it just a coincidence that James slept so long today?
Tuesday, July 22, 2003
Good News Out of Iraq
Confirmed: Saddam Husseins sons have bit the big one. Uday and Qusay Hussein have been killed by US forces. Now let's get Saddam so we can start getting out of there.
Confirmed: Saddam Husseins sons have bit the big one. Uday and Qusay Hussein have been killed by US forces. Now let's get Saddam so we can start getting out of there.
The Scorpion and the Frog
Here's a great commentary: Why I Hate Lawyers
Unusual Movie Review
I thought I was the only one who hated the subliminal and not so subliminal messages contained in alot of movies. Sometimes they ruin an otherwise good movie. One example that stands out in my mind is Assassins, with that stupid elevator scene where Julianne Moore paints a womans fur coat and there are ads in the background throughout the movie. Annoying. And when I see something like this it makes me want to cook more chicken, in fact we had chicken today. But that's not a movie. Check out what's in Lethally Blonde.
"Bruce Friedrich, a director in PETA, says plainly, "If we really believe that animals have the same right to be free from pain and suffering at our hands, then of course we're going to be blowing things up and smashing windows." Terror is, Friedrich thinks, "a great way to bring about animal liberation."
This is what happens when you negotiate with terrorists. All terrorists must die. It's the only thing they understand.
Meditation
I sent for and received a free sample of a meditation cd. It has rain, some chimes and a guy talking over it telling you about the product. You need headphones for it to work so I put some on and listened for a while. James wanted to hear it too, so I gave him the headphones, he put them on and listened for a few seconds and said: "I hate this music.
If you're curious, you can get the free demo here. At first the order form for the free demo didn't pop up for me but after looking over the order form I think I closed a window and it popped up. I just tried to duplicate my efforts and couldn't get it to pop up again. Perhaps it only pops up after a certain amount of time, I don't know. It's not quite as easy as they describe.
A Nice Day
Today was a beautiful day but, of course, hot! James wanted to ride his tricycle so I rode Joshua's bike and we took off down the road to see the cows and horses. James insisted on going all the way to the end of the street (dirt road) where they have some horses. They had just finished loading some horses on a trailer and drove by us. James started riding after the truck saying "Wait! Man, wait, I wanna see the horses!" I tried to stop him but he was a boy on a mission. At one point the front tire got stuck and he and the tricycle fell. He got up like nothing happened and started running after the truck. He gave up finally and told me the truck was going too fast. He rode to where the pavement starts and didn't want to ride anymore. I put him in front of me on the bar and held his tricycle in my left hand and rode home like that, saying goodbye to the cows on the way. He said he had alot of fun.
Here's a great commentary: Why I Hate Lawyers
Unusual Movie Review
I thought I was the only one who hated the subliminal and not so subliminal messages contained in alot of movies. Sometimes they ruin an otherwise good movie. One example that stands out in my mind is Assassins, with that stupid elevator scene where Julianne Moore paints a womans fur coat and there are ads in the background throughout the movie. Annoying. And when I see something like this it makes me want to cook more chicken, in fact we had chicken today. But that's not a movie. Check out what's in Lethally Blonde.
"Bruce Friedrich, a director in PETA, says plainly, "If we really believe that animals have the same right to be free from pain and suffering at our hands, then of course we're going to be blowing things up and smashing windows." Terror is, Friedrich thinks, "a great way to bring about animal liberation."
This is what happens when you negotiate with terrorists. All terrorists must die. It's the only thing they understand.
Meditation
I sent for and received a free sample of a meditation cd. It has rain, some chimes and a guy talking over it telling you about the product. You need headphones for it to work so I put some on and listened for a while. James wanted to hear it too, so I gave him the headphones, he put them on and listened for a few seconds and said: "I hate this music.
If you're curious, you can get the free demo here. At first the order form for the free demo didn't pop up for me but after looking over the order form I think I closed a window and it popped up. I just tried to duplicate my efforts and couldn't get it to pop up again. Perhaps it only pops up after a certain amount of time, I don't know. It's not quite as easy as they describe.
A Nice Day
Today was a beautiful day but, of course, hot! James wanted to ride his tricycle so I rode Joshua's bike and we took off down the road to see the cows and horses. James insisted on going all the way to the end of the street (dirt road) where they have some horses. They had just finished loading some horses on a trailer and drove by us. James started riding after the truck saying "Wait! Man, wait, I wanna see the horses!" I tried to stop him but he was a boy on a mission. At one point the front tire got stuck and he and the tricycle fell. He got up like nothing happened and started running after the truck. He gave up finally and told me the truck was going too fast. He rode to where the pavement starts and didn't want to ride anymore. I put him in front of me on the bar and held his tricycle in my left hand and rode home like that, saying goodbye to the cows on the way. He said he had alot of fun.
Monday, July 21, 2003
Hey, That's Great, Good Luck to You
Dismayed Americans contemplate Canada.
"It's the most amazing opportunity I can imagine. To live in a society where there are different priorities in caring for your fellow citizens."
You can also go to North Korea (Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea), they have different priorities in that country too.
"Canada has an opportunity to define itself as a leader," Hanley said. "In some ways, it's now closer to American ideals than America is."
If you are one of those who believe the communist manifesto was America's founding document.
"In school I was always told this is the best country on earth, and everyone else wants to be American, and that never really rang true to me," she said. "As I got older, it occurred to me there were other choices."
That's great, it finally occurred to you. Now please spend some time exploring all your other choices first hand. You will either find your perfect match or you will be back with a new appreciation for America. Either way we all benefit.
Dismayed Americans contemplate Canada.
"It's the most amazing opportunity I can imagine. To live in a society where there are different priorities in caring for your fellow citizens."
You can also go to North Korea (Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea), they have different priorities in that country too.
"Canada has an opportunity to define itself as a leader," Hanley said. "In some ways, it's now closer to American ideals than America is."
If you are one of those who believe the communist manifesto was America's founding document.
"In school I was always told this is the best country on earth, and everyone else wants to be American, and that never really rang true to me," she said. "As I got older, it occurred to me there were other choices."
That's great, it finally occurred to you. Now please spend some time exploring all your other choices first hand. You will either find your perfect match or you will be back with a new appreciation for America. Either way we all benefit.
Who Spilled the Milk?
Every morning I make coffee for Irma. I put the milk in a mug, heat it for 30 seconds and add sugar (That's what she likes). While waiting for the coffee to brew I went in the garage and got the garbage ready to go out. Task complete I came back in to find the mug on its side and the milk all over the counter and floor. James was no where to be found. Hmmm. I went to the living room and saw his head sticking up from behind the sofa. I called him, "James". "I didn't do anything," He said, "Mommy did it." I asked him over and over, he was so convincing. I took him in to see Irma and he still insisted she did it. I ended up putting him in time out and after a while, finally, he admitted he did it and said he was sorry.
Every morning I make coffee for Irma. I put the milk in a mug, heat it for 30 seconds and add sugar (That's what she likes). While waiting for the coffee to brew I went in the garage and got the garbage ready to go out. Task complete I came back in to find the mug on its side and the milk all over the counter and floor. James was no where to be found. Hmmm. I went to the living room and saw his head sticking up from behind the sofa. I called him, "James". "I didn't do anything," He said, "Mommy did it." I asked him over and over, he was so convincing. I took him in to see Irma and he still insisted she did it. I ended up putting him in time out and after a while, finally, he admitted he did it and said he was sorry.
16 Words
I am so tired of hearing about how President "Bush lied." The whole thing is such a non issue...pathetic and desperate. Perhaps (unfortunately) the Kobe Bryant thing will take the media attention off it. The media is as pathetic and desperate for a sensational story as the Democrats are to "get" President Bush. Here's the truth: Bush didn't lie. Perhaps it depends on your definition of the word lie.
I am so tired of hearing about how President "Bush lied." The whole thing is such a non issue...pathetic and desperate. Perhaps (unfortunately) the Kobe Bryant thing will take the media attention off it. The media is as pathetic and desperate for a sensational story as the Democrats are to "get" President Bush. Here's the truth: Bush didn't lie. Perhaps it depends on your definition of the word lie.
Friday, July 18, 2003
Today
Today I took James to the playground over at the lake. They took the roof away and now the kids have to bake in the sun. It's unbearable, they better be putting a new roof on it or I'll have to take James to a different park. He played with a 4 year old kid named Robby and a slightly older girl, I didn't get her name. As hot as it was, James didn't want to leave when it was time to go. I finally got him to go with me to the beach to wash the sand off and Robby and his Aunts came along. One of them took James into the water and washed him up, because I was holding the camera. It was funny watching him because he probably wouldn't have stood still if I tried to do it. On the way to the car he met a dog named Lil' Mama and of course didn't want to leave the dog. He loves going to the park and I try to let him play as long as possible but it's way too hot to stay out there too long. We went to Walmart and bought his favorite drink: Dole Orange, Strawberry and Banana juice. He calls it nana juice. It was nice to get in the A/C.
The salmon was so good yesterday and the whole meal was less than the cost of the cheap pizza Irma wanted to bring home. She liked it too. Today I made ziti and meatballs and it came out great too. I would rather cook, as long as I have the ingredients I need and she would rather go out or get fried chicken from Publix or whatever.
The NY Educational System Needs to Be Replaced
This is not the first time I'm reading about the NY educational system acting really stupid. an apparently smart 15 year old who started going to college instead of high school and is doing very well is being told she can't get her high school equivalency until she is 17. Read about it here. If she can pass the test and is showing herself able to handle college, let her get her equivalency diploma. You should be happy for her. What's the problem, you won't be able to teach her that the United States was founded on the communist manifesto?
I Took A Quiz
I don't usually do this but it was short and I read Zannah's websites often enough. More or less just giving her a little publicity. Very little from here.
That sounds about right.
On A Leash
Someone is poisoning dogs in a park in Oregon, apparently because too many people won't keep there dogs on a leash. That's terrible. There's no excuse for that. They should also be keeping their dogs on a leash since there is a leash law.
Canine owners are on edge, certain that some lifelong dog-hater got sniffed one too many times by an unleashed pet, and decided to take revenge.
You don't have to be a dog-hater to be a wary of strange dogs coming toward you. In fact it can get a little nerve racking if it happens alot. People go to the park to relax and you can't relax with unleashed dogs roaming around. If there is a leash law, use a leash. Go to a park where they let dogs roam. They have one in Orlando. If there is not one maybe they should see about getting one set aside instead of pissing everyone off.
Don't poison the dogs though. Please. It's not their fault.
Today I took James to the playground over at the lake. They took the roof away and now the kids have to bake in the sun. It's unbearable, they better be putting a new roof on it or I'll have to take James to a different park. He played with a 4 year old kid named Robby and a slightly older girl, I didn't get her name. As hot as it was, James didn't want to leave when it was time to go. I finally got him to go with me to the beach to wash the sand off and Robby and his Aunts came along. One of them took James into the water and washed him up, because I was holding the camera. It was funny watching him because he probably wouldn't have stood still if I tried to do it. On the way to the car he met a dog named Lil' Mama and of course didn't want to leave the dog. He loves going to the park and I try to let him play as long as possible but it's way too hot to stay out there too long. We went to Walmart and bought his favorite drink: Dole Orange, Strawberry and Banana juice. He calls it nana juice. It was nice to get in the A/C.
The salmon was so good yesterday and the whole meal was less than the cost of the cheap pizza Irma wanted to bring home. She liked it too. Today I made ziti and meatballs and it came out great too. I would rather cook, as long as I have the ingredients I need and she would rather go out or get fried chicken from Publix or whatever.
The NY Educational System Needs to Be Replaced
This is not the first time I'm reading about the NY educational system acting really stupid. an apparently smart 15 year old who started going to college instead of high school and is doing very well is being told she can't get her high school equivalency until she is 17. Read about it here. If she can pass the test and is showing herself able to handle college, let her get her equivalency diploma. You should be happy for her. What's the problem, you won't be able to teach her that the United States was founded on the communist manifesto?
I Took A Quiz
I don't usually do this but it was short and I read Zannah's websites often enough. More or less just giving her a little publicity. Very little from here.
 You are Narilka!(Also known as Melinda). You are an alien! You have antennae, even if people can't always see them! |
| "Are you Zannah or Narilka?" by zannah @ voxmachina |
That sounds about right.
On A Leash
Someone is poisoning dogs in a park in Oregon, apparently because too many people won't keep there dogs on a leash. That's terrible. There's no excuse for that. They should also be keeping their dogs on a leash since there is a leash law.
Canine owners are on edge, certain that some lifelong dog-hater got sniffed one too many times by an unleashed pet, and decided to take revenge.
You don't have to be a dog-hater to be a wary of strange dogs coming toward you. In fact it can get a little nerve racking if it happens alot. People go to the park to relax and you can't relax with unleashed dogs roaming around. If there is a leash law, use a leash. Go to a park where they let dogs roam. They have one in Orlando. If there is not one maybe they should see about getting one set aside instead of pissing everyone off.
Don't poison the dogs though. Please. It's not their fault.
Thursday, July 17, 2003
Burnin' Up
I had to mow the lawn before it got too long to cut. I let James wander around the yard, he mostly stayed in one place, playing with some grass cuttings. It's so hot though, it's unbearable. I just wanted to get done but it was slow going, watching James and the grass is a bit long. At one point he called me over but I said I was busy. He came over and told me to turn off the mower. I did and asked what he wanted. "A couple of things." "A couple of things?", I don't know where he heard that before. He didn't want anything except my attention. He was really hot and looked worn out so I quit and told him to come in the house and take a bath. Mowing the lawn around here is like a 2nd job and it's hard to find the time to do it because alot of the time there will be a thunderstorm at the most convenient time to mow. Sometimes the lawn remains wet (soaked) for days on end. Other times it's unbearably hot and humid. Today was hot and humid, and James didn't want to come in.
Earlier I took him with me shopping for glasses. I need new ones bad because James has knocked them so many times they are bent beyond repair and they keep falling off, especially if it's hot and I'm trying to get some work done. It's no use though because I can't see without my glasses. I put the new ones on and have to get 3 inches from the mirror to see anything. The people who work at these places are no help, they don't really care what you look like. Most don't even pretend to help you. I know there are places where they do a really good job helping you get the right glasses but they aren't around here. I'll have to wait until I can go with Irma.
I have to go cook now. Salmon with sesame/ginger marinade, brown and wild rice, and fresh, steamed broccoli and string beans. James is hungry and so am I.
I had to mow the lawn before it got too long to cut. I let James wander around the yard, he mostly stayed in one place, playing with some grass cuttings. It's so hot though, it's unbearable. I just wanted to get done but it was slow going, watching James and the grass is a bit long. At one point he called me over but I said I was busy. He came over and told me to turn off the mower. I did and asked what he wanted. "A couple of things." "A couple of things?", I don't know where he heard that before. He didn't want anything except my attention. He was really hot and looked worn out so I quit and told him to come in the house and take a bath. Mowing the lawn around here is like a 2nd job and it's hard to find the time to do it because alot of the time there will be a thunderstorm at the most convenient time to mow. Sometimes the lawn remains wet (soaked) for days on end. Other times it's unbearably hot and humid. Today was hot and humid, and James didn't want to come in.
Earlier I took him with me shopping for glasses. I need new ones bad because James has knocked them so many times they are bent beyond repair and they keep falling off, especially if it's hot and I'm trying to get some work done. It's no use though because I can't see without my glasses. I put the new ones on and have to get 3 inches from the mirror to see anything. The people who work at these places are no help, they don't really care what you look like. Most don't even pretend to help you. I know there are places where they do a really good job helping you get the right glasses but they aren't around here. I'll have to wait until I can go with Irma.
I have to go cook now. Salmon with sesame/ginger marinade, brown and wild rice, and fresh, steamed broccoli and string beans. James is hungry and so am I.
At Least They're Consistant
I don't know what to make of this story and I think there's more to it than they're saying. I just can't picture it happening. No one would say something like that at someones funeral, would they? In front of all his friends and relatives? "The Lord vomited people like Ben out of his mouth to Hell." It sounds like something from an Exorcist movie. I like this part though: "The priest was subsequently transferred to another parish." The Catholic Church likes to do that.
I don't know what to make of this story and I think there's more to it than they're saying. I just can't picture it happening. No one would say something like that at someones funeral, would they? In front of all his friends and relatives? "The Lord vomited people like Ben out of his mouth to Hell." It sounds like something from an Exorcist movie. I like this part though: "The priest was subsequently transferred to another parish." The Catholic Church likes to do that.
Dixie Stampede
I got a couple of complimentary tickets to see the new Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede here in Orlando. I have to use them by July 31. There are alot of dinner shows around here and I've never been to one. The Dixie Stampede looks like something James will enjoy, he loves horses, so I want to take him. Now if I can get Irma to agree on a day to go.
James was sitting here watching Spongebob and Squidward got an explosive pie in the face, they showed a huge explosion and James said, "That's gotta hurt!" I don't know where he picks up these sayings. I have an idea though. The other day I put in a movie (Analyze That) while James was busy playing with his toys. He didn't seem to be paying attention to the TV in any way, but suddenly he starts repeating something he heard in the movie. Of course it's something I'd rather not hear him say. I turned off the movie. He did the same thing to Irma the other night too. Why do they pick up those words so easily?
I got a couple of complimentary tickets to see the new Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede here in Orlando. I have to use them by July 31. There are alot of dinner shows around here and I've never been to one. The Dixie Stampede looks like something James will enjoy, he loves horses, so I want to take him. Now if I can get Irma to agree on a day to go.
James was sitting here watching Spongebob and Squidward got an explosive pie in the face, they showed a huge explosion and James said, "That's gotta hurt!" I don't know where he picks up these sayings. I have an idea though. The other day I put in a movie (Analyze That) while James was busy playing with his toys. He didn't seem to be paying attention to the TV in any way, but suddenly he starts repeating something he heard in the movie. Of course it's something I'd rather not hear him say. I turned off the movie. He did the same thing to Irma the other night too. Why do they pick up those words so easily?
Wednesday, July 16, 2003
Guess who?
Can you guess which President the following describes?
The liberation of millions goes ignored.
Democrats attack the Republican president over a continuing conflict, insisting it cannot be won, as they position themselves for upcoming elections.
The president acts vigorously in response to a threat to our national survival - exacerbated by the fecklessness and timidity of his predecessor in office. His critics are outraged and unforgiving.
A retired general is one of the contenders for the Democratic presidential nomination, although the Army realizes it's winning and continues to support the president.
Continental European powers, especially France, tacitly back Washington's enemies, jockeying for financial advantage - even approaching open support for the enemy's leader.
Domestically, subversives and traitors are arrested. Some are handed over to military tribunals. Civil libertarians argue that the U.S. Constitution is being destroyed.
The nation's intellectual elite cannot bear the president's Western simplicity, rustic mannerisms and lack of polish.
The media attack the president savagely, making fun of his lack of sophistication and even his appearance. Cartoonists lampoon the man even more fiercely than his policies. Leading newspapers and journals insist that his policies are disastrous and that he is unfit to lead the nation.
Even the British media portray the president as a dangerous lunatic, out of control.
On Capitol Hill, self-interested members of Congress establish a committee to investigate the president's handling of the war, as well as alleged distortions and corruption in his administration.
The president's secretary of state is accused of failure and ineptitude, while the cabinet member responsible for the Army has a knack for angering everybody.
The verdict of the intelligentsia is unanimous: This president is leading the nation into disaster.
Yet, the people continue to support the man, admiring the very qualities the intellectual elite despises. The president continues to do what he believes is necessary for the nation's security and survival, ignoring his exasperated critics.
The answer is here. Are you surprised? I was.
Can you guess which President the following describes?
The liberation of millions goes ignored.
Democrats attack the Republican president over a continuing conflict, insisting it cannot be won, as they position themselves for upcoming elections.
The president acts vigorously in response to a threat to our national survival - exacerbated by the fecklessness and timidity of his predecessor in office. His critics are outraged and unforgiving.
A retired general is one of the contenders for the Democratic presidential nomination, although the Army realizes it's winning and continues to support the president.
Continental European powers, especially France, tacitly back Washington's enemies, jockeying for financial advantage - even approaching open support for the enemy's leader.
Domestically, subversives and traitors are arrested. Some are handed over to military tribunals. Civil libertarians argue that the U.S. Constitution is being destroyed.
The nation's intellectual elite cannot bear the president's Western simplicity, rustic mannerisms and lack of polish.
The media attack the president savagely, making fun of his lack of sophistication and even his appearance. Cartoonists lampoon the man even more fiercely than his policies. Leading newspapers and journals insist that his policies are disastrous and that he is unfit to lead the nation.
Even the British media portray the president as a dangerous lunatic, out of control.
On Capitol Hill, self-interested members of Congress establish a committee to investigate the president's handling of the war, as well as alleged distortions and corruption in his administration.
The president's secretary of state is accused of failure and ineptitude, while the cabinet member responsible for the Army has a knack for angering everybody.
The verdict of the intelligentsia is unanimous: This president is leading the nation into disaster.
Yet, the people continue to support the man, admiring the very qualities the intellectual elite despises. The president continues to do what he believes is necessary for the nation's security and survival, ignoring his exasperated critics.
The answer is here. Are you surprised? I was.
Stupida
Is it really necessary to have a sign translating "open" or "closed" or other equally simple words? How about words that are almost the same in English/Spanish? Necessito? I went to Puerto Rico and had no trouble with simple signs and words like that and I don't speak Spanish. I even lived in Japan for a little while and quickly learned to recognize Japanese signs written in katakana or kanji. Do we really need to make it so simple for people that they don't even have to think for a moment? Is that really helping?
Is it really necessary to have a sign translating "open" or "closed" or other equally simple words? How about words that are almost the same in English/Spanish? Necessito? I went to Puerto Rico and had no trouble with simple signs and words like that and I don't speak Spanish. I even lived in Japan for a little while and quickly learned to recognize Japanese signs written in katakana or kanji. Do we really need to make it so simple for people that they don't even have to think for a moment? Is that really helping?
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