Going for U.S. Olympic Gold

Men's Synchronized Swimming

How many people share your name in the US?

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 36 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

For the ladies - how to buy a new bra*

1. Go to the department store with the intention of buying linen trousers for your upcoming vacation.
2. Find the trousers you want, and then notice the tankini swimsuits next to them. Pick up two: both with your cup size on the label, and take particular interest in the one with the tag that screams "With Tummy Control!" (because post-childbirth and pre-forty, you need all the help you can get). Take all three items to the fitting rooms.
3. Try on trousers. Decide not to buy them because you think they make your butt look big.
4. Try on first tankini. You like it and will buy it.
5. Take "With Tummy Control" tankini off hanger. Feel it. You are aware that it feels as tight as a girdle but decide to have a go anyway. Pull over head.
6. Turn around several times in the fitting room trying to get your arms into the straps. Get arms halfway in. Turn around several times again. Stop and look at yourself in the mirror. You realize that you look like a chinese puzzle and consider shouting for help from the sales assistant working the fitting rooms. Decide to have another go. After much huffing, puffing and sweating, you manage to get the thing fully over your head. Now bend over and work your boobs into the cups. After a final adjustment, stand up straight and admire yourself in the mirror. Watch in horror as the tankini rolls up from your waist to under your boobs.
7. Decide not to buy the tankini and start pulling it up to get it off. Turn around again. Pause for breath. Turn around again, getting your arm stuck inside the tankini. Consider calling for help. Take a deep breath and pull. Sigh with relief as the top comes off over your head.
8. Frantically try to rub the deodorant marks off it.
9. Get dressed. Put your bra back on in a huff and pull so hard that you actually rip the cup away from the underwire. Roll your eyes in disgust and then finish getting dressed.
10. Give the tankini and the trousers to the sales assistant, saying you won't be taking them.
11. Go upstairs to lingerie to buy a new bra to replace the one you just destroyed in the fitting room.

*Highlights of my shopping trip yesterday to Marks & Spencer.

Steve's Shopping List

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jdP7HUPbVs

Olympics

Wow, the men's 4 x 100 m freestyle relay was amazing!

So, Who Gets the Ticket?

Ya know, we only really travel the major highways once or twice a year, so the subject of pokey drivers hanging out in the left lane doesn't come up very often. Today, we were going to a birthday party down Philly way when we noticed a sign on the turnpike; Stay to the Right, Pass on the Left....It's the Law. I guess I always knew it was a law, but never really thought or heard of anyone getting a ticket for it. So, who gets the ticket? The pokey driver in the left, or the driver that passes that pokey driver on the right?

It's the economy, stupid!

Well, we all know that, for a number of reasons, the economy is seriously in the toilet. I've always dipped my toe in the pool of tightwaddery, but lately I seem to be taking things to the next level in preparation for the crash. Because, let's face it, it's going to get worse before it gets better. We've always had high gas prices in comparison to the U.S., but the other day I noticed that diesel (which is what my car takes) is now at £1.31 a liter, which translates to $9.91 per gallon. Yikes! Everyone is tightening the belt a bit, so here's what we're doing in the Collo house to get more bang for our buck.
1. I have put a moratorium on credit card spending. We don't use our cards much anyway, mostly for booking travel online, which we only do a couple of times a year. But the temptation is there, so I put the credit cards in a ziploc baggie, which I then placed in a tupperware container filled with water. Then I put the whole thing in the freezer.
2. We grow more vegetables. We started doing this before the crunch because I wanted to feed the kids organic veggies. I have since noticed how much less I spend at the supermarket because I no longer buy veggies or fruit (with the exception of bananas and grapes, because we don't grow either of those). So I've given John instructions that he needs to be planting and growing veggies we can eat all year. I'm sick of zucchini though. I've got zucchini coming out my ears!
3. I cook from scratch. I don't buy processed stuff anyway, because Chris has allergies and I hate reading labels. But I cook a lot more from scratch, things I wouldn't have made before, like soups, bread and cakes. Aside from that, I plan meals based on what I already have in the pantry, freezer and fridge, buying only what I need to make a recipe or to restock the pantry, fridge and freezer. I shop with a list, and go by myself. If I take John and the kids, I end up spending twice what I'd planned.
4. I don't use the dryer unless it's pelting it down with rain. This may present a problem come winter, when towels and jeans are so stiff they can get up and walk away on their own if they've been dried indoors on a drying rack.
5. I buy ice cream. Seriously, the ice cream man comes by, my kids want ice cream and it costs me $3. If the ice cream man comes every day, I'm looking at $15 for ice cream. Forget that! For less than $5 I can buy a 1/2 gallon of ice cream and some cones. This reminds me of Eddie Murphy's standup routine that he used to to about McDonald's, and how the other kids in the neighborhood would get McDonald's, but his mother would make him a welfare burger. I don't care. Get over it kid.
6. I use Freecyle, and I am not averse to the odd dumpster dive if it's something we could use in the garden.
7. I shop sales. I've always been a sale shopper anyway, but I've restricted my shopping only to sales and the clearance rack recently. This isn't a bad thing. I recently got two new dresses for work from my favorite shop. They would have been around $200 at the regular price, but I got both for $60. I'm happy about that.
8. I clean my house with natural products like vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda. As I mentioned, the boy has allergies and I don't want him exposed to chemicals, and I can buy a monster bottle of vinegar at Costco for a bargain and no, my house doesn't smell like a fish and chip shop.
9. I combine errands so I only have to use the car once to save on gas. No one is allowed to turn lights on during the day. That's what daylight is for.
10. I color my own hair instead of having the hairdresser do it. This may or may not be a money saver, depending on whether or not we'll have to redecorate the bathroom because of all the Miss Clairol Number 128 I've splattered all over the place.

Alumni Shirt

Has anyone bought any alumni stuff (on the Catty Alumni site)?

I just bought a T-shirt that looks like the one above (except I got 86, I'm not that dumb). I also got a 100 years of football T-shirt (thanks for alerting me of them Lew). If you have not joined the Alumni site, it is a one time fee (for life).

A Blast from the Past

Robert Hazard dies at 59.

Paris

See more Paris Hilton videos at Funny or Die

Watch the "Paris for Prez" vid and share your thoughts. It's politics, and it is also controversial. Oh, I think it is hilarious, but I have no class (like a teacher in the summer time - no class at all - Russell from Fat Albert). This is cool because it is what's in the news and has Paris who is always in the news (not by her fault). This should be something to talk about for all those into controversy, politics, News that's not really news, etc.,.

Blog Toolbar

Are you like me (made the blog part of your pitiful life)? Then go to this link and download a toolbar so you can keep up with everything that is on the blog. I created and want everyone to have it as part of their browser to keep us in mind:
http://86classblogspot.ourorganizationtoolbar.com/

I just put it on my browser and already love the way it makes my browser look (but I am a geek deep down, hell I'm a geek all over).

Try it, and if you have anything you'd like put on it, let me know, it is customizable.

Midlife Crisis Mobile

Anyone know of where I can get some cheap disability insurance?

Michelle H., email me at tracy3@comporium.net , I wanted to talk to you but couldn't find your email addy.

Sticking with controversy...

I can foresee this becoming quite a long post, so please just bear with me to the end.

I'm a member of a tightwad forum, and most of the people on there are, for lack of a better description, a bit right of center politically (I'm not, I just go there for the tightwaddery). There's a "Debates and Personal Opinions" subforum, and someone has started a thread about Barack Obama. Nothing new there, but this particular thread has now turned to the discussion of flag flying - probably because Obama refuses to wear an American flag lapel pin. Most people on this forum say you are unpatriotic and un-American if you don't fly a flag or wear one on your person. So I'm going to share my opinion with you on this, and I want to hear yours. Remember, opinions are like assholes - every has one and it usually stinks - so we're going to have a big group cyberhug when we're finished with this discussion!

Everytime I come back to the U.S., I am shocked to see the number of American flags flying - in front of buildings, in front of houses, on mailboxes, on shopping bags, on people - they're just everywhere. I'm sorry to say but the uber-patriotism scares the shit out of me. I can understand the reasons behind the surge in patriotism. September 11, 2001 was a horrible, horrible event, and the nation banded together to try and deal with it. I get that. But all the flag flying in the world isn't going to prevent something like that happening again. The rest of the world has dealt with terrorism for a long, long time, and they don't feel the need to wave their flag(s) at every opportunity.

I went to Florida on vacation five weeks after September 11, 2001, and we had a British newspaper delivered to our hotel everyday. One morning I opened it to find an article about Gerry Adams, who was the leader of Sinn Fein, the political wing of the Irish Republican Army - a terrorist organization that has wreaked havoc on Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom for a long time. Thousands of people have died at their hands. Anyway, Gerry was at an IRA fundraiser in New York City, a city that five weeks earlier had suffered the worst terrorist attack in history. And now those people, those flag-waving, patriotic Americans, were courting the leader of a terrorist organization. They were paying $1000 a plate to hear him speak. And then he visited the White House (again!). So the U.S. fights terrorism when it suits. Sorry, but you can't have good terrorists and bad terrorists. Are white terrorists okay but Middle Eastern ones aren't? They're all terrorists. But in 2003 we started waging war a country that had nothing to do with 9/11, and we flew our flag, but we still get in bed with people who terrorize other people (just not Americans - so that makes it okay!) And in the meantime, more than 33,000 American servicemen and women - and thousands more Iraqis - have been injured or killed

I do understand why Barack Obama won't wear the flag pin. Probably for the same reasons I wouldn't. It just seems to me that the flag wavers talk the talk, but they don't walk the walk. I love my country. Someone asked me why I don't give up my citizenship. I'll never give up my citizenship. I'm proud of where I came from and what my country has achieved. But we've lost our way. We're broken, and we need to be fixed. Sometimes the most responsible thing you can do as a citizen is question your leadership.

Okay, your turn.

Questions of the week.

1. If you learned today you were going to die tomorrow, name three things you would do?

2. What is your very first memory?

3. Name one service you are willing to pay for and one your not.

4. Do you make your bed every day?

5. Name the most significant thing you learned this week?

Mrs. Dornblaser

For all of us who went to Sheckler Elementary School, we will never forget our school nurse, Mrs. Dornblaser. It is with sadness that I write that she has passed away. She always took good care of us if we were sick or injured. You can go to http://www.legacy.com/MCall/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=114421685 and view her obituary for those who haven't seen it.

Controversial Subject

In the interest of seeing what happens I think Steve would like to have a lively discusion so I would like to know your thoughts on the upcoming election and why.

Another Year, Another Vacation....Over :(

Here I sit again, bumming that it went so fast, but also glad to get back to my home. The weather was awesome, hot...kids had fun on the beach. Trisha is fearless when it comes to trekking out in the ocean. I had to stop her several times from venturing too far. We made friends with the lifeguard (Lisa) the umbrella boy (Dixon) and a family from Jersey who owns a condo in the building where we stayed. The have 2 labs that love to play in the ocean. The kids had fun throwing their toy and watching them swim back in with it. We ate well: crabs, clams, lobster, steak...and spent most days just relaxing on the beach. The ocean temp was 85+ and mostly calm. We had some rip tide warnings due to Hurricane "B" (was it Bertha, cant remember) and tropical storm Cristabal. Thanks Tracy for the free passes to MayDay Golf, the kids always enjoy a good game of mini-golf (even though it was so stinkin' hot!)

Lighter side

One evening, a family brings their frail, elderly mother to a nursing home and leaves her, hoping she will be well cared for. The next morning, the nurses bathe her, feed her a tasty breakfast, and set her in a chair at a window overlooking a lovely flower garden.

She seems okay but after a while she slowly starts to lean over sideways in her chair. Two attentive nurses immediately rush up to catch her and straighten her up.

Again, she seems okay but after a while she starts to tilt to the other side. The nurses rush back and once more bring her back upright. This goes on all morning.

Later, the family arrives to see how the old woman is adjusting to her new home. "So Ma, how is it here? Are they treating you all right?" they ask.

"It's pretty nice," she replies. "Except they won't let you fart."

This weeks questions

1. What is the worst vacation you ever took?

2. If the statement, 'You are what you eat' was true, I would be a _______.

3. What is the most important thing in any relationship?

4. What do you believe is the greatest unsolved mystery of all?

5. Which of the seven dwarfs personifies you best – Dopey, Sneezy, Sleepy, Bashful, Grumpy, Happy, or Doc?

A Daughter's Note

My daughter wrote me this letter.

Dad

We have been through a lot these past months but we have managed our way through it. We will always be there for each other no matter what happens and what obstacle comes our way. We will fight through. A new year is on the way, which means a new beginning. I love you to infinity. No matter where we live will be much better than here. To start new colors, new designs, new thoughts, and open minds. You are half way through this rough journey, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Let God bless us in our lifetime as he has been. Again, I love you BUNCHES!. xoxoxo. All of our animals will be in our lives to make us laugh and to put a great big smile on our faces.

Love Ya Daddio

She has kept me strong!

...

86class.blogspot.com

What's going on in the Valley?

Coming back into town Wednesday to Saturday. Our new baby's baptism is on Sunday in Wilkes Barre. So what's going on? I know I'd like to get to the Blue Monkey and the Beef Baron at some point. Any other events?
Dave

The crazy things we do when we turn 40

My daughter does Taekwondo and has for around 18 months. She really enjoys it and she is now a blue belt, so she is only 3 grades away from black belt. She's been asking me for months to do Taekwondo with her, but I always said no. Well, last month I caved and started going to classes with her. I wasn't the only adult there (there are four of us) but we did look pretty silly in a sea of 7 year olds. I discovered I can't do a push-up.
Three weeks after I started training, my instructor - a lady called Kathy who was on the 1992 British Olympic Team and is the highest graded woman in Great Britain - informed me that I was ready for my first grading. I passed, skipped a grade, and went straight to a yellow belt! I am really, really enjoying Taekwondo and I can feel myself getting stronger. Plus, there's a benefit in kicking the hell out of something (or sometimes someone!) to de-stress.
Georgia also spars competitively (see picture). Last weekend she lost for the first time, to a girl who happens to be British Junior Champion, and on the drive home she told me that she was scared of sparring again. I told her that there are lots of reasons to stop doing stuff, but fear isn't one of them, and if she quit because she was scared she'd probably regret it later. So she said, "You do it then, Mum! You start sparring because I know you're scared!" She's right. The thought of standing in a ring with someone, in full protective pads, trying to kick them before they can kick me, scares the crap out of me. I spar in class - in fact last night I was learning how to do defensive kicks - but I really am scared to do it competitively. But I can't say to my kid "Don't quit just because you're scared," and then not face that fear myself.
So on my 40th birthday, I'm going to get in the ring for the first time. Kathy and I talked about it at last night's class, and she said she can find someone "around my age" (because I'm not going up against some 18 year old who can kick my butt) and of a similar weight and grading between now and October. I've asked John for a full set of protective pads - head, body, arms, shins, hands and feet - for my 40th birthday. He's relieved I'm not asking for jewellery again!

Plans for the Summer

Are you going on vacation or staycation? We're planning on doing some camping in the UK (if the weather ever gets better!) and a week in southern Spain (where the weather is great!).

Great Joke

The owner of a drug store walks in to find a guy leaning heavily against a wall. The owner asks the clerk, "What's with that guy over there by the wall?"

The clerk says, "Well, he came in here this morning to get something for his cough. I couldn't find the cough syrup, so I gave him an entire bottle of laxative."

The owner says, "You idiot! You can't treat a cough with laxatives!"

The clerk says, "Oh yeah? Look at him, he's afraid to cough!"

Art Update

I've had a few art-related developments.

My art is the subject of an article in today's Courier Post.

I have added my resume and artist statement to my website.

Here is the flyer for my upcoming Chelsea show.

Check out the Arcade

I created a retro-arcade at http://86classarcade.blogspot.com. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Summer Vacation

My daughter and I flew to Arizona for a week and visited with Andrea and her children. We had such a wonderful time, even though it was 114 degrees all week. We visited Sedona, Slide Rock, Canyon Lake and Raw Hide. It was a much needed get away for my daughter and me.

It was my daughter's first time flying ever. Everything went well.

We hope to go back when it is much cooler there to see more.

Class of '84 Trying to Organize

The class of 84 has contacted Matt and I through Tom Brobst as they are trying to get class things organized like we did. They are first going to start with a blog, but could use some overall help. Please let 84ers know about it. Duke Hartranft and Mike Anglestein seem to be heading this up. Their emails are:

michaelanglestein68@hotmail.com
mairndukenkdz@hotmail.com

The Biggest Loser

Okay, I realize this program finished long ago in the U.S., but it's just started airing here in the U.K. and I'm completely addicted. It's spurring me on to go to the gym a bit more often, and that can only be a good thing. Tonight was Week 10, where one of the brothers was eliminated. I've noticed that there's alot of man-crying on this show, and tonight was no exception. The way they were talking about this guy and crying over him, it was more like he was going to face a firing squad instead of going home to Boston. I have to admit, I don't really understand how to play the "game", I'm just interested in the weight loss. I do know how it turns out because I checked out the NBC website, but I'm still enjoying the show. By the way, Georgia does an exceptional impression of Roger, and his Alabama accent. "Pride on three, pride on three."

All Summer Long

My new favorite, feel good, take me out of a bad mood, make me wanna get up and dance, song of the summer! http://www.dizzler.com/music/Kid_Rock (it will take a couple seconds for videos to come up on the right, but then click on the all summer long video...you may have to click it twice. It may say unavailable, but it will play.) If you male bloggers are offended by the pretty girls, just close your eyes and listen to the music.

Race for Life

Georgia and I did the Doncaster 5K Race for Life this morning. Every year Cancer Research UK has this race going on all over the country. We are fortunate enough not to have been touched by cancer. All the participants wear a sign on their back saying why they run, and people wear pictures of loved ones. I did most of the race with tears in my eyes. We didn't run it, but we half walked/half ran (most people walk it). John handed Chris over the tape to me and he ran the last 50 feet with us to the finish line.

Update from SC

Apologies for being away, but got some new happenings here.

Samuel Anthony Paukovitz was born on 6-11, 20", 9 lbs 7 oz. Everyone is doing well and the kids love him. Baby bottles and yellow poop all over again.

I started a new business about 2 months ago. Read about Fibrenew here.

For you poker fans out there, you'll get a kick out of this. (with pic)

Hope everyone is doing well.

A Question

I was wondering, how did you meet your spouse (or significant other)?

I met John in a philosophy class in college in 1989.

8th Grade Farewell Dance

Well another chapter is about to come to an end for my daughter and her friends. They are finishing up their last week at W/C Middle School and off to the High School they will go in the Fall. They had their farewell dance on Saturday night and it was really great to see all the girls dressed up since most of them are usually seen in jeans. These pictures are of Jenna and her friends.

Bob the Builder - LIVE!!!

As you can see, we went the full monty on the Bob outfit, and we made Georgia go along just to torture her. The really sad thing is, we knew all the words to the songs.

More Wedding Photos

If you would like to see more wedding photos, you can go here to see what the professional photographer took.

New Issue

The new issue of the "Brown & White" is out. There is an article about Mr. Haines retiring if anyone is interested....
http://www.cattysd.org/web2/chsnew/Brown%20and%20White%20Archives/2007-08/08%20May%20Issue.pdf

Wedding

As promised, here are some pictures from my wedding day on Saturday. These are all from the cameras left on the tables at the reception. The reception was at a Middle Eastern restaurant.

My husband is John and he's in the tux. :-)

IRON PIGS

Has anyone been to the Iron Pigs yet? We went last friday. Rained the whole game.
Fireworks were cancelled and the Pigs lost. We did have a good time though. It is a very nice park. Hopefully next time we will be in the Diamond club or the Suite my work has. If you get a chance go and check out the park it is definetly a good thing for the Lehigh valley. They just need to start winning!!

New family member

I still miss Lou, but this past Saturday, the Freeman family welcomed a new family member. His name is Donovan, and he is an 8 week old French Bulldog. He is already spoiled and will remain being that way while he is with us.

The Ardèche

I just got back from seven days in the south of France. My Head of Year (kind of like Head of House - think Harry Potter) decided last year that he wanted to do an adventure trip and very kindly invited me along. We took 28 kids and 4 staff, and we stayed at an adventure centre which was staffed by some of the most amazing people I've ever met. They took us climbing, spelunking, mountain biking, and taught us archery and how to maneuver a high ropes course. It was so much fun! We also spent three days on the Ardeche river; one day kayaking, and then two days canoeing and camping for a night. Okay, pictures. The first is the Ardèche from the top of the gorge. It was some of the most breathtaking scenery I've ever seen. Picture two is Pont d'Arc, which is a natural rock formation. You can't see it in the picture but on the other side are some killer rapids which knocked me straight out of my kayak! Picture three is Rob, my Head of Year, climbing the cliff. There were three courses on the cliff, and he did all three of them (he climbs twice a week!). Some of the kids did all three too. I managed one. If we go next year, I'm going to try all three. The last picture is the full view of the rock face that we climbed. The whole experience was amazing, and I am so tired and so sore and covered in bruises and bumps and scrapes. My butt is still numb from the 22 hour bus ride.

Google Contest

Has anyone checked out the drawings from Google's contest? They had kids design some drawings based on a "What if..." and had thousands of entrants. They narrowed it down to 40 that you can vote for. Just go to google.com and click on "vote for the one" to see one. There are some pretty amazing young artists out there.

American Idol

I really didn't like last night's show.... I have found other shows much more exciting. I will just get to my critique:

David A: The boy can sing, but has the personality of a cockroach. He had the best song choices of the evening and he did pretty well.

Syesha: She also can sing, looks great (ever man I know loves her), and has a great personality. I feel she had some poor song choices last night, which I am afraid will cost her.

David C: This is probably the least that I have liked him to this point. Before last night, I would have bet money that he was the next American Idol. He needs to step up his performance if he wants to win.

My pick for the final two are David A and David C. I just don't think Syesha did well enough last night to make it. What do others think?

Cinco De Mayo

Personally, I don't celebrate Mexico's war wins, but I did enjoy a nice party at Lew's home in Egypt/Whitehall. I refrained from photography that night, but Kristen may have some photos.

The Walker's set it up nicely, even down to the fresh made guacamole. Classmates that attended. Kristen, Robb, Sands and even Tim Cunningham sighting!(Rusty/Rock missing from the fishing contest)
Other Catty people most of us know, Jeff Gerhard, Mick Firestone, Brian Deutsch, Karin Lathrop, Dave Troxell, that Brad Bloszinsky guy.

The Jello shots, in syringes,that Cathy Walker created, were a very big hit!
For anyone who has ever seen the brass ring game(on string), (need to loop it onto a wall hook), I did beat Kristen's but! ;)

For further gossip on this party, let Kristen post about it.

Another 40th!

Tomorrow is Carol Hahn's 40th Birthday. Welcome to the 40 Club and have a Happy, Happy Birthday!

Thought I would share pictures of my little pirate and princess from Disney. The last picture is of Brian standing for the first time at just 7 months. At this rate he will be walking in a week!

ONTELAUNEE CONTEST

This is the best picture I had of the Ontelaunee fishing contest. Ryan and I joined Rusty, his daughter Taylor,Rusty's dad Al, Rusty's brother Gregg and his son Garrett in the contest. Ryan must have rubbed a rabbits foot before he started fishing because the fish seemed to like his hook?? He ended up with a 15 1/4" 1 pounder. Along with about a dozen catches. Had a good time!

American Idol

Again, when I heard we were doing Neil Diamond I thought we were in for an awful show, but it wasn't too bad. Here is my recap:

Jason - not exciting, but I did like his performances
David C. - I did not like either one of his performances
Brooke - I hated her first performance but liked her second one
David A. - I did not like either one of his performances
Syesha - I liked her first performance and her second wasn't that bad

If I had to choose my top two based on performances last night, I would pick David A. and Brooke. However, I am sure the bottom two will be Brooke and Syesha with most likely Syesha going home. Have to wait and see.....

Get together....

I know this is going to sound strange, but I have been dreaming about all of you the last few nights. Last night, I dreamed that Vicki was visiting from England and Tracy came up from North Carolina so we all had a huge gathering at the Blue Monkey. I was on the phone trying to convince Prez that he HAD to come out while Lew, Robb, Kristen, MJ, and others were sitting near by. Maybe we need to have another reunion soon (even if it is a mini reunion) ... I don't know if I can wait until 2011!!

Look at the map at the bottom

I put a World Map of visitors on (I was bored on Sunday). I woke up this morning (Monday) and was blown away by some of the places people are that visited our blog. Wow is all I can say.
Here are the top 10 countries that have visited the blog. United States, Estonia, Argentina, Great Britain (UK), India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Malaysia, and Romania.

Picture Request

Here are the pictures that Mike requested. Like always we always have a good time. Yes Rusty did get a turkey and Lew sat and watched as usual! Here are some picks of my son Ryan and Mike's daughter Emily. This saturday I am doing a contest kids fishing contest with Rusty so I will try to post more pictures. I believe Tim Cunningham goes to this one also??

Opening day of Trout(second opening)

About 2 weeks ago, We've been doing it since 16yrs old. Had a blast as usual, camping outfrom Friday til Sunday with Rock,Sandsy,Lew,myself.

First year Robb ever missed, Rusty missed it also. Sandsy brought his son,Ian for first time with us. He had a great time. Once I get my new computer, I'll log some pictures on here.
Dug up some old photo books from about 99' fishing, Tim Cunningham was going with us also.
Both the Shanders usually go also, missed this year too.

Bushkill creek, by Fernwood(Poconos), with very few fisherman and we camp n a private property, large Bon Fires, alot of male-bonding and alot of trout!
I was just up yesterday overnight camping with my daughter Emily and Rock and his son Ryan.


They had a blast and we caught about 60 trout.(catch and released), But we did keep 2, 16 inch Brook trout(big for them). The state just re-stocked the stream. The Kids had fun at the fire, got abit wet, but was very relaxing and enjoyed watching them do their own things, discovering it all, and learning.
That was the most enjoyable part. Rumor has it, Rusty got his turkey hunting this weekend.
The stream is right in front of us, limited access, keeping the crowds to a minimum, and just a gorgeous view.
I just wish I could post some of the pics, maybe I can get Rock to do it. I'll save the old 99' pics as ransom insurance.

The most important thing all 3 children learned while being there.

"What goes on at the fishing camp, stays at the fishing camp!" :P

American Idol

Last night's show stank!!! I can't believe they did Broadway tunes......

Here is my recap of last night's show:
Syesha: Not bad, but then I'm not sure I liked it either.
Jason: Not sure he should have picked such a well known song. I have to say this was one of his worst performances.
Brooke: I can't believe she forgot the words!!! I would have to say this was one of her worst performances also.
David A: I still don't see why the judges praise him so much. I guess compared to the others so far he has done the best.
Carly: My favorite performance of the evening. I am glad to see she has been covering up that tattoo.
David C: I did not like this performance at all - although I am sure he will be there next week.

My pick for the bottom 3 is very difficult this week. I am going to say Syesha, Jason, and Brooke. I would have to pick Jason going home. He has always been one of my favorites so it was difficult to write this, but based on last night's performances he was the weakest. However, if you look at what has happened the last few weeks, then it would be Brooke or Syesha going home. Have to wait and see......

Who's here?

Post a comment to show you've been here. I am wondering who's been here (other than the usual bloggers).
So, go ahead and post a comment so we know who's blurking out there.

American Idol

I was suprised by the performances last night. When I heard they were doing "Mariah Carey", I thought we were in for an awful show. Here is my breakdown of the evening:

David Archuleta - I still can't stand his personality, but he can sing.
Carly Smithson - A decent performance, but it had a few issues
Syesha Mercado - I'm not sure I liked all the fluctuations in her voice, but a strong performance
Brooke White - I was disappointed by her performance
Kristy Lee Cook - I thought she was awful
David Cook - at first I didn't like it - changed it up too much for me, but listening to the playback at the end it wasn't too bad
Jason Catro - I really liked his version of the song. I'm glad to see he is coming back to the forefront.

My picks for the bottom three are: Carly Smithson, Brooke White, and Kristy Lee Cook. I think it is time for Kristy Lee Cook to go home. I have to say I have been suprised by the voters a few times so we will have to wait and see what happens tonight.......

From Michelle Rozelle

We are now into a new adventure of showing cattle. Attached is a
picture of my daughter (Vanessa) with her first show heifer
(Melissa) that we showed last year. They both did very well for our
first year out and really just learning all about showing. We are
in full swing for this years upcoming show season. We are in the
process of breaking 4 heifers, yes at my age out there with the 400
to 900 pound cows.

I have started working for the University of Tennessee, as a program
assistant for 4H, which has kept me busy for the past several
months. I enjoy working with the kids, especially the 4th graders as
it is all new to them.

Michelle Rozelle

Rough Rider Logo Change

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!! Click on the link below, and scroll down to page 2.

http://www.cattysd.org/web2/chsnew/Brown%20and%20White%20Archives/2007-08/08%20Mar%20Issue.pdf

Hmmmm?

Subject: Red Skelton, how did he know?
THIS MAY NOT BE ON LINE TOO LONG. SO SEND IT TO ALL AMERICANS
AND MAY GOD BLESS
This is so unbelievable. In 1969, how did he know?


Some of you may remember him. Red Skelton was a movie and TV star, and a good, and funny man. He also ended every show by saying, 'GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS.'
Click the link below and listen to this clip, to the very end. It is something he said 39 years ago.

Very important that you listen to the whole thing, to the very end! It's eerie!
Take a moment and listen to it (from 1969). How would he have known that this is what is happening?

Click on the link, and turn your sound on: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kfz2XDXaeqc

FOR THE FEW WHO DON'T KNOW: Red Skelton was a movie star and comedian on television back in the 1950s and 1960s. He created a number of characters, and his show was watched by millions..

More 40th Birthdays

Today 2 more of our fellow classmates turn 40. They are Frank Reightler and Deanna Layton. Happy Birthday and welcome to the 40 Club!

American Idol

Here is my breakdown on the show last night.....

Michael Johns - could take it or leave it
Syesha Mercado - I hate Fantasia and still do not see the judges fascination with her. I enjoyed her version of the song.
Jason Castro - Loved it, loved it, loved it. Nice to see he is singing again!!
Kristy Lee Cook - I have to say I really liked her singing last night.
David Cook - Worse performance I have ever seen him do. I agree with Simon - he is getting a little cocky. Hopefully this week he's in the bottom three and sees he needs to come out of the clouds.
Carly Smithson - I did not like this performance. Again, I agree with Simon - she appeared to be angry while she was suppose to be singing an inspirational song.
David Archuleta - He has a nice singing voice, but his non-singing persona is really starting to bug me. I didn't know the song and I really didn't like it.
Brooke White - I liked her performance. Not her best, but still good.

This is starting to get tough!!! My bottom three choices: Carly Smithson, Michael Johns, David Cook. My guess for going home would be Carly Smithson based on last night's performances.

Others?

Happy Birthday from Hoops and Yoyo

Hoops and Yoyo Birthday Song
Click above and listen to the song for Carol and Kristen on this wonderful day, their birthday. For the rest of us, it is Tuesday, but at least we know two people who count today. Also, they share their birthday with:
Julian Lennon - 45, Biz Markie - 44, Patricia Arquette - 40 (just like C and K), and Taran Noah Smith (Home Improvement ) - 24.

FFFUUUUUNNNNNYYYYY!!!!

This is good for a LOL

www.zippyvideos.com/1292362676604426/dui_test/

THE PEEPS ARE HERE!

But as you can see from the pictures, they didn't last long! We're saving the last pack for when Chris wakes up from his nap, because he's never tried a peep. The first pack went in about 2 seconds! MaryJo, you told me there weren't any Reese's Eggs! Cheeky monkey! Well, there aren't any now!
I don't know how to thank you guys. Honestly, it's so kind of you. *BIG HUGS*

American Idol

Well, it is that time of week!! Last night was pretty decent.

I loved Brooke White!!
David Cook was okay.
Carly Smithson I though did pretty well, but the judges didn't seem to think so.
David Archuleta sang pretty well - still not sure he is the top contender anymore.
Jason Castro did better, but his voice is starting to sound a little monotone to me.
Kristy Lee Cook did pretty well, however I thought the band was drowning her out.
Michael Johns I didn't care for.
Ramiele Malubay I didn't like.
Syesha Mercado did pretty well, but she should have picked a different song. All I could here in my head was Whitney's version and she did not compare.

With all that said, my bottom 3 choices are: Ramiele Malubay, Syesha Mercado, and Jason Castro. My choice for going home is Ramiele Malubay.

Others opinions?

Hadrian's Wall

Every year John and his friends (collectively known as The Groovy Gang) have a weekend away wreaking havoc in some European city. I don't mind him going, but I'd like it if he put as much effort into a weekend away with me as he does with his mates. I can't remember the last time we went somewhere just the two of us, and I mentioned this to him about 6 weeks ago. He asked me where I'd like to go. I said Italy.

So he booked us into a bed and breakfast on an organic farm in Northumberland National Park.

His reasons for this were really sensible. Lots of people go on vacation at Easter because the kids are off school for two weeks, so the price of flights and hotels goes up. Since we like hiking and being outdoors (and we all know my love of highland cows), an organic farm seemed like a good idea. It was.

We left on Thursday afternoon for Newcastle, to spend the night with John's niece and her boyfriend. We went out for drinks and a nice dinner, and on Friday morning, after dropping Leanne off in the city center for work, we set off for Bardon Mill and the farm. We visited this area of England only in passing many years ago on our way to a weekend in Edinburgh, long before we had kids, so it was like we'd never been there before.

I should have been a history teacher.

We spent most of our time walking along Hadrian's Wall. What an amazing piece of engineering. How did they do it? I was so impressed by it, that I'd stand and just look at it for long periods of time - well, I also stood still alot because I was stuck in either mud or sheep poop or both, or out of breath from climbing all the hills. When we weren't walking along the wall, we were visiting Roman forts built along it. We visited three which were closest to us - Vindolanda, Housesteads and Chesters. We also spent alot of time in the evenings at the Twice Brewed Inn, which had their own fabulous ale and the best sticky toffee pudding I have ever tasted.

If you've got 10 minutes of your life that you're not bothered about getting back, you can see the slideshow of our weekend - don't worry, it's clean except for some mud. There's also a video, which isn't so clean because I'm having a little rant and sharing my real feelings about (a) being stuck in sheep poop and (b) my husband videotaping it. So if the kids are around, turn the volume down.

If Anyone Can Get Away

My sister-in-law and I are going to the Blue Monkey....Common Bond (Shelia's brother's band) is playing tonight from 10-1....Now, I know I wont last til 1am, but an hour or 2 is better than nothing.

American Idol

The show was 'okay' last night. I find myself disagreeing with the judges - but isn't that normal. I really didn't like the version of 'Billy Jean' that David Cook did - but I have to admit the boy can sing. When I heard that Brooke White was going to sing a 'Police/Sting' song, I thought she had made a huge mistake - but I was quite suprised how it sounded. Carly Smithson has a great voice, but she needs to start picking better songs. David Archuleta has a great voice, but again, what is with the song choice? I didn't 'love' Michael Johns version of the Queen songs, however, he does sing pretty well. I don't think he will win unless he starts doing a little better, he needs to go back to how he sang in Hollywood.

My picks for the bottom 3 are: Chikezie, Jason Castro, and Ramiele Malubay. My pick for going home is Ramiele Malubay. I thought Kristy picked a very good song, and that will keep her out of the bottom 3 - but then again, maybe she will be in the bottom 3 and Jason won't be.

Let the debate begin!

How do you like your peeps:
1) Fresh or Stale?
2) Chicks or bunnies?
3) Pink, Yellow, Purple or Blue?
4) Have you ever committed "peepocide" in the microwave?
5) Only for Easter or at every holiday?

Peep Show

My favorite Easter candy is letting loose this holiday. What a great way to de-stress. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Portrait Party

I posted about The Portrait Party site a little while ago. I exchanged photographs with someone and we drew one another's portraits. Her portrait of me is great. You can see them here.

Ode to Louie

For thirteen years, I had to share my bed with him (and Trina). I don't remember what is is like to NOT have to clean up dog crap. He was always at the door when I got home. Always underfoot when I cooked, and always there to catch the food I dropped.
I shared my meals with him (he even ate off the same spoon when eating cereal), and always made extra for his future meals. I truly loved Louie and will miss him, but I am glad he no longer has to suffer the everyday problems that plagued him for nearly the past year or so. I am sure the meds weren't fun (even though he got them inside a Krimpet or vanilla pudding) for the last few months. I'm sure he did not like his heart failing him and allowing his lungs to fill with fluids.
I know he loved when I came home from shopping because that always meant he would get a treat or six. I know he loved the attention and companionship that he got from everyone in the house (though he lost his brother Chuckie a few summers ago). He loved to lick, he loved to sleep, and he loved to fart.
He was a "crusty old man" and I actually got teary eyed this morning as I looked at his spot in the bed and he was not there. He was loved and always gave unconditional love and though I will not miss wiping his butt or carrying him up and down the stairs, I will miss him.

I love Lou. . .

Do you have Faith?

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ee73e63418003b47d7d5



How many of us were forced to go to church as children? How many of us have strayed away from church? How many of us are forcing our children to go to church?



Growing up I never had a choice and went every Sunday. It was either church service or Sunday school. Summer time was for bible school. What did I get out of all of this? I stopped going all together in my late 20's and began questioning religion, faith, the bible, and God. From the time I had stopped going to church I had an empty feeling within me that words cannot explain to this day. It was almost like a dull stomach ache that just never went away (best way to describe it). I have tried filling that void with so many different hobbies and activities but it just never seemed to go away.



My Sunday morning bike rides with my buddies became my "church" if you want to call it that. We all pretty much had the same opinion about church and how being forced to go as children changed our outlook on church as adults.



Since my wife went back to college and has made many new friends in her classes, one particular friend and her boyfriend became really close to us. This young 20 year old woman carried a different kind of presence about her. I found it interesting to see how she was always so happy, filled with life, and not your typical 20 year old of today. She went to a smaller school than ours and was also a Christian School. We began to talk about church and how I felt it was a load of crap. After a few more talks I began to question my faith and how I really felt about church.



I began searching for a new church and the first one I tried was the same denomination that I grew up in. My daughter and I sat through a service and it was so boring. I promised her that I would not put her through what I went through. There had to be other churches out there where I can actually get something out of it. I asked some close friends and some family members about churches that they go to and one in particular began to stand out. So I went by myself to one service and it was nothing like I was accustomed to. It was odd but a good odd. I left there with a message that I could apply to my everyday life. That has never happened before. So I went back the following week with my daughter and she was surprised how much she really enjoyed it as much as I did. This journey began last fall for me and I have not missed one service since that time.



It is so different now because I have found a church that I really connect with and the message is clear every week and it applies to daily life. All the BS is taken out of the service and they teach right from the bible.



How many have read the bible in its entirety? I have not myself but have made it my goal to read it in a year. I began reading it January first and have not missed a day (some days I don't get to but make up for it the following day).



Oh, I almost forgot, that empty feeling (dull pain in the abdomen) is gone! In less then one month of going back to church that emptiness is no longer with me. I carried that emptiness for almost 13 years since I stopped going to church.



My daughter is really active in the youth group and looks forward to going to church each Sunday that she is with me. I see a difference in her as well.



Think what you want about this post. I just wanted to share with you some life changing events that has taken place in my life at age 40. The video is a reflection of what we are faced with everyday. Our children are faced with more battles and challenges than we ever were.

American Idol

I have to say some of the singers really impressed me last night. Chikezie and Carly Smithson blew me away with their songs, while I though Brooke White did a very nice rendition of "Let It Be".

I still can't believe the judges like Amanda Overmyer. I really feel that her voice is like nails on a chalkboard and I thought she was horrendous last night. I really couldn't understand the words she was singing. I thought this was also the first really bad performance from David Archuleta, but I am confident he will go to the next round.

My pick for going home tonight is David Hernandez or Kristy Lee Cook - although I really wish it was Amanda but I think she is going to be around a little while longer. She reminds me of Nikki from Season 1 who finished 3rd. David H. may stick around because of all the publicity, but hopefully not.

Have to wait and see tonight!!

AAADD

AAADD- KNOW THE SYMPTOMS

Thank goodness there's a name for this disorder.
Somehow I feel better, even though I have it!!

Recently, I was diagnosed with A.A.A.D.D. -
Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder.
This is how it manifests:

I decide to water my garden.

As I turn on the hose in the driveway,
I look over at my car and decide it needs washing.

As I start toward the garage,
I notice mail on the porch table that
I brought up from the mail box earlier.

I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.

I lay my car keys on the table,
put the junk mail in the garbage can under the table,
and notice that the can is full.

So, I decide to put the bills back
on the table and take out the garbage first.

But then I think,
since I'm going to be near the mailbox
when I take out the garbage any way,
I may as well pay the bills first.

I take my checkbook off the table,
and see that there is only one check left.

My extra checks are in my desk in the study,
so I go inside the house to my desk where
I find the can of Coke I'd been drinking.

I'm going to look for my checks,
but first I need to push the Coke aside
so that I don't accidentally knock it over.

The Coke is getting warm,
and I decide to put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold.

As I head toward the kitchen with the Coke,
a vase of flowers on the counter
catches my eye--they need water.

I put the Coke on the counter and
discover my reading glasses that
I've been searching for all morning.

I decide I better put them back on my desk,
but first I'm going to water the flowers.

I set the glasses back down on the counter,
fill a container with water and suddenly spot the TV remote.
Someone left it on the kitchen table.

I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV,
I'll be looking for the remote,
but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table,
so I decide to put it back in the den where it belongs,
but first I'll water the flowers.

I pour some water in the flowers,
but quite a bit of it spills on the floor.

So, I set the remote back on the table,
get some towels and wipe up the spill.

Then, I head down the hall trying to
remember what I was planning to do.

At the end of the day:

the car isn't washed

the bills aren't paid

there is a warm can of Coke sitting on the counter

the flowers don't have enough water,

there is still only 1 check in my checkbook,

I can't find the remote,

I can't find my glasses,

and I don't remember what I did with the car keys.

Then, when I try to figure out why nothing got done today,
I'm really baffled because I know I was busy all day long
and I'm really tired.

I realize this is a serious problem,
and I'll try to get some help for it,
but first I'll check my e-mail..........................

Another Blonde Joke

The other day, I was at my local garage having some work done. A blonde came in and ask for a seven-hundred-ten. We all looked at each other and another customer asked, "What is a seven-hundred-ten?"

She replied, "You know, that little piece in the middle of the engine. I have lost it, and I need a new one." She also said that she did not know what it was, but the piece had always been there.

The mechanic gave her a piece of paper and a pen and asked her to draw a picture of what the piece looked like. She drew a circle, and in the middle of it, wrote 710. He then took her over to another car that had its hood up and asked her, "is there a 710 on this car?"

She pointed, and said, "of course, it's right there!"

If you're not sure what a 710 looks like, copy & paste the below

http://www.hotautoweb.com/cogifs/710.jpg

Cool Website

There is this cool blog where people pair up, draw one another and then post their artwork. There are all different levels of ability. Check it out!

hey Kristen there is a Rick Springfield special on bio channel right now. I didn't even recognize him with all that facial hair.

American Idol - Women

I was not too impressed last night. I don't know why they pick songs that most people don't know. With all the great songs of the 80's, I just don't get it.

I do not like the the same contestants that the judges do. I can't stand Amanda Overmyer - rocker nurse, but they seem to like her. I really don't like Carly Smithson - tattoo lady - either. Can you believe what Brooke White did to the Pat Benator song? Yuck!! The only girl that really impressed me was Syesha Mercado. She sounded pretty close to Whitney.

My votes for going home tonight are Kade Malloy and Amanda Overmyer.

What do others think about the women?

American Idol - Men

What did everyone think about last night's show?

I really like Jason Castro - man with the dreadlocks. I also liked the rocker dude - Michael Johns - but I'm still not sure if I really like his voice or not.

My picks for going home this week are: Luke Menard and Danny Noriega. I really liked Danny in the auditions but he is acting way too "faggy" and cocky for me.

Hey Sonya...

Where are your American Idol posts for this week?

Not only am I addicted to the show once again this year(and I swore I wouldn't get sucked in again), I now have to know what everyone else thinks each week!

Don't tell me you stopped watching!

OMG

Anyone see Oprah today? (Ladies) Rick Springfield is still hot!! Even better, I think! I've been watching General Hospital since I was like 10, when MaryJo & I used to run home from school and leave the pool in order to get home to watch it at 3:00. I remember seeing him on those episodes of the Hulk & Wonder Woman. And I remember seeing his movie, Hard to Hold. Anyone else see that? It was really a bomb, but I didn't care, Rick Springfield was in it! Lucas was in awe because I sang all the words to Jessie's Girl and then he just rolled his eyes! Woo, time to get my head back into homework & dinner. Maybe Brad will get lucky tonight!

check this out

another Paula flub that i found funny....as i was going to check out QVC's line up for today, i found some youtube vids....on a side not, the host is from Catty, one of the "James" girls from (i believe) 2nd st. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxZq76N1GKY&NR=1

The Safety Dance

Do you remember that song?

A senior (who I no longer teach because he didn't take Spanish as an elective - he should have, but that's beside the point!) came into my classroom the other day and asked me if I knew The Safety Dance. I said I remembered it and he said, "Cool song. I've got it on my phone. You want it?" Huh? The Safety Dance? Cool in 2008? So I said yeah, I did want it and he sent it to my phone. I've been bopping around the kitchen this morning while I do laundry and clean up.

So then yesterday during 12th grade Spanish, my students were working on the written portion of their final exam. When we do written work I always let them listen to their i-pods and I could hear, faintly, Duran Duran. Bizarre.

Are the 80's cool again? What are teenagers in the U.S. listening to?

American Idol - Girls Show

I was more impressed with the girls. Again, the show was a little boring, but I see some hope for the future.

I do not like the rocker nurse and I don't understand what they see in her. I'm not that impressed with the tattoo girl either, but they were "blown" away with her. Sometimes I wonder if I am watching the same show they are.

On a side note - was anyone else disappointed when they cut the nerdy kid the week before? I can't believe they picked the kid from Staunton, VA over him. I was glad to see Simon was upset about that decision.

What do others think?

Nine words women use (and men need to remember). . .

This was sent to me by a female coworker - Guess I'm in trouble - AGAIN!

1.) Fine: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

2.) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

3.) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.

4.) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

5.) Loud Sigh: This is actually not a word, but it is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to #3 for the meaning of nothing.)

6.) That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a woman can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

7.) Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or Faint. Just say "You're welcome".

8.) Whatever: Is a women's way of saying F@!K YOU!

9.) Don't worry about it, I got it: Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking 'What's wrong?' For the woman's response refer to #3. Then RUN!

Guys, these are WORDS to LIVE (or DIE) by!

American Idol

I was a bit disappointed with last night's performances.

I would have to say that the 17 year old can sing and I really enjoyed the dude with the dreadlocks. The 18 year old - Daniel - bummed me out with his Elvis song.

What do others think about last night's show?

My Website

I am pleased to announce that my website is now online.

Please e-mail me (donna at embryonicthought dot com) with comments and suggestions. Since this is my first website, I am especially interested in hearing from the tech people on this blog.

Thanks!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Anyone have any Valentine's Day traditions they would like to share? I don't really, but since the kids came along, I try to do something a little special. I know we don't need a specific day of the year to express our love, but sometimes life gets crazy and we need to be reminded a little bit. A couple years in a row, I made special heart shaped meat loaves. The first year it was cute. The 2nd year it was cute. The 3rd year it was old. Jake asked today, in his 13 year old, should've been a whiny girl voice, "Are you making those heart shaped meat loaves again?" And when I said no, he said good! Lucas came home and with great anticipation said, "Did you make those heart shaped meat loaves?" And when I said no, he said..."aaawww" So one boy was happy, one boy was disappointed, and Trisha doesn't care about the meat loaves, she just wants more chocolate! One thing they do love, that is not just a Valentine's Day goody, but a whatever the special day is goody, is Chocolate Cream Pie. So I whipped one up today and topped it with red & pink heart candies. I am now going to take Jake to his girlfriends house and look forward to coming home for a quiet night of Survivor and Lost! It will be especially relaxing because I will not have any "in need of a sub" calls coming in, since there is no school tomorrow! Woo-hoo! Here's hoping everyone is loved tonight!!

Is it the weather?

It's been quiet around here again, and The Morning Call online tells me old man winter is beating down on the East Coast. Today the paper says "flooding!" I worry about my mother in weather like this. I know my brother will drop in and make sure she's okay, but still, I worry. What about you guys? Everyone okay? Or is it just that you're too busy sandbagging to blog?

Catty Gangland?

I read an article in the Morning Call online that really makes me wonder what's happening in Catty. If you still live there - or nearby - thoughts? Is it still the nice little town we grew up in, or is it (as we say here in Yorkshire) as rough as a badger's arse?

Okay, I have to vent somewhere...I have been dealing with a sick husband since last evening....He has the flu and you would think he was dying...He rarely gets sick, thank God...He is the WORST patient....complains constantly, doesn't like to swallow pills, needs constant pillow adjustments, fresh water every half hour and at the same time I am taking care of three kids ages five, three and 4 months....And I think my husband is worse than the other three put together....I gave him some meds to knock him out this morning and left the house for four hours with the younger two just to get some peace....Being a nurse you would think I would have patience for this, but he is driving me crazy....I guess that I lost my bedside manner working in the OR for fourteen years.....Its much easier when the patient is out cold....

National Treasure Book of Secrets

Well, this movie FINALLY opened over here! Saw it today and really liked it, but I have a nitpick. Sorry, but I'm really anal about films being accurate. Nicholas Cage and his crew visit Buckingham Palace in April. We know it's April because it says so on the screen at the start of the film. Buckingham Palace is only open to visitors in August, when the Queen is away in Scotland. Nicholas Cage even said it in the film when they were trying to break into the Queen's study.

Nick's Girlfriend: "What if the Queen is in there?"
Nick: "She won't be. The Royal Standard isn't flying, so she's at Windsor."

Well, she might be at Windsor, Nick (which, by the way, ISN'T in Scotland!), but you still wouldn't be visiting in April. I know, I know. It's only a movie.

Stupid Hollywood.

Some Dr. Phil Advice

I am passing this along to all of you because it works, and we could all use a little calmness in our lives. By following some simple advise heard on the Dr. Phil show, you too can find inner peace. Dr. Phil proclaimed, "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all of the things that you have started and have never finished."

So I looked around my house to find all of the things that I started and had never finished and after getting the kids out of the house this morning, I finished off a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of White Zinfandel, a bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream, a bottle of Kahlua, a package of Oreos, the remainder of an old Prozac prescription, the last of the cheesecake, some Doritos and a box of chocolates.

You have no idea how freakin good I feel right now.

Berman explodes

Have you seen this? It is priceless. It reminds me of when I ask students to get out their homework or to get quiet at the beginning of class (Oh, I wish I could some days).
Warning, he does tell it like it is!

Ding Dong - The Pats are Dead!!!

I have been waiting for someone else to post first - but I can't wait any longer.

I am so happy that the Patriots lost yesterday. I was so sick and tired about hearing about them being the "greatest team ever". They only did well because the rest of the league sucked so badly. I was suprised by how low scoring the game was. The Giants played great defense and shut the Pats up for good!!!

On a side note, I was very disappointed in this year's commercials. Did anyone see any they really liked?