QUOTE OF THE DAY:

I've read a little bit of the press surrounding the Live Earth concerts. (Ummm....what did they accomplish?) A quote of Robert Kennedy, Jr. cracked me up:

"Kennedy 'called on attendees to get rid of all those rotten politicians we have in Washington, D.C.'"

"YIPPPEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Does that mean Uncle Teddy, too? Don't want to be at that Thanksgiving table. Uncle Teddy would eat all the food, anyway.

Another part of the article I was reading caused a chuckle, too:

"Critics have faulted the Live Earth concerts for lacking clear-cut, achievable goals, and for lauding rock stars whose jet-setting, high-consumption lifestyles can often send a different, less environmentally friendly message."

Isn't that how Democratic politicians operate? Grand schemes, lots of ideas...inability to follow through?


(H/T: myway)

Btw, I'm watching Under Siege right now. Anyone else ever see it?

100-YEAR-OLD SMOOCH

Today marks the 100th birthday of Hershey Kisses! So on all of you (especially for reading my drivel), I plant a nice sweet, chocolate kiss! :)

SUNDAY SONG

I'm supposed to be praying and fasting today. I planned on it for most of the week. Sometimes the prayers don't come and we just need to be still, because we're all prayed-out. The prayers aren't coming today. A constant theme in my life has been disappointment. Sometimes because I get my hopes up about something, or because I've been hurt in some way. People are human, it happens. Other times, I feel like I am the source of disappointment, and that makes me feel worst of all. Despite what y'all think, I don't tell you everything, and well, I'm dealing with "stuff." Stuff I don't want to talk about, because then it wouldn't be between me and God. So right now, I just need some grace. This song is a variation on "Amazing Grace." It includes the words, which I think are worth just listening to the song in itself.

TRIVIA CONTEST!!!!

I know I can't stop you from looking things up via the internet, but I hope y'all try this with guess-work. I'll post the answers Monday evening.

1. Where are the most sheep per capita located? (Falkland Islands)

2. What do bulletproof vests, fire escapes, windshield wipers, and laser printers all have in common? (They were all invented by women.)

3. What was Coca-Cola's original color? (Green...ewwwwwwww!)

4. Which actors turned down Clint Eastwood's role of Dirty Harry? (Name at least two.)
(Paul Newman, John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, and Frank Sinatra)

5. What does the Greek word "gymnasium" mean? (To exercise naked)

Feel free to ponder...

I WONDER IF. . .

Go read this, NOW!

This is another excellent dispatch written by Michael Yon. If you don't subscribe to his updates via email, do so. He provides insight the mainstream media never (if ever) tries to provide. He talks about a follow up to the massacre I linked you to in my July 4th post. He also talks about the growing trust the people of Iraq are showing the American forces. There are some really cute pictures of kids, too. It is a long post, but well worth the read.

Good-byes are really, really hard.

My best friend called this evening. She's just returned from her honeymoon and she and her husband are packing up what is left of her apartment and they are leaving tomorrow morning for her new home on U.S./Mexico border. We both have problems with the whole "good-bye" thing. In fact, when I said it at the end of our phone call, I burst into to tears (well, haven't stopped, really). I cannot tell you how much her friendship has meant to me over the years. We've known each other since we were 12. We've been super-close friends since our early 20's. She's seen me through more than my fair share of broken spirit and broken hearts. I was there for her through similar events. The past three years, when I didn't have the ability to walk or the energy to get out of bed for days at a time, she remained my friend and always at least called to encourage me. In fact, she was the only friend that stuck around after I got ill. This past winter when I was finally able to walk more normal and finally started to feel better, she was there to celebrate my victories with movie nights and lunch or dinner out. That meant so much to me. It also meant a lot to me that she always (and even in tonight's call) told me something nice about myself (because I never believe it). Simply, she is the awesomess (as she would say).

After flaking out a little the past month or so over the prospect of my only and best friend leaving for the other side of the country, I've tried to think of how to be positive about this whole thing. I'll have to get over my fear of flying, because I'll want to visit her. I could also look at this as God getting ready to expand my horizons and force me out of my shell. That is harder to grasp than the idea of me getting on a plane. While I might have a little bit of boldness in this forum, I'm anything but in real life (unless it is a one-on-one situation or if I get to know you). It is time for a new chapter, eh? It is really hard, though. I'm really going to miss her.

Just a note: Next week, I'll be driving to Nashville. I haven't driven outside of NJ in at least three years because I haven't been able to physically stand it. So that's one new adventure! I have no clue what I'll do while I'm down there, but when have I ever lived my life doing things the way they are supposed to be done? I haven't decided whether or not I'm going take my laptop on my trip. I don't think you all would miss me for a week would you?

Well, that's next Friday. I'll think about it more at that point.

YOU'RE A CARD!!!!

You Are the Ace of Hearts

Youthful and playful, you love life and the world. You have a kind spirit, and you bring happiness to everyone you know. Artistic and bold, you see the world in bright colors. And you certainly aren't afraid to express everything you see and feel. You are sentimental, and your emotions are very deep. You are easily swept away and easily hurt. A gamble you should take: Blackjack Your friends would describe you as: Unique Your enemies would describe you as: Weepy If you lived in Vegas, you would be: An up and coming chef or fashion designer

What Playing Card Are You?

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!!!!!

"I believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival... it ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other..."--John Adams

I cannot imagine the thickness of the air in Philadelphia in 1776. There were people who agreed with the decision to declare independence and those that did not. I cannot imagine how hard it must be to say to a force that has ruled, "We're going to do it our way, now." I am very grateful, though. I am grateful that I was born in this country. I am grateful that I can go outside, drive to my place of employment, speak freely, go to my church of choice, and enjoy any other right I have, as granted to me because of my citizenship in this country. I am also grateful that I don't have to battle against tyranny on my own soil.

I've been to Independence Hall in Philadelphia many times. I'm lucky enough to live close to it. I remember going there as a kid (even into my teens). I loved the building itself, but I really loved to hear the story of how we gained our independence. To me it is plain bravery.

Thank you to those who fought for our liberty. Thank you to those who continue to fight for us. Without those willing to fight, we would not have liberty.

Others are not as lucky as us, even where we are trying to give them that chance. This is a story from Michael Yon that details finding the bodies of villagers who were murdered by Al Qaeda. Really, a bumper sticker? Because it is hard, because it will probably take our natural lives to defeat it....a bumper sticker? This is what the mainstream media doesn't report. (There are disturbing images.)

Some 4th of July related RT TUBE!!!!
If you like patriotic music Revolutionary-style, click here for The U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps.

Click here if you want to view a tribute to present-day soldiers.

Here is a scene from one of my favorite movies: 1776. It is the scene when they sign the Declaration of Independence.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

A LITTLE HOLIDAY FUN CAPTION CONTEST!!!

I know. A caption contest is for weekends, but I couldn't resist. I saw this picture while I was prepping my blog for tomorrow. Have fun, and if you are traveling, be safe! I'll post winners Sunday evening.

WINNERS!!!! (I actually gave hard thought and consideration to this. I hate choosing.)

5. PHILADELPHIA - Drug Enforcement Agents search for the "crack" in the Liberty Bell.--Wyatt

4. Ain't nothin' duct tape cain't fix.--Skul

3. What a couple of ding-dongs...--JT

2. "Yeah,yeah,we'll get to the border as soon as we're done HERE!"--2spothipshot (Pudge)

AND THE WINNER OF THE CAPTION CONTEST IS....ROGUE!!!!

1. Repair man: Yes buddy, yer left ball's a little low.

Man: Yeah, but what about the bell?

WOO HOO!!! TIME FOR SOME PIMPIN'

Before I get to the pimping, PLEASE remember to pray for Matthew Rager. He is a little boy, with a brain tumor, in need of prayer. (Please read his link...wow!)

Remember back in the day when we had those pencils with the faux fur at the eraser to make them look like trolls? Remember spinning them to make them look all freaky? Yeah...so do I.

Wild Bill has a bunch of stuff: Free reading material, bumper stickers, and a way to bring happiness into your life.

Redneck has disappeared on some kind of Canadian fishing trip, eh.

JT has been stuck on a quarter mile stretch of road for a while.

Little Miss Chatterbox has a really good cartoon about the Scooter Libby (can't get past the name) pardon of jail time.

CUG sees circles, and they're not crop circles.

Damian has hit more than 25,000 hits by now. Be nice if you visit, he's a youngin'.

Dragon Lady is making fun of her sister (shocker!), has a short story, and a good example of her husband's great sense of humor.

The Captain is back! He's riled up and has been jolted back to reality after his family vacation. God bless him, the Jersey shore for two weeks--I couldn't last a day. He deserves your visit. (There's a bunch of stuff there from Rachel and Wyatt, too.)

Ssssssssteve is probably on the road again, but the two most recent posts are really good ones.

John D. is all hopped up on SPAM and Wynona's, umm... rodent. On a related note, he now has a babe-o-the-week.

Rachel has an awesome story about giving the gift of eyeglass-free eyesight to soldiers going into war zones. Maybe it might inspire us to think of a way to help soldiers. Also, you can see if you could survive a Zombie attack.

FIAR has a bunch of linky-dink stuff and a really funny (maybe not so funny) run-in with a cashier who can't count change.

Wyatt has a ton of stuff: From a diatribe about the people he hates to his self-worth. He even chose my entry as the number caption for his contest this week. (Personally, I think Cowboy Blob's picture was funnier.)

Deathlok is feeling pretty good about the Flyers right now.

The MoxArgon group is working really hard to enlighten us Earthlings about how certain Earthlings are screwing up. They like it though, because it makes us an easier target for domination.

TJ has a faux news article update and a look at the Church of Gore. TJ is another blogger with really good posts....go read him!

Uber is back, kind of. Visit her anyway. :)

Von does a really good imitation of a dog. His boy likes it!

Knock, knock...Umm...I'm here to pick up your daughter.

Imagine this guy dating your daughter.
(The more I look at this picture....dang!)

Well, if this is the father, wouldn't you say this might be paybacks?

Btw, this was totally so I could post a picture of Tommy Lee and stare at his tattoos. Abdominal tattoos are so freakin' hot! Wouldn't touch him with a ten-foot pole (heh), but he is hot!

A little boy that needs your prayer...

This little boy, Matthew Rager will be operated on for a brain tumor, Tuesday, July 3. I'll post a reminder Tuesday. All his parents ask right now is for prayer on the day of the surgery. Please pray for him.

(H/T: Michelle Malkin)

Eat your veggies!

Please view this news story from the Philly local news. It is about a small group of kids working to have a farmers' market. The pride and accomplishment on their faces is so evident. This is a good thing in the midst of an ugly place to live.

New Linky

Many of you have seen youngin' Damian G. on some other blogs, now he is linked via my blog. Go visit and say hello. He recently reached the milestone of 25,000 visitors to his site. :)

SUNDAY SONG

Song: "Unchanging One"
Artist: Todd Agnew

While people might let us down and while we might let ourselves down....God is right there all the time.

Hope I don't offend anyone....NOT!!!!!

COULD THIS BE ME IN 50 OR 60 YEARS?

WHILE YOU WERE AT WORK....

Philadelphia Mayor John Street felt the need to sit in line at a store that will sell the iphone at 6:00 p.m. He's been there since the wee hours of the morning. Now, if he wants an iphone, so be it. However, I think a staffer, one of his children (where's Shariff?), or someone else could have done this for him. I think arrangements could have been made.

A cop is shot within the last 24 hours (not seriously, thank goodness), the murder rate climbs higher, and what does his attitude connotate? "Eh, I can do my job from here; no problemo."

According to local news station KYW 3:

"Street planned to stay in line for most of the day, waiting for the cell phones to go on sale at 6 p.m., though he planned to step out to make some appearances."

Yeah, so he can't go into the office, but he can make his photo-ops. He can't be seen making a comment about the problems festering in the city, but he can wait in line for an iphone.

"Angry taxpayer Barbara Jendrzejewska confronted the [mayor], questioning his ability to work while waiting in line. 'I happen to be in a position where I can conduct my business wherever I am. In part, it’s because of this technology that we’re getting ready to see today. I don’t have to be in a particular place,' Street responded."

That may be true, in part. HOWEVER, there is an attitude that is being sent through loud and clear: I don't mind spending my work time and taxpayer dollars sitting in line like a moron for a GADGET!

The worst part is that he is clueless as to just how stupid he is. He has ruined the police department and its morale, dismantled a lot of the emergency protection provided to the city, can't seem to get someone to do anything good for the schools, and in doing all of this, he has made an already beleaguered city feel even less hope. It is palpable. I don't even pity Camden as much as I pity Philly.

Philly could be an awesome city with influence because of its ports and easy access to other parts of the East Coast. Rather than good things, the last 20 years (at least) have seen failed administration after failed administration with the pinnacle in mismanagement displayed by the present inhabitants of City Hall.

But, you know, the Mayor has managed to wait in line for a phone, thus continuing to show his true priorities.

(H/T KYW 3)--This link takes you to the full story as reported and an on-air interview. Please watch it so that you fully understand (non-Delaware Valley people) how inane this man truly is and why Philadelphia is such a mess.

Some more video links (he says so much worth laughing at):
NBC 10 Funny in a sad way.

WPVI 6 Philly's got WIFI, but the schools lack necessities. Street, "I can't afford the hot rod, but I can afford a $600 phone." How about you take that $600 and donate it to a food bank, or buy some homeless mothers clothes for their children?

Fox 29 Click on the video link about half way down the article. Street, "I'm here, but I am actually working." Why don't you go to your office and present the image of a mayor of a major city? Go visit the elderly to make sure they've made it through the nasty heat and humidity ok. Go thank cops and firefighters for their hard work. Oh wait, those things are beneath you.

TOO BORED FOR MY OWN GOOD...

JUST A REALLY GOOD QUOTATION:

A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take from you everything you have.


Gerald R. Ford

SEPARATED AT BIRTH?????

YOU BE THE JUDGE

In need of a cross-check....really, really hard!

Whatever Putin is smoking, I want some.

Hmmmmmmmmm....

No clue what to talk about, today. Got any ideas?

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!

YAY!!!!!! Wyatt has reached 100,000 visits! Go congratulate him and leave some pithy comments.

When it is hot and humid I think of only one band!

To do list:

1. Pray for a cold front. My air conditioner is broken (again).
2. Buy a couple of new fans (see #1).
3. Count my many blessings.
4. Be thankful Paris Hilton is out of jail. I was worried they might keep her in there for 30 days. The horror!
5. Avoid analyzing why Rosie O'Donnell dressed her kid up like a terrorist (the media uses guerrilla fighter--funny her mom is a chimp, I mean chump--I use terrorist).
6. Invest in some cold and flu medicine. Caught a chill getting mammograms and ultrasounds...yes, wisenheimers...a chest cold.
7. Make hotel reservations in Nashville.
8. Make car rental reservations to drive to Nashville (seems like such a waste of money, though).
9. Plan some fun things to do while in Nashville. I just want to hear music...lots of it.
10. Take dad out to dinner.

Don't judge a book by its cover!

Just because a guy is 72 years of age doesn't mean he can't kick your ass!

HEADLINES!!!!!!!!!

Today we have the hot, sticky, humid version of the headlines. My brain is a little warped--no air conditioning--broken. Enjoy!

Too little, too late: Gore blames scientists for climate crisis...
Wait. It's not my fault? I was afraid all my Aqua Net use in the '80s caused global warming.

Court rules against high school senior 'Bong Hits 4 Jesus' banner...
However, Crackheads for Krishna is allowed.

CANADA UNVEILS AMBULANCE FOR 1000-LB PATIENTS...
This as a result of the Canucks' breeding practices with moose. That or they are eating a lot of pancakes or something.

Barber stabs second client with scissors...
Apparently he confused flat-top with flat-line.

Scientist Implicates Worms in Global Warming...
WHAT!?!?!!? I was wondering what mission they were on each time I saw them after a rain storm. Now I'm glad I stepped on them for fun when I was little.

SCIENTISTS DESCRIBE '5-FOOT TALL PENGUIN'...
Said to be a detective named Wyatt. (Go email your roast entries!)

AUDIO: TED KENNEDY SERENADES MEXICAN-AMERICAN DJ -- EN ESPANOL...
"Feeeeeeeeeeeeeeelizzzzzzzzzzzzzz *hiccup* nachos y *hiccup* salsa y aye aye aye *hiccup*.

Rosie says she won't replace Bob Barker
Apparently producers did not like her idea of "shoot the Republican" and "Guess the conspiracy theory."

Wizardry takes dark turn in new ‘Potter’ film
Harry is now an Emo kid, dyes his hair jet black, wears eyeliner, and writes poetry about how him mum wouldn't let him go to a concert--so now his life is over! Then he cuts himself to feel alive.

Police fight new menace: cuddling couples
They are ruining our world! Those darn cuddling couples make lonely, spinster types like me feel worse. How dare they be in love! Makes me want to throw a rock at them, yeah!

Texan set for execution wants to die laughing
He won't be the one laughing in hell.

Iran president turns to butcher for economy tips
finger tips, toes, ears, hands, and anything else that he deems against his dictatorship.

Beijing airport tackles pigeon problem
DINNER!

With or without the Rodham, she's still Hillary
...and a beyotch with no personality!!!

Black lab drives owner's car into river
The black lab claims that he had enough of his owner throwing his prized ball into the river for laughs. Apparently Fido doesn't appreciate the fun of fetching.

Ummmmmmmmmmmm....

America is the GREATEST freakin' place on Earth!!!!!!!!!

A BLOW TO FOOD EATING CONTESTS!!!!

Takeru Kobayashi of Japan is out of the Nathan's hot dog contest! He has arthritis of the jaw and can only open his mouth the size of a fingertip. I wonder if this problem exists in the world of adult entertainment? Just wondering. Did I say that out loud? Geeesh!

(H/T: CNBC)

I'm giving this guy a special salute...

So, what do we do with this freak?
(H/T: Drudge)

What it takes

I learned a few things and was reminded of a few things yesterday while I was taking part in my friend's wedding festivities.

There is something different about a wedding when two believers are involved. I've been to about nine or so family weddings. There was something missing from their weddings that was quite present at "D's" wedding--God.

I know, as a believer, the importance of marrying a believer; in fact, it is pretty much a directive in the Bible that it has to be done. I've vacillated on that one over the years. But I finally had a light bulb moment yesterday. It is not just that the "other" person in the relationship is a believer, it is that both people simply put God front and center of that relationship as a result of God being front and center in their lives apart from each other.

The minister said a few things that resonated with me: 1. We can never love or be loved more than God loves us or the other person, but we have to strive to love the other person as God would love that person; 2. Pray together--out loud, in front of God; and 3. Honor what that ring represents. I know I joke about wanting to elope if someone ever loves me enough to marry me. It has more to do with what that moment represents and it was talked about yesterday. Yeah, the food at the reception will be great (and it was) and it will be fun to dance around and act silly (and it was) and it was wonderful seeing my best friend look radiant and beautiful and her husband looking quite handsome, but most important are those promises they made to God and each other, in front of God. So many people ignore those vows and take them lightly because they just wanted the party. It's like saying the vows have become a mere formality.

Those of you that have been lucky to have married great people...own it and be thankful. Remember to show them that you love them. Sssssteve has an awesome example of a good marriage. Go read about it. (You'll have to scroll down a little.)

Now, unless I ever get married, I'm done talking about weddings. The end.

P.S. Look at the way "D's" husband looks at her. WOW! I can't even imagine what it would be like to be loved that much. That look on his face was non-stop all day.

SUNDAY SONG

What: "Someday"
Who: Michael Sweet
Why?
Inspired by I Thes. 4:13-18

Reminds me of Hebrews 11:1

This excerpt from the lyrics means a lot to me:
Someday I know my heart and soul
Will be free
From the pain they hold on to
I'm holdin' on to someday

Thought for the day based on a sermon I am listening to as I write this:

Think back. Move forward. It's time.

Phillipians 3:12-13 You can't go back or linger in the past. Whether it was good or bad, it will never be recreated. Foget what lies behind. Maybe the future holds something much better. We'll never know if we are distracted by the past. (Turning Point--David Jeremiah)

The lyrics to the song, if you are interested, are a click away. :)

I dance?

Today my best friend and sister (in Christ) got married to a really nice and decent guy. He's best friends with my friend's brother. West Point grads, y'all. Good men. This was an emotional week for me, and thank God, for very good reasons. Graduation is emotional because I'm saying good-bye to kids I've known for four years. The mama side comes out with them--can't help it. Then, the "we found something" that turned out really well. That was scary, but it really made me stop and think about my life and the fact that I've retreated into a shell these past three years (ok-almost six years, but that includes a heavily broken heart that I want to ignore). I haven't lived much and I intend to do so. Then, today, my friend got married. She's moving really far (TX) and she gets to begin a new adventure in her life. I'm excited and happy for her and at times, can't contain my joy. I don't cry in public. I don't cry happy tears. I did both today. A little girl that was helping me with some hostess duties shadowed me. When the minister (I'll get into the wedding itself another day--when I've come down a bit.) was praying over the happy couple, I lost it. (I was doing so well, too.) The little girl asked me if I was crying and I said, "Yeah, but they are happy tears." She patted me on the back and said, "It will be ok." (Awwww...10 year olds are awesome.) Later she advised me that I should go somewhere and find myself a husband. I didn't realize it was that easy. ;P

So, I got to pin roses on the lapels of soldiers today. My hands shook. They've been places we never want to see. But the part that struck me the most today (aside from the little girl) was what my pastor had to say during the ceremony; that's what I'll get to another day.

Also, apparently after retiring my dancing shoes many years ago, I can still get a little funk-like groove on and still have good rhythym. I danced to one song, in honor of the '80s, with my best friend. Ok...I'm crying again. I'll stop here. This is the song that inspired me to dance! :)

CAPTION CONTEST!!!!!!!!!!!

As always, have fun with this! Thank God for freaks!

I'll post winners Monday afternoon.

**Wyatt has a caption contest, too. Go there. Now.

Winners (you all are):
1. Anonymous (Skul?):
Want to see my crystal balls?

2. Sssssteve:
Girl: Isn't it beautiful?

Merlin: I thought you said let's get stoned by the hedge!

3. Bud the Chud:
After 40+ years of being a geek, Bud finally meets a girl.

Not timely, but funny

SIGH OF RELIEF!

Today is the longest day of the year according to the calendar. This afternoon I experienced two very long hours after wondering for about a month if I for sure do not have cancer. I've had cysts for about 13 years that appeared after a heinous car accident. But when you are told that more and more tests are needed, your brain tends to go a little mushy. Today, they found something they hadn't ever seen in me, so that added to the angst and the length of time before I found out, that I indeed have cysts and not cancer. Praise God!

The whole time I was telling one of my friends that I truly believe God has a lot left for me to do...and I still believe it. Today, I feel like I was given a reminder to be better to myself and to others. Today I was reminded that not everyone is as blessed as I am.

I'm telling you things a little more specifically because I want you all to take care of yourselves, too. The past three years have been hard, health-wise, but I'm getting better and I look forward to even more progress. I feel like today was an affirmation of that. Three years ago I was tested for another form of cancer, and like today, everything was ok.

Please, guys, urge the women you love so much in your lives to get tested and to take care of themselves. Guys, you do the same for all the guy stuff. I want you all around for a really, really long time. It's scary and uncomfortable, but better safe than sorry.

After waiting for the news I went out to my car and cried. Finally, I feel hope for a lot of things that I'd given up on and I needed this kick in the butt. This song came to mind. Btw, that car accident? It was exactly the same hit this car takes, but with an F250.

You know all that stupid stuff that bugs us all everyday? Think of how stupid it really is. Thousands of women today got news opposite to mine. I think worrying about what other people think of my appearance and about me in general is pretty dumb, now, eh? If people at our age and older are still shallow like teenagers, who needs them? I'm not going to be an idiot anymore.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR PRAYERS, FINGER CROSSING, AND GOOD THOUGHTS! I HAVE REALLY, REALLY APPRECIATED EVERYTHING.

Ummmmm....

So, I've got nothing. I have a lot on my mind, but it would drive you all away. I seem to be driving people away these days (not such a good feeling, but it's what I do best).

Ummmm..........ok, how about a "battle?"

BEACH & A TROPICAL DRINK?

OR

MOUNTAINS & BEER?

The guest list is up to you. :)

THIS WOMAN HAS BALLS!

The woman in this clip tells it like it is and the cleric on the receiving end doesn't like it! She gets my respect!

Cliche? Hackneyed?

I remember watching this when I was 10 years old. I was so excited, because the singer had long hair. (It really is an illness, I tell you.)

May they rest in peace...

I'm very saddened by the news of the firefighters from South Carolina. I have a high school friend who is a firefighter and does confined space rescue. I pray for his safety once in a while. He's really brave and loves his job. I couldn't imagine him doing anything else. It is a calling and a loss like this hits all of the firemen around the country.

I also have a high school classmate that I have known since I was little. His dad was killed in a house fire when the floor collapsed. He thought more of his children were inside and he ran back in to get them. Everyone was safely outside or spending the night with friends. (Good time to mention that you do need 'meeting' points, folks.) After a while in the hospital he could not recover and died. I have been afraid of fire ever since. In fact, when I was in elementary school (around the time of Mr. H's death) we had the usual visit from the fire department. Every opportunity I had to shut off a gas burner or to blow out a candle, I did. I was that afraid.

Those bad memories of people grieving because someone's life was lost to a fire returned today. It is all just very sad and my heart goes out to the families, friends, and brothers of those firefighters.

Be safe, Birdman!

Humanity defines a nation

A lot of people say that the United States' lack of humanity as it pertains to the unborn, the aged, and the infirmed is shameful. I would agree. So when I say this, I am not casting stones: Iraq has got to get its act together, and it has to begin with how they treat each other, especially those who are the weakest. This story just broke my heart. ***Be sure to watch the news clip that accompanies this story. It will break your heart, but will also show the contrast in the care and concern of our troops over many others in this world.

EXPLANATION

I'm bored. I know, I haven't been done everything for school for 24 hours and I am bored. For 10 months I pretty much think about something school related from the time I wake up until I finally fall asleep (every freakin' day). I'll probably be weirder than usual for a few days. I have to adjust to the idea that I can have a life, have some free time, and breathe without stress.

Btw, remember how a couple of weeks ago I mentioned some medical tests? I have to get another one Thursday. It is important and I'll talk about it more another day, but for now, just pray that everything is ok (as expected). It is meant to be a "yes, you are fine" definitive test, but nerve-wracking just the same. The past month I've had a few tests and a few blood tests. I need a break, now. I need to have an awesome summer after three years of "ick."

I'll be working on some things over the summer. I would like to have a day trip at least once a week and post pictures. I plan on going down to Tennessee for about five or six days. I'd also like to become the exercise freak I once was. The thyroid seems to functioning and the metabolism finally seems to be jolted out of its slumber. This time next year (Lord willing) I should be thin and really active, which would mean the world to me. Everything in its time. Since September, I've lost close to 50 pounds. I know the difference and that is what matters. (My mom took in a pair of pants last week...two inches on each side of my waist!)

So, that is the state of RT.

I've been saving up some headlines--time to purge!

McCain Says He'll Fight Clinton's 'Pork'...
Hillary's? Will he eat the cracklin's?
Bill's? Pulled pork?

TOWN: $500 FINE FOR SAGGY PANTS...
How much for saggy t*ts?

SHOWDOWN: Pelosi wants to allow lawmakers' adult children to tag along on taxpayer-funded travel -- for free!
Well, you know, the royal family needs to go places. I know, how about we give them some Dom, too.

SQUIRREL GOES ON RAMPAGE, INJURES THREE...
Apparently a relative of this guy.

Motel patron uses Bible to set blazes
Talk about being on fire for God!

Indian man, 73, fails school exams on 38th try
The stereotype is apparently a myth.

Lose weight and get drunk faster: US study
Woooo hoooooo!!!!!!! I'll be an even cheaper date.

Driver almost chokes on bag of marijuana
Ummm, reminds me of...nevermind....we never got caught!

Fla. cops catch man accused of peeping, peeing while wearing lingerie with blond wig
And folks, that is how I met Sssssteve (First with Flair)!

Woman complains to cop about "bad crack"
Det. Wyatt responds, "Sorry, Ma'am. I didn't mean to bend over and pick up my pencil in front of you."

N.C. fines man who switched car from diesel to soybean oil
North Carolina has hippies?

Two Chinese officials jailed after bridge built by blind man collapses, killing 12
Note to self: Even Chinese built bridges are cheap and junky.
(I'll skip the obvious joke...too easy.)

Republican punches Democrat on floor of Alabama Senate
About freakin' time! Apparently the Democrat didn't feel anything: no sense, no feeling.

Lion and tiger kill man on building's roof
Oh my! Was there a bear in the vicinity?

Lumber magnate marries woman who is 62 years younger
Guess he's got some good, pressure treated wood, eh?

Wisconsin woman: Deep-fried testicles 'taste like chicken nuggets'
I always found that . . . oh . . . nevermind.

Polish lawmaker equates short skirts with loose morals, says they should be outlawed
(Insert polish joke here!) Yeah and big feet and big hands equate...IT IS A MYTH, I TELL YOU!!!!!!!!

No charges in case of mannequin salesman caught boiling skulls in his apartment
I can't think of a caption for this, but this would make a creepy movie.

Telephone company: Woman's name is too gay
What's wrong with the name Pat MacDyke-Carpetmuncher? (She took her partner's name.) [Wow. I gotta get my butt to church...this is bad, today.]

Bulgaria's last 3 dancing bears freed
Once in the wild, they were beaten and their tutus were hung from the top of a pine tree.

The grind's almost over to forge two perfect balls
Grinding? Perfect balls? Heh...I've heard that one before.

Toddler served margarita in a sippy cup
Finally, a cure for teething and the annoyance of small children screaming in the middle of restaurants!

Man says he found snake head in beans
Ummmm....(I've been bad enough.)

Streaker sets off school extinguisher
Guess he had a "smokin'" bod.

Three-legged dog Jack the Peg saves Australian family
Arrrrrrrrrrgh he be a pirate dog!

UN SECRETARY GENERAL: CLIMATE CHANGE BEHIND DARFUR KILLING...
Seriously, what the heck are they smoking?

Exclusive: Suicide Bomb Teams Sent to U.S., Europe
Again I ask: It is the end of the world and I'm still not good enough? Dang.

WHO ARE YOU??????

The MOXARGON group has a "What type of conservative are you?" quiz on its blog. Go there to take the quiz (or stay here, but still visit them...spread the linky love).

You scored as Reagan Con, Reagan Con: You believe that America is the solution and not the problem, a strong defence, and the smiting of all those who stand against freedom. Your motto: "What would Reagan do?" Reagan Con 100% Libertarian 92% Evangeli-Con 75% Log Cabin-Con 67% Neo-Con 58% Paleo-Con 50% What Kind of Conservative Are You? created with QuizFarm.com

THE LIST

No. not "that" list. I don't have one of "those" lists. I'm talking about my checklist:

• Exams graded. . . check
• Grades completed and printed out . . . check
• Copies of grades to supervisor and guidance . . . check
• Grade/attendance records submitted . . . check
• Count all of my books . . . check
• Set aside copies of exams and unclaimed graded work . . . check
• Account for my professional development hours . . . check
• Turn in my keys . . check
  
• Get my checklist signed by four departments and three administrators . . . check

Tomorrow: Paycheck and graduation! Wooooooooooo fk'n hooooooooooooooo!!!!!! (Er...not very evangelical of me, eh?)

Now for the thought of the day:
When my grandmother that died 10/05 was in an assisted living/care center, they used to have people come in to play the piano. The person would usually play songs from the '20s-'40s...you know, to appeal to the youth of those attending the time set aside for music. I wondered as I would pass by on my way to my grandmom's room what might be sung when I am in old-age home at 90 years of age. I mean, I don't think I'll be able to bang my head. Great. I'll have to listen to synthesizer music from '80s, won't I? You know what? Maybe it will actually be a little like this:

The Sunday Song

Last night, well actually the past few weeks (off and on), I toyed with the idea of putting a song on the blog that expresses my faith. Lo and behold, I go on Little Miss Chatterbox's blog and she had the same idea and beat me to it. So I was thinking, I'll put up a song on Sunday evenings and she can have the mornings. :) The songs I put up won't always be what you might consider Christian, even though they are. I'll be choosing what speaks to me in the hope it will find space in your heart or mind. If you aren't given to my faith, it is fine and dandy with me. The music is usually good and you don't have to listen if you don't want to. I won't be offended.

This song is titled, "Saint and Sinner" by Derek Webb. He's an edgy little guy. I love this song because it reminds me of who I really am...far from perfect. Enjoy.

Happy Father's Day

This is my dad. He's a couple of years shy of 70. You'd never know it.

Father's Day is a day of pride for a lot of the men-folk who visit my blog. You have children or stepchildren (or serve as father-figures to grandchildren, nieces, and nephews), and from what I've read in your blogs, you love them and would do just about anything for them, because you want what is best for them. That's why I like y'all so much. :) It is my hope that your children show you the same love and respect.

I hope you use the memories of your own fathers to inspire you to be just as awesome or to do things better, of course, depending on the relationship you had with your own father.

Here are two quotations I found that seem to be really good advice:

The great man is he who does not lose his child's heart ...

To be in your child's memories tomorrow ... you have to be in their lives today.

Please use the comments section to provide a favorite memory of your father, something that made you grateful to have the father you have, or to provide your favorite moment (so far) as a dad. Of course, you don't need to be a dad to leave a comment. :)

Happy Father's Day!!!!!!!!

A joke for my blog buddies who partake...

Good joke: Brewer's Convention

Really long, totally voluntary, MEME

This MEME can be found at Parkway Rest Stop. It is a pretty humorous blog out of NJ...go visit. If you decide to answer all or some of the questions, please let us know you did, so that we may visit your blog to see what you wrote. Hey, it is a chance to pimp yourself! :) This is really long, but I have no life, so it is ok. :)

Were you named after anyone?
My mom swears that I was named after one of my dad's girlfriends after he said "no" to Maria and Marjorie Helen [Thank God for that small favor...even though it was after my grandmom.]

When was the last time you cried?
Today, on my way home from work. Not talking about it.

Do you like your handwriting?
Yes. I've worked really hard at it. It was messy when I was a youngin'.

What is your favorite lunch meat?
German bologna (must have sour cream and onion chips with it)

Do you have kids?
NO! I spend my days with up to 400 +/- students I have taught at any given time during their four-year stay at my school. One hundred or more a year.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?
Not sure. Probably.

Do you use sarcasm a lot?
What kind of freakin' question is that? I gave a class an answer sheet to an exam yesterday. There were 50 questions. A kid asked, "How many questions are on the test?" I said, "One hundred." That student and friends thought I was for real and asked where the other answer sheet was. Yeah. I love sarcasm.

Do you still have your tonsils?
Yep, and they are HUGE!

Would you bungee jump?
Ab-so-freakin'-lutely not!

What is your favorite cereal?
Golden Grahams or Cocoa Krispies

Do you untie your shoes when you take them off?
Nope.

Do you think you are strong?
Physically...no. Mentally...been told I am, but I know better.

What is your favorite ice cream?
A mixture of Haagen Dazs chocolate and coffee ice creams are way yummy!

What is the first thing you notice about people?
Their eyes.

Red or pink?
RED!

What is the least favorite thing about yourself?
My weight. I also have a hard time believing compliments. I hate that. I want to be grateful.

Who do you miss the most?
My best friend is getting ready to move more than half the country away from here...I'll miss her the most. (Well, I've let go of all the "baggage" and you do tell your friends more than your grandparents.)

What color pants and shoes are you wearing?
I'm not wearing pants, and I am not wearing shoes.

What was the last thing you ate?
I just ate a cheeseburger delivered by a really stoned delivery guy. My mom said she could smell the herbage. Hey. How does she know what that smells like? Hmmmm.....

What are you listening to right now?
I am watching a Phillies game.

If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Brick red or burnt sienna

Favorite smells?
What the air and earth smells like after it rains, popcorn, pumpkin pie, leather, and sandalwood...not all combined, but sandalwood and leather....yee gads watch out! That's a man scent...drives me...nevermind.

Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?
My mom, to tell her I was leaving work and to see if she needed me to stop anywhere.

Favorite sports to watch?
ICE HOCKEY! Baseball, football, NASCAR, UFC, and sometimes skiing.

Hair color?
Some gray that needs to be dyed. Natural color? Reddish, light brownish, auburnish. Dyed? Same thing, but with blonde highlights. I'm thinking of getting a little more blonde/strawberry blonde when I get my hair done Wednesday.

Eye color?
Really pretty blue eyes. That is one good thing I know I have.

Do you wear contacts?
Yes. Not all the time, though.

Favorite food?
Fried chicken and mashed potatoes

Scary movies or happy endings?
Happy endings. It doesn't have to be a tear-jerker, just some hope is nice.

Last movie you watched?
Pirates of the Caribbean (with one of my classes).

What color shirt are you wearing?
I'm not wearing a shirt. I'm wearing a gingham night gown.

Summer or winter?
Fall. I love the smells of burning wood, wet leaves, and the warmth with a cool breeze (plus the humidity is usually low).

Hugs or kisses?
While I love a good hug, I like nice hot, wet, monster kisses. Not that I like to kiss monsters...well, given my past...nevermind.

Favorite dessert?
Ice cream.

What book are you reading now?
I read for a living. However, in addition to summer reading for school, I will be reading Joyce Meyers's The Power of Simple Prayer and Preston & Child's The Book of the Dead (suggested by a teacher at my school) for my own enjoyment.

What is on your mouse pad?
A really cute kitty cat.

What did you watch on t.v. last night?
Reba reruns, American Chopper, and some hot rod show, then Craig Ferguson.

Favorite sound?
Rain. Guitar. Piano. The whine of steel guitars, especially in old, sad country songs.

Rolling Stones or Beatles?
Beatles. I really don't like the Rolling Stones. My mom used to have an original copy of Meet the Beatles and I used to love listening to it, especially to learn to harmonize (well try to harmonize).

What is the farthest you have been from home?
Los Angeles. Misspent youth.

Do you have a special talent?
I've been told as such. What? You think I'm telling you that? Never!
One that I can tell you is that I can think of a song or song lyrics for almost any situation or to say what I want to say without having to take the risk of actually saying it myself.

Where were you born?
Philadelphia (Two months early, transferred from one hospital to another in a basket in a police car...was turning blue...good times!)

OINK, OINK!

Skul sent me a photo of the piggies in his backyard. I believe Mrs. Skul took the picture. :) That's a lot of bacon and barbecue. YUM!

SERIOUSLY...

If you have talent.....express it and don't be afraid to take that risk!