I "C" SILLY PEOPLE

IRRITATING CRAP MY HUSBAND (the GOO man) DOES Or the lengths GOO will go to win a game …a working title ….

2012-01-29T19:57:00.007-05:00

Last night turned into an unplanned “Family Game Night”. Youngest stayed in because her car had a flat tire. Ironically, the second one within our family inside a week ….. our mechanic guy now loves us ….. ALSO FODDER FOR A FUTURE GOO TALE!!! SO, there we are in front of the fire, figuring out what game we should all play. Youngest goes to the game closet and picks out “SCRABBLE”. Her and I are on board with: “OMG, have not played that in years!!” GOO grumbles. WHY? GOO is best at competition and can beat any of us in a game of chance, coordination or athletic ability but, when it comes to the thinking games he realizes I’m supreme. He refuses to play me a game of Trivial Pursuit even though I have about four versions of the game with a ½” of dust cover in same game closet.

As we all know “SCRABBLE”, is a game where smarts can win out … however not when you have FIVE ‘A’s on your easel. The momentum swung back to chance and was all GOO’s. Even with that my GOO still traveled on a low road of self-produced “words” and real word challenges.

With me now down to FOUR ‘A’s he challenged my “SAX”. Even though I knew it would be in the dictionary I changed it to “SEX”. Still had to keep FOUR ‘A’s though.
When he put down “JAX” on a double word score, I looked at daughter to back me up on a challenge … she wasn’t sure and we let it go.
When “KRUD” hit the board on a triple word score daughter and knew we needed the dictionary on hand. Sorry GOO …. it was a no go. Then he tried “GRON” same spot …. Bizzzzzzzzzz …. strike TWO …. guess who had the ‘A’ he needed.
He then challenged my triple letter “TRODE” … maybe next time GOO I still have 3 ‘A’s.
Next GOO turn: “XXXXX”, (daughter and I forgot and GOO won’t Tell us) …. Get it off the board we said.
He then challenged another word of mine … sorry GOOO and then my 2 word build-off of “LAVA” into “LAVAS”. Daughter could not back me up on the plural. FYI - it is a word!!!!
GOO tries to strike back with a 2 word build-off of his own with “DR” in the mix. Seriously, did he think we were asleep by then.

In the end, FIVE “A”s and a “JAX” finished my superior reign as queen of the “SCRABBLE” board. Wait till next time GOO ….. I’m getting that 20lb dictionary out of the bookcase first.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERNEST BORGNINE

2012-01-24T20:32:00.012-05:00

Today he is 95 ……. 95!!!! .....still working and still appears to have all his faculties. Quick facts:

Ø Best Actor Academy Winner for Marty in 1955 …. and you thought his claim to fame was a voice on SpongeBob SquarePants

Ø Was married to Ethel Merman for 32 days

Ø He is presently married for almost 40 years to his present wife TOVA … of QVC beauty products fame

Ø Was actually IN the Navy for 10 years … that's why he looked so comfy in "McHale’s Navy" uniform

Ø Auditioned for the role of Vito Corleone .... I could see it!!!

Ø Was the very first “center” square on the premiere of Hollywood Squares

His stout stature only proves he has the key to a long vibrant life …. Bye bye diet Gods ... I no longer have to aspire to be a size 2 to get there with him!

THE HOUSE THAT JOEPA BUILT

2012-01-22T16:58:00.008-05:00

Whatever the circumstances JoePa left PENN STATE in …. Did he do enough or didn’t he?? …. won’t be questioned by his supporters any more. I only hope that the evil disturbing man that initiated JoePa's untimely departure will get his in TENFOLD.

My ex-Bro-in-law is a PENN STATE alumnus who buys PENN STATE football season tickets every year and pretty much spends most of the game partying in the parking space he “donated” $5,000 for, right up against Beaver Stadium ….. PENN STATE’s football stadium by the way! He gave me his ticket to me once and my sister and I went inside to watch the football game. I'm not really a big fan of college football. I only went in for one reason: Just so I could say I saw Joe Paterno coach a game. Who knew how much longer Joe Paterno … who was 77 at the time … would be coaching afterall?

When we got to the “seats” ….. actually they are bleachers with painted lines denoting how much space you are allotted ….. I could not help but take in how immense Beaver Stadium is ….. give me a break I’m a civil engineer … I build things … I could care less about football game remember?? .... It was the structure that caught my eye. I had to ask someone … probably not my BIL. He had been in the parking lot too long by then & actually I think it was Sis … to find out it held about 100,000 people. Okay not the biggest ... the 2nd ... but 100,000 PEOPLE AT A COLLEGE GAME???? .... the entire population of State College PA is only 42,000+ .... As soon as the query popped in my head I knew what the answer was. Most were there for the same reason I walked in to that stadium. Beaver Stadium was built in the ‘60’s for 46,000+. Joe Paterno started coaching 1966. They have been making additions ever since. Will PENN STATE fans still fill it now that the major attraction is gone?

I’m should say I'm a PITT grad ..... now you understand my surprise to see 100,000 at a football game! .... Not so long ago the PITT vs. PENN STATE was one of the greatest football rivalries of all time. PITT football has always envied one thing PENN STATE had and now its gone. And most likely will never be seen again.

DOES ANYONE EVEN CARE ANY MORE?

2012-01-16T09:15:00.008-05:00

There is a new MISS AMERICA ...... so what you say? .... Can you even name her or the woman behind her??? ... assuming its last year's Miss A ... I can't either. I remember when watching this was a big deal and just about everyone with a TV set tuned in to root for their home State " delegate". I was surprised to learn a few years ago its not in Atlantic City anymore .... from 1921 till 2005 ... or even on the weekend after LABOR DAY .... originally the pageant was a ploy to keep AC beach goers around for a few extra weeks .... the tradition is lost ..... Bert Parks and all.

This was early reality TV .... now if they would add some cat fights it would be as popular as JERSEY SHORE ... HELL .... its was the Jersey Shore of the 60's after all !!!!!!

HO HUM ..... Maybe its time to make this truly a "scholarship" .... $50,0000??? sign ME up! ..... program and have them all write a nice essay!

IRRITAGING CRAP MY HUSBAND DOES ……. Or THE ways NOT to use to sway your wife into watching the same TV Shows ...a working title

2012-01-14T11:39:00.008-05:00

My husband …. the God Of Organization … GOO for short … has an obsession with a newer hit TV show called “The Walking Dead” ….. AND he wants me to watch it too!! He keeps trying to give me the low down on the episodes. I don’t need to hear about the “BARN” OR how the “Walking Dead” surrounded some “heroes” into a corner and now they are flesh eating zombies OR how people do desperate things to survive: a.k.a., the episode where 2 “heroes” running away from a pack of Walking Dead and one “hero” shoots the other “hero” in the leg so he can get away …. WTF???? I don’t want that vision in my head! This show sounds suspiciously like “Night of the Living Dead” only in soap opera form. I’ve seen “Night of the Living Dead” once .... and never again ... in my life …. mostly from behind a pillow …. even then I caught a glimpse of a ghoul eating someone’s intestines ….. how sick is that???? …. I still have that vision in my head from 30 years ago!

Other than the classics, I cannot do the modern horror “entertainment” concept. “The Walking Dead” is the NO. 1 show on cable. Obviously, there is a good part of the populous that enjoys this entertainment. I cannot join them. Too much suspense?? Blood and gore?? …. putting myself in the actors place and imagine myself in that situation for real ?? Some kind of mystical power being hunting me down for supper???? … and if you finally kill the thing that is trying to eat you ….. IT COMES BACK …. AAAAAAAAAAAAAA …… if not at the end of the movie then in parts II, III, IV, V, VI VII …… it never dies … there is no hope …. I must have hope at the end!!!

GOO doesn’t get it … he thinks I also forgot how he tricked me twice into going to see the movies “Poltergeist” & “Creep Show” when we were dating ….. never again … I’m on to him !!!!!

NOW it is time to take down the Christmas decorations!

2012-01-07T15:11:00.004-05:00

One of my holiday pet peeves … there are many! I’m only tackling this one … are people who rip down their Christmas holiday decorations the DAY AFTER Christmas. What is wrong with these people?

I have TWO things to preach here: FIRST, do these dim-wits even realize the “holiday” is NOT over? Apparently, not. Christmas has little to do with Christian religion as they may think but, more with ancient mysticism of incorporating a spiritual connection to nature and (wo)man. Hmmmmm…. sound familiar? ….. That’s right …. Christmas season actually follows the Pagan tradition of celebrating the winter solstice …. Man’s respect to the forces of nature. How did they become connected? FACT: ….. no one knows when Christ was actually born. There are however writings/ claims that it was a winter month. So, in the early organization of the Roman Catholic Church they adopted many of the established pagan celebrations to “fit” the established traditions of those they were trying convert.

The term “Yuletide” is actually a winter solstice festival that could last up to 2 months in some earlier Germanic Pagan cultures. Perhaps it was from this those early Christian leaders … who apparently had problems coming up with their own holidays …. invoked the celebration of the "Twelve days of Christmas", ...... FIIIIIIIVE GOLDEN RIIIINGS ..... which end on the “12th Night” ….. a celebration immortalized in Shakespeare ….. which ends coincidentally on the Christian feast day of the Epiphany. "12th Night" was actually the high celebratory night of the season in English tradition and became instilled into the early Colonial American culture. Somehow it has been lost through the stirring of the melting pot and we are down to only getting December 25th off from work.

So, if you missed it, yesterday was 12th Night/Epiphany. The holiday is now officially over. If you’re a Germanic Pagan however you have a few more weeks …… doesn’t explain the icicle lights in May though!

My SECOND point, it took me 3 weeks to put it all up all these decorations I have all over my house. For crikees sake, I would like to look at and enjoy my handiwork for a while!

2012 - A YEAR FOR REVIVAL

2012-01-02T22:19:00.007-05:00

Ahhhhh ...... I plan to blog again ...... I had a semi-depressing year. My mom died but do not take mention of that for seeking sympathy. People die, parents die, friends die .... I pride myself on being the realist and being the strong reliable one.

I think what I have discovered over the last year is that my family (a.k.a., brothers, sister, father) are bad at the realities of life ... or maybe they are better at it than me ... hmmmmmm... CONFUSED?!?!?!? SO am I! My father only wants to talk about how much he misses my Mom. I'm the only one he has to talk about that though. The rest of my brothers and sister are no where to be found. They barely talk to Dad and rely on me (because I live the closest .... one of sibs said this to me) to see to his physiological needs. More later I'm sure .............
My career has been going pretty well .... almost afraid to say that since my last jobs ended in layoffs .... such is the way of construction.

My New Year's resolutions:

Lose weight ... duh ... of course !
Exercise more ... see sarcastic comment above
Be the better Person .... if you only knew the opposite my mom taught me ...... she was a "Sashide" girl after all!
Give it to my sis and bros in such a manipulative way they do not know they were insulted until after I hung up ... if I can get them on the phone however .... sigh!

A DYING HISTORY

2010-10-17T08:48:00.005-04:00

I LUV the FALL!!!! Hubs and I have been taking scenic drives the last 2 weekends looking for pumpkin patches, picturesque landscapes and non-strenuous activities. SO, far we have been to 3 pumpkin patches and 2 battlefields …. Bushy Run and Fort Ligonier …… catching up on history. Which brings me to the fact that I … nor HUBS for that matter … ever heard of either of the battles fought here in school …… scratching head …… Moreover, I noticed not very many people were visiting these historic sites like they used too. Could this be because the years between the pilgrims landing and the Revolutionary War are glazed over in our classrooms? I know in my history classes, other than mere mention of the French and Indian War and Pontiac’s War, the focus of elementary school American history appeared to be on the coastal cities of the east.

Take for example Fort Ligonier. When I was young kid I remember visiting this place at least twice ... I've been there 3-4 times as an adult .... but never put much importance in it since my history classes were void of mention. Both times ….. it had to be the late ‘60’s early 70’s ….. this place was packed with adults and loads of other kids. Not yesterday. Apparently, the disassociation of it continues in schools.

It’s sad really because of the importance both of these sites had on shaping the city I grew up in as well as the colonization of mid-western America.

Visit these sites AND CATCH UP! Hey, its where George Washington got his start! FYI - He crossed the Monongahela 21 years before he crossed the Delaware ………………………….
French and Indian War, Pontiac's War, Bushy Run Battlefield, Fort Ligonier

THE BIG BASHES

2010-10-17T08:12:00.003-04:00

Catching up on all the birthdays/events this month …… Happy Birthday to Daddy …77 …. HUBS …. 51 …. Daughter …. 22 … Baby Brother ….. 43 ….. “Scott” Nephew …. 30(?) …. “Craig” Nephew …. 19 ….. “Lewis” Nephew … 14 …. “Carson” Nephew …. 9 and Happy 28th Anniversary to my Friends V & J …. Did I miss anyone??????

I'm YOU ??????

2010-10-05T20:17:00.003-04:00

I saw snippets of Christine O'Donnell's new "campaign" ad where she says, "I'm not a witch, I'm you ...... shiver ... NO ... you are not me! ..... you're weird and creepy. I don't know much about Ms. O'Donnell but, I CAN tell she likes to mug for the cameras. Look Christine, let's get something straight I like my lying politicians to look me straight in face and try to act sincere, not all pouty and bobbling their head around like a flirty little teenager. Geeze ... she reminds me of Bristol Palin!!!

MY BAD ...........

2010-09-29T18:37:00.006-04:00

I can’t believe it's almost been a month since I wrote something !!! Got a little side tracked.

Let’s see I went to New Jersey to see my brother’s new baby …… T-bird (my younger brother nickname) jr is above. Oldest daughter and my mom came and we hung around Cape May a bunch. Hit the beach, shopped, took my mummy to the lighthouse for a photo opp …. Mummy loves lighthouses ……, bought fudge, lunched and of course went on a ghost walk!!! Eeeah, it was okay. That’s alright, because a few of my Ghost shows premiered this past month too so, I get my Ghost “fix”. I’ll review the first and second week of “Ghost Advntures” in the next few days ….. I PROMISE!

ANOTHER REASON TO HATE (and not shop at) WALMART !!!

2010-09-01T19:56:00.007-04:00

THE GREED OF THIS COMPANY IS UNMEASURABLE!

Today, I was searching some information on my car accident and insurance paying for hospital bills and I came across this story about a little practice of “Balance Billing”:

“One of the more unsettling cases happened in 2007, when Walmart successfully sued an insured employee whose car was hit by a semi-truck, leaving her with brain damage and permanently in a wheelchair. According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, the woman received a settlement of $417,000, after attorney fees and expenses, which her husband planned to use for her care. But when Walmart sued for recovery of $470,000 it had made in medical payments, a judge ruled for the retailer.
Walmart's health insurance coverage, like many companies, allows the company to recoup the medical expenses it paid if the person receives a settlement in an injury suit. The judge agreed, and the woman and her family lost its settlement.”

The story appeared in major media (click: CNN ) AND I somehow missed this story .... talk about silly and dim as a nightlight ....... as the decision to side with WALMART went all the way to the Supreme Court and greedy, greedy, a scourge on our American society, greedy Walmart won each an every time ....... who is running this company???? I'm not religious but if there is an evil Satan anywhere he has to be the CEO of Walmart.

By the way Walmart made 90 BILLION the year before! 90 BILLION !!!

CAN YOU GUESS WHICH ONE IS ME?

2010-08-26T20:07:00.010-04:00

I saw this story today about the FBI reopening a case on a little missing girl named Beth Gill. I looked at the picture of the little girl at 2 years old before she went missing and thought "huh ... that almost looks ......... like ................. me." NO, NO .... its NOT me folks and the years do not match but, my heart stopped for a minute though. The one on the right is me at 2 years old and the one on the left is Beth who the FBI now believes is a victim of a kidnapping.

It gives added thought to the saying 'but for the grace of God it could have been ......'

I remember when I was kid all the many, many little girls gone missing in the '60's. This was before the exposure of pedophiles, high tech-CSI, and the numerous security cameras around. Seeing the return of missing children of late, lets hope Beth finally comes home!

IRRITATING CRAP MY HUSBAND DOES with my stuff ...the working title..

2010-08-25T18:42:00.006-04:00

The God of Organization (or G.O.O.) drives me up a wall every pay day. We … unlike many married couples I am surprised to find ….. do NOT share a checking account. We each have our own in which our respected pay checks are directly deposited to. We do share the household expenses. He pays his assigned bills, I pay mine. There are some “unexpected” expenses he takes care of and he puts the money in the savings account so, I pitch in a little cash on pay day. AND I MEAN PAY DAY! I think he believes if he does get it out of me fast he won’t see it at all ……. Geeze, you would think I was going on a trip without him …hmmm …..well I guess he does know me!

If I don't run to the bank and withdraw the cash for him to hold on to, he badgers me and then I have to tell him to STFU till I do. His answer to this martial strife: give him my bank card and he’ll take it out. SO, he has taken the liberty of removing my debit card and “helping himself”. The last 2 pay days he did just that but, guess what he forgot? TO PUT IT BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I pay everything with my debit card …. I mean EVERYTHING! So for two weekends I have been standing at a check-out in a ditsy blonde, heart thumping, pressure rising, emptying my purse on register counter panic. Last Saturday I drove home to get my debit card sitting on the entertainment center while my groceries were de-thawing in a closed grocery aisle …. Why was the card there? ….. Oh it was so I could take the card and check my check register …… this is when I “gently” .... as in gentle as a riled tiger .... explained that is what the little white slip under the card was for …. Let me introduce you G.O.O. its called the receipt!!!!!!! My card is in another place in my purse.

I'm NOT one of the "People of Walmart"

2010-08-18T18:25:00.015-04:00

That's right ...... NO MATTER WHAT YOU HAVE HEARD, do not look for me on that web site you will not catch a glimpse of me!
I WON'T, DON'T, CAN'T, SHOULDN'T, WOULDN'T shop at Walmart. As a matter of fact, Walmart could close down and I would not miss them. They came to my area about ten + years ago and the first time I went in .... Christmas season no less ..... I could not wait to get the hell out! Since my harrowing experience that one Christmas season in the late '90's, I could probably count on one hand ... okay maybe a few fingers on the other hand too ...... the times I've been in a Walmart. My apology to those that shop there on a regular basis ..... but I never felt so high class flutin' in all my life. I know, I know .... BEEEOTCH! .... I gladly accept the diva crown and title.

MORE REASONS I DISLIKE WALMART ..........
By the early 2000's I was in an engineering school ethics class .... yes we engineers have ethics .... part of the class was a mid-term paper on an chosen ethical subject within the construction industry. I chose commercial and residential urbanism fleeing to the suburbs ..... I was channeling my influence from a Harvey Milk speech, I know, I know.... In my web searches for fault w/ structural designers stripping away virgin forests while brown sites vacated by former industries sat empty and forlorn in cityscapes ..... I'm getting off my soap box now ...... information of another recently exposed wastefulness in the construction industry caught my eye termed: "disposable architecture". The term was derived by the building practices of Walmart. Walmart may have not invented "disposable architecture" but they sure perfected it. In case you are unaware of the term, disposable architecture refers to the commercial practice of building structures to last roughly 20 years. 20 years is when the life cycle of significant ... i.e., expensive.... building components need replaced. Instead of replacing them Walmart tears down the whole building, throws it in a landfill and constructs another usually close by. Have you noticed the incomplete nature of the warehouse edifice of your local Walmart? Little drywall and paint, no completed ceilings, inexpensive flooring, exposed steel framing, electrical wiring, ducts, and pipes, and when was the last time your local store remodeled the public restroom? Probably never and they don’t plan on it either because the toilet warranty has long expired and using yellow caution tape over the door of a stall is much more cost effective. Of course other Brands now subscribe to this practice too since it works so well for Walmart.

Of course ... warning .. hopping back on the soap box.... the long laundry list of Walmart atrocities that happens behind those cheap doors in that disposable building is probably more shocking to the general public: Low wages, preventing full time w/benefits putting a strain on public welfare healthcare system, contriving on how to close small local businesses, sexual and racial discrimination, child labor violations, uses of known foreign sweatshops ..... THE LIST GOES ON ..... all of it to provide cheap products while maximizing profits. WHAT OTHER COMPANY CAN YOU NAME THAT HAS MADE SIX PEOPLE BILLIONAIRES AT THE SAME TIME? Which brings us to the Bill Gates billionaires pledge .... yes I know it took me a long time to get to this point. There was much background to my dislike .... not one of these six billionaires have signed it. Think about it: Half of 22 billion (Christy Walton's est. fortune) is 11 billion .... she would still have 11 BILLION !!!!!!!

No ... Christy I know I'm done with Walmart .... gee I still hope you can still buy that next non-essential thing.

BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO JOHN CAZALE

2010-08-12T21:12:00.005-04:00

Now, if you have to ask WHO? ... then you are giving away the fact you are not much of a 1970's classic movie buff ... and you will not be on MY "Phone a Friend" list ...... Look at the face you know you know it.

John Cazale co-starred in five feature films in his movie career: “The Godfather”, “The Godfather II”, “Dog Day Afternoon”, “The Conversation”, and “The Deer Hunter” …... actually 6 if you count the footage used of him in "The Godfather III" …. all best picture Oscar nominees. Often cast as pathetic, paranoid, feeble character he was praised for being known to entice audiences into believing him as a pitiful loser in the depth of instability beyond his control. One of his best friends … since they were teenagers …. was Al Pacino who described him: "When I first saw John, I instantly thought he was so interesting, everybody was always around him because he had a very congenial way of expressing himself." Though …. in my opinion …. not the most handsome of '70's film stars, in person his attractiveness was known to be in his kind, caring and gentle manner not shown in his movies.

At the age of 42, the height of his illustrious short-lived movie career, engaged to a then relatively unknown young Hollywood beauty and "Deer Hunter" costar Meryl Streep, he was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer. He died before the film was released in 1978 with Streep by his side. The roles he could have created .... and we will never see.

"P.A. CUPCAKES" ... OR you won't see this on TLC!

2010-08-01T07:48:00.009-04:00

I read on YAHoO! a few days ago that the cupcake fad is waning. About time! I never got this fad. Cupcakes are just little cake. WHO WANTS little CAKE? I mean, I consider myself a cake connoisseur. Cake is MY dessert of choice. Not really cookies, pies, ice cream or even … yes get ready to feel the earth shake …. Cheesecake. Oh, don’t get me wrong I’ll eat all that stuff but, I’m really hoping for a 2 inch slice of 4 layer cake with an inch of icing on top.

Yesterday, I went to two picnics and I thought what could I make. You guessed it ….. if the fad is hitting the skids I’ll make sure it goes out with a bang! Now to start I couldn’t just buy 1 box of cake mix. I bought 3 PLUS 8 container of icing …. Yes 8! That is NOT a typo. I found out early that a can of icing only covers 10 cupcakes iced gourmet style …... a bag of toffee pieces, instant coffee packs, colored sugar, confectioners sugar, cream cheese, chili laced chocolate bar, gourmet chili pepper, mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, food coloring, peanut butter, raspberry fruit preserves, and flavoring extracts. I mean isn’t the many varieties you can create part of the craze? So, between two days, and 10 hours …. including the shopping for the ingredients …. I created:

Red Velvet & Cream Cheese

Chocolate & Chocolate

Espresso & Toffee

Vanilla & Peanut Butter

Vanilla & Orange

Sunset Red Velvet & Orange

Vanilla & Chocolate

Almond & Raspberry

South American Hot Chocolate

…. Now I really hate this fad! But to my surprise when I brought these confections to my two events everyone swarmed over them like I just set down a platter of jewels and said help yourself. I think the fad is still going strong YAHoO! Me on the other hand, am officially over it!

IRRATATING CRAP MY HUSBAND DOES …. OR how he plans to collect my insurance policy …. A WORKING TITLE …..

2010-07-25T08:52:00.005-04:00

Its almost eight months now since my husband rear-ended a car in front of us. The airbag prematurely deployed and broke both bones ….. in half …. in my right forearm. SO, there I was …. The Martha Stewart of PA … with a broken hand/arm 2 weeks before Christmas! Picture this: instead of Rockefeller Center it was Dan an Roseanne Conner’s hovel! I wasn’t happy BUT ….. Did I blame him? … Did I scream at him for this unnecessary grief …. Did I put arsenic in his chocolate chip cookies? … that I still made by the way …. NO …. I was THE model of constraint! That is until yesterday ………….
THE PRELUDE ……. Since the accident, if I’m in the car with him, I admit I have been critical of his driving …. slow down! …. You just rolled through that stop sign ….. you are following too close …. You just cut that guy off …. You are driving in the middle of the road …. Oh, its not like any of this is new. He has been driving this way since I met him …. I just never said anything! Two days ago he was literally a couple of feet away from having the passenger side hit ….. I was the passenger and YES we have side air bags …… all so he could cut in front of a car and be first.
THE INTERLUDE ….. Yesterday, he cut across a yellow line … there were 3 lanes on the other side, 2 turning one straight ….. just beside a car going the OPPOSITE direction …. Who was probably thinking what an ASSHOLE …… ALL so he could make a left turn into McDonald’s. Since I almost got killed for a BIG MAC, I could not let it go and said: “Look at this! Now he is crossing double yellow lines!”. He lost it! He started screaming at me that I had to stop it! He turned out of McDonald’s and started speeding home. At the first red light he stopped. I got out of the car ….. I did not care how far I was from home …. Or the fact I had thongs on, ouch! …. or how busy the road was, I’d show him I was the master of my own destiny and my next broken limbs! He sped off. Oh, he did come back for me but, in true “drama Queen” style I would not get back in the car. That’s right …. on a busy suburban residential street we had a screaming match as he drove by trying to get me in … fun times! I finally got in … NOTE to self: Do not try to walk 2 miles in thongs ….. the ride home was chilly and it wasn’t the AC!
THE FINALTUDE ….. If you invite us anywhere make sure there is enough parking for our TWO cars. I’m flying solo from now on!

DO BEARS EAT THEIR YOUNG?

2010-07-17T06:56:00.003-04:00

WHAAAAT?!?!? I think the real story here is not the fact they got RE-engaged. They’re young and they’re obviously stupid …. as the oh-so- true saying goes ….. Bristol seemed to have it more together than her “Baby Daddy” with her "abstinence" .... how's that going for ya by the way .... message tour and all. So how does a girl … she is still 19 …. with a seemly bright future of 15 more minutes of fame ahead of her, get re-engaged to her unemployed High School drop-out dated Kathy Griffin .... no offense to Kathy ..... who told the world her mother referred to her infant brother as “my retarded baby” EX-flame? Well, like I said in the beginning young and stupid isn’t the real story. The real story is how do you inform your self described “grizzly bear” … or is it a moose? Its some Alaskan animal she's hunted down … of a mother, you are marrying this guy? Why you announce it in OK magazine of course!!! UH DUH!

THE WEEKEND WRAP-UP

2010-07-10T07:35:00.006-04:00

Ho Hum … I haven't written anything all week …… what to write about, what to write about …. I could snark about Lindsay’s jail sentence ... Tee hee hee hee … okay done! …. Tell you how sweltering I am in this heat wave ….. drip drip drip ………. Re-hash the latest on the exploits of Casey Anthony ... I can't wait till that trial starts and the state of Florida fries your ass. I knew there were reasons to like Florida! ..... I could bitch about everything BP should be doing … Oh yes that reminds me :

Text: “wildlife” to 20222.

I could talk about work …. Let’s see

Tuesday, 1 a-hole contractor told my inspector (who was asking the contractor why he did not show up to begin his work that day) he had a gun in his car and he hasn’t used it for a while ….. he is forbidden on site now.

Wednesday, I got a called from a irate urbanite commuter demanding that I close down my road project immediately and reopen all lanes because it is making him late for work ….. Aaahhhh its called protecting MY road crews and the general public from morons like you who neglected to plan ahead and …oh I don’t know …. leave earlier!

Friday, MY consultant (who works for me!!!!!) asked me to take meeting notes … seriously in my male congested profession there are some who still think I’m the F’ing secretary …….. AND you thought I was going to get all technical on my work rant didn’t you?

HAPPY 4TH TO ALL MY FELLOW SUBJECTS ......

2010-07-03T10:16:00.006-04:00

Happy Independence Day! Okay, so we found out this week Thomas Jefferson made a little itsy bitsy mistake on one of the famous icons of freedom ..… it happens! But before ya get your patriotic drum a strummin’ tomorrow, let’s talk what REALLY took place in the summer of 1776 ….. WARNING: Reading further you about to have another American myth blow out of the water! I'm a stickler (i.e, nit-picker, annoying, control freak) for the facts, that’s why I’m here …… The Second Continental Congress actually voted to declare independence on July 2nd, 1776 … that’s right you should have had that day off, eaten that burnt hot dog and watched fireworks yesterday …….

Even John Adams wrote to his wife on July 3, 1776:

“The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” See Wikipedia.

On July 4th, the final wording of the Declaration of Independence document was approved and sent off to the printer. A carefully hand written version was produced and the famous signing with John Hancock exclaiming: “There, I guess King George will be able to read that!” …. Ahh another myth for another day …….. most likely took place on August 2, 1776.

Ironically, the July 4th signing myth became so encroached in American folklore that John Adams and Thomas Jefferson in their later years forgot what day they signed it and believe the 4th. Maybe promoting the myth even more? They both died the same day: July 4th, 1826 .... the myth's 50th anniversary.

IT'S NOT QUITE THE JETSON'S ......

2010-06-29T22:30:00.004-04:00

The "Transition" from Terrafugia ... a privately owned company ... promises ... and I quote:

"Every pilot faces uncertain weather, rising costs, and ground transportation hassles on each end of the flight. The Transition® combines the unique convenience of being able to fold its wings with the ability to drive on any surface road in a modern personal airplane platform. Stowing the wings for road use and deploying them for flight at the airport is activated from inside the cockpit. .... and ending with my favorite summation ...... This unique functionality addresses head-on the issues faced by today’s Private and Sport Pilots."

Exactly how many "Private and Sports Pilots" are there? What a crock of overpriced marketing effort! Let's face it, this "personal airplane platform" is not for us common folk. Its for the special people of the world who have more money ...like $194,000 ... than they know what to do with and need ..... ah, errr .... or shall I say desire a new TOY!

Let's examine this "marvel":

It seats 2 ... yes ... that's TWO. Let's do the math: that's the pilot and 1 other person ...... more than 1 is a party, right?

The convenient cargo area holds skis, fishing poles or golf clubs ... oh that's where the sports come in. I need this thing to play golf! .... You use this to "fly" over that rush hour traffic to the club house or lake. Don't stay over night though there was no room for the suitcase.

As a "Sports" pilot you are only required 20 hours training to fly over people's head. How comforting.

You still need a 1700' runway to take off from. BUT, if the weather is bad you can't fly just drive the thing. Let's see you drive it to the runway, a thunderstorm moves in, you then have to drive anyways. I can see the convenience!!!!

It cruises at 115 mph. I do that on the Interstate in my Kia!

It gets 23 miles to the gallon ... oh wait so does my Kia!

Then there are the promises/info they don't say:

How environmentally friendly is the "Transition"? Is it more harm than good?

How far above the ground/altitude does it fly? I see many a potential accident into utility lines maybe?

Who services this thing? My on staff flight crew that lives in my garage now?

Where do I take off from. Do I need my own specialty runway or will the airport where small private jets fly into/out of let me use theirs?

All I know is, I've been promised the Jetson's lifestyle since I was 10. My house is still on the ground, my Kia is not jet propelled, my computer is not doing the cooking and there is no "Rosie" the robot cleaning my house. Ho HUM ...... I guess it has to start somewhere.

THE FIRST SWASHBUCKLER TO STEAL MY HEART ...

2010-06-25T20:25:00.013-04:00

Yes ... There was a swashbuckler I swooned for before Johnny Depp ever donned a pirate swagger ..... ERROL FLYNN .... I knew Errol Flynn's birthday was Father's Day and I meant to post it! Better late blah blah ....................

In my Happy B-day post to Johnny, I noted that over the shoulder pose that made my heart go pitty pat. I now know why! ..... I'm a sucker for a swashbuckler you see ...... I was at least 10 years old when I saw Errol ... as Robin Hood .... swing across my TV set and say: "Welcome to Sherwood!" in that jovial sarcastic wit. He instantly became my first movie idol but unfortunately I would need a time machine to meet him ... Ho Hum ............ maybe its why I don't drool much over the living idols, my true star struck meeting will never be!

"I do what I like."

I read his autobiography, "My Wicked Wicked Ways", in my late teens and found his was born in Tasmania ... I always thought it was a made up place where cartooned devils were said to live. Damm those Buggs Bunny cartoons were more educational than I thought! ........ oh and he was a little wicked too!

One of his first roles was Fletcher Christian whom Flynn is ironically the great-great-great-great-grandson of.

"It isn't what they say about you it's what they whisper."

The saying "In like Flynn" was coined after him referring to his acquittal in a statutory rape trial.

"Women won't let me stay single, and I won't let myself stay married."

His favorite and most often cast with actress in early movies .... 9 times .... was Olivia de Havilland ... who also admits to having been in love with him and he admits he with her by their second movie ....... but love never went beyond the screen.

His favorite side kick was Alan Hale. Yes, that would be the father of Alan "the skipper" Hale of Gillian's Island fame.

Flynn was rumored to be nominated ... and had been initially announced where he was interviewed on his nomination ...... for an Academy Award for his role in "The Sun Also Rises". The nomination simply just disappeared.

"My job is to defy normal."

Errol Flynn was a self described adventurer before stardom, did most of his own stunts in movies, a womanizer, had malaria, tuberculous, Buerger's disease, an alcholic in liver failure, a chain smoker with thrombosis, 4F because of his weak heart, considered Fidel Castro a close friend and when he died in 1959 at age 50 he had a 17 year old mistress that traveled the world with him on his beloved yacht. The autopsy revealed he had the insides of a 75 year old.

last words: "I've had a hell of a lot of fun and I enjoyed every minute of it."

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!!

2010-06-20T09:31:00.003-04:00

I'm taking my Daddy and my God of Organization .....aka, husband ...... out to an early dinner. Hope your "daddy" has a nice day with you too!

Let's play "WHERE IN THE WORLD IS JORAN SAN DER SLAGO" >>>>>>>

2010-06-19T10:24:00.015-04:00

Aaaaaaaaa ... NOPE .... one sociopath suspected serial killer still in a Peruvian jail cell ................ not much of a game anymore!

Let's just recap his travels from recent previous episodes:

Holland - January/Feb 2008 - throws glass of wine in face of Crime reporter on TV for calling him a liar. Same reporter catches him on tape admitting to being present at Natalie Holloway's death and dumping body at sea.
Bangkok, Thailand - 2008 Attends University, drops out, buys coffee shop, accused of selling Thai women to prostitution ring, fails at selling coffee.
Macau 2009 - At Texas Hold 'em Tournament .... after claiming he is now a professional gambler by trade .... brazenly tells people who he is when they don't recognize him.
Aruba - February 2010 - Attends Father's .... and allege accomplice in murder cover-up in 2005 ..... funeral.
Aruba - early May 2010 - meets with FBI for $25,000 partial extortion payment. Admits to killing Holloway and burying body with the help of father
Bogota, Columbia - Spring 2010 - Two women disappear at the same time Joran is staying/frequenting the same Casinos and where he was seen with them both.
Lima Peru - late May 2010 - telling casino employees he is trawling for women, gambling, losing, drinking, can't pay hotel bill, tries to con money out of former girlfriend in Aruba via text, meets, kills and robs Stephany Flores Ramirez, flees country ..... He's not in Aruba anymore ....
Chile - June 2010- Arrested and claims 2 bandits robbed and killed Flores in his hotel room ... too bad, so sad, he was unaware of the hotel's video camera
Peru - June 2010 - caged in famed prison sharing cell with his new "girlfriend" a Colombian assassin.

At some point he traveled back to Europe, other parts of South America and Asia ... but I missed those episodes.

STUPIO "IRRITATING CRAP MY HUSBANO OoES!" .... a working title

2010-06-15T21:30:00.009-04:00

Can you tell? My 4th letter of the alphabet key is broken. Guess by who?

Now I am going to have to try & type wor .... ahh .... errr ...... sentences without that letter. This will be interesting ....... Two weeks ago the GO or LOR ...okay the MASTER of Organization spills water into the thing with the keys, knows it will not work & was trying to fool everyone by not warning them .... trying to make us think we broke it .... However, the towel for your phalanges from my bathroom, beneath the key thingy is what gave me the tip off! So, he fesses up & we go key thingy shopping the next afternoon.

First, he tries to get me to pay for it .... its a little game he likes to play at the cash register to see who gets out the money first. He unfortunately won this time ....... I chose the item & walkie' out the entrance of the store to the car not wanting to play. Tonight he shows me the "4th letter of the alphabet" key & says "FIX". I say , "Why, I'm taking it back. We just bought it." Master of Organization tells me we can't ... he threw away the receipt!!!!!!! WTF?????? Master has receipts from the house painting from like 8 years ago. He has the receipt from the washer & thingy that blows air on your clothes "set" we bought 6 years ago, the receipt from when we bought the computer 3 years ago, etc .... you get the picture ... but he throws away a receipt from something he buys 2 weeks ago?!?!?!?

I know how to get even! I'll tell him about the $250.00 purse I bought tonight. Afterall, I'm not saving money for computer accessories.

DON'T FORGET THE GULF WILDLIFE

2010-06-10T20:52:00.003-04:00

Text "WILDLIFE" to 20222.

You will see a $10 donation added to your phone bill everytime you send it. You can do up to five times.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHNNY .....

2010-06-09T17:56:00.004-04:00

I 've hardly EVER been overwhelmingly star struck by a movie star. Never had the urge to join a fan club. Never was such an urber fan crazed psycho that I would faint at the sight of any celebrity. As a matter of fact, there are very few movie stars that I would go out of my way for to go see their movie. Johnny Depp, however, is the exception ..... there are always some.

I did not even realize I was fan till that one certain nonchalant glance over his pirate costumed shoulder. I can not firgue out what it is about that pose but he had me at Yo Ho Matey!

Happy 47th Birthday Johnny!!! You are only getting better!

HELP THEM ... God can only do so much. We already know BP is incapable!

2010-06-06T12:34:00.010-04:00

This morning I saw on television BP CEO Tony Hayward and his latest attempt at good PR. He looked out at the American public during his paid face time and said BP takes full responsibility … how blessed of you! …… and they are going to make everything right …….

HOW DO YOU MAKE THIS RIGHT ?

You plan on resuscitating these dead and dying animals do you .... Tony?

For those of you that can you can donate to the efforts of helping these defenseless creatures by texting "WILDLIFE" to 20222 or if you live near or are planning to spend time in the area click here and here for volunteer information.

Van der Sloot wanted by Interpol

2010-06-02T16:56:00.004-04:00

According to the Associated Press Joran Vander Sloot is currently being sought by Interpol with a warrant for his arrest in connection with a murder of a woman in Peru on May 30. May 30 is also the five year anniversary of his involvement in Natalie Hollaway disappearance in Aruba.

Van der Sloot is suspected of fleeing Peru by land into Chile. Stay tune ..........

Happy Birthday Norma Jean

2010-06-01T22:14:00.005-04:00

After all these years she is still in the news ... this past week for some unpublished photos with JFK .... The eternal epitome of sexy. Having the measurements of 37C-24-35 earned her the first cover of Playboy .... Hugh Hefner actually also owns the burial vault next to her. Her beauty regime included Nivea cream and jogging. She had an IQ of 168. Through her father she is related to seven U.S. presidents. When Veronica Hamel and her husband bought Monroe's house in 1972, they found "standard issued FBI" bugging devices all through it when they remodeled.

Although her movie career was practically over and she was gone before I could realize who she was and the timeless icon she was to become, I always thought of her as a comedic actress. That is until I saw Bus Stop. I will always remember her as vulnerable romantic Cherie.

There will never be another Marilyn.

Memorial Day ... A Day to Remember

2010-05-31T22:26:00.005-04:00

I know I said I would try NOT to post the same thing as any of the other blogs I read but this is an exception ........ Pictured is Christopher Barton. He is the son of another blogger from another site I read often ..... I don't think she reads here but it doesn't matter ........ From what I read he died in Afghanistan on Monday, May 24, 2010. His mom goes by the name This.Army.Mom and has a site she writes on ... it may have been a Facebook .... about him. I visited it once when she left a link on TheDirtyDisher blog site.

I personally do not know this woman but, I could tell she was very proud of him. I don't think she will mind he is on my site too. I believe she would want as many people as possible to know what her son gave for his/our country. A scholarship has been set-up for that purpose .. click here.

Here is wishing the Barton family well and wholeness and peace!

An example of selling your soul?

2010-05-25T18:38:00.005-04:00

Aside from being brought up in a 408 acre English county side manor, Fergie claims to have struggled financially on her own in her early 20’s. It did not stop her from enjoying a jet set life style then and undoubtly, high living became the norm more so than the exception once she married a Prince. Her divorce settlement from same said Prince was based on her husband’s professional income as a Naval Officer. Netting her with the mere pittance of alimony worth roughly $22,000 a year …. Sounds a little low to me! What about child support in this country? ……. I don't know that. Is it what led her to overwhelming debt and "selling" out family members?

In some ways, I say its her own fault but then again …… think about it …. her ex-husband of 10 years is a millionaire prince, a billionaire queen for a mother in-law, and her daughters are princesses! How did she end up with the settlement income of an US office worker? Even though she had every opportunity to cash in on her notoriety …. AND she did ……. her actual spending never matched her overall earnable income. Her “stock” fell as the years went by and income opportunities were far and fleeting. What is a former scandalous Duchess to do? Keep being a scandalous Duchess of course! Hence her “selling” out her children’s father’s … and supposed close friend … private life. What else could/can she do but be “Fergie”? Fergie who is now a long way from that 21 year old girl that once had the fortitude for monetary struggle and that fun loving shot of vivacity into an aging royal family known to have a penchant for a stiff upper lip. Maybe they … the royals ….. should have thought far ahead enough that at $22,000 a year, what she would become is a bitter, looking for a little revenge, aging, raging redheaded woman.

WHAT DOES STOP A PACK OF FAME HOUNDS?

2010-05-20T21:32:00.003-04:00

Apparently ..... the Secret Service can! The Salahis ….you remember the obnoxious fame-seeking husband and wife that crashed a State Dinner last November …… were stopped outside … this time …. the White House last night (Wednesday). Another State Dinner was in progress .… where they were once again NOT INVITED ….. in honor of the Mexican President. The hounds were stopped for running a red light and turning into the Ellipse parking - a restricted area! Though there is no proof of it, undoubly the Secret Service caught them before they could try and make a run for it to the check-in gate. This time the crash attempt included a pack of friends in tow ….. AND cameras! Cameras? Oh yes … they got their reality show in case you did not hear. They are now part of the cast/circus in Bravo’s “The Real Housewives Of Washington DC”!

Just what every disgusting fame hound needs to lap up and gorge on any scrap that falls into their disgusting filthy; self-serving; notoriety hunting dog bowl: a reality show ….. YUM! Seriously, what is wrong with Bravo? The couple is still under investigating for their first attempt and could be charged, fined or jailed. I like the last option the best! If it comes to light that BRAVO’s production company knew this …aka … the cameras ready in position … they too should be held as an accessory in putting the life of the President in danger. At the very least, since they tried it again, criminal trespass!

With the Salahi’s attempt to put the lives in jeopardy of every statesman at this dinner by showing every probable terrorist how to accomplish an assassination attempt on high profile Politicians aborted, what would any fame seeking whore bitch hound do? Why go to dinner with their entourage of loser wanna bes at a restaurant ……. literally 2 blocks from the grounds of the White House ….. instead.

Eat up hound dogs! If fame is your master. Then remember the hunting dog sometimes gets his tail accidentally shot off by its huntsman!

VOTE!****

2010-05-17T18:26:00.009-04:00

In many states the primaries are tomorrow and according to the AP: "all the primaries testing tea party clout and veteran senators' ability to survive". Tea Party clout? ....hmmmm ... According to the New York Times (via Wikipedia) : 18 % of all Americans consider themselves in favor of this movement. Of that 18% the majority is "white, male, married and older than 45." They are "wealthier and more well-educated" than the general public, and hold conservative views on a range of issues. Although most are registered Republican, they tend to be more conservative than Republicans at large.

Waaaaaaaait a minute ..... aren't these the very people that got this country into the mess it is in right now? And in a year a half of a new administration they expected all the mess to be gone when it took the out going admin 8 years to create the world chaos. Where were they, oh say, eight years ago ......I know ....I know .....(raising hand) .... I know.

Anyways for good or for the bad its your right so get out there tomorrow!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATE!

2010-05-12T20:40:00.010-04:00

"People have grown fond of me, like some old building."

Probably my most favorite actress of all times .... Katharine Hepburn. 4 time Oscar winner, lover of many a famous man and a true stalwart Connecticut Yankee. She worked well into her 80's and lived till she was 96 years old.

"I don't regret anything I've ever done; As long as I enjoyed it at the time. "

With my mom ... who made me into an old movie buff .... I had to first see Kate in either “Stage Door” ….. with Ginger Rodgers, Adolphe Menjou, Lucille Ball, Eve Arden and Ann Miller … or maybe it was “Bring Up Baby” ….with Carey Grant …. Either way she out shown them all …. Yes even Baby! ... and made an impression on me early in life.

"I find a woman's point of view much grander and finer than a man's."

She wasn’t typical poster girl pretty only because she did not want to be. Though blessed with classic features she chose to be more remembered for speaking her mind and negotiating things on her terms. She exuded an unorthodox ultra feminine feminist style with strength and self-assurity that could never be captured in a pinup girl of the times. I always had the feeling men were slightly afraid of her. Still it made her all the more attractive.

"I never realized until lately that women were supposed to be inferior."

I like to think I’ve learned to imitate her sarcastic wit and intellectual charm I admired. I can only hope to imitate her long life, ageless/timeless beauty, undisturbed way of existence and the respect she attained.

"If you always do what interests you, at least one person is pleased."

MOTHER'S DAY WISHES

2010-05-09T14:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Mom’s day! I just came home from having Brunch with my Mom. Pretty much the rest of day I plan on doing nothing …. Just the way I like it!

I hope you all have "nothing" days too.

little petty "IRRATATING CRAP MY HUSBAND DOES"…. a working title

2010-05-08T11:36:00.007-04:00

I grew up with a dishwasher in my childhood home. My husband never did. SO, I tell “Fred Flintstone” …. he’ll go back to “God Of Organization” (G.O.O.) later …. even Wilma had a Wooly Mammoth that high pressure hosed down the dishes. You can say when I married him (G.O.O) I was dragged back to beyond the Ice Age … based on the Wooly Mammoth sighting in Wilma’s kitchen!

For years he gave me the same sad excuse … from some stored away book of excuses on Mt Olympus probably …… as to why we could not install a dishwasher in our present kitchen. My favorite?: “We’re moving.” …this is another rant for another time ….. so why put more money into a house we are leaving? 10 plus years later … you guess it …. I’m still here.

3 years ago I decided since “We’re moving” a dishwasher would actually be a selling point. Without any more discussions with G.O.O. I bought the dishwasher and hired the people to install it. He wasn’t happy and thus the real reason came forth … he saw no need for a dishwasher. And the battle began. He won’t use it!!!!!!!!!! He would rather wash the dishes by hand and dry them gulp! with a towel …. I don’t what it dried before hand either, yuck ... yuck .... yuck ……. He has actually taken dirty dishes that I put in, out of the dishwasher and washed them. I have been reduced to sneaking the dishes into my appliance and turning it on before I leave for work in the morning, all so he doesn't try to do them while I'm gone.

I thought I had a good pile of dishes this morning but he rushed in and washed them! He is a sick man!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOPANGA

2010-05-05T20:05:00.005-04:00

No she is not a legend or even one of my favorite actresses that I usually honor. I just remember when my oldest daughter was a high school freshman everyone at school noticed the resemblance she had with Danielle Fishel. SO, of course everyone called daughter “Topanga” …. Fishel's character on “Boy Meets World” ….

I went to school one time to pick her up from some rehearsal/practice. I could not find her so I asked one of the students if they saw her. The upper classman look at me puzzled and said no he did not know who she was. Then it dawn on me ……. "TOPANGA!" …. “oh, Topanga!” …… he knew exactly where SHE was!

Sometimes it doesn’t have to hit home. Just come close ….

2010-05-02T16:38:00.007-04:00

Photo Credit: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Yesterday afternoon I was texting my daughter in New York, trying to get her work schedule from her so she could hook up with one of my oldest friends ...and her daughter ... who happened to be in NYC this weekend. My daughter’s job is in Times Square and my friend had tickets to a Broadway show that evening. I don’t think they got together.

My daughter left work at 6PM and was home before they found a fire bomb rigged SUV … somewhere around 6:30PM ….. parked on W 45th St …. between 7th and 8th Aves … in front of the Minskoff Theater ... where The Lion King is playing ... less than a block from my daughter's place of employment. I haven’t talked to my friend yet but, I assume she made her show, even though the theater she was attending was two blocks away from the SUV. All too close for comfort!

The accelerate laden SVU was reported to authorities by the Times Square street vendors who noticed it parked there and were instantly suspicious of it. It was smoking by the time police arrived but did not detonate. It is another instance where we have to be reminded even though we live in the greatest nation in the world we must be alert to those that would do us harm for that very reason. It reminds us that ordinary everyday people have to watch, be aware and are willing to be compliant in reporting the unusual.

You know you never stop worrying about your kids no matter what age or how far. Far is a scary place to be when your kid needs you. Ordinary everyday people assisted me yesterday. Next time I’m in New York I may feel the overwhelming need to own a couple T-shirts and designer …????? … purse!

THIS IS SICKENING BEYOND WORDS ........

2010-05-01T08:38:00.005-04:00

Photo Credit: Reuters

The oil spill off the coast of Louisiana is sickening beyond words right now. Although look forward to later I am formulating a few in my head right now for a future rant.

"Irritating Crap My Husband DOES!" ...the working title..

2010-04-27T17:53:00.008-04:00

If you have not heard of it, there is a Twitter account called: “Sh*t My Dad Says”. The owner of the account, Justin Halpern, only tweets …. well …uh … shit his dad says! A simple yet novel idea ….. soooo novel Justin, now has a book and a TV series pilot in the making.

Not that I’m trying for a book and a TV pilot I’m just …. aaahh ... ummm… borrowing the concept .... yea that's it ...that's what I'll tell his lawyers when they call .... I’ve been thinking of adding an occasional commentary based on the Halpern twitter, to my own blog. Originally, I was going to go with “Trash My Daughter Talks” but I’ve shifted my focus on “Irritating Crap My Husband DOES!” …….the working title …… I may use the “Daughter” stuff at a later date.

Since I have gone back to work, my husband has been trying to “help” out …. even though he did not when I was working before ….. with the house work. SIGH! I don’t wanna be a beeotch about it but he is rousing me into a diatribe fest. HE actually is “Mr. Neat Nik”, "Mr. Organization", "Mr. Everything Put Back In Place" ….. way more so than me. BUT then he has the added talents of "Mr. Delegate", "Mr. I’m in Charge Now", "Mr. List", "Mr. Reminder" …. Mr. PAIN!

First case in point: I can live in a scattered mess as long as the surfaces (carpets, hardwood floors, furniture, etc) underneath them are clean/sanitized/washed/dust mite/dog fur FREE! My “scattered” system works for me …… I KNOW WHERE EVERYTHING IS! For some reason the “God of Organization” (as hubby shall be known as) can’t believe that. He feels that it is muuuuuuch better to take everything and put it in 1 BIG PILE. Better yet, take that pile and put it somewhere else … like a drawer or in a place I would never EVER EVER EVER look! Let me tell you … ONE big pile does NOT work in the “scatter system”! He is really F’ing up my things to do/ filing system!

IS WINNING THE LOTTERY A GOOD THING?

2010-04-24T11:18:00.007-04:00

Photo Credit: AP

Uuuuuuu ..... HELL YA!!! … but do you believe in the "lottery winner's curse?"

In 2002, Jack Whittaker from W.Va won a $315 million Power Ball. 2 years later he lost most of his friends and family, had over 400 lawsuits filed against his company, became an alcoholic and the granddaughter he cherished and lavished the winnings on was found rolled up in plastic bed sheet dead dumped behind a junked van. Read his full story here.

Jack, by far is not the only one. Many winners find themselves back to where they were ... or worse ... before the win. All over the Internet are stories of suicides, murders, hired hitmen, strangers demanding handouts ... for luxuries yet, not even pretending it was for necessities or a hardship .... charities, con men/ladies, spending sprees ... before the next payout check arrived, it was spent ... lawsuits, backruptcy and faced with the most dreaded creature of them all ... the self-righteous relative .... that see your winnings as their winnings.

Take for example the newest $258 million Power Ball winner this week, Chris Shaw. I like to see people like him win the lottery. Shaw is a 29 year old, living paycheck to paycheck, $7.25 an hour, recently hired convenience store clerk living in rural Missouri. Raised by his grandparents …..orphaned? No one is saying …… missing two front teeth because he could not afford to take care of them, father of 3 kids from two different mothers, and living with another woman who has 2 of her own children.

HO HUM ... this poor schumuck doesn't stand a chance! Undoubtly, the baby Mamas have already hired a lawyer to get their child support payments raised. Nothing wrong with that, every parent should take care of the child they brought into the world. BUT, somehow I picture these women in their new BMW before the year is out ...its all for the kids don't you know! If his parents are still alive ... you know the ones that dumped him on Grandma & Pa ..... they will be coming out of the swamp pretty soon. The women he is living with? Within the next couple of years her story will be that she gave him the money to play the lottery for them "both" or that he "promised" to split the winnings with her. Either way by some means, she will end up with at least half. At least I hope he gets those new teeth out of it all.

THE GROCERY STORE GOT A NEW SHIPPMENT OF KARTES FOR ALL

2010-04-20T23:00:00.007-04:00

FINALLY!!!! ... after FIVE …… count them America ….. “5” tortuous weeks of spackled on makeup …. No one else's makeup was so horrendously horrendous, was she doing it herself?…. a wardrobe of Salvation Army bridesmaid dress cast-offs, horsetail wiglets and a black & blue sprain to the profession of ballroom dancing ….Kate Gosselin …. or as you know her better as the “shopping Karte”, “bitch from hell” ... see picture left for dictionary meaning .... or “the frock on the coat hanger” … has been voted off DWTS.

Seriously folks, if she made it through another week, ABC would have had some integrity problems with the show's actual fans and the voting system.

I know I myself first predicted her to be 2nd or 3rd to go but she turned out to be soooooooo dreadful, I couldn’t see how she made it past the second week. The only answer I have is that even her haters club started to vote for her as a form of entertainment and the joke she was becoming in the media everywhere.

Other than the money, I'm not seeing how this help her "career". Being the biggest butt .... and not just on the DWTS .... of late night comedy may have actually hurt her. Her appearance was more scandalous than genuine star power. What credible network … TLC doesn’t count … Remember I did say “credible” ….. will take her seriously. What’s that I hear ….. could be the sound of the nails being hammer in her TV celebrity coffin? Its time Kate you used, abused, and pimped your … and unfortunately your children’s … 15 minutes long ago!

Now go home …. first explain to your kids who you are ….. and have a nice normal life.

SHROUD OF MYSTERY

2010-04-17T07:54:00.007-04:00

Photo Credit: AP

Being a student of architecture, I’ve always wanted to go to ITALY! Actually, I formally announced to my husband last month I’m going within the next two years with or without him. Now I have to find someone to go with. I thought maybe my daughters would enjoy the Grand Tour …. at least part of it anyways ...... especially if mom is footing the bill!

Unfortunately, in two years I will most likely miss the opportunity to view a renowned antiquity of the Roman Catholic Church: the Shroud of Turin. The Shroud, to the faithful, is believed to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. In my ignorance I had always believed it to be almost on constant display in Turin, Italy ..... if you are planning a trip to Italy too, be forewarned ..... Customarily, the Shroud is made available for viewing every 25 years. In the last 12, however, it has been on display in shorter periods: 1998(before that 1978), 2000 and now.

Though never proclaimed by the Catholic Church as authentic, I recall while in first grade the nuns in my Catholic School declaring it evidence to Jesus’ intensive suffering for us undeserving little innocent children …. nuns were always trying to scare us little kids back then …. They(nuns) were never teaching doubt or even mentioning for that matter the Shroud’s historical suspicion of being a medieval forgery. Recent carbon dating tests put the cloth somewhere around the 13th century. Still there are those that insist the tests were compromised by taking the test samples from/near a 15th century patch/repair. There is also the Vatican researcher’s claims ….. through her study of computer enhancements … finding faint writing on the cloth that can be attributed to the time of Christ's crucifixion.

Even if you ascribe to the substantiation of high technology, scientists cannot clarify or duplicate a method of process for reproducing the image of the wounded bearded man in the cloth. So, even if the shroud is a forgery at the very least it is a piece of religious art imitating the agonizing existence and death of a church’s Savior. I want to see it.

Asserting some good advice to the 2 million expected to make the journey to Turin, the Archbishop of Turin tells visitors to view the shroud “with their hearts rather than their minds”. The Shroud is on display at the Turin Cathedral till May 23. No official date when it will be on display again.

AN EVENING OUT FOR THE HOUSEWIVES

2010-04-15T23:13:00.003-04:00

I just came home from a jewelry party. I did not know people still did this! … my sister in-law hosted, I like her, I went …….. 20 years ago you could not get away from these home parties. At least once a month a friend or relative had a Tupperware, CandleLite and/or Partylite candles, Home Interiors, Pampered Chef, Stanley home products, Christmas Around the World, Longaberger baskets, Sarah Coventry, Mary Kay Cosemtics, Northern Lights, Queens Way to Fashion, …. These are just the ones I remember the company name.

There were more home parties that sold original oil paintings, lingerie … AND we tried this stuff on! Now I wonder how many parties were these “clothes” tried on? Eeeeeewwww ….., decorative house crap, more candles, gourmet foods, cookies, and the oddest one ….. and I remember my friends were really in to it at one time …. Fabric paints! We did pictures … framed them too…. and clothing ….. like the paint by number stuff! What the hell were we thinking???? We MUST have been drinking to much back then ……..

Big Ben tolling .... or is that trawling ??

2010-04-12T23:24:00.007-04:00

SIGH! …… This city was in a holding pattern till 2 PM today. All were waiting for the announcement of whether formal charges would be filed on Ben Roethlisberger. The announcement came and it is not exactly what fans wanted to hear. Basically, PARENTS! ….. hide your daughters because Mr. Roethlisberger is now free to be prowling at a bar, park, or event venue near you!

Here’s the thing ….. he has two sexual assault accusations brought against him in the span of one year. Now the first one, I truly believe the girl threw herself at him … for the thrill of sleeping with a celebrity/sports hero …. and …. well ….. yea .... she was a stranger but someone was offering and he was taking …… two consenting adults so be it …. But then he soon realized she was a stalker fan and actually expected a lasting relationship. You would have thought he learned a lesson! Aaaahhhhh ...... no. Though charges were not filed, this second accusation on the other hand does not look so innocent. Okay …Okay … I know alcohol was involved but that’s not a "PASS" ole Benny Boy!

The most frustrating thing is Roethlisberger is not the only sports celebrity taking advantage of the overflow of women that are willing to have a one night stand with a sports star …. Hell ….. I’m still trying to figure out the math on how Wilt Chamberlain ever had the time for a professional basketball career and slept with 20,000 women!

My daughters????? … they think Big Ben is UUUUGLY! Still girls if you go somewhere with your friends and you hear he is “in the house” …. GET OUT! ‘Cause Big ole Ben will never be big enough to deal with this mother bear’s ass! He will find a new definition of "sacked" ..... or better yet wish for his "Steel Curtain"!!

I DREAMED A DREAM IN TIME GONE BY ......

2010-04-11T12:54:00.009-04:00

I start my new job tomorrow! …. Excitement abounding …. Yes … in these hard economic times I found new employment. YEAH! .... AND it is in my field …. double YEAH! ……

Those who know me are familiar with my 20 + year trek in trying to become an engineer. I quit my office job at 23 and became a server at night to become a full time student by day .… it was actually called a “waitress” back then …. Went to the big local University, met a guy, married, had a baby, dropped out, made waiting tables a full time profession, had another baby, spent all my extra money on ballerina, singing and piano lessons. I tried to take a class here and there, worked other meaningless jobs and finally said in my late 30’s: "If I’m gonna do it, I’d better do it NOW!"

I went back to school at the local Community College (got full paid scholarship), attended a summer program at Harvard Graduate School of Design and finished up the dream at the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering ...... partial scholarship so, I'm only partially in debt $$$.

When I graduated in December of 2002 I was offered positions at two companies I dreamed of working for. It broke my heart when I had to turn them down because they were not positions available in my city. Let’s face it: If I was 22 and single I would have picked up and never looked back but, the sacrifices of having home & family kept me here. It took me almost a year …. And back to serving tables for a couple months ….. to find a job in a large national construction company that opened a local office. Unfortunately, things were not going well for them ….. the theory of low man on the totem pole tipped and fell on me …. I was laid off a year later. I then went to work for a smaller commercial building firm that went out of business last Fall and …. You guess it that pole fell on me again … I found myself older … which is a scary thing when you are looking for a job with a bunch of younger unemployed semi-new college grads …. and laid off during a economic crisis. Sniff … sniff ……..

I’mmm baaaaack ……… look out local construction ....… all run by men ……. I’ve got some ketchin’ up to do! So, look forward to some boring, technical, ...... YAWN .... historical, dull, ... I'm good at dull ... only interest to other engineer stories …… I’ll try to keep it light too … I am, afterall, still feeling my way in this BLOG!

Oh it is time for a little Susan Boyle now .... I still tear-up a little when I hear her sing this ..... I feel a little connection to her at this moment ...........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY&feature=PlayList&p=7D1C6DF492B3A8FF&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1

♪♪♪♪♫ .... He's really, most sincerely dead!

2010-04-10T11:53:00.004-04:00

Meinhardt Raabe, the oldest living “Wizard of Oz” munchkin, died yesterday at 94. You probably remember him for his lines/song …. "As coroner, I must aver …. I thoroughly examined her …… And she's not only merely dead …… She's really, most sincerely dead!" Only 22 munchkins … out of the 124 ….. had speaking parts.

Needless to say when you lived that long you have stories ….. and a memoir: "Memories of a Munchkin: An Illustrated Walk Down the Yellow Brick Road," …. to tell and Mr. Raabe is no exception! He put himself through college, worked as an accountant for Oscar Meyer where he begged for a leave of absence to perform in the “Oz” movie. His notoriety eventually led him out of the offices and into traveling the country in the famed Wiener Mobile giving motivational speeches in schools for three decades. According to his interview given to The Washington Post (May, 2005): “The accomplishment he is most proud of is his service with the Civil Air Patrol. He worked as a ground instructor during the war and says he flew every kind of single-engine airplane made at the time.”

Rest in peace in that Emerald city in the sky!

Birthday Legends

2010-04-05T12:15:00.006-04:00

Today is a bonanza of silver screen legend birthdays: Bette Davis (1908-1989), Gregory Peck (1916-2003), Spencer Tracy (1900-1967) and Melvyn Douglas (1901-1981). Getting in my time machine I'm going back remembering the first time I ever saw any of them in a movie.
Bette Davis – “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?”. I always thought of Bette as an older lady. When I later saw her in her movies of the ‘30’s as a young starlet, it was too late. I could not get the vision of her being anyone else but Baby Jane Hudson out of my head.

Gregory Peck – “To Kill A Mocking Bird”. Always played a hero never a bad guy … well he was too good looking for that!

Spencer Tracy – “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?” Also his last film and at the time most controversial. I think I remember him more for his 20 + year affair with Katherine Hepburn. Although everyone knew he lived with Hepburn those last 20 years, as a strict Catholic he stayed married to his first wife till his death. Kinda heartbreaking.

Melvyn Douglas – “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House”. Melvyn was more of a character actor. He was the best friend, the second banana, the father/grandfather, the Senator/Judge/doctor/captain/general …. In other words …. you recognized the face in every TV/movie but never quite knew the name.

MY Reality.

2010-04-03T10:27:00.004-04:00

My husband and I used to be prime time contestant-type Reality Show junkies. We were regularly hooked on and scheduled our day around “American Idol”, “America’s Next Top Model”, “The Apprentice”, “The Amazing Race”, and the mother of all reality shows ... you better not have called when it was on Thursday... “SURVIVOR”! Lately we just can’t seem to get through an episode before we start channel surfing for something better(?).

Am I bored with my once favorite shows? I have been treating "The Amazing Race" like it is the Travel Channel … I catch the beginning to see the locale and if I’m interested I stick around a while …. I never make it all the way through the hour though. I miss ALL the drama by going directly to reading the Internet blogs and finding out who was eliminated on “Model” and “Apprentice”. "Survivor" just voted out the one person I was starting to root for ….. surprisingly it was Boston Rob. I despised him on his previous 2 appearances but, I wanted him to take out Russell ..... Grrrrrrrr ……… AND on “Idol” not only is there no one worth rooting for, WHAT THE HELL IS UP WITH RYAN? ….. he has been especially creepy this season!

Has the reality show worn out it’s welcome? Could it be just me?

AND A MERRY "EARTH HOUR" TO YA!

2010-03-28T11:06:00.008-04:00

Yesterday was “Earth Hour” ….What ? … I know, it does seem the day or in this case the hour gets very little media coverage. How can you make a statement when no one is listening … or should I say watching. Let me spread some info for future celebrations:

Earth Hour started in 2007 when 2.2 million residents of Sydney, Australia turned off their non-essential lights for one hour demonstrating the need for climate change control measures. It is now a global event held on the last Saturday in March, 8:30-9:30 pm - your local time. Throughout the world this year not only did regular everyday "Joes" turn out their lights but so did the most famous ancient and modern landmarks including:

The Acropolis in Athens
Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower in Paris
Big Ben ... no not that one … although someone should shut him off... in London
Christ the Redeemer Statue in Rio de Janeiro
Chrysler and Empire Buildings in New York City
Colosseum in Rome
Kremlins in Russia
Taj Mahal in Agra
Pyramids of Giza
Towers in Dubai
Forbidden City in Beijing
Sydney Opera House
Niagara Falls ….. and many many many more!!!!

This year the day/hour may have almost gone unannounced by the media BUT now you know when it is and can celebrate the day like a holiday. This could be a the GREATEST holiday of them all ... no presents to shop for ... no relatives over for ham ... years away before becoming a Hallmark moment ... and its only an hour!

Happy Earth Hour everyone!

CONSTANCE McMILLIAN ... go have fun girl!

2010-03-25T20:51:00.008-04:00

I have been following the story of gay teen Constance McMillian in Mississippi. Constance wanted to bring her girlfriend to her senior prom. Before that could happen the School District issued a policy that all dates must be of the opposite sex. The ACLU began fighting the issue for Constance. So, when the school district’s head dim-wits poked their toothless faces out from under their white hoods and found themselves backed into a outhouse corner so far in the boondocks even Big Foot had problems smelling them, the district retaliated and cancelled the prom. They cancelled the prom rather than allow something their backwoods mentality could not comprehend. By doing this they showed every child in the school district how to deal with prejudice. Squash it! "Yeah, ….spit ….. we aren goin’ to cancel’r that there fancy dance ‘cause …’cause … it will stop people from being one of dem dere gays … maybe it’r work on bein’ black ….. orn better yet a dem der liberals. "

No surprise ... a US District judge ruled in Constance’s favor. Unfortunately, since her classmates were punished for her natural right to be gay, Constance does not feel welcome at the private prom now being held for her senior class. I hope she changes her mind. The pains and joys of High School senior year are only once. GOOD LUCK TO YOU CONSTANCE ..... there is another world out there!
Photo credit: AP – FILE

A full night of "Dancing With The Stars"....

2010-03-23T11:56:00.009-04:00

In order to check my earlier predictions, I actually suffered through an installment of DWTS last night …… okay I was flipping back and forth in between Carrie Ann’s (the “Paula” of the show I gathered) observations …… So, now that I’ve seen all the “stars” dance I can now make a more well-informed educated guesstimate and I will admit I was wrong on a few initially:

Buss Aldrin – As suspected he is not much of a dancer but he attempted to CHaCHa! .... Good for for him! .... Still a sentimental favorite and judging by the other blogs … HE AIN’T GOIN’ NO WHERES. ...... Hell, if I had actually voted he would have gotten my votes!...... Staying with orginal: Out week 3 or 4 maybe even as late as 6.

Pamela Anderson – Ahhhhhh ….WOW!!!!! I don’t think she hit it technically but this mama can shake it! Pam is a performer and lit up the stage ….. with a hint of modesty at that …. old folks like modesty …. I think she surprised many people. I’m going with my second possibility here: Close to Final 3 if she keeps it up!

Erin Andrews - Okay so Erin does NOT have two left feet but, I found her a little annoying. I’m taking her down a notch out: week 6 or 7.

Shannen Doherty – She was a sweetheart and won some hearts last night saying she was here for "Daddy". I think she succeeded in shaking off a little tabloid veneer tonight …. just what she needed to do ….. Sticking with: out week 5 or 6.

Kate Gosselin – OMG!!!! … she was worse than hoped! As I said before ABC is obviously using her tabloid media magnet for ratings. I did not see it ….. I was probably watching "The Big Bang Theory" ….. but, I read the blogs that stated ABC USED a picture of her kids when they showed her voting number. So she DID hawk out the kids for her first TV venture on her own ... the woman is shameless!!!! Khate proved once again she will use those kids to her advantage no matter. Did they show anyone else children by the way? ….. I thought NOT! GET RID OF THIS PIMPING TALENTLESS HO! Out by week 2. PAHLEEEEEESE!!!!

Evan Lysacek – He wasn’t as excellent as I thought he would be. Hmmmmm …. I’m holding back my winner crown here … he may get better though …. he will however be in the Final 3!

Nicey Nash – Nicey DID surprise. She was dancing for all those little cubby little girls who got pulled from the dance lineup. Go Nicey ….Go Nicey ….doing the cabbage patch …. Go Nicey …. I’m leaving her where I predicted: Out week 7 or 8.

Chad Ochocino – He had style, he had grace, he was THERE …. I’m staying with: Out week 6 or 7

Jake Pavelka – He was okaaaaay. Much room for improvement but, the tabloids are at the door calling him a dirt bag, quickly losing him a fan base. I’ll change it up a little: out week 3 or 4.

Nicole Scherzinger – Technically, artistically, and likeable. She may have it in the bag. Undeniably deserves to be: Final 3

Aiden Turner – Here is where I went sooooo wrong …. There is no way he is making the final 3. As a matter of fact, he maybe the first to GO!

I'M HAVING SOME THOUGHTS ON RIELLE HUNTER

2010-03-15T20:35:00.005-04:00

(Credit: Mark Seliger/GQ)

Now, we all know Americans are a forgiving and forgetful bunch. Lately in every recent public scandal there is a telling of sides and a plea of support via the press conference …. Tiger ….. the apology on a prime time news show … Chris Brown … or the late night venue ... Letterman. The public at least gives thought of re-acceptance. So, the lesson here is there is a way to do it BUT …. THIS ISN’T IT! The only thought I’m having about now is “delusional slut”.

BOO!

2010-03-11T20:03:00.009-05:00

Our cable provider for the last few years has been “updating” the system. In other words we were paying the same but losing channels. Finally they took so many channels away we broke down and choose a new package a few weeks ago.

Since hooking up my new digital cable box, I have been playing catch up with my “Ghost” programs. “Ghost Hunters” on SyFy is one I missed the most and the longest! Last night was a full line-up of repeats and a new episode. My interest was peaked by the repeat more than the new episode …. Which featured Fort Ticonderoga …… let me catch you up … not much happen …. In the repeat, the team visited the house of Doctor Samuel Mudd … hit the link … look him up …. won’t hurt it’s a history lesson ……. During the visit the team captured a disembodied voice/EVP saying … or so they tell me it said …”I’m not guilty”. I’ve heard some of these EVP voice recordings before on this show … and others … I mostly find them indistinct as proof for paranormal existance.

As for evidence searching goes I've been to Gettysburg quite a few times in the previous Fall seasons. I have found "orbs" on pictures I took at the Daniel Lady Farm on a ghost hunt with "The Ghosts of Gettysburg" tour company. One evening during one of our visits myself, oldest daughter and hubby went out on the battlefield ... Devil's Den to be precise. We heard the legend where cameras are often batted out of people's hands when trying to photograph a certain spot where a famous photo is taken. Brave daughter dear took the picture .... while I cowered behind .... and basically nothing happen.

Next time I do go on a ghost hunt I want to try the EVP and see what I get …. Someday … I want a bunch of people to go with me …. mostly for protection ….. MY protection, I’m a scaredy cat … but I want to find out if this stuff is for real …. Who wants to come? If nothing else at least we will receive a history lesson.

I'm BUSY tonight!!!!

2010-03-07T17:23:00.004-05:00

I have been watching the Oscars since I was 10 years old. I’ve missed a few here and there but, I’m always excited to see who wins, who’s there and what they wear! The most memorable bad outfit for me is undoubtly the swan worn by singer/songwriter Bjork in 2001. No one has had this much bad taste since. Let’s hope all the stars do not “Bjork” this year.

This year, I have not seen any of the nominees! ….. How did that happen? ..... I’ll catch up later I guess … I saw last year’s winner …. “Slum Dog Millionaire” ……. afterward also. I would like to see Meryl Streep and Jeff Bridges win. I don't care which movie wins just so it is NOT "AVATAR". I dis-like James Cameron and his "I made the best movie" superior attitude.

So, don’t bother me this evening I’ll be busy!

JFK Airport Control Tower: “No Buddy here, just us kids!”

2010-03-03T13:41:00.010-05:00

Last month (FEBRUARY) during a winter break in the NYC school system, a child was heard clearing planes for takeoff from the control tower at JFK. The five taped transmissions were posted on a Web site for air traffic control listening buffs. Within the audio clips a boy can be heard saying in one exchange, "JetBlue 171 contact departure." The undaunted pilot responded, "Over to departure JetBlue 171, awesome job."

The pilot said: “awesome job” ? Hmmmm …. I going to hazard a guess and say this is NOT the first time a child has been at the helm of a control tower. Follow me here ….. The fourth Thursday in April is National “Bring Your Daughter/Son to Work Day”. How many children are in control towers on THAT day I wonder? I don’t think this is the first time this has happen. I believe it to be the first time anyone raised an alarm.

The Federal Aviation Administration ….. covering their butts ….. stated they are investigating.

OH ... ahhhh … Candice, by the way, wasn’t that flight I booked for you on a JetBlue from JKF?

DWTS CAST ANNOUNCED

2010-03-02T15:47:00.014-05:00

They announce the “Stars”(?) for DWTS. If you do not know what the initials DWTS mean, then let me help you get that rock off your back. I’m not a fan of the DWTS show. Not that I don’t like it, I just don’t care. The B-list and washed up celebs that make-up most of the cast do not interest me. I have to admit, I watched the end show last season. I only watched because I had a school girl crush on Donny and HE WON!!!!!!! ... doin' my in your face dance ..... Frankly, I also have to admit Joanna(?) was the better of the two technically.

How did Donny win then? Donny deserved the win because he is a showman. ....And .... Well …. its because old folks watch DWTS. Its true! According to tvbythenumbers.com …. Go to archives …… last season the coveted 18-49 year demographics that TV execs strive for did not even have this show in their top 20 most weeks. Yet, DWTS is a top 10 ratings buster in overall viewership. That means who pushes it to the top is … the old folks. That’s why Donny Osmond, a 52 year old pop singer from the 60’s/70’s won. OLD FOLKS RULE HERE!

So, I know how the show voting works. Even without having to watch it, I can predict the winner. HOW? By previous season’s hype and recaps everywhere …TV, print, Internet ….. I have been subjected to over the years and can’t escape, I know what the old folks are voting for and shall make the following predictions this season:

Buss Aldrin – Sentimental favorite & national hero. Obviously, at 80 years old …and looking pretty good I must say …… will he, can he keep up with the “young-ins”? I expect him to stick around for a little while. Don’t forget old folks watch this show. They will vote for one of their own: Out week 3 or 4 maybe even as late as 6.

Pamela Anderson – I’ve seen her strut her stuff on runways, swing on stripper poles and run down sandy beaches but can she hold her own on the dance floor? We know she will look good in the costumes! Ask any 70 year old guy and he knows who she is. Pam is maybe the biggest star power in this overall line-up. For that alone: Out week 4 or 5; maybe even final 3 if she can actually dance!

Erin Andrews - America’s “Sexist Sportscaster”. But can she dance? Nothing in her bios can tell you. What it does tell you: she is an athlete. Basketball to be precise. So, she’ll have the conditioning …. She already has the bod …… she has a fan base ……. she is on a sports channel. I see her hanging around like the other athletes. Old people like wholesome athletes, unless she has two left feet: 2 or 3 if she does; maybe as long as 7 or 8 if she doesn’t

Shannen Doherty – Shannen is a sweet face known as a bad girl. She has the reputation that she gets along with no one after a while. Her star power probably rates as high as Pam’s though. Shannen also has stayed out of the tabloids for something despicable in the last few months …. I think? She was a child actress and those old folks probably remember her from “Little House on the Prairie” days. If she truly is a reformed “Train Wreck”: Out week 5 or 6; week 1 or 2 if the train is still chugging.

Kate Gosselin – Annnnd speaking of “train wrecks” , the biggest reality whore of the year made the cut! ABC is obviously looking for some ratings by having this, much viled by the general TV public, creature included. At least she did not hawk out the kids for her first TV venture on her own. Oh wait … this IS Kate Gosselin …. so be sure to tune in when she parades them across the stage for the sympathy vote ... but old folks are on to that stuff. Judging by those cankles, I’d say just like her career there is little or no dance talent evident. The Khaters club may keep her around for few laughs. Her desperate little fan base might be able to keep her going for a while but with so few of them ….. not for long: out week 2 or 3 if Kate’s fans can figure out how to vote; 1 or 2 if they can’t.

Evan Lysacek – What can I say …. hot off a recently televised gold medal win in the Olympics …. maligned by an evil narcissistic Russian … Putin or Plushenko, take your pick …… hot bod …. love story of two Olympic sweetheart champions going on AND well know for artistic talent AND more importantly the old folks know him: Final 3 …. actually THE WINNER!

Nicey Nash – Nicey has quite a little fan base going with all the feature roles in TV and movies. From her web site she states she received her inspiration to become an entertainer as an ardent admirer of Lola Falana. Old people know who Lola is … use it Nicey! Lola is a dancer so, I’m gonna say Nicey had a few dance lessons replicating the career of her idol or just had some natural talent .... unlike other people in the line-up. Either way Nicely will surprise: Out week 7 or 8.

Chad Ochocino – I don’t know why but athletes ….. good or bad as dancers ……. stick around on this show. Ochocino is a wide receiver. I can’t say I’ve seen him play. I do however have this vision ….. being from Pittsburgh ….. in remembering Steeler wide receiver Lynn Swann … old folks do too …. taking ballet lessons to improve his game. SO, putting that in the mix; wide receivers = a pretty graceful bunch: Out week 6 or 7

Jake Pavelka – Fresh off a highly rated “The Bachelor” …. another show I try not to watch! Does he have any “loyal” type fan base though? He is another reality whore … and an ABC’s whore at that ……. in my book that equals no actual star power. Do old folks even watch the bachelor? Unless he has some hidden dance talent I don’t know about: Out 3 or 4 if he does; 1 or 2 if he doesn’t.

Nicole Scherzinger – Never knew her name till now. Then again, I’m not a fan of the “Pussycat Dolls” of which she was a member of. I’ve heard of them, just don’t ask me one of their hits. What I do know about the Pussycat Dolls is they can dance, sing and look good on stage. Even though the old folks have probably never heard of her either she undoubtly has some sort of talent. It may actually be unfair to the others that she is competing. Old folks are fair and recognize talent! This girl is going nowhere for a while: Final 3

Aiden Turner – A soap opera star. Hmmmm ….. I don’t know …. very good looking though …… sophisticated British accent ……. could be a dark horse …. Men really do not really need to do much in these dance teams …. Looks like he has dancer’s bod .… may remind old folks of Bond ....... James Bond: Final 3

(AP Photo/David J. Phillip, file)

No Thank You ... I'M NOT BUYING ANY BRIDGES TODAY......

2010-02-27T10:38:00.011-05:00

A 38 year old mystery solved. Carly Simon inadvertently reveals the case cracking clue. "The Sun Of London" has deciphered the “You’re so Vain” mystery man evidence and ……. it is not ANY of the prime suspects! The new clue in the case is Carly saying the man’s first name backwards in her re-released version of the song. The egotist is ... ARE YOU READY? ....... record/film/theatrical producer DAVID GEFFEN. ….who? … how? … why? … when? …. That's what I say! The story unfolds Geffen, who has always been openly gay, was Simon’s boss at Elektra/Asylum Records in 1972. Apparently, Carly became jealous of the attention Geffen was showering on to her then rival Joni Mitchell and HER music. According to the "SUN" it all fits ... Hallelujah!!!!

I don’t know if I’m buying this tent, Omar! Simon has been known to mislead before. As a matter of fact, "Vanity Fair" published a list of Simon’s previous candid disclosures through the years:

1973: Simon tells Rolling Stone she “can’t possibly tell who it’s about because it wouldn’t be fair.”
1983: Ten years later she admits to the Washington Post that the song “certainly sounds like it was about Warren Beatty. He certainly thought it was about him.”
1989: Fame magazine reports, “For the record, Simon acknowledges the song is a little about Beatty; it’s a composite of three men from her L.A. days.”
1990:“I can never give it away,” Simon to VH1. & Simon also says later: “It’s about the young Oprah Winfrey.”
1994: Simon: “I think it’s a very attractive man. I think it’s a very complicated man who is obviously concerned with his image, but obviously worthy of my love or my interest. I don’t LOVE just anyone. You know, he’s gotta have a certain amount of character. If he was only vain it would be boring, but there’s a lot more to him. He hobknobs with the underworld.”
2001: “I could never really solve it because if I did, then no one would have anything to talk to me about.”
2003: Dick Ebersol gives his letter "e" clue.
2004: Carly gives the letter "a" clue.

One "Vanity Fair" missed was Carly's letter "r" clue given to Regis Philbin. One clue the "Sun" missed: with the name "David" there are reports the name "Warren" can be heard backwards also ....... I really do not want it to be Warren!

I personally cannot accept as truth after all these decades it's David Geffen. The song was about a jilted romance. I hear it, I feel it and see it in the "clouds in my coffee". The boss not noticing your genius? That song is called "Take This Job And Shove It"! Maybe I'm wrong but one thing I know for sure is ..... Carly Simon is having way too much fun with this for it to ever end.

I had a show. Then I had a different show. Now I have a Twitter account.........

2010-02-26T11:56:00.010-05:00

Conan O’Brien is back. Weeeeelll, sort of. O’Brien has taken his show to Twitter. On his account opened Wednesday, his Twitter picture shows him with a monkey on his back and looking destitute. …..HA HA….. Clever, but I’ve never been a Conan fan. When the first late night shake-up happened in 1993, Conan a virtually unknown comic to American culture took over Dave Letterman’s spot. I followed Dave. Tried on Conan a few times. He never seemed to fit my comic type wit. I thought he was too goofy and slap stick. I hate slap stick it is sooooo predictable. …It was okay for comedy of the ‘20’s – 60’s …… So far O'Brien has 2 tweets: “This morning I watched Remington Steele while eating Sugar Smacks out of a salad bowl. I was naked.” & “Today I interviewed a squirrel in my backyard and then threw to commercial. Somebody help me.” …with 370k+ followers in 2 days. My daughter did tell me he was more popular than I thought.

I could not understand NBC’s decision to give him the “TONIGHT Show” other than he was there. I remember the days of Johnny Carson when the show had a sophisticated sense of humor. Leno seemed to continue the trend. Conan … errrrr ….. I admit I did not watch because I pictured the sophistication style ushered out of the sound stage. Do I think what NoBrainConduction did in the Conan/Leno fiasco? No! They gave him the show. It was his show to make it a hit or miss. Obviously the decision makers of NBC decided they were ready to go in a new direction. Hmmmm ....you know ....... he looks better in a beard!

WELL,THAT'S THE WAY I HEARD IT SHOULD BE ...

2010-02-22T12:11:00.007-05:00

In the early … gulp …. ‘70’s, Carly Simon released her hit, “You’re So Vain”. Almost 40 years ... IT CAN'T BE!!!!!..... later there is still much speculation as to the identity of the man Carly spites in the lyrics. Many fingers point to her old boyfriends around the time which include quite a list: Kris Kristofferson, Cat Stevens …. You know him now as Yusuf Islam. Ummm okay …… her husband James Taylor, Warren Beatty ……. who called and thank’d her for writing a song about him ….. and Mick Jagger …. who sang back up vocals in the song. Is he in on it? ……

In 2003 she sold off the secret in a charity auction. So, Dick Ebersol (the winner), the one person he was allowed to tell (assuming his wife Susan St. James) and Carly know who the conceited egotist is. Ebersol was also allowed to publicly release a clue: the person has a letter “e” in his name. Since then, Carly herself has released additional letter clues of “a” and “r”. HHHHmmmm …… let me get a pen and paper to eliminate suspects ……

Simon has re-release an acoustical version of “You’re So Vain” on her new aptly named album: “Never Been Gone”. ........ My all time favorite Simon song “That’s The Way I’ve always Heard it Should Be” is included … GROOVEY! ...... Presumptuously, I see it as an attempt to promote her album by announcing she has a contest for a video of the legendary song .... VAIN … not my favorite .... sniff!...... Interested amateur/fan/curious filmmaker you ? Visit Carly Simon 's official web site for more info on entering.

I may do one myself! Daughters, friends get ready for your close ups!

WELCOME TO BUFFALO BILL'S WILD WILD WEST SHOW! Starring ......

2010-02-20T11:14:00.016-05:00

Photo credit:Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

E Can I tag a self-absorbed crybaby sore loser or what? Evgeni Plushenko is complaining again. This time because he did not win a gold medal. He feels because he can do a quad jump in competition, he is on a superior astral plane above skaters who do not. It also seems the other five skaters who do a quad, along with Yahoo sports writer and former Olympian Elvis Stojke …….. read his article: "The night they killed figure skating”.……… do also.

Skaters like Stojke ……. who did the QUAD too and never won Olympic gold ….. and Plushenko are what is killing their sport by refusing to see that figure skating is more than being a "ONE TRICK PONY". The judging is not totally based on technical difficulty. It also has to do with artistry. Before he saw the scores, Mr. Plushenko assumed he was out “artisted” … okay I made-up that word …. It was actually the technical merit that did him in. It does not take a former Olympian to tell me what I saw was PLUSHENKO’S ROUTINE WAS NOTHING BUT A SLOPPY MESS!!! After landing his Quad he took for granted he had it in the bag. Barley landing the simple jumps he was too busy blowing kisses and giving cutesy pouty looks to the audience. HOW ARROGANT! He obviously believes a Quad is all you need to win. Whoa Mr. Plushenko, what about the rest of the program … give us one hoof stomp for "you forgot" .... or two for "I am Legend"!

Bottom line, you have to wrangle all the doggies to compete in the Olympics. Tonight Plushenko only roped some. In my opinion, after Plushenko started to pony express it in after his ONE BIG TRICK, he was lucky he earned(?) a silver. He probably received silver from just being who he is "A LEGEND IN HIS OWN MIND"! (ie, Visit Stojke "offical" web site. He believes he is a living legend too!)

DEAR MR(s) STOJKO & PLUSHENKO,

Apparently you do not know your own sport is more than being a "ONE TRICK PONY". According to you two show horses everyone who did not have a QUAD in their routine should have went home. Too bad for YOU they stuck around. Apparently, Evan Lysacek can do something you could not that evening ….. skate a more flawless performance at an Olympics. Giddy-up!

♫ IT'S DONE DAWG!

2010-02-18T09:43:00.005-05:00

Get ready American Idol fans next week you start voting! Last night the final 24 were all selected. Did you agree? There were QUITE a few I questioned. Oh well, I’m not in the auditorium … the judges must have seen something I didn’t.

Does it really matter what I think? I do not even buy any of their CD’s, let alone name the last 8(?):

1. Kelly …. Kelly …. it will come to me …
2. The teddy bear guy
3. The mess that has her own reality TV show
4. Carrie Underwood
5. The old guy
6. Jordan something
7. David Cook
8. The guy that beat Adam Lambert ….. oh yeah ........ Kelly Clarkson!

SHE LOVES YOU YA YA YA!

2010-02-16T16:50:00.004-05:00

Heather Mills this past week declared that she is broke. That $54 MIL paid from Sir Paul? GONE, ZIP, SPENT, OUT TO SEA, DEPLETED, DOWN THE SHITTER, BEQUEATHED, EXPENDED, DONATED(?), ZINGO’D!!!

Now I never knew or bothered to glimpse at their divorce details or the rag mag coverage of the proceedings. …. I do remember Mills pour water over the female solicitor of Sir Paul’s at the closing hearing ………. I always wondered if she got a bum rap in the vilification from reporters and British public opinion. There was mention of her exaggerated claims and expenses. SO, I took a look. How far was the actual settlement from her original request?
McCartney offered £15.8 mil. Mills wanted £125 mil for expenses:
In 2007, £1 = US $ 2.00 (approx)

£500,000 a year for holidays, £176,000 a year for clothes, £1 million for legal expenses, £650,500 a year for donations to charities, £650,400 a year to run seven properties (She was also asking for) with staff, £360,000 for personal security, £175,000 for her daughter’s security, £200,000 a year for chartered jets, £186,000 a year for chartered helicopters, £43,300 a year for a chauffeur, £20,000 a year for a nanny, £191,150 a year for "professional expenses". £40,000 a year for wine and £30,000 a year for equestrian activities and the ownership of four homes all of which owned by McCartney and his wife Linda for years. In addition to these homes she wanted £8 - £12,500,000 to buy a home in London, £3 million to buy a home in New York, and £750,000 to buy an office in Brighton, England, for her sister.

Basically what it came down to is that the $54 Mil Mills DID receive equates to $1500 for every hour of her marriage.

Mills also claimed she deserved the initial settlement request because while married in those four years, she saved, collaborated and facilitated McCartney’s career and the music in it. WOW to think we really owe it to her. I have to say the Brits tagged her correctly! She loves ya!?

OLYMPIANS OR PRIMAS

2010-02-16T10:18:00.005-05:00

Don’t you miss the days when the Olympics were for appreciative amateurs and not self-seeking Prima Donnas? I’m beginning to!

Take for example the return to single men’s figure skating, the legend in his own mind, Evgeni Plushenko. Plushenko, known for his quad jumps, first complained about the new scoring system. The old system favored him before just fine!
Former Olympic champ Jamie Salé (2002 pairs skate, Canada) is unimpressed with Plushenko's triumphant return. Remember Sale and her husband and skate partner (Pelletier) were almost victims of another scoring system in 2002 that benefited “favorites” in their sport. Sale is quoted as saying, "(I thought) he (Plushenko) was just throwing his arms up in circles in the air all the time, there's nothing there," she says. "He wasn't doing anything quality on the ice ... but by throwing his arms around, they (judges) were like, 'Oh my God, he's amazing. Well, no, I'm not buying it. That's not skating. There's no edges. There's nothing to his program. All he does is quad (jump), then skates around in a circle, then a triple Axel and then skate down the ice and do a triple Lutz and his program is done." Salé believes Plushenko is unfairly rewarded for his reputation as a champion and, as a result, is points ahead of his rivals even before he has marked his territory.(Rueters, 2/11/10)

Now his coach is complaining about the skating order. (Plushenko is 10th) What is wrong with it? Well you see the old thinking (and system, you know the one that benefited Plushenko before) is the judges are saving the better scores for skaters later in the program. Tell that to reigning Olympic pairs figure skating champions, Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao who skated first in the short program this past week. Maybe it is time Plushenko competes on a level playing field or rink as the case maybe!

The Olympics was once for athletes that had national pride in representing their countries. One thing is crystal ice clear, Plushenko (and MANY others) are there for themselves.

TRAGEDY AT THE OLYMPICS - Did NBC go too far?

2010-02-14T10:59:00.006-05:00

Photo Credit:Yahoo News

NBC is in the doghouse again with their viewers and peers. This time for choosing to show the unfortunate death of Georgian luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili, age 21. (I hear ABC AND CBS showed it afterwards also.)

My husband saw it accidentally without warning while channel surfing. Thinking it was stock video of Kumaritashvili competing, hubby watched in shock the gruesome crash. I know Hubby can watch some upsetting stuff; he was shaken a little from this one.

I’m sure because he is so young, there is not much written about the life of Nodar Kumaritashvili. But in his memory for a world that will never know him:

Born November 22, 1988 in the Borjomi region of Georgia. The Kumaritashvili family made their home in the nearby ski resort Bakuriani. He came from a family of lugers: father Dato and cousin Felix who was his coach and head of the Georgian Luge Association. Those close called him soft-spoken and shy but had a life’s dream of being an Olympian. Nodor, always an athlete, started to competed in 2008-2009 Luge season. He completed in 10 World Cups overall. He is ranked 44th out the 65 competitors for the 2009-10 season and finished 28th in his last World Cup January 2010.

Nodar is survived by his mother, father and sister and is to be buried in his hometown. Local officials in Bakuriani, have stated that a new luge track will be named after him where an annual competition will be held in his honor.

LOOOONG TIME NO C!

2010-02-14T10:36:00.005-05:00

UUUUUUUuuuuhhhhhh ........ NO!
AP Photo/Minnesota Public Radio, Bob Collins) MANDATORY CREDIT
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo//100210/480/7113e34c6d49437f99e47764e38bb714/

I HAD A FARM IN AFRICA ......

2010-02-12T14:45:00.004-05:00

I am sure you did not forget that Valentine’s Day is Sunday? Any plans?

Husband and I will probably exchange cards and go out to dinner. I tell him every year DO NOT BUY ME CANDY! Don’t you know I get the biggest heart shaped box the drug store has to offer every year. Hey, everyday is Valentine’s Day around here my husband tells me. Uuuuhhh yea … read the post below and you will see who matters most in this home!

If I want to sense that romancey feeling I can always live vicariously through a movie any time of year. There is the new “Valentine’s Day” movie but, it looks like too much over stimulation from too many love stories. My old favorites? Glad you asked. Here’s a few off the top of my head:

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) – I cried so much at the end of this one (it may have been postpartum, too??). To think they waited so long till she died to be together. Where’s my tissues?

The Way We Were (1973) – THE classic. Didn’t you just want them to run away to be together again after the scene where she sweeps his hair. Maybe the tissues are in the bathroom.

Out of Africa (1985) – Redford … a common thread. She falls in love with him and Africa and loses both. Trying the linen closet.

Pride and Prejudice (2005) – Is it the romanticism of the time period or that there is true love in store for both older Bennet sisters. The rain scene where he first unexpectedly proposes and the sunrise scene is how we all want it to happen. Oh it is on tonight at 10 pm. Now I HAVE to go to store for tissues.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLAYTON and Eva too!

2010-02-10T10:56:00.015-05:00

My husband and I agree on one thing, if we would ever divorce the biggest battle would be custody over .... the dog!

Our precious little fur ball is 7 years old today. My how time has flown by. One day you are cute little chubby puppy poo poo machine full of energy who eats all the dog food you can give him, next you are a spoil eats people food ONLY sleep all day shed monster who I have to throw outside to do the business. Ahhhhh .... the teenage years.

There will be singing (Claytie howls), blowing out candles (okay we blow them out), cake and ice cream (He gets his share .... what did you think the dog sang for?). Yes .... we are are crazy bunch.

Since I honored ZSA ZSA and remembered Grandma and her sisters this week, I will continue that theme. HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVA GABOR! In comparison to the "South Side" Gabor sisters, Eva would be the same age as my Grandma's sister Janet. Whose real name was Antonina when they arrived from Poland. Later her name was changed to Antonette but they called her Janet .......... for short!

WHERE THE DEVIL ........ ?

2010-02-10T09:56:00.014-05:00

I enjoy paranormal stories. Not the contrived “Tales from the Crypt” type nor the Hollywood movie treatment of the real life story. I want the real story from the real person and then I like to go to the real place and see for myself … NOT alone though.

A windfall for me (and family) is the huge crop of reality shows tackling the paranormal on TV for the last 10 years. We began our obsession every Sunday night watching MTV’s "FEAR" in 2000. For us, nothing has come close since. So, these newer programs will have to do ... sigh. The latest TV investigators are armed to the teeth with more techno gadgets than the Bat Cave. Yet w/ all these high-end devices I have still not seen anything caught that will convince me 100% of existence ..... I know I want to be a believer.... One of my choice team of investigators is the Paranormal Research Society on A&E’s “Paranormal State”. (http://www.aetv.com/paranormal-state/) Last night PRS had an episode near to my family’s heart: the legend of the “Jersey Devil” …. and you just thought it was the name of a hockey team!

Background … My parents and Grandmother lived in central and coastal New Jersey for over 20 years. We heard the "Devil" tale some time ago and have been keeping an eye out each visit ever since. Our family often took day trips thru the Pine Barrens (home to the Devil) to Renault Winery, Batsto Village, Tuckerton and Smithville. If you have ever been in the Barrens, then you know there is no better place to hide if you are a mythical legend. The picturesque area is stunning in an eerie sort of way. Lots of dense forest, black rivers, bays stretching back inland from the Atlantic Ocean, bogs, marshes, deserted buildings, sparse population, and desolate silence. Yep… this is where I would go not to be seen.

In the early 1990’s my parents rented a house in Leeds Point. Leed’s Point is known as the mortal birthplace of the "Devil" but my parents preferred to label the area “TICK & GREENHEAD HEAVEN”. One morning they found the roof/hood of their car covered in hoof prints. The region IS heavily populated with deer and deer do bazaar things …. but dancing all over a car? Never heard of this one ….. Pleeeease correct me if I wrong.

Other than having a creepy feeling of being watched at Batsto, HAVE I EVER SEEN ANYTHING? Nope. Never. Not that I did not want to. PRS thinks they may have though and …. in Leeds Point. Now to me, it looked like a deer on the “high density resolution digital night-vision thermal cam” … I’d bet Batman doesn’t have one of those ….. However, the PRS team (who has one and is not afraid to use it) claims the creature they captured on screen has wings. Maybe I need to go on their web site and look closer. Could this be the proof devil hunters have been looking for?

Speaking of the official hunters here is their web site: http://www.njdevilhunters.com/
There is a great deal of info on this site about the “Devil” legend and this group’s hunt for him .... or her. If you visit the page go to the ”Sightings” link for my favorite spine-chilling real life story: February 18, 2004.

If you would like to conduct your own “Devil” hunt in the New Jersey Pine Barrens ……. and do not want to admit it …… then employ our ruse and day trip to the places mentioned:
http://www.renaultwinery.com/ Never have had a bad vintage.
http://www.batstovillage.org/ Heart of the Pine Barrens. Call ahead to see if the mansion is open for tours.
http://www.tuckerton.com/ Not exactly in the Pine Barrens but the drive from Batsto takes you on the northern end of the Pines. Love lunch at Panini Bay Restaurant over looking Little Egg Harbor.
http://www.smithvillenj.com/ Near Leeds Point. Shopping and dinner at the Inn!

Even if you do not see a mystical creature you will not be sorry you visited the Pine Barrens…… oh …. bring tick spray!

DOG KNAPPING TOO!

2010-02-08T14:14:00.002-05:00

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid30317506001?bclid=0&bctid=65151190001

If you viewed this video story about a woman who was arrested in Oklahoma after she led police on a car chase, then you know her "accomplice" was a little 1 year old terrier.

I checked back on this story to see if the little guy found a home. GOOD NEWS he did …. his own! That’s right …. after 25 offers of adoption it turns out that one of them was from the dog’s actual owner. And it is not the woman in the black SUV shown arrested (for speeding?).

http://www.newson6.com/global/story.asp?s=11943389

No wonder she never came to claim him! What scum!

Super Bowl Sunday – Go SAINTS!

2010-02-07T12:45:00.004-05:00

S COLTS AND SAINTS S

Super Bowl Sunday has somehow become a national holiday. It does not however make me un-patriotic when I first say I am not really a sports fan. The only way I would watch the game with any interest is if the home team is playing. So, today I plan to walk back into the room for the….. Yep I’m one of those …. commercials. The commercial replays will be shown just as much as the actual winning team plays on Monday. So, I have to be well informed do I not!

Second, though I will not be watching intently, I will be rooting (from the kitchen maybe) for the New Orleans Saints. Why would I, a dispassionate football fan, want New Orleans to win? Simply, I am all about the underdog! Has anybody looked at the playoff record of this team? It is SAD. Sad to be in a league for FORTY years and never have gone to the big dance. My home team has been there more than enough. We are getting greedy! There I said it. (Now, how will I ever show my face again?) New Orleans almost lost their football team to the vultures that swooped in after Hurricane Katrina destroyed the Superdome. New Orleans has never been to the Super Bowl and it is time to give the city and team their due opportunity. Yeah Saints! ... I'm doing a herky now!

Ironically, Archie Manning, the father of Peyton Manning(who already won a SuperBowl!!!) the QB for the "other" team, ...... started and spent most of his NFL career as the QB of the Saints for 10 years. He still lives there too. Could Archie be secretly wishing for a Saints win?

I'm taking votes for your favorite commercial ....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZSA ZSA!

2010-02-06T16:03:00.005-05:00

Zsa Zsa Gabor is 93 today! Zsa Zsa …. Isn’t she the cop sla …. Yes … Yes ... that was Zsa Zsa! It is probably what she is most famous for…. THAT and 9 husbands! Zsa Zsa and her sisters Eva and Magda …. That’s right Eva was the “Lisa” on “Green Acres” and sold the wigs and Magda ? … Well, I don’t know what Magda did but I remember her two more famous siblings talked about her all the time ….. Start again … As a kid I viewed the Gabor sisters as iconic symbols of what 60’s womanly elegance and sophistication should be. Zsa Zsa always gorgeous making her rounds on TV talk shows and cameos throughout my childhood. I was never sure why she was famous till I was older and saw her in a movie. ZSA ZSA made movies???? I’ll list some fast facts about that later ….

What is it that connects my childhood to Zsa Zsa? Well not only is Zsa Zsa a stylish image from my youth but, I remember my mother telling me what my Grandfather labeled my Grandma and her 5 sisters. You see ... every family gathering resulted in a performance from the “South Side” Gabor sisters. I understand funerals is where they did their finest work! It was Oscar performances all around that led to who could wail the loudest and achieve the greatest of all acting achievements ….. the believable fainting spell! Yes, it was a race to see which one of them beat the other one on the quickness of executing the fall to the floor into a state of grieving unconsciousness. Now you see where I get MY drama from .... an inheritance!

Grandma and her sisters (like the Gabors) were always pretty, petite, little bee-hived natural? blondes, who lied about their age SO much they forgot how old they were in their later years. They also all had another flaw … they needed MEDS! Unfortunately, meds were not available then so the outrageous and over the top behavior continued till their passings. Zsa Zsa is still going strong though and is the same age as my dear departed Grandma would be this year. Grandma only married 3 times but, I’d bet Zsa Zsa and Grandma are neck and neck in the boyfriend #'s category. Magda was the same age as my Great-Aunt Helen (the oldest sister also) who was actually the last to go(2005) of the "South Side" Gabors. Sniff, Sniff … the good old days!

Fast Fun Facts about Zsa Zsa (you already know about the 9 husbands):

· Her real name is Sari.
· Her mother (Jolie) was an heiress to a jewelry fortune. SO, Zsa Zsa was never hurting!
· She claimed to be the winner of the 1936 Miss Hungry beauty pageant. Relatives later stated she was disqualified because of being underage and yet another claims she was just the runner up.
· Being married to her 2nd husband Conrad Hilton (1942-1947) would make her Paris Hilton’s EX Step-Great-Grandmother.
· She started her movie career (1952) at the age of 35!
· The director (Mervyn LeRoy) of her first film (Lovely to Look At) offered her the role after he saw her dancing at party.
· The 1952 version of “Moulin Rouge” was her best-known starring role. She was cast more often as a supporting actor and in B-movies.
· Claims to have been forced on a date with Frank Sinatra.
· Her best friends in the 50’s/60’s were Joan Collins and Kim Novak.
· Her mother lived to be 100.
· Her sister Magda married as her 5th husband, Zsa Zsa’s 3rd husband, actor George Sanders. YUCK!
· One of her marriages was to the inventor(Jack Ryan) of the Barbie Doll. Hmmmm
· Out of the 20 marriages between them, Zsa Zsa was the only Gabor sister to have a child. (Francesca Hilton)
· She lost an estimated 10 million in the Bernie Madoff ponzi scan.
· Her present husband (Prinz von Anhalt) claims the title: Prince Frederic von Anhalt of Munich, the Duke of Saxony, which would make Zsa Zsa a princess, right! Ahhhh …. No. Actually, Prinz paid the bankrupt German Princess Marie-Auguste of Anhalt to adopt him in 1980. He has no legitamite claims to the German royal line.

AND yes … I do think my Grandma would have slapped a cop if she had the chance …… especially in her later years!

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -> ->

2010-02-04T19:55:00.001-05:00

I started a blog today. WHY? For the first time in over a year I am feeling BLOG-LESS today. SO, I made one …. Probably just to talk to myself but I’ll take that chance.

Formally, I had been reading about 5-6 blogs regularly. Posting here and there on a few, steady on one and “lurking” on the others. Most of the people posting with me seemed to be blogging with each other much longer before I arrived on the seen. My “steady” was the place I felt most comfortable to join in. Did you pickup on the “WAS”? Alas …. Alas? Who says that? ………… I AM out of sorts. My comfy place is sorta, kinda, rathera … gone now! It still exists in name. The people are still around on those other blogs but, I don’t feel like I belong anywhere. Add to that, lately the people from the left over blogs are in discord. Not sure how all that happened. I’m afraid to ask though, I have a theory about a little toady gnome that may be pitting them against one another.

I have to admit I have been thinking of starting a blog but, I have too many varied current and old interests including: International/Domestic/local news, celebrity, political, paranormal, injustice, gossip, activism, charity, social issues, education, reminisce, the arts, travel, cooking and even the darkest of all subjects … reality TV ….Aaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh …. Would I be able to keep up? Do I want to commit the time to being a responsible blog owner? I don’t know where I’m going with my new BLOG, how long I'll be able to keep it up or if I'll ever write a shorter sentence but, I’m about to find out …………. Look (below) I started with a safe topic….. THE WEATHER!

I LOVE WINTER!!!

2010-02-04T14:22:00.009-05:00

AM I CRAZY! Well no, not that I would like to think so anyways. I've been reading my other favorite blogs and everybody everywhere is "HATING" on the winter. Come on people snow is ... well... PRETTY! It is not a daily occurrence for most. 3 ... 4 months tops you even have the chance of it. Think back to when you were a kid. Thinking .... thinking... thinking....... You wished for those snow days! You wished for enough snow to fall that school got cancelled. Enough snow to build the biggest bestest snowman the neighborhood has ever seen. (Having an older cousin live nearby to help was a + .) Enough snow to sled ride. (I had an oval saucer sled that jumped ... more like flew ... over the slightest bump.) Oh .... and don't get me started ... too late ... the ice storms encasing the trees ... WOW (I know, they are way dangerous at times ...... play along .... you are a kid now remember!) what a performance of nature. CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP

Okay .... okay ... the reality of adulthood .... it is tough to drive on. Here's where it gets bitchy ..... THEN STAY HOME! Work days excluded from this order. I know there are employers who require your prompt presence. I'm talking about the days you do not REALLY REALLY need to go anywhere. I watched the news the last time we had a huge snow fall on a Saturday morning. Sure enough there they were. All the SUV's over turned in the ditches. Now I say to myself, where does this idiot have to be so badly that: A. They are out in this dangerous weather and B. Why they feel the needed to get there so quickly as to harm themselves! Sometimes I think this special breed of imbecile believes SUV means "SNOW UNAFFECTED VEHICLE". Okay enough of the negative!

Give us your "LOVING" the winter story ..................................